Some time ago I told you about the institution of afternoon tea at the Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul. But there’s something even better! An enchanted stay in one of its rooms, with a panoramic view over the Bosphorus and the Beşiktaş Vodafone stadium, considered to be one of the finest in the world. The rooms and suites offer incomparable comfort, and their aesthetic is characteristic of luxury hospitality. But here in particular, the decor uses many of the touches from oriental and western culture that are the basis of Istanbul’s rich heritage. For the traveller, these really are havens of serenity amidst the tumult of Istanbul life.

The architecture of the hotel has been remarkably visualised so as to emphasize many dazzling vistas over the Bosphorus. You’ll find them in the rooms and in the salons and restaurants, where the dining experience is fully equal to the hotel’s reputation, and will give you fine gourmet moments. At any time, the spa, the swimming pool and the fitness centre await you for a relaxing or athletic visit. As for the welcome and the service, these are also worthy of the Ritz-Carlton’s reputation, with a concierge service of high quality.

If you are a regular visitor to this site, you will know how much I love the Turkish breakfast, and how much I appreciate this moment before I start my day. Here in my room, with the first rays of sun, I had a wonderfully satisfying time, enjoying a superb breakfast tray and looking out over Istanbul.

I often go to the Ritz for dinner, or just to enjoy the swimming pool, or to visit friends or family members staying there. Every time I go, I am overwhelmed by the excellence of the service and the blend of tradition and modernity, of peace and sensual pleasure, provided by this very great Istanbul hotel. Note: At the moment work is being done to open a new restaurant (Nobu) and a new pâtisserie (Vakko Pâtisserie – a Turkish luxury chain). When they open, I shall certainly make another visit.

Nu