Want to Spice Up Your Next Vacation? Consider a Hearse Tour
The once-taboo topic of the afterlife has become big business, with TV shows such as A Haunting and Ghost Hunters drawing legions of fans. Halloween has become a major holiday in the United States, with some experts estimating that more money is spent on that holiday than almost any other. Clearly, we are intrigued by the concept of the supernatural.
When we vacation, it is only natural to be curious about the local myths and lore. Some cities seem to lend themselves particularly well to legends of ghosts and spirits. In the United States, Savannah, St. Augustine and New Orleans are just a few of the many ghost-hunter delights. What better way to spend an evening in a haunted city than learning the local legends while riding in a customized hearse? My father and I had the rare opportunity for a private hearse tour on our last visit to St. Augustine.
The Vehicles
The new and used funeral cars that are used for tours run the gamut from antiques to new models. They are generally customized to allow 8-12 passengers a comfortable ride. Most companies choose black vehicles, adding to the spooky motif, though this is not necessarily always the case.
The Guides
Hearse tour guides, like walking ghost tour guides, tend to enjoy a sort of gothic appearance. Some dress to the hilt in full Victorian garb, while others have a more relaxed jeans and t-shirts appearance. They tend to be walking encyclopedias of supernatural local legends, though they may blend or embellish stories for entertainment value. Their characterization is often slightly spooky, but rarely over the top.
The Tours
Hearse tours are able to cover more ground than traditional walking tours. Consequently, they can be a good choice for those who want to visit different parts of town. They are also a great choice for those who have difficulty with protracted walking.
Normally, the guide will explain a story during the ride. At the end of the story, you will arrive at a location that figures heavily into the story. You will have time to get out and walk around, and perhaps take pictures. You will then get back in the car for the next story. A typical hearse tour lasts approximately an hour.
The Bottom Line
Like any other ghost tour, the stories on a hearse tour tend to be enhanced retellings of actual events. Though the tours are generally more expensive than walking tours, they provide the chance to ride in air-conditioned comfort in a vehicle that enhances the experience. If you happen to find yourself in a city known for its haunts, why not give a funeral car tour a try?
Filed Under: Funeral Cars
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