I first stayed at the Pera Palace Hotel in 1994 when it was 'past it's best' but retained an old-worldly charm. Since then it has been renovated. I was excited to return, however, on my second night a wedding was taking place. The music and shouting of the band were so loud that even though I was in my room, my Apple Watch kept telling me the decibels were exceeding safe levels. Despite speaking to reception several times, I was first told that they had asked the music to be turned (this didn't happen), that at 11.30pm the party would be escorted to another salon (this didn't happen and in fact the music got louder), and finally at 11.45pm, that the receptionist would speak to the night manager. The music was turned down a little but the drum beat continued and for any normal person it would be impossible to sleep. I am disgusted at the lack of courtesy shown to other paying guests. You would imagine that a hotel of this calibre would be mindful of all of its guests but apparently not. Stay at the Pera Palace at your peril!

It’s our 3rd time in Istambul and first at Pera Palace. All I can say is this was one of the best hotels we’ve ever stayed (and we travel a lot abroad). The staff is fantastic (Noor and Emre thank you!), the room was incredible: we’ve been in the Hitchcock suite, where he really used to stay! It’s all thematically decorated, including an office and a piano. Bathroom had shower and bathtub separated and the amenities were from Acqua di Parma. Breakfast was very good and the tea in the afternoon is a must, an experience that deserves its reputation. Location is also very good, walking distance to many restaurants and shops at Taksin.

There seem to be a number of issues with communication. The website states the Orient Terrace is open but it isn’t yet. The website states the bar is open from 3.00pm but on the phone I was told 6.00pm When we arrived at 6.00pm we were told orders were only taken from 6.30pm so we had to wait and during that time a large ladder was put up in the bar to hang a curtain which was definitely a health & safety risk. The cocktails were of poor quality, one of our group couldn’t drink hers. The staff were indifferent to us. Very disappointing.

Staying at the Pera Palace Hotel is like time travelling to the golden times of Grand Hotels and Orient Express. The Hotel is beautiful and full of history. Also the suites are spacious, very quiet and comfortable, which we enjoyed to relax after many hours of sightseeing. The Concierge was great, supported us in every way possible with suggestions and reservations. The highlight was the wonderful breakfast buffet, with so many Turkish delicacies to try. The staff went out of their way to bring us all extras we desired, especially Esma, who served our table, she made our days! She always had a wonderful smile and remembered even our special food requests on the next day, and brought it promptly to our table again. What a professional and considerate service! We would definitely come back to this charming hotel, and the extremely friendly staff.

Beware. Well in advance of our trip we requested a room with balcony/ view and a bathtub. You cannot tell from the pictures on their website exactly what you will have. They responded: : Rooms with balcony and bathtub are available. However, we cannot guarantee your reservation with balcony and bathtub, we can help you in case of availability. If you make a reservation, we will take note and we will be happy to assist you. I responded: " Thank you for responding. However we have several offers from other 5* hotels that will make that commitment. If you change your mind please let me know. I don’t know how you can present these room features as “maybe." Another time perhaps. I'm unwilling to pay top dollar for a room I have not seen. But I would have liked to stay there.