We enjoyed our stay at Hatice's place immensely! Istanbul is an amazing city with great people. Despite what you hear on the news, IT IS A VERY SAFE PLACE TO VISIT. If you are having doubts about going, don't - just go and see for yourself. The view from the apartment is extraordinary and the apartment itself is a very comfortable home-away-from-home. Hatice was an amazing host! She was very helpful with advice about places to go and directions around the city. She even supplied a refillable metro card so all you need to do is put a little Lira on it and you can get pretty much anywhere in the city. This was a very nice touch! Also, access to the tram and metro lines are very easy to get to from the apartment - just a short walk. It's also close to nice restaurants, shopping and there are plenty of little stores nearby where you can buy supplies for your stay. Hatice cooks amazing breakfasts downstairs at her little cafe; you will want to eat there every morning! Highly recommended!