American tourists are in for a rough travel season—bookings are expected to be lower this year. This downturn happens as some legislators are responding to growing fears about how travelers from here will be received when they arrive in foreign destinations, especially Europe. Airfare bookings from U.S. cities to European destinations are down 12.6% from last year. As a reaction, millions of would-be travelers are second-guessing their travel plans.
Inbound travel to the United States is expected to take a major hit as well. Britain and Germany have released travel advisories. Plus, they recommend that travelers be prepared for tough conversations around US politics and climate change while overseas. American tourists are advised to tread carefully and be mindful of their attire, with some travel experts recommending that they “maybe leave the red Make America Great Again (MAGA) cap at home,” as stated by travel writer Rick Steves.
Concerns extend beyond social interactions. Upon returning to the U.S., American tourists report being interrogated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) about their travels and opinions, particularly those related to climate crisis discussions. There have been alarming instances where social media histories are scrutinized for any expressions that could be perceived as controversial.
The fear of being deported on the spot for having previously advocated for action on climate change had already instilled panic among many would-be American travelers. This new layer of scrutiny adds a fresh wave of stress for travelers. That heightens their fears as they do beyond dream vacations to favorite cities across Europe, Asia, South America – and take Caribbean cruises.
Travel experts and agencies are increasingly urging American travelers to be prepared. They are being challenged to be sensitive to their environments and the feelings of residents. That’s why, as international travel resumes in the pandemic’s aftermath, things are very different in the way American tourists are treated abroad these days.