Cuba remains one of Canadians' favourite all-inclusive destinations, but Canadian carriers have suspended their flights to the island until further notice and the Government of Canada advises against non-essential travel there.
So we recommend postponing your stay. This guide gets you ready for the day flights resume: 12 resorts organized by region, from Varadero to the Cayos by way of Holguín, and the points programs that lower the bill for your next sun vacation.
Paying for your all-inclusive in Cuba with points
Several points programs let you lower the price of an all-inclusive package, almost always at a rate of 10,000 points for $100. Here's how each one works, and what's still possible for Cuba while flights are suspended.
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$1,000Annual fee rebated$139Total$1,139Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
With this offer for the TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card, you can get up to 50,000 Aeroplan points† as well as an Annual Fee rebate for the first year†.
Earn a welcome bonus of 10,000 Aeroplan points when you make your first Purchase with your new Card†
Earn 15,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $3,000 within 90 days of Account opening†.
Plus, earn a one-time anniversary bonus of 25,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $12,000 within 12 months of Account opening†
This card also allows you to enjoy travel benefits, such as a free first checked bag for you and up to 8 travel companions on the same reservation†, as well as a rebate on the NEXUS program application fee (up to $100 CAD per eligible cardholder) every 48 months†.
With the TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card, you earn 1.5 points† per $1 spent on:
Grocery purchases
Gas and electric vehicle charging purchases
Purchases made directly with Air Canada® (including Air Canada Vacations®)
You also earn 1 point† per dollar on all other eligible purchases made with your card.
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†Terms and conditions apply.
Annual fee
Primary card$139
Additional card$75
Annual income required
Individual$60,000
Household$100,000
Conversion fees
2.5%
Earning rate
1.5xGas
1.5xGroceries
1.5xAir Canada flights
1xAll spending
Value
1st Year Value$1,714
2nd Year Value$425
Card benefits
Concierge service24/7
Travel insurance
Travel medical (under 55)Up to $2,000,000 / 21 days
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$700Total$700Plus $200 of bonus paid after the first year, not counted in this total.Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
Apply with confidenceCheck whether your application will be approved before you submit it, with no impact on your credit score*When you apply for a personal American Express Credit Card, we will tell you whether you are eligible without affecting your credit score. So you can apply with confidence.*Instant decisions are only available for consumer Card applications (also called “personal Cards”).
With this welcome offer for the American Express® Aeroplan®* Card, you can earn up to 45,000 Aeroplan points. Here’s how:
Earn 35,000 Aeroplan points after charging $7,500 to your Card within the first 6 months.
Plus, earn an additional 10,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $1,000 in the 13th month.
The annual fee goes from $120 to $150 on January 12, 2027. Only fees charged on or after that date follow the new price. Sign up now and your first year is billed at $120. The Additional Card goes from $50 to $59, and the Additional No Fee Card becomes the Companion Card at $25.
With this Card, you earn 2x the points on purchases with Air Canada and Air Canada Vacations.
And 1.5x the points for dining and food delivery services in Canada. Anywhere else, you will earn 1X the points.
Enjoy your first checked bag free (up to 23kg/50lb) for up to 9 people travelling on the same reservation on Air Canada®* flights.
Like all American Express Canada Cards, there is no minimum income requirement.
Legal
American Express is not responsible for maintaining or controlling the accuracy of the information published on this website. For full and up-to-date product information, click on the Apply now link. Terms and conditions apply.
Annual fee
Primary card$120
Additional card$50
Annual income required
Individual$0
Household$0
Conversion fees
2.5%
Earning rate
2xAir Canada flights
1.5xRestaurants
1xAll spending
Value
1st Year Value$1,428
2nd Year Value$379
Travel insurance
Delayed BaggageUp to $500
Lost BaggageUp to $500
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $500
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000
Purchase protection
Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Auto Rental Collision (primary)Up to $85,000 / 48 days
National Bank À la carte Rewards
National Bank's À la carte Rewards program lets you pay for an all-inclusive package with your points through the Voyage à la carte travel agency, in partnership with Transat. The math is simple: 10,000 points gives you a $100 discount on your booking.
You book online through the National Bank rewards portal or by phone with an agent, and you choose how many points to apply. Keep in mind, though, that Air Transat suspended its flights to Cuba indefinitely on June 5, 2026: in the meantime, you can use your points on Transat packages to Mexico or the Dominican Republic.
The National Bank World Elite Mastercard lets you earn 2 points per dollar spent at Voyage à la carte. It also offers a $150 annual travel credit, unlimited access to the National Bank lounge at Montreal airport, and comprehensive travel protection, including trip cancellation and emergency medical insurance.
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$360Annual fee rebated$70Total$430Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
The National Bank Platinum Mastercard® lets you earn up to 40,000 reward points, plus a refund of the $70 annual fee for the first year for the primary cardholder:
10,000 points when you sign up for credit card payment insurance and keep it for at least the first 3 months
15,000 points after $2,500 in purchases within the first 3 months
15,000 points after $10,000 in purchases within the first 12 months
You have until November 4, 2026 to apply.
After that, you earn:
2 points per dollar on grocery and restaurant purchases
1.5 points per dollar on gas, EV charging, recurring bills and travel booked through the À la carte agency
Since it is a Mastercard, you can use it at Costco. Unlike the other two National Bank travel rewards cards, it does not require a minimum income.
The card includes mobile device insurance, an extended warranty on your purchases, and comprehensive travel insurance for trips of 10 days or less, with emergency medical coverage plus trip cancellation and interruption.
The annual fee is $70, plus $35 per additional card. The annual interest rate is 20.99% on purchases and 22.49% on cash advances.
Length of the welcome promotion
From June 30, 2026 to November 4, 2026.
Eligibility conditions
Sign up for a National Bank® Platinum Mastercard® credit card as a primary cardholder during the promotion period.
Have not held any National Bank personal Mastercard credit card as a primary cardholder during the past 12 months.
Keep the credit card account open and in good standing, in compliance with the Credit Card Agreement, until the annual fee refund and reward points are credited. For example, all minimum payments must be made on time.
Not be employed by National Bank of Canada or an entity in its group.
Description of the promotion
Up to 40,000 reward points upon enrollment, and a refund of the annual fee for the first year for the primary cardholder of a National Bank® Platinum Mastercard®.
Annual fees
The $70 annual fee for the primary cardholder will be refunded for the first year.
We will charge the annual fee to your new card account and then refund it. You will receive this refund within five months of opening your account, provided that your account remains open and in good standing. The refund will appear on your statement as a credit.
Annual fees related to authorized users’ cards are not eligible for this promotion.
Reward points
Points offered
Conditions
When points are awarded
10,000
Enrollment in credit card payment insurance* for at least the first three months
Within two months following the minimum enrollment period
15,000
$2,500 in purchases within the first three months**
By the end of the 6th month following enrollment**
15,000
$10,000 in purchases within the first 12 months**
By the end of the 15th month following enrollment**
* To apply for payment insurance, you must complete the sections related to the Credit Card Payment Protection Plan (CCPPP) included in the credit card application form.
** The purchase calculation period starts on the date you sign up for the card. For example, if you sign up on July 15, 2026, you have until October 15, 2026 to make the required $2,500 in purchases, and the 15000 points will be credited to your account by the end of January 2027.
How total purchases are calculated
The calculation is based on the total amount of purchases made using all cards linked to the account. Transactions not included in the calculation are set out in article 1.5 of the À la carte Rewards Plan™.
Other conditions
This promotion may only be used once per person.
Issuance of the card is subject to National Bank of Canada’s credit approval. Other conditions apply to the issuance of the card.
Unless otherwise indicated, this promotion cannot be combined with any other National Bank credit card promotion and is not retroactive.
This promotion may be modified or withdrawn without notice.
®Mastercard and Platinum Mastercard are registered trademarks, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated. Authorized user: National Bank.
®À LA CARTE EXTRAS, À LA CARTE REWARDS PLAN, NATIONAL BANK and the NATIONAL BANK logo are registered trademarks of National Bank of Canada.
®THE TOTAL, THE CONNECTED, AND NATIONAL BANK are registered trademarks of National Bank of Canada.
*Platinum Mastercard®
National Bank of Canada® Platinum Mastercard® credit card was named the best credit card for young professionals by Milesopedia in 2025 and 2026. Each year, Milesopedia examines the credit card offers of the largest financial institutions and establishes its ranking according to more than 150 criteria such as fees, welcome offers, minimum income required, number of points per category, account credits, insurance, airport lounge access, etc.
1. Certain restrictions apply. For more information, consult the Rewards plan section or the Plan rules regarding how to earn points.
Credit terms
Grace period: No interest will be charged on purchases made during the month, provided the client pays the balance in full within twenty-one (21) days of the statement date. This grace period does not apply to cash advances or balance transfers.
Minimum payment: If your account balance is lower than $10, you must pay the entire balance.
If you reside in the province of Quebec, your minimum payment is the greater of 5% of your account balance, plus any overdue amounts, or $10.
If you live outside Quebec, your minimum payment is 2.5% of your credit card balance, plus any past-due amount or $10, whichever is greater.
Account statement: A statement is sent monthly.
Example of credit charges over a 30-day period
Annual interest rate
Average balance
$500
$3,000
22.49% (regular card)
$9.24
$55.45
20.99% (regular card)
$8.63
$51.76
13.2% (Syncro card)
$5.53
$33.16
9.2% (Syncro card)
$3.78
$22.68
Balance transfer and cash advance are subject to credit approval by National Bank. Each balance transfer must be at least $250.
