It's hard to know where to begin with this hotel. On the positive, the hotel is well located near Taksim Square with loads of transportation, shopping, and restaurant options. The bathrooms are modern and although there aren't many English channels, the cable TV is quite good. There is a refrigerator as well as a kettle with free coffee and tea.
I should have known I was in for trouble when I was told to pay cash at check-in before seeing the room.
I booked a regular single room, but what I got was a dark and dusty double room in the basement with no AC or heat. The only ventilation was a window that opened directly onto the pavement outside. Not exactly a secure situation. The bathroom was nicely appointed but smelled of sewage. Although it states that there is housekeeping on the listing, there was no cleaning or replacement of towels the three nights I stayed.
When I complained to the manager about the room all he could say was that he was full. He offered absolutely no compensation or any sympathy with the situation. I wouldn't mind the basement room if it was disclosed ahead of time and it was what I paid for. Couldn't even get an apology out of the guy. However, the night clerk was very kind and helpful.
I regularly stay in 2 and 3 star hotels in the Taksim area and this has to be the worst experience I've ever had in Istanbul.