Dugongs - the last remaining Mermaids: Beast lore (Eco-lore), Post-colonialism and maritime Cultural Tourism in New Caledonia

A. Asbjørn Jøn, Lyndon Fraser, C. Michael Hall

Abstract


This paper considers the 'Dugongs, les dernières sirens’, or, 'Dugongs: the last remaining mermaids' exhibition at Aquarium des Lagons in New Caledonia as a touristic commodification of the maritime beast lore of the dugong (or mermaid). In unpacking the exhibit several other themes emerge, such as the absence of Kanak perspectives and issues of colonization / de-colonization.

Keywords


Mermaid; Dugong; Cultural Tourism; Eco-Tourism; New Caledonia; Kanak; Post-colonialism; Eco-lore;

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References


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