Mahabaleshwar is a good place to be in during summer and immediately after monsoon. Personally I prefer Panchgani which is 30-min drive from M’war bec it is more peaceful and less congested..even the hotels are reasonably priced. u get excellent ’parataha’ near the Panchgani bus stand. During monsoon, M’war becomes foggy and inaccessible but Panchgani is clear and stayable . we stayed at Hotel Aishwarya at Panchgani. one can hire out a taxi for a day.. it very romantic during monsoon. MTDC hotels are expensive and dirty, food is horrible best to avoid. Papaya and strawberries are available in plenty and cheap. u can trek down to Pratapgad