As a world traveler who sometime spends over 150 nights a year in hotels, I don't get carried away so quickly and easily. Raffles Istanbul is actually impossible to describe - you have to experience it. After a 45-minute drive from the airport, I arrived at the hotel, entered the reception hall and was in another world. The signature scent of the hotel is like a first meditation after the hustle and bustle of leaving the airport. The reception team at the entrance of the hotel immediately took care of the luggage and a staff member took me to the check in. Already after 5 minutes in this extraordinary hotel you understand that service is lived here and the guest is treated like a king. There is a wide choice of different room categories - I recommend the corner room or one of the suites. I chose the one-bedroom Bosphorus Suite with an amazing 183 sqm (1,485 sq) and I warn you already - you do not want to leave this suite. The suite is spacious and all the furnishings are mega functional and tastefully put together. A heaven for lovers of good design and Interior. From the artisan Turkish carpets on the hardwood floors to the original artwork adorning the walls everything here touches the senses and puts a smile on your face. I loved the library in the room and spend hours going through the tasteful compiled selection of coffee-table books. From the terrace, which extends in an L-shape around the suite, you have a breathtaking view from the living room, office area, separate bedroom and vast marble bathroom over the entire city and the Bosphorus Bridge. The incredible welcome tray or personalized private bar - here no wishes remain unfulfilled. I had informed the hotel beforehand that I like to drink a green tea in the morning- in the room I found 3 exceptional green teas filled in beautiful jars. This service is the true luxury for me. To meet the team of legendary Raffles Butlers, was another incredible experience. Eager to make your stay even more unforgettable, I had the best time talking to the butler who was a very well-educated person- who told me many things about the Turkish culture. The king size bed I slept in was the best bed ever in a hotel. A perfect mattress and the finest bedding make the night in this suite another event. A set of essential oils and a sleeping mask next to the bed were small touches that did not go unnoticed. It is not necessary to mention that in each of the rooms, from the safe to the hairdryer, iron and other comforts, there is simply everything you need when traveling. Absolutely stunned I was about the Raffles Spa, one of the largest in Istanbul, which offers a rare selection of refined spaces for the utmost in serenity and wellbeing with only one goal: to nourish your body and soul. The spacious separate relaxation areas for men and women are equipped with a variety of hydrotherapy experiences: Hamams, saunas, steam rooms, Jacuzzis, vitality pools, sensory showers and ice fountains. You can get lost here - that’s how big it is. Decide to swim in the beautiful sparkling indoor pool, a shimmering place housed in an incredible atrium with lofty ceilings and natural daylight or in the incredible outdoor pool on the sixth-floor rooftop, with a lively lounge bar and panoramic views of Old Istanbul. The two swimming pools at Raffles Istanbul can be truly called the epitome of pleasure, privilege and splendor. I have not seen any better Spa and pool areas around the globe than here. Food Heaven!!!!!!! The breakfast at the hotel was sensational. You have the option to dine from an exclusive rich buffet, but you can also order a la carte. The waiter persuaded me every morning to a new dish. Everything was extremely delicious. Since I always take my time for breakfast, the two hours were a culinary journey of the extra class. Now a few words about the restaurants. The first night I had dinner at the Japanese restaurant called Isokyo. Pan-Asian Cuisine with an Innovative Turkish Twist. As I have been to Japan many times and like Japanese cuisine very much- I was really speechless here. It starts with the decor of the restaurant. At Isokyo, sleek wood-panelled floors, gossamer fabrics, tropical plants and mirrored columns set the scene for a culinary journey across Asia from Istanbul to Tokyo. In this seductive, contemporary setting, peruse a menu that features pan-Asian dishes inspired by the quarter of a century Raffles Istanbul Executive Chef has spent exploring the continent. The intense umami flavors of Japan, Thailand’s elegant balance of sweet and spicy, pickled and fermented delicacies from Korea and age-old Chinese recipes. All of these and more are showcased in exceptional style at Isokyo, and given their own unique twist with the introduction of beloved Turkish ingredients. I have never eaten Japanese food this good outside of Japan. Everything was of such excellent quality and extremely creatively arranged. Since two friends visited me the other day at the hotel, I went to eat at this restaurant again. Isokyo is an absolute highlight of culinary cuisine. If you are a connoisseur to indulge in traditional flavors, and to discover and fall in love with new ones I highly recommend his award-winning Istanbul restaurant. For me, it easily plays in the top league of restaurants worldwide. Also, to mention Isokyo has its own private dining room, with an integrated kitchen designed for Chef’s Table events for up to 13 guests. Perfect for smaller Birthday invitations or private events. I must briefly mention the stunning lobby of the hotel. Lavinia Lounge is the beating heart of Raffles Istanbul. Located in the middle of the light-filled lobby, it is a place in constant motion – a place to meet friends over cups of fragrant coffee and sugar-dusted Turkish delight, before wandering arm-in-arm through the connected walkway to the Zorlu Center. As you watch the ebb and flow of guests arriving and departing through the lobby, take a moment to unwind and appreciate the incredible artworks that make Lavinia so special. The centrepiece is French photographer Jean-Francois Rauzier’s hyper-realistic interpretation of the Dolmabahçe Palace. Absolutely stunning. Some aspects, such as the vast chandelier gifted by Queen Victoria and the crystal balustrades of the grand staircase are just a few highlights as Lavinia Lounge becomes Istanbul’s place to be every afternoon during the decadent High Tea, an authentic experience not to be missed. Accompanied by Five O’Clock finger sandwiches, cakes, scones, and signature sweets and served with a refined selection of artisan teas and coffees. A must have!!!! I don't need to mention that this hotel is the best place to plan a wedding or a birthday or anniversary. A team of highly professional staff will take care of all your needs and wishes. If you know other Raffles hotels in the world - you will quickly realize that Raffles Istanbul is the flagship of this hotel group. This hotel is a fascinating world of its own within this great city of Istanbul and combines all the extraordinary and unique details of Turkish and international culture. Raffles Istanbul has become one of my 5 favorite hotels after my visit. Visit it and you will understand that this is a place to rave about. …
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.