‘Wheel of Fortune’ Fans Slam ‘Lame’ Vacation Prize: ‘I Could Not Believe It’
Wheel of Fortune viewers are sounding off about the selection of vacations on offer this season, which has included a surprising number of domestic locations, including Atlantic City, Miami, San Antonio, New York, and, most recently, Williamsburg, Virginia.
On Tuesday night’s (January 28) game, Jacque Franklin, a grandma of eight grandkids from Raytown, Missouri, solved a puzzle in the Express Round and won herself a trip to Colonial Williamsburg Resorts in Virginia, valued at $8,570. The promo for the trip highlighted activities such as golfing, roller-coaster riding, and zip-lining.
Following the episode, fans took to the Wheel of Fortune Reddit forum, where one viewer wrote, “That lady is not playing golf or going on a roller coaster. Why have their trips been so lame this season? I don’t recall such awful destinations on previous seasons. Hawaii and Alaska were the only domestic locations on previous seasons.”
“I caught the tail end when Ryan [Seacrest] was saying Busch Gardens, and I asked the family “oh she’s going to Tampa? When they said, no Virginia, I was so confused,” wrote another. “One, didn’t know they had Busch Gardens there and two, Virginia? I’m not saying Tampa is all that but it would be a better trip then there.”
Another wrote, “Did the show lose funding? No offense to people that live there, but if I won a trip to Williamsburg, Virginia, I’d ask for the money instead!”
“She’s an African American woman sent to a vacation spot that is a recreation of life during slave days. I could not believe it,” said one commenter, with another adding, “It literally started with “go back in time to colonial Williamsburg” and my face went 😳. I don’t think she wants to do that….”
“At least it’s not Atlantic City,” quipped another.
“I was going to say they should have more money not having to pay Pat’s salary but the dollar value of the trips hasn’t really changed. It’s just worse destinations,” said one fan. “Maybe the international travel itself has become more expensive and now the $8000-$11000 isn’t enough anymore.”
However, others defended the choice, with one fan writing, “I’d love a trip there, a day at Busch Gardens would be a fun time.”
“Actually, we went there on our honeymoon,” added another.
“Williamsburg is great. An easy trip for a history nerd. I’d go on that one,” another wrote.
Another added, “I’d go back in a heartbeat. It’s the place I lived the longest. I was forced to move away, but I loved it there.”
What do you think about the vacations on offer this season? Would you have enjoyed the trip to Williamsburg? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
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Comments are closed on this story.
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This is replying to the haters who are not so nice to Ryan on Wheel of fortune. You people have nothing to do but criticize. Do the ones who appreciate him a favor, go do some laundry,clean your homes, in other words find something else to do. Obviously this show is mot for you. For as long as it\'s been on the air. Some of you have been critical in some way or the other. Leave Ryan alone he\'s doing a great job, get lost .
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We love watching Ryan. He is so personable and includes the contestants in ways that Pat didn’t. We think he is doing a fantastic job. If you don’t like him watch something else.
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I have stopped watching he is more into himself than the show, so yes I am no longer there. Everyone has their own options and I respect that., but trashing people puts you on the low end for sure!!! Have a nice day.
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I like him more than Pat. I liked Pat but Ryan is more personable. He was so good natured when he was knocked down.
I enjoyed him on American Idol.
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Yes, Ryan is genuinely caring and is excited when players win a puzzle!
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Why not take this for what it is! A gift. Let it be, we don’t need to be critical of simple entertainment. But it appears that anything will be criticized. If it wasn’t Williamsburg it would be something else. Just my thoughts.
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I agree! It’s a gift and someone thinks it’s not good enough! So much lack of gratitude now! My son lives near Williamsburg and I have visited there many times. (I live on Long Island). It’s very interesting and at Christmas, it’s beautiful!
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Because she still has to pay federal and California state income tax so it will cost her probably $2K in taxes to go on a trio that if she planned it herself would probably cost less.
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Overpriced domestic trips that they have to pay taxes on. A overseas trip makes it easier to take. IMO.
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O
Nit picking, he’s doing a great job. He’s Not Pat but he seems to fit in perfectly.
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I love Ryan Seacrest doing Wheel of Fortune..I think he brings fun to the game, and he\'s friendlier than Pat Sajak...I like ❤️watching Ryan best
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Agree
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What\'s up with all the negativity about Ryan and prizes on the show. Get over it. Watch something else.
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Everyone hated Pat when he took over from Chuck Woolery. People do not like change.
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This comment is about Ken Jennings. Ken you are doing a bang up job, I am sure Alex is pleased with you. Keep on doing what you paid to do knowing that many of us in TV land appreciate you. That smile is infectious, I love it, have a blessed day. A very good fan.
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While I agree with your opinion here; this article is about \'Wheel of Fortune\', not \'Jeopardy!\' 🤔�
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It appears Elsie has been hitting the bottle again! LOL
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O
The biggest problem with winning trips (I\'ve won 36 from radio contests) is that you will get a 1099 for the full retail value. That 9k trip might cost you 3k in taxes and most of the time you can easily do the same trip for less than the taxes you pay. In effect you have won a bill.
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Tolerance for Americans is not high in the world ATM. Perhaps They feel domestic destinations are the safest.
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Agree!
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Perhaps the show does not want to get on the bad side of the president by offering trips outside the USA.
