Canadians Are Traveling Less to the U.S.—and It’s Starting to Show

Canadians have long been the top international travellers to the United States. But now, many are choosing to stay home.

The shift began after former President Donald Trump announced tariffs on Canada. In response, then–Prime Minister Justin Trudeau encouraged Canadians to vacation domestically and explore their own country instead. The message resonated.

According to preliminary data from Statistics Canada, Canadian residents made 13% fewer air trips to the U.S. in February than last year. Land-border crossings decreased even more sharply—down 23% year over year.

The trend isn't limited to Canada. Other countries have also updated their travel advisories in light of recent U.S. policies and detentions.

Germany has updated its travel guidance for the U.S., warning that violations of entry rules could now lead to denial of entry and arrest or detention.

At least three German citizens—including one who holds a U.S. green card—have reportedly been detained for extended periods despite a lack of clear violations of visa or immigration rules.

One such incident took place at Boston’s Logan Airport.

The UK Foreign Office has also strengthened its advice. British traveller Becky Burke, a tourist from Wales, was held for three weeks after being stopped at the U.S.–Canada border while backpacking across America.

Last week, members of the UK Subs, a British punk band, were refused entry and detained at Los Angeles International Airport.

Even before these incidents, tourism forecasts for the U.S. had been downgraded.

Tourism Economics, an industry analytics firm, revised its 2024 forecast from a projected 5% increase to a 9% decrease in international visits.

The group cited “polarising policies and rhetoric of the Trump administration,” particularly regarding tariffs, as key factors.

The climate of concern deepened recently when Denmark and Finland issued travel advisories for transgender travellers.

These advisories followed changes in U.S. State Department rules aligned with a Trump administration policy recognising only two genders.

Denmark advised travellers with passports marked with an “X” gender designation to consult the U.S. embassy before travelling.

Finland warned that travellers whose gender identity has changed might not be permitted entry.

Canadians express that it’s not only the tariffs but also the rhetoric that concerns them.

Trump’s previous comments about annexation have alarmed and offended many, reinforcing their choice to steer clear of the U.S. altogether.

Reports of prolonged detentions of tourists and even green card holders have further strengthened that resolve.

The impact of this informal boycott could be significant. In 2024, Canadians made approximately 20.2 million trips to the U.S.

According to the U.S. Travel Association, a 10% decline in Canadian travel could cost the U.S. economy $2 billion and result in 14,000 job losses.

The U.S. alcohol and wine industry significantly contributes to the nation's economy, supporting millions of jobs across various sectors. Here's an overview of employment figures within this industry:

Overall Alcohol Beverage Industry:

Total Employment: The alcohol beverage industry sustains over 4 million jobs nationwide.

Tax Contributions: This sector generates nearly $70 billion in annual tax revenue.

Wine Industry:

Direct Employment: The wine industry directly employs approximately 1,007,459 people.

Ancillary Employment: Suppliers and ancillary industries related to wine production and distribution support an additional 364,234 jobs.

Total Employment Impact: In total, the wine industry supports around 1.84 million jobs across the country.

Beer Industry:

Total Employment: The beer industry supports nearly 2.4 million American jobs.

Economic Contribution: It contributes more than $409 billion to the U.S. economy.

Distillery Industry:

Employment Growth: From 2001 to 2021, the distillery industry added 14,786 jobs, marking a 214% increase over two decades.

Total Employment: As of 2021, the distillery sector employed over 21,700 individuals.

Retail Sector (Beer, Wine, and Liquor Stores):

Employment Figures: As of 2024, there were 207,774 people employed in beer, wine, and liquor stores across the U.S.

Economic Impact: In 2018, beer, wine, and spirits retailers created approximately 2.03 million jobs and had a direct economic impact of over $122.63 billion.

Moosehead Breweries Introduces the “Presidential Pack” Amid Trade Tensions

Canada’s oldest brewery, Moosehead Breweries, is making a bold statement in response to trade tensions sparked by President Donald Trump. The New Brunswick-based brewery has launched the “Presidential Pack”, a massive case containing 1,461 cans of its Canadian Lager—one for each day of Trump's four-year term.

Moosehead’s Director of Marketing, Karen Grigg framed the promotion as a lighthearted response to political uncertainty. "If the start of 2025 has taught us anything, it will take determination to weather four years of political uncertainty—and what better way to make it through each day than with a truly Canadian beer," she said.

