Travel Agents Face Cancellations in Wake of Travel Ban

In the days following an executive order banning travel for citizens of seven predominantly Muslim countries, several travel agents have faced cancellations from nervous clients who fear a backlash against American travelers in places such as Europe and Mexico. 

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“There is for now, and for the short term, an air of uncertainty. We don’t know how the world will react, how Americans will be treated abroad,” said Scott Kertes, president of Vacations by Design @ Hartford Holidays in Garden City, NY.

Kertes hasn’t had any cancellations yet, but won’t be surprised if he does.

“Right now, it's only Monday morning, I have not had anyone call who is currently booked cancel or a decision [to travel] that has been changed; not yet. Do I anticipate that as weeks go by? Probably,” he says. 

However, Kertes’ is thinking about his own travel plans in the wake of recent news. He said that he and his wife are scheduled to leave for Israel in six days for a combination business/vacation trip. He’s not sure they will go. 

“We’re kicking this around now,” he said.

Tamsin Allpress of Tamsin & Cooke in Hendersonville, N.C., a Travel Experts affiliate, has had cancellations. 

“While I've not had anyone directly affected by this travel ban I have already had a couple cancel a Tauck river cruise for next year (2018) as they feel that, by then, Americans in Europe will be so hated that they won't enjoy their  vacation.”

Tammy Levent, CEO of Elite Travel in Palm Harbor, Fla., has also had clients get cold feet. 

“What I have seen so far is one couple changing their plans and not going to Europe because of what is going on. They feel that we may be hated in other countries and there may be retaliation against Americans,” she says. 

READ MORE: Travel Organizations Respond to Trump's Travel Ban 

Mexico is also making her clients nervous.  

“The other group I had is also asking to switch from going to Mexico for an incentive trip to a destination in the U.S.,” says Levent. “Again, they feel there is too much friction between the U.S. and Mexico and are worried about anything that may be unsafe for their corporate retreat. Both of these clients will be traveling but just not to countries that may have some ill effects or at least they don’t want to take the chance.”

However, Levent points out that we shouldn’t take out our fears on travel.   

“The worst thing that can happen at this time is Americans’ fear of traveling abroad,” she says. “I personally think we need to stay united as a force in the travel industry and educate the consumer on safety. Consumers should also take more time, making them feel secure in their final decision on their destination."

Robin Amster contributed to this report.