Dark Tourist Season 1 Episode 5 Episode 5

In episode 5 of Dark Tourist season 1, the host David Farrier ventures into the heart of Central America to explore the dark underbelly of tourism. He travels to El Salvador, a country still recovering from a devastating civil war that lasted over a decade. Despite being one of the most dangerous countries in the world, El Salvador still attracts a large number of tourists every year.

David starts his journey in the capital city, San Salvador, where he visits the Museum of the Revolution. Here, he learns about the brutal conflict that tore the country apart in the 1980s and 1990s and sees how the country has been struggling to rebuild itself since then. David then visits La Joya de Cerén, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was buried under volcanic ash for centuries.

Next, David travels to the town of Suchitoto, where he meets a group of ex-gang members who have turned their lives around and are now working to support their community. They take him on a tour of the town and show him how they have transformed abandoned buildings into community centers.

David also visits the Ruta de las Flores, a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful scenery and vibrant culture. He speaks with some of the local vendors who rely on tourism to make a living and learns about the challenges they face in running their businesses.

But the true highlight of the episode comes when David visits the infamous prison of Cojutepeque. Here, he meets some of the most dangerous criminals in El Salvador, including members of the notorious MS-13 gang. They share their stories with him and give him a glimpse into the brutal world of gang violence and organized crime.

Throughout the episode, David confronts the complexities and contradictions of tourism in a country like El Salvador. He wrestles with questions of ethics and morality, wondering whether it's appropriate to visit a country that is still so troubled and divided. Despite the danger and discomfort, he pushes on, driven by his curiosity and desire to understand the world around him.

Overall, episode 5 of Dark Tourist season 1 is an intense and thought-provoking exploration of a country that is often overlooked by tourists. Through his encounters with ex-gang members, vendors, and criminals, David Farrier sheds light on the complex and difficult reality of life in El Salvador.