Mexico And Brazil Joins Costa Rica, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Panama, Cuba, And Other Tourism Hotspots In Strengthening Canadian Tourism, With WestJet’s New Routes To San Juan, Havana, Mazatlán, And Beyond

WestJet’s expansion of direct flights to key destinations in Mexico, Brazil, Costa Rica, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Panama, Cuba, and more is revolutionizing Canadian tourism by offering Canadians easier access to some of the most vibrant and sought-after locations in the Americas and the Caribbean. These new routes not only provide more convenient travel options but also strengthen Canada’s global connectivity, encouraging both outbound and inbound tourism. With destinations such as São Paulo, Havana, Mazatlán, and San Juan now more accessible than ever, the shift marks a transformative moment in Canada’s tourism landscape, boosting leisure and business travel alike.
Canada’s travel landscape is undergoing a transformational shift. WestJet, a leading airline connecting Canadians to the world, has unleashed a wave of exciting new flights spanning the Americas and the Caribbean. With direct services stretching from the Bahamas and Panama to Mexico and Brazil, this expansion is supercharging outbound travel, attracting global travellers to Canada, and reshaping tourism dynamics across multiple powerhouse destinations.
These new routes are doing more than just shortening flight times. They are opening doors to deeper cultural exchange, stronger business links, expanded adventure routes, and a more integrated North American and Caribbean travel ecosystem. From sun-soaked beaches to vibrant megacities, Canada and its partner nations now enjoy a shared promise of tourism growth and global connectivity unlike anything seen before.
Let’s unpack the big picture—country by country—and explore how this bold expansion is rewriting the story for Canadian tourism.
Mexico: Where Warmth Meets Wonder—Mazatlán, Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, and Beyond
Mexico has always been a favourite winter escape for Canadians seeking sunshine, culture, and culinary delights. With WestJet’s expanded service to key Mexican cities—including Mazatlán, Cancún, Puerto Vallarta, Tepic, and Guadalajara—the connection between Canada and Mexico has never been stronger.
Why Mexico Matters to Canadian Tourists
Mexico delivers exceptional value through:
- Beachfront resorts ideal for multi-generational travel
- World-class all-inclusive options
- A rich tapestry of culture, cuisine, and Indigenous history
- Convenient direct flights from Western and Central Canada
WestJet’s new winter seasonal flights, especially to Mazatlán and Tepic, create convenient non-stop travel that’s already inspiring Canadians to explore Mexico’s Pacific Coast like never before.
These flights are not only boosting leisure travel but are stimulating Canadian tourism spend in Mexico’s hospitality and adventure sectors. In turn, the frequent rotation of visitors strengthens ties between tourism stakeholders in both countries, resulting in job creation and seasonal tourism sustainability—particularly important for regions like Nayarit and Sinaloa that now see increased Canadian interest.
Brazil: São Paulo’s Debut—Opening South America for Western Canada
For the first time in history, WestJet is flying direct between Calgary and São Paulo—Brazil’s economic heart and South America’s cultural powerhouse.
What This Means for Canadian Tourism
Direct access to São Paulo fundamentally changes the travel landscape for Canadians:
- Calgary becomes a gateway to South America
- Canadian travellers can now connect seamlessly to destinations like Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, and the Amazon
- Business tourism expands into Brazil’s booming sectors—energy, tech, finance, and agriculture
- Cultural tourism between Canada and Brazil accelerates
São Paulo’s pull is massive. It’s a vibrant metropolis pulsating with music, culture, gastronomy, and arts. The city’s urban sophistication, iconic Avenida Paulista, acclaimed museums, and culinary scene now sit just one flight away for Canadians.
This route is not only promoting outbound travel; it’s prompting inbound Brazilian tourism—Brazilian visitors are now more likely to explore Calgary and the Canadian Rockies, bringing fresh energy and spending power to Alberta’s tourism economy.
Costa Rica: Nature and Adventure Now Closer Than Ever
Costa Rica has long been a magnet for Canadian eco-travelers seeking biodiversity, rainforest canopies, volcanoes, and jungle canopy tours. WestJet’s enhanced flights to this Central American paradise are igniting renewed interest—far beyond the usual beach getaway.
Contribution to Canadian Tourism
Costa Rica’s tourism boom is relevant to Canadian travellers because:
- It promotes active, sustainable travel experiences
- It widens the family adventure segment beyond conventional sun destinations
- It integrates directly with Canada’s adventure tourism branding
WestJet’s improved access prompts Canadian families and outdoor lovers to book nature-centric vacations with one direct connection. Costa Rica’s emphasis on sustainability and wildlife draws visitors who might otherwise head to beach-only locations, driving diversification in Canada’s travel preferences.
Puerto Rico: Caribbean Culture and Convenience with U.S. Access
Puerto Rico serves as a vibrant cultural destination with the dual advantage of being part of the U.S. travel system and a Caribbean gem. WestJet’s increasing flight frequencies to San Juan are transforming how Canadians view Caribbean travel.
Why Puerto Rico Tops Canadian Itineraries
- No passport needed for Canadians crossing through U.S. regulations (when travelling via certain entry points)
- An intoxicating blend of Spanish colonial legacy, music, dance, and fiesta culture
- Beach, rainforest, historical forts, and nightlife—all in one destination
This diverse profile makes Puerto Rico especially appealing to multi-purpose travellers—beach lovers, history buffs, honeymooners, and urban explorers alike.
