PHOTO: Acapulco Bay awaits tourists despite reports to the contrary. (Courtesy of Guerrero tourism)
It's business as usual in Acapulco, said Pedro Hace, president of the Acapulco Destination Marketing Office, debunking a recent report from the U.S. embassy in Mexico that deemed the destination unsafe in the wake of protests over the disappearance of 43 students in Guerrero, the state in which Acapulco is located.
"Acapulco remains a safe destination for tourists," said Hace. "However, for the peace of mind of tourists, the government has enforced patrols and road and airport supervision by the Federal Police."
Travelers will find the airport, hotels and the tourist zones are in full swing, he said. "All tourist services are operating as usual and public security has been reinforced."
Such scheduled events as the New Year's fireworks display and Mexican Tennis Open in early 2015 will take place as planned, Hace said.
The same can be said for the 40th annual Tianguis Turistico, scheduled to take place in Acapulco from March 23 to 26 for the first time since 2011.
"Tourism Secretary Claudia Ruiz Massieu has confirmed that Tianguis 2015 will take place in Acapulco," Hace said. "Ruiz Massieu also reaffirmed President Peña Nieto's commitment to this event being held at the destination. Acapulco is enthusiastically getting ready to hold this event - and to show its participants why it is one of Mexico's most legendary tourism destinations."
Acapulco had hosted the conference for 36 consecutive years until it was moved to Puerto Vallarta, Puebla and Cancun, respectively, due to safety concerns.
Despite perceived safety issues, Hace said Acapulco is thriving, with this year proving to be an "exceptional year" for the destination. "In terms of safety, as in every destination, travelers should exercise common sense," he said.
Meanwhile, all but one tour operator serving Acapulco was available for comment. MLT Vacations said none of its programs are experiencing any disruptions. "We have a number of reservations in the coming weeks, but have not had any cancellations to date for Acapulco," said Albert Snedeker, MLT's public relations manager.
He said travel agents with questions or concerns can contact MLT's operations center at 800-727-111 for Delta Vacations and at 800-934-4488 for Aeromexico Vacations.
In other developments, the state of Guerrero named Sergio Salmeron as its new secretary of tourism, replacing Javier Aluni.
Over the past several years, Guerrero has working hard to dispel negative perceptions regarding safety at the state's top tourism destinations.
In 2012, it launched the Sun Triangle initiative, which collectively promotes Acapulco, Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo and Taxco.
Acapulco is undergoing a major tourism renaissance, thanks to city-wide urban renewal and private development investment.
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