This is a wonderful modern art gallery in the heart of Palma, in a beautiful mansion with sweeping staircases and chandeliers. The display spaces are clean, neutral modern products of a sensitive renovation. There are impressive temporary 'big name' exhibitions (Picasso etchings when I was there), and the permanent collection boasts some Dali, Miro, etc. But the real treat is the extraordinary array of Spanish modern art, from artists that few of us Brits have heard of. We loved Eusebio Sempere, Antonio Lopez Garcia, Miquel Barcelo, and the comical surrealism of Equipo Cronica, such as their wicked update of Velasquez's painting Las Meninas, also beloved by Picasso. It's a hidden delight.

Sant Miquel, 11 07002 Palma de Mallorca
+ 34 971 71 35 15
www.march.es/arte/ingles/palma/
Google map: bit.ly/ggNUuf

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This is a small hotel in a renovated wooden mansion of traditional Turkish design. We always make a beeline for it, whenever in Istanbul. It is an oasis of calm, just a few yards from the bustle of the blue mosque and the Hagia Sofia, and only a short walk from the Topkapi palace. There is a delightful garden, where drinks and snack meals are on offer, or there is a proper restaurant overlooking the garden. We recently (Nov '09) had a snack lunch of borek and beer, which was OK, and worth it for the sit down in such lovely surroundings. However, that was off season. In the summer there is a more imaginative lunch menu al fresco, and this peaceful lost world can't be recommended too highly if you are doing the sights. Sitting in the sun by the fountain eating plump Turkish Napoleon cherries is a treasured memory. Service is very proper, and prices are moderate. This is not a trendy boutique hotel - the rooms are all brass beds and antiques, but stylish and comfortable in a chinzy sort of way (with aircon). A double with breakfast is €250 in high season. And there's a Turkish bath!

Address: Kabasakal 5, Sultanahmet, 34400 Istanbul
Phone: +90-21-2517-6785
Website: www.istanbulyesilev.com

Google map: tinyurl.com/ydcurqa

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