What was great about this apartment:
- Cleanliness: It was exceptionally clean when we arrived.
- Value: We got this apartment for a great price!
- Location: This apartment is close to the Vezneciler metro stop, which made getting to other parts of the city quite easy (M2 line for Galata, tram to Sultanahmet). It is a 3 minute walk to Süleymaniye Mosque, and 10-15 minutes to the Spice Bazaar, Grand Bazaar, and Eminönü areas. Additionally, there are many good cafes and restaurants within walking distance.
- Physical space: This apartment was larger than many other options, having a bedroom and separate living/kitchen area. The shower had excellent water pressure if you turned it on all the way (and still good if you turned it on halfway), though with full pressure the hot water could run out for 2 people showering back to back -- but that didn't happen when we set it to slightly less pressure. The air conditioner was quiet and very effective for cooling the apartment on hot days.
- Check In/ Check Out: The process was easy, Richy communicated clearly. No complaints!
Why overall 4 stars instead of 5?
- Pillows on the bed: They were extremely thick (8+ inches) and dense/firm -- so thick/firm that they bent my neck in a somewhat uncomfortable way that became more uncomfortable over time. In defense of the host (who is great), I didn't mention this to him during my stay, and I cannot expect him to respond to something I don't ask for.
- Noise at night: While, the street doesn't have a lot of traffic, there are two businesses across the street from the apartment that seem to operate at all hours. Saturday night was pretty quiet, but on weeknights, we could hear machinery running in the commercial bakery and/or the textile/thread business off and on throughout the night. Trucks would also arrive early in the morning (before 6am) to collect items from these businesses, sometimes honking to get their attention. Earplugs mostly did the trick for me, but not for my husband.
Overall, I definitely recommend this apartment and Richy as a host!