***Update as of Aug. 22 at noon: Due to the tropical storm that is impacting the western United States, you may want to rethink your travel plans to places like Los Angeles and Las Vegas.**
Travellers who have flights booked to Hawaii in the coming weeks and months may want to rethink their travel plans following the devastating Maui fire. Those who had Maui on their travel bucket list might also be looking for alternative tropical destinations in order to not put any further stress on Hawaii's infrastructure.
The Canadian government warns against travel from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to the island as its residents grapple with the aftermath of the blaze. While the fires have retreated, authorities warn that toxic byproducts may remain, including in drinking water, after the flames spewed poisonous fumes. A Hawaii travel advisory remains in place.
Additionally, in recent years, concerns of over-tourism on the islands have prompted Hawaiian residents to urge people to avoid travelling to the Aloha state in general.
If you have flights booked to Hawaii right now, you might be able to change your ticket or get a refund, depending on when you bought it and when you are scheduled to travel.
If you're looking for an alternative place to visit instead of Hawaii, there are several economical, sunny destinations to choose from.
Los Angeles
The cheapest round-trip ticket to the U.S. from Vancouver is to Los Angeles, with ultra-low-cost carrier Flair Airlines offering the route with direct flights for under $200 on select dates.
Flair Airlines offers the cheapest deal to L.A., but there are several other low-cost options to choose from, including Canada's largest airlines, Air Canada and WestJet.
Puerto Vallarta
World-famous tequila, delectable Mexican cuisine, beautiful beaches, and beaming sunshine are just a few of the reasons why people flock to Puerto Vallarta in droves.
But the popular sun destination also offers some of the draws that bring tourists to Hawaii, including a tropical climate and the sun-soaked shores along the mighty Pacific Ocean. Best of all, tickets to Mexico start for under $400 return including tax with ultra-low-cost carrier Flair Airlines.
Miami
Miami is another tropical, vibrant alternative for folks searching for another sunny spot to enjoy. Renowned for its glamorous nightlife and party scenes, the city offers some experiences you'd be hard-pressed to find anywhere else south of the border.
But if you are looking to spend more time on the beach, you may want to stay in a hotel directly in South Beach. While this area is easily accessible from the city, you will have to drive. An accommodation in this area should place you a short stroll from glistening white sand beaches with awe-inspiring turquoise waters.
Return trips to Miami are a steal through JetBlue with only one short layover thanks to the airline's nonstop service between Vancouver and New York, which is the airline's hub city. Prices start under $400 for return trips with one stop in either direction at John F. Kennedy Airport (JFK).
Costa Rica
Travellers who want to experience a truly tropical experience on their holiday will find some breathtaking experiences in Costa Rica.
There are a variety of rainforest inhabitants, including sloths, several species of monkeys, wildcats, and hundreds of brightly-coloured birds. Visitors may enjoy a wealth of activities including hiking, zip-lining, surfing, horseback riding, golfing, bird watching, snorkelling, swimming, boating, and much more.
Return tickets to Liberia, one of two airports in the Central American country, start under $600.
Panama City
Not unlike Costa Rica, Panama offers a tropical substitute with fragrant flowers, lush rainforests, over 1000 islands, and a vibrant capital city.
Round-trip journeys start under $600 from YVR to Panama City.
Orlando
Orlando saw a whopping 74 million visitors in 2022, making it the most-visited destination in the United States. "The Beautiful City" is home to several popular attractions, including Disney's largest amusement park, which actually consists of four separate "magical theme parks." Universal Studios Orlando is another massive attraction, consisting of three separate parks.
The Floridian favourite also experiences sunshine nearly the whole year round, making it an ideal place to visit to escape dreary "Raincouver." Return tickets from Vancouver with a stop in either direction start at under $400.
