The travel industry had been expecting a “another banner year of growth” in 2017, according to travel news site Skift.
However, new research from software company Adobe Analytics reveals that year-over-year growth in online summer travel spending in the U.S. will instead increase by a mere 5.1 percent — a whopping 66 percent less than last year’s growth.
Experts say controversial travel restrictions ordered by President Donald Trump — but currently held up in court — are discouraging international travelers from attempting to visit the U.S. The report states:
“International flight bookings had been slowing but dropped by another 26 percent during the week that travel restrictions were announced. Since then, they have been swinging up and down much more than last year.”
Stephen Cloobeck, founder of Diamond Resorts International and former chairman of Brand USA, wrote in U.S. News & World Report that he is concerned about Trump’s proposed travel policies:
I fear that we may be entering another lost decade of tourism in the U.S. if the administration doesn’t reverse its unwelcoming message of exclusion.
In an effort to combat the tourism slump and increase international travelers, cities like New York are trying to woo visitors from countries like Canada, the Canadian Press reports.
How is Trump’s presidency impacting you? Check out:
- “37 Percent of Americans Say Trump Influences Their Money Decisions”
- “12 Ways Donald Trump Is Crushing Consumers”
- “3 Ways Trump Could Be Changing Your Job and Pay”
What do you think of the alleged Trump-related slowdown in travel growth? Share your thoughts below or on Facebook.
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