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We ended up at the Vault Karakoy, and I highly recommend this small boutique hotel. Small but impressive (think of the soaring ceilings in an old-time bank). Location was convenient for everything -- right near the Galata Bridge, convenient to the subway stop that went to the shopping area (there's a lot of walking in Istanbul, much of it uphill, much on cobblestone, so after a long day, the train was a necessity for me), staff was extremely accommodating, room was VERY comfortable, the included breakfast was great, and the price was so much more reasonable than the big known brands. It started our cruise off on a great note!

Need a hotel in Rome for 2 days post-cruise, early September. Would love some suggestions! Thanks...

Great suggestions! Will definitely join the Roll Call for my sailing...

Need a hotel for one night, pre-cruise in Istanbul, Aug 2015. Have narrowed it down to a few, but am confused as to whether it's better to be in Old Town (seems more convenient; choices are Sirkeci Mansion or the Sari Konak), or over by Galata (hotels are more classic, and it's closer to the port; choices are the Rixos Pera and the Vault Karakoy). Would welcome any thoughts!