On his second trip to Istanbul, Ve Handojo picked a design hotel around the corner of Siraselviler and Istiklal streets, and found some great summer joy.

Taksim Square and its ever so lively Istiklal Street is the main feature of Lush Hotel; an old apartment-building-cum-design-hotel on the parallel-running Siraselviler Street that leads to the many back alleys containing small galleries, curio shops, and treasure troves.

It isn’t nonsense when Lush Hotel calls herself a “highly individual place”, for amidst the crowded area, each of the 35 rooms provides a personal sanctuary. I’m not just talking about quietness and serenity, but about the unique layout of every room – from the one with an extra bed on the mezzanine floor, to the private mini-palace with an en-suite Turkish bath. Every one of them follows the similar design creed – It should be rich with wood, masculine lines with just enough feminine curves, and a modern interpretation of classic heritage. The variety of layouts rarely fails thanks to the super high ceilings that give a grandiose and roomy feel to every space.

The simple stone exterior of the hotel nestled in Siraselviler Street.

I stayed in Elegance Room 101, a 25 sqm space with the extra bed on the mezzanine that not only gives more room for another guest, but also a playful ambience. Travelling with a best friend? Share the bunk bed in Deluxe Room 103 that also comes with extra storage area on the mini-mezzanine. The best deal may come in the Elegance Room 412, which offers a great view to Istiklal Street and Taksim Square. Families would head to Sedir 104, a suite with couches that double as extra sleeping spaces.

Breakfast in Dada café and bar means having a slice of very delicious apple pie, and tasting the excellent cinnamon jam. Play with the variety of cheese and ham, or order the tasty omelette. The espresso is as sharp and inspiring as the service.

The best thing about staying in Taksim area is you are connected to the subway and bus station, from where the Havas bus will take you to the airport in 30 minutes at only five Euro. After the long day exploring the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and the Grand Bazaar in Sultanahmet area, you will come home to the sleepless Istiklal Street. When you need to relax and burn some calories, ask the receptionist to prepare the sauna on the fifth floor, and it will be ready to warm your bones in 20 minutes.

Modern and classic, and an individual amidst the crowd, Lush Hotel is separated from the centre of Istanbul and designed for travellers of the smartest kind.

Lush Hotel
Siraselviler Cad. No. 12
Taksim, Istanbul
Turkey
Tel: +90 212 243 9595
www.lushhotel.com

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