We had plans to travel from Canada to Vegas and New York but we've put them on hold. We don't feel SAFE until things settle down. No cross border shopping either. Our travel dollars can be used elsewhere, maybe even our own country #1 on travel destinations for very good reasons.
2
Shame on the NY Times for allowing this article in the travel section it belongs in the politics section. I read the travel section to get away from the depressing news we read everyday in the NY Times about Mr Trump, give the world a break and let us have one day called"No News Trump Day" I and the world need it.
1
Trump in the "Travel" section too? Really? Is there no escape from that name and that image? Some of us would like a rest from this man for just a few minutes to lower our blood pressure to non-explosive levels. But there he is or his family popping up in every section of the newspaper. Please give us a break from this disgusting person and his terrifying entourage. Every other article seems to be about him. I get that he and his new order will have a profound impact on every facet of daily life. But do we really need to be reminded of this constantly? My husband stopped reading the newspaper altogether except for the sports pages to avoid the stress of Trump. But today he said Trump appeared on the local sports page. Mercy please!!!!
6
If you are gay, any color but white and, yes, female, think long and hard before you come here. Incidents of harassment of the "other" is rising. The rape culture is getting ready to take off. This country is no longer safe or welcoming to certain people. Be wary
6
Sorry, I'm Canadian. Nothing much scares me off visiting other countries. We visited Paris a scarce few months after the Paris terrorist acts. I would not dream of visiting the US while the Donald reigns as hater-in chief. We used to go to Buffalo at least a few times a year, ostensibly for shopping, but really for the Cheesecake Factory. My, albeit low, Canadian dollar is staying in Canada or going to Europe.
5
Basically it sounds like there are still many "what ifs?" Lowering taxes for only the wealthy doesn't mean much to airlines in terms of overall effect. If it's done for everyone, then it's different. Foreign carriers being allowed to operate in the US also seems highly unlikely. The dollar had a strong rally yesterday, but then pulled back (November 18th).
Some sentiments here are based on fear of places that were strong for Trump, but I don't think most visitors to the US go to the rural areas here that went strong for Trump.
We do have a great culture, diversity and cuisine. We can't forget about those who may consider it more of an "adventure" to visit the US. Tourists may want to visit a "blue area" out of sheer curiousity.
More needs to be revealed. It still seems to early to really know how protectionist Trump's administration will be. What if there is social unrest in the big, urban areas? We just don't know enough yet.
Some sentiments here are based on fear of places that were strong for Trump, but I don't think most visitors to the US go to the rural areas here that went strong for Trump.
We do have a great culture, diversity and cuisine. We can't forget about those who may consider it more of an "adventure" to visit the US. Tourists may want to visit a "blue area" out of sheer curiousity.
More needs to be revealed. It still seems to early to really know how protectionist Trump's administration will be. What if there is social unrest in the big, urban areas? We just don't know enough yet.
1
As an Asian American, I have always appreciated being able to travel to other places within the US, sometimes where I am the only non-white-but-non-foreign-tourist face. I now will think twice about visiting some of these places, because of the small possibility that a trump supporter will feel braver about saying what he really thinks about me. But maybe that's what many people in some of those places would have preferred anyway.
3
There will be plenty of foreigners visiting America for the novelty factor. Ironically, they will probably go to "blue state" places like NYC or LA or SF. People in Europe loooove California especially Hollywood.
As far as myself, I plan to see as many National Parks before they are sold off.
As far as myself, I plan to see as many National Parks before they are sold off.
9
I thought this was a travel blog. Boy, was I mistaken. It's just another tirade.
So much for seeking advice on travel from this site.
So much for seeking advice on travel from this site.
1
As a Canadian who travels to the U.S. several times a year for holidays, I will spend my thousands of vacation dollars elsewhere.
18
Expat London - Add Seattle, Washington, Portland, Oregon and Mexico to your list.
All sane places now that the inmates have taken over the asylum.
All sane places now that the inmates have taken over the asylum.
1
Barack Obama is more travel-friendly, including sending bomber jets to the egregious Saudi's aggression in Yemen. Bon appetit!
2
My wife and I have travelled frequently to the US (especially New York City and New England) during the past 10 years. While we always enjoyed our trips, we cannot rationalize continuing such trips under the Trump presidency. We will avoid it like the plague.
9
Americans have shown the world who they truly are. I will no longer try to apologise and explain for them.
I would suggest to tourists from the whole world to boycott Texas, Florida, Mississippi - all the deeply red states. Feel free to go commiserate with people in California, New York, Chicago and Boston! They are like hostages chained to a nation of idiots.
I would suggest to tourists from the whole world to boycott Texas, Florida, Mississippi - all the deeply red states. Feel free to go commiserate with people in California, New York, Chicago and Boston! They are like hostages chained to a nation of idiots.
27
This is a matter of Urban vs. Rural, and there are so many of us in the South who voted against putting this monster in office. Don't add insult to injury.
14
And the rest of the world could say the same about the UK.
Trump's election has already had an impact on my travel plans. We were scheduled to spend 3 weeks in Naples FL. When I saw that the Gulf Coast of Florida was all "red" I cancelled my condo rental there and rented one on the East - or "blue" coast. I see no reason to spend money in an area that supports Trump. And I well may stop visiting the US altogether once he is in office. There are a lot of places in the world to travel too. I do not want to be in a country with a leader like him... and I do not have to.
23
Governor Cuomo's "refuge" statement will help New York tourism. I think New York City will become a beacon of tolerance in the next four years, and continue to enjoy the benefits of tourism. Other state leaders should follow suit.
6
I've already pasted the electoral map on my desktop and will not travel to any red states - which is fine since CO, NM, the west coast and New England are the best of the U.S. anyway. None of my dollars to Ignorantmerica!
9
highly doubtful i'll be traveling to any red state anytime soon...and especially concerned about how i'll be treated abroad.
5
How does electing Trump change anything about the US? Which is to say rifles (and ammo natch') will continue to be sold at places like gas stations for example.
1
To be honest, I think traveling as an American to certain places before felt less safe and now that Trump is president, I would be less inclined to let it be known I am an American.
At the moment, people in other countries feel like we Americans are at the mercy of our political system by nominating Trump. But as more time goes by if the U.S. remains hostle to other cultures, I could see people in other places being less welcoming to those of us from the U.S.
Time passage has a way of erasing in their minds that the majority of us did not want him to represent us.
At the moment, people in other countries feel like we Americans are at the mercy of our political system by nominating Trump. But as more time goes by if the U.S. remains hostle to other cultures, I could see people in other places being less welcoming to those of us from the U.S.
