We have just returned from a four night stay at this hotel. Our outbound flight was delayed so we arrived at the hotel later than anticipated. The hotel had pre-arranged transportation from the airport and that went extremely well by following their instructions. However, on arrival at the hotel the manager not only recommended somewhere to eat but walked us to a nearby restaurant. On our return he was happy to advise us on local tours to take given our limited time there, three full days. We arranged three activities and by the hotel booking them we had a slight discount on price.Not sure if it is normal but payment for two trips were made in cash to the hotel, but no receipt given. However there were no problems with transport pick up or return, so maybe that's the way it's done. The hotel itself is comfortable and clean and every member of staff helpful and friendly. The hotel is located in a manufacturing area, mainly shoes and leather goods, but don't let that put you off. For me it just added to the atmosphere of being in that environment in the middle of a bustling city. However, you are only a 15 - 20 minute walk from all the main attractions - Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia (both a must see) and Topkapi Palace. Also recommend the evening cruise with dinner. Breakfast was a good set up for the day so no worries about eating during the day. A couple of general things to think about: * Istanbul is far hillier than I anticipated, so take good walking shoes. * TAKE EUROS. There is a great reluctance for anywhere to take their own currency. Everything is priced in Euros. In one cafe the price was indicated in Euros. Staff didn't even know prices in Turkish lira! Paid in Euros but got change in US $!! * Beware of being ripped off in the Grand Bazaar. My wife didn't fully understand the conversion rates and ended up being charged over £50 for a kilo of Turkish delight. I certainly wasn't delighted.