DC FinTech Week explores regulatory concerns, innovations in finance technology

Technology

WASHINGTON (7News) — This week, hundreds gathered for DC FinTech Week in the District. It’s a free event that brought together some of the biggest movers and shakers in finance technology.“We’ve tried to get people from quite literally all over the world to talk about everything from data, financial inclusion, housing. We just finished a conversation on stablecoins to really think about what’s the gamut of risk, opportunity and work that kind of has to get done in order to engage what is involving financial and technology landscape,” said Chris Brummer, Founder of DC Fintech Week.SEE ALSO | Protect your data: Expert shares these 3 tips on using AI technology safely7News’ Lindsey Mastis covers technology and spoke with Brummer at the conference, including about cryptocurrencies. It’s becoming more mainstream, but many people are very concerned.“That’s one reason why we have this kind of a conference where we can get the regulators, sort of leaning in and shining a spotlight to some of what their concerns are. And also having some of the people who are on the front lines talking about the kinds of advantages and the kinds of innovations that perhaps the regulators may not be so aware of,” Brummer said.Brummer said it’s important people are getting information from trusted resources, and he encourages people to start educating themselves. He recommends seeking out books and articles, and watching lectures from universities or think tanks online.For more information, click here.

N1b defamation threat: Cleric dares Danjuma, says book divinely inspired

Arts & Culture, Books

From Jude Owuamanam, Jos International Director of Holiness Revival Movement Worldwide (HOREMOW), Pastor Paul Rika has dared former Defence Minister, Theophius Danjuma to go to Court over a threat by the former minister to sue him for alleged defamation contained in his book, ‘God’s Message to Kuteb Tribe and Indigenes of Taraba State.’ Danjuma in a letter to the pastor on September 27, 2024, had alleged defamation and threatened N1 billion lawsuit over the contents of the recent book. The former minister had given the cleric seven days to withdraw certain insinuations in the book, which he found .were reckless, ill-advised and highly defamatory of him, as they lack any iota of truth, and are calculated not only to bring him into public odium, hatred, and contempt, but also to incite public ill-will and opprobrium against him. But in a letter to the retired military officer, Rika advised him to listen to him and accept the reality of what he had written as the messages  were divinely inspired . In the letter to the General, Rika disagreed with General  Danjuma over the allegation of defamation and urged him to humble himself and  accept the message as from God who is interested in his salvation and not his reputation. Quoting copiously from the Holy Bible, he said,”God’s messages may appear damaging but if we listen, they will change us into what he desire us to be before our death.” The cleric sent the retired General more of his books so that he would understand that he is not the first that God had sent hard messages to, as God is not interested in massaging egos of his children when he wants them to make a U-turn before it’s too late. Rika wrote,”I want you to know the certainty of the message the Lord has sent to you, the Kuteb people and the Indigenes of Taraba State. You know that God is your Creator as much as he is the Creator of other people. He loves you as much as He loves other people and will not want you to oppress them. “God has no respect for persons;he is the Lord of all. He has the liberty to speak to anybody at any time and in the manner he wants. He is the one that will bring everyone to judgment. Should he speak to you in your lifetime on earth or after your lifetime,when there would be no chance anymore to show you mercy? Judge it yourself. “Have you truly hurt the Kuteb people or not? Have you truly interfered with the politics of Taraba State negatively or not? Do you truly have evil political alliance with the Muslims of Taraba State or not? I do not say that political alliance with the Muslims is evil, but the Lord revealed the evil part of it as written in the book. Please read the book well.” “As the Lord sent a message to King Ahab concerning the wickedness he did to Naboth and his family, so the Lord has sent you the message contained in the book on the evil you have done to Kuteb tribe from your youth to this day, which you are planning to continue, even after your lifetime on earth, as revealed by God in the book.” He likened his book to the letter sent to Theophilus in Luke, saying,”I have no doubt that this is true of you, because the revelation came from God.Your argument against this truth has no meaning, because of your practical wicked deeds against the Kuteb tribe and against Taraba State at large, which are still ongoing.The revelation message in the book is true and many people bear witness to it, both in Taraba State and in the world around it.” He admonished the retired general to, “Please Sir, acknowledge your iniquity, oth as God revealed it in that book and as men testify practically in your hearing. I want you to know your need for genuine repentance through saving faith on the Lord Jesus Christ,your Creator,Saviour and the great Judge over your life both now in your lifetime and after your death.This involves genuine confession of your sins to Him and confession,apologies,and restitution to the Kuteb tribe for the wickedness you have done against them from your youth.Be informed that the Kuteb nation is crying to God against you for vengeance against you and those that support your evil deeds.” “You will need to do the same to Taraba State and all that you have offended as much as you can remember. Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you shall be saved. “I want to believe that your sins have not gone beyond the boundary of being forgiven by God,because he is a great God of mercy.Even when men get angry because you have done wickedly over the years,God will still forgive you and grant you heaven,if you genuinely repent and walk in the newness of life. You need to humble yourself and forget your greatness, riches, honour and popularity among men,and accept Jesus to be your Lord and Saviour.” The Pastor attached more books for Danjuma to read and also requested that he should look at the last pages of the attached books for the present list of his other publications. And If any of them fascinates him, he is ready to supply them for his spiritual edification and preparation for heaven.