Time passage has a way of erasing in their minds that the majority of us did not want him to represent us.
6
It is so weird that our soon to be President owns a hotel in D.C. and else where.
On another thought, I'd be more than happy to see less tourists at many US destinations including our National Parks.
I don't think electing Trump will keep away international tourists. They love visiting Vegas and Disney and NYC/LA (& other places) way too much.
America will always be a favored destination of many around the world.
On another thought, I'd be more than happy to see less tourists at many US destinations including our National Parks.
I don't think electing Trump will keep away international tourists. They love visiting Vegas and Disney and NYC/LA (& other places) way too much.
America will always be a favored destination of many around the world.
4
My husband & I have been in Japan for a week & have received an outpouring of sympathy from people of many different nationalities.
22
When I travel overseas I try to meet people, and if we enjoy each others company I invite them to stay with me in the US on vacation. A place to stay in San Francisco is an easy sell.
When I ask my guests where they are going in the US, it's mostly SF, NYC, and one or more of the National Parks. Since those two cities will remain liberal havens, the question for tourists will be what's happening to the Parks.
We need to convince foreign visitors that they are still welcome in the Red stats; that the Parks won't become polluted, strip mined, Frac'd, starved for funds, or de-regulated to allow dirt bikes, dune buggies, and ATV to scar up the landscape, or open season hunting, or concealed carry firearms inside Park boarders.
When I ask my guests where they are going in the US, it's mostly SF, NYC, and one or more of the National Parks. Since those two cities will remain liberal havens, the question for tourists will be what's happening to the Parks.
We need to convince foreign visitors that they are still welcome in the Red stats; that the Parks won't become polluted, strip mined, Frac'd, starved for funds, or de-regulated to allow dirt bikes, dune buggies, and ATV to scar up the landscape, or open season hunting, or concealed carry firearms inside Park boarders.
9
I spent some time in London around the end of '07 through April '08. I was constantly asked, "What is wrong with your country? Bush?? TWICE?!?"
That was the perception, and if you traveled outside of the country around that time, you know exactly what I'm talking about.
If I weren't an American right now, and was asked if I'd be traveling to the United States based on what I'd witnessed of their election, my response would be, "Oh, HELL no!"
That was the perception, and if you traveled outside of the country around that time, you know exactly what I'm talking about.
If I weren't an American right now, and was asked if I'd be traveling to the United States based on what I'd witnessed of their election, my response would be, "Oh, HELL no!"
16
I also spent a fair bit of time in Australia during Bush's terms. I saw a lot of the same sentiment you mentioned - the people were all friendly but dismayed with the US' presidency and policies.
I was also amused that many Aussies presumed me to be Canadian, even though I have a moderate Texas accent. Or it was their way of being nice and giving me an out!
I was also amused that many Aussies presumed me to be Canadian, even though I have a moderate Texas accent. Or it was their way of being nice and giving me an out!
1
Visit national parks, while they still exist.
24
The myopic, immature comments offered by some here (vacation only in blue states, avoid the USA entirely) conflict with one of the fundamental benefits of travel: diversity. Their high handed, if sometimes sarcastic, view underscore why many people voted for Trump: because their views are not respected. Disagreement is different from respect. I abhor Trump's views (though one must say that one is not really sure what they are since they change so much), but I respect the rights of others to have views different from my own. Isn't this what we've fought for in the USA? We've enjoyed dramatic acceptance of LBGT, cannibis, etc., You can say that white middle class have long been coddled, that too many federal tax dollars go to red states: all true. As a Christian, I was raised to accept the views of others, and to try to understand them.
Of course people can do whatever they want. But, if you're only going to blue states or avoiding USA entirely, you are seeking travel opportunities that only agree with your own views, and only increasing the differences between peoples.
I travel 150 days each year, 100 for business. I enjoy talking with Europeans about the US not being monolithic, that the Constitution vests powers in States except for that specifically delegated to the federal government. And to Chinese about democracy, which is more challenging today, but still a constructive conversation.
Of course people can do whatever they want. But, if you're only going to blue states or avoiding USA entirely, you are seeking travel opportunities that only agree with your own views, and only increasing the differences between peoples.
I travel 150 days each year, 100 for business. I enjoy talking with Europeans about the US not being monolithic, that the Constitution vests powers in States except for that specifically delegated to the federal government. And to Chinese about democracy, which is more challenging today, but still a constructive conversation.
4
I respectfully disagree. I do embrace a diversity of views, and indeed enjoy spirited arguments with people who hold views different than my own. In fact, that is precisely why I support free speech, immigration and well-researched journalism that can broaden my understanding of others' views and experiences. Many around the world have long appreciated the leadership of the US in expressing these values proudly. So many of us are distressed at the idea of a President Trump, and one small way to express our disapproval of the ideas he has espoused is to boycott the US as a tourism destination. I did not make this choice flippantly, as you suggest, but from a place of sadness.
3
Already there are reports of harrassments, beatings of nonwhites and gays since trump was elected after his calls for bigotry and violence at his rallies. I assume Mr. Skier is a white Christian and truly never experienced, understands being a racial minority in his America. As a Asian I do not feel safe in certain parts of my country, being called slurs or told to go back to my country although I was born in a America. The ignorance is extraodinary. Sitted next to a woman North Carolina I was asked where I came from and if I or my parents were Communists! I was shocked at such xenophobia. Has Mr. Skier experienced walking in a store in the south and suddenly all talk stops and all eyes stare at you? Under trump it's worst. Instead of stares there could be physical attacks such as happened to a Canadian on election night in a Santa Monica, CA bar. As trump was winning, anti-gay shouts at the Canadian and when he left the bar he was attacked with beer bottles. Then there's the grandad from India, taking a walk from his son's Texas home who was attacked, paralyzed because he was assumed to be Muslin. Yes, I as a Asian minority in America, will avoid certain areas of my America because rather than just stares or slights, violence has been legitimized by trump. I and minority tourists must avoid areas in the USA! Mr. Skier, you are a white Christian you do not thave experiences, understanding, nor perspective of minorities in America. It has just gotten very dangerous for us!
37
Fair enough. Thank you for your considerate reply.
The US trend is abhorrent, but part of a right-wing reaction. Have you crossed the UK off your travel list? Racism has increased there since Brexit. France is expected to give a victory, or strong showing to Marie LePen in May. Will you cross France off your list then? In Denmark and Austria, right wing parties are 2nd most popular, and there have been racism incidents there. Where does one stop?
