Drop in NYC international tourism projected due to President Trump's policies, marketing organization says

NEW YORK (WABC) -- It is a projection the New York City tourism business does not want to see and it draws concern.

With the start of the economically vital tourist season beginning in roughly eight weeks, a new projection by NYC & Company, the city's marketing organization, is showing a significant drop in international tourists.

"Because of recent policies a lot of people are either boycotting the U.S. or nervous about coming here," said Pauline Frommer, Editorial Director.

NYC & Company projects that 300,000 fewer international tourists will visit New York City in 2017 compared to last year.

At the same time though, it expects to see overall travel to the city increase by one million visitors with a strong showing by domestic tourists.

The real impact, travel experts say, could be the loss of an estimated $600 million in sales.

New York City officials reveal it takes the spending of four domestic visitors to equal that of one international visitor.

"Domestic visitors are more likely to come for a long weekend. They are more likely to cut corners," Frommer said. "Whereas international visitors are here to splurge so we don't want to lose those international visitors."

NYC & Company President Fred Dixon said in a statement: "While projected declines among travelers are concerning, the irrepressible hospitality and welcoming nature of New York City gives us confidence that our destination will continue to appeal to visitors from around the world."

Frommer is author of "Frommer's Easy Guide to New York City" and is closely watching hotel rates.

"I was stunned just a couple of weeks ago looking at how much they've dropped already," Frommer said. "This is hotels probably seeing future bookings drying up and realizing they have to lower their costs."

A new marketing campaign is underway directed at international tourists called, "New York City, Welcoming the World."