Room 2102, Raffles, Istanbul

1 December 2014

Words: Gareth Rees / Images: Raffles Istanbul

Raffles Istanbul has only been open for a few months, but, as anyone walking into the stately lobby will realise, the five-star property is set to become one of Istanbul’s iconic hotels. The property is part of the Zorlu Centre, which also encompasses a high-end shopping mall and international restaurant brands including Tom’s Kitchen and Jamie’s Italian. Raffles Istanbul asserts its class with Arola, a modern Catalan restaurant by Michelin-star chef Sergi Arola; Writers Bar, a cosy niche in which to enjoy a classic cocktail; the larger and busier Long Bar; Rocca, the impressive all-day-dining restaurant; the rooftop Pool Bar & Grill; and the magnificent Raffles Spa. 

The Urban Suite is a room of such high calibre that, if Istanbul weren’t one of the world’s greatest cities, you would not want to leave it. The large terrace, the view of the Bosphorus and the Bosphorus Bridge, the marble bathroom, the walk-in closet, the Eames Lounge Chair and selection of art books, the eschewing of international interlopers in favour of Turkish wine in the mini-bar – the vital ingredients to a first-class hotel suite.
raffles.com/Istanbul 

INTERNET: Free Wi-Fi
BED SIZE: King
PILLOWS: Four (more available on request)
COMPLIMENTARY SNACKS: Free mini-bar (excluding alcohol)
TOILETRY BRAND: Ortigia
EXTRAS: Nespresso machine, coffee table books, Raffles butler service
TV CHANNELS: 113
RATE: from approximately EUR3,000