Istanbul, already one of the world's most iconic and inspiring cities, is expected to attract greater numbers of the Gulf's elite to its stylish Nisantasi neighborhood this upcoming Eid Al Adha break, according to one of the city's leading hoteliers. With the GCC region contributing up to 5% of Turkey's tourism revenue, and with continually expanding airline routes, Turkey continues to see double digit growth in GCC visitors year-on-year, according to the Turkish Consulate General Cultural and Information Office. Regional tourists to Turkey were particularly high during the Eid Al Adha holiday in October of last year, numbering over 22,300 during the month, according to the Office. Istanbul, with a GCC flying distance of less than four hours non-stop, continues to be a preferred Eid Al Adha destination due to its Muslim-friendly, culturally-familiar environment. “GCC travelers have always adored Istanbul, but they are visiting in greater numbers at Eid breaks, and, increasingly, they seek to base themselves in the chic Nisantasi neighbourhood, with its premium shopping and dining offerings. Of course, those same guests also desire discreet, luxurious, personalized services and design-led accommodation when visiting the city, which is where The St. Regis Istanbul is uniquely positioned to meet their needs,” said Rui Reis, the hotel's general manager who oversaw its widely-heralded opening in March of this year. Nestled in the sophisticated Nisantasi neighborhood, The St. Regis Istanbul is surrounded by chic designer boutiques and boutique art galleries. The residential hotel sits atop Maçka Park and boasts breathtaking, floor-to-ceiling views of the Bosphorus from the 118 guestrooms and suites. Designed by award-winning Turkish architect Emre Arolat, The St. Regis Istanbul is a modern interpretation of Istanbul's glamorous Art Deco era with a variety of contemporary art installations. The exquisite hotel is home to the first international outpost for Wolfgang Puck's iconic Spago restaurant, located on the hotel's rooftop with stunning views of the vibrant city. While the St. Regis Brasserie offers street-side action: an indoor show kitchen and bustling outdoor terrace, reminiscent of a Parisian café, the Petit “O” Bar follows the St. Regis tradition of creating a signature beverage with a local twist. The St. Regis Istanbul also features an exquisitely designed Bentley Suite, second in the world only to the Bentley Suite at the brand's flagship hotel in New York. Providing guests with the luxury, craftsmanship and style associated with both renowned international brands, the suite draws inspiration from the Bentley Continental GT model and features hand-crafted finishes and one-of-a-kind furnishings throughout. With seven treatment rooms and two hammams, the St. Regis' own Iridium Spa offers bespoke treatments tailored to guests' needs in an idyllic setting. The St. Regis Istanbul has extended a privileged package for Eid-Al-Adha, offering a journey to discover the finest address in Istanbul. The bespoke experience includes daily breakfast, as well as roundtrip airport transfers with a private Mercedes E-Class limousine. — SG
