Ali is an awesome host. He was ready with instructions to get me from the airport to the flat, waited to meet me at the location, and was available all week to support me with answers to my questions about the sites, transportation, etc. The location is ideal--this is probably the hippest place you could stay, not only in the Galata/Beyoglu area, but its on a side street that seems to have some of the newest cafes/shops/restaurants even by the neighborhood's standards. The space is cool, it has high ceilings, modern decor, strong shower. Highly recommended.