4. This coverage applies to purchases and rentals charged in part to the card, except out-of-province medical/hospital insurance for which the travel arrangements need not be charged to the card, and lost or delayed luggage insurance where all transportation costs must be charged to the card. This coverage applies to the primary cardholder, their spouse and/or dependent children when they (spouse and/or dependent children) travel with the primary cardholder. Extended warranty coverage applies to most new items purchased with the card, in Canada or abroad, as long as the manufacturer’s warranty is valid in Canada. Certain conditions and restrictions apply. For more information and for details of your insurance coverage, please consult the insurance certificate associated with your card.
5. Certain conditions apply. Visit mastercard.ca for more information. Refer to the credit card terms and conditions.
6. Subject to credit approval by National Bank.
7. The amount of points earned on grocery and restaurant purchases depends on the total gross monthly amount charged to the credit card account, regardless of the purchase category. You will earn 2 points for every dollar in eligible grocery and restaurant purchases until a total of $1,000 in gross monthly purchases is charged to the account. After that, you will earn 1.5 points per dollar in eligible grocery and restaurant purchases. The total gross monthly amount is calculated based on your monthly billing period. Grocery purchases include any purchase made at a store that primarily sells food, i.e., grocery store, delicatessen, supermarket, greengrocer or specialty food store. Ready-to-eat meal services and meal delivery services are eligible. This definition excludes purchases made at retail stores and big box stores whose core business is the sale of non-food items. Certain merchants may sell products and services that appear identical or similar to those sold by eligible merchants, or may be separate merchants located on the same premises as eligible merchants, but are classified in different categories by Mastercard. For purchases at other merchants, you will only earn regular rewards points. Restaurant purchases include purchases at a restaurant, fast food restaurant, bar, nightclub or pub. For a full list of Mastercard codes associated with eligible merchants, download the terms and conditions of the À la carte Rewards Plan®.
8. To earn 1.5 points per dollar in purchases, you will need to purchase gas or an electrical vehicle charge from a service station or from certain big box stores. Certain merchants may sell products and services that appear identical or similar to those sold by eligible merchants, or may be separate merchants located on the same premises as eligible merchants, but are classified in different categories by Mastercard. For purchases at other merchants, you will only earn regular rewards points. For a full list of Mastercard codes associated with eligible merchants, download the terms and conditions of the À la carte Rewards Plan®.
9. Recurring bill payments are defined as monthly or regular payments automatically charged by a merchant to your National Bank Platinum Mastercard credit card. Not all merchants offer recurring bill payments, and not all recurring payments are considered recurring bill payments. Certain payments therefore may not entitle you to earn more points.
11. The device must have been purchased using your National Bank Platinum Mastercard credit card, or your phone plan must be paid via recurring payments charged to your National Bank Platinum credit card starting September 1, 2022. For complete terms and conditions, please consult the insurance certificate associated with your card.
Annual fee
Primary card$70
Additional card$35
Annual income required
Individual$0
Household$0
Conversion fees
2.5%
Earning rate
2xGroceries
2xRestaurants
1.5xBills & recurring payments
1.5xGas
1.5xTravel
0.67xAll spending
Value
1st Year Value$749
2nd Year Value$209
Travel insurance
Travel medical (under 55)Up to $5,000,000 / 10 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $5,000,000 / 10 days
Travel medical (65+)Up to $5,000,000 / 10 days
Trip CancellationUp to $1,000
Trip InterruptionUp to $1,500
Delayed BaggageUp to $500
Lost BaggageUp to $1,000
Flight DelayUp to $500
Purchase protection
Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+2 years
Mobile DeviceUp to $1,000 / 2 years
Auto Rental Collision (primary)Up to $65,000 / 48 days
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueAnnual fee rebated$150Total$150Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
With Milesopedia, take advantage of an exclusive offer: your first-year annual fees are refunded with the National Bank World Elite Mastercard. This offer is exclusively available on the Milesopedia network, from June 30 to November 4, 2026.
Refund of the first-year annual fee (a $150 value) for the primary cardholder. This fee is charged to your new card account, then refunded as a credit on your statement within five months of opening your account, provided it remains open and in good standing.
The National Bank World Elite Mastercard is the best Mastercard credit card offered by NBC.
With this card, you earn up to 5 points per dollar on your purchases:
5 points per dollar for groceries and restaurants
2 points per dollar on gas and electric recharge purchases
2 points per dollar on recurring bills
2 points per dollar on À la carte Travel
1 point per dollar for all other purchases
And since it’s a Mastercard, you can use it at Costco.
With this card, you have access to a $150 annual travel credit that you can use in any of these categories:
Airport parking
Baggage fees
Seat selection
Access to airport lounges
Airline ticket upgrades
What’s more, you can enjoy access to DragonPass airport lounges and unlimited access to the National Bank Lounge at Montreal-Trudeau.
Finally, Milesopedia has named the National Bank World Elite Mastercard as the Best Travel Credit Card in 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026.
Legal
® Mastercard and World Elite are registered trademarks, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated. National Bank is an authorized user.
® The À LA CARTE REWARDS logo is a registered trademark of National Bank of Canada.
® NATIONAL BANK OF CANADA LOUNGE is a registered trademark of National Bank of Canada.
® À LA CARTE REWARDS PLAN is a registered trademark of National Bank of Canada.
® Apple Pay is a registered trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Apple Inc. is not a sponsor of or participant in National Bank Mobile Banking Solutions.
® Google Pay is a registered trademark of Google LLC. Use of this trademark is subject to Google Inc. Permissions.
TM À LA CARTE TRAVEL is a trademark of National Bank of Canada. The À la carte Travel agency is owned by Transat Distribution Canada Inc. and holds a Quebec permit (No. 753141).
TM À LA CARTE REWARDS is a trademark of National Bank of Canada.
® THE TOTAL, THE CONNECTED and NATIONAL BANK are registered trademarks of National Bank of Canada.
* Mastercard® World Elite®
The National Bank® World Elite® Mastercard® credit card was voted best Mastercard credit card by Milesopedia in 2026, 2025 and 2024.
The National Bank® World Elite® Mastercard® credit card was voted best travel credit card by Milesopedia in 2026, 2025 and 2024.
Every year, Milesopedia reviews credit card offers from major financial institutions and establishes its Ranking based on over 150 criteria such as fees, welcome offer, minimum income required, number of points per category, account credits, insurance, airport lounge access, etc.
Certain restrictions apply. For more information, see the Rewards Plan section or the Plan Rules applicable to point accumulation.
Grace period: No interest is charged on purchases made during the month if the cardholder pays the full balance of their account within twenty-one (21) days of the statement date. This grace period does not apply to cash advances and balance transfers. Minimum payment: if your account balance is less than $10, you must pay the balance in full. If you reside in the province of Quebec, your minimum payment is 5% of your account balance plus any overdue amount, or $10, whichever is greater. If you reside outside Quebec, your minimum payment is 2.5% of the credit card account balance plus any overdue amount, or $10, whichever is greater. Account statement: an account statement is sent monthly.
Table of examples of credit fees calculated over a 30-day period
Annual interest rate
$500
$3,000
22.49%
$9.24
$55.45
20.99%
$8.63
$51.76
13.2%
$5.53
$33.16
9.2%
$3.78
$22.68
*Variable interest rate in effect as of September 1, 2021.
Balance transfers and cash advances are subject to National Bank credit approval. Each amount transferred cannot be less than $250.
Exclusive to World Elite Mastercard cardholders. Presentation of the physical credit card and boarding pass is required to access the lounge. The National Bank® Lounge is accessible to customers traveling on international flights only (excluding flights to Canada and the United States). You benefit from free and unlimited access with one guest and two children aged 12 and under. Until October 4, 2026 (date subject to change), customers can enter the National Bank Lounge three hours before their flight departure time. From October 5, 2026 (date subject to change), access will be authorized for a maximum duration of 2 hours (3 hours for customers who hold a Private Banking 1859® World Elite® Mastercard® credit card). National Bank customers who are not World Elite ® Mastercard ® cardholders can also access the current lounge based on current rates and benefit from a 25 % discount on these rates : 63,24 $ taxes included for adults (excluding discount) $40.24 taxes included for children aged 2 to 12 (excluding discount) free for children under 2 (excluding discount) The entry fee is subject to change without notice and is the responsibility of the lounge operator.
Subject to providing the required supporting documents in the manner and within the prescribed timeframe. Certain conditions may apply. Only the primary cardholder of a National Bank World Elite Mastercard (Cardholder) whose account is in good standing can request a « Travel Fee Reimbursement ». « Account in good standing » means an account linked to the credit card that does not violate the Credit Card Agreement in any way and on which no restrictions apply. For example, and without limitation, the associated annual fees must have been paid in full. The maximum reimbursement of $150 can be requested from January 1 to December 31 of each year. Eligible expenses are: airport parking baggage fees seat selection airport lounge access worldwide airline ticket upgrades A reimbursement request must be made within 60 days of the purchase date. Travel expenses must be charged to the National Bank World Elite Mastercard credit card account. The maximum reimbursement of $150 is applicable per account. Please allow up to 7 business days for the reimbursement to be processed from the date your request is submitted. National Bank reserves the right to request additional supporting documents for validation purposes (e.g., invoices). You must keep all receipts and supporting documents for a period of 12 months from the date you made your reimbursement request. An unused reimbursement in one year cannot be carried over to the next year. You can make your request online at rewards.nbc.ca or by calling 1-800-341-8083 (toll-free) for an agent to assist you with your travel fee reimbursement request.
