Mermer is a super host. Her communication prior to arrival was prompt and packed with really helpful information about Istanbul, and especially about the local neighbourhood. The apartment on the second floor is a gem, with a lovely outlook across to the old part of the city. Mermer has a ton of information about Istanbul, including maps and guides with good detail. For us, the location of the apartment was perfect. It is a couple of minutes walk from the Sishane metro and the Tunel funicular. If you want to get around by taxi, there are cabs cruising 24 hours through an adjacent main street a few metres away. There's a good Migros market close by and an excellent bakery over the road from the Migros.

We heartily recommend the "Tunnelstop" cafe beside the top entrance to the Tunel. The coffee is good, the food to eat in or take out is fresh and well priced, and the staff are terrific. It was a favourite breakfast stop for us.