Experience my epic travels through words and photos.
Author: John
I am an avid traveler. I enjoy adventure travel to explore places that I have read about, to learn about new cultures and to experience new cuisines. Travel is an exceptional teacher. I love to learn through the lens of an epic adventure.
Our stay at The Privilege Floor by Borei Angkor in Siem Reap was a mixed experience. It was a combination of luxury, rich cultural heritage and poor customer service. We arrived early, so our room was not ready. We went out to explore downtown Siem Reap while we waited. The staff appeared a bit indifferent to us, and this attitude continued the following morning.
Located just a short drive from the iconic Angkor Wat temple complex, The Privilege Floor by Borei Angkor provided a convenient base for our exploration. The check-in process was smooth once our room was ready. Our room was a haven of comfort, spacious and beautifully decorated with a mix of traditional Khmer elements and modern luxury.
Because we had a pre-dawn tour of Siem Reap planned, we were going to miss breakfast. The hotel staff said they would have a packed lunch waiting for us in the morning. They did not. When we arrived early in the morning, there was no staff around. When staff did arrive, and we inquired about breakfast, we were told that we didn’t request it. Although we did. There was no attempt at accommodating this request even with that in mind.
They also did not offer a late check out, meaning we had to leave our bags alongside the desk during our tour. Normally, bags would be locked in a room where only staff had access. Not only was this not the case, but when we were ready to depart in the morning, there were several bags sitting out, but no staff in sight. At least they tagged our bags, but it was a bit unsettling that they did not store them in a secure area.
The hotel was a bit off the beaten path, but my wife and I walked into downtown to explore when we were waiting for our room. The walk wasn’t horrible, although maybe a bit warm. We took at tuk-tuk back to the hotel to check-in. We also booked rides (both car and tuk-tuk) using the Grab app, which was convenient. The hotel itself was beautiful, but we didn’t enjoy any of the amenities due to the short duration of our trip.
Overall, our stay at The Privilege Floor by Borei Angkor was mediocre. It felt luxurious, but the service left a lot to be desired. We paid just under one hundred dollars for one night, which is at the higher end for this area. The three highest rated hotels on TripAdvisor currently have lower rates than we paid, as a comparison. For our price point, I definitely expected more. In the end, this visit was very disappointing. I would definitely consider an alternative should I ever return to Siem Reap.
Our Chao Phraya River dinner cruise became a memorable experience, blending Bangkok’s rich cultural tapestry with the serene beauty of the river at night. As we boarded the luxurious boat, the city bathed in the warm hues of the setting sun, gradually faded into the background. The gentle hum of the boat harmonized with the tranquil sounds of the river, creating a peaceful atmosphere. We quickly realized that the cruise offered a unique vantage point of the city. Bangkok’s old and new architecture coexisted in a mesmerizing display of lights.
Dining on the Chao Phraya River
The dining experience aboard the cruise presented a feast for both the eyes and the palate. A lavish buffet greeted us, featuring an impressive selection of Thai and international dishes. The culinary options included an array of appetizers, including fresh seafood, vibrant salads, and traditional Thai delicacies. Each dish was thoughtfully prepared and beautifully presented, showcasing the rich flavors and culinary traditions of Thailand.
Illuminated Landmarks Along The Chao Phraya River
As the evening progressed, the true magic of the Chao Phraya River cruise unfolded. The boat slowly made its way past some of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks, each one illuminated against the night sky. The sight of Wat Arun, with its intricately designed spires glowing softly in the dark, took our breath away. The Grand Palace, resplendent with its golden rooftops, stood as a testament to Thailand’s regal history. The Rama VIII Bridge, with its graceful, modern lines, provided a striking contrast to the ancient temples.
Final Thoughts
We sipped on wine and enjoyed a selection of decadent sweets, as a gentle breeze drifted across the deck, adding to the peaceful ambiance of the evening. The trip on the river culminated in a dazzling display of fireworks on the river. This cruise offered a perfect blend of cultural immersion, culinary delight, and serene relaxation, making it an evening we will cherish for years to come.
Our dinner at Celadon, located within the luxurious Sukhothai Hotel in Bangkok, presented an atmosphere nothing short of exceptional. Known for its authentic Thai cuisine, Celadon offers a dining experience that is both elegant and deeply rooted in tradition. The restaurant itself is a serene oasis, with its setting in a beautiful garden pavilion that immediately sets a tranquil tone for the evening. In part, we chose Celadon because it is a Michelin rated restaurant.
