Book Description

Eclectic, personal selectionHand-picked and meticulously inspected properties in Britain, Ireland, France, Paris, Italy, Spain and Portugal. English stately homes, French chateaux, Irish lighthouses, Spanish monasteries, Portuguese forts, hunting and fishing lodges, farmhouses, townhouses, vineyards and cottages. Each one chosen because the Sawday team likes it.Sawday styleSeductive, lively, fresh, humorous and, above all, engagingly honest. Fun to read -- even if you're stuck at home! said The New York Times. Charm, character, beautiful architecture, good conversation, delicious food, and hosts who actually like having guests are in. False smiles, poor value, stuffy staff, faceless chain hotels and pretentious over-priced places are out.Expensive? No!Hundreds of incredible special places are under $30 a head! Sawday readers all over the world are amazed to find that the best vacations need not cost a fortune.Simply differentAlastair Sawday Publishing retains complete editorial control, and each entry has full-color photographs, regional maps, and precise directions. Quirky, specially designed symbols indicate English-speaking hosts, non-smoking properties, organic produce, disabled access, and whether owners welcome children and household pets. There are even guidelines on language (including useful phrases), social customs, and holidays.Find Island bolt-holes, Georgian shooting lodges, restaurants with rooms and castles. This eclectic selection is a triumphal testimony to those who have held out against the predatory hordes of international hotel companies, chains and conglomerates. Over 100 places under 50 a head. Incredible value, extraordinary people.