I could not have asked for a more soothing and life-filled temporary home during part of the covid crisis. Serkan’s smile (husband of Yasemin) greeting me on arrival, throwing the suitcase over his shoulder (30kg, too!) and his kind sister Tülin, who was getting the place in order, made me feel like an awaited family guest. I walked in and felt immediately able to exhale and relax. The place itself was exactly as pictured, remarkably maintained with sweet and thoughtful design everywhere your eyes fell. Serkan told me some stories of its development, and his eyes shined as he did - truly art and time and love went into making this space. The ceilings were higher than pictured, the rooms brighter, with direct sunlight streaming in from about noon til sunset - french doors/balcony opens wide, you can even sunbathe (which I did, locked down as I was). The kitchen is simple, but I managed to cook and enjoyed doing so every day. Serkan surprised me with little pots of spices from his restaurant, kept me in coffee, and was right around the corner if anything was needed. Yasemin was always just a message away. Outside, birds chirp, people practice musical instruments, and gentlemen and old women gather to chit-chat at the taxi stand below. 4-5 fruit and bread and pastry and basic grocery sellers are within a couple blocks, and Istiqlal and loads of little alleys with open stores, even during corona, are a 2-5 minute walk away. Soooo many cafes and shops and restaurants around (closed right now) which others, in less locked-down times, have commented on in their reviews. Karakoy and its offerings also about half a kilometer away - including the fish market for those cooking at home. And - critically - the internet was strong and consistent. If Yasemin and Serkan and Tülin allow, I would love for this to be my home away from home every time I come to Istanbul! It’s a place of peace, beauty, function, and location, holding and sharing the energy of its kind, genuine hosts.