OMG! You WON'T Believe This Mario-Themed House in Portugal!
OMG! You WON'T Believe This Mario-Themed House in Portugal!: A Review That's More Fun Than a Go-Kart Race (Probably)
Alright, buckle up, because I just got back from a trip that's going to blow your mind… or at least make you want to swap your boring life for a week of pixelated perfection. I'm talking about the OMG! You WON'T Believe This Mario-Themed House in Portugal! (Yes, that's its actual name). And let me tell you, the hype? Absolutely justified. This place is bonkers. In the best way possible.
Accessibility & Safety First (Because, You Know, Grown-Up Stuff):
Okay, okay, let's get the serious stuff out of the way. Accessibility: I didn't personally need any accessibility features, but I did take a good look around. They listed Facilities for disabled guests, which is a great start. I didn't see a ton of obvious ramps or anything, so I suggest double-checking concrete specifics if you have mobility needs.
Cleanliness, Safety, and Peace of Mind: Now this they crushed. Considering the current climate, they clearly take hygiene seriously. Anti-viral cleaning products? Check. Rooms sanitized between stays? Check. Daily disinfection in common areas? Check. They had hand sanitizer stations everywhere, and the staff seemed genuinely on top of things. The whole place felt squeaky clean (which, ironically, is exactly what you don't expect from a Mario-themed anything, haha).
This place has been very proactive about the pandemic. There are so many services and protocols to make your trip as safe as possible. Staff trained in safety protocol? Physical distancing of at least 1 meter? Sanitized kitchen and tableware items? I mean, talk about peace of mind. It’s nice when you can have a fun vacation and not worry about getting sick.
They clearly take safety very seriously. They have CCTV in common areas, and outside the property, Fire extinguisher and Smoke alarms in the building.
The Mario-ness: Where the Magic Happens
Forget everything you think you know about themed hotels. This isn't just a few posters and a red hat. This is a full-blown immersion. Seriously.
Walking in, I literally gasped. The decor is INSANE. It's like stepping into a Mario game. The walls are painted like brickwork, the furniture perfectly mimics those iconic blocks. I would be surprised if they don't have a secret door! Room decorations? Exquisite.
The Rooms: Your Warp Zone to Relaxation
My room? Absolutely stellar. I’m serious -- I was in awe. Air conditioning was a lifesaver. Free Wi-Fi? Yup, worked like a charm (essential for posting all those envy-inducing pics, obviously). The Internet access – wireless was good across the whole building as was Internet access – LAN – very handy for those of us who need it.
I loved the little touches, like the Mario-themed towels and the complimentary tea. Having a desk was great for catching up on some work. They also provided Free bottled water, which was a nice perk. You know, even if it's just a practical touch, having a refrigerator in the room is always great. The in-room safe box makes you feel comfortable, and safe/security feature helps even more. There was a seating area, perfect for relaxing or having a small gathering.
Bathroom bliss (yes, really!): My private bathroom was immaculate. There was a bathtub, a separate shower, and all the toiletries you could dream of (honestly, I never actually tried the bathrobes).
Things to Do (Besides Playing Mario):
Okay, so the place is amazing – but what else can you do besides, you know, wander around and marvel at the Mario-ness?!
- Swimming pool: The Swimming pool [outdoor] was gorgeous. Lounging there with the tunes blasting – pure bliss.
- Fitness center: I don't tend to work out much on vacation (who am I kidding, ever?), but I peeked in, and it looked pretty decent. They also offer a gym/fitness area (more equipment).
- Spa/Sauna: This isn't exactly a luxury spa, but they have some Sauna options.
Food, Glorious Food (and Maybe a Few Booze-Based Adventures)
This is where things get REALLY interesting.
- Restaurants: They had a few Restaurants, naturally. There are Western cuisine in restaurant, Asian cuisine in restaurant, and Vegetarian restaurant.
- Breakfast: There was Breakfast [buffet] at the main restaurant – a solid spread with plenty of options. Breakfast in room services are also available. They also had a Breakfast takeaway service if you're in a hurry.
- Coffee: Also, the Coffee shop was great. I spent a lot of time there. They also had Coffee/tea in restaurant, which was nice.
