Istanbul, Turkey, straddles two continents, Europe and Asia, separated by the Bosphorus River. Its location and legacy as the former capital of three mighty empires: Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman, make any trip to Istanbul a memorable experience. This ancient city of more than 7 million people covers nearly 6,000 square kilometers, according to the official website of the Turkish Culture and Tourism Office. After a long day sightseeing at the Hagia Sophia Museum and Topkapi Palace Museum, you’ll want to rest up in a top hotel.
Ahmet Rasim Pasha Mansion, built in the 1870s, now houses the lavishly furnished A’Jai, a boutique hotel with modern amenities including an outdoor bar and gourmet restaurant. CNN Traveller, September-October 2008 referred to the A’Jai as “a 5-star boutique hotel with impressive ambience,” a “true haven of peace and tranquility.” Each of the 16 rooms has a view of the Bosphorus River so sit back and enjoy a beverage as the sun sets over two continents.
A Turkish prison might not sound like a luxury destination, but this hotel, located in a former prison, only a few steps away from museums, often appears on Conde Nast Traveler’s annual Gold List. With rooms facing a landscaped courtyard and standard amenities such as marble bathrooms with soaking tubs it’s easy see why this hotel is a favorite.
This former 19th century palace sits on the European bank of the Bosphorus River. Another Conde Nast Traveler Gold List favorite, the hotel restaurant is noted for its seafood and extensive wine list. Many of rooms and suites, including the three-bedroom Atik Pasha Suite overlook Asia.
Arrive by boat or helicopter shuttle from the Istanbul Atatürk International Airport, then enjoy an authentic Turkish bath in the former palace of a sultan. Eat a sumptuous classic Turkish dinner followed by a contemporary pumpkin sorbet or ask your private butler to arrange an evening in an Istanbul nightclub. The Conde Nast Traveler Gold List 2010 calls this a “spectacular site” with contemporary decor and “glitzy touches" and a "truly magnificent infinity pool.”
