Tourism & Hospitality | Tuesday 26 April, 2016 6:25 pm |

As a gateway to an enticing blend of heritage, culture, fashion and shopping, The St. Regis Istanbul has become firmly established as a choice destination for elite Middle East travelers during its first year. 

 

Since welcoming its first guests in April 2015, around 30 percent of visitors have come from the GCC region, including royalty and VIPs, attracted by an address at the heart of the vibrant metropolis. At The St. Regis Istanbul, the finer things in life are at hand, not only within the hotel but also in the nearby locale: pleasant streets with some of the city’s best restaurants and most upscale designer stores, and one of Istanbul’s most beloved parks opposite.

 

Famed for offering a level of bespoke luxury and refinement beyond the realms of most five-star hotels, the success of The St. Regis Istanbul reflects the rediscovery of Istanbul itself as one of the world’s most sophisticated urban centers, both for business and pleasure.

 

“Our Middle East guests place great importance on the lifestyle they experience in a destination, the tailored services offered at the luxury accommodation, the availability of high-end shopping, the selection of excellent restaurants, and where elite options are part of the fabric of the city,” said Rui Reis, General Manager, The St. Regis Istanbul.

 

“In this, guests are discovering that Istanbul today compares favorably with the best that Europe has to offer, and The St. Regis Istanbul is at the center of the city’s most exclusive locale, Nişantaşı with uncompromising services and bespoke offerings. Abdi İpekçi Avenue, adjacent to our address, is its most prestigious shopping enclave, offering the very best designer labels, relaxed cafes and fine restaurants all within a short stroll,” said Reis.

 

 

At Home in Istanbul’s Most Desirable Address

Famous labels with boutiques nearby include, Tom Ford, Alexander McQueen, Sandro, DKNY, Barbara Bui, Cesare Attolini, and Brandroom just to name a small selection.

 

To elevate each guest’s Nişantaşı and Istanbul experience to an even higher level, The St. Regis Istanbul offers complementary personal styling services, in partnership with exclusive department story Harvey Nichols. This offers exclusive access to over 450 brands in Harvey Nichols and Brandroom, as well as in privileged luxury boutiques located at the hotel itself, and is available in the store’s personal shopping lounge or at the hotel. 

 

Along with some of the world’s best shopping, The St. Regis Istanbul is opposite the lush greenery of Maçka Park, and a pleasant walk to Taksim Square and Çukurcuma Caddesi, the Bosphorus by the Dolmabahçe Palace, and to the metro for attractions further afield.

 

“We are now finding guests who make the St. Regis Istanbul their home for return visits to the city,” said Rui Reis. “For first-time visitors, we are within easy reach of old Istanbul and all its historic sites, including the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Grand Bazaar, either by metro or taxi, and we have senior executives who find us conveniently located for the Levent and Maslak commercial districts. Our returning guests particularly appreciate the immediate surroundings, which offer a satisfying and cultured short break, and enjoy being able to combine the character of this great city with the exceptional experience for which the St. Regis is renowned.”

 

According to Rui Reis, Middle East guests are the most enthusiastic clients for famed hallmarks of the St. Regis brand, including the signature St. Regis Butler Service, bespoke guest experiences, and luxury accommodations tailored to global travelers. Trained in the British tradition, the butlers provide ever present, yet unobtrusive service while anticipating guest needs and customizing each guest’s stay according to his or her specific tastes and preferences. For the perfect experience in rejuvenation and wellbeing, the on-site Iridium Spa offers seven treatment rooms and two hammams, with bespoke treatments tailored to guests’ needs in an idyllic setting.  

 

“Our most exclusive services go far beyond what even the most dedicated concierge can provide, where every need, no matter how big or small, is anticipated, and every request is satisfied with a minimum of fuss. This is something highly valued by elite clients from the Middle East.”

 

The St. Regis Makes a Unique Addition to Istanbul

The St. Regis Istanbul prides itself on being more than just another hotel, but also bringing something unique to the city. Dining options include the first international outpost of Wolfgang Puck’s iconic Spago restaurant, which stars as the hotel’s signature culinary experience. Located on the hotel’s rooftop, the restaurant offers contemporary design and stunning views of the vibrant city from its outdoor terrace. The St. Regis Brasserie offers street-side action, an indoor show kitchen and bustling outdoor terrace, reminiscent of a Parisian café.

 

Designed by award-winning Turkish architect Emre Arolat, the alluring address offers a modern interpretation of Istanbul’s glamorous Art Deco era, with breath-taking, floor-to-ceiling views of the –Marmara Sea from the guestrooms and suites. The most prestigious accommodation is the exquisitely designed Bentley Suite, which draws inspiration from the Bentley Continental GT and features hand-crafted finishes and one-of-a-kind furnishings throughout.

 

As with other St. Regis locations, the hotel makes a commitment to art, showcasing works by both internationally-acclaimed and emerging Turkish artists as part of the Demsa Collection of Art. This is complemented by custom pieces created for the hotel, including the spectacular Lasvit chandelier, which takes center stage in the lobby.