The [http://wikipedia.sourceforge.net/ MediaWiki] software allows editors to mix in HTML markup along with standard Wiki markup. In general, '''HTML should be avoided''', for the following reasons:

  • The Web is not Wikitravel's only output format. Our goals are to have '''multiple output formats'''. Wiki markup is a high-level layout description that can be translated into many formats; HTML is not.
  • HTML is '''hard to edit'''. Wiki markup is designed specifically for editing on-screen in a browser, and to be really easy to edit. HTML is not. It intimidates casual editors and keeps them from making improvements to our content.
  • It's a '''rathole'''. Fixing up HTML formatting hoohaw wastes time and attention that could instead be spent making valuable content.
  • That all said, there's some specific exceptions for cases where the current implementation of Wiki markup doesn't do the job.

  • Quick facts tables for countries. These exist for every country, and they should probably stay, at least until we have a Wiki markup replacement for them.
  • Make any other exceptions with '''extreme prejudice'''.