Maine hotels report surge in cancellations from Canadians

Hotel owners in Maine are facing a wave of cancellations from Canadian visitors due to rising trade tensions between the U.S. and Canada. Many Canadians, especially from Quebec, have traditionally visited Maine during the summer. In places like Old Orchard Beach, they contribute significantly to the local tourism economy. Sterling Morse, owner of the Point View Inn, shared his concern after President Trump made comments about annexing Canada. He mentioned that cancellations began almost immediately after those remarks. Morse noted that most of his summer bookings have been paused or canceled. Mike Halle, who runs the Paradise Park Resort, reported over 100 cancellations this year, a 250% increase compared to a normal year. Halle, who also leads the local Chamber of Commerce, highlighted that Canadian tourists are crucial to the revenue of many seasonal businesses in the area. In a recent speech, former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau encouraged Canadians to support local businesses in response to U.S. tariffs. Morse expressed sadness when he heard Trudeau mention Old Orchard Beach specifically. He and other hotel owners feel powerless as political tensions affect their livelihoods. Some Canadians are choosing to boycott traveling to the U.S. altogether. Montreal resident Robert Mailloux stated he will not visit Maine this year. However, his wife Joanne is still considering the trip to support their favorite hotel owners. Others, like Nicole Guerin from Quebec, have deep emotional ties to Old Orchard Beach and its family-run hotels. Despite her fond memories, she feels compelled to invest locally in Quebec this summer. The situation highlights how political issues can impact personal choices and small businesses in border communities.