Büyükçekmece or Downtown Istanbul?

Hello!

I will soon be moving to Turkey in order to accept a teaching position at Fatih University, which is located near Büyükçekmece.  As I understand, this is quite a ways outside of downtown Istanbul.  However, many friends have suggested that I live nearer to Beyoglu or Tiksam and commute to work.  Does anybody know anything about the Büyükçekmece area as compared to downtown Istanbul?  Is commuting a realistic option?  If it is not, can anyone offer advice as to a community near Fatih that is hospitable, upbeat and exciting?  Also, can you give me any tips as to how I should go about searching for an apartment?

Thanks!

Last edited by Leef (2009-10-28 00:59:00)