This Unconventional Travel Trend Is Many Travelers’ Go-To For A Fall Trip

Travel

Imgorthand via Getty ImagesRespect, mindfulness and research are important when it comes to dark travel. People plan vacations around all types of goals, from sports to sleep to sustainability. For an increasing number of people, however, the focus of their travel is much more solemn, or even macabre ― a practice known commonly as “dark tourism.”Dark tourism is not a new travel trend but is as relevant as ever, particularly around spooky season. It likely spikes around this time of year for a reason.Advertisement

So what exactly is dark tourism and what does it involve? Below, industry experts break down the benefits and downsides.What is dark tourism?Dark tourism refers to an approach to travel that involves visiting places associated with death, tragedy and suffering. “I think this can cover an incredible range of ideas in travel, from places that honor people who have died in wars to famous crime scenes,” Laura Motta, senior director of content at Lonely Planet, told HuffPost.Dark tourism destinations include battlefields like Gettysburg and Omaha Beach, disaster sites such as Chernobyl and Pompeii, haunted buildings a la The Stanley Hotel and Lizzie Borden House, and death and burial-related locations like the Paris Catacombs and Taj Mahal. Advertisement

“These are places where travelers dive headlong into difficult, unsavory and complicated history,” Motta said. “It can be a way to learn new things, pay your respects and challenge your perspective, if you’re doing it the right way.”Some tourists are drawn to the places where famous people died, even opting to stay in specific hotel rooms like the one where musician Gram Parsons died (and where his spirit supposedly still lingers). Others seek tours of locations associated with crimes, particularly unsolved cases involving homicide victims like Elizabeth Short, who is known as the “Black Dahlia.”“Dark tourism, especially tours and historic sites with tragic pasts, has always been popular,” said Lance Zaal, president and founder of the tour company US Ghost Adventures. “However, with the recent surge in interest around true crime, there’s been an even greater curiosity for dark tourism in general.”Travelers’ awareness of dark tourism, and the wide range of sites and experiences around the world associated with it, has increased with the rise of social media. There are also shows like the docuseries “Dark Tourist,” which highlights morbid places in destinations like New Orleans, Japan, South Africa and Colombia. “The TV program ‘Ghost Hunters’ probably increased people’s interest in the paranormal and made it more mainstream,” said Larry Stanford, owner of Ghost Tours of Newport. “Our travelers vary from couples, families, especially during the summer, and even seniors who are interested in learning about some of the bizarre and dark history here.”Advertisement

Why are people drawn to this type of travel?“Dark tourism appeals to our curiosity and fascination with death and the unknown,” Dengler said. “I think dark tourism is popular for the same reasons serial killer and horror material is so popular. In addition to creating excitement, it is also a learning experience that allows for empathy and reflection.”He added that many dark tourist sites are also traditionally popular historic sites or are located near them, so your visit would allow for additional exploration beyond the death aspect. Dark tourism can also offer the opportunity to examine a famous place through a new lens. “I think the need to engage with places that bore witness to all kinds of human experience and emotion ― good and bad ― is natural. It’s a way to understand ourselves and our world.”- Laura Motta, senior director of content at Lonely Planet“Ghost tours are a great way to learn about the authentic, gritty underbelly of the place you are visiting, rather than the sanitized tales that the local tourism board or chamber of commerce might prefer to be shared,” said E.R. “Bucky” Cutright, co-founder of Columbus Ghost Tours. “As our societies become more and more homogenized, they also offer a unique alternative to the cookie-cutter tourist trap ‘McVacation’ experience. Unlike a zipline, wax museum or jump-scare haunted attraction, ghost stories are, for the most part, nestled into the past of the place where they occurred and, consequently, site-specific.”He believes ghost stories also help connect the past to the present.“Learning about a certain character from a city’s history is one thing, but hearing that they still haunt the area and that you just might see them helps to keep the history relevant,” Cutright explained. “Plus, who doesn’t like feeling a cold chill go down their spine from time to time?”Advertisement

