in search of darn good digs

We’ve asked a group of professional travel writers and popular travel bloggers to nominate their all-time favorite small hotels, b & b’s, and hostels with rooms under $150, and our first guest post is by Jeanine Barone, the author of J The Travel Authority.  Jeanine has written articles for most of the major travel publications, including National Geographic Traveler and Conde Nast Traveler.  She has chosen to nominate the Lisbon Dreams Guest House,  a small guest house in Lisbon, Portugal:

Lisbon Dreams Guest House

What makes the Lisbon Dreams Guest House so darn good? Here you’ll find a minimalist sun-filled haven that conveys a touch of luxury and without breaking your budget. It’s hard to believe that for a mere 45 to 65 Euros, you’ll be able to relax in their comfy lounge that’s equipped with a laptop, plasma screen TV, and dozens of paperbacks. Plus, what other ultra budget accommodation could say that Joanna Gomes, who’s noted for her tableware, ceramic and glass creations, designed their interiors? But the real selling point of this accommodation is the meandering patio that’s accessible from a multitude of rooms. I could’ve spent all day and evening lounging in one of the many chairs, taking in the sun, dining at one of the tables or reading beside one of the many potted plants.

Location:Easily accessibly to several metro stations, the guesthouse, which opened in May 2009, is only a short walk to Avenida de Liberdade, Lisbon’s main thoroughfare. The neighborhood, snuggled between the Rato and Marques de Pombal neighborhoods, is also where Portugal’s Prime Minister has a home.

Rooms: The 10 minimally furnished guest rooms carry a white on white motif, with the only colored hues coming from the throw pillows, headboard and the ubiquitous green apples. Your hosts have also provided each guest with white towels,  slippers and robes.

Lisbon Dreams Guest House

Food: The breakfast may not be homemade but not only is it large but you can enjoy it in a lovely dining space that’s hung with an artistic paper chandelier and decorated with multi-colored throw rugs. You’ll have your choice of, of course, green apples and other fresh fruits, whole wheat bread and warm croissants (and other pastries), several kinds of jams, various meats and cheeses and even chocolate milk. The kitchen is quite complete with a microwave and stove, so feel free to cook your other meals here if you wish. 

Vibe:Low key and casual is the name of the game here where an ambiance of privacy and comfort radiates.

Keep in mind: None of the rooms have private baths but that shouldn’t dissuade you. After all, the shared bathrooms are meticulously clean, and  come with petite face towels and large tubs. In addition, the rooms don’t have air conditioning but I was there in the summer and found it plenty comfortable.

Lisbon Dreams Guest House

Thanks Jeanine for nominating your favorite digs!

We would love to hear from more savvy travelers about their all-time favorite independently owned hotels with rooms under US$150. Nominate them now (or simply sign up for our quarterly newsletter) and have a chance to win a ROUGH GUIDE of your choice!

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