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big deal. these days, in THIS economy- i would take a trip to the next town. But, given a choice, considering taxes, I would opt for the cash. By the time Uncle Sam gets his part, I still might not be able to travel anywhere.
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Actually taking the cash is not an option, you can\'t sell a trio or request cash instead, same thing for the cars.
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You\'re wrong. Winners are offered the prizes won or cash. That is absolutely what they do.
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People who are downing the Williamsburg trip have apparently never been there.
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Agree, a lot to do
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Maybe, but I\'m not willing to PAY $3,000 in taxes to find out. Those trips aren\'t free. The government wants their cut of the winnings.
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Trump needs to also stop taxes on winnings---even games like Bingo, blackjack, etc.
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O
I think the prizes are lame since Pat left because they have to pay Seacrest millions more than he\'s worth.
(BTW, the pay disparity between his and Vanna\'s is appalling.)
Regarding some of the comments about the trips; these trips are not \"gifts\", they\'re prizes. Prizes are what you get when you compete, which takes some skills.
IMHO, gameshow trips should be adventurous, exotic and aspirational. It\'s relatively easy and affordable to travel inside your own country, and I think people generally \"dream\" about travelling abroad.
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Give me a break – – Seacrest has only been doing it for a couple of months – – how many years did Pat Sajak do it. doesn’t experience count for something?
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Get over it Ryan\'s good an the prizes an trips he does not pick them, an the at home trips are about time.we have a beautiful country, an lots to see ,an lots of the other country\'s don\'t want us. Do u listen? everything that happened outside of our country is our fault.
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The trips are free,Whats the big deal???? If you don\'t like the trips, Don\'t go on the show!!!! EVERYONE IS TO CRITICAL THESE DAYS!!! SUCk it up and deal with it!!!!!
😤😤😤😤😤😡😡😡😡😡😡😡😡😡😡😡
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People keep yammering about the fact the contestant was African-American and was being sent to a state that once supported slavery. Seriously? How were the producers supposed to know who was going to end up winning that prize puzzle?!?!? Such a stupid comment. There are worthwhile destinations in each of the 50 states. Not everyone is dying to go to Europe and South America!!
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Probably can\' t afford the great trips they used to have because of the salary they pay Ryan Seacrest.
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I kid you not they had a trip to Wyoming! Google it. Wyoming not most peoples deam trip. Its a prize yes but a booby prize. Plus taxes on overpriced trip to a place not popular.
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It\'s a gift. You didn\'t have that trip before you went on the show. If you don\'t want it, don\'t accept it. Simple as that. Personally, I\'d rather travel domestically and support our countrys businesses rather than fly across the world and deal with foreign currency, language and laws, and the constant threat of terrorism.
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Spoiled brats...everyone. I\'m sure the winner can plan out whatever they want in whatever city they win. They dont have to golf or ride a roller coaster...those are merely attractions. There\'s history there. Also most comenters are just not happy unless they can complain.
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I LOVE to win a trip anywhere in the USA most people don\'t have the funds to take trips . Why not keep the money here and enjoy our BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY . And as for as the trip to Virginia , like they knew who was going to win it .
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It\'s a game show , you\'re there to win prizes or cash amounts decided by the show , pretty sure you chose to be there so stop complaining.
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I\'dgo. I\'ve not been to Williamsburg. I hear it\'s fun and educational. Though I\'m biased. My brother n law is the director of archeology there.
Buschs Gardens was fun even for a non roller coaster gal.
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I don\'t think it should be about race . For God\'s sake give it a rest it\'s a game show it\'s about win game
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Easy for a white person to say
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Williamsburg isn\'t so bad. It\'s right down the street from Virginia Beach too!
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Ryan needs to learn how to dress, his suits are so ILL FITTING it\'s LAUGHABLE. You would think the atudio would get him a good tailor for his on air attire. Don\'treally watch it like I did when Pat was host. The othe thing is Ryan frequently cheats contestants out of money by not having them call a letter before solving in the Final Spin portion PUZZLES. GET A NEW HOST, BUT KEEP VANNA!
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Maybe they had to cool it on the trips in order to pay Ryan. Or maybe Sony is charging too much to promote the destinations.
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I\'m happy to see that they are finally giving away trips in the US. We live in a beautiful country. We have been to almost every state - some just passing through but wishing we could have been at every one longer. My husband was stationed in Hawaii during his service years so I missed out on that one cause we didn\'t meet and get married until he was back from there. My dream trip has always been Alaska. I\'m sure the price of those trips have gone way up and plus they have to make sure everyone can get a passport. Keep up with promoting our Great States.
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I think with your president they are afraid to send anyone out of the country.
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The people complaining sound gutter and unworldly. Just the kind of folks who need to see the country and learn there\'s more to life than their backyard and Florida.
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Busch Gardens Williamsburg is better than the one in Tampa in my opinion. Water Country, in the same area, is a great water park as well. There is alot of history in the area. The \"Historic Triangle\" of Williamsburg, Yorktown and Jamestown. History is history. Get over the slave thing.
