Boycott America: Should I Visit The US During Trump presidency?

In 2025, with Trump back in power and escalating political tension, many women are asking: Should I even visit the U.S. during Trump’s presidency? I know, at least for me, it’s a question I’ve struggled with for many reasons.

Whether you’ve been watching the news or just scrolling social media, you’ll know that the political climate in the United States is very intense and extremely unpredictable these days. Under Donald Trump’s leadership, the Country feels more extreme, more volatile, and frankly, more dangerous than ever before.

For many women, especially solo female travelers, immigrants, people of color, and members of the LGBTQ+ community, the question isn’t just “Is it safe to visit the U.S. in 2025?”—it’s “Should we be going at all?”. Traveling to the U.S. right now doesn’t just raise eyebrows. It raises real concerns.

Reasons Not To Visit The US

Whether you’re traveling for business, a family event, a bucket list adventure, or even a last-minute work assignment, you deserve to feel safe, confident, and in control of your travels. If you’re currently wondering whether it’s still safe—or even ethical—to travel to the U.S. under Trump, the answer is complicated, but for many, it’s becoming a clear no.

So this post is not about finding safer cities or navigating red states. It’s about the reasons why you should be rethinking the entire idea of traveling to America right now. From Trump’s open admiration of authoritarian regimes and appeasement of Russia to rising hate crimes, threats to basic human rights, and tariff wars, there are serious personal and political reasons to press pause on visiting the United States.

Travel to the U.S. under Trump isn’t just risky—it may be outright irresponsible.

Political & Social Tensions: A Country At Risk Of Civil War

If you’ve been paying attention, one of the most noticeable shifts in the United States during Donald Trump’s presidency has been the sharp rise in political and social polarization. The country feels more divided than ever on almost every major issue—from race and immigration to reproductive rights and LGBTQ+ freedoms.

This fractured atmosphere has a very real impact on travelers, especially women exploring alone. You will be entering a charged environment regardless of which state you visit. You also may find yourself navigating regions where certain communities are openly targeted or where tensions are particularly visible in everyday interactions.

American Civil War Warnings

The United States meets the key criteria for a country rapidly approaching significant political violence.

Many scholars of political science and history, including experts on civil wars around the world like Professor Barbara F. Walter, author of “How Civil Wars Start and How to Stop Them,” are now openly discussing the possibility of a new American Civil War. Professor Walter has been an advisor to the CIA for many years on the subject. She has been raising the alarm for many years after spotting some of the warning signs in America long before many others did.

The Factors Of Civil Wars That Are Present In America

Two key factors are highly predictive of Civil War, and America has both of them. The first factor that we are seeing in the States is an ‘Anocracy’, which is a weakened democracy that contains elements of ‘autocracy’. In simpler terms, it means that America’s government or “regime” is part democracy, and part dictatorship.

The second factor is whether citizens have organized politically around identity rather than ideology. All this means is that the American people have been making their political choices based on factors like race, ethnicity, or religion. This has been rapidly emerging in America since Trump entered the political arena, especially with his focus on immigration and the significant influence of white Christian nationalists in the Republican Party.

The January 6 Insurrection Incited By Trump

The January 6 insurrection incited by Donald Trump put the threat into the spotlight when Trump Supporters carrying weapons, religious items like Bibles and wooden crosses, flags, including the Confederate flag, stormed the Capitol so violently. They even erected wooden crosses as they attempted to overthrow a democratic election.

Unsurprisingly, the majority of these violent protestors were white men. It was the tragic outcome of one of the most “divisive elections in American History” (MSNBC).

No Republican President in the past fifty years had ever pursued such an openly racist platform, or championed white, evangelical Americans at the expense of everyone else.

Barbara. F. Walter

Trump has always referred to these individuals as “patriots” and “hostages” of the Biden administration, even though many of them are guilty of very violent crimes. He went so far as to pardon many of them at the start of his presidency, so violent white Nationalists, including leaders of militia groups, are back in communities and more emboldened than ever, knowing that under Trump, they can do whatever they want. Some of them have consequently already been arrested again.

This violent expression of the white Christian nationalist movement in the US, which was on full display during the January 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection, is not an isolated incident either. Although extreme, White Christian Nationalists have been using extreme violence for decades as a tactic to force their agenda and beliefs onto others.

Civil Wars Are Started By Groups In Decline

If you’ve been paying close attention, an even bigger powder keg has been building since January 6. The thing is that Civil Wars are often started by groups who were once politically dominant but are now in decline. In recent years, especially, America has been shifting from being a majority white Christian nation to a majority non-white population that’s expected by 2045.

