When it comes to planning a trip, reviews can feel like the holy grail. They’re everywhere — on booking platforms, travel blogs, even TikTok — and sometimes they can sway us completely. But I’ve learned that while reviews are useful, they shouldn’t always have the final word.
After all, every experience is unique, and sometimes trusting your own research (and gut) makes all the difference.I realized this during one of my own trips. I had my eye on a beautiful hotel in a prime location — classy, highly rated overall, and exactly the vibe I wanted for my stay. But as I scrolled through the reviews, I noticed a handful of negative ones complaining about the staff and service. For a moment, I almost let those few comments stop me from booking. Instead, I weighed the pros and cons, looked at the bigger picture, and decided to take the leap.And you know what? My experience couldn’t have been more different. The staff was kind, the service was excellent, and the hotel ended up being one of the highlights of my trip. That moment shifted how I look at reviews: instead of letting a few bad comments define my choice, I now balance them against the overall rating, the location, and what I actually need from the stay.
I’ve also found that checking Google Maps reviews with photos is one of the best ways to get a realistic feel. Seeing unfiltered images from real travelers often tells me more than paragraphs of text ever could.Of course, if reviews consistently mention serious issues — like safety or cleanliness — that’s worth taking seriously. But when it comes to more subjective complaints, sometimes it’s better to trust your own instincts.
Travel is so personal, and what doesn’t work for someone else may be exactly what you’re looking for.
For me, that mix of research, intuition, and being open to my own experience has made trip planning feel more empowering. Because at the end of the day, the best stories often come from the leaps we’re brave enough to take.