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Breton Shirt, Marinière Shirt, French Striped Shirt, Coco Chanel, French Fashion, Brittany, Normandy, Nautical Clothing by Carol Dammel April 30, 2024 Recently while watching an episode of a French Language murder mystery, “ The Mountain Detective ” I was struck for at least the 100th time just how timeless, ubiquitous, tried-and-true and well made the classic French shirt, la Marinière or the Breton is. So I decided it was time to read up on its history a bit and share my findings with you. A classic French Marinière is a cotton long-sleeved shirt with horizontal blue and white stripes. Traditionally worn by sailors in the French Navy and also known as a Breton shirt it is also become a staple in civilian French Fashion. The eponymous striped garment is often part of the stereotypical image of a French person. But the French do indeed proudly wear this classic garment so at least this stereotype is apt. The Breton or Marinière  has come a long way from its humble origins as a garment worn by fishermen and sailors in northern France. Why fisherman and sailors have long had a penance for stripes is a subject for another blog. But one of my favorite explanations is that it made sailors stand out while on shore thus making them more noticeable to prospective paramours or as a signal to "not mess with me". Whatever it's origins the oceanic stripes live on strong today. Indeed, the striped top continues to be worn by French sailors and has sailed into the closets of chic women and men around the world. Eyeroll, hey the un chic love them as well. Having grown up with a mother who was an outstanding seamstress I learned that a mark of quality in striped (or plaid for that matter) clothing is that the lines match up. In other words, the stripes on the sleeves or pockets line up with the stripes on the shirt. I guess this is one of the reasons the French made versions often catch my eye - because they are ever present and often so well made. Wearing stripes always make me a little nervous but they still intrigue me. The Marinière made its first appearance in the 18th century on the backs of fishermen in Brittany and Normandy. In 1858 it became the official uniform of the French Navy’s seamen. The sailor stripe pattern is made up of precisely 21 white and 20 (or sometimes 21 if the sailor is tall) blue stripes The 21 stripes represent the victories of Napoleon Bonaparte against the British, so it is said. Legend says sailors wore this garment to be easily spotted if they fell overboard. I doubt that's very scientific. Blue is hardly a good color for being spotted in the water. I think its origins are likely more complicated than that. Perhaps a sailors mother had blue and white yarn and knitted a stripey sweater for her loved one and the look caught on. It could have happened this way. The shirt was also appreciated for its ability to regulate body temperature and dry quickly. This striped garment came to symbolize the strength and discipline of French naval troops. A proper cotton (the most common) or tightly knit wool marinière must be made in France. Many are designed in France but not made in France, primarily for cost reasons. Today, there are only four main manufacturers producing in France, Saint James  (1889), Armor-Lux , (1947),  Orcival  (1939) and  Le Minor   (1922). If you are unsure whether a Breton Shirt is made in France or not, the price and the quality are usually two good indicators. Of course buying it from one of these purveyors is also a safe bet. Today we have a young Coco Chanel to thank for democratizing the sailor shirt. Before Ms. Chanel arrived on the scene,  the sailor top was a uniform item worn exclusively by French sailors. However, in 1913, during a stay on the Normandy coast, Chanel was inspired by the outfits of local seafarers and decided to introduce this motif into her collection. Her garments quickly met with great success and became a must-have in women's wardrobes, thus allowing the pattern to free itself from its completely male military and fishing origins.  By offering the sailor top to her female clientele and comfortably wearing it herself, Chanel helped break down barriers between the sexes in clothing. She offered women a comfortable and elegant alternative to corsets and other restrictive clothing which were the norm at the time. Today, the sailor top is considered a symbol of elegance and relaxation. Horizontal stripes add a touch of originality to an outfit while maintaining a classic and timeless look. By the end of World War II, this garment (or variations) became associated with the seaside culture of Brittany and was the "de rigueur" uniform of artists and intellectuals in smoky Left Bank Parsian cafés and beyond. In the decades since, the Marinière  has become a timeless classic, photographed on countless celebrities including figures like Pablo Picasso, Kate Middleton and Audrey Hepburn. Furthermore it is continually reinterpreted by contemporary fashion designers.  Today, the Marinière transcends its maritime origins to embody French elegance and panache. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its versatility and timelessness, making it a wardrobe staple for individuals of all ages and backgrounds across the globe. Fashionable Parisian women often wear theirs with jeans, dressing it up with a simple black blazer or a trench coat for an easy work wear outfit, or pairing it with a black-leather biker jacket as a casual weekend look. It can even turn into evening wear in a pinch. Whether it’s for day or evening, an investment piece or a cheap chain store version, in France, one unbreakable rule prevails. According to the fashion police the marinière must NEVER be worn with any other marine-themed accessories. Super cute dogs are totally ok though! So don't be afraid to embrace the stripe no matter your background and revel in the fact that you are wearing a great and classic piece of clothing. This shirt endures for a reason!

