I can’t begin to express my complete and total adoration for the enchanting city of Istanbul. Not only does it offer gorgeous eye candy, delicious food (especially for fellow vegan travelers), incredible monuments, a wonderful Grand Bizarre, an Egyptian Spice Market, the Whirling Dervishes, mesmerizing calls of prayer singing throughout the day and night, and lavish hammams, but the Turkish people take it a step further with their warmth and generosity, especially with the children. So many sweet encounters around every corner. I am sure that my kids’ experiences in Turkey will effect them forever on some level when it comes to human contact. And for the adults, even with the kids in-tow, this place oozes romance of far away places.
Since Istanbul was only our first stop in Turkey for our month long summer vacation, this time around I wanted to find an incredible hotel, but one that wouldn’t break the bank right out of the gate. Our previous trip to Istanbul, we stayed at the amazing Four Seasons Hotel Sultanahmet (to read my review about it click onto: https://www.cozynomad.com/istanbul-four-seasons-hotel-istanbul-at-sultanahmet/). It is a tough hotel to follow, but I was determined to find somewhere special that was also located in the old part of town called the Sultanahmet. And special I found. This beautiful Victorian Ottoman boutique hotel will capture your heart the moment you walk in. As well, the staff here are so warm and helpful, you will feel very well taken care of. It’s is a perfect mix of fabulous, cool antiques (like the French club chairs) and local Turkish textiles and paintings. In the picturesque and cozy lobby where one can chat with fellow travelors, one can browse the extensive and impressive photography book collection, sit by the fire, and all the while sip on a coffee or tea that is available gratis 24 hrs a day. As for the rooms, they may not be giant, but each has it’s own charming character and style with the luxurious modern comforts of a fancy boutique hotel. Most rooms on the top floor (4th) offer some sort of beautiful little view. As well, don’t forget to visit the spectacular roof terrace often which offers stunning views of the Blue Mosque, city rooftops, and the Bosphorus Sea. They also have a little bar up there to offer a drink while you gaze and daydream.
Did I mention that along with all of this, you will wake up to a scrumptious and fresh Turkish breakfast? All part of the price…
ROOM CHECK
1. midnight munchies:
Unfortunately they really don’t offer any except for the cutely wrapped Turkish delights that they leave in your room at night, but I have to say that the breakfast that is included really makes up for it. Besides, while in Istanbul, and if you are a true midnight muncher, plan ahead and hit one of the many local patisseries during the day. My personal favorite is called Cigadem pastanesi located on Alemdar Mh. Divan Yolu Cd. No:62/a. It’s a two minute walk from the hotel across from the Hippodrome.
2. roomy:
Not alot of extra space with the kids, but the stylish cozy decor makes you forget about that after you have settled in.
3. extra fluff:
All rooms have queen size beds, simple white cotton sheets, traditional Turkish blankets (probably more in chillier weather), cotton foam pillows, and sort of a foam mattress. Basic but doable.
4. plushities:
daily fruit bowl, free water bottles in the room, Turkish, super soft, short robes with hood and slippers, free wifi, great lighting, Turkish delights, and my favorite… they serve complimentary coffee and tea to your room, in the lobby, and on the roof terrace anytime you want
5. snaggables:
L’Occtaine toiletries
6. super secret sexy time:
Your on your own here. What can I say, the rooms are small. How creative and frisky can you be?
7. the dockya’s:
None. No extra fees for the kids (even for the breakfast or the bed). I love that. Even the tax is included in the price quoted. They also offer a 10% discount for cash payments.
for hotel website goto: http://www.ibrahimpasha.com/
