Travel Trends
Porter Airlines Surprises Canadians With A Completely Different Approach To U.S. And Canada Travel During Tension
Travel trends in Canada are changing, and airlines across the country are adjusting accordingly. Air Canada caught Canadian snowbirds off guard recently, suspending all winter flights to Jacksonville, Florida. This was especially bold given how key the Florida market has been for Air Canada in years past. U.S. commercial carriers are following similar formulas for Canadian routes. Delta Air Lines is pushing back at Canadian boycotts, suspending multiple flights throughout 2025.
We are starting to see cuts from a lot of the major airlines in North America. However, Porter Airlines continues to take a completely different approach. Most of the airlines’ flights are domestic and within Canada. However, passengers are noticing a trend lately, especially during times of tension with the United States. Porter is taking a different approach to U.S. routes during the summer.
Here’s a closer look at their adjustments and why they have increased flights to the U.S. while collaborating with major American commercial carriers.
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American Airlines Catches Canadians By Surprise In The Best Way Possible With Its Latest Proposal
American Airlines surprised Canadians with its direction.
Porter Airlines Has Decided To Increase Service To The United States Despite Record Lows
Take a closer look at the current trends, and it becomes evident very quickly that most North American airline companies are scaling back on travel between Canada and the United States. This all stems from reduced travel during tensions between the two countries. WestJet, a Canadian commercial airline, has taken swift action this summer, suspending four routes.
WestJet’s Cancelled Summer Routes:
- New York to Calgary
- Orlando to Edmonton
- Austin to Vancouver
- Seattle to Kelowna
Similar to Air Canada, WestJet is expanding its international flights, adding new service between Halifax and Amsterdam, as well as between Halifax and Barcelona, according to CTV News. These changes are also taking place among U.S.-based commercial airlines. JetBlue, in particular, axed its service between Halifax and Boston. For now, Vancouver is its only destination.
Despite all these suspensions and cancellations, Porter Airlines has taken an altogether approach. Porter continues to see the U.S. market as a pivotal part of its future growth.
Porter Airlines.
The Toronto-based airline continues to expand its domestic routes, increasing the proportion of total flights within Canada from 75% to 80% during the summer. Although the airline is committed to sending Canadians to the destinations they want to travel to the most, they haven’t given up on U.S. travel just yet. Instead, Porter has increased service.
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Porter’s Newest U.S. Routes: |
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Phoenix |
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San Diego |
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New York-LaGuardia |
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Las Vegas (Increased Service) |
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Fort Lauderdale (Increased Service) |
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New York-Newark (from Montreal) |
Porter Airlines has issued a statement concerning the surprising move. According to the airline, New York is a “key long-term market for Porter.” The airline is also expecting travel to continually pivot.
The airline said in a statement:
“While there may currently be instability with Canada-U.S. travel, we view New York as a key long-term market for Porter. There is still an overall increase in U.S. travel on Porter flights … this is a dynamic environment and what happens in the coming months is evolving.”
It remains to be seen what the future holds for U.S. routes in the fall and winter. What we do know is that Porter has adjusted its schedule for the later months of 2025, with new international flights.
Porter Airlines Is Also Expanding Its International Routes With New Flights Later In The Year
Porter is indeed expanding service in the United States, but the airline isn’t backing down from international travel either. We’re unsure if this is a forecast of what is to come and whether U.S. routes will take a backseat later in the year.
Nonetheless, for now, Porter Airlines has committed to a variety of international flights, including popular destinations in Mexico and Costa Rica.
These exciting new routes begin on November 5th, with a Toronto flight heading to Cancun, Mexico. On November 14th, a flight to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, is available, along with a flight to Nassau, Bahamas, on November 26th.
Looking ahead to December, Porter Airlines has announced new international flights, including Liberia, Costa Rica, on December 4th, and Grand Cayman Island on December 16th.
The new routes are available out of Toronto Pearson International Airport, Ottawa International Airport and Hamilton International Airport.
Related
Air Canada has suspended flights to a major Florida hub.
Canadians Can Expect More U.S. Connections With Porter Airlines Due To A Pending Codeshare Deal
Porter Airlines.
It is a codeshare partnership that just makes complete sense. Both American Airlines and Porter have filed with the Department of Transportation (DOT), requesting the launch of a codeshare agreement. This will allow Porter to use its “PD” code for U.S. routes with American Airlines.
