Tourists to France faced a new reality during an eruption of nationwide anger following the police killing of 17-year-old Nahel Merzouk. While hotel owners cite a drop in bookings in some areas, the French government insisted on Thursday that the overall picture for the tourism industry remains rosy, and promised a “great season” for visitors despite the simmering discontent. But the minister overseeing trade and tourism, Olivia Grégoire, refuted those numbers during Thursday’s meeting, which included representatives from UMIH. Gilda Stanbery, visiting her daughter outside Paris, said they weren’t able to come downtown during the most intense days of rioting. But a few days later, they could, and she said, “We are here now.”___Cara Anna contributed to this report.

Source: The North Africa Journal July 06, 2023 20:41 UTC