Canadians are known for their politeness and a keen eye for a good deal, but when it comes to vacation planning these days, it seems they’re also looking for something else: an escape from border blues. A significant shift is underway in Canadian travel habits, with more and more opting for the sun-drenched shores of Cancun over their traditional go-to, the United States. It’s a sunny tale of shifting priorities, political headwinds, and the undeniable allure of margaritas by the beach.
A Chilly Reception at the Border
For decades, crossing the southern border for a quick shopping trip, a Florida escape, or a grand American road trip was as Canadian as poutine. But recent years have seen a noticeable chill. According to data released by Statistics Canada, April 2025 saw a staggering 35.2% drop in Canadian resident return trips from the U.S. by automobile compared to the same month last year. Air travel didn’t fare much better, with a 19.9% decline in Canadian resident air return trips. These aren’t just one-off blips; it marks the fourth consecutive month of year-over-year declines, suggesting a persistent trend.
So, what’s sparking this southward migration away from their closest neighbour? It’s a mix of heightened political tensions and a desire for a genuinely stress-free vacation. A recent study by Longwoods International in April 2025 found that a remarkable 60% of Canadian adults are actively choosing to avoid travel to the United States in 2025. The reasons are clear: concerns over stricter border security policies, including fears of intrusive questioning, potential detentions, and even device searches. Canadians, typically welcoming and easygoing, are finding the border crossing process increasingly daunting, turning what should be a relaxing start to a holiday into a nerve-wracking ordeal.
Adding fuel to the fire, earlier talks of Canada becoming the 51st state by figures like Donald Trump left a particularly sour taste. While perhaps intended as a joke, for many Canadians, it felt like a dismissal of their sovereignty and a fundamental misunderstanding of their national identity. When you’re looking for R&R, you certainly don’t want a side of political drama with your vacation.
Cancun: The Siren Song of the South
Enter Cancun, shining like a beacon of relaxation and warm welcomes. While the numbers for Canada-Mexico travel haven’t always been as meticulously broken down by specific cities, the trend is undeniable. Mexico as a whole has seen a boom. In March 2025, Canadian arrivals in Mexico rose by 15.6% compared to the same month in 2024, according to the Mexican Secretary of Tourism. This surge aligns with broader trends indicating a strong preference for Mexico.
Travel platforms are also reporting a significant shift: Airbnb saw nights booked by Canadian users in Mexico jump by 27% between March 2024 and March 2025. Trivago noted a 20% increase in Canadian searches for Mexican accommodation in the three months leading up to March 2025. Even flight bookings from Canada to Mexico increased by 6% in the first quarter of this year. These numbers clearly demonstrate that Canadians are looking for destinations that roll out the welcome mat, offering vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and a palpable sense of ease.
With its all-inclusive resorts, azure waters, and endless opportunities for fun (from ancient Mayan ruins to exhilarating nightlife), Cancun has perfectly positioned itself as the stress-free, sun-soaked antidote to any cross-border anxieties. For Canadians seeking genuine relaxation and a feeling of being truly appreciated as visitors, swapping the uncertainties of their southern neighbor for the guaranteed good times of Mexico’s Riviera Maya is an increasingly easy choice to make.
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