merve and co are great hosts! she guided my cab driver to the apartment, told me everything I needed to know about Istanbul and the area.
the apartment is not far from taksim sq (around 15-20 minute walk) and is located in a more "local" area. It suited me fine as it was a good experience seeing a more real side of Istanbul.
For the price I paid I think it is great value for money (even a private room in a backpacker's hostel is close to 2x the price)!