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When WOF has sponsors, they chose the destinations, not WOF. Those who pay bills make those decisions. If the contestants do like the trip, I am sure they can decline. Most travel agencies are accommodating to the needs of the traveler. Those were just some of the options. People shouldn\'t get their panties in a wad. When we went to Australia zip lining was offered, my wife could not wait to go. Oh, I will be 79 in a few months. Cannot reveal her age. I enjoy living. We travel around the world with disabilities and having a blast. Never underestimate us boomers. Different sponsors, different trips. They\'re doing a great job with their offerings. Kudos.
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We went to Colonial Williamsburg Virginia in the spring and it was absolutely beautiful. We had a great time. There is a ton of things to do. The state is gorgeous and we can\'t wait to go back. Anyone who complains about winning a trip there obviously has never been there.
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I have been thinking the same thing. The trips definitely haven\'t been what we are all used to seeing. A couple, I\'ve thought where did they come up with $8,000. My husband always makes a comment about the $40,000 at the end of the show, like couldn\'t they get $50k or change it up. I do like the wardrobe change ups though.
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Rather than increasing the bonus round prize, I’d much prefer the minimum that a contestant can win be raised from $1,000.
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I saw the comment about having more money cause they don\'t have to pay Pat Sajak\'s salary. Ryan is making almost twice what Pat Sajak made....so maybe that\'s the issue with the cheaper vacations.
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First off, if you didn\'t win it then your opinion makes no difference. The contestant can decide for themselves if they like what they\'ve won.Second, it\'s a game show to win money and prizes of which could be any amount or trips to ANYWHERE. The main problem is, giving a damn about the negative opinions.
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I’ve got an idea!! If she’s “offended” how about she just says NO!!!!
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People commenting about it being a place were there were slaves ,come on people Quit complaining about EVERYTHING it\'s a trip she won , don\'t take it if you don\'t like it
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Show is having to cut costs on prizes to afford Ryan Seacrest salary.
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Please come back Patt
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I lived in Williamsburg, Virginia for 14 years. Williamsburg, Virginia offers very many amenities. It’s rich in history. It also has many coastline beaches and for the family and of course their amusement parks to Busch Gardens. Yorktown and Jamestown are visited by many tourists every year. it’s too bad people can’t appreciate a beautiful, beautiful city.
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I would be happy on anyone of the trips. What\'s wrong with visiting these fascinating places? Would you refuse a free trip? The world is in such turmoil, I\'d feel safer here in the USA. SOME PEOPLE JUST LIKE TO COMPLAIN, they must be very unhappy in their lives.
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I have been to Williamsburg and Bush Gardens and love it! I would go back in a heart beat. Bush Gardens in Virginia is beautiful and has so many shops and shows. I wouldn\'t dare get on a roller coaster, but you don\'t have to think about doing that with so much else to do and see. I am a Virginian and enjoy living here. I am offended by the negative comments. They must not have ever been to our state and toured the outdoor activities, beautiful rivers, mountains and trails. Williamsburg is also near Norfolk and Virginia Beach.
Come to Virginia and see for yourself.
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Wow. The sense of ENTITLEMENT in this world. Oh, you or someone won a free trip valued at $8k+ BUT it\'s not good enough because it\'s not hawaii or some out of country big thing..... wow. Just wow. Where is the humbleness, appreciation, and gratefulness? Clearly lacking with some. So unbelievably sad.
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me too,62 years and its a great place to visit despite our idiot trump ass kissing governor.
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Please check out Ryan’s salary compared to Pat’s, it’s about double the amount. That’s why prizes are lame.
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While these might be nice places to visit, the question is WHY the change? To me the more exotic trips they\'re known for would be more what I\'d want. Basically they\'ve lowered the bar. WHY?
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Ever stop to think it might not be advisable for American civilians to be visiting foreign at the moment?
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I think people need to stop criticizing - no trip is going to be perfect for everyone and people need to lay off Ryan Seacrest. Of course we are used to the way Pat did things, but Ryan comes at the job with humility, enthusiasm and the awareness that he has \'big shoes\' to fill. I believe he was an excellent choice, and I had no predisposed opinion of him.
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I agree! I think Ryan\'s doing a fantastic job! He\'s not trying to be Pat\'s clone and he brings his own humor and charm to the job. I\'m really enjoying him!
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He gets on my nerves he’s annoying!
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I agree. Ryan is a breath of fresh air. He and Vanna go well together also. Pat was way past his prime and actually becoming a bit senile in my opinion. And his daughter only had a job because of her dad in my opinion.
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Keep your trips, show me the money.
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I think people don\'t have enough to do. Colonial Williamsburg is a nice place with a lot to do. I do understand the comment about slave history however did the prize pockets KNOW who was going to win and what race they were? If they did, WOF had got more problems than poor destinations. Furthermore, EVERYTHING has gone up, so what $8000 - 11,000 doesn\'t buy a much as it used to. Quit complaining.
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I agree that it was unfortunate that an elderly Black women would be sent to Williamsburg, of course they didn\'t know who would win but they typically have 1 or more Black contestants on the show so it was likely. Also guessing Mexico is not the safe place it once was for travel so fewer trips there lately. As an older person myself, I\'d rather travel within the US at this point
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We have been there was wonderful experience would go back in a heart beat.We went to the whole triangle when we were there.
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It may be a place she wouldn\'t have planned to go to otherwise. Let her be the judge. Winning a trip to anywhere might be what someone needs.
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I think some people are just wanting to grip about something. They have been griping about every little thing this year. If they have that much of a problem with the show change the channel there are other programs to watch.
