Alcântara Premium Studio

Great facilities for cooking, dishwashing.

Location

Shower needs improving

It was a good location for me. Once I arrived the communication was good (but not great in advance)

It was a stressful experience in the run up to the booking. The advert said I would be met at the property but then they sent me a link and wanted me to pay and give all my identity documents online which felt suspicious as it was not stated on the advert. It took many calls and messages to arrange an in person check in but eventually it was arranged and then it did go smoothly but they charged me extra for this. The handle on the shower was broken so it wasn't obvious how to switch it on until a message from the property identified it. The bed was very lumpy and a ridge on the sides made it uncomfortable getting in and out, plus there was no socket next to the bed. The kitchen was reasonably provided but the organisation was poor and you kept having to walk to both sides to get anything you needed. It looks as if they have not updated their listing to make it clear you will get a link to provide your payment and details online - if you want a check in, in person they will charge you for it!

We didn’t anticipate being provided with brand new facilities, but we were disappointed to find that most of the appliances were in semi-faulty conditions. Despite this, we chose not to complain as it didn’t significantly impact our sleep and our stay was only for a few nights. We took extra care of the studio, ensuring that everything, including the kitchen sink, dishes, and surfaces, was thoroughly cleaned before we checked out. Regrettably, upon our return home, they unjustly accused us of breaking the hair dryer and charged us 45 euros WITHOUT providing any evidence to support their claim. To exacerbate the situation, they have been deliberately delaying communication in what appears to be an attempt to impose additional charges on us. This experience has left us feeling disrespected and taken advantage of. Therefore, my advice to anyone considering this apartment is to avoid it at all costs due to such unacceptable behavior. It’s crucial to ensure that your accommodation respects your rights as a guest and communicates effectively and honestly.

Self check in-out.

A modern apartment with a balcony and good public transport connection

When we arrived it wasn’t really cleaned. There were leftovers in the sink, stains on the table and also the floor was feeling dirty. After repeatedly contacting the owner we didn’t get any response at all which was frustrating.

I couldn’t contact the number on the booking confirmation, and no reply on Expedia chat! Lucky we caught the cleaner just leaving and asked how we could get in touch with the check-in staff. She was very helpful and got someone to contact me. Apparently the number I had was of someone on a day off! I was required to send our passports via WhatsApp and give my card details over the phone for deposit and city tax. Not very secure! The process wasn’t explained before my booking, nor in the confirmation. I would’ve been happier if I knew what to expect instead of giving my details and sorting my documents on the street to get inside the apartment. Keypad access for main door; keys in safe by your own door. Great location. Quiet neighbourhood and close to many transport links (trains, trams, buses). Many places to eat and mini markets nearby. The streets and walkways aren’t crowded but you’ll see the locals and the commuters. Apartment was spacious. Sofa bed is clean but not very comfortable (comfort 5 out of 10). I was expecting apartment 1D but we were given 1F, didn’t matter so much because we still had the double bed, kitchen and bathroom as expected. Nowhere to hang towels conveniently in the bathroom, but clean, modern and good water pressure. I’ll stay again if I can’t find another apartment in this area. The apartment itself is fine, but checking-in and contacting the staff were very stressful. They didn’t even acknowledge our checkout message re: deposit.