Me and and partner just got back from an amazing short trip to Istanbul. I actually attended a conference at the Boğaziçi University, which is literally around the corner from Vivian's place. We stayed in her flat for 5 nights and it was fantastic! Vivian was very patient with our late arrival (we were delayed for 2 hours), after which she gave us some really useful tips about Istanbul. Her place is very clean, light, airy and very very cosy. The bed was large and very comfortable. We were not spending a lot of time in the flat, but it always felt great coming home after a loooong day of walking around. There are shops nearby including a supermarket, small restaurants and cute coffee/tea shops (we became regulars at the borek cafe). Transport links are quite good with regular buses that travel south and a taxi rank opposite the restaurants (it's only a 10min taxi drive to the nearest metro station). It only took about an hour to get to the 'Old City' on public transport and it's worth getting an 'Istanbulkart' as soon as you can on arrival (ask in the kiosks). We definitely recommend Vivian's place to others and we would stay there again!