There is no doubt in my mind that, by far, the best hotel in Lisbon is the Lapa Palace. It's a five star hotel and it's part of the Orient-Express family. The Lapa Palace is located just about a block away from the U.S. Embassy and one of the many nice things about it is that it's actually a fine resort, situated right in the city itself. The hotel is surrounded by beautiful gardens, and there are two lovely, warm swimming pools in the midst of all that gorgeous greenery. In addition, it's located just a few blocks away from Lisbon's # 28 tram, which travels in a giant circle around most of the scenic and historic areas of the city. You can just jump on any of those charming little 19th century trams that pass by and, for a fare that's about two U.S. dollars, you can enjoy a delightful and very interesting view of many of the most interesting sights in Lisbon. A little over an hour later, the tram will safely deliver you back to exactly where you started from and you can stroll back to the hotel.

We've stayed at the Lapa Palace a number of times over the past few years and, every time we return to this wonderful hotel, we seem to enjoy the experience more and more. (We're planning on going back again next May.)

The Lapa Palace's staff is efficient, courteous and extremely friendly. The hotel's Cipriani restaurant is one of the top dining spots in all of Lisbon. (There is also a wonderful little restaurant adjoining the pool that is open for lunch.) The gentlemen behind the concierge desk, in my opinion, rank right up there with the finest we have ever dealt with and, interestingly enough, two of them are both named "Hugo." (How many times have you left a concierge desk laughing and then, later on, returned to tell them how much you enjoyed their recommendations?) One final thing - once you're there, ask one of the Hugos to recommend a place where you can hear Fado and, if possible, to hear either Lenita Gentil and/or Antonio Rocha sing their versions of those timeless Portuguese ballads!

Hi DonPablo - or anyone else - do you have any recommendations for restaurants? Kais is full... Thanks Ian

Ian -

In response to your request for some recommendations for restaurants in Lisbon, I've started a new topic, which is appropriately entitled "Restaurants in Lisbon." You can find my suggestions there!

Don Pablo