Oregon's international tourism sector experienced a significant decline this summer, with spending by foreign visitors dropping by 21% in July compared to the same month last year. Data compiled for Travel Oregon by Visa card spending analysis shows this reduction impacted various regions across the state, with the Oregon Coast reporting the most substantial decrease.
Key Takeaways
- International traveler spending in Oregon fell 21% in July.
- The Oregon Coast saw a 50% reduction in international spending.
- Canadian visitors, the largest international group, cut spending by half.
- Geopolitical factors are cited as a reason for the spending decrease.
Sharp Drop in International Visitor Spending
An analysis of Visa card transactions, prepared for Travel Oregon, indicates a notable downturn in international tourism revenue. In July, international visitors spent 21% less across Oregon compared to July 2024. This trend suggests a challenging period for the state's tourism industry, which relies on foreign visitors.
The total estimated spending by international tourists in Oregon last year reached approximately $700 million. The recent decline in July spending affects this overall economic contribution. Every area within Oregon reported a loss in international tourism dollars during the summer months, according to Travel Oregon's data.
Oregon Coast Sees Major Impact
The Oregon Coast region faced the most severe decline in international traveler spending. Figures for July show that spending plummeted to half of what it was during the same month in the previous year. This significant drop has raised concerns among local tourism officials and businesses.
"We go weeks now without getting a guide [book] order from Canada, which is very unusual, so it’s definitely changed now," stated Josh Heineman, Seaside's director of tourism marketing. "There’s certainly a lot less volume of interest in traveling here."
This sentiment from a key coastal tourism representative highlights the direct impact felt by communities dependent on international visitors. Fewer guide book orders and reduced interest indicate a broader shift in travel patterns.
Fact: Canadian Visitors
Canadians constitute more than half of all international visitors to Oregon. Their spending is a critical component of the state's tourism economy.
Canadian Travelers Reduce Spending
Canada historically represents the largest source of international tourism for Oregon. However, this demographic also showed a substantial reduction in spending. Canadian visitors' Visa card spending in Oregon during July was half of what it was in July 2024. This mirrors the overall decline observed on the Oregon Coast.
The reasons behind this decline appear to be linked to broader geopolitical factors. Recent political rhetoric has reportedly influenced Canadian travelers' decisions. Some Canadian citizens have expressed a preference for spending their tourism dollars within their own country.
Janice Reynolds from Calgary, Alberta, communicated her perspective to Travel Oregon, the state’s lodging tax-supported agency. She wrote, "I will put my country ahead of my vacation plans and spend my money in Canada instead."
Context: Travel Oregon's Role
Travel Oregon is a state agency supported by lodging taxes. Its mission is to promote tourism within Oregon. The agency collects and analyzes data to understand travel trends and inform its promotional efforts.
Travelers Express Reluctance
Julia Amato, director of communications at Travel Oregon, noted the emotional aspect of the feedback received. "A lot of the letters, actually, people were sad," Amato explained. "They wanted to come here, but just as a source of honoring their own country, they didn’t feel like they could spend their dollars here in the United States."
This indicates that the decision to reduce travel to Oregon, particularly for Canadian visitors, is not solely economic but also tied to national sentiment. The desire to support their home country financially is a key factor for some travelers.
Economic Implications for Oregon
The decrease in international tourism spending has direct economic consequences for Oregon. Businesses ranging from hotels and restaurants to tour operators and retail shops feel the impact. A 21% reduction in spending over a key summer month represents a significant loss of revenue for the state's economy.
The data from Travel Oregon confirms that this is a widespread issue, affecting all regions. This broad impact suggests that the factors driving the decline are not localized but rather part of a larger trend influencing international travel to the state.
- Lodging: Hotels, motels, and vacation rentals experience fewer bookings.
- Dining: Restaurants and cafes see reduced patronage from international visitors.
- Retail: Shops selling souvenirs, clothing, and other goods face lower sales.
- Attractions: Museums, parks, and other tourist sites may see fewer ticket sales.
The tourism industry is a vital part of Oregon's economy, supporting numerous jobs and local businesses. A sustained decline in international spending could lead to further economic challenges for these sectors.
The Oregon Journalism Project, a nonprofit newsroom focused on state-level reporting, originally produced this story. The findings are based on robust data analysis, providing a clear picture of the current state of international tourism in Oregon.