The move is a positive development, providing travelers with the opportunity to create more convenient schedules for multiple destinations through collaboration. Connections will be even smoother once the pending deal is in place.
Codeshare partnerships between Canada and the United States are certainly not a new phenomenon. Canadian airline giant Air Canada has a codeshare agreement with United, while WestJet partnered with Delta Air Lines.
We haven’t received any confirmation yet, but the partnership seems to be a formality at this point between the two sides. Once again, Porter Airlines makes another significant move to the United States, despite the uncertain times. Although in this case, the move makes a lot of sense and is risk-free.
Be sure to let us know your thoughts on Porter Airlines’ bold approach to tension between the U.S. and Canada. Do you agree with how pivotal Porter sees New York as? Chime in down below.
Travel Trends
Canada And US Cross Border Travel Now Declines: Read Impact On Travel Trends In 2025 Here
Tuesday, July 29, 2025
The summer season typically brings a surge of travelers across the US Canada border, particularly in regions like Minnesota’s North Shore. However, this year, the crossing numbers are down significantly. According to the Department of Transportation data, June saw a 16% decrease in car traffic compared to last year, with nearly 26,000 fewer visitors making the journey into Minnesota. This drop in border crossings reflects broader changes in travel patterns, and the tourism industry in Minnesota and Canada is starting to feel the effects.
Travel Trends Across the Canada-Minnesota Border
Historically, the Minnesota-Canada border has been a busy passage during the summer months, with travelers from Canada flocking to popular destinations in the state. From the scenic shores of Lake Superior to the rich cultural experiences found in cities like Duluth, the North Shore has long been a go-to destination. This year, however, fewer people are crossing over, signaling a shift in regional travel trends.
In fact, the 16% reduction in traffic marks a significant break from the usual flow of visitors. Border data from the Department of Transportation reveals that both local authorities and tourism boards are noticing fewer Canadians entering Minnesota, which, in turn, affects businesses reliant on cross-border tourism.
Potential Causes of the Slowdown: US Canada Relations and Economic Factors
While the reasons for the decline in border crossings are multifaceted, some factors are more immediately apparent. One of the significant contributors is the ongoing economic friction between the U.S. and Canada, especially in light of recent US tariffs on Canadian goods. The tariffs have impacted not only trade relations but also the overall atmosphere between the two countries, which could discourage discretionary travel.
Additionally, inflation and rising costs of living have affected how people allocate their vacation budgets. With the global economy still recovering from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, many potential travelers are opting for closer destinations or foregoing international trips altogether. As gas prices fluctuate, longer road trips may no longer seem as appealing for many Canadians who previously crossed into Minnesota for leisure travel.
The Impact on Local Tourism and Travel Industry
The decline in border traffic is also being felt by businesses in Minnesota that depend heavily on tourism. While the broader travel industry in the U.S. is recovering, some regions, particularly along the Minnesota-Canada border, are struggling. Hotels, restaurants, and outdoor activity providers are reporting lower-than-usual bookings and foot traffic as a direct result of fewer Canadians visiting the state.
Local businesses near the border are facing challenges as tourism revenues dip. The situation highlights the deep connection between cross-border travel and the health of the local economy in these border towns. As the summer season unfolds, the drop in visitors could have lasting effects on the businesses that rely on these travelers.
Government Actions and Border Travel Forecasts
Government reports and travel advisories show that the current border crossing slump is tied to both external economic factors and internal travel behaviors. Some authorities have indicated that while there is no immediate solution to reversing the trend, efforts to improve cross-border relations could help ease travel restrictions and reestablish the flow of visitors in future years.
Looking ahead, border travel forecasts remain uncertain. While the U.S. government has not yet lifted the tariffs on Canadian goods, future diplomatic negotiations may offer some relief. Additionally, adjusting tariffs and facilitating smoother border processes could encourage a rebound in travel numbers, benefiting local economies reliant on cross-border tourism.
Conclusion: Looking Forward to Recovery in Border Travel
As the summer progresses, the Canada-Minnesota border continues to see fewer crossings. Economic factors, political tensions, and the rise of alternative travel destinations are contributing to the decline in travel. Local businesses in Minnesota’s border towns are feeling the sting of lower-than-expected tourism traffic, but there are still opportunities for recovery. The eventual resolution of trade and tariff disputes between the U.S. and Canada could offer the tourism industry a much-needed boost.
