The flight to Istanbul was delayed about an hour. Arriving in Istanbul, we couldn't believe how big and busy the airport was. Getting through border control was the most hectic I have seen...worse than Heathrow or LA. We had arranged to be met at the airport for transport to the hotel but the throng of people holding up name cards was overwhelming and it took about 4 passes before we could find our own names. Then there was a mix-up with the drivers and we got a big surly Turk who could only speak gobbledygook. I'm sure the drive took twice as long as it should have. The traffic was horrendous and I think Surly didn't have a clue how to find the hotel. He took us up and down some cobblestoned backstreets that looked less than salubrious but by some miracle eventually found the place.

Thankfully, Hotel Neorion is first class and feels like a real oasis amidst all the bustle that is going on outside. There is a constant blowing of horns and ringing of tram bells outside. We were welcomed with glasses of wine and Turkish Delights and given a map and some tourist information. There is a rooftop terrace with fabulous views and a beautiful pool, spa, sauna and Turkish bath in the basement.