Stop reading and book it. Location was perfect for me Taksim is going on all the time. It was easy to get to Sultanhamet for the sites but I don't think I would have been happy staying in that area. The guys at the check in are so helpful. Please and thanks are the extent of my Greek and they all spoke English and were super helpful. There are plenty of eats and markets really close. It was really cold when I visited but the room was warm and I still managed to enjoy the balcony. Also super easy to catch the bus to and from the airport.