Hi,Tracey.If I lived in İstanbul and hadn't to work,I would help,join you and share with you a little part of life in your trip.In my opinon,people adds meaning the places.Places are things what we create together and then remember with our sharings.
I lived in Çerkezköy for 2 years due to my work (near Silivri district of Istanbul) and I advise you also to see the Black Sea region for example Kıyıköy.There are many villages in this area with Turkish cultural life and natural beauties.