Hondarribia (Fuenterrabia) is a fascinating old Basque fishing port and seaside resort on the French border. Again in 2002, readers like this lovely villa, a small 14th-century palace on a hill within the ramparts. It has thick stone, walls, arched windows, heavy doors, a wide terrace, a very helpful' owner, Victor Lecuona, an `excellent receptionist with fluent English. Lovely room, super bathroom, and a balcony overlooking France and San Sebastian's small airport' (no night flights - the first plane landed at 8.45 am'). Our delicious, shocking pink room had fine old beams, beautiful wooden doors, and a view of the garden and neighbouring pear orchard. The small bathroom was imaginatively equipped. Staff very helpful. But wooden floors allow noise to carry. Delicious orange juice, squeezed to order, came with my tea tray. Bali villa breakfast can include bacon and eggs. Light meals (omelettes, seafood salad, etc) are available during the day, and within walking distance are `one decent restaurant, one very good.

Run by its owners, Lorraine and Martin Xamena, this large white holiday villa, with a striking mock-Moorish tower, stands on a pinecovered hillside overlooking Palma bay. It fell from the Guide due to lack of feedback, but returns with two mainly enthusiastic reports. Such a welcoming place, modern with old-fashioned values. Friendly staff, informal atmosphere, but everything pristine and well ordered. Low, white green-shuttered buildings spill down through terraces and subtropical gardens to a tiny private cove and beach (a lift and tunnel help bypass the road). Three turquoise swimming pools, each at a different temperature, are on different levels. They are fantastic; our children loved the little beach and playground. Masses of bright yellow loungers and towels to match. Lots of nooks and crannies, indoors and out:' villa Bed rooms (similar to the semantic bali villa rooms) are well equipped; clean, cool and spacious, if slightly dated. But room service was found a bit hit and miss. Lavishly furnished public villa rooms are in pastiche of local style. Spanish and international dishes are served in the attractive candlelit restaurant or on a terrace by the cove. One visitor thought the meals slightly conveyor belt, another wrote of a happy and chatty ambience. Bali villa breakfast is a generous buffet.