We will spend 2 nights in Istanbul in June. <BR>Does anybody had any good suggestion for us on the hotel on the Europe side. Not too Pricy, but clean and safe.

If $90/double is within your budget, I'd recommend the Spina. <BR>http://www.istanbulhotels.com/spina/english.htm <BR> <BR>It's very well located in the heart of Sultanhamet (very close to the Four Seasons) a short walk from Haghia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern and Topkapi palace, quiet street, very nice staff & service, all ammenities. Transfers to/from airport are included in rate if you reserve online. <BR> <BR>Paulo

We also stayed in the Sultanhamet section which was near all the historical sites. The hotel we stayed in was the Empress Zoe, $68. a night with breakfast in 2000. They also have a car to pick you up but there is a fee. We found the taxi cabs very cheap in Turkey. This hotel is clean , good breakfast, Turkish style , but no tv or elevator. The owner is American and they are probably on the internet.

We love the Kybele. Well-located in Sultanahmet. TONS of character, nice rooms, very welcoming hosts, and wonderful public spaces (including an outdoor terrace) for (generously-poured) cocktails, meeting other fascinating people from around the world, etc. Phone number is (90.1) 512.51.63. The owner also has a shop (as if that's a surprise!), but unlike many other tourist traps, we have actually purchased some cherished treasures at his establishment. For carpets, if you are in the market, apart from the Kybele owner, in my opinion stick to the government-run store which is in a prominent building near the Four Seasons. By the way, the Four Seasons Istanbul is by far the best hotel we have stayed at anywhere in the world, so if you're in splurge mode, this place is worth it!

When we were in Istanbul we stayed at the intercontinential, it was great. The cabs are cheap if the driver does not speak english. Those that speak good english be careful, they think all Americans are rich. Tell the driver where you want to go and ask how much bedore you get in. Istanbul is the cheapest place to buy gold and leather. Beutiful City wish I was going back.

<BR>My favorit one was Alzer Hotel in Istanbul. <BR>We liked it a lot. <BR>Paula <BR>http://www.istanbulshotels.com/alzer.htm