For many actors, getting into character means more than just memorizing lines; it requires immersing themselves completely in the role. Some actors take this process to remarkable extremes, adopting unconventional and sometimes controversial methods to embody their characters. Whether through physical transformation, intense psychological preparation, or bizarre routines, these actors go above and beyond to bring authenticity to their performances. Here are ten actors who took unique and often extreme approaches to prepare for their roles.

Related: 10 Actors Who Portrayed Real-Life Criminals to Perfection

10 Daniel Day-Lewis Refuses to Break Character on Set

Renowned for his dedication, Daniel Day-Lewis is one of the most intense method actors of his generation. Known for fully immersing himself in his characters, Day-Lewis famously refuses to break character during filming, even when the cameras aren’t rolling. For his Oscar-winning role in My Left Foot (1989), where he portrayed Christy Brown, a man with cerebral palsy, Day-Lewis stayed in character throughout filming. He insisted on using a wheelchair, had the crew feed him, and even let them carry him to avoid walking. His insistence on complete immersion allowed him to capture Brown’s struggle authentically, impressing audiences with his performance.

For Lincoln (2012), Day-Lewis took a similar approach, studying everything from Lincoln’s letters to his speeches and adopting the president’s voice on and off camera. He even requested that everyone, from cast and crew to extras, address him as “Mr. President.” His meticulous preparation included reading about Lincoln’s relationships and health, allowing him to embody the physical and mental toll of the Civil War on the leader’s life. Day-Lewis’s extreme dedication has earned him three Academy Awards and solidified his reputation as one of the most committed actors in the industry.^[1]

9 Heath Ledger Lived in Isolation for the Joker

Heath Ledger’s portrayal of the Joker in The Dark Knight (2008) is widely regarded as one of the most iconic performances of all time. To prepare for the role, Ledger locked himself in a hotel room for six weeks, isolating himself from the outside world to develop the character’s mindset. During this time, he kept a journal filled with disturbing images and phrases that reflected the Joker’s chaotic nature, helping him tap into the character’s psyche. The entries included lines like “I am an agent of chaos” and drawings of twisted smiles, which shaped his performance’s intensity and unpredictability.

Ledger’s preparation was intense and reportedly took a toll on his mental health. His efforts to embody the Joker extended beyond his hotel stay—on set, he continued experimenting with the character’s voice and mannerisms, even developing the iconic, sinister laugh that would define his portrayal. While some close to him worried about the psychological impact of such a dark role, Ledger’s commitment to his craft was evident, and his hauntingly memorable Joker earned him a posthumous Academy Award.^[2]

8 Christian Bale’s Extreme Physical Transformations

Christian Bale is known for undergoing drastic physical changes to embody his characters, often taking his transformations to an extreme level. For The Machinist (2004), Bale famously lost over 60 pounds (27.2 kg), surviving on a diet of water, coffee, and an apple or can of tuna each day. His gaunt, skeletal appearance shocked audiences and set a new bar for physical transformation, but Bale believed it was necessary to authentically portray the insomniac, mentally unwell protagonist. He reportedly dropped to just 120 pounds (54.4 kg), pushing his body to the brink of its limits.

After The Machinist, Bale quickly gained 100 pounds (45.4 kg) to play Batman in Batman Begins, bulking up to portray the superhero’s imposing physique. His willingness to undergo extreme body changes didn’t end there—he gained weight for American Hustle and then slimmed down again for The Fighter, proving his commitment to each role. Though such drastic weight changes come with health risks, Bale’s dedication to embodying his characters through physical transformation has earned him immense respect in Hollywood, even as it sparks concern from health experts.^[3]

7 Meryl Streep Learns Languages and Accents from Scratch

Meryl Streep is widely regarded as one of the most versatile actors in Hollywood, renowned for her ability to adapt to different accents and languages to bring authenticity to her roles. For her Oscar-winning performance in Sophie’s Choice (1982), Streep learned Polish and German, spending weeks with a coach to perfect her pronunciation. She even adopted a Polish accent in English, adding depth to her character’s background as a Holocaust survivor. The dedication to linguistic detail made her portrayal all the more convincing, deeply resonating with audiences and critics alike.

Streep has continued this rigorous approach in other films. For Out of Africa (1985), she studied Danish accents, and in The Iron Lady (2011), she spent countless hours perfecting Margaret Thatcher’s distinct tone and cadence. Each linguistic transformation reflects her dedication to fully immersing herself in her characters’ worlds, which has helped her create complex, layered performances. Streep’s meticulous attention to voice and accent is an example of her exceptional talent and adaptability as an actress, underscoring her status as one of Hollywood’s finest.^[4]

6 Jared Leto’s Method Acting for the Joker

Jared Leto’s approach to playing the Joker in Suicide Squad (2016) involved some of the most extreme and controversial method acting techniques. Known for diving headfirst into his characters, Leto sent bizarre and disturbing gifts to his co-stars to capture the Joker’s unpredictable personality. These “gifts” included a live rat for Margot Robbie, bullets for Will Smith, and even a dead pig for the entire cast. His goal was to make his presence on set feel as unsettling as the Joker himself, fostering an atmosphere of chaos.

But Leto’s method acting extended beyond gifts. He stayed in character off-camera, using the Joker’s voice and laugh and rarely breaking character, even during breaks. Some cast members were reportedly uncomfortable with his methods, and his performance sparked debate over the lengths actors should go to embody a role. Leto’s approach raised questions about the ethical boundaries of method acting, even though he argued it helped him understand the Joker’s chaotic mindset.^[5]

5 Shia LaBeouf Pulled Out His Own Tooth and Lived on the Streets

Shia LaBeouf’s commitment to method acting has taken him to extreme lengths, with his approach to character preparation bordering on dangerous. For Fury(2014), a World War II film, LaBeouf reportedly refused to shower for weeks, aiming to achieve a realistic look and feel of a soldier enduring wartime conditions. To further embody the character’s experience, he had his dentist pull out one of his teeth, creating a more authentic appearance of someone hardened by combat.

LaBeouf’s dedication didn’t stop with Fury. For The Tax Collector (2020), he reportedly spent time living on the streets and even joined members of street gangs to better understand his character’s environment. LaBeouf’s extreme methods have attracted both admiration and criticism, with some applauding his commitment to realism while others question whether such lengths are necessary. His approach reflects his unique perspective on acting, blurring the lines between fiction and reality to fully inhabit each role.^[6]

4 Natalie Portman’s Ballet Training for Black Swan

To prepare for her role in Black Swan, Natalie Portman underwent an intense year-long training regimen to portray a professional ballerina convincingly. She practiced ballet for five to eight hours a day, training with experienced dancers to understand the physical and mental discipline of the profession. Portman’s commitment to mastering the craft resulted in multiple injuries, including a dislocated rib, but she refused to let the pain interfere with her performance.

Portman’s preparation also included cross-training in swimming and weightlifting to build the stamina and strength required to perform on pointe. Her physical and emotional dedication to the role earned her critical acclaim and an Academy Award for Best Actress. Audiences and critics praised her transformation, which highlighted the grueling demands of ballet. Portman’s experience in Black Swan serves as a testament to the sacrifices actors make to bring their characters to life authentically.^[7]

3 Leonardo DiCaprio’s Survival Skills in The Revenant

Leonardo DiCaprio went to great lengths to bring authenticity to his role as frontiersman Hugh Glass in The Revenant (2015). To portray the character’s brutal survival journey, DiCaprio subjected himself to extreme conditions, sleeping inside animal carcasses and enduring frigid temperatures while filming in remote Canadian locations. He even ate raw bison liver for one scene, despite being a longtime vegetarian, which required overcoming his natural aversion to such an intense experience.

DiCaprio also learned basic survival skills, such as fire-starting, to make his portrayal more realistic. The challenging conditions pushed him physically and mentally, and his immersion in the harsh landscape allowed him to capture Glass’s struggle against the elements. DiCaprio’s performance in The Revenant earned him his first Academy Award, with audiences and critics alike recognizing the raw intensity he brought to the role. His willingness to endure these extreme conditions exemplifies the lengths some actors go to for authenticity.^[8]

2 Jim Carrey’s Intense Transformation for Man on the Moon

To portray comedian Andy Kaufman in Man on the Moon (1999), Jim Carrey adopted an intense method acting approach, embodying Kaufman’s unpredictable personality both on and off set. Carrey stayed in character throughout production, channeling Kaufman’s eccentricity in ways that baffled the cast and crew. His immersion extended to portraying Kaufman’s abrasive alter ego, Tony Clifton, who would randomly appear and cause chaos on set, creating a surreal atmosphere that blurred the line between actor and character.

Carrey’s commitment to the role was so all-encompassing that a documentary, Jim & Andy: The Great Beyond (2017), was later released to show the behind-the-scenes of his extreme preparation. Carrey’s dedication was both a tribute to Kaufman’s unconventional life and a reflection of his own willingness to push the boundaries of acting. His immersive approach to Man on the Moon provided a fascinating glimpse into the world of method acting.^[9]

1 Lady Gaga Immerses Herself in Italian Culture for House of Gucci

For her role as Patrizia Reggiani in House of Gucci (2021), Lady Gaga took method acting to a cultural level, immersing herself in Italian language, customs, and fashion. She maintained an Italian accent for nine months, even when she wasn’t on set, to master Reggiani’s cadence and mannerisms. Gaga also delved into Italian pop culture, listening to Italian music, researching Reggiani’s real-life story, and studying her family background, hoping to capture the character’s motivations authentically.

