<p>Digital and online technologies can build more connected lives and a more connected society. &nbsp;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.</p> <p>How great is the need for social connection?&nbsp;<br>Disconnection is a national problem, as the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-social-connection-advisory.pdf">Surgeon General&#8217;s new report on social connection</a>&nbsp;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.</p> <p>The report also shares solutions.&nbsp;<br>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.&nbsp;</p> <p>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<a href="https://vibemap.com/destinations-and-districts">&nbsp;Vibemap</a>. 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:</p>