Esin Güral Argat, successful businesswoman and hotelier, reveals her insider tips for food, bars and must-sees in Istanbul.
Was haben die Malediven und Istanbul gemeinsam? Esin Güral Argat, die Erschafferin zweier Eco-Luxus-Resorts im Indischen Ozean. Nach dem JOALI , the successful entrepreneur has just recently opened her second sustainable island resort, JOALI BEING, auf den Malediven eröffnet. Als Erbin einer türkischen Glasdynastie liegen ihre Wurzeln in der Türkei. Nicht nur dank ihrer Studienzeit ist sie mit Istanbul bestens vertraut – sie lebt auch heute noch in der türkischen Hauptstadt.
You spend a lot of time in the Maldives, as both of your resorts are located there. What do you miss most about Turkey during this time?
Actually, it's not things, but people I miss: my friends and my family.
The two countries are very different. What are three typical characteristics for Istanbul and three typical characteristics for the Maldives?
Typical for Istanbul: Bosphorus, Topkapı and blue fish (Note: a tasty fish caught in the Bosporus strait in spring when it migrates from the Aegean Sea to the Black Sea via the Sea of Marmara). Three words for the Maldives: Island, nature and corals.
Turkey is famous for its coffee culture. Where can you get the best coffee in Istanbul?
I prefer to drink coffee at home.
Wohin gehen Sie, wenn Sie auswärts frühstücken oder brunchen wollen? Ins Lokma. Not only the food, but also the view of the Bosphorus is great there.
Which is your favorite restaurant?
I like to eat fish and seafood in the Balıkçı Abdullah (Eng: Fischer Abdullah), which is also located directly on the shore of the Bosporus.
What is the best local food for you?
Dried beans and rice.
Which rooftop bar has the best view?
In the bar on the roof terrace of the restaurant Mikla.
Where do you go if you want to experience typical local culture?
To Kuzguncuk (Note: a lively neighborhood on the Asian side of the Bosphorus with colorful houses and cafes). and Balat (Note: Formerly a Jewish neighborhood, now many colorful houses and staircases, cool boutique cafes and small stores).
For fitness fans: Where is the best place to jog?
In the Belgrade Forest north of Istanbul.
What do you do when you want to clear your head?
I meditate alone and in seclusion or go to the sea and watch the waves roll onto the shore.
What is your favorite neighborhood in Istanbul and why?
Kandilli and Çengelköy because of the flair of old Istanbul and because of the beautiful neighborhood culture.
Where is the best place to shop in Istanbul?
In the Bağdat Caddesi (engl. "Baghdad Street") and in Nişantaşı (Note: The chic neighborhood with many Art Nouveau buildings is well known for its fashion boutiques of famous designers and hip restaurants).
What is the best way to see the city?
On foot or from the water.
What is a must-see in Istanbul?
The Golden Horn and the Istanbul Modern Museum.
What is the best thing about Istanbul?
In Istanbul you will find a deep-rooted historical and cultural diversity. Istanbul is also a very dynamic city, always good for surprises.
