Dark Tourism and the Complexities of Dark Destinations with Professor James Treadwell

Oct 31, 2023

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There is no denying that places like Alcatraz and Auschwitz are rooted in dark history, but Disney World? A dark destination?! Today, I’m joined by Dr. James Treadwell to unravel the intricacies of dark tourism.

Dr. Treadwell is a Professor of Criminology at Staffordshire University. He is also the co-author of 50 Dark Destinations: Crime and Contemporary Tourism, which highlights travel destinations across six continents and explores the past and contemporary issues that we often disregard during our everyday leisure.

In this episode, we talk about the sensationalization of true crime, why we’re so attracted to places marked by violence, and what actually makes a destination “dark.” You’ll learn how we may all be some form of deviant tourist (whether we realize it or not) and ways to be more mindful when visiting these locations.

Have you visited a dark destination? What was your experience? Let me know by sending me an audio message.

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Tune In To Learn:

The study of criminology and how Dr. Treadwell found himself working in this field
Why society is fascinated with true crime and dark history
How his book explores and reimagines the meaning of dark tourism
How we are unknowingly participating in dark tourism (Watching the World Cup?!)
The fine line between historical preservation and visiting for education vs. leisure and consumerism
How we can be more cognisant when traveling to problematic places
His thoughts on the death penalty and how society can minimize crime and violence
And so much more

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