Point accumulation on grocery and restaurant spending depends on the total gross monthly amount charged to the credit card account, across all categories. Earn 5 points per dollar spent on eligible grocery and restaurant purchases. The 5 points per dollar accumulation is valid for the first $2,500 of gross monthly purchases charged to the account. Beyond this amount, eligible grocery and restaurant spending will earn 2 points per dollar. The calculation of the gross monthly purchase amount is based on monthly billing. A grocery purchase means a purchase made at a merchant whose primary business is selling food, such as a grocery store, delicatessen, supermarket, fruit store, or specialty food store. Meal kit subscriptions and meal delivery services are eligible. Therefore, this definition excludes, among others, retail stores and big-box stores whose primary business is selling non-food items. Some merchants may sell products or services identical or similar to those of eligible merchants, or are separate merchants located on the same premises as eligible merchants, but are classified by Mastercard in different categories. Purchases made from other merchants only earn base reward points. A restaurant purchase means a purchase made at a restaurant, including quick-service restaurants, bars, discotheques, nightclubs, and taverns. To view the full list of Mastercard codes associated with eligible merchants, download the À la carte Rewards Plan® terms and conditions document.
These protections apply if the purchases or rental are paid for in part with the card before departure, except, if applicable, for out-of-province medical-hospital insurance for which it is not necessary to charge the purchase of an à la carte trip and for baggage delay protection where the full cost of transport must have been charged to the card. All these protections apply to the primary cardholder, their spouse and/or their dependent children when they (spouse and dependent children) travel with the cardholder. Extended warranties apply to most new items purchased with the card, in Canada or abroad, provided the manufacturer’s warranty exists and is valid in Canada. Certain conditions, limitations and restrictions apply. For more information and details regarding your insurance coverage, please consult the insurance certificate linked to your card.
Subject to credit approval by National Bank.
Certain conditions apply. Visit mastercard.ca for more information. See all credit card terms and conditions.
To earn 2 points per dollar spent, you must pay for your gas or electric charging purchases at a gas station or certain big-box stores. Some merchants may sell products or services identical or similar to those of eligible merchants, or are separate merchants located on the same premises as eligible merchants, but are classified by Mastercard in different categories. Purchases made from other merchants only earn base reward points. To view the full list of Mastercard codes associated with eligible merchants, download the À la carte Rewards Plan® terms and conditions document.
Recurring bill payments are defined as payments made monthly or regularly that are automatically charged by the merchant to your National Bank World Elite Mastercard. Not all merchants offer recurring payments, and not all recurring payments are considered recurring bill payments. Therefore, some payments may not qualify for accelerated reward points.
To earn 2 points per dollar spent, you must pay for your eligible purchases through the À la carte TravelTM agency section of our À la carte RewardsTM site.
For example, if you spend $400 monthly on groceries, $200 on gas, $100 on recurring bills and $150 on other purchases, the $850 spent will generate 2,750 points, broken down as follows: 2,000 points for grocery spending (since the total gross monthly amount is $850, which is less than $2,500), 400 points for gas spending, 200 points for recurring bills and 150 points for other purchases.
Insurance up to $1,000 in case of breakage, loss or theft of mobile devices for a maximum period of 2 years following the date of purchase. Subject to purchasing the device with the National Bank World Elite Mastercard or a phone service subscription paid by recurring payments from your National Bank Platinum Mastercard starting September 1, 2022. For all conditions, please consult the insurance certificate linked to your card.
Annual fee
Primary card$150
Additional card$50
Annual income required
Individual$80,000
Household$150,000
Conversion fees
2.5%
Earning rate
5xRestaurants
5xGroceries
2xGas
2xBills & recurring payments
2xTravel
1xAll spending
Value
1st Year Value$778
2nd Year Value$923
Card benefits
Airport lounge access$400
Travel creditsIncluded
Travel insurance
Travel medical (under 55)Up to $5,000,000 / 60 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $5,000,000 / 31 days
Travel medical (65+)Up to $5,000,000 / 15 days
Trip CancellationUp to $2,500
Trip InterruptionUp to $5,000
Delayed BaggageUp to $500
Lost BaggageUp to $1,000
Flight DelayUp to $500
Travel AccidentIncluded
Purchase protection
Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+2 years
Mobile DeviceUp to $1,000 / 2 years
Auto Rental CollisionUp to $65,000 / 48 days
WestJet Vacations
Since WestJet acquired Sunwing, you book your sun vacations on two platforms: WestJet Vacations for departures from Western Canada and Ontario, and WestJet Vacations Quebec for departures from Montreal, Quebec City or Bagotville. Like the other Canadian carriers, they've suspended their flights to Cuba until further notice: your points can still be used for Mexico or the Dominican Republic.
The new version of the WestJet Rewards program offers simple, predictable value: 10,000 points gets you $100 off your vacation package. This flexibility lets you choose exactly how many points to use based on your budget.
To earn WestJet Rewards points, the WestJet RBC® World Elite Mastercard gives you 2 points per dollar on WestJet, WestJet Vacations and Sunwing purchases, for a $139 annual fee. You also get an annual companion voucher and a first free checked bag, which doesn't apply to WestJet Vacations Quebec or Sunwing packages, however.
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$700Total$700Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
With the WestJet RBC® World Elite Mastercard‡, you can earn up to 70,000 WestJet points as a welcome bonus:
30,000 WestJet points as a welcome bonus with your first purchase
30,000 WestJet points when you charge at least $5,000 in eligible purchases to your card within the first three months
10,000 additional WestJet points after your credit card account’s first anniversary
The offer ends on November 18, 2026.
An annual companion voucher from $119
Charge at least $5,000 in purchases to your card each year and you receive a World Elite Companion Voucher for a round-trip flight, starting at a $119 base fare, plus taxes, fees, surcharges and other air transportation charges. You can exchange it instead for a 30% flight discount for one traveller, a $200 credit towards a WestJet Vacations or Sunwing Vacations package, or airport lounge passes. The exact number of lounge passes granted is to be verified against the RBC terms in force.
A free first checked bag for up to nine people
The first checked bag is free for the primary cardholder and up to 8 guests on the same reservation, on WestJet flights. For a family of four, that is four bags on every leg.
Status Lift: $200 in tier qualifying spend per $5,000
Your everyday purchases move you towards Silver, Gold and even Platinum status. You earn $200 in tier qualifying spend for every $5,000 in purchases charged to the card, up to 50 times per year.
Up to 2 WestJet points per dollar
2 points per dollar on WestJet flights, WestJet Vacations and Sunwing Vacations packages
2 points per dollar at grocery stores and on transportation, including gas, EV charging, public transit and rideshare
1.5 points per dollar on all other everyday purchases
The annual fee is $139, plus $59 per additional card.
Finally, you benefit from extensive insurance coverage: out-of-province or out-of-country emergency medical insurance, travel accident insurance, trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance, flight delay and delayed baggage insurance, hotel or motel burglary insurance, rental vehicle collision and damage insurance.
Legal
® / MC Trademark(s) of Royal Bank of Canada. RBC and Royal Bank are registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada.
‡ All other trademarks are the property of their respective owner(s).
1 To benefit from this offer, your application must be received and approved by Royal Bank of Canada (“Royal Bank”) between June 16, 2026 and November 4, 2026 (“Offer Period”). This offer only applies to new applications for a WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard.
You will receive up to 30,000 welcome WestJet points upon your first purchase (“Welcome WestJet Points”) distributed as follows: (i) 25, 000 Welcome WestJet Points up to six (6) weeks after your first purchase transaction date; and (ii) 5,000 Welcome WestJet Points up to twelve (12) weeks after your first purchase transaction date, provided your first purchase gets posted to your WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard credit card account (“Credit Card Account”) within the first three (3) months of your Credit Card Account opening date (“Period”).
You will receive an additional 30,000 WestJet points (“Additional WestJet Points”) provided a total of $5,000 (“Qualifying Transaction Amount”) or more in qualifying net purchases and/or pre-authorized bill payment transactions (“Qualifying Transaction(s)”) are posted to your Credit Card Account within the Period. The Additional WestJet Points will be awarded approximately six (6) weeks after the date you reach the Qualifying Transaction Amount. Qualifying Transactions exclude cash advances (including balance transfers, cash-like transactions and bill payments that are not pre-authorized charges that you set up with a merchant), interest charges and fees, and credits for returns and adjustments posted to your Credit Card Account during the Period will reduce the amount of your Qualifying Transactions.
The transaction posting date of each Qualifying Transaction, not the transaction date, will determine whether the transaction will count towards the Qualifying Transaction Amount. This means that Qualifying Transactions that take place prior to the last day of the Period will not count towards the Qualifying Transaction Amount if they have not yet been posted or processed by the merchant, the payment network (Mastercard) or Royal Bank by the last day of the Period.
You will receive an additional 10,000 WestJet points (“Anniversary WestJet Points”) up to sixteen (16) weeks after your Credit Card Account has been open for one (1) year.
Welcome WestJet Points, Additional WestJet Points and Anniversary WestJet Points will be awarded to your WestJet Rewards account, accessible at westjet.com/account, and appear on your monthly credit card statement, provided your Credit Card Account is open and in good standing at the time they are awarded to your WestJet Rewards account, “good standing” meaning that your Credit Card Account must not be past due for more than two (2) consecutive Credit Card Account statement periods, closed, charged off or in credit revoked status at that time.
Only the primary cardholder on the Credit Card Account is eligible for this offer. Additional cardholders(s) (co-applicant and authorized user(s)), as well as existing cardholders on any RBC Royal Bank personal credit card account, transferring to a WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard during the Offer Period, are not eligible for this offer.
