Canadian airlines have restarted flights to and from certain areas of Mexico following disruptions due to violence over the weekend. However, travelers are deliberating whether to proceed with their plans. Air Canada, WestJet, Air Transat, and Porter Airlines have resumed operations in and out of Puerto Vallarta, with Flair Airlines set to resume service to the resort town as well. Global Affairs Canada mentioned that no new incidents have been reported as of Monday, but cautionary measures remain in place for the Mexican states of Jalisco and Nayarit due to recent violence triggered by the killing of cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho.”
Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand advised that decisions regarding trips to Mexico should be made on a day-to-day basis despite signs of improvement in the situation. This uncertainty has left prospective travelers like Cindy Redmile unsure about their next steps. Redmile, planning a trip from Quesnel, B.C., to Cancun with her daughter, remains concerned about the evolving situation and her daughter’s safety.
On the other hand, Lauretta Prince and her friend from Fort St. James, B.C., are less worried. They had planned a trip to Puerto Vallarta with their granddaughters and are letting the kids decide whether to proceed. Both Redmile and Prince have purchased travel insurance that allows them flexibility to reschedule or receive travel credit if needed.
Travel insurance expert Will McAleer highlighted that travelers without specific cancellation coverage might not be able to recoup their costs for canceled trips. While airlines are offering some flexibility for rebooking or canceling flights, the coverage is limited to certain departure dates. The Canadian government advises avoiding non-essential travel to some parts of Mexico but suggests exercising caution in popular tourist destinations.
McKenzie McMillan from The Travel Group noted that despite security concerns in Mexico, flights to destinations like Cancun have continued without issues. He emphasized the importance of staying informed and discussing options with travel providers. Prince, remaining optimistic about her upcoming trip, is closely monitoring the situation before making a final decision.
Overall, travelers are advised to stay updated on the situation and communicate with their travel providers to assess their options before embarking on trips to Mexico.
