The Trump International Hotel in Washington opened its doors on Monday, sparking fury among protesters who demonstrated against the closure of a pedestrian walkway near the building. The hotel, located on Pennsylvania Avenue, is housed in the historic Old Post Office building and underwent a $200m renovation over two years.
Demonstrators gathered outside the hotel, forming a human wall in response to Donald Trump's promise to build a wall on the Mexican border. Chanting and holding placards, they expressed opposition to racism and bigotry. Some passing motorists honked in support, while a handful of Trump supporters also appeared, including a man blowing a shofar and a woman holding signs referencing Hillary Clinton's 'deplorable' comment.
Inside, the hotel offered an air-conditioned refuge for wealthy guests, with rooms starting at $895 per night. The largest suite will cost $12,000 per night during the presidential inauguration in January. The hotel features 263 rooms, a spa by Ivanka Trump, and a Turkish onyx bar.
The closure of the pedestrian walkway, which previously provided public access through the building, has been a point of contention. Critics argue that it limits public use of the historic site, while the hotel management maintains it is necessary for security and operations.
