A survey completed in 2020, by Snowbird Advisor shows that 44% of Canadian snowbirds did not travel this winter and 31% stated they traveled for all or part of the winter. The survey included results from 3000+ snowbirds all over Canada.Â
The largest factors deterring snowbirds from travel outside of Canada are as follows:Â
- the risk of contracting COVID-19 while traveling
- inability to drive to the US while the land border was closed
- no desire to fly during COVID-19
- no access to medical treatment if COVID-19 cases increase in location
- inability to acquire adequate travel medical insurance
- hotel quarantine requirement upon return to Canada
Normally approximately 50% of snowbirds go to Florida, 20% to Arizona, 8% to California, 6% to Mexico, and the remainder flock to other various destinations.
The study found that in prior years less than 1% of the snowbird set travel to British Columbia. This year that number increased significantly to 5%.Â
We at South Okanagan Propety Management have also seen a significant increase in domestic travel and responses to snowbird rentals over the past year. Leases were signed daily all summer with snowbirds desperate for a warmer winter escape to Osoyoos or Oliver. We were happy to assist! As our snowbird clientele is a wonderful demographic to work with.Â
We predict a similar forthcoming snowbird season and wish for prices to reflect the demand. We will be contacting winter term property owners soon to secure dates of tenancy and also discuss increased monthly rental amounts.Â