As the bustling travel season kicks off with many vacationers wrapping up their arrangements for accommodations, air tickets, excursions, and dining spots, some individuals are beginning to ponder something they might not have considered previously: navigating political conversations—and possibly encountering anti-American attitudes—given the changing international views of the U.S. during Donald Trump’s presidency.
Lindsey Hall, who frequently ventures abroad beyond U.S. borders, including trips to places like Colombia and various European countries, has found herself fielding increased inquiries about her views on America since Trump resumed his presidency in January. Hailing originally from Texas and identifying as a “PR guru with a nomadic spirit,” Hall notes that both residents and other tourists have been probing into her opinions far more often now compared to times past.
“Many ‘Ohhhh, an American—Trump!’ remarks or expressions of surprise,” notes Hall, who works with clientele in both the travel and mental health sectors.
As the Trump administration keeps grabbing attention with its strict policy stances—in merely half a year,
widespread tariffs
, threats to
annex Canada
and
Greenland
, along with critiques of allied nations, including those within the
European Union
, has faced significant criticism—more U.S. tourists are struggling with how to deal with heightened scrutiny as unofficial ambassadors of the nation. Most recently, President Trump has addressed this issue.
implemented an extensive travel restriction
This restriction bans or limits entrance into the U.S. for residents from 19 nations, mirroring a policy implemented in 2017 which faced significant criticism, much like this new measure.
Hall mentions that she feels thankful for not encountering any direct hostility or retaliation during her travels overseas—though she remains acutely conscious of the potential risks involved. Additionally, she has found that openly expressing her American identity along with her disagreement towards the present administration has effectively helped mitigate any possible conflicts encountered thus far.
She notes that there’s often a point during conversations where either Trump or our political situation comes into play, followed by a brief silence as people assess her response,” she says. “Typically, she simply sighs and remarks, ‘Yes, definitely not one of our better moments.’ She has realized that once Europeans or Colombians understand she doesn’t align with the pro-Trump perspective, their friendliness and acceptance remain unchanged.
Is hostility towards America increasing?
Hostility towards America is increasing in numerous travel spots—and particularly across Europe. According to
recent data from YouGov
According to a British market research and data analytics company titled “European Favorability of the USA,” there has been a significant decline in support from seven key European nations since Trump resumed his presidency, with approval ratings dropping anywhere from 6 to 28 percentage points. The study indicates that opinions about the U.S. are most unfavorable in Denmark—a trend perhaps unsurprising considering Trump’s interest in Greenland.
vowed to annex
It is an autonomous region within the nation.
Canadians, meanwhile, are among the travelers
protesting trips to the U.S.
, while several
Various European nations have released their respective warnings.
For individuals intending to visit the United States.
This inevitably leads some Americans to fret over the welcome they might get when traveling overseas. Nonetheless, Huw Owen, co-founder of
TravelLocal
A U.K.-based tour operator observes that Americans have earned a strong reputation as people separate from the conduct of their political figures.
Travelers often find it challenging to accurately gauge international sentiment, yet the truth is that Americans generally enjoy positive reception overseas,” Owen points out. “This perception does not alter quickly. The image of Americans as kind-hearted, welcoming, and inquisitive is firmly ingrained globally. Such views won’t be easily swayed by media reports alone.
Owen observes that his firm has noticed only minor hesitance and uncertainty among American customers when booking international travel. He adds, “It’s not as significant as one might think. Maybe the current political climate is dividing the audience somewhat. Some individuals grow more wary, yet numerous others remain determined to take their vacations.”
Audrey Scott is a sustainable tourism specialist based in Berlin who, similar to Hall, hasn’t faced any pushback during her travels. She approximates that along with her spouse—who hails from the U.S.—they’ve explored around 115 nations for pleasure and work over their lifetime. The pair operate a consultancy known as
Uncornered Market
, which they established in 2007.) She mentions that although individuals aren’t hesitant about voicing their disapproval of the U.S. president and his policies, she’s observed in many locations that they manage to create “a distinction between the actions of the government and those of the citizens, or a clear divide between politics and the everyday folks from that region.”
As Scott points out, “Globally, numerous nations and individuals dislike their governments and do not believe these administrations represent them. Therefore, they view it as a situation where there’s a clear divide.”
However, this isn’t always the case. Simply ask.
Jill Schildhouse
A travel journalist based in Phoenix mentioned facing criticism for her U.S. origins during multiple trips abroad. One such incident happened in Australia at the beginning of November 2024. While having dinner with two fellow American journalists and talking about the elections, a woman approached their table, swore at them, and demanded they return home.
I maintained a very neutral dialogue, yet her boldness in simply rising and confronting us without provocation, followed by an onslaught of offensive remarks, left me utterly astounded,” states Schildhouse. “That instant marked the realization that people seem to have quite negative feelings towards Americans at present.
Several months afterward, during a cruise in Japan with her closest companion—a person who held citizenship in both the U.S. and Canada—Schildhouse found multiple passengers puzzled about their friendship.
As it kept happening, it became less startling,” Schildhouse remembers. “Once, we simply exchanged glances with her and then burst out laughing together. We thought, ‘After all these years of friendship—15 to be exact—there’s really no good reason for us to call it quits now.’
“Zero obligation to engage”
Schildhouse states that although these events were distressing, they haven’t diminished her enthusiasm for exploring new places. She explains, “This coming summer, I’m scheduled for multiple cruises that will take me to nine different European countries, as nothing would make me abandon my travel plans.”
Nick Leighton, an etiquette specialist from Manhattan, advises tourists that although “connecting with others and experiencing new things defines travel,” they have the option to decline engagements that seem unfriendly or overly intrusive.
“Should anyone wish to discuss politics and you’re up for it, go ahead and engage in a courteous and respectful dialogue,” states Leighton, co-founder of the etiquette podcast.
Were You Fostered by Wild Animals?
Agreed if they back what’s going on in the United States and you disagree. However, you have absolutely no duty to participate.
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