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Istanbul is a city with the beauty of Paris, the history of Berlin and the bars of New York.
Whirling Dervishes (The Mevlevi), performing the Sufi dance, Istanbul, Turkey
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Our readers recommend their favourite spots in a city where exquisite Ottoman mosques rub shoulders with new art galleries, fabulous bars and exciting bazaars
Recent tips about Istanbul
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Istanbul Ottoman Hotel

Posted by rapril 3 July 2009

I have stayed in the Ottoman Hotel Imperial for a week from the 23rd of May till the 30th of May. It was my best stay ever. From the moment I contacted the Hotel, their Front Office/Manager were so extremly attentive, helpful and very prompt. They made me look forward even more to visiting Istanbul and staying with them. They never hesitated to provide me with any information I required, and were ready to service me even before my arrival. Once I was there, the pick up went very well and their reception was so warm, courteous and informative. Starting then, I received the best service by all means.The area, Sultanahmet, is a prime location :In the heart of the City, In the heart of History. The room was clean, comfortable, lush and had a lovely view. The breakfast/food was very good and they even serve some Ottoman dishes, which I found very delicious.The service is very courteous, impeccable and the staff are very friendly. They have a lovely garden, were you can relax and enjoy your food and drinks around the clock. Their Guest Relation Team is the best I ever came across. These ladies make your stay, a time to remember. In one sentence, I would like to sum it up : The Ottoman Imperial Hotel, Staff and Management, make your stay a home away from home with a magical touch. Staying in the Ottoman Hotel Imperial is a must, if you happen to visit Istanbul for business or pleasure.

www.istanbulhotels.com/hotels/ottomanhotelimperial/

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Walkabout Travel Turkey

Posted by Kara81 3 July 2009

I was travelling Turkey last year and booked all my travel through Walkabout Travel Turkey www.walkabout.com.tr They were fantastic. I wanted to be all good and be a real backpacker but it was so brilliant to have all the basics like transport, accommodation and attractions found for me, allowing me to do all the fun and interesting things. All the people in the office went out of their way to make sure i had the best trip possible and loved all my stories when i returned to Istanbul.

Just down from the Blue Mosque on the tram line in Sultanahmet

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Hotel Grand Star Istanbul

Posted by rapril 2 July 2009

Comfortable rooms, superb beds, hotel facilities were above average. The continental breakfast was fresh of good quality and variety. The staff were extremely helpful. The hotel bar has terrific views over the old Istanbul looking onto the Bosphorus in the distance.

The hotel is based in a superb location and extremely central for all tram lines and tourist attractions such as the Topkapi palace, the Blue Mosque, Hadgi Sophia, the Grand Bazaar and so on. Walking distance for the Bosphorus ferry.

One criticism: because of its central situation by Taksim Square, the noise of traffic can be heard in the mornings. Overall a comfortable, central hotel, absolutely perfect for business, but especially for a city break.

Sıraselviler Caddesi No:45/1 Taksim 34437 ISTANBUL / TURKEY
www.starhotelsgroup.com/grand/index.htm

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Apartment Hotel Recommendation

Posted by DevonS 15 June 2009

I absolutely have to recommend the beautiful Pera Place apartments located right off of Istiklal Cadici in the heart of the best neighborhood in Turkey. My boyfriend and I stayed there for 10 nights in May and had an incredible time. The owners are extremely helpful and trustworthy. The apartment has been beautifully renovated, but they kept the original mouldings and wood, so it still feels authentic. We ended up getting engaged during the trip, so obviously we had an unforgettable time.
If you are thinking of staying in Istanbul for more than a few days, this is absolutely the best place to be!

www.istanbulplaceapartments.com

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Your tips about Istanbul

Istanbul basics

Population:
9.63m
Currency:
Lira
Time zone:
GMT+2
Dialling code:
+90 212