Canadian visitors skip Vermont trips over U.S. tariffs

Some businesses in Vermont are seeing more Canadians cancel their trips. The reason for these cancellations is the ongoing tensions between the United States and Canada. As a result, many are choosing not to visit Vermont. This is affecting local tourism and businesses in a big way.

Vermont tourism faces cancellations from Canadian visitors

The Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing has received about 20 calls from Canadian visitors. These people have decided not to travel to the U.S. because of the Trump administration’s policies. Heather Pelham, the department’s Commissioner, says the callers were polite. They explained that they felt they couldn’t support the U.S. right now. This situation has raised concerns among businesses that rely on Canadian tourists.

Canadians contribute significantly to Vermont’s economy

Canadians are an important part of Vermont’s tourism industry. They make up about 5% of all visitors to the state. This brings in more than $150 million each year. In some parts of Vermont, like the northern areas, they represent up to 30% of all tourists. This is a big loss for businesses that depend on visitors.

Jay Peak Resort affected by loss of Canadian visitors

Jay Peak Resort is feeling the impact of the cancellations. Canadians make up around 50% of their business. Steve Wright, the resort’s President, says that the longer the tensions last, the more likely they will stay home. Wright wrote a message on social media to visitors, showing empathy for their situation. The post received many reactions, including over 800 comments. Most of them were from Canadians thanking the resort for understanding their feelings.

Quebec visitors are staying away from Vermont

Jeff Lawson, who runs the Hello Burlington tourism program, says he has been getting calls from worried businesses and visitors. February was the first month in a long time that Quebec did not appear in the top 10% of visitors to the website. This shows that the tensions are having a noticeable effect on the number of visitors from Canada, especially from Quebec.

Vermont’s message to Canadian visitors: We understand and respect your feelings

Lawson has a message for Canadian visitors. He says that Vermont understands and respects how they feel. He also wants them to know that Vermont is different from other parts of the U.S. Vermont has always had a special relationship with Quebec, and the state values this connection. Lawson hopes that this message will encourage Canadians to visit Vermont despite the political climate.

U.S. tariffs are paused, but uncertainty remains

Some tariffs imposed by the Trump administration are on hold until April 2. However, it is still unclear how this will affect Canadians’ decision to travel. Many visitors are waiting to see if the changes in tariffs will influence their travel plans. It’s uncertain whether these pauses will be enough to bring back the Canadian tourists that Vermont has lost.

No matter what decisions Canadian visitors make, Pelham and Lawson both agree that Vermont will continue to welcome them. The state is proud of its hospitality and will remain open to all visitors, regardless of the political situation. Vermont businesses hope to see Canadian visitors return once tensions ease.