Amy Adejokun
Section editor
The Golden Age is a very functional hotel for a calm and good value stay in one of the most expensive areas in Istanbul.
The Golden Age is located in the new town, some 330 feet from Taksim Square and the lively the Istiklal street. To reach the old town and the airport by taxi, allow 20 minutes.
The 180 standard rooms of the hotel are very standard but they have the advantage of having just been painted. They have air-conditioning, with direct telephone with international line, and satellite television. Safes are available for free at the front desk. The bathrooms have bathtubs, toilet and hair-dryers.
Built in 1990 and renovated in 2001 the Golden Age is a modern 9-storey building. The entrance leads to a rather unappealing, neutral and functional lobby, in black and brown colours. The decor is a stunning mixture of Ottoman and the '70s styles. At the end of the lobby there is a bar and a souvenir shop. In the basement the hotel has arranged a small fitness centre but it rather lacks flair. There is a sauna, a hammam and a small bar. In summer the roof terrace is open. You can enjoy the small round pool and a bar. Unfortunately, the view is not very exciting.
The Golden Age has a restaurant (decorated in yellow and black!) where breakfast is served buffet style. For lunch and dinner you can choose between a set menu or a selection of Turkish specialities (14 starters, 9 meat dishes, 5 sandwiches and 6 desserts). Room service means you can eat in your room 24 hours a day (snack menu).
Located next to another hotel of the same group, the Golden Age shares a tea room (the Café Rose), a small business centre with computer, scanner, printer and Internet access, a clothes shop and a pool table.
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