Update to my original post. I was able to change my ticket to IST-- now arriving midnight two days before our 8 am departure (more like 30 hours really), so we have a full day before our 8am flight to SFO. That said, I'd love a hotel recommendation for a midnight arrival, and an 8 am departure on the second day. I stayed in Taksim before and liked that, but don't know how that relates to new airport in terms of drive time etc. With a full day we can walk from there to the old town, etc. Suggestions very welcome, both for hotels or areas to stay, and also, what time we should depart the city for our 8 am flight!!