Germany and Britain warn against traveling to America amid detentions

In recent weeks, both Germany and Britain revised their travel advisories for the United States, primarily due to a series of distressing incidents involving detentions of European and Canadian travelers at U.S. borders. The advisory from Britain stresses strict compliance with entry rules, indicating that any violations could lead to arrest or detention. Germany's updated warning emphasizes that even possessing a visa or an entry waiver does not guarantee access to the country. These changes in advisories reflect escalating tensions surrounding the U.S. immigration policy and underscore tourists' experiences, which have been characterized by unexpected legal repercussions and lengthy detentions. One notable case involved British graphic artist Rebecca Burke, who was detained for 19 days despite believing she had followed the proper procedures. Her father expressed outrage as she was ultimately escorted onto a plane home in chains. Similar incidents have affected travelers from Germany, as authorities have recently detained several individuals who had entered the U.S. under a waiver program designed for tourists from certain countries. This has sparked concern among potential travelers about the increasing hostility and strictness at U.S. borders, leading to a growing reluctance to visit the country. As feedback from tourism industries suggests, such travel advisories and negative media coverage about the experiences of tourists are likely to have significant economic repercussions. Experts predict a drop in American tourism by at least 5 percent, costing the U.S. upwards of $64 billion by the year 2025. The decline in the number of tourists from Canada is particularly alarming, as it may lead to losses of approximately $2.1 billion this year alone. The strained relationship between former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and President Donald Trump compounds the issue, leading many Canadians to reconsider their trips to the U.S. and instead opt for local travel. In addition to the advisories from Germany and Britain, numerous personal testimonies reveal the emotional and psychological toll on detainees. Many individuals, like Lucas Sielaff, who was accused of violating tourist entry rules, experienced harrowing conditions in detention centers, leaving them feeling scared and uncertain. The increase in cases of travelers being detained has raised questions about the underlying motives for such actions. Observers note a marked shift in the atmosphere surrounding American immigration policy since Donald Trump assumed the presidency, contributing to fears among would-be international visitors. Overall, the combined impact of strict entry rules, negative experiences shared through media channels, and a growing call for boycotts reveals a significant challenge for the American tourism sector.