I like,occasionally,to preview a visit to an area ,a specific hotel or attraction and use, and contribute to,
Tripadvisor.
Usually I just take my chances and go or go in because I like the look of the place.
There is always the option to contact a contributer on Tripadvisor and put specific questions to them about an area or premises they commented on.
I have done this a few times and also had people contact me looking for further information on my posts.
I would never rely entirely on anyone's opinion posted on Tripadvisor or anything similar.
Overall this has worked for me but I have still managed,occasionally,to end up in an area,bar,restaurant or hotel which did not suit me.
The responses I have had have always been reasonable and,I think, honest.
On the few occasions that I felt that things were 'bad' I told the management and depending on their response either gave them another chance or never went back.