Every destination faces social issues of some sort, but some issues are more prevalent than others due to location or region. For Yuma, Arizona, human trafficking is that issue. Human trafficking is not confined to Arizona, or even the U.S. — it is a global issue, with an estimated 27.6 million…
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Advertising guru David Ogilvy said it best in the 1950s: “The consumer is intelligent, the consumer will figure it out, the consumer will make wise choices.” The pressing need for destinations to communicate their authentic state of being has never been more apparent. Visitors in a world rebounding…
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The power of story and the power of place are inextricably linked. Stories have the ability to connect us, inspire us, inform us, and bridge understanding across diverse cultures and communities. The "Indigenous Voices of Vancouver Island" is a five-episode podcast series that features Indigenous…
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If you’ve watched the rise of narrative-based generative artificial intelligence (AI), then you’re likely as conflicted about the long-term outcomes of this magnificent leap in computing technology as I am. On one hand, we have revered computer scientist and cognitive psychologist, Geoffrey Hinton…
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Destination DC's commitment to diversity and inclusion is sowing the seeds of a more vibrant and inclusive community of locals and visitors. Among noteworthy initiatives are its DEI Business Fellowship and an apprenticeship program for early career professionals through Tourism Diversity Matters. On…
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Behavioral optimization in tourism may not be a familiar term, but it’s definitely happening. For over two decades, psychologists, sociologists, researchers, academics, and strategists worldwide have been actively exploring ways to influence and shift human behavior within the tourism industry. At…
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Imagine a single trail that connects the country. Boundless opportunities for wanderlust between mountain ranges, Great Lakes, deserts, and flatlands — all at a traveler’s fingertips (or maybe I should say pedals!) For the first time in history, travelers will soon be able to embark on the trail…
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When we look for inspiration and ideas that will help us develop, manage and optimize the success and sustainability of our own destinations, we often look to Europe. More than a decade ago, their early work on overtourism highlighted the need for a more engaged network of destination stakeholders…
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Sporting events have the power to engage, unify, and ennoble people. But what happens when destination organizations work in partnership with the “unusual suspects” to take these events to the next level? The Maryland Cycling Classic in September 2022 is a remarkable case study on how destination…
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In 2008, building a pedestrian bridge linking two states seemed like an unnecessary expense to some. However, when Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge was unveiled, its unique S-curve design quickly made it a landmark of Omaha, Nebraska, connecting Nebraska and Iowa. The bridge linked two states and served…
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