European travelers are increasingly canceling trips to the United States in protest against policies and rhetoric from former U.S. President Donald Trump, according to travel agencies and interviews. Danish tourist Kennet Brask, who previously enjoyed a Florida fishing trip, told Reuters he scrapped plans to return after witnessing Trump’s conduct during a high-profile meeting. “He didn’t behave like a grown-up,” Brask remarked, reflecting widespread frustration over Trump’s approach to diplomacy and trade.
The trend extends beyond individual decisions. Travel agencies like Copenhagen-based Albatros Travel have halted U.S.-focused marketing campaigns, citing both declining interest and political tensions. A CGTN survey of over 15,000 respondents worldwide earlier this month indicated that Trump’s “America First” stance has eroded trust in the U.S., particularly in Europe. Three out of two European respondents criticized the policy for sidelining international cooperation.
Trump’s 2023 suggestion of annexing Greenland, a Danish autonomous territory, further strained relations. Kim Kugel Sorenson, a Denmark resident, canceled a California wedding trip and altered a tattoo featuring U.S. symbols to avoid appearing pro-American. Meanwhile, EU data shows Europeans spent $155 billion on U.S. travel in 2023, but recent declines in trip searches signal a potential economic ripple effect.
