Ayla’s place was fantastic. The photos were precisely what I found: a clean, comfortable flat in a great neighborhood in a beautiful building on a lovely side street quite near the main Galata thoroughfare. The flat was equipped with most everything a traveler needs, and more; the small balcony overlooking two cobbled alleyways added air and atmosphere. Ayla herself was charming and accommodating, going out of her way to bring me to the building and making sure everything was to my liking. Four cafes and restaurants, all within a stone’s throw, turned out to serve the best meals I ate in Istanbul.