Dark Tourism Growth: Understanding Motivation Dynamics

Abstract

This commentary aims to illustrate the dynamic landscape of dark tourism and its profound relevance in modern culture. It seeks to clarify the extent to which contemporary dark tourism destinations, focused on recent tragedies, contribute to processes of peacemaking, reconciliation, and healing in regions scarred by trauma. Moreover, it explores strategies to optimize these impacts. Research suggests motivations driving individuals towards dark tourism are diverse, encompassing historical, cultural, educational, emotional, and reflective aspects, rendering dark tourism a multidimensional phenomenon. Recognizing these varied motivations is pivotal to grasp the intricate nature of people's interests in dark tourism and the significance of these sites. This article conducts a comprehensive review of literature and primary data, offering insights into the intricate complexities surrounding dark tourism from both the traveler's perspective and the sites themselves.