A little aside from the huge tourist crowds, Idil and Başak's place is really in the heart of Istanbul. It's easy to reach Beyoğlu and Sultanahmet by a wonderful walk along the Bosphorus and/or by public transport. The proximity of the Beşiktaş ferry led me to also discover the Asian part – particularly the dreamy, cosy neighborhood of Kuzguncuk, near Üsküdar. The gorgeous Yildiz Park, very close to the flat, is fantastic to have a calm break.
The room, the flat, the house and the neighborhood are tidy and safe. Idil, who lives in this apartment, is an extremely charming and absolutely welcoming host. She knows Istanbul inside out and truly loves her city. She made me discover the hidden places and the Turkish culture through keys you may won't find in city guides.
And, what is more than a little Turkish crash course… on the rooftop in the fresh evening breeze with the magnificent view over Istanbul?