I had a wonderful stay at Isil's apartment in Fener/Balat. Like other reviewers have said, she really goes out of her way to introduce you to the neighborhood and to help you have a good stay! It's how airbnb is supposed to be - a very personal touch. She took me around the neighborhood, helped me get a transportation card, taught me helpful Turkish phrases, took me grocery shopping, and even helped plan my itinerary! The apartment itself was perfect - bright, modern, and clean. I loved being able to cook for myself and do my laundry! The only negative thing is when all of the apartments in the building were occupied I realized how much sound traveled from floor to floor. Earplugs helped block out the snoring downstairs! The neighborhood was really interesting. Very traditional and conservative (headscarves and burqas), poor/working class with a bit of artist gentrification just beginning. It's very residential - not the place to stay if you're looking to be close to bars and clubs, although there are several very sweet cafes and restaurants close by. For me, as a more mature solo traveler, it was great. You have to take busses and trams to get to the more touristy parts of town, which I enjoyed, but if you aren't a public transit fan it could be a drawback. Overall a really great place to stay if you're interested in seeing a different side of Istanbul from the tourist neighborhoods, and like having the personal touch that Isil provides.