ALSO IN THIS ISSUE WONDERS OF COSTA RICA ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE Health NEW WORLD DISORDER Finance OFFICIAL NEWS MAGAZINE OF THE CANADIAN SNOWBIRD ASSOCIATION | SPRING 2025 | ISSUE 134 Publication mail agreement no: 40063603
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Editor’s Message CSANews© is published four times a year and is Copyright Spring 2025 by Medipac International Communications Inc., 180 Lesmill Road, Toronto, Ontario M3B 2T5. 416.441.7000. Subscription Price: $9.95 Canada; $20.00 U.S. and foreign. Single copy: $3.95. Prices include tax. Published by Medipac International Communications Inc. Opinions expressed are those of the writers and are not necessarily those of the CSA, Medipac International Communications Inc. or its affiliates, their Directors, Officers, or other employees or agents. Canadian Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement No: 40063603. ISSN No: 1195-2393 James Dolan Milan Korcok Dr. Robert MacMillan Shari McIntyre David McPherson Robert Wiersema Judith Adam Gabrielle Bauer Alan Breznick Donna Carter Michael Coren Jennifer Cox Garry McDonald Johanne Blain James Carl Simpson Ted Popel Marjorie Heisler Karen Huestis Bud Conroy Ronald Brown Debra Ann MacLean Kimberley Tetzlaff Michael MacKenzie Wallace Weylie President First Vice-President Second Vice-President Treasurer Secretary Past-President Director Director Director Director Executive Director Legal Counsel CSA BOARD OF DIRECTORS Editor CSA Editor President Art Director Director of Operations Marketing Coordinator Marketing & Events Specialist J. Ross Quigley Garry McDonald Christopher Davidge Peter Prusa Paula McGovern Stefanye Zee Fran Castricone SPRING 2025 | ISSUE 134 CONTRIBUTING EDITORS We acknowledge the support of the Government of Canada. Merv Magus Cover photo: iStock.com/Freder Illustrator There is some great news out there. Medipac has decided to keep their travel insurance rates as they are, and to still give snowbirds their almost-famous 5% Early Bird Discount. We believe that the Canadian dollar is going to strengthen and that medical costs will increase by very little, if at all. Inflation in the U.S., in particular, seems to be very much under control. The two media bellwethers are eggs and gasoline and these are both down dramatically from just a few months ago. This – and lots of other factors – bodes well for a great snowbird season this year. I would take the negative media stories with a grain of salt. We are still in Florida as I write this and our trip has been wonderful, with the exception of our hurricane damage. Your American friends are waiting for you this year and a little good weather will be good for all of us, once again. Of immediate interest, to me at least, is that Canada has five teams in the hunt for the Stanley Cup this year. Our last winner was the Montreal Canadiens way back in the 1992-93 season. I think that, after 33 years, it should be our turn. Let’s bring the Cup back to Canada where it belongs. Fingers crossed. Sincerely, J. Ross Quigley Editor CSANews | SPRING 2025 | 3
Table of Contents SPRING 2025 | ISSUE 134 OFFICIAL NEWS MAGAZINE OF THE CANADIAN SNOWBIRD ASSOCIATION The Economy May be a Challenge, But Canadians Will Fight for Their Freedom to Travel Canadians remain among the world’s most determined outbound travellers by air, land or sea. by Milan Korcok Wonders of Costa Rica Lush rainforests and unique wildlife are just the beginning. by Donna Carter Features 22 14 25 New World Disorder Taking stock of winning and not-sowinning investments in a world of rapid, unpredictable change. by James Dolan Travel Finance 4 | www.snowbirds.org
Table of Contents 39 Book Review by Robert Wiersema 40 Golf by David McPherson 42 CSA Online by Alan Breznick 44 Gardening by Judith Adam 46 Food & Drink by Shari McIntyre 48 Fun & Games 49 Grins & Giggles 50 CSA Application 51 CSA Benefits 52 Snowbird Events 54 Fast Facts 3 Editor’s Message 6 Bird Talk 8 Snowbird Alert 10 President’s Message 11 Government Relations Report 12 Insurance by J. Ross Quigley 13 Opinion by Michael Coren 34 Longevity by Jennifer Cox 35 Health Pulse 36 Lifestyle by Donna Carter 38 Fitness by Jennifer Cox Canada Rates “Modest to Poor” in Value for Health-care Spending A review of a recent Fraser Institute study. by Milan Korcok 32 30 Alzheimer’s Disease Find out more about this disease that affects almost a million Canadians and their families. by Dr. Robert MacMillan Health Departments CSANews | SPRING 2025 | 5
Bird Talk Dear Bird Talk, We winter every year in California for five months – from Nov 1 to March 31. This coming fall, we plan to spend three weeks in Hawaii prior to leaving for California. When we fly home from Hawaii, we plan to spend two weeks at home before heading to California. My question is, do I have to count the two weeks at home as time spent in the U.S.? Craig Benson Lake Errock, BC Ed.: It is best to err on the side of caution and to include the two weeks in your allotment of U.S. days. Since there are fewer than 30 days between your two separate trips to the United States, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer processing your admission may count your time as continuous and not give you credit for the two weeks you spent back home in Canada. Dear Bird Talk, Florida has implemented a tax system which hugely penalizes