- Bar: The Bar was also a highlight. They serve your drink, and they also had a poolside bar. Happy hour? YES, PLEASE!
- Snacks: I also enjoyed their Snack bar, good for the munchies.
- Room Service: Room service [24-hour]! Essential for those late-night hunger pangs (or, in my case, early morning, post-partying).
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Make a Difference
- Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! and Wi-Fi in public areas! I needed it for posting those Instagram stories, naturally.
- Front desk [24-hour]: Extremely attentive, professional, and helpful.
- Concierge: They were super helpful with booking taxis and recommending local spots.
- Daily housekeeping: My room was spotless throughout my stay.
- Laundry service: Thank god for that, because I definitely ended up getting something on my shirt.
For the Kids (and the Kid in All of Us):
- Family/child friendly – a definite yes!
- Kids facilities- they also have Kids meal.
- Babysitting service- if you need it, it’s there.
Getting Around:
- They offer Airport transfer, which is a lifesaver.
- Car park [free of charge] – BONUS!
My Honest Verdict:
Look, I'm not going to lie. I wasn't sure what to expect. But this place? It exceeded every single expectation. It's quirky, it's fun, and it's a total escape from reality. There are even Smoking area.
Is it perfect? No. Nothing is. But the sheer joy and attention to detail make it an unforgettable experience.
Final Thought: Would I go back? In a heartbeat.
And now, for the sales pitch (because hey, I'm a reviewer, not a travel agent, but…):
STOP WASTING TIME! BOOK YOUR PIXELATED PARADISE NOW!
Here's why you should book the OMG! You WON'T Believe This Mario-Themed House in Portugal!:
- Unrivaled Thematic Immersion: Forget generic hotels – this is a total Mario experience. Dive headfirst into a world of joy, nostalgia, and pixelated perfection.
- Safety First, Fun Always: Relax knowing you're in a safe and clean environment, following the highest hygiene standards.
- Convenience and Comfort: Exceptional service, modern amenities, and those little extras that'll make your stay seamless.
- Unforgettable Memories: You'll be telling the story of this trip for years.
- Offer Price: I didn't see the price, but it is something that you want to check before you go.
Don't miss out! This place is going to become a legend. Book now and prepare for an adventure like no other!
Seychelles Paradise Found: Your Dream Green Garden Getaway!
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into a Super Mario-themed nightmare…I mean, vacation… in Casa dos Moinhos, Porto Formoso, Portugal. This isn't your perfectly Instagrammed influencer getaway; this is the real deal, folks. Get ready for the chaos.
Day 1: Arrival and the Promise of Portuguese Charm…and a Mild Panic Attack
Morning (aka, Getting Lost and Questioning My Life Choices): Fly in to Ponta Delgada Airport (PDL). Spoiler alert: We're on SATA. Pray for us. The flight was… a journey. Let's just say my internal monologue was oscillating wildly between "OMG SO EXCITED" and "Did I pack enough snacks? Because I'm pretty sure I'm going to die of hanger."
- Anxiety-Fueled Anecdote: The customs line? Oh, the glory of the customs line. After a 6-hour flight, standing in line for an hour waiting for someone to stamp my passport. I got to my turn and I was so glad I was going to leave that place I was about to hug the officer.
Afternoon (aka, Casa dos Moinhos – The Place Mario Would Hide): We arrive! The Casa dos Moinhos is actually super charming… at first. It's all rustic stone and cute little balconies. It really does look like someone spent a lot of time making it beautiful. But then, I saw the stairs. Holy moly, there are stairs. So many stairs. I'm pretty sure Mario would have used these as inspiration to build some of his levels.
- First Impression Rant: Okay, let's be real. I booked this place because of the Mario theme. I am a sucker for the aesthetics. There are elements of the theme, but I thought it would have more of the theme. It is a bit underdoing it.
Evening (aka, Food, Glorious Food! And the Immediate Regret After Overeating): Dinner at a local restaurant! Yes! We devoured some seriously amazing local dishes. (I won't even try to pronounce the names.) Fresh fish, local cheese, and the wine? Heaven. The problem? I ate way too much and now I was feeling like a Blooper, sluggish and regretful.
