Murat is not just a great host --- he took his time showing me around the city, welcoming me to join him and his friends for drinks, offering help with every question i had, teaching me some Turkish, even cooking and serving home-made meals (!) and a lot more. But above everything, I really appreciate and value the friendship and respect he provided with me so genuinely and graciously that one cannot ask for more when traveling in a foreign city. Murat's flat is cozy, clean and warm with lots of characters that feel a real-living, creative space. It's located right on the main bars/nightlife street in the lively (best!) neighborhood in Istanbul --- Kadıköy. Lots of friendly shops, restos, cafés and bars around, with the tram, ferry and metro all in short walking-distance. You get the cosmopolitan feel of the city here, but still within easy reach of all the major, historical tourist sites. If you are a solo traveler or a couple who want to experience the real Istanbul life like a local even for a few days, don't even consider another place --- you will be lucky to stay at Murat's like I did !