those members of their communities who are not homesteaders. I’m not against the homesteaders getting a break, but the difference now is massive and getting much worse by the year! Our neighbour pays 1/3 of our tax as a homesteader with the same exact house! The tax which they pay is the same today as in 2015!! Is this fair taxation?? This is a crisis for the Florida tax system in the long run. Is there a property tax advocacy group in Florida?? Can the CSA put together a group of concerned snowbirds? Stuart Lazier Toronto, ON Ed.: The homestead exemption differential has been a touchy point for Canadian and U.S. snowbirds for quite some time. Many U.S. snowbirds change their state of residency to Florida just to get the Homestead Exemption on their property taxes. Obviously, as Canadians we do not have that option. But it should demonstrate our enhanced value as property owners to our southern neighbours. Dear Bird Talk, Regardless of your political views, the proposed tariffs on Canadian goods are driving down the Canadian dollar and turning friends and family off, regarding visiting Florida. Many snowbirds are seriously considering other winter locations. We need CSA to help its members effectively reach out to Governor DeSantis, senators and members of Congress. Sharing their contact information, along with key points, could help us give them the incentive to fight to save the $6B which Canadians bring to Florida each year. Shirley-Ann George Kanata, ON Ed.: The Canadian snowbird is the most valuable tourism commodity in the United States. We invest in their real estate, we support their local economies, we stay for extended periods and attract additional tourism by inviting our friends and family to join us while we are there, and we don’t cause any trouble or break any laws. The CSA is very active in sharing this message with the members of the U.S. Congress and Senate to ensure that we are top of mind in any decisions that may otherwise hinder our enjoyment of the sunny south. Dear Bird Talk, I have been reading that, as of May 7, all travellers in the U.S. will have to carry something called a REAL ID compliant card. For the benefit of myself and all of your members, can you publish something that explains what this card is and how do we go about obtaining one? David Currie Claremont, ON Ed.: The REAL ID card is not for Canadians. It is a federally recognized form of identification with enhanced security features for full-time American residents that can be used for domestic air travel and other purposes. As a Canadian, your “real ID” is your passport. Dear Bird Talk, My husband and I are anticipating finally becoming snowbirds this fall. We want to go to Florida, shop around and buy in a 55+ community. I’ve heard that these communities want background checks. I’ve always been a pre-planner. What I want to know is whether we get the background checks here, and how long do they stay valid. Wondering when we go about getting them, or do they have to come from the U.S.? Sorry, this might seem a silly question to some. We have a lot to learn. I just don’t want to go down empty-handed in the fall and find out that we can’t buy property because we don’t have this check, if needed. Diane Erb London, ON Ed.: It’s not a big deal and it is nothing to be alarmed about. Typically, the homeowners’ association will give you an application form to complete that will ask you to confirm that you do not have any criminal convictions, have not declared bankruptcy and have the means to pay your monthly community fees. They will ask you for your driver’s licence number and social insurance number and will require your consent for them to conduct a background check on you and your spouse. There will be a nominal fee, usually around $100.00, that you will have to pay for the search to be conducted. It’s a good thing! This way, you know that you’re moving into a decent neighbourhood and your new neighbours will know that you’re a good egg, too. 6 | www.snowbirds.org
Bird Talk Featuring the letters & concerns of our members SEND YOUR LETTERS TO Bird Talk, c/o CSANews 180 Lesmill Road Toronto, Ontario M3B 2T5 Online at www.snowbirds.org/bird-talk or by e-mail: csawriteus@snowbirds.org Bird Talk Dear Bird Talk, I read the article in Issue 133 by your editor, Ross Quigley, with both horror and surprise. Horror about the experience which Ross and his family are going through with the virtually complete loss of their cars and property in Florida. Surprise regarding the statement...“Apparently, flood insurance does not cover anything on the main floor.” While Ross goes on to laud the car insurance coverage from Hagerty and Chubb and to call them out, there is no mention of which company provided the [apparently useless] flood insurance. I am guessing that there may be future litigation reasons for not mentioning them – or some other reason – but it certainly begs the question of why the flood insurance company was not similarly called out. Making a throwaway statement that flood insurance does not cover the main floor seems a bit irresponsible. I, for one, called my insurance broker who was quite surprised to hear this and was very curious as to the details. I think that your readers deserve a more fulsome explanation. Paul Casey Washago, ON Ed.: When the claims adjuster came to the property to assess the damage, he asked