As we were seated, we couldn’t help but admire the attention to detail in the decor—delicate lotus flowers, soft lighting, and traditional Thai elements that enhanced the atmosphere. The service was somewhat less impressive than the atmosphere. The staff made us feel welcome, but were not particularly attentive at times.
The menu at Celadon is a tribute to Thailand’s rich culinary heritage, featuring a wide array of dishes that highlight the diversity and complexity of Thai flavors. We started with a node to Thai street food, chicken wrapped in pandan leaves. Fried chicken is a staple at the street stalls in Bangkok. Celadon’s iteration is embellished with leaves, wrapped to form at pocket for the chicken. It is served with three dipping sauces. The chicken was delicious.
For our main dishes my wife opted for the pad thai, while I chose the green curry. I specifically asked if it was possible to order the green curry without fish, shrimp paste, fish sauce or anything related to seafood. I was assured that this was the case, so I proceeded with the green curry, which looked amazing. My wife thoroughly enjoyed her pad thai, but my green curry was not good. I am fairly certain it actually had fish sauce in it. Luckily, I am not allergic. But I didn’t eat my meal.
When the waitress inquired, she seemed confused by my concern. However, she also did not seem inclined to offer a replacement. Nor was a manager called over to assist. I didn’t press the issue, deciding instead to chalk it up to experience and find something light from a street stall later.
Dessert was an improved end to our otherwise unsatisfying meal. The rice-wrapped banana and coconut ice cream was tasty and refreshing. The presentation (as with all of the dishes) was as exquisite as the taste. If the attentiveness at Celadon were as impeccable as the presentation, this would have been an unforgettable experience.
Dining at Celadon left me with mixed feelings. The atmosphere and decor were amazing. The food presentation was impeccable. However, the service did not match the other facets of this experience. That was disappointing to say the least. At the price point for this meal, I definitely would have expected more.
Our stay at the Sheraton Grand Opera Hotel was an experience of luxury and elegance, perfectly nestled in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. This hotel provided a seamless blend of modern amenities and Vietnamese charm, making it an ideal base for exploring the vibrant culture and history of the city. It also served as a great host to meetings I attended at the hotel.
Sheraton Grand Opera Hotel First Impressions
Upon arrival, we were greeted with warm hospitality and a smooth check-in process. The grand lobby, with its sophisticated design and attention to detail, set the tone for what was to come. The hotel’s prime location, near iconic landmarks such as the Saigon Opera House, made it convenient for us to immerse ourselves in the city’s bustling energy. We also downloaded the Grab ride-share app for quick, inexpensive transportation to nearby attractions.
Comfort and Luxury in Every Room
Our room was spacious, with large windows offering stunning views of the cityscape. The plush bedding and elegant décor provided a serene retreat after our days of exploration. Modern amenities like high-speed Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and a well-appointed bathroom with luxury toiletries added to our comfort. The hotel also offers a variety of room options, catering to different needs, whether you’re traveling for business or leisure. We arrived in our room to a delightful fruit tray left for us by housekeeping.
Sheraton Grand Opera Hotel Dining
One of the highlights of our stay was the dining options available at the Sheraton Saigon. While we didn’t dine at the hotel restaurant, the options available at the concierge lounge were amazing. One of the most amazing hospitality suites I have visited as a Marriott Platinum Elite member. We particularly enjoyed the breakfast, which featured a range of options from traditional Vietnamese dishes to Western favorites.
The rooftop bar, with its panoramic views of the city, was the perfect spot to unwind with a cocktail after a day of sightseeing. Endless options for dining were also available within walking distance or a short Grab ride away. Because we love Vietnamese street food, we availed ourselves of this opportunity to explore amazing banh mi sandwiches and a Michelin rated banh xeo restaurant a mile or so away.
Amenities and Services
The hotel’s amenities were equally impressive. We didn’t take advantage of the fitness center, but it was well-equipped for a workout. They also have an outdoor pool, and conference facilities. The conference facility was excellent, providing ample space for several business meetings during my visit. The concierge service was exceptional, offering helpful recommendations. This includes the restaurants indicated earlier.
