With no doubt this was the cleanest, most spotless and fully air conditioned, which is most essential in Istanbul summer believe me- air b&b experience I ever had thanks to two young men, Murat, Emre and their lovely mother who hosted us and made sure we felt comfortable and welcomed in every way.
The cool part was while wondering through neighborhood I accidentally met the very welcoming architect, Mr Nejat, who restored the house and found out they kept all the original aspects of this historic building so the modern day visitor still would feel the beauty of original art piece that this beautful house was years ago...
Besides the house I truly loved walking through Balat neighborhood and feel as I was going back centuries where synagogues, churches, hand craft shops and little grocery/ bakery stands where existed in every allies side by side which would make this Neighborhood as vibrant and different that still is today with kids playing in historic giant beauty and super sweet earthy Neighbors share a smile and piece of bread while hanging their close on rooftop rope and at the same time enjoying their favorite Turkish cigarette like they did through the years...
then they would go sit in cafe having teas and watch the life passing like Zen Masters only with more laughing and enjoyment!
So if you are one of those visitors who always wanted to go where the “locals” go for a real “ authentic experience “ and away from tourist cafes and shops that only tourists go to!
Someone that truly wants to experience the real history behind this magnificent city of Istanbul where local people still live, work -and of course still - very peacefully in a calming meditative way - drink Turkish tea a few times a day in every corner cafe In a way that you feel there is no rush only flow of life as it goes.
Don’t miss Balat!
Ohhh and did I mention about being right by the Bosphorus where lush greenery saves you from the Summer heat and you could sit and enjoy the stunning panaramic view of the city for as long as you wish!
Unfortunately we had to shorten our stay but I will defenetly go back and melt in this nostalgic alive delicious neighborhood sometimes soon!
Until then;
Ciao Bella!