If you close your Credit Card Account or change it for another type of RBC Royal Bank credit card before the Welcome WestJet points, Additional Welcome WestJet points or the Anniversary WestJet points have been awarded to your WestJet Rewards account, you may not receive the points. This offer may not be combined or used in conjunction with any other offer. Royal Bank and WestJet reserve the right to modify, cancel or withdraw this offer at any time without notice, even after your application has been approved, including if we suspect that you may be manipulating or abusing it, or engaging in any suspicious or fraudulent activity, as determined by us in our sole discretion.
Annual fee
Primary card$139
Additional card$59
Annual income required
Individual$80,000
Household$150,000
Conversion fees
2.5%
Earning rate
2xGroceries
2xGas
2xTransit
2xWith the partner brand
1.5xAll spending
Value
1st Year Value$1,098
2nd Year Value$263
Travel insurance
Travel medical (under 55)Included
Travel medical (55-64)Included
Travel medical (65+)Included
Trip CancellationUp to $1,500
Trip InterruptionUp to $5,000
Delayed BaggageUp to $500
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $2,500
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000
Purchase protection
Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Mobile DeviceIncluded
Auto Rental CollisionUp to $65,000 / 48 days
Scene+
Although Scene+ Travel, powered by Expedia, doesn’t offer all-inclusive packages to Cuba, the Scene+ program is still a great option for your next vacation. You can book your package through any travel agency and use your Scene+ points to cover the expense.
The redemption rate is also 10,000 points for a $100 discount.
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite* Card is particularly interesting for an all-inclusive trip to Cuba. It offers six free airport VIP lounge passes per year. With more than 1,200 lounges worldwide, including Plaza Premium lounges in Montreal and Toronto, your trip starts in comfort right at the airport.
Keep one Cuba-specific limit in mind: since June 6, 2026, Visa and Mastercard cards are no longer accepted there, according to the Government of Canada. The Passport's lack of foreign transaction fees will help you when you book the package and in other sun destinations, not on the ground in Cuba, where you'll pay in cash.
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$350Total$350Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
With this welcome offer for the Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite+* Card, you’ll earn 25,000 welcome bonus Scene+ points after charging $2,000 in purchases to your account within the first three months.
Plus, every year, earn an annual bonus of at least 10,000 Scene+ points when you charge at least $40,000 in purchases to your account. In total, the offer represents up to 35,000 Scene+ points and a value of up to $1,250 in the first year, including rewards, savings on foreign transaction fees and airport lounge access.
With the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card, you earn 3 points per $1 spent at Sobeys, IGA, Safeway, Foodland and participating Co-ops, and 2 points per $1 spent at other grocery stores, restaurants, eligible entertainment and eligible daily transit. You earn 1 point per $1 on all your other everyday purchases.
These points can be redeemed against any travel purchase at a rate of 1,000 points = $10 (flights, hotels, all-inclusives and even Airbnb), or as cash back with Scene+ at the same rate.
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card also offers:
No fees for foreign currency transactions
6 complimentary airport VIP lounge passes
Excellent insurance for your travels and purchases
Visa Infinite* Concierge Services
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* The potential value of savings and rewards during the first 12 months includes the value of the welcome offer, the potential value of points earned in the first year, the value of savings on foreign currency transaction fees and the cost of airport lounge access as of May 22, 2026:
$250 in travel rewards (25,000 bonus Scene+ points) for new Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite +* Cardholders who charge $2,000 in purchases to their account within the first three (3) months;
$100 in travel rewards (10,000 bonus Scene+ points) for cardholders who charge $40,000 in purchases to their account;
$50 in savings from the annual fee waiver on the first additional card for new Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card credit card account holders;
$132 in savings on foreign currency transaction fees based on the average amount of foreign currency purchases made per active account over the past 24 months (by saving on the 2.5% foreign currency transaction fees typically charged by other credit card issuers);
$364 representing the potential value of points earned in the first year (36,400 Scene+ points) based on the average amount of purchases made per active account over the past 24 months, assuming an average spend of 21% of purchases in categories eligible for accelerated earn rates of 2X and 3X points;
$358 representing the value of complimentary membership in the Visa Airport Companion program which includes 6 airport lounge passes (based on « Preferred » membership valued at approximately $357 CAD/$259 USD). Based on the exchange rate in effect on May 22, 2026.
Maximum potential value after the first year = $1,254 (rounded to $1,250)
The actual value of offers, savings realized and points earned will vary depending on card usage and eligibility for applicable offers. Conditions apply.
1 Offer description and conditions: The 25,000 Scene+ points offer (the « offer ») applies only to new Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card credit card accounts (the « accounts ») opened between August 4, 2026 and November 1, 2026 (regardless of the date you apply for the account) subject to the conditions below. The offer may be modified, cancelled or extended at any time without notice, and it cannot be combined with any other offer.
In addition, as a Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Cardholder, you are eligible for an annual bonus of 10,000 Scene+ points if you charge at least $40,000 in eligible everyday purchases to your Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card account over the course of one year. Conditions apply; see below for more details.
Description and conditions of the 25,000 bonus Scene+ points offer: To be eligible for the 25,000 bonus Scene+ points offer (« 25,000 bonus points »), you must charge at least $2,000 in total eligible purchases to your account within the first three months following the account opening date.
Conditions for the annual 10,000 Scene+ points bonus: As a Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card credit cardholder, you can earn an annual bonus of at least 10,000 Scene+ points (the « annual points bonus ») if you charge at least $40,000 in eligible purchases to your account over the course of one year (12-month period). The annual period begins on the account opening date; a new period starts again every twelve months thereafter. If you replace another Scene+-eligible credit card with the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card (i.e., it is not a new card or an additional card), the opening date of your original account will be carried over to your new Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card account and your annual period under this offer will begin on the next anniversary date of your original account opening. For example, if you originally opened a Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card account on January 15, 2022 and you switch to the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card on July 15, 2025, your annual period under the 10,000 Scene+ points annual bonus offer will begin on January 15, 2026 (your next anniversary date) and a new period will start again on January 15 each year thereafter. You will earn 2,000 bonus Scene+ points for each additional $10,000 in purchases made during the same year once you have reached the $40,000 annual purchase threshold.
Eligible purchases means purchases, less refunds, returns and any other similar credits, and excludes payments, cash advances (including balance transfers and quasi-cash transactions), interest charges, as well as card fees and other fees.
Fulfillment of the annual points bonus: Bonus points will be credited within approximately eight weeks after you become eligible for a bonus, provided the account is open and in good standing. In the case of a joint account with a primary borrower and a co-borrower, bonus points will be credited as follows: (i) the 25,000 bonus points and the annual points bonus will be credited to the Scene+ account linked to the account of the borrower who made the transaction that reached the eligible purchase threshold ($2,000, or $40,000) within the appropriate timeframe (the first three months, or the first 12 months). If an additional cardholder makes the transaction that reaches the eligible purchase threshold for the 25,000 bonus points, or the annual points bonus, the bonus points will be credited to the Scene+ account linked to the primary borrower’s account. It is possible to transfer points between the Scene+ accounts of a primary borrower, a co-borrower or an additional cardholder by contacting Scene+. An account is in good standing if it is not past due, there is no over-limit, and the cardholder(s) have complied with the terms of the Revolving Credit Agreement that applies to the account. All other program conditions continue to apply during the offer period.
Offer eligibility and exclusions: You cannot take advantage of the offer if you are currently a primary or secondary cardholder of a Scotiabank personal credit card or have been one in the past two years, including if you transfer your balance from an existing Scotiabank personal credit card account, and if you are a Scotiabank employee. Subject to the exclusions mentioned above, small business credit cardholders are eligible for this offer.
Rates and fees: The annual fees are $150 for the primary card, $0 for the first additional card and $50 for each additional card thereafter (including those issued to joint account holders and additional cardholders). The preferred annual interest rates applicable to the account are as follows: 20.99% on purchases and 22.99% on cash advances (including balance transfers and quasi-cash transactions). The rates, fees, and features and benefits, which are described in the disclosure statement accompanying the application, may be changed.
Savings at Shell
Get up to 7 cents per litre in instant fuel discounts for a limited time and earn up to 3 cents per litre in Scene+ points value with an eligible Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite + card linked to a Shell Go+ Account:
Instant 3 cents per Litre Discount on Fuel Purchases (All Grades): Receive an instant 3 cents per litre discount on purchases of fuel (all grades) (“Fuel Purchases (All Grades)”) at participating Shell locations in Canada when you use any eligible Scotiabank debit card or credit card linked to a Shell Go+ Account, up to a maximum of 1,000 litres per month per Scotiabank debit card and per Scotiabank credit card account. This total limit resets at the start of each new month per payment card account. This discount is subject to the Scotiabank Fuel Benefit Terms and Conditions.
Instant 4 cents per Litre Discount on Premium Fuel: Between May 26, 2026 and June 1, 2027 (“Promotional Period”), receive an instant 4 cents per litre discount on purchases of V-Power® gasoline, or V-Power® diesel (“Premium Fuel Purchases”) at participating Shell locations in Canada when you use any eligible Scotiabank credit card that earns Scene+ points linked to a Shell Go+ Account, up to a maximum of 1,000 litres per month per credit card account. This total limit resets at the start of each new month per credit card account. This promotional offer, including the Promotional Period, may be changed, extended, or withdrawn at any time without notice. These promotional offer terms are in addition to the Scotiabank Fuel Benefit Terms and Conditions.