In layman’s terms, it means that white men, specifically white Christian nationalists, are at an increasing risk of losing political power; hence, the Heritage Foundation and others are working with Trump and the Republican Party to implement the Project 2025 regime at a rapid pace.

In America, a civil war is predicted to be an insurgency fought by militia groups using guerrilla tactics and acts of terrorism that white men commonly carry out. They would be targeting civilians, judges, religious establishments, political figures, and others whom they see as hostile or different from them. Making America Great Again means making America White (and Christian) Again. January 6 showed that White Christian Nationalists have no intention of going down without a fight.

On top of all this, the Republicans, and members of Trump’s cabinet, including the Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth, have made no secret of the fact that they want another American Civil War – Hegseth even wrote a book on it called ‘American Crusade: Our Fight to Stay Free’. He has also written ‘Battle for the American Mind: Uprooting a Century of Miseducation’, which he has described as “A revolutionary road map to saving our children from leftist indoctrination”.

White Christian Nationalism In The US Is A Huge Threat To Everyone Else

Trump’s presidency has also emboldened a dangerous political and cultural movement: white Christian nationalism. This ideology combines conservative Christianity, white supremacy, and authoritarian politics into a toxic mix that seeks to redefine the U.S. as a theocracy serving white Christian men.

It’s not just a fringe movement. In the 2020s, researchers from PRRI and the Brookings Institution found that roughly 30% of Republicans support Christian nationalist beliefs. These beliefs include the idea that America should be declared a Christian nation, God’s will should override democratic processes, and traditional values for women reminiscent of the ‘Handmaid’s Tale’.

Christian Nationalism Travel Concerns

For women who travel solo, especially those who value inclusion, equity, and personal freedom, the normalization of white Christian nationalism in U.S. politics can feel both threatening and alienating.

Project 2025 Explained: The White Christian Nationalism Blueprint

Adding to the concern is Project 2025—a blueprint released by the Heritage Foundation and other right-wing organizations that outlines Trump’s plan for a second term. It includes proposals to dismantle the Department of Education, replace civil servants with Trump loyalists, roll back LGBTQ+ protections, and empower religious organizations in government affairs. It’s effectively a playbook for authoritarian rule under the guise of Christian morality.

And it’s not just politicians fueling this fire. Several evangelical pastors—some with direct ties to Trump’s inner circle—have been charged or convicted of sex crimes, fraud, and abuse. Yet they continue to preach, often protected by their congregations and right-wing media platforms.

Acts Of Terrorism In America

The Republican Party, Donald Trump, and so-called Christians blame all acts of terror on immigrants, black men, and lgbtq. In essence, these groups have been made the scapegoats for crimes that white men commit. It’s clear from both statistics and news coverage of terrorist attacks and hate crimes in America that what is really going on is very different to the picture that Republicans, Trump, and “Christians” want you to believe.

The Center for Strategic and International Studies shows that white men are responsible for the vast majority of domestic terrorism incidents in the United States.

The FBI has also consistently reported that most acts of domestic terrorism in the U.S. are committed by white male extremists, many of whom subscribe to white supremacist or Christian nationalist ideologies.

From synagogue shootings and mosque bombings to racially motivated attacks in Buffalo, Charleston, Vegas, and other areas of the country, the pattern is painfully clear. The terrorists are Christian Nationalists and Nationalists, and in recent years, Trump supporters. Despite this, the police, FBI, and CIA have never recognised these white men as the terrorists that they are.

Trump also refuses to condemn any of these acts of terror, especially if they are done in his name, and will downplay or usually deny white supremacy’s role in the violence. With the Republicans in power doing Trump’s bidding and loyalists in charge of the DOJ, CIA, and FBI, these acts of terror can only get worse.

Safety Concern: Rising Hate Crimes

Add to that a reported increase in hate crimes—particularly targeting people of color, religious minorities, and LGBTQ+ individuals—and it becomes clear why some solo travelers feel on edge. For women traveling alone, especially those who wear religious attire, identify as part of a marginalized group, or don’t blend in with the local population, these realities can create a heightened sense of vulnerability. While many Americans are warm and welcoming, the rise in discriminatory incidents can’t be ignored.

Safety is always a top priority when you’re traveling solo. Unfortunately, during Trump’s presidency, the U.S. has seen a rise in hate crimes, particularly targeting immigrants, Muslims, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people of color.

In a report released by the FBI last year it showed that race- based crimes (race, ethnicity or ancestry) accounted for about half of all hate crimes in 2023. Anti-Black and Anti African American incidents are unsurprisingly most common and account for over 51% of race based hate crimes…that’s more than 3 times higher than the next racial and ethnic categories.

