Tatler 2009 Travel Guide, Four Seasons, Bosphorus
2 Dec 2008
If you haven't visited Istanbul for a few years, 2009 is the time to go. Beyond the historic highs, a new, buzzy, fashion-fabulous city has developed some serious attitude. Contemporary art museums, alternative record stores, cute clothes shops- the place is pulling in everyone who wants to know what's going to happen next. And the Bosphorus has gone hip, with the Four Seasons right in the thick of things. It may not be as intimate as its older Sultanahmet sister but, hey, it's got so much more wow factor. There's a gigantic swimming-pool (where staff clean your sunglasses, offer ice-creams, even massage your legs); a superb spa with a hammam; a breezy terrace by the sea; and, within walking distance, the up-and-coming Ortakoy area, with its gorgeous mosque, alfresco cafes and chic restaurants like Zuma, where local beauties are dropped off by gleaming yachts. UK reservations Black Tomato (tel:020 7610 9008)
