New hotels are constantly appearing, but not all of them are of the same quality. So, how do we know which ones are the best?
One way is to look at those who receive awards, such as, for example, the World Travel Awards, which is considered one of the most important in the travel industry sector.
The winners of the World Travel Awards for Europe 2022 have just been announced in Mallorca, with a number of airlines, cruise lines and hotel brands winning awards. However, we had our eye on one award in particular: "The Best New Hotel in Europe".
The winner this year was Istanbul's Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus, beating over 20 other shortlisted hotels for the title. The hotel opened in August 2021 and overlooks the Bosphorus Strait, with several restaurants, bars, lounges and terraces, as well as its own spa.
Mandarin Oriental is one of the most stylish hotel brands in the world, so it's no big surprise that the rooms here are very luxurious, spacious and in most cases, have spectacular views. You also won't be shocked to learn that a one-night stay costs around $1,000 on average.
Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus has 100 guest rooms and suites with views of the Bosphorus and the city skyline. Guests can expect a wide selection of restaurants and bars, significant entertainment spaces for social gatherings and the Mandarin Oriental Spa.
Of particular note is the Royal Bosphorus apartment, which covers 500 square meters. The one bedroom accommodation has its own living/dining room, fully equipped kitchen, private gym and conservatory. In the master bedroom, guests will find a walk-in closet, a marble bathroom equipped with oversized sinks, a bathtub, a double steam shower, a separate toilet, and a dressing table. For larger parties, this suite can be connected to two or four additional bedrooms.
For dining, Novikov's main restaurant is located directly on the waterfront, as well as Novikov Lounge Bar, the lively Bosphorus Lounge with waterfront terrace and Novikov Pool Bar in the garden oasis. Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus Spa offers a wide range of wellness and beauty treatments and includes luxurious treatment rooms, hammams, private relaxation areas, exercise and fitness facilities, and indoor and outdoor swimming pools.
For corporate and social events, the hotel has three spacious ballrooms, a garden terrace and swimming pool, as well as six meeting rooms. There is also a unique outdoor space that can be rented and decorated to suit special occasions and celebrations.
Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus is located 15 minutes from the city's central Taksim Square. Istanbul's main attractions, historical sites and museums are a short drive away, and the hotel is located a few minutes' walk from Kurucesme nightlife, Kurucesme and Bebek parks, which have wide paths, great for walking or jogging. Istanbul and Sabiha Gokcen International Airports are less than an hour away.
