Here we determine which articles are featured on the Main Page as Destination of the Month (DOTM) and Off the Beaten Path (OTBP).

Nominate

You can nominate an '''article''' you would like to see featured; just say a few words about why, and select a good time to go. Well-known and/or popular destinations should be nominated as Destination of the Month, while more obscure destinations should be nominated for Off the Beaten Path. Any destination, region, itinerary or event that passes the "What is an article?" test is eligible for DotM/OtBP.

The basic format of a nomination is as follows:

<font color=green><nowiki>===Destination===</nowiki> <nowiki>Great article and it's just luvvly-jubbly in the springtime. ~~~~</nowiki></font>

However, ''before'' nominating, please check that the article follows these basic guidelines:

  • The nominated article should have an article status of '''''guide'' or ''star'''''. This includes having at least one good picture, and listings/headers/etc. that match our manual of style.
  • The nominated article should be featured at a good time to visit.
  • The nominated article must not have been featured previously.
  • * See Previous Destinations of the month and Previously Off the beaten path to check.
  • If the article has been nominated previously but failed, any objections should be addressed before nominating it again.
  • * See Slush pile to check.
  • * If you think a once-slushed destination is now ready to go, list it as new, but with a pointer to the slush pile entry.
  • Select

    You can also comment on any previous nomination based on timeliness and adherence to the criteria above, just add a bullet point (*) and your signed opinion.

    <nowiki>===Destination===</nowiki> <nowiki>Great article and it's just luvvly-jubbly in the springtime. TravelNut 25:25, 31 Feb 2525 (EDT)</nowiki> <font color=green><nowiki>* Looks nice, but shouldn't the Do section contain more than just quilting contests? ~~~~</nowiki></font>

    If an article gets several comments in favor and none against for a week or so, it's eligible to be placed in an appropriate time-slot in the queue.

    Please note that the following are '''not''' considered valid reasons to oppose a nomination:

  • '''"I don't like it."''' All objections have to be based on the guidelines above: poor formatting, missing information, etc. Personal opinions, dislikes, etc do not count.
  • '''"Wrong time of year."''' Articles are supported or opposed based on their content. Timing can be worked out later.
  • '''"Wrong type of place."''' Articles are supported or opposed based on their content. Whether it's DoTM or OtBP can be worked out later.
  • Discussions for previously selected destinations are in the Archive. Discussions for nominations that didn't make the grade are in the Slush pile.

    Upcoming DOTM / OTBP

    Schedule

    The following queue should contain about six months' worth of upcoming destinations. Note that new DotMs are rotated in on the '''1st''' of each month, while OtBPs are changed on the '''15th'''.

    {|border="1" cellspacing=0 cellpadding="3" style="text-align:center" !Month !DOTM !OTBP ! align="right" | June 2009 ! align="right" | July 2009 ! align="right" | August 2009 ! align="right" | September 2009 ! align="right" | October 2009 ! align="right" | November 2009

    These are ''not'' cast in stone, and the order can be changed if, for example, an excellent guide for a timely event is found. Whenever a guide becomes a current feature, it should be removed from the list, the discussion archived, and a new month added to the end of the queue. Alternatives are OK; the whole point is to enable some discussion as needed.

    Next change

    The section below provides an opportunity to see what the DOTM and OTBP will look like on the Main Page. Please remember that main page real-estate is a valuable commodity, so keep the description brief and the photo small.

    Nominations for Destination of the Month

    Frankfurt

    One of the major destinations in Germany, with a very well written article. It lacks a map, and needs an external links attack, but otherwise looks very much up to DotM standards, I think. Don't know when would be best to feature. --Peter <small><sup>Talk</sup></small> 01:23, 19 August 2008 (EDT)

  • '''Support'''. This was actually slushed once way back, but the article has improved by leaps and bounds since then. Definitely a late spring/summer destination though. Jpatokal 02:10, 26 September 2008 (EDT)
  • I'd '''Support''' it <strike>for February 2009 or </strike>around there. Keep smiling, <font color="purple">ee</font> <sup><small><font color="green">talk</font></small></sup> 00:02, 11 November 2008 (EST).
  • *February is still deep winter in Germany at that time. Early fall is also an option though, mid-October was surprisingly pleasant... Jpatokal 02:18, 11 November 2008 (EST)
  • '''Don't support'''. Overall a good article, but almost half of the Eat listings don't have descriptions, and almost none of the clubs or hotels have addresses. Gorilla Jones 19:50, 8 December 2008 (EST)
  • '''Support''' It's a good article and it would be best in summer s loads of travellers arrive in September for trde fairs.jan 16:09, 24 January 2009 (EST)
  • Birmingham

    Not a huge tourism destination (which is why it seems ok to go without districts), but one of England's biggest cities, and a major business hub. The article looks borderline perfect and the maps are jaw-dropping. Weather on this island is always rainy and a little chilly, and the main draws are nightlife, shopping, and proximity to nearby destinations, so it doesn't really matter when we feature it. --Peter <small><sup>Talk</sup></small> 01:23, 19 August 2008 (EDT)

  • '''Meh'''. The article is certainly well done, but the city is not very appealing. We could use this in a pinch, but I'd rather give precedence to more "interesting" destinations if suitable articles can be found. -- Bill-on-the-Hill 23:13, 19 August 2008 (EDT)
  • ::Couldn't have said it better myself! --Peter <small><sup>Talk</sup></small> 23:18, 19 August 2008 (EDT)
  • '''Support'''. It is England's second-largest city, I think 3rd in UK behind Glasgow, not certain. Great Indian food, some nice pubs, ... Not big for tourism, but a convenient base for Stratford which is. If not DotM, could it be OtBP despite its size because it is not a big tourist area?
  • : Lots of people go there to work, from everywhere. ("How do you recognise a Brummie? There's a shamrock in his turban.") Huge numbers of students, too. Birmingham is a major university, largest nursing school in UK, I think medical as well. Aston University is not small, either. Pashley 05:50, 11 November 2008 (EST)

    :'''Support''' - it's an amazing article and does have touristic draws. Not Peter and Bill, this isn't Tokyo or Hong Kong, maybe not even Seattle, but it deserves it because it has pretty good touristic stuff to do with it's size. It's very well written and a lot of work has gone into it. This could make the city more popular! Keep smiling, <font color="#339989">'''ee'''</font> <sup><small><font color="#8848d7">talk</font></small></sup> 17:38, 16 November 2008 (EST).

