Denmark Extends Warm Welcome to American Tourists Despite Political Friction
In the wake of heightened political rhetoric surrounding Greenland, Denmark's official tourism organization, VisitDenmark, has issued a reassuring message to American citizens. The organization emphasizes that travelers from the United States remain welcome in Denmark, despite former President Donald Trump's threats to acquire Greenland by force.
Official Communication to U.S. Travel Industry
According to reports from Afar, VisitDenmark distributed an email on January 26, 2026, to approximately 6,000 travel agents and tour operators based in the United States. The communication clearly stated, "First and foremost, travelers are welcome in Denmark." It further clarified that there is no indication that the political situation has impacted travel safety, visitor experiences, or tourism operations in the country.
Mette Ejlskov Hansen of VisitDenmark highlighted that this assessment is based on regular dialogues with the travel industry and recent travel reporting. She noted, "In all the reports, I've not heard of anybody who's had a bad travel experience, at least from the Danish side. They see a difference between people and the government. So there's no hatred toward Americans."
Greenland and Denmark in the Spotlight
The email acknowledged the tensions between Trump and Denmark, referencing his repeated threats regarding Greenland. However, it affirmed that American travelers continue to be welcomed with open arms. VisitDenmark's data supports this positive outlook, revealing an 8.3% increase in travel from the U.S. market in 2025 compared to 2024.
Copenhagen, Denmark's capital, has particularly benefited from this trend, emerging as a popular destination due to its globally acclaimed food scene and growing interest in Nordic culture. The city's appeal has helped sustain tourist numbers despite political uncertainties.
Local Perspectives from Greenland
Avaaraq Olsen, the mayor of Nuuk, Greenland, echoed this sentiment in comments to the New York Times. He stated, "the people of Greenland are very aware that not every American supports Trump and his administration." This perspective underscores a distinction between political figures and the general populace, reinforcing the message of hospitality.
The tourism organization's proactive approach aims to mitigate any concerns among potential visitors, ensuring that Denmark remains a top choice for international travel. By addressing these issues directly, VisitDenmark hopes to maintain and build upon the positive growth trends observed in recent years.
