Existing dark tourism literature has explored various aspects of interpretation, including challenges in balancing interpretation efforts with concerns for historical accuracy, and managing ethical issues with interpreting past tragedies for packaged tourism purposes. However, research appears under-developed concerning the influences on the design of interpretation at dark visitor attractions, particularly those considered lighter due to their edutainment agenda. This paper thus critically explores the influences on the design of edutainment interpretation at three lighter dark visitor attractions, which are introduced as new attractions for study within dark tourism research. It also discusses the findings achieved that not only contribute to the study's conclusions and recommendations for future research in the realms of dark tourism and interpretation, but also contribute to enhancing interpretation design understanding for both dark tourism research and practice.
Existing dark tourism literature has explored various aspects of interpretation, including challenges in balancing interpretation efforts with concerns for historical accuracy, and managing ethical issues with interpreting past tragedies for packaged tourism purposes. However, research appears under-developed concerning the influences on the design of interpretation at dark visitor attractions, particularly those considered lighter due to their edutainment agenda. This paper thus critically explores the influences on the design of edutainment interpretation at three lighter dark visitor attractions, which are introduced as new attractions for study within dark tourism research. It also discusses the findings achieved that not only contribute to the study's conclusions and recommendations for future research in the realms of dark tourism and interpretation, but also contribute to enhancing interpretation design understanding for both dark tourism research and practice.
This study explores the perspectives of re-enactor tour guides (RTG) concerning their role and re-enactment of dark histories—an overlooked topic within dark tourism research. A conceptual model is proposed that reflects the role of RTGs and how they differ from re-enactors and non-acting tour guides. The model was developed from data collected using rich picture building (RPB) during focus groups with RTGs at three lighter dark visitor attractions. The findings reveal RTGs are passionate about the history and committed to delivering memorable visitor experiences. They also reveal RTGs can offer attraction management constructive feedback and ideas to enhance the visitor experience. The study extends existing literature and provides important insights pertaining to RTGs and the re-enactment of dark histories within lighter dark tourism.
PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to discuss the dark side of luxury yachting, with specific focus on the treatment and well-being of yacht crews.Design/methodology/approachThe paper is based on a literature review of key terms: luxury yachting; yacht crews; well-being; maritime tourism and yacht guests.FindingsThe paper observes luxury yachting as having a hidden dark side that is impacting on the overall well-being of yacht crews who are responsible for producing luxury yachting experiences. It discusses scholarly research and industry reports into both luxury yachting tourism and yacht crew management and experiences.Practical implicationsThe success of the Below Deck television franchise has had a direct influence on the growing phenomenon of luxury yachting tourism. Behind the happy smiles and grandeur of the luxury experience, there is a dark side to this booming industry that requires further investigation and resolutions to enhance yacht crew well-being without impacting the guest experience.Originality/valueThis paper presents luxury yachting as a growing tourism phenomenon. It explores the dark side of this industry from the experiences of yacht crews, who are generally seen, but not heard.
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