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Cross-Border Travel Plummets: Canada-U.S. Visits Down 22.1%

7/15/2025

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Summary

Tourism Decline Observed

Travel between Canada and the U.S. has taken a hit, with Canadian trips to the U.S. plummeting by 22.1% and American visits to Canada down by 10%. While some businesses, like Walkerville Brewery, continue to thrive with American customers, others, such as Sandwich First Baptist Church, are grappling with a stark drop in tourism.

Summary

Tourists Shun U.S.

International tourism to the U.S. is taking a hit, as travelers from friendly nations like the UK, Germany, and Japan are choosing Canada over the States. The recent hike in the ESTA fee from $21 to $40 has fueled concerns, painting the U.S. as an expensive and unwelcoming destination.

History

Historical Context

Following the September 11 attacks in 2001, the U.S. enacted the USA PATRIOT Act, tightening border security and leading to a 30% decline in cross-border travel with Canada. This trend continues today, with a 22.1% drop in Canadian trips to the U.S., suggesting a long-term shift in tourism dynamics that may favor Canada over the U.S. for international travelers.

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Tourism Decline Observed

Travel between Canada and the U.S. has taken a hit, with Canadian trips to the U.S. plummeting by 22.1% and American visits to Canada down by 10%. While some businesses, like Walkerville Brewery, continue to thrive with American customers, others, such as Sandwich First Baptist Church, are grappling with a stark drop in tourism.

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