  • '''Support'''. Excellent article - great find by Peter, and credit to the folks who worked on it. OtBP isn't a bad idea if its touristic charms aren't well known (they weren't to me), although I'm OK with a DotM as well.. Gorilla Jones 19:56, 8 December 2008 (EST)
  • '''Objections''' Someone needs to pick up a yellow pages, or get going with google, and complete the adresses (I don't know, I have a feeling I may demand star quality sometimes) - At the very least, the drink section should be fixed up - this is England for heavens sake! :o) --Stefan (sertmann) <small><sup>Talk</sup></small> 20:09, 8 December 2008 (EST)
  • :What addresses? From what I saw - everything was full. <font color="#339989">'''edmontonenthusiast [ee]'''</font> <sup><small><font color="#8848d7">'''.T.A.L.K.'''</font></small></sup> 18:59, 19 December 2008 (EST).
  • '''Support'''. Not the prettiest town I've ever visited, but does appear to have a lot of business people staying. I also believe the the national convention center is located there. WindHorse 22:30, 24 May 2009 (EDT)
  • Edmonton

    I was told that the summer months fill up fast, so I want to propose this now, I suppose! Edmonton is a very touristy city (though you wouldn't think it upon glance): it's got North America's largest mall, vibrant theatre scene, growing retail market outside that mall (a lot already established), Canada's Festival City, Alberta's Captial, Canadas largest historic park, the biggest parkland system in North America, a growing population, and an out of this world job market. The best time would be between May and August. I would support it for June or July. What do you think? I have worked lots on the article and it has gotten praise by many people as being very good. So, from my mind, it's a touristy area (not the likes of Toronto or Tokyo, but holds it's own for '''it's size''') and is a good article. Also, the new Art Gallery of Alberta will be open in March and will be a very amazing gallery that is going to be another major attraction-as opposed to previous when it was '''meh'''. Would you support it, gimme your thoughts! If you think there are major areas that need improvement (in the main and distict articles)...point them out for me so I can fix 'em. I don't think theres anything major wrong with it. Your thoughts? Keep smiling, <font color="#339989">'''ee'''</font> <sup><small><font color="#8848d7">talk</font></small></sup> 17:44, 16 November 2008 (EST).

  • '''Support'''. Reads pretty well, has a few maps and photos and probably the most exhaustive coverage of Edmonton anywhere. A couple of the districts are weak in non-touristy areas and not all listings are complete, but I don't think that should hold it back. If we go ahead with it, I'd recommend August -- still summer but a couple months space from DW and SF. Shaund 00:52, 20 November 2008 (EST)
  • :Thanks Shaund. You are right, it is very comprehensive compared to other guides. Why? Because not everything is promoted well and you need to know exactly on the web where to find it or you won't find it. I know all those, which makes a big bonus for Wikitravel. Yeah, there are some non touristy areas-they're kind of the struggle. August would be fine, so long as it's one of the summer months-it'd be cool, Summer is the best time in the city. <font color="purple">''Keep smiling,''</font> <font color="#339989">'''edmontonenthusiast [ee]'''</font> <sup><small><font color="#8848d7">'''.T.A.L.K.'''</font></small></sup> 09:54, 20 November 2008 (EST).

  • '''Support''' Well it's the one thing EE is doing right at the moment, so i'll throw in my support. It's quite impressive coverage for a young city this size, a couple of maps, and most of the entries look good. --Stefan (sertmann) <small><sup>Talk</sup></small> 19:38, 8 December 2008 (EST)
  • '''Not yet''' Two major problems: first, the status on the article is incorrect — Edmonton is at usable status, since at least two of its districts are outlines. Articles have to be guide or better to be featured as DotM. Second, there's a discussion going on right now (see Talk:Edmonton#Districting_-_was_it_truly_necessary.3F) about changing the district hierarchy or scrapping it altogether. Ergo, the article may wind up in a different form than it is now — perhaps better, who knows? — but it needs to be in that form before we can evaluate it here. Gorilla Jones 17:44, 24 May 2009 (EDT)
  • ::Um unnecessary. The article will improve for the better anyhow. I've waited a long time for this to be DOTM for a specific time, and it's only fair that it follows through for obvious reasons. Edmonton is also at guide status, so I don't get where you get that from. Two districts are weak, yes, which is why I brought it up. I will be soon merging some of the districts so that problem could be resolved today. Technically Edmonton should be usable status, but just leave it be cause as you brought it up, I'll go and do a merger. <font color="#339989">'''edmontonenthusiast [ee]'''</font> <sup><small><font color="#8848d7">'''.T.A.L.K.'''</font></small></sup> 17:53, 24 May 2009 (EDT).
  • '''Support''' contingent on districts being sorted out. WindHorse 22:31, 24 May 2009 (EDT)
  • : Sorry, have you looked at Edmonton? The districts aren't sorted out — the map disappeared, and there are two districts without descriptions called "North" and "South". South is an outline and does not follow the manual of style ("Luxury"), ergo Edmonton is 'usable' per Wikitravel:City_guide_status. The article as a whole is riddled with grammar mistakes, particularly the new History section (which features lively writing such as "In the 1990s, the city was stable economically, but nothing much new happened"). This article needs a lot of work before it's ready to be featured as one of the best of this site. Gorilla Jones 23:43, 24 May 2009 (EDT) ::Excuse me, I've put a lot of work into those articles, and yes I've made some gramatical mistakes so what lots of articles have some grammatical mistakes. The map is gone, whupee, it's a great map, but it needs an update due to new districts, and am waiting for Cacahuate to help. Not to mention many districted places don't have maps. If I had the map up you'd complain its out of date. Can not win with you. The history section still needs some work, but not everything has to be pristine perfect as the Chicago articles, there are many articles in my opinion that have gone as DOTM. The Edmonton article definitely pushes it's weight above many Wikitravel articles. The districts are sorted out, I just did that today, as I mentioned in the talk. <font color="#339989">'''edmontonenthusiast [ee]'''</font> <sup><small><font color="#8848d7">'''.T.A.L.K.'''</font></small></sup> 00:43, 25 May 2009 (EDT). :::Point taken, GJ... I've done a quick edit of the history - I just stuck to basic facts and tried to make it appear more travel guide-like and less like a history text book. It still needs works, but at least the grammar should be ok. Cheers. WindHorse 00:54, 25 May 2009 (EDT)

    ::::Gorilla is absolutely right on all accounts, but we do have a couple more months before this is was be featured, so let's see if it improves in the next month or so. It has come a long way, but it does still need a lot of work, and must be up to guide status (meaning every district should be at least at usable status, no outlines) – <font color="green">cacahuate</font> <sup><small><font color="blue">talk</font></small></sup> 01:23, 25 May 2009 (EDT)

