Destinations International’s 2025 Annual Convention in Chicago marked a pivotal moment for our industry, with the launch of several transformative resources to equip destination organizations for a future defined by resilience, belonging and strategic foresight. Here’s a quick glance at these resources: 

1. 2025 DNEXT Futures Study

The 2025 DNEXT Futures Study arrives at a moment of profound transition for the global visitor economy. Drawing on insights from a global advisory council, five targeted industry panels and a worldwide survey, the study identifies eight critical forces and top 25 strategies shaping the future of destination organizations. Ultimately, the study is a call to action for destinations to evolve fundamentally and lead through change. 

Key Findings:

• 42% report funding is at risk within three years.
• 84% are actively involved in destination development.
• Generative AI is transforming marketing, requiring authenticity and personalization.
• KPIs now prioritize resident sentiment, sustainability and community benefit alongside visitation. 

This study is a call to action for destination organizations to lead transformative change. 

Read the Full 2025 DNEXT Futures Study

2. Welcoming Lexicon

The Welcoming Lexicon is a strategic tool that helps destination organizations use language to build emotional connections and reflect shared values. More than just marketing words, it equips teams to communicate in ways that foster belonging, strengthen advocacy efforts and demonstrate the essential role destinations play in community well-being and economic success.

Explore the Welcoming Lexicon

Note: Both the DNEXT Futures Study and Welcoming Lexicon are supported by the Destinations International Foundation.

3. {Refreshed} Accessibility Playbook + AI Companion

The Accessibility Playbook (2025 Refresh) has been restructured for a digital-first experience, with embedded hyperlinks and simplified insights. Updates include:

• Updated research from Open Doors Organization, Expedia Group, AARP Travel and Return on Disability Group.
• Best practices from destination communities.
• Sections spotlighting the accessible traveler journey and aging travelers.
• Streamlined insights to build subject-matter expertise for destinations.
• Expanded checklists and customizable welcome letters for industry partners.

New this year: The AI Companion, designed by UnchainedAI, equips destinations to implement accessibility strategies across departments, from destination development to marketing and community engagement.

Access the Accessibility Playbook + AI Companion

4. VBA Campaign Toolkit

The Visitor-Based Assessment (VBA) Toolkit is a comprehensive resource developed specifically for Canadian destinations to support sustainable tourism funding. Visitor-based assessments—often structured as levies or fees collected from visitors—play a crucial role in generating revenue to grow and enhance the visitor economy. This resource equips Canadian destination organizations with the insights and tools needed to advocate for and implement visitor-based assessments effectively, ensuring long-term investment in tourism development and community benefit. 

What’s Inside:

• Full presentation deck outlining models and case studies.
• Key takeaways and guiding principles for implementation.
• Policy brief explaining economic and community benefits.
• Editable advocacy letter to engage stakeholders.
• FAQs addressing common questions about VBAs.

Access the Full VBA Toolkit

5. Crisis Communications Handbook

The Crisis Communications Handbook equips destination organizations to prepare for, respond to, and recover from crises with confidence. This comprehensive resource ensures destinations can communicate clearly, protect their brand and build community trust during critical events. 

Key Elements:

• Guidelines for planning and response activation.
• Templates for holding statements, social posts and website updates.
• Social listening strategies.
• Media briefing protocols and post-crisis evaluation checklists.
• Practical case studies illustrating effective crisis response. 

Download the Crisis Communications Handbook

6. 2025 Partnership Directory

The NEW Partnership Directory connects Destinations International members with a diverse network of trusted partners and solution providers across the destination industry. From technology platforms and research firms to marketing agencies and accessibility experts, these partners offer the specialized services and expertise destinations need to achieve their strategic goals.

This updated directory outlines each partner’s offerings and areas of focus, making it easy for destination organizations to identify the right collaborators to drive innovation, operational excellence and community impact in the year ahead. The directory includes partners as of June 20, 2025 and will be updated quarterly.

Browse the 2025 Partnership Directory

These resources demonstrate Destinations International’s shared commitment alongside our members and partners to building a resilient, future-ready industry that truly serves its communities. We are proud to equip your teams with the tools and insights needed to drive meaningful change and lasting impact.