After years of increasing security hurdles that discouraged foreigners from visiting the U.S., a new poll by the London Telegraph shows that 80% of Britons say they are more inclined to make the trip than they were before the presidential election. That’s a startling number, given that the British pound has slipped about 20% against the U.S. dollar in recent months, making travel more expensive for British tourists.
Britons are expected to visit the U.S. in record numbers next year, not only due to excitement about the new president, but also wall-to-wall coverage of the campaign that showed viewers there is more to America than just New York, California, and Florida.
More good news could be in store for the travel industry once Barack Obama takes the oath of office. As a senator he sponsored a bill to market the U.S. around the world, noting that the drop in international tourism has cost the country about $150 billion in lost revenue. He also supports expanding the visa waiver program, which makes it easier for citizens of friendly countries to visit the U.S.
London Telegraph, Barack Obama factor boosts US tourism
