I cannot imagine a more perfect place to call home while in Istanbul. To sit on the private deck and watch the gulls and pigeons swirling against the breathtaking panoramic view of Istanbul is something I'll never forget. The flat was beautifully furnished and artfully prepared for every possible need a guest may have including a great shower, a washer and clothes line, 5 gallon water dispenser, AC, and nice towels and linens. Ilhan has a huge map that he enlarged and mounted on the wall which was a great way to plan your day. Ilhan was warm and available and responded quickly to any requests. There are, indeed, five flights of stairs to climb. I'm 53 years old and I climbed those stairs every day carrying a 30 pound bike and I would have happily climbed more knowing what awaited me at the top. Cannot recommend highly enough!!!!!