Elite Traveler September-October 2016

73 elite traveler SEPT/OCT 2016

Madrid SPAIN

Madrid is a favorite among art lovers – the city boasts three world-famous galleries; the Museo Nacional del Prado, Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía and Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, all showing the work of creative geniuses, such as Dali, Picasso and Goya. The nightlife is also a huge draw, with lively bars and clubs. Best for Impressionist artwork and surrealism. Don’t miss Bosch: The Centenary Exhibition, which is at the Prado (museoprado.es) until September 11. Where to stay The Prado is a 10-minute stroll from Hotel Urban Madrid, but there’s ample visual stimulation in this striking property. A mix of Art Deco elements and South Pacific artifacts, the design is unashamedly bold. There’s even a museum dedicated to Papua New Guinea in the basement. We love the luxurious rooftop pool with Cenia marble flooring. Room to book The duplex Loft Suite has a 13ft-high window with views over Carrera de San Jerónimo. Contact Felipe Turell, manager, fturell@derbyhotels.com, hotelurban.com Price From $1,000 per night Istanbul’s confluence of Eastern and Western culture is the secret to its appeal. Where else can you dine at celebrated global Italian chain Cecconi’s to the sound of the muezzin? Artistic treasures from the Byzantine and Ottoman empires are all around, but the city has so much more, with museums, such as Istanbul Modern, showing the work of contemporary Turkish artists. Where to stay From the rooftop terrace of the Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet, the views of the city, including the Bosphorus, Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, are hard to beat. The interior is decorated in the Ottoman style with modern comforts. Room to book Featuring works by local artisans, three balconies and a kitchenette with pantry, the Marmara Suite offers sanctuary from the city's frenetic pace. Contact Nese Guner, director of reservations, nese.guner@fourseasons.com or reservations.istanbul@fourseasons.com Best for Ancient mosques. Don’t miss Haggling in the Grand Bazaar. Istanbul TURKEY

fourseasons.com/istanbul Price From $3,900 per night