Raffles Istanbul
"Why did this hotel catch your attention? What's the vibe? This outpost of the legendary Raffles brand is located in the Zorlu Center, a striking, modern complex featuring an expansive luxury shopping mall and performing arts center topped by high-rises that house offices, residences and the hotel. As you arrive, the retail setting might make you fear that the hotel will seem generic or contrived, but luckily, the place buzzes with both locals and visitors, and Raffles’ signature service infuses the place with warmth. The hotel does go big, though—expect vast, gilded public spaces adorned with massive chandeliers, mosaics, and eye-catching pieces from the hotel’s impressive art collection. What's the backstory? When it opened in 2014, the Zorlu Center was a much-heralded symbol of contemporary Istanbul, a place where some of the city’s signature attractions—like food, shopping, and the arts—were presented in a modern and upscale way, in a neighborhood that was off the beaten tourist path. Since then, as the city continued to grow, the center has become an established symbol of the affluent, cosmopolitan side of this ancient city. Tell us all about the accommodations. Any tips on what to book? All the rooms and suites are spacious and residential in feel, with even most of the entry-level Deluxe category boasting walk-in closets, and all enjoy service from a dedicated butler. Furnished balconies are accessed through a door in the floor-to-ceiling windows (some of the bathrooms even have windows to bring in natural light), the soothing décor is contemporary with Turkish accents (like patterned ceilings and local artwork) and the tech includes in-mirror TVs in the bathroom and iPads that work as control hubs. Higher category rooms and suites have views of the Bosphorus or (in the distance) the Old Town skylines, while the Residences—particularly those set on the 22nd-27th floors—have extras like kitchenettes, living rooms and even, in the Raffles Suite, a piano. Book one of the Raffles Club rooms or suites to enjoy not just the typical access to a private lounge with all-day food and drink service, but also perks like daily blow-outs or shaves, car service within the neighborhood, unlimited in-rooms movies, two pieces of laundry done a day and discounts for things like airport transfers and spa treatments. Is there a charge for Wi-Fi? WiFi is complimentary. Drinking and dining—what are we looking at? Istanbul is the city where Europe meets Asia, and the hotel’s dining choice reflect that. Isokoyo serves a creative pan-Asian menu (from Chinese dumplings to pickled and fermented Korean dishes), Rocca Brasserie has shareable plates and homemade pastas, and the lobby Lavinia Lounge presents afternoon tea surrounded by mirrored mosaics and oversized sculptures. There are also outposts of Raffles classics—like the Long Bar and patisserie—and a sixth floor lounge for drinks and bites around the pool and expansive views at both day and night. And the service? The Raffles Butlers are on hand to help with everything from unpacking to arranging helicopter tours. One of the other extras offered to Raffles Club level guests is the option to take a guided tour of the hotel’s art collection or enjoy an Istanbul history-themed storytelling session. What type of travelers will you find here? Overnight guests range from families (who love the spacious accommodations) to business travelers who appreciate being out of the tourist areas (and the easy transit connections.) The drinking and dining options draw a well-heeled local crowd, while the massive, glittering ballroom, which connects to the arts center, is popular for weddings, conferences and society events. What about the neighborhood? Does the hotel fit in, make itself part of the scene? Set in the central Besiktas neighborhood on the European side, the Raffles puts guests right on top of an array of shopping and dining, and a performing arts hub. The Bosphorus is also not too far away (you can see it from many of the rooms), but signature tourist attractions and historic sites are a bit farther afield. Is there anything you'd change? The location is a little out of the way (especially if you like to explore on foot), but it makes the hotel all the more a sanctuary after a day spent exploring the frenetic city. Any other hotel features worth noting? Given the hotel’s location—and Istanbul’s notorious traffic—the fastest way to come and go is via public transportation; connections to much of the city, including Old Town and the airport, are available in the Zorlu Center. (If you’re in a real hurry, the hotel also has its own helipad.) Block of time to enjoy the spa, which, at 32,300-square-feet, is among the largest in the city. The wellness wonderland has got three Turkish hammams, nine treatment rooms, indoor and outdoor pools, fitness studios and a gym, hair and nail salons and a wet area with everything from saunas to ice fountains. The services mainly used international product lines, but there is a two-hour Hammam Journey that scrubs, bathes and massages you in a cloud of rose and lavender. Bottom line: Worth it? Why? A posh perch above the fray." - Sandra Ramani
