RAFFLES Hotels & Resorts is bringing its luxury brand into Turkey’s storied city with the opening of Raffles Istanbul on September 1.
Located in the centre of the modern day bazaar Zorlu Centre, the hotel overlooks the Bosphorus river, the Prince Islands, and the peninsula. Specially commissioned artworks done by Turkish craftsmen and a breezy interior recall the city’s rich heritage.
For its 132 guestrooms and 49 suites, Raffles Istanbul offers floor-to-ceiling windows as well as fully furnished private terraces and balconies to take full advantage of its city views.
F&B outlets on site include: Arola, where Michelin-starred Spanish chef Sergi Arola puts his own twist on classic Catalan dishes; all-day dining Rocca for Turkish and Mediterranean food; lobby lounge Lavinia; Patisserie for Turkish cakes and pastries; the Pool Bar & Grill on the sixth floor wth a DJ playing at night and views of the city; and watering holes Writer’s Bar and Long Bar, imported from Singapore.
Guests looking to treat themselves can relax at the Raffles Spa with its nine treatment rooms and suites, and choice of pools, saunas, steam rooms and hammams.
Meanwhile, the hotel offers meeting spaces in the form of The Ballroom, seven private rooms, and The Boardroom, all equipped with the latest technology and staff support.
Raffles Hotels & Resorts has appointed Tarek Mourad to helm Raffles Istanbul. The Egypt national most recently oversaw the opening of Four Seasons Baku.