Final Thoughts on Sheraton Grand Opera Hotel
Our stay at the Sheraton Saigon Grand Opera Hotel was nothing short of exceptional. The combination of luxury accommodations, excellent service, and a prime location made our visit to Ho Chi Minh City truly memorable. Whether you’re in the city for business or leisure, this hotel offers an experience that balances the excitement of Saigon with the comforts of a high-end retreat. We left feeling refreshed and well taken care of, with fond memories of our time in this vibrant city. One of the best Marriott properties I have stayed at.
Our culinary adventure in Ho Chi Minh City led us to a place that’s not just a restaurant but a living piece of Vietnamese culture—Banh Xeo 46A. This unassuming eatery, nestled in a bustling neighborhood, serves some of the city’s best banh xeo. It didn’t disappoint. Guests filled several outdoor metal tables at the restaurant.
First Impressions of Banh Xeo 46A
As we walked up, the sizzle of batter hitting hot pans filled the air. The sizzling mingled with the rich aroma of fresh herbs and pork. The atmosphere was lively, with locals and tourists alike gathered around small tables, eagerly anticipating the next savory bite. We followed an employee to an empty table where we sat down in anticipation.
About Banh Xeo
Banh Xeo, often described as a Vietnamese savory pancake or crepe, is the star of the menu here. Made from rice flour, water, and turmeric, the crepe is cooked to a crispy perfection. I ordered my crepes stuffed with a generous mix of pork and bean sprouts, leaving out the shrimp. The real magic happens when you wrap a piece of the banh xeo in fresh lettuce or rice paper, add herbs like mint and cilantro, and dip it into the tangy nuoc cham (dipping sauce). The combination of textures and flavors—crunchy, savory, fresh, and slightly tangy—creates a culinary experience that’s quintessentially Vietnamese.
Banh Xeo 46A Has Great Atmosphere
Our meal wasn’t just about the food; it was about the experience. Watching the skilled cooks deftly maneuver their woks over open flames, flipping the delicate crepes with ease, added an element of theater to our dinner. The staff were friendly and efficient, quickly serving up plates of banh xeo with a side of warm smiles, despite the restaurant’s constant buzz of activity. I also ordered a bowl of bun, which I doctored up with a dab of peanut sauce.
Final Thoughts
Dining at Banh Xeo 46A gave us a deeper appreciation for the simplicity and richness of Vietnamese street food. The restaurant seemed humble, but the care and tradition poured into each dish made it extraordinary. How extraordinary? Banh Xeo 46A is a Michelin Rated Restaurant. If you’re in Ho Chi Minh City and looking to experience authentic Vietnamese flavors in a vibrant setting, a visit to Banh Xeo 46A is an absolute must.
Our visit to Elephants World Sanctuary in Kanchanaburi was a heartwarming and enlightening experience. It offered us a rare opportunity to connect with magnificent creatures in a setting dedicated to their well-being. Located in the lush, green landscapes of western Thailand, the sanctuary provides a safe haven for elephants rescued from the logging and tourism industries, where they often endure harsh conditions. We booked at bangkokelephanttour.com.
Hotel Pick-up
At the break of dawn, we left our hotel in Bangkok for a three-hour ride to Kanchanaburi. Upon arriving at Elephants World Sanctuary, the staff warmly welcomed us and briefed us on the sanctuary’s mission and the importance of ethical elephant tourism. The sanctuary’s commitment to prioritizing the elephants’ needs was refreshing. We engaged intimately with these gentle giants, who are not forced to perform or carry tourists.
Getting Intimate at Elephants World Sanctuary
Our day began with a hands-on experience feeding the elephants. We provided them with small watermelons the size of cantaloupe. The elephants gathered along the rail of a covered lodge where they ate the melons as quickly as we could hand them out. It was incredible to see their personalities shine through, from the playful young elephants to the more reserved older ones.
After an appetizer of watermelons, we walked down closer to the river to learn more about these amazing creatures. Some of the animals bore scars of their former mistreatment, which included circus performances and logging. The elephants snacked on sugar cane while we learned more about the sanctuary.
Feeding the Elephants World Sanctuary Matriarch
One of the elephants, a female, was into her 60s. Because she can’t chew the watermelons or sugarcane, we made rice-balls for her. We chopped squash and boiled it down in a massive pot with rice. After allowing the mixture to cool a bit, we formed rice balls to feed the aging matriarch. It was a sticky mess, but also a fun and very interactive experience.
