Gli Sfizietti di Zia Tonia in Alberobello, Italy: Reader recommendation

Hilo is quiet and green and close to the volcanoes. A great place to stay is a house called the Zen Hideaway, at www.vrbo.com. It can sleep as many as six and is beautifully furnished. It"s in the country and quiet, but you can walk to downtown Hilo.

Zen Hideaway, (877) 849-8986, www.vrbo.com/213980. One to four guests, $179 a night (with a five-night minimum). $1,250 a week. $195 a night for a four-night stay.