  • '''Not Yet''' If I knew anything about Edmonton, I'd help out, but sadly I don't. However, if this is going to be featured, I think the Edmonton/West End page needs to be revamped. For me, the only thing I know to go to Edmonton for is the mall, and although I realize that is partly my own ignorance, I believe it is definitely the most well-known thing in the city. With that said, the West End page is disorganized and a bit confusing. For example, despite having the largest mall in the world, it states in the "Buy" section, "Most of the West Ends shopping is nothing interesting. Despite it not being a tourist attraction, it could be helpful to a traveller because some people like going to Walmart on vacation or want to know where to get batteries, etc. " This seems like an odd comment to make about the area that holds the largest mall in the world. Is it really only good for buying batteries? Also, I think the information about the mall is disorganized. I don't think it's a "See" thing. A mall is always a "Buy" thing, and this one also has many things to "Do". The sidebox could be trimmed down if the "Do" items inside were taken out and made into their own activity listings. I think that would also help to highlight how big and amazing the mall really is.
  • edmontonenthusiast: I guess you feel a bit blind-sided since much of these issues were not brought up until now, but try not to take the criticisms personally. You've done some amazing work with this city's page, so don't get discouraged. You are working on a large city, and it seems you are mostly working alone, so I can imagine this is quite tough, but if you reread the articles with the criticim in mind and think about how to better present your city, when it is finally featured, it will really shine, and you can be all the more proud of it! Definitely keep smiling! ChubbyWimbus 13:29, 25 May 2009 (EDT) :Thanks Cacahuate and CW. I think giving it another month or so would be fair, so yeah. Yeah I guess you could say except for the Central and Old Strath-Uni (now South Central - name is more fitting for the area), and in some cases the North it is disorganised. Maybe the reason my writting on West Ed is so terrible is because I really hate it. And comments like yours only further that, you basically only know West Ed, but don't know about Whyte Ave, the festivals, the river valley, the art gallery(ies), the U of A(lberta), 124th street, The legislature, etc. I guess I'm working on getting those things much more well known :). Thanks to the both of ya! <font color="#339989">'''edmontonenthusiast [ee]'''</font> <sup><small><font color="#8848d7">'''.T.A.L.K.'''</font></small></sup> 16:34, 25 May 2009 (EDT).

    :Well, with the idea that the mall is the city's best known attraction (whether it deserves to be or not), perhaps it will be more bearable for you to make it look worthwhile by keeping in mind that if people are going to Edmonton and see that the mall descriptions are accessively negative or confusing they will be less likely to look at the other pages (which you hope they ''will'' look at) and more likely to refer to a more "fun" guide. One of the reasons I began working with the Okayama page was because I felt the guide was excessively negative, and it was obnoxious. Actually, it turned me off of the entire Wikitravel site for a while, until I started contributing to the page myself. This is why I think it's beneficial to the ''entire'' Edmonton guide to make the mall look fun for travellers. Of course, if there are some particularly shoddy places or rip-off activities in the mall, I'm not saying you should lie about them, but from personal experience looking at a negative guide, I highly recommend only including negative remarks when you feel that a majority of travellers could feel disappointed or ripped-off by the activity/site. When it is a matter of personal travel preferences, I think it's best to give it nice presentation and let the traveller decide if it's worthwhile for them to visit. ChubbyWimbus 09:51, 26 May 2009 (EDT) ::The mall is really against a lot of things I "believe in". I hate those suburban piece(s) of trash. I understand what you're saying but if I was visiting Edmonton, WEM would be the last thing on my mind. It's certainly not something I want to promote, and I don't think we should go overboard on making something look so amazing that is so tacky and unoriginal. Many people visit it and are dissapointed, just like they are with the MOA. Megamalls suck. But realistically, that's one of the few things that are "slightly" negative. I still show it's "amazement", like over 800 shops, the amusement park, etc. But thanks for the tip, I'll try to make it seem more uplifting, without it taking away and making it seem like it's the only thing to do. <font color="#339989">'''edmontonenthusiast [ee]'''</font> <sup><small><font color="#8848d7">'''.T.A.L.K.'''</font></small></sup> 15:02, 26 May 2009 (EDT).

    Grand Canyon

    A rather boring dotm, I'd say, but the article is quite well written and has about all the information one needs. --Peter <small><sup>Talk</sup></small> 00:42, 6 February 2009 (EST)

  • '''Support'''. Not much wrong with it that I can see, although I trimmed some of the more obnoxious warning boxes. Jpatokal 03:09, 21 February 2009 (EST)
  • '''Iffy'''. It ''is'' looking pretty good, but there is still a lot more to say.... more info on the treks down Bright Angel, for instance, I think are crucial to a good GC article – <font color="green">cacahuate</font> <sup><small><font color="blue">talk</font></small></sup> 23:19, 13 May 2009 (EDT)
  • Hamamatsu

    A nice big city article, with a nice map to boot. --Peter <small><sup>Talk</sup></small> 00:42, 6 February 2009 (EST)

  • '''Not yet'''. There's no contact info for most of the eat section, and no descriptions for most of the sleep options. But it's taking shape nicely otherwise – <font color="green">cacahuate</font> <sup><small><font color="blue">talk</font></small></sup> 12:13, 7 February 2009 (EST)
  • : Yeah, I need to get back on this article actually. I'll see if I can whip it into shape. Texugo 02:03, 8 February 2009 (EST) ::'''Update''' - Completed contact info for ''Buy'', ''Eat'', ''Drink'', and most of the ''See'' section. Hotel descriptions are forthcoming. Texugo 10:17, 9 February 2009 (EST)

  • '''Support'''. A few of the hotels could use descriptions, but otherwise it's pretty darn close to perfect. Jpatokal 07:49, 17 February 2009 (EST)
  • '''Support''' - Nice work mate, but darn we have many previous Japanese OtBP/DOTM's --Stefan (sertmann) <small><sup>Talk</sup></small> 08:11, 17 February 2009 (EST)
  • '''Support''' for same reason as Birmingham... WindHorse 22:52, 24 May 2009 (EDT)
  • Okayama

    It's an interesting and easily accessible destination that many travellers to Japan seem to skip over. As a grossly underrated destination, it would be nice to see it featured. {{unsigned|58.191.155.98}}

  • '''Don't support'''. Articles must be guide status or better... and this one is quite far off, eat and sleep sections are sparse and disorganized, for a start :) – <font color="green">cacahuate</font> <sup><small><font color="blue">talk</font></small></sup> 01:08, 17 February 2009 (EST)
  • If people skip over it, perhaps this would be better in the "off the beaten path" section. {{unsigned|ChubbyWimbus}}
  • * While not super-popular, it's a large city on the bullet train trunk line and a fairly common stopover along the way to Hiroshima, so it's more DotM than OtBP in my book. Jpatokal 01:15, 19 February 2009 (EST)
  • **I want to get this article to guide status, and I've been working on it little by little, but are there any areas aside from the "Eat" section that are not up to par? Also, what is the best way to search for dining places and giving good tips without actually having visited them? ChubbyWimbus 22:27, 24 February 2009 (EST) {{IsIn|}} {{geo|lat|long}}
  • '''<s>Almost</s> Support'''. The article is much better than it used to be, I think only "Eat" still needs serious help. Also, there are so many redlinks to Soja that the city should be created, at least as a stub. Jpatokal 08:44, 24 April 2009 (EDT)
  • :I've updated the "Eat" section (trimmed down much of the text, split into categories, added more listings) and added a Soja page with some information. Do you see anything else that needs done (or anything more on that section)? ChubbyWimbus 10:36, 14 May 2009 (EDT) ::Looking good! I cleaned it up a little more. Jpatokal 10:53, 14 May 2009 (EDT)

