I must start by saying that based on other reviews and the hotel's reputation, I had very high expectations, which unfortunately, were not met at all.
I tried to book an Executive Suite at the last minute as I hadn't yet confirmed my travel plans and was travelling for business, and unfortunately I was not able to book any room online via their website, and when I called to check on room availability, they said that no rooms were available at all (not even regular rooms), which was unusual for a Sunday and Monday booking. Therefore, I booked a regular room (at a similar rate offered by the hotel itself) through a third party who suggested that I upgrade when I arrive at the hotel.
I chose this particular hotel as I thought that it would be conveniently located to the major attractions and accessible; however, I was disappointed. I took the Aerobus from the airport to the hotel which took approximately 20 minutes and dropped me off right outside the door. When I arrived, although I had a confirmation number and had paid in advance, they had no confirmation of my booking on their end, which led to a very lengthy delay. Furthermore, I was unable to upgrade to an Executive Suite or even to any other room aside from the one on the 6th floor I was given, with a view of mostly a concrete wall. I asked about access to the Executive Lounge so that I could hold my meetings, which was 50 euros/day, and ultimately did not feel that it warranted the cost just to have a meeting, so I opted out.
During my 2 day stay, I had additional issues attempting to obtain room service, where no one would answer the line, despite me waiting for up to half an hour. Similarly, the reception desk agents were unable to provide me with information regarding transportation or the city in general and referred me to the Information desk that was unattended.
Furthermore, despite me hanging the 'Do Not Disturb' sign on my door, my room was entered by housekeeping and I had to phone the reception desk to inform them of such. I am always cognizant of keeping my business documents and electronics protected given the requirements of my work, and thus I typically request that housekeeping not enter.
The room: Although my room had a poor view, it had a comfortable bed with a nicely equipped bathroom with a robe and slippers provided. There were hardly any outlets in the room to use at all which made it difficult for me to charge my electronics. There was a hot water kettle with instant coffee, but no coffee machine, and no ice machine available.
The hotel itself: The highlight of my stay was the fantastic gym, and although I didn't use the spa or pool, these seemed quite nice. Outside, there was a lovely patio/bar area that you can actually see from the gym, and at the time I was there, they had a very large TV outside in this area as well. There is wifi in the hotel, although it did cut out sometimes.
I did not eat any meals at the hotel itself, but I attempted to order room service, although there was no answer. I did not observe that the restaurants or bar in the hotel were particularly busy at any time, and although the outdoor patio was lovely, this also remained empty.
Surrounding area: The hotel is located approximately 15-20 minutes driving time away from the hotel, and although it is located to the zoo, there isn't much else nearby with limited dining options. They do have a metro station that is a few minutes walk from the hotel itself, where you can catch a train to Sintra (approximately 40 mins) or to Baixa/Chiado/Rossio (approximately 15-20 minutes). I preferred to walk to the downtown area, stopping at the Gulbenkian museum which is approximately 15 minutes away walking, Marques de Pombel Park and El Corte Ingles, which is about the same distance. It took me approximately 45-50 minutes to walk to Rossio and the downtown area, but it was a very pleasant walk down the main avenue that is lined with high end luxury boutiques.
Upon leaving, I attempted to obtain directions on how to make my way back to the airport (aside from taxis which I had had bad experiences with in Lisbon and decided against) and was given inaccurate and poor directions by multiple staff on how to get there by Aerobus and Metro.
Overall, although others may find this to be a 5* hotel, my experience (as someone travelling for business and pleasure) was not the same, and my expectations were not at all met. I cannot justify the cost of staying here, nor would I recommend it, especially if you would truly like to experience Lisbon. read more