Falklands/Malvinas: a re-examination of the relationship between sacralisation and tourism development

摘要

The Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas, in Spanish) are an archipelago in the South Atlantic Ocean, located approximately 250 nautical miles from the coast of mainland South America. This paper examines the relationship of Argentina and the UK with the Falklands as well as the pervasive role played by dominant ideologies in this dispute. In addition, the widely held principles of sacralisation and touristification of places are re-examined in the context of Falkland's tourism development. Previous theorists assumed that the process of sacralisation historically precedes tourism development, enhances attractiveness and generates more tourism demand. The Falkland's case provides counter evidences to such claims. For most Argentines, Malvinas are a sacred symbol of nationalism. Yet, Argentine tourists visiting Malvinas are very few in number.