A glitch fare took me to Portugal pt 3
•shop local•
From second hand markets to posh shops like Prada and Chanel, there's something for every budget in Lisbon. The souvenir shops are really easy to find, especially in Baixa-Chiado, so I won't spend time on that. What I do recommend checking out is Embaixada in Príncipe Real. It feels like a hidden hipster district of sorts that's been set up in a grand 19th century palace...yes a palace (Palacete Ribeiro da Cunha). It's such a neat concept and although, I didn't get anything from there, I enjoyed popping in and browsing what the highly skilled local artisans had to offer.
Along the same street, I found what I was looking for: Príncipe Real Enxovais, a charming old-world Portuguese linen shop.
It has been around forever with the sweetest lady working there. Her English is minimal, which I loved because it forced me to step up my Portuguese. I ended up getting a few things but be warned...this company has done linen for royalty so bargain prices won't be found.
Another store that I recommend stopping by is: A Vida Portuguesa (Portuguese Life). Its flagship store in the Chiado neighbourhood, at Rua Anchieta 11, can be a little tricky to find. I ended up looking out for people passing by with bags that had the name on it (not a guaranteed method but it helped).
If you want timeless high quality products created and produced locally for years, then this is your spot. A Vida Portuguesa has curated a beautiful collection of brands from across the country, which I guarantee will have you feeling like you've stepped back in time.
It is one of a few places that carry Claus Porto soaps in Portugal, amongst other items. Claus Porto has been creating artisanal soaps using natural ingredients for over 130 years, so best believe I was like a kid in a candy shop. The soaps last quite awhile and smell wonderful (they smell like luxury and I’m here for it), in case you were wondering.
Since my trip, Claus Porto has opened a flagship store in Chiado to rave reviews. It even has a dedicated lower level space for their men's line Musgo Real, custom scent counselling and a barber shop. Fancy.
Overall, the shopping in Lisbon was GREAT. I loved that there was something at every price point, shopkeepers were nice and the shops were well-maintained.
Up next: my hotel!