Religion based crimes is up next accounting for about 25% of hate crimes. Over half of these were anti-jew incidences. There’s also been an increase in anti-muslim sentiments.

Safety Concern: Gun Violence

The U.S. is known for its rugged individualism, but this comes with a sobering downside. With some of the loosest gun laws in the developed world, the country experiences a staggering number of mass shootings every year. As of early 2025, there have already been more than 100 mass shootings reported, many in public spaces like schools, shopping malls, and entertainment venues.

On top of this, gun violence remains a pressing issue. The U.S. experiences more mass shootings than any other developed country, with little federal movement on gun control. Whether you’re walking through a bustling city or grabbing a coffee at a roadside diner, that underlying concern for safety can weigh heavily, especially when your only protection is your awareness.

Traveling While Marginalized Is Even More Difficult

For solo travelers who are people of color, LGBTQ+, or visibly a religious minority, the travel experience in the U.S. is worse. Since Trump took office, the protections for LGBTQ+ individuals have been rolled back, along with everything relating to diversity, equity, and inclusion,n to attack the rights of people of color and women. Transgender rights are under a direct threat due to the Republicans’ obsession with trans people.

All of this means that racial profiling and bias by private citizens and law enforcement are on the rise. All the progress made since the civil rights movement has been rapidly unraveling. So if you speak with a foreign accent, are traveling while Black or Brown, or wear a hijab, you may encounter microaggressions or much worse. These experiences can make a solo trip feel not just lonely, but unsafe.

Americans Fighting Against Trump & The Republicans

Frequent protests, especially in major cities like Washington D.C., Portland, and Los Angeles, are now a regular part of the national landscape. These protests have been growing and spreading all over the Country in huge numbers. These demonstrations have mostly been peaceful and inspiring, but clashes between protestors and law enforcement are always a risk. Huge townhalls are being held throughout the States, and Senator Bernie Sanders has been holding huge rallies.

On top of this is Trump’s instability, and the very real threat of martial law that could happen as soon as April 20. Accidentally getting caught up in the middle of so much unrest is a huge risk, both in terms of your general safety and getting caught up in detainments, especially if your top priority is staying safe when you are traveling.

• The U.S. became highly polarized during Trump’s presidency, with increased tensions around issues like race, immigration, and LGBTQ+ rights. Some solo female travelers may feel uneasy in such a divided environment.
• Protests and Unrest: Frequent protests and demonstrations during Trump’s presidency occasionally turned violent, particularly in major cities. Travelers may be concerned about unintentionally finding themselves in the middle of civil unrest.

USA Border Issues: Unwelcoming First Impressions

Crossing into the United States for many of us is rarely a particularly pleasant experience. With Trump as President, it is now more complex and, at times, uncomfortable for international visitors. There are heightened security measures, as well as a more aggressive stance on immigration and visitors alike. This means stricter border controls, longer wait times, and risks of ICE once you enter the country.

One example is the “Muslim Ban,” which restricted travel from several Muslim-majority countries. This has made an impact on how foreigners are treated at the border. Women who wear hijabs or belong to certain ethnic groups may find themselves subject to extra scrutiny, even if they have no ties to the countries on these outdated lists.

Whether from a Muslim country or elsewhere in the World, it is unlikely to be a very welcoming start to a trip. For solo travelers, entering the country could mean being questioned extensively or profiled based on your background. Many times, I have been interrogated for far longer than other travelers simply because I am a British solo traveller living in Canada, regardless of whether I am just passing through or visiting a British territory that borders America.

I.C.E Raids, Detainments & Deportations

There is also the ongoing attack on immigrants to detain or deport them without any due process. The aggressive approach of the ICE agents has led to tourists getting caught up in their raids and being detained. Canada, for example, has encouraged its citizens to avoid traveling to the US, citing safety concerns, including the risk of detainment.

The Climate Feels Volatile—Because It Is

Trump’s return to office has only deepened America’s divisions. Rhetoric around race, immigration, gender, and LGBTQ+ rights has become more inflammatory, sparking ongoing protests across the country, from New York to Los Angeles, and even in smaller cities like Portland and Austin.

Mass demonstrations have erupted against Trump’s alliances with controversial figures like Elon Musk and against policies that many view as authoritarian. These protests are often peaceful, but some have turned violent. As a solo traveler, the unpredictability of public unrest can feel unsafe, especially if you’re navigating unfamiliar areas on your own.

Things Are Changing By The Minute

One of the challenges of traveling to the U.S. during Trump’s presidency is the feeling that anything could change at any moment. From sudden shifts in visa rules to diplomatic spats that escalate overnight, the unpredictable nature of leadership has left many travelers nervous about what they might encounter.

