Snowbirds are people, usually those that are retired, that live in northern states, but during the winter and other colder parts of the year, live in their second residence in a southern state. That state is usually Florida. So for about six months out of the year, the large number of those who don't want to bother with the winters anymore, "migrate" on down to Florida for their extended tropical getaway. Now what about the people that live in these target towns for the snowbirds? What do you do when they arrive? That's where I come in. With years of experience, I'll be able to give you a few main tips on what not to do if you find yourself in the south during the middle of snowbird season.
1. Do not plan on going out to eat any night during the week without a reservation. Just like the normal person on vacation, we love to go out to eat. So just imagine six months worth of vacation. So unless you like waiting an hour or two to eat at a steak at Outback, maybe consider taking a cooking class and then staying inside.
2. Prepared to always be late...to everything. Again when you think of yourself on vacation, you are on island time. No where to be and you have all day to get there, and that's exactly how they drive. Not in the slightest amount of rush, so you are honestly lucky if its only 5 miles under the speed limit you are cruising at. My advice would be to leave way earlier than normal, sleep in the parking lot of your destination instead of driving, or invest in a stress ball.
3.Avoid the grocery store at all costs. If you are unsure what a snowbird is, go to ANY grocery store at anytime during the winter in Florida and you will get your answer. This also is a little shocking because they are always occupying all the restaurants, yet frequenting the grocery store is one of their favorite activities; sometimes it's to actually buy things and sometimes it's just to walk around. It will make you double think if you really need to go to store to pick up anything...do I really need to eat dinner tonight? Maybe. Maybe not. You could also buy 6 months worth of food at once and hibernate like a bear all winter long if you don't want to face the store, but I mean, the choice is yours. Just remember that patience is key my friends.
4. Even though it can be frustrating at times, always be thankful for them. Although the snowbird influx can cause stress on our everyday lives, we always need to remember to be thankful for the good they are doing. They come into our town and eat out, spend money, support our local business' and rejuvenate our local economy during the time when it may be too cool outside to generate revenue from normal beach town activities. Also they are also usually so nice and excited to be in their second home. So if you see a snowbird, whether it be waiting outside of a restaurant, driving really slow in front of you, or walking around the grocery store; make sure you are welcoming.
