The Marmara Pera, Istanbul

I was on business in Istanbul and lucky enough to be booked into the Marmara Pera. My assistant knows what I like; modern hotels in great locations near everything. And I always need a lap swimming pool. I am business and pleasure pleasure person, and I always stay in cool cities longer than my business needs require. I actually booked even longer than planned because I was having such an incredible time in Istanbul and at the Marmara Pera. The location of the Pera was perfect, it is not right in the middle of the hustle and bustle but close enough to walk everywhere from the hotel. I took a cab for business but when I was on my own, I could walk to galleries, the bazaar, restaurants and museums. What an incredible city. The hotel blew me away. First of all, the view from the room was breathtaking. They have absolutely huge windows with a fantastic view of the water and city below. The beds are to die for and the room was plenty large for me. Very cool bathroom. Then the food. It was so fresh and tasty. The Café Marmara’s food was so good I had at least one meal there every day, and almost had to make myself go out of the hotel to eat. The staff remembered me, gave me the same table, called me by name. I was really impressed and felt like a regular. I am a pool snob and this one blew me away. Heated, on the roof top. What a way to get in some exercise. Staying in this hotel I felt like royalty and it will always be my home when I visit Istanbul, which I hope is more frequently in the future!

They have a great restuarant on the top floor with fantastic French and Turkish food. It has European prices, but for once, it is recommended.