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Foreign travel may be risky soon and maybe they are playing it safe. That said, Hawaii would be my dream domestic destination. Lol
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I live in Virginia and it\'s a great state. Busch Gardens at Williamsburg is fantastic! They have shows, yummy restaurants, shops, animal acts, and beautiful grounds to stroll on. It\'s so much more than roller coasters. The town of Williamsburg also is so entertaining. And only 1.5 hours away is Virginia Beach, fun for ocean lovers.
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If I had won the Virginia trip, I’d be ecstatic about going there. 😍
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One imbecile viewer complained that a Black woman should not visit Virginia. So many idiots in this country!
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You can’t fix stupid, Carlos.
Virginia is a great state!
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I\'m 80 yrs. and also a long time watcher.. I think Ryan is doing a great job on wheel..it is exciting and fun to watch the show now..
Pat was ok..buthe had become boring... Ryan has brought fun and excitement back with the contestants. Kind of like Ohnny Carson did on his show!! Leave Ryan alone.. I feel there is Jealousy..and some just want him succeed!!
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I remember the time the grand prize was a trip to San Diego, valued at $7900, with nothing mentioned about extras thrown in. Seemed a bit spendy for a 3 hour drive down the highway, unless the winner was staying at the Hotel Del.
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It’s all optional, don’t go on the show if you don’t like the prizes. Why should they give her a special prize just cause she’s African-American ridiculous. Be no different than on the prices right and there’s a running game and there’s an old lady there. You can’t plan your games and trips around who’s gonna be the contestant.
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The most expensive trip I\'ve seen them give away was a trip to Agua Caliente casino in Palm Desert, $13,000+ was the cost. Are you kidding?!? They gave away trips to Europe for way less. Still can\'t figure that one out
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Palm Desert is EXPENSIVE.
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I think he\'s great..out with the old
And iin w with the ne
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The whole show has changed. The trips are awful! The set looks cheap!
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There is no cash option. You either take the trip or forfeit it.
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Not true. I was on Wheel of Fortune in October and you either take the trip or forfeit it.
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People just be grateful they got a trip and Pat retired. Ryan didn’t take his job. He gave it up. Yes, we missed that but Ryan’s doing a good job.
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I, myself would prefer to not travel abroad. So the US destinations are good for me!
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I think it\'s great, there\'s a lot to explore here in the United states.
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P
I like the domestic destinations, no passport or money exchange necessary. You lost at least a day or two traveling overseas.
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I am 82; I will take the vacation another does not want. I love Wheel & look forward to it everyday.
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C
I think last years trips were more exciting and prize worthy.
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I\'m Canadian and personally would never go to the states but, that said, my husband and I have often questioned the choices for trips this season. It\'s almost embarrassing.
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Hey, for Pete sale, it\'s a free trip. Quit complaining.
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I would take anywhere for a free trip. But as a person who doesn\'t travel very much, Somewhere tropical and or exotic is usually a better price.
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It\'s true about the destinations WOF has had lately. When you win a trip, you expect an international destination not a domestic destination. If it\'s domestic, I\'d expect New York, Florida or California, somewhere where there\'s much to see and explore. I was surprised when I saw a trip to San Antonio, TX. I live near SATX and while it\'s a nice place, it doesn\'t compare to big major cities as far as touristic attractions.please Wheel, don\'t be cheap and offer amazing international trips people have gotten used to.
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I am happy when the trips aren’t to Mexico. Too much violence.
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It\'s a free trip! Get over yourselves
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I love Williamsburg. I\'ve visited multiple times.
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I think it is a great idea keeping the money in the United States, and an $8000.00 trip sounds like it would have a lot of things to offer
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I think if the trips are in the states the contestants should have 2 choices to pick from .
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The prize money pool needs to be updated by about 50%. Jeopardy is even worse. They give those people peanuts on a very successful and highly rated show.
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I think whatever destination is being given away is fine! after all, you’re on a game show, playing for what they have to offer, Maybe she will give it to somebody who can use it in her family. I just think it is what it is, and you’re on a game show,you don’t get to pick and choose what your prize will be…. Most people I know are grateful for anything and everything that’s placed in front of them.
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I have a suggestion for WOF about their trip choices. How about they give the winners a choice of one of two different trips that cost the same. That way if they would prefer one location over another, then they get to make that choice. Then everyone could potentially be happy. But that would be dreaming in today’s world. Maybe if the winner would prefer to go somewhere else they could speak with the travel agency in charge of the trip to see if it can be changed. You never know until you try. Just some thoughts.
As for Ryan Seachrest, I think he is doing a good job. Is he doing it like Pat Sajak? No. He isn’t Pat. I wasn’t looking forward to having to get used to someone new, but, times they are a changing. Ryan is settling into his own and doing quite well. And he doesn’t make the choices for the prizes. I would say that is made by others with WOF. So don’t blame him.
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5 day trips to Belgium are far worse. You spend 2 of those days in travel. The trips outside of ofcthe USA have gotten ridiculously short.
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I\'ve noticed the Price is Right trips are not so hot either.... Like a trip from LA to Santa Barbara? There\'s a few like that. I wouldn\'t want to go
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Living in the Pacific N.W. Washington state, seventy miles from the WA state line to Vancouver, B.C. and 40 miles to the beaches of the Pacific Ocean, I haven\'t been at all impressed with Mr. Seacrest\'s impressions of the contestants!! He obviously thinks he\'s above criticism.
