Since Donald Trump’s inauguration as U.S. president, Canadian travel to the United States has declined, but Alberta has shown smaller drops than other provinces. While land travel from Alberta to the U.S. has decreased, it hasn’t dipped as much as in other regions. Air travel from Alberta’s airports has been more resilient compared to national trends.
Psychologist David Rast from the University of Alberta, an American expat, attributes this to a mix of political views and group dynamics. Rast, who feels increasingly alienated from the U.S., still chose to travel there, despite reservations.
Others, like Edmonton’s Greg Rairdan, also went ahead with U.S. trips booked before Trump’s aggressive rhetoric but now hesitate to spend future tourism dollars in America. Visual artist Jennifer Annesley boycotted a prestigious art show in New York, citing political tensions and border security concerns. Genderqueer academic Ellen Forget opted out of a U.S. conference, citing safety fears amid discriminatory laws.
Still, Alberta’s conservative leanings and strong ties with the U.S. — especially in industries like oil — may explain why its residents are more likely to continue traveling south. Psychology research indicates that political ideology, peer influence, and identity pride strongly shape these choices. Albertans often show stronger provincial than national pride, which may drive them to maintain U.S. travel, even as the rest of Canada pulls back.
Source: Swifteradio.com
