Ottoman era houses

Istanbul is a treasure trove of crumbling and refurbished Ottoman era houses. 

The homes are so charming when they're done up halfway or even fully , but when left to crumble some can resemble the spooky Bates Motel like the one above.

No, I wouldn't go through this door without an escort lol

Someone actually came out from this half done , weather beaten home and went straight into the Turkish ceramic store below

This one's done up more nicely.

They're selling stuff for tourists together with some framed art or something

Another white house. The flowers add a dash of pretty colour to it. 

The downside of these houses, when converted to business premises, you can only experience the feel of it for just a while. 

Which is why I'm again staying at The Tashkonak hotel.

Nice, friendly staff, safe area, antique Ottoman experience with all the modern creature comforts you need such as a safe , comfy pillows, thick blanket ( it's in the cupboard ) , yummy breakfast and hot water.

Last time I stayed in a beautiful Ottoman style bedroom which overlooked the old garden.

This time, awww man, I love these wooden lattice windows. 

You can push them up and down and latch both ends.

See, I'm 2 floors above the entrance.

Love going up the spiral staircase to the top landing where you can see the Marmara sea. Tashkonak walls are adorned with glorious paintings of the Istanbul of yore.

The other thing I like to do here.....People watching from the window. Quiet neighbourhood area in general if you don't mind the call of prayer directly opposite.

They're either going to and from work , laden with marketing or groceries, with the occasional noisy, trolley bag tugging tourist passing by. 

No fines imposed for noise pollution like in Venice. 

This is Istanbul after all. They're one of the world's most gracious hosts , paralleled only by the Thais and to a certain extent the Japanese. 

Location : Kucukayasofya and Edirnekapi districts in Istanbul