The Vibe: Olde World.

The Area: On the island of Büyükada, the largest of the nine Princes Islands. The terminal to Istanbul is right in front of the hotel, a 1,5- hour (splendid) ferry ride from the city. The island has no motorized traffic, the only way to get around is with a horse drawn carriage (or bicycle).

The DNA: With domes modeled after the Hotel Negresco in Nice, the Splendid Palace (or Palas) is an authentic hotel still run by 6th generation descendants of the founder. The Art Nouveau building, with its iconic red shutters, has glamour from bygone days when Wallis Simpson and Edward VIII stayed here. You can enjoy a daily (Turkish) breakfast in the peaceful atmosphere of the hotel’s restaurant which also serves lunch and dinner. Before or afterwards enjoy a cocktail from the bar on the terrace or in the courtyard lounge.

Suite-Me-Up: The classic decorated rooms are wrapped around the central (closed) courtyard with its white pillared resembling a traditional wedding cake. Rooms have high ceilings and come with a flat-screen satellite TV, a fan, and a minibar. Some of the private balconies offer Marmara Sea and distant Istanbul views, while others enjoy pool and/or garden views.

✅ free Wi-Fi • size matters: 70 rooms (16-28m2) (172-301 sq ft) & 4 suites (35-40m2) (377-431 sq ft) • hotel opened: 1908 • interior design: Noor Design ❌ no parking available • no pets allowed • 24-hour front desk