US Political Unrest Alters Global Visitor Patterns, With Young and Int. Travelers Most Affected

Recent findings from the Global Rescue Summer 2025 Traveler Safety and Sentiment Survey are sending ripples through the international tourism sector, especially for those in sub-Saharan Africa who regularly facilitate journeys to the United States. The survey, conducted in late June 2025, reveals a shifting landscape in travel behavior, with political tensions and civil unrest in the US now playing a decisive role in the travel decisions of a growing segment of global travelers.

While a majority of respondents—52%—reported that their plans to visit the US remain unchanged despite ongoing unrest, the data uncovers a pronounced divide between domestic and international perspectives. For non-US travelers, the situation is markedly different: nearly 12% have canceled trips to or within the US due to concerns about protests and instability, compared to just 1% of US-based respondents who have altered their domestic travel plans for the same reasons [[1]](https://www.hospitalitynet.org/news/4128817.html). This gap highlights a critical perception issue that African travel professionals must consider when advising clients or planning group itineraries.

The survey’s results underscore a growing sense of caution among international travelers, with the US’s internal dynamics now influencing not only individual choices but also broader market trends. The US tourism sector is already feeling the impact, as warnings from multiple countries and a visible decline in international arrivals threaten to erode billions in tourism revenue . For African operators, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity: understanding these shifts can help tailor offerings and communications to address traveler concerns, while also exploring alternative destinations or experiences that may be less affected by such volatility.

One of the most striking findings is the generational divide in response to US political unrest. Younger travelers under 35 are significantly more likely to adjust their plans, with nearly 10% postponing trips and 8% canceling outright due to political concerns or protests. In contrast, only 3% of travelers aged 55 and older have canceled plans for these reasons. This trend suggests that younger clients—often more attuned to global events and social movements—require a nuanced approach, with clear information about safety, contingency planning, and alternative options.

For African travel professionals, these insights are particularly relevant. The continent’s outbound travel market is youthful and increasingly global in outlook, with many clients seeking experiences in North America for education, business, or leisure. The heightened sensitivity among younger travelers means that agencies must be proactive in monitoring developments, providing up-to-date advisories, and offering flexible booking policies to accommodate last-minute changes.

Another key takeaway from the survey is the role of perceived safety and situational awareness in shaping travel decisions. While 62% of all respondents said the US political climate does not affect their plans, this figure drops sharply to just 26% among non-US travelers. Nearly 20% of international respondents are now reconsidering future trips to the US—a figure that is 7 percentage points above the global average and 12 points higher than among US-based travelers. This divergence in sentiment is a clear signal that international perceptions of the US are shifting, with potential long-term implications for inbound tourism .

For those in the African travel sector, the message is clear: communication, transparency, and safety preparedness are more important than ever. Clients are looking for reassurance that their well-being is a top priority, and they expect travel providers to be informed and responsive to changing conditions. This includes not only monitoring official travel advisories but also staying attuned to local developments in key US destinations, where protests or unrest may flare up unexpectedly .

Interestingly, the most common adjustment among survey respondents was to avoid US destinations where protests are currently taking place, with 17% citing this as their primary response. Another 9% are considering changes but have not yet made a final decision. This selective approach to risk management suggests that travelers are not abandoning the US altogether, but are instead seeking to minimize exposure to potential disruptions. For African agencies, this opens the door to creative itinerary planning—focusing on regions or cities with lower risk profiles, or offering alternative experiences that align with clients’ safety expectations.

The survey also highlights the importance of maintaining trust and credibility in the face of uncertainty. As Dan Richards, CEO of Global Rescue, notes, “Maintaining trust, safety and situational awareness is vital to ensuring travelers feel secure—whether they’re visiting from abroad or exploring their own country.” This sentiment resonates strongly in the African context, where travel professionals often serve as both advisors and advocates for their clients, navigating a complex web of logistical, regulatory, and security considerations.

Looking ahead, the evolving situation in the US presents both risks and opportunities for Africa’s travel industry. On one hand, the potential for further declines in US-bound travel could prompt agencies to diversify their offerings, exploring new destinations or promoting intra-African tourism as a viable alternative. On the other, those who remain focused on the US market will need to invest in robust risk management strategies, leveraging partnerships with global security providers and staying abreast of the latest developments to ensure client safety.

For African travel professionals, the key takeaway is adaptability. The landscape of international travel is shifting rapidly, shaped by political, social, and economic forces that are often beyond any single agency’s control. By staying informed, communicating transparently, and prioritizing client safety, Africa’s travel sector can not only weather the current storm but also position itself for long-term growth as a trusted partner in the global tourism ecosystem.

As the world watches the US navigate a period of heightened political tension and civil unrest, African travel professionals have a unique opportunity to demonstrate their value—offering expert guidance, personalized service, and a steady hand in uncertain times. The coming years will demand agility, innovation, and a deep understanding of traveler sentiment, but those who rise to the challenge will be well placed to thrive in a changing world.