SimplyAbuDhabi X

2 3 8 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I A stay at The Hôtel Les Ottomans is an extraordinary experience. Located in Istanbul just 35 kilometres form Atatürk International Airport on the European side of the Bosphorus, the property is a revelation. A long line of celebrities and VIPs frequent the hotel and the sense of escapism must be a big contributor to the hotel’s appeal. It not only feels as though you are getting away from the clamours of everyday life, it also feels like you are being transported to another time altogether! The hotel was previously an 18th-century mansion. One of the most prestigious of its era, it was known as ‘Muhsinzade Mehmet Pasha Mansion’ and the extensive grounds included remains from the time of Ahmet III and exquisite fountains and gardens that were considered the finest examples of Ottoman style water architecture. There later came a sad hiatus in the building’s history where it fell into disrepair, but thankfully it was saved from decrepitude and restored to its former glory by the lovely proprietress, Ahu Aysal, and her family. The Hôtel Les Ottomans is once again a beacon of luxury and sophistication on the shores of the Bosphorus. The exterior design has remained faithful to its past incarnation and the interior has been reimagined, evoking a journey from the past through to the present. What is striking here is that no concessions have been given to modern whimsical trends or fleeting contemporary design. The whole interior reconstruction and refurnishing has been executed in timeless, classical style, that does not feel old fashioned at all, but certainly opulent and refined. The hotel is also distinct in that it is one of the few luxurious boutique hotels in the world certified as a ‘Feng Shui’ Hotel. Feng Shui is the ancient Chinese practice used to orient buildings in an auspicious manner, and Ahu Aysal has studied this art and applied it to the entire configuration of the hotel. Although I couldn’t profess to knowing how ‘good’ Feng Shui should feel, I can say that the hotel had a very light and restful ambience. There are ten suites in the hotel, with two excellent restaurants, Su Yani and Yali, plus two very refined bars and a stunning outdoor pool with its own bar and food service. Add to this an intoxicating vinotherapy spa and you have all you need for an amazing break in old world luxury. Hôtel LesOttomans