  • '''Almost support'''. Were it an OtBP nomination, it would already be there, but I'd like to see that eat section spruced up a bit more. It's pretty short for a city of this size, but more importantly the majority of the listings lack descriptions. Great article, though, and that's not much work left before becoming a DotM! --Peter <small><sup>Talk</sup></small> 23:14, 14 May 2009 (EDT)
  • '''Support'''. Could this be featured in August? The Edmonton article is unstable right now, and August would give a month's separation from the next Japan DoTM in September. Gorilla Jones 16:21, 23 May 2009 (EDT)
  • :I was also thinking August, since the Momotaro Festival is held then, and the garden is still green and pristine. Anytime from May to September would work, though. ChubbyWimbus 11:23, 24 May 2009 (EDT) ::I really don't get how the Edmonton article is unstable. If you could, please do explain that{not in this section tho}. Regardless I asked many months in advance to have Edmonton in the summer months, and August would be best, cause the biggest festivals and what not are then, and the city is it's most vibrant. I do think July or September would be ok. Does Birmingham have to be in September, or could it be moved to October, for example? <font color="#339989">'''edmontonenthusiast [ee]'''</font> <sup><small><font color="#8848d7">'''.T.A.L.K.'''</font></small></sup> 17:03, 24 May 2009 (EDT).

    Vladimir

  • '''Support''' ? Seems rather complete and it's a UNESCO heritage site. Given the unclear support for Boracay, Birmingham, & Reykjavik plus the fact Uluru was nominated for OtBP...I'd say this could be fit in as an DotM sometime in the summer (between May-August). My only complaint would be that Bogolyubovo in the "Get out" should be removed and put in a separate article. AHeneen 22:45, 17 February 2009 (EST)
  • ::We discussed on the Russian version whether Bogolyubovo should get its own article and decided pro. So Alexander will probably take care of that on the English version as well long before this would be featured. I'd widen the featuring window to May–October—Fall is definitely my favorite time to travel in this area, not yet cold and far less crowded (which also means less touts and other assorted rogues). --Peter <small><sup>Talk</sup></small> 23:07, 18 February 2009 (EST)

    :::Bogolyubovo has now been spun out into its own article. --Peter <small><sup>Talk</sup></small> 02:32, 24 February 2009 (EST)

    : I am not eligible to vote here, I guess. So, just a short comment on the season. In my opinion, the best time for travelling in Central Russia is late spring (May) or mid-autumn (end of September, October – Indian summer). Atsirlin 03:15, 24 February 2009 (EST)

  • '''Support, but:''' I suspect this may be better as OtBP. The Golden Ring is rather overshadowed by Moscow and St. Petersburg, at least to most English-speaking travelers, and treating this article as OtBP would be a good way to introduce it, while having it as DotM may leave most readers (at least most readers of an English-language wiki) saying "Huh?". Either way, the article is excellent, and Alexander, your "vote" counts for just as much as anyone else's! -- Bill-on-the-Hill 18:05, 24 February 2009 (EST)
  • :Sure it's overshadowed by Moscow/St.Petersburg, but the Golden Ring is probably about third after those two in terms of foreign tourists. While it is still little known, I gave my reasons as to why it should be DotM and otherwise, OtBP nominations are a bit full plus Yakutsk was a recent OtBP and I hope to get Kamchatka up to OtBP-quality soon...making 3 Russian OtBP in, let's say, 12 months. As Peter said in nominating, it could be either, but DotM seems like the best place it can fit. AHeneen 19:51, 24 February 2009 (EST) :: Yakutsk, Kamchatka, Sakhalin, Vladimir, Olkhon - we're going be in darn good shape for Russia, when I also finish my Russian side kicks :) --Stefan (sertmann) <small><sup>Talk</sup></small> 20:06, 24 February 2009 (EST) ::Foreign ''English-speaking'' tourists? What's "on the beaten path" for a Russian or Eastern European may not be for the majority of users of the English-language version of Wikitravel. (And vice versa; I've had some misgivings about some things we've called DotMs on the grounds that, if you're not a resident of an English-speaking country, they're quite definitely off the beaten path.) However, I don't feel strongly about calling it OtBP; the article is good enough that we should feature it ''somewhere''. -- Bill-on-the-Hill 21:16, 24 February 2009 (EST) :::Well, like I said, I think it could go either way. But the path here is very well-beaten, and I don't mean in terms of domestic tourism—endless boatloads and busloads of foreign tourists come here, as the Golden Ring circuit (at least parts of it) is included in virtually all "tour Russia packages" for Westerners. Of the sizable cities on the route, I believe that Vladimir is the most visited, since it's easy to combine it with a visit to ever popular Suzdal. Personally, I'd want to avoid coming here during the summer months—in addition to the humidity, I'd worry that my "Russian" experience would turn into a joust for camera space with some hungover Finns, a group of loud Italian women, and a septuagenarian couple from the Detroit suburbs. --Peter <small><sup>Talk</sup></small> 14:07, 25 February 2009 (EST) :::: That's interesting, When I was in Suzdal in May, which I suppose is the top attraction, we basically had the place to ourselves - well everything was booked up, but it was all Russians. You know Russia better than me, but judging from the tourist facilities in Vladimir, I'd personally be surprised if I bumped into anyone from States. But then again, it might be because we were travelling independently, and it was out of season. --Stefan (sertmann) <small><sup>Talk</sup></small> 15:22, 25 February 2009 (EST)

    Yellowstone National Park

    A UNESCO World Heratige site, the first national park in the world, and a very popular "nature" destination here in the US. It is best in the summer, which looks full right now, but wouldn't be ''terribly'' bad in the fall. AHeneen 00:47, 2 March 2009 (EST) : The '''Tower Roosevelt''' section needs some information/description, along with the '''Natural Bridge''', but the page looks good to me! There is always that looming issue of too many American destinations, but I have mixed feelings about that. Of course, ideally, the featured destinations would be highly diverse, leaving no nation or area of the world out ''however'', I also feel that if the Wikitravel community chooses to make better pages for countries like the U.S., Japan, and strangely Cambodia has been featured a few times, there is not much that can be done (aside from those who want to see new places featured actually working to get them up to standards). I'd support Yellowstone. ChubbyWimbus 05:09, 3 March 2009 (EST)
  • '''Support''', with reservations. The article is quite good; I use it, despite being something of a "regular" at Yellowstone. However, as with most US national parks, I'm not convinced that a Yellowstone article shows Wikitravel to best advantage (or vice versa, which is maybe less important). There are two problems. First, there's a great deal of good stuff on line on Yellowstone already, much of it in more coherent form than is true for other DotMs. Second, the "attractions" of the park are not well presented in the limited format that we've imposed on ourselves here. Yes, the article "can" be used in DotM, in that it meets all of the requirements for a DotM article. That doesn't necessarily mean that it ''should'' be. -- Bill-on-the-Hill 09:50, 3 March 2009 (EST)
  • Bayreuth