Enjoying a Mud Bath
After the rice balls, we accompanied the elephants to a nearby mud hole, where visitors were invited to cover the elephants in mud. I was a bit apprehensive, but my wife jumped right in. I was thinking more about the content of the mud in the small pond. It was probably fine, but knowing an elephant is going to add to the mud in the pond wasn’t appealing to me.
Washing in the River
After the mud hole, we headed to the river for their daily bath. This was perhaps the most memorable part of the day, as we got into the water alongside the elephants, helping them scrub off the dust and mud. The joy and relaxation they exhibited during their bath were infectious, and it was clear that they were truly at ease in this environment.
Elephants World Sanctuary Visit Included Lunch
Our visit finished with an excellent buffet style lunch in the open air lodge. The chicken was excellent, as were the papaya salad and array of other treats. The meal was almost an afterthought in the greater scheme of things. But it was included in the price of our visit, so worth mentioning.
Ethical Tourism
Throughout the visit, the sanctuary’s guides provided valuable insights into the elephants’ lives, their history, and the challenges they face in Thailand. They also emphasized the importance of supporting sanctuaries like this one to ensure that elephants can live out their lives in peace and dignity.
Final Thoughts
We left with a deep appreciation for the sanctuary’s work and the majestic animals they care for. It was a day filled with learning, connection, and a sense of hope for the future of these incredible creatures. For anyone visiting Thailand, a visit to an ethical elephant sanctuary is not to be missed. It’s an experience that not only enriches your understanding of these animals but also contributes to a cause that truly makes a difference.
While our visit to the elephant sanctuary included a larger group, our transportation was private. On our way back to Bangkok, our driver stopped at the River Kwai for us to explore a bit before we loaded back up to finish our trek back to our hotel. Overall, an amazing, memorable day.
Turkish Treasure! Late last year, my wife and I shared an exciting adventure through the heart of Turkey. We booked an organized tour that included options with or without airfare. I booked the airfare myself on Delta, flying KLM over through Amsterdam and Delta on the return trip through Paris. We arrived late in the evening, but didn’t have any problem finding a taxi to take us to our hotel.
Arrival In Turkey
Our journey began with two nights at the Millennium Istanbul Golden Horn Hotel. I realized going through my photos that I did not take any photos of the hotel. However, the location was a bit far from most of the attractions in Istanbul, but the hotel itself was excellent. My wife and I had dinner at the hotel on our second night. I recall that it was both affordable and delicious, as well as a nice presentation (I did take a photo of our meal). My only complaint was that smoking was allowed, and I recall that the smell annoyed me while we dined.
Our First Full Day – Exploring Istanbul
We met for a briefing on our first night, which is good, because we got an early start the next day. I like fast-paced tours, and this one did not disappoint. We spent our first full day in Istanbul exploring several of the prominent attractions. We started at the Hippodrome, exploring a large obelisk on the plaza. There wasn’t a lot to see, but the history was interesting. This was followed by a visit to the neighboring Blue Mosque. We rounded out the morning with a visit to the Hagia Sophia. There line for the Hagia Sophia was long, but well worth the wait for this historic early Christian church turned mosque.
We paused for lunch before reconvening for an afternoon visit to Topkapi Palace. There was a light rain starting to fall on an otherwise cool day. I think the highlight of Topkapi Palace were some of the religious icons they claim to house. The provenance of many of the items seemed questionable, at best. But it was amazing to see such a diverse collection of religious items from the three Abrahamic traditions. After exploring the palace, we returned to our hotel for dinner. We also packed out for an early start the next morning.
From Istanbul to Canakkale
The following morning, we left our suitcases out for the bus while enjoying breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast, we stopped at the iconic “Istanbul” sign for a photograph before spending an hour in the ancient Spice Bazaar. We purchased some amazing roasted hazelnuts to enjoy on our bus ride toward Canakkale.
On our way to Canakkale, we stopped for lunch at a fish restaurant at Gelibolu Barik in Gallipoli. It was a chilly morning, making it a good day to travel. After lunch, we braved the chill and rain to visit the Troy Ruins in Canakkale. After walking through the many layers of civilization, we headed to Kolin Hotel, where we spent a single night. We had dinner and breakfast at the hotel, packing out after dinner for another early morning start.
