With international arrivals falling and 2026 on the horizon, industry leaders urge investment and reform to secure travel’s economic future
May 23, 2025
At Expedia Group’s annual EXPLORE conference in Seattle, key figures like Expedia CEO Ariane Gorin and U.S. Travel Association President Geoff Freeman addressed mounting pressures on the travel sector. With international arrivals declining and economic uncertainty looming, both executives emphasized the urgency for the U.S. to act now to preserve and grow its vital travel economy. The conversation centered around how to boost inbound travel, fix policy inefficiencies, and turn upcoming events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup into catalysts for long-term growth.
Key takeaways
- U.S. travel under pressure: Declines in international arrivals, reduced Canadian demand, and consumer strain from inflation are reshaping the travel landscape.
- 2026 is a critical deadline: With the FIFA World Cup approaching, leaders urge the government to invest in travel infrastructure and policy improvements to seize this opportunity.
- Call for federal action: Industry executives want simplified travel processes, enhanced visitor experiences, and marketing support to boost the U.S. as a global travel destination.
- Frustration among travelers rising: Industry leaders openly acknowledged increasing traveler dissatisfaction, calling for collaborative solutions to reduce friction and improve service.
- Silver lining in economic softness: A slowdown may lead to more travel deals and flexible planning for domestic travelers, potentially benefiting U.S. vacationers this summer.
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