Shhhh..

One website posted this:  "Shhh… These 17 hidden gems are Ohio’s best kept secrets"

Hidden Gems,  Best Kept Secrets     Really ?   

The seventeen places the site listed are some of the most visited and crowded tourists attractions in the state and have been well known for many years. They are not hidden and are not secret. These are buzz words and hype. Some of the places on the site's "gems list" are worth a visit, some are not. Some are free and some are outright rip-offs. According to the Ohio Department of Development, total tourist spending increased from $48 billion in 2019 to $56 billion in 2023, an increase of more than 16 percent. Tourist traps are designed to lure in unsuspecting travelers with flashy signs, promises of unique experiences, or unbeatable prices. Overcharging is common and something that those who have been on the road for a while have often encountered. If you’re not aware, you may not even notice. Protect yourself by being aware of how you choose destinations and activities. Seek out local recommendations instead of relying on website advertising or online reviews. Fake reviews by merchants and service providers is a common practice. Have you ever come home feeling disappointed ? You’re not alone. Sixty-five percent of travelers admit they often feel disappointed after visiting an overrated destination. Don't come home disappointed with an empty wallet. Travel with a sense of adventure and dodge the tourist traps.