Winter escapes: insure your adventure

Do you love winter travel? If so, you’re like many Canadians, but we tend to differ on where we prefer to roam.

The top reason Canadians travel during the winter is to escape the cold. In 2023, 38 percent of winter travellers flocked to warm destinations  such as the Caribbean and Mexico. However, many Canadians, particularly lovers of recreation and adventure tourism, love wintery getaways and often hit the slopes at some of the country’s many world class ski resorts. Winter travel also often has the advantage of being cheaper due to off-season discounts and promotions. 

Wherever you vacation this winter, considering travel insurance is essential. You should know that your provincial or territorial health insurance plan may not provide full coverage if you experience a medical emergency outside of your home province. 

An Allianz Travel Insurance plan with emergency medical benefits may provide coverage for treatment, medically necessary transportation and after care, if you experience a covered emergency during your trip. We also provide protection for trip cancellation and interruption, and baggage protection.

Do you want some help planning your next winter getaway? Read on to learn more about both warm and snowy winter travel destinations loved by Canadians and why you may want to consider travel insurance. 

Canadian ski resorts 

Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia consistently ranks among the top ski resorts in the world, and is the largest year-round resort of any kind in North America. If you're in search of a broad-range of terrain for skiers of varying levels of skill, or an extended season for a getaway closer to spring, Whistler Blackcomb has you covered. 

Mont Tremblant, Quebec, "a colorful village with European flair and Quebecois influences," is full of charm and beauty, writes Travel + Leisure. Mont Tremblant is the ideal destination for group and family trips with skiers and snowboarders of varying levels. "There are three snowparks: Mitik Park (best for beginners), Progression Park, and Adrénaline Park (ideal for experts)," adds Travel + Leisure.

Banff, Alberta is home to the three ever popular "SkiBig3" resorts: Mt. Norquay, Sunshine Village, and Lake Louise. "These three resorts all boast fluffy powder and the mind-boggling views that Banff is known for," writes Here & There. If you decide to visit all three resorts, you may want to start your trip at Mt. Norquay, Here & There recommends. The small resort offers great views of the town of Banff and Mt. Rundle.  

Afterward, explore downtown Banff or take a walk to Bow Falls. The next day, move on to Sunshine Village, which boasts the longest ski season in North America. After a long session, ease your aches at Fairmont Hot Springs. 

International ski resorts 

Chamonix, France is an incredible, wide ranging ski destination. The expansive ski area is made of five different ski parks, offering challenging and varied routes. Though there are plenty of runs for beginners, Chamonix's altitude (The highest lift is over 3,800 meters.) means there is plenty of fun to be had on insanely difficult slopes! 

Chamonix grants skiers and snowboarders "access to some of the world's best off-piste and some awesome vertical," writes SeeChamonix. Another positive is Chamonix's convenient location in an hour's drive from Geneva Airport, making ground transfers easy. 

Zermatt, Switzerland is home to Europe's highest ski resort and is home to the impressive Matterhorn. "For a cross-border adventure, Zermatt delivers," writes Ski.com. The Matterhorn Glacier Ride spans between Switzerland and Italy, a great choice for your next international skiing adventure. Zermatt offers 38 Alpine peaks and 14 glaciers between Switzerland, Italy and France. Skiers and snowboarders can enjoy Zermatt's glacier routes year-round.

You should know that an Allianz Travel Insurance policy with emergency medical benefits only covers ski and snowboard-related accidents that occur within established trails as described and defined in the policy. Think twice before adventuring off-piste.

Allianz Travel Insurance plans with trip cancellation benefits are also useful when booking winter trips, due to unpredictable winter weather. We may reimburse certain non–refundable expenses if you experience a weather-related delay. We also offer baggage benefits, which may help you avoid major costs if your winter sports equipment is damaged while travelling. 

Caribbean islands 

Barbados is ideal to visit from mid-December to April, with little rain and average temps around 30 degrees C. As the dry season in Barbados, December to April is the best time of year to visit this island nation. While lounging on the beach and watersports are popular here, Barbados also has a lot to offer foodies. "Insiders frequently name Barbados among the culinary capitals of the Caribbean, home to long-held local favorites like fish cutters and elevated fine dining with Bajan master chefs," writes Travel + Leisure. 

The Dominican Republic is known for its pleasant, warm weather from December to February, with temperatures hovering around 28 to 29 degrees C. Learn about the nation's culture and history on a stroll through Zona Colonial in the capital Santo Domingo. The architecture in Zona Colonial dates to the 1500s, shortly after Columbus' arrival in 1492. Visit the Ozama Fortress Primada Cathedral and the Casa Colón.

Mexico 

Cancun is home to the ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Its iconic pyramid is an engineering marvel and one of Mexico's most treasured archaeological sites. Learn more about the Mayans on a tour of The Mayan Museum of Cancun.  Dive within the Cancun Underwater Museum to explore more than 500 submerged artistic structures that also provide artificial reef habitat for marine life. Go dolphin spotting on the shores of Playa Delfines. 

Puerto Vallarta in Jalisco is known for its incredible beaches and nightlife. It's a cosmopolitan destination with lots to see for families, couples and friends. Stroll the city's art walk and explore galleries displaying works by Mexican and international artists. Take the Malecon Sculpture Tour to learn more about the history of the famed sculptures on Puerto Vallarta's boardwalk. 

If you crave adventure and relaxation in more far-flung destinations, consider booking the trip of a lifetime to Bali, Indonesia, Costa Rica or Thailand. These destinations are popular among Canadians who want to venture further. 

Consider a comprehensive travel insurance plan with trip cancellation, luggage and medical protection for your next warm weather getaway. Weather-related delays and cancellations, and baggage loss, damage or theft may also occur during trips to warm destinations. You may also experience medical emergencies, including exposure to tropical illnesses, which is more likely to occur in warm environments. 

Winter vacations are an opportunity for Canadians to escape the winter blues or lean into the season by hitting the slopes. Protect your winter adventure with comprehensive travel insurance that fits your activities and destination.