Canadian airlines have resumed flights to and from Mexico following disruptions 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 restarted operations to and from Puerto Vallarta. Flair Airlines is set to resume its service to the resort town on Wednesday. Global Affairs Canada has reported no new incidents as of Monday, but precautionary shelter-in-place advisories remain in effect for Jalisco and Nayarit states after violence erupted following the military operation that led to the death of cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho.”
Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand advised that decisions regarding travel to Mexico should be made on a day-to-day basis, despite signs of improvement in the situation. This uncertainty has left potential travelers like Cindy Redmile unsure about whether to proceed with her planned trip from Quesnel, B.C., to Cancun with her daughter. On the other hand, Lauretta Prince from Fort St. James, B.C., remains less concerned and is waiting until Friday to decide on her trip to Puerto Vallarta with her granddaughters.
Travelers like Redmile and Prince have purchased travel insurance for flexibility in case they need to rebook or cancel their vacations due to safety concerns. However, it is highlighted that insurance coverage may vary, and travelers should carefully review their policies. The Canadian government has advised against non-essential travel to certain areas of Mexico but only advises caution in popular tourist destinations like Puerto Vallarta, Cancun, Cozumel, and Mexico City.
McKenzie McMillan from The Travel Group reassures travelers that incidents were mainly concentrated in Puerto Vallarta, with other areas like Cancun operating normally. It is recommended that travelers inquiring about their upcoming trips to Mexico should consult with their airline or tour operator to understand their options. Despite the ongoing situation, many travelers remain optimistic about their trips to Mexico, hoping for a smooth and enjoyable vacation experience.