Jo-Ann Rowe was initially drawn to South Florida by its sunny weather, beach views, and relaxed lifestyle upon retiring from Toronto a decade ago. Being in the U.S. held a sense of familiarity for Rowe, as her grandmother was American, and she had previously traveled extensively throughout the country as a young athlete.
Her winter retreat in Fort Lauderdale, which she considered a second home, provided comfort and solace following the passing of her partner. However, the atmosphere shifted after Donald Trump’s re-election as U.S. president in November 2024. Trump’s remarks suggesting Canada could become the 51st state were dismissed as a joke by Rowe’s American friends, but for her, they felt disrespectful and unappreciative.
With a surge of patriotism in Canada amid tariff tensions, Rowe began reconsidering her winter plans. While she noted the impact of the low Canadian dollar, it was the strained relations between the two nations that ultimately led her to alter her vacation destination.
Opting to spend this winter in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, Rowe expressed no intention of returning to the U.S. until a change in administration occurs. This shift in sentiment is reflected in the broader trend among Canadian snowbirds, who traditionally migrate south to states like Florida, Arizona, and California to escape harsh winters but are now choosing patriotism over tradition.
A recent U.S. travel report forecasts a 3.2% decline in international tourism in 2025, largely attributed to the reduced presence of Canadian visitors. A survey conducted by Snowbird Advisor revealed a significant drop in Canadians planning to spend the winter in the U.S. compared to the previous year.
Similarly, Jacqueline and Carey Ellingson from Barrhead County, Alberta, decided to forego their usual winter retreat in the U.S. due to escalating political tensions. Instead, they plan to spend the season in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, emphasizing the impact of American disregard for Canada as a sovereign nation on their decision.
The decrease in Canadian snowbird presence is already being felt in Florida, where Canadians play a significant role in the local economy. Concerns over the dwindling number of Canadian visitors and the potential economic implications are palpable among residents, realtors, and business owners.
As the situation unfolds, the hope remains that the enduring friendship between Canada and the U.S. will prevail despite the current political climate. The impact of this shift in snowbird patterns extends beyond tourism, affecting businesses, real estate, and the overall economic landscape in states like Florida.