- Culinary Oopsie: I ordered something called "Lapas." Turns out, it's barnacles. I'm adventurous, I thought. But after the first bite, my face said, "Nope." I had to pretend I was enjoying it for the sake of politeness. I don't think the waiter believed me.
Day 2: Exploring Porto Formoso & The Quest for the Perfect Beach (and a Nap)
Morning (aka, Hiking with Regret): Oh boy, time to be active. I'm not a hiker, but Porto Formoso is so pretty, and the hike up to the lighthouse looked amazing. Okay, I admit it. The views were spectacular. But my legs? They are screaming in protest. Thank goodness I brought my cane.
- Nature-Induced Rant: I underestimated the climb. I'm pretty sure that's on me and not on the hike itself. The entire time all I could think about was getting to get off, sitting, and drinking a whole gallon of water. Why do people enjoy this again?
Afternoon (aka, Chasing the Sun): Beach time! The sand! The sea! The…crowds. Finding a decent spot on the beach took a little work, it was packed.
- Salty Observation: Portuguese beaches are beautiful. But also, the sun is intense. Sunscreen is your friend. And maybe a hat. And a giant umbrella. And a team of people fanning you with banana leaves.
Evening (aka, Dinner and the Sweet Embrace of Sleep): Found a little restaurant near the beach that delivered a good steak. After that, I could barely keep my eyes open. Bed was calling, and I answered with a resounding "YES."
Day 3: Tea, Terrors, and Tourist Traps
Morning (aka, Tea Plantation and the Sudden Dread of Heights): Visit to a tea plantation! Tea. This is what I need. It was gorgeous, and the tea was delicious. But, I'm also afraid of heights. Turns out, that also includes walking on bridges. The views from the tea plantation were astonishing, as was the height of the bridge.
- Fear Factor: The tour guide was describing the history of the tea plants. My brain was focusing on the creak of the bridge and how high off the ground I was.
Afternoon (aka, Ponta da Madrugada – The "Most Beautiful View" Scam): I'd heard about Ponta da Madrugada being the "most beautiful view." Look, it was nice. Real nice. But after the hike… the bridge… and the tea plantation… I couldn't feel my legs, I was pretty sure the view was beautiful.
- Tourist Trap Truth Bomb: Listen, travel guides hype things up. It was pretty, sure. But was it the most beautiful view? I’m still deciding.
Evening (aka, Comfort Food and the Realization That I'm Actually Enjoying This): Simple dinner, back at the casa. After an eventful day, I was able to relax, I realized that I was enjoying myself immensely, despite all the bumps and bruises.
Day 4: Back to the Airport, and the Longest Goodbye
Morning (aka, Packing and the Bitter Sweetness of Departure): Packed my bags. Said goodbye to the charming casa. I am already planning my return, despite my whining the rest of the trip.
- Emotional Farewell: Leaving Porto Formoso was a mix of sadness and relief. It was exhausting, funny, and full of moments. The entire trip made me hate and love myself at the same time.
Afternoon (aka, Airport Mishaps and the Final Embrace of Chaos): Back at Ponta Delgada Airport. Everything went wrong, and I was stuck in the airport for hours.
- Final Thoughts: Would I do it again? Absolutely. Would I change anything? Not a darn thing.
And there you have it. The unvarnished, chaotic, gloriously imperfect truth about my Super Mario Azores adventure. Remember, travel isn't about the perfectly posed pictures. It's about the memories, the mess-ups, and the sheer joy of being there. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go plan my next trip… and maybe invest in some new walking shoes.
Escape to Paradise: Geojae Roses Pension - Your Geoje Island Getaway
OMG! You WON'T Believe This Mario-Themed House in Portugal! ... Seriously, What WAS That?! (My FAQ)
Okay, so... let's talk about this Mario house. I mean, "house" is putting it mildly. It's more like a fever dream built of bricks and question blocks. I'm still trying to process it, and I figure a messy FAQ is the best way to do that. Buckle up, buttercups. It's gonna be a bumpy ride.
