The Ritz Carlton

Simultaneously the easternmost point of the West and the westernmost point of the East, Istanbul one of those unique metropolises that’s split between two cultures as well as two continents. Amongst the world’s oldest cities, it’s the sort of place where you can still see flashes of its ancient past in the midst of modern-day developments. Each street reveals layers of history as intricate and intertwined as the honeyed baklava sitting in the windows of the city’s bakeries.
Empires have been won and lost inside its city walls (first the Greeks, followed by the Romans, Byzantines and the Ottomans), with each bestowing a legacy of stunning architectural icon, art and culture that visitors from across the world flock to experience each year.
Mesmerising mosques sit shoulder to shoulder with gleaming skyscrapers while gastronomes can find edible gems in the street markets as well as the city’s plethora of world-class restaurants.
With so much to see and do, Istanbul is the perfect honeymoon destination for couples who want to immerse themselves in an exhilarating melting pot of art, culture and food.

Where should we stay?
The Ritz-Carlton chain is renowned across the world for offering the ultimate in luxury and relaxation, and the Istanbul outpost certainly doesn’t disappoint.
Overlooking the sparkling strait of the Bosphorus, the five-star hotel is set in the thrumming heart of the city and is within walking distance of the local tram and metro stations as well as several stunning landmarks. With highly-rated restaurants, one of the best spas in the city and excellent standards of staff service under its roof, the Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul makes an ideal honeymoon HQ from which to explore the mega metropolis.

The Rooms
The hotel’s interiors pay tribute to the decadence of the Ottoman Empire with 244 spacious guest rooms, including 23 suites and 57 fantastically appointed Ritz-Carlton Club Level rooms.
The feather beds, plush pillows and the 300-thead count liners guarantee a fantastic night’s sleep and make the ultimate nest from which to plan each day’s activities.
Each room and suite option features Turkish-inspired style and décor throughout, panoramic views over the Bosphorus or the city and Izmik tile and marble bathrooms complete with luxurious toiletries and fluffy terry robes for those lazy honeymoon mornings. 

The Spa
The Ritz-Carlton Spa is modelled on the 16th Century Turkish baths of Roxelana.
Nine specifically designed treatments rooms offer signature spa treatments including massage, personalised facials (the Nourishing Facial is superb for reviving wedding-wearied complexions) and other body treatments. Guests can unwind under the twinkly lights of the pool or make use of the Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and fitness centre.
During the summer the hotel is the only place in Istanbul to offer a luxurious outdoor spa, featuring specifically designed cooling and calming treatments overlooking the Bosphorus.
Ensure you book before arrival as this popular spa is a favourite with locals and tourists alike.

Club level
The Ritz-Carlton offers a unique service for couples who want the finest experience possible; the Club Level. You’ll be welcomed at the dedicated Reception Desk and enjoy exclusive Concierge services who can help with everything from boat rides across the Bosphorous to tickets for the Opera. Club Level guests also have complimentary use of Fiat 500 cars, allowing you to escape the city for a mini adventure of your own.
Exceptional in every way and with a unique set of services and perks, such as breakfast, snacks and drinks (including unlimited Champagne and spirits) day and night, the Club Level offers an added measure of excellence for every moment of your stay.

The Khush Verdict
The hotel lives up to the Ritz-Carlton reputation and unites the efficiency of a global hotelier with the warm Turkish hospitality. With staff happy to go the extra mile, fabulous dining and drinking spots and excellent spa facilities, there’s as much to savour within the hotel’s walls  as there is in enchanting Istanbul.

www.ritzcarlton.com/Istanbul