Earn up to 3 cents per Litre in Scene+ points Value (Equivalent) on Fuel Purchases: Each time you use your linked Scotiabank credit card that earns Scene+ points on Fuel Purchases (All Grades) at participating Shell locations in Canada, you will earn at least 1 Scene+ point per $1 spent. Plus, as a Scene+ Member you will also automatically earn 1 Scene+ point for each litre in Fuel Purchases (All Grades), and as a Shell Go+ member, automatically earn 1 additional Scene+ point for each litre in Premium Fuel Purchases, made with your linked Scotiabank credit card. This means that for every litre in fuel purchased with your linked credit card, you can earn the equivalent of up to 3 cents of redeemable Scene+ points value based on a redemption value of $10 for every 1,000 Scene+ points redeemed for fuel purchases at participating Shell locations. Actual value may be lower depending on how you choose to redeem your Scene+ points. Earn and redemption limits may apply. See the Scene+ Program Terms and Conditions available at sceneplus.ca/terms-and-conditions for full details including redemption options and additional terms.
Note: Highest value of 10 cents per litre assumes a Premium Fuel Purchase made with a Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite + Card linked to a Shell Go+ Account. Actual value will vary depending on payment card used and whether or not the card is linked, fuel grade purchased, and how you choose to redeem your Scene+ points.
Additional 3¢/L at Shell (limited time)
Additional 3¢/L Fuel Discount Offer: Offer valid from October 5, 2026 to December 31, 2026 (“Promotional Period”), eligible Scotiabank credit and debit cardholders enrolled in the Shell Fuel Benefits Program who have linked an eligible Scotiabank payment card (an “Eligible Card”) to their Shell Go+ account will receive an additional instant fuel discount of 3 cents per litre on eligible fuel purchases at participating Shell-branded retail locations in Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and the Northwest Territories (the “Eligible Provinces”) excluding Shell Flying J locations. Fuel purchases made outside the Eligible Provinces are not eligible for this offer.
To receive the additional fuel discount, customers must pay with their linked Eligible Card at the time of purchase.
The additional fuel discount is in addition to the fuel savings available through the Shell Fuel Benefits Program and may be combined with other eligible fuel discounts, rewards programs, and promotional fuel offers unless otherwise stated in the applicable offer terms and conditions.
The additional fuel discount is available on up to 1,000 litres of eligible fuel purchases per calendar month for each Eligible Card. The 1,000-litre limit resets at the beginning of each calendar month.
The additional fuel discount is non-transferable, is not redeemable for cash, and cannot be substituted or exchanged.
Shell Canada reserves the right to make changes to this offer and to terminate the offer at any time, for any reason and without notice.
All other applicable terms and conditions of the Shell Fuel Benefits Program, Shell Go+ and Scotiabank continue to apply.
Annual fee
Primary card$150
Additional card$0
Annual income required
Individual$60,000
Household$100,000
Conversion fees
0%
Earning rate
3xWith the partner brand
2xGroceries
2xRestaurants
2xTransit
2xEntertainment
1xAll spending
Value
1st Year Value$704
2nd Year Value$397
Card benefits
Concierge service24/7
Airport lounge access$240
Travel insurance
Travel medical (under 55)Up to $2,000,000 / 25 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $2,000,000 / 25 days
Travel medical (65+)Up to $2,000,000 / 3 days
Trip CancellationUp to $1,500
Trip InterruptionUp to $2,500
Delayed BaggageUp to $1,000
Lost BaggageUp to $1,000
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $1,000
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000
Purchase protection
Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Auto Rental CollisionUp to $65,000 / 48 days
CIBC Aventura
CIBC’s online travel agency is also powered by Expedia, so it doesn’t offer all-inclusive packages to Cuba.
To use your Aventura points, you need to book your stay through the travel agency of your choice. Once the transaction is pending on your card, you can easily apply your Aventura points to cover the expense, at a rate of 10,000 points for $100.
To earn Aventura points, the CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card gives you 6 free visits a year to more than 1,200 airport lounges through the Visa Airport Companion program, for a $499 annual fee and a required personal income of $150,000. If you'd rather have a no-fee card, the CIBC Aventura® Visa* Card gives you access to the same points program.
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$800Total$800Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
The CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite Privilege Card is the premium travel card in the CIBC Aventura program, aimed at an affluent clientele (minimum personal income of $150,000). It offers prestige travel perks, including six complimentary visits to 1,200+ airport lounges through the Visa Airport Companion Program, a $200 annual travel credit and rebates for two NEXUS applications.
You earn Aventura Points that can be redeemed for travel, and the welcome offer can reach up to 80,000 points in the first year. The annual fee is $499.
The annual interest rate is 21.99% on purchases and 22.99% on cash advances. A 2.5% foreign transaction fee applies to purchases made in a foreign currency.
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†Conditions Apply
Annual fee
Primary card$499
Additional card$99
Annual income required
Individual$150,000
Household$200,000
Conversion fees
2.5%
Earning rate
1.25xAll spending
Value
1st Year Value$639
2nd Year Value$101
Card benefits
Concierge service24/7
Airport lounge access$240
Travel insurance
Travel medical (under 55)Up to $5,000,000 / 31 days
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$125Total$125Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
The CIBC Aventura® Visa* Card is one of the best no-fee Visa credit cards with travel rewards in Canada.
With this offer, get up to $200 in value, with no annual fee:
Get up to 12,500 Aventura points (a value of up to $125 toward travel†):
2,500 Aventura Points when you complete all five activities within 60 days of your CIBC Aventura® Visa* account approval.†
10,000 Aventura points after making your first purchase during the period covered by your first 4 monthly statements†
A free Skip+ membership as an eligible CIBC cardholder (a $110 first-year value)†
With this no annual fee CIBC Aventura Credit Card, you get:
1 point for every dollar spent at gas stations, electric vehicle charging stations, and eligible grocery and drug stores†
1 point for every $1 spent on travel purchased through the CIBC Rewards Centre
1 point for every $2 spent on all other purchases
And this no-annual-fee CIBC Credit Card offers some insurance coverage:
$100,000 Common Carrier Accident Insurance
Purchase Security and Extended Protection Insurance
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This is an exclusive digital offer†. To be eligible for this offer: 1) this offer must have been directly communicated to you from CIBC or from a partner or affiliate; 2) you must apply for the eligible card through the link provided in the CIBC or partner/affiliate communication to you†.
This offer is reserved for you. Please do not forward it to anyone else. CIBC may approve your application, but you are not eligible to receive this Offer if you have opened, transferred or cancelled another Aventura card within the last 12 months.†
† Conditions apply. To learn more, select the Apply Now option.
Annual fee
Primary card$0
Additional card$0
Annual income required
Individual$15,000
Household$15,000
Conversion fees
2.5%
Earning rate
1xPharmacy
1xGroceries
1xGas
0.5xAll spending
Value
1st Year Value$338
2nd Year Value$194
Travel insurance
Travel AccidentUp to $100,000
Purchase protection
Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
All-inclusive in Cuba – Which region should you choose?
Planning a vacation in Cuba and hesitating between several destinations? This comparison table will help you make an informed choice based on your budget and preferences:
Cuba's all-inclusive regions compared (package prices before the suspension of Canadian flights)
Destination
Distance from the airport
Ideal for
Strengths
Price per person (before the suspension)
Varadero
30 min (VRA)
Families, groups
Long beach, nightlife, easy excursions
$950 to $2,000
Holguín (Guardalavaca)
60 min (HOG)
Families
Local culture, wild beaches, great value
$1,100 to $1,900
Cayo Coco
15 min (CCC)
Families, smaller budgets
Great value, pink flamingos, calm beaches
$1,000 to $1,600
Cayo Santa María
90 min (SNU)
Couples, friends
Modern hotels, nightlife, infrastructure
$1,200 to $1,600
Cayo Guillermo
45 min (CCC)
Couples, active travellers
Playa Pilar, kitesurfing, privacy
$1,000 to $1,300
Cayo Cruz
75 min (CCC)
Couples, luxury
New hotels, peace and quiet, unspoiled nature
$1,300 to $1,700
These are the prices of packages sold before Canadian flights were suspended: they're approximate, in Canadian dollars, per person based on double occupancy, and include the round-trip flight from Montreal (YUL), transfers, 7 all-inclusive nights and taxes. Use them as a benchmark for the day tour operators reopen sales.
Note that packages are generally about $50 to $100 cheaper when departing from Toronto (YYZ).
From Quebec City (YQB), packages cost $50 to $200 more than from Montreal.
The best all-inclusive in Cuba – Varadero
Cuba’s most popular beach destination, Varadero stands out for its 20 km beach, lively nightlife, and excellent selection of hotels for every budget.
Before the suspension, its international airport (VRA) received direct flights from Montreal, Quebec City, Toronto, Calgary, Edmonton, Halifax, St. John's and Moncton, just 30 minutes from the resorts.
Meliá Internacional Varadero impresses with its 946 modern rooms located on one of Varadero‘s most beautiful beaches.
The adults-only The Level section gives you access to a private lounge, butler service and dedicated pools.
The dining offering spans 13 restaurants, including 11 à la carte. Three main pools, a full spa, a fitness room and tennis courts round out the facilities, along with a daily activities program.
Paradisus Varadero
Paradisus Varadero welcomes visitors into 805 rooms spread across eight hectares of tropical gardens along a white-sand beach. Two distinct sections enhance the experience: Royal Service for adults and Family Concierge for families.
Seven à la carte restaurants and three pools, including one reserved for Royal Service, make up the main facilities. The resort offers non-motorized water sports, a spa, a fitness room and evening shows. Kids aged 4 to 12 enjoy a dedicated mini-club.
The best all-inclusive in Cuba – Holguín and Guardalavaca
A gateway to authentic Cuba, the Holguín region combines gorgeous beaches, local culture and great value. Before the suspension, Frank País Airport (HOG) received direct flights from Canada, with 45- to 60-minute transfers to the hotel areas.
