Julia and Tarkan's apartment is the perfect base to explore Istanbul. The style of the apartment with its beautiful ceilings and the location are one of a kind. We loved the fact that it was so centrally located on what must be one of the liveliest streets in Istanbul - I greatly recommend the apartment for those travellers who like to experience a city more like a local and get away from the crowds of tourists. Sleeping was not a problem for us - closing the doors in the apartment shuts out the noise from the street below. It is also incredibly handy for the metro at Taksim Square which we used all the time. Before we left, Julia and Tarkan kindly provided us with a list of their recommended restaurants - the Turkish breakfast at Cafe Privato cannot be missed! Also recommend Durumzade down the road. The gentleman who manages the apartment, whose name escapes me, is also incredibly helpful! We really did not want to leave Istanbul and are having serious withdrawal symptoms - thank you Julia and Tarkan for a wonderful stay!