Beyond the thrill factor or historical interest, there are more emotional reasons to engage with dark tourism.“You might visit a war memorial to commemorate a loved one,” Motta said. “I think the need to engage with places that bore witness to all kinds of human experience and emotion ― good and bad ― is natural. It’s a way to understand ourselves and our world.”Visiting the sites of dark events and eerie happenings throughout history might feel too macabre for many tourists, but for others, it’s a dream vacation filled with inspiration, entertainment, introspection and a new appreciation for life.“As someone who not only works in dark tourism, but participates in it, I have to say that my own travel experiences are so much richer for seeking out and staying in old, haunted hotels, eating at historic pubs and restaurants, and visiting off-the-beaten-path sites with a sordid past,” Cutright said. “For the most part, these establishments are small businesses and, by frequenting them, you not only get a true feel for the soul of the place you are visiting, but you also support the local economy, which can be rewarding in itself.”Schon via Getty ImagesPeople are drawn to dark tourism for a variety of reasons, including an interest in history or a personal connection. Advertisement

Here’s what you should know before you try dark tourism.With the rising interest in this kind of travel comes many downsides and problematic dynamics.“I don’t see [dark tourism] as new,” Motta said. “Washington, D.C., is a city of somber memorial sites. The memorials at Auschwitz and Hiroshima were opened in the 1940s and 1950s. What feels new ― but probably isn’t ― is a trend of going to these kinds of places to gawk, create inappropriate content for social media, trespass, interrupt local life, or otherwise act disrespectfully to the place and its history.”She noted that dark tourism can go too far by drawing visitors to places where they shouldn’t be at all. “After devastating wildfires destroyed the town of Lahaina, Maui, in 2023, travelers started coming over to take photos of the burned buildings,” Motta said. “This was not just disrespectful to people who lost their lives and livelihoods, but it also created problems for first responders whose priority was caring for the local community, not dealing with tourists.”Dengler recalled how a recent visit to the Catacombs of Paris led him to reflect on the downsides of dark tourism. “While it was a fascinating experience, I could not help but feel like we were disrespecting the remains of everyone down there,” he said. “Though we did not touch or disturb anything, none of the deceased people down there asked or agreed to essentially become a tourist attraction.”Advertisement

Another major issue Motta sees is inappropriate or exploitative behavior at sites that have a solemn or complicated history.“New Yorkers are all too aware of the tourists who take grinning selfies at the 9/11 Memorial,” she said. “Damage from overtourism and bad behavior has led to visitor restrictions and even closures at cemeteries in New Orleans. While these kinds of sites can bring incredible meaning and value to a trip, there’s a right way and a wrong way to go about your visit.”In addition to environmental and preservation concerns, overtourism can also wear away at the allure that drew travelers to these places in the first place.“Monetization of ‘hits’ and ‘likes’ has led to an uptick in online articles and social media posts that strive to feature ever-more-obscure locations ― often without regard to the genuine history of the sites or the ethical implications of spreading misinformation and sharing their locations,” Cutright said. “This has led to an influx of visits and vandalism to otherwise quiet, hidden and historic locations ― robbing them of their secretive and special nature.”“New Yorkers are all too aware of the tourists who take grinning selfies at the 9/11 Memorial.”- MottaAdvertisement

Mindfulness is crucial if you decide to visit a location associated with death, crime, war, tragedy, suffering or any kind of darkness.“While I recognize the downsides, I think dark tourism is a good thing when done right,” Dengler said. “It is often an educational and enriching experience when the traveler maintains a level of respect.”He pointed to the steps many dark tourist destinations have taken to minimize the potential damage, like daily visitor limits and signage indicating proper conduct. “With this kind of travel, it’s really important to do some research beforehand to understand how and why other people are visiting these sites,” Motta urged. “What’s the right way to be respectful? How should you dress? Is it a quiet space? Should you leave your kids at home? But it also seems right to do some introspection about why you want to see these kinds of sites in the first place. If you’re looking for gore, or for the kinds of thrills you could get in a haunted house, you might want to reconsider or refocus your visit.”Related travelvacationtourismdark tourism35 Spooky Travel Destinations Around The WorldWhy People Like To Stay In Places Where Celebrities Have DiedThis Growing Travel Trend Is Way More Fun Than A Regular Vacation

