Yasar's apartment was for us the perfect starting point for exploring Istanbul. It's in walking distance to Taksim and some of the ferry docks, in a charming calm neighborhood with some small shops, cafés (and of course cats) around. The place itself is spacious and has everything you could need. Only small downside was to get used to the street noise on the living room side the first night, when you kept the windows open. But that's city life, you'll get used to it quickly. :) I would come back for sure!