What Is Meant by Disaster Tourism?

By Robert Palmer

Disaster tourism, also known as dark tourism, is a form of travel that involves visiting places that have been affected by a disaster. This type of tourism has gained popularity in recent years, with more and more people seeking out destinations that offer a glimpse into the aftermath of natural or man-made disasters.

What is Disaster Tourism?

Disaster tourism involves visiting places that have experienced devastation or destruction caused by natural disasters such as hurricanes, tsunamis, earthquakes, or by man-made disasters like terrorist attacks or nuclear accidents. The tourists who participate in this type of tourism are often interested in seeing the damage caused by these events and learning about the impact they had on the local community.

The Ethics of Disaster Tourism

While disaster tourism can be an excellent way to learn about history and gain a better understanding of the world around us, it can also be seen as exploitative and insensitive. Some critics argue that disaster tourism turns tragedy into entertainment and can be disrespectful to those who have suffered through these disasters.

However, proponents of dark tourism argue that it can bring economic benefits to regions affected by natural disasters. Tourists who visit these areas often spend money on accommodations, food, and local products which can help boost the economy.

Examples of Disaster Tourism

One example of disaster tourism is visiting areas affected by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The hurricane caused widespread damage to New Orleans and other parts of Louisiana and Mississippi. Today, tourists can visit areas like the Lower 9th Ward where many homes were destroyed or damaged during the storm.

Another example is visiting Ground Zero in New York City where the World Trade Center once stood before being destroyed during the terrorist attacks on September 11th, 2001. Visitors can learn about the events that occurred on that day and pay their respects at the National September 11 Memorial & Museum.

Conclusion

In conclusion, disaster tourism can be a controversial form of travel, but it can also offer valuable insights into the impact of natural and man-made disasters on communities around the world. While it’s important to be respectful of the people who have been affected by these events, visiting these areas can help us learn about history and gain a better understanding of the world we live in.