Canada issues travel advisories for these hot tourist spots

As Ontario’s winter continues to pummel residents, a warm-weather trip could be a welcome change.

Ontario residents have faced a tough winter this year, from record-breaking snowfalls to frigid cold and, this week, a bout of freezing rain.

If there ever was a time to getaway this winter has been it.

Those planning a trip may want to check out the latest travel advisories.

Canada’s Travel Advice and Advisories website page helps travellers make informed decisions and travel safely outside the country.

They analyze trends and incidents affecting international travellers, monitor global events and collect updated reports from various sources.

Here are five warm-weather destinations with travel advisories:

Cuba

Risks: Worsening shortages of fuel, electricity and basic necessities, including food, water and medicine.

Reasons: The Trump administration is cutting Cuba off from using traditional fuel sources in an effort to put pressure on the Caribbean nation, which has long been under strict economic sanctions imposed by Washington.

Last week, Canada updated the advisory to Cuba, suggesting people avoid all non-essential travel to the Caribbean country due to worsening shortages. These shortages can also affect services at resorts.

All Canadian airlines have suspended service to Cuba until further notice. Commercial flights remain available through international airlines; however, they may become limited on short notice. The advisory suggests travellers consider leaving while options remain available.

Colombia

Risks: High levels of crime.

Reasons: Crime rates are high throughout the country, particularly in the main cities. In some cases, extreme violence leading to death has occurred.

Tayrona National Park has been temporarily closed due to roadblocks and threats from armed groups. The advisory suggests travellers follow the instructions of local authorities. People should not pay anyone claiming to collect an entrance fee or offer a tour of the park, the advisory warns.

The island of Providencia and the town of San Andrés on the island of San Andrés are considered safer destinations for travellers.

Guatemala

Risks: High levels of crime roadblocks and demonstrations that occur throughout the country.

Reasons: A nationwide state of prevention is in effect until March 3, 2026. This is a level down from a nationwide state of siege, which was declared to combat organized crime and gangs.

Security forces still have the authority to limit demonstrations and public and private gatherings, establish roadblocks and checkpoints, limit movements, regulate or suspend strikes and work stoppages, especially if they have political purposes, dissolve gatherings or demonstrations that are not authorized or that involve weapons or violence, and request that media outlets avoid publications that, in the authority’s judgement, encourage disruption of public order.

Travellers are advised to follow the instructions of local authorities and avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place.

Peru

Risks: High levels of crime, as well as social conflicts and strikes that may occur across the country.

Reasons: Crime rates are high throughout the country. There has recently been a marked increase in violent crime in the Province of Lima, including in the city of Lima. Theft is very common, and thieves may be armed with guns.

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, occurs frequently, particularly in Arequipa, Cusco, Lima and Puno. Theft occurs frequently, particularly in crowded public areas such as buses, trains, bus and train stations, and airports, hotel lobbies, and restaurants.

For a complete list of advisories and additional information, see the federal website here.

Lead photo of Mexico City: Pyro Jenka 

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