Canadians Not Likely to Return to US Any Time Soon

Nearly a third of Canadians would consider traveling to the United States if relations between the two countries improved, but the majority would remain reluctant even if a trade or diplomatic agreement were reached. This is according to a survey of 1,529 Canadian adults conducted June 13-15 by Earnscliffe Omni for FlightHub.

The results show that 40 percent of respondents would avoid the United States due to fears of the political climate and public safety issues. Another 36percent would do so as a form of political protest. About a third (33 percent) say they do not feel safe or welcome in their southern neighbor.

Younger Canadians (aged 18 to 24) appear more likely to consider a trip to the United States if a trade agreement were reached (47 percent) or if diplomatic relations improved (48 percent). However, the data confirms that economic considerations alone are not enough to overcome hesitation: only 35 percent of Canadians say they are more likely to travel if an agreement reduces customs tariffs, and 38 percent if the Canadian dollar strengthens.

Related: A Letter to the US Travel Industry From a Canadian Travel Advisor

According to Ayoub Hissar, director of public relations and marketing strategy at FlightHub, these results illustrate how travel has become “much more than just a leisure activity” for some. “The diplomatic tensions between the United States and Canada seem to have left their mark on many Canadians, illustrating the symbolic aspect of travel. This demonstrates that consumers are making their decisions based on safety, which has long been a determining factor, but also broader economic and political considerations,” he observes.

FlightHub also reported a 19 percent drop in bookings for flights to the United States in June compared to the same period last year.

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