Hikmet was the perfect host. He arranged transportation from the airport which was perfect for my first trip to Istanbul. Then he met me at the flat. He offered to take me to purchase a Turkish SIM Card (the young man who picked me up at the airport said prices in town would be better!), showed me some of the amazing neighborhood sights and invited me to join some of his other guests for dinner on his terrace with views of nearby (gorgeous!) mosque and the sunset. The food, the company and the vibe were all fabulous!

Hikmet was both warm and professional - making suggestions without pressure on tours, travel, etc. He provided water and fruit when we got there, regularly offered tea and coffee as well as a full breakfast one morning and really made me feel like I was visiting a friend.

The flat was just as described and was perfect for me, my cousin and her partner. We had everything we needed for our stay in Istanbul. The location is a five minute walk (mostly a steep uphill) from Sultanahmet Square - the site of many of the main Old City attractions. In the other direction are a number of restaurants, small bistros, groceries and shops as well as the Little Sofya with its artisan shops.

I was by myself for my first day and really felt safe walking around, even after dark. A perfect host, perfect location and perfect weather!!