Convictourism: Prison Island Makes Prisonade

“It used to be thought of as a black spot on the family, but now it’s become trendy to have a convict in the past.”
–Tasmanian tourism spokeswoman Mel Percival discusses the Australian island’s new travel promotion, which they are referring to as ‘convictourism.’ “Intended for Australians and Europeans with convict ancestors, as well as the odd tourist from around the world, convictourism will allow visitors to ‘follow the convict trail and trace their ancestors back in time.’” There is also a good story about a convict who disguised himself as a kangaroo in an attempt to escape the brutal conditions that are now being celebrated with a package deal.