Despite the end of most pandemic-era border restrictions, the number of Canadian visitors to Vermont's Northeast Kingdom and New Hampshire's North Country has not fully recovered. Local businesses that depend on cross-border tourism report a noticeable drop in customer traffic, though many express cautious optimism about a rebound.
Factors behind the decline include a strong U.S. dollar that makes travel more expensive for Canadians, lingering concerns about border wait times, and shifting travel preferences. However, some seasonal businesses note an increase in Canadian license plates on recent weekends, suggesting that the traditional ties between the regions may be slowly strengthening.
The downturn has been felt at attractions, restaurants, and retail shops that historically draw a significant share of their patrons from Quebec and other Canadian provinces. Business owners say they are adjusting by focusing on domestic visitors while continuing to welcome their northern neighbors.
NEK will be looking into border-crossing data from U.S. Customs and Border Protection to see if official tallies align with local perceptions.
Originally reported by WCAX TV.
Photo: Jea Tang via Pexels. Photo is illustrative and not from the scene.
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