TripAdvisor's Animal Attractions Ban

Tiger men of Tinder, we’ve got bad news.

For years, public criticism has mounted over animal-centric tourist attractions: whether swimming with (sad) dolphins or petting (drugged) felines, tourists have found themselves paying for experiences with animals endangered by their owners. The most high-profile case is without question the suicidal orcas at SeaWorld — who, thanks to a groundswell of public support, have now been retired. Other animals haven’t been so lucky, and will instead rely on ticket brokers to impede demand to the attractions that imprison them.

Now one of the biggest brokers, TripAdvisor is doing exactly that, prohibiting sales to attractions involving captive or endangered animals. San Diego Zoo tickets, sure — but if you were hoping to pet a tiger or ride an elephant, you won’t be able to get there via Viator, the travel site’s booking service.

“TripAdvisor’s new booking policy and education effort is designed as a means to do our part in helping improve the health and safety standards of animals, especially in markets with limited regulatory protections,” said Stephen Kaufer, TripAdvisor’s president, in a press release.

Consider this a win for the good guys/animals.

Meet your guide

Diane Rommel

Diane Rommel has written for The Wall Street Journal, Outside, Marie Claire, Cosmopolitan, Travel + Leisure, Wallpaper and Afar, as well as The Cut, Buzzfeed, Huffington Post and McSweeney’s. She once drove from London to Mongolia, via Siberia.