Why T.
Google
The Palacete Chafariz d'el Rei felt more like an intimate guest house than a traditional hotel, with constant, friendly interactions with the staff, whether for breakfast, leaving the keys when stepping out, or ringing the doorbell upon returning. The usual anonymity of a hotel simply wasn’t part of the experience. The accommodations also made it easy to hear other guests at any hour of the day or night whenever noise arose. Quietness became an unspoken courtesy, a shared kindness that everyone respected throughout our five‑day stay — except for the enthusiastic dog who made sure the world woke up every morning.
The staff were exceptionally kind. A heartfelt thank‑you to Antonio, Akshay, Joana, and Rodrigo, who made us feel welcome at every moment. Breakfast each morning felt like a nurturing embrace, complete with the best cappuccino I’ve ever had and always‑fresh fruits and juices to awaken the senses.
The surroundings itself radiated a grand, luxurious charm, as though stepping inside were enough to slip into a fairy tale. The room stretched wide and open, its windows framing a glorious view of the water.
In the spirit of the Palacete’s magical atmosphere, poetic musings abounded of tales as old as time…
There once was a guest who lived in a hotel,
A grand old palace with a brass lobby bell.
The guest fussed and fumed about every small bother,
From the merriment of some guests to the footsteps of others.
They’d march to the desk with a huff and a glare,
Declaring that no one had manners or care.
Yet each early morning—before sunrise broke—
Their dear aging dog gave a thunderous croak.
It barked at noises, it barked at the air,
It barked at the sunlight that danced on the chair.
And guests, half‑awake, would groan in their beds,
Pulling pillows and blankets up over their heads.
Still the guest complained, as they always would do,
Never seeing their part in the hullabaloo.
For it’s hard to see truth when you’re wearing a veil—
Or a plank in your eye like a ship with no sail.
One day a kind manager, with gentle intent,
May tell the them, “Dear guest, perhaps you might pause and relent.
Before finding specks in the eyes of your brothers,
Remember the wisdom: do unto others.”
Perhaps the guest may blink, they may soften, they may even let out a sigh
Finally noticing the “plank” in their eye.
Perhaps from that moment, with patience anew,
The guest and their old dog will let the guests sleep on through.
Thank you again to Antonio, Akshay, Joana, and Rodrigo, and the housekeeping team, you made our stay a pleasure.