ISTANBUL, TURKEY

Straddling the Bosphorus – the strait between Europe and Asia, Turkey’s largest city dates back to the year 330 when it was declared the capital of the Byzantine Empire. Its rich history, continues to draw international visitors to view the sights, including the Hagia Sofia basilica and Blue Mosque. There are plenty of shopping opportunities at the colourful bazaars.

What’s new? The city’s port area underwent a US$1.7 billion redevelopment and has reopened to the public for the first time in 200 years. The neighbourhood, known as Galataport Istanbul, features 250 food outlets, bars and retail shops, restored buildings, such as the Tophane Clock Tower, built in 1905, and the new Renzo Piano-designed building for the Istanbul Modern museum, which is well worth a visit.

Stay: Park Hyatt Istanbul – Macka Palas is located on the city’s European side in the affluent Nisantasi district. Rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows (and suites with their very own Turkish bath experience), while other facilities include a steakhouse restaurant, a wine bar, a 20-metre rooftop pool, a fitness centre and a Turkish spa.

Air Arabia Holidays offers reasonably priced holiday packages to Istanbul, with prices leading in at $272 per person, including return flights from Sharjah.

ABOVE: Galataport Istanbul; Park Hyatt Istanbul – Macka Palas Presidential Suite roof terrace LEFT: King Deluxe room BELOW: Hagia Sofia