The Skift Travel Podcast Can the U.S.-Europe Travel Corridor Recover?
Oct 30, 2025
Discover why over a million European tourists are skipping the U.S. and what it means for global travel. The hosts dive into shifting traveler behavior, sustainability challenges, and the economic significance of the U.S.-Europe travel corridor. Insights from airline and rail leaders reveal competitive strategies, while discussions on pricing and subscription fatigue paint a picture of modern travel trends. Plus, fun predictions and tips for long-haul flights offer practical takeaways for savvy travelers!
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A Million European Tourists Missing
- The U.S. is missing roughly 1.27 million Western European tourists compared to 2019 levels.
- That shortfall signals a meaningful transatlantic slowdown with economic implications for travel businesses.
Two-Track Transatlantic Problem
- Seth diagnoses two separate problems: U.S. inbound brand weakness and European sustainability backlash.
- These distinct root causes make saving the corridor require different policies on each side.
Why Travelers Avoid The U.S.
- U.S. inbound perception suffers from politics, safety concerns, and cost.
- Surveys show political climate is the top barrier and Americans are seen as an expensive destination.