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TripAdvisor enhances Popularity Ranking Algorithm
Maldives.net.mv – Following extensive testing and piloting, TripAdvisor announced at the beginning of May 2016 that it has implemented an updated its popularity ranking for restaurants, attractions and hotels in order to improve the site experience for travelers and businesses.
- More reviews are better than fewer reviews
- Good reviews are better than poor reviews
- Recent reviews are better than older reviews
TripAdvisor began rolling out the changes to the algorithm in December 2015, when it started to apply to new algorithm to restaurant and attraction listings. Throughout the first quarter of 2016, TripAdvisor then began to apply the new algorithm to accommodation listings, and it is now being used almost universally.
The TripAdvisor Popularity Index is what determines which properties are listed first when a user searches for accommodation (or dining or activities) in a particular area. The purpose of the Popularity Index is to present travellers with the best options first, ensuring that their experience of the TripAdvisor website is useful and positive.
An imperfection in the previous iteration of the ranking algorithm meant that some new hotels (which TripAdvisor dubbed “fast risers”) with very few, but very recent, good reviews could quickly outrank more established hotels with more reviews reflecting a wider range of guest experiences posted over a longer period of time before settling into a more representative position on the Popularity Index.
The Popularity Index ranking of a property has always been influenced by three factors: the quality of the reviews, the recency of the reviews and the number of reviews. The 2016 update to the Popularity Index algorithm still bases results on these three factors, but has been refined to present new and established hotels side-by-side more fairly.
TripAdvisor states that it has “designed the enhanced Popularity Ranking algorithm to value the quantity and consistency of reviews more significantly”.
Over the last few months, owners of listing on TripAdvisor may have noticed their rankings changing without new reviews having been posted. This is due to the roll out of the new algorithm, but TripAdvisor says that by now the changes in rankings have mostly stabilised.
As always, the quality of the guest experience at your hotel is the most important factor in maintaining a good reputation in the hospitality industry. However, TripAdvisor’s algorithmic changes mean that it is more important than ever to ensure that as many of your guests are writing reviews as often as possible.
Because TripAdvisor has increased the weight of recency, number and consistency of reviews in determining ranking, it would appear that even a mediocre review can boost your hotel’s ranking if it has been posted recently, and that a larger number of average reviews are more beneficial to your listing than one or to outstanding reviews.
The difficulty that this presents for hoteliers, and others in the hospitality industry, is getting these satisfied, but not overwhelmed, customers to leave reviews. Often online reviews tend to skew towards the extremes when compared to direct feedback. People post reviews about experiences that they found exceptional, whether that be exceptionally good or exceptionally bad.
In order to maintain and improve your ranking on TripAdvisor, it is important to encourage each and every guest to leave a review. There are a number of ways you can do this, such as:
- Leaving cards in guests rooms inviting them to leave a review on TripAdvisor
- Providing facilities for guests to leave a review when they check out, such as a tablet at your reception desk
- Giving your guests the code to your free Wi-Fi on a card, with a reminder to leave a review on TripAdvisor
- Putting a QR (quick recognition) code that directs guests straight to your TripAdvisor listing on any printed material you provide
- Sending guests an email after their stay inviting them to review your hotel on TripAdvisor
When asking guests for reviews of their stays, hoteliers should also bear in mind that there are a number of benefits to collecting both direct and indirect guest feedback, and emailing guests after their stay, thanking them for their custom and asking for feedback is simply good practice.
Consider providing guests with a questionnaire to fill out which includes a link to your TripAdvisor review page to make the process much easier for a guest. The easier it is for guests to give you feedback and leave reviews online the more likely they are to do so.
You should, however, bear in mind that offering any kind of bribe or incentive for customers and guests to leave a review (good, bad or otherwise) is against TripAdvisor’s rules, and can result in severe penalties. The most fool proof way to ensure you maintain a good reputation is to provide a good experience, then simply ask people to write about it and make it easy for them to do so.
Photo courtesy OZEN by Atmosphere at Madhoo
Maldives has soared into the top 5 most popular babymoon destinations according to a new study by My 1st Years.
Babymoons, pre-baby getaways for expecting parents, have seen a surge in popularity in recent years. The UK alone has witnessed a staggering 128% increase in searches for “best babymoon destinations” in just the past three months.
To understand expectant parents’ travel dreams, My 1st Years analyzed Google search data for hundreds of destinations worldwide. The Maldives secured the coveted fourth place, surpassing Italy, Australia, and Portugal.
This tropical paradise offers the perfect escape for parents-to-be seeking relaxation and rejuvenation before welcoming their new arrival. Imagine soaking up the sun on pristine beaches, swimming in crystal-clear waters, or indulging in pampering spa treatments – pure bliss!