This Unconventional Travel Trend Is Many Travelers’ Go-To For A Fall Trip

Travel

Imgorthand via Getty ImagesRespect, mindfulness and research are important when it comes to dark travel. People plan vacations around all types of goals, from sports to sleep to sustainability. For an increasing number of people, however, the focus of their travel is much more solemn, or even macabre ― a practice known commonly as “dark tourism.”Dark tourism is not a new travel trend but is as relevant as ever, particularly around spooky season. It likely spikes around this time of year for a reason.Advertisement

So what exactly is dark tourism and what does it involve? Below, industry experts break down the benefits and downsides.What is dark tourism?Dark tourism refers to an approach to travel that involves visiting places associated with death, tragedy and suffering. “I think this can cover an incredible range of ideas in travel, from places that honor people who have died in wars to famous crime scenes,” Laura Motta, senior director of content at Lonely Planet, told HuffPost.Dark tourism destinations include battlefields like Gettysburg and Omaha Beach, disaster sites such as Chernobyl and Pompeii, haunted buildings a la The Stanley Hotel and Lizzie Borden House, and death and burial-related locations like the Paris Catacombs and Taj Mahal. Advertisement

“These are places where travelers dive headlong into difficult, unsavory and complicated history,” Motta said. “It can be a way to learn new things, pay your respects and challenge your perspective, if you’re doing it the right way.”Some tourists are drawn to the places where famous people died, even opting to stay in specific hotel rooms like the one where musician Gram Parsons died (and where his spirit supposedly still lingers). Others seek tours of locations associated with crimes, particularly unsolved cases involving homicide victims like Elizabeth Short, who is known as the “Black Dahlia.”“Dark tourism, especially tours and historic sites with tragic pasts, has always been popular,” said Lance Zaal, president and founder of the tour company US Ghost Adventures. “However, with the recent surge in interest around true crime, there’s been an even greater curiosity for dark tourism in general.”Travelers’ awareness of dark tourism, and the wide range of sites and experiences around the world associated with it, has increased with the rise of social media. There are also shows like the docuseries “Dark Tourist,” which highlights morbid places in destinations like New Orleans, Japan, South Africa and Colombia. “The TV program ‘Ghost Hunters’ probably increased people’s interest in the paranormal and made it more mainstream,” said Larry Stanford, owner of Ghost Tours of Newport. “Our travelers vary from couples, families, especially during the summer, and even seniors who are interested in learning about some of the bizarre and dark history here.”Advertisement

Why are people drawn to this type of travel?“Dark tourism appeals to our curiosity and fascination with death and the unknown,” Dengler said. “I think dark tourism is popular for the same reasons serial killer and horror material is so popular. In addition to creating excitement, it is also a learning experience that allows for empathy and reflection.”He added that many dark tourist sites are also traditionally popular historic sites or are located near them, so your visit would allow for additional exploration beyond the death aspect. Dark tourism can also offer the opportunity to examine a famous place through a new lens. “I think the need to engage with places that bore witness to all kinds of human experience and emotion ― good and bad ― is natural. It’s a way to understand ourselves and our world.”- Laura Motta, senior director of content at Lonely Planet“Ghost tours are a great way to learn about the authentic, gritty underbelly of the place you are visiting, rather than the sanitized tales that the local tourism board or chamber of commerce might prefer to be shared,” said E.R. “Bucky” Cutright, co-founder of Columbus Ghost Tours. “As our societies become more and more homogenized, they also offer a unique alternative to the cookie-cutter tourist trap ‘McVacation’ experience. Unlike a zipline, wax museum or jump-scare haunted attraction, ghost stories are, for the most part, nestled into the past of the place where they occurred and, consequently, site-specific.”He believes ghost stories also help connect the past to the present.“Learning about a certain character from a city’s history is one thing, but hearing that they still haunt the area and that you just might see them helps to keep the history relevant,” Cutright explained. “Plus, who doesn’t like feeling a cold chill go down their spine from time to time?”Advertisement

Beyond the thrill factor or historical interest, there are more emotional reasons to engage with dark tourism.“You might visit a war memorial to commemorate a loved one,” Motta said. “I think the need to engage with places that bore witness to all kinds of human experience and emotion ― good and bad ― is natural. It’s a way to understand ourselves and our world.”Visiting the sites of dark events and eerie happenings throughout history might feel too macabre for many tourists, but for others, it’s a dream vacation filled with inspiration, entertainment, introspection and a new appreciation for life.“As someone who not only works in dark tourism, but participates in it, I have to say that my own travel experiences are so much richer for seeking out and staying in old, haunted hotels, eating at historic pubs and restaurants, and visiting off-the-beaten-path sites with a sordid past,” Cutright said. “For the most part, these establishments are small businesses and, by frequenting them, you not only get a true feel for the soul of the place you are visiting, but you also support the local economy, which can be rewarding in itself.”Schon via Getty ImagesPeople are drawn to dark tourism for a variety of reasons, including an interest in history or a personal connection. Advertisement

