Trade Wars Impact Tourism Choices

In a surprising twist for the tourism industry, travelers from nations most affected by Donald Trump’s trade tariffs are skipping trips to the United States. Insights from Trivago, a leading hotel search platform, reveal that holidaymakers from countries like Japan, Canada, and Mexico are opting to vacation elsewhere.

Canadian Outrage and Economic Uncertainty

The backlash from Canada is particularly palpable, with many Canadians expressing their frustration over Trump’s controversial remarks regarding their country potentially becoming the US's 51st state. The travel data supports this sentiment; booking declines in Canada and Mexico have hit double digits since the imposition of hefty tariffs, beginning with a staggering 25% rate announced earlier this year.

A Broader European Impact

German travelers are also feeling the pinch, with hotel bookings to the US showing a decline, albeit smaller than that of North American neighbors. Germany, being the largest economy in the EU, is particularly sensitive to trade tensions. Trump’s recent threats of further tariffs loom heavy over potential travel plans.

UK Travelers: Slightly Unscathed