As I scrolled through my Facebook newsfeed and Twitter feed yesterday, I noticed a new crop of Canadian media posts with warnings, tips and scary stories about travelling to the US.
It all seemed so one-sided that I thought some positivity was in order.
This Canadian girl who loves to globe-trot, just returned from her second trip to the United States a few days ago.
Although I have been mesmerized by all of the articles, videos, and social media posts out there about what is happening to our southern neighbour - I admit that it made me pause.
I have been reading at least one media article or post about someone being detained, questioned excessively or delayed in other ways at least every day (or more) during the last month.
I have seen other articles offering warnings and tips on how to "manage" travel plans and to "plan for the worst".
It all sounds SO scary!
My first trip to the US in 2017 was the morning after the initial travel ban was announced.
From what I heard from a couple of locals, we just missed the initial onslaught of protesters at the airport by less than an hour.
Relatives and friends contacted me while I was there to ensure that I arrive safely and to get the scoop on what I can see from that end.
I saw nothing.
It may have been partly because I spent that week in the heart of peaceful Beverly Hills, but I didn't overhear a single raging conversation, see one protest sign or custom t-shirt.
When I returned to LAX on the Friday for my return flight, the airport was just as I would normally expect - bustling...but not a protester in sight. (Our driver joked that they wouldn't be back until Saturday..."cuz we all have to work, y'know"...)
The only small change I noted was a short announcement at the Air Canada gates requesting US passport holders to identify themselves at the gate to fill out a card prior to departing.
A little different - but not THAT daunting!
On this latest trip, we flew into Newark on a Friday morning on our way to New York City. We sailed through Customs with only the two usual questions -
"Where are you travelling to?"
"What is the purpose of your trip?"
Not an extra card to fill out, no fingerprints needed, no delays or extra searches...and actually - NO lineups!
The airport was VERY quiet for a Friday morning (almost eerily) and we had our checked bags and were on our way downtown in record time.
We spent the next few days shopping and eating (less of the former, more of the latter - obviously) and again - did not see a protest sign or hear any loud discussions or arguments. Nothing.
Our trip home through Newark was just as non-eventful and unusually quick. (Funny note to add...our departure date was the same day that the new travel ban was announced!)
As I chat quite often with locals on my travels, I usually find out a little bit more about what is happening than others might. The main concern that we did hear during this last trip was how much tourism is down...and unfortunately, the retail and hospitality sectors are the first to feel that pinch.
Is it because everyone is scared?
Scared to get caught up with delays, questioning or protests?
The fear of the unknown?
Although I am saddened and frustrated to see what is happening with our American friends, I don't want to make things worse for them by not visiting anymore.
The key is ...
- to be informed about any possible changes to the process of entering the country
- have your identification and any other necessary paperwork with you
- be courteous and patient with other travellers as well as the airline and airport staff who are tasked to get you on your way.
There may be a few glitches along the way and some may encounter some not-so-pleasant delays or process changes...but I am hoping that will only be for a few - and not the many.
Hopefully, my not-so-scary recent travel stories from these last couple of months offer a little glow of hope for the American businesses and their staff who depend on tourism -
...and for all you fellow travel-lovers out there who have been hesitant on your upcoming travel plans south.