The US trend is abhorrent, but part of a right-wing reaction. Have you crossed the UK off your travel list? Racism has increased there since Brexit. France is expected to give a victory, or strong showing to Marie LePen in May. Will you cross France off your list then? In Denmark and Austria, right wing parties are 2nd most popular, and there have been racism incidents there. Where does one stop?
I will continue to enjoy my very nice life and see the world. If people do not want to travel the U.S. or visit the U.S. or if they want to leave let them. No one is forcing anyone to stay here. As I read these ridiculous comments, I see the left is continuing to throw out their continuous hatred; sad for them.
5
they will never stop. You need to ignore them. I only looked at this section today and it's still here. It seems like the only way to get away from it is to stop looking at the paper at all.
@Janice of Ridgewood - I agreed with you until you went all Breitbart in the last sentence.
Me? I left decades ago. I have been everywhere and I only come back to visit family; it isn't a political thing because I am reconciled to the reality that the country has an existential thirst for reactionary policies decades ago.
Me? I left decades ago. I have been everywhere and I only come back to visit family; it isn't a political thing because I am reconciled to the reality that the country has an existential thirst for reactionary policies decades ago.
3
Manhattan will be more overrun with Europeans than it already is.
5
Trump is worried about civil rights in Cuba and other countries while he entertains deportations of millions and discrimination against Muslims, not to mention dictatorial type measure like vetting individuals for "proper values". He forgets that, like love, you don't impose loyalty, you earn it.
24
People who have entered this country illegally have no right except to be deported. In other words, they have no right to be here.
'Right' or not it is completely naive (at best) to think without them our economy would run the same. Almost all agriculture, food service & hotel industries, meat & poultry packing plants employ HUGE numbers of undocumented workers, never mind landscapers, maintenance crews, etc. They contribute to SSI over 12 billion annually, money they will never see. And those 11 million people also rent apts, buy goods & services boosting often-sagging economies in many U.S. areas. Dream on if you think a head of lettuce or a roast chicken will be affordable if they're gone!!! Are YOU going to do that kind of work for low pay, long hours & without complaint? Highly doubtful!!
4
So keeping things affordable means taking advantage of agricultural workers? That's more cruel than deporting them.
We need proof of that SS contribution rate.
How abut the costs?
IRS says they get snookered for $10B in fraudulent EITC claims for those who file.
48,000 checks issued to one address in Atlanta $10M
One address in North Carolina reaps 120+ checks addressed to Hispanics. No Hispanics live there. 90+ y/o woman doesn't check the box often and someone forget to pick up the checks.
One illegal in Charlotte made 153 emergency room visits in 15 months, Over 100 sets of X-Rays made.
One meat packer busted here a few years ago, 400 illegals picked up. Two months later company has replaced them with Americans.
I don't see any fairness working people cheap so you can buy food cheap. Hire people legally entitled to work here and pay the difference. American citizens should have first dibs on all jobs here. If it costs more then it costs more. Either that or you can keep paying the social services and incarceration expenses. Which do you think is cheaper?
We need proof of that SS contribution rate.
How abut the costs?
IRS says they get snookered for $10B in fraudulent EITC claims for those who file.
48,000 checks issued to one address in Atlanta $10M
One address in North Carolina reaps 120+ checks addressed to Hispanics. No Hispanics live there. 90+ y/o woman doesn't check the box often and someone forget to pick up the checks.
One illegal in Charlotte made 153 emergency room visits in 15 months, Over 100 sets of X-Rays made.
One meat packer busted here a few years ago, 400 illegals picked up. Two months later company has replaced them with Americans.
I don't see any fairness working people cheap so you can buy food cheap. Hire people legally entitled to work here and pay the difference. American citizens should have first dibs on all jobs here. If it costs more then it costs more. Either that or you can keep paying the social services and incarceration expenses. Which do you think is cheaper?
2
I am a white male. I was born and raised and have lived my whole life in the United States. And now I have to say I would not feel comfortable traveling in wide swaths of this blood-thirsty, gun-crazed, xenophobic nation. For me one of the joys in travel is discovering something off the beaten track. I would be more at ease doing that in China than in Georgia, or the militia country of northern Michigan, etc.
43
You clearly need get out more into the "blood-thirsty, gun-crazed, xenophobic" parts of the nation. You will be pleasantly surprised.
1
Go to Cuba while you can, folks. And try to go on a "People to People" group tour, as my wife and I did in October. This will show you the real Cuba, as opposed to taking a cruise or just staying in a beach resort.
Take American dollars, which you can convert at hotels to Cuban convertible pesos. Our hotels were pretty decent. I'm sure the rum and cigars are good, but I preferred the coffee -- "un cappuccino, por favor." On a tour you will have a Cuban tour guide and a busy schedule, but it's really worth it. Just don't worry too much about the propaganda videos on the tour bus. Many Cuban people actually seem to be doing pretty well while plowing their fields with horses and oxen. There is little racism, as far as we could tell. Get a clue, United States.
Best thing for us was visiting schools, artists' studios and other "people to people" contacts. The traditional Cuban music is wonderful. We were amazed to visit Old Habana while much of it is being restored, prior to the city's 500th anniversary in 2019. And the colorful 1950s cars aren't just in museums. Hundreds of people are driving them every day. Wow!
Take American dollars, which you can convert at hotels to Cuban convertible pesos. Our hotels were pretty decent. I'm sure the rum and cigars are good, but I preferred the coffee -- "un cappuccino, por favor." On a tour you will have a Cuban tour guide and a busy schedule, but it's really worth it. Just don't worry too much about the propaganda videos on the tour bus. Many Cuban people actually seem to be doing pretty well while plowing their fields with horses and oxen. There is little racism, as far as we could tell. Get a clue, United States.
Best thing for us was visiting schools, artists' studios and other "people to people" contacts. The traditional Cuban music is wonderful. We were amazed to visit Old Habana while much of it is being restored, prior to the city's 500th anniversary in 2019. And the colorful 1950s cars aren't just in museums. Hundreds of people are driving them every day. Wow!
15
The election campaign has reanimated suspicion about American attitudes to foreigners. Not the informed, literate and worldly Americans whose lives are depicted in the NYT and celebrated for their progressive views. The election has stripped away the thin veneer and exposed a distressing decay beneath.
For many of us the prospect of being on the receiving end of such emotion is deeply unsettling. Few of us outside the US imagine that a visit to Orlando is likely to be unsafe; inside the bubble of those manufactured attractions management will make sure that the smiles of their employees remain on display. But how to interpret Americans outside these Potemkin utopias?
Are the lovely historic towns in Carolina and Georgia truly hospitable? What of scenic Appalachia and the Rust Belt states where anger seems to have metamorphosed into overt expressions of racism?