Turkish Treasure: Canakkale to Kusadasi
After an early morning breakfast at Kolin Hotel, we headed to Pergamum, where we stopped to visit the Asclepieion of Pergamon. We continued on to Kusadasi, which is believed to be the birthplace of Homer. Later that afternoon, we arrived at Korumar Hotel, allowing us time to get settled and enjoy the amazing view of the Aegean from our hotel room balcony. We watched an amazing sunset over the Aegean before enjoying a great dinner and settling in for the night.
The following day was spent exploring nearby Ephesus and Selcuk. We started the morning off early, with a visit to Virgin Mary’s House. It was cold and rainy, but the weather didn’t dampen an awesome experience. While the provenance of Mary’s House is weak, at best, the visit was still amazing. The structure was definitely an ancient Christian Church with remnants dating to the first century. This was followed by an even more amazing visit to nearby Ancient Ephesus. Walking where the Apostle Paul and early church leader Timothy once walked was unforgettable. The experience was head and shoulders above the rest of the trip…which is saying a lot. We saw many amazing sights on this trip.
The weather was nice while we visited Ephesus. It was still chilly, but the rain relented. But we did work up an appetite for a good, hot, home-cooked meal. This was accomplished by visiting Bizim Ev Hanimeli Restaurant in Selcuk. The family cooks an amazing spread of Turkish traditional dishes, and we gorged ourselves on the food. It energized us for an afternoon spent visiting Ephesus Museum before returning to the hotel. At the hotel, it was back to packing out for another move further into the heart of Turkey.
Turkish Treasure: Kusadasi to Pumakkale
An early morning breakfast preceded our bus trip toward Pumakkale. We spent most of the day exploring the Hierapolis Ruins. There is a lot to see here from the iconic hot springs, ancient arena, necropolis, and variety of historic religious sites. Among the ruins was one that particularly stood out. We accidentally stumbled upon the Martyrium of Saint Philip, which wasn’t included as part of our itinerary. We ventured into the wilderness to find this amazing tomb and church, which we had to ourselves. In reading the provenance of this location, there are quite a few indicators that suggest it is accurate. While there may be embellished accounts regarding the events that occurred at this location, the provenance dates to the first century.
We finished the afternoon driving through the necropolis in a rain that was steadily falling. We stopped near the exit from the ruins to snap a few quick photos in the rain. From there, we headed to the nearby Colossae Thermal Spa Hotel. Because of the rain and chilly weather, we spent the evening indoors. We enjoyed a hot coffee at the hotel bar before an excellent dinner. This was an overnight stop, so we once again packed out for another early morning start.
Turkish Treasure: Pumakkale to Konya
Konya is known as the “land of the Whirling Dervishes.” It is here that the Islamic poet and scholar Rumi settled. One of the iconic elements of Rumi’s religious expression was through dance. These dancers, called Whirling Dervishes” still perform. We stopped at the Mevlana Museum, where Rumi’s tomb and many religious artifacts reside. From the museum, we headed to the Dedeman Konya Hotel, where we spent one night. The drill was routine…dinner and pack out for another early morning departure.
Turkish Treasure: Konya to Cappadocia
We departed early the next morning, stopping en route to Konya at Sultanhan Caravanserai. The Caravanserai served as an ancient roadside inn along the silk road. We continued on to Guzelyurt, where we enjoyed an amazing home-hosted meal. After lunch, we stopped at a local school to visit with the school children. We also brought them gifts (school supplies). It was another great opportunity for cultural enrichment before heading on to Dinler Hotel. While some members of our tour group attended a Whirling Dervish performance, my wife and I opted to explore Urgup. We retired early, in preparation for a very early wake-up call for an incredible fun-filled day.
Wake-up time was the crack of dawn. Our group met in the hotel lobby for our pre-sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride. We traveled by van to a nearby staging area where balloons and gondolas were strewn around like confetti. The tour arrived a few minutes later at our balloon, operated by Kapadokya Balloons. We spent an amazing hour soaring over the fairy chimney’s and cave dwellings before landing in a distant field. We watched the sunrise from the balloon, creating an amazing morning experience with a full day yet ahead!
From our balloon ride (an amazing Turkish Treasure), we reconvened for a visit to Ozkonak Underground City. This amazing city, which could house 60,000 people in ten levels of underground rooms and tunnels was built more than a thousand years ago. It was occupied mostly by Christians experiencing persecution. It was fascinating to see the three levels we were permitted to visit. From the underground city, we proceeded to Goreme Open Air Museum. There were actually two phases to this visit, stopping first to see the famous fairy chimney’s created from eons of erosion. From there, we visited ancient Christian churches and dwellings cut into the volcanic rock. It was an amazing day, to say the least.
