Cuba has always been one of the favourite destinations for Canadian travellers, and it’s often one of the best values when it comes to a winter getaway. However, U.S. sanctions against Cuba are causing economic turmoil and food and energy shortages, prompting Global Affairs Canada to issue an advisory to avoid non-essential travel. Canadian airlines have also suspended flights to Cuba indefinitely. According to Flight Centre, 20 per cent of Canadians are now choosing other Caribbean destinations to visit this holiday season, with 14 per cent planning to visit Mexico and seven per cent to Florida. Meanwhile, seven per cent are taking a cruise, and 17 percent are planning to keep their travel dollars in Canada. “We do know that hotels are not operational where Canadians would be visiting,” said Anita Emilio, executive vice-president at Flight Centre Canada. “We have a lot of Canadians filling all these different places around the Caribbean that normally would be travelling to Cuba,” Emilio added. Travel expert Loren Christie sympathizes with the Cuban community, but with the travel advisory in place, he feels Canadians should avoid any non-essential travel to the island. “It is very sad for the Cuban people and the tourism industry there. But as a Canadian traveller, there is really no reason to go there this year,” said Christie. Alternatives becoming expensive Tour companies are trying to find other resorts that can handle the overflow. “The challenge for these tour operators is they are trying to find alternatives, but there is not the supply Cuba had, so smaller supply, higher demand, and prices are going up,” said Emilio. According to Flight Centre Canada, Toronto to Varadero vacation packages cost on average $1,391 each in 2025. This year, comparable Cuba resorts are $1,824 per person. That’s $433 more per traveller, which is $1,732 for a group of four travellers, which is a substantial increase. The best advice is to book early and be flexible. “If you are able to go a day earlier or a day later, that can help you right the price. And travelling at off-peak times will help as well,” said Emilio. The most popular time for families with children to travel south is during Christmas holidays and the March break. If you plan to go during that time, it’s advisable to book as early as possible, as resorts are expected to fill up quickly. With files from CTV News Toronto’s Farah Chandani
