Sebnem Hotel

Okay, the bathroom was cramped, but that was about the only think I could criticize about the place. I stayed ten days and enjoyed every minute of the hospitality, friendship and kindness offered by the staff. That was probably the most enjoyable feature of the hotel. I count the staff among my friends. Of course, they were professional in their attention and efforts, but they also were open to discussion ranging from politics to soccer. The building is located at the end of a short street near Sultanahmet. It sits in a quiet location, except for an occasional anxious dog and a froggy voice muezzin in a nearby minaret who held forth each morning early. Step out of the front door, turn left and walk a block and you find yourself on a hip pedestrian friendly block with superb little restaurants, such as Antique Turquoise, tempting shops and a range of other shops and offices ranging from convenience stores to travel agents. Beware, however, cars range the street competing with hundreds of pedestrians for space. Occasionally a tabla player with dreadlocks and a cape enlivens the street, backpackers walk by, cats play and a dozen tongues can be heard at once. Every age and nationality joins in. Korean tour groups mix with Germans, Dutch, Englanders and Americans, not to mention Russians, Turks and Italians. Walk a couple more block and the Arasta Bazaar opens up. The sweet smell of apple in the nargiles mixes with cooking lamb and vegatables. The bazaar is filled with carpet sellers, knock off watches, amber, scarves, prints, CDs, textiles and kitsch. Sebnem itself is three stories, is clean, comfortable and offers a breakfast that is a highlight of the day, and free internet access. Back to the breakfast. Figs, rose preserves, olives, cold cuts, cheeses, cereals, many cakes and pastries, apples, oranges, perfect yogurt, eggs, coffees, tea, nuts, raisins, grapes, huge plums, juices, casseroles, pomegranates, and more ...strawberries, pineapple; oh it was just the perfect way to start a day. Three laptops are available 24-hours and if you ask there is a nargile and raki on the roof top terrace to enjoy while watching ships ply the Bosporus. The view is very romantic and compelling. Steamers slip by, water taxis cruise along, huge freighters and giant cruise ships provide entertainment. The sunrise, the mists, the rains, the sunset are relaxing and charming. Think of it, a roof top view of the Bosporus, arguably the most important waterway in this world's history. I highly recommend the Sebnem.