We found Elifs place to be very well located. It was a 5 minute walk to Taksim Square and from there great to explore the areas of Cihangir, Galata, The bosphorus on foot The Metro and Light rail is at Taksim and we found that great to use to get across to old town, grand bizarre and Spice markets, Transport very cheap.
Elif was very helpful and quick to respond to messages. Helped us with transport to Airport even at 2am. $35US dollars.
The apartment was safe, warm, cosy and homey and just what we needed after being on the road for two weeks. Highly recommend.
We felt we experienced a lot more on this side of the city than if we had stayed in the old town.