stay here to feel like a local Istanbul person. Kubi is so polite and helpful. it is like staying in a brother's home. he text me to ensure that I'm all good in Istanbul.
he brought me out for dinner with his friend at his favourite base in Istanbul with incredible view. a restaurant i wouldn't have known or could find. also some spots such as local bazaar and Suleimaneye mosque.
he also suggested a place called Pierre Loti quite near to the apartment. it is recommended, beautiful view, spend your whole day picnic there. there's cable-car ride up to the top of the hill. (for Muslims, there is Ayep Sultan Mosque nearby which has relations with history of Prophet Mohammad)
Kubi was very warm with the hospitality, he offered me turkish snacks, dried fruits & a turkish dish which was made by his father.
i felt very comfortable at his apartment & neighbourhood. i recommend anyone who wants a good and unique Istanbul experience to stay at his place. please stay longer because i personally feel my 5 days was tooooo short. :))
and i enjoyed all the conversation topics we had, something that interests me. i still have many questions to ask as i'm very interested in social, politics & culture of Turkey.
Facilties:
-clean and spacious
-the wifi connection was very good.
-he provided towels, toothpaste & shampoo
-the shower heater was available all time
Neighbourhood:
-i travelled alone & often return to the apartment around 11pm or later and felt very safe. don't worry.
-there are dessert shops, marts, money exchange, ATM cash machines, cafe and restaurants to go to. and best of all, the prices are local prices means cheaper than touristic areas.
Location, Getting Around:
-on first day of arrival, Kubi or his friend/nephew will meet up with u at the nearby square and show you the way.
-Kubi provided me with an IstanbulKart (a public transport card) to use while in Istanbul, hence all you need to do is top-up the card and ready to go. getting to main tourist attractions are only 30mins bus ride away,
use an App called ""Trafi"" it will suggest routes & prices on public transports. by traveling by bus, i really felt like local :D