Mr H is right about this being my first trip to Turkey and paying out of my pocket. i mentioned Friday evening just to be aware of the Islamic prayer day and weekend activities regarding traffic and congestion.

Turkey is a secular country (still) and Friday has no real bearing on traffic. Depending on where you are going on the weekend traffic can be light or heavy.

I am not a party animal and will not be engaging in animal activities.

How much is a cab ride between the Conrad and Sultanahmet?

I would guess about 15TL

Is there a pre-paid cab counter at the Airport?

No, there are some agencies which sell rip off private car transfers.

Do cabs accept credit cards ? How much in Turkish Lira should I convert at the airport?

No. Enough for your cab ride.

I am staying at the Conrad on my points and this seemed like the biggest bang for the buck. I have never stayed at a Conrad before and wanted to check it out.

The Hilyon Istanbul is actually a better property, The ParkSA is pooor, I cannot personally comment on the new Doubletree properties as I have not visited them yet.

I will be in Istanbul for five nights and have heard good things about the Conrad from a fellow FTer at at the OneWorld MegaDo launch party.

Thank you all for all your wisdom and please tell me more.