Travel should be fun. It should be enlightening and uplifting. It is unlikely that I will choose to visit the United States over the next few years. It isn’t about only visiting Blue states, or punishing attitudes by withholding travel dollars. We will seek the true relaxation that comes from travel in more peaceful and predictable lands where there is much to learn and less to buy. For many of us here in Canada the option is to travel at home. It isn’t perfect and the weather can be challenging, but the national spirit is hospitable and exciting and inclusive cities stand in rebuke to thoughts of rejection.
For many of us the prospect of being on the receiving end of such emotion is deeply unsettling. Few of us outside the US imagine that a visit to Orlando is likely to be unsafe; inside the bubble of those manufactured attractions management will make sure that the smiles of their employees remain on display. But how to interpret Americans outside these Potemkin utopias?
Are the lovely historic towns in Carolina and Georgia truly hospitable? What of scenic Appalachia and the Rust Belt states where anger seems to have metamorphosed into overt expressions of racism?
Travel should be fun. It should be enlightening and uplifting. It is unlikely that I will choose to visit the United States over the next few years. It isn’t about only visiting Blue states, or punishing attitudes by withholding travel dollars. We will seek the true relaxation that comes from travel in more peaceful and predictable lands where there is much to learn and less to buy. For many of us here in Canada the option is to travel at home. It isn’t perfect and the weather can be challenging, but the national spirit is hospitable and exciting and inclusive cities stand in rebuke to thoughts of rejection.
22
It's alright if you don't come. We have enough people taking "medical vacations" to make up the difference. They come for those knee and hip replacements that take years to schedule at home in Canada. When a provincial governor comes to the US for a heart procedure that's good advertising for US health care despite what our own people think of it.
I can always tell when it's Can-Am Days in Myrtle Beach. That's when we start to see Canadian coins in our change from the store.
I can always tell when it's Can-Am Days in Myrtle Beach. That's when we start to see Canadian coins in our change from the store.
3
I, like the majority of Canadians, am horrified by the election of Trump. I will endeavour not to visit the US during his term of office.
28
I am a retired, white, Canadian male, supposedly Trump's demographic except for my nationality. My reaction to the election, other than amazement and horror, will simply be not to travel to the United States for the next four years, not because I would feel unsafe but because I can't support a bigoted, racist, sexist, xenophobic, lying con man. I travel a lot, and I also made a point of not going to the U.S. between March of 2003 and 2008.
I went to dinner with seven friends last night and we all agreed that if Trump built a wall along the Mexican border, we wouldn't mind if he put one along the 49th parallel as well. That way perhaps we won't get blamed for allowing terrorists into your country at the same time we're providing lodging for your citizens who were grounded in Newfoundland.
And to our American friends who are just as appalled as I am, you have my sincere sympathies. I see he has appointed a climate change denier to head the EPA. Wow. Just... wow. Good luck.
I went to dinner with seven friends last night and we all agreed that if Trump built a wall along the Mexican border, we wouldn't mind if he put one along the 49th parallel as well. That way perhaps we won't get blamed for allowing terrorists into your country at the same time we're providing lodging for your citizens who were grounded in Newfoundland.
And to our American friends who are just as appalled as I am, you have my sincere sympathies. I see he has appointed a climate change denier to head the EPA. Wow. Just... wow. Good luck.
46
I always travel on foreign airlines, they are friendlier and offer better services, when it comes to hotels or anything with the trump brand, that has been taken off my list, the donald is an embarrassment to many of us...
26
Viking River Cruises will do fine since Trump supporters seem to dominate their clientele. About three weeks before the election, we went on a trip through Munich, Salzburg, and then on the river to Budapest. It was mostly Americans, and Trump supporters seemed about 80%; not very pleasant and we tried to keep quiet. A main attraction to travel had been to meet and talk to other people.
16
Hmm, the only people I know who voted for Trump have also gone on a Viking River Cruise. Thanks for the info.
4
Good to know! I was considering a river cruise; guess I'll steer away from Viking.
4
I just returned from a trip to Vancouver. Took a plane in São Paulo with a connection in Dallas. Going through immigration I got separated from my husband. We are both doctors. I am blonde, he's dark-skinned. While waiting for him I met other blonde people who had also been separated from their dark-skinned husbands/wives. Having been traveling to the US at least two times a year for the last 21 years (first time in Texas) it has never happened before! I guess I won't be traveling to the US for the next four years!
25
You do know that Trump is not currently the president. This happened to you while under the Obama administration.
2
I don't think that president Obama is the one who enables racism! I don't know if what happened at the airport was a big coincidence but it was unusual. My husband doesn't speak English and when I tried to explain that, I was yelled at! It is not a good way to start a vacation. Although I love the US, Canada is the best choice for me right now! BTW, you do know that foreigners are been harassed in the US since the president elected started his campaign, don't you?
4
Unfortunately it seems as if my comment was not submitted - so I just wanted to point out that I hope the election will not lead to a decline in Tourism because the newly elected government will be hostile towards tourists. The US is a great country and I sincerely hope that everything will turn out good.
2
Part of me wants to totally boycott the USA. This is difficult as I am American. Fifteen years ago in Europe the second thing we would say was, "We did not vote for Bush." Immediately faces relaxed and we could continue becoming friends. For this election day we were in Portugal (Azores). I think everyone assumed a Clinton win and were in various stages of concern at the result. This included the local people. Again our mantra will be, "We did not vote for him." I hope we can still be friends.
19
Alas, backwards to the Vietnam War days when as a U.S. traveller abroad you were more comfortable traveling with a Canadian flag emblem sewn to your backpack . . . so sad, I was so proud of our country the last 8 yrs.
3
The world views trump with concern, no doubt about that. Politicians make a lot of statements about everything to get elected, and Trump is no different. Let's wait and see what he does before we go off the deep end. All this talk in the press about what Trump may or may not do just brings more angst. Predicting the future is hard to do, i.e. the past election.
2
Nonsense. It's never ok to spew hate to win public office. You should expect more from your leaders. I know I do.
23
He announced his victory on the eve of the 78th anniversary of Kristallnacht. We must be ever vigilant in ensuring that our nation respects the dignity of every human being or else millions have died and we have learned nothing.