Here’s what you should know before you try dark tourism.With the rising interest in this kind of travel comes many downsides and problematic dynamics.“I don’t see [dark tourism] as new,” Motta said. “Washington, D.C., is a city of somber memorial sites. The memorials at Auschwitz and Hiroshima were opened in the 1940s and 1950s. What feels new ― but probably isn’t ― is a trend of going to these kinds of places to gawk, create inappropriate content for social media, trespass, interrupt local life, or otherwise act disrespectfully to the place and its history.”She noted that dark tourism can go too far by drawing visitors to places where they shouldn’t be at all. “After devastating wildfires destroyed the town of Lahaina, Maui, in 2023, travelers started coming over to take photos of the burned buildings,” Motta said. “This was not just disrespectful to people who lost their lives and livelihoods, but it also created problems for first responders whose priority was caring for the local community, not dealing with tourists.”Dengler recalled how a recent visit to the Catacombs of Paris led him to reflect on the downsides of dark tourism. “While it was a fascinating experience, I could not help but feel like we were disrespecting the remains of everyone down there,” he said. “Though we did not touch or disturb anything, none of the deceased people down there asked or agreed to essentially become a tourist attraction.”Advertisement

Another major issue Motta sees is inappropriate or exploitative behavior at sites that have a solemn or complicated history.“New Yorkers are all too aware of the tourists who take grinning selfies at the 9/11 Memorial,” she said. “Damage from overtourism and bad behavior has led to visitor restrictions and even closures at cemeteries in New Orleans. While these kinds of sites can bring incredible meaning and value to a trip, there’s a right way and a wrong way to go about your visit.”In addition to environmental and preservation concerns, overtourism can also wear away at the allure that drew travelers to these places in the first place.“Monetization of ‘hits’ and ‘likes’ has led to an uptick in online articles and social media posts that strive to feature ever-more-obscure locations ― often without regard to the genuine history of the sites or the ethical implications of spreading misinformation and sharing their locations,” Cutright said. “This has led to an influx of visits and vandalism to otherwise quiet, hidden and historic locations ― robbing them of their secretive and special nature.”“New Yorkers are all too aware of the tourists who take grinning selfies at the 9/11 Memorial.”- MottaAdvertisement

Mindfulness is crucial if you decide to visit a location associated with death, crime, war, tragedy, suffering or any kind of darkness.“While I recognize the downsides, I think dark tourism is a good thing when done right,” Dengler said. “It is often an educational and enriching experience when the traveler maintains a level of respect.”He pointed to the steps many dark tourist destinations have taken to minimize the potential damage, like daily visitor limits and signage indicating proper conduct. “With this kind of travel, it’s really important to do some research beforehand to understand how and why other people are visiting these sites,” Motta urged. “What’s the right way to be respectful? How should you dress? Is it a quiet space? Should you leave your kids at home? But it also seems right to do some introspection about why you want to see these kinds of sites in the first place. If you’re looking for gore, or for the kinds of thrills you could get in a haunted house, you might want to reconsider or refocus your visit.”Related travelvacationtourismdark tourism35 Spooky Travel Destinations Around The WorldWhy People Like To Stay In Places Where Celebrities Have DiedThis Growing Travel Trend Is Way More Fun Than A Regular Vacation

