Taksim Diamond Hotel

The room was spotless and in good shape, and the air conditioning kept it comfortable. The team were kind and ready to help, even bringing complimentary drinks and water. We had a lovely stay, and it really felt like a five-star experience. Highly recommend.

I’m left wondering how Booking.com evaluates the hotels it lists. We booked Taksim Diamond Hotel, but the place we arrived at hardly seemed like a hotel. The room was about 4 square meters, filthy, and the elevator was so small it could take only one person weighing 70 kg. My wife and I couldn’t ride it together, so she went up first while I sent our luggage up one bag at a time for her to call the elevator back. There was no reception desk or lobby. A staff member sat smoking at a table with a computer, while two guests ate boiled eggs in the living room. The smell reached the street. Hookahs were beside the office, and boxes of hookah flavors were kept in the food prep area. When I asked whether the room could be cleaned every day, the employee said he couldn’t promise that because the cleaner might be on vacation. We went back to inspect the room and leave our bags temporarily while deciding. It looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in a year or two: dust, cockroaches, bad smells, and a run-down bathroom. The towels had yellow stains. The room attendant’s body odor was unfortunately disgusting. Later I saw her carrying food in one hand and a broom in the other, with sweat-stained clothes. We asked the employee to check with management about charging us for just a day or two and returning the rest. He refused, saying, “This is our policy.” The owner wouldn’t speak with us when we waited for him. We ended up leaving, losing all our money, and booking another hotel. Does Booking.com send anyone to supervise the businesses it contracts with? What criteria does it use to classify them? I’m pretty sure the positive reviews here and on Booking.com are written by affiliates.

We spent five days here, and the breakfast was delicious. It’s close to sights such as Galata tower, İstiklal street, and Galata port. The rooms were clean, and the staff were friendly. My friend and I had a great stay.

The rooms and shared spaces were exceptionally clean, and the staff were warm, professional, and quick to help. I really enjoyed the thoughtful hospitality here. A great stay, definitely recommended.