having been to portugal twice now, i can honestly tell you, you should try and go, too. so this week we’re visiting one of my very favorite places to stay in lisbon — baixa house, charming boutique apartments in the heart of the city’s historic district. as you can tell from these photos it’s one of the homiest, loveliest places to stay with several unique apartments complete with their own kitchens and fresh bread that is dropped off at your room each morning — you’ll find it adorably hanging in a sweet little bread bag from your doorknob. how special is that? your fridge is stocked with fresh yogurt and milk, along with great coffee. it’s so cozy here, you might not feel like leaving their well-appointed 18th-century apartments — each one is uniquely designed with close attention to detail by interior designer javier cargo — this is just a small sampling of their 13 beautiful apartments. lisbon is much like san francisco, with many hills to climb, streetcars and some cobblestone streets so we’re dressing quite casually and comfortably for this trip, and again i’m giving you some layered options — some classic cotton chinos paired with a graphic tee and i had to throw in the liberez les sardines sweatshirt, since lisbon is known for its beautifully tinned sardines! i’ve added comfy sneakers, sunnies and bucket hat, and a cute tote bag for carting all those sardines home! and for the evening, an easy caftan dress, a darling petite tote bag, and slides that are easy on those streets. i’ve also packed you jammies and an eye mask and of course, a good book to read before you doze off. We Run the Tides by Vendela Vida takes place in Pre–tech boom San Francisco and finds its mirror in the changing lives of the teenage girls at the center of this story of innocence lost, the pain of too much freedom, and the struggle to find one’s authentic self. Told with great warmth, this book is both a gripping mystery and a tribute to the wonders of youth, in all its beauty and confusion. enjoy your stay in this truly warm and welcoming place!