Istanbul is a good mix of east and west..my place at marmara guesthouse was pleasant..There are nice little turkish restuarants and ethnic shopping around the corner. Its so close to major attractions..The blue mosque area is full of scamsters and cons who target unweary travellers.Dont get in a taxi with anybody and u will ripped off. Stay with reliable travel agent for tours..stay away from old city corridors. Any issues first get to hotel and call for help..dont carry debit card