Easy (uphill) walk from Merve's home to Istiklal St. and Taksim Square. This is a great chance to live among the locals, be not too far from the action and yet pay a fraction of the cost of what people normally pay if they stay close to Taksim. I would recommend Merve's place to anyone who wants a simple (but very tastefully decorated) room and ready for a good walk to get to places. :)