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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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The government is urging Canadians who have international travel plans this fall and winter to double-check their passports’ validity to avoid being refused entry at their destination.
On October 25, the Government of Canada released a statement advising travellers to ensure their passports are valid for at least six months prior to expiry, which is now a standard entry requirement in over 70 countries.
Popular destinations like Thailand, Singapore, China, and Turkey all follow this six-month passport rule, so failing to meet it could mean getting denied entry or even being unable to board your flight.
The “six-month rule” is an entry requirement in many countries to prevent travellers from overstaying or facing complications if they encounter travel delays or emergencies. Under this rule, your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned arrival date to be allowed entry.
The idea is to give travellers a buffer if their stay is unexpectedly extended or they need extra time for a safe return. It also ensures that even if a passport holder encounters unexpected circumstances—like health issues, flight cancellations, or emergencies—they’ll have enough time on their passport to remain in the country legally until they can safely leave.
For Canadian travellers, this means that if your passport has less than six months left before expiring, you could face being denied entry at your destination, even if your actual travel period is much shorter.
To avoid issues, officials recommend starting the passport renewal process around six months before your passport expires. This allows extra time to gather necessary documents and avoid any last-minute rush, especially during the busy travel season.
For those without a passport or needing one for a child, Minister of Citizens’ Services Terry Beech suggests applying as early as possible, ideally six months before any planned travel. You can make an appointment through eServiceCanada at a nearby Service Canada location, where all forms need to be completed before your appointment. Walk-in services are also available if you don’t have an appointment.
If you’re applying for a new passport or renewing an existing one, here’s what to know:
You can submit your passport application by mail or visit any Service Canada Centre, passport office, or outreach site.
Head to a Service Canada Centre or passport office that processes applications within ten business days. Just remember that mailing times can add a few extra days unless you choose to pick up your passport in person.
You’ll need to visit a passport office that offers urgent or express pick-up services, which require proof of travel. You can find more details about urgent, express, and emergency services on the government’s website.
In any case, if you have a specific travel date in mind, it’s a good idea to include this in your application for faster processing.
Visit the Service Canada website or check travel advisories for the latest information about passport services, including estimated wait times at locations offering 10-business-day processing. You’ll also be able to check out the specific entry requirements at your destination, so you’ll know whether the six-month rule will apply.
Safe travels, Montreal!
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.
If you’re looking for a high-paying job in Montreal that offers great benefits and a commitment to your mental health — all without necessarily requiring a degree or experience — you might want to check out these Air Canada jobs that are open right now.
Air Canada is hiring for jobs in Montreal, and some pay up to $43 an hour without requiring a degree! Plus, these Montreal airport jobs come with a slew of benefits, and the airline has just been awarded a prestigious certification for “mental health at work.”
According to Air Canada, this gold-level certification from Excellence Canada highlights the airline’s commitment to creating a workplace where mental and physical well-being are a priority. It says its employee wellness program includes unlimited counselling, telemedicine and even a wellness centre for employees in Montreal. Plus, the airline has already certified over 900 employees in Mental Health First Aid, making sure support is always close by.
If you’re considering applying for one of the many available part-time or full-time Air Canada careers, you’ll be pleased to know that the airline offers great benefits beyond just the focus on mental health. From flexible shifts and comprehensive health coverage to the opportunity to travel the world with exclusive employee perks, working here is packed with rewards.
You don’t always need experience or formal education to start out, either — several roles, like Ramp Agents and Cabin Service Attendants, offer paid training and have no experience requirement to apply. These open positions are available at Montréal-Trudeau International Airport in Dorval and
So, whether you’re interested in working at one of Canada’s busiest airports or just looking for a new opportunity with a company that values your well-being, Air Canada might just have the perfect fit for you. Ready to take off? Here are seven roles being hired for in Montreal right now.
Salary: $23.16 per hour, plus an extra $1.00 per hour for night shifts between 10:45 p.m. and 7:15 a.m.
Location: Air Canada Headquarters (beside Montreal YUL)
Closing date: Ongoing
Who should apply: If you’re detail-oriented and thrive in fast-paced environments, this Crew Scheduler role could be the perfect fit! You’ll be responsible for scheduling flight attendants in line with union agreements, resolving scheduling issues and ensuring smooth daily operations.
