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Canadian Snowbirds Avoid U.S. Travel Due to Politics, Costing Billions

Canadian travel patterns are significantly changing as political tensions and economic factors deter Canadians from visiting the United States, especially Florida and neighboring states. October data shows a 30.5% decrease in Canadians returning from the U.S. by car, with a total of 1.4 million, marking the 10th consecutive month of decline since U.S. President Donald Trump’s re-election. Air travel from Canada to the U.S. also dropped by 24%, reflecting broader anti-American sentiment driven by tariffs, border treatment fears, and exchange rate issues, with the Canadian dollar at about 71 cents US. This decline is impacting U.S. tourism revenue, with forecasts predicting a $5.7 billion drop in foreign visitor spending this year. U.S. states like California and Florida, heavily reliant on Canadian snowbirds, are experiencing economic setbacks, with Canadian visitor spending expected to fall from $3.7 billion to $3 billion in California alone. Meanwhile, Canadians are increasingly traveling abroad to destinations like Mexico and Europe. In Florida, Canadian visitors accounted for 27% of international tourists in 2024, but visitor numbers have fallen sharply—close to 17% in early 2025—affecting local economies and businesses such as hotels and restaurants. Canadian real estate activity in Florida has also slowed, with fewer Canadians buying or selling properties, citing high insurance costs, a sluggish condo market, and political tensions. Many Canadians, like snowbird Jo-Ann Rowe, have shifted their winter plans to destinations like Mexico, citing feeling unappreciated and disrespected by U.S. political rhetoric. This trend is mirrored in other U.S. states and regions, where businesses and local governments are concerned about the long-term impact of reduced Canadian tourism and investment. Despite efforts by some U.S. states to attract Canadians back through marketing campaigns, the political climate remains a significant deterrent, with many Canadians expressing reluctance to return until there is a change in U.S. administration.

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