Decline in Canadian Tourism to the U.S. Amid Political Tensions
VANCOUVER — Diana and Rick Bellamy from Calgary recently altered their travel plans, deciding against a Caribbean cruise from Houston in favor of a vacation along Mexico’s Pacific coast. This decision emerged from concerns regarding U.S. policies under President Donald Trump, including trade tensions with Canada, disparaging remarks about the nation, and reports of extensive searches and detentions by American border agents.
The Traveler’s Dilemma
Diana Bellamy expressed her astonishment at feeling more at ease visiting Mexico rather than the United States. “I never thought I would hear myself say that,” she remarked, highlighting a shift in attitudes among Canadians toward U.S. travel.
This trend reflects a broader national sentiment as Trump’s rhetoric about Canada’s economic interests and threats of aggressive policies have caused a noticeable decline in Canadian travelers to the U.S. Many are steering clear of American destinations, significantly impacting tourism.
Statistics on Border Crossings
The U.S. traditionally sees more visitors from Canada than any other country, with 20.4 million visits recorded last year, contributing $20.5 billion to the American economy, as per the U.S. Travel Association. However, recent data from U.S. Customs and Border Protection indicates a significant decrease in land border crossings from Canada. In March 2024, over 910,000 fewer crossings were reported compared to the same month the prior year, marking a decline of more than 22%. Air Canada has also cited a 10% drop in flight bookings to the U.S. for the upcoming months.
Despite these figures, Trump has downplayed the significance of this downturn, stating, “There’s a little nationalism there I guess, perhaps. It’s not a big deal.”
Traveler Concerns and Experiences
Reports of travelers facing detainment at U.S. border points have amplified fears among Canadians. For instance, Jasmine Mooney, a Canadian actor detained in San Diego, experienced 12 days of captivity before her release. British Columbia’s Premier, David Eby, noted that such incidents heighten Canadian anxieties about the unpredictability of the current U.S. administration.
In light of these concerns, the Canadian Association of University Teachers has advised its members against unnecessary travel to the U.S. due to the prevailing political climate and the potential for complications during border crossings, particularly for those who may have publicly criticized the Trump administration.
Former Quebec Premier Jean Charest voiced his fears about the current travel environment, stating, “People are scared to cross the border. I don’t know what Americans are thinking, quite frankly.”
Industry Implications
Travel industry experts are also feeling the pinch. McKenzie McMillan from the Travel Group in Vancouver reported a dramatic downturn, noting a nearly 90% drop in U.S.-bound bookings since February. Lesley Keyter, from the Travel Lady agency in Calgary, observed clients forfeiting non-refundable fees rather than risk traveling to the U.S., even for cruises departing from American ports.
As the tension continues, California Governor Gavin Newsom has responded with an advertising campaign aimed at attracting Canadian tourists back to California, emphasizing the economic impact of a 12% year-on-year decline in visitors noted this February.
Conclusion
The ongoing political discourse and its ramifications on travel perception are causing a significant shift in tourism dynamics between Canada and the United States. As concerns about border crossings mount and Canadians rethink their travel plans, the implications for the tourism industry become increasingly visible.
For travelers, the evolving landscape may signal a need for caution and reconsideration of travel destinations in the near future.