Roman Ruins, River Cruise, Van Gogh, French Culture, South of France, Provence, Arles, Nimes, Vivier, Vienne, Avignon, Lyon, Wine, Chocolate, and Lovely Weather by Carol Dammel April 15, 2024 Where - Rhone River, France What - Rhone River Cruise in Provence France, Colors of Provence Itinerary with AMA Waterways Itinerary - Arles (day 1,2) - Avignon (day 2,3) - Viviers (day 4) - Tournon (day 4,5) - Vienne (day 5,6) - Lyon (day 6,7,8) When - June 2023 Why - Fabulous way to visit parts of Southern France Who - People interested in river cruising for the first time. Return cruisers interested in the Rhone River. Van Gogh’s Starry Night is back in Arles, revealing more of its mysteries and a Rhone River cruise is a great way to visit and explore the area. Reach out to us at www.magicplanned.com for help with your river cruise plans. River cruising stands apart from its oceanic counterpart in numerous ways. While both offer unique experiences, European river cruises provide a distinctive journey, emphasizing intimate exploration through charming landscapes and historic locales. The increasing variety of European river cruise options offers travelers a chance to delve into a different kind of cruising experience—one that's distinct from traditional ocean voyages. Cruising via river offers a unique perspective on travel, allowing for intimate exploration of inland waterways and access to charming towns and cities unreachable by ocean liners. The size and long, narrow design of river boats are tailored to navigate the specific challenges of rivers, including shallower waters, winding turns, narrow passages, and low bridges. It's a delightful way to experience the heart of a region, immersing oneself in its culture, history, and landscapes along the way. River cruises are a perfect fit for those who prefer a more intimate and personalized travel experience. With a smaller number of passengers and attentive crew, it creates an environment where you can truly relax and enjoy your journey. The focus on destinations and the availability of local guides for smaller group experiences add to the authenticity of the adventure. Plus, the flexibility to explore independently ensures that you can tailor your experience to your preferences. River cruising is an excellent option for travelers who seek both organization and freedom in their travel adventures. River cruises are a wonderful option for those prone to motion sickness. With the smooth steady flow of the river and the proximity to the shore, the experience is essentially motionless. Plus, the convenience of docking right in the heart of destinations makes exploration effortless. Enjoy the scenery while sailing - always within a few feet of the shore. When you dock, walk right off the boat and stroll right into the heart of your ports-of-call. It 's a great way to enjoy scenic views and explore new places without worrying about feeling queasy. Depending on the river you may be tied up to other ships. However on this Rhone river cruise we never had to walk through other ships to get to shore. River cruises offer a fantastic value proposition when you weigh the cost against the inclusions and the quality of service you receive. The initial price may seem a bit high to some, but when you factor in all that's encompassed—meals, beverages, attentive service, and enriching experiences—it paints a picture of great value. Plus, the convenience of having everything arranged for you makes for a truly relaxing journey. It's like stepping into a world of relaxed luxury where your only concern is deciding which scenic view and lovely meal to enjoy next. Recently, my husband and I embarked on a serene journey along the Rhône River, courtesy of AMAWaterways aboard the AMA Kristina. Drawn to the allure of Southern France, with its captivating blend of ancient history and modern charm, we eagerly opted for the "Colors of Provence" cruise. While I may have been the instigator of our adventure, my husband was more than happy to indulge in a week of relaxation and exploration, sans the usual crazy itinerary planning on my part. Frankly I was happy to get a break from itinerary planning. Once on board, we surrendered to the luxury of unpacking just once and allowing AMA to pamper us throughout our journey. It was a refreshing change of pace to simply immerse ourselves in the sights and sounds of France without the need for elaborate itineraries. As we cruised along the tranquil waters, each stop along the way presented us with new delights to savor and cherish. From the picturesque towns dotting the riverbanks to the enriching excursions offered by AMA, every moment was infused with a sense of wonder and discovery. Our cruise became a seamless blend of relaxation and exploration, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the beauty and culture of Provence and beyond. It was a journey filled with unforgettable memories and moments of pure bliss. We were originally planning a trip through Andalusian Spain when we shifted course and opted to fit a river cruise into our European summer. So we travelled by train