Booking Holdings CEO Glenn Fogel has expressed concern regarding the perceived impact on the United States’ image as a travel destination. Speaking to the Funke-Mediengruppe newspapers, Fogel suggested that the U.S. could benefit from presenting a more welcoming impression to potential visitors.
He cited challenges encountered during airport passport control procedures as a contributing factor potentially discouraging international travel. Acknowledging the U.S.’s need for security measures, Fogel emphasized the importance of minimizing friction and inconvenience during the entry process.
The Booking Holdings leader anticipates these developments will be a significant concern for the U.S. tourism sector, particularly in light of upcoming major sporting events including the men’s FIFA World Cup and the Olympic Summer Games. Fogel cautioned that without proactive efforts from the U.S. government to promote the country as a desirable destination, a decline in tourism revenue is possible, as travelers may opt for alternative locations. He underscored the need for swift action to safeguard the U.S.’s position in the global tourism market.