Visitor industry seeks public input in tourism recovery plan

Travel

Editor’s note: This is the third in a series of stories as The Guam Daily Post takes a deep dive into Guam’s ailing visitor industry.With tourism numbers down for well over a year, a plan forward could reflect the ideas and suggestions of the public, as the collective of independent tourism executives including members of the Guam Hotel and Restaurant Association, Guam Travel and Tourism Association and Japan Guam Tourism Association, who created the Guam Recovery Plan, are calling for input from the community.The first draft of the Guam Recovery Plan was unveiled during a Guam Visitors Bureau board of directors meeting held Oct. 24. It’s now available for public viewing online. The draft plan is accompanied by an online survey where members of the public can offer their input.“This document lays the foundation for a collaborative recovery strategy to be developed by the Guam Visitors Bureau in partnership with the private sector and overseen by the GVB board,” the Guam Recovery Plan website stated.The survey, which references the Guam Recovery Plan, asks the public to rate Guam’s overall current marketing effort and effectiveness. It also asks people to provide comments or suggestions for improving marketing.According to the Guam Recovery Plan, the path forward begins with “publicly acknowledging and validating assumptions through source market research.”“Some initiatives, such as adding Korea flights, will yield immediate results, while others, like brand repositioning, will take time. Guam anticipates 2025 as a rebuilding year, with significant progress by 2026 and full recovery to 2019 levels by 2027. However, without decisive action, Guam risks remaining at 50% of 2019 arrivals, leading to further business closures and a downward spiral of fewer arrivals and economic decline,” the recovery plan said.The collective of private sector tourism executives and industry professionals that developed the draft plan said that $50 million is needed over two years, “$32 million in Year 1 and $18 million in Year 2.”“However, with limited immediate funding, GVB can allocate the full $14 million from its reserves and $7 million from (the Tourist Attraction Fund) surplus for 2025. Additional support will be needed, including increased TAF allocations for 2026 and beyond,” the plan states.The survey notes that the Guam Recovery Plan proposes a focus on three unique selling points: culture, “Where America’s Day Begins,” and unique experiences and attractions.Unique selling points, according to the recovery plan, are “essential in differentiating a destination from competitors, offering travelers distinct reasons to travel.”“In an increasingly competitive tourism landscape, a clear understanding and promotion of these unique attributes is crucial to stand out,” the plan said. “USPs should provide the foundation for Guam’s marketing efforts, creating a distinct brand identity that appeals to modern travelers seeking more meaningful journeys.”The survey asks if the three USP focal points are important and which is most important, or if there are other “truly unique selling points for Guam.”The survey also asks participants to gauge how important culture is to defining Guam’s image as a unique destination and how important it is to “driving arrivals.”It proposes seven marketing tactics and asks which are best, while welcoming other marketing suggestions.The tactics listed include Premium Guam, which targets higher-spending guests; Feature Guam, highlighting unique attractions and options tours; Value Guam, which involves coupons for upgrades and value-adds; location subsidies to attract media; travel coupons; and digital marketing, to include influencers and niche marketing.Building on what will attract tourist arrivals, the survey contains questions about events such as the EDM Music Water Festival, sporting events, international food competitions and festivals, asking which the participant believes is best. It also asks how many a year would be worthwhile, noting that signature events can cost $500,000 or more, and a minor event would cost $250,000.With improving Guam’s tourism economy in mind, the survey asks participants to rate product improvements in airport arrival experience, cleanliness and beautification, major upgrades to Tumon, clean sightseeing spots and improved security.The survey notes that “airport transportation is still based on the old paradigm of large tour buses, even though (free independent travelers) are now most of the market. Some people have suggested that transportation from the airport to hotels needs to change and improve.”The survey asks which the participant believes is best.Participants are encouraged to review the Guam Recovery Plan before filling out the survey. Those who complete the survey will have the opportunity to offer suggestions toward improving arrivals and make statements directed at the Guam Visitors Bureau board.The plan and the survey can be found at guamrecoveryplan.com.

