Sunday, August 3, 2025
In the past few years, visitors from Canada have become a key force in keeping Palm Springs’ economy healthy. The desert city is famous for its warm winters, and Canadian “snowbirds” have flocked here for years to break free from the snow and ice. Travel experts believe these winter guests add close to $300 million every year to the area’s economy, supporting about 2,000 jobs from hotels to restaurants.
Yet rising tensions between the U.S. and Canada, especially during the Trump years, have made some Canadians hesitate before booking flights. Trade disagreements, policy changes, and social issues have pushed many to rethink their travel plans, leading to a clear dip in the number of Canadian visitors who come to Palm Springs for the season.
The Shift in Travel Plans
Reports indicate that Canadian visitation to Palm Springs has dropped significantly over the past few years. Airlines that cater to Canadian travelers, including WestJet and Flair, have adjusted their flight schedules, either reducing the number of seasonal flights or terminating services earlier than planned due to dwindling demand. This shift has prompted local businesses that rely on Canadian tourism to face tough challenges. Vacation rental agencies, real estate agents, and local shops are among the hardest hit, with property owners pulling back from renting or selling to Canadians.
The downturn in tourism is not confined solely to local businesses. Major hotels and resorts that once thrived due to the influx of Canadian guests have reported lower occupancy rates during the winter months. For example, a Canadian tourist recently canceled a $7,000 Airbnb reservation due to rising political tensions. This is only one of many cancellations, further highlighting the shift in travel patterns as a result of diplomatic issues.
Political Tensions and Economic Impact
Several factors have contributed to the decline in Canadian travelers to Palm Springs. Under Trump’s administration, tariffs were imposed on Canadian goods, including a 25% tax on automobiles, which created economic friction between the two countries. Additionally, the rise in reported cases of Canadian travelers being detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has raised concerns about safety and treatment at U.S. borders.
As tensions between the U.S. and Canada increased, many Canadians opted to boycott U.S. products and services, including travel. Alternative destinations, such as Mexico and various European countries, have become more attractive to Canadian travelers who no longer feel welcome in the U.S. This shift is especially pronounced in Palm Springs, which has long been a favorite destination for Canadians seeking warmth during the colder months.
Local Responses to the Decline in Canadian Tourism
The city of Palm Springs, recognizing the importance of Canadian tourists to its local economy, has launched several initiatives to try to salvage its relationship with Canadian visitors. Banners with messages such as “Palm Springs Loves Canada” have been displayed throughout the city, including at key entry points like the airport and downtown areas. Local businesses have also embraced these efforts, with many displaying similar signs to express their appreciation for Canadian guests.
Despite these efforts, the damage may already be done. Many Canadians are still hesitant to return, citing safety concerns and the desire to avoid what they perceive as an unwelcoming atmosphere. Additionally, the perception that they are not fully appreciated as tourists has lingered, making it difficult for Palm Springs to reverse the trend.
Canadian Boycott of U.S. Products and Services
The Canadian boycott of U.S. products and services has extended beyond travel, with many individuals choosing to support alternatives that are seen as more favorable or neutral. The ongoing tariff disputes, alongside incidents where Canadians faced unwarranted detention at U.S. borders, have exacerbated the sentiment of frustration among Canadian citizens.
Canada’s long-standing cultural and economic ties with the U.S. have been strained, and many Canadians now feel that the tensions are not worth the travel risks. For the tourism industry in Palm Springs, this has meant a decrease in what was once a reliable and lucrative source of revenue. Real estate agents, in particular, have noted an increase in Canadians looking to sell properties in Palm Springs, further contributing to the region’s economic challenges.
The Economic Consequences for Palm Springs
The full economic impact of the shift in Canadian tourism may not be immediately apparent. However, industry experts predict that the upcoming winter season will reveal just how much of an effect these changes will have on Palm Springs’ tourism industry. With Canadian tourists making up a significant portion of annual visitors, local businesses are bracing for the long-term effects of these shifting travel patterns.
The hospitality industry in Palm Springs faces a difficult road ahead. Smaller hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, and vacation rentals that rely heavily on Canadian snowbirds are particularly vulnerable. Without their Canadian clientele, these businesses may struggle to stay afloat, leading to potential job losses and closures. Major hotel chains that once catered to Canadian tourists may also see declining revenues, which could have a ripple effect on the broader local economy.
Can Palm Springs Rebuild Its Relationship with Canadian Tourists?
While the city has made strides in showing appreciation for its Canadian visitors, the future remains uncertain. The economic downturn in the tourism sector could prompt local officials to take more substantial steps to rebuild relationships with Canadian tourists. Tourism boards may seek to promote Palm Springs as an ideal destination for Canadians once the political landscape stabilizes, emphasizing the warmth of the local community and the city’s unique attractions.
At the same time, it is possible that the Canadian travel boycott could continue for the foreseeable future, especially if diplomatic tensions persist. As a result, Palm Springs may need to diversify its tourism base, attracting travelers from other regions and countries to offset the loss of Canadian visitors.
A Long Road to Recovery
The drop in Canadian travelers coming to Palm Springs shows how closely linked politics and tourism really are. What used to be an energetic wave of Canadian visitors now feels rattled by new political and diplomatic winds. Rebuilding that flow since the disruption has not yet shown its full toll on the local shops and hotels that counted on a steady stream of visitors.
The tourism sector in Palm Springs now has to change gears. Recommitting to Canadian travelers means more than just marketing; it means rebuilding trust. At the same time, the area has to open its arms wider to international guests from places that offset the loss up north. Recovery won’t be quick, and the timeline is hazy. Still, continued effort and creative outreach offer a chance for the city to one day welcome travelers from wherever the sun shines.
Image Credit: Visit Palm Springs Official Website
