Eresin Crown Hôtel★★★★★

Once the most crowded city in the world and the only one to straddle two continents, Istanbul sits at the crossroads of European and Asian life, trade and politics. The Eresin Crown Hotel bears witness to the city’s immensely rich historical heritage that stretches back over 1500 years. Excavation work that took place prior to construction of the building revealed hidden treasures dating back to the very beginnings of this fascinating city. Instead of packing them into crates to be sent to history museums around the world, the hotel was granted permission by local authorities to display all 49 uncovered pieces of art on the hotel’s stunning premises.

Before even settling into my room, I leave my luggage with the porter and set about exploring my temporary abode. The architects have cleverly integrated an ancient Byzantine wall and cistern into the interior design and bits and pieces of antique architecture - columns, reliefs and funerary steles - are tastefully scattered throughout the common areas. There is also an extensive ceramics collection, all replicas of the original Ottoman works that are displayed at the British Museum in London. In contrast, 168 pieces of modern artwork by renowned Turkish artist, Gultekin Cizgen, are also showcased.

Feeling quite pleased with myself and a little bit more cultivated, I head up to my room to settle in before planning the rest of my short stay in Istanbul. Hardwood floors draped in archetypal Turkish rugs, classic décor and elegant furnishings pay tribute to olden-day glory while modern amenities keep the rooms firmly grounded in the 21st century. I turn the kettle on for a cup of mint tea and flick through the satellite channels to catch up on world news while I wait. I can just about hear the midday call to prayer through the double-glazed windows. With well over 500 mosques dotted throughout the city and the marvellous Blue Mosque practically on the hotel doorstep, no amount of double-glazing could possibly keep out all the noise. But I like it that way. Makes me feel like I’m experiencing true Istanbul life.

I grab a quick bite to eat on the rooftop terrace restaurant, with its spectacular views of the Princes’ Islands in the Sea of Marmara and the beautiful profile of the Blue Mosque with its six imposing minarets. I then head off on foot to discover the historic Sultanahmet neighbourhood. Back at the hotel, I have an invigorating bath in my Jacuzzi bathtub before dining in the Mosaic restaurant which features an authentic Byzantine floor mosaic that dates back to around 500AD. It is thought to have been part of a courtyard or a corridor of the Great Palace that once stood on this spot. The food is great – Mediterranean cuisine, cooked to perfection, with a strong Turkish influence – as is the friendly service.

The following day, after a revitalising nights’ rest, I follow the recommendations of the charming receptionist and hire a private tour guide. An added expense, but well worth it if, like me, you are a lazy traveller and want to see as much as possible without making too much effort!