Sirkeci Konak - Istanbul, Turkey     

I was in Turkey on business and decided to stay one night in Istanbul to see the sghts. Since I was on my own, I wanted to find a location that was in close walking proximity to major attractions, had a good restaurant, and work out/pool/sauna facilites. Given that the property was a top Trip Advisor selection, I knew this would be a good choice. Sirkeci Konak not only met, but exceeded my expectations. I am in hotels well over 150 days per year, so I have a base for comparison. The staff was professional, informative and friendly. The warmth and personal attention was far beyond a standard surface level of politeness one experiences on average. These folks really make you feel comfortable. As a solo traveler, they made me feel right at home. Luxury service and accomodations within my budget. Of particular note is A Okay at the desk, who arranged my airport pick up and provided a smooth check in and out. Upuk Galiskan, wait staff in the restaraun, assisted me with my menu selection and provided suggestions on what to see in the city. A true example of the hospitality and attention was a bell staffer, Sukre Araz, who walked with me to a local electronics store to find an adaptor. Because of his assistance, I was able to quickly recharge my camera and phone (essentials). The food was very good. (dinner and breakfast). Service excellent. I loved the polished, elegant look and feel to this hotel. My room was comfortable and elegant with hardwood floors, quality linens with lavender sachets, olive oil soaps, tasteful wall coverings, and a flat screen TV. My room had a wonderful view of the palace grounds. I also am very sensitive to room and street noise, and this room was very quiet. The location of other hotels looked to be troublesome for sounds. A short walk to all the sights. You can take a short cut through a cobblestone path to the palace entrance. I spent the evening utilizing the pool, turkish bath and sauna. The facilites were well supllied and very clean. My only regret was my stay was too short. I plan to return soon. Of f the charts in my view.

It was our first time in Istanbul and our stay at Sirkeci Konak Hotel made it that much more special. The service provided by everyone in the hotel was top-notch, our room was beautiful and the hotel location could not be better. We knew we had made the right choice when, upon entering the hotel, we were directed to a comfortable lounge where we were offered some snacks and delicious apple tea, instead of having to stand in line for the next available check in agent. We were checked in without having to leave the lounge - an excellent service when you consider we had just travelled from Canada and were a bit weary. Thank you to all the staff at Sirkeci Konak Hotel for making our stay extremely special. CM - Toronto