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July 14, 2015
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| Photo by Tom Ravenscrodt via flickr |
Apple Leisure Group tour companies – including largest Mexico-bound wholesaler Apple Vacations and sister company Travel Impressions – are suspending their promotion and sales indefinitely for all Trump hotel properties currently available through the two companies. The decision is a direct result of highly publicized comments made by Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump during his campaign announcement speech, which have been widely criticized as anti-Mexican.
“As we are responsible for more tourism arrivals to Mexico than any other company worldwide, and we have heard in clear terms from our customers and agents about the remarks of Mr. Trump, we feel it would be irresponsible and insensitive to continue selling Trump-branded hotels,” Alex Zozaya, CEO of Apple Leisure Group, said.
Many agents expressed their thoughts on our Facebook page. Some thought by suspending the promotion and sales of all Trump hotels, Apple Leisure Group is not supporting the right of “free speech.”
Jennifer Belanger Hand said, “I have no time for travel suppliers who think they are more important and significant than free speech. I will not book with either anymore.”
“You do not have to agree with him. But he has a right to say it,” continued Marilynn Ritter.
Zozaya has responded to this criticism in the statement announcing the suspension of sales, saying, “While we respect individuals’ right to free speech, we cannot condone or support Mr. Trump’s portrayal of Mexicans, who are a vibrant, hard-working people.”
This comes after Apple Vacations decided to look for an alternate venue for its annual Golden Apple Gala, which was originally going to be held at the Trump International Hotel & Tower in Chicago. Apple is now looking into hosting the event at the Art Institute of Chicago.
Pleasant Holidays has all suspended the sales of all Trump properties until Trump clarifies his statements.
Pleasant is asking travel agents who want more information to visit www.pleasantagent.com or call 1-800-448-3333. You can join in the coversation on our Facebook page or in the comments below.
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