Showing posts with label Portugal. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Portugal. Show all posts

The InterContinental Lisbon has a central location


Location! Location! When visiting Lisbon it is important to stay at a place that is centrally located and one that provides a place to relax after a busy day of sightseeing. Located between Eduardo VII Park, Marques de Pombal Square, and the luxurious Avenida da Liberdade, InterContinental Lisbon has it all. With warm refinement, contemporary design and expansive views, the hotel was recently rebranded and remodeled. The doorman in a long coat and derby hat welcomes guests into the high-ceilinged lobby with several conversational areas.

It is easy to recognize the hotel’s unique contemporary design which provides all the rooms with a corner window. Featuring contemporary designs and warm hues, accommodations come with marble bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and flat screen TVs, as well as desks, and tea and coffeemakers. Deluxe rooms add a comfy sitting area. Upgrades are complimentary for Priority Club Members. Make sure to include expansive breakfast served in a large, dedicated dining room. Breakfast is well worth it.

The trendy Uptown Bar with a unique kaleidoscope ceiling is theperfect place to meet friends or relax while enjoying a cocktail or glass of wine. Light fare is available. Lunch and dinner in the Akla Restaurant offer Portuguese and international items with a large selection of wines including the well-respected Portuguese wines. Check out their special healthy, green lunches and their show kitchen area.

The InterContinental is close to tour bus stops and only a short taxi ride to the center and other touristic locations.  For more information check www.ihg.com and if you are not a Priority Member sign up – it is free.


While in Portugal live like a royal at Pousada Queluz


The Pousadas of Portugal offer visitors a chance to stay in a variety of historic locations. The Pousada Queluz was once the guardhouse/clock tower for the Queluz Palace, known as the "Portuguese Versailles." The palace was the permanent residence of the royal family from 1794 until it was designated a National Monument in 1910.  The baroque/rococo style of the pousada reflects that of the Queluz Palace directly across the road. With only 26 rooms personalized attention is assured. 

The rooms with very high ceilings are large, nicely decorated but not overdone. The rooms have LCD TV, telephone, safe, air conditioning, refrigerator, hair dryer, magnifying mirror and other amenities. One of our rules of travel is: Don’t turn on the TV so the TV is not important to us. There was a desk and good WiFi so we could stay connected. We liked the piped in music. The lounge is a comfy place to read or meet with friends.  The breakfast buffet offers a wide variety of choices and is served in a dedicated room with white-tablecloth service. 

The pousada is about 15 minutes by cab from the center of Lisbon and not far from the airport.  It is a good option for those who will rent a car but don’t want to drive in Lisbon or want to be fairly close to the airport.  The Palace is just steps from the front door from the Pousada and has massive French palatial-style gardens.  They don’t do horse presentations
there but at the end of the garden are the stables for those who want to communicate with them.  Check the schedule of events at the palace. They often have concerts but they sell out fast.  There are several restaurants in the area but do not miss have a meal at French-inspired CozinhaVelha restaurant.  It was once the palace kitchen.  The roasting fireplace and massive marble prep table are still there as are many other artifacts. This is the second time we have stayed here and will again – I hope.