Today’s select travel accommodation comes from one of our fabulous guest authors, Monica Wong, author of A Pair of Panties and Boxers.
Imagine a panoramic view of the Golden Horn, The Haghia Sophia, The Bosporus River, The Blue Mosque and the Sea of Marmara. That’s the view from the terrace of the Hali Hotel in Istanbul where I had my complimentary breakfast every morning.
If you’re visiting Istanbul for the first time, staying in Sultanahmet is ideal. The Hali Hotel is located within minutes from The Grand Bazaar, The Topkapi Palace, The Blue Mosque, Haghia Sophia, Suleymaniye’s Mosque, Basilica Cistern and other historical and cultural places.
From the Ataturk International Airport, take the Hafif Metro (light rail) to Zeytinburnu Station. Transfer to the Tramway and take it to Cemberlitas Station. The Hali Hotel is less than an hour away via public transportation and is located on a quiet side street away from traffic. The surrounding area is filled with restaurants. You’ll never go hungry no matter what time of day it is.
For a room facing the Haghia Sophia, I’d recommend rooms 205, 305, 405 – the higher the better. The view from room 105 is partially blocked by a lamp post across the street. On the other side of the hotel is a view of the Sea of Marmara.
For 55 Euros per night, I woke up every morning with a view of the Haghia Sophia from my window. The hotel includes free Wi-Fi, Internet and safe boxes. It also has a bar in the lobby, a TV room, a masseuse and an efficient and friendly English speaking staff.
My favorite person was Hip-Hop Hasan – an extremely jovial guy who’s a bell boy by day and a break dancer by night. He gave me a complete tour of the hotel before making my payment. As soon as I stepped onto the terrace, I was sold.
For additional information, you can contact the hotel below:
Klodfarer Cadessi No: 20 Sultanahmet-Istanbul
+90 (212) 516 2170
+90 (212) 516 1777
halihotel@halihotel.com
