The USA has been in the spotlight this week following the tragic death of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old nurse, during a protest against federal immigration actions. He was fatally shot by federal agents while being restrained.
The incident has ignited widespread unrest, particularly in Minneapolis where the shooting took place. This is not an isolated case, as there have been previous fatalities involving United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers. For instance, Renée Good was also shot by an immigration officer on January 7, with the incident captured on video and shared globally.
In another incident, a Welsh tourist named Becky Burke faced a 19-day detention at an ICE processing center in March 2025 during her North American backpacking trip. She was detained for allegedly violating her ESTA terms by exchanging housework for accommodation, which was considered unauthorized work.
Visitors to the USA, including Brits under the ESTA visa-waiver program, may encounter heightened scrutiny at the border. Authorities are considering requesting social media handles and email addresses spanning five and ten years, respectively, to enhance security measures.
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) projected a $12.5 billion decline in international visitor spending in the USA in 2025, making it the only country among 184 surveyed to experience such a drop. The UK, a significant tourism source market for the USA, witnessed a 15% decrease in British visitors in 2025 according to WTTC data.
Looking ahead to 2026, the USA is gearing up to host the World Cup across North America, with England’s matches scheduled in Texas, Massachusetts, and New Jersey, anticipating a surge in fan attendance.
Notable events such as Route 66’s centenary celebrations and the 250th anniversary of American Independence are expected to attract domestic and international tourists, showcasing the country’s rich heritage and culture.
The upcoming year poses a question for potential travelers: will the allure of major events outweigh concerns about the political climate and stringent border checks? The decision to visit the USA amidst these developments remains a topic of interest.
Share your thoughts in our poll and feel free to email us at webtravel@reachplc.com to elaborate on your reasons for choosing or avoiding travel to the US.