three very simple and direct questions. Do you have a washer and dryer on the first floor? Do you have a chest freezer on the first floor? Do you have a working air conditioner properly installed in a window on the first floor? Because that is all that is covered by flood insurance on the first floor! We pointed out the upright refrigerator. Not a chest freezer; not covered. The laundry equipment was on the second floor unharmed. And the house has central air conditioning. It was also pointed out that there was no coverage for drywall removal or replacement or for painting on the first floor. This all falls under “read your policy carefully.” Everything on the second and third floors was covered for flood, but the water never got that high and it is hard to imagine that it ever would. The insurance company’s name is irrelevant, it is the policy wording that matters. Dear Bird Talk, We just read that the U.S. has started (or reinvigorated) a requirement effective February 25, 2025 for aliens to register if they are currently in the U.S. or intending to enter the U.S. for more than 30 days. They state that an online account should be created so that when the registration form/ process is implemented, it will be easier to meet the new/renewed law. What does the CSA know about this? Ronald Wilson Kelowna, BC Ed.: Canadian snowbirds spending 30 days or longer in the United States should visit i94.cbp.dhs.gov to see if they have been issued an electronic Form I-94 (an arrival/departure admission record) for their latest entry. If an I-94 was issued for your latest trip, you are not required to register with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). If an I-94 was not issued for your latest trip, you will need to file Form G-325R with USCIS. Instructions and further information can be found under the Snowbird Alert on page 8. Dear Bird Talk, We live near the U.S. border and usually fly from Buffalo. This means that we cross the land border and were not issued an I-94. Does it make sense to apply online in advance for an I-94, instead of submitting form G-325R? Elena Bistritskaia St. Catharines, ON Ed.: Canadian snowbirds entering the United States at a land port of entry may be issued an electronic Form I-94 automatically, or they may not. You can apply in advance for a provisional I-94 for a fee of US$6.00 within seven days of your arrival at i94.cbp.dhs.gov. You can ask the Customs and Border Protection officer to issue a Form I-94 when you cross the border and ask for permission to visit the United States for 30 days or longer. Once you are already in the United States, if an I-94 was not issued, you can complete Form G-325R with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for free within 30 days of your arrival to comply with the registration requirement. Canadian citizens do not need to provide fingerprints. They are exempt from the biometric collection requirement of INA 262. CSANews | SPRING 2025 | 7
Snowbird Alert Please note that this form cannot be completed in advance; it can only be completed when you are already in the United States. Canadian citizens are exempt from the additional requirement to provide biometrics. At this time, an exemption has not been made for NEXUS cardholders. Form I-94 and the USCIS Registration Requirement As of April 11, 2025, some Canadian snowbirds will be required to file a general registration form (G-325R) with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) if they will be in the United States for 30 days or longer. Canadian snowbirds who are issued an electronic Form I-94, which is an official record of admission, are considered registered and therefore will not be required to file Form G-325R with USCIS. Generally, whether a Form I-94 was issued depends on how you entered the United States. ▶ If you entered the United States through the air, generally you would have been issued an electronic Form I-94. ▶ If you entered the United States through a land port of entry, as most snowbirds do, you may not have been issued an electronic Form I-94. To verify if an I-94 was issued for your latest entry, go to i94.cbp.dhs.gov. Select “Get most recent I-94” and enter your first and last name, date of birth, country of citizenship and your document (passport) number. If an I-94 was issued for your latest entry, you should print it and carry it with you as proof of your legal entry into the United States. No further action is required. If an I-94 was NOT issued for your latest entry, you will need to complete the general registration form (G-325R) with USCIS: 1. Create a USCIS account by visiting my.uscis.gov and selecting “Sign up.” 2. From the USCIS dashboard, select “File a form online.” 3. Select “G-325R Biographic Information (Registration)” then click “Start form.” 4. Complete the form, which will include: I. Your full legal name, your contact information, citizenship, when and where you were born, your address history (only U.S. addresses are currently accepted) and criminal record (if applicable). II. Your current marital status, your spouse’s and your parents’ full names, date of birth, place of birth and place of residence. 5. Once submitted, you will receive proof of registration which can be accessed through your USCIS account. USCIS will issue a receipt once your information is reviewed. Print a copy of your receipt and carry it with you when travelling throughout the United States. 8 | www.snowbirds.org