    I know too little about travel in Germany to judge whether this should be a dotm or an otbp, but I think this article is up to snuff either way. --Peter <small><sup>Talk</sup></small> 21:08, 21 March 2009 (EDT)

  • '''Support''' DOTM during the Wagner festival - definitely! August is taken, so let's make it July--Stefan (sertmann) <small><sup>Talk</sup></small> 21:23, 21 March 2009 (EDT)
  • '''Support'''. Looks great! Jpatokal 02:17, 23 March 2009 (EDT)
  • '''Support''' One or two more pictures would be nice, though. ChubbyWimbus 21:46, 23 March 2009 (EDT)
  • Looks like a good article, I'd '''Support''', but I think it should be more an OTBP. Most of the OTBP are rural areas, how about a small city like this? It isn't overly known, really. <font color="#339989">'''edmontonenthusiast [ee]'''</font> <sup><small><font color="#8848d7">'''.T.A.L.K.'''</font></small></sup> 17:13, 22 May 2009 (EDT).
  • Marrakech

    Thanks to Mr Yurkin I finally bumped into a worthy candidate outside North America and Asia - apart from the odd ones in Europe, they are extremely hard to come by! While there are a few flaws (like missing addresses) I really think the information there is so good and comprehensive, that we can turn our blind eye to these.

  • '''Support!!''' --Stefan (sertmann) <small><sup>Talk</sup></small> 23:19, 24 March 2009 (EDT)
  • '''Support'''. Great to have an African destination featured, although it would be nice to develop the understand section a bit more. --Peter <small><sup>Talk</sup></small> 23:48, 24 March 2009 (EDT)
  • '''Support'''. I love the spice market picture! Jpatokal 02:57, 25 March 2009 (EDT)
  • '''Support''' I agree that more attention needs to be given to African destinations. Since they must be at '''guide status''' in order to be DOTM, I am just thinking it should be bumped up to the right status. Any reason why it is still only at '''usable status'''? ChubbyWimbus 05:30, 25 March 2009 (EDT)
  • :::It's looking pretty good, needs some cleanup still though..... there's a lot of stuff that should be on the Morocco page rather than the city page, like the general hammam info, etc – <font color="green">cacahuate</font> <sup><small><font color="blue">talk</font></small></sup> 23:18, 13 May 2009 (EDT)

    Antigua Guatemala

  • '''Support'''. --Peter <small><sup>Talk</sup></small> 19:55, 30 March 2009 (EDT)
  • :: Wow! This looks good! Is there a more appropriate place to put the "laundry" information aside from the '''Buy''' section? It really doesn't seem to belong there. 58.191.155.98 04:51, 1 April 2009 (EDT) :::It's normally a "Cope" topic, and I see that someone has moved it there. '''Support'''. -- Bill-on-the-Hill 14:19, 9 April 2009 (EDT)
  • '''Support''' And again, nice to see dotm/otbp ready guides, outside our "core" areas' of North America and Asia. --Stefan (sertmann) <small><sup>Talk</sup></small> 08:45, 1 April 2009 (EDT)
  • '''Almost support'''. It is looking pretty good and has a ton of listings, but the see section is very weak, and should be one of the strongest. The article could also use a serious copyedit and a small beating with the MoS stick – <font color="green">cacahuate</font> <sup><small><font color="blue">talk</font></small></sup> 17:52, 25 May 2009 (EDT)
  • Vientiane

    The capital of Laos, an increasingly popular tourist destination (no longer OtBP) and a very comprehensive article that almost suffers from too much information. Best in the winter season (Nov-Mar or thereabouts). Jpatokal 08:40, 24 April 2009 (EDT) : '''Support''' but it needs in some sections (Get around, Drink) a traveller who was their as some dates (e.g. 2007 for deadline of bars) are totally outdated... jan 05:17, 1 May 2009 (EDT)

    Portland

    This one looks like it has a lot of solid information. The only thing maybe is a map or two (I might be able to do it) and a few more images from my standpoint. Looks well written with lots of images. What do you think? If you think it needs improvement let me know where and I'll try and fix it when I can. <font color="#339989">'''edmontonenthusiast [ee]'''</font> <sup><small><font color="#8848d7">'''.T.A.L.K.'''</font></small></sup> 21:49, 14 May 2009 (EDT). To add, the summer or fall months would be best, so maybe 2010? Or we bump October or November I suppose. <font color="#339989">'''edmontonenthusiast [ee]'''</font> <sup><small><font color="#8848d7">'''.T.A.L.K.'''</font></small></sup> 20:02, 19 May 2009 (EDT).

    Nominations for Off the Beaten Path

    Point Reyes National Seashore

    I can't help but feel this National Park is a hidden gem overshadowed by parks like Yosemite, OTB this article is. There is a great picture, along with a park map. Great place & Great Article. -98.228.6.230 21:14, 5 October 2008 (EDT)
  • '''Maybe''' I think the number of US DotM and OtBP destinations have been a little disproportionate. Don't take that as rude (I, myself, am an American), but that's the truth. If we do list another US destination, it should be something "off the beaten path", as in...away from big cities, in the middle of nowhere (somewhat), and someplace many have never heard of (this article meets that, but it is too close to San Francisco). Just my opinion, it's not as if I speak for everyone. AHeneen 19:48, 17 October 2008 (EDT)
  • '''Maybe'''. I'll second that maybe. It's interesting, and the article is pretty well done. Is there nowhere to eat there? Only the one place 45 min away at Drake's beach? We should at least put contact info for that place. I think we could use this if we need to fill a slot. But I wouldn't cry if we skipped it either. If it does get featured, I'll do a WT style map for it first – <font color="green">cacahuate</font> <sup><small><font color="blue">talk</font></small></sup> 15:55, 25 October 2008 (EDT)
  • '''Support''' - overall it is pretty good just from a quick look. The only thing that the Buy and Get out areas need more loving and caring! <font color="#339989">'''edmontonenthusiast [ee]'''</font> <sup><small><font color="#8848d7">'''.T.A.L.K.'''</font></small></sup> 13:05, 14 December 2008 (EST).
  • ::Having recently been here, I'm leaning towards not supporting.... this is a destination that relies heavily on nearby areas for lodging and food, and Point Reyes Station and Tomales are in need of TLC. Once it has proper support though from its neighbors, I think this is potentially a fantastic OTBP – <font color="green">cacahuate</font> <sup><small><font color="blue">talk</font></small></sup> 17:57, 25 May 2009 (EDT)

    Kilkenny

    This article is very good and gives a good insight into the Medieval Capital of Ireland. Its small nature, I feel, qualifies it for Off the BEaten Track. As a resident of Kilkenny, I feel that it deserves the opportunity to be on this list.

