Announcing The New TripAdvisor Blog

We’re excited to announce the new TripAdvisor blog, where we’ll be bringing you even more of the great travel news, tips, and lists with a new, revamped look.  Be sure to follow us at http://blog.tripadvisor.com and subscribe to our feed here. Thanks and happy travels!

2013 Travelers’ Choice Awards: The Most Romantic Hotels in the World

La Minerva, Capri, italy – Photo by traveler princess_incognita

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, so TripAdvisor shared the love today and announced the worldwide winners of its 2013 Travelers’ Choice Awards for the Most Romantic Hotels. The awards are based on millions of reviews from travelers around the world, including feedback from couples who have stayed at these hotels and given them the highest romantic stamp of approval.

So need some inspiration for your next romantic getaway? Look no further…

Top 10 Romantic Hotels in the US:

1. Bardessono, Yountville, California
2. Koa Kea Hotel & Resort, Poipu, Hawaii
3. Inn of the Five Graces, Santa Fe, New Mexico
4. Post Ranch Inn, Big Sur, California
5. Honor Mansion, A Wine Country Resort, Healdsburg, California
6. Ocean Lodge, Saint Simons Island, Georgia
7. Casa Laguna Inn & Spa, Laguna Beach, California
8. Mountain Home Lodge, Leavenworth, Washington
9. Tickle Pink Inn, Carmel, California
10. Henderson Park Inn, Destin, Florida

Top 10 Romantic Hotels in the World:

1. Anastasis Apartments, Imerovigli, Greece
2. La Minerva, Capri, Italy
3. Cranleigh Boutique, Bowness-on-Windermere, United Kingdom
4. Cedar Manor Hotel and Restaurant, Windermere, United Kingdom
5. Baros Maldives, North Male Atoll, Maldives
6. Casa del Mar, Langkawi, Pantai Cenang, Malaysia
7. Bardessono, Yountville, California
8. Al Maha Desert Resort, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
9. Layana Resort and Spa, Ko Lanta, Thailand
10. Veligandu Island Resort, North Ari Atoll, Maldives

See the complete list of winners around the world here.

Grand Central Terminal: 100 years and Thousands of Glowing Reviews

TripAdvisor may not have existed in February of 1913 when New York’s famed Grand Central Terminal first opened its doors to the public, but we were curious what today’s reviews may have sounded like in another era. So we rounded up a few recent reviews with traveler photos and imagined how they may have appeared 100 (or so) years ago today.  Check out these turn-of-the-century remarks that we think would have given it the impressive 4.5/5 rating it has from travelers today…

“A wonderful place to visit, great photo opportunities and you are only minutes away from any area of NYC.”

Might have sounded like…

“A delightfully wonderful place to visit indeed! If you have a horse-drawn carriage or are lucky enough to own an automobile…”

“I was lucky, As soon as I stepped out, we were treated with the motorcade of President Obama passing by. Perhaps you will get lucky too.”

Could have been…

“What a humdinger! As soon as I stepped out to take a gander, our eyes glimpsed newly elected President Wilson’s motor procession. We were tickled pink when he stopped and shook our hands.”

“We had to visit this famous terminal. It was a little too dark for me to take any photos, but my son-in-law is a pro and got good footage in spite of the low lighting.”

May have been more like…

“We’d have been crazy as a bed bug not to visit this new terminal. It was too dark for me to take a tintype, but my son-in-law is a professional and took a remarkable dry plate photograph in just under a minute in spite of the low lighting.”

Now it’s your turn. Comment and tell us what you think any of these review snippets may have sounded like when Grand Central Terminal opened on February 1, 1913:

“If you ever want to experience the ultimate train station in the US, this is the place.”

“There’s a ‘buzz’ in NY. People rushing, eating, shopping. Everything happening in this beautiful bustling train terminal. Look up, see the stars. That’s how you feel in GC Station!”

