Obviously when traveling, finding an appropriate hotel to hang your hat can be a hit-or-miss experience. For some travelers, suitable accommodations weigh heavily on their overall trip satisfaction. I would attribute myself to that clique. Fortunately, my selection of the Hotel Sultania in Istanbul, Turkey met every need and desire. This post is a walkthrough of my room.
View from the Doorway
Although the room was small in comparison to US standards, I found it quite comparable to European norms. What struck me most about this room, however, was the accent lighting underneath the bed, desk, and wall fixtures. The soft, amber glow offered the room coziness and warmth without seeming overly pretentious.
The Pointed Arch with Two Centers - Islamic Architecture
A plush sitting area, recessed into the exterior wall, featured the common Islamic Arch in its design. This created a powerfully effective theme for the room: a suite for a Sultan. Velvety curtains added to the mystery and opulence of the space; a delightful area for reclining or simply to store your bags out of the way.
Standard Desk & Mirror
A relatively standard desk and mirror provided just enough space for a laptop, chargers, pamphlets, and in my case, my passport. Overall, there were several outlets in the room; enough to charge my many electrical devices without the need to alternate them.
The Lovely Sitting Area
I certainly enjoyed this delicate little sitting area when perusing my day's travel plans, or simply to recharge myself while my phone drank from the outlet. The couch was firm but comfortable.
Wives of the Sultans
Each of the rooms at the Hotel Sultania is themed after one of the wives of the Sultans. As the Ottomans ruled this area for over 600 years, there is no short supply of subject matter with which to incorporate this practice!
Like the bed, the portrait is illuminated in that soft, amber glow. The accent lights, however, can be extinguished by one dedicated switch.
Looking into the Bath
Compact, but comfortable, a full-service sink with counter rests behind a delicate screen, beside the bed. Beyond, entry to the toilet and shower area. Again, small, but spotlessly clean!
A Welcoming Gift from Hotel Sultania - Istanbul, Turkey
Part of the Hotel Sultania's charm is the warm welcome received at reception. Weary travelers are greeted, served tea with a biscuit, and checked in quickly and efficiently. Upon entering your room, however, you will find on your bed a covered brass serving plate with a sweet treat!
Cezerye
Sealed in plastic for freshness is a block of something like Turkish Delight - Cezerye.
Ancient Aphrodisiac
As the placard states, Cezerye was considered an aphrodisiac during the reign of the Sultans. Since I was already aroused - by hunger - this was consumed almost immediately! Delicate, chewy, sweet, and delicious!
Amenities
Standard amenities are provided for your convenience. I particularly enjoyed the small, ornately wrapped Turkish olive oil soaps, some of which I brought home as a souvenir.
Low-level lighting certainly contributed to the somewhat lesser quality of these pictures. More impactful was the low-quality ability of the photographer!
Cheers!