The Presidential Pack retails for CAD 3,490 ($2,428 USD) and is available in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Ontario. Trevor Grant, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, revealed that the idea emerged as Moosehead’s team discussed tariffs and trade challenges with the U.S. administration. "Obviously, it's a bit of a difficult situation, so trying to maybe have a little bit of fun with it," he explained.

Grant also noted that Canadian shoppers are increasingly looking for locally made products and that Moosehead sees this as an opportunity to strengthen local support. "We do think this is a real opportunity for us," he said. He emphasized the company’s deep community ties, adding, "We operate in a small community here in St. John, New Brunswick, and we like to stay connected to our community and give back. We'd like to see Canadians do the same thing and buy local."

The Presidential Pack is the latest act of Canadian defiance against Trump's tariffs, which have affected Canada, Mexico, and China. Trump has also insulted Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, referring to him dismissively as a "governor".

Meanwhile, the U.S. liquor and spirits industry is already feeling the pushback.

Lawson Whiting, CEO of Jack Daniel’s parent company, called the removal of American-made alcohol from Canadian stores “worse than tariffs.” "It's literally taking your sales away," he said, calling the response "very disproportionate" to Trump’s 25% tariff.

Following Prime Minister Trudeau’s announcement that Canada would impose retaliatory 25% tariffs on $155 billion worth of U.S. goods, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association warned of “far-reaching consequences” for the bourbon industry, as 95% of the world’s bourbon comes from Kentucky.

Moosehead Breweries CEO Andrew Oland, in an interview with CTV News, described the tariffs as a “disappointment” and lamented the deteriorating trade relationship between the two nations. We've always had such a close relationship with the United States, and so it's really sad to see this relationship going in a different direction," he said.

With rising trade tensions and a renewed focus on buying local, Moosehead’s satirical marketing move highlights how Canadian businesses creatively respond to these issues—with humor, community pride, and beer.

The idea for the movie "Planet of the Apes" (1968) originated from the 1963 novel La Planète des Singes (translated as Planet of the Apes or Monkey Planet) by Pierre Boulle, a French author best known for The Bridge on the River Kwai.

Origins of the Idea:

Pierre Boulle wrote the novel as a satirical commentary on human nature, evolution, and social structures.

The book tells the story of astronauts who land on a planet ruled by intelligent apes, with humans as the primitive species.

Boulle was inspired by human behavior, evolution, and concerns about civilization's future.

How It Became a Movie:

Producer Arthur P. Jacobs obtained the film rights and pushed for an adaptation.

Rod Serling (creator of The Twilight Zone) wrote an early screenplay that reshaped the story into the 1968 film starring Charlton Heston.

Michael Wilson revised the final screenplay, adding the film’s famous twist ending: the ruined Statue of Liberty reveals that the planet is actually Earth in the future.

The 4 Nations Face-Off is a men's ice hockey tournament that began in 2025, featuring national teams from Canada, the United States, Finland, and Sweden. It was introduced to provide a platform for top-tier international competition, especially significant as NHL players had not participated in the Olympics since 2014.Inaugural Tournament (2025):Format: Teams competed in a round-robin format, with the top two advancing to the final.Final Match: Held in Boston, the championship game saw Canada defeat the USA 3-2 in an overtime thriller, with Connor McDavid scoring the decisive goal.

Connor McDavid is a Canadian professional ice hockey player. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest and fastest players of his generation. He is the captain of the Edmonton Oilers in the National Hockey League (NHL) and has consistently dominated the league with his elite speed, playmaking, and goal-scoring ability.

The tournament garnered massive viewership, with over 10 million Canadians tuning in for the final. It served as a precursor to the 2026 Milan Olympics, reigniting international hockey rivalries and showcasing elite talent.

Trade between the United States, Mexico, and Canada is extensive and encompasses a variety of goods and services. The top five categories of trade among these countries include:

Automotive Products:

The automotive industry is highly integrated across the three countries, with significant trade in passenger vehicles, trucks, and auto parts. Canada and Mexico are both major sources of U.S. imports and destinations for U.S. exports in this sector. Machinery and Equipment:

Industrial Machinery: This category includes machinery for various industries, such as manufacturing and agriculture. The U.S. exports substantial amounts of machinery to both Canada and Mexico.Electrical and Electronic Equipment:

Electronics: Trade in electronics, including computers, smartphones, and other devices, is significant between these nations.The U.S. imports various electronic products from Mexico and exports electrical equipment to Canada.

