With the current rocky economic landscape, prices have changed across every area of consumption—including travel. Everything from airline tickets and on-ground transportation to accommodation and food will hit your wallet a little harder this year, no matter where you jet off to. In fact, Squaremouth Travel Insurance reported that prices of European trips are up 38% compared to last year. Of course, you can still opt to stay in hostels, but that’s not for everyone. While mainstream European luxury travel might be out of your budget this year, you can stay at top-rated hotels for a fraction of the price in Turkey.
Turkey is a country that lies geographically in both Asia and Eastern Europe, but its culture can’t be summed up into either group. While some call it a mix of Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and European, the truth is that this intercontinental country boasts a vibe all of its own. Whether you prefer a beachfront room with an ocean view or a modern lounge in the city center, you can experience all Turkey has to offer in style while staying at your pick of many luxury 4- and 5-star hotels and resorts for realistic prices.
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Where to Stay in Istanbul
Istanbul is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. Its heritage spans centuries, and its geography spans continents; in fact, it’s the only city in the world that lies in two different continents. The architecture, cuisine and customs have both Eastern and Western influence; you can visit gorgeous mosques and lively bazaars or stroll through modern art galleries and upscale malls.
Conrad by Hilton Istanbul Bosphoru, From $195
The Besiktas neighborhood in Istanbul borders the Bosphorus waterfront. This is a modern area of the city, with upscale restaurants and shopping, as well as some grand historical sites. You can actually stay at the Çiragan Palace in this area, but we wouldn’t consider it cheap. Instead, the Conrad by Hilton is the best value 5-star hotel in the area. You’ll still get a taste of incredible architecture upon entering the lobby, which is covered in patterned marble floors. There’s an indoor and outdoor pool, both of which are gorgeous. A tennis center, spa, sauna and hammam room (Turkish bath) will be more than enough to keep you entertained. The bedrooms have views of the Bosphorus and the city skyline. Basic rooms can usually be found in the low-$200s.
AJWA Sultanahmet, From $296
Sultanahmet is the area of the city home to most of its top attractions—the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern. Especially if you’re only staying in Istanbul for a short time, this is a convenient location to settle. The AJWA is a 5-star hotel nestled in the heart of this old city. With a blend of Seljuk and Ottoman architecture, the hotel’s decor is one of a kind. Some of the treasures that make this place so magnificent include mother-of-pearl furniture, silk Tabriz carpets, original artwork, impressive marble works and hand-painted ceilings. You can experience the ritual of traditional Turkish baths at the spa, in addition to many massage and facial options. The restaurant on the top floor of the hotel has panoramic views of the city. Average rates for a deluxe double room are in the mid-$300 range, but can be found lower depending on where you book and when.
Accommodations in Coastal Turkey
If a Mediterranean vacation has you thinking more of bright blue water and gorgeous shorelines than a city center, Turkey has stunning coastal locations for less than what you’d get in, say, Greece.
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Nautical Hotel Faralya, From $171
On the coast of Southwestern Turkey lies this stunning beach resort. The place is tucked in among the trees, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature in top-notch accommodations. The stone infinity pool lies right behind the shore, so you can take in the view of the Mediterranean while you swim in the pool. The hotel facilitates hikes, scuba diving training and canoe trips. They hold art workshops and “discovery experiences,” as well as DJ shows on a beautiful stage. The spa offerings will further relax you on your trip, as will eating your high-end meals underneath the olive trees that surround the hotel. Prices vary depending on where you book and when, but basic rooms are generally in the $200s; you can even find better deals at certain times.
METT Hotel & Beach Resort Bodrum, From $277
Bodrum is one of Turkey’s most popular beach vacation spots. This hotel on the Aegean Sea sits in a private cove. You can view the turquoise waters from pretty much anywhere in the hotel. They offer a variety of dining options, spa and hammam experiences, water sports and even a teens’ room. You can book a cabana at the private pool any day you’d like, or relax at the beach.
Any of these 5-star hotels offers a luxurious stay in Turkey at a much lower price than similar accommodations elsewhere. And this is just scratching the surface; there are tons of luxury hotels in Turkey at a variety of prices, so choosing the right one for you will depend on your specific budget.
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