Author and international raconteur Rick Antonson is one of our favorite people. The former CEO of Tourism Vancouver and Chair of Destinations International, he understands the world of Destination Marketing like few others. And, he has a unique perspective on the precipitous decline in Canadian visitation to the United States since the President’s incendiary rhetoric inflamed many Canadians who had thought we were friends.

Last week, Tourism Talking Head Rick Steves hosted Rick and author Rich Wade on his podcast to better understand what’s driving the shocking decline in Canadian crossings into the U.S. and why Canadians feel so aggrieved.

It’s a fascinating conversation that is so worth your attention.

And, just announced (and not yet on the website), Antonson will be keynoting the 2026 Board Leadership for Destinations Symposium. Registration opens on or about Labor Day. And, it’ll be one the rare opportunities to hear Rick live in America. You won’t want to miss it.

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