Aware that a destination’s image can be clouded by external factors, Ferguson offered an illustrative analogy: “It’s like when there’s a plane accident—suddenly people are afraid to fly. But how many people do you know who have been in a plane accident compared to those who have had a car accident? In our case, we have to work harder to separate ourselves as a destination from the federal government.”
Despite concerns voiced by some agents about sending tourists to the U.S., the data shows a positive trend. Tourism from the United Kingdom, for example, has grown by 2.7% in Washington DC compared to the same period last year, reinforcing the idea that visitors’ actual experiences are often very different from what public debate might suggest.
Ferguson encouraged agents to get to know the city firsthand or, if they have already visited, to rely on their own experiences rather than external narratives. “We rely heavily on those who have traveled to the U.S. to share their stories and help debunk the myths about our destinations,” he emphasized. Speaking candidly, he added: “You might wonder why you should listen to the person responsible for promoting a destination telling you that you should come. But what I can say, as a minority in the United States, is that I feel very comfortable here. Like many, I was embarrassed by the attacks on the Capitol on January 6, 2021, but I’ve always believed that we should avoid weaponizing tourism.”
Ferguson also clarified that beyond political rhetoric, international access to the country has not changed significantly under the current administration compared to previous ones. “The reality is that the number of people entering the United States has remained stable, and it’s important to tell that real story: one of a destination where, when you visit, you feel a great sense of hospitality.”
He also stressed that accessibility is a top priority for the city. Washington DC works actively with organizations and federal entities to ensure that the capital meets the standards required by those with additional needs. Ferguson highlighted that the city operates under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which guarantees rights and legal protections for people with disabilities, and noted that many public and private spaces—such as restaurants, train stations, the airport, and various services—are ADA accredited.
Among the attractions that reflect this commitment to accessibility and inclusion are the Kennedy Center, the National Gallery of Art, and the National Museum of African American History and Culture, all equipped to provide a comfortable and enriching experience for visitors with different abilities. Ferguson concluded by reaffirming the city’s commitment to sustainability, accessibility, and diversity, stressing that these values are at the heart of Washington DC’s strategy as a modern and responsible tourist destination.
