TV or no TV?

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Sintra has arrived to the extreme weather - Extreme beauty with the full moon - and extreme rain and winds! We all hope this passes quickly.

So what do you do in Sintra when the wind is blowing and the hail hits the windows, and it seems impossible to leave the comfort of your room? Some people play board games or cards, others read and others just catch up on their sleep. I have just ordered an English Scrabble to go along with the Portuguese version, to be easier for more people. Our little library got a few additions this week as our Australian guests took advantage of the 'take one - leave one' suggestion. A thank you for them, it is nice to have circulation!

I was reading commentaries on our house on a site this week and noticed a comment regarding the absence of TV in the rooms. In a rainy day it would be a nice thing to have a TV in the room. I might agree, and felt bad that the message that they are available had not gotten to the client, who consequently missed the TV.

We actually don't have TVs permanently in the rooms, but we have them to take into the rooms if anyone wants one (like a radio or a cd-player or a hair-dryer or an iron). The reason being is because people are usually on holidays when they are here, and the absence of the TV is like a permission for relaxation: no need to hear or see what's going on; it is an invitation to conversation, to reading or just to go to bed early without 'getting stuck' on a program that you started to watch just because it was on. Many of our clients have actually told us that the absence of the TVs has been great, less noise and more conversation.

Now, I ask you : What do you think? Should we have TVs in the rooms permanently or do you think it a good idea that they are placed there only when solicited? Granted, it needs to be well indicated that there is this choice. And while you are at it, please let us know what you would like to watch - news? Comedy? Sports?

Your opinion would be greatly appreciated: our goal is to make our Guest House as comfortable as possible for you. Just click on the word 'comments' below and write your comment!

Comments

horizonsuniv said…
I think that it should be an option. These very light flat screens allow quick installment in a room, so it should be easy to handle. I think that in such a relaxing location a lot of people won't want to watch tv and having it systematically could induce people to turn it on, just by habit. It could even be good publicity to entice people to experience nature knowing that upon request all the confort and extras are readily available (like the internet house). Hint: if you consider making this option available it is important to offer satellite TV. Roberta
15 December
DosPaises said…
A nicely sprouting blog! As one of those perhaps rare guests that came and will come to Sintra and Casa do Valle for work, the TV would be more than welcome.
As someone said the new flat and tiny tv screen are handy, and easily brought to the rooms on request. However, for more appeal, the TV could be mentioned already in the ads and publicity.
Thinking also of those unlucky ones getting ill and having to stay in bed, the tv is a relief. Not only to the patient but to the caretakers who could feel more free, not losing their touring or holidays keeping company.
Kisses to all in Casa do Valle. Merry Xmas and a flourishing new year.
PS. I saw that my favourite palm tree was in bloom :) Hope the wall keeps fixed, for Manu to plant those extra lemon trees he told about.
Ciao. Anna R.
20 December
Law said…
Hi, nice idea to create a blog.
Last time I came, my girlfriend asked for a TV and you had the kindness to provide one, although I think it takes of a bit of the tranquility. I mean someone who comes here in my opinion doesn't come to enjoy movies but the nature and peace provided. Although it's nice to have the choice. You never know.
PS: I enjoyed very much spending my weekend there. Will come back soon!
best regards.
20 December
Olla from FInland said…
No, please do not install TVs to every room!!! It is naturally nice to get one into the room should on get sikc or something, but I really enjoyed not having them there all the time!!!
I've spent some wonderfull weekends at your place and highly recommend it to everyone!!! The place is beuatiful and the personnel very friendly and professional!!!
merry chirstmas from Finland!
22 December
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