A very busy property, this one. With the pool, gym, sauna, well-appointed rooms, 24hr reception, bar, gift shop, free wi-fi and proper restaurant, this hotel deserves it's four stars.
The location can not be beat, two blocks from Taksim Square. Central, right amongst all the restaurants, nightlife, banks, other hotels, and cafes. Of course this means your only issue is going to be noise. Street noise is a bit of a problem, as my double-glazed window allowed more sound in than expected. The walls and doors are thin, so it was easy to hear the elevator outside, and the young men entertaining themselves in the corridors after a few refreshing after-dinner beverages.
The breakfast room is very busy. A large buffet serves Turkish breakfast items - olives, spiced cheese, many salad items, lentil soup. The usual Euro pastries and some cereals are present, along with tea, coffee and juice. A solid breakfast but nothing extraordinary or memorable.
The service I received was very good. For example, my room was without towels upon arrival. After a call to housekeeping, the towels were delivered within two minutes.
Did I mention free wi-fi? Fast too, available in most rooms, no silly log-in, receipts to collect or time-out.
- Golden Age Hotel Istanbul
