Since launching in 2000, the Turkish luxury hotel chain Rixos has established an impressive network of 27 properties spread across nine countries — a reach that spreads south to Egypt, east to Azerbaijan, north to Russia and west to Switzerland.
But naturally, Rixos' only property in Europe's largest city, Istanbul, is the brand's flagship.
Unlike the resort properties it may be best known for elsewhere, the Rixos Pera Istanbul is a tidy, classic, city-center property with a time-warped sense of ostentatious class. Spread over three restored government buildings dating from the early 20th century, the lobby's modest floor space is compensated by glittery overabundance. Striking glass chandeliers hang from the high ceiling. Deep shades of gold and amber dominate the decor, and ornate, white wall furnishings are countered with vases bursting with color.
With 116 rooms spread throughout the three buildings, there is a homey, boutique feel. At a walk-in rate of about $220, double, the standard Deluxe rooms are a cozy 92 to 115 square feet.
Vacationers may wish to consider upgrading to one of 27 suites, which come in four classes ranging from the Junior Suite (about $370) to the impressive Two Bedroom King Suite at about $2,200.
The buildings are separated by small courtyards, and in the first sits the property's own Anglican chapel.
The not-immodest space, said to be more than a century old, can be opened for guests and hosts small services most Sundays.
In tribute, the Italian-themed alfresco cafe/bar opposite the place of worship is named Chapelle. The next courtyard is home to a lively Brit-themed bar, popular with nonguests and inventively titled Pubness (the hotel sits a stone's throw from the British Consulate General).
More remarkable is the signature restaurant Samdan Mey-hane, perched on the seventh-floor rooftop, offering breathtaking views across the Golden Horn waterway and serving a selection of traditional meze, fish and meat. The restaurant also hosts a decent buffet breakfast.
At the building's opposite pole, in the basement, sits the Rixos Royal Spa, well equipped with a number of treatment rooms, a sauna, a steam room and the large, obligatory Turkish hammam. Hourlong massages start at about $90.
The property's modest size befits its prime location, sitting conveniently in the central Beyoglu district.
Once an exclusive residential neighborhood known as Pera, today Beyoglu is the modern city's beating heart and a welcome alternative to staying in the tourist hub of Sultanahmet, just over 3 miles south across the Galata Bridge.
The Rixos Pera is nestled just behind the central Istiklal Avenue, described loftily by locals as "Istanbul's Champs-Elysees," and is midway between two main metro stations and about a 15-minute walk from Taksim Square.
For more information on the Rixos Pera Istanbul, visit peraistanbul.rixos.com.