Canadians are canceling trips to the United States in response to threats from former President Donald Trump. Planned vacations to New York, California, and other American destinations are being scrapped as a form of protest against potential tariffs and controversial remarks about Canada becoming the 51st state.
Trump’s latest executive order, set to take effect on March 12, includes a 25% tariff on all steel and aluminum imports from Canada. This move has angered many Canadians, leading to discussions of boycotts against American products and travel. Canadian politicians have warned that a trade war could hurt both countries, but everyday citizens are taking their own action.
Canadians Push Back Against U.S. Policies
Public opinion polls show that a strong majority of Canadians oppose the idea of joining the United States. Trump’s repeated mentions of annexation, along with his tariff threats, have fueled frustration across the country. Many feel these actions are an attack on a longtime ally.
Some Canadians have responded by shifting their travel plans. Instead of spending money in the U.S., they are opting for vacations in Mexico, Europe, or within Canada. This shift is expected to have an economic impact, as Canadian travelers contribute significantly to the U.S. tourism industry each year.
A Personal and Patriotic Decision
Ottawa artist Jordan Danger was among those who decided to cancel trips to the U.S. this year. She had already paid a deposit for a visit to Universal Studios but chose to forgo the trip as a matter of principle.
“It feels like a duty at this point,” Danger told Ottawa Morning. She had planned to visit American galleries to expand her audience as an artist but felt that avoiding U.S. travel was a necessary stand against Trump’s rhetoric.
Beyond economic concerns, Danger cited safety issues. “I and my companion are both female and neither of us are straight,” she explained. “Given Trump’s policies on LGBTQ+ rights, we felt the risks were too high.”
Families Rethink U.S. Vacations
Amanda-Lyn Smith had planned a road trip with her family to California and Nevada, including visits to Disneyland and Universal Studios. However, her children no longer wanted to go after learning about Trump’s policies.
“The kids felt uncomfortable with what they saw online,” Smith said. “We’ve always supported minority communities, and they didn’t want to support a country that doesn’t align with our values.”
Instead of spending $20,000 on a U.S. trip, Smith’s family is now planning a vacation to Mexico. The decision reflects a growing trend among Canadians who are choosing alternative destinations due to political tensions.
Athletes Join the Boycott
Marathon runner Joe Paraskevas also decided to avoid the U.S. this year. He had qualified for the world championships in New York after finishing the Hamilton Marathon in three hours and 21 minutes. However, he refused to run in the U.S. under Trump’s leadership.
“They’re out $4,000 because of me,” Paraskevas said. “There are plenty of great races in Canada, so I’ll just run one here instead.”
Paraskevas, who has run 25 marathons, is now considering the Quebec City Marathon in October. He believes he can qualify again when the championships are held in another country next year.
A Growing Trend of Boycotts
The decision to cancel U.S. trips is part of a broader consumer backlash. Many Canadians are avoiding American products and choosing alternatives from Europe or local businesses instead.
This kind of response is not new. In 2018, during Trump’s first term, Canadian citizens called for a boycott of American goods after the U.S. imposed tariffs on steel and aluminum. The “Buy Canadian” movement gained traction, encouraging people to support homegrown products.
Economic Implications
The U.S. typically sees millions of Canadian visitors each year, contributing billions to the American economy. A significant decline in travel from Canada could impact local businesses, hotels, and tourism-dependent industries.
Experts believe that if these tensions continue, more Canadians will seek vacation options outside the U.S. The longer the political divide remains, the greater the economic consequences could be for both nations.
As Trump’s policies continue to stir controversy, Canadians are making their voices heard through their wallets. By canceling trips and choosing alternative destinations, they are taking a stand against what they see as unfair treatment from a longtime ally.
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