For international visitors, there’s also the issue of feeling welcome—or not. Some travelers have reported experiencing open hostility, especially in areas where anti-immigrant sentiment runs high. While popular cities like New York and San Francisco remain diverse and generally accepting, rural areas or politically conservative states may not extend the same warmth to foreign guests. Doing your research ahead of time is crucial to ensure the destination aligns with your values and safety needs.

Fears of Martial Law and Crackdowns on Civil Liberties

There are growing concerns that Trump could declare martial law under the guise of restoring “order.” Legal scholars and civil rights organizations have warned that this could include suspending constitutional rights, deploying military forces domestically, and shutting down dissent.

While these are worst-case scenarios, the fact that they’re even being discussed in mainstream outlets like The Atlantic and The Washington Post speaks volumes. If you’re traveling solo, especially for personal enrichment and exploration, the last thing you want is to be caught in a country with uncertain civil protections.

The Power of Perception: Media and Misinformation

Unless you keep all your devices turned off all the time, it’s hard to avoid the headlines, and most of them coming out of the U.S. have been alarming. From government shutdowns, ignoring court orders and attacking critics to chaotic rallies and policy upheavals, the media coverage of Trump’s presidency paints a bleak picture of many historical events repeating themselves .

Although media narratives can sometimes amplify fear, most of these frightening stories are being backed by Trump’s speeches and tweets, videos, interview clips, congressional hearings, executive orders, and new bills being introduced.

As a traveler, you have a responsibility to stay up to date with what is going on and weigh your risk tolerance.

Travel Costs & Healthcare: More Expensive & Unpredictable

Let’s talk logistics—because even beyond the politics, the U.S. is one of the most expensive countries to visit. Thanks to Trump’s aggressive trade policies, currency fluctuations have made travel more costly for many international visitors. Your British pounds or Canadian dollars won’t go as far in the States as they did a few years ago.

Then there’s the healthcare issue. Unlike the UK, Canada, or most of Europe, the U.S. has no public healthcare system. A simple trip to the emergency room could leave you with a bill in the thousands. Without strong travel insurance, you’re exposed—and even with insurance, navigating the system is often overwhelming. For solo travelers, especially women managing everything themselves, this risk adds an extra layer of stress to any trip.

Women’s Rights Under Trump: A Big Step Backwards

If you’re someone who values access to reproductive healthcare and gender equality, you might find Trump’s America unsettling. Under his leadership, the government made repeated attempts to roll back access to abortion and contraception, stripping funding from women’s health providers and empowering states to pass restrictive laws.

These policies have left some solo female travelers wondering—what would happen in a medical emergency? What if I needed access to a doctor while traveling? For those who believe in bodily autonomy and women’s rights, it’s difficult to overlook the message being sent by the federal government.

Beyond policy, Trump himself has made headlines for comments widely criticized as misogynistic. From dismissing women in leadership to making crude statements about female journalists and politicians, the tone set from the top has had ripple effects across the country. For travelers used to being treated with respect, the cultural climate in some parts of the U.S. may feel off-putting.

The Attack On Women’s Reproductive Freedom Is A Death Sentence

One of the most direct ways Trump’s presidency has impacted women—both Americans and visitors—is through the systematic dismantling of reproductive rights. During his first term, Trump appointed three Supreme Court justices—Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Amy Coney Barrett—who helped overturn Roe v. Wade in 2022, ending federal protections for abortion and leaving access up to individual states.

Since then, more than a dozen states have banned or severely restricted abortion, including Texas, Florida, and Missouri. Some states have gone as far as criminalizing travel for abortions or proposing laws to track those seeking care across state lines. While you may not need reproductive services as a traveler, knowing that this basic right is under siege in one of the world’s most powerful countries is disturbing.

On top of that, Trump’s administration gutted funding for Planned Parenthood, reinstated the “Global Gag Rule” to block U.S. aid to overseas health organizations offering abortion services, and stacked federal agencies with anti-choice advocates.

The broader message? Women’s autonomy, safety, and healthcare are not guaranteed in Trump’s America—something solo female travelers cannot afford to overlook.

Trump’s Cozy Relationship With Russia

It’s not just Donald Trump and the Republican Parties domestic policies that have people concerned. Trump’s suspiciously friendly relationship with Vladimir Putin and the Russian government has been a hot topic of conversation for years.

From undermining U.S. intelligence agencies in Russia’s favour and ignoring Russian crimes including against U.S. soldiers, to repeatedly echoing Russian propaganda, his alignment with Putin and other authoritarian regimes is deeply concerning.

