By Matt Underwood Fewer foreigners visited US in 2025 as global tourism spending rose, and it’s a trend that’s pretty clear to see. There’s a lot of chatter about this, and the reasons seem pretty straightforward when you look at what people are saying. It appears that folks are choosing to spend their travel dollars elsewhere, even as the overall global tourism pie gets bigger.
The anxieties, and let’s be honest, the outright fears, surrounding travel to the US are quite palpable. Many people I’ve talked to expressed serious concerns about the political climate. The perception of a country that’s unwelcoming, potentially hostile, and even dangerous, is a significant deterrent. The idea of being detained at the airport, or facing social media scrutiny, is enough to make anyone think twice. It’s not just about politics, though. The prevalence of gun violence adds another layer of unease, creating a general sense of insecurity.
For a lot of travelers, the experience just doesn’t seem worth the risk. Some have canceled trips entirely, diverting their travel budgets to other countries. The economic impact is noticeable too, with reports of declining tourism revenue hitting businesses across various sectors, especially in regions that are traditionally popular with international visitors. Hotels, restaurants, and local attractions are all feeling the pinch.
The reasons for this shift are diverse, but they all converge on one central point: a lack of trust and a feeling of alienation. The actions and rhetoric of certain political figures, combined with the perception of a polarized and volatile society, have created a sense that the US isn’t a safe or welcoming destination. Many people have expressed that if they were to visit, they would be constantly anxious about not only their personal safety but the possibility of their data, activities, and interactions, being scrutinized and used against them.
There’s a clear sense that the US has, in some ways, lost its appeal as a vacation destination. The desire for travel to the US isn’t entirely absent; many people still have the country on their bucket list, but they’re now prioritizing safety, a welcoming environment, and a general sense of security.
Many people are making direct comparisons to other popular destinations, suggesting that places like Canada, or various European countries, offer similar or even better experiences. The narrative seems to be, “Why risk it in the US when you can have a great vacation somewhere else?”
Another factor at play is the delayed reaction to these issues. Many people booked trips well in advance and felt obligated to honor those existing plans in 2025. It’s expected that 2026 will provide a truer reflection of travel desires and sentiments. This creates an even greater concern for the U.S. tourism industry.
There’s also a strong sentiment that the economic consequences of this decline are deserved. Some people have a firm belief that these losses will influence the actions of political leaders and those who support them. It’s a clear message: that economic pressure is a language they understand, and they want to see them be aware that their actions have consequences.
The impact isn’t just about lost revenue; it’s also affecting the cultural exchange and international relationships that tourism fosters. The absence of foreign tourists means fewer opportunities for Americans to interact with people from other cultures, hear different perspectives, and build bridges. The world is becoming more and more connected, and this lack of connection is not something the US wants to be known for.
It’s a complex situation with a multitude of factors at play. The United States offers so much, and yet, there is no denying that the current situation is pushing people to reconsider their travel plans. Ultimately, the question is what the US will do to regain the trust of international travelers and restore its reputation as a safe, welcoming, and desirable destination.