Westerwald residents worried: travel to the USA is declining due to stricter controls!

Westerwald residents worried: travel to the USA is declining due to stricter controls!

The number of German tourists in the USA is continually falling. This is due, among other things, to the stricter border controls when crossing into the country. The new US administration under President Donald Trump, in office since January, has drastically changed entry requirements, sparking concern among travelers and tour operators. Many people are wondering how these developments will affect Westerwald residents' desire to travel. The reports of German travelers being turned away are contributing to growing uncertainty.

How rhein-zeitung.de According to reports, some Germans have already been turned away from entering the USA. Among these incidents, there is one particularly worrying case: a 19-year-old German tourist and her friend were accused at the airport of trying to work on their tourist visas. After a day in custody they had to leave the country. Such stories contribute to the uncertainty of potential travelers.

Decrease in travel inquiries

Additionally reported tagesschau.de, that demand for travel to the USA has fallen significantly since mid-February. Timo Kohlenberg, a tour operator specializing in US travel, says his business has fallen by 15 to 20 percent. This leads to concerns that fear-mongering is spreading among travelers, although the Foreign Office describes the situation as isolated cases.

The reports about detained Germans and the restrictive measures have an impact on travel decisions. Christian Wagner, a spokesman for the Foreign Office, offers consular assistance, but also emphasizes that these are isolated cases. Politicians like the CDU politician Johann Wadephul criticize the approach of the US authorities and demand clarification about the rejections.

Impact on student exchange programs

Another area that is affected is student exchange programs. According to Thomas Terbeck from the educational consulting service Weltweiser, demand in this area has also fallen. The uncertainty and difficulties of entry have meant that Canada is benefiting from this situation, both among holidaymakers and exchange students.

The Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for the USA and warns that criminal records, false information or overstaying can lead to arrests and deportations. Ultimately, the decision about entry rests entirely with the US border official, whose strict controls cause uncertainty.