The most basic expectations of a five-star hotel are luxurious accommodation and public areas, prompt and attentive service and decent drinking and dining options.
These boxes are all ticked impressively by this Lisbon property, which also scores on location, being close to a Metro station and a short commute from the airport.
But what sets the Corinthia apart from many of its competitors is the little extras that take the tension out of a short break. They start from the moment of booking, when clients are contacted by the hotel's guest services team to ask if they require assistance with organising any aspect of their holiday - transportation, tours, shopping, restaurant advice and bookings. Thus much of your itinerary can be sorted before you set foot in the elegant lobby. From personal experience, the guest services personnel are also speedily efficient at resolving problems such as a forgotten phone charger or a lack of protective wrapping for fragile purchases which need to travel in checked-in luggage.
There was complimentary water in my room, as well as tea and coffee-making facilities. Features included a work desk, wardrobe with interior lighting and piped music in the bathroom from a local radio station (mind you, it did take me a while to locate the volume control to mute it at bedtime). Free wi-fi is available throughout the hotel and staying on one of the higher floors, I enjoyed fabulous city views from the bay windows.
Those who stay in the 76 executive rooms have access to the 24th floor Sky Lounge for an elevated breakfast experience and all-day snacks and drinks. For the rest, there is a spacious ground level restaurant for breakfast and anyone can take advantage of a second dining venue, where guests seeking a handy place to sample local cuisine can indulge in an all-you-can-eat Portuguese buffet for 29.50 euros.
Oh yes, and a relaxing bar area for that final late night glass of port. My favourite table was in the corner next to a giant fish sculpture, one of many engaging artworks dotted around the site. Should you feel minded to work off some of the alcohol, or excess consumption of the wondrous local cakes, the multi-featured spa incorporates a decent gym and pool which are free to those staying.
Alternatively, just ask those nice people at guest services to suggest a picturesque route for an early morning run.
