Canadian Travelers Flee US Due to Trade Tensions

Canadian travelers have long flocked to South Florida, but trade tensions between the US and Canada have taken their toll. According to data from the Canadian government, the US has been Canadians' top travel destination for years. However, a weak Canadian dollar, new screening and identification requirements at the U.S.-Canada border, and trade disputes have led to a noticeable drop in visitors.

Richard Clavet, owner of Richard's Motel in Hollywood, Florida, reported a flurry of cancellations after the trade war began last year. Some guests feigned illness, while others blamed politics for their decision not to travel to the US. Clavet tried to persuade one caller to reconsider, but the guest was resolute.

Clavet's efforts paid off when he hosted free parties and bingo games to generate buzz. He also saturated his social media with images of Canadians having a great time at those events. This year's bookings are strong, with Clavet expecting 'a little freaking out' due to the high number of guests.

Down the street from Clavet's motel, owner Jay Gandhi expressed concern about this year's snowbird season. Typically, he would have 60-70 Canadian guests during the season, but last year that number dropped to 50 and this year it is expected to be around 30.