Southern destinations are a top choice for winter-weary Canadians, and there is no place like Florida to shake of winter’s chill. With warm temperatures, swaying palm trees, and crystal-clear waters, it's a go-to destination for many Canucks, including snowbirds.
Given the exchange rate, however, a trip to the Sunshine State can be expensive. With this in mind, here are five destinations in Florida that will help you stretch your vacation dollar further:
St. Petersburg
This charming location gives you the best of Florida. With convenience and amenities mixed with affordability, this is a location that has it all. During your stay, experience the best of boating, golfing, beachgoing, and fishing. It is also the home to the Dali Museum, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, and Fort De Soto Park Trail that leads right to the Gulf of Mexico. The temperatures are mild, making St. Petersburg an excellent destination to escape the cold.
It is an affordable destination due to its location outside of the typical tourist areas and its small-town atmosphere that eschews big city prices.
Cocoa Beach
Just south of Cape Canaveral Air Force Station lies a tropical paradise. Cocoa Beach has an average temperature of 23 degrees Celsius which means you'll enjoy hiking through nature preserves, visiting galleries, or taking in the famous Kennedy Space Center. With Cocoa Beach being just an hour away from Orlando, it's an easy day trip. You'll have the quaint and laid-back atmosphere of Cocoa Beach yet will be just a short drive from the city.
It is another destination that’s affordable due to its location. It's close to Orlando if you choose to visit, but far enough away that everything from accommodations to food is cheaper than in that city.
The Villages
Speaking of a day trip to Orlando, The Villages is another affordable destination that is close to the city. Known as "Florida's Friendliest Retirement Hometown", it too is visitor friendly. There's plenty of shopping, endless dining choices, and the beaches are some of the best in the entire state. While a name like The Villages may give you the impression it is a small, quaint destination, the area encompasses three counties and has over 50 golf courses and three town squares.
Snowbirds may find The Villages an appealing choice, as it’s a lower-cost option because the typical vacations packages on offer are designed specifically for seniors travelling on a budget.
Treasure Island
One of the unique aspects of Treasure Island is that every area where you lodge is near the water. Just west of St. Petersburg, this area is known for its beaches. There are plenty of eateries, golf, tennis, and shops. For water lovers, there are three miles of pure white sand on its shores, and Treasure Island boasts the "world's longest waterfront bar." Just two miles away is St. Petersburg, and just a little beyond that is the Florida Orange Groves and Winery. With fiery sunsets, white powder sand, and clear blue water, Treasure Island is indeed a treasure waiting to be discovered. Best of all, it is a more affordable destination than what’s available in the cities nearby.
Hollywood
Hollywood is an iconic name for sure, but instead of the bustling Tinseltown of Los Angeles, Hollywood, Florida, is a picturesque, easygoing tropical setting for those who want to get away from it all. Whether it's the sun, sand, or water that you love, there is plenty to enjoy. In fact, for decades, it has been a popular destination. Don't let that scare you, though, as the city has a calm, casual vibe. Visit the Hollywood Beach Boardwalk for a carefree experience strolling 2.5 kilometres along the Atlantic Ocean. Of course, if you still crave an exciting nightlife, Hollywood is home to cultural and international music scenes.
The key to keeping within your budget is to stay a few blocks away from the city's main beach. You want to be close enough to walk to the beach and all the restaurants, but far enough to stretch your vacation budget.
Get Affordable Snowbird Travel Insurance for Your Trip
All of these destinations in Florida are budget-friendly yet give you all that Florida has to offer. You'll find plenty of savings and more room to have fun while you're there. And since all are popular destinations for snowbirds, you will feel as welcome as you are entertained.
Wherever you choose to visit in Florida, however, make sure that you have snowbird travel insurance to give you peace of mind when travelling. Travel insurance policies ensure that you are financially protected should you become ill or suffer an unexpected injury while visiting and require medical attention.
According to the Government of Canada, your provincial or territorial health care plan may not be valid outside of Canada. If it is, only a small portion of the costs will be covered if you get sick or suffer an injury. It is especially prudent information for residents of Ontario. The province’s plan to scrap out-of-country health insurance coverage through the Ontario Health Insurance Plan came into effect on January 1, 2020.
The Canadian Snowbird Association provides some additional insight into the types of costs you may incur due to a medical emergency abroad. Provincial government health insurance plans do not cover full medical expenses outside Canada, and 80% to 90% of any medical bill will be at your expense.
Why risk it when there are affordable options available to provide you with the protection and care you need? Compare snowbird travel insurance to ensure the best rate possible. In a few clicks, you can get affordable emergency medical coverage to put your mind at ease while away.
