Readers recommend

England: Farmhouse stay

Packington Lane Farm, Coleshill, Birmingham B46 3JJ; 011-44-1675-462-228, www.4hotels.co.uk/uk/hotels/packing.html. “Wonderful farmhouse -- 250 acres with cows, sheep and sheep dogs. Large rooms with TV, private bath, central heat. Great breakfasts, helpful innkeepers.” Rate $39 per person, per night, double occupancy.

Mr. and Mrs. Alan Kelley

Avalon, Catalina Island

*

Italy: Riviera charmer

Terminus Hotel, 4 Piazza Nobili, Santa Margherita Ligure; 011-39-0185-286-121. “Hotel Terminus is a small hotel high above Santa Margherita Ligure on the Italian Riviera. Owner Angelo Calo has a hands-on policy that gives the place a charming family flavor. Raised in London, Angelo is especially helpful to visitors who speak English only. I rate the Terminus a three-star hotel, Santa Margherita Ligure a four-star city and Angelo a five-star host.” Doubles $80 with buffet breakfast.

Richard Bucaro

Santa Monica

*

Scotland: Bonny hotel

Lodge Hotel, 6 Hampton Terrace, West Coates, Edinburgh EH12 5JD; 011-44-131-337-3682, www.centraledinburgh.com. “Charming small hotel on one of the main routes into Edinburgh. Fresh flowers, candy, cookies and sherry welcome guests. Large, delicious breakfasts. Helpful, knowledgeable hosts.” Doubles from $59.

Marilyn Waters

Torrance