Canada’s tourism industry is experiencing a significant downturn as Canadians freeze visits to the US due to concerns over President Donald Trump’s policies and rhetoric. The decline in travel has resulted in lost revenue for the US, estimated at $3.4 billion this year.
Businesses on both sides of the border are bracing for further declines, with 66% of Canadian bookings already experiencing a drop in New York’s North Country. Tour operators have reported significant drops in future bookings, including a 90% decline by Vancouver-based Travel Group and a 70-80% plummet by Maple Leaf Tours.
Industry leaders are urging Canadians to remember that the US is a welcoming destination regardless of who’s president. Cities like New York City are launching global marketing campaigns to remind visitors of their warm hospitality.
However, many Canadians are choosing to boycott US destinations due to Trump’s insults and economic uncertainty. The situation is particularly concerning in border regions, where personal connections between neighbors have been affected by the tensions.
The decline in travel has significant implications for the US economy, especially during major events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup and America’s 250th anniversary. As the US prepares to host these events, cities are shifting their focus towards wooing international visitors who may be deterred by Trump’s policies.
Canadian travelers have expressed anxiety about visiting the US, with some even considering staying out of support for Trump’s stance on Canada. Industry experts predict that a return to normal travel levels is more likely after Trump’s term ends, rather than during his presidency.
Source: https://www.politico.com/news/2025/04/12/not-going-to-support-that-guy-canadians-freeze-visits-to-the-u-s-over-trump-00285346