So, initially when I started this blog and sat in the leaving something to be desired boutique hotel room in not so sunny Miami- my first question was, where are the nicest prisons?  This question raises another question though.  How does one rate prisons and who rates such prisons.  In other words, what is the criteria to say such and such city, country etc. has the "nicest prisons".  Additionally, by nice prison are we talking caviar and a nice pillow or are we talking your own cell.

So, today in the I Wonder Blog, I set out to determine the answer to these questions.  Please remember, this blog follows the logic that many of use "if it is on the internet then it must be true".  That said, I will try to find some answers that seem reasonable so read on. Oh- and if the prisons are nice, don't go robbing any nice older ladies okay?  I would feel very badly about that.

According to Andrew Freeman of Takepart Norway has the nicest prison in the world.  His photo shows a friendly enough bloke laying out on a chair outside with what appears to be a decent tan.  Per Takepart, the philosophy at this prison is very different from those in the USA.  The Bastoy prison in Norway allegedly has separate cottages for the inmates who work on a farm.  Inmates enjoy such activities as horseback riding, tennis, and basking in the sun.  Hmm, sounds a lot like the camp at the Camp Winnrock I went to as a child.  Did they model Camp Winrock after... a prison?  Probably not.
Do remember- this is a minimum security prison however, aside from not having your freedom (kind of huge) this place looks quite lovely.

Prison attire is far from the stereotypical orange jumpsuit and it appears that inmates are able to wear sweaters and jeans.  This sounds more like a Land's End photo shoot to me! Inmates do all have to work from 8:30-3:30 on the farm and are paid a small stipend for their work.

So petty crime might pay but what about more serious crimes?  According to Listverse, those Scandinavians are at it again when it comes to cushy prisons. Norway's Halden prison is home to those who have committed more heinous crimes yet this prison is described using words like "pleasant and relaxing".  In fact, hot coffee and good food come with your lockup time.  It sounds kind of like a maximum security Starbucks to me.  According to Listverse, this prison also contains private bathrooms, mini fridges and scenic forest views.  Can I book in for a weekend?

Well, because I find this particular topic fascinated I shall end here but we will pick up tomorrow for part 2 on the most bizarre and luxurious prisons.

Until then, make good decisions!