from Barcelona, Spain to Arles, France where our river cruise would begin. Taxi and Uber drivers were striking the morning of our departure so we gathered our bags and began the day with a short walk to the Barcelona Metro and then a metro ride to Barcelona, Sants train station where we would catch our train to N î mes, France via Montpellier. Our train from Sants had an air conditioning problem (boo) and a very large tour group, from another US state (who shall remain nameless), with a LOT of luggage and so the trip was a bit tiring. One couple even had 2 humongous 4 body bags. What!? When traveling I have this weird quirk of looking at luggage in terms of how many bodies one could fit inside (keeps me entertained) and let me tell you, 4 bodies is a lot. I've never even seen suitcases that big and they had two in addition to other smaller bags. Full disclosure, I enjoy murder mysteries. Remember when traveling by train you typically bring your own luggage on board with you and there is limited space. You need to be able to get it up stairs etc. on your own, and shouldn't have so much that you are encroaching on other passengers space. We helped the poor man get his luggage up the stairs and took our seats. Train left on time. Which is not unusual. Fortunately the train journey didn't take long. We departed our train in N î mes, France (or Nemausus to the Romans) and left our bags at a baggage drop just across the street from the train station. Just a quick and easy stroll out of the train station will find you enjoying many finely preserved Roman ruins. N î mes, the city N î mes was born of water, water and water. The city was founded during pre-Roman times on the banks of the Fontaine Spring, the site of the cult of the eponymous god Nemausos. When N î mes became a colony, it's population grew from a few thousand to approximately 20,000 between the first centuries B.C. and A.D. The 6 km-long city ramparts, a gift of Augustus in 16-15 B.C., protected nearly 220 hectares of land. The city of Nimes was organized around two monuments: the Fontaine sanctuary, Augusteum , built in honor of the cult emperor, and the Forum, south of which the Square House was built (1-5 A.D.). At the summit of Mount Cavalier, the prestigious Magne Tower dominates the Languedoc Plain. It marks the sanctuary of the Imperial cult to travelers. Several functional constructions followed that of the monuments: the aqueduct (40-60 A.D.) and the 23,000-seat amphitheater (towards 90 A.D.) which established the conditions for the renewal of urban life. After our Roman sightseeing walk we enjoyed a cold drink in a N î mes cafe (we had purchased a mediocre meal on the train) before arranging our transportation to Arles. We "Uber'd" to Arles from N î mes as we didn’t wish to wait, the two hours, for the next train. The 30-40 minute country drive from Nime to Arles was pleasant in the back of a Tesla. After our Uber driver left us in Arles we checked in to our hotel, the very well situated and graciously managed La Maison Volver near the old Porte de la Calverie and within easy walking distance of the dock that our river cruise would depart from (it was also within easy walking distance from the Arles train station had we taken the train as originally planned). I always spend extra time exploring towns, cities and regions pre and post cruise. You’ve traveled far to get there so I always try to make the most of it. Being a travel planner I usually book a variety of accommodations so that I can better serve our traveling clients. La Maison Volver was very well situated for our needs, had lovely hosts and a really nice restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner - a huge bonus, in my book. Hotels like this are my personal travel favorites. Locally owned, well located, gracious, friendly, homey, not fussy, clean and comfortable (and our room was air conditioned). Our room also had a newly renovated bathroom. After arriving and taking a bit of rest we headed out to explore Arles in the evening. Arles often seems to pass under the radar of many peoples European travel itineraries - perhaps due to its somewhat out of the way location? Regardless, it is a fabulous city and an area worthy of a lengthy visit. History, Art, Nature and Southern France. What more do you want. Arles, France The year was 1888; the setting, the south of France. A thirty something painter dipped his paintbrush into a rich palette of colors, reimagining the scenery along the Rhone and out to the Mediterranean Sea. His name was Vincent Van Gogh and it was during a two-year stay in Arles that he created such masterpieces as, The Starry Night and Cafe Terrace at Night before suffering his infamous mental breakdown. Centuries earlier, Arles was annexed by Julias Caesar and became a major center of trade. It’s 20,000 seat amphitheater once used for gladiator competitions, still stands among a plethora of Roman ruins that comprise an enthralling UNESCO world heritage Site, Medieval Arles is also represented through the cities Church of St. Trophime, which sits across from the regal 17th century town hall. A majority of Arles is surrounded by UNESCO designated wetlands known as the Parc Natural de Camargue, where wildlife such as white horses, black bulls and flamingos are protected and revered. Imagine strolling through the quiet winding alleys of Arles' old town as dusk settles, without the aid of a map, the cobblestones beneath your feet whispering tales of centuries past. Suddenly, emerging from a hidden passage, you're greeted by the