Dear Fellow travelers
At first I thought about posting a "bad" review - just so the apartment would be available to me all the time!

Just kidding!!
My stay at Doret and Izel's apartment was the best experience I've had with Airbnb in Istanbul (I've stayed in 5 different apartments over the past year and a half - I travel to Istanbul about every two months).
First, the apartment is absolutely lovely - lots of light, spotlessly clean and wonderfully appointed with everything you could possibly need. Cleaning service once a week is included. There is also a local cell phone and metro cards for your convenience when you arrive.

Everything is there when you arrive - including coffee, milk, water, bread and cheese - so if you're tired and don't feel like going out you can easily survive your first night there - there's also a very nice cafe right across the street if you require more food.. The apartment is located in one of the best neighborhoods in Istanbul and everything (shops, restaurants, delis, grocery stores, etc) is within walking distance. Also within walking distance is Galata Tower and a busy walking street with tons of stores. From there it is a short walk (only slightly uphill - not a problem for anyone with even limited motor skills) to Istikal Cadessi and Taksim Square - the heartbeat of Istanbul. There is a metro stop literally across the street from the apartment so getting around town is very easy.
Izel is the ideal host. He
was prompt and met us when we arrived - and when we checked out. He is just wonderful - he has tons of very useful information and goes out of his way to make sure his guests are comfortable in the apartment - he even goes the extra mile to give guests a walking tour of the neighborhood open arrival. He is also available whenever you need him to answer questions - in fact I called him one day to ask about directions and he not only gave them to me but took me to lunch!
I can't say enough about how wonderful our experience was -- and I thank Izel and Doret for their wonderful hospitality - we will be back!!
Cynthia