Retire in Paradise

Istanbul can show its two double character when it comes to describing it in details. First you will notice that its an European city with tree-lined boulevards, lots of shopping and chic cafe-bars. On the other hand, it can show you its side of the conservative city which seems to be like another age with its crafting & historical culture, and the most important, capital which unites Christian & Islamic empires in one place.

Although Ankara is a capital of Turkey, Istanbul has always showed its dominant influence as cultural and economic city. It has been changing through years and has established itself as a center of modern and chic living in the European region. Since Istanbul currently has the youngest population of any European city, it had been influenced as any major city and opened up doors to more freedom to places to drink, dance & enjoy social life.

One may call Istanbul food-lovers paradise. There are many fast-foods joints, cafes and restaurants. Even though there good places to eat around Sultanahmet, our recommendation is across the Galata bridge. You can enjoy the restaurants in Beyoglu, Ortakoy and the Bosphorus. Cicek Passage and Nevizade sokak is famous for their food and entertainment at night.

Since Istanbul has been catering some of the world’s best known events like European Cup Final or Formula One Grand Prix, you need to make sure that you arrange accommodations in advance especially during high seasons. To book a room in the hotel requires further research especially the price ranges since they might vary by the area hotel belongs to. If you notice that the rates are extremely high, you can bargain for a lower rate if you are paying cash or booking through their web site.

If main priority of your travel is social scene, business trip or shopping spree, you might look into staying in Taksim. Hotels in this area are relatively highly priced and would require you to be more generous with your money. Hotel’s prices are high due to you being in the perfect location with an easy access to beautiful Bosphorus & Beyoglu. Beyoglu is famous for its wide range of restaurants and authentic shopping places. Also, it is very close to the Old Istanbul where you can either walk across the Galata Bridge or catch the Taksim Square-Kabatas funicular and tram. If you are planning to have more relaxing time and do not want to be in the middle of the busy city, you should look into staying in the hotels which reside on the other side of Bosphorus or so called Asian side, Kadikoy & Uskudar.