The Trump Effect on Travel

As U.S. President Donald Trump continues to shape the political and economic landscape, the impact of his choices on the travel industry remains significant. Read how his actions and policies are shaping the future of travel, and get insights into the industry’s evolving response.

Skift Meetings launch

New U.S. Visa Fee Threatens International Attendance at Trade Shows

Events across the United States are bracing for fewer international visitors when a new $250 visa integrity fee takes effect on October 1.

Andrea Doyle | 9 months ago

Tourism

U.S. Tightens Visa Rules Again: Expect Longer Wait Times

While the rest of the world is opening its doors to travelers, the U.S. is turning visas into an obstacle course. At this rate, securing a U.S. visa may soon come with bragging rights.

Peden Doma Bhutia | 9 months ago

A collage of images of American tourist sites.

Tourism

Brand USA Lays Off 15% of Staff, Shuts Down Streaming Service: Scoop

Brand USA's downsizing was almost inevitable after Congress torpedoed its funding this summer. Whether it can be effective in promoting tourism given the U.S. political climate remains to be seen.

Dennis Schaal | 9 months ago

view from outside of the U.S. Capitol building in washington DC on a clear day

Tourism

New U.S. Visa Rules Start September 2: What’s Changing?

The U.S. is closing its “drop-box” system for 57 nations. Expect longer waits, higher costs, and tighter screening, a reset likely to frustrate students, workers, and travel planners.

Peden Doma Bhutia | 9 months ago

This is the third airline company from a Keralite group or promoter to enter the aviation industry in India.

Airlines

India and China to Restart Direct Flights After 5-Year Freeze

While the resumption of direct flights between India and China was likely inevitable, the tariff pressure appears to have sped up the process.

Peden Doma Bhutia | 9 months ago

Business Travel

Trump Administration Plans Penn Station Overhaul in NYC, Amtrak Debuts High-Speed Acelas

The Trump administration is open to anything when it comes to renovating Penn Station, even moving Madison Square Garden.

Meghna Maharishi | 10 months ago

President Donald Trump wearing a USA hat with a U.S. flag.

Tourism

All U.S. Visa Holders Subject to ‘Continuous Vetting’

The policy is the latest effort by the Trump administration to tighten controls on entry to the U.S.

Lex Haris | 10 months ago

Skift Meetings launch

#OpenToWork: Meetings Industry Job Market Shows Strain

The poor jobs reports of the past three months reflect what planners are seeing in the meetings industry — fewer jobs with more applicants, and no sign of things letting up.

Barbara Scofidio | 10 months ago

Podcasts

Tripadvisor Under Pressure, Trump’s D.C. Hotels and Trump and Alaska’s Loyalty Play

For today’s pod we look at Tripadvisor’s Viator options, Washington’s hotel problems, and Alaska’s new loyalty program.

Rashaad Jorden | 10 months ago

A view of Army Special Forces pictured on deployment in front of Trump's White House on the street on June 3, 2025.

Hotels

Trump’s D.C. Takeover: Tracking the Hotel Impact

D.C. hotels had 64.3% occupancy amid a federal police takeover last week, down 2 points from 2024. That was broadly within national trends as the industry faces a mild softening in demand.

Sean O'Neill | 10 months ago