My spouse and I just completed a five-night stay at the W (see the trip report for more specifics), and I cannot say enough nice things about the hotel and the people who work there. Everyone we encountered was friendly and seemed genuinely motivated to make sure that we had an outstanding stay. I especially want to compliment our concierge, Cem. He was incredibly helpful with making recommednations, providing information (and sending it to our room), and making reservations.

The hotel might be a little out of the way, but the neighborhood is a great one to use as a base for explorning Istanbul. The most expensive taxi ride we had to the Old Town was a YTL14 ride to Topkapi Palace, and others were less than YTL10. A tram stop is about 20 minutes away by foot, and a ferry terminal is just across the main road. A supermarket, a Caffe Nero, ATMs, and about a dozen places to eat are within a 5-minute walk.

In general, I am not crazy about W's. I am not that hip, and I prefer a more convenitional hotel. However, this one is the exception to the rule. I love this place!