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I personally would love this trip or trips within the United States rather then leaving the country.
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I too have negative opinions about Ryan Seacrest . First, I cannot stand that he constantly has his hands in his pockets. I really have a problem with how touchy, feely he is with the contestants, jeez, quit feeling these people up, it\'s really creepy. And I\'m sorry, you can agree or disagree, but too many times I\'ve noticed he doesn\'t touch people of color as much or as long as he does white people, I\'m Caucasian by the way, go watch reruns. Also, the way he slouches on the set, the way he doesn\'t encourage a contestant to call a letter to aquire more money on the final puzzle, Pat usually did, he actually makes a lot of mistakes,I don\'t like his demeanor, he\'s got enough money to dress better, clothes too tight. I think they chose the wrong person to replace Pat.
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O
They are travel snobs.....that is part of our history. My mom went there and loved it. Shame on them
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I love Virginia. Have relatives I haven\'t seen in a long time that I would love to see again
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P
I think it\'s great that they are supporting American locations rather abroad.
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B
I think foreign travel can bre dangerous for some. Perhaps WOF is trying to promote domestic travel. The cost of the trips they are awarding are in line with the cost of the foreign sites so they don\'t seem to be a budget issue.
Also, they had no idea who was going to win the Williamsburg trip so it wasn\'t a slight towards the woman who won it !
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R
Yes! Most of the trips are pretty lame, or just dangerous, like a trip to Chicago! I live about 60 miles south of Chicago so all I get is Chicago news stations that tell me about the almost daily shootings and/or car jackings. I hope the Wheel supplies bullet proof vests!
Another thing that drives me crazy is Ryan can\'t seem to keep his hands out of his pockets! Now I know why Pat always had those little cards in his hands with the info he needed, it gave him something to do with his hands so he wouldn\'t keep burying them in his pockets.
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G
It\'s a game!! You win prizes. Some people don\'t have passports to travel out of the country. I think the domestic travel prizes has been a great idea.
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O
I think Ran has is much better with the contestants than Pat was! But agree that the trips are Nothing like they used to be. That travel company that Pat and Vanna traveled around with? Does it still exist??
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B
I think these new trips are terrible. Very cheap. Ryan should realize it. It use to be Hawaii, England, and other places out of the USA.
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O
I guess Williamsburg would be better than the Dominican Republic.
Check out the history of DR and the location and you\'ll know what I mean.
Williamsburg is like a booby prize.
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B
I think part of it might have to do with the with the upgrade in you ID. Some people aren’t going to do that so they won’t be able to travel out of the US.
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G
It’s hard to believe that a trip to Busch Gardens in Virginia is over $8000. Surely they could come up with another five or $8000 for a better international trip after all wheel of Fortune is a syndicated show
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B
Trips to vàrious places in the US are great and even if I had visited the area, there is always something else to see! For instance a trip to Niagara falls.....upstate New York is just beautiful! You could spend a week and not be able to appreciate everything the area has to offer. I\'d take any of the US trips.
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My husband says it must be a part of the America First of Movement they are spending it local instead of abroad
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I agree. The trips are lame. People get all excited when the trips are to overseas locations. Not New York or Virginia, places like that.
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C
A gift for which you have to pay the greedy government!
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I recently went to visit Williamsburg va, to visit friends. What an awesome destination. Definitely would recommend!
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B
Horrible. Anybody can go on trips in the continental 48
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B
I need some TLC, so I would ❤️ a getaway that has Fun activities, a new environment to help me destress.
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G
This show is a humungous cash cow all over the world. The United States Version also airs in most of Canada. The money amounts on the wheel are so low with most at $500.00. This is one of the first changes I\'d make. People are winning this game with the Prize Puzzle and about 2,000. more dollars. Why did they get so cheap? What happened to the Italy, Exotic Cruises, Safari\'s, New York (meals included). Merv wouldn\'t approve. I\'ve never missed an episode and Ryan is amazing. I\'ve never watched any show he\'s been on. He\'s so warm and inviting.
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R
Well, let’s see. I’m sure for many folks it’s just fine. Not being prejudiced at all; might be like sending a person of Jewish ancestry to Auzwitz.
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C
The point is the show is on the way out simply due to their bs vacations. Which is really the only prize worth a damn for waiting years to get on the show
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B
With the way the world is now. I would rather stay in the 🇺🇸
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P
I have been thrilled that they are giving vacations to Us places. America has a lot to offer for vacations.
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B
Plenty of great places right here in USA to visit and enjoy. Should be happy to win anything!
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P
All the money is going to Ryan Seacrest. He\'s a greedy person and has no personality or class or significant other. Could he be playing for the other team, social wise?
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G
Well because it\'s America The Beautiful,,, the local trips are awesome..
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C
I would love a USA destination, since I have no intentions in getting a passport!
Surprisingly, I\'m enjoying Ryan co-hosting with Vanna.
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O
They have to pay taxes on trips won. That\'s the IRS rule, not WOF. If I had to pay income tax on a trip, it should be the trip of a lifetime, not some cute local thing.
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C
I live in Williamsburg and let me tell you it is probably the best place in this country.
