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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.

Love this? Check out our MTL Blog noticeboard for details on jobs, benefits, travel info and more!

AI tools may have been used to support the creation or distribution of this content; however, it has been carefully edited and fact-checked by a member of MTL Blog’s Editorial team. For more information on our use of AI, please visit our Editorial Standards page.

Canada Hikes Proof of Funds For International Students, Raises Concerns For Nigerians, Others

Just In: Canadian government warns this little-known passport rule could impact your winter travel plans

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:

No immediate travel plans? 

You can submit your passport application by mail or visit any Service Canada Centre, passport office, or outreach site.

Travelling in a few weeks?

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.

Travelling in less than two weeks?

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.

Air Canada was named among the best workplaces for mental health and it’s hiring in Montreal

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.

​In-Flight Service – Crew Scheduling

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.

Apply for Crew Scheduler

Bilingual Customer Sales and Service Agent – Call Centre

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

Administrative Operations Support Senior Coordinator

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.

Apply for Senior Coordinator

Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (CAT 01)

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

Ramp Agent (Station Attendant) – Airport

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

Ground Support Equipment Technician (CAT 23)

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

Facilities Maintenance Mechanic – Millwright (CAT 27)

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.

A ranking of Canada’s top party cities dropped and SO many places beat Montreal

If a tourist asked you to recommend the top party cities in Canada, chances are Montreal would be at the top of your list. But based on recent data from Uber, you’d be incorrect.

According to the third annual edition of Uber Canada’s Nightlife Index, Montreal doesn’t even crack the top 10 party cities in Canada for 2024. (Umm, are you okay there, Uber? Did you have one too many drinks yourself?)

Based on the average number of late-night trips (between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m.) taken by riders in each city each month, Uber found the following to be Canada’s top 10 partying cities:

  1. Toronto, ON
  2. London, ON
  3. Winnipeg, MB
  4. Ottawa, ON
  5. Regina, SK
  6. Halifax, NS
  7. Vancouver, BC
  8. Kitchener-Waterloo, ON
  9. Edmonton, AB
  10. Hamilton, ON
Someone should remind Uber that Montrealers love utilizing our metro system and abundant bicycle lanes — especially with BIXIs available year-round. Couldn’t that be the reason for our absence?

You would think so. However, last month another study — this one by financial services platform Square — revealed that Toronto and Calgary are dominating the late-night scene in Canada, with 38% of all restaurant, bar and café spending happening between 7 p.m. and 4 a.m.

Meanwhile, Montreal lagged way behind at 26% and was even beat by Ottawa and Winnipeg.

Again, WTF?

In Uber’s study, Montreal did come out on top in one category: We’re the top users of Uber Share, Uber’s more economical, less time-efficient ride-sharing service. While Toronto takes the lead in Uber Black rides, Quebec City tops the charts for Uber Comfort, and Winnipeg favours Uber Green.

Across Canada, the biggest party nights (based on ride volume from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.) include Halloween weekend, New Year’s Eve, and St. Patrick’s Day.

And what are the top five hangover foods? Based on volume of orders between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, they are:

  1. Hot coffee
  2. Hash Brown
  3. Bagels
  4. Iced coffee
  5. Doughnuts

Has anyone told the rest of Canada about poutine? It’s fine, it’s fine. We can keep Montreal’s bussin’ food and nightlife our little secret.

Love this? Check out our MTL Blog noticeboard for details on jobs, benefits, travel info and more!

AI tools may have been used to support the creation or distribution of this content; however, it has been carefully edited and fact-checked by a member of MTL Blog’s Editorial team. For more information on our use of AI, please visit our Editorial Standards page.

MTL Blog does not condone the overconsumption of alcohol or other substances. If you’re going to drink alcohol or consume cannabis, please do so responsibly and only if you’re of legal age.

3 Canadian universities ranked among the best in the world — and 2 beat McGill… again

The World University Rankings 2025 just dropped and two Canadian schools have outperformed McGill University, securing higher spots in the global rankings.

On October 9, Times Higher Education released its annual list, highlighting the top universities from around the world based on metrics in five key areas: teaching, research environment, research quality, industry engagement and international outlook. This year, Times ranked more than 2,000 institutions from 115 countries and territories with 185 new entries compared to last year.

For the ninth year in a row, the U.K.’s University of Oxford snagged the number one spot. Meanwhile, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is now the highest-ranked university in the U.S., in second place globally — its best-ever performance.

But where do Canadian universities stand?

The University of Toronto topped the charts as Canada’s highest-ranking institution, coming in at 21st globally. With a robust student population of 80,107 and 29% of students hailing from abroad, U of T continues to excel in research and innovation.

Next is the University of British Columbia, which secured the 41st position worldwide. With 59,931 students, UBC stands out for its international population, featuring 34% international students.

In comparison, McGill University, ranked 45th globally with 30,051 students and 30% international representation. This is slightly higher than the past couple of years, as it ranked 49th in 2024 and 46th in 2023. McGill has consistently placed between 38th and 49th place since 2016.

This isn’t the first ranking in the past few months to show McGill falling behind other Canadian Universities. The 2024 National Taiwan University (NTU) World University Rankings released earlier this year placed McGill 57th, far behind both U of T and the UBC, which came in at fourth place and 37th place, respectively.

McGill did fare slightly better in the Times ranking when it came to particular subjects. Its law department ranked 29th, its clinical and health department came in 26th and the psychology department came 28th. However, U of T still outranked it in all three of those subjects, perhaps putting a definitive end to the debate on which of the two schools is better.

Here’s the complete top 10 of the best universities in the world, per Times Higher Education:

  1. University of Oxford — United Kingdom
  2. Massachusetts Institute of Technology — United States
  3. Harvard University — United States
  4. Princeton University — United States
  5. University of Cambridge — United Kingdom
  6. Stanford University — United States
  7. California Institute of Technology — United States
  8. University of California, Berkeley — United States
  9. Imperial College London — United Kingdom
  10. Yale University — United States

You can find the full ranking and methodology on the Times Higher Education website.

Love this? Check out our MTL Blog noticeboard for details on jobs, benefits, travel info and more!

This article’s cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.

AI tools may have been used to support the creation or distribution of this content; however, it has been carefully edited and fact-checked by a member of MTL Blog’s Editorial team. For more information on our use of AI, please visit our Editorial Standards page.

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Chinese Firm Seizes Nigerian Luxury Jet In Canada Amid International Asset Confiscation

A Chinese company, Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Ltd, has taken possession of a luxury jet owned by Nigeria in Canada as part of ongoing efforts to recover arbitration awards totaling over $70 million. The move marks the latest in a series of global asset seizures targeting Nigerian properties in various countries. Zhongshang recently finalized the […]

The post Chinese Firm Seizes Nigerian Luxury Jet In Canada Amid International Asset Confiscation appeared first on Naija News.