Where to start with this review? Well.. Let me say that we recommend this apartment 100%!!
We could not have made a better choice for our first visit to Istanbul.
You obviously have to be willing and able to climb 5 floors to get to it but you are rewarded for doing so. The view is simply spectacular! Being in the apartment feels like being on the bridge deck of a ship. You look out over the golden horn and both shores with all the interesting buildings, bridges and mosques. You can spend hours just watching the boats go by whilst listening to the seagulls that come and rest on the roof tops. At night you can see the city sparkle!
The location is perfect as it is moments from the centre of Beyoglu whilst being in a "real" vibrant Istanbul neighbourhood with little local shops including a non touristy hamam (turkish bath).
A few minutes walk brings you to a pier to take the boat over to the old town and all it's attractions although you can easily walk if you prefer. There are also boats from here going further in to the horn but also in the other direction and over to the asian side. Really easy to use and a pleasure to experience. You can pick up a timetable and route map at the ticket office.
Hatice is a great host and a lovely person! She is on hand to deal with any problems and offer advice. She arranged airport transfer service for us that made both coming and going much easier. In the week we spent here we feel we have gained a friend in Istanbul.
The last thing to mention is Hatice's new project, a sweet little cafe restaurant that is just round the corner from the apartment. This really adds to the experience as it means there is always someone close by should you need it but also that there is always fresh tea, great cakes and hot food just downstairs! :-)
We will certainly be returning to Hatice's apartments!
Thank you Hatice, you are welcome in our home in Athens anytime.