Visiting Istanbul
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.
Istanbul’s population is considered to the youngest among its bordering countries which plays a huge part in its cultural and economic development. Its demand for modern goods & services has increased the growth of shopping centers, wide range of restaurants and various local service centers. There are many more places for entertainment in comparison to previous decades, people are in the search of places to have dinner/drink, enjoy dancing in the sociable atmosphere and other activities.
Kebap houses, bufets and fast-foods joints can supply cheap meals on the run. But, there are many nice restaurants out there as well. If you would like to eat at a authentic restaurant fishermen’s quarter of Kumkapi behind Sultanahmet, Istiklal Caddesi and its side alleys (Cicek Passage, Nevizade Sokak) are the best places.
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.
Most travelers to Istanbul stay in Sultanahmet but one of the chic & busy areas of Istanbul is Taksim. Taksim and Beyoglu is becoming a popular alternative to Sultanahmet because of the food and shopping areas. You would be able to find fine places to eat and shop, book business meetings and discover high end life of Istanbul. The reason it considered to be a perfect location is also because of views of Bosphorus which starts from the Black Sea origin and flows into Sea of Marmara. If you are in the search of historical journey, you should definitely stay in Sultanahmet, you are going to be situated in the middle of Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Aya Sofya. Hotels in that area considered to less pricey but still would be considered expensive for the local visitor. You should be able to find boutique hotels in this area.
Learn more about Istanbul. Stop by Sarah Ashley’s site where you can find out all about Cheap Istanbul Hotels.
