Travel advisors talk escaping winter and hot excursions in the Caribbean and beyond
Canadians often look to escape the winter. Where are your clients going for sunny escapes this year?
JD: This year I’m seeing a lot of interest in Hawaii, Bali, Dubai, Barbados, and Anguilla. My clients often want incredible properties but many are very interested in Villas now. Villas offer larger spaces, most have full staff included, and the kind of privacy you just can’t get at a hotel.
KM: I always find Mexico to be one of the top sellers for me, including this upcoming winter season. Other popular spots are Dominican Republic, Cuba and Jamaica depending on budgets. From Winnipeg all of these destinations offer the convenience of direct flights, making them especially appealing for a winter escape.
What kind of excursions are your clients looking for during their getaways?
JD: The days of simple zip-lining and easy hikes are behind us. My clients are now leaning toward more adventure-driven, bucket-list style experiences such as hot air balloon rides, catered private yacht tours, and private safaris in Africa are becoming a huge draw.
KM: For my clients wanting to leave the resorts they like to mix in some fun with their beach time, catamaran cruises and snorkelling are always popular, and in Mexico the cenote swims are popular. In Jamaica, waterfall climbs and river rafting are some of the favourites, while in the Dominican Republic and Cuba people really enjoy the culture and more history tours.
Are you noticing any trends when it comes to exploring beyond the resorts?
JD: Absolutely. More than ever, travellers want to immerse themselves in the culture. In destinations like Japan, they don’t want to just hit the tourist highlights, they want to discover the real country. Since Covid, there’s been a shift toward living for today. Privacy, luxury, and exclusivity are top priorities.
KM: Yes, I am seeing more clients wanting to get off the resort and experience a bit more of the destination. Clients still love their beach time, but they are mixing in more authentic experiences too. For example, in Cancun/Mayan Riviera clients want to swim in a natural cenote or explore Chichén Itzá or the Tulum area. In Jamaica clients want to see Dunn’s River Falls or see the Luminous Lagoon or experience an authentic jerk chicken stand.
What sunny destination do you personally hope to explore this year?
JD: Seychelles. It’s been on my list for nearly two decades, and I think this may finally be the year. I’ve always been fascinated by the beauty of the country and the warmth of its people.
KM: I am excited to visit Costa Rica for the first time this November. I will be there for the International Association of Destination Wedding Professionals (IADWP) conference, but I’m also hoping to explore the beaches, rainforests and the wildlife while I am there to see what Costa Rica has to offer my clients.
What’s trending beyond the Caribbean for warm trips?
JD: Japan in the summer is one of the hottest requests right now. Bali is also surging in popularity. Europe continues to be strong, but clients are moving away from the usual Italy, and Portugal and asking for less-traveled gems in remote areas of Switzerland, Spain and others in the summer.
KM: I have been getting some requests for cruises, river cruises and Europe, but still the Caribbean is the most popular destination to get away from the cold prairie winter!
Do you have any booking insights to share?
JD: Holiday seasons are selling out over a year in advance. Waiting won’t save you money — it will cost you choice. If you know you want to travel during peak times, book early.
KM: I have noticed that my clients are wanting to book earlier to lock in the best deals, especially for the winter sun vacations. Direct flights are always a big factor too; clients want to get to their destinations as quickly as possible. And all-inclusive vacations remain very popular especially from Winnipeg and our cold winters and also because they make planning easy and stress free, just arrive and start your vacation.
Do you have anything to add?
JD: Vacations are meant to be relaxing, but in reality, they can involve a lot of moving parts like hotels, meals, transfers and tours. Things go wrong. That is where the true value of a travel advisor comes in. I’m on call for my clients, solving problems so they don’t waste precious time being frustrated. AI and the web can’t fix issues for you once you’re there. Human support does.