Good Vibrations from California City of Palm Springs Ron deHarte, Mayor 3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way • Palm Springs, California 92262 Tel: 760.323.8200 • Fax: 760.323.8207 • Email: Ron.deHarte@palmspringsca.gov Post Office Box 2743 • Palm Springs, California 92263-2743 April 24, 2025 A Warm Palm Springs Welcome to Our Canadian Friends On behalf of the City of Palm Springs, it is my sincere pleasure to welcome our cherished Canadian snowbirds back to your home away from home. Each year, as the days grow cooler in the North, we eagerly anticipate your return. Your presence brings an unmistakable vibrancy to our City—our streets, shops, restaurants, and communities come alive in a unique and special way when our Canadian friends arrive. Whether you're here for a few weeks or the entire season, know that Palm Springs wouldn’t be the same without you. You are more than visitors—you are our neighbors, our friends, and a vital part of the cultural and social fabric that makes Palm Springs the warm, welcoming oasis it is. Your continued love for our desert paradise deepens the bonds between our communities and reminds us of the strength of international friendship and shared values. As Mayor, I want you to feel not only welcome but celebrated. Enjoy the sunshine, the serenity, and all the experiences that make this place magical. From all of us here in Palm Springs, thank you for choosing to be part of our community year after year. Warmest regards, Ron deHarte Mayor, City of Palm Springs Ron deHarte Mayor of Palm Springs The Mayor of Palm Springs put up banners in his city expressing his love for Canadian tourists and snowbirds. So we decided to help him spread his good vibrations and share his kindness with you! CSANews | SPRING 2025 | 9
President’s Message Garry McDonald CSA President On January 20, 2025, Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States. On February 1, President Trump declared a national emergency and announced a 25% tariff on most Canadian imports over professed concerns regarding illegal immigration and trafficking of the drug fentanyl. A 10% tariff was also imposed on Canadian energy products. Two days later, he agreed to a 30-day delay on these tariffs. On March 4, the United States implemented the 25% tariffs on Canadian goods, while Canada responded with 25% tariffs on $20 billion of U.S. goods. Once again, two days later on March 6, the Trump administration delayed tariffs on Canadian goods compliant with the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) until April 2. Finally, on April 3, the U.S. imposed a 25% tariff on all imported vehicles and auto parts not manufactured domestically. Canada retaliated with a 25% tariff on U.S.-made vehicles and components. So…what do these tariffs mean for snowbirds? In response to U.S. tariffs on Canadian-made goods, the Canadian 25% retaliatory tariffs on certain U.S. products are being collected by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) on behalf of the Government of Canada in the form of a surtax. This means that you may need to pay a surtax (as well as any applicable duties and other taxes) on some of the goods which you have purchased and are bringing back with you from the U.S. You can find the list of these products on the Department of Finance website at www.canada.ca. The surtax is assessed by the CBSA at the port of entry and you will be asked before you enter Canada. It is important to remember that residents of Canada have personal exemptions that allow them to bring goods – including alcohol and tobacco (up to a certain value) – back to Canada without paying duty and taxes. For example, if you have been away for 48 hours or longer, you can claim goods worth up to CAN$800 without paying duties or taxes, including the new surtax. The surtax only applies on the amount of goods that exceeds your personal exemption. Be sure to have your receipts readily available for any goods that you are bringing with you. You may be required to provide proof of the origin of any purchases that you are bringing back. New tariffs pose another headwind in an already difficult environment for Canadian travellers. Inflationary pressures, exchange rates and insurance costs have all made the snowbird lifestyle more difficult to maintain. The imposition of high tariffs is another obstacle impacting cross-border travel between Canada and the United States. Having said that, we remain hopeful that both countries can come to a long-term agreement regarding these critical cross-border issues without the implementation of tariffs which only serve to harm both of our interconnected economies. On April 28, 2025, Canadians elected what appears to be a Liberal minority government. As we go to press, the Liberals were elected or are leading in 168 seats, just short of the 172 needed to form a majority. The Conservatives were elected or leading in 144, the Bloc Quebecois 23, the NDP 7 and the Green Party 1. Not all absentee ballots have been counted as of this writing and Elections Canada estimates that the uncounted votes could affect the result in about a dozen ridings. Congratulations to Prime Minister Mark Carney and to all elected members of the House of Commons. CSA staff once again produced our popular Federal Election Handbook. As