Holiday Inn Istanbul City - Istanbul, Turkey 

I did a lot of research and chose this for location... The tram was great...stopped outside and took us to all the key sights. Just hide your wallet on the crowded tram...mine was pickpocketed in the crush. Easy to get to airport by tram and metro...and only 2,6 lira each. The hotel reception was friendly and gave good advice. Room was large, newly refurbished and clean. Breakfast excellent. Dinner however was poor on arrival night so we did not use restaurant again. I would not hesitate to return, Spa was good...excellent massage and advice.

I think it's hard to wholeheartedly recommend this hotel because it doesn't seem as "polished" as HIs in Europe can be. But there are some big pros as well: PROS: 1) Great location for someone like me--I don't want to be out at the airport hotels, but I also don't want to take an hour to get to and from my hotel (anything on Taksim side, or even downtown like in Sultanhamet can be a long drive due to horrific traffic) 2) Tramway in front of hotel takes you to Sultanhamet and Eminonou within 20 minutes, for 1.3 Turkish Lira. Also the Tramway connects to the subway system to and from the airport, though this option doesn't exist late at night. 3) Nice breakfast--olives, cheeses, fruits, omelet station, breads, hot savouries, and juices/coffees. If included in the rate, it's a nice way to start the day. Otherwise, I think it's really expensive. 4) Friendly, though not so polished, service. Staff seems to be experienced and helpful when they can be. 5) Very clean rooms. 6) Surprisingly nice pool area, with grasses and lounge chairs. Newish "mini-gym", with a few cardio and nautilus equipment, though nothing special. CONS: 1) Location isn't really walking distance to much. 2) Restaurant and room service are bafflingly expensive and not the best quality for dinner. 3) Front Desk didn't know the rate included breakfast; I don't like to be forced to "prove" I have breakfast included--I booked through the hotel's own web site! 4) Room was just OK--nice big plasma TV, oldish beds that were comfy but not the best quality linens, etc. All in all, I'd recommend this hotel if it's still cheaper than in-town places. I am the kind of traveller who doesn't enjoy mom and pop hotels/ B&Bs where you can hear your neighbors coming and going, and the staff knows all of your business. Some like that kind of place, if so then the HI isn't for you. I'd stay there again!