Canada just updated its Cuba travel advisory — Here's what to know if you're planning a trip

If you're planning a winter escape to Cuba, you might want to check out the latest travel advisory from the Government of Canada.

The federal travel agency recently updated its Cuba travel advisory to warn Canadian travellers to "exercise a high degree of caution" due to several issues currently affecting the island, including nationwide power outages, shortages of essential supplies and the aftermath of two major hurricanes.

According to Travel.gc.ca, Cuba is currently facing a countrywide power outage with no clear timeline for when electricity will be fully restored. While most resorts and large hotels use backup generators, the advisory cautions that these may not sustain operations if the outage continues for an extended period.

In a tweet posted on Friday, the government agency recommended that Canadians check with their airlines to see if the outage could impact their travel plans.

The advisory also points out chronic shortages of essentials, including food, medicine, bottled water and fuel, which are more severe in certain parts of the country. Travelling around the island has become "extremely challenging" due to fuel shortages that impact everything from public transportation to rental car availability. According to the government, some travellers have even been stranded with rental cars they can't refuel.

Cuba has been hit by not one but two hurricanes in recent weeks. On Wednesday, Category 3 Hurricane Rafael made landfall in western Cuba, bringing 185 km/h winds, flooding and significant disruptions to power, water and transportation services across the entire island. Canada's travel advisory currently recommends avoiding all non-essential travel to the western areas of Pinar del Rio, Artemisa, La Habana, Mayabeque, Matanzas and the Isle of Youth.

Just weeks before, Hurricane Oscar struck the eastern province of Guantanamo, causing severe damage and leaving some areas in ruins. The government is also advising Canadians to avoid all non-essential travel to the province of Guantanamo, which is still dealing with the impacts of the first storm on October 20.

As if that wasn't enough, several earthquakes hit just off Cuba's south coast on Sunday, with the strongest reaching a magnitude of 6.8. Although no injuries have been reported as of the time of writing, the situation is adding to the island's many recent challenges.

So, if Cuba is on your travel list, it's wise to stay updated on local news and Canada travel advisories. With power outages, supply shortages and potential weather disruptions, planning ahead could help you avoid unexpected travel headaches.

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your trip.

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