Canadians Reducing Visits to the US, Says Airbnb CFO

Airbnb's CFO announced a notable decline in US bookings by international visitors compared to both the previous year and earlier in the current year, highlighting a significant dip in Canadian travelers.

During Airbnb's earnings call for the first quarter, CFO Ellie Mertz discussed decreasing US bookings from overseas visitors, attributing it to 'economic uncertainties' impacting travel decisions.

She noted, 'There's a clear reduction in foreign travelers choosing the US as a destination.'

According to her, many guests once inclined to visit the US are now opting for alternative destinations.

Reports indicate a 27% increase in Canadian bookings to Mexico from March 2024 to March 2025, as detailed in Airbnb's shareholders' letter.

Calls from Hilton and Booking Holdings officials confirmed the downward trend in Canadian tourism to the US, pinpointing Mexico as a preferred destination.

On the earnings call, Mertz revealed that Canadians are increasingly choosing local travel within Canada. Additionally, they favor destinations like Mexico, Brazil, France, and Japan.

Mertz stated, 'Currently, it's not that travelers are avoiding travel; they're exploring other places instead.'

Many Canadians have voiced their discomfort with the US, particularly in light of tariff actions and statements about annexation by former President Donald Trump. Some have chosen to boycott visits to the States.

Though Canadians and other international visitors are focusing on non-US destinations, Mertz clarified that only around 3% of Airbnb's revenue is generated by international travelers to the US.

She noted that the bulk of Airbnb's US bookings come from local travelers, with international bookings accounting for a minimal share of the total.

Following the earnings report, Airbnb's shares saw a slight increase of 1%, aligning with market predictions.

Brian Chesky, Airbnb's CEO, addressed stakeholders, emphasizing the company's resilience during past economic challenges, offering cost-effective travel options.

'Airbnb emerged during the 2008 recession as a budget-friendly travel and income source for hosts. In 2020, amid the pandemic, we facilitated local travel. Now, despite uncertainties, Airbnb continues to evolve,' Chesky shared.