Many of my postings to this Forum have begun with the phrase "Consider this". Thus, I'd like you to consider the following: Fodor is much like a generous host who has invited a group of total strangers, all with a common interest, to share their experiences in a social gathering. Long ago, I'm sure, we were taught that as a guest and out of respect for our host, we should behave with decorum and politesse. Our actions and behavior in a social setting would be judged as a measure of our host's taste in inviting us. The boorish, impolite guest, the guest with unjustified airs of superiority and the guest who subjects his fellows to ridicule is rarely reinvited. Once discovered, all are shunned in a true social setting. As active contributors to this Forum and as its guests, I think we have multiple responsibilities. First, to be patient with and respectful of those who submit queries no matter how naïve their questions may seem. Second, to provide responses based on what knowledge and experience we may have that will truly benefit the questioner. Third, to recognize and acknowledge that our words and actions are reflective not only of ourselves but also of Fodor, our host. Fourth, regardless of how well meaning our motives may be, to avoid perpetuating and encouraging diatribes by actively participating in them. Fifth, to use wit and humor to alleviate the anxieties and uncertainties of novice travelers, not to subject them to what they may perceive to be ridicule. Sixth, in the now immortal words of Austin Powers: "Behave!" <BR> <BR>Fodor's Forums are superb resources for the prospective traveler. They are equally superb outlets where knowledgeable travelers can share their experiences with others. It would be shameful and irresponsible on our part to cause such a valuable travel resource to deteriorate to the level of some of Fodor's competitors' websites. It would be doubly shameful to allow our actions to adversely affect the reputation and good will of Fodor. <BR> <BR>These are just one man's opinions. I hope they're accepted as that and that these comments don't provoke yet another long thread of commentary. Let's leave room for the poor soul seeking advice about an impending first trip to Paris, London or Rome! <BR>

Well put, Wes, and thank you for reminding all of us. I always enjoy reading what you have to say.

<BR>Thank you.

AMEN!

I know that my post defies the logic which it contains, but it must be made so you will understand my point, which is as follows: <BR> <BR>Just IGNORE irrelevant posts! Simple, easy. I don't even read them. This one caught my eye simply because the thread title was so nonthreatening. If you don't like irrelevent or rude threads, IGNORE them. Just my opinion to (also) try to make this forum even better than it currently is. So if I don't take the bait of someone responding to my message here, it's because I haven't read it!

Wes - <BR>You are my hero. <BR>

Yes, Wes, well put indeed! <BR>Let's all ignore those that do not agree.

Oh mein Got! Yet another thread for arguement and diatribe. Let's see how many rude, sarcastic, politically inflated, bone-headed, irreverent, and funny comments we can get out of this one. <BR> <BR>Enjoy!~ <BR> <BR>

Speaking for myself, DB, I'm not taking the bait on this one. Wes's comments sound sincerely felt, and don't attack anyone. And, I feel the Church Lady's comment, bless her soul, says it all.)

<BR>Well said, Wes and thanks...

Let's not make a mountain out of a molehill. What we sow we shall reap! <BR>Life's too short to give a moment's meditation to anything that is not edifying. Let's just keep our thoughts and words to 'be blessed to bless others'

At the risk of provoking another long list of commentary: <BR>Thank you Wes! <BR>Ps: Your insites have been most helpful in the past.

Thank you, Wes. We truly are guests here. We have wandered into this place, the one with the sign that says "Travelers Welcome", each for his or her own reasons, and we choose to return, time and again. Fodors, our host has made available some superb facilities. Fodors has also laid out some simple ground rules (which I fear some visitors either have never read or have chosen to ignore). <BR> <BR>There is something different about summer at The Forum. As someone pointed out on another thread, most people have made their travel plans; thoughts now turn to lighter things. That isn't all bad. The two threads, "I Was Drunk The Day Mom Got Out of Prison" and "Drunk Mom's Travel (whatever)" demonstrated to me the side-splitting sense of humor and creativity which many of the contributors have in abundance. I now look at their other posts with a knowledge of this other dimension. <BR> <BR>I've been on the road on business during the past week. In the early morning hours, I've had the opportunity to look at some of the other travel web sites. The are largely devoid of activity and what information is posted is not nearly of the quality that can be found here. I'm not sure what Fodors had in mind when they set up this site, but I would like to think that it has more than met their expectations. <BR> <BR>Wes, your post was a welcome perspective. Thatnk you for taking the time to put those thoughts into words.

Neal, <BR> <BR>We had no idea what to expect when we set up the forums, but you're absolutely right: we're overwhelmed and delighted with the results. <BR> <BR>Many thanks to all for making these boards incredibly informative and fun. We're more than happy to supply the facilities. <BR> <BR>Brent Peich <BR>Director, New Media <BR>Fodor's

Brent: You're message will certainly make a hit with all of us. You've humanized the Fodor website all the more! (Of course, now we have a name to complain to!) Seriously, thanks for the message!

As you might expect, Wes has expressed <BR>what we all know is true. Just check out <BR>the other web sites with bulletin boards <BR>to appreciate the quality of the postings we enjoy here. Thank you Fodors <BR>and thank you Wes !

Wes, thanks for your good words -- blessed be the peacemaker.

Wes Fowler for President!

Well said, Wes (always the voice of reason). This is the one post Topper should be sending to the top periodically for all of us to remember...

Perhaps those posting could search thoroughly before asking a neophyte question which would possibly be ridiculed by those less Spock-like individuals who are also on this forum. A forum with only one opinion is not a FORUM. I find it tiring to read how one person doesn't LIKE another's response. How about just giving your opinion and letting it go at that. Factual information stands on its own merits. We cannot help other's FEAR of POSTING. Likewise, no one forces us to dial up this forum and answer questions...we do it, I assume, because we all travel and enjoy being helpful.