Slow time in Lisbon

As we leave Craveiral and the calmness of the Alentejo region, we head on to our next destination, Lisbon. Although one of Europe's oldest cities, the energy here is particularly exciting, far from phlegmatic. As we begin wandering its streets, we find ourselves constantly shifting between tradition and modernity. Cutting edge museums share streets with Azulejos covered houses and newly built residential buildings; refurbished and modern spaces blend smoothly with traditional Portuguese architecture. Trendy cafés and restaurants share boardwalks with traditional Tascas (common Portuguese restaurants), while yellow trams climb hills with their timeless allure. There is a clear harmony in this beautiful city, and quality of life is amongst the best in Europe. Our special host is Filipe Lourenço, Architect, founder of Apparatus Architects, the mult-awarded studio, headquartered in Lisbon, with offices in Brazilia and Paris.

 

Entering the office of Apparatus Architects opens your mind to a world of sophisticated creativity. The office is in a historical building, but its interior is imbued with contemporary references. We meet Filipe over coffee, and before taking us on a tour of the city, he shares with us his views on contemporary architecture: "For the first time throughout history” he says " there is a consciousness of our social heritage, in which the question of sustainability becomes the center of every creative conception. Being able to mix the newest technologies with the local craftsmanship, imagining a green architecture, and respecting the environment is the key for our cities and future". 

Innovation, tradition, and sustainability. These words echo as we look at House of Ghisò’s own challenges. Ensuring that we can preserve the tradition of handcrafted leather accessories, while paying attention to performance, durability, and meeting the demanding standards of sustainability we have set for the brand. This complex equation can be solved through an appropriate balance of passion and know-how, technology and innovation.

We design and craft products for creative travelers, with the ambitious objective of designing durable, stylish bags and accessories that can accompany them through their everyday life. We are bound by what we call Slow Luxury, and passionate by the tradition of leather crafting from Tuscany.

 

“My travel essentials are Gabi and Dali" he tells us with a smile, as he refers to his lovely wife and sweet dog. In addition, I never travel without my Moleskine, my pencil case, an iPad, 2 books, a couple of black t-shirts and my washbag."

“A travel bag needs to be simple, smart (efficient), resistant, timeless, beautiful and authentic (craft)". 

GHISÒ’S TRAVEL BOOK 

SLEEP

Baixa House – charisma, simplicity and service describe this five-star apartment building located in the heart of Lisbon’s historical district.

Hotel Memmo Alfama – Hidden away in the hills of Alfama lies this gem of a hotel, with impeccable service, contemporary decor, and infinite views of Lisbon’s red rooftops.

 Hotel Memmo Principe Real – located in the hippest neighborhood of Lisbon, this hotel is surrounded by the “it” restaurants of the moment. Location is everything!

Santa Clara 1728 – Apartments that are your home away from home. Its soothing Skandi décor are a contrast with the hectic life buzzing outside its walls.

CULTURAL PLEASURES

Maat Museum – an international institution willing to foster critical discourse and creative practice through innovative and breathtaking exhibitions.

Gulbenkian Museum - presents the impressive collection of Calouste Gulbenkian, one of the most prominent private collectors of art in the world.

 Mude – dedicated to the world of design & fashion, this museum takes us on a stroll from the 19th century to the present.

Livraria Ferin – the second oldest library in Lisbon. Since 1840, Ferin has welcomed some of the greatest names in Portuguese literature such as Eça de Queiroz.

 Livraria Bertrand - is the oldest operating bookstore in the world, founded in 1732 in Lisbon. Located in Chiado, this library requires a visit during your travel to the city.

Rua das Flores – this street gathers dozens of art galleries, hosting Portuguese and international major artists, from traditional to contemporary art forms. A stroll down this street will get your creative juices flowing.

EAT & DRINK

Prado – a delicate and balanced mix of traditional Portuguese farm-to-table cuisine, .

Belcanto – a Michelin star restaurant not to be missed where traditional Portuguese cuisine is reinvented and deconstructed.

Tapisco – Michelin Chef Henrique Sá Pessoa’s personal take on Portuguese tapas, the menu is made for sharing with friends or family.

Cervejaria Ramiro – your typical “cervejaria” or “tasca”, an informal 3-floor restaurant dedicated to the art of serving traditional Portuguese since the 1950s.

 Bairro do Avillez – a typical Portuguese Páteo – not only for its on-point decor but for the food which takes every Portuguese back to their childhood, with style.

Embaixada – bar Gin Lovers - This XIX century new-Arabian Palace was transformed into a trendy shopping spot hosting a few of the most iconic Portuguese brands.

The bar "Gin Lovers" - gin may be their specialty, with over 60 brands but the food presented by chef Fernando Semedo, makes it the perfect recipe for a delicious time!

SUD Lisboa – Iconic for its view of the Tagus River, memorable for its infinity pool and reimagined local dishes & signature cocktails.