grandeur of an ancient Roman amphitheater. It's a moment of serendipity, unexpected yet utterly captivating—a reminder of the rich tapestry of history woven into the fabric of this charming town. Built in 90 AD the amphitheater held over 20,000 spectators of chariot races and bloody hand-to-hand battles. Today the remarkably well preserved structure still hosts bull fights and games as well as plays and concerts in the summer. What a stunning beauty! Tomorrow we would be boarding the AMA Kristina for our cruise itinerary, including tours of Arles and the surrounding area. We relaxed knowing that we would be exploring Arles and the surrounding area with the help of AMA during the next couple of days. The next day we boarded the AMA Kristina for our Colors of Provence Itinerary around noon. We sat down in the lounge (where all the entertainment, sip and sails, enrichment activities etc. occur) and chose to enjoy a light bistro lunch offering rather than the full lunch and relaxed onboard our first day . The ship would still be in Arles tomorrow and would be providing tours of the city and surrounding area. One of many things I enjoyed about this itinerary was that the embarkation and disembarkation ports also included tours which is perfect for people who haven't built in extra time to explore those locations on their own or purchased pre and post cruise excursions. Later that day we enjoyed our safety briefing, Sip & Sail (happy hour), dinner and entertainment. We also took advantage of AMA's convenient and affordable laundry service. The next day while the AMA Kristina was docked in Arles we enjoyed 2 different included tours . In the morning I disembarked at 9:30 for a walking tour of Arles. For walking tours you can choose slow, regular, and fast paced. Among my tour highlights were visits to the Arles amphitheater and various sites depicted in Vincent Van Gogh's paintings. Many of his most famous paintings were done in Arles or nearby. It was a pleasant and informative tour. Towards the end of the tour I tipped our guide, explored a bit more on my own, and made my own way back to the ship. The vantage point Van Gogh used for Starry Night Over The Rhône allowed him to capture the reflections of the gas lighting in Arles across the glimmering blue water of the Rhone. My photo showing the same vantage point for this painting demonstrating how little things have changed in nearly 140 years. “…the starry sky at last, actually painted at night, under a gas-lamp.  The sky is green-blue, the water is royal blue, the areas of land are mauve. The town is blue and violet. The gaslight is yellow, and its reflections are red gold and go right down to green bronze. Against the green-blue field of the sky the Great Bear has a green and pink sparkle whose discreet paleness contrasts with the harsh gold of the gaslight. Two small coloured figures of lovers in the foreground.” Letter from Van Gogh to his brother Theo The circumstances surrounding Van Gogh's ear-cutting incident remain a subject of disagreement, though it's widely speculated to have occurred during a heated altercation with Paul Gauguin at the Yellow House, where they briefly resided together. Legend has it that Van Gogh then entrusted his severed ear to a local prostitute before seeking medical attention at an Arles hospital, a scene immortalized in one of his paintings during his stay there. While the Yellow House met its demise during WWII bombings, the building behind it is still standing as are the train track arches over the road (right hand side in the distance). After a delightful lunch onboard the ship I left for an afternoon coach tour to Les Baux by way of some olive oil tasting and past the sanatorium in Remes where Van Gogh eventually committed himself. Following this pleasant and fascinating afternoon we returned to the ship for a rest and our ships departure from Arles. The ship departed late in the afternoon in order to arrive at our next destination, Avignon before dark. We enjoyed a festive happy hour and a delicious dinner while sailing. It was time to relax and ponder the days events. Arriving in Avignon by river, before dark, was truly stunning and exciting. The Kristina's captains also made sure to do a bit of fancy ship maneuvering before docking so that we could really take in the evening view of Avignon from the river. We were able to walk off the ship which docked immediately adjacent to the old city wall that evening for a lovely evening stroll on our own. The following morning we explored Avignon, including the papal palace, on our own, rather than partaking in one of the offered tours. After lunch back on the ship I headed out for a coach tour through the countryside to visit the amazing Pont du Gard . The Pont du Gard is a Roman aqueduct bridge built in the first century C.E. It is EXCEPTIONALLY large and beautiful. The Pont du Gard at nearly 50 meters tall it is the highest Roman aqueduct bridge in the world. It is made up of three tiers of arches one above the other, which was a rare achievement for the time. It is remarkably well preserved and is the only example of a 3 tiered Roman bridge still standing today. During the reigns of Claudius and Nero, the aqueduct of which the Pont du Gard is part supplied the city of Nimes (or Nemausus to the Romans) with large quantities of pressurized water for over five centuries. For you trivia lovers the Pont du Gard is pictured on the five Euro note. Back to the ship for drinks, dinner and departure. I was pretty tired as it was a bit hot while visiting the Pont