So thankful for Pelin's warm welcome to istanbul -- I landed at 5:30am after an all-night flight and Pelin met me near dawn and offered to store my luggage until the flat was ready. She pointed me toward the nearest hamam, the best best best way to land after a redeye flight! After getting totally bubbled and scrubbed, we met back up and she gave me the keys and orientation to the house. My partner and I had a wonderful stay. The flat is steps from some of the coolest places, Turkish breakfast spots, markets, the Turkish coffee fortune telling cafe, vintage shops, and bars, and yet it is totally quiet at night, tucked away on a small alcove. It's also nearby some important and wonderful organizations like the Nonviolence Resource and Education Center and The Day After. And of course, steps to Istiklal shopping street, Taksim Square, and just up the hill from the Bosphorous. You can take the tram across the bridge to the Grand Bazaar and other sights. There were wifi problems (the fault of the wifi service) but other than that, it was all perfect. Many thanks!!!