Popular excursions include the city of Santiago de Cuba, Bahía de Naranjo Nature Park, and the historic site of Biran, Fidel Castro’s birthplace.
Paradisus Río de Oro
Paradisus Río de Oro, an adults-only five-star resort, features 354 rooms in an ecological reserve overlooking Esmeralda Beach in Holguín. The Royal Service section enhances the experience with its private lounge, butler service and exclusive pool.
Eight restaurants, including six à la carte, serve international, Italian, Mediterranean, and seafood specialties.
The property includes two main pools, a spa, a fitness room and a PADI dive centre (extra cost). Included activities range from catamaran to kayaking, snorkelling and a pool scuba introduction. A shuttle provides access to the beach.
Playa Pesquero
Playa Pesquero spreads its 912 rooms along a five-kilometer beach in Holguín. The Playa Luxury section elevates the experience with its spacious suites, butler service, exclusive restaurant, and private pool with bar. Privileges include a reserved lounge, personalized check-in, and 24-hour room service.
Seven restaurants, including five à la carte, offer Cuban, Japanese, Mediterranean and seafood specialties. The resort has four pools including a semi-Olympic one, a spa, a fitness room and a dive centre (extra cost).
Families enjoy a water park and a mini-club for ages 4-12. A lively entertainment program and non-motorized water activities, like kayaking and snorkelling, round out the offering.
The best All-inclusive in Cuba – The Cayos
The islands of Cuba (the Cayos) each offer a unique experience:
Cayo Coco, more accessible and affordable, is ideal for families and relaxing stays with its calm beaches and pink flamingos.
Cayo Guillermo, more exclusive, appeals to couples and fans of pristine beaches with the famous Playa Pilar.
Cayo Santa Maria, more developed and modern, attracts travellers looking for more activities and nightlife.
Cayo Cruz, a new upscale destination, wins over travellers looking for privacy and more modern facilities.
Cayo Coco
A true tropical paradise at an accessible price, Cayo Coco charms travellers with its pristine beaches, unique wildlife and laid-back vibe. Before the suspension, Jardines del Rey Airport (CCC) received direct flights from Canada, 15 to 20 minutes from the hotels.
Meliá Cayo Coco, an adults-only resort with 250 rooms, stands out for its location on a white sand beach and its overwater rooms above a natural lagoon. The Level section offers a lounge with ocean views, exclusive areas, and butler service.
Six restaurants, including four à la carte, offer varied cuisine from Mediterranean to seafood. Facilities include two pools, a spa, a fitness room and tennis courts.
Water activities include catamaran, kayaking and snorkelling, with a pool scuba introduction. Shows and entertainment round out the experience.
Memories Flamenco Beach Resort
Memories Flamenco Beach Resort welcomes its visitors in 624 rooms along a white sand beach in Jardines del Rey. The Diamond Club section enhances the stay with its private lounge, butler service, reserved areas, and 24-hour room service.
Seven restaurants, including five à la carte, offer Italian, Asian, seafood and grill specialties. The resort has three pools, a fitness room and a spa (extra cost). Shows liven up the theatre in the evening.
Families can enjoy a mini-club for children aged 4 to 12, a teen club, and non-motorized water activities such as kayaking and snorkeling.
Cayo Santa Maria
This modern hotel-island offers the perfect balance between luxury and authenticity, with its upscale resorts and preserved beaches. Santa Clara Airport (SNU) is the main gateway, with a transfer of about 90 minutes to the hotels.
Popular excursions include the colonial town of Remedios, the fishing village of Caibarién and a visit to Santa Clara with its Che Guevara monument. Catamaran tours to Cayo Ensenachos are also very popular.
Meliá Buenavista
The Meliá Buenavista, an intimate 105-room adults-only resort, is nestled between three distinct beaches in Cayo Santa Maria. Operating entirely under The Level concept, it offers all guests personalized butler service, exclusive beach areas and 24/7 room service.
Three à la carte restaurants serve international, Mediterranean and seafood specialties. The property includes three infinity pools, a spa and a fitness room. Yoga and stretching classes are offered daily.
Water activities include catamaran, kayaking, and snorkeling, complemented by pool scuba intro classes (extra cost).
Iberostar Selection Ensenachos
Iberostar Selection Ensenachos welcomes its 506 rooms between two spectacular beaches: Playa Ensenachos and Playa El Mégano. The Coral Level section (18+) offers concierge service, a private restaurant and lounge, as well as exclusive areas at the beach and pool.
Six restaurants, including four à la carte, offer Mediterranean, Japanese, Cuban and seafood specialties. The resort includes three pools, a spa (extra cost), a fitness room and tennis courts. Entertainment and shows keep vacationers amused.
Families benefit from a mini-club (ages 4-12) and a water park. Non-motorized water activities, like kayaking and snorkelling, round out the offering.
Cayo Guillermo
More exclusive and more intimate than its neighbour Cayo Coco, Cayo Guillermo is known for its spectacular Playa Pilar beach and world-class kitesurfing spots. Travellers land at Cayo Coco Airport (CCC), followed by a 45-minute transfer.
Top activities include deep-sea fishing, water sports at Playa Pilar, and catamaran excursions.
Iberostar Selection Playa Pilar
The Iberostar Selection Playa Pilar has 482 rooms along the stunning Playa Pilar beach in Cayo Guillermo. The Star Prestige (18+) section enhances the experience with its private lounge, reserved beach with concierge service and exclusive restaurant.
Six restaurants, including four à la carte, offer Asian, Mediterranean, Cuban and seafood specialties. The resort has three pools, a spa (extra cost), a fitness room and a tennis court. Entertainment and shows set the pace for the days.
Kids can enjoy Star Camp (ages 4-12) and a water park, while kayaking and snorkeling are offered to all vacationers.
Grand Muthu Cayo Guillermo
Grand Muthu Cayo Guillermo offers 500 contemporary-design rooms in the Jardines del Rey archipelago. Its modern architecture makes it one of the newest resorts in the region. The Muthu Royal section gives you private check-in, a private lounge and personalized butler service.
Six restaurants, including a rotisserie and an Italian restaurant, put gastronomy in the spotlight. The resort has four pools, including a kids’ water area, and a modern spa (extra cost) offering beachfront treatments.
A mini-club entertains kids while adults enjoy dance classes or the infinity pool. Daytime activities and evening shows liven up the stay.
Cayo Cruz
The newest of Cuba’s destinations, Cayo Cruz appeals to travellers seeking exclusivity with its new luxury hotels and still-wild beaches. Accessible via Cayo Coco Airport (CCC), allow about a 90-minute transfer.
The region is popular for sport fishing, sea excursions, and visiting the city of Ciego de Ávila.
Valentín Cayo Cruz
Valentín Cayo Cruz, a new adults-only resort with 546 rooms, combines elegant design and colonial touches in the Jardines del Rey archipelago. The Privilege section offers an exclusive gourmet restaurant, a private beach, and a premium rum bar with personalized services.
Seven restaurants, including an ocean-view buffet, offer French, Japanese and Mediterranean cuisine. An infinity pool lined with luxurious cabanas and a sophisticated beach club make up the central facilities. The spa (extra cost) offers double-suite treatments with ocean views.
The experience stands out for its refined activities: wine tastings, mixology classes and beach yoga. Non-motorized water sports and a dive centre round out the offering.
Iberostar Selection Esmeralda
Iberostar Selection Esmeralda welcomes 450 rooms on Cayo Cruz beach, combining modern luxury and tropical ambiance. The Star Prestige section (adults only) offers a signature restaurant, a panoramic lounge, and personalized concierge service.
Six restaurants, including an ocean-view buffet and four à la carte restaurants, offer a varied culinary experience: open-air steakhouse, Mediterranean cuisine with a wine cellar, and Japanese teppanyaki specialties. Three pools, including one reserved for Star Prestige, feature swim-up bars.
The hotel stands out for its eco-responsible program: stargazing, marine discovery and sustainable cuisine. Star Camp offers educational activities for families, while the spa (extra cost) uses natural local products.
Where to go for sun during the suspension
If you were aiming for Cuba this winter, you can redirect your points to another all-inclusive down south: Mexico and the Dominican Republic offer comparable resorts, and the programs covered above work there at the same rate of 1¢ per point. Our guides help you choose:
Conclusion
Cuba remains one of Canadians' favourite all-inclusive destinations, but we recommend postponing your trip for as long as the Government of Canada advises against non-essential travel and Canadian flights stay suspended. Keep this selection handy for the day service resumes.
Here are our recommendations based on your profile:
For families: Playa Pesquero (Holguín), Iberostar Selection Ensenachos (Cayo Santa María), and Memories Flamenco (Cayo Coco);
For couples: Meliá Internacional Varadero (The Level section), Meliá Buenavista (Cayo Santa María) and Paradisus Río de Oro (Holguín);
For groups of friends: Grand Muthu Cayo Guillermo, Valentín Cayo Cruz, and Paradisus Varadero.
Once flights resume, your Aeroplan, National Bank À la carte Rewards, WestJet Rewards, Scene+ or Aventura points will help you lower the bill: at the usual rate of 10,000 points for $100, a balance of 100,000 points already covers $1,000 of a package for two.
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$350Total$350Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
With this welcome offer for the Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite+* Card, you’ll earn 25,000 welcome bonus Scene+ points after charging $2,000 in purchases to your account within the first three months.