“I never thought a train station could be impressive, but Grand Central took my breath away. And that magical ceiling is like looking at a fantasy night sky!”

“What a place – a veritable City within a City! You can eat, drink, buy goods, get a shoe shine, haircut – you name it, you can do it in Grand Central. A definite iconic site to visit.”

NFL-Owned Bars and Restaurants for Super Bowl XLVII

Mike Ditka’s Restaurant – Chicago, IL

To celebrate Super Bowl XLVII on February 3, TripAdvisor editors have listed 10 restaurants and bars owned and named after NFL players where fans can take in the game.  From the Louisiana bayou where the championship game will be held, to the sidewalks of New York City, these well rated establishments, based on feedback from TripAdvisor travelers, are sure to promise festive fun as the San Francisco 49ers and Baltimore Ravens tackle it out for the trophy.

 

Elway’s Downtown – Denver, CO; Average Rating on TripAdvisor: 4.5/5

Fine dining meets football at this steakhouse owned by the former Denver Bronco, John Elway. Guests can cheer on their chosen team from one of the TVs surrounding the bar while indulging in tuna tataki, savory chicken wings, and other delectable delights. “Love the bar, the sliders were outstanding, the chicken fried steak bites were even better,” commented a TripAdvisor traveler.

Shorts Burger & Shine – Iowa City, IA; Average Rating on TripAdvisor: 4.5/5

Co-owned by NFL kicker Nate Kaeding, this burger bar keeps the focus on the field as it sources beef and produce from local farms. Football enthusiasts can choose from over 30 burger combinations and sip on the “Iowa Beer of the Month” as they watch the teams compete to take home the trophy. “The perfect place to go to watch a sporting event or experience Iowa City culture,” commented a TripAdvisor traveler.

 

Joe Theismann’s Restaurant – Alexandria, VA; Average Rating on TripAdvisor: 4/5

For $20, hungry football fanatics can whet their appetite with an all-you-can-eat game day buffet, or indulge in one of the savory specials. Flat-screen TVs surrounding the bar at this restaurant owned by the former NFL pro, coupled with a sudsy beer, will make for an enjoyable way to watch the big game. “Good sports bar atmosphere and beers,” commented a TripAdvisor traveler.

Mike Ditka’s Restaurant – Chicago, IL – Average Rating on TripAdvisor: 4/5

Located in the Tremont Hotel, this Windy City establishment owned by the former NFL player and coach, serves up tasty game day goodies including pot roast nachos, filet mignon sliders, and New Zealand lamb chops along with an extensive wine list and a wide selection of beer. A TripAdvisor traveler said, “The walls are adorned with photos and memorabilia for all the football fans. This restaurant is well worth the stop if you can make it.”

Eddie George’s Grille 27 – Columbus, OH; Average Rating on TripAdvisor: 4/5

Named after former Oilers’/Titans’ halfback Eddie George, this “Buckeye City” sports bar is sure to offer exciting game day fun. NFL fans won’t miss a play as high-definition TVs surround the bar which serves a variety of pale ale, lager, stout, pilsner and more. “The atmosphere is amazing; lots of fun people, the food is fresh and delicious,” said a TripAdvisor traveler.

 

Jerome Bettis’ Grille 36 – Pittsburgh, PA; Average Rating on TripAdvisor: 4/5

Over 50 high-definition TVs and a collection of autographed football memorabilia will provide a festive game day experience at thisrestaurant named after the former Rams and Steelers player nicknamed, “The Bus”. A TripAdvisor traveler commented, “We really enjoy Bettis’, from the great setting between the stadium and the river to the numerous TVs playing different games.”

Vince Young Steakhouse – Austin, TX; Average Rating on TripAdvisor: 4/5

Succulent steaks score big at this lively Austin restaurant where guests will find a variety of premium cuts from aged USDA filet mignon, to The Perfect Ten signature steak, which honors Young’s Texas Longhorns jersey number.  A TripAdvisor traveler noted, “The service is superb and the steaks are out of this world. I feel like the staff bends over backwards to make sure you are enjoying yourself.”

