Just Wondering

Posting a query is also part of research.

I agree with Marian that posting a query is part of travel research. My sense is that those who travel more extensively seek opportunities to appreciate wherever they are more in depth than the 'superficial' traveler and, consequently, are able to suggest activities or restaurants that might be missed in traditional travel guidebooks and websites or even travel guides.

Seasoned travellers usually want to learn about places *not* recommended in the guide books. And this is a good group here to ask.

ITN travellers get beyond the guidebooks so they are a great resource to query about those extras beyond the obvious. Plus guidebooks cater to only some means of travel - groups, car and train. As new cruise travellers, we find guidebooks almost totally lacking in cruise port information and how to link up between ports and other transportation systems for independent travel.

Rick Steves has tackled this issue but even he can only touch a few of the many ports around the world that can use this extra travel information connection. Me, I like to find some of the more highly regarded local dining spots and avoid those mentioned in guidebooks - thus the need to "research" well beyond the obvious recommendations too.

The answers to these questions (particularly queries on what to see) can also inspire other readers to consider a trip to someplace they had not yet thought about.