Prison Tourism: The Emotional Responses to Robben Island, South Africa

Abstract

The purpose of this chapter is to investigate the motivations and emotions of Western visitors to Robben Island. The methodology used is a qualitative research approach, with 25 participants conducting semi-structured interviews to acquire a better understanding of the visitors’ emotions and motives. Visitors’ motivations are “historical interest,” “earning and understanding,” “education,” “must-see,” “part of itinerary,” and “remembrance,” according to the findings. Furthermore, this study found that “sadness” is the most frequently encountered emotion by visitors to Robben Island. These insights can benefit a variety of tourism industry stakeholders, including the Robben Island Museum. The data can be used by the Robben Island Museum to improve the visitor experience. By understanding the range of emotions experienced by visitors, what evokes these emotions, and how emotions influence behavior, Robben Island Museum can focus on more effectively evoking these emotions. This will enhance the customer experience and create a greater impact and lasting impression.

Citation

Isaac, R.K. (2024), "Prison Tourism: The Emotional Responses to Robben Island, South Africa", Sharma, A., Arora, S. and Shukla, P. (Ed.) Dark Tourism (Building the Future of Tourism), Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 41-59. https://doi.org/10.1108/978-1-83797-336-120241004