– among numerous other awards throughout this decade – and their small
size ensures personalization every step of the way (think yacht transfer
from the airport). It seems that in Istanbul, boutique hotels may be the
way to go. If the idea of small and individualized appeals to you, look
at the Witt Hotel as well. This 15 room accommodation’s style is best
refl ected in its four panoramic suites. At The Witt, you’ll take the road
less traveled and stay in a more locals-only area in Istanbul. And their
“Tailor-Made Services” wait on you hand and foot by anticipating needs
like dietary restrictions and even childcare.
Above / below: Les Ottomans
Even though you might have an incredible room in Istanbul, the best
part of the city is what’s outside the hotel. Its location on the Bosporus
gives Istanbul a glamorous seaside feeling. During the day, take in the
Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofi a – these incredible landmarks face each
other across a small park. Nearby is also the Topkapi Palace, where
the Ottoman sultans once lived, and the largest synagogue in Turkey.
The harem tour in the mornings at Topkai is a sexy but cultural way to
start off a day in Istanbul. While you’re in this area, however, ask for a
guide to take you to what many simply call the “cisterns.” This hidden
gem of sightseeing is an underground cavern through which fl ows all
the water for the city. Accented by deep blue lighting and eerie music,
the cisterns are a creepy yet adventurous choice for a day attraction in
the heart of Istanbul. When you’re ready to just walk the city, expect to
run into many spice markets. These clusters of crowded stalls will offer
you authentic Turkish spices and teas. Vendors always seem to give out
the traditional Turkish candy, Turkish Delight, but if you take it they
might expect you to make a purchase – not such a problem with all
the rare offerings found at the spice markets. If you think you like the
authenticity of shopping at the markets, plan a trip the Grand Bazaar,
located in the old Turkish Royal Stables. Here you’ll fi nd tiles, Turkish
rugs, and jewelry galore.
For nightlife, fun, and dining in Istanbul, start in Taksim Square.
This cultural and polished center of town is essentially a large pedestrian
walkway that offers classy shopping during the day (for those not ready
to brave the Bazaar) and chic nightclubs and bars after dark. From the
square, start down stiklal Avenue, where you’ll encounter even better
shopping, clubbing, and much more Turkish delight – albeit not in candy
form. A favorite in this area is the restaurant and bar Wanna. Their sushi
menu and DJ performances are perfect for very late night fun.
When you’ve partied, snacked, and shopped your way through the
city, it’s time to look to another side of Turkey, Though Istanbul is capti-
vating, there is more richness in this nation than in the form of city life.
Turkey’s classic other-world experience happens far from the brimming
waves of the Bosporus and the bustling hub of Taksim. If you get to
Turkey, don’t leave without taking a trip to the incredible destination
that is Cappadocia, located in the heart of the country.
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