Rarely, as you get older, does one truly get blown away anymore. Sure, who can knock the parties of Ibiza, the Cannes Croisette, Athenian beach clubs, or pizza in Palermo? But for those who have exhausted the touristic traps of those mentioned, where does one go for some novelty and excitement?
Lisbon, Portugal, of course. Home to one of the most cult-devoted writers of the 20th Century, Fernando Pessoa, and the greatest pastries you’ll ever try in your life (just to name a few things) – if you’re lucky enough to visit, there’s only one hotel that will do: The 5-star, Epic Sana Marques Hotel.
Much like its neighbouring countries, Southern European hospitality is perhaps nothing all too news worthy, and yet, one can’t help but feel like royalty upon stepping foot inside this titanic behemoth of a hotel, situated in the most central area of Lisbon.
As one of the members of staff mentioned, “We are right on Lisbon’s version of Champs Elysses.” Indeed, though dare I say, a bit less hectic, and fewer selfie sticks (thankfully).
Fusing Portuguese history and culture with a contemporary twist, moving through the sweeping, cavernous lobby is the closest you’ll get to feeling Cristiano Ronaldo on vacation.
When it comes to dinner, understandably, the average person is probably quite hesitant to give up the ability to choose from the menu themselves. In this case, however, that trust in the head chef was handsomely repaid.
Restaurant Allora served some of the most delectable truffle pasta, local wine, and decadent desserts imaginable – the only disappointment was that the human stomach doesn’t hold any greater capacity. The wine sommelier presented each bottle like a seasoned art critic, explaining its intricate details with such passion that, even for the most indifferent wine drinker, one couldn’t help but be overly impressed.
The hotel has over 3,500 reviews on Google, and every single one is more gushing than the next. If you ever bother to read any, you’ll notice a recurring theme in the reviews: amazing staff, amazing food, amazing service, great location…need we say more?
The attentive kindness of communications manager Nassir Amirali was unparalleled, and his knowledge of love for the city of Lisbon was so infectious one couldn’t help but consider a permanent move.
Taking a dip in the rooftop pool at the SUD pool lounge, staring out at the sweeping rooftops of Lisbon while sipping on a caipirinha is not something one experiences every day, and not something one is bound to forget anytime soon. And with live DJs taking to the stage, one could easily stay there all night, forgetting that there’s an entire city waiting to be discovered.
A cup of coffee, a pastel de nata, and a walk through this beautiful hotel can only be described with one word: Epic.
Obrigado.