This thread is resolved. Here is a description of the problem and solution.
Problem: The client is experiencing issues with visitors being directed to sub-directory URLs instead of the correct domain URLs after changing the WPML-Language setting for different domains. Additionally, there are problems with a distorted home page and missing background images when switching to French. Solution: After migrating from staging to production please run the WPML troubleshooting options available at WPML > Support > Troubleshooting (Cleanup) > Clear the cache in WPML. This action can help resolve issues inside the Advanced Translation Editor.
If this solution does not resolve issues or seems irrelevant due to being outdated or not applicable to your specific case, we highly recommend checking related known issues at https://wpml.org/known-issues/, verifying the version of the permanent fix, and confirming that you have installed the latest versions of themes and plugins. Should you need further assistance, please do not hesitate to open a new support ticket at our support forum.
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<b>Background of the issue: </b>
I am trying to use different sub-directories while editing in staging, then change the WPML-Language setting for different domains. However, visitors are still directed to the sub-directory URLs. Link to a page where the issue can be seen: hidden link
<b>Symptoms: </b>
Page not found. Actually, it resorts back to English pages. And the home page renders distorted page once one clicks on the French switcher.
<b>Questions: </b>
How can I ensure visitors are directed to the correct domain URLs instead of sub-directory URLs?
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Also, I have noticed that my image text translations are all gone in the live site. What is going on here????
I resorted back to the old Bakery production site for now. I will test it once I push the new Elementor site again. I first need to review some translation pages. So, later for the result.
Languages: English (English )Spanish (Español )German (Deutsch )
Timezone: America/Lima (GMT-05:00)
Our system does not have any translation memory for hidden link.
Which was the site URL of your staging site?
Usually you need to connect the old staging site with the live site, so that they can share their translation memory or after migrating you need to mark the new site as "Copy" inside the WPML migration banner dialog.
You will then not get charged for translating the same content again.
Unfortunately, none of the instructions match reality. The first instance, I was able to figure out how to correct the instructions, but the next step I could not.
1. I logged into hidden link
2. No such thing as Translation tools tab, only Tools tab.
3. I could NOT locate Settings on that page at all.
Connection key has been copied!
1. Log into a site with an active automatic translation account
2. Go to WPML → Translation Management
3. In the Translation tools tab, go to Settings
4. Click "Enter your connection key" to finish connecting your sites.
Languages: English (English )Spanish (Español )German (Deutsch )
Timezone: America/Lima (GMT-05:00)
Yes, the tab used to be called "Translation Tools", now it is only "Tools".
I can confirm that the sites are now connected and they should share the translation memory. Please open the Advanced Translation Editor for one of contents and you should see the translations beeing pulled from memory. You will only need to apply the segments and confirm the translations again.
