International LGBTQ+ Travelers Shun U.S. Amid Policy Concerns, Impacting Tourism

International LGBTQ+ travelers are increasingly diverting their vacation budgets away from the United States, citing concerns over a contentious political climate marked by anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric and ongoing trade tensions. This significant shift is already impacting the U.S. tourism sector, with recent data showing a notable decline in foreign visitors.

One prominent example is Canadian citizen Robert Sharp, who cancelled a planned trip to Provincetown, Massachusetts, and other U.S. destinations, opting instead for Canadian travel. Sharp, who owns an LGBTQ-friendly travel company, articulated a common sentiment: ‘Why would I go there?’ This decision reflects a broader trend, as the U.S. International Trade Administration reported a 10% drop in foreign air visitors in March year-over-year, and a 14% fall including land crossings. Oxford Economics projects an $8.5 billion decrease in spending from international visitors this year due to negative perceptions.

The LGBTQ+ travel platform misterb&b has observed a steep decline in U.S. bookings from Canadian and European users—66% and 32% respectively from February to April compared to last year—even as global bookings on the platform are rising. CEO Matthieu Jost notes that LGBTQ+ individuals are still traveling, but are consciously choosing destinations perceived as more inclusive. Many surveyed users view their travel budget as a form of activism, supporting welcoming economies.

Concerns extend beyond individual travelers. Egale Canada, a prominent LGBTQ+ advocacy group, announced in February that its members would not attend U.S. conferences or events, including WorldPride, citing safety concerns. This decision follows executive orders signed by President Donald Trump targeting transgender individuals, which have prompted several countries, including Denmark, Finland, and Germany, to issue official cautions for LGBTQ+ travelers to the U.S. Canada has also updated its travel guidance.

Helen Kennedy, Executive Director of Egale Canada, also pointed to economic warfare from the U.S. as a factor. The LGBTQ+ travel market holds substantial economic power, with global tourism estimated at $296.8 billion in 2023 and projected to more than double by 2033. These travelers, often affluent, spend more on activities and tours. John Tanzella, CEO of the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association, confirms a sensed pullback, stating, ‘They don’t feel welcome here, so why come and spend their money here?’ This sentiment translates into direct economic losses for a wide range of businesses, from airlines and hotels to local shops and restaurants that rely on tourist spending.

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