always, the handbook was loaded with lots of useful voting information, including dates of advance polls, absentee ballot information, voter identification requirements, etc. Our goal is always to make this a handy, one-stopshopping tool covering all of your election day needs. This year, the handbook was sent to you via e-mail, as well as being posted on our website. What sets the Canadian Snowbird Association apart is our commitment to providing you with the most accurate and up-to-date information available. Members receive timely and precise information. This is particularly important in times of uncertainty. It is the reason why you and more than 115,000 members have put your trust in the CSA and the information that we provide. As we witnessed with the pandemic and again today, travel rules can change quickly. It is essential to have an association that you can trust and count on by your side. We will continue to advocate for your interests and fight back against unfair policies which impact your ability to travel to the U.S. We are working hard to rescind the recent registration requirement for Canadian travellers entering the United States for 30 days or longer. This requirement is a step backward in bi-national relations and border security co-operation between Canada and the United States and the CSA will continue working on your behalf to see it overturned. Welcome home. 10 | www.snowbirds.org
Government Relations Report Johanne Blain First Vice-President As of April 11, 2025, all Canadians who are 14 years of age and older – and who have not been issued an electronic Form I-94 – will be required to register with the federal government when visiting in the U.S. for 30 days or longer. A Form I-94 is an official Arrival/Departure Record issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that records the arrival and departure dates of non-U.S. citizens visiting the United States. It serves as proof of legal entry into the U.S. and outlines how long a visitor is authorized to stay. Since 2013, the Form I-94 has been issued electronically. For Canadian citizens entering the U.S., the Form I-94 process differs based on entry method: those arriving by air or sea typically receive an electronic Form I-94 automatically; while those entering by land may or may not be issued an electronic Form I-94. Due to this difference in entry method, thousands of Canadian travellers who enter the United States for extended stays of 30 days or longer, through a land port of entry, may be required to register with United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). When entering at a land port of entry, snowbirds staying in the United States for 30 days or longer may request that a Form I-94 be issued from the U.S. CBP officer processing their admission. Snowbirds are advised to check to see if they were issued an electronic Form I-94 upon entry to the United States. This can be done by visiting i94.cbp.dhs.gov. If your latest entry appears, there is no further action required on your part. An electronic I-94 means that you have already registered with the federal government. Canadian snowbirds will need to print their latest I-94 and carry it with them as proof of registration and legal entry into the United States. If an electronic Form I-94 was not issued for your latest entry, you will be required to submit Form G-325R to USCIS at my.uscis.gov. Following submission of the form, you will receive a receipt from USCIS, which you need to print and carry with you. Implementing a registration requirement for Canadian visitors will impact tourism to the United States. Canada is the largest international tourism market in the United States, with annual spending in excess of US$20 billion. In Florida, Canadians represent almost 40 per cent of all foreign visitors to the state. Many local economies in the U.S. Sunbelt are reliant on Canadian visitors and the tourism dollars we bring. The U.S. Travel Association estimates that even a 10 per cent reduction in Canadian visitation could mean two million fewer visits, $2.1 billion in lost spending and 14,000 job losses. We can already see the effect that these policies are having on cross-border travel. According to CBP data, during March 2025, more than 860,000 fewer travellers crossed into the United States by land and air from Canada, when compared to March of last year – a decrease of more than 17 per cent. The registration requirement is a step backward in Canada-U.S. relations. There is no reciprocal registration required of American citizens temporarily visiting Canada for vacation purposes, regardless of their authorized length of stay. This policy establishes an unprecedented registration requirement on Canadian tourists who may be subject to civil and criminal penalties if they do not register with USCIS in a timely manner. The CSA’s official public comment to the USCIS registration requirement has been published on our website, www.snowbirds.org, under the News Release section. CSA officials continue to work with federal officials and Congressional representatives in an effort to have Canadian citizens exempted from this unnecessary requirement. Updates on our advocacy work will be sent out to CSA members as soon as new information is available. Snowbirds are also reminded of their filing obligations with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Under