Turkish Treasure: Cappadocia to Ankara
The next morning, our routine continued. Breakfast and more driving. Our journey today would take us from the heart of Turkey to the capital, Ankara. We stopped at the Tomb of Attaturk, where we saw the precision changing of the guard. We then stopped at the Anatolian Civilizations Museum before heading to our hotel, Divan Ankara Hotel. My wife and I went to a nearby restaurant for dinner before settling in for the night. Ankara was really just an overnight on our journey back to Istanbul to complete our tour.
Turkish Treasure: Ankara to Istanbul
Our final full day in Istanbul was spent traveling from Ankara to Istanbul. We drove in a steady rain. We arrived in Istanbul at the boat docks on the Asian side of the Bosphorus. From here, we boarded a boat to enjoy a Bosphorus River Cruise before heading to the Legacy Ottoman Hotel to check in. After checking in to the hotel, we spent the evening exploring the Grand Bazaar before returning to the hotel to prepare for our early morning departure.
Heading Home
After an amazing, thorough, two-week adventure exploring our Turkish Treasure, we were ready to return home. The Legacy Ottoman Hotel helped us arrange for an early morning transfer to the airport. Our trip home was mostly uneventful, other than an unanticipated extended delay in Paris. This trip was booked through Gate 1 Travel. The price point was just over $1000 (without airfare). Gate 1 runs deals throughout the year, but the current listed price for this trip is $1499 without airfare, $2299 with airfare (depending on travel dates). I do not receive any compensation for mentioning Gate 1, but have been happy with them as an affordable tour operator that delivers great value for the money.
Our stay at the Legacy Ottoman Hotel in Istanbul was a captivating experience, offering a perfect blend of history, luxury, and comfort. Nestled in the heart of the city, this iconic hotel is more than just a place to rest—it’s a step back in time, steeped in the rich history of the Ottoman Empire.
The Legacy in Legacy Ottoman Hotel
The Legacy Ottoman Hotel is housed in a historic building dating back to 1911, originally built as the headquarters of an Ottoman insurance company. The architecture is a stunning example of neoclassical and baroque styles, with grand columns, intricate carvings, and an awe-inspiring atrium that immediately sets the tone for a luxurious stay. The hotel’s historical significance has attracted numerous notable guests over the years, from heads of state to celebrities, and it has also been featured in various films and television series, including the popular Turkish series “Kurtlar Vadisi” (Valley of the Wolves) and the Liam Neeson film “Taken.”
Comfortable and Luxurious Rooms
Our room at the Legacy Ottoman was both spacious and comfortable, providing a serene retreat after a day of exploring Istanbul. The blend of classic elegance with modern amenities made our stay truly relaxing. The views of the Bosphorus from our window were breathtaking, offering a constant reminder of the city’s vibrant energy just outside.
Attentive Staff
The staff at the Legacy Ottoman were exceptionally friendly and attentive, ensuring that every aspect of our stay was enjoyable. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with warm hospitality that made us feel right at home. The concierge team was always ready with recommendations and assistance, enhancing our overall experience. They also assisted in moving to a room with a King bed rather than the two singles we were initially assigned.
Excellent Host For Our Farewell Dinner
Dining at the hotel was another highlight of our stay. The rooftop restaurant catered our farewell dinner at a private room on the rooftop. The meal offered not only delicious Turkish cuisine but also stunning views of Istanbul’s skyline and Bosphorus. Each meal was a celebration of local flavors, served in an ambiance that perfectly captured the essence of the city.
Legacy Ottoman Hotel Is A Great Value
Current prices listed for this hotel are under one hundred dollars, making it an absolute steal. The hotel also assisted my wife and I with setting up early morning transportation to the airport on our last night in Istanbul.
Final Thoughts
In summary, the Legacy Ottoman Hotel provided an unforgettable experience that went beyond mere accommodation. With its rich history, luxurious rooms, friendly staff, and prime location, it’s an ideal choice for anyone looking to explore Istanbul while enjoying a stay that is both comfortable and steeped in the city’s storied past.
Our boat ride on the Bosphorus River turned into an unexpectedly memorable adventure, thanks to the cold and rainy weather that draped Istanbul in a moody, atmospheric shroud. The day started with gray skies and a persistent drizzle. But we were determined to experience the Bosphorus, a natural strait that divides Europe and Asia. This strategic waterway is steeped in history and beauty.
