Our multi-step community validation process ensures every hidden destination on Secret The World is authentic, safe, and worth your journey.
From submission to published — every destination passes these rigorous checks
A registered traveler submits a destination through our verified submission portal. Each submission requires:
At least 3 independent community members must independently confirm the destination:
Our professional editorial team conducts a thorough safety and quality review:
Verification doesn't stop at publication. Every destination receives continuous quality assurance:
The values that drive every verification decision
No destination is published if it poses unreasonable risk without proper warnings and safety guidance.
We never publish locations where visitor traffic could cause ecological damage or disturb wildlife habitats.
Local communities must benefit from, or at minimum not be harmed by, disclosure of hidden locations.
Every verification step, reviewer qualification, and editorial decision is documented and auditable.
Our methodology evolves with traveler feedback, incident reports, and best practices in responsible tourism.
Sacred sites, indigenous lands, and culturally significant locations require explicit community consent before listing.
Common questions about our verification process
A minimum of 3 independent community members must confirm the destination's existence, accessibility, and accuracy. For difficult-access or remote locations, we may require additional verification from local guides or regional experts.
Community members can flag any destination for safety or accessibility concerns. Flagged destinations are immediately reviewed by our editorial team. If confirmed, the destination is temporarily delisted or updated with current warnings until conditions improve.
Every submission requires original geotagged photos, verified GPS coordinates, and a detailed description. We use reverse image search, satellite imagery cross-reference, and community reputation scores to detect fraudulent submissions. Repeat offenders are permanently banned.
Yes! Every destination page has a "Report Issue" button. Community reports are reviewed within 48 hours. Confirmed inaccuracies are corrected immediately, and the reporter receives community credit for their contribution.
Destination information is updated on a rolling basis through community reviews and condition reports. Popular destinations receive updates weekly, while remote locations are reviewed at least quarterly. Seasonal information is updated before each major travel season.
Verified reviewers must have an active account for at least 30 days, have submitted at least 2 reviews with photos, and maintain a community trust score above 80%. Reviewers who consistently provide accurate, detailed feedback earn an "Expert Explorer" badge.
Join our community of verified travelers and contribute to the world's most trusted database of hidden destinations.
Become a Verified Explorer