Gaga’s dedication extended to wearing vintage Italian fashion and observing social norms from Reggiani’s era. The thorough preparation allowed her to fully embrace Reggiani’s persona, and her nuanced performance as a ruthless, ambitious woman received widespread acclaim. Lady Gaga’s cultural immersion and dedication to capturing Reggiani’s complexity is an example of how method acting can involve not only psychological preparation but also a profound understanding of a character’s cultural environment.^[10]

Rockets are our only option of traveling or sending payload to space today. However, that could change in the future. There are plans to develop alternative methods of travel. And they are truly weird.

Inventors have proposed traveling or sending payload into space with elevators, underwater space guns, catapults, and even balloons. While some of these could be unrealistic and will probably remain a pipe dream, others could appear within the next few decades. Only time will tell.

10 Space Elevators

A space elevator is exactly what you think it is—an elevator that goes all the way from the ground into space. The idea was first proposed by Russian scientist Konstantin Tsiolkovsky in 1895.

Four to six cables would be connected to a single elevator system. Each cable would be connected to an electromagnetic vehicle (which is practically an elevator) that leads to different platforms in space or the upper atmosphere. The elevators would travel at speeds reaching thousands of kilometers an hour.^[1]

The upper ends of the cables would be connected to a large mass like a space station or even an asteroid. The bottom of the cables would be connected to a 50-kilometer-tall (31 mi) tower on the ground. Most designs indicate that the ground tower would be built along the equator because areas outside that region are vulnerable to hurricanes and tornadoes.

NASA believes that the elevator will replace or reduce our dependence on rockets one day. Although we haven’t managed to make a space elevator yet, China and Obayashi Corporation of Japan have separate plans to finish one by 2045 and 2050, respectively. If completed, it may reduce the cost of sending 0.5 kilograms (1 lb) of payload into space from $3,500 to $25.

9 Skyhook

Imagine a giant fishing hook extending from outside space and stopping somewhere in the skies. Yes, that is exactly what a skyhook is. It is also called the beanstalk as in “Jack and the Beanstalk” or Jacob’s ladder after a Bible verse where a ladder was released from the heavens down to Earth.

A skyhook is often promoted as a smaller version of the space elevator. Both follow the same principle except that the cable on the skyhook does not reach all the way to the ground. There is no ground station, either.^[2]

The payload is first transported on a rocket or other propelling unit and attached to the end of the cable of the skyhook, which sends the payload into outer space. It has been suggested that a skyhook could also work the other way around to transport minerals mined from asteroids and other planets to Earth.

8 Space Gun

A large space gun is capable of shooting payloads into space. It cannot be used to launch humans there because the force would instantly compress a person by half, leading to death. While we haven’t managed to make one, several inventors are still trying to create one.

One inventor is John Hunter. He proposed a 1,100-meter (3,600 ft) space gun, called the QuickLauncher, to get the job done. Hunter began working on the QuickLauncher in 1992 and even tested a 130-meter (425 ft) prototype. When completed, the QuickLauncher would be installed 490 meters (1,600 ft) below the sea somewhere around the equator.

Only the top of the barrel would be visible along with a rig holding the upper part of the gun above the water. Hunter said that the QuickLauncher would reduce the cost of sending payload into space to a mere $113 per kilogram ($250/lb). He believed that the gun could be completed within seven years if he was able to get the $500 million in funding.^[3]

7 Mass Driver

The mass driver (or electromagnetic catapult) works like a giant catapult. We could just think of it as a train. In 2012, aerospace engineer Dr. George Maise and Dr. James Powell, one of the inventors of the maglev train, worked on building a mass driver that they called the StarTram.

The StarTram would operate with magnetic levitation (maglev) technology, which is used by many high-speed trains today. Maglev trains do not have wheels. Instead, they depend on magnets to send them sliding over the rail. The StarTram would resemble a maglev train running inside a tube.

One end of the tube would be on the ground while the other would be in the upper atmosphere. However, the end at the upper atmosphere would still be held securely to the ground with steel beams or something similar. The payload would be magnetically accelerated until it reaches the other end where it would be expelled and continue its journey into space.

The inventors planned to create two mass drivers—one for cargo and the other for humans. They said that the cargo mass driver would cost $20 billion to build and be ready in about 10 years. The passenger version has a cost estimate of $60 billion and would be ready in approximately 20 years.

According to Powell and Maise, the StarTram is expected to transport 1 kilogram (2.2 lbs) of cargo into space at just $50 (in 2012 dollars). Using similar calculations, it would cost just $5,000 instead of $20 million (again, in 2012 dollars) to send humans to the International Space Station.

The duo also believe that StarTram could be used to protect Earth from large asteroids, to capture solar energy, and to allow us to mine raw materials from asteroids.^[4]

6 Launch Loop

The launch loop would consist of magnetic cables covered by a protective material. It has been described as an advanced version of the mass driver we just discussed. However, instead of having one end high up in the atmosphere, both ends of the launch loop would be on the ground.^[5]

The center of the track would rise into the skies, just like a roller coaster. The spacecraft, or train, would start off from one end of the track and shoot into space at the center of the track. While the idea sounds promising, it’s doubtful that we will see one anytime soon because it would cost a fortune to build.

5 Catapults

A space start-up called SpinLaunch is considering sending payload into space with catapults. The catapult is actually a centrifuge that spins at a high speed. In fact, it spins so fast that it swings an attached payload into space at speeds up to 4,800 kilometers per hour (3,000 mph).^[6]

Curiously, NASA had tested similar technology, even though it was with rail tracks and not centrifuges. NASA abandoned the project because it was less reliable than rockets. Nevertheless, SpinLaunch believes that the technology will work. Its major challenge is the air resistance that could stop the payload from getting into space.

4 Balloons

A company called World View prefers to do things the old way. Instead of trying to invent something new to get us into space, they’ve settled for helium balloons. They will fly to the stratosphere, the second layer of Earth’s atmosphere as you move higher toward space.

A flight will carry two pilots and six tourists. A seat on the balloon is expected to cost around $75,000 for a six-hour flight. While World View completed a successful test flight with a prototype on June 18, 2014, it missed a 2016 deadline for its first paid flight.

One downside of the balloon is speed. Balloons will reach space in two hours, which is very slow. Rockets reach space in less than four minutes. However, the balloon will offer a more breathtaking view for the tourists. Also, passengers will not have to deal with the explosive takeoffs and g-forces experienced with rockets.^[7]

As another downside, the balloon could end up 480 kilometers (300 mi) from its takeoff point due to the wind. However, World View has this covered by offering return flights to its passengers. The company also mentioned that it has precautions and safety measures against the balloon falling back to Earth or flying off into space.

3 Airplanes

Charles Bombardier and Juan Garcia Mansilla have suggested using special airplanes for space travel. The proposed Paradoxal is a supersonic or hypersonic airplane with a jet engine that converts to a rocket to escape into space. The engine converts back to a jet engine when it returns to Earth.

The jet engine becomes a rocket when liquid oxygen is injected into the exhaust. This increases its speed as it reaches the velocity to escape the Earth’s atmosphere. However, Bombardier and Mansilla are not really concerned with space travel. They actually want their airplane to be used for business travel.

This airplane would go into space to exploit the curvature of the Earth to shorten flight time. For instance, the Paradoxal would cover the 12,200 kilometers (7,600 mi) between Los Angeles and Sydney in less than three hours. Conventional aircraft complete it in around 14 hours.

However, cameras outside the airplane would allow passengers to see the exterior of the airplane. If that isn’t enough, they would experience the weightlessness of space for just one minute before the airplane begins its descent to Earth.^[8]

2 Orbital Ring

The orbital ring is closely related to the space elevator. However, unlike the elevator, it is a huge ring that goes around the Earth. Several points along the ring would be connected to ground stations here on Earth. Elevators would be installed in the ground stations to allow us to travel into space.

The orbital ring was first suggested by Nikola Tesla in the 1870s. However, Paul Birch is credited as the inventor after he proposed the modern orbital ring in 1982. Birch suggested that we manufacture the orbital ring in space with minerals tapped from space.^[9]

Unfortunately, nobody is keen on creating the ring because Birch was misquoted and misunderstood. One unending rumor is that he claimed the ring would cost $31 trillion dollars. While an orbital ring around the Earth remains a pipe dream, there are suggestions to install it around the Moon and other planets, allowing us to enter and leave them with much ease.

1 Space Fountain

Space fountains are considered an alternative to the space elevator. They have the ground and space stations but without the elevators. The idea was promoted by a six-man team including Robert L. Forward, who explained the idea in his book Indistinguishable from Magic.

The proposed invention is called a space fountain because it works like a water fountain. A ball could remain atop the water from a water fountain if the force of the water remains constant. At the same time, the water that falls back into the fountain is reused to keep the ball up. And the process continues.

The ground station of a space fountain is a sort of U-shaped chamber while the space station is an upside-down, U-shaped chamber. Using the logic of the ball we just mentioned, the space station remains in space because the ground station shoots millions of small magnetic pellets at it. The space station shoots the pellets back to the ground station, and the cycle goes on.

