Besiktas is such an awesome neighborhood in Istanbul, and Ahmed's place is perfectly located there!
Firstly...There is an airport bus, called Hava.ist (#15 Besiktas Meydan) that literally takes you to Ahmed's doorstep! No joke! There is an incredibly secure luggage area under the bus and the cost is around $3 per person...and...you can pay for it with a credit card as you get on the bus. It took about 45 minutes with low traffic.
Getting around is a breeze with all the buses, or there is a taxi area across the street. We paid $2 (TWO DOLLARS!) to take the taxi to the Galata Tower area.
There is an area in Besiktas they call "breakfast street" where you can get the loveliest Turkish breakfasts! You are surrounded by coffee shops, markets, restaurants, and kebab joints.
Ahmed's place was so comfortable! There is no elevator, just so you know, it's on the 4th floor.
If you want to experience real living in Istanbul with non-touristy prices and THE friendliest people...stay here!