Discover America Canada tracks the trends and toasts Baxter Hunt

As Canadian travel to the U.S. shows positive signs of recovery, the U.S. Consul General in Toronto says he is “cautiously optimistic” about what the future holds.

“There have been some encouraging trends. Over the last three months we’ve seen an uptick in travel to the U.S. compared to a year ago and especially in car trips — air travel is a little behind that,” consul general Baxter Hunt shared during a garden reception held with Discover America Canada yesterday. “We’ve hit the trough and are back on the way up. I think that is a great bit of news and I think as we get better news on the trade front, that’s going to help that much more.”

Fresh off of hosting the FIFA World Cup alongside Mexica and Canada, and looking ahead to the 2028 Summer Olympics, Hunt shared that events have helped contribute to increased visitor momentum.

Hunt acknowledged current tensions as Trump recently reintroduced tariffs on a wide range of goods imported from Canada, which led to separate celebrations being planned for the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge.

“Despite all the drama surrounding that, it is going to open on Monday,” he said. “That’s going to be yet another thing facilitating people who are going by car between the United States and Canada so we’re really excited about that.”

Hunt also pointed out that other positive signs of recovery include the recent launch of U.S. preclearance at Billy Bishop and the additional air service to Washington, Boston, Chicago and New York stemming from it.

“These are challenging times in the U.S.-Canada relationship. I know that impacts your business, but you guys keep working at it,” he noted. “I really appreciate the work that you are doing to make it all possible.”

During the event, Discover America Canada president Sue Webb gave a toast to Hunt, who is coming to the end of his tenure in Canada with Joe Salazar announced as his successor. Hunt meanwhile is heading to Washington.

“You have been a delight to work with here as the consul general. You always show up for events and your words are from the heart,” shared Webb. “I really believe that we know you love Canada, you love Canadians, and you’ve really given us a lot of support. We’re going to miss you very much.”

Webb highlighted that Brand USA Travel Week, rebranded from Canada Connect, is scheduled for Oct. 26-29 in Toronto and Montreal.