However, the walls of the ground chamber would be lined with electromagnetic accelerators that would fire any payload into space. The space fountain remains unfeasible due to the unbelievable amounts of energy it would require. A space fountain with a space chamber 2,000 kilometers (1,240 mi) away from the ground chamber would require the same amount of energy as an entire city.^[10]

As the old saying goes, “Nothing is certain but death and taxes.” Most of us hope to live long, healthy, and happy lives before succumbing to the inevitable. In a perfect world, there would be no illnesses or accidents. We’d just close our eyes one night and simply not wake up.

Unfortunately, it is not a perfect world—far from it actually. Terrible illnesses and accidents do occur every day. Below is small example of some horribly unconventional ways that real people have died.

10 Death By Dog Food

Sometimes, our love of and obsession with animals can come back to bite us in the rear. In the end, these two ladies would have been far better off just saying no to pet ownership.

Melany Paula Campos’s sister came home one day and immediately knew that something was amiss. The neighbors met her upon her return to complain that her dogs had been barking wildly for hours and just wouldn’t shut up.

After investigating to see what was wrong, she found her sister buried beneath four large bags of dog food. Apparently, when her sister was attempting to feed the 40 dogs that they had taken in, the bags fell on her and she suffocated under their weight.

In another sad tale of dog feeding gone wrong, Carol Williams tried to feed her pet dog after having too many cocktails. While leaning down to fill Fido’s bowl, she apparently was overcome from her intoxication and fell face-first into the dog’s bowl.

As if smothering in dog food wasn’t bad enough, the edge of the bowl dug into her neck and she eventually passed away. Once she was discovered, she was found to be three times over the legal limit.^[1]

9 Death By Pecking

In another disturbing story of people “done wrong” by their own animals, a farmer by the name of Frans Jaumotte was found dead on his farm. Police were anxious to discover the reason behind his apparent mutilation and death.

During their investigation, they found that there was no chicken feed anywhere on the farm. His 200 chickens apparently didn’t take this very well.

Since the will to live is great in all living beings, they did what they had to do to survive. They descended upon Jaumotte and pecked out his eyes and heart. All in the name of survival. It was him or them, and he was vastly outnumbered.^[2]

8 Death By Boiling

David Allen Kirwan and his friend Ronald Ratliff set out to enjoy a beautiful day of nature in Yellowstone National Park. After parking their vehicle to take a quick look at one of the springs, Ratliff’s dog decided to join them and escaped from the car.

Inexplicably, in his excitement, the pooch proceeded to dive into the spring that they were viewing. The water temperature would later be determined to be 94 degrees Celsius (202 °F).

The poor dog quickly began to yelp as the pain set in. Ignoring the pleas of other visitors to stay out of the hot spring, Kirwan acted without thought and dove in headfirst to save the dog. He was able to grab the dog and tried his best to save him. But ultimately, Kirwan had to release the animal and try to pull himself out of the spring.

His friend Ratliff pulled him from the spring while sustaining second-degree burns on the bottom of his feet by doing so. Another visitor helped Kirwan to the sidewalk.

He reportedly said, “That was stupid. How bad am I?” Then he added, “That was a stupid thing I did.”

He was so badly burned all over his body that he was blinded and most of his skin was coming off. Another well-meaning visitor tried to comfort him by removing his shoes but had to stop when his skin was coming off with it. Rangers reported that they found two large pieces of skin by the spring in the shape of hands.

Kirwan was rushed to a clinic and attended to by a burn specialist. Although Kirwan was conscious and seemingly in no pain, he eventually succumbed to his injuries. The burns were just too severe. Ironically, there were pamphlets in their vehicle warning about the dangers of the park. They had not read them.

The dog was never able to be rescued and died in the spring.^[3]

7 Death By Consumption

Humans arrogantly claim to be at the top of the food chain, but sometimes, nature has a way of correcting that assumption for us.

In 1984, a young woman named Brigitta Claudia Fredenhagen would learn that the hard way. Despite being warned about bears and the dangers of hiking and camping alone in Yellowstone National Park, she still chose to set out on her adventure. When she failed to meet her brother at the designated time and day, he reported her missing to the local rangers.

Upon finding her campsite, they made some grisly discoveries. The tent was ripped, and they found pieces of hair, scalp, muscle, bone, and tissue. As the search continued, they found a piece of her lip, more tissue, and bloody clothing. Upon locating her body, they discovered that quite a lot of her body had been consumed by a bear.

They theorized that the bear had ripped the tent and pulled her out either by the side of her neck or the top of her head while she was sleeping. There didn’t appear to be a struggle, so they believe that she died quickly.

Eerily, she had written in a journal at her campsite that she had taken “all precautions” to be safe.^[4]

6 Death By Radio Contest

Determined to win a contest for her kids, Jennifer Strange participated in “Hold Your Wee for a Wii” at a local radio station. While it should have been a funny and lighthearted event, it inexplicably ended in disaster.

The goal was to see who could drink the most water without going to the bathroom. The victor would take home a Wii game system. Sounds simple enough, right?

After the contest, Jennifer called her office in tears to let them know that she wouldn’t be back to work and was going home with a horrible headache. Hours later, her mother discovered Jennifer dead at her home.

The coroner found that her death was likely caused by “water intoxication” or hyponatremia that is defined by the body’s sodium level falling below normal, causing the brain to swell and push against the skull. As you can imagine, this would be brutally painful and cause nausea, vomiting, and weakness. In more severe cases, it results in seizures, coma, and even death.^[5]

5 Death By Flying Lawnmower

Probably one of the last things you would expect to happen at a New York Jets football game would be having a flying lawnmower crash into your head. Unfortunately for John Bowen, this oddity became a reality in 1979.

During the game’s halftime show, model plane enthusiasts were putting on a show for the crowd. It was said to have included aerial dogfights featuring planes made in “novel” shapes. This particular model plane was called the “Flying Lawnmower.” It was described as 0.61 meters (2 ft) long and made mostly from metal.

Tragically, the plane crashed into the stands, striking John Bowen and Kevin Rourke in their heads. Bowen underwent surgery on a terrible gash and later died from his injuries. Rourke suffered a concussion, but fortunately, he recovered.

Ironically, the halftime show was being put on by the Electronic Eagles of the Radio Controlled Association of Greater New York to promote the safety of the sport.^[6]

4 Death By Baseball

Generally speaking, you would think that baseball is less of a “contact sport” and less violent than a lot of other sports. But that is not entirely true.

There have been a large number of fatalities connected to the game over the years—whether it is a player being beaned in the head by a ball or getting hit in the chest over the heart. Some fans have also been injured or killed by falling from the stands.

In one sad story, the Goldblooms, an elderly couple who regularly attended Dodgers games, went to the stadium to simultaneously celebrate her 79th birthday and the couple’s 59th wedding anniversary. As they were enjoying the game from the stands, a ball flew just above the protective netting and tragically hit Linda Goldbloom in the head.

Ushers immediately raced to her side to see if she was okay. When she indicated that she was not, she was placed in an ambulance, where she began to vomit, and rushed to the hospital.

After undergoing emergency surgery, she was placed on a ventilator. Mrs. Goldbloom remained unresponsive for three days before she died from her injuries. She was buried about 16 kilometers (10 mi) from the stadium and team that she had loved so much.^[7]

3 Death By Toilet

Convicted murderer Michael Anderson Godwin unwittingly saved taxpayers a great deal of money at a Columbia, South Carolina, correctional facility in 1989.

After having his death sentence overturned on appeal, he settled into his new reality as a “lifer.” As he was only 28 at the time, he would more than likely have been there for many years to come.

One fateful day, he attempted to repair a set of earphones that was connected to his television. He bit down on one of the earphone’s wires while sitting on the steel toilet in his prison cell. This turned out to be a deadly combination.

The same prisoner who initially escaped the electric chair unintentionally carried out his own death sentence by electrocution. How ironic.^[8]

2 Death By Explosion

It is usually not a good idea to cross a rival motorcycle gang. Depending upon the severity of the issue, it is likely that retaliation will soon come your way. Two gang members were on their way to do just that when their carelessness cost them their lives.

Apparently, the homemade bomb that they were going to use to kill the rival gang member was stored in the car’s center console. Nobody knows exactly what happened, but the bomb exploded in transit and they were both killed.

The blast was so strong that it ripped open the roof and blew out the front doors of the car. The driver’s body was blown into the gutter of an elderly woman’s house, and debris was scattered over a 35-meter (115 ft) radius. Somehow, the other member was found slumped over and still strapped into his seat inside the vehicle.^[9]

1 Death By Wood Chipper

One of the most horrifying and gruesome ways to die has to be by falling into a wood chipper while fully conscious and aware of what is about to happen to you.

There have been numerous reports of this happening. Some individuals were severely injured, and some were killed. In one instance, a landscaper somehow fell into the teeth of the wood chipper that he had been using at work that day. It was reported that his entire body was pulled through, leaving a gory scene.

Rescue workers had to “delicately clean the scene” to reclaim all of the victim’s remains. As you can imagine, bearing witness to something like this would tend to stay with you forever.^[10]

Far be it from us to promote or condone anything illicit, but it’s not out of pocket to point out that people out in the world have, for just shy of forever, been looking for ways to alter their states of consciousness or otherwise get high, as the kids say. And it turns out it’s not even just people who do it. So, with that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the most unusual highs that have ever been achieved. 