Visitor industry seeks public input in tourism recovery plan

Travel

Editor’s note: This is the third in a series of stories as The Guam Daily Post takes a deep dive into Guam’s ailing visitor industry.With tourism numbers down for well over a year, a plan forward could reflect the ideas and suggestions of the public, as the collective of independent tourism executives including members of the Guam Hotel and Restaurant Association, Guam Travel and Tourism Association and Japan Guam Tourism Association, who created the Guam Recovery Plan, are calling for input from the community.The first draft of the Guam Recovery Plan was unveiled during a Guam Visitors Bureau board of directors meeting held Oct. 24. It’s now available for public viewing online. The draft plan is accompanied by an online survey where members of the public can offer their input.“This document lays the foundation for a collaborative recovery strategy to be developed by the Guam Visitors Bureau in partnership with the private sector and overseen by the GVB board,” the Guam Recovery Plan website stated.The survey, which references the Guam Recovery Plan, asks the public to rate Guam’s overall current marketing effort and effectiveness. It also asks people to provide comments or suggestions for improving marketing.According to the Guam Recovery Plan, the path forward begins with “publicly acknowledging and validating assumptions through source market research.”“Some initiatives, such as adding Korea flights, will yield immediate results, while others, like brand repositioning, will take time. Guam anticipates 2025 as a rebuilding year, with significant progress by 2026 and full recovery to 2019 levels by 2027. However, without decisive action, Guam risks remaining at 50% of 2019 arrivals, leading to further business closures and a downward spiral of fewer arrivals and economic decline,” the recovery plan said.The collective of private sector tourism executives and industry professionals that developed the draft plan said that $50 million is needed over two years, “$32 million in Year 1 and $18 million in Year 2.”“However, with limited immediate funding, GVB can allocate the full $14 million from its reserves and $7 million from (the Tourist Attraction Fund) surplus for 2025. Additional support will be needed, including increased TAF allocations for 2026 and beyond,” the plan states.The survey notes that the Guam Recovery Plan proposes a focus on three unique selling points: culture, “Where America’s Day Begins,” and unique experiences and attractions.Unique selling points, according to the recovery plan, are “essential in differentiating a destination from competitors, offering travelers distinct reasons to travel.”“In an increasingly competitive tourism landscape, a clear understanding and promotion of these unique attributes is crucial to stand out,” the plan said. “USPs should provide the foundation for Guam’s marketing efforts, creating a distinct brand identity that appeals to modern travelers seeking more meaningful journeys.”The survey asks if the three USP focal points are important and which is most important, or if there are other “truly unique selling points for Guam.”The survey also asks participants to gauge how important culture is to defining Guam’s image as a unique destination and how important it is to “driving arrivals.”It proposes seven marketing tactics and asks which are best, while welcoming other marketing suggestions.The tactics listed include Premium Guam, which targets higher-spending guests; Feature Guam, highlighting unique attractions and options tours; Value Guam, which involves coupons for upgrades and value-adds; location subsidies to attract media; travel coupons; and digital marketing, to include influencers and niche marketing.Building on what will attract tourist arrivals, the survey contains questions about events such as the EDM Music Water Festival, sporting events, international food competitions and festivals, asking which the participant believes is best. It also asks how many a year would be worthwhile, noting that signature events can cost $500,000 or more, and a minor event would cost $250,000.With improving Guam’s tourism economy in mind, the survey asks participants to rate product improvements in airport arrival experience, cleanliness and beautification, major upgrades to Tumon, clean sightseeing spots and improved security.The survey notes that “airport transportation is still based on the old paradigm of large tour buses, even though (free independent travelers) are now most of the market. Some people have suggested that transportation from the airport to hotels needs to change and improve.”The survey asks which the participant believes is best.Participants are encouraged to review the Guam Recovery Plan before filling out the survey. Those who complete the survey will have the opportunity to offer suggestions toward improving arrivals and make statements directed at the Guam Visitors Bureau board.The plan and the survey can be found at guamrecoveryplan.com.

More travelers are getting a ‘sleep divorce.’ Here’s why.

Travel

For most couples, a romantic getaway includes fancy dinner reservations and sunset strolls along the beach. However, for a growing number of lovers, it also means ending the night in separate beds.According to Hilton’s recently released 2025 Trends Report, 37% of people are choosing to sleep in separate beds from their partners while on vacation, a rising trend dubbed as “sleep divorce.” Although it may seem taboo, over two-thirds of respondents said they actually sleep better when they’re alone.”This shift highlights a growing awareness of the importance of a good night’s sleep while on the road, as travelers seek environments that maximize rest,” Amanda Al-Masri, global vice president of wellness at Hilton, told USA TODAY. “Prioritizing self-care and wellness while traveling has been a rising trend for some time – last year, Hilton’s 2024 Trends Report found that the desire to rest and recharge is the number one reason people want to travel.”While the word “divorce” or the idea that your partner is the thing getting in the way of a good night’s sleep may imply some sign of relationship trouble, sleeping apart may do the opposite and foster a more meaningful connection between partners, according to Fatemeh Farahan, a licensed marriage and family therapist in Los Angeles who has seen more of her clients consider sleeping apart.Two couples tried traveling together:Why one split, the other marriedEnjoy your worry-free vacation: Best travel insurance policiesSince everyone has specific sleep preferences, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to sharing a bed for every relationship. “Couples have higher satisfaction in their relationship when they honor their needs first and are not going by a myth and forcing the idea the old adage that you have to sleep together to actually be intimate – it’s not true,” said Farahan.Here’s why you may want to consider sleeping in separate beds on your next vacation.Sleep your way to a better relationshipImagine this, Farahan posed: you’re on a trip to Paris with your partner, so you obviously want to do all the things: museums, the Eiffel Tower, endless croissants. By the end of the day, you’re both exhausted. However, one of you is a night owl who stays up looking at their phone, while the other is a light sleeper who gets irritated at the blue light in their face. It’s not exactly the makings of a romantic vacation in the City of Lights.Sleeping apart can be a wise solution. “You don’t have to deal with that real close proximity to give you that space to unwind the way you need to,” she said. (This goes for sleeping at home, too.)This especially rings true for those who deal with snoring, conflicting sleep schedules, sleep disorders and different sleep temperature preferences – the main reasons why couples hit the hay in separate beds, according to a survey by Naturepedic of 400 people in healthy relationships who do not share a bed.Research supports the idea that if sleeping separately improves rest, it can also positively impact the quality of a relationship. A 2017 study from The Ohio State University found that couples with sleep problems struggle to regulate their emotions, leading to more conflict, and can be more hostile to each other. When our brain is sleep-deprived, we often end up feeling more stressed, depressed and anxious, which can negatively impact our relationships, according to a 2013 study.When we’re well-rested, our mood improves and we can better show up for our partner. “They actually make more time to make sure they have their moments instead of it being forced,” Farahan said.Farahan suggests couples curious about sleeping apart can start by setting up small rituals to foster “a few minutes of closeness – such as a good night kiss or having their morning coffee together – before going their separate ways.”The message for me is separate beds can be a really empowering choice for couples who see it as a way to prioritize both rest and connection,” said Farahan.”It’s really about recognizing that sometimes healthiest relationship choices are the ones that acknowledge both partners’ unique needs.”

