Canadian airlines have resumed flights to and from certain parts of Mexico following disruptions on Sunday due to violence in the region. However, travelers are deliberating whether to proceed with their plans.
Air Canada, WestJet, Air Transat, and Porter Airlines have recommenced operations to and from Puerto Vallarta as of Tuesday, while Flair Airlines is set to resume its services to the popular resort town on Wednesday.
Global Affairs Canada confirmed that no new incidents have been reported since Monday, although warnings to shelter in place remain in effect for the western Mexican states of Jalisco and Nayarit after violence erupted following the military operation that led to the killing of cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho.”
Regarding whether Canadians should cancel their trips to Mexico, Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand advised on Tuesday that decisions should be made on a day-to-day basis, despite signs of improvement in the situation.
This uncertainty has left potential Canadian travelers like Cindy Redmile unsure about their next steps. Redmile, who is scheduled to depart from Quesnel, B.C., to Cancun with her daughter next week, remains concerned about the evolving situation and her daughter’s safety.
On the other hand, Lauretta Prince from Fort St. James, B.C., is less apprehensive. She and a friend had planned a trip to Puerto Vallarta with their granddaughters to celebrate their graduations, letting the kids decide whether to proceed with the trip.
Both Redmile and Prince have purchased travel insurance that allows them the flexibility to reschedule or receive travel credits if needed.
However, travelers need to be cautious about insurance coverage. Will McAleer, the executive director of the Travel Health Insurance Association of Canada, highlighted that unless travelers have a policy that permits cancellations for any reason, they may not be able to get refunds for their trips.
While airlines are offering some flexibility for rebooking or cancellations, the coverage varies based on departure dates and fare classes. It’s important for travelers to communicate with their airlines or tour operators to understand their options.
Despite recent security concerns in Mexico, travelers to popular destinations like Cancun have been advised to exercise caution rather than avoid travel altogether. McKenzie McMillan, managing partner of travel agency The Travel Group, emphasized that destinations like Cancun have not faced significant disruptions, providing some reassurance to travelers in those areas.
In conclusion, travelers with upcoming trips to Mexico should stay informed about the situation, communicate with their travel providers, and assess their options before making decisions about their travel plans.
