I stayed with Basma from 12-15aug'14 and was really pleased with my stay.

Basma's apt is really close to the main attractions of Istanbul. Most tourist attractions like Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, etc. were just down the street. I could walk there and it usually took me 30mins or so. You could take the tram if you prefer, and it is about 3 or 4 tram stops away. Overall, it is a great location! Close enough to the attractions, yet further down the street where it wasn't so crowded with tourists.

The host, Basma, is a wonderful lady. It was my first time travelling alone, and it was my fortune to have stayed with her. I took one couch, and she, the other; so perhaps that was why we were able to bond more. There was one night when she turned on the fan, and then (thinking I was asleep) covered me with a blanket- that goes to show how sweet she is! She prepared a wonderful dinner for me and the others on my first night, and thereafter, made coffee for me when she was having some in the morning. I will most definitely stay with her again if I visit Istanbul. Thank you Basma, for your great company when I was there! Wishing you the best for your future :)