Episode Details

Why are travelers flocking to the world’s darkest places? In this episode, we explore the rise of dark tourism—visits to battlegrounds, prisons, and sites of catastrophe—and the complicated ethics behind a booming, multi-billion-dollar industry. From Syria’s ruins and former torture sites to war-scarred Ukraine and the aftermath of terror attacks, today’s travelers aren’t just seeking beauty; they’re seeking the shadow of history. Social media has only accelerated the trend, turning once-forbidden zones into viral destinations. But what separates a voyeur taking a crass selfie from a traveler trying to bear witness? And why does the line matter now more than ever?

https://www.economist.com/culture/2025/12/04/why-do-tourists-visit-sites-of-atrocities