It's March break, and Ottawa International Airport is buzzing, but the destination boards tell an interesting story. A growing number of Ottawa families are deliberately steering clear of the United States this spring, opting instead for Caribbean resorts, European cities, and domestic getaways.
The US Travel Chill
The shift reflects a broader Canadian sentiment that has been building over months of trade tensions, tariff disputes, and political friction between Ottawa and Washington. What started as an economic debate has increasingly become personal for Canadian travellers.
At Ottawa's Macdonald-Cartier International Airport, families departing for spring break described a conscious decision to spend their vacation dollars elsewhere. Some cited uncertainty about border crossings. Others mentioned feeling unwelcome given the current political climate south of the border.
Where Ottawa Families Are Going Instead
With Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Cuba all accessible via direct or one-stop flights from Ottawa, the Caribbean remains a top alternative. Sun destinations that were once considered backup plans are now first choice for many Ottawa households.
Europe is also seeing stronger interest from Canadian travellers who are taking advantage of a relatively strong loonie and increased direct flight options. Destinations like Portugal, Spain, and the UK are increasingly showing up in Ottawa travel agents' booking data.
For families who prefer to keep it Canadian, ski resorts in Quebec and British Columbia, as well as city trips to Montreal and Toronto, are filling the gap.
The Economic Impact
The shift has real economic consequences. Canadian tourism spending in the United States, which runs into the billions annually, is showing early signs of declining, particularly for road trips and short-haul flights to border cities like New York, Miami, and Orlando.
Ottawa travel advisors say the trend is real and measurable. Bookings to US destinations are down noticeably compared to previous March breaks, and the shift appears driven by a mix of political sentiment and practical concerns about the travel experience.
A Moment for Canadian Tourism?
For Ottawa and Canada's domestic tourism sector, the moment could be a rare opportunity. If even a fraction of the travel dollars typically heading south stay in Canada, it represents a meaningful boost for local operators, from Ottawa's Byward Market restaurants to the slopes of Mont-Tremblant.
Whether the trend persists into summer and beyond remains to be seen. But for this March break at least, Ottawa families are sending a clear message with their vacation bookings.
Source: CBC Ottawa
