“Perfect Location”
the staff was very helpful despite missing a wake-up call or two, they provided good information, and arranged tours and pick-ups in a timely fashion. this hotal has an awesome location across the street from an authentic tea house. the roof deck provides excellent views of the Blue Mosque and the Sea of Marmara, and also the Asian side of Istanbul. you will only a few blocks from the sea, and the mosque, with all Sultanahmet sights within easy walking distance. if you want to do any cruises or ferries, take a cab from this hotel to the piers for 10 Lira (a little more than $5) for a quick 10 minute ride. the breakfast is decent, and late night drinks on the roof are awesome. there is a small store one block up the hill from the hotl corner where you cand buy wine, beer, and Raki (must try). bed is hard, tv is small, don't drink tap water, bring an alarm clock, and stylish walking shoes.
Area recommendations
in Sultanahmet see the Blue Mosque, the Aya Sofia, Topkapi Palace, the Musem of Archeology, Gulhane Park, the New Mosque, the Basilica Cistern, the Arastra Bazaar, and walk the seafront promenade, take private river cruise to the Balck Sea, avoid the Spice Bazaar unless you believe in healing ailments with leeches. in Beyoglu walk from Taksim Square to the Galata Tower for shopping and lunch, have drinks in the bars just north of the Galata Tower. find an excursion that takes you to the Asian side, or better yet, find a way to Ephesus and Kusadasi, preferably without carpet, leather, etc. factory tours/sales events, fly to Izmir (1hr flight), hire local car for exploring these areas.
When to go
September is perfect, temps are 70's & 80's F. there is almost also a cooling sea breeze.
Getting around
walk when in Istanbul, cabs are inexpensive when needed, have hotel or business hail cab, or make sure meter is on. public transport is plentiful and cheap, b ut walking and taxis really are best. anyone you talk to on the streets will be very polite, they will also have a carpet shop to show you.