U.S. tax law, any foreign visitor to the United States who meets the substantial presence test can be treated as a U.S. resident for tax purposes. As a Canadian visitor to the United States, if you generally spend four months or longer stateside annually, the Canadian Snowbird Association (CSA) strongly recommends that you complete and file the 8840 Form each year in a timely manner. Please note that you will need to complete one form per person and ensure that it reaches the IRS by the June 15 deadline. You are eligible to file the 8840 Form as long as you do not exceed 182 days of physical presence in the United States in a single calendar year. Filing the 8840 Form is an easy way to protect yourself by ensuring that you are compliant with U.S. tax law. Make sure that you keep a copy of your 8840 Form for your files, prior to submitting it to the IRS. As part of the CSA renewal package, we have included two copies of IRS Form 8840 – the Closer Connection Exception Statement for Aliens – for your convenience, as well as detailed information in our newsletter regarding completion of this form. CSANews | SPRING 2025 | 11
Don’t Panic J. Ross Quigley CEO Medipac International Inc. Insurance My goodness, what a mess. We snowbirds have become a political football. The outrageous news stories and ridiculous reporting have done nothing but upset our snowbird friends. For example, there were several dozen stories on TV, social media and internet sites that were warning of Canadians being stopped at the border and incarcerated. This particular story was about a poor Canadian who was arrested at the border and detained for 11 days. In fact, all of these stories, dozens and dozens of them, were about the same person repeating how dangerous it was for Canadians to cross the border. In reality, this was not a snowbird at all; it was a younger woman and she did not cross the Canadian border. She entered the United States from Mexico and was stopped at the border for some reason. I doubt that we will ever know why, but it was a great “fear” story and got huge amounts of press from sloppy “journalists.” I know of no other similar story – none. CSA and Medipac have had no advice or complaints of this sort and we are always the first to hear. But many snowbirds are upset and fearful and chaos is the result. The second issue is that the U.S. has decided that they want to know who is in their country. What a surprise, after the flood of illegal immigrants over the past few years. People who fly need to do nothing different but, if you drive or walk across the border AND intend to stay for longer than 30 days, you have to fill out a form. So what? This new regulation has nothing to do with snowbirds – it has to do with potential bad guys and I think that it is a pretty good idea. Read our Bird Talk notes in this issue for clearer advice. I know that some people do not like the current politics in the U.S. but, in reality, the snowbird lifestyle should prosper. Home and condo prices are coming down, our dollar is getting stronger and inflation is also coming down… making our living expenses somewhat cheaper. And all of our American friends are still our friends. I believe that now is a great time to buy a snowbird hideaway. There is some “fear selling” going on, so take advantage of it, if possible. My son has just bought a new upgraded condo, closing soon, in St. Petersburg – congratulations. And what a deal! We actually had 17 people cancel their policies before leaving because they were worried about the chaos – and a few decided to come home early, too. That is nothing compared to the 45,000 snowbirds whom we insure. Do not let the sensational news stories lead you astray. Everything is fine and, I believe, getting better. The one thing that I did notice when we first came south was that everyone seemed happy. They said “Hello” when walking down the street and seemed to be smiling all of the time. Not quite what you read in the papers or see on social media. I am sitting in the sun as I write this and I am a little sad that we have to come home soon. We will miss our friends and our many activities, but we will be back before winter sets in and that is a good thing. One last note is the possibility of a postal strike during our Early Bird launch. We have been cautioned that it may commence in late May and possibly continue for five months. Not to worry! Medipac can handle everything via the internet, which is an easy way to get your coverage at our very good Early Bird rates. Happy summer! 12 | www.snowbirds.org
Opinion with Michael Coren As I write this column, I realize that things may have changed, may have changed a great deal in the time gap between authorship and publication. Still, the trends are the same and I can’t see any of the characters I write about being suddenly transformed. Just a few months ago, the Liberal Party of Canada was looking ahead to one of its worst results in the country’s electoral history. The natural party of government was predicted to fall to a rump of a mere 50, or even 40 seats. The party was divided, long-time leader Justin Trudeau had gone from asset to hindrance, and various party backbenchers were calling journalists to inquire about jobs in television or writing newspaper columns. Then things began to change. Trudeau was forced into resignation, former Bank of Canada and