I was in Istanbul late June of this year and this city is exceptional. My stay was very short, only 3 days but I tried to squeeze in as much as I could.
I stayed at the beautiful Four Seasons at The Bosphorus and loved every minute of it. Their customer service was amazing as usual and the location is just perfect. Try to book a room overlooking the Bosphorus river, as it is breathtaking.
Istanbul has many beautiful sights to visit and my short visit did not allow me to see everything. However, I tried to see the most popular attractions. You have to go to the Hagia Sophia, the museum originally was a former Christian patriarchal basilica and later an imperial mosque. Topkapi Palace is also a must, which was one of the major residencies of the Ottoman Sultans for almost 400 years. Lastly visit Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. You can find anything you want in this place; it has more than 3,000 shops in between 61 covered streets. Be prepared to bargain as the sellers will throw you any number they want as soon as they find out you are a tourist.
Istanbul is all about the scenic views so for a wonderful dinner with an unbelievable view go to Sunset Grill & Bar. This is a very happening spot in Istanbul, so make reservations beforehand. The restaurant has a huge backyard overlooking the Bosphorus River and Bridge. The cuisine is Mediterranean and they have a sushi bar. They also have some interesting cocktails to choose from, I tried their Honey Bunny, which was very tasty.
I am a meat lover and if you are like me you have to try Nusr-Et Steakhouse. They have so many variations of meat to choose from and everything is delicious. The Rack of Lamb is a must and their presentation is art by itself. The Lamb was brought to table where they cut and seasoned right in front of us. You need dessert to wash it all down so do it with their Baklava. They bring the whole Baklava to the table, cut it in half and put ice cream in the middle and put it all together in front of u to devour. I can still taste the yumminess in my mouth.
Before my flight, I relaxed at the hotel and booked a Turkish Hammam that I recommend everyone to do while visiting Turkey. The experience is fantastic and is unlike any other spa treatment you get anywhere else in the world. You are put in a huge room with a tall ceiling that is covered by heated marble. Your masseuse scrubs your whole body from top to bottom and cleanses you in a foam bath.
I was so relaxed and at peace when I got back home, oh Istanbul I shall see you very soon again!
