I stayed at Murat's apartment for four nights in September. Murat welcomed me in person, showed me around the apartment and suggested places to eat. He also promptly responded to a few questions that I had during my visit via WhatsApp. I was traveling alone but the apartment is spacious and very accommodating for more than one guest. It was extremely clean. The location is great - a short walk to the tram and the Galata Bridge to walk to Old Istanbul. There are also plenty of good restaurants and night life nearby. I felt very safe in this neighborhood, which can be a concern when traveling alone - especially when out walking late at night. I stumbled across the Karaköy and Cihangir neighborhoods on my last day in city and wish I had time to explore them more. I highly recommend staying at Murat's apartment.