In the meantime, understanding these shifting travel patterns will be crucial for businesses and government entities alike. Though the summer of 2025 may not reflect the bustling tourism activity of past years, the long-term outlook for the Canada-Minnesota border remains hopeful, with potential for renewed connections and revitalized travel once the geopolitical and economic factors at play are addressed.
Travel Trends
Sustainable Travel Trends in US, UK, China, and India: How Behavioral Science is Shaping the Future of Tourism
Monday, July 28, 2025
With the world increasingly grappling with the devastating consequences of climate change, the travel sector stands at a crossroads. Travel provides a near endless source of discovery, education and connection – but it’s also responsible for an overwhelming amount of the world’s carbon footprint. And tourism contributes almost 9 per cent of all global greenhouse gas emissions, with accommodation taking more than 6 per cent of the credit, Professor of sustainability marketing at the University of Surrey Xavier Font said. The US and the UK, China, and India are seeing greater numbers of individuals who are starting to understand the importance of sustainability in decision-making about travel.
This transition isn’t going to be a fad or trend, it will be a necessity and a logical result of both environmental realities and a demand for responsible travel. The inclusion of the behavioral science of sustainability into many green programs is encouraging for changing the way both the industry and passengers make eco-friendly decisions. Through the use of smart messaging and some psychology tricks, the tourism industry can start to help alleviate this impact to the environment, and meet the needs of consumer, all at the same time.
Behavioral Science for Sustainable Tourism
The tourist industry has historically attempted to encourage benign behaviour with features such as recycling bins, energy-saving lights and exhortations to guests to reuse towels. But like it or not, there’s only so much we can do and, as Font points out, these measures, while perhaps well-meaning, often take us in the wrong direction. If travellers are not thoughtfully involved, they also have the potential to sabotage these initiatives by the mindless act of leaving the lights on or running more water than necessary.
In partnership with Booking. com and Accor, Font’s findings underscore the considerable force of behavioral science to promote change. The research showed that emotion-driven communication that tells consumers why sustainability is important and how they can directly contribute is more powerful than vague statements or guilt provoking demands. People that travel should be able to take decisions into their own hands and should not feel like they are prescribed. Appealing to travelers’ sense of personal responsibility and analogizing with their behavior at home can help make sustainable travel not so much an act of sacrifice as a second nature.
The Evolution of Attitude Toward Sustainable Travel: A Global Movement
US, UK, China and India are leading this behavioural change. When it comes to the US, busy travelers tend to go for convenient travel options, and there’s been a recent shift towards eco-friendly lodging and experiences. The 2025 Virtuoso survey revealed that almost 60% of American holidaymakers say that they would pay more for a hotel with strong sustainability credentials, indicating a change in the priorities of consumers. This increasing interest in sustainabilty is leading hotels and tourim operators across the country to embrace eco-friendly practices, everything from energy saving practices to waste management programs.
In the same vein, travelers in the UK have shown a wave of interest in sustainable travel options, selecting destinations and hotels in line with their eco-values. British tourists are no longer just booking eco-friendly hotels, conservation-focused tours and low-impact tourism destinations. This change is perhaps due in part to education campaigns that explain the environmental implications of tourism run rampant (particularly in popular locales such as the Lake District and Cornwall).
It is more urgent in China and India. These are the ones experiencing the most rapid growth in terms both of population and income – and so are making the largest contribution to increased emissions associated with tourism. India is among the biggest contributors to the 3.5% increase in global carbon emissions from tourism for 2009-2020, for instance. The rising middle class in China and India are keen to travel, but their burgeoning carbon footprint requires a move towards sustainable tourism. The governments of both countries are enacting policies that encourage low-carbon travel options, and there is an increasing focus on educating travelers about the environmental impact of their decisions.
The New Science of Travel Key Findings: How Behavioral Science is Influencing Travel Choices
According to the Booking. com survey, 28% of travelers acknowledge the significance of sustainable travel, but the same percentage say they’re tired of hearing about climate change. This underscores a fundamental problem for the tourism industry: how to get people to care about sustainability without making their heads explode? Font’s work implies that empowerment beats guilt, and transparency also equals trust. A second reason is that tourists seek to be told why their actions matter schmush (why they are a part of a larger good) and they do not like to be talked down at.
For example, many travelers, when armed with the right tools, will choose sustainable places to stay and to go without having the choices shoved down their throat. If airlines and hotel companies are able to provide sustainable choices in a manner that feels empowering rather than punishing, they are more likely to find success in courting travelers. In countries such as the US, UK, China, and India where tourism industry is growing by leaps and bounds, adding these options to the travel circuit would mean some real difference to the environment.