12
Already there are reports of upswing of harrassments, beatings of nonwhites and gays across the country since trump was elected with his legitimatizing violence during his rallies. As a Asian I do not feel safe in certain parts of my country, being called slurs or told to go back to my country although I was born in a America. The ignorance is extraodinary. Sitted next to a woman in Appalatian North Carolina at a civilized ballet concert, she asked where I was from and if I and my parents are Communists!! I was apalled. No I do not feel comfortable when walk in a store in the south and suddenly all talking stops and I'm stared at. Now with trump legitimizing violence I will stay away from certain areas of the USA. If you are a white American you don't know what it is to be a minority in my America. I would advise nonwhite foreigners to avoid certain areas of America as I will now. Remember the old man from India who with his darker skin and features when out for a walk from his son's Texas house and was beaten unconscious and paralysed by a bigot who thought he was a Muslim. Minority foreign tourists and American minorities beware!
4
It's time to buy Canadian maple leaf lapel pins to wear when traveling to other countries, especially the Middle East. During the George W. years, I found that wearing these warded off hostility and painful conversations about why on earth anyone would live in the United States.
16
I am a Canadian and I live in the United States and proud of it. Canada is a great country and so is the United States, I am lucky enough to have dual citizenship to these two great countries.
Please do not wear Canadian Maple Leaf pins if you are not Canadian. As a Canadian I resent this. While travelling I have often met Americans pretending to be Canadian, and, unfortunately, sometimes they have not acted in very positive ways. I don't pretend to be American. Please do not pretend to be Canadian. Thank you.
1
A number of my overseas friends have already begun their own little boycott of the US with one placing the US in the same category of Venezuela, another of his no go tos.
Me. I'm hightailing it out of the south and going back to my home in the northwest where hopefully we'll secede.
Me. I'm hightailing it out of the south and going back to my home in the northwest where hopefully we'll secede.
14
I love travelling internationally, but I couldn't bear to show my face overseas with Trump as president. Too much shame.
As others have noted, foreigners tend to hold one personally accountable for the folly of one's countrymen. This quickly becomes wearisome, especially as--in my experience-- no answer ever satisfies them, or defuses the guilt-by-association.
So, it's U.S. travel only for the next four years. Blue states only, needless to say. Trump's america isn't getting a dime of my money.
As others have noted, foreigners tend to hold one personally accountable for the folly of one's countrymen. This quickly becomes wearisome, especially as--in my experience-- no answer ever satisfies them, or defuses the guilt-by-association.
So, it's U.S. travel only for the next four years. Blue states only, needless to say. Trump's america isn't getting a dime of my money.
17
I am a Muslim and I have been to the US a couple of times, even having the fortune of studying aboard there (ironically enough during the first election of Obama). Up to this day, I have never met so many kind, respectful and good-hearted people as in the US. Every reluctancy and scepticism I had before I went there was blown away by the incredible welcome culture I have yet to see somewhere else and it certainly was the best time of my life. The people in the US definitely changed me for the better and for that I will be forever thankful. I was thinking of travelling in the next year to the US for old times sake but right now I dont even know if I am welcomed anymore. Even though I respect the decision of the US voters, its breaks my heart to hear that due to my faith, I might not be welcomed anymore, even though being as pro-US as a foreigner can be. So I am inclined to not travel to the US, just to keep the picture of this incredible country that stuck in my mind and heart. I sincerely hope that everything turns out better than expected, but it pains me to say that its hard to motivate myself to travel to a place where people voted for a policy that disrespects everything I had learned before and doesnt even want me there. So as long as Mr.Trump doesnt come clear of whether he welcomes Muslims or not without being met with more prejudice than there already is, I will sadly not be travelling there anymore.
23
Beautifully written, thank you Eddy! Please do remember over 1/2 the voters did vote for Hillary, we've not all gone crazy. The 'Blue States' welcome you back!
4
We, a white American couple, spent our USA winters in RSA(Sea Point, Cape Town) for the past 16 years.
We had a lovely flat on the Atlantic seaboard which we just sold in April due
to health, (Although medical facilities there are excellent and affordable),
Jacob Zuma is a very bad president, but the Western Cape is run by good
folks. Now we have to consider which is worse, Zuma or Trump, Last spring
a black lady on the bus in Cape Town asked me if Trump would be our next
president, I told her not to worry ,that that would never happen.
Well, what a stupid thing for me to say.
We had a lovely flat on the Atlantic seaboard which we just sold in April due
to health, (Although medical facilities there are excellent and affordable),
Jacob Zuma is a very bad president, but the Western Cape is run by good
folks. Now we have to consider which is worse, Zuma or Trump, Last spring
a black lady on the bus in Cape Town asked me if Trump would be our next
president, I told her not to worry ,that that would never happen.
Well, what a stupid thing for me to say.
19
I haven't visited Canada, my homeland, for quite some time as I've been seeing more of the US. But why risk visiting states full of hostile, racist people? I'll be heading up north whenever I need a sanity fix.
16
25% of the middle class can't afford to take week long vacations. These are the sort of folks who voted for Trump. If Trump delivers oh his promises to them, total tourism dollars will go way up.
2
Time will tell, I guess. As a regular visitor to the US, Trump's election is unlikely to reduce my frequency of travel to California or the northeast, though as an Australian from a minority background, I'd be more circumspect about visiting rural areas in the South or Midwest. In all honesty, these areas aren't high on one's bucket list. There are still plenty of places to go in the US that are beautiful, both scenically and culturally.
6
Under Obama, when my family travelled to the US as a same-sex mixed race married couple, we felt comfortable crossing the US border. The border patrol union supported Trump and everything he stands for. If there is any disrespect at the border going forward, we will cease our travel to the US and consider selling our second home there.
15
You know, Trump is a disgrace and in my own international travels this year, I met people who were as flabbergasted as I that he was making the progress he was. Now he is the incoming president! Appalling...
But, really, Stephanie, you interviewed "experts" ONE day after the election. As far as travel goes, why don't you wait a bit to get an accurate read? On what basis do these people even comment? Some of their comments might be as worthless as those of the pundits who were in the echo chamber that saw HRC's election as inevitable.
Not to mention, we have more important things to worry about at this point, like who will be named to Trump's cabinet.
But, really, Stephanie, you interviewed "experts" ONE day after the election. As far as travel goes, why don't you wait a bit to get an accurate read? On what basis do these people even comment? Some of their comments might be as worthless as those of the pundits who were in the echo chamber that saw HRC's election as inevitable.
Not to mention, we have more important things to worry about at this point, like who will be named to Trump's cabinet.
8
And heaven help those of us who live in New York, especially in midtown Manhattan. Word is that Trump doesn't want to spend more time than is necessary in DC, and will be spending his weekends in NY (not at Camp David, like his predecessors.) The trafffic jams resulting from security around Trump Tower and elsewhere in the neighborhood are horrendous (and I can only guess at the cost; I saw busloads of cops being ferried away earlier today i an apparent shift change). But it does seem a popular destination for tourists, especially Brits. I guess they are big reality TV fans and like him from that.
