Much like other Wiki websites, WikiTravel strives to present visitors with a wide range of information. The focus here is travel destinations around the world. Visitors can read about over 23,000 locations complete with guides and informative articles. The information is constantly being updated by other users. Images are also included when available and help create a unique snapshot of various travel destinations. Both popular and lesser known areas are included. Founders Evan Prodromou and his wife, Michele Ann Jenkins Prodromou created WikiTravel in the summer of 2003. The inspiration came from existing Wiki websites which were, and still are, prominent information resources on the internet. Hoping to share knowledge with others, Prodromou put together a site that was similar in appearance to other Wikis, but provided a wealth of knowledge for travelers all over the world. The concept behind WikiTravel focused on allowing users to help keep each entry as up to date and relevant as it possibly can be. This is what makes WikiTravel different from other travel themed websites. Users can provide additional information, make changes or otherwise alter destination information rather than leaving it to one or two individuals or an organization. Permitting so much input from so man difference sources helps to make WikiTravel a detailed resource for travelers. The look and layout of WikiTravel is reminiscent of other popular websites that use a similar system of editing and updating. Individual personality is added through the unique WikiTravel logo. The creators have stuck with the “if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it” sentiment by keeping WikiTravel’s layout and appearance much like other Wiki websites. The style and format works well for this type of information sharing application. New users can visit the website and browse all available destination entries. Information can be updated and no user account is required. WikiTravel allows users complete freedom of movement, saving time for those who are only stopping by and would rather not create an account. That being said, a user account feature is available. Simply click the “Log in/create account” link at the top of the homepage. From there, the “Create account” link brings visitors to the registration form. A username, password, email address and real name are requested. No email verification is required to access WikiTravel features. WikiTravel is offered to all visitors at no cost. The creators wanted to put together a site that allowed for the free exchange of travel-related information. Users are welcome to contribute in other ways, such as through the updating and sharing of information. Beyond that, no premium account exists and no word has given about this ever changing in the near future. The site also seems to be void of any paid advertising, which is a big plus as well. Users can come for knowledge and get exactly what they wanted. Two types of people would fall in love with WikiTravel. The first group is travelers and the second includes anyone who enjoys learning about the world we all live in. Both types of visitors can find a wealth of knowledge to feast their minds upon, as well as specific destination listings that might provide assistance when planning a trip. Those seeking a new resource for geographic information can also find helpful tidbits on WikiTravel.

• Interactive updating that permits the everyday user to provide input and further enhance the website
• Easy to find listings to WikiTravel projects that allow users to go straight to entries that need further details
• Printable versions of each entry available to all visitors
• Traveller’s Pub entry that allows users to post questions and get assistance
• News feeds that include travel-related current events and trivia
• User account creation that allows users to monitor their own watch lists and contributions to the website

http://wikitravel.org/