Sustainability initiatives that work: Transparency and empowerment
In reaction to this increased demand, travel is using more sustainable methods, albeit slowly. Transparency is crucial in establishing reckoning and trust with travelers, who are often more than willing to make responsible choices but need to be provided with the accurate information. For example, some hotel chains are beginning to make their carbon footprints, waste management programs, and energy usage available online for public viewing, so travelers can make the most informed decisions.
Governments and tourism boards, such as those in the US and the UK, are beginning to take the initiative, implementing legislation to make sustainable tourism practices not just optional, but obligatory. In the US, the launch of carbon offset programs for airlines and commitments to credentials like sustainable tourism certifications for hotels are a few of those things. In the UK, as well, government schemes are encouraging destinations and operators to become more eco-friendly.
And in China and India, more rapid construction is pushing for low-carbon methods of getting around, in the burst of travel in rapidly growing mega-cities to tourist hot spots. Through greater affordability and exposure of sustainable travel, these nations are inspiring the local and international travelling community to live and travel eco-responsibly.
The Way Forward: Behavioral Science to the Rescue
In an era where people are increasingly considering the environmental costs of their travel, the tourism industry is ripe for a momentous change. And the field of behavioral science is emerging as a powerful weapon in this battle – one which could provide a way to engage travelers in meaningful, on-going new behaviors. The future of tourism is not guilt messaging, but empowerment, transparency and a commitment to sustainability that connects with travelers’ values.
US and UK travelers, in addition to those in China and India, are already exhibiting behaviors that indicate this change will take hold. From staying at green hotels to opting for low-carbon transportation, they are factoring sustainability into their travel decisions. But the industry still needs to adapt, offering not just choices but guidance, motivation and information that help travelers cultivate their most sustainable selves.
Conclusion :The Future of Tourism Sustainability
Here’s how the future of tourism in the US, UK, China, and India can be transformed by behavioral science into favoring more sustainable travel behaviors. By centering transparent and empowering and communication, the travel industry could work to make travelers feel like they don’t need to burn their passport in order to reduce their carbon footprint. If tourism adopts these shifts, it can become the trailblazer for a more sustainable, responsible travel future in which we all benefit — planet and the people whose communities rely on tourism for survival.
Travel Trends
New Travel Trend Unlocked: Shoulder Season and Last-Minute Bookings Rise in US, UK, Canada, Australia, Germany, France, and Japan
Monday, July 28, 2025
Travel trends are always evolving, but one recent shift stands out: the increasing popularity of shoulder season travel and last-minute bookings. In a post-Covid world, with its hot summers and growing concerns over overcrowded tourist destinations, more travelers are opting to visit during less-crowded, more affordable times of the year. This shift is not just a seasonal change, but a reflection of evolving attitudes toward travel. Countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Germany, France, and Japan are seeing a growing interest in these trends, reshaping how people approach vacations.
According to a survey conducted by Travelsavers and the Network of Entrepreneurs Selling Travel (NEST) in April and May 2025, nearly one-third of respondents indicated an increase in shoulder season bookings compared to the same period in the previous year. This marks a noteworthy shift from the typical peak season rush, providing a more relaxed, less expensive alternative to traditional travel patterns. The appeal of traveling outside the peak summer months has become more pronounced, especially in countries where over-tourism has become a significant concern.
This surge in shoulder season travel is not limited to a handful of countries but is a growing phenomenon across key global tourism markets. In particular, the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Germany, France, and Japan are all reporting higher demand for travel during off-peak months. As these countries witness increasing numbers of travelers booking during the shoulder seasons, the global tourism landscape is shifting toward a more sustainable and balanced model of travel.
The Shift to Shoulder Seasons
Shoulder seasons are the periods that fall between peak and off-peak travel times, typically spring and autumn. These months offer several advantages: lower prices, fewer crowds, and milder weather. As travelers become more conscious of avoiding the busy and expensive summer season, shoulder seasons present an appealing option.
The recent survey findings from Travelsavers and NEST indicate that 32% of respondents reported an increase in shoulder season bookings compared to the previous year. Specifically, 12% saw a rise of 10% or more, while 20% experienced a more modest increase of 1% to 9%. This shift is especially significant for tourism-dependent economies, where reducing overcrowding can improve the quality of the visitor experience and help distribute tourism revenue more evenly throughout the year.
