Design / Conrad Hotel (Istanbul)

The Conrad is named for Conrad Hilton, patriarch of the Hilton Hotel chain, a world-wide chain which began with the humble Mobley Hotel in Texas in the 1920s. Generally, Hilton is positioning The Conrad at the top of their food chain. Among the brands in the Hilton livery these days are the modest Hampton Inn, Doubletree, Embassy Suites and on toward nearly the top with Hilton. At the top of the heap comes the Waldorf=Astoria which is being branded well beyond its flagship hotel on Park Avenue in New York and finally, The Conrad hotels, of which one is in Istanbul.

Viking housed the Istanbul “pre-trip” of several days at The Conrad.

The Conrad is located away from the Istanbul attractions, but has a stunning view of the Bosphorus.

Sitting area adjacent to the front entrance.

The 15th Floor Executive Lounge and Terrace. Pay the extra money: Food, drink and Turkish women in slinky dresses. It doesn't get much better than this.

On the other hand, save your money. This is still the 15th floor, but you can get almost the same view at the bar free on the 14th floor.