    The article contains many nice photos and detailed descriptions of Hotels and ways of getting in and, of course, things to to.

    It is a guide article.

  • '''Close'''. There are a few edits that need to be done -- contact info and hours for restaurants, typo repair, ideally adding a map -- before I'd support it unequivocally, but all are doable. Let's keep an eye on this one to see how it develops; it's definitely a reasonable candidate. -- Bill-on-the-Hill 18:37, 6 September 2008 (EDT)
  • New information on '''eat''' has been added, with new maps and photographs.
  • ::Another map copyright issue on this one. Please respond at the :shared:vfd page. --Peter <small><sup>Talk</sup></small> 10:47, 7 September 2008 (EDT)

    Gone.

  • '''Support'''. Great page. It has a thorough description of things to do and where to go. Great Photos.
  • I have been working on this article for a while now, and I think it could possibly be up to scratch. Maps have been added, comprehensive food, drink and accommodation listings are in place and good quality photos too. The structure might be a bit off, so I was wondering if anyone could give any suggestions as to where to go from here? --User:LikeThatWillHappen 00:47, 8 March 2009 (GMT)
  • ::The big missing thing appears to be a street map, which could be lifted from [http://openstreetmap.org/?lat=20.16395&lon=99.62554&zoom=15 OpenStreetMap] without too much effort (see Wikitravel:How to create a map). The Irish phrase don't belong in a small city, that's what the Irish phrasebook is for. Other than that, looks good to go — what time of year is best? Jpatokal 02:47, 18 March 2009 (EDT)
  • Summer or Autumn. The weather is usually great in Kilkenny at those times, the hottest place in Ireland. It celebrated its 400th birthday today as a City, the 11th of April, and celebrations were widespread. They will be continuing for the coming months.
  • Odense

    Nicely turned out article on a small city in Denmark with some attractions. I'm not sure there really ''are'' "Off the Beaten Path" locales in western Europe, but this one seems to qualify, and we're probably overdue for an OtBP there. -- Bill-on-the-Hill 16:02, 3 August 2007 (EDT) : '''Support'''. Some listings could use more detail, but overall it seems to cover the destination well. Good OtBP candidate. Gorilla Jones 19:42, 3 August 2007 (EDT) : '''Support'''. I presume summer is best? Jpatokal 06:30, 15 February 2008 (EST) : '''Support'''. Anywhere from May til September would fit, if it get's nominated i'll work on it a bit too - would love to see a Danish destination :) Sertmann 18:35, 4 September 2008 (EDT) Support. Looks ok. <font color="#339989">'''edmontonenthusiast [ee]'''</font> <sup><small><font color="#8848d7">'''.T.A.L.K.'''</font></small></sup> 18:52, 19 December 2008 (EST).

    Spring Green

    Has a couple of very interesting attractions and some small-town, away-from-the-interstate charm. Might be ''too'' small to be featured, but it's a nice weekend trip. Could work for December (there are Christmas festivities in town, and the House on the Rock supposedly goes all out for Christmas), otherwise a warm weather month. The major article for the region, Madison, is in reasonably good shape. Gorilla Jones 19:38, 3 August 2007 (EDT)

    :'''Not yet''' - I don't know if being ''too'' small is a problem - we've had Berneray as OtBP and that article covers 10 sq km and has just 128 residents. However there are a few problems - we need a few more things to do listed either in See/Do or the Get Out section, a bit more info in the get in section (e.g. nearest airport) and some more info about the town as a whole. I also like to read about places before I visit, so some general pre-visit info and history about the town would be nice. Also there needs to be more details about the hiking trails and canoe trips. If we get this to a reasonable standard, then maybe it would be a good candidate for when the American Playhouse Theatre does their annual outdoor Shakespeare festival? -- Tim <small>(writeme!)</small> 09:06, 15 August 2007 (EDT) : '''Support'''. I don't see anything wrong with the article? It seems to have something in all the main sections, and just being small isn't really a problem for OtBP. Jpatokal 06:30, 15 February 2008 (EST) : '''Support''' -- reluctantly. I had an experience very close to this town that makes it difficult for me to recommend ''any'' site in southwestern Wisconsin for visits. However, that was probably an isolated case, the article is well done, and House-on-the-Rock is just weird enough to be good OtBP fodder, so I'll lay aside my personal distaste for the area and say yes. -- Bill-on-the-Hill 19:16, 21 June 2008 (EDT) : '''Support'''. Spring Green makes for a fantastic OtbP in my estimation. It should definitely be featured May – October, since the tours of the Taliesin Estate only run during those months. The article could use a little polishing, but I think that will probably happen before next May. --Peter <small><sup>Talk</sup></small> 00:45, 17 August 2008 (EDT)

    Hovd

    This would be a great first Mongolian OtBP, and there's a gorgeous lead pic to boot. The content is there, but the article still needs some MoS work. Jpatokal 03:16, 16 April 2008 (EDT)
  • '''Support'''. Just about the model of what an OtBP article should be, and the MoS work isn't all that big a deal (although it should be done). When's the best time? -- Bill-on-the-Hill 11:48, 20 June 2008 (EDT)
  • '''Support'''. And oh how I love this magnificent country!!! It should not be featured before June when the hills turns green - June would actually be the perfect month - and probably not after October, winter is nasty nasty in Mongolia, but then again, it would be even more OtBP to go there in -40 degrees. Sertmann 18:33, 5 November 2008 (EST)
  • :: Just a reminder, we should email User:HovdProject when we feature this. Bunch of volunteers from Peacecorps etc., doing the writing to promote tourism in the area, I think they'd be proud to see Hovd featured on our front page. --Stefan (sertmann) <small><sup>Talk</sup></small> 02:20, 9 December 2008 (EST)
  • '''Support'''. Agreed with Bill, a model OtBP. Gorilla Jones 20:18, 8 December 2008 (EST)
  • '''Support.''' It is good. <font color="#339989">'''edmontonenthusiast [ee]'''</font> <sup><small><font color="#8848d7">'''.T.A.L.K.'''</font></small></sup> 00:57, 13 December 2008 (EST).
  • Saba

