When planning a trip, there is always one place I begin, Trip Advisor. I use this website similar to Wikipedia, as a starting point. By simply searching a city, region, or country, Trip Advisor can guide one in the general direction of good hotels, restaurants, and attractions. But it is important to take the many recommendations with a grain of salt. Usually if the first page is mostly recent, positive reviews, the place in question is probably a good choice. However, I usually read any negative reviews on the first page, as they are telling of important drawbacks to a place. Just be aware of picky reviewers, as these people are inclined to always look at the negative. And when you return from a trip, do not forget to add your review about the hotels, restaurants, and attractions you experienced!
jaunt and flaunt 