Canadians who previously vacationed in Cuba are increasingly choosing other sun destinations, with the Dominican Republic emerging as the biggest beneficiary, according to new booking data from Sunwing Vacations.
The tour operator, which suspended its Cuba program, says bookings to the Dominican Republic have increased by 50% year over year as travellers look for destinations that combine affordability with quality resort experiences.
As Canada's largest vacation provider to Cuba, Sunwing historically carried more than half of all Canadian travellers to the destination during the past winter season. Since pausing operations to Cuba, the company says many customers have shifted their travel plans elsewhere in the Caribbean and Mexico.
“Canadian guests remain highly intentional about how they spend on travel, with value continuing to play a major role in destination choice,” said Deana Murphy, Vice President, Sales & Business Development, Sunwing Vacations.
“As travel demand evolves, we’re seeing guests gravitate toward destinations that offer a strong balance of affordability, quality resort experiences and the warm hospitality guests value most.”
Within the Dominican Republic, Puerto Plata and Samaná are seeing the strongest gains. Bookings to Puerto Plata are up 60% year over year, while Samaná has also posted significant growth following expanded air service, new resort options and additional experiences.
“Properties such as Eurostars Grand Cayacoa are emerging as strong alternatives for guests who previously vacationed in Cuba, offering a compelling mix of affordability, and unique local charm,” Murphy said.
Mexico has also captured a significant share of displaced Cuba demand, accounting for about one-quarter of those bookings, according to Sunwing. Cancun remains the company's top-booked destination, while Cozumel and Mazatlán continue to gain popularity among travellers looking for value and resort choice.
Mazatlán has recorded one of the strongest increases, with bookings rising by more than 70% compared with last year.
Other destinations are also benefiting from changing travel patterns. Bookings to Liberia, Costa Rica have doubled, while Rio Hato, Panama has seen bookings increase by 35%. Freeport in the Bahamas has posted booking growth of more than 20% year over year.
Sunwing said it remains focused on offering Canadians a broad selection of vacation options across Mexico, the Caribbean and Central America following the suspension of its Cuba program.
“Cuba has been an important part of Sunwing’s story for many years, and we remain hopeful for the destination’s future and the communities that have long welcomed Canadian guests," Murphy added.
Sunwing has directed customers affected by the Cuba program suspension to its Cuba travel updates page for the latest information and available travel options.
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