du Gard (and I didn't bring a swim suit, drat) and so I was happy to get to bed early. After sailing through the night we arrived to a very quiet, peaceful and idyllic Viviers in the morning. Today we chose to explore on our own. We hopped on AMA-provided bikes and peddled along the Rhône and into the very charming, medieval village of Viviers. We both agreed we’d love to come back and spend some time exploring this area more while using Viviers as a home base. It was so charming and beautiful. We departed in the early afternoon for Tournons . Arriving in Tournon for a half day we took a short walk to  the castle of Tournon for an excellent exclusive wine and chocolate pairing excursion . Here we also enjoyed commanding views over the Rhone from the castle. We then wandered about on our own, including a pleasant stroll across the pedestrian bridge, Passerelle Marc-Seguin from Tournon to Tain-l’Hermitage on the left bank. This bridge was built in 1825 and is the oldest suspension bridge in France. Leaving Tournon we sailed on to Vienne where we enjoyed one of our included walking tours of this ancient city which was a major center of the Roman Empire. Remains of Roman construction are widespread across modern Vienne including a Roman temple, circus pyramid and theatre where their famous annual Jazz festival is held. Evidence of the Roman Empire are everywhere. We took a little caterpillar trolly car up to the Belvedere de Pipet that has a marvelous view of the Roman theatre and city of Vienne. We also visited the Vienne Cathedral, erected from 1130 onwards. We remained docked in Vienne overnight and would sail for Lyon the following day. We arrived in Lyon in the late afternoon and enjoyed some sightseeing on our own. There are many who think Lyon is "better" than Paris. That's silly. Both cities are fabulous and you can enjoy a lot of time exploring them. Like Paris, Lyon is a bustling, busy and zippy city in contrast to the more laid back pace in the South of France enjoyed earlier in the cruise. Many feel the food scene in Lyon is superior. You can eat very well in both cities. Spend time in them both as they have much to offer. The following day we enjoyed the city tour of Lyon . We boarded a coach for a drive through Lyon to the spectacular Fourviere Basilica. The Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourviere was built with private funds between 1872 and 1884, and is a major symbol of Lyon due to its commanding position overlooking Lyon, among other reasons. It was built to thank the Virgin Mary for having spared the city from invasion during the Franco-Prussian war. You can see our tour guide in the picture and yes she is holding a paddle. Sometimes I've seen travel brands disparaging the paddle. Pay no heed. If you choose to enjoy a tour like this you will be provided with an earpiece (at the beginning of the cruise for your personal use - no need to bring anything) so that you can hear the guide even if you wander off (which I do a lot of). The paddle makes it easy to find them. After the Basilica we headed down Fourviere Hill to Old Town Lyon which lies at its base. Old Town Lyon, nestled at the foot of Fourvière Hill along the Saône River, is a treasure trove of history and charm. Throughout the Medieval and Renaissance periods, it served as the vibrant heart of Lyon, pulsating with life amidst its winding cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. From bustling silk shops to cozy cafes and restaurants, the Old Town was a hub of activity, where merchants, artisans, and locals intermingled. Yet, as time marched on, newer neighborhoods emerged, drawing residents away from the historic center. Neglect and decline set in, exacerbated by the unsanitary conditions that plagued many urban areas during the early 20th century. In the face of this decline, there were some who saw the Old Town as little more than a relic of the past, ripe for demolition in the name of progress. Thankfully, the tide turned in the 1960s when the French Minister of Culture intervened to save this historic gem from destruction. Recognizing its significance as a testament to Lyon's rich cultural heritage, efforts were undertaken to breathe new life into the Old Town. Extensive refurbishments took place, preserving its architectural treasures and revitalizing its streets. In 1998, the Old Town Lyon was rightfully recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, cementing its place as a cherished destination for visitors and locals alike. Today, wandering through its labyrinthine alleyways and hidden passages, known as "les Traboules," is like stepping back in time. Each corner reveals a new glimpse into Lyon's storied past, inviting exploration and discovery. Whether savoring a meal at a centuries-old bouchon, or the iconic Lyonnaise sweet brioche aux praline, or admiring the intricate facades of historic buildings, the Old Town Lyon captivates with its authenticity and charm. It stands as a testament to the power of preservation and the enduring beauty of France's cultural legacy. The Traboules were a particularly interesting part of our tour (for me at least). These secret covered passageways wind their way through buildings, courtyards and up and down stairs. They are all different. There number approximately 400 with around 40 open to the public. The publicly available traboules are clearly marked with a small identifying seal. The origins of these passageways date back to the 4th century and they have been utilized over the centuries for various purposes such as quick