Travel experts advise that now is the optimal time to plan your winter break and spring break getaways, as flights are quickly filling up both domestically and internationally. However, there is one notable country that Canadians are avoiding – the United States.
Various reasons are cited for this trend, including concerns about the political climate, the ongoing trade disputes, and President Donald Trump’s statements regarding Canada. As a result, bookings to American destinations have plummeted by up to 40 percent compared to the previous year.
Amra Durakovic, Flight Centre’s Head of Communications, emphasizes the importance of booking early to secure the best deals. Waiting until the last minute could lead to higher prices due to limited availability of flights and accommodations. She also highlights the impact on car rentals, noting that delayed bookings can result in increased costs.
In light of these factors, Canadians are opting for alternative travel destinations such as Mexico, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and various European countries. The allure of diverse cultures and potentially better exchange rates are driving this shift in travel preferences.
Despite the decline in trips to the U.S., business travel remains steady while leisure travel has dropped off. Additionally, domestic travel within Canada is on the rise, with cities like Victoria, Banff, and Halifax experiencing increased tourist activity.
Durakovic suggests exploring off-peak travel times to save money and avoid crowds, recommending months like November over December. Moreover, she points out that American travel organizations are trying to attract Canadian tourists back, but the current trends indicate a reluctance among Canadians to return to the U.S.
The shift in travel patterns is evident in the decreased number of British Columbians driving to the U.S., with a consistent decline over several months.