Escape the Canadian winter with 6 sunny destinations and standout deals

Raise your hand if you’re already fed up with winter. The bad news is that you’ve still got a few months to go, but the good news is that a sunny escape is closer than you realize.

Air Canada Vacations is saying bye-bye to winter with up to 40 per cent off* some of its hottest (literally and figuratively) destinations. From a classic getaway in Mexico to the dazzling waters of the Caribbean, here are six locations to kickstart your 2026 travel inspiration.

Barbados

The country that created Rihanna is a country worth visiting. Amidst the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean Sea, Barbados has something for every type of traveller, from foodies and historians to explorers and adventurers.

Swim in the turquoise waters, discover the birthplace of rum, and see how Barbados wakes up when the sun goes down with incredible nightclubs, festivals, and parties.

Mexico

¡Viva México! This country is a vacation hotspot for Canadians, and it's clear why. Air Canada Vacations has packages for so many of its amazing cities that no two trips are ever the same.

Whether you're living the resort life in Cancún, exploring the culture of Huatulco, roaming the Mayan ruins of Cozumel, lounging on the beaches of Puerto Vallarta, or tapping into the wellness vibe of Los Cabos, a good time is all but guaranteed wherever you end up.

Martinique

Welcome to Martinique, an island that's rich in culture and diversity and a sanctuary for biodiversity. From mountain peaks to palm-fringed shores, Martinique is unique for boasting a variety of landforms and microclimates all in one place.

Whether sailing in a catamaran, hiking in the heart of the tropical forest, or checking out beautiful downtown monuments in a land excursion, it's easy to make the most of your time amidst these celebrated, protected natural areas.

Saint Martin

Known as "the friendly island", Saint Martin is a unique island full of surprises. Perhaps the most significant surprise is that it’s actually in two countries — France and the Netherlands.

Cross the symbolic border to discover multicultural atmospheres full of beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and fusion cuisine of French and Creole. However you choose to dive into Saint Martin (or Sint Maarten, on the Dutch side), you’re sure to fall in love with the island.

Dominican Republic

Live it up in this classic Caribbean escape and forget your winter worries. Punta Cana boasts everything you need for a relaxing getaway, including a sprawling 48 kilometres of sandy beaches where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Caribbean Sea.

Or, head to the southern coast to visit La Romana, where you can venture into the past at Cueva de las Maravillas and Domingo’s Ciudad Colonial. History awaits!

Cuba

Welcome to the Caribbean's largest island! A classic Cuban vacation awaits in Varadero and off the beaten path in Holguín, where guests can enjoy top-notch beaches, restaurants, nightlife, and golf.

Or if you're a mermaid at heart, Cayo Coco is the place to be, with its crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches that are prime for snorkelling and swimming.

Travel with Air Canada Vacations

With your passport renewed and some travel inspiration under your belt, it's time to book – and explore enticing deals. With the Air Canada Vacations Bye-Bye Winter event, Canadians can snag up to 40 per cent off* selected vacation packages to sunny destinations.

Break up Toronto’s long winter with some fun under the sun. Visit Air Canada Vacations to check out an entire range of offerings and to plan your next getaway today.

*Certain conditions apply