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Istanbul is often described as ‘the crossroads of Europe and Asia’, a heaving bazaar-city of camels, carpets and caravanserais. Such a geographical description is accurate in that this metropolis of 15 million occupies both sides of an east–west land bridge divided by the 32km (20-mile) Bosphorus Strait, which also connects the trade routes of the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara and the Mediterranean. As a result, the city has been a jealously guarded centre of world trade since the Byzantine era, when its silks, religious artefacts and luxury goods were the envy of all empires. Protected by water on three sides, Istanbul was also the ideal military watchpoint, with the natural harbour of the Golden Horn nestled within the city perfect for hiding an entire fleet of warships. Because of its advantages as fortress, port and commercial crossroads, it is not surprising that Istanbul’s imperial history stretches back for more than 1500 years.

Even after Constantinople fell to the Ottoman Sultans in 1453, the city remained a worldwide distribution point for valuable spices and textiles brought via the ‘Silk Road’ from as far away as China. To this day, it is Turkey’s economic capital and biggest trade centre, home to nearly half the country’s wealth. Such a prime position, however, has meant that Istanbul has suffered from frequent sieges and its heritage constantly threatened as it changed from a Hellenic outpost to New Rome, the world’s first Christian capital, then became the seat of the world’s biggest Muslim Empire. It was coveted and even occupied by the Allies in World War II and today still suffers from the strains posed by an identity both eastern and European.

Fragments of this varied architectural inheritance are visible. Although most were recycled – for example in the Basilica Cistern – some classical columns still stand in Gülhane Park yet only a few floor tiles remain from the once-huge Byzantine Great Palace. Most sections of the Theodosian Walls, which protected the city for centuries until it finally succumbed to Mehmet the Conqueror, are still standing and being restored. Mehmet resisted desecration of many Byzantine structures and many fine churches, most significantly Haghia Sophia, were simply rededicated to Allah, which helped to preserve them.

Visitors may be confused by this jumble of Byzantine, Ottoman and modern buildings and it may seem that the general population has scant regard for the past – some Islamic extremists have even tried to write Christian Constantinople out of Istanbul’s history. Furthermore, rapid industrialisation has drawn thousands of rural poor to the metropolis, resulting in a vast social gap between ‘native’ Istanbullites and the newer arrivals. Istanbul’s growth rate is currently treble the national average, with no sign of abating. In contrast to the rest of the population, a wealthy elite – about 25% – live in the newly built suburbs, preferring a glamorous, cosmopolitan lifestyle to crumbling antiquities. Indeed, the sophistication of Istanbul’s café society, the designer shops, thriving nightlife (over 60% of Istanbullites are under 25 years old) and vibrant contemporary cultural life may all surprise the visitor.

ILKAY from Ł 10.00 per person (Other currencies) 3 Star, Superior Tourist Class Traditional Hotel The hotel is located in Istanbul old city, close to many of the major attractions including the Blue Mosque and the Grand Bazaar. The main tram line which runs through the old city towards Aksaray stops close to the hotel. This hotel is ideal for clients looking for budget style accommodation in a central position, close to the major sights.	Air conditioning Television Satellite television Radio Direct dial phone Hairdryer Automatic wake-up call Voltage 220v
SPORT from Ł 12.50 per person (Other currencies) 4 Star, First Class Modern Hotel The hotel is located close to many of Istanbul's major sights in one of the major shopping districts of the city. The Grand Bazaar is just a 2 minute walk away. This hotel is ideally located for clients looking for value for money accommodation within easy access of all the city has to offer.	Air conditioning Television Satellite television In-house movie Radio Direct dial phone Mini bar Hairdryer Automatic wake-up call Voltage 220v
MERIT ANTIQUE from Ł 37.50 per person (Other currencies) 5 Star, Deluxe Class Modern Hotel The hotel is located in the Laleli district of the old city close to all the major sights and the famous Grand Bazaar. This is a large, modern building, covering several blocks. Renovated from the 1920s, the hotel is an impressive piece of architecture. The main entrance is on a side street off the main road. This is one of the best hotels in the old city, with excellent facilities.	Air conditioning Television Radio Direct dial phone Mini bar Hairdryer Some rooms have trouser press Automatic wake-up call Voltage 220v
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