Finding accommodations is a huge part of trip-planning. Where you stay can alter your whole vacation. Which is why planning your trip around where you will be spending a portion of each day is as important as planning the trip itself.
In the summer of 2014, my family and I had the opportunity to visit Istanbul for a couple of days, our first trip as a family traveling to a country whose language we did not speak and where we did not know anybody. We wanted to experience the amazing city and what it has to offer firsthand. After much research, we finally discovered a place that caught our eye and our interest. It was something local, not too fancy but with a pleasing, homely touch. This Air BnB called the Turquoise House provided just that and much more.
The Turquoise House
Inexpensive, beautiful and located in the heart of Old Istanbul, the Turquoise House offers a unique experience that changes the way you see the rest of the city. Named after its bright blue painted exterior, you can’t miss this vibrant three-story apartment situated on ancient cobblestoned streets.
The inside is even more colorful than the blue surface. The furnishing, modern with a splash of tradition creates an atmosphere that you can’t help but be drawn to instantly. Of course, staying true to its name, turquoise walls, furniture, and tiles accent the house. Hues of pink, blue, and green add on to the vibrant display of color and culture.
Booking
Not only is it a welcoming stay, but the Turquoise Hosue is also owned by the friendliest tenants who made sure we were comfortably settled before leaving us to our own. They also live on the same street as the Turquoise House and are never far if you require any assistance.
Regarding cost, the Turquoise House, a three-story apartment accommodating eight guests with two bedrooms and a pull-out couch, prices start at $80USD per night.
Location
The house is located in the Fatih district in Balat, a neighborhood based on years of history. It’s a blend of unified culture, as Jewish, Islamic, and Catholic communities have based their homes here for centuries. A balcony on the third floor overlooks the street, the city skyline and Bosphorus River visible in the distance. With its unique, convenient but cozy location, you’ll surely feel right at home!
Cafes, local bakeries, and convenience stores are readily available at walking distance. The house is accessible by car, though the hilly cobblestone streets make for a bumpy ride. Only a ten to fifteen-minute walk away, the park on the Bosphorus river makes for a great place to go for a stroll, picnic, or join in the fishing action. Restaurants and shops are also available across the street from the river, and taxis roam the streets scouring for tourists. Take a cab to the main city attractions, or enjoy a leisurely walk around the quiet but lively neighborhood.
A place to return after a long day of touring and exploring is necessary for making your trip more enjoyable. The Turquoise House is not only pleasing in looks and design. It offers a welcoming environment making you feel less like a tourist and more like it’s your home away from home.
Photo credits: Halah Butt
A xenophile at heart, she lives to travel and loves to share her experience on Trip Jaunt (formerly Weekend Jaunt), an online travel community and hub she founded in 2010. She hopes that you will feel inspired to discover the world as well! Helen is a member of the North American Travel Journalists Association and the Academy of Canadian Film and Television.
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