10. Dolphins Use Pufferfish to Get High

They say dolphins are one of the most intelligent animals on earth, as far as being able to objectively measure such things go. Maybe even close to humans. So what can we make of the knowledge that, like humans, some dolphins love to get high as a kite?

Footage of dolphins in the wild has shown that young ones clearly go out of their way to hunt down and play with certain kinds of pufferfish. These fish produce toxins as a natural defense mechanism and it can be lethal in high enough doses. But, like many drugs, if you are exposed to the right dose it doesn’t kill you, it just gets you high. At least that’s how it seems to work for dolphins.

The dolphins have worked out how to get the fish to release just enough of the toxin to get high by chewing on the fish just a little then handing it off to a friend. In this way an entire group of dolphins can get completely loopy. Their behavior noticeably changes after exposure to the fish, including floating nose up in the water. 

9. Parrots Get Addicted to Opium and Raid Poppy Farms

Opium production is an enormous industry in the world. In Afghanistan alone there are about 233,000 hectares of opium fields, or 575,755 acres. India, on the other hand, produces the drug legally for medical purposes and is the largest producer of it in the world, but that doesn’t mean it’s without its own problems. India has to deal with parrots.

Parakeets and related birds will flock to poppy fields up to 30 or 40 times a day to feed. Larger birds can fly away with an entire pod which could produce 20 to 25 grams of opium alone which works out to around 1 ounce and is more than enough to get a human high, never mind a parrot.

The birds know to fly in quietly to avoid detection and will either destroy the pods to get seeds or take the whole pod away. Farmers have tried using loud noises and even firecrackers to keep the birds away but nothing has been very successful. 

8. People Smoke Dead Scorpions to Get High

Humans have proven to be nothing if not industrious when it comes to getting high and we can turn damn near anything into an illicit substance with some Walter White ingenuity and time. That includes the utterly unpredictable, like dead scorpions.

While Pakistan, like India, has its fair share of opium, there are also street vendors who will sell you scorpions as well. These scorpions can be cooked on a stove or dried out in the sun. The venom in the tail is what addicts crave and the high sounds absolutely bonkers, to put it in scientific terms.

The high lasts about 10 hours but 6 of those are just painful because the venom is incredibly toxic and dangerous. After the 6 hour pain prep, the remaining four hours have been described as enjoyable because “everything appears like it is dancing.”

The venom is more dangerous than many other drugs and there are reports it’s incredibly addicting and dangerous. It can lead to serious memory loss, delusions, and more. 

7. Lemurs Like to Get High on Millipedes

The rest of the animal kingdom is also well aware of the kick you can get from ingesting creepy crawlies in one form or another and that’s why lemurs have shown that they’re really into getting high on millipedes.

Lemurs can be found on the island of Madagascar where they spend their days eating mostly fruit and hopping about in a comical fashion. They have also been observed biting, but not eating, red millipedes. This is the lemur equivalent of what we already saw with dolphins and pufferfish.

The red millipede produces toxins that are meant to keep predators away. The mixture they produce even includes cyanide. For its part, the lemurs get sprayed with this solution and it causes them to salivate something awful. They rub this toxic spit mixture as well as they now spit and poison covered millipede into their own fur. While this acts as a kind of natural pesticide, it also gets the lemur high, putting them into a sort of trance.

6. Wallabies Get High on Opium and Make Crop Circles

Down under in Australia there are fields of poppies being grown for the production of opiate drugs, even ones full of “super poppies” engineered for Johnson and Johnson to be high yield narcotic producers. This has not gone unnoticed by the local wildlife. 

On the island of Tasmania, where the poppies are grown legally, wallabies had a bad habit of raiding the fields, getting completely wasted eating the plants, and then spinning in circles. Not only is the eating a problem but the wallabies’ spinning creates damaging crop circles that destroy even more of the valuable plants, making it a double whammy of marsupial mayhem. 

It’s never been clear why the poppies make the wallabies spin in circles, the same thing happens to sheep and neither of them are trapped in the field, they seem to just get stuck spinning and eating as they get high.

5. Reindeer Herders Get High Drinking Reindeer Pee

This one may qualify as a twofer or some kind of circle of life high. At the very least it’s like a not-quite-human centipede of psychoactivity, which is novel if nothing else.

In the northern parts of Europe there is a large population of reindeer and, as a result, reindeer herders, including the Sami people. The herders have known for a long time that the reindeer like to graze on hallucinogenic mushrooms and, in fact, the Sami people folded this habit into their own rituals. Sami shaman were said to drink the urine of the already-stoned reindeer in order to get the world’s weirdest contact high. 

Now, many sources debunk this story as being untrue and say that of course no one ever drank hallucinogenic reindeer urine. However, that was later retracted by one of the debunkers when he spent time with these people and they told him explicitly that it does, in fact, happen.

Why drink reindeer whiz when the mushrooms are right there? The reindeer filter them. The mushrooms on their own would be too dangerous. Eating them raw would cause vomiting and other side effects. But filtered through the reindeer’s pee makes it very ironically more palatable. 

4. Smoking Crushed Ants Is Popular with Youth in the United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates is known for being pretty strict when it comes to rules about drugs and drinking. But it seems like the locals have developed one or two ways to skirt the regulations with novel highs. Some people smoke ants, for instance. 

The local samsun black ants produce formic acid when they are attacked as a defense mechanism. The ants are harvested in sandy areas and then crushed and added to tobacco to smoke. The formic acid produces a high that’s compared to marijuana, completely with audio and visual hallucinations. The downside is that, when smoked, the formic acid becomes dangerously toxic and can lead to pulmonary fibrosis and renal failure and damage to the nervous system.

The problem seems to be pervasive with children in the UAE, with reports suggesting as many as one third of all children have tried it. The ants are not illegal to smoke so there’s no consequence for anyone to do so and you can find them literally everywhere, they’re ants.

There’s even a market for the ants for those who don’t want to scrounge them. Packets of them sell for the equivalent of about $100 US.

3. Aussie Dogs Lick Cane Toads to Get High

Licking toads may be the most ubiquitous “weird” high out there, so well known it was in an episode of The Simpsons over 20 years ago. The idea of licking toads to get a buzz is not all cartoon tomfoolery, however. It’s also not limited to humans or their yellow-skinned animated counterparts. Dogs in Australia have learned they can get a buzz this way, too.

Australia is home to over one billion cane toads, each of them protected by a toxic secretion. That toxin, however, is not enough to kill a dog that may stop by for a simple taste. It will get the dog stoned, however. As one dog owner said, it makes the dogs “a little bit crazy” looking.

Veterinarians and officials in Australia readily acknowledge that this is common behavior for some dogs. While any dog may see a toad once and try to play with it, getting high as a result, others have a habit and their owners have observed the frequent results of the behavior.

All of that said, it’s possible that cane toad toxins could harm your dog as well, so if your dog gets to one it’s in your best interests to take them to the vet, just in case. 

2. Marmots Destroy Cars to Get at Antifreeze

Antifreeze has a long and troubling history in the world of consumables. Cats are attracted to it and will often consume it despite how toxic it is for them thanks to the sweet taste. There was an entire scandal in the 70s over Austrian winemakers adding it to their wine, as well. 

While antifreeze is bad for cats and humans alike, marmots are another matter. In California, yellow-bellied marmots have been observed in groups of four or five under cars in parking lots. They climb up into the engine and chew through hoses until they find the one that holds coolant and the group will lap up as much antifreeze as they can. According to officials from Fish And Wildlife, as many as 200 marmots do this in the parking area of Sequoia National Park from May to August, damaging a few dozen cars in the process. 

The marmots started doing it in the 80s and they’ve been observed enjoying what looks like a high, possibly from the ethylene glycol which is technically alcohol, just not the kind most of us should be drinking.

It’s unclear if the marmots can process antifreeze somehow, or they simply consume non-lethal doses, but the fact they keep coming back means it’s not killing them like it would many other animals.

1. Soldiers in Vietnam Would Eat C4 to Get High

Humans have used all kinds of preposterous things to get high. Sniffing glue was popular for a while. Huffing gas, too. We’ll try mass amounts of nutmeg, and even banana peels despite the fact they do nothing. Heck, for a time krokodil seemed to be popular and that chemical cocktail dissolved people while they were still alive. So maybe it’s not too bizarre to learn that soldiers in Vietnam tried to get high by eating C4 explosives. 

C4 was a popular military explosive during the war and is still used in demolition today. Soldiers in Vietnam learned that ingesting small quantities of the plastic explosive produced a high similar to that of ethanol. Of course, it also produces symptoms like seizures, dizziness, vomiting, cardiac arrhythmia, rashes, coma and a host of others. 

When we think of a tourist, we generally envision people wearing large hats and moving around in open-top buses with cameras hanging off their necks. Or they could just be sunbathing on the beaches in their bikinis and shorts. But there’s more to travel than just that.

As we are about to find out, there are a bunch of different types of tourism, many of which do not conform to the basic stereotype of a tourist. These forms of tourism can be controversial and even dangerous. And even if they’re not likely to cause uproar or get someone killed, there are some bona fide weird ways to travel out there.

