Destination travel guide: From superstars to rising stars

Superstars: Mexico

Cancun

From reality show stars to the everyday stars – that’s you – everyone loves to go on (and talk about) their Cancun vacations, with its beautiful sands, buzzing atmosphere and family friendly and adults only resorts for every budget. It’s a classic, no doubt, but that’s not all that makes this worthy of a return.

• Cancun is close to historic landmarks like the famous Chichén Itzá
• It’s a shopper’s paradise with local boutiques and high-end retailers
• Some of the best nightlife can be found along the Caribbean coast in the Hotel Zone

Rising Stars: Mexico

Mazatlán

Mazatlán is a seaside dream, the perfect combination of culture, nature and beach vacations. If you ask our Flynancial Advisors, they’ll rate this destination highly because it offers the best of Mexico at an affordable price – and who doesn’t want that?

• The historic Old Town is a blast from the past, with beautiful 19th century architecture
• Known as the shrimp capital of the world, you’ll have some of the best seafood of your life here
• One of the largest Carnival celebrations in Mexico takes place here, rivalling even Rio de Janeiro

Superstars: Mexico

Los Cabos

An oasis in the desert, Los Cabos has certainly made a name for itself for more than just its famous arch and natural beauty – it’s where rugged landscapes meet the style and comfort of all inclusive packages at top-rated hotels.

• Enjoy the unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience of whale watching from mid-December to April
• It’s great for adrenaline seekers with ATV tours, camel rides and ziplining
• The region’s growing culinary scene focuses on farm-to-table dining

Rising Stars: Mexico

Acapulco

The original Mexico vacation destination, everything about this spot has been updated since the Golden 50s – including the price – but it’s nowhere near its counterparts. It’s really the perfect place to bring your plus one, or five.

• Take your pick of stunning beaches, from the bustling Playa Condesa to the more relaxed Playa Pie de la Cuesta
• Discover the area’s natural beauty at Laguna de Tres Palos and La Roqueta Island
• Make sure to pack your dancing shoes for Acapulco’s legendary nightlife – beach party, you in?

Superstars: Cuba

Varadero

A Varadero beach vacation is like a rite of passage – a tradition that’s alive and well. As Canada’s top pick in Cuba for a tropical getaway (we’ve got the data to back it up), its white-sand shores and turquoise waters are practically family.

• Over 20 kilometres of beach lined with world-class resorts for every budget
• The island’s capital of Havana is a must-see and just a day trip away – worth it
• Admire natural wonders like the Saturno Cave and the Varahicacos Ecological Reserve

Rising Stars: Cuba

Cienfuegos

Dubbed the "Pearl of the South", Cienfuegos boasts a unique French settler influence, creating a distinct atmosphere that sets it apart from other Cuban cities. The other difference? It’s more affordable, too.

• The area’s rich history is seen and felt through the architecture steeped in classic style
• Nearby mountains have plenty of secrets to share, like the majestic El Nicho waterfall
• Nothing beats the sunset views from the city’s waterfront promenade

Superstars: Cuba

Cayo Coco

Connected to the mainland by a causeway, this destination is ideal for that desert island feel (don’t worry, no need to pull a Cast Away…but your Wilson is out there) and perfect for those seeking a tranquil atmosphere with many fitting resorts in the area.

• Unspoiled beaches and coral reefs make for peak snorkelling conditions
• The mangrove forests are top notch for bird watching and eco tours
• Tackle the waves in style with kiteboarding, a favourite activity in the area

Rising Stars: Cuba

Holguin

Known as the City of Parks, Holguin is the answer to those who love the vibes that Havana puts out but want to try on a new city vacation for size, with colonial architecture and the added bonus of lush landscapes. It’s basically a two-for-one, a real-life paradise bargain. • Get a feel for the city’s culture and some pretty good people watching at Calixto García Park • Your setting for some much-needed vitamin D? Pristine beaches like Guardalavaca and Playa Esmeralda • Explore Holguin’s natural beauty with eco adventures at Bahía de Naranjo Nature Park

Superstar: Dominican Republic

Punta Cana

A Punta Cana all inclusive vacation is more than just a chance to splash around Bavaro Beach (a pretty famous beach, to be fair), it’s an opportunity to explore the island’s dynamic interior, zipline through tropical forests or dig into the local culture at nearby villages.

• Tee off on golf courses designed by the Gods, or at least legends of the game like Jack Nicklaus
• Kite surfing, snorkelling and scuba diving dreams are born along the area’s 32 kilometres of shoreline
• Don’t miss Scape Park, a natural theme park serving the best of the island all in one place

Rising Stars: Dominican Republic

Puerto Plata

Punta Cana’s not the only Dominican gem that gives us all the feels. You can look forward to the same great benefits but with a particular value add – the unique blend of beaches, history, culture and eco adventures for less. It’s a 5-star vacation without the 5-star price tag.

• You can experience the local culture in a picturesque setting on the Malecón boardwalk
• Adventure seekers can get into the thick of it and hike to the nearby Damajagua Waterfalls
• San Felipe Fortress is a historic gateway to Puerto Plata’s impressive path, with panoramic views to boot

Rising Stars: Dominican Republic

La Romana

A La Romana vacation package is highly recommended by our trusty Flyancial Advisors if you’re looking to invest in yourself. It gives you what you want in upscale amenities and authentic Dominican charm, while also providing a taste of both exclusivity and local flavour that you can’t get anywhere else at prices like these.

• Stylish all inclusive resorts near world-class golf courses designed by some of the greats
• Unique eco experiences at Saona Island with pristine beaches and natural pools, and Catalina Island’s renowned snorkelling and diving spots
• Visit Altos de Chavón for a taste of what life looked like at a 16th-century Mediterranean village