Istanbul Cultural and Historical Tour: I was fascinated by this city, It is both modern day and ancient.  Turkey is a country located in Europe and Asia. It is a true crossroads.

Istanbul Cultural and Historical Tour:

Things to see and do:

My four favorites were: the Topkapi Palace and fabulous jewels!, the Hagia Sophia, the Sultan Ahmed or Blue Mosque and a boating tour of the Bosphorus.  (One word of caution to fellow women tourists. As I easily get sunburns, I tend to be well-covered when boating. However, I misunderstood my foray to the Bosphorus. I thought I was going on a tourist sailing vessel. I arrived in shorts only to discover this was more akin to a public ferry where more modest slacks would have been appropriate.  For men traveling in Istanbul, in mosques and certain other venues in the city center, long pants may also be more appropriate.)

Other top spost are the Galata Tower and the Basilica Cistern. Multiple museums include treasures from art to archaeology. You may also wish to try out the local hammams or Turkish baths. (Although Turkish is a very different language, it contains certain Arabic words such as hammam, If mispronounced, this word, at least in Arabic, would get you a pigeon. Be careful what you wish for or at least ask for.)

Art historians will know that Rembrandt and other Old Masters featured Turkish (“Oriental”) rugs not Persian carpets. Unlike the present day, they were often on tables rather than floors!

Although not much of a shopper, I really enjoyed bargaining at the main suk or market. When I come home each evening, I am greeted by the Turkish carpet I bought there. Although I thought I was very clever, I am sure I paid too much. In any case, it reminds me of fond memories of my travels in Turkey.

For more information see, for example, www.istanbulinsider.com.

Istanbul Cultural and Historical Tour:

5 Star Hilton Bomonti Istanbul:

The luxurious 5 star Hilton Bomonti Istanbul is the perfect location for both leisure and business travelers to Turkey.

Set in a garden, the property includes an outdoor and indoor pool . In addition, there is a terrace overlooking the city. Free Wi-Fi is accessible in public areas.

The air conditioned guest rooms all feature elegant décor. There are spectacular views through floor-to-ceiling windows. Modern bathrooms include a shower, hairdryer, slippers and free toiletries.

The Eforea Spa covers three floors of the hotel.  You can relax in a Turkish bath. You can also sample top cuisine. Selections include Asian, Western and  Mediterranean fare.  The Grand Lobby has a large welcoming fireplace and a terrace overlooking the garden. While there, you can snack on a light menu. Alternatively, you may go to the 34th floor at Cloud 34 where you can watch the sun set.

The Hilton Bomonti is only 2.2 miles from the popular Taksim district, and 1.2 miles from Sisli Metro Station. The latter will zip you around the city. There is much to explore in this great crossroads.

For more information on this Istanbul Cultural and Historical Tour, please follow the link. For other options, return to our home page’s Booking.com search box. The latter has literally thousands of options from 5 star hotels to economical homestays.

Learn More:

Istanbul Luxury Singles Travel