By: Mae Cornes
In the heart of Lisbon’s historic downtown, just steps from the iconic Commerce Square, a new player is redefining hospitality standards in the city: MeraPrime Gold. Founded by visionary entrepreneur Umar Abdul Shakoor Sorathia, the 3-star MeraPrime Gold offers a level of service that competes with many 5-star establishments, setting a new benchmark in accessible luxury.
Redefining Luxury in Lisbon’s Hotel Scene
The standard hotel experience in Lisbon typically involves a mix of historic charm and modern amenities. Many establishments capitalize on the city’s rich cultural heritage, offering rooms in renovated palaces or buildings with centuries-old facades. While these hotels provide comfortable stays, they often lack the personalized touch and modern services that today’s discerning travelers seek.
MeraPrime Gold, however, is an exception to this status quo. Despite its official 3-star rating, the hotel offers an experience that goes far beyond expectations. With 38 meticulously designed rooms, each blending contemporary luxury with Portuguese charm, MeraPrime Gold has created what general manager Vasco Pires calls “a sanctuary of comfort and elegance in the heart of the city.“
Elevating the Guest Experience
What truly puts the shine on MeraPrime Gold is its dedication to personalized service and attention to detail. The hotel’s Allow – License to Snack restaurant and café offers a culinary journey through Portuguese flavors, with all food carrying Halal certification to cater to a diverse clientele.
The hotel’s location on Rua Áurea places guests at the epicenter of Lisbon’s attractions, but the extra touches truly elevate the luxury. From offering free walking tours one day a week to providing early check-in and late check-out options (subject to availability), MeraPrime Gold ensures that every aspect of a guest’s stay meets their needs.
“We want to create an environment that offers personalized luxury services yet maintains the sophistication of contemporary design,” says Umar Abdul Shakoor Sorathia, founder of MeraPrime Hotels. “A hotel is more than just a place to rest. Memories are made, and experiences are crafted within our four walls.“
A New Benchmark in a Competitive Market
MeraPrime Gold’s services have captured the adoration of Lisbon’s competitive hotel market. With hundreds of highly-rated Google reviews and thousands of superb Booking.com reviews, the hotel outperforms many of its higher-rated competitors.
According to recent statistics, Lisbon saw a 7.5% increase in hotel occupancy rates in 2023 compared to the previous year. The average daily rate (ADR) for hotels in the city rose by 15%, a sign of strong demand for quality accommodations. MeraPrime Gold’s success in such a market could mean a change in traveler preferences, one geared toward hotels that offer exceptional service, regardless of their official star rating.
Lisbon and Beyond
Even beyond Lisbon, neighboring countries, particularly Spain, are showing signs of similar trends. In Barcelona, another popular European destination, hotels are beginning to try similar strategies, focusing on higher-quality experiences over traditional luxury markers.
Only time will tell whether MeraPrime Gold’s rating will remain. However, as the hotel stands, Lisbon and its travelers have found a 5-star refuge in this establishment—each receiving white-glove service comparable to fine hotels in Europe.
Published By: Aize Perez