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O
I can\'t believe all the people criticizing the wheel of fortune. I think everybody should chill out and if you\'re not going to Is enjoy the show don\'t watch it.
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P
Hawaii or Paris or Bahamas or Europe those are the type of trips that should be offered!
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G
Washington, DC, would have been a better choice.
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R
I think if you look at Ryan\'s outrageous salary....that\'s where the money went!! Paying him more that Pat...outrageous
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O
I\'d go on just about any free trip I won. I\'d love to travel on someone else\'s dime!
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C
They are a gift they dont have to be exotic.
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B
Ryan Seacrest us making about 3 times more than Pat Sajeck got paid per year. Then of course his daughter and Vanna have to get their pay. So I guess they are cutting corners on the trips.
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C
I think everything has gone downhill since Pat left. It seems to me there are WAY more bankrupt and the Grand Prize $ is almost always $40,000. Overall totals are lower. Trips are not exciting and low rent. Ryan has a big hill to climb to make us forget Pat.
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O
I think that they are going to have to cut back on vacation spending due to Seacrest\'s exorbitant salary which I have read is 28 million. The guy stinks in my opinion. Dump him and restore good prizes.
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R
The trips offered by WOF are based on the weekly theme…with “America” being such, it makes sense that trips are consistent with said theme.
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R
There\'s a lot to see in the US especially if you\'re a history enthusiast. There are places that I had on my bucket list that I\'ve already covered. Have had a ball doing it.
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P
The show stinks because of all the African Americans coming on it
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G
Europe, Mexico and South America are simply too dangerous to send people to. We\'re probably stuck winning trips to Canada and Iceland for a while anyway.
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C
Williamsburg is a beautiful destination. These complainers showed their ignorance and lack of curiosity. Send them all to Disneyland or someplace they recognize.
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P
I thought I was the only one noticing the poor choice of trips being given this season. It\'s pretty disappointing.
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R
We were only there overnight with my husband\'s high school history class. We had fun, but it was very cold and snowy.
I have been noticing that the trips are only in the USA. Maybe we\'re trying to keep the money here to build our economy back up!🙃
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R
I felt the same when I heard Williamsburg, VA, although a very nice time, as I have been there, it just not what you expect a prize to be on Wheel of Fortune.
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P
So instead of giving trips to beautiful places in our beautiful country, you’d rather send them to countries that hate Americans and have a history of killing us. Like Mexico, Costa Rica, south and Central America. Or send them to that pest hole Puerto Rico, or places in the Caribbean where women are drugged,raped and robbed. We have many wonderful places to visit right here in our own country.
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C
Everybody needs to visit Williamsburg, VA. History, entertainment, FUN!
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C
Those trips are pre-chosen prior to filming. I\'m pretty sure you have a cash option instead of the trips. I don\'t know why people are complaining. I like the fact that there are domestic locations. I certainly haven\'t seen everything this country has to offer. Calm down, people!
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O
My husband says it\'s noticeable that WOF is awarding more prizes of lower value and fewer big cash prizes, and also that Ryan is spending more time chatting with the contestants that takes away play time. Hmmm
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B
Don\'t look a gift horse in the mouth. How entitled are we to complain about free stuff
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R
They have become such a cheap game show. Honestly, how much money do they really give away per game. What I think is completely disgraceful are the bonus rounds. They make it almost impossible for anybody to win them. They purposely come up with puzzles that for the most part do not include “R, S, T, L, N or an E. Shame on them..
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R
Would not be my first choice for a vacation
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C
It was a great trip for me and my kids when they were small, but I would love to win a trip to the Caribbean or a cruise.
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C
Why is Ryan Seacrest getting blamed for the lame vacations? I\'m sure he has nothing to do with the planning of the trips? I did wonder why the trips got stingey?
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G
Man what happened to being grateful for anything. It\'s a freaking game show.
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O
I think they are paying Ryan to much and yes the trips are getting cheap ,you live in united states give them a choice ,cruises are really better and not the one down st clair river ,if you don\'t want to pay up get off tv
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O
I just loved there for 4 years. Williamsburg and the Hampton Roads area are an awesome thing to see. Busch Gardens is great, I like this one better than Tampa\'s. To be clear the history in the area is focused on colonial roots, the following wars and founding events of the U.S. Yorktown, Jamestown, and Williamsburg are the epicenter for U.S. founding. The comment about slavery is simply naive, it is a part of the U.S. history, but certainly not the whole of it.
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G
I would love to go to Virginia! A lot of history there! It’s even on my Bucket List!
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G
Give me a break. It appears that most of the people commenting on here seem to find nothing good to say about Wheel of Fortune. Seems that all them want to do is bash the show and it\'s host\'s. My suggestion is ... IF YOU DON\'T LIKE THE SHOW CHANGE THE CHANNEL.
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G
I think it has to do with having to pay that enormous salary to Seacrest. Have you also noticed that almost every single time, the bonus prize is the least amount offered on the wheel. Coincidence?
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O
We have many beautiful vacation spots in the continental USA and I think it’s grand that we are staying in country. I would love to go to the Grand Canyon. Niagara Falls was on my bucket list and it was amazing. Not everyone wants to lounge in the Sun by young people.
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C
I watch Wheel of Fortune all the time and I was wondering why they are giving trips in the states now when they were giving trips to Italy, Paris and Switzerland! You can tell my the contestants faces that they were disappointed why the change are they trying to compensate for Ryan’s salary?
