I stayed at Pelin's home with my boyfriend for 4 nights in April 2014. Pelin met us at the main street, a block away from her home. Her home is as advertised, a one bedroom apartment. It was very clean, neat and had welcoming tea and coffee.My boyfriend and I used her kitchen to cook and her living room to relax. She had all we needed. The neighborhood was great. It was close enough to the metro and trolley to take us to the sight seeing spots. It was also close to Taskim Square but far enough so we could have a slightly more authentic experience with people that live in the area. We found some great restaurants that locals and foreigners frequented just a few blocks away. Pelin was very friendly and gave us some helpful tips. She let us know that we can contact her anytime if we needed her (and even messaged us during our stay to make sure we were ok). Thankfully, we didn't need any assistance but it was great knowing she was available. If I am ever fortunate to visit Istanbul again, I would ask to stay at her lovely home again.

We ate at a great restaurant called Babel and discovered many boutiques and antique shops in our walk around the neighborhood.