I had a great stay with Basma in Istanbul. She is a wonderful host and her apartment is very comfortable. There is tea and coffee at your disposal, as well as a number of Istanbul guidebooks and maps for those who arrive somewhat unprepared like I did. :) Her place can be a bit hard to find from the metro, but she sends detailed directions, along with photos, in advance and is available by phone should you encounter any hiccups. Her apartment is very conveniently located overall. It's just a few blocks from the metro that goes to Ataturk airport and only half a block form the tram line that runs through the old city (where the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque are) on its way to Taksim. I would definitely recommend her place for the budget conscious traveler!!