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Canadian snowbirds plan to ditch wintering in the U.S. over economic tensions: survey
Only 26% of Canadian snowbirds plan to travel to the U.S. this winter, a 37% decline due to rising costs, political tensions, and new entry requirements, survey shows.
A new survey shows only 26 per cent of Canadians plan U.S. trips, a 37 per cent drop from last year, as many snowbirds skip November travel to U.S. destinations.
Rising costs and political unease—Canadians cite rising travel costs and new U.S. rules requiring biometric registration and a $30 fee for stays over 30 days as deterrents.
Some travellers are opting for Europe, with Canadians naming Portugal and Spain, while interest in Mexico and the Caribbean rises as some shift from U.S. ownership or rentals, THIA said.
The steepest decline affects baby boomers aged 61 and older, with only 10 per cent likely to go to the U.S., a 66 per cent drop from 2024, but snowbird property owners in Florida and Arizona say they will still go.
Some travellers may keep a lower profile while others could return if U.S. destinations cut prices or run sales, says Barry Choi, travel expert.