I have been thinking of leaving Manhattan and this may be what it takes me to leave. I know there's been a lot of joking about people fleeing to Canada, but I would really appreciate some serious info regarding immigration requirements -- especially in western europe -- for retirement age people. While I haven't ruled out staying in North America, I would like some info on other options.
I have been thinking of leaving Manhattan and this may be what it takes me to leave. I know there's been a lot of joking about people fleeing to Canada, but I would really appreciate some serious info regarding immigration requirements -- especially in western europe -- for retirement age people. While I haven't ruled out staying in North America, I would like some info on other options.
12
The White House is probably 'slum housing' compared to Trump Tower.
2
Hope to see you soon!
As a Canadian who abhors the vile policies of America's President-Elect, I welcome any Americans who want to visit or move to Canada, but I will not visit any red states for the duration.
16
Do you have a spare room or couch?
3
For all those commenting on travel boycotts to red states: please look more closely at your election result maps before making such generalizations. Many
3
Very blue cities exist within some newly red states. Don't throw the baby out with the bath water!
17
Why? Isn't that what libs do, if they haven't aborted them?
Firstly, Welcome back Stef!
There are many places I want to visit in the States, like many others, blue states are where I'll spend my dollars.
There are many places I want to visit in the States, like many others, blue states are where I'll spend my dollars.
6
When I fly anywhere outside the US, I try to use a non-American airline. Why? Service and pleasant staff. I wish the protectionism of US airlines that makes it impossible for for non US airlines to pick up passengers in the US and carry them to another US city should end. I have flown Air France and Emirates and Thomas Cook to places in Europe. I recommend all three, even their coach is pleasant. The cabin staff work during the entire flight and their single aim seems to be to please passengers. I contrast this with the last flight I had on United that had very uncomfortable seats, passengers were truly crammed in and the cabin staff hid in the kitchen throughout most of the flight. Long ago I discovered that their slogan of "Fly the friendly skies of United" should be changed to "fly the surly skies of United if you can stand it".
US airlines need to offer more non-stop flights between major cities. When I fly from San Francisco to the east coast I do not want to stop in some middle of the US city.
US airlines need to offer more non-stop flights between major cities. When I fly from San Francisco to the east coast I do not want to stop in some middle of the US city.
23
Yes, service on foreign airlines is superior. More space too, in economy, and food that tastes edible, if not outright tasty.
Flying outside the US does not involve the excesses of TSA security procedures. Yes there is screening at check-in, but nothing as demeaning as the US, and you can even stick a bottle of wine in your carry-on to gift to your next host.
Flying outside the US does not involve the excesses of TSA security procedures. Yes there is screening at check-in, but nothing as demeaning as the US, and you can even stick a bottle of wine in your carry-on to gift to your next host.
15
You should be encouraging the building of high-speed rail, then, and you don't have to fly.
1
I am encouraging the US to build better rail service and upgrade existing lines. High speed rail would also be nice. I would like to see something like the French TGV I the US.
2
As a retired "WASP" Brit who is strongly opposed to Brexit, I'm horrified enough by what my own country has become, and am working on my personal Exit from Britain strategy. Over the years I have enjoyed many excellent vacations in various parts of the US, and have many more years of vacationing ahead of me - but none of them will be spent in the US. 4 years, perhaps 8, of Trump, and a further 20 years to undo the damage - my travelling days will be over by then.
31
I am one of the millions of Deplorable Americans who proudly voted for Mr. Trump and I applaud your decision to stay away from the US. I was delighted when the Brits decided to exit the EU and am planning a trip so that I can tell everyone I meet how happy I am for them. May I suggest that you move your whining carcass to Sweden, Cuba or maybe Russia where socialism is still in style. We Americans don't like it when outsiders criticize our choices. The American Revolution should have taught you that.
2
Speak for yourself, Barbara. Remember, Austin is in Texas and apparently much weirder than advertised...
13
Perhaps you should visit other countries other than the USA? Placing Russia, Cuba, and Sweden in the same category is laughable.
10
As a person of colour, I will not spend my tourist dollars in the US where black people are systematically targeted by police. For the past few years I have enjoyed vacations in my home country of Canada and abroad. With Trump as president, my policy of boycotting the US will certainly not be changing anytime soon.
40
I will not be spending any of my tourist dollars in any red states. Period.
57
Me neither. I have already changed plans to revisit Alaska. I will try not to spend any money in red states or counties.
6
I sympathize with your viewpoint. But here I sit, in Pennsylvania, a blue state that just went red! It's always been the case that outside Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is Trump country. But Pittsburgh, my city, has been on the map of "best places" for tourists, young people, entrepreneurs, and culture-vultures for years now. Come and visit us! We're surrounded by Trump-Pence signs but here in Pittsburgh we love diversity!
5
It's not just "states" that mattered. As the graphics from the Washington Post show, vast swaths of the country-- mostly outside of the major cities-- were red. Especially when you look at the county-by-county analysis.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/2016-election-results/us-presidential-race/
https://www.washingtonpost.com/2016-election-results/us-presidential-race/
1
It is already disheartening that certain groups, such as women, LGBTQ, Muslims, and visible minorities are already being harassed in Trump's America. As someone from a visible minority background, who wants to be a visitor (or citizen) subject to such treatment?
In planning a future trip, I've already had to inquire about this phenomenon with visitors' bureaus with two particular Pacific Northwest cities, and they are in states that voted blue. I'd like to visit these two cities sooner rather later, and certainly the prospect of visiting other parts of the United States will be put on hold until it's tangible that visitors who come from a diverse background won't be threatened.
Perhaps this is the time to explore more of home.
In planning a future trip, I've already had to inquire about this phenomenon with visitors' bureaus with two particular Pacific Northwest cities, and they are in states that voted blue. I'd like to visit these two cities sooner rather later, and certainly the prospect of visiting other parts of the United States will be put on hold until it's tangible that visitors who come from a diverse background won't be threatened.
Perhaps this is the time to explore more of home.
31
"It is already disheartening that certain groups, such as women, LGBTQ, Muslims, and visible minorities are already being harassed in Trump's America."
I'd be most interested to know where these incidents are taking place. As of now the only harassment I've read of is by Liberal "protesters" destroying property and harassing Trump voters.
I'd be most interested to know where these incidents are taking place. As of now the only harassment I've read of is by Liberal "protesters" destroying property and harassing Trump voters.