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O
Been watching wheel for 60 years. It\'s like they really cut their budget big time. I am thinking of just watching news.
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O
I would love to go there just to see all the old history and stuff I don\'t know what people\'s problems are they\'re just being greedy nowadays a trips a trip come on now
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G
As a local, this made me laugh 😂 I have a membership to Busch Gardens but I haven\'t been to colonial Williamsburg since elementary school field trips...I would NOT want to win a trip there on a game show 🤣
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A
I agree, the vacation destinations suck this season. Maybe it’s because they have to pay Ryan Seacrest a huge salary, but I think there’s plenty of money coming in from advertisers for everyone to be paid millions and still give away fantastic overseas trips!
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B
Edit: \"its contestants\"
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O
I think seeing some of our own country is great. If you don\'t like the trips don\'t be a constant
Quit complaining just don\'t watch. By the way Ryan makes a lot more money than Pat did. Check. Maybe the think some people don\'t want to get a passport to travel or go to a foreign country.
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B
Coild it be that the current political climate is the reason for the state side destinations? I would like to think that the producers of this show value the safety of it\'s contestants above the fanfsre associsted with international travel.
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G
I don\'t understand why there is a problem with the vacation and gee whiz it is a time to get away and enjoy yourself in a different place and so what if it isn\'t another country 🤔 I am sure that wherever the place is that they will really be given a grand time 😀
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P
I agree , it wouldn\'t be a trip for me
Bit someone else might like it .
Different subject BUT I think Ryan Seacrest is visiting longer with the contestants at beginning of show .
There are fewer puzzles now .
Pat Sajak always kept it short .
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B
First off, Ryan makes more money than Pat Sajak did, and secondly, Ryan blows at this job. As a wheel watcher myself for decades, I can\'t stand Ryan\'s phony wooden persona. Soo cringe worthy.. .
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P
Williamsburg? 100% a great trip.
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O
I have to agree with the article. The vacation locations that are on the wheel are kinda boring compared from a year ago and later. Contestants use to win beautiful dream trips to places I\'m sure many people couldn\'t afford. There\'s a few times someone will win an amazing trip outside of the U.S. I think if a contestant is there and going to have a fun time hopefully knowing they\'ll win a more exciting place than Tennesse, Florida, etc.
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G
I have been to Busch Gardens in Virginia had the best time there. It is different then Tampa Busch Gardens . And trust me both are better than the one in Van Nyes,CA. That one is the pits no rides just plants
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C
I think the show is more fun to watch than when Pat was the host. Maybe the trips could be a little more exciting but Once in a while giving away less exciting trips that promotes America is OK with me.
I am shocked at the reaction of a person to throw RACE into the trip won by a contestant. Your comment means the producers knew a Black woman was going to win this particular trip. STOP with race accusations . Of course they didn\'t know.
I believe the trips offered should not be added to money won by contestants. It\'s unfair in my opinion.
Make the trips a little more exotic. If it pleases others but to just being able to be on the show would be great!
Ryan I had doubts about you at fFirst but I love how you act.
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R
My husband ans I said the same thing. They gave away a trip to Arizona. We were like, did they say they\'re camping there? Lol! Maybe not, but I\'m sorry, I would rather go to Italy, France, or even Hawaii than spend a week hanging out in the desert with scorpions and snakes! Wheel, do better!!
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O
I think they are overpaying Ryan Seacrest and that’s why.
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O
Williamsburg. Va is a far better trip than the one to South Dakota earlier in the season especially for people who love amusement parks and history.
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O
We took our children to Busch Gardens in Williamsburg when they were kids and we had the best time! I do understand as one gets older the walking can become more difficult, but Williamsburg is a great vacation spot, even for black families. It shows how far our nation has come.
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P
Cancel the show or hire another host! Hire Michael Strahan!
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R
I was shocked too, in the U.S. now. Not outside U.S.
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G
Nothing wrong with vacationing in the United States.
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C
I would much rather win a trip to somewhere in the states.
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G
I\'d Love to go to Williamsburg, Virginia. It\'d be so cool to learn more about the area. ♥️♥️♥️♥️🥰🥰🥰🥰
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R
I think that Ryan Seacrest is a very expensive host. There will be cheaper trips/prizes mixed in with more expensive ones for ABC Wheel of Fortune to be able to live up to their contract and afford Ryan Seacrest. The money goes to Ryan.
Oh, Pat Sajak\'s salary contract doesn\'t compare to Ryan\'s contract. Find a new unknown or less known host.
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G
Send me to France, Germany, the UK etc.
However, I loved Colonial Williamsburg when I visited as a teenager. Washington D.C would be OK...love the Smithsonian.
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O
Absolutely lame article to fuel today\'s inane social media mentionings...by anybody.
Not only is Williamsburg Historical....There are beautiful Hotels, antique shops, Busch Gardens....amongst other wonderful things to do for all.
If people knew more of history vs. what they think based on social media....We\'d all be much stronger as a whole.
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G
I just happened to watch that particular episode and thought, wow Williamsburg, Virginia, really? Of all the trips they could have sent her on; that was a disgrace and that\'s no offense meant to Virginia but seriously.
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P
How is that disgraceful comment not offensive? Seriously?
