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Digital and online technologies can build more connected lives and a more connected society. While some digital products encourage users to stay immersed in the virtual world, &#8220;pro-connection technology&#8221; can bring people together in real life and increase personal health and community well-being.

How great is the need for social connection? Disconnection is a national problem, as the Surgeon General&#8217;s new report on social connection emphasizes. Approximately half of U.S. adults report feeling lonely, worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic . Social isolation takes a toll on the mental and physical health of individuals – the Surgeon General report says loneliness is as deadly as smoking 15 cigarettes a day . Additionally, the negative impact that social disconnection takes on entire communities is high.

The report also shares solutions. Here&#8217;s the scoop: when people connect and form strong social bonds, it has a major positive impact on our communities. It boosts education, jobs, health, safety, prosperity, resilience, and civic engagement. It&#8217;s like a superpower that makes everything better. And there’s a way destination marketing organizations (DMOs) and convention and visitor bureaus (CVBs) can support this effort – by connecting individuals with their communities and facilitating real-life social interactions.

Yes, DMOs and CVBs face the challenge of encouraging and inspiring people to step away from their screens, leave the comfort of their own homes, and engage in real-life interactions. But there’s a way “pro-connection technology” can bring people together in real life, as we know here at Vibemap . Our digital platforms connect travelers and locals to great city experiences based on vibes. Drawing from our experience, we’ve got 5 tips for DMOs and CVBs to use digital technologies that enhance social connections:

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