Rhiss Hotel Bostanci

We arrived and found the room, corridors, and the rest of the hotel strongly smelling of cigarette smoke. Even with the windows open, the smell was overwhelming. We couldn't stay there at all. We told the staff straight away and left without using the room. Since we were traveling with our 4-year-old, those conditions felt unacceptable and unsafe for health reasons. We had to book another hotel that same day. A very disappointing experience, and I wouldn't consider this place suitable for families or non-smokers.

The staff were so kind, and breakfast was fresh with choices for different tastes. When I checked in, they gave me a free room upgrade, and I was grateful for the spacious room and comfortable bed while recovering from surgery. A woman who cleaned the 5th floor most days deserves a special mention. She kept bringing me water bottles for my swollen face without me having to ask. Thank you :) There are plenty of taxis nearby, though the hotel sits on a busy street. The noise was fine after 10, but I'd bring earplugs if you're a light sleeper or need an early night.

The neighborhood is quiet and not overcrowded, with lots of awesome cats around. There's a shop in the same building, just around the corner. The staff were nice, and I had no issues with them. I chose the place because it seemed like good value, but one day there was no hot water, which I hadn't expected. That brought my personal rating down to 2 instead of 3. Also, this really isn't a 4 star hotel, more like a 3 with some extra problems. The lobby and restaurant interiors are pretty old and remind me of a train from the 60s.

It was my first time visiting Bostancı in Istanbul. The hotel was very clean, and the staff were friendly. Breakfast came with lots of choices on the buffet, and when I asked to have my room made up, they responded really quickly.