From guns to politics: See which factors are deterring Southeast Asians from visiting the U.S.

Gun Violence: A Major Concern for Southeast Asian Travelers

More than 90% of surveyed travelers from Southeast Asia report that the prevalence of guns in the United States affects their decision to visit. This concern spans six countries—Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Thailand—and reflects growing awareness of gun-related incidents in the U.S. media.

Among U.S. states, Hawaii is perceived as the safest regarding gun violence, while Texas ranks as the least safe. Other states such as New York, California, Florida, Nevada, Arizona, and Washington D.C. were also included in the survey, offering a snapshot of perceived regional safety variations.

Despite these concerns, 56% of respondents expressed likelihood to visit the U.S. in the coming years, with this figure rising to 59% among those who have previously traveled to the country. This suggests that while gun violence is a significant factor, it does not outright deter many travelers, especially those with firsthand experience.

However, nearly 80% said that the number of guns in the U.S. would greatly or moderately affect their willingness to attend mass gatherings like concerts or festivals, indicating a nuanced approach to travel activities based on perceived safety.

Country-Specific Perspectives Highlight Varied Travel Intentions

The survey reveals notable differences between countries in how gun violence influences travel plans. Travelers from Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines showed the highest levels of concern—around 76-79%—yet also demonstrated strong intentions to visit the U.S., with 69-73% indicating likely future trips.

In contrast, Singaporean respondents exhibited the lowest likelihood of visiting the U.S., with only 24% expressing intent to travel there soon. This group also showed the strongest opposition to gun ownership, with 91% disagreeing with the practice, reflecting Singapore’s strict gun control laws and low crime environment.

Interestingly, prior visits to the U.S. did not significantly alleviate Singaporeans’ concerns about gun violence, unlike respondents from other countries where 25% reported reduced worries after traveling. Only 4% of Singaporeans felt more comfortable visiting again due to decreased concerns, underscoring the depth of apprehension in this market.

Political Climate and Election Outcomes Influence Travel Decisions

Political factors also play a critical role in shaping travel intentions. Over a quarter of respondents stated that the outcome of the U.S. presidential election would affect their decision to visit, with nearly half indicating it might influence their plans.

Notably, 23% said they would be less likely to visit if Donald Trump wins the election, compared to 9% who felt similarly about a Kamala Harris victory. A smaller percentage—5% for Trump and 2% for Harris—said they would outright refuse to visit based on the election result.

The survey was conducted shortly after two assassination attempts on former President Trump, events that likely heightened political sensitivities. Additionally, more than two-thirds of respondents had heard about the term 'migrant crime,' popularized by Trump’s anti-immigration rhetoric, though official data does not support claims of increased migrant-related crime.

Still, 27% of Southeast Asians said concerns about migrant crime significantly impact their travel decisions, illustrating how political narratives can shape perceptions even when not backed by evidence.

Concerns Over Race-Based Violence and Verbal Abuse

Race-related safety concerns are another critical deterrent for Southeast Asian travelers. Nearly 75% expressed worry about experiencing physical violence based on race, with Filipino travelers showing the highest level of concern at 81%. Only a small minority (4%) reported no concern about such violence.

Verbal abuse tied to race was similarly troubling, with many respondents perceiving an increase in these incidents since the COVID-19 pandemic. Two-thirds agreed that both physical and verbal race-based violence have become more significant issues post-pandemic, while only 11% felt these problems had decreased.

Social media emerged as the primary source of information about U.S. safety and crime for 61% of respondents, followed by international news outlets at 55%. Countries with higher dependence on social media for news, such as the Philippines (66%), tend to exhibit greater concern about racial violence, highlighting the role of digital platforms in shaping traveler perceptions.

Implications for Tourism and Business Stakeholders

For businesses and tourism operators targeting Southeast Asian markets, these findings underscore the importance of addressing safety and political concerns transparently. Marketing strategies that highlight safe destinations within the U.S., such as Hawaii, and communicate measures taken to ensure traveler security could help mitigate fears.

Understanding country-specific attitudes is also vital. For example, tailored messaging that resonates with Singapore’s strong preference for low-crime environments may differ significantly from approaches for travelers from Vietnam or the Philippines, who display both concern and willingness to visit despite risks.

The political climate’s influence on travel decisions suggests that businesses should monitor U.S. election outcomes and political developments closely, adapting promotional efforts accordingly. Engaging with Southeast Asian communities to provide accurate information about crime and safety can help counteract misinformation and build trust.

Finally, the heightened awareness of racial violence points to a broader need for inclusive, culturally sensitive customer service and support for travelers from diverse backgrounds. This approach can enhance the overall visitor experience and encourage repeat visits.

What this means

The evolving perceptions of Southeast Asian travelers toward the United States reveal a complex interplay of safety concerns, political factors, and racial issues that influence travel intentions. While gun violence and political instability pose significant deterrents, many travelers remain interested in visiting, especially if reassured about safety and inclusivity. For businesses and tourism professionals, understanding these nuanced attitudes and responding with targeted, culturally aware strategies is essential to tapping into this valuable market. As global travel continues to recover and evolve, addressing these concerns transparently will be key to fostering confidence and encouraging Southeast Asian visitors to explore the diverse opportunities the U.S. has to offer.