10 Jihad Tourism

When the Syrian war was in full gear and the Islamic State (aka ISIS) controlled considerable chunks of Iraq and Syria, several Western nations faced a surge in citizens leaving to fight for Islamist groups like ISIS. These people are called jihad tourists: Muslim citizens who leave their nation to get involved in a war that is none of their business.

Interestingly, not all jihad tourists fight. Like regular travelers, most are just there for sightseeing. They serve no particular purpose other than to swell the ranks of the terrorist group and maybe brag of being terrorists. Osama bin Laden himself was a jihad tourist. He left Saudi Arabia to fight for the mujahideen during the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. The ranks of the mujahideen were filled with jihad tourists.

Most countries remain skeptical of the long-term consequences of having their citizens travel to other countries for jihad. There is the fear that some of these terrorist-tourists will return home when the war is over or when they can no longer cope with its rigors, only to carry out domestic terrorist attacks.^[1]

9 Slum Tourism

Slum, adventure, reality, or poverty tourism refers to a form of tourism by people who only want to satisfy their curiosity. Slum tourists will visit the congested, poverty-ridden slums of a country just to see what they look like. Popular destinations include Manila in the Philippines, Rio de Janerio in Brazil, and Mumbai in India.

Tour operators in the affected countries have noticed an upsurge in slum tourists and have created special tour packages to cater to these people. Nevertheless, slum tourism remains controversial. While supporters say it is a way to raise awareness of poverty, the people on the other side insist it is only an excuse to stare at the poor.

Interestingly, slum tourism used to be popular in the US. During the 19th century, rich and curious Londoners would travel to see the prostitution- and drug-ridden slums of New York and San Francisco. An entire industry sprang up around slum tourism at the time, with tour operators hiring actors to pose as drug users and gang members. Some actors took their act further by engaging in staged shoot-outs right on the streets, just to satisfy the ignorant tourists.^[2]

8 Suicide Tourism

Assisted suicide, the act of helping someone commit suicide, is illegal in some countries. But not in Switzerland. Today, Switzerland is seeing a new kind of vistor: suicide tourists. Suicide tourists are people who travel from their countries to access assisted suicide services in Switzerland.

Suicide tourism is as controversial as assisted suicide and regular suicide, if not more so. Supporters of suicide tourism will often point to the fact that the majority of the tourists are suffering and wish to die. Why else would they travel from a faraway country to Switzerland, where they have no family or relatives, just to be helped to die? Supporters also say suicide tourism can only be prevented if the tourists are allowed to commit suicide in their own countries.^[3]

7 Experimental Tourism

“Experimental tourism” is a catchall phrase for the act of trying something new. There is no hard and fast rule on what qualifies as experimental tourism, as any unusual form of excursion counts. You do not need to leave your hometown to become an experimental tourist. A trip to your city’s airport can qualify as experimental tourism.

If you do decide to leave your city, a trip to the government offices in the nearby city qualifies as experimental tourism. If you want something more unconventional, you could just get a map of a city, draw a line through its streets, and follow that line in the real world. Or you could visit a new city blindfolded and be guided throughout your trip by your friend. You leave blindfolded, too, so you do not get to see the city at all.^[4]

6 Disaster Tourism

Disaster tourists are people who travel to areas that have been destroyed by natural or man-made disasters. This form of tourism is alternatively called dark tourism. The tourists are only interested in satisfying their curiosity and seeing firsthand the effects of the disaster.

Popular disaster tourist attractions in the US include Pearl Harbor, which was bombed by the Japanese during World War II, and Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Gettysburg was the deadliest battlefield of the US Civil War, amounting to over 50,000 casualties in just three days. Other disaster tourist attractions include the places where Abraham Lincoln and Martin Luther King were assassinated.

Outside the US, there are Hiroshima, Pompeii, and concentration camps operated by the Nazis. Disaster tourists are not all about history and will readily flock to areas recently affected by disasters like hurricanes, tornadoes, and, maybe, wars. Lots of people visited New Orleans to see the aftereffects of the devastating Hurricane Katrina.^[5]

In 2015, a tour agency in Russia offered to take disaster tourists to Syria so that they could see the ongoing war firsthand. While most of the tour was to be focused on the rear, the agency said it planned to take people to the front lines if it got the chance. The Syrian government itself wants tourists to come into the country despite the war and continues promoting the nation as a tourist attraction.

5 Sex Tourism

As should already be obvious from its name, sex tourists are those who travel to another country for sex. Most of the time, the tourist will be traveling from a developed nation to a less developed one. It used to be the exclusive province of Western tourists, but more sex tourists are now coming from China, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan.

Popular sex destinations include Cambodia, Thailand, the Philippines, Bangladesh, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic. Sex tourism is so important to the economy of countries like Thailand that it already contributes around 12 percent of its gross domestic product. The tourists themselves want to explore sex in total freedom without having to worry about what would have happened if they were in their home country.

Sex tourism is not without controversies. It is basically prostitution, which is the leading cause of human trafficking. Prostitution and sex trafficking rings are often run by criminals. The prostitutes themselves are generally unable to speak out, since prostitution is usually still technically illegal in the destination countries.^[6]

4 Gun Tourism

Unlike the United States, not every country allows its citizens own assault and sniper rifles. In some nations, getting a pistol is almost impossible. Some citizens of Australia and countries in Asia and Europe who wish to lay their itchy fingers on firearms will travel to the US to scratch their itch.

Not every gun tourist comes to the US as a gun tourist. Some are regular travelers who become gun tourists the moment they decide to satisfy their curiosity at shooting ranges. Others are Americans who cannot afford to buy guns or are curious about shooting a particular type of gun. Hawaii and Las Vegas are popular gun tourist destinations.^[7]Hawaii is the more popular destination. Shooting ranges will hire boys to stand by the roadside and share fliers with tourists advertising their services. Interested tourists, many of whom have never fired a gun before, are taken to the indoor shooting ranges, where they can fire up to four different weapons, depending on the package they select.

3 Atomic Tourism

As you probably guessed from the name, atomic tourism is centered around nuclear weapons. Atomic tourists will often visit nuclear museums, areas crucial to the development of nuclear weapons, or areas that have been destroyed by nuclear weapons or nuclear reactor meltdowns.

Popular destinations in the US include the Titan Missile Museum in Tucson, Arizona, where nuclear missiles used to be stored. Here, curious tourists can even enter a missile silo. There is also the Trinity test site in New Mexico, where the first atomic bomb was detonated on July 16, 1945. Tourists are only allowed in on selected dates twice a year and can even visit the exact spot where the bomb was detonated.

There are also the Hanford Nuclear Reservation, where the first nuclear reactor was built and plutonium was produced for the first atomic bomb, and the American Museum of Science and Energy in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, where it was enriched. Another is the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where curious tourists can learn about nuclear reactors.

Outside the US, there are the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and the Hiroshima Peace Site, where tourists can learn about the bombs dropped by the US during World War II. In Ukraine, tourists can visit the areas around Chernobyl, which suffered a nuclear meltdown in 1986. The tour includes a visit to the deserted town of Pripyat, which was abandoned after the meltdown.^[8]

2 Drug Tourism

Drug tourism, the act of leaving your country for another with the sole intention of doing drugs, is increasingly becoming a niche industry in drug-producing nations like Colombia. Western and Australian tourists will often travel to Colombia just to buy and use cocaine.

The niche is growing because cocaine is dirt cheap in Colombia, at least by Western standards. In Australia, a gram of cocaine is sold for $300. In Colombia, it goes for between $7 and $15. It is also easy to buy cocaine in Colombia, where it is sold on the streets.

Sellers will often hang around the areas foreigners visit. Or they could just stand by the roadside hawking sweets and chewing gum but with their hidden stash of cocaine ready for buyers who know what’s up. Police rarely disturb drug sellers, provided they are bribed. Sometimes, the police set foreign tourists up with drugs just to receive bribes as low as $1.^[9]

1 Tombstone Tourism

Tombstone tourists are travelers who love visiting cemeteries. While this usually involves cemeteries containing the remains of famous people or national heroes, absolutely any cemetery with an interesting history can be a destination. Popular cemeteries visited by tombstone tourists include Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, DC, and Pere Lachaise Cemetery in Paris.^[10]

Pere Lachaise Cemetery is the resting place of singer Jim Morrison. Tourists will often leave half-smoked cigarettes on his grave. Another famous resident of Pere Lachaise is writer Oscar Wilde. He obviously has a lot of female fans because they will always leave him notes and napkins stained with lipstick.

Tombstone tourism is not a new thing. It has been around since Victorian England. The Victorian Brits had a thing for cemeteries and built a good chunk of Britain’s cemeteries. However, people started staying away from cemeteries after the calamities of the World Wars I and II.

Wellness retreats are becoming increasingly popular among travelers of all ages. They offer a chance to disconnect from the stresses of daily life and focus on physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Here are ten of the best unconventional wellness retreats to consider for your next trip.

Related: 10 Ways Naturism Is a Healthy Lifestyle

10 Tea Huntress Ritual and Renewal Retreat, Iceland

Nestled amid Iceland’s ethereal landscapes, the Tea Huntress Ritual and Renewal Retreat stands out as an enchanting haven for seekers of unconventional wellness experiences. This retreat harmoniously blends the tranquility of tea ceremonies with the thrill of adventure, promising an unforgettable journey for the adventurous soul.

