I visited the W Istanbul in November of 2009 on a business trip to Istanbul, Turkey. I was excited to visit the W Istanbul because I spent months researching the hotel. I followed press mentions regarding the hotel, the location, the design and the team behind the hotel. Each piece of information was positive but I really wanted to see for myself.
W Istanbul Akaretler Caddesi
The location of the W Istanbul is what interested me most about the hotel. The hotel is situated in a perfect spot along the Akaretler Row Houses in Besiktas. These Row Houses were designed in 1875 as living quarters for the “Aghas” (high ranking officers) of the Dolmabahce Palace. The hotel is in close proximity to fabulous shopping, Dolmabahce Palace and the Istanbul Modern Art Museum. The “Old City” is a drive, though not far in distance, traffic will ultimately dictate timing to reach the “Old City”.
Today, Akaretler district of Istanbul is known for its upscale cafes, bars and sophisticated nightlife. W Istanbul is a straight shot from Bosphorus Straits and from the WOW Suite there is distant view of the Bosphorus. W Istanbul is also a short walk from Nisantasi – a fashionable shopping district.
W Istanbul
What to Expect From W Istanbul
Expect what you would from a W Hotel that is situated in a large, bustling city. When one walks into the lobby of the hotel, you are immediately aware that you have stepped inside of a W Hotel. There are the modern aspects that one has come to expect from a W Hotel along with subtle hints of traditional, Ottoman elements.
W Istanbul looks small but do not be deceived. The hotel is situated on a corner and is much larger than it appears. With 134 Guest Rooms: 44 Wonderful, 23 Spectacular, 26 Fabulous, 12 Mega and 26 Suites.
The décor is ultra chic. I do not have a forgiving eye for what I consider “trendy” but I felt inspired by the décor of the hotel. The hallways have a hue of hot pink and purple that seems to change color as you walk through the halls. The hotel has quite a “sexy” feel while maintaining a level of excellence and incorporating traditional Turkish style.
We visited several rooms – Wonderful to Suites – the rooms are all spacious with full amenities. The WOW Suites were occupied as the hotel was experiencing a very high occupancy rate that particular weekend. Room rates for the Suites can vary but the weekend we were there, they were priced from 500 Euro per night (or about $800 USD).
WOW Suite W Istanbul
Restaurants and Lounges at W Istanbul
The main restaurant was Jean Georges Spice Market but that did not work out. When I visited in November, I was not too clear who operated the main restaurant. There is a nice lounge that is open all day long that has free wifi. Many business travelers were in the lounge working on their computers and having a late afternoon cocktail or Turkish Coffee.
There were several other spots for food and beverage but none of them really stood out positively (with one exception, see below). On the downside, I did have cocktails in the bar one night and my experience was average at best. Cocktails are priced at $20 to $30 USD for ONE drink but service is lacking tact and skill. Turkish bartenders do not know and understand the art of bartending the way Western bartenders do, therefore, the drink prices are unwarranted.
The outdoor bar area with the cabanas did impress me. I was there in winter but I could see from the space that in the summer time, the outdoor are would be incredibly hot! Let’s hope W Istanbul imports some bar managers from the United States to train the Turkish staff how to truly service an upscale clientele.
Outdoor Space at W Istanbul
For more information or to book at trip please contact us HERE OR phone us at 312.263.1991 or 800.677.8875
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Well, way to like W Istanbul!
I wrote the Web site copy and their marketing stuff!
Leyla:
Great post about the W in Istanbul. The hotel looks great and the location sounds perfect. Maybe you should arrange a tour!
Tom
Great post, would love to go there!