Countries such as Italy, Spain, and Greece, which traditionally see a spike in visitors during the summer months, are beginning to attract more visitors during the shoulder seasons. In places like Japan and the United Kingdom, the fall and spring months offer cooler temperatures and a different cultural experience, such as cherry blossoms in Japan or harvest festivals in the UK. For travelers, these seasons provide a more relaxed atmosphere while still offering the full array of cultural and natural attractions.
Impacts on the Global Tourism Industry
The rising trend of shoulder season travel has profound implications for the tourism industry. Overcrowding in popular destinations has long been a concern, with travelers often battling for space at major landmarks and cultural sites. By promoting shoulder season travel, destinations can better manage visitor numbers and reduce the strain on local infrastructure. This, in turn, can enhance the experience for travelers and make it more enjoyable for local communities.
In countries like the United States and Australia, tourism boards have already begun to emphasize shoulder season travel as part of their efforts to extend the benefits of tourism throughout the year. In the US, for example, places like New York City, which traditionally experience a surge of visitors in the summer, are now seeing growth in fall and winter tourism. National parks, such as those in the American West, are also becoming more popular in the off-peak months, offering fewer crowds and more opportunities for outdoor exploration.
Similarly, Japan’s tourism sector has capitalized on the shoulder seasons, with visitors flocking to Kyoto for its famous autumn foliage, or exploring Hokkaido’s snow-covered landscapes during winter. These destinations are seeing a more balanced influx of tourists, allowing local businesses to thrive year-round, rather than only during the summer crush.
The Surge in Last-Minute Bookings
Another important travel trend observed in 2025 is the rise of last-minute bookings. According to the same survey by Travelsavers and NEST, 20% of respondents reported experiencing an increase in last-minute bookings. While some of this can be attributed to changing consumer behavior in a post-pandemic world, it also highlights a growing preference for flexibility among travelers.
Last-minute bookings are not just about spontaneity; they reflect the unpredictable nature of modern travel. Many people are now waiting until the last minute to finalize their travel plans, driven by uncertainties such as fluctuating prices, changing travel restrictions, and evolving work schedules. This trend is particularly evident in countries with high numbers of international travelers, like the US, UK, and Canada.
For the tourism industry, this shift has mixed implications. On one hand, last-minute bookings can drive increased demand and help boost occupancy rates, particularly for hotels and flights that might otherwise go unsold. On the other hand, it creates challenges in managing capacity and maintaining pricing stability. For travelers, the benefit of last-minute bookings lies in the ability to find last-minute deals, especially for those with flexible travel dates.
Countries like France and Germany, with their rich cultural history and popular landmarks, are seeing travelers flock to less predictable travel seasons, taking advantage of lower prices and the ability to book flights and accommodations on short notice. The timing of a trip can now be determined by convenience and cost, rather than adhering to rigid vacation schedules.
Economic Implications and Sustainability
The increased demand for shoulder season and last-minute travel has positive economic implications for destinations. By spreading out tourism demand throughout the year, destinations can reduce the economic pressure during peak seasons, ensuring that local businesses are supported year-round. This economic diversification is especially important for regions that rely heavily on tourism as a key economic driver.
Moreover, this trend contributes to the sustainability of the tourism industry. By shifting travel away from peak times, the environmental impact of mass tourism is reduced. Popular destinations that typically experience overcrowding, such as the beaches of Bali or the historic streets of Barcelona, are no longer overwhelmed by the sheer number of tourists. As travelers become more mindful of their environmental footprint, shoulder season travel offers a solution that balances both the enjoyment of exploring new places and the need for environmental conservation.
Conclusion: A More Sustainable Future for Tourism
The rise of shoulder season and last-minute bookings marks a significant shift in global travel patterns, with countries like the United States, the UK, Canada, Australia, Germany, France, and Japan leading the charge. This trend offers a more sustainable and enjoyable way to travel, benefiting both tourists and local communities. As more people embrace these travel patterns, the tourism industry will continue to evolve, ensuring that destinations remain vibrant, accessible, and economically viable throughout the year.
Travelers now have the chance to experience some of the world’s most iconic destinations without the stress of overcrowding and high prices. Whether it’s exploring the autumn landscapes of Japan or enjoying the springtime charm of Europe, shoulder season travel is opening up new possibilities for those who seek a more relaxed, affordable, and enriching travel experience. With the rise of last-minute bookings adding an element of spontaneity and flexibility, the future of tourism looks set to be more diverse and dynamic than ever before.
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