Guided by the indomitable spirit of a ‘Tea Huntress,’ this retreat takes participants on a transformative expedition. Picture starting your day with a mindful hike through Iceland’s breathtaking terrains, a dynamic encounter with nature that invigorates the body and soul. From cascading waterfalls to geothermal springs, the mesmerizing landscapes become the backdrop for holistic exploration.

The heart of the retreat lies in the art of tea ceremonies, led by experienced tea artisans. Participants are initiated into the profound world of tea, where each cup becomes a meditation, a moment of introspection and connection. The ancient rituals of tea preparation and consumption are seamlessly woven into the fabric of the retreat, offering a unique lens through which to perceive the world.

9 Post Ranch Inn, Big Sur, California

Atop the rugged cliffs of Big Sur, California, the Post Ranch Inn stands as a testament to unconventional luxury and holistic well-being. This iconic wellness retreat caters to the adventurous soul seeking respite in nature’s embrace. With breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean stretching endlessly before it, the inn offers an experience that seamlessly blends tranquility, adventure, and rejuvenation.

Post Ranch Inn is renowned for its unique approach to wellness, which revolves around the harmony between nature, body, and mind. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in the natural wonders of Big Sur through an array of adventurous activities. From guided hikes through ancient redwood groves and yoga sessions overlooking the ocean’s expanse to stargazing sessions that awaken a sense of cosmic connection, the inn’s offerings speak to the daring spirit within.

Accommodations at the Post Ranch Inn are equally exceptional, with luxurious treehouses and cliffside suites that merge seamlessly with the landscape. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide uninterrupted views, blurring the lines between indoor comfort and outdoor majesty. Organic architecture and sustainable practices further underscore the retreat’s commitment to holistic well-being.

8 The Ranch, Malibu, California

Amid the picturesque expanse of Malibu, California, The Ranch stands as an unconventional yet transformative wellness retreat beckoning the adventurous soul. This unique haven shatters the conventional spa retreat mold, offering a distinctive approach to rejuvenation and self-discovery.

At The Ranch, the wellness journey transcends mere relaxation, immersing participants in a holistic experience that melds physical endurance, mindful nourishment, and a soulful connection with nature. Unlike traditional retreats, The Ranch shuns lavish amenities, favoring a back-to-basics ethos. Guests embark on an immersive week-long program that centers around rigorous daily hikes through Malibu’s rugged terrain, fostering resilience and mental fortitude. These journeys test physical limits and serve as a symbolic voyage toward personal growth.

Culinary offerings at The Ranch are equally extraordinary, comprising locally sourced, plant-based meals that nourish the body and mind. By embracing conscious eating, participants forge a deeper connection with their nutrition, aligning with the retreat’s overarching principles of wellness.

7 Aqua Wellness Resort, Nicaragua

Within the lush embrace of Nicaragua’s vibrant landscapes, Aqua Wellness Resort embodies serenity for adventurous souls seeking unconventional wellness retreats. This hidden gem offers an unparalleled fusion of nature and rejuvenation, catering to those who crave tranquility without sacrificing adventure.

Perched on a hillside overlooking Redonda Bay and the Pacific Ocean, Aqua Wellness Resort blends eco-luxury with a strong commitment to sustainability. The resort’s unique accommodation choices, from treetop villas within the canopy to beachfront casitas, provide an authentic connection to the surrounding environment.

The resort’s emphasis on adventure differentiates it from typical wellness retreats. Guests can snorkel in the bay’s crystalline waters, explore nearby fishing villages, or embark on adrenaline-pumping canopy tours. This juxtaposition of wellness and excitement makes Aqua a haven for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path getaway.

6 The Farm at San Benito, Philippines

In the lush heartland of the Philippines, The Farm at San Benito stands as a sanctuary for those seeking an unconventional yet deeply rejuvenating wellness retreat. Set against a backdrop of tropical rainforests and majestic mountains, this retreat offers a holistic escape for the adventurous soul.

Unlike traditional wellness centers, The Farm embraces a distinctive approach by integrating nature’s bounty with holistic healing practices. Guests are greeted with an immersive experience that combines luxurious accommodation with organic gardens, ensuring a sustainable and harmonious environment. The retreat’s ethos revolves around nourishing the body and spirit, offering various programs encompassing detoxification, stress reduction, and spiritual growth.

The Farm engages the adventurous soul with its surroundings. Guided hikes through lush trails and revitalizing dips in nearby waterfalls are just a taste of the exhilarating escapades. Guests can also participate in yoga and meditation sessions amid the verdant landscapes, allowing for a deep connection with nature’s serenity.

5 The Ashram, California

The Ashram is in the heart of California’s serene landscape, a haven for adventurous souls seeking unconventional wellness retreats. Far from the bustling cityscape, this retreat offers a unique blend of tranquility and challenge, making it a perfect destination for those yearning for holistic rejuvenation.

The Ashram stands out by embracing a philosophy of holistic well-being through rigorous physical activities and mindful practices. Unlike traditional spas, this retreat engages its visitors in demanding hikes, yoga, and meditation sessions, all set against the backdrop of the stunning Californian wilderness. Guests are encouraged to step out of their comfort zones and embrace physical challenges, fostering personal growth and mental resilience.

What truly distinguishes The Ashram is its focus on communal living. Participants come together in rustic yet comfortable accommodations, encouraging the forging of deep connections. This communal spirit extends to the dining experience, with organic, locally sourced vegetarian meals served family-style. The shared journey toward self-improvement and adventure creates bonds that often outlast the retreat.

While unconventional, The Ashram offers a well-rounded approach to wellness. Rigorous outdoor activities are balanced with mindful practices, including meditation, breathing exercises, and yoga. The aim is to cultivate not only physical endurance but also inner harmony. Instructors, often experts in their respective fields, guide participants through the process, ensuring safety and holistic growth.

4 The BodyHoliday, St. Lucia

Within the lush embrace of the Caribbean paradise, The BodyHoliday in St. Lucia beckons to intrepid souls seeking a wellness retreat that transcends the ordinary. Far from the conventional spa getaway, this haven of rejuvenation offers a stimulating blend of adventure and relaxation.

It’s the unconventional offerings that truly set this retreat apart. A palette of activities awaits, from scuba diving to zip-lining through the rainforest. For the adventurous spirit, each day is a canvas to paint the hues of discovery. Explore the vibrant marine life beneath the waves, embark on a mountain trek that rewards with breathtaking vistas, or even engage in a friendly game of beach volleyball to ignite your competitive spark.

As the sun dips below the horizon, the retreat transitions seamlessly into a sanctuary of relaxation. Indulge in holistic spa treatments that meld ancient wisdom with modern techniques. The wellness journey culminates in delectable culinary experiences where locally sourced ingredients nourish body and soul.

The BodyHoliday is a testament to the fact that wellness is not confined to tranquil solitude; it can be found in the heart-pounding thrill of adventure. This unconventional retreat speaks to the daring souls who seek to reinvigorate their senses, revitalize their bodies, and reignite their passion for life amidst the breathtaking backdrop of St. Lucia’s natural beauty.

3 Shambala Private Game Reserve, South Africa

Welcome to the untamed heart of South Africa; the Shambala Private Game Reserve stands as a haven for the daring spirit seeking an unconventional wellness retreat. This sanctuary, far removed from the frenetic pace of modern life, offers a profound reconnection with nature and oneself.

Spread across 25,000 acres of pristine wilderness, Shambala embraces a holistic approach to well-being, combining the thrill of a safari adventure with the tranquility of a wellness escape. Set against the backdrop of the Waterberg Mountains, the reserve’s diverse landscapes, from lush grasslands to meandering rivers, create an ideal canvas for rejuvenation.

Visitors embark on a journey of self-discovery, surrounded by the enchanting African flora and fauna. Morning game drives allow one to witness the Big Five and other exotic wildlife, fostering a deep connection with the natural world. In the afternoons, guided meditation sessions on serene riverbanks allow for introspection and mindfulness, while yoga classes atop vast plateaus evoke a sense of oneness with the universe.

Shambala’s eco-friendly lodges blend luxury with environmental consciousness, providing an eco-luxe haven after a day of exploration. Nutrient-rich farm-to-table cuisine nourishes the body, while the reserve’s spa indulges the senses with indigenous treatments that draw from the region’s healing traditions.

2 The Body Camp, Ibiza

Now off to the sun-kissed landscapes of Ibiza, where the Body Camp stands as a beacon for those seeking a wellness retreat that veers off the beaten path. Far from the clichéd spa resorts, this unconventional haven offers a transformative experience for the adventurous soul.

The Body Camp transcends the typical wellness retreat by blending fitness, nutrition, and mindfulness with the vibrant spirit of Ibiza. Set against stunning Mediterranean views, the camp’s daily schedule is an eclectic mix of invigorating workouts, thought-provoking workshops, and serene meditation sessions. Unlike conventional programs, the Body Camp dares its participants to step beyond their comfort zones, promoting personal growth through challenges like coastal hikes, beach boot camps, and even dance therapy.

Beyond physical fitness, the Body Camp prioritizes mental and emotional well-being through tailored coaching and counseling. Expert trainers, nutritionists, and life coaches converge to guide guests on a journey of self-discovery, fostering lasting habits for a healthier lifestyle.

