Canadians are turning their backs on the US in droves, and it’s shaking up the travel industry. But where are they going instead? Once the largest group of international visitors to the US, Canadians now seem to be opting for anywhere but their southern neighbor. Let’s dive into why this is happening and explore the surprising destinations they’re choosing instead.
For years, Canadians have dominated US tourism, accounting for nearly 28% of foreign visitors in 2024. But since January 2025, that number has plummeted. The US Travel Association (USTA) reports a staggering 23% drop in Canadian visitors year-to-date, translating to a $4 billion loss for the US economy. That’s four million fewer Canadians crossing the border—a trend that shows no signs of slowing down. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is this shift purely political, or are Canadians simply discovering better travel options elsewhere?
The catalyst for this exodus? Many Canadians point to former US President Donald Trump’s tariffs on Canadian goods and his provocative suggestion that Canada should become the 51st US state. In response, Canadians have embraced their unofficial motto, “elbows up,” a hockey term symbolizing resilience and defiance. This sentiment has fueled a widespread boycott of US travel, now in its 12th consecutive month. Travel writer Emilie Brillon exemplifies this shift: “I used to cover road trips across both countries, but last March, I decided to focus solely on Canada. We even canceled a family trip to the Grand Canyon and redirected that budget into exploring our own backyard.”
And Canadians are exploring their own backyard—big time. Domestic travel within Canada has surged in 2025, with many heeding calls from figures like former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to support the Canadian economy. But it’s not just about staying home. Canadians are also venturing further afield, with significant increases in travel to Mexico, Portugal, the Bahamas, and Belize. Statistics Canada reports a 12% rise in Canadian visitors to Mexican cities, while spending in destinations like Buenos Aires, Osaka, Copenhagen, and Curacao has more than doubled compared to 2024.
And this is the part most people miss: The US destinations that rely heavily on Canadian tourism are feeling the pinch. Vermont, for instance, saw a 30% drop in Canadian visitors between January and July 2025. Las Vegas, Ft. Lauderdale, and Upstate New York are also experiencing sharp declines. Even Florida, a winter favorite for Canadian “snowbirds,” is losing its appeal as travelers seek alternatives.
Air Canada is capitalizing on this shift by expanding its international routes. With new non-stop flights to European cities like Berlin, Ponta Delgada, Nantes, and Brussels, the airline is making it easier for Canadians to bypass the US altogether. Executive Vice President Mark Galardo stated, “We’re strategically increasing access to key destinations while strengthening economic ties and supporting tourism.” This winter, Air Canada is also launching 13 new routes to the Caribbean, Central America, and South America—a clear nod to Canadians seeking sun without crossing the US border.
But here’s the question: Is this shift permanent, or will Canadians eventually return to the US? And what does this mean for the broader travel industry? Some, like Toronto publicist Tracy Lamourie, are adamant: “I’m never crossing the border again. Between the 51st state rhetoric and human rights concerns, the US is now on my no-go list.” Others see this as a temporary reaction to political tensions. What do you think? Is this the new normal, or just a passing phase? Let us know in the comments below!