More travelers are getting a ‘sleep divorce.’ Here’s why.

Travel

For most couples, a romantic getaway includes fancy dinner reservations and sunset strolls along the beach. However, for a growing number of lovers, it also means ending the night in separate beds.According to Hilton’s recently released 2025 Trends Report, 37% of people are choosing to sleep in separate beds from their partners while on vacation, a rising trend dubbed as “sleep divorce.” Although it may seem taboo, over two-thirds of respondents said they actually sleep better when they’re alone.”This shift highlights a growing awareness of the importance of a good night’s sleep while on the road, as travelers seek environments that maximize rest,” Amanda Al-Masri, global vice president of wellness at Hilton, told USA TODAY. “Prioritizing self-care and wellness while traveling has been a rising trend for some time – last year, Hilton’s 2024 Trends Report found that the desire to rest and recharge is the number one reason people want to travel.”While the word “divorce” or the idea that your partner is the thing getting in the way of a good night’s sleep may imply some sign of relationship trouble, sleeping apart may do the opposite and foster a more meaningful connection between partners, according to Fatemeh Farahan, a licensed marriage and family therapist in Los Angeles who has seen more of her clients consider sleeping apart.Two couples tried traveling together:Why one split, the other marriedEnjoy your worry-free vacation: Best travel insurance policiesSince everyone has specific sleep preferences, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to sharing a bed for every relationship. “Couples have higher satisfaction in their relationship when they honor their needs first and are not going by a myth and forcing the idea the old adage that you have to sleep together to actually be intimate – it’s not true,” said Farahan.Here’s why you may want to consider sleeping in separate beds on your next vacation.Sleep your way to a better relationshipImagine this, Farahan posed: you’re on a trip to Paris with your partner, so you obviously want to do all the things: museums, the Eiffel Tower, endless croissants. By the end of the day, you’re both exhausted. However, one of you is a night owl who stays up looking at their phone, while the other is a light sleeper who gets irritated at the blue light in their face. It’s not exactly the makings of a romantic vacation in the City of Lights.Sleeping apart can be a wise solution. “You don’t have to deal with that real close proximity to give you that space to unwind the way you need to,” she said. (This goes for sleeping at home, too.)This especially rings true for those who deal with snoring, conflicting sleep schedules, sleep disorders and different sleep temperature preferences – the main reasons why couples hit the hay in separate beds, according to a survey by Naturepedic of 400 people in healthy relationships who do not share a bed.Research supports the idea that if sleeping separately improves rest, it can also positively impact the quality of a relationship. A 2017 study from The Ohio State University found that couples with sleep problems struggle to regulate their emotions, leading to more conflict, and can be more hostile to each other. When our brain is sleep-deprived, we often end up feeling more stressed, depressed and anxious, which can negatively impact our relationships, according to a 2013 study.When we’re well-rested, our mood improves and we can better show up for our partner. “They actually make more time to make sure they have their moments instead of it being forced,” Farahan said.Farahan suggests couples curious about sleeping apart can start by setting up small rituals to foster “a few minutes of closeness – such as a good night kiss or having their morning coffee together – before going their separate ways.”The message for me is separate beds can be a really empowering choice for couples who see it as a way to prioritize both rest and connection,” said Farahan.”It’s really about recognizing that sometimes healthiest relationship choices are the ones that acknowledge both partners’ unique needs.”