For expectant couples seeking a luxurious and unforgettable babymoon experience, the Maldives offers a truly idyllic setting.
Maldives is setting its sights on welcoming a record-breaking 2.01 million tourists in 2024, a 7.9% increase compared to anticipated arrivals this year. This optimistic forecast, released by the Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO), paints a vibrant picture of tourism industry thriving next year.
Several key factors are driving this projected surge:
- The Resurgent Chinese Market: With borders reopening and travel restrictions easing, Chinese tourists are expected to flock back to the Maldives in droves, injecting significant energy into the sector.
- New Tourist Delights: The Maldives is steadily expanding its offerings, with new resorts, attractions, and experiences emerging to cater to a wider range of visitors.
- Smoother Skies Ahead: The completion of the Velana International Airport’s new terminal will boost capacity, making it easier for more tourists to reach the paradise islands.
- Luxury’s Enduring Allure: The Maldives’ reputation as a premier luxury destination remains undimmed, attracting high-spending travelers seeking unforgettable experiences.
- Weddings and Honeymoons in Paradise: The Maldives’ romantic charm is drawing ever-increasing numbers of couples seeking picture-perfect wedding and honeymoon destinations.
Looking geographically, Asia is expected to dominate the tourist influx, accounting for 60% of arrivals. Europe, America, and other regions are also projected to contribute significantly, highlighting the Maldives’ diverse appeal.
MATATO’s forecast is based on a meticulous analysis of data from various sources, including past tourism trends, industry forecasts, consumer sentiment surveys, and even cutting-edge AI technology.
MATATO acknowledges potential risks that could affect the rosy outlook. A global economic downturn, rising travel costs, and political instability are factors to be monitored closely.
With its stunning natural beauty, luxurious offerings, and strategic initiatives, the islands are poised to welcome a record number of visitors, reaffirming its status as a dream destination for discerning travelers.
The Maldives has secured its place among the most sought-after “old money” destinations in the world, ranking an impressive fourth in a recent analysis conducted by SlotTracker.com. With over 12 million Instagram hashtags (12,777,931), the Maldives has emerged as a paradise for those seeking a luxurious and refined getaway.
Renowned for its exclusive resorts, pristine beaches, and private water villas, the Maldives offers an ideal setting for indulging in opulence and tranquillity. The timeless natural beauty of the archipelago, coupled with high-end accommodations and a variety of water-based activities, further adds to its allure, attracting discerning travelers in search of sophistication.
The concept of “old money” or “quiet luxury” has gained significant attention in recent times, with TikTok’s latest trend garnering over 2.5 billion views for the hashtag #oldmoneyaesthetic. This trend embodies a sense of understated elegance, free from overt displays of wealth, and draws inspiration from the refined style of celebrities like Sophia Richie and the hit TV show “Succession.”
Driven by curiosity about this trend, SlotTracker.com conducted a thorough analysis of more than 400 million Instagram hashtags to identify the destinations that epitomize refinement and elegance. From enchanting European cities to exotic havens in the Caribbean, their findings unveiled the most popular “old money” destinations worldwide, captivating travelers with unparalleled experiences of luxury and exclusivity.
The Maldives’ fourth-place ranking showcases the destination’s enduring appeal and its ability to deliver a quintessential “old money” experience. The abundance of Instagram hashtags dedicated to the Maldives indicates its popularity among influencers and travelers seeking to showcase their elegant retreats and experiences in this tropical paradise.
With its breathtaking turquoise waters, pristine white sand beaches, and idyllic private villas perched above the ocean, the Maldives offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The luxurious resorts scattered across the archipelago cater to the most discerning guests, providing personalized services, gourmet dining, and world-class amenities.
Whether it’s indulging in a rejuvenating spa treatment, embarking on a romantic sunset cruise, or exploring the vibrant marine life through snorkeling or diving, the Maldives offers a range of activities that complement the serenity and sophistication of the destination.
As the Maldives continues to attract global attention as a premier “old money” destination, the local tourism industry is poised to benefit from the discerning travelers seeking luxurious experiences. The Maldivian government and tourism authorities can leverage this recognition to further enhance the destination’s offerings, promoting sustainable luxury tourism that preserves the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the islands.
The fourth-place ranking among the world’s most popular “old money” destinations reinforces the Maldives’ position as a leading luxury travel hotspot. Travelers from around the globe are enticed by the Maldives’ timeless charm, and the destination’s commitment to providing an extraordinary blend of tranquillity, sophistication, and exclusivity continues to set it apart in the world of luxury travel.
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