Boarding in the Rain
As we boarded the boat, the chilly wind and raindrops added a layer of coziness to the experience. The misty air created an almost ethereal landscape, with the outlines of Istanbul’s historic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Galata Tower emerging like ghosts from the fog. The rain-speckled windows of the boat provided a perfect frame for these iconic sights. The rain turned what could have been a simple sightseeing trip into something far more poetic.
Despite the cold, the boat’s deck offered an unparalleled view of the Bosphorus, and we braved the elements, bundled in our coats, to take it all in. The rain lent a silvery sheen to the water, and the dark clouds hung low over the city, creating a dramatic backdrop for the impressive mansions, mosques, and forts that line the shores. The contrast between the modern cityscape and the ancient structures was even more pronounced under the moody weather, reminding us of Istanbul’s rich history and its role as a bridge between worlds.
Absorbing the Bosphorus Experience
As we sipped hot tea to ward off the chill, we couldn’t help but feel a deep connection to the city. The rain seemed to have washed away the hustle and bustle, leaving a quiet, introspective atmosphere. The Bosphorus, usually busy with boats of all sizes, felt almost serene, with only the sound of the waves lapping against the boat and the occasional call of a seagull breaking the silence.
The Rain Didn’t Dampen Our Experience
The journey took us under the impressive Bosphorus Bridge, a symbol of the unity between Europe and Asia, and past the opulent Dolmabahçe Palace, whose grandeur was only enhanced by the mist. As we glided along, we could see the vibrant life of Istanbul continuing despite the rain—fishermen casting their lines, locals huddled under umbrellas, and the city’s skyline glowing through the mist.
Final Thoughts on the Bosphorus
By the time we reached our destination dock, the rain had waned a bit. The cold, rainy day had added a layer of intimacy and reflection to the experience, making it not just a boat ride, but a perspective of the complexity and layers of history in Istanbul. It was a day we’ll remember not for the weather, but for the fresh perspective of this timeless city.
Our stay at the Divan Ankara Hotel was a delightful experience that perfectly complemented our exploration of Turkey’s capital city. Located in the heart of Ankara, this elegant hotel provided us with a blend of luxury, comfort, and convenience, making it an ideal base for our adventures.
From the moment we arrived, the warmth of the staff at Divan Ankara was evident. The check-in process was smooth and efficient, with the staff going out of their way to ensure we felt welcomed. The lobby’s modern design, featuring a mix of contemporary art and tasteful decor, immediately set the tone for a refined yet relaxed stay.
Our room was spacious, clean, and beautifully appointed. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and the attention to detail was evident in every aspect, from the soft linens to the executive workspace. The room offered a perfect balance between modern amenities and a cozy, inviting atmosphere. After a day of sightseeing, returning to such a serene space was truly a treat. The view from our window, which overlooked the bustling streets of Ankara, reminded us of the vibrant city just outside, while still allowing us to enjoy the quiet and privacy of our room.
One of the highlights of our stay was the dining experience at the Divan Ankara Hotel. The on-site restaurant offered a variety of dishes that showcased the rich flavors of Turkish cuisine. Breakfast was a particular delight, with a wide selection of fresh fruits, pastries, and traditional Turkish breakfast items like olives, cheeses, and fresh bread. We opted to visit a nearby restaurant for dinner, so we skipped dinner at the hotel. The quality of the food and the excellent service at breakfast was memorable.
The hotel’s location was another major plus. Situated in the bustling Kavaklıdere district, Divan Ankara is within easy reach of many of the city’s top attractions, including the Anıtkabir (Mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk) and the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations. Whether we were exploring historical sites or enjoying the vibrant café culture, we appreciated how close everything was to our hotel. The surrounding area also offered a variety of shops and an amazing restaurant where they kept delivering food to our table (Emre Gulcimen Aspava). The location made it easy to immerse ourselves in the local culture.
Overall, our stay at the Divan Ankara Hotel was nothing short of exceptional. The combination of luxury accommodations, attentive service, and a prime location made it the perfect choice for our visit to Ankara. Whether you’re in the city for business or leisure, the Divan Ankara offers an experience that balances the excitement of the capital with the comforts of a high-end retreat. We left feeling refreshed and well taken care of, with fond memories of both the hotel and the city itself.