The camp’s farm-to-table cuisine further underscores its commitment to well-being. Participants engage in cooking classes and learn to create delicious, nutrition-packed meals using locally sourced ingredients. This culinary adventure complements the physical activities, cultivating a deeper connection between body and nourishment.

1 Cove Eco Resort, Indonesia

Indonesia’s pristine natural beauty is home to Cove Eco Resort, a beacon of tranquility and adventure for the daring wellness enthusiast. Tucked away from the well-trodden path, this resort redefines the conventional wellness retreat, catering to the brave souls seeking rejuvenation through uncharted experiences.

Perched along the untouched coastline of a remote Indonesian island, Cove beckons those with a penchant for exploration. A limited number of elegantly designed eco-villas are seamlessly integrated into the landscape, offering breathtaking views of the cerulean waters and lush forests. The resort’s commitment to sustainability is palpable; solar panels power the accommodations, and organic, locally sourced ingredients grace the plates of its exquisite restaurant.

Beyond traditional spa treatments, guests embark on journeys that harmonize body and spirit. Imagine sunrise kayaking through hidden sea caves, guided meditation amidst the rustling leaves of ancient jungles, and mindfulness workshops conducted atop swaying tree canopies. The Cove seamlessly marries adventure and self-care, encouraging guests to break free from their comfort zones while nurturing their well-being.

From time to time, we need to get away from it all—well, from everything, at least, but our hobbies. More and more, people seek to combine tourism with hobbies as a way to double their fun. While some of us are attracted to the types of hobbies that many cozy mystery writers tend to focus on in their novels, others seek thrills, engaging in hobbies involving high-risk adventures or seek out the unusual and the exotic.

Whether your own hobby is observing sharks swimming past you in the ocean, investigating allegedly haunted locations, chasing storms, tracking killers, visiting battlefields, being freaked out by instruments of torture, exploring castles, wandering burial grounds, scouting film locations, or visiting the mean streets of the world, there’s a type of tourism just for you; it is probably on this list.

Related: Top 10 Iconic Places Pictured From Behind

10 Shark Tourism

If you were a typical tourist, you might not expect to hear the ominous music of the Jaws theme song, signaling the appearance of the movie’s monstrous great white shark. However, if you are a shark tourism enthusiast, the frantic notes might be all you imagine when you encounter one of these fearsome marine “monsters” swimming by your chartered boat.

Shark tourism has become popular off Massachusetts’s Cape Cod, as more and more charter boat services compete to offer tourists a chance to marvel at a great white shark in an up-close and personal manner that is all but guaranteed to thrill. The addition of shark spotting has been added to the established nautical tourist pursuits of whale and seal watching.

During a September 2021 excursion, two newcomers to shark tourism, construction foreman Michael Simard and his partner Penny Antonoglou, a civil engineer, found the experience exhilarating. “It’s awe-inspiring, really,” Simard enthused, adding, “I didn’t realize how graceful they were. It does put it into perspective that this is their element, and we just share it with them.”

The local charter boat operators have successfully transformed a negative—shark attacks against humans—into a positive, as the public has begun, albeit “tentatively,” to appreciate the opportunity to scout the waters for sharks. Shark tourism is not hurt by the existence of The Atlantic White Shark Conservancy, a nonprofit organization, and its renovated Shark Center, which displays the results of its research concerning local sharks, and by the presence of merchants selling shark-related merchandise, such as jewelry, stickers, and apparel. The stretches of beaches also lure visitors, including shark tourists like Simard and Antonoglou.

Not all local residents are as keen on shark tourism as visiting tourists. In addition to more training and equipment for lifeguards, there is a demand for “proactive shark safety measures, such as undersea detection, land-based warning systems and drone surveillance,” Associated Press reporter Philip Marcelo says, adding that, meanwhile, “local surfers have taken to arming themselves with shark repellents, including personal devices that emit electrical fields that supposedly deter but don’t harm sharks.”

Despite the costs of chartered tours, which range from $1,600 to $2,500 per six-passenger boat, shark tourism does not appear in danger of foundering anytime soon.

9 Ghost Tourism

If shark tourism is not for you, maybe ghost tourism is a better fit. If so, you are in luck: lots of cities offer ghost tours. One such metropolis is Washington, D. C. Along with museums, art galleries, theaters, parks, a zoo, a botanical garden, and a host of other amusements, including Congress, the city includes among its attractions a number of ghost tours. You don’t have to go during “tourist season,” either; several of the tours operate year-round.

According to a Washington.org article on the topic, you can tour historic Georgetown, home of the external staircase seen in The Exorcist; historic Oak Hill Cemetery; and the pre-revolutionary Old Stone House, among other sites.

Across the street from the White House, you can visit Lafayette Park, where guides will regale you with conspiracy tales, accounts of “crimes of passion,” stories of duels, and reports of assassinations, each of which has supposedly resulted in a haunting. The spooky stories will likely make your hair stand on end.

The Executive Mansion itself may be off-limits, but a tour of Capitol Hill will alert you to the dangers of legislative wrangling and acquaint you with the “dancing statues” in Statuary Hall and with the mysterious cat that is said to be associated with the Lincoln conspiracy trial. There are plenty of other ghost tours, too, not only in Washington, D. C., but also in other cities across the country and around the world, so ghost tourism, it seems safe to say, is not likely to disappear.

8 Storm Tourism

“It was a dark and stormy night”: the opening sentence of Edward Bulwer-Lytton ‘s novel, Paul Clifford, perfectly summarizes the appeal of storm tourism, which has become quite a boon for places located in regions characterized by inclement weather. A form of ecotourism, it is perfect for travelers bold enough to brave the elements at their fiercest. Storm tourists are driven, suggests Charles McDiarmid, Wickaninnish Inn’s managing director, by their need to experience, firsthand, “huge winds, thirty-foot waves, and driving rain,” for it is, in such moments, that “Mother Nature comes alive.”

The inn, located in Tofino, British Columbia, Canada, on the Pacific coast, offers a view of the ocean that is clear all the way to Japan. The setting is beset by forceful, “battering” weather effects, and each of the inn’s rooms, in addition to a fireplace and a view of the ocean, offers a closet stocked with “a complete storm kit—rain slickers and boots sized-to-fit each guest”—perfect for exploring threatening weather. Once, the area might have been subject to seasonal tourism, but, for weather tourists, as McDiarmid notes, “There is no off-season anymore.”

7 True Crime Tourism

True crime is another form of tourism for travelers with enough intestinal fortitude to visit gruesome crime scenes, and the several Jack the Ripper walking tours in east London’s Whitechapel area are not the only choices intrepid travelers have; a continental destination that true crime tourists will not likely want to miss is the five-day tour of fabled Transylvania, where, according to NBC News, Vlad the Impaler, “who is estimated to have killed 80,000 people,” may have, on one occasion, “dined among a veritable forest of defeated warriors writhing on impaled poles.”

The United States also offers plenty for fans of American true crime television series. In Los Angeles, California, true crime tourists may opt to visit the former stomping—or stalking—grounds—of Charles Manson and his “family.” The serial killer known as The Axman is one of the main draws for New Orleans, where he split his victims’ heads open after breaking into their houses. Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is famous for its beer—and infamous for its cannibalistic serial killer, Jeffrey Dahmer. Tourists can take a walk, so to speak, in his shoes, or, if they prefer, they can tread the ground of New York City’s murderous 19-century gangs.

Not to be outdone by the Big Apple, Chicago, the “Windy City,” offers bus tours of sadistic H. H. Holmes’s unhappy hunting grounds. Other possibilities include tours that trace Ted Bundy’s wanderings around Capitol Hill in Seattle, Washington, and the Museum of Death in Hollywood, California.

6 Battlefield Tourism

Not everyone can fight a particular battle, and no one today can fight one that occurred in the past. These may be two motives for travelers who engage in battlefield tourism. By visiting battlefields, they can get a sense of what it might have been like to fight a specific battle in a particular war for a certain reason. Besides, as University of Glasgow graduate student Stephen Thomas Miles points out in his 2012 PhD thesis, battlefields are steeped in the “historic, cultural, nationalistic and moral” elements of a nation’s past, elements which continue, in the present, to resonate “to people on a national as well as a local scale.”

His thesis examines four historic United Kingdom battlefields in particular, those of Hastings (1066), Bannockburn (1314) , Bosworth (1485) and Culloden (1746), and the World War I Western Front in France and Belgium. What do the four UK sites “mean” to the tourists who visit them, he wanted to know, and how does the actual Front stack up to its visitors’ experiences?

The commercialization of battlefield sites, he found, diminished visitor’s “visceral . . . experience,” while the “grief” that visitors associated with the Front “eclipsed” its “deeper meanings,” by which he means, it seems, its “historic, cultural, nationalistic and moral” elements. In short, commercialization expunged the emotional impact of such sites, while battlefields that were not commercialized retained much of their raw, emotional power.

5 Torture Tourism

Devotees of torture tourism need to be on their guard: a lot of the sites that purport to exhibit genuine instruments of torture feature inauthentic items. However, for the discerning torture tourist, the real deal is available. The Tower of London showcases exhibits that replicate the history of the practice of inflicting excruciating pain, a method by which criminal suspects and women accused of practicing witchcraft were “persuaded” to confess. As “Rick Steven’s Europe” points out, “The Tower was a gleaming reminder of the monarch’s absolute power over his subjects.” The “limb-stretching rack” is only one of the reminders of the monarch’s divine right to rule that is on hand in the Tower.

