Bobo by The Stay

Bobo by The Stay, a Michelin Key Selected property nestled on the secluded northern shore of the Bodrum Peninsula, offers a unique blend of bohemian luxury and avant-garde entertainment. This adults-only boutique hotel, designed by architect Mahmut Anlar, emphasizes art, sustainability, and tranquility, making it a distinctive retreat in Bodrum, Turkey.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

While a broad consensus with a numerical overall guest rating from numerous verified stays is not yet widely available on platforms like the Michelin Guide (which notes "No verified stays yet" for their guest score), the sentiment surrounding Bobo by The Stay is overwhelmingly positive and indicative of a high-end experience. Described as a "wonderful private and quiet hotel" and praised for being "clean, comfortable, friendly," the property garners a positive reception for its unique design and serene atmosphere. Its selection as a Michelin Key property further underscores its excellence in design, service, and experience.

2. Key Highlights

Guests are particularly drawn to several distinctive features of Bobo by The Stay:

• Design & Ambiance: The hotel's art-forward and sustainability-focused approach, with its unique cylindrical rooms and modern, sleek aesthetic, is a significant draw. It offers a refined bohemian living experience with a fusion of entertainment, gastronomy, and the arts.
• Location & Views: Its secluded setting in Cennet Bay provides breathtaking views of olive groves and the Aegean Sea, offering an intimate and tranquil escape.
• Amenities & Activities: The private beach club, Bobo Beach, with sun loungers, is a major highlight. The hotel also boasts a spa, an outdoor gym, and a Stay Spa with saunas and ice baths overlooking the bay. A rotating lineup of concerts, art events, pop-up comedy festivals, and guest chefs contribute to the vibrant atmosphere, alongside a private nightclub for evening entertainment.
• Dining Diversity: The three diverse dining experiences cater to various culinary preferences.
• Service: The staff is noted for making it easy for guests to arrange transportation despite the remote location.
• Sustainability: The hotel implements several eco-friendly practices, including using renewable energy, energy-efficient heating, cooling, and lighting, non-toxic cleaning products, and options for linen and towel reuse, as well as being free of single-use plastics.

3. Room Quality

Bobo by The Stay features 21 to 24 meticulously designed cylindrical rooms and suites, ranging from cozy 20 sqm retreats to spacious 65 sqm sanctuaries. Architect Mahmut Anlar drew inspiration from the landscape, incorporating nature-inspired curved walls and floor-to-ceiling windows that provide captivating views of olive groves and Cennet Bay. The rooms are described as modern and sleek, featuring poured concrete flooring and custom furnishings, designed to emphasize the lush surroundings. Standard amenities include air conditioning, MP3 docking stations, minibars (with some complimentary items), free Wi-Fi, partially open bathrooms with rainfall showerheads, complimentary toiletries, bottled water, turndown service, and phones with free local calls.

4. Dining Experience

The hotel offers a rich gastronomic journey with three distinct dining experiences and a focus on locally sourced cuisine.

• Bobo All-Day Restaurant: This casual yet refined eatery offers a menu inspired by Istanbul's Bebek Hotel by The Stay, featuring locally sourced dishes.
• Dragon Restaurant: Known for its exceptional Cantonese and Szechuan dishes, Dragon brings its renowned flavors from Istanbul to Bodrum.
• Paraliaki: This Greek-inspired restaurant specializes in fresh seafood, offering a memorable sunset dining experience with Cennet Bay as a stunning backdrop. Guests have the unique option to dine on grass or sand in a laid-back atmosphere.
• Breakfast: A complimentary continental breakfast is served daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM.
• Bars & Other Services: Guests can enjoy drinks at the main bar/lounge or the beach bar. The hotel also provides an exclusive boat catering service for those exploring the bay.

5. Service & Staff

While specific detailed guest feedback on individual staff members is limited, the general sentiment indicates attentive service. The hotel operates with a 24-hour front desk and offers concierge services to assist guests. Guests appreciate that the staff can "make it very easy to catch a cab to anywhere needed at anytime," which is particularly helpful given the hotel's secluded location.

6. Location & Accessibility

Bobo by The Stay is situated in a tranquil and secluded part of the northern Bodrum Peninsula, specifically in Cennet Bay (Paradise Bay). It is praised for its "wonderful private and quiet" setting. However, its remote nature means it's "not a good place to walk around" to other attractions.

• Nearby Attractions (by car): It is about 2.4 miles (3.8 km) from Golkoy Beach and within 9 miles (15 km) of Türkbükü Beach and Gundogan Beach. Bodrum Beach and Bodrum Marina are further away, approximately 12.2 miles (19.6 km) and 13.1 miles (21.1 km) respectively.
• Transport: The hotel offers a complimentary beach shuttle and free self-parking.
• Accessibility Note: The property does not have elevators, which guests should be aware of.

7. Value & Pricing

As a Michelin Key Selected property, Bobo by The Stay positions itself as a luxury boutique hotel, and its pricing reflects this exclusivity and high standard of service and amenities. While specific price ranges are not readily available in general reviews, booking directly through the Michelin Guide is advertised with "Best prices are guaranteed." Additionally, Michelin Guide Plus members may receive perks such as room upgrades, a complimentary welcome drink, a welcome treat, and a 100 EUR food & beverage credit for stays of two nights or more, suggesting a premium value proposition for loyal guests.

8. Common Complaints

While overall feedback is positive, a few points of consideration for potential guests include:

• Remote Location: While a highlight for those seeking peace, the hotel's secluded nature means it's not ideal for guests who prefer to walk to nearby towns or attractions.
• No Elevators: The absence of lifts could be an inconvenience for some guests, particularly those with mobility issues or heavy luggage.
• Adults-Only Policy: While a draw for many, families with children should note that it is an adults-only property.
• No Pets Allowed: Guests traveling with pets will need to make alternative arrangements, as the hotel does not permit them.

Sources

1. michelin.com
2. thestay.com.tr
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8. thestay.com.tr
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