Mexico: restored Colonial beauty

“WE extended our stay at this beautifully restored Colonial mansion, which had a garden patio and a gourmet cook to take care of breakfast. Our room included a king-size bed and a loft with a second king, a completely furnished kitchen and a bathroom with tub and shower. The location is just steps away from the historic Plaza Don Vasco de Quiroga in the heart of Patzcuaro and also convenient to areas surrounding the town.”

Double rooms from $90 (includes breakfast). La Casa Encantada B&B;, 15 Dr. Coss, Patzcuaro, Michoacan; (619) 819-

8398, www.lacasaencantada.com.

ROSA SHINER

Pasadena

Italy: Tuscan castle country

“FAR from the maddening crowd of Venice or Rome, the centuries-old, medieval castle-enclosed city of Montisi overlooks the fields and vineyards of Tuscany. The English-speaking owner of this small, reasonably priced hotel just opened a restaurant 100 cobblestones away.”

Double rooms from $73. La Locanda di Montisi, Via Umberto I, 39, Localita Montisi, San Giovanni D’Asso; 011-39-0577-845-906, www.lalocandadimontisi.it.

PATTI GARRITY

Manhattan Beach

Send recommendations to Readers Recommend / Travel, L.A. Times, 202 W. 1st St., Los Angeles, CA 90012; fax (213) 237-7355; e-mail travel @latimes.com.