Mineral Fuels and Oils:

Energy Products: Crude oil and refined petroleum products are major components of trade, especially between the U.S. and Canada. Canada is a leading supplier of crude oil to the U.S., and there is also notable trade in natural gas and other energy products. 

Agricultural Products:

Food and Beverages: Agricultural trade includes grains, meats, fruits, vegetables, and beverages. The U.S. exports grains and meats to Mexico, while importing fruits, vegetables, and beverages like beer and tequila. Similarly, there is significant agricultural trade between the U.S. and Canada.

The Magnetic North pole of Earth has been moving for centuries. Its movement is caused by the complex motion of molten iron and nickel within the Earth's outer core, which generates the magnetic field.

How Fast Is Magnetic North Moving?

Historically, magnetic north has drifted slowly, at about 10–15 km (6–9 miles) per year.

However, its movement has accelerated significantly since the 1990s, shifting at approximately 50–60 km (30–37 miles) per year.

As of recent measurements, magnetic north is moving from Canada toward Russia, specifically toward Siberia.

Why Is Magnetic North Moving?

The Earth’s magnetic field is generated by the movement of molten metals in the outer core (a process called the geodynamo).

Changes in this flow alter the distribution of magnetic forces, causing the north magnetic pole to shift unpredictably.

Scientists believe the current acceleration is due to a high-speed jet of liquid iron beneath Canada, which has weakened part of the field, allowing the pole to drift toward Russia.

Impact of Magnetic North’s Movement

Navigation Systems:

Magnetic compasses rely on magnetic north so that rapid shifts can affect air, sea, and land navigation.

The World Magnetic Model (WMM), which is used in GPS and navigation systems, must be updated more frequently.

Airports periodically rename runways based on shifting magnetic headings.

Aviation and Military Operations:

Pilots, especially those flying in polar regions, must adjust their navigation based on the changing pole position.

The U.S. and other militaries track these changes to maintain accurate missile and satellite navigation.

Potential Link to a Pole Reversal?

Scientists have speculated whether the Earth is heading toward a magnetic pole reversal (where north and south magnetic poles swap places).

Magnetic reversals have occurred several times in Earth's history but take thousands of years to complete.

There is no immediate evidence that a complete reversal is happening soon.

The government of Canada has undergone significant evolution since its establishment, transitioning from colonial governance to a modern federal parliamentary democracy. Here’s an overview of its development:

French and British Colonial Rule (17th–18th Century)

French Era (1608–1763)

New France: The French established colonies in Canada, governed by appointed officials, including a governor and an intendant, under the absolute authority of the French monarchy.

The government was highly centralized, with no local representation or democratic structures.

British Era (1763–1867)

Treaty of Paris (1763): Britain gained control of Canada after the Seven Years' War.

Quebec Act (1774): Recognized the rights of French-speaking settlers, including their language, religion (Catholicism), and civil law.

Representative Assemblies (1791):

The Constitutional Act divided Canada into Upper (English-speaking) and Lower (French-speaking) Canada.

Both regions had elected legislative assemblies, but real power remained with appointed governors and councils.

Path to Confederation (1867)

Durham Report (1839):

Recommended responsible government (accountable to elected assemblies) and the union of Upper and Lower Canada to address tensions.

Responsible Government (1848):

Achieved in Nova Scotia and later across other colonies.

Marked a shift toward local democratic control.

Confederation (1867):

The British North America Act (BNA Act) created the Dominion of Canada.

Canada became a federation of four provinces: Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia.

Governance structure:

A federal system with a parliamentary democracy.

A constitutional monarchy under British sovereignty.

Growth and Autonomy (1867–1931)

Expansion:

Canada grew to 10 provinces and 3 territories through territorial expansion and provincial creation (e.g., Manitoba in 1870, Alberta, and Saskatchewan in 1905).

Increased Autonomy:

The Statute of Westminster (1931) granted Canada legislative independence from Britain, except for constitutional amendments, which required British approval until 1982.

Modern Federal System (1931–Present)

The Constitution Act (1982):

Patriation of the Constitution:

The Constitution was brought under full Canadian control, ending the need for British approval for amendments.

Charter of Rights and Freedoms:

Added to the Constitution to guarantee fundamental rights and freedoms for all Canadians.

Amending Formula:

Established clear rules for constitutional amendments requiring federal and provincial consent.

Federal and Provincial Relations:

Canada’s federal system divides powers between:

Federal Government: Defense, trade, immigration.

Provincial Governments: Education, health care, natural resources.

Ongoing negotiations between levels of government address issues like fiscal balance and autonomy.

Modern Role of the Monarchy:

Canada remains a constitutional monarchy with a Governor General acting as the monarch’s representative.

The role is largely ceremonial, with real power residing in elected officials.

The five most driven routes in the United States are some of the busiest highways that connect major metropolitan areas, serve as key transportation corridors, and facilitate significant volumes of commercial and commuter traffic. These routes are integral to the U.S. transportation network.

I-95 (East Coast Corridor)

Runs from Miami, Florida, to Houlton, Maine, spanning approximately 1,920 miles.

Passes through major cities such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and Boston.

Serves as the primary north-south route along the densely populated Eastern Seaboard.
I-95, Miami, FL
In Miami, I-95 has approximately 339,500 daily vehicles.
I-75, Atlanta, GA
In Atlanta, I-75 sees around 419,516 vehicles daily.

I-10 (Southern Transcontinental)

It stretches from Santa Monica, California, to Jacksonville, Florida, covering 2,460 miles.

Links major cities such as Los Angeles, Phoenix, Houston, and New Orleans.

A vital east-west corridor connecting the southern United States.

Supports significant freight traffic, particularly in Texas and Louisiana.
I-10, Houston, TX
Certain sections of I-10 in Houston report figures exceeding 313,000 daily vehicles.

I-5 (West Coast Corridor)

Runs from San Diego, California, to Blaine, Washington, near the Canadian border, spanning about 1,381 miles.

Passes through cities like Los Angeles, Sacramento, Portland, and Seattle.

Key north-south route for the West Coast, serving dense urban areas and supporting international trade with Canada and Mexico.
I-5, Los Angeles-Long Beach-Santa Ana, CA
This segment of Interstate 5 experiences approximately 504,000 vehicles.

I-405, Los Angeles-Long Beach-Santa Ana, CA
Interstate 405 has about 383,500 vehicles, contributing to the heavy congestion in the Los Angeles area.

I-80 (Northern Transcontinental)

Extends from San Francisco, California, to Teaneck, New Jersey, covering approximately 2,900 miles.

Crosses major cities like Sacramento, Salt Lake City, Chicago, and Cleveland.

A major east-west corridor connecting the Midwest and the West Coast.

I-35 (Central Corridor)

Stretches from Laredo, Texas, at the U.S.-Mexico border to Duluth, Minnesota, covering 1,568 miles.

Passes through cities like San Antonio, Austin, Dallas, Kansas City, and Minneapolis.

A critical north-south corridor for freight and commuter traffic in the central U.S.

Supports significant trade between Mexico and the United States under the USMCA (formerly NAFTA).

The Texas Triangle (San Antonio, Austin, and Dallas) is one of the busiest regions.

The complexity of the U.S.-Mexico relationship is deeply rooted in a shared history marked by territorial conflicts, economic disparities, and cultural misunderstandings. One prominent historical example is the Mexican-American War (1846-1848) and its aftermath.

The Mexican-American War and the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo:

1. Conflict Origins:

   • The war stemmed from disputes over the annexation of Texas by the United States in 1845, which Mexico still considered its territory after Texas declared independence in 1836.

   • The U.S. desire for westward expansion, driven by Manifest Destiny, further fueled tensions, especially over California and other territories.

1. The War:

1. • The U.S. invaded Mexican territory, leading to battles across present-day Texas, California, and deep into Mexico, including the capture of Mexico City.

   • Mexican forces, less equipped and internally divided, were ultimately defeated.

1. The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo (1848):

1. • Mexico ceded approximately half of its territory to the United States, including present-day California, Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, Nevada, and parts of several other states.

   • The U.S. paid Mexico $15 million as compensation, but the loss of land was seen as a national humiliation in Mexico and remains a source of historical grievance.

Lasting Impact:

• Territorial Loss and Resentment:

  • The loss of such a vast amount of land profoundly shaped Mexican national identity and fostered resentment toward the U.S., which Mexico saw as an imperialist power.

• Economic Disparities:

  • The war solidified economic inequalities between the two nations, as the U.S. emerged as a continental power while Mexico struggled with political and economic instability.