Whoa, seriously??!!!! Then someone's being very selective then about their 'news' -- sadly they're in the HUNDREDS! And often by kids against kids -- wake up!
http://nymag.com/daily/intelligencer/2016/11/hundreds-of-hate-crimes-rep...
https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/education/wp/2016/11/10/middle-schoo...
http://nymag.com/daily/intelligencer/2016/11/hundreds-of-hate-crimes-rep...
https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/education/wp/2016/11/10/middle-schoo...
2
Listen to BBC.
Listen to NPR.
Listen to AlJezera.
Listen to NPR.
Listen to AlJezera.
Following 9/11 MENA market stopped coming and above all investing into tourism. Naturally this also heavily impacted medical tourism ,students enrollment and real estate investment and was finally starting to grow after heavy investment in the region in the past 5-10 years.
Following Trump's comments to Arab/Muslim world, the negative impact will be again felt.
Furthermore if Trump govt decides to support the USA airlines and block expansion from legacy carriers based in the Middle East. The retaliation from companies such as QR,EK and EY will be to stop buying planes from Boeing and move to Airbus.
Finally this will be an era of W Bush X 100, the world view on USA/Americans will be very negative, impacting soft power will be felt.
Following Trump's comments to Arab/Muslim world, the negative impact will be again felt.
Furthermore if Trump govt decides to support the USA airlines and block expansion from legacy carriers based in the Middle East. The retaliation from companies such as QR,EK and EY will be to stop buying planes from Boeing and move to Airbus.
Finally this will be an era of W Bush X 100, the world view on USA/Americans will be very negative, impacting soft power will be felt.
16
As with the Brexit decision, the election of Trump represents a violent closing-off of America from the world. Trump and his nativist, alt-right cronies are planning to do everything in their power to make the provinciality and ignorance their rural, uneducated, white voter base into the law of the land. This kind of isolationism is of a Cold War vintage. It is going to deprive millions of people of the opportunity to ensure their safety (through immigration), access affordable goods (through trade), and broaden their world view. The majority of Trump voters may be middle-aged or elderly, but this is a tragedy for the younger generation.
26
The majority of Trump voters can't afford to stay in Trump hotels. By the
way, most Trump voters will not be invited to Mar-a-Lago.
way, most Trump voters will not be invited to Mar-a-Lago.
7
My recommendations:
1.) Foreign tourist go somewhere else, do not spend you money in this country;
2.)US citizens go overseas, spend as much as you can in other countries and as little as you have to in the US. Also, try to limit any US purchases to Blue State areas;
3.) If you want to go to Cuba then do so soon. You might not have that option for long;
4.) Never stay in a Trump owned, operated or named property.
1.) Foreign tourist go somewhere else, do not spend you money in this country;
2.)US citizens go overseas, spend as much as you can in other countries and as little as you have to in the US. Also, try to limit any US purchases to Blue State areas;
3.) If you want to go to Cuba then do so soon. You might not have that option for long;
4.) Never stay in a Trump owned, operated or named property.
96
Please go as soon as possible and do not return to the US. I suggest you go to Cuba and stay there. If you prefer to shop in a blue state, that will mean your shopping will be limited to the Northeast and the West Coast.
2
Recently retired I had long planned to circumnavigate North America. Because of this election I won't be visiting any state that elected Donald. Don't need to reward poor behaviour with my hard earned dollars.
46
As a US citizen living in Australia for twenty years, I came back to New York, my hometown, every couple of years. I will not visit the US while Donald Trump is president. I would not feel safe in the US given his disgusting rhetoric about women, Jews ( of which I am one) and his change of policy towards a two-state resolution in the Middle East. As the daughter of a woman born in Palestine, I have even more reason to feel unsafe. I grieve for what my country has become.
66
I find this 'rich' coming from a country where 'boat people' have been and still are being detained on Manus and Nauru Islands....has been going on for years. Starting with the government of John Howard thru to present day Malcolm Turnbull.
And, the US has just agreed to the resettlement of some of these refugees to US soil? Because Australia doesn't want them.
I am not thrilled with and did not vote for Mr Trump, btw. Just thought I would throw in a different perspective.
No place is perfect. I lived overseas for a number of years during the reign of George W and felt the pain of explaining or not to people curious.
I also lived in Perth Australia so I have somewhat of a perspective.
And, the US has just agreed to the resettlement of some of these refugees to US soil? Because Australia doesn't want them.
I am not thrilled with and did not vote for Mr Trump, btw. Just thought I would throw in a different perspective.
No place is perfect. I lived overseas for a number of years during the reign of George W and felt the pain of explaining or not to people curious.
I also lived in Perth Australia so I have somewhat of a perspective.
1
I am a Canadian that has volunteered throughout the US and travelled extensively...i will only be going to Blue states if at all.
60
Trump is going to provoke a war, and that will kill tourism for everybody.
28
Many of my friends in Europe, absolutly astonished at the stupidity of the American electorate, told me they will skip their visits to the States for forseeable times. There are many other countries to visit, beautiful, with lots of ancient cultures, which seem to enjoy visitis by foreigners. The general mood, to see us as a hate spitting, loud, superficial, pretentious and hollow nation has been cemented further, not by foreigners, we did this to ourselves. If they want to see a great wall, they go to China, or Berlin these days, where history shows how futile those buildings were.
83
Understood. But remember -the blue states are very beautiful.
3
We travel to NY, Boston and CT at least twice a year to do all our shopping and enjoy the cities. It hurts... but we made a promise to stop until this madness is over..maybe 4 to 8 years. Americans will decide again...but maybe it will continue in the form or Giuliani or Christie...or Charles Manson.
33
Try shopping in Oregon - there's no sales tax, and we're "blue!"
7
As we were checking into our flight home from South Africa last month, a worker for the airline stopped to ask us if we were going to vote for Trump. "A lot of people from this country want to visit the US, but we will not if he is president."
36
What about Americans travelling abroad? It's likely Americans will feel much less welcome in other countries with Trump as president. To me, there was noticeable increase in friendliness towards Americans when the presidency transitioned from Bush to Obama. With Trump as president, Americans will probably be less likely to travel abroad - I'll be planning a US vacation this summer - in a blue state.
49
the rest of the world understands that the majority of Americans did NOT vote for the Donald, I am sure we will be treated with respect when we travel overseas, but of course the rest of the world have their own versions of our Donald too...
3
it may or may not be a significant number, but there are white people that are no longer interested in travelling to the United States. I know many of them, and I face one in the mirror every morning.
56
“We are going to fix our inner cities and rebuild our highways, bridges, tunnels, airports, schools, hospitals,” Mr. Trump said during his victory speech.
