Tourism Trade War Edition

Welcome to the latest edition of my Vacation Views. This week in my Horizon Scan I examine ways we can adjust our travel and support Canada and our allies during a trade war, share a Traveller Tip staying healthy before your trip, and cuing up a last minute deal on a transatlantic sailing in Sail Savings. So, let’s get started!

Trade War Travel Tips: How to support Canada & our allies with your tourism spend 

Yesterday the United States initiated a trade war against three of its largest trading partners—Canada, Mexico, and China—and this is creating economic ripple effects that extend beyond manufacturing and agriculture. According to CNN, these tariffs impact 42% of U.S. domestic imports, which means rising costs, shifting exchange rates, and potential economic uncertainty.  

There are no winners in a trade war only degrees of loss. And while trade disputes may feel distant from everyday life for some or merely absorbed into marginal inflationary increases, travel is one area where global economic policies have a direct impact. Tourism is a form of direct foreign investment—when you spend money abroad, you’re contributing to the economy of the host country. That’s why national governments work so hard to attract visitors, even as some cities express concerns about over-tourism. 

If you’re planning your next vacation, here are three strategic travel choices you can make to support Canada and our allies to mitigate the impacts of the trade war while maximizing your travel experience.

1. Choose to vacation outside of the U.S.

One of the simplest ways to navigate the current economic landscape is to take your travel dollars elsewhere. Here’s why:  

• Currency Fluctuations: Trade wars create uncertainty in currency markets. Many (but not all) vacation offerings can be quoted and sold in Canadian dollars. By booking and confirming your holiday in Canadian dollars you can lock in prices and potentially avoid price surges due to exchange rate shifts.  

• Support Economies Affected by Tariffs: Consider a package holiday option to Mexico. Beyond the resorts, visit Mexico City’s rich history, the Yucatán’s Mayan ruins, or the artistic hubs of Oaxaca. Your spending on hotels, restaurants, and attractions helps mitigate the negative effects of a trade disruptions.

• Better Value for Your Money: Some destinations, particularly in Asia and Latin America, offer a higher value per dollar spent, making international travel an attractive option.

2. Don’t Overlook a Cruise Vacation

Cruising remains one of the most efficient ways to experience multiple destinations while supporting a variety of economies. Consider these options: 

• Mediterranean or European Cruises:

  These voyages offer a rich cultural experience and often depart from major European cities, allowing you to maximize your time outside of U.S. ports. Environmental and Economic Benefits

• Canadian Departure Ports:

  Cruises leaving from Vancouver, Montreal, Quebec City, and Halifax allow you to bypass U.S. departure points while exploring the Atlantic coastline, the Arctic, or even transatlantic crossings. 

• Caribbean Cruises (With Minimal U.S. Stops):

  While many cruises depart from Florida, you can still opt for itineraries that maximize time in independent Caribbean nations, ensuring your tourism dollars benefit smaller economies rather than U.S. port cities. (If you need help selecting a cruise that avoids U.S. territories, I can assist with that!)

3. Consider a Canadian Vacation

With an abundance of breathtaking landscapes, world-class cities, and unique cultural experiences, Canada offers an excellent alternative to U.S. travel. Plus, if you’re traveling from the U.S., the exchange rate often works in your favor. Top Canadian Travel Experiences:

• The North - Whitehorse:

  Visit Whitehorse in the Yukon where you experince the tapestry of its pristin wilderness, indigenous cultures, the history of the Gold Rush, and topped with a cool modern indie artsy vibe.

• Rocky Mountaineer Rail Journey:

  Experience the Canadian Rockies in unmatched luxury, with panoramic train routes through British Columbia and Alberta. 

• Ski Getaways in Tremblant or Banff:

  If winter sports are your passion, now is the perfect time to book a ski holiday in Quebec’s Mont Tremblant or Alberta’s world-renowned Banff National Park. 

• The Maritimes & Newfoundland:

  If you love coastal charm, the stunning scenery of Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland offers an unforgettable escape. 

While the trade war may be causing economic uncertainty, it doesn’t have to disrupt your travel plans. By being strategic with your vacation choices, you can still enjoy incredible travel experiences while ensuring your money benefits economies beyond the U.S. 

If you’re ready to plan your next trip—whether it’s a cruise, a Canadian getaway, or a global adventure—feel free to reach out. I’d love to help you find the perfect itinerary that aligns with your travel goals and values. 

Where are you planning to go next? Let’s make it a trip that supports global tourism in a meaningful way!

Travel and Leisure Magazine recently published it’s list of the top five things you can do to stay healthy before you travel. To save you time here are the headlines and you can click on the link to read the full article.

1. Drink lots of water

2. Take immune boosting supplements

3. Get enough sleep

4. Get a pre-travel workout

5. Enjoy the process of planning your trip (that’s what I’m here for 😃 )

Read the full article in Travel & Leisure here

Sail Savings and other Vacation Values

Looking to get away quickly and escape from the geopolitical world around us. How about a transatlantic voyage departing next month on the Queen Mary 2!

1. Cunard has a last minute sailing offer departing March 8 from Southhampton and arriving in NYC on March 15, 2025. A sheltered balcony is under CAD $2,500 ($1,250 each) for the cabin (based on two people sharing) and includes taxes and port fees. This is Cunard’s Film Festival at Sea cruise for 2025. Bonus, Amanda and I are on this sailing. Double Bonus….No need for an overnight in the U.S.

That concludes this edition of my Vacation Views. The next edition will be sent on February 16.  Please reach out to allow me to provide a quote for your next dream vacation and feel free to share this with colleagues and friends!

 Bon Voyage!