Ideally situated in the heart of the city, and near its liveliest districts of Beşiktaş, Nişantaşı and Taksim, the Divan Istanbul Hotel is the jewel in the crown of the Divan Hotels Group, one of the most important and prestigious names in Turkish hospitality. The people of Istanbul are very familiar with the white silhouette of this hotel, which was established more than fifty years ago but which owes its…
Surrounded by the incredible rock formations of the Göreme Valley, the Aza Cave Hotel is the latest jewel-case from the Keleb hotel group. Its architecture echoes the lunar landscapes around it, but luxury and refinement enter the mix as soon as you cross the threshold. It feels great to unwind in this haven of well-being, and to immerse yourself in a mystical atmosphere while enjoying fabulous Turkish hospitality. The…
The city of a thousand lights does not lack hotels at the leading edge of elegance. The Ortaköy Hotel has added its name to the list, with a refined and intimate establishment in the heart of the lively district of Ortaköy. I had the opportunity to stay there and to appreciate its charm. Make sure you remember the name, because it is fast becoming one of the legendary hotels of…
Ideally situated, in the centre of the lively Maçka district, surrounded by luxuriant gardens, this is one of the most prestigious locations in Istanbul. Behind a discreet facade, the incredible refinement of the lobby, with its glass atrium giving a magnificent view of the Bosphorus, is delightful. The visitor is greeted, on arriving, in a way that is fully consistent with the standing of the hotel and the legendary hospitality…
Right in the heart of Istanbul’s old city, a building that once housed the Ottoman régie (imperial bureau of tobacco) conceals the very chic Régie Ottoman boutique hotel. The moment you step inside, the decor sets the tone for an experience that cannot help but delight. The establishment has made a choice to retain the spirit of the place. The rooms subtly combine modernity with the imprint of the past,…
As countless studies and publications have shown, there’s a direct link between the space we live in and our well-being. This connection has even given rise to a set of rules in the age-old Chinese tradition of Feng Shui. Also, it seems that the interior design of our homes closely reflects our own outlook and personality. An interior in your own image Altering your living environment is not only a…
There are hotels you fall in love with at first sight. This little jewel overlooking the waters of the Aegean is definitely one of them. Its elegance, the breathtaking views of the Turkish Riviera, quality so high that it approaches perfection, irreproachable service, and an atmosphere that combines charm with tranquillity; these are my memories of the very exclusive Mandarin Oriental Bodrum. The hotel is located in Paradise Bay, one…
Located right in the heart of the town, the Relais & Châteaux Hotel Heritage occupies a magnificent building in classic 19th century style, and is justifiably proud of providing its guests with an exclusive experience. On arriving, I was immediately captivated by its charm. The interior is so elegant and seductive, the welcome so warm and the atmosphere so delightful that any stay there will meet the highest expectations. To…
Being able to travel is one of the things I have missed the most during lockdown. So I decided to explore and re-explore the various districts of Istanbul, to look at them with new eyes, and to use my own experiences to send you off on vicarious travels. Today I’d like to offer an enchanting visit to a district that you may not find in your guidebook: Arnavutköy. Nestling on…
INGREDIENTS (12 muffins) 3 eggs 1 cup coconut sugar 6 dessert spoons yoghurt (4 tsp U.S.) 15 dessert spoons almond flour (10 tsp U.S.) 1,5 dessert vanilla extract ( 1tsp U.S.) 1,5 dessert spoons baking powder ( 1tsp U.S.) ½ cup coconut oil * I’ve added a small spoon of carob powder to give the colour and some taste but it’s optional, you can swap with fruits or nuts instead….