Manning’s Restaurant – New Orleans, LA; Average Rating on TripAdvisor: 3.5/5

In the middle of the Big Easy’s Warehouse District, this Louisiana eatery owned by Archie Manning, features more than 30 flat-screen TVs, a sports anchor desk, authentic memorabilia and a mouthwatering menu that offers traditional comfort foods paired with Creole twists. One TripAdvisor traveler noted, “The TVs are awesome, especially the huge one with stadium seating. The food is delicious!”

Brett Favre’s Steakhouse – Green Bay, WI; Average Rating on TripAdvisor: 3.5/5

Located two blocks from Lambeau Field in Green Bay, football fans can enjoy the play-by-play action in the bar area at this premier steakhouse owned by Brett Favre. On the menu are juicy steaks, a selection of fresh seafood including Maryland crab cakes, and even Favre’s favorite, jambalaya. “We went for the experience the day before the big game. Great memorabilia and great service,” a TripAdvisor traveler commented.

Brother Jimmy’s – Second Ave. – New York, NY; Average Rating on TripAdvisor 3.5/5

Situated in the middle of Manhattan, guests can appease their appetite with slow-smoked barbeque while watching the pigskin get tossed on one of the flat-screen TVs located throughout the southern style eatery owned by NFL players Jonathan Vilma, Jon Beason, and D.J. Williams. A TripAdvisor traveler commented, “Great atmosphere to watch the game and catch up with old friends.”

SeatGuru Launches New Site Design and Introduces Guru Factor Recommendation Feature

The new SeatGuru site.

SeatGuru today unveiled a completely revamped site, designed to best help travelers find not only the lowest fares, but the best seats and flights. Flyers will find new and improved seat maps, an intuitive layout, and even photos and comments on individual seats submitted by other travelers. Plus, it has introduced a new tool called Guru Factor which offers flight recommendations based on seat comfort and onboard amenities like WiFi and in-flight entertainment, giving each flight options a recommendation of “Love it,” “Like it,” or “Live with it.” So now travelers have all of tools needed to plan and have the best flight experience possible.

For more information, check out the new site here and keep on the lookout for a mobile app refresh in the coming weeks.

We’re Giving Away a Romantic Escape to Jamaica

Couples Tower Isle – Ocho Rios, Jamaica

Ready to escape the cold? We’ve teamed up with Couples Resorts to give away a romantic getaway to Jamaica. On February 19, we’ll draw one winner (U.S. residents only) who will receive a luxury trip for two that includes flights (up to a $1,000 value) and a 5-night, all-inclusive stay at Couples Tower Isle in Ocho Rios. TripAdvisor travelers love this resort as shown by its 4.5/5 rating, with one recent reviewer noting that “It was a great getaway filled with relaxation, tanning, sailing, snorkeling, dining, private dining, and beautiful beaches with clear water. I highly recommend going to this resort as my boyfriend and I will definitely be back for another trip.” And Ocho Rios is a 2012 Travelers’ Choice award winner as one of the best destinations in the Caribbean. So head over to our Facebook page, “like” us and enter for your chance to win.

Enter here:
http://bit.ly/10nstNz

Winners announced in the 2013 Travelers’ Choice Hotel Awards

2013 Travelers’ Choice Award Winner: Anastasis Apartments – Imerovigli, Greece

It’s not just awards season in Hollywood. TripAdvisor today announced the winners of its 11th annual Travelers’ Choice awards for hotels. And this year is its biggest ever, honoring over 6,000 of the world’s most outstanding stays in the categories of Top Hotels, Luxury, Bargain, Service, Small Hotels, and B&Bs and Inns.

Often called “The Oscars of hotels,” the Travelers’ Choice Awards is based on millions of reviews and opinions from travelers around the world and features top choices for any budget in 82 countries and 9 regions. A full 75% of the winners have an average nightly rate of $200 or less.