    Great little article. With a little polishing this could be our first Caribbean OtBP! Jpatokal 09:38, 30 April 2008 (EDT)
  • Let's see the polishing first. There's rather little contact information for Eat/Sleep/Drink and it needs a map. The idea of a Caribbean OtBP is indeed appealing, but Virgin Gorda (next entry) is closer to ready. -- Bill-on-the-Hill 18:06, 20 May 2008 (EDT)
  • Truely of the beaten path Caribbean destination. Very specific and insightful article. While you may see other Caribbean islands nominated, it doesn't get more OtBP than Saba. With a complete article and an abundance of resources, why not?--AZGSB9 18:03, 29. May 2008 (EDT)
  • '''Support''', with one caveat—there should be at least one shop named under buy. If we move forward with this as an OtBP, I'll see if I can put together a map (if it's possible!). --Peter <small><sup>Talk</sup></small> 21:52, 10 September 2008 (EDT)
  • '''Objections''' The cities should atleast be usable first '''OR''' merged into the main article Sertmann 20:17, 17 October 2008 (EDT)
  • '''Don't support''' until the city situation is sorted, and eat/sleep cleaned up. See Talk:Saba – <font color="green">cacahuate</font> <sup><small><font color="blue">talk</font></small></sup> 20:30, 27 November 2008 (EST)
  • Preah Vihear

    Off the beaten path but certainly in the news; just named a UNESCO World Heritage site and Thailand and Cambodia are still squabbling over it. Now has a gorgeous new map from Wikimedia Commons. Good more or less any time of the year, perhaps best in the winter though. Jpatokal 05:49, 8 July 2008 (EDT) :: '''Undecided'''. If "Thailand and Cambodia are still squabbling over it," is it really a good idea to recommend travel to it? How serious is the "squabbling"? Please advise. -- Bill-on-the-Hill 08:54, 8 July 2008 (EDT) ::: Not particularly serious. Thailand occasionally closes off access for a day or two, but it's fully accessible from the Cambodian side (if rather harder to get to). Jpatokal 04:08, 12 July 2008 (EDT) :::: You're positive? [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2008_Cambodian-Thai_stand-off This] article kinda caught my attention... -- Bill-on-the-Hill 12:00, 20 July 2008 (EDT)

    :::::Should we create an "adventurous dotm" section for the main page? – <font color="green">cacahuate</font> <sup><small><font color="blue">talk</font></small></sup> 23:36, 20 July 2008 (EDT)

    ::::::I thought we called that "OtBP". Jpatokal 08:56, 4 August 2008 (EDT) :::::::"Off," not "On," and "Beaten," not "Bombarded," "Besieged," "Battlefield..." -- Bill-on-the-Hill 11:57, 4 August 2008 (EDT)

  • OK, if the squabbling has died down, I'll '''support''', but let's keep an eye on it. -- Bill-on-the-Hill 22:29, 2 November 2008 (EST)
  • * I've popped this off the list for time being, but mostly because Phnom Penh is about to be featured. Let's see again in late 2009. Jpatokal 07:26, 13 December 2008 (EST)
  • :'''Best to Wait''' right now. According to the BBC [http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/7963014.stm], Thai troops have just taken over the whole temple compound. Not sure if that will mean a skirmish, but that doesn't sound like it will make visiting a safe thing to do. AHeneen 07:10, 25 March 2009 (EDT)

    Fraser's Hill

    Low-key, semi-abandoned colonial hill resort featuring a very different side of Malaysia. Good any time of year, but probably best not listed until they finish fixing up the town square, sometime in "early 2009". Jpatokal 07:26, 13 December 2008 (EST)
  • Upon glance, looks pretty good, nice pictures, complete info, etc. '''Support'''. <font color="#339989">'''edmontonenthusiast [ee]'''</font> <sup><small><font color="#8848d7">'''.T.A.L.K.'''</font></small></sup> 16:05, 19 December 2008 (EST).
  • :I guess I can't say I don't support it on grounds of boringness, but I sort of feel like it's lacking something. Maybe an interesting picture of the birds, if it's so famous for them? It just seems REALLY dull. Hm.. ChubbyWimbus 11:11, 11 March 2009 (EDT)

    Colorado's Wine Country

    Written single-handedly by User:WineCountryInn, presumably of [http://www.coloradowinecountryinn.com], but this is almost a textbook example of how to sell yourself ''correctly'' on Wikitravel. It's a little hype-y and some of the purplest prose ("adult adventure of the senses"?!) needs trimming, but hey, this is an itinerary for wine lovers and it's OK to be enthusiastic. Anytime between April and September should be fine. Jpatokal 22:37, 8 January 2009 (EST) : The article is excellent so far, but at least a few of the vineyards should have descriptions highlighting what makes them notable or exceptional, preferably with more contact info than the website. If they're all equal and it doesn't matter which one you visit (because you're sure to have a great time ''anywhere'' you go in Colorado Wine Country), then that should be noted instead. Gorilla Jones 23:42, 8 January 2009 (EST) :: Hmm, good point. The vineyards are also (mostly?) listed in the town articles, so it's probably best to put detailed descriptions in those and just point out the top few picks in the itinerary. Jpatokal 01:48, 9 January 2009 (EST) :In addition to the above, of all the "wine regions" listed, only two have much information on wine in that region...three are stubs ("X" is a city in Colorado). I think al of the "wine regions" should be usable (including wine info) before this is featured).AHeneen 05:02, 9 January 2009 (EST) ::: My concerns are pretty much gone after the impressive work that's been done by User:WineCountryInn today. It's already a great article, and if he or she keeps working at this rate, it'll wind up a star. Gorilla Jones 19:06, 9 January 2009 (EST) ::::Is this guide correctly labeled as a travel topic? I went off the example of Skiing in Colorado. Is it more correctly a Region or an Itinerary? It encompasses more than a single region, both Northwestern Colorado and Southwestern Colorado. It is about a specific topic, apropos the Chicago Skyline Guide? Any thoughts about this? WineCountryInn 18:41, 11 January 2009 (EST) :::::I think you're right to call it a travel topic. Gorilla Jones 18:45, 11 January 2009 (EST)
  • '''Support''' This is really good stuff, only thing i'd like to see changed, is a bit more comprehensive descriptions of the wineries, but I think it's already up to OTBP standard as far as i'm concerned. --Stefan (sertmann) <small><sup>Talk</sup></small> 19:29, 11 January 2009 (EST)
  • :I have removed the problematic "wine regions", a concern voiced by AHeneen, and added descriptions to all the wineries, as requested by many different users. WineCountryInn 22:39, 13 January 2009 (EST) ::'''Rotation for the article'''. With the August picks coming up for OtBP, I'd like to suggest this piece for either August or September, when the grape harvest is coming in. Thanks.WineCountryInn 00:02, 23 January 2009 (EST)

