business

Protests impact cruise tourists

Carlos Lemos/la prensa

no sale:Protestors shut down businesses in Colón for the second day this week. 983945

Violent clashes between construction workers and police over the last two days have had an impact on the country's tourism industry.

About 1,000 passengers on the cruise ship MSC Lirica had pre-booked tours cancelled on Tuesday because of the violence.

Tour operator Augusto Terracina said that other passengers and crew members had to stay on board the ship, which hurt businesses that depend on tourist dollars.

Generally, it is estimated that cruise ship passengers and crew members spend about $100 when they leave the ship for the day. But in Colón, many stores and restaurants closed because of the violence.

The problems could impact Panama's ability to attract cruise ships, which have stopped visiting ports where safety has become an issue.

In Panama City, some of the demonstrations took place close to hotels, including the Miramar and the Sheraton. It is likely that the violent protests did not make a favorable impression on visitors staying at those hotels.