My husband and I stayed at this charming house for a full week at the end of which we were both wishing we could have stayed and enjoyed the house and the neighborhood longer. A bi-cultural couple in our 60’s, we both felt completely at home there. The place was very clean and orderly and so thoughtfully appointed, including much more than what we could possibly use or need. Recently renovated, you could smell new wood as you entered. The fresh-cut flowers on the table were a welcoming touch. Communicating with Süha was a breeze. We had contact information for Aylin who was to greet us at the house upon arrival. Though we arrived earlier than we said, Aylin accommodated us and was already at the house before we got there. During the week we twice took up her offer to call anytime if we needed anything. First we called to order a backup 5-gallon bottle of spring water (my fussiness)— given how fast she had it delivered, the backup was not needed after all. Then we called to ask about starting the washing machine— that also turned out to be unnecessary (as I just had to press the touch-sensitive start button a little harder). We particularly loved the neighborhood feel and being able to walk a few minutes to buy freshly-baked bread, fruit and vegetables, and whatever else was needed. Initially concerned about the Anatolian-side location, we found it easy enough to get across to the European side, to go to the Sultanahmet area or to our favorite spots all along the European shore of the Bosphorus. We just had to walk five minutes from the house to jump in a taxi at the local taxi stop (very reasonable rates) or catch a bus (you need a card in advance) or flag down a minibus (small change) to travel the short distance to the Üsküdar plaza where the ferry docks are, as well as the multiple bus, minibus, and taxi stands. Because of good weather we mostly opted for the ferry to get across but we also tried the Marmaray that has a station near the docks. My brother joined us for two days (he was very impressed with Süha’s carpenter). My Istanbul-based niece joined us for a day. Four of us much appreciated the four [!] bathrooms, two of which had showers; plus there was a separate "hamam" on the lowest level, not to mention plenty of electrical outlets to hook up all our gadgets. Some might find that the stairs take a little getting used to, which was the case with my husband at first. Though not unusual for this type of house, he found them a little steeper than he expected. We had a wonderful time and if Süha and family will have us, we’d love to return to their Kuzguncuk home in the future and think of it as our home away from home in Istanbul. Thank you so much for everything and with best...