Readers Recommend

California: Inn at Venice Beach, 327 Washington Blvd., Marina del Rey 90291; (310) 821-2557, www.innatvenicebeach.com. “Small, charming hotel a few blocks from the beach. Continental breakfast. Rooms have refrigerators.” Doubles from $99 in winter, $169 in summer.

--Sue Roth, Irvine

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France: Dijon Rent-a-Home, 2130 Vandenesse, Auxois; 011-33-380-492-714, www.Dijon-rentahome.com. “Well-appointed two-bedroom apartment in central Dijon. Within walking distance of train station, shops, restaurants. Dishwasher, washer/dryer, refrigerator. Owner Beatrice Renau speaks English, met us at the train station and was very helpful.” Rates: from $600 per week.

--Don and Alma Swiers, Carmel

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Mongolia: Tsagaan alt Wool Craft Centre, P.O. Box 707, Ulaanbaatar-13; 011-976-11- 318-591, e-mail bdp@magic net.mn. “Fabulous wool clothes, scarves, Christmas ornaments. This co-op supports local craftswomen. Amazing prices. Near the Mongolian state department store.” Prices: angora scarf, $20; camel or yak wool coat, $36. Open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday.

--Francie Hansen, Newport Beach