"From a block of abandoned row houses built in 1875 by Sultan Abdülaziz, to a stylish Starwood-branded W Hotel targeting the young, hip, and yes, even club-going set." Full review

"Istanbul is fast becoming Europe's capital of cool, and its hip-o-meter certainly clocked up a couple more notches with the April 2008 opening of the W in the unlikely... neighborhood of Beşiktaş."

"An 1870s Ottoman block of row houses has been restored and enhanced with posh ultramodernity—sexy lighting, chic East-meets-West decor, and cool amenities." Full review

"The hotel is... the last word in stylish modernity, just with a luxurious Ottoman twist."

"The 134-room W Istanbul delivers on all the hallmarks of the W brand: Trendy decor, excellent dining, and happening nightlife." Full review

"The W Lounge is a bit heavy on the self-consciously hip trance music, but its mojitos are the best in the city; Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s Spice Market restaurant is justifiably popular." Full review

"With a great location close to Nisantasi... the W is housed in the historical Row Houses, erected in 1875 as accommodation for the high officers of the Ottoman Empire."

"This stylish hotel is in the center of Akaretler, surrounded by cafes and design galleries. The W features 2 restaurants, a modern gym and a day spa." Full review

"Housed inside buildings that were previously derelict, The W Istanbul is a superb example of urban revival." Full review

"Features an entry lounge with an "interactive art installation" mixing lights, mirrors, and video installations...and a traditional Turkish-style hammam in the W Spa." Full review

"Channels the city’s Byzantine charm and mystery with gorgeous views from almost every room and lush Turkish textiles." Full review

" With facilities catering to business travelers, families, couples, and VIPs, the 11th member of the international Raffles chain of luxury hotels has broad appeal." Full review

"All rooms feature a balcony with the best views overlooking the Bosphorus and the Princes’ Islands." Full review

"Raffles Istanbul is a five-pearl property with dramatic, art-filled interiors situated in an upscale mall and residential complex, about a 30-minute drive from the top tourist sights." Full review

"Unlike the majority of luxury hotels in Istanbul, Raffles does not pay homage to the city’s bygone Byzantine and Ottoman eras, but stands instead as a symbol of a modern, self-confident Turkey." Full review

"Opulent, ultra-mod newcomer overlooking the Bosphorus with a rooftop cinema, lavish spa and Michelin-starred chef." Full review

"Recent travelers are confident in their proclamations that the Raffles Istanbul is one of the best hotels they have ever stayed in." Full review

"Set away from central Istanbul in the shiny Zorlu Centre and the business district – but easily reached by metro – Raffles Istanbul is as stylishly modern as its sleek surroundings"

"A romantic stay at Raffles Istanbul comes with sweeping panoramic views of the Bosphorus, stylish accommodations featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies (yes, there's 24-hour butler service, too), world-class gastronomic experiences, and a spa with couples rooms and Turkish baths"

"Historical references are present, of course, especially in the artwork...every room is assigned a personal butler, and the facilities include the full luxury-hotel treatment" Full review