Crisis in Cuba sending Canadian travellers to pricier sun destinations: travel agents

As the winter holiday season nears, popular sunny Cuban destinations are no longer accessible for Canadian travelers. The United States' oil blockade against Cuba caused severe fuel shortages, leading Canadian airlines to permanently halt flights to the island. Consequently, Canadians seeking a winter getaway will have to pay more for all-inclusive packages in Cuba.

Travel agents report that Mexico, Dominican Republic, and Caribbean destinations, along with Caribbean cruises and tours, are attracting the majority of diverted travelers. Some Canadians are even considering domestic trips within their own country. Canada once welcomed over a million Canadians annually to Cuba, but that number has dropped to around 700,000 in 2025.

The Canadian government advised against non-essential travel to Cuba due to the medicine, food, and fuel shortages. The country is now experiencing a humanitarian crisis following the latest sanctions and the decades-long U.S. trade embargo. Local travel agencies report a significant decrease in sales to Cuba, with some clients opting for trips to the Dominican Republic instead.