access to water, carrying heavy silk loads and meetings. But my favorite bit of history, and a big reason these played a key role in the Old Towns Unesco designation, was their role during WWII. During the war the traboules were used by the French Resistance for secret meetings and covert passage of messages, helping to prevent the Nazis from successfully occupying the whole of Lyon. Anyway, I've just scratched the surface here. Get to Old Town Lyon and investigate yourself! I think we walked back to the ship instead of taking the coach back. There was a lot to take in and I can't quite remember, but we definitely made it back to the ship, had lunch, put our feet up for a bit and then I headed out for an afternoon Beaujolais excursion and wine tasting with a lovely drive through the golden stone region followed by wine tasting at a small family owned winery ( learn more about the Beaujolais region ). Our trip hit a snag when we got lost, but our bus driver showed remarkable skill navigating narrow country roads to get us back on track. Thankfully, the winery owner rescued us with their little white truck and showed us the way back to his winery. We enjoyed our wine cave tasting session, complete with snacks, and learned about biodynamic wine making in the region and the advantages of producing such wines. It was a longer than expected afternoon but the bus driver had a bag of chocolates for the drive home (back to the ship). My only sadness was missing out on visiting the village of Oingt ( how to pronounce Oingt ). Grumble. Anyway, once back on the welcoming ship we enjoyed a cool drink and dinner. The next morning marked the bittersweet conclusion of our cruise. AMA had thoughtfully arranged a cab to our hotel for our extended stay in Lyon, where we planned to delve deeper into its treasures before venturing back to Barcelona for more escapades. The Museum of Fine Arts in Lyon left an indelible impression, especially its captivating collection of medieval art. The departure process, from the AMA Kristina, was a well-oiled machine, seamlessly guiding travelers to various destinations, whether it was the airport, a post-cruise Paris excursion, or local accommodations like ours. It was a reassuring sigh of relief for both seasoned adventurers accustomed to making their own plans and novice travellers in need of a helping hand. Overall, the experience was a testament to the joy of travel when every detail is expertly taken care of. Consider embarking on an AMA river cruise for a truly enriching travel experience! With all excursions, meals, and even wine and beer included in your upfront fare, you can indulge in exploration without worrying about extra costs. With multiple excursions daily, you can tailor your journey to suit your interests perfectly. Say goodbye to the hassle of lugging around multiple suitcases and hello to the joys of effortless exploration. River cruising offers a rewarding way to discover diverse destinations while enjoying the ultimate in comfort and convenience.

by Carol Dammel on June 20, 2024 Online reviews. Admit it, we’ve all used them. They are so very tempting when you are in the planning stages of a trip. Sometimes amid a world awash in less than helpful internet "hits", all vying for your attention, they can seem like the only place to quickly find validation of your travel choices. But are these online reviews really a good way to vette your many travel options? In fact the need for that validation can lead you astray. We to often assume that what we find on the internet, and more specifically reviews, is factual. There's some very helpful online material, absolute gold, in fact. However, there is also A LOT of spectacularly bad online information or fools gold, in other words. In theory reviews can be a helpful resource when used properly if you toss in a healthy dose of scepticism and critical thinking skills. But all things considered online reviews can be a real Pandoras box as far as helping us with our travel choices. Read any comment thread or dig too deep into reviews and it is obvious that there are some very silly people out there who really aren't quite normal. A few seem to take some weird pleasure in talking trash or spreading all manner of rumours for no apparent purpose other than attention seeking or metaphorical axe grinding. Too often reviews are riddled with obscure opinions or vindictive musings. They can definitely steer you astray when you rely too heavily on them. Most of the time I find them to be a minor source of enlightenment, rather than major, when it comes to planning my own trips (or buying alien abduction gear). Despite this, like most, I continue to check them out. It's kind of like rubbernecking. Here are some of the things I consider when using online reviews. Beware of negative Nellies or Cassandras. It is important to remember that people are more likely to write crazy negative reviews when they feel they have been wronged in some way and boy can some people be touchy! Human nature? I don’t know, but that’s how it is. Some people just seem to feel better when they are dishing out negativity. Furthermore evidence shows that the truth tends to get a little fuzzy when people are remembering negative experiences. Does it mean negative reviews aren’t valid or helpful? Not necessarily, but they should be backed up with details and be well intentioned. Seriously, was it REALLY the worst coffee ever? Was it your first cup of coffee ever? First count to a hundred and take a deep breath. When I feel compelled to leave a less