Additional Coverage:
- Travel companies say Canadians are canceling US travel — and opting for this destination instead (businessinsider.com)
Canadians Opting for Sunnier Destinations Amidst US Trade Tensions
Several travel industry reports indicate a decline in Canadian tourism to the United States. Major hotel chains like Hilton and Caesars Entertainment both noted fewer Canadian guests, while online travel giant Booking Holdings confirmed a slowdown in Canada-US bookings.
Interestingly, Booking Holdings also observed a surge in travel from Canada to Mexico, suggesting a shift in vacation preferences. This trend is corroborated by market research from Longwoods International, which found that Mexico is a top alternative for Canadians reconsidering US travel. Their survey revealed that a significant percentage of Canadians canceled US trips due to US government policies, with many choosing domestic or other international destinations like Mexico, Europe, and the Caribbean instead.
Other industry players echo these findings. WestJet Airlines noted a shift towards Central American destinations, while Intrepid Travel reported increased Canadian interest in domestic travel and countries like Mexico and Costa Rica.
The potential economic impact of this trend is significant. The US Travel Association estimates that a 10% drop in Canadian visitors could result in a $2.1 billion loss in spending and 14,000 jobs. The combination of trade tensions and political rhetoric appears to be driving Canadians towards warmer, and perhaps more welcoming, shores.