85th Lisbon Book Fair

During my stay in Lisbon, I had the chance to go to the Book Fair in Parque Eduardo VII; it is the biggest showcase of Portuguese publishing industry, with over two hundred pavilions and hundreds of publishers and booksellers. Farturas from “A Otário” were also part of the party (they’re like sweet donuts sprinkled with cinnamon and are traditional in fairs).

I didn't know from where to start in this book wonderland! I remembered a quote by Maud Casey: "I was born with a reading list I will never finish."

I always lose my head over books… but on that Monday early and late afternoon, after many hours wandering and turning pages, I only bought two books, thinking about the weight of my luggage and the lack of spare space at home. It’s a fact: sometimes I hear my library closet making bizarre noises; I think one of these days it might break into a thousand pieces.

But back to the Fair: it really is a wondrous space for everyone in search of literary novelties, meeting with our favorite author or, simply, walking surrounded by books in the most beautiful city park you can imagine.

This Fair lasts fifteen days, from end of May to mid-June. So, sorry ladies and gents, for you it's too late… but if you happen to be in Lisbon around that time next year, do take a stroll there!

Near Lisbon

Sintra

Sintra (36 km from Lisbon) lies within the Serra de Sintra hills and has historically been associated with the Portuguese nobility and elite. Contained in the region are two royal palaces: Palácio da Pena and Palácio Nacional, the ancient ruined castle Castelo dos Mouros, and numerous other stately and grand residences.

Cabo da Roca

Cabo da Roca (38.9 km from Lisbon) is the most westerly point of Portugal and Europe. The isolated atmosphere of Cabo da Roca is enhanced by the very limited development in the area; there is a lighthouse, coffee shop and gift shop but not much else. The main attraction of the area is the raw power of nature as the massive waves bound the 100m high cliffs of highly faulted rocks.

 

Cascais

Cascais (32 km from Lisbon) is the coast and beach of Lisbon. It has lively bars, nice shops, cafes and restaurants, and cute streets with palm trees. You can take time out for a sunbath in the small beach Praia da Rainha, or go to the Praia da Conceição for a trip boat with paddle boats and playground.

Costa da Caparica

The last days in Lisbon were passed in the Costa da Caparica beach. Costa da Caparica is located across the Ponte 25 de Abril Bridge from Lisbon. The town has around 11 km of breath-taking beaches. The further south you go the finer the beaches get, with lively beach bars and fish restaurants. My favorite is the Praia Nova. The water is clean and cold with big waves from the Atlantic Ocean.

What I like the most are the summer memories I have of spending time there with my family. We would sunbathe, picnic, read, listen to music, chat and observe people around us. I also love playing in the ocean; trying to “catch” big waves, it’s a sensational feeling, which makes me laugh, I feel like a child. When I am resting I love the “song” of the ocean and the breeze. It’s a natural spa and it does wonders to my mental health and physical wellbeing. What can one ask more to the Lord?  I’m counting down the days until I return there.

Where to stay in Lisbon? Sofitel

I took advantage of my stay in Lisbon to have a “Cosmopolitan cocktail” in a place I really love, a gem of a hotel in the heart of Lisbon’s downtown center. Having been in Lisbon many times and having tried a few hotels (though this time I stayed with family and friends), I chose Sofitel as the place to stay: it is chic and cooler than other competitors (names shall not be disclosed). I’ve always received a warm welcome from the staff and fall immediately for its atmosphere whether in Agadir, Macau, NY.

Sofitel Lisbon is a medium size hotel, located in Av. da Liberdade, near historic neighbourhoods. It’s a short walk from Chiado and Bairro Alto, famous for their nightlife and nice stores. Also, this 5-star hotel meets my demanding expectations in terms of service quality and luxurious and comfortable rooms.

All bedrooms have a contemporary décor, refined style with warm colours, they include all amenities you can expect from a good five-star hotel; they even have marble bathrooms. I had a crush on their amenity products Hermès. I must admit that I am addicted to these goodies. I collect them, for my disgrace cause I always ask "Can I have extra, body lotion, shower gel?" The chambermaids are really kind to provide for my little stock.

The ambiance is cosmopolitan and you can unwind in the nice lounge-bar where they offer a large selection of cocktails and drinks. You can dine in the excellent restaurant AdLib, a fusion of French culinary know-how and Portuguese cuisine with dishes such as octopus salad, prawns “à la Guilho”,  “Caldo Verde” potato & cabbage soup, lamb shank with presunto….Oh la la… all this is so yummy!

Also, you can explore Lisbon’s trendy restaurants located only a few minutes’ walk from the hotel, or if you prefer (like I do) eat in traditional tascas that serve the most tasty, generous (big portions) and insanely affordable food. The competent and friendly receptionist will advise you about the restaurant you fancy and even book a table for you.

 

Moreover, Sofitel Lisboa offers a wide range of services such as babysitting, transfers and tours, and airport check-in upon request. There is no swimming pool or spa nor a beauty salon, but it does have a small Fitness Center. But this is only a small detail when one visits Lisbon.

Here, you will feel spoiled by the kind staff, feel overwhelmed with the historic sites and monuments.... briefly, fall in love with Lisboa! When you leave this town you will learn the meaning of "saudade".

This is my genuine opinion otherwise I wouldn't have written. This is not a sponsored post by the Sofitel chain.

Hotel Sofitel Lisboa

Av. da Liberdade 127

Lisboa