Inbound visitation from Puerto Rico is equally valuable for Canadian cultural tourism—as reciprocal cultural exchanges increase through connected flights and joint tourism initiatives.
Dominican Republic: Punta Cana and Puerto Plata Lead Sun-Seeker’s Choice
The Dominican Republic has anchored its reputation as one of the most visited Caribbean nations by Canadian tourists—and WestJet’s seasonal winter flights to Punta Cana and Puerto Plata are fueling this trend further.
How the Dominican Republic Bolsters Canadian Tourism
- Strong resort infrastructure built around Canadian travel demand
- Activities for all age groups, from water sports to golf and historical tours
- Consistent, predictable winter sun when Canada’s weather turns cold
Canadians increasingly treat the Dominican Republic as more than a beach destination—it’s also a setting for weddings, retreats, and extended family vacations. These flows of Canadian visitors help tourism stakeholders tailor services, deepen brand loyalty, and expand travel packages that feed back into Canadian consumer demand.
Panama: Emerging Hub of Culture, Canal Tours, and Trade Tourism
Panama represents a unique blend of tourism and commerce. With WestJet connecting Canadian cities to Panama City directly—especially in winter schedules—Canadians are discovering it in a new light.
Panama’s Tourism Impact on Canadian Travellers
- Iconic Panama Canal remains a bucket-list highlight
- Cosmopolitan Panama City mixes heritage and modernity
- Affordable travel packages appeal to Canadian couples and retirees
Panama’s strategic location makes it ideal for Canadian travellers seeking transit to other Central and South American destinations—effectively positioning Canada as a principal departure point.
Cuba: Havana’s Pull and Caribbean Heritage
Although long established as a traditional winter escape, Cuba’s appeal persists because of its:
- Timeless culture and music
- Colonial architecture
- Classic vintage charm
- Warm seas and friendly locals
WestJet’s direct flights to Havana and other Cuban cities sustain Canada’s long relationship with Cuba as an accessible winter sun destination.
Contribution to Canadian Travel
Cuba continues to attract Canadian tourists thanks to:
- A rich cultural experience that complements traditional beach holidays
- High seasonal demand due to reliable winter flights
- An affordable travel destination with high value per dollar
Cuba remains a pillar among Canadian “sun or sea” itineraries, delivering steady tourism flows that benefit airlines, hotels, and service providers alike.
The Bahamas: Nassau and Beyond—Warm Breezes for Canadian Winter
The Bahamas has always been an elegant prize in winter travel portfolios. With WestJet’s flights facilitating direct access from Canada, more Canadians are opting for Bahamian getaways—especially during peak winter months.
How The Bahamas Boosts Canadian Tourism
- Cruise-compatible itinerary boosters
- Clear, warm Atlantic waters ideal for scuba, snorkelling, and beach relaxation
- A strong reputation as a luxury destination
Canadian travel marketers report upticks in bookings when Nassau and surrounding islands are on direct routes—leading to a greater year-round profile for Bahamian travel products in Canada.
United States: Expanded Transborder Options That Feed Canada’s Travel Chains
While not a foreign destination in the traditional sense, the United States is crucial to Canada’s tourism ecosystem—and WestJet’s continuing expansion of U.S. services is worth highlighting.
Cities like:
- New York
- Chicago
- Boston
- Miami
- Denver
- Atlanta
serve as major transit gateways for Canadians heading onward to sun, culture, and global connections. These links also help funnel international visitors into Canada via connecting flights, making U.S. expansion a strategic tourism amplifier for Canada.
What This Network Expansion Means for Canadian Tourism
Across every country listed—from Mexico’s Pacific coast and Brazil’s megacities to the heart of the Caribbean and Panama’s canal corridors—the story is the same:
1. Easier Access Encourages More Bookings
New direct flights mean fewer connections, lower travel friction, and higher willingness among Canadians to travel farther, more frequently, and across more diverse destinations.
2. Tourism Dollars are Circulating in Both Directions
These routes help send Canadian tourists abroad while simultaneously attracting inbound visitors who want to discover Canada’s cities, wilderness, and culture.
3. Canadian Travel Industry Growth
New itineraries create opportunities for travel agencies, tour operators, hotel partnerships, destination marketing, and seasonal employment across Canada.
4. Business Travel Expands Internationally
With connections now spanning key economic centres, Canadian companies gain valuable access to markets in Latin America, boosting trade tourism and cross-border professional exchanges.
5. Cultural Bridges Deepen
These routes unlock cross-cultural tourism experiences—expanding culinary, music, and festival tourism while creating demand for new travel narratives.
The expansion of WestJet’s network in 2025–26 isn’t just an airline strategy—it’s a tourism revolution. Canada has transitioned from a predominantly outbound market to a central hub of hemispheric travel, with deeper integration across the Americas and Caribbean than ever before.
The post Mexico And Brazil Joins Costa Rica, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Panama, Cuba, And Other Tourism Hotspots In Strengthening Canadian Tourism, With WestJet’s New Routes To San Juan, Havana, Mazatlán, And Beyond appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
