Yep, you might wanna grab a travel buddy to absorb the shock.

One of the main purposes of going on holidays is to explore other countries, right? So we go and visit their lovely beaches, venture into their forests, take photos in front of their monuments, and so on.

But if you explore the countries just a liiiittle bit further, there are some pretty dark things lurking in the history books…

So, are you kids ready for our field trip?! First country on the map: Spain.

Now, buckle in.

Called Terror Rojo in Spain, this represents various acts of violence starting from the year 1936 until the end of the Spanish Civil War.

The violence consisted of the killing of tens of thousands of people, as well as attacks on the Spanish nobility, industrialists, politicians, business owners and the burnings of sacred buildings such as monasteries, churches and convents.

But Spain has come a long way and has since birthed many tourist hotspots such as Madrid and Ibiza. Seeing the beautiful beach and crystal-blue water, it’s hard to imagine how the country could harbor such a dark past!

Come over for a visit to see for yourself!

“Burn the witch!” they yell with their pitchforks in the air. That’s what we usually see…in movies. And to think that it actually happened? Oh, the horror.

And yet, happen it did.

Between February 1692 and May 1693, more than 200 people were accused of witchcraft in colonial Massachusetts – resulting in the hanging of 14 women and 5 men. One other man was pressed to death for his refusal to plead, while at least five others died in jail.

A museum dedicated to the Salem Witch Trials was built, just perfect for history buffs who wish to know more about the events.

London was the haunting ground for Jack the Ripper in 1888, where he would slit the throats of female prostitutes before mutilating their bodies. The Ripper lore had become so famous that it made many pop culture references.

Perhaps the most intriguing part is that he was never found, nor even identified…

For those keen on experiencing 19th century London and learn more about the murders, you are more than welcome to join the Jack the Ripper tour!

As terrifying as these histories are, let’s remember them as lessons that we would hopefully never repeat. And it’s good to know that these countries have moved on beyond their dark pasts and are thriving with amazing tourist attractions!

So go ahead, make your bookings on Traveloka and explore your favorite holiday destinations.