The penthouse unit where we stayed for 5 days is a unique and interesting space. We enjoyed its large open space, soaring steel trusses and ceilings, with a spacious bedroom loft serviced by an iron spiral staircase.

The apartment is located right in the heart of all the action in Taksim. The area is always bustling with shopping, restaurants and clubs nearby, so there is activity at all hours. While this has its upside in that there is always something going on, it also makes for some loud nights. We were told it could be noisy in the evenings so we were prepared for the general noise. The weekends are much more so. On the Friday night, the booming music from a nearby club didn’t cease until almost 7 AM. Earplugs were not enough to block out that much noise. As they say, if you can’t beat it then join it, so we stayed out until the wee hours and enjoyed ourselves.

Our hosts, Aslinaz and her father, Mustafa – who lives in the penthouse when it isn’t being rented, were responsive, friendly and helpful. Aslinaz recommended a number of places for us to eat and some things to do. She was always available to answer questions, even though she lives in London.

One of our favourite places to have a drink was on the rooftop patio at Ali Ocakbaşı (near the Galata bridge). The view was amazing. There were also two restaurants which were highly recommended, one on each of the 4th (meat) and 5th (fish) floors. It doesn't look like much from street level, but when you get to the rooftop, you won't want to leave!