Readers recommend

Italy: Rome charmer

Hotel Julia, 29 Via Rasella, 00187 Rome; 011-39-06-488- 1637, fax 011-39-06-481-7044, www.hoteljulia.it. “Charming hotel in the center of Rome, close to the Trevi Fountain. Considerate and helpful multilingual staff. My single room -- about $40 per night -- had a sink and toilet in the room and a shared shower on the same floor.” Doubles with private bath and shower start at about $108.

Helen Kanelas, Newport Beach

*

Mexico: Casual casa

Casa Colonial, Apdo. 640, Oaxaca 68000, Oaxaca; (800) 758-1697 or 011-52-951-516-5280, www.mexonline.com/colonial.htm. “Charming house, tropical garden, helpful and pleasant staff. Owned by an enthusiastic North American couple who know where the best folk artisans and artists live. Comfortable, spacious rooms with private bath.” Doubles from $95 including breakfast.

Betty J. Norton, Los Angeles

*

Turkey: Istanbul guide

Bes Simsek, 9 Kisim B15 D/54 Atakoy, 34750 Istanbul; 011-90- 532-212-7181 or 011-90-212-560- 3687, fax 011-90-212-559-8418, e-mail bessimsek@hotmail.com. “Exceptional, caring guide for historic and new Istanbul. Our group was impressed by his breadth of knowledge, communication skills and sense of humor. Flexible hours, comfortable vehicle. Entrance fees, lunches included.” Fee: $85 per person, per day.

Judy Gilmer, Yorba Linda

*

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. Please include your name, address and phone number, and also the address, phone number and Internet site of the place or person you are recommending.