by Natasha Lair
Last updated: 2:00 PM ET, Thu February 26, 2026
As Canadian airlines restore service to Puerto Vallarta and other impacted destinations, travel safety experts are urging Canadians to exercise heightened caution while in Mexico.
“Stay in your resort and don’t wander off,” Martin Firestone, president of Travel Secure Inc., told CTV News.
His comments come amid ongoing security concerns in several regions, including areas popular with Canadian vacationers. While resort infrastructure continues operating, recent violent incidents have prompted renewed scrutiny of travel safety in parts of the country.
Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand stopped short of telling Canadians to reconsider travel plans altogether.
“The advice that our government is providing is that this is a situation that is very volatile and it is evolving every day,” she said. “To make a decision about your plans for next week on Tuesday of the week before may be premature.”
RELATED: Flights to Puerto Vallarta Resume as Canada Updates Mexico Travel Advisory
Instead, Anand suggested decisions should be made on a day-to-day basis as conditions evolve.
The developments underscore a familiar reality: Destinations can experience localized disruptions while the broader tourism infrastructure continues operating.
Mexico has become a top-selling alternative to U.S. destinations, buoyed by strong direct air service from Toronto Pearson and other major Canadian hubs. The Mayan Riviera and Puerto Vallarta, in particular, continue to see strong demand.
What This Means
Firestone’s remarks reinforce heightened awareness.
While major tourist zones and resorts often maintain robust security protocols, travellers should avoid unnecessary movement outside controlled environments, particularly in areas experiencing unrest.
Experts recommend travellers:
- Review Government of Canada travel advisories prior to departure
- Enroll in the Registration of Canadians Abroad service
- Reconfirm travel insurance coverage, including medical and trip interruption benefits
- Set clear expectations around excursions and off-property exploration
On-the-Ground Realities
Travel experts are not suggesting Canadians cancel trips outright. Instead, the message is focused on minimizing exposure to risk.
For the trade, the distinction matters. The conversation is less about panic and more about prudent behaviour.
RELATED: Canada Updates Mexico Travel Advisory as Violence Triggers Shelter-in-Place
Clients already in destination should maintain contact with their airline, tour operator or travel advisor for operational updates and follow instructions from local authorities.
For now, experts agree the most effective guidance is:
- Stay within the resort environment.
- Avoid unnecessary travel.
- Stay informed.
- Keep communication lines open.
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