Are Prison Tours A Responsible Vacation Option?

What constitutes as a responsible vacation option can vary from social circle to social circle, but do any social circles consider prison tours as a responsible vacation option? As global population psychologically reacts to economical moans and groans, formally socially shunned trends are becoming increasingly popular. Torture Museums offering strangely eager tourists the opportunity to learn more about torture techniques and even witness scheduled reenactments are providing a profitable life line for the travel industry. Not far behind the ethically questionable travel trend is the uprising of prison tours. As the number of inmates goes up, so does the fascination with life "on the inside."

Perhaps one of the most infamous prisons of American culture, Alcatraz has long been in the business of prison tourism. "The Rock," as it is fondly referred, was first a lighthouse off of the San Francisco Bay. Over the years, its occupants changed from military officials to prison officials, and finally, to some of the most notorious criminals of modern times. Infamous criminals such as Al Capone and Bumpy Johnson called this place "home," and now visitors are invited to experience it for themselves. It is hard to conceive patrons marveling at preserved prison artifacts and photographs as a responsible vacation option. How is such allegiance to the treatment of horrific criminals socially acceptable? A closer glance at Alcatraz will show just how visiting this infamously noted prison ground is indeed a responsible vacation option.

Alcatraz is depicted in pop culture as the prison of all prisons, but its historic relevance surpasses that of a jail cell. A torrid relationship between white Americans and Native Americans culminated at Alcatraz in 1969. For 19 months and 9 days, Native Americans took over the island, burning several historic buildings such as the Warden's home and the Coast Guard headquarters. By 1971, President Nixon rescinded any attempt at permanent habitation, and the Native American occupation ended June 11, 1971. Such rich history is well documented at Alcatraz, certifying a visit to the prison island a bona fide responsible vacation option. Political protests were held all over our country at the end of the Native American occupation of Alcatraz. Since a large part of a responsible vacation includes cultural education, Alcatraz meets this requirement effortlessly.

In addition to cultural enlightenment, Alcatraz offers an environmental component for a responsible vacation as well. Since 2003, conservation groups have been working to preserve and regenerate gardens throughout Alcatraz. Identifying the horticultural styles of military and prisoner offers historical insight only nature can provide.

While the ethical debate over prison tours applies to more prison properties than Alcatraz, a look at the entire life of the infamous prison ground shows that much is to be learned at prison sights. While a prison ground may be most commonly known as a place for those who have committed heinous crimes, a closer look may reveal a cultural relevance for a truly responsible vacation experience.

Photo Credit: amandabhslater