Istanbul is cool this year, 2010. It is the “coolest” destination for everyone, from backpackers to jet setters. Istanbul has definitely become the hottest vacation destination this year and one of the reasons is the fact that Istanbul was voted the European Capital of Culture 2010 by the European Union. Istanbul is emerging as the “It” destination of the year for its unique situation and history, its architectural and cultural splendors. Istanbul is putting on her finest dress this year.
Istanbul for 24 hours: Where would you stay, what would you do if you only had 24 hours in Istanbul? The following is how to get the most out of a 24 hour stay in Istanbul.
Where to wake up? Wake up in the Hotel les Ottomans. Located close to the Bosphorus, you’ll wake up with the smell of the fresh air and the sea and stunning views of the Bosphorus. Hotel les Ottomans was once the stunning palace of an 18th century Pasha. The Hotel les Ottomans will treat you to the services of butlers and personal shoppers. The Hotel even has a yacht, just in case you need it and you have the time. More details on this stunning hotel can be found at lesottomans.com.
What about lunch? Lunch, that all important meal of the day, where to grab a bite when you’re on the go? The best donor and kebabs in Istanbul can be had at Bambi a stall, open 24 hours a day, the price is right and the atmosphere is cheerful.
Head on down to Saray for a break after some fast paced sightseeing in Istanbul. Put your feet up, sample some of their delicious desserts and Turkish coffee. Got to be had – Ladies’ Thighs Baklava. Mmmmmm. Find out more about Saray in Istanbul before you go at their website at saraymuhallebicisi.com.

Where to dine? The eclectic Mikla restaurant is the hot spot for night eats in Istanbul. Their fare is judged one of the most splendid in the city. The views of Topkapi Palace from Mikla’s rooftop location are magnificent. Mikla serves up lamb chops with a fine crust of crushed pistachios and other divine dishes for the main event and try the cheeseboard for dessert with wine. Every mouthful is orgasmic! More info at their website at miklarestaurant.com.
How to spend the night? Drop by 5Kat – you can’t miss its flashy exterior. The interior design is done in velvet and beads, candles and lamps, providing a unique ambiance to listen to the music of new and established musicians, featured every night of the week. Visit their website at 5kat.com for more info. After 5Kat, swing by Ghetto, a club that used to be a bakery, and hear out some jazz, rock or pop music over a cocktail or beer. More info at their website ghettoist.com.
Don’t miss some of the cultural events of Istanbul during your quick stop in the city. Yes, Istanbul has become the hottest vacation destination in the world because Istanbul is now cool. You will never run out of things to do in Turkey, just head to Istanbul – the ‘It’ destination, 2010.
Image courtesy of 5Kat.
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