An Istanbul Deal

A Youth Hostel

By Thomas Barthel

The Yücelt Interyouth Hostel is a popular destination for solo travelers and families alike because it allows you to stretch your (Turkish) lira while the staff helps you discover the richest sites and happenings in Istanbul.

Located in the heart of Istanbul’s historical Sultanahmet District, Yücelt is adjacent to the medieval Aya Sofya and close to Sultanahmet Park and the Blue Mosque. It is only a short walk from the Kapali Çarsi, the largest covered bazaar in the world, and Topkapi Palace, the showcase for the wealth of the once great and powerful Ottoman empire.

Location is important when visiting Istanbul because the city’s overcrowded public transport system can be difficult to use, and taxis tend to overcharge tourists. With its central location, Yücelt offers the perfect solution. Rates are incredibly low. A double costs approximately $10 which includes three meals a day and unlimited drinks at the terrace bar. Considering that meals alone in the Sultanahmet district cost nearly $15 on average, the rates are unbeatable.

Yücelt’s knowledgeable staff will organize individual day trips, and group rates are available for longer trips.

For more information contact:

Yücelt Interyouth Hostel, Caferiye Sok. No 6/1, 34400 Sultanahmet, Istanbul, Turkey; www.yucelthostel.com.

THOMAS BARTHEL, a student of journalism and French language and literature at Eastern Michigan Univ., has traveled and studied extensively throughout Europe.