It's no wonder this hotel is the 3rd trendiest in Istanbul as per Tripadvisor! Don't let the narrow 2 way road leading to Lush Hotel give you any doubts... or the small entrance doors... or the very small reception area... or the tiny single elevator... because you are in for a surprise!!

The first face that greeted us (me and my wife) was Ferhat at the reception desk. He was all too helpful and greeted me by my name (surprising as he didn't even know me.. I guess he figured it out from my flight arrival time). We originally booked the Junior suite (which I found to be very small but practical). I was staying with my wife and as this was our first proper relaxation trip since our honeymoon 3 years ago, I wanted to get something nicer. Ferhat offered to upgrade us to the Elegance suite for a little extra per night (promotion was to stay minimum of 3 nights). He even offered to show us some vacant rooms so we can pick the one we want (note that all rooms have different layouts here). The Elegance rooms are big with king size beds and large bathrooms and balconies! Perfect! Our room was neat and clean with an inroom safe and L'Occitane bath amenities!! By the way, WIFI is free for all guests throughout the hotel premises which is awesome!

Lush Hotel is in a perfect location and all major points are at walking distance: Taksim square, Istiklal Street and the underground metro are all 5 minutes away. You will find a barber shop, grocery store and doner kebab shop right under the hotel. Plus an electronics hardware shop (in case of electric plug/socket confusion!), currency exchange and sweets shop is 2 minutes away by walk.

The staff is wonderful (special thanks to Ferhat who is super nice and Ergin who also helped us check out). Breakfast does not have a lot of variety but the items they do have are laid out and cooked to perfection. We always looked forward to breakfast in the morning! The restaurant in-charge is very nice (I didn't get his name though) and service is very fast.

I would passionately recommend this hotel to my friends, family and colleagues. Next time I come to Istanbul I'll be staying in Lush Hotel!