Readers Recommend

Europe: Graham Baxter Sporting Tours, 21 Manor Gardens, Pool-in-Wharfedale, Near Otley, West Yorkshire LS21 1NB, England; 011-44-

1-132-843-617, www.sportingtours.co.uk. “Fabulous bicycle tours offered throughout Europe. We were on the Mont Ventoux-to-Paris segment of the 2002 Tour de France. Knowledgeable guides and coach driver helped us avoid problems and monstrous traffic. Ten-night trip with accommodations, including two meals a day and transportation from England, was about $1,200 per person.”

--Alexandria Fabbro and

Dave Thompson,

Mammoth Lakes

*

France: Normandy Safaris, 57 Raley Road, Locks Heath, Southampton S031 6PB, England; 011-44-1-489-

576-081, www.normandysafaris.co.uk. “Delightful, knowledgeable British tour guide Martin Reeve met us at the Caen, France, station and spent nearly five days showing us historical and cultural sites, many with World War II connections. About $1,400 for both of us, including accommodations at a lovely bed-and-breakfast and many meals.”

--Richard and Kathleen

Mabies, Claremont

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New Mexico: Casitas de Taos, Dharma Resorts, 125 La Posta Road, Taos, NM 87571; (800) 828-8267, www.taosbest.com. “Newly renovated historic guest homes in Taos have wonderful artisan furniture and decor, private and peaceful gardens and a wealth of amenities. We were able to walk to galleries, restaurants and shops yet enjoy the feeling of being in a luxurious retreat setting.” Homes accommodate two to eight; prices start at $2,200 per week.

--Michelle Farber,

Los Angeles