Plus, every year, earn an annual bonus of at least 10,000 Scene+ points when you charge at least $40,000 in purchases to your account. In total, the offer represents up to 35,000 Scene+ points and a value of up to $1,250 in the first year, including rewards, savings on foreign transaction fees and airport lounge access.
With the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card, you earn 3 points per $1 spent at Sobeys, IGA, Safeway, Foodland and participating Co-ops, and 2 points per $1 spent at other grocery stores, restaurants, eligible entertainment and eligible daily transit. You earn 1 point per $1 on all your other everyday purchases.
These points can be redeemed against any travel purchase at a rate of 1,000 points = $10 (flights, hotels, all-inclusives and even Airbnb), or as cash back with Scene+ at the same rate.
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card also offers:
No fees for foreign currency transactions
6 complimentary airport VIP lounge passes
Excellent insurance for your travels and purchases
Visa Infinite* Concierge Services
Legal
* The potential value of savings and rewards during the first 12 months includes the value of the welcome offer, the potential value of points earned in the first year, the value of savings on foreign currency transaction fees and the cost of airport lounge access as of May 22, 2026:
$250 in travel rewards (25,000 bonus Scene+ points) for new Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite +* Cardholders who charge $2,000 in purchases to their account within the first three (3) months;
$100 in travel rewards (10,000 bonus Scene+ points) for cardholders who charge $40,000 in purchases to their account;
$50 in savings from the annual fee waiver on the first additional card for new Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card credit card account holders;
$132 in savings on foreign currency transaction fees based on the average amount of foreign currency purchases made per active account over the past 24 months (by saving on the 2.5% foreign currency transaction fees typically charged by other credit card issuers);
$364 representing the potential value of points earned in the first year (36,400 Scene+ points) based on the average amount of purchases made per active account over the past 24 months, assuming an average spend of 21% of purchases in categories eligible for accelerated earn rates of 2X and 3X points;
$358 representing the value of complimentary membership in the Visa Airport Companion program which includes 6 airport lounge passes (based on « Preferred » membership valued at approximately $357 CAD/$259 USD). Based on the exchange rate in effect on May 22, 2026.
Maximum potential value after the first year = $1,254 (rounded to $1,250)
The actual value of offers, savings realized and points earned will vary depending on card usage and eligibility for applicable offers. Conditions apply.
1 Offer description and conditions: The 25,000 Scene+ points offer (the « offer ») applies only to new Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card credit card accounts (the « accounts ») opened between August 4, 2026 and November 1, 2026 (regardless of the date you apply for the account) subject to the conditions below. The offer may be modified, cancelled or extended at any time without notice, and it cannot be combined with any other offer.
In addition, as a Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Cardholder, you are eligible for an annual bonus of 10,000 Scene+ points if you charge at least $40,000 in eligible everyday purchases to your Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card account over the course of one year. Conditions apply; see below for more details.
Description and conditions of the 25,000 bonus Scene+ points offer: To be eligible for the 25,000 bonus Scene+ points offer (« 25,000 bonus points »), you must charge at least $2,000 in total eligible purchases to your account within the first three months following the account opening date.
Conditions for the annual 10,000 Scene+ points bonus: As a Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card credit cardholder, you can earn an annual bonus of at least 10,000 Scene+ points (the « annual points bonus ») if you charge at least $40,000 in eligible purchases to your account over the course of one year (12-month period). The annual period begins on the account opening date; a new period starts again every twelve months thereafter. If you replace another Scene+-eligible credit card with the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card (i.e., it is not a new card or an additional card), the opening date of your original account will be carried over to your new Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card account and your annual period under this offer will begin on the next anniversary date of your original account opening. For example, if you originally opened a Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card account on January 15, 2022 and you switch to the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card on July 15, 2025, your annual period under the 10,000 Scene+ points annual bonus offer will begin on January 15, 2026 (your next anniversary date) and a new period will start again on January 15 each year thereafter. You will earn 2,000 bonus Scene+ points for each additional $10,000 in purchases made during the same year once you have reached the $40,000 annual purchase threshold.
Eligible purchases means purchases, less refunds, returns and any other similar credits, and excludes payments, cash advances (including balance transfers and quasi-cash transactions), interest charges, as well as card fees and other fees.
Fulfillment of the annual points bonus: Bonus points will be credited within approximately eight weeks after you become eligible for a bonus, provided the account is open and in good standing. In the case of a joint account with a primary borrower and a co-borrower, bonus points will be credited as follows: (i) the 25,000 bonus points and the annual points bonus will be credited to the Scene+ account linked to the account of the borrower who made the transaction that reached the eligible purchase threshold ($2,000, or $40,000) within the appropriate timeframe (the first three months, or the first 12 months). If an additional cardholder makes the transaction that reaches the eligible purchase threshold for the 25,000 bonus points, or the annual points bonus, the bonus points will be credited to the Scene+ account linked to the primary borrower’s account. It is possible to transfer points between the Scene+ accounts of a primary borrower, a co-borrower or an additional cardholder by contacting Scene+. An account is in good standing if it is not past due, there is no over-limit, and the cardholder(s) have complied with the terms of the Revolving Credit Agreement that applies to the account. All other program conditions continue to apply during the offer period.
Offer eligibility and exclusions: You cannot take advantage of the offer if you are currently a primary or secondary cardholder of a Scotiabank personal credit card or have been one in the past two years, including if you transfer your balance from an existing Scotiabank personal credit card account, and if you are a Scotiabank employee. Subject to the exclusions mentioned above, small business credit cardholders are eligible for this offer.
Rates and fees: The annual fees are $150 for the primary card, $0 for the first additional card and $50 for each additional card thereafter (including those issued to joint account holders and additional cardholders). The preferred annual interest rates applicable to the account are as follows: 20.99% on purchases and 22.99% on cash advances (including balance transfers and quasi-cash transactions). The rates, fees, and features and benefits, which are described in the disclosure statement accompanying the application, may be changed.
Savings at Shell
Get up to 7 cents per litre in instant fuel discounts for a limited time and earn up to 3 cents per litre in Scene+ points value with an eligible Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite + card linked to a Shell Go+ Account:
Instant 3 cents per Litre Discount on Fuel Purchases (All Grades): Receive an instant 3 cents per litre discount on purchases of fuel (all grades) (“Fuel Purchases (All Grades)”) at participating Shell locations in Canada when you use any eligible Scotiabank debit card or credit card linked to a Shell Go+ Account, up to a maximum of 1,000 litres per month per Scotiabank debit card and per Scotiabank credit card account. This total limit resets at the start of each new month per payment card account. This discount is subject to the Scotiabank Fuel Benefit Terms and Conditions.
Instant 4 cents per Litre Discount on Premium Fuel: Between May 26, 2026 and June 1, 2027 (“Promotional Period”), receive an instant 4 cents per litre discount on purchases of V-Power® gasoline, or V-Power® diesel (“Premium Fuel Purchases”) at participating Shell locations in Canada when you use any eligible Scotiabank credit card that earns Scene+ points linked to a Shell Go+ Account, up to a maximum of 1,000 litres per month per credit card account. This total limit resets at the start of each new month per credit card account. This promotional offer, including the Promotional Period, may be changed, extended, or withdrawn at any time without notice. These promotional offer terms are in addition to the Scotiabank Fuel Benefit Terms and Conditions.
Earn up to 3 cents per Litre in Scene+ points Value (Equivalent) on Fuel Purchases: Each time you use your linked Scotiabank credit card that earns Scene+ points on Fuel Purchases (All Grades) at participating Shell locations in Canada, you will earn at least 1 Scene+ point per $1 spent. Plus, as a Scene+ Member you will also automatically earn 1 Scene+ point for each litre in Fuel Purchases (All Grades), and as a Shell Go+ member, automatically earn 1 additional Scene+ point for each litre in Premium Fuel Purchases, made with your linked Scotiabank credit card. This means that for every litre in fuel purchased with your linked credit card, you can earn the equivalent of up to 3 cents of redeemable Scene+ points value based on a redemption value of $10 for every 1,000 Scene+ points redeemed for fuel purchases at participating Shell locations. Actual value may be lower depending on how you choose to redeem your Scene+ points. Earn and redemption limits may apply. See the Scene+ Program Terms and Conditions available at sceneplus.ca/terms-and-conditions for full details including redemption options and additional terms.
Note: Highest value of 10 cents per litre assumes a Premium Fuel Purchase made with a Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite + Card linked to a Shell Go+ Account. Actual value will vary depending on payment card used and whether or not the card is linked, fuel grade purchased, and how you choose to redeem your Scene+ points.
Additional 3¢/L at Shell (limited time)
Additional 3¢/L Fuel Discount Offer: Offer valid from October 5, 2026 to December 31, 2026 (“Promotional Period”), eligible Scotiabank credit and debit cardholders enrolled in the Shell Fuel Benefits Program who have linked an eligible Scotiabank payment card (an “Eligible Card”) to their Shell Go+ account will receive an additional instant fuel discount of 3 cents per litre on eligible fuel purchases at participating Shell-branded retail locations in Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and the Northwest Territories (the “Eligible Provinces”) excluding Shell Flying J locations. Fuel purchases made outside the Eligible Provinces are not eligible for this offer.
To receive the additional fuel discount, customers must pay with their linked Eligible Card at the time of purchase.
The additional fuel discount is in addition to the fuel savings available through the Shell Fuel Benefits Program and may be combined with other eligible fuel discounts, rewards programs, and promotional fuel offers unless otherwise stated in the applicable offer terms and conditions.
The additional fuel discount is available on up to 1,000 litres of eligible fuel purchases per calendar month for each Eligible Card. The 1,000-litre limit resets at the beginning of each calendar month.
