Around The Travel Websites - February 2009

The 2009 Travelers’ Choice Awards were recently released by Trip Advisor.
Survey results include the best bargains, the best for families, and the best services. Results are listed overall then separated by geographic areas. Sorry to say that South Florida wasn’t very well represented. In all the categories, the only one that a South Florida property appeared in was the “Top Best Bargains – U.S.” Cocobelle Resort in Fort Lauderdale was listed as number nine out of the ten selections. From Vero Beach, South Beach Place made the list of “Top 100 Best Bargains” (worldwide/overall) placing at number 57. (As expected, a few hotels from Orlando were listed in the “Best for Families” categories.)

In the Trip Watch section for Fort Lauderdale/Broward County of Trip Advisor, a number of various properties have been reviewed lately – with both positives and negatives. The last few weeks we’ve seen: The Fort Lauderdale Grande, La Quinta Inn, Gallery One, Inverarry Hotel, Hyatt Pier 66, the Hampton Inn Cypress Creek, the Rodeway Inn, et al. If you haven’t checked out this portion of their website you might want to do so to see what their customers (and yours) are saying.

Concierge.com (from Conde Nast Traveler) followed the Valentine’s theme and talked this month about romantic getaways, as well as easy weekend winter getaways. Nice to see Florida listed number one – specifically Islamorada -- as one of the eight getaways. And it’s still staying with the theme as in the last few months of short, easy to get to places either by car or a quick plane flight.

The Fodors “Show Us Your Florida” Photo Contest has recently ended. The winner should be announced the first week of March, but you can see entries on their site now. Fodors introduced a new column this month called the “No Nonsense Traveler”. The author is focusing on being frugal by making the right choices, being selective, seizing opportunities, and getting the most value for his dollar. Seems like a good addition to their lineup and a perfect match for their readers. One of his first “articles” talked about choosing a hotel – knowing your price points and what’s important to you will help you make your selection regardless of the ratings (that is, stars) that the property may have. Another article told consumers how to deal with setbacks using effective complaining.

In Fodors “Hot List” mid-month, they featured the Canyon Ranch Resort in Miami Beach. As you know, they always give the pros and cons of their listings…interesting reading. I also liked their article on trips with Grandparents. Have you explored this niche market yet? Another trend in the making…

By now, you know which sites I follow to see what consumers are reading. Which ones do you like South Florida?