To qualify, you need a high school diploma, strong multitasking skills and the ability to make decisions under pressure. Experience in the airline industry is an asset, and you must be available for shift work, including nights and holidays. Fluency in both French and English is required, and a paid four-week training program is provided.
Salary: $17.30 per hour
Location: Montreal
Closing date: Ongoing
Who should apply: If you’re passionate about delivering exceptional customer service and love working with people, this could be a perfect fit! As a Customer Sales and Service Agent, you’ll be the first point of contact for Air Canada customers, helping with flight reservations, inquiries and special offers.
To qualify, you need a high school diploma, fluency in both English and French, and availability to work shifts. Experience in a call centre or the travel industry is a plus. Air Canada offers full training, and candidates fluent in additional languages like Spanish, Korean, Japanese, Cantonese or Mandarin will be given special consideration.
Apply for Customer Sales and Service Agent
Salary: $27.91 per hour
Location: Montreal
Closing date: Ongoing
Who should apply: If you’re organized, detail-oriented and experienced in office administration, this Senior Coordinator role could be for you! You’ll handle a variety of complex tasks like preparing reports, coordinating events and mentoring team members.
A high school diploma and at least three years of office experience are required. You’ll also need excellent communication skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office. Some positions may require shift work or physical tasks like lifting. Bilingualism in English and French is preferred, but not required.
Salary: $26.74 to $43.79 per hour, depending on experience
Location: Montreal Maintenance Centre
Closing date: Ongoing
Who should apply: If you’re a licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer or Junior Mechanic with a passion for aviation, this role could be for you! You’ll perform critical airframe maintenance at Air Canada’s Montreal maintenance centre.
To qualify, you need a Transport Canada AME M2 or M1 licence, a valid driver’s licence, and to have completed a recognized apprenticeship program and/or at least four years of experience. Strong troubleshooting skills, proficiency with diagnostic tools and the ability to work under pressure are a must. Bilingualism is preferred but not required. Be prepared to work night shifts, weekends and holidays.
Apply for Aircraft Maintenance Engineer
Salary: $17.30 (part-time) or $23.36 (full-time) per hour, plus shift premiums of $0.50 to $1.00 per hour for evening and night shifts
Location: Montreal YUL
Closing date: Ongoing
Who should apply: If you’re ready to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment, this could be a great fit! As a Ramp Agent, you’ll be responsible for safely loading and unloading aircraft, handling baggage and ensuring on-time performance. And the best part is that no prior experience is needed!
To qualify, you just need a valid driver’s licence and the ability to lift 70 lbs repetitively. Flexibility is key since you’ll be working rotating shifts, including weekends and holidays. Both full-time and part-time positions are available, and training is fully paid.
Apply for full-time or part-time Ramp Agent
Salary: $38.35 per hour
Location: Montreal
Closing date: Ongoing
Who should apply: If you’re a skilled mechanic with experience in drive-trains, diesel and gasoline engines, and complex electrical and hydraulic systems, this role could be for you! As a Ground Support Equipment Technician, you’ll maintain critical ground equipment at the airport.
You’ll need a high school diploma; a valid Automotive Service Technician, Commercial Transport Mechanic, or Heavy Duty Mechanic trades certification; and an interprovincial Red Seal certification. Five years of trade experience is also required, and additional licences in areas like fuel systems or air conditioning are assets. Bilingualism (English and French) is preferred but not required.
Apply for Ground Support Equipment Technician
Salary: $38.35 per hour
Location: Montreal YUL
Closing date: Ongoing
Who should apply: If you’re an experienced Millwright with a Red Seal or Journeyman license, this role could be for you! As a Facilities Maintenance Mechanic, you’ll handle preventive maintenance, repairs and troubleshooting for building mechanical equipment, including hangar doors and HVAC systems.
To qualify, you’ll need an Interprovincial Journeyman Millwright license or Red Seal certification, along with a minimum of 3 years of field experience. Additional certifications, such as a Tag1 Gas Licence, Halocarbure Gas License, Refrigeration License (CCQ) and a 5th Class Power Engineer ticket may also be required. A valid driver’s licence is essential. Bilingualism is preferred, and candidates must be able to work shifts, including weekends.
Apply for Facilities Maintenance Mechanic
Good luck, job hunters!
This story was originally published on Narcity and has been adapted with additional job postings available only in Montreal.