If destinations like Disneyland don't excite you, maybe you need more danger in your itinerary. Top Secret Tourism is a new book, written by Harry Helms, which bills itself as, "Your Travel Guide to Germ Warfare Laboratories, Clandestine Aircraft Bases and Other Places in the United States You're Not Supposed to Know About." The book was released in April... and I'm buying it!
Implications - Some of the things that the book talks about sound like something that you have to see to believe. The book claims that there are enormous isolated areas that are larger than states such as Connecticut and Rhode Island. For daring adventurers with a thirst for knowledge, this book provides the perfect road trip.
Top Secret Tourism
Add a Little Danger to Your Itinerary
Trend Themes
1. Dark Tourism - The growing demand for travel to places associated with tragedy, death or destruction gives rise to opportunities for companies to organize guided tours and package deals, creating a new segment of the travel industry.
2. Extreme Adventure Tourism - The desire for more extreme experiences is spurring a trend towards travel to remote and dangerous locations that offer adrenaline-fueled adventures such as exploring germ warfare laboratories or aircraft bases.
3. Secret Destinations - The consumer appetite for exclusive, insider knowledge is driving a trend towards discovering and sharing off-the-beaten-path destinations and experiences that are not typically advertised to the masses.
Industry Implications
1. Travel and Tourism - Opportunities exist for companies specializing in Dark Tourism, Extreme Adventure Tourism, and Secret Destinations to market and cater to travelers who seek unconventional travel experiences.
2. Publishing - As demand for exotic travel experiences grows, there is an opportunity for publishers to create guidebooks and travel literature that offers travelers access to niche and unique destinations.
3. Technology - Technological advancements have the potential to disrupt travel experiences by offering consumers new ways to access and engage with exclusive destinations and experiences, such as through virtual reality or augmented reality.