Spring Break Travel Shifts: Quebecers Adapt as Mexico and Cuba Face Disruptions
With cartel-related violence in Mexico and flights suspended to Cuba all in the same month, sun-seeking Quebecers are reevaluating their spring break plans. Travel experts report that vacationers are weighing risks and considering alternative winter havens for this year's seasonal escape.
Recent Disruptions in Popular Destinations
In early February, major Canadian airlines suspended flights to Cuba due to a deepening energy crisis in the Caribbean nation. Cuban officials attribute the situation to the Trump administration's blockade of oil shipments from Venezuela. The Canadian government currently advises against all non-essential travel to Cuba, citing worsening shortages of fuel, electricity, and basic necessities like food, water, and medicine.
"The winter tourist season in Cuba is over," said CAA-Québec spokesperson Simon Bourassa.
Meanwhile, violence erupted in the Mexican tourism hotspot of Puerto Vallarta following the killing of a drug lord known as El Mencho. Canadians were advised to shelter in place, and major airlines from Canada suspended flights in and out of the area. Mexico remains under travel advisories that vary by region, with the Canadian government recommending against non-essential travel to several areas along the west coast.
"We've returned to a situation where we're being told to exercise great caution," Bourassa said regarding Puerto Vallarta. "Therefore, people who booked their spring break in Puerto Vallarta several weeks or months ago will be able to go without any problems."
Where Quebec Travelers Are Heading Instead
With Cuba off the table, many Quebec travelers are opting for the Dominican Republic, according to Bourassa. Mexico remains popular despite ongoing changes, though the full impact on bookings remains uncertain.
The French West Indies, including Martinique and Guadeloupe, have gained popularity in recent years, though they offer fewer all-inclusive options. Will McAleer, executive director of the Travel Health Insurance Association of Canada, noted that some Canadians are also choosing parts of Europe.
"There are a growing number of snowbirds who are going to southern parts of Portugal and Spain this winter," he said.
Bourassa observed fewer trips to the United States since the beginning of the season, a trend McAleer also noted, attributing it to unease over recent political upheaval and tariffs. However, the U.S. remains a choice for many Canadians.
"This is a particularly interesting season, right, given Canadians choosing to stay away from the U.S. in pretty large numbers," McAleer said. "And, as a result, they go farther afield."
John Gradek, a faculty lecturer in supply networks and aviation management at McGill University, pointed out that travelers may need to spend more on alternative destinations, potentially leading some to postpone vacations to later in spring or summer.
Airlines Adjusting to Changing Demand
Gradek noted that Canadian airlines are pivoting to meet demand changes. With Cuba unavailable, some carriers now offer non-stop flights to new destinations throughout the Caribbean and Central America.
"You have some destinations that were traditionally strong that have dropped off," Gradek said. "But you have new destinations showing up that allow Canadians to still get sun, probably at a higher price, but the choices are still there."
Essential Travel Insurance Considerations
McAleer emphasized that the biggest travel risk relates to medical insurance for illnesses or health emergencies, making proper coverage crucial. Trip cancellation insurance can help during disruptions, with some opting for premium coverage that allows cancellation for any reason.
"In a world of more uncertainty, and when we're seeing a greater number of disruptions for a number of different reasons, protecting yourself with trip-cancellation policies is something that can help you have a greater degree of comfort," McAleer said.
Bourassa advised purchasing insurance before a trip begins, not during it, and verifying coverage details from credit cards or work plans, as they may have exceptions or limits.
Safety and Preparation Tips
Beyond insurance, Bourassa recommends ensuring passports are up-to-date and checking visa requirements for destinations. Travelers should also bring sufficient medication for their trips.
Gradek advises understanding the geopolitical context of travel destinations and being prepared for emergencies.
"I'm not saying not to go anywhere," he said. "I'm saying make sure when you make your choices, you're well prepared for emergencies and for disruption because it can happen anywhere, any time, depending on the political situation we're living in these days."
Currently, "from a Canadian perspective, looking for a safe vacation location is something that is going to probably be top of mind to everybody," according to Gradek. "Yes, the price is going to be important in terms of how much do I have to spend to get my family of four down to a sun destination for two weeks? But I think top of mind will be: Is this the right place to go? Do I feel safe?"