1
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R
They can\'t afford good stuff anymore Ryan and Vanna makes to much money
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C
I think Ryan Seacrest is doing good. He is very friendly and seems interested in what the contestant has to say. Give him a break.
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R
Busch gardens is the best we go on family vacation every year there.
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O
I think people should quit complaining. I’d be happy with ANYTHING I would win. Some go away without anything but memories.
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C
I wonder if it was because majority of past contestants didn\'t have a passport for the trips. They decided to do domestic trips to solve the issue.
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G
They are kind of lame. One guy won a trip to Las Vegas. He lives there! If they offered cash even if lower would be better.
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P
People these days just gotta bitch….very very sad. A dime is better than nothing at all
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G
Loved Colonial Williamsburg & that entire area! That said, WOF is known for Caribbean & international trips; that’s likely what contestants want.
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C
I’m just tired of turning on the tv and Ryan Seacrest is everywhere.
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P
I like that that they are offering trips within the U.S. personally, I do not care to go out of the country. Put the money into our own country.
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O
Frankly, for me & spouse, any place out of town we live in would qualify as a vacation. Across town is a road trip.
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P
No one is forced into taking a trip! What a bunch of whinners!
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B
Some.dont even take the trip because they have to pay gift taxes on it. Take a lesser cash value and head home
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C
It is logical to think that many of the players who would like to go to Busch Gardens or Williamsburg, etc., may have already been there. While enjoyable…it is hardly the trip of a lifetime for anyone.
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C
The Big trip round should be B I G. Save Williamsburg for one of the smaller trips found on the wheel.
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P
I love the idea of winning trips in the USA. No passport worry, short plane trips, and less language problems. If you have issues, you still have rights! Win/win in my book.
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B
I travel a lot. The WOF resort prizes are 2nd rate hotels at best looking for publicity.
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R
If $ is the issue. Do a shorter cruise!! Geeze even they\'re getting dirt cheap.
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C
Love Ryan. Doing a fantastic job. It is a gift. Go enjoy it !!!!
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O
It\'s a game show. A prize is a prize. For all you unhappy Critics, change the channel. And, shame on you.
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G
Colonial Williamsburg is a wonderful vacation spot. And for those looking for a diverse experience, they have added lots of programs about Blacks in Colonial America. Adults enjoy them as much as students. And there are lots of of African American based musical programs.
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P
When I watch WOF with Ryan I feel like I\'m watching a skit on Sat nite live. He is so phony and tries too hard to be that guy.
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P
I love you Ryan! Good job lots jealous people out there! Keep up the good work
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C
I think everybody should just chill out and enjoy the show! Ryan Seacrest is doing a great job and Vanna is always been the best… The people that complain must have a lot of free time on their hands… I love that show always have and always will… that being said Williamsburg is historically fantastically interesting!🤨
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B
I think he is great. His humor.
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M
Remember when the lady in a wheelchair won a indoor treadmill on The Price is Right
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O
Not the same show since Pat left. Not a fan of Ryan.
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B
It\'s free! Get over your negativity
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G
Do you read any of the comments? The taxes on these trips are about half the value. $7500 skiing trip ends up taxed at about $3800.00, add to that tips, and other expenses, and unless it is a one in a lifetime experience, not really a great prize.
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C
I was a tour coach driver from Wisconsin and my groups very much loved going to Williamsburg VA and Busch Gardens
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O
One of the reasons that we started watching Modern Family on Fox, which is in the same time frame. Lame trips and easy boring solves
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C
I agree that the trips have definitely been lame lately. Very noticeable change from the past.
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C
I too have been thinking the trips have been very lame! What\'s going on?!
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B
If domestic vacations are going to become the new normal, then contestants should be given the option of taking the trip or receiving the cash. They’ll owe the same amount of “gift tax” on their prize either way. And depending on where they live, the trip might not be valued the same for everyone. If they live a town away verses 6 states away, the value will not be the same yet the amount of gift tax they pay will be the same.
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C
Williamsburg VA IS a great place to visit, you have busch gardens,, 3 hours to Washington DC,, 45min to VA Beach,, lots of history, well worth the time.
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B
This never would have happened had instead an African American hosted this show.
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B
Really?? Gotta go there, huh. SMH
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O
Heck No! We won\'t go.
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O
I know...I was like 😯😯. I could have gone on a trip there for fraction of the price. Even perhaps less than the taxes. Poor granny, such a joke.
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B
Lady in her 60s won skiing trip to Colorado and get personal skiing lessons for 7500 bucks… she ain’t gonna go skiing.. wth?
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B
would not want to go
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G
OMG!! Virginia REALLY?? Yes good question - did they actually lose sponsorships? SHAME ON THEM! Where r the Caribbean or Europe’s trips? This is showing a DIMISE of Wheel of Fortune!!!! 👎
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B
For that amount of money, send me to a Caribbean island where I can put my toes in warm sand and ocean water.
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O
I had a great vacation that started at at Busch Gardens Williamsburg before finishing the week in DC. But I had my junior high age kids with me for roller coasters and free Washington Museums . Not sure how that trip would cost $9000
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O
The show has gone way down hill !
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R
People must have not watched in years past. Yes it wasn\'t as common buy they did domestic trips. Never thought it was cool but they did
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O
Who wants to go to ICELAND? Wheel of Fortune is getting ridiculous. Just give the winner the money.
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