Bookings and reservations for Istanbul went up by 41% in 2009 and are expected to increase significantly this year according to the leading travel provider HostelBookers.

(TRAVPR.COM) UNITED KINGDOM - 1st Feburary, 2010 - The city has been named the European Capital of Culture for 2010 and a recent Post Office Worldwide Holiday Costs report has revealed that Turkey is one of ‘Europe's cheapest options for a bargain break'. Food, drink and merchandise prices are expected to rise as a result, as businesses look to cash in on the expected influx of visitors.

Despite the price hikes, HostelBookers has a number of cheap Istanbul hostel accommodations for 2010, enabling travellers to save money on accommodation during their visit to Europe's latest Capital of Culture. Many of HostelBookers best places to stay are just a few minutes from all the main attractions of the Old Town in the Sultanahmet area.

The Antique Hostel Istanbul is one of top rated places to stay. Offering shared rooms from just 8 euros a night, it represents great value for money. It is just 5 minutes walk from the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, making it a great base from which to enjoy all the cultural sites and special events that the city has to offer.

Turkey has emerged as a popular and trendy destination amongst HostelBookers' customers in recent months. Bookings and reservations have seen an increase of 39% in 2008-2009, compared to a 5% growth in Spain and an average of 9% worldwide.

For an Istanbul travel guide and a list of all our Istanbul hostels, please visit the HostelBookers website.

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