A sampling of 2013 winners:
Top Hotel in the US and World, and Top Luxury Hotel in the US and World – Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka’upulehu, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Best Bargain Hotel in the US and World – SeaCoast Inn, Hyannis, Massachusetts

Best Hotel for Service in the US – Hotel California, Palm Springs, California

Best Hotel for Service in the World – Lauriston Court Hotel, Llandudno, United Kingdom

Top Small Hotel in the US – Inn of the Five Graces, Santa Fe, New Mexico

Top Small Hotel in the World – Anastasis Apartments, Imerovigli, Greece

Best B&B and Inn in the US – Point Clear Cottages, Fairhope, Alabama

Best B&B and Inn in the World – Casa Portagioia, Castiglion Fiorentino, Italy

Click here for the full list of winners.

Top 10 Hotel Spas in America

It’s a new year and with it comes the opportunity for some much-needed rejuvenation. These 10 U.S. hotel spas get the highest marks from TripAdvisor travelers – 30% of whom plan to take a trip dedicated recharging their batteries in the beginning 2013, according to a recent wellness travel survey. And of the 1,100 respondents, almost half will stay in a hotel.

With that, check out the hotel spas that made the list:
1.  Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California
2.  Ritz-Carlton Orlando Grande Lakes, Orlando, Florida
3.  Canyon Ranch Hotel & Spa Miami Beach, Miami Beach, Florida
4.  Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village, Westlake Village, California
5.  Four Seasons Hotel Denver, Denver, Colorado
6.  Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas, Las Vegas, Nevada
7.  Travaasa Austin, Austin, Texas
8.  Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka’upulehu, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
9.  Ojai Valley Inn and Spa, Ojai, California
10. Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago, Chicago, Illinois

Tokyo Gets High Marks in World Cities Travel Survey

The results of the TripAdvisor Cities Survey were announced today, taking a look at how travelers and locals alike view 40 popular tourist cities around the world. After the 75,000+ responses were tallied from travelers who have recently written a TripAdvisor review, Tokyo came in with the most accolades, ranking number one for best taxi services, friendliest taxi drivers, best public transportation, cleanest streets, and safety. New York was rated highest for shopping, but fell way behind when it came to cleanliness and value. The city ranked highest for value? Lisbon, Portugal.

Here’s how more of the cities ranked:

Category	First Place	Second Place	Third Place
Friendliest locals	Cancun	Tokyo	Lisbon
Friendliest taxi drivers	Tokyo	Cancun	Singapore
Best taxi services	Tokyo	Singapore	Dubai
Cleanest streets	Tokyo	Singapore	Zurich
Ease of getting around	Zurich	Vienna	Singapore
Best public transport	Tokyo	Zurich	Munich
Best value for money	Lisbon	Budapest	Bangkok
Best for shopping	New York City	Bangkok	Dubai
Safest city	Tokyo	Singapore	Dubrovnik

Category	Last	Second last	Third Last
Friendliest locals	Moscow	London	Hong Kong
Friendliest taxi drivers	Moscow	Beijing	Brussels
Best taxi services	Moscow	Beijing	Kuala Lumpur

For more information on the survey and rankings, click here.

Nearly Half of Americans Will Hit The Road for The December Holidays

Going somewhere? TripAdvisor announced the results of its December holiday travel survey. Of more than 1,300 U.S. respondents, 45% percent are planning to travel for the December holidays, up from 42% last year.

Of those taking trips, 63% will travel for Christmas, 31% for will do so for New Year’s and 4% for Hanukkah. And family seems to be the theme, accounting for 61% of those traveling, while 23% will visit friends.  And although driving is still the number one mode of transportation (48%), fewer travelers plan to be on the road than in 2011, which will probably mean some long lines at the airport as 46% plan to fly.

For the full results of the survey, including spending and lodging statistics, click here.