The American tourist board has introduced a new fact-checking platform designed to address what it calls "misperceptions" among international travellers regarding US entry requirements. The initiative, named "Get Facts. Get Going," was unveiled alongside "American Originals" at the US Travel Association's IPW in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, as part of an expansion of the "America the Beautiful" brand.
Addressing Misperceptions Head-On
Brand USA, the marketing agency behind the campaign, stated that the platform will provide real-time updates for international audiences, clarifying visa requirements, entry procedures, and national park pricing. This move comes after a 5.5% decline in visitor numbers in 2025 compared to the previous year, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council's latest economic impact research.
Fred Dixon, President of Brand USA, commented: "Technological improvements, including Mobile Passport Control and expanded Trusted Traveler programs like Global Entry, are making the entry process more seamless than ever before. With our expanded platform, we are introducing 'American Originals,' which spotlights the people and places that originated the styles, sounds, and tastes the world loves, while 'Get Facts. Get Going' serves as a single source of information to address misperceptions head-on. We want international visitors to know that we are open for business and warmly welcome them."
World Cup and 250th Anniversary Events
The United States is set to host a series of events for its 250th anniversary this year, alongside co-hosting the FIFA World Cup with Canada and Mexico. However, demand for hotel rooms during the competition has been lower than anticipated. A survey by the American Hotel & Lodging Association revealed that 80% of respondents reported hotel bookings tracking below initial forecasts, with 65-70% attributing this to visa barriers and geopolitical concerns.
Air fares have also dropped ahead of the tournament. The Independent monitored flight prices over key World Cup dates and found discounted tickets to destinations such as Dallas and New York.
Dallas will host the first of England's FIFA World Cup games in June. The new fact-checking platform aims to counteract these trends by providing accurate and timely information to potential visitors.
