Disney is creating a resort in the center of the African forests -- in Florida.
"Once tourist attractions were tied to physical places: beaches, geysers, ancient ruins. Resorts were for the wealthy. The National Park System was barely in existence a century ago. Average workers had little time off to play, anyway.But over the last century two things happened: Tourism became a huge industry aimed at the mass market once unions fought for and won the paid vacation. And experience became detached from place."
Thanks to Chris Steins
FULL STORY: Manufactured ecotourism for a mass audience

Maui's Vacation Rental Debate Turns Ugly
Verbal attacks, misinformation campaigns and fistfights plague a high-stakes debate to convert thousands of vacation rentals into long-term housing.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

In Urban Planning, AI Prompting Could be the New Design Thinking
Creativity has long been key to great urban design. What if we see AI as our new creative partner?

King County Supportive Housing Program Offers Hope for Unhoused Residents
The county is taking a ‘Housing First’ approach that prioritizes getting people into housing, then offering wraparound supportive services.

Researchers Use AI to Get Clearer Picture of US Housing
Analysts are using artificial intelligence to supercharge their research by allowing them to comb through data faster. Though these AI tools can be error prone, they save time and housing researchers are optimistic about the future.

Making Shared Micromobility More Inclusive
Cities and shared mobility system operators can do more to include people with disabilities in planning and operations, per a new report.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
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