For starters, let me say this: the location is unbeatable: close to metro, Istikal street, Galata tower and other historic sites. As this was my first time visiting Turkey, I couldn’t have asked for a host more kind, caring, helpful and generous than Sapphire. His communication is top-notch, and he went through great effort to make sure my stay was as smooth as possible—he even helped me purchase my train ticket to Ankara. If this place is available, I will most certainly be staying here when I return to Istanbul later this year.