Bank of England governor Mark Carney was elected Liberal leader, easily beating out Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland. There was actually very little to choose between them politically. Both represented continuity, support for Trudeau’s policies of ambitious climate change targets and for a carbon tax (though they claim to have changed their minds about that). What a surprise! They’ve remained firm, however, on generous public spending and socially progressive legislation. Freeland had even said that if she’d won, she would have asked Carney to be her finance minister. I’m afraid victory was never going to happen. Any change in leadership helps a party, albeit briefly, and Carney has a certain gravitas and the novelty of the newcomer. Yet nobody believed that a new leadership alone would be sufficient for the Liberals to dent the enormous lead enjoyed by the Tories under Pierre Poilievre. But a week is a long time in politics, and in the life and world of Donald Trump, it’s much, much longer. Much to Conservative dismay, Trump and his people declared a trade war with Canada, repeatedly insulted the country by declaring it “the 51st state” and told downright lies about the place. I’ve lived here for 37 years and have never seen Canada so united, angry and anti-American. Trudeau’s final days in office were dignified and defiant, and this was juxtaposed with Conservatives, who had long boasted of their ties to Trump and his people. They’d worn MAGA hats and one of their MPs even boasted of his close friendship with JD Vance. You’d expect the Conservatives to be the party of nationalism and patriotism but, under Pierre Poilievre, that’s a difficult one to play this time around. While the party certainly promotes Canada and Canadian values, their ubiquitous cry has been that “Canada is broken,” that we’re a failed state and should look elsewhere for inspiration. That once worked extremely well, but it now carries a completely different interpretation. From seeming proudly Canadian, it currently looks downright heretical. It’s the reason that this has disappeared from the campaign. They may also have to edit their material linking Mark Carney with the carbon tax. For the first time in some years, the Tories have lost the political initiative. Try as he might, Poilievre can’t expunge the link between his party and Trumpian Republicanism. The “Canada is Broken” line may have disappeared, but it’s not enough. He’s doubled down on attacking Carney as being another version of Trudeau, but the problem is that Donald Trump is by far the loudest voice in North American politics; is overwhelmingly disliked in Canada; and it’s the Liberal, rather than the Conservative leader who is regarded as the anti-Trump. Carney has said relatively little about his policies and has hardly set the world alight so far, but truth be told he doesn’t really have to. He’s now Prime Minister and so it’s him and not Pierre Poilievre who meets with King Charles – our head of state – and looks proudly Canadian. Trump’s bombast has enabled the Liberals to close a 20-point gap behind the Tories to less than five and there are no signs that’s going to change. The election will be close, could lead to a hung Parliament and is extremely unlikely to give the Conservatives the overwhelming victory they expected so recently, or even a victory at all. I doubt that Donald Trump cares very much about all of this but the Canadian conservative movement, so long in the wilderness, cares very much indeed. As for Mark Carney, I wonder if he ever thought that he’d be this grateful to President Donald Trump? I doubt that very much. CSANews | SPRING 2025 | 13
In spite of its small size, Costa Rica packs a powerful punch. The Central American country’s remarkable abundance of diverse attributes, including its fascinating wildlife and distinctive tropical environment, are unsurpassed. With emerald-green forests, endless blue skies and stunning flora and fauna, my first trip there was like arriving in the beautiful fantasy Land of Oz. Each day I spent in this natural paradise of a country offered up one amazing surprise after another – magical sites and rare experiences that exist nowhere else on the planet. Indeed, it’s one of the world’s special places, one which easily convinced me that my first trip there would not be my last. This stunningly beautiful gem is sandwiched between the countries of Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the south. Its eastern shoreline is lapped by the tranquil Caribbean Sea, while its western perimeter is rimmed by the powerful Pacific. Considering Costa Rica’s abundance of blessings, both natural and otherwise, it’s hardly surprising that the country annually attracts hundreds of thousands of Canadian snowbirds. One of those snowbirds is Sally Matschke, who spends nearly six months a year on a peninsula in the western region of the country. She bought a house there in a gated community in which she says fellow residents are 85 per cent Canadian. Her slice of Costa Rica heaven includes tennis and pickleball courts and a golf course. “My favourite thing about the country is the weather,” she said. “It never typically rains December through April and I can literally count on guaranteed sunshine. No worries about weather disturbances or grey days.” In addition to perpetual sunshine and a beautiful natural environment, Matschke says that she likes the fact that the place is not overly touristy like many other sunshine spots. “Costa Rica offers something different than destinations conspicuous for their traditional malls, crowded beaches and WONDERS OF COSTA RICA Its lush rainforests and unique wildlife are just the beginning. By Donna Carter 14 | www.snowbirds.org Travel
