Illustrating the changing face of global travel, hostel-booking website Hostelworld.com has published its millionth customer review today.
Customer reviews on websites and online forums have become a huge factor in helping tourists decide where to stay when on holidays, and have been touted as improving competition in the tourist accommodation sector.
Dublin-headquartered Hostelworld.com introduced reviews in 2002 to allow customers recount their experience in an establishment and give a star rating. Hostelworld.com only allows certified guests to post reviews, ruling out manipulation by hostel owners.
Hostelworld.com managing director Niamh Ni Mhir commented: “We are delighted to have reached this landmark of one million reviews. User-generated content is becoming vital to sustaining a significant presence on the internet as people are becoming increasingly savvy. Our growth in customer ratings and reviews on Hostelworld.com reflects our transition into this next generation of users.”
The one millionth review was posted by a backpacker from England who stayed at the America del Sur Hostel in Argentina. He described it as “a dream location”.
Hostelworld.com has also recently introduced podcasts from various cities that can be downloaded on its site and incorporates blogs as part of its user network.
By Niall Byrne
