The U.S. travel industry is going through a tough time. Fewer people from outside the country are choosing to visit or study here, and it’s having a big financial impact.
Over the past year, the number of international travelers flying into the U.S. has dropped by about 11%. Experts had expected a big increase in visitors, but now they’re predicting a decline—and that means $9 billion less being spent in the U.S. by tourists alone.
It’s not just vacationers who are staying away. The number of international students coming to the U.S. has also gone down by 11%. That might not seem like a big deal at first, but it actually costs the country around $4 billion, because these students usually spend money on housing, food, tuition, and other daily needs.
Airlines and hotels are feeling the pain too. Their stock prices have taken a hit, and companies are making less money as fewer people travel.
So what’s behind the decline? A mix of things. Some travelers are worried about how they might be treated when they arrive. Others are concerned about policies that make the U.S. seem less welcoming to visitors or students. All of this creates a feeling that the U.S. isn't as open to outsiders as it once was.
Why should this matter to all of us? Travel and tourism bring in a lot of money and support many jobs. When fewer people come here, businesses—from hotels and restaurants to schools and airlines—lose out. And that affects the economy as a whole.
In short, the U.S. is becoming a less popular destination, and that’s costing us more than just tourism—it’s hitting education, jobs, and our global reputation too.
