We stayed in this apartment for a full week in October 2022. We are a family of 5 with 3 small children. The apartment is big and spacious if you consider what you would typically get in other major international cities. The three bedrooms are big, all with ensuites and walk-in robes so you certainly don't feel constrained for space with luggage etc. The kitchen was big with good amenities and plenty of natural light. The open plan living areas and the adjoining balcony are fantastic with the former providing more than adequate (and comfortable) space which is actually useable i.e. a great space to be able to pleasantly chill-out. This was of particular importance so that the apartment was part of our holiday experience as opposed to just somewhere to rest inbetween our adventures. The highlight of the apartment was undoubtedly the balcony with magnificent views of the river and the surrounding landscape, glimpses of the bridge and plenty of direct sunshine. The weather was cloudy/overcast and a bit chilly during our week however the balcony was always a great place to enjoy a few hours and the apartment required minimal heating (if any in some rooms) despite the cold weather.
Mert and his team were sensational. We cannot give enough praise as to their sincere and timely responses, their willingness to help. They assisted with airport transfers and a river cruise, they had resources available to address any minor issues which arose with the apartment (very few and very minor on our stay) and Mert went the extra mile to cover a replacement river cruise when extenuating circumstances meant we missed our planned departure (extremely generous!!).
This was our first time in Istanbul so we were unfamiliar with the different areas/neighbourhoods. Ortakoy is not a long distance from the main historical and tourist attractions however the traffic in Istanbul is not great and we found reliability of taxis/Uber to the area was also not great. However, there are bus stops almost literally at the top of the street which connect you with two buses which loop through the major areas or provide you with connections to other major transport hubs, shopping malls, attractions etc. It was really easy to utilize. Further, Ortakoy main-street was a 10 minute walk (downhill!) to other transport options, supermarkets, restaurants etc. A good little area to explore and to make home for a week.