Canadian airlines have resumed flights to and from select parts of Mexico following disruptions due to recent violence in the region. However, travelers are deliberating whether to proceed with their travel plans.
Air Canada, WestJet, Air Transat, and Porter Airlines have recommenced operations to and from Puerto Vallarta, with Flair Airlines set to resume services to the resort town on Wednesday. Global Affairs Canada confirmed no new incidents as of Monday, but cautionary shelter-in-place advisories remain in place for the Mexican states of Jalisco and Nayarit following the violence triggered by the military operation that led to the death of cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho.”
Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand emphasized on Tuesday that decisions regarding trips to Mexico should be evaluated daily, despite signs of improvement in the situation. This uncertainty has left travelers like Cindy Redmile, who is scheduled to travel from Quesnel, B.C., to Cancun with her daughter, feeling unsure about proceeding with their plans due to lingering safety concerns.
Conversely, Lauretta Prince from Fort St. James, B.C., who had planned a trip to Puerto Vallarta with her granddaughters in mid-March, remains relatively unperturbed by the situation. She intends to wait until Friday before finalizing their decision, allowing the granddaughters to have a say in the matter.
Both Redmile and Prince have purchased travel insurance that provides them with the flexibility to reschedule their vacations or receive travel credits if needed. However, travelers should be aware that insurance coverage may not apply for cancellations unless they have a policy that permits cancellations for any reason.
The Canadian government has cautioned against non-essential travel to certain areas of Mexico, while popular tourist destinations like Puerto Vallarta, Cancun, Cozumel, and Mexico City are advised to exercise a high degree of caution. Travel experts suggest consulting with airlines or tour operators to understand available options for upcoming trips to Mexico.
Despite recent security concerns in Mexico, flights to destinations like Cancun have remained unaffected, providing some reassurance to travelers. McKenzie McMillan, a travel agency managing partner, highlighted that while circumstances may change, travelers to these destinations need not be unduly worried at present.
In conclusion, travelers are advised to stay informed about the situation and make decisions based on the latest updates from authorities and travel providers.