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

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. Premium Passport: Want access to the private Zero To Travel podcast feed, a monthly bonus episode (decided on by YOU), exclusive content, direct access to me to answer your questions, and more? Click here to try Premium Passport for only $1. 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 Resources: Join Zero To Travel Premium Passport Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Today's Sponsor - US Bank Go Grab your copy of 50 Dark Destinations: Crime and Contemporary Tourism Want More? Adventures In Urban Exploration w/ Greg Abandoned Factfulness: Why The World Is Better Than You Think Ethical Travel, Life In Mozambique and Ocean Love w/ Francesca Trotman Thanks To Our Sponsors This episode is sponsored by US Bank Altitude Go Visa Signature Card. Get 4X the points on eating out and 2X the points on groceries, entertainment services, and gas or EV charge stations. Apply today at usbank.com/altitudego to get 20,000 points by spending $1,000 in your first 90 days. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices