PORTUGAL TRIP

Dear Eugenio, Thank you for helping us plan our trip to Portugal. We had a wonderful time. As promised, Marina was at the airport to pick us up, as was our guide Paola. Paola and our driver were terrific. As we were recovering from jet lag for the first two days, it was wonderful to have them drive us around in a beautiful Mercedes. We learned so much on our half-day tour of Lisbon, as well as the full day we spent exploring the castles in Sintra and Queluz, then driving through the mountains to Cascais. We didn't have to worry about anything other than where to have dinner. And actually not even that, as Paola recommended restaurants for the entire time we were in Lisbon and even made reservations for us -- including a restaurant/fado club. As for hotels, The Heritage Liberdade in Lisbon was perfect for us -- location the best, and our room was spacious, comfortable, and with a good view. We enjoyed the buffet breakfast there as well. and the hotel staff was very helpful. We loved both the Convento do Espinheiro in Evora and Quinta das Lagrimas in Coimbra. The Quinta upgraded us to what they called just one level below a suite....a huge room in the historic part of the hotel. And the Convento is a beautifully restored old Convent -- our room in the historic section was great. Starwood has done a marvelous job restoring and furnishing it, and the staff is dedicated to helping the guests enjoy it. Their food was absolutely great -- breakfast buffet fantastic, and the tasting menu dinner we had was one of the best meals we've eaten. (I'm glad we chose the Convento over the Posada, although the Posada looked nice, as well.) In addition, at both the Convento and Quinta das Lagrimas, I must say I enjoyed their pools and saunas, which are complimentary to the guests. In addition, I must mention that I'm glad you recommended we spend a couple of days near Tomar -- the Knights Templar castle and the old synagogue were highlights for me. By the way, the Alta Royal Lodge in Ourem I found on Trip Advisor was a great experience for us. The American priest who runs this B&B is totally charming, and we loved it. It's not a big hotel for everyone, but for those seeking charm and a bed/breakfast atmosphere, I do recommend it. Again, thank you for your personal attention and patience with all my questions and concerns, Best, Joan Meyerson