Başak’s place was amazing for our stay in Istanbul, but I have been there before. For first-time travelers, be aware that there is no close metro station, so your best transit is by bus, tram, or foot (or taxi if you speak Turkish). Also, probably not the best option for anyone traveling with heavy luggage. Her flat is on the top floor, there is no elevator, and the staircase is very narrow; we struggled with our 12kg suitcases. And if you take a bus from the airport to the neighborhood, it drops you off at the bottom of the hill, and then you need to walk 20 minutes uphill and then down a series of steep staircases to get to her building. However, the room looks and was as described, and the view was incredible. The local neighborhood is also full of cafes, bars, and is amazing at night. Lovely and clean room, but much better for very light travelers.