In a significant development, Canadian travelers are reconsidering plans for U.S. vacations amidst rising tensions over tariffs initiated by the Trump administration. Leena Yousefi, a Vancouver attorney, expressed her disappointment after canceling a long-anticipated trip to Hawaii, highlighting the growing sentiment among Canadians in light of recent political challenges.
Tourism experts are raising alarms as many Canadians, who typically contribute significantly to the U.S. travel sector, are now opting to explore domestic destinations instead. The U.S. Travel Association reports that Canadians comprised the largest group of foreign visitors, contributing a staggering $20.5 billion to the U.S. economy last year.
Recent trends reveal a decline in cross-border bookings. Data from the firm CoStar Group indicates an 8% drop in hotel demand in areas like Niagara Falls, New York, and a 12% decrease in the Bellingham region of Washington, which is only 50 miles south of Vancouver. The shift in travel preferences has prompted many to abandon their trips south, with a noticeable reaction from accommodations and tourism-based businesses.
Catherine Prather, president of the National Tour Association, noted a wave of cancellations, as Canadian travelers express feelings of disrespect from the U.S. government and consequently retract their travel intentions. In contrast, some Canadian tourism leaders remain optimistic, suggesting the situation might be temporary as they witness an uptick in local travel bookings.
Polling data underscores these tensions, revealing nearly half of Canadians surveyed are less inclined to visit the U.S. this year. This sentiment reflects a broader decline in attitudes towards the U.S., with Ipsos polling indicating 68% of Canadians hold a more negative view of their southern neighbor since the tariffs were announced.
In response, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has encouraged citizens to travel domestically, urging them to explore the country’s rich offerings in parks and historical sites. As the U.S. tourism industry braces for potential losses, estimates suggest that even a slight decrease in Canadian tourist numbers could lead to millions in lost revenue for American businesses that rely on cross-border tourism.
As discussions around trade relations continue, the tourism sector faces uncertainty, with experts warning that sustained tensions may lead to a longer-term impact on travel patterns, pushing Canadians towards local options instead of the U.S. during this crucial spring and summer travel season.