These international ties are more than just some political drama—they represent a very clear shift in American values away from democracy and human rights in favour of racist regimes.. As solo travelers, especially women from democratic nations, it’s essential to be mindful of this broader context.

Trump and Putin: A Russian Asset Or Useful Idiot?

In fact Donald Trump’s admiration for authoritarian leaders has been one of the most persistent and troubling themes of his presidency. Chief among them is Russian President Vladimir Putin, who he seems to have a very long history with.

Rather than holding Russia accountable for election interference or global aggression, Trump has repeatedly praised Putin as a “strong leader,” even siding with him over U.S. intelligence agencies during the infamous 2018 Helsinki summit. Under his leadership, the U.S. has also pulled back from traditional alliances like NATO, weakened its commitment to democratic norms, and amplified disinformation that often originates from Kremlin-linked sources.

His cozy relationship with Putin raises real questions about the future of American foreign policy—and what that means for citizens and travelers alike.

Russia, Russia, Russia Isn’t Just Conspiracy Theories

Here is a taster of the ways in which Trump has demonstrated his close relationship with and loyalty to Russia.

Trump publicly Sides with Putin Over U.S. Intelligence

In one of the most controversial moments of his presidency, Trump stood next to Vladimir Putin at a press conference in Helsinki in July 2018 and refused to endorse the U.S. intelligence community’s conclusion that Russia had interfered in the 2016 election. Political leaders across party lines were shocked and many said it was a “betrayal of American national security interests”.

“President Putin says it’s not Russia. I don’t see any reason why it would be.”

Donald Trump, Helsinki, 2018

Trump Has Delayed & Weakened Sanctions Against Russia Many Times

During his first term in office, Trump was notably slow to implement sanctions passed by Congress in response to Russia’s election interference, human rights abuses, and military aggression. Instances include:

• Trump only signed the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) that Congress passed in 2017 after it was clear that his veto would be overridden so he couldn’t oppose it successfully.
• But that didn’t stop him from delaying the implementation aspects of the act such as the sanctions on Russian oligarchs and defense firms.
• In fact he actually tried to lift sanctions instead. For example his administration eased the penalties against Russian oligarch Oleg Deripaska’s aluminum company in 2019, despite congressional opposition.

Trump Has Tried To Re-Invite Russia Into the G7 Multiple Times

In 2019 and 2020 Trump repeatedly pushed for Russia to be invited back into the G7. In case you need a refresher Russia was expelled in 2014 because it illegally annexed Crimea. Naturally the other member countries have continued to be opposed to this due to Russia’s aggression against Ukraine and all of its election meddling across western countries.

But Trump has continued to be a vocal advocate for Russia saying that it is “common sense” for them to be part of G7. The only country who would benefit from this is Russia.

Trump Has Frequently Undermined NATO For Years

Russia has a long standing view that NATO poses a huge threat, and if you’ve been paying attention you’ll have seen that Trump has echoed Putin’s stance and Russia’s propaganda talking points time and time again.

Some examples of this have been the constant threats to pull the US out of NATO, calling NATO “absolute” and refusing to provide any commitments with regards to defending NATO allies under Article 5, the mutual defense clause, until he was strongly pressured to do so.

In doing these things he’s been aligning himself very blatantly with Russia’s strategic interests which are to weaken Western alliances and create division amongst NATO member states.

Trump Downplayed Russian Bounties on U.S. Troops

In 2020 when there were reports that the Russian military intelligence had offered bounties to Taliban-linked militants to kill U.S. soldiers in Afghanistan, Trump dismissed the intelligence as fake by calling it a “hoax,”. He literally did absolutely nothing about it. Meanwhile both American and british troops were at risk.

Trump Has Shared Classified Intel with Russian Officials

Back in May 2017 when he had only been in office for a short time he hosted Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Ambassador Sergey Kislyak in the Oval Office and disclosed highly classified intelligence from an Israeli source—without Israel’s permission.

Trump & His Administration Constantly Echo Kremlin Talking Points on Crimea and Ukraine

Trump repeatedly refused to condemn Russia’s annexation of Crimea and at times suggested that Crimea rightfully belonged to Russia, citing that “everyone there speaks Russian.”

He also pushed Ukraine to investigate Joe Biden and his son, echoing Russian disinformation that was later debunked by U.S. intelligence and the Senate.

Trump Has Done Nothing To Confront Russian Election Interference

Despite overwhelming evidence of Russian interference in the 2016 election (confirmed by both U.S. intelligence agencies and a bipartisan Senate Intelligence Committee report), Trump:

• Called the investigation a “witch hunt”
• Repeatedly undermined the findings
• Fired or attacked officials involved in the investigation, including FBI Director James Comey and Special Counsel Robert Mueller

His failure to take decisive action encouraged further Russian meddling, including in the 2020 election cycle.

