WHERE TO GO? New research reveals the top destination list for Canadians booking all inclusive vacations

A sailing catamaran is parked on the white sand on the seashore against the backdrop of beautiful tropical nature. tourist attractions in Cuba.

A new Sunwing survey on travel intent, considerations and preferences among Canadians has unveiled that, among the 53% of Canadians who intend to travel internationally in the next year, half (51%) say they will likely book an all inclusive vacation, with the destination or country the single-most important consideration for 46% of respondents.

This is followed by resort amenities, with one-in-five respondents (20%) indicating that amenities and facilities such as restaurants, pools, gyms and spas are their top consideration when booking.

The survey was conducted by Sunwing, in both English and French, among members of the Angus Reid Forum between November 17-21, 2022 with a nationally representative sample of 1,515 Canadians.

When it comes to Canadians’ destination preferences for an all inclusive vacation, a location with a phenomenal beach (such as Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic, Varadero in Cuba and Negril in Jamaica) tops the list for over one-third (36%) of respondents.

A destination with a world-renowned culture and history is a close second, with 31% of respondents indicating they would travel to such places as Havana in Cuba, Riviera Maya and Mazatlán in Mexico. In addition, one-quarter (23%) of respondents would choose somewhere that offers opportunities for adventure and exploration, such as Costa Rica and Panama.

“Our research shows us that Canadians are eager to travel internationally in the next year, with 43% of likely travellers looking to escape the cold at home over the winter months. For those considering an all inclusive vacation, a prime beachfront location is top of mind for the ultimate sun and sand getaway, while Canadians also crave opportunities to do more in paradise, from soaking up the local culture to exploring at the resort and beyond,” said Samantha Taylor, Chief Marketing Officer for Sunwing Travel Group.

Additional survey insights:

Among those who are open to an all inclusive vacation in the next year, seven-in-ten (71%) are most likely to travel with a partner or significant other, while three-in-ten (30%) are most likely to travel with friends, followed by one-quarter (24%) who are most likely to travel with children

62% of Canadians aged 18-34 are likely to travel internationally in the upcoming year, along with 70% of high-income households ($100k+ in annual household income)

Respondents in Quebec (60%) are most likely to book an all inclusive vacation in the next year

When choosing an all inclusive vacation provider, over half of respondents (55%) say the primary thing they consider is the overall price of the vacation package

And naturally Sunwing reminds Canadians looking for the quintessential sun and sand escape this winter can take their pick of the best beaches in the Caribbean with Sunwing.