The World Tourism Network Advocacy Group had predicted it months ago—inbound tourism to the U.S. would take a big hit, while outbound tourism from the U.S. may rise—and it is. Specifically, Europe, the Caribbean, and Mexico are happy to welcome more American travelers.
The latest research from a Travel Retail research agency confirms the finding eTN just published about the European Travel Commission research, and predicted by the World Tourism Network.
Inbound visitor numbers have fallen sharply, with a 12% year-on-year drop recorded in March and a projected 9% decrease for the whole year, the research reveals. This is expected to result in a substantial loss of between US$8.5 billion and $12.5 billion in foreign visitor spending.
The Trump Effect on Tourism
A mix of geopolitical tension, restrictive immigration policies, and negative sentiment abroad drives the downturn. Some call it the Trump Effect.
Additionally, travel advisories and backlash across online travel communities are prompting many potential visitors to choose alternative destinations in Europe and the Americas.
Inbound travel to the US is down, while outbound is rising
As shown in the ETC research, outbound international travel from the US is thriving.
Americans now account for 10% of all international departures worldwide, making them the leading nationality for outbound travel. This trend is supported by favourable exchange rates and a growing desire among Americans to explore global destinations amid growing domestic polarisation.
Main travel airports
The main airports for US international departures are primarily major hubs such as New York JFK, Miami, Los Angeles, Atlanta, and Chicago. Americans’ most frequented international airports outside the US include London Heathrow, Cancun, Paris Charles de Gaulle, Mexico City, and Amsterdam.
