Yes the Visa fee is steep (just like Brazil they charge reciprocal rates to US citizens). Fair enough from a principle point of view but makes you stop and think as a tourist. If you have a second passport the visa fee is much less for europeans, aussies and pretty much anyone else.

However, the Visa fee is offset by the instant billionaire you become (in numerical terms) on visiting Turkey. And the food's not bad too. For a cheaper - but no less safe accomodation option - google the side hotel and pension. It is next to the four seasons between the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque and good value for the money.