That won't be done for a long time, and any airport under construction is one I want to avoid. I had to travel internationally for years after 9/11 and the Bush DHLS regulations on travel to the US resulted in reciprocal red tape from other countries towards American travelers. Throw in retribution for Trump's promised tariff wars and we can alol just plan on going to Disney Land for the next 4 years.
It was hard enough for me personally to explain George Bush to the rest of the world, there is no way to explain Trump. Everyone asks you. Everyone. Since you're a "crass blunt American", they are not delicate about it. The conversation usually starts something like "Are American crazy?"
That won't be done for a long time, and any airport under construction is one I want to avoid. I had to travel internationally for years after 9/11 and the Bush DHLS regulations on travel to the US resulted in reciprocal red tape from other countries towards American travelers. Throw in retribution for Trump's promised tariff wars and we can alol just plan on going to Disney Land for the next 4 years.
It was hard enough for me personally to explain George Bush to the rest of the world, there is no way to explain Trump. Everyone asks you. Everyone. Since you're a "crass blunt American", they are not delicate about it. The conversation usually starts something like "Are American crazy?"
50
Maybe this is where the safety pin can be helpful- to let people know that ou are safe to talk with about this. If they have been paying attention - and they have- they get our pain. The people I talk with while traveling are generally better informed than many Americans.
7
As a Canadian living near the border, I've enjoyed visiting many parts of the US. I was in Syracuse just last weekend with a friend and we joked that it might be our last time in the States before we began building our border wall. We were joking because we were confident that the US would elect Mrs. Clinton on Tuesday. Given how things turned out, I'll be giving US visits a pass for the time being. I'm not trying to sound superior, as Canada is not perfect and we certainly have our problems. But as shock turns to sadness, I'm disappointed that nearly half of US voters would elect a man whose campaign relied on lies, slurs and fear mongering to the office of President. The country that I've always thought of as friendly and welcoming doesn't seem that way anymore.
84
Hello Canada! Well, I wasn't one of the people who voted for Trump and as you may now see, the majority of us did not vote for him. I am already reading about violence on college campuses toward minorities and yes, it will make a difference to choose where I travel, being concerned about how I will be treated now as an American. I've even looked at options on finding property in another country (maybe Canada!) as a safe haven for me and my family should the need arise. Ontario looks really good right now!
20
" I am already reading about violence on college campuses toward minorities"
Please enlighten us as to where these incidents are taking place? I've seen none reported in the New York Times or any other news source. I am reading though of people from the Left destroying personal and public property and denying others access to places and calling it "protest".
Please enlighten us as to where these incidents are taking place? I've seen none reported in the New York Times or any other news source. I am reading though of people from the Left destroying personal and public property and denying others access to places and calling it "protest".
How many more links do you want?:
http://nymag.com/daily/intelligencer/2016/11/hundreds-of-hate-crimes-rep...
http://www.nytimes.com/2016/11/12/us/reports-of-bias-based-attacks-tick-...
http://thecrimereport.org/2016/11/12/hate-attacks-reported-up-since-trum...
http://people.com/politics/swastika-graffiti-and-build-the-wall-taunts-i...
Geez. WAKE UP TO REALITY!
http://nymag.com/daily/intelligencer/2016/11/hundreds-of-hate-crimes-rep...
http://www.nytimes.com/2016/11/12/us/reports-of-bias-based-attacks-tick-...
http://thecrimereport.org/2016/11/12/hate-attacks-reported-up-since-trum...
http://people.com/politics/swastika-graffiti-and-build-the-wall-taunts-i...
Geez. WAKE UP TO REALITY!
2
• TRAVEL TO THE UNITED STATES –...inbound travel will dry up....
"I have no further use for America. I wouldn't go back there if J.C. was President." ~ CHARLIE CHAPLIN, a.k.a. Sir Charles Spencer Chaplin
I am a 71-year-old US citizen until January, when I will become fully Canadian. Though my decision came prior to this election, this last year-and-a-half has totally "radicalized" me. I never felt comfortable, that I 'belonged', in the U.S., even after living in NY for almost 40 years, and I have sworn NEVER to set foot in the U.S. or its territories, especially my native Puerto Rico, again and I won't. I have severed all ties with the U.S except for bourbon, the one good thing that ever came out of there, by accident and violently – like the nation itself, born of fire.
“I'm sorry if you don't like my honesty but, to be fair, I don't like your lies.” ~ ANONYMOUS
Donald Trump's election has cemented it all. He is no anomaly. Trump IS the U.S.A., Burdick and Lederer's 1958 classic "The Ugly American" personified:
"A mysterious change seems to come over Americans when they go to a foreign land. They isolate themselves socially. They live pretentiously. They are loud and ostentatious."
All the ugliness has finally come home to roost in Donald Trump!
To anyone attempting a smug reply to this comment (if published), say what you will. My response is that of Rhet Butler to Scarlet O'Hara at the end of Gone with the Wind, "Frankly, my dear, I don't give a damn."
"I have no further use for America. I wouldn't go back there if J.C. was President." ~ CHARLIE CHAPLIN, a.k.a. Sir Charles Spencer Chaplin
I am a 71-year-old US citizen until January, when I will become fully Canadian. Though my decision came prior to this election, this last year-and-a-half has totally "radicalized" me. I never felt comfortable, that I 'belonged', in the U.S., even after living in NY for almost 40 years, and I have sworn NEVER to set foot in the U.S. or its territories, especially my native Puerto Rico, again and I won't. I have severed all ties with the U.S except for bourbon, the one good thing that ever came out of there, by accident and violently – like the nation itself, born of fire.
“I'm sorry if you don't like my honesty but, to be fair, I don't like your lies.” ~ ANONYMOUS
Donald Trump's election has cemented it all. He is no anomaly. Trump IS the U.S.A., Burdick and Lederer's 1958 classic "The Ugly American" personified:
"A mysterious change seems to come over Americans when they go to a foreign land. They isolate themselves socially. They live pretentiously. They are loud and ostentatious."
All the ugliness has finally come home to roost in Donald Trump!
To anyone attempting a smug reply to this comment (if published), say what you will. My response is that of Rhet Butler to Scarlet O'Hara at the end of Gone with the Wind, "Frankly, my dear, I don't give a damn."
49
...right there with you Robert, dual citizen that I am. just need to claw my way through two years of school and then my mixed-race family and I can make the move permanent. True North Strong and Free....
7
We always knew Trump wanted to be President for the money he will make.
22
Why would anyone want to travel to a country that elected President Grab Em? I wish I could leave this country for four years.
70
I know a Canadian couple who have cancelled a long-planned trip to view the eclipse, next summer, because they are fearful of coming here, once Trump is in power.
32