Trump Has Gutted Agencies That Monitor Russian Threats

Under Trump, several key departments focused on Russian cyber threats and disinformation were defunded, downsized, or restructured:

• The Global Engagement Center, which counters foreign propaganda, was sidelined.
• The State Department’s cyber and diplomacy team was gutted.
• Positions within the National Security Council focusing on Russia were eliminated or consolidated.

These moves weakened U.S. resilience to Russian influence operations.

Enabled Russian Military Expansion by Withdrawing Troops

Trump withdrew thousands of U.S. troops from Germany in 2020—citing unfair cost-sharing—despite the move weakening NATO’s posture against Russia.

This decision was celebrated by Russian officials and criticized by U.S. military leaders and allies, who saw it as an abandonment of American commitments in Europe.

Trump’s Alignment With Putin Has Continued In 2025

Since assuming office in January 2025, President Donald Trump has undertaken several actions that appear to align with Russian interests or benefit President Vladimir Putin’s objectives while continuing to repeat Russian propaganda speaking points These actions have raised concerns among both international observers and U.S. allies.

“What Vladimir Putin doesn’t realize is that if it weren’t for me, lots of really bad things would have already happened to Russia, and I mean REALLY BAD.”

Donald Trump, Truth Social, May 2025

Unilateral Negotiations with Russia on Ukraine

In February 2025, President Trump initiated direct negotiations with Russia to address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Notably, these talks excluded Ukrainian representatives, leading to apprehension among U.S. allies about potential concessions favoring Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed concerns over being sidelined in discussions directly impacting his country. ​

Suspension of Military Aid and Intelligence Sharing with Ukraine

By March 2025, the Trump administration suspended all military aid to Ukraine and halted intelligence sharing. This move was perceived as weakening Ukraine’s defense capabilities against Russian aggression and was seen as a shift in U.S. support away from Ukraine. ​Axios+3Wikipedia+3Wikipedia+3

Exclusion of Russia from New Tariffs

In April 2025, President Trump announced a series of tariffs targeting major U.S. trading partners. Russia, however, was notably exempted from these tariffs. The administration cited existing sanctions as the reason for Russia’s exclusion, but critics argued that this exemption provided economic relief to Russia amid ongoing sanctions. ​Reuters+7The Moscow Times+7New York Post+7New York Post

Consideration of Sanctions Relief for Russia

Reports have indicated that the Trump administration is contemplating easing sanctions on Russia. Such a move would potentially bolster Russia’s economy and international standing, aligning with Kremlin interests. ​ReutersAxios

Defunding U.S. Efforts to Counter Russian Influence

The administration has halted several U.S. initiatives aimed at countering Russian sabotage, disinformation, and cyberattacks. This reduction in countermeasures is perceived as easing pressure on Moscow and potentially allowing increased Russian influence operations. ​Reuters

These actions collectively suggest a pattern of U.S. policies that may be advantageous to Russian interests, prompting concern among international observers and U.S. allies about the implications for global security and diplomatic relations.

These aren’t just minor diplomatic disagreements—they’re patterns that suggest a consistent deference to Russian interests over U.S. democratic institutions, global alliances, and national security. For solo travelers watching world affairs and choosing destinations mindfully, understanding these dynamics is critical.

Trump Has Always Openly Admired Authoritarians

Trump has never been quiet about the fact that he admires dictators like Hungary’s Viktor Orbán, and China’s Xi Jinping. These are leaders who have cracked down on press freedom, judicial independence, and minority rights. There are no coincidences in the fact that many of Trump’s proposed policies—like limiting press access, calling journalists “enemies of the people,” and deploying federal troops against protestors—mirror authoritarian tactics. He is literally copying the playbooks of the leaders he admires.

There is method in Trump’s madness: the buffoonery, chaos and word salad speeches: “I would like people to become more aware of how incredibly consciously Trump is going about doing what he’s doing, how incredibly cunning and devious he’s been. People should absolutely not underestimate this guy.”

The words of a historian familiar with authoritarianism

Trump’s Idolization Of Adolf Hitler

Speaking of leaders he admires, he has openly praised Hitler many times that he did some “great things”. His first wife has spoken of how he kept a copy of ‘Mein Kampf’ on his bedside table, and he has copied Hitler in many ways. He even replicated a famous Hitler portrait for his official portrait. This graphic is only listing a few of the many ways that he is doing the same things Hitler did in Germany. The numerous parallels to Hitler alone should be raising alarms for everyone outside of Christian Nationalists.

