Defne is a wonderfull host - she is easygoing, friendly, welcoming and up for a good chat. She knows Istanbul well and had some recommendations for me based on my interests. Defne has a cute, curious cat called Punto. The apartment is cosy and big. The rooms share a common balcony, that looks out to a calm common yard, away from the car noises. The balcony is somewhat in the shade, and it is great sitting there when the weather gets too hot. The room has what you need - a wardrobe, a small dresser and a single bed. I was told that there also was a desk somewhere, that I could move into the room if needed. The location and the neighbourhood is perfect. The apartment is in Cihangir, which is a very lively and vibrant and yet relaxed area with many good cafées and small shops, and 10 min walk to the bars and clubs in Taksim and Istiklal (and the Taksim metro line).