The additional fuel discount is non-transferable, is not redeemable for cash, and cannot be substituted or exchanged.
Shell Canada reserves the right to make changes to this offer and to terminate the offer at any time, for any reason and without notice.
All other applicable terms and conditions of the Shell Fuel Benefits Program, Shell Go+ and Scotiabank continue to apply.
Annual fee
Primary card$150
Additional card$0
Annual income required
Individual$60,000
Household$100,000
Conversion fees
0%
Earning rate
3xWith the partner brand
2xGroceries
2xRestaurants
2xTransit
2xEntertainment
1xAll spending
Value
1st Year Value$704
2nd Year Value$397
Card benefits
Concierge service24/7
Airport lounge access$240
Travel insurance
Travel medical (under 55)Up to $2,000,000 / 25 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $2,000,000 / 25 days
Travel medical (65+)Up to $2,000,000 / 3 days
Trip CancellationUp to $1,500
Trip InterruptionUp to $2,500
Delayed BaggageUp to $1,000
Lost BaggageUp to $1,000
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $1,000
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000
Purchase protection
Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Auto Rental CollisionUp to $65,000 / 48 days
All-inclusive in Cuba – Practical information
Cash and tipping
Bring your whole budget in cash. According to the Government of Canada, Visa and Mastercard cards haven't been accepted in Cuba since June 6, 2026, and cards linked to US banks already weren't. Your package covers the essentials, but excursions, tips and extras are paid in cash, and ATMs can go down during power outages.
The Canadian dollar is rarely accepted and hard to exchange: US dollars and euros go much further. Only bring bills in perfect condition and avoid coins, which Cubans can't exchange.
For tips:
Budget: plan about US$10 per day, plus US$5 to $10 per person for each excursion
Bills: bring small US$1, $5 and $10 bills in perfect condition
Who: housekeeping staff, servers, bartenders and guides
Exchange: only change money at an official exchange office, a bank or a large hotel; street exchange is illegal
Cuban pesos: you don't need any at an all-inclusive
Gifts and essentials to bring to Cuba
According to the Government of Canada, Cuba is facing severe shortages of food, medicine, fuel and basic goods. Here's what you can bring as gifts that will be greatly appreciated:
Over-the-counter medications and first-aid supplies (antihistamines, vitamins, pain relievers, disinfecting wipes). Tylenol and Advil are considered gold in Cuba!
Mosquito repellent
Feminine hygiene products (tampons, pads)
Soap, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrushes
Tissues and wet wipes
Children’s clothing
Gardening gloves, socks, caps, hats
School supplies (pencils, notebooks, pens, erasers)
Non-perishable foods like powdered drink mix, powdered milk, candy, instant noodles, etc.
Basic spices like salt, pepper, paprika and others
You’ll find most of these items at very low prices at Dollarama before you leave. Pack these items individually or in small bundles and hand them out discreetly throughout your stay.
Visa and entry requirements
According to the Government of Canada travel advisory, you need a tourist visa to enter Cuba, valid for a 90-day stay. It's usually included in packages sold with a direct flight from Canada. If you travel through a third country, you must get a Cuban electronic visa before departure, then enter its 10-character code in the customs form.
Before departure, you also need to fill out the online customs form on the D’Viajeros government portal. It's free and can be completed no earlier than 72 hours before you arrive in Cuba.
You then receive a QR code by email. Show it, on your phone or on paper, at check-in in Canada and to the Cuban authorities on arrival: keep a copy you can open offline.
When you leave the country, keep Cuba's limit in mind: you can't exit the island with more than US$5,000 in cash (or the equivalent in another currency), or with more than 5,000 Cuban pesos.
Electricity and internet
Cuba’s electrical grid runs on 220V/60Hz, unlike Canada’s 110V. Outlets are hybrid, accepting flat American plugs and round European plugs.
Important: check that your devices support 220V (like electric toothbrushes, razors, flat irons and others). A voltage converter will be needed for devices that are only compatible with 110V.
Resorts usually give you a personal Wi-Fi code at check-in, but Cuba's network remains slow and unreliable: according to the Government of Canada travel advisory, daily power outages often cut connections, and Canadian cell phones may not work. We recommend downloading your maps and documents before you leave and installing a VPN while you're still in Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you still book an all-inclusive in Cuba from Canada?
The Government of Canada advises against all non-essential travel to Cuba because of shortages of fuel, electricity, food, water and medicine. All Canadian airlines have suspended their flights until further notice. Some foreign airlines still serve the island, but their flights can be cancelled without warning.
When will flights to Cuba resume?
No date has been announced. Air Transat suspended its flights indefinitely on June 5, 2026, and neither Air Canada, WestJet nor Sunwing has announced a restart. Check the travel advisory on travel.gc.ca and your airline's website before you buy anything.
Do Canadians need a visa to travel to Cuba?
Yes. The tourist visa, valid for a 90-day stay, is usually included in packages sold with a direct flight from Canada. If you travel through a third country, you must get a Cuban electronic visa before departure and enter its 10-character code in the customs form.
Which form do I need to fill out before entering Cuba?
The online customs form on the D'Viajeros portal, which you can complete no earlier than 72 hours before you arrive. You then receive a QR code by email to show at check-in and to the authorities on arrival.
Will my credit card work in Cuba?
No. Since June 6, 2026, Visa and Mastercard cards are no longer accepted in Cuba, and cards linked to US banks already weren't. Bring enough cash for your whole stay, preferably in US dollars or euros, in small bills.
Can I pay for a Cuba all-inclusive with my points?
Not right now, since Canadian tour operators have suspended their Cuba packages. Your Aeroplan, À la carte Rewards, WestJet, Scene+ or Aventura points can still pay for an all-inclusive in Mexico, the Dominican Republic or elsewhere down south, often at the same rate of 1¢ per point.
Which region of Cuba is best for an all-inclusive?
Varadero suits families and groups thanks to its 20 km beach and its proximity to Havana. Cayo Coco appeals to smaller budgets, Cayo Santa María to travellers who want more nightlife, and Cayo Guillermo or Cayo Cruz to couples looking for peace and quiet. The comparison table sums up distances and budgets.
Does my travel insurance cover me in Cuba?
Read the clause of your policy about travel advisories before you book, since the government currently advises against non-essential travel to Cuba. If you're 65 or older, also check how many days your card still covers: many credit cards sharply reduce travel medical coverage at that age.
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$600Total$600Plus $100 of bonus paid after the first year, not counted in this total.Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
Apply with confidenceCheck whether your application will be approved before you submit it, with no impact on your credit score*When you apply for a personal American Express Credit Card, we will tell you whether you are eligible without affecting your credit score. So you can apply with confidence.*Instant decisions are only available for consumer Card applications (also called “personal Cards”).
The Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card is the best credit card in Canada for free hotel nights.
New Cardmembers can earn up to 70,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points with the current offer:
Earn up to 60,000 points after you spend $3,000 on your Card in your first 3 months of Cardmembership.
Plus, earn 10,000 points after you spend $500 on your Card in your 13th month of Cardmembership.
The annual fee is $120, and there is no annual fee on Additional Cards, so you can add a partner or a family member at no extra cost.
Every year after your first Card anniversary, you receive an Annual Free Night Award good for a redemption of up to 35,000 points at eligible hotels and resorts worldwide. At a valuation of 0.9 cents per Marriott Bonvoy point, that certificate is worth roughly $315, which on its own more than covers the $120 annual fee. That is the main reason to keep this Card year after year instead of cancelling it.
To get the most out of the certificate, aim it at a night that would otherwise price close to the 35,000 point ceiling.
The Card also gives you 15 Elite Night Credits each calendar year and automatic Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status. Those credits count toward the next Elite tier, so you begin every year 15 nights ahead of where you would otherwise start.
You move up to Gold Elite status automatically when you reach $30,000 in purchases on the Card in a year, or when you combine 10 qualifying paid nights within one calendar year with the 15 Elite Night Credits from your Card.
Marriott Bonvoy points are generally valued at 0.9 cents each. On that basis, the 70,000 point welcome offer is worth about $630, and an Annual Free Night Award used at its full 35,000 point ceiling is worth about $315.
Marriott Bonvoy points pull their weight on free nights rather than on gift cards or merchandise, which is why this Card should be judged on the hotel stays it produces.
You earn 5 points per dollar on eligible purchases at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels and 2 points per dollar on all other purchases. Points can be redeemed for free nights with no blackout dates at more than 7,000 hotels around the world.
The Card carries a solid package of coverages: $500,000 travel accident insurance, flight delay, baggage delay, lost or stolen baggage and hotel or motel burglary at $500 each, car rental theft and damage up to $85,000 for rentals of up to 48 days, Purchase Protection for 90 days and a one year Extended Warranty.
Two things to plan around: the 2.5% foreign transaction fee on purchases made in a foreign currency, and the 21.99% purchase interest rate, which makes this a Card to pay in full every month. Like all American Express Canada Cards, no minimum income is published for this Card, and you can see whether you would be approved before you apply, with no impact on your credit score.
Legal
American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, we may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.
Annual fee
Primary card$120
Additional card$0
Annual income required
Individual$0
Household$0
Conversion fees
2.5%
Earning rate
5xMarriott Bonvoy hotels
2xAll spending
Value
1st Year Value$1,210
2nd Year Value$312
Travel insurance
Delayed BaggageUp to $500
Lost BaggageUp to $500
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $500
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000
Purchase protection
Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Auto Rental Collision (primary)Up to $85,000 / 48 days
Our editorial integrity
Our reviews and rankings are based on an objective assessment. Advertisers do not influence our content. We may receive compensation through some links; our analysis and opinions remain independent.
