Home Depot has a some great porcelain 12x24" tiles for under $2 per sq. ft.

I would suggestion latex modified in most cases, especially with porcelain ...

The trimming is lousy, wall boards bounce, large gaps...detail is horrible.In NYC i could get a total gut job and have installed: Proper sheetrock & durock wall backing, a new shower body with single lever handle & spout, porcelain floor tiles throughout, porcelain wall tiles surrounding the tub to ceiling height, tub, sink, new vanity, baseboard, prime and paint and 2 light fixtures for 10-13K. 

I don't have a problem spending a bit extra on nice porcelain tiles and stylish looking finishes if I know it means I will attract more of a 'higher classed' tenant, and giving me a higher rental return.My renovation will take a month and I plan on:-Gutting out the flat, removing the carpets and parquet flooring Knocking down the wall between the kitchen and the lounge Installing new kitchen cabinets with a stunning island, AND A BUTLER SINK!

I'd be tempted to pour a ~4" flat slab with plumbing run before pouring and then do a dry mix mud pan just like a shower over it and do some small porcelain tiles. 

So maybe a light gray stone/travertine porcelain.

I would buy porcelain instead of ceramic.

I honestly think that was just a freak accident- maybe a flaw in the porcelain. 

It is a high-end shabby chic feeling with L'Occitane toiletries, Limoges china (from a great-aunt), nice linens, a Nespresso machine, etc.

We need to update our bathrooms and we are wondering if porcelain tile would be a better choice of material than a fiberglass bath and shower enclosure.