than stellar review I always start with the positive and then move on to the problematic. I use bullet points and leave details. I like to see the same in other peoples reviews. It is more balanced, authentic and well meant in my opinion. Things are rarely all bad or all good. Perfection does not exist. Frankly I rarely bother to write them and only do so when I feel they can be of genuine value to a fellow traveler or a business. Pollyanna theory. Why DO people sometimes write what seem to be, well, kind of crazy mean reviews? I'm no expert, other than being a keen observer, and I'm sure there are many reasons, but one theory I find plausible is the Pollyanna theory. The Pollyanna principle (also called Pollyannaism or positivity bias) is the tendency for people to remember pleasant items more accurately than unpleasant ones. This tendency is one reason why I believe positive reviews (with details) are far more valuable than the negative. Research indicates that at the subconscious level, the mind tends to focus on the optimistic; while at the conscious level, it tends to focus on the negative. And if, in fact, people tend to skew towards telling "tall tales" when they have had a perceived negative experience, one may need to question the value and accuracy of those negative perceptions. Furthermore I often see those negative rants amplified and warped by others. Kind of like the old telephone game we played in grade school, where a whispered phrase began at one end of the line is completely different by the time it reaches the end of the line; the story can change and become a little crazy when it's been filtered through others. Likewise reviews that are overly effusive but lack details aren't really helpful either. If you're a Pollyanna EVERYTHING is amazing! Even if it really isn't. OMG everything was so amazing. I'm in love. Why??? So many opinions that people hold are deeply personal and subjective. Or god forbid they're not even really opinions but rather just sales pitches from some "influencer". Consider that one person's amazing meal can be another's worst meal ever. I remember enjoying an experimental cruise meal and dining experience a lot. I observed a couple in front of us having the exact same meal. The wife was enjoying it whilst the husband was hating every dish (fortunately politely). He was actually asking his partner to eat some of his so the waitstaff didn't know he wasn't a fan. He was a VERY picky eater and would probably say he didn't enjoy the dinner at all and would NOT recommend the restaurant. Was the dinner bad? If you were me or the wife it was great and a lot of fun. If you were the husband it was awful. Who's right? Heck if I know. The meal and experience were unique (plus the show unfolding in front of me was fun). Picky eaters would likely detest it. If trying new crazy things sparks joy this was a restaurant experience for you. If you like your meat beefy and well done with a healthy dose of mash and no drama this is not the experience for you. Details do matter. In another example - when it comes to hotel accommodations, cleanliness and service is hugely important to me. I could mostly care less when the hotel or cruise ship was last remodeled or what sort of decorations it sports. I prefer my pigs clean without lipstick and get mildly irritated by glitzy veneers that sometimes hide or camouflage mediocrity. But I know others who will turn their nose up at something that looks a little old and for whom appearance is very important. After all you are on vacation and I get it if you want things to look spectacular. Opinions around accommodations can therefore be a mixed bag. Someone might hate the dated decor and a frayed carpet. Someone else might appreciate the cleanliness, spaciousness and gracious employees. Remember you are more likely to hear from the individual who hated the decor and though the coffee was the worst ever! Where do you fall? You might LOVE the color of the lipstick on that pig! Or you might prefer chapstick. Additionally I find when traveling internationally you often find that different nationalities can have very different travel expectations than Americans and each other. They may have very different ideas about what great accommodations look like. You will often find their focus is different and reviews will reflect this. Reviews of some hotels in popular tourist destinations can be left from people all over the world. Identify what really matters to you and focus on that when reading reviews, take a pass on the other stuff. Always remember that you are hearing from only a very small percentage of those who have experienced the product and that percentage is likely heavily comprised of negative Cassandras with bad memories or positively effusive Pollyannas for whom everything is always awesome. You definitely do not even come close to hearing from the entirety of people who could have left reviews (but didn’t - hi that's me). The quantity of reviews and when they were left matter. Some businesses change hands, rebrand, and remodel all the time - especially in the travel industry. So always sort your reviews by date and look at the newest. These are the ones that matter. Not the ones from 3 years prior when the business had a different name and/or management or may have existed in a different space time continuum. I've seen 4-5 star ratings on businesses but after sorting by date may find that those reviews are very old with the newer ones not looking so sharp or vice versa. What happened? Change of ownership, management - whatever the reason it's a real phenomena and you may wish to dig deeper if you see this. Businesses have to start somewhere and there are some great businesses that don’t have many reviews. Some businesses also don't need them and so don't solicit them. It can be a challenge to get people to leave those reviews that can sometimes be so important to a businesses success. If a business lacks reviews, that doesn't mean they are bad, in fact they could be a real gem. We’ve all been there when we’re shopping for something and discover something that looks fantabulous, but with no reviews yet. Ah heck, what to do? Live like a maverick or play it safe. There’s always the risk your choice won’t be perfect with or without reviews. Do some basic research, relax and go with it. Every time we travel we learn something new. If you see a consistent and recurring negative theme in the reviews that is a red flag, especially if it’s a topic that matters to you. If only one reviewer rants about a supposed cockroach (people do tell tall cockroach tales) I'd probably ignore them but if multiple reviews mention the army of cockroaches scuttling about the room, it probably is a matter of concern. Especially if you don't appreciate high protein cockroaches. If a couple of people have a strong opinion about the decor maybe it's not so important unless you also have strong feelings about interior decorating. Read the reviews and sometimes responses from management. I always appreciate responses from management to reviews. Sometimes it’s an opportunity to clarify, set the record straight or apologize, especially if they weren’t made aware of the problem at the time. Regardless it’s nice when a business cares and is responsible enough to respond to comments. It can be another source of valuable information from the people actually running the show. Furthermore it demonstrates that they listen and give a hoot. Use common sense. If you’re heading to the tropics and you’re put off by one review that mentions a speck of mold - with photo of moldy speck - or an insect - remember it’s the tropics and it is wet and humid with bugs lizards. If these sorts of things are a big problem for you maybe the tropics isn't your thing. Heck I remember staying in a tropical Ritz Carlton that had a mouse problem. It is a daily battle to keep pests at bay in the tropics regardless of the level of accomodations. Traveling to Europe? It’s not uncommon to find people complaining about small rooms, staircases or strange toilets. It’s Europe and some of the buildings are quite old. I prefer the uniqueness and character of these older buildings but if those sorts of accommodations aren’t right for you, you will need to look deeper or stay at a modern big box hotel. Don’t worry, most of the time you can find the right fit for you, but be careful about trashing a place for things beyond its control. People can be an opinionated bunch so make sure you're looking at reviews by people you can relate to, on topics that matter to you. Filter out the rest. When considering embarking on a new adventure aboard a recently launched cruise ship or visiting a newly opened vacation resort, keep in mind that although these options may provide attractive deals, you might encounter some typical challenges associated with new establishments. It is common for businesses to require a period to iron out any operational issues, leading to potential negative feedback. However, reputable businesses usually make efforts to address these issues, so be on the lookout for that. View yourself as part of the initial testing phase and offer constructive feedback. Be careful of data or choice overload. People who plan every little detail and look at every possible element of their vacation are the most likely to be unhappy. It can be tempting to ferret out every possible option when planning a vacation. You think you have optimized every possible element of your trip only to often find yourself disappointed with your choices. What? Why not? Because in doing to much research you're creating a catalog of all the other available possibilities. So when it comes time to experience the choices you've made you just can't ignore all those other choices stored in your head. And if anything goes wrong, which it inevitably does, you're going to constantly second guess your choices and likely experience regret as a result. After all that micro analysis of hotel reviews you have a long list of other places you could have picked. You must have chosen wrong, right? NO, you haven't. What should you do? Find the first acceptable solution among a set of options, choose it - accept it - and relax. Looking for the perfect hotel? What are your needs - location, beds, food, amenities. Check the overall star rating, quickly peruse the most recent reviews, book it and move on. Don't look at 50 other options. Perfection is unattainable. Although reviews are a valuable resource for assessing destinations to visit, they should not be the sole basis for decision-making. It is advisable to consider reviews within a broader context rather than focusing on minor details. Planning an enjoyable vacation requires significant effort. Conducting thorough research can be time-consuming and overwhelming, making it challenging to maintain perspective. This is why experienced travelers often enlist the help of travel planners to navigate through reviews and other necessary details when organizing fulfilling vacations. Outline the overall plan, leave the specifics to us, and relax while enjoying your journey!