If torture excites you, add these other authentic sites to your itinerary: the Medieval Crime Museum in Rothenberg, Germany, and its “instruments of punishment and execution”; southwestern France’s Maison Forte de Reignac, and its “60 instruments of torture,” which include an iron maiden; and Belgium’s Gravensteen fortress, home to the finger screw and a waterboarding exhibit. Any torture tourist is bound to agree with Huckleberry Finn’s observation that “human beings can be awful cruel to one another.”

4 Castle Tourism

Castle tourism, a good adjunct to torture tourism, has plenty of attractions to offer sightseers. There are thousands of castles across Europe. These magnificent edifices, combining residential apartments and administrative chambers with extraordinary defenses, also exist in Africa, Asia, North America, and South America.

One fortification that captures a lot of castle tourists’ attention is Bran Castle, which is better known by its nickname “Dracula’s Castle.” Located in Transylvania, a region of Romania, the castle’s pale-gray stone walls rise from a fountain of rock amid the forested side of a mountain overlooking green fields, high hills, and evergreens. The sight elicits a sense of majesty and history; in its shadow, a tourist is likely to feel that he or she stands in the presence of majesty.

Outside, visitors see the castle’s courtyard and the elevated corridors, staircases, walls, and roofs that surround it. Upon entering the castle, a row of photographic portraits greets visitors: the likenesses of the castle’s owners, from the late Middle Ages to the early 20th century. In both Romanian and English, a display recounts the history of the castle from 1400 onward.

Steep staircases wind their way to upper floors, and tourists glimpse arched doors of rough wooden planks, before, entering the castle’s apartments and rooms, they are presented with sights of ornately carved furniture; finished stone fireplaces; framed tapestries; chandeliers; paintings; and a host of other decorative, artistic, and utilitarian articles.

When it seems that the top has been reached, there are yet more flights of stairs, more floors, more rooms, more exhibits, more artifacts, more surprises to see: fine furniture, suits of armor, shields, maces, lances, swords and knives, gowns and dresses, and lordly attire.

Not all is glamour and beauty, however: there is also the rack; the iron maiden; a wooden chair, the back, seat, and sides of which are equipped with rows of large, sharp spikes; and other instruments of torture just as horrible to contemplate.

Dracula himself is the only exhibit tourists won’t find in the castle. Despite its nickname, Dracula’s Castle was never associated with the Prince of Darkness. As Duncan Light points out in his book Dark Tourism: Practice and Interpretation, “Castle Dracula . . . never existed outside [Bram] Stoker’s imagination,” and, in fact, the association between the vampire and Bran Castle is not something the Romanian government encourages. Still, it is a nice place to visit, even if Dracula never lived there.

There are dozens of tours of the Palace of Versailles. According to the website Viator, the palace has come a long way from its humble beginning as a “hunting lodge”; today, it “features 700 rooms replete with frescoed ceilings and carvings,” as well as its Versailles Gardens, “which brim with geometrically designed walkways and fountains.” The Palace’s beauty and grandeur are beyond words; to be believed, it must be seen. Many tourists would agree that “no visit to France is complete without experiencing the grandeur.”

Fortunately, reasonably priced tours allow visitors to take in the sights of the palace and its environs. One focuses on a tour of the gardens and brings visitors up to speed on the palace’s former resident, King Louis XIV. A second tour takes visitors inside the palace, where they can marvel at the luxurious rooms in the “playground of the French monarchs.” A third alternative includes a tour of the gardens of Claude Monet’s house in nearby Giverny, which inspired many of the artist’s impressionistic paintings. Other possibilities include small-group tours; walking tours; bicycle tours; bus tours; tours by train; “access to the Queen’s Hamlet”; and an “optional fountain show.”

Many of the tours are affordable, but a few are more costly. The most expensive one, which provides an 8- to 12-hour excursion to Versailles and Giverny, is by chauffeured limousine and includes bottled water and lunch at a restaurant selected in advance by the tour’s group, which can number up to four.

3 Cemetery Tourism

Cemetery tourism? Yes, it is one of the relatively new types that has recently captivated the public—or, at least, a portion of the public. As with the other tourism destinations on this list, cemeteries in various parts of the world offer tours of their premises, despite the fact that few, if any, visitors express any interest in buying a tomb of their own so they can become permanent guests.

In New Orleans, Louisiana, or “The Big Easy,” as it is more affectionately known, cemetery tourists often visit St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 for an “educational walk” through the graveyard before checking the allegedly haunted museum, a mortuary chapel, and other points of interest. According to U. S. News & World Report, the cemetery is home, so to speak, to “the city’s famous Voodoo queen Marie Laveau.”

The same cemetery also includes the tomb of civil right activist Homer Plessy and will become “the future resting place of Nicolas Cage.” Other tours of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 and other of local graveyards focus on jazz, the tomb’s architecture, ghosts (of course), cemetery history, voodoo, “above-ground burial practices . . . . [and] prostitution, politics and New Orleans folklore.” In death, as in life, there is something, it seems, for everyone.

The distinction of being the most-visited cemetery of the world belongs to Père-Lachaise, the 100-acre park on the northeast side of Paris, France. Its 70,000 tombs make it the city’s largest burial ground as well. As well-known for its history as for its beauty, it opened for business in 1804, but, at that time, it was located on the edge of town, to guard against “the possibility of disease spreading from the other overcrowded cemeteries,” a Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) Radio article states.

Napoleon Bonaparte flexed his marketing skills in his promotion of the cemetery by having the remains of Henry III’s wife Eleanor of Provence, poet Jean de la Fontaine, and playwright Jean-Baptiste Poquelin (better known as Molière) relocated to the new graveyard. As the CBC Radio article observes, “Not long after, Père Lachaise became the place to be.”

Since then, many other celebrities from all walks of life have selected Père-Lachaise as their final resting place. Included among this august group are composer Frederic Chopin, minus his heart, which reposes in Poland; opera singer Maria Callas; singer and cabaret performer Edith Piaf; and mime artist Marcel Marceau. A couple of the interred are not French. One, author Oscar Wilde, was Irish; the other, rock star Jim Morrison, was American. It’s not difficult to see why so many tourists flock to Père-Lachaise.

2 Film Tourism

According to Forbes, in 2019, the film industry made $101 billion USD worldwide. Obviously, such revenue suggests a huge international fan base, some of whom are film tourists as well as moviegoers.

Lots of movie locations draw tourists, including, besides Los Angeles itself, pretty much anywhere else a popular film has been shot. New Zealand is no exception. As Jared Cowan’s Los Angeles Magazine article points out, “A number of analyses credit the New Zealand locations from The Lord of the Rings trilogy with bringing film tourism into the mainstream.” Companies are only too happy to offer tours, ranging from the $139 half-day tour to the $5,100 fourteen-day alternative, but, for budget-conscious travelers, “fans can venture to some of their favorite filming locations” free of charge, especially if the sites are located in Tinsel Town.

The house that appeared in Father of the Bride (1991), starring Steve Martin and Diane Keaton, “has become an attraction in its own right,” the article notes, as has Cassell’s Music, the store featured in Wayne’s World (1992), with Mike Meyers and Dana Carvey. Eckhart Auto Body, of 2002’s Punch-Drunk Love fame, starring Adam Sandler and Emily Watson, is also a favorite spot on the film tourism circuit, as is the Craftsman house that appears in Neighbors (2014) starring Seth Rogers and Zac Efron.

The Episcopal Church of the Ascension, a filming location for The Fog (1980), starring Adrienne Barbeau and Jamie Lee Curtis; the house that doubled for the Marty McFly residence in Back to the Future (1985), with Michael J. Fox; and Nancy Thompson’s house in A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984), starring Heather Langenkemp, John Saxon, and Robert Englund, all remain hot spots for film tourists.

Plenty of other filming locations are popular destinations for budget-minded film tourists, but many of them are private property, and visitors are expected to respect the owners’ rights and are reminded, Please, don’t eat the daisies!

1 Slum Tourism

Needless to say, some sightseeing pursuits can be controversial. It is safe to say that slum tourism is one such pastime. Having had its start over a century ago, when, as Christine Bednarz points out in her National Geographic article, “rich Londoners began braving the city’s ill-reputed East End beginning around 1840,” the dubious diversion soon spread to rich New Yorkers, who enjoyed checking out the “brothels, saloons, and opium dens” in such areas of the city as the Bowery or Five Points. As Bednarz observes, “Visitors could hardly believe their eyes.”

Since those early days, slum tourism has spread to many other cities, including the “dark alleys and corrugated shacks of the slums” of Dharavi in Mumbai, India; the “racially segregated areas” of South African townships; the towering mazes of mountainside favelas in Rio de Janeiro and other Brazilian cities; and many other such places of poverty and despair, such as the cemetery slums (and others) in the City of Manila, the capital of the Philippines.

Some condemn slum tourism as a haughty and disdainful taking of pleasure in the misery of others, a form of reprehensible schadenfreude based on privilege. Others defend such outings, maintaining that these jaunts increase the awareness of the “haves” who, otherwise, might remain ignorant of the plight of the “have-nots.” In addition, slum tourism may reveal opportunities for the privileged to provide meaningful assistance to the disadvantaged. It is better to know than to ignore, advocates add, and it is better yet, to assist.