the same old, same old,” she said. Since the country is Spanish-speaking, Matschke says that it helps to speak a bit of the language, but that this is not a deal breaker. This snowbird from Port Stanley, Ontario says that she experiences no issues with safety and that health care is both efficient and affordable. “The cost of wintering there largely depends on the level of accommodations people choose,” she said. “Overall, it’s cheaper than living in Canada.” The same Costa Rica attributes that Matschke praises correspond with those developed by me during my inaugural trip there. This remarkable jewel of a country enjoys a brimming cornucopia of unique and outstanding features, both natural and man-made. Moreover, it’s those very features that have shaped the democratic republic of Costa Rica into a destination that attracts more than 2.5 million people a year for both short- and long-term stays. There’s an old saying, “build it and they will come” but, in the case of Costa Rica, little building was needed. The country already had its main attraction: a land so incredibly beautiful that it can sometimes take your breath away – the land that Christopher Columbus first laid eyes on in 1502. It was he who named the area “Costa Rica,” which translates to “Rich Coast” in Spanish. This compact land with its two stunning coastlines is as multi-faceted as it is beautiful. Just more than half of the country exists under a dense cover of tall, broad-leaved trees whose thick crowns form a continuous rainforest canopy. There are also steep mountain ranges together with long stretches of sand beaches, raging rivers, freshwater lakes and thunderous waterfalls. A tropical climate with generally mild temperatures, together with a bonanza of exotic wildlife puts Costa Rica in a sunshine class of distinction. Here are just a few of the highlights which this captivating country has to offer. Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels in Cartago, Costa Rica Church of La Fortuna de San Carlos CSANews | SPRING 2025 | 15 Travel
Volcano Visits The country has at least 60 dormant or extinct volcanoes, with six that are historically active. The big kahuna of them all is the famous Volcan Arenal, a renowned natural feature that is one of Costa Rica’s must-see sites. Lying in the northern region and created from layers of ash, lava and rocks, Arenal is classically cone-shaped and towers over the surrounding fertile landscape at a height of well over 5,000 feet. This iconic monolith that is currently dormant is a spectacular sight to behold with smoke and steam rising from its crater. Geologically, Arenal is considered a young volcano estimated to be less than 7,500 years old. Together with surrounding geothermal hot springs, spas and rainforest reserves, Arenal is a major attraction in the region, if not tops in the entire country. At least five other of Costa Rica’s primary volcanoes are also well worth a visit. The Capital Experience Lying in the centre of the country, San Jose is Costa Rica’s capital and largest city. It’s a vibrant, bustling centre with a mix of modern buildings and historical landmarks dating back to its colonial era. Widely regarded as the finest building in San Jose is the Teatro Nacional (National Theater) modelled after the Paris Opera House. It’s home to the country’s National Symphony, world-class ballet and international guest artists. Among the city’s several cultural attractions is the Museo del Oro (Gold Museum) which contains more than 500 pre-Columbian artifacts including gold animal figurines, jewellery, erotic statuettes and a life-sized gold warrior figure. Adding depth to the museum is a section devoted to Costa Rica’s currency and pre-Columbian history. Housed in one of San Jose’s new architectural buildings is the Jade Museum containing the world’s largest collection of jade artifacts that tell the story of ancient Central American civilizations. The country’s animal kingdom is represented at the Simon Bolivar Zoo, a facility paired with the oldest botanical gardens in Costa Rica. Overall, the capital is home to a bevy of things to see and do, with several city markets ranking among the top tourist attractions. Here, visitors can find everything from souvenirs to food, spices, jewellery, handmade crafts, woven hammocks and much more. National Theater of Costa Rica 16 | www.snowbirds.org Travel
Manuel National Park Known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests and abundant wildlife, this is the smallest national park in the country… but size is not its defining factor. Generally considered a must-see attraction, the park was established in the 1970s by Costa Ricans committed to protecting one of the most breathtaking and biodiverse regions on the planet. Visitors come to catch a glimpse of howler and squirrel monkeys, together with three-toed sloths, iguanas, lizards, snakes, hundreds of species of birds and more. A range of guided tours help visitors get the most out of their park visit. