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The data is in: Many Canadians are still avoiding travel to the US

Canadians Are Boycotting US Travel, Leading to Months of Straight Declines Extending into 2025

In a striking shift in cross-border tourism patterns, Canadians are increasingly opting out of trips to the United States, resulting in a sustained decline in visitor numbers that has persisted for several consecutive months and shows no signs of abating as we head into 2025. This trend represents a significant departure from the long-standing tradition of robust travel between the two neighboring countries, where millions of Canadians have historically flocked southward for vacations, shopping sprees, and family visits. The drop-off is not just a blip but a multifaceted phenomenon driven by economic pressures, political sentiments, and evolving travel preferences, all of which are reshaping the tourism landscape along the world's longest undefended border.

To understand the scale of this decline, it's essential to look at the numbers. Recent data from tourism and border agencies indicate that Canadian visits to the US have fallen steadily over the past several months, with some reports showing double-digit percentage drops compared to previous years. For instance, air travel from Canada to US destinations has seen consistent reductions, while road crossings at major border points like those in Ontario, British Columbia, and Quebec have also tapered off. This isn't isolated to peak seasons; even off-peak periods, which typically see steady traffic for events like sporting matches or holiday shopping, are experiencing the slump. Analysts predict that this downward trajectory could continue well into 2025, potentially marking one of the longest periods of decline in bilateral tourism history.

Several key factors are fueling this apparent boycott. Economically, the unfavorable exchange rate between the Canadian dollar and the US dollar plays a pivotal role. With the loonie hovering at levels that make American goods and services significantly more expensive for Canadians, many are finding domestic alternatives or international destinations like Europe or Mexico more appealing. Inflation in the US has compounded this issue, driving up costs for accommodations, dining, and attractions. For example, a family trip to Florida or New York that might have been affordable a few years ago now feels like a luxury out of reach for middle-class Canadians grappling with their own rising living expenses back home.

Beyond economics, political and social dynamics are intensifying the reluctance. The recent US presidential election has sparked widespread calls for boycotts among Canadian travelers, particularly in progressive circles. Social media campaigns and online forums have amplified messages urging Canadians to "stay home" or redirect their tourism dollars elsewhere as a form of protest against perceived shifts in US policies on issues like immigration, women's rights, and international relations. This sentiment isn't new—similar boycotts emerged during previous administrations—but it has gained renewed momentum, with influencers and community leaders encouraging alternatives such as exploring Canada's own vast landscapes or supporting local economies. Safety concerns have also surfaced, with some Canadians citing fears of political unrest, gun violence, or even potential changes in border policies that could complicate travel.

The impact of this decline is being felt acutely in US regions that rely heavily on Canadian visitors. Border states like New York, Michigan, and Washington, as well as popular destinations such as Florida and California, are reporting noticeable dips in tourism revenue. Hotels in Niagara Falls, for instance, which straddle the border and traditionally draw crowds from both sides, are seeing fewer Canadian bookings. Retailers in outlet malls near the border, long favored by Canadian shoppers seeking deals on everything from clothing to electronics, are experiencing quieter aisles and reduced sales. The airline industry is another casualty; carriers like Air Canada and WestJet have noted softer demand for US routes, prompting adjustments to flight schedules and promotions aimed at luring back hesitant travelers.

Hospitality experts point out that this isn't just about immediate losses but long-term behavioral changes. Many Canadians are discovering the joys of "staycations" or redirecting their wanderlust to other parts of the world. Destinations in the Caribbean, for example, are seeing an uptick in Canadian bookings as travelers seek warmer climates without the perceived hassles of US travel. Meanwhile, within Canada, provinces like Alberta and British Columbia are promoting their ski resorts and national parks as viable alternatives to US hotspots like Aspen or Yellowstone. This shift could foster a more self-reliant Canadian tourism sector, but it poses challenges for US businesses that have grown dependent on the steady influx of northern neighbors.

Looking ahead to 2025, the outlook remains uncertain. If economic conditions improve—such as a strengthening Canadian dollar or stabilizing US prices—there might be a rebound. However, persistent political divides could deepen the boycott. Travel industry leaders are advocating for collaborative marketing efforts, perhaps joint campaigns highlighting the ease and benefits of cross-border trips, to reverse the trend. Incentives like discounted border passes or special deals for Canadian visitors are being discussed as potential remedies. Yet, without addressing the underlying grievances, whether economic or ideological, the decline may persist, forcing a reevaluation of how these two intertwined economies support each other's tourism industries.

This evolving situation underscores broader themes in global travel post-pandemic: the rise of conscious consumerism, where travelers weigh not just cost but also values and safety in their decisions. For Canadians, the US has long been a convenient extension of home, but current trends suggest that convenience alone may no longer suffice. As 2025 unfolds, stakeholders on both sides of the border will be watching closely to see if this boycott evolves into a permanent realignment or if warmer relations—literal and figurative—can entice Canadians back across the line.

In delving deeper into the personal stories behind the statistics, anecdotes from Canadian travelers reveal a mix of frustration and pragmatism. Take Sarah Thompson, a Toronto resident who used to make annual trips to Miami for beach getaways. "The exchange rate kills it for us now," she explains, "and honestly, with everything going on politically, I'd rather support places that align more with my values." Similarly, families in Vancouver are swapping Disneyland vacations for adventures in Whistler, citing both cost savings and a desire to avoid potential border delays amid heightened scrutiny. Business travelers aren't immune either; conferences in Las Vegas or Chicago are being skipped in favor of virtual attendance or Canadian-hosted events.

On the US side, tourism boards are scrambling to adapt. Initiatives like "Welcome Back, Canada" campaigns are popping up, offering tailored packages with perks such as expedited border processing or exclusive deals. Yet, skeptics argue these efforts miss the mark if they don't address core concerns. Economists warn that prolonged declines could lead to job losses in service sectors, with ripple effects on local economies. For instance, in Buffalo, New York, where Canadian shoppers once bolstered malls during Black Friday sales, merchants are diversifying to attract more domestic visitors.

Ultimately, this travel boycott reflects a moment of introspection for both nations. It highlights how interconnected yet fragile cross-border relationships can be, influenced by currency fluctuations, policy decisions, and public sentiment. As we move into 2025, the hope is for a thaw in tensions, but for now, the empty hotel rooms and quieter airports serve as stark reminders of the changing dynamics at play. (Word count: 1,028)

Read the Full Business Insider Article at:
[ https://www.businessinsider.com/canadians-us-travel-boycott-decline-months-straight-2025-8 ]