    Tobacco Caye

    In an effort to break a record for shortest time from article creation to otbp nom, ladies and gentleboys, I present you Tobacco Caye, in 4 minutes flat. You can stand on one shore, and with powerful lungs, spit across to the other. Aside from Caribbean hurricane season, there's not a terrible time to feature it. And no, there's not very much more you can say about it, it's a small article, and will likely always remain so – <font color="green">cacahuate</font> <sup><small><font color="blue">talk</font></small></sup> 21:06, 16 January 2009 (EST)

    '''Support''' Everything obviously looks to be in order :) --Stefan (sertmann) <small><sup>Talk</sup></small> 01:38, 23 January 2009 (EST)

  • '''Support''' - Great little article. Let's run this in November or December, after the hurricane season and as the weather in North America grows cold again. (It's when people start thinking about their Caribbean vacations). WineCountryInn 15:05, 24 January 2009 (EST)
  • '''Support''' -- with reservations. The article certainly qualifies on its merits, but I'm detecting a growing tendency not to consider a place "really" OtBP unless it's a dinky desert island in the middle of nowhere. If we do use this one (and make no mistake, I favor it), let's slot it in at a time when some other kinds of OtBPs have been in the spotlight for a while. -- Bill-on-the-Hill 21:57, 24 February 2009 (EST)
  • Mae Salong

    Curious little nook of Thailand that would make a great little winter OtBP — and it's neither island nor beach! Best season is November-February. Jpatokal 02:40, 18 March 2009 (EDT)

  • '''Support'''. Nice work! – <font color="green">cacahuate</font> <sup><small><font color="blue">talk</font></small></sup> 19:21, 18 May 2009 (EDT)
  • '''Support''', looks good but the Do section is VERY light. Would make a good winter destination as there tends to be less nominations then I think. <font color="#339989">'''edmontonenthusiast [ee]'''</font> <sup><small><font color="#8848d7">'''.T.A.L.K.'''</font></small></sup> 20:01, 19 May 2009 (EDT).
  • Arusha

    Another nice little article courtesy of a relatively new user, which would be our second ever featured article from Sub-Saharan Africa. --Peter <small><sup>Talk</sup></small> 19:57, 30 March 2009 (EDT)

  • ''' Support''' and since this more or less smack under the equator, it's good to feature in winter, where we are usually short on good guides to display. --Stefan (sertmann) <small><sup>Talk</sup></small> 08:50, 1 April 2009 (EDT)
  • Are there really only 3 things to "See and Do"? (there are four bullets, but the second thing listed to "Do" is leave, which makes it even more noticeable that there's nothing to do/see...) It would be great to feature this (and I like the market photo), but it just seems rather bare. Does it really offer so little? ChubbyWimbus 08:48, 19 April 2009 (EDT)
  • '''Don't Support''' ?While interesting and helpful to a visitor, I think the "usable" status is very appropriate. There is very little under see & Do (which shouldn't be combined), could possibly use a few more "eat" listings, & the opening of the "sleep" section should be rewritten & include addresses. I agree w/ChubbyWimbus that it is quite "bare". I don't know about attractions there, but it's in the Serengeti and very close to several safari hotspots (Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, & Tarangire National Park). It's also the largest city near Mount Kilimanjaro (Moshi is much smaller). My guess is that it's more of a base for exploring nearby areas than a tourist destination in-and-of-itself. AHeneen 22:59, 10 May 2009 (EDT)
  • '''Support''', looks well written overall. <font color="#339989">'''edmontonenthusiast [ee]'''</font> <sup><small><font color="#8848d7">'''.T.A.L.K.'''</font></small></sup> 22:05, 15 May 2009 (EDT).
  • Olomouc

    The article is already in the guide status but I think there are still things to be improved (I am working on that - comments are welcome). It is probably the most beautiful city in the Czech Republic but unknown to most travelers, so I think it is an excellent destination for the "off the beaten track" category. Probably the best time to visit the city is spring (it is the city of flowers after all) but it needs some work and the queue is full anyway, so I would like to schedule it for spring 2010 - probably April, as it is the time of the traditional flower exhibition. Kyknos 17:33, 20 April 2009 (EDT)

  • '''Close''', but not there yet. Needs more Sleep listings, and almost all listings are lacking proper addresses, contact information, websites, and MoS formatting. In particular, it should never be "X is foo", but "X, address, tel, website. This is..." Jpatokal 06:08, 1 May 2009 (EDT)
  • '''Support''' with the same reservations as mentioned above by Jpatokal. Olomouc is a very nice city. It is a bit different from the most visited, western part of Czech republic and should certainly by highlighted. I believe that there is still a lot of time to do the necessary improvements. Atsirlin 03:57, 4 May 2009 (EDT)
  • Flores (Guatemala)

    I noticed it in the Star nomination slush pile and thought it had potential to make it as an Off the Beaten Track candidate. ChubbyWimbus 03:05, 17 May 2009 (EDT)

  • '''Support'''. This seems up to OtBP standards to me. And the objections last time around were fairly minor—I'm actually surprised that it was slushed, rather than moved to OtBP. Usually I'd nuke the tour operators, but Guatemala can be a hairy place, I suppose. (And I don't know enough about it to judge which ones to remove. --Peter <small><sup>Talk</sup></small> 03:41, 17 May 2009 (EDT)
  • '''Support''' - very nice. It looks well written with decent maps. <font color="#339989">'''edmontonenthusiast [ee]'''</font> <sup><small><font color="#8848d7">'''.T.A.L.K.'''</font></small></sup> 13:37, 17 May 2009 (EDT).
  • '''Moderate support'''. Having visited it a few months ago, I realized how far off my old dreams of star status for Flores were. Unfortunately a lost passport thwarted my plans of making it an awesome star article while I was in town. Many of the listings are not on the map, and I think several of them may not even exist anymore, but I made a new map today and placed as much as I could. It is a decent article, but it can get a lot better.... and is still way behind LP's coverage ;) It would also be ideal for the Tikal article to be up to guide status, since that's the reason 90% of Flores' visitors are here (and if it ''were'' up to status, I would propose it instead). But I think it may suffice if nothing better comes along – <font color="green">cacahuate</font> <sup><small><font color="blue">talk</font></small></sup> 15:14, 17 May 2009 (EDT)
  • '''Don't support''' - I ran into this a while ago, while looking for candidates outside our usual areas' (Asia & North America), and considered nominating it - but decided against it since I found a lot of the information really lagging. A good example is the ''do'' listings "rent a canoe/hire a covered boat" fine, but some listings - or in case it's to disorganised for listings, some information on where to do this/how much should I pay, would be nice. and Wes' comments above just add's to that. --Stefan (sertmann) <small><sup>Talk</sup></small> 15:52, 17 May 2009 (EDT)