The hotel lived up to my expectations. A friendly and courteous staff led by Deniz and Ahmet ensured an enjoyable stay. The rooms are well appointed with good airconditioning - everything works! Of an evening, the view from the roof terrace dining area is quite spectacular and forms a romantic backdrop to the whole dining experience. The oasis-like pool area, with adequate shade from the sometimes searing heat at this time of year, is a pleasant and tranquil bolt-hole from where to while away the hot afternoon hours.

The dining menu provides a reasonable selection of dishes - though I think it would benefit from one or two mainstream Turkish dishes (kebabs I guess) and from some mezze - Yaprak Dolma, Biber Dolma, and Borek would have been nice additions.

The 20 minute walk into town is initailly a little barren as one meanders through an area where locals live and where retail outlets are 'functional'. This pretty soon livens up as you hit the main tourist drag replete with souveneir shops, kebab restaurants, street vendors and the like. The taxi fare back to the hotel is apparently YTL 10 - though I managed to walk back with minimal effort - at the right time of day.

I would have no hesitation in recommending the hotel to others.

Six years ago my Turkish wife and I, a less refined American, discovered El Vino and have been raving about it ever since. I suppose it's not for everyone but I'm damned sure that it's the best of its type.

El Vino is a boutique hotel, the creation of two architects who obviously cared less about making "a statement" than conforming to the natural beauty of the place. Its 30 white-washed rooms are tastefully decorated and built into the hillside overlooking a stone-inlaid pool and covered breakfast area. Its rooftop restaurant boasts one of the best panoramic views of Bodrum and food that is every bit as excellent.

There are, to be sure, more extravagant hotels in the area that are better geared to attract celebrities. We visited one of them. But while El Vino was fully booked, the Marmara Hotel in all its splendor proved almost empty. Maybe the latest increase in fuel prices have given the jet set some difficulty getting off the ground. One thing is certain, however. You will never find a more personable and attentive staff than at El Vino. They apparently love the place because year after year, Deniz manages the place, Ahmet the meal service, and Ismail the kitchen--all to perfection. One of the owners and aforementioned architects, Mrs. Perren (Perran Hanim), can often be found staying at the hotel, happily mingling with her guests.

When the internet and www.tripadvisor.com first came on the scene, I predicted that El Vino would be rated number one. However, it was only this year, for the first time, that it achieved such status. Why did it take so long? Only because people like myself have been reluctant to reveal a secret that would make getting a reservation even more difficult than it already is!

I stayed at El Vino for four nights. I wish it could have lasted 40 nights. I had a wonderful experience! El Vino has a special luxurious charm to it...from the staff, to the food, to the service, to tea time, to the lovely room, to the amenities. All of the staff were so helpful and warm; everyone went out of their way to ensure that my stay was fabulous! El Vino has a great restaurant with delicious, creative food and a wonderful view of Bodrum. In addition, El Vino offers a wonderful breakfast buffet and tea time in the afternoon. The hotel also has a great location; it is only a short 5 minute walk from town and the port. I hope to return to El Vino in the near future!

Before I booked a room at El Vino, I had checked so many destinations and hotels that I was tired of searching. But this was going to be our honeymoon trip and It had to be perfect...After months of research, we saw tripadvisor's reviews of El Vino and cancelled our reservation in Italy. Then chose El Vino Bodrum as our honeymoon destination. What a great decision we have made!!!

The service was great. The hotel personnel was there only when you needed them...Room service was exceptional... Food was great too...The rooms and view of the harbour from our room window and balcony was amazing...A very nice garden and pool...Anytime during the day we could swim...Such a beautiful and peaceful place in busy and crowded Bodrum...

I also should mention general director Deniz and his friendly staff...They are very professional and always have a positive attitude toward their customers...A big plus...

I and my wife Lejla have already decided to be in El Vino for our 5th anniversary and we hope it comes soon...