Wait... where IS this thing, again? And is it actually *real*?
Right?! That was my first thought. Turns out, it's in Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal. And YES, it's REAL. I checked. I'm still half-convinced I dreamt it, but the photos and videos... they're undeniably there. My friend Maria (who's a total architecture buff) sent me the link, and I swore I saw her snickering. I think she knew what she was doing, the little gremlin.
My initial reaction was...well, let's just say it involved a lot of expletives. Anyone else?
YES! When I first saw the pictures, my jaw hit the floor. Followed by a string of words my grandmother wouldn't appreciate. I mean, *question blocks*?! On a *house*?! It's both ridiculous and strangely… captivating. My brain was just flailing. Honestly, I wasn't sure if I wanted to laugh or start crying.
WHY Mario? WHY Portugal? WHY this level of commitment?!
Okay, this is the billion-dollar question, isn't it? I've done some digging, and the short answer is: the homeowner is a HUGE Mario fan. Beyond HUGE. We're talking "dedicated" to the point of obsession. Apparently, he's also got a background in construction. Which explains the architectural madness. I still have no idea why Portugal, though. Maybe he just *really* liked the climate? Or wanted to escape the Mushroom of the Real World!
Okay, let's talk about the *design*. Is it...good? Or is it so bad it's good? Or is it just...a lot?
This is the million-dollar question, and frankly, I'm still wrestling with it. Architecturally, it's…intense. The question blocks are undoubtedly iconic, but I'm not sure how functional they are as actual walls. The Goombas on the roof give me a nervous twitch. There are pipes everywhere. *Everywhere*. It's overwhelming. But...and this is a big "but"...there's a certain charm to it. A chaotic, totally bonkers charm. It's the architectural equivalent of a toddler's crayon drawing – flawed, messy, but undeniably brimming with passion. On one hand, my design-snob brain is screaming. On the other, I can't help but be impressed by the sheer audacity of it all.
What's the inside like? Seriously, I NEED to know!
From what I've gathered, the inside is just as gloriously insane as the outside. Reports say there are Mario-themed rooms, obviously. I've seen glimpses of a Princess Peach's castle-inspired bedroom. Probably with a strategically placed pipe for a quick escape to the living room! And, naturally, a giant, mushroom-shaped dining table exists. I have a sneaking suspicion this homeowner also has a fire-flower-themed fireplace. My sources are vague. They are also slightly unhinged from excitement. My dream is to see the inside...but also, I'm a little scared. I'm prepared for a level of dedication in the interior decor that will possibly shatter my sanity.
But… can you actually *live* there? Like, is it habitable? And what about the upkeep?!
Okay, let's get real. The question blocks *probably* don't offer the best insulation. I imaging the summer afternoons are like being in a furnace. But yes, apparently it *is* a functioning residence! I'm picturing the homeowner, every weekend, repainting the question blocks. Or maybe he's got a team of dedicated "Toads" who do it for him. The upkeep must be a NIGHTMARE. Imagine having to replace a Goomba! I shiver at the thought. But, I'd also bet he's the coolest neighbor on the block. He probably throws epic themed parties. I'd crash that party for sure.
This house...it made me feel things. Did it make *you* feel things?! (Rant incoming...)
OH. MY. GOD. Yes. Absolutely. This house isn't just a building; it's a statement. It's a middle finger to conformity! It's a declaration of "I love Mario, and I'm going to build a monument to that love, and you can't stop me!" I feel kinda... jealous, to be honest. Jealous of the sheer unadulterated joy this person must have felt designing (and building!) this thing. It's inspiring, in a weird, completely bonkers way. Like, maybe I should build a giant, pineapple-shaped house. Or a house made entirely of cats. (Okay, maybe not the cats. They'd be... messy.) But seriously, it's a reminder to embrace your passions, no matter how weird they are! It's a giant middle finger to the architectural establishment and it's EVERYTHING! I want to meet this person. I wanna get drunk with him. I want to see those Goombas up close in person. I think I might even want to *live* there (after a serious remodel to make the walls something that blocks out the heat). Damn it, I'm getting emotional just typing about it.
