Protests hit tourism in Acapulco

Violent protests over the disappearance of 43 college students have hit tourism in Acapulco ahead of a major holiday weekend when Mexicans traditionally flock to the beach, business leaders said Wednesday.

Acapulco hotel occupancy rates are currently at 20 percent, well short of the 85 percent expected for this time of year, said Joaquin Badillo, president of the Employers' Association for Guerrero state.

More cancellations have been registered for Christmas week, the busiest time of the year for Acapulco tourism, and Badillo said one company that operates 10 hotels has cut about 200 temporary jobs in recent weeks.

Source: AP