To start, I am a full-time Airbnb user and have lived in seven apartments here in Istanbul alone. I stayed here for over one month. I give this flat 7.5/10 and here's why.
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PROS
1. Al is very kind and I'm sure if I had contacted him for anything, he would have helped. Leading up to the stay, he was a great communicator
2. The location is unbeatable. Short walk to all the goods Taksim and the Golden Horn have to offer and down the hill, a bit is the ferry.
3. It's on the 1st floor (or 2nd floor for US travelers) but there is an elevator, a rare thing here.
4. It's actually pretty quiet despite being on the main road.
5. The space itself is really cool and expansive.
6. Some good decor and the washer & fridge are top-notch.
7. Good water pressure
8. Firm mattresses
9. Well-insulated, good heating system.
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CONS
1. The wifi is only at the front of the house. No wifi in the bedrooms. This was a big problem for me who works from home.
2. A lot of small issues like broken things or decor that, while still functional, made things annoying, and downgraded the beauty of the space. —couch cushions caved in, dish cupboard doesn't stay open, electric aspect of shower advertised in photos doesn't work, broken silverware drawer, stuff left behind by host or past guests that should be removed.
3. Could use more cooking utensils, like serving spoons or a can opener
4. Inventory of things like water and toilet paper was not sufficient for someone staying a month.
5. No curtains in large bedroom. It's pretty private back there but neighbors' lights and the morning sun make it difficult to stay asleep in the early morning and I for one felt more comfortable putting my clothes and getting dressed in the 2nd bedroom.
6. Bedding needs an upgrade. There were lightweight blankets instead of duvets or comforters with top sheets.
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OVERALL: There is a charm to the place and the location cannot be beat. If it was just spruced up a bit more, it could be a solid 10. It depends on what your priorities are. Good luck to Al and all his future guests.