09 Dec 2014
As Australians and New Zealanders prepare for the 100th Anniversary of the Anzac landings at Gallipoli, Lonely Planet has recently identified the region as its Top Spot for 2015.
While the official commemorations are set to take place in April 2015, many travellers are choosing to visit this region and explore the rest of Turkey at their own pace throughout the year.
Whether they have family connections to the First World War or not, most Australians and New Zealanders feel a deep connection to the Gallipoli Peninsula and to the Turkish people through the Anzac tradition, an integral part of our history and national identity which resonates with every generation.
Just launched Raffles Istanbul, the newest hotel in Raffles portfolio, is able to arrange day and extended tours for guests wishing to travel to the Battlefield sites of Gallipoli. These include travel along the Sea of Marmara and the Straits of the Dardenelles to the birthplace of the Anzac legend – Anzac Cove and Lone Pine.
Set above the Bosphorus and overlooking the city from its private balconies, Raffles Istanbul is an exciting new addition to this vibrant, ancient city and an oasis of calm and cool for travellers.
At the heart of the Zorlu Center, a modern-day bazaar where fashion, fine food and the arts converge on the European shore in Beşiktaş, Raffles is an exhilarating fusion of virtuoso architecture, dazzling interiors, inspired food and luxury.
The hotel provides the perfect modern counterpoint to the iconic Raffles hotel in Singapore, which first opened its doors 127 years ago. As Lonely Planet also ranked Singapore as its Top City, Australian travellers have an ideal option to bookend travel to Turkey with a stay at each of these magnificent hotels.
For Further information: Jane Corbett-Jones JANE CORBETT-JONES COMMUNICATIONS
T +61 (0) 417 772 783 | jane@janecorbett-jones.com
Raffles Istanbul offers a new perspective on a timeless city, at the heart of the new Zorlu Center, a next-generation bazaar where high fashion, performance, fine food and the arts converge. On the European side of Istanbul, the hotel has sweeping views over the Bosphorus and the Prince Islands. The 181 rooms and suites - some of the largest in the city – all have floor to ceiling windows and private balconies. The sleek modern interiors are embellished with a large collection of contemporary art, much of it specially-commissioned from local artists. The authentic Raffles touch is personified by the legendary Raffles Butler Service, which currently extends from Singapore to the company's eleven hotels around the world. The extensive Raffles Spa offers signature treatments by Organic Pharmacy and the rooftop pool has unforgettable views over the Istanbul skyline. The hotel has two fabulous restaurants - Arola by Michelin starred chef Sergi Arola and Rocca with Mediterranean dishes and a Turkish influence – and three glamorous bars - the Writers Bar, the Champagne Room and a new take on the Long Bar, an Istanbul twist on its Singapore original, the place to be seen.
This is a new destination overlooking this ancient metropolis, above the Bosphorus, where modern luxury sits alongside heritage and culture. A modern oasis welcoming the well-travelled to the most timeless of cities. www.raffles.com/istanbul
About Raffles Hotels & Resorts: Raffles Hotels & Resorts is an award-winning, luxury international hotel company with a history dating back to 1887 with the opening of Raffles Hotel, Singapore. The portfolio currently comprises eleven luxurious properties, from secluded resorts to city hotels in key locations around the world: in Singapore, Cambodia, China, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Seychelles, the Philippines, Paris and Istanbul, each one is an oasis of calm and charm. The company is embarking on a new phase of expansion, with openings in key destinations scheduled over the next two years. With a compelling mix of cultures and styles, every hotel in the Raffles family has its own individual personality, with its own story to tell and its own sense of place. However, each one is proud to draw on the timeless essence of Raffles – to deliver thoughtful, personal and discreet service to well-travelled guests. Raffles Hotels & Resorts is part of FRHI Hotels & Resorts, a leading global hotel company with more than 110 hotels and resorts worldwide under the Raffles, Fairmont and Swissôtel brands. The company also manages Fairmont, Raffles and Swissôtel branded luxury private residence clubs, whole-ownership residences and serviced residences properties. www.raffles.com
