Etiz Hotels Bosphorus

The kitchen was like something from a post-apocalyptic game: a rusty stove that looked ready to explode, no kettle, cups, or glasses, just a few abandoned tea bags. The walls were so thin we could hear the neighbors' every move and even their toilets flushing. Sleep was hard too, with the receptionist outside our room at midnight chatting and laughing with guests as if he were hosting a festival. We arrived to find no bed sheets, then got handed them so we could make our own beds on vacation. Housekeeping was meant to come every four days, but we never saw anyone. Towels and toilet paper felt like state secrets. We had to beg in person and celebrate when we got two tiny hand towels. The room looked like a horror movie set, with dust everywhere, cracked dirty furniture, and dried paint marks. Calling this a hotel insults actual hotels. If you want to pay to live in filth, plead for basic supplies, and listen to strangers all night, this is the place. Otherwise, stay far away.

For about 2 weeks to a month I stayed here, and it was comfortable the whole time. The room was clean and had a kitchen, so cooking was easy. The price was reasonable, and getting around was simple with metro and bus stops very close by. A good option for a few weeks in the city.

The Airbnb chat person in charge was helpful with our 719 requests after we cancelled the rest of the trip, except for the first night, as soon as we walked in. Still, it did nothing to make up for how dirty the place was. The cupboards and walls in the kitchen were sticky, smoke smell was everywhere, and even hours of A/C with the windows open didn't clear the awful odors. Literally nobody spoke Turkish. I've stayed in cheaper hostels, but this was easily the worst place I've ever been. It made my skin crawl. They need a Turkish-speaking person at reception, much better cleaning, a clear rule against indoor smoking or designated rooms for it, and newer beds. If they're not going to do those things, they shouldn't be charging that price.

The receptionist was kind and helpful, and my room was clean and comfortable. It's also really easy to get around from here, with the metro and bus stops close by. I had a nice stay and would be glad to come back.