A new survey of over 1,200 recent international visitors to the United States has delivered an overwhelmingly positive response as the nation gears up for the busy northern summer travel season.

The survey, conducted for the U.S. Travel Association by YouGov and released at the recent IPW in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, polled travellers from eight international markets who visited the United States within the past six months and revealed 91% were satisfied with their trip, 83% felt welcome and 61% left with a more favourable opinion toward America.

“We’re in a moment when confidence and perception are shaping traveler decisions,” said Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association.

“Travel is our greatest public diplomacy tool. Every international visitor who has a positive experience becomes America’s greatest ambassador.”

The research found that travellers who engaged with the local businesses reported even higher levels of satisfaction and welcoming experiences, emphasizing the important role communities and small businesses play in shaping America’s global image.