WOW! Fatma's apartment was the perfect place to stay for our time in Istanbul. We had a great time there and felt very welcome by Fatma and her husband. We enjoyed tea and snacks together in the evenings, and we loved the area where her apartment is located. It has beautiful old buildings and children playing in the streets. It feels very safe and welcoming, despite the odd stare from locals. They mean no harm! :)

We prefered this area in Istanbul to the "old town", as the street Istikal, which is close by, pulls you through all the chiq, trendy and wonderful places that you can visit in the neighborhood.

We felt like we understood what Istanbul is about and how locals live in the city. It had a great sense of authenticity.

We are definitely coming back, and we will bring a kitchen magnet for Fatma's collection. :)

Matti & Natalia