Staying with Mert was a cultural experience. Guy helped me learn some basic Turkish and set me up with a working SIM. He also got me prepped with the local equivalent of Uber Eats and translated menus so I could order great food from all over town. And who could forget about the floofy princess cats, so adorable and in need of more pets. The offered room is big with a massive bed but if you're a light sleeper you may want to bring a sleep mask and/or ear plugs.
Now, know that Mert is a busy guy and will be working most of the time, so you'll have to keep yourself occupied. There is a gorgeous walk nearby that leads down the Bosphorous past the Maiden's Tower; you'll see like 100 fishermen lined up casting there every day. You can also take a ferry to any part of the city and soak in the sights. If in doubt, ask Mert Effendi and he will point you in a spicy direction.
A pleasure. Until next time!