“Jews aren’t people, they’re rats”

Adolf Hitler

“Immigrants aren’t people, they’re animals”

Donald Trump

As a traveler who believes in human rights and democratic values, entering a country led by someone who undermines those very ideals can feel unsettling, if not outright dangerous.

Canada & Mexico: Aggression Toward Neighboring Countries

Trump’s aggressive stance hasn’t just been directed inward. His administration has made inflammatory remarks and threats toward their neighboring countries; Canada and Mexico.

Despite shared borders and long-standing partnerships with Canada and Mexico, Trump has repeatedly lashed out at these allies. Early in his presidency, he slapped tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum, sparking a trade war with one of America’s closest neighbors. He also insulted Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, calling him “very dishonest and weak,” and questioned long-standing trade agreements like NAFTA, ultimately replacing it with the USMCA under terms more favorable to U.S. interests.

What has been far worse has been his constant messaging and aggressive threats about making Canada the 51st State. Gradually, everyone has begun to realise that his 51st State and Governor comments are not even remotely a joke. He wants Canada for many reasons and is being taken more seriously now as a huge threat to Canadians.

Mexico, meanwhile, has also been targeted from day one. Trump ran on building a border wall (and falsely claiming Mexico would pay for it), called migrants “rapists” and “criminals,” and implemented harsh policies like family separation—where thousands of children were taken from their parents at the U.S.-Mexico border. Though many of these practices were later rolled back, they left deep scars and signaled a dehumanizing approach to foreign relations.

We also can’t forget that the “Gulf of Mexico” is now the “Gulf of America” purely because Trump says it is with Journalists banned from the White House for refusing to comply.

Greenland, Ukraine and Panama

Sadly it was not satire when Trump started talking about buying Greenland from Denmark and then became irate when the Danish government refused.

Even smaller nations like Panama have felt the ripple effects, especially as Trump’s administration sought to crack down on immigration from Central America, proposing controversial deals to force asylum-seekers to apply for refuge in countries they were fleeing through, even if those countries lacked the infrastructure to support them.

Naturally, as I’ve discussed earlier, Ukraine has not been spared from Trump either. Aside from Trump’s obvious alignment with Putin about the war, he went so far as to even bully Zelensky with Vance in the Oval Office, while also trying to push Ukraine into a really unfavourable minerals deal.

Even if you’re not from these countries, the ripple effect of all of this can impact visa processing, travel advisories, and general attitudes toward foreigners. Canada, for example, has raised travel warnings during Trump’s presidency.

All of Trumps actions send a clear message: America under Trump isn’t trying to build bridges—it’s building barriers.

The Economic Climate Is Not Just Hostile But Really Unpredictable.

Under Trump, it is intentionally chaotic all the time, and the economic policy is no exception. The trade wars have been on and off so many times with varying severity. The widespread aggressive tariffs have led to very unstable markets, price surges, and strained global relations.

The tariffs on goods from Europe, Canada, and China have made travel way more expensive especially for international visitors. On top of that the currency fluctuations have been really harsh adding significant additional cost for travelers outside the U.S. I can say with first hand experience that the recent currency fluctuations combined with the tariffs easily added about 25%-30% extra cost to a visiting the States. It’s basically less affordable to visit the U.S. especially for those of us who are solo travellers footing every bill themselves.

And that doesn’t even touch on healthcare. With no universal healthcare, a basic visit to the emergency room potentially costing thousands of dollars and the Trump’s regime pushing to dismantle the Affordable Care Act, access to care is even more precarious and expensive for travelers than it already was.

Environmental Concerns: A Climate for Worry

If sustainability and being eco-conscious are really important to you when you travel then the environmental policies under Trump could definitely be a deal-breaker. He has already rolled back numerous environmental protections, opened public lands to drilling and mining, and withdrew the U.S. from the Paris Climate Accord.

Visiting a country that is intentionally undermining all efforts to protect the planet will feel jarring and disheartening if you care deeply about the environment, Although there are states like California, and cities like Denver who prioritize green green initiatives, the national tone is a big concern.

Why Boycotting the U.S. Matters In The Fight Against Authoritarianism & Christian Nationalism.

You have more power as a traveler than you may think that you do.

Travel can be a very powerful way to vote with your passport, your money, and your values. When we are spending our travel dollars and valuable time in a place, we are indirectly supporting the the systems, policies, and cultures of those destinations. Every hotel stay, restaurant meal, and attraction ticket contributes to the local and national economy. Every pound, dollar, or euro spent in the U.S. supports its economy – and it’s currently the economy of a country hurtling towards its own version of Hitler Germany at a record speed.

