The Big Story Canada-US travel in an era of boycotts and new legislation
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Apr 7, 2025 Amra Durakovic, Head of Public Relations and Communications for Flight Centre Travel Group Canada, dives into the declining trend of Canadian leisure travel to the U.S., showing a significant 40% drop. She discusses how political and economic factors have shifted preferences, with Canadians now favoring places like Tennessee. Amra also explores the potential for a staycation tax credit to boost domestic tourism and highlights new travel regulations impacting cross-border experiences. This insightful conversation reveals how values are reshaping where Canadians choose to travel.
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Decline in Canadian Travel to the U.S.
- Canadian leisure travel to the U.S. decreased significantly, with a 40% drop in February 2025 and a 20% cancellation rate on pre-existing trips.
- Several factors contributed to this decline, including a new U.S. administration, a weak Canadian dollar, and wildfires in Los Angeles.
Unusual Drop in Travel
- The 40% drop in Canadian travel to the U.S. is unusually high, even considering the typical dip after a new U.S. administration.
- This suggests that factors beyond the usual political transition are influencing travel patterns.
Shifting Travel Preferences
- Canadians are shifting travel preferences towards destinations like Europe, where increased flight options and competitive prices are available.
- This adaptability highlights a change in travel priorities, focusing on value and accessibility.