Thank you Karen! I think you are right, the best bet is the full visa as there would be no question of validity once it is issued.

We are planning on going in November as we both really enjoy off-season travel (and that is the only time my wife can take a week off). Three days will fit in nicely with our time in Istanbul.

The JW Marriott looks very nice - I am in the process of changing loyalty to Marriott so hope to have enough points for our three nights by the time November rolls around. I will use the Hilton points in Istanbul.

Thanks again for all your great info in this thread. I will be sure to refer to it often as we plan our trip.