As Canadian travellers eye warmer climates to escape the winter chill, government advisories reveal that many popular vacation destinations are under warning. The federal travel-advisory list now includes several Caribbean and Central American locales, reminding visitors to stay alert and informed before booking.
The government of Canada’s travel site shows that destinations such as Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Cuba, Trinidad and Tobago and others are currently flagged with precautionary advice.
Key advisory highlights
- Jamaica: Travellers are urged to avoid all travel to much of the country following serious damage from Hurricane Melissa and rising crime rates. Travel.gc.ca+2Vancouver Is Awesome+2
- Mexico: Canadians must “exercise a high degree of caution” due to elevated criminal activity and kidnapping risks.
- Cuba: Shortages of basic necessities—including food, medicine and fuel—are flagged, along with disease-risk updates such as dengue and chikungunya.
- Belize: Violent crime is highlighted throughout the country; a recent update also warns of dengue risk.
- Other destinations including Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Nicaragua, El Salvador and Peru are also listed for varying levels of caution regarding crime, civil unrest or health concerns.
Why this matters
Many Canadians consider escaping to the sun during colder months, but these advisories underscore that “holiday mode” doesn’t eliminate risk. The Government of Canada advises travellers to consult the latest country-specific guidance and remain alert to changing conditions abroad.
Traveller tips
- Check the official travel-advisory page on travel.gc.ca before booking and again before departure.
- Register your travel plans with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service so you can receive updates.
- Ensure you have valid travel health insurance that covers illness, injury and evacuation.
- Be mindful of local laws, health protocols and security conditions at all destinations—not just the headline beaches.