Europeans Are Saying “No Thanks” to U.S. Vacations
This year, many travelers from Europe are thinking twice before booking flights to the United States. While sunny beaches, national parks, and big city adventures once drew millions, a noticeable chill has set in. A mix of stricter immigration rules, political tension, and fear of unwelcoming treatment is now making the U.S. a less attractive destination.
Germany has seen a nearly 30% drop in U.S.-bound travelers. The UK isn’t far behind. France, Italy, and other popular tourist destinations are also slowing down. For an industry that heavily relies on international guests, this change is raising eyebrows and alarms.
Drop in European Tourists in the U.S.
In just one month, the U.S. lost over 100,000 visitors from three of Europe’s biggest travel markets—the UK, Germany, and Spain.
March 2025 saw 45,800 fewer travelers from the UK, a sharp 15% drop from the same time last year. Germany’s numbers fell even harder, with 52,200 fewer visitors, a drop of nearly 29%. Spain, typically one of the top European countries for U.S. travel, also pulled back, sending nearly 20,000 fewer tourists, down about 25%.
Fear at the Border
It’s not just about politics, it’s about how people feel. Stories of travelers being held up at immigration or treated unfairly are spreading quickly. One traveler from London canceled her long-planned visit to Boston after hearing of harsh questioning at U.S. airports. Another from Paris, heading to a friend’s wedding, worried she might not be let in at all.
There’s a growing fear among Europeans that they may not be welcomed like before. And when a vacation feels stressful before it even begins, many are choosing to go elsewhere, places where they feel safer, more relaxed, and more accepted.
Big Impact on Business and Airlines
It’s not just tourists hitting pause. Business travel is also taking a hit. International companies are pulling out of U.S. conferences and events, wary of visa delays and unpredictable entry rules.
In response, airlines are shifting gears. Some have cut prices to keep passengers coming. Others are changing flight schedules or moving planes to other routes. Still, flights are emptier than usual, especially during what should be the busy summer season.
The Cost of Unwelcome Vibes
Tourism is a major money-maker for the U.S., supporting millions of jobs and businesses. But fewer visitors mean empty hotels, slower restaurants, and missed opportunities for cities that rely on tourism dollars.
If this trend continues, the U.S. travel industry could face a long recovery. And unless things change, many Europeans may keep choosing other destinations that are welcoming.
