Thanatourism, also known as dark tourism, involves traveling to locations associated with death or suffering, such as graveyards, battlefields, and disaster sites. Thanatourism appeals to taboo, the unknown, and what is whispered in the night. Although dark tourism can sometimes seem insensitive, there are several ways it can be a responsible choice. The first is to pay respects and honor the memory of those who were affected by death, loss, or trauma. Visiting places related to death can help us to remember and appreciate the lives, experiences, and hardships of those who have gone before us. Visiting such sites can also encourage us to be more mindful and respectful of the living who endure tragedy and hardship, and remember the impact of our actions on those around us. When visiting St. Augustine, it is recommended that you practice ethical thanatourism by:

• Be aware and considerate of the psychological effects of visiting sites with dark histories
• Learn about the local culture and history and engaging in respectful conversations with locals
• During a hosted ghost tour, it is appropriate to take photos nearly everywhere- but avoid taking selfies at sites of death or cemeteries
• Research the dark history of the sites and understanding their place in the local culture
• Volunteer with conservation programs or donating to a local charity for the cemeteries and historic preservation (see below)

As tour operators, we believe that actively exploiting death or tragedy for our own economic gain is unethical. We believe that telling the history as accurately as possible helps us understand the full impact of these tragedies. Additionally, we strive to make our presence un-intrusive and respectful to the people who live in the area. Finally, ethical thanatourism can be a responsible choice because it can be part of a journey of education, self-discovery, and growth. Visiting places related to death and suffering can help us to learn more about ourselves, informing and inspiring our own journeys in life. It can also help us to appreciate and respect life in all its fragility and beauty. It is our responsibility to ensure we travel with respect and to have a positive impact on the local people and economy. Ethical thanatourism is an opportunity to leave a meaningful mark on a small part of the world.