The highlight of our Istanbul trip

We just returned from our trip to Istanbul and Greece. I hope to do a trip report, but in the meantime wanted to share my thanks for this forum, it is always so helpful to read others' questions and the helpful responses. We loved Istanbul, it is a wonderful city with so much to do and see. Our favorite thing on our trip was the day we spent with Yaren, a guide from SRM Travel. I contacted Lale in advance of the trip based on recommendations in the guidebook and on this forum, and she matched us with Yaren for a day. Yaren was an incredible guide, the best we have worked with - and we love working with local guides! She listened to our interests and made recommendations based on her experience that gave us a wonderful day - seeing some of the historic sites (like the Basilica Cistern) and taking the ferry to shop at the markets in Kadıköy. Along the way we talked about the city, the country, current events, food, history, and received many wonderful recommendations. I cannot say enough about how much we enjoyed our day with Yaren and how much I recommend hiring a guide for a day (or more!), even if you normally travel independently.