So yes—boycotting the United States during Donald Trump’s presidency does make an impact

So although there are many wonderful individuals and small businesses in the U.S. that don’t align with Trump’s vision, including much of the tourism industry, the reality is that tourism dollars help prop up a country that is basically under authoritarian rule. The dollars spent by travelers to the U.S – and in Republican states is essentially helping a country that is actively, and aggressively, rolling back women’s rights, attacking minority groups including transgender and immigrants, enabling…frankly openly encouraging white Christian nationalism, threatening allies, and cozying up to authoritarian regimes including Russia while replicating their tactics.

By choosing not to visit right now, like millions of other travellers, you send a clear message that you stand for human rights, bodily autonomy, racial justice, and democracy.

You’re supporting the global pushback against rising fascism while showing solidarity with communities inside the U.S. who are fighting back too—from activists on the ground to women defending reproductive freedom to immigrants resisting discrimination. There are also ways to support individuals, small businesses and democratic politicians from outside the U.S.

You have so many other options to choose from around the world.

From vibrant cities in Canada and Europe to soul-nourishing solo retreats in South America and Asia, there are dozens of destinations that will welcome you with open arms and shared values. Boycotting the U.S. doesn’t mean giving up on adventure. It just means that you are choosing travel that reflects your integrity and morals.

For many travelers, choosing to explore other countries is a way to align with their values and reject authoritarianism and inequality. It’s not just about skipping the U.S.—it’s about supporting destinations that prioritize justice, sustainability, and inclusivity.

By avoiding the U.S., you’re also avoiding stress, risk, and uncertainty. You’re sending a message that women deserve to feel safe and respected—everywhere.

If You Must Travel To The U.S., Here Are Some Tips

Sometimes travel to the U.S. is unavoidable—whether it’s for family, business, or a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you do decide to go, here are some practical tips to protect yourself:

• Stick to progressive, urban areas like New York, San Francisco, Seattle, or Chicago, where solo female travelers are generally more welcome and better supported.
• Travel with robust insurance that covers healthcare, theft, and cancellations due to civil unrest.
• Keep a copy of your itinerary handy, and ensure that it shows your return travel plans to leave America. It should also show your accommodation for your stay and any other travel you have planned, such as moving between States. Ensure that your itinerary makes it clear you are only visiting and will be leaving at a set time.
• Download safety apps like Sitata, GeoSure, and Signal (but stay updated on any vulnerabilities).
• Avoid political gatherings, rallies, or protests—even peaceful ones—as they can escalate quickly.
• Know your rights at the border, and be prepared for longer wait times or more intense questioning.
• Keep friends and family updated on your location with apps like Life360 or WhatsApp check-ins.
• Travel light and smart, blending in where possible and keeping important documents close at hand.
• Know where your Embassy is, In case things escalate politically or socially, it’s good to know how to contact your country’s embassy or consulate. Have their number saved and written down just in case.
• Keep A Low Digital Footprint, be mindful about what you are posting online. Avoid posting anti-Trump content in the run-up to and during your trip to America. Also, be extra cautious when posting content showing your location or activities, keep location tracking off when not needed, and stay alert to digital surveillance risks.
• Pro-Trump Questioning: If you are asked about Trump at the border or elsewhere, be cautious about what you say. Non-Americans are being refused at the border because they are opposed to Trump with some even getting 3 year or 5 year bans for being anti-trump. .
• Avoid land border crossings: If you can, avoid crossing into America by car, bus or foot at a border crossing. The likelihood of being questioned, turned away, detained, banned from the US or even imprisoned seems to be significantly greater at border crossings such as Peace Arch in British Columbia.

Travel Is Inherently Political

As solo travelers, we assess destinations based on factors like our safety, our interests and crucially our values. Although the United States is full of world-famous cities, jaw-dropping national parks, stunning scenery and diversity, it also presents unique risks, moral and ethical dilemmas under Donald Trump’s racist leadership.

Travel is a very personal choice, as is whether you want to visit the US or not while Trump is in power. But if you are someone who prioritizes their safety, fighting for what’s right, and only putting money where your values lie, then now is the time to reconsider visiting America.

There is a whole wide world out there with so much to offer including scenery and national parks that are just as jaw dropping as they are in the States – and a lot more welcoming

Wherever you go next, choose somewhere friendly, safe and aligned with your values. Your travel destinations should lift you up not put you on edge.

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Gemma Lawrence

Gemma Lawrence is the creator of This Brits Life. Born and raised in England, she has been living in British Columbia, Canada as a permanent resident since 2016. A solo traveler for the past 9 years, she hopes to inspire and help others to enjoy solo adventures too. As someone who has always struggled with her self-confidence and mental health, she also shares tips and inspirational stories relating to self-love, self-care, and mental health.