Canadian tourism organizations are attempting to entice American visitors back by utilizing amicable advertising campaigns that reassure them that they are still welcome, despite the tensions between the two countries.

Cross-border travel has experienced a significant decline since the commencement of the U.S.-Canada trade war.

Dan Davis of Cleveland, Ohio, initiated preparations for a motorcycle excursion with friends this summer that will encompass several days in Ontario in the latter part of last year.

However, those plans were somewhat dubious following the inauguration of U.S. President Donald Trump in January, which resulted in the imposition of tariffs on Canada, thereby inciting a trade war.
This, in conjunction with Trump’s frequent threats to designate Canada as the 51st state, has incited outrage among a significant number of Canadians.

In February, Canadians protested the U.S. national anthem at numerous NHL hockey games, as noted by Davis.
In March, the Canadian government conducted a billboard campaign in a dozen U.S. states, including Ohio, in which it declared that Trump’s “tariffs are a tax.”

He stated, “You are slightly more vulnerable while operating a motorcycle.” “It is sufficient for a single individual to declare, ‘You know what, I am going to teach these individuals a lesson,’ whether it involves throwing a beer can at you or vandalizing a bike.”

Canadians are visiting the United States at a reduced rate, and Americans are visiting Canada at a reduced rate, as a result of the deterioration in Canada-U.S. relations since Trump assumed office.

In April and May, the number of car journeys made by Americans to Canada decreased by 10.7% and 8.4%, respectively, in comparison to the same period last year. In April, there was a 5.5% decrease in air travel, while in May, it was 0.3%.

Some tourism associations are concerned that a number of Americans may be avoiding their destinations due to concerns about a cold reception.
Consequently, they have implemented advertising campaigns that reassure their neighbors that they will be cordially welcomed.

In an effort to persuade Canadians to return, U.S. tourism operators provide them with exclusive offers.

Given the gravity of the situation, it is an honorable cause: The United States is the source of the majority of Canada’s visitors, who spent $15.3 billion in the country last year.

“It was crucial for us to convey to these visitors that they are truly welcome and should not be apprehensive about visiting us,” stated Isabelle Charlebois, the general director of Tourism Eastern Townships, a region in southeastern Quebec near the U.S. border.

Late in May, the organization deployed a television advertisement that was broadcast in New England and New York state.

A U.S. tourist is depicted muttering apologetically to a hotel attendant that he is American in the Eastern Townships.

The American is given a large, affectionate embrace by the assistant, who beams with a knowing expression. The tagline invites individuals to “come hug it out in the Eastern Townships.”

The ad campaign was partially inspired by the fact that local tourism operators were receiving a significant number of inquiries from concerned Americans, according to Charlebois.

“They were making calls…” “Asking whether they should postpone their trip or if they will be welcomed in Quebec,” she stated. “Our relationship with our neighbor is of paramount importance to us. This is the reason we transmitted this message, and I am optimistic that it will be effective.”

Niagara Falls Tourism has established a page on its website specifically for Americans in order to motivate them to travel north. It also declares, “To our friends in the U.S.A. — we can’t wait to welcome you!” in addition to listing attractions.

Operators of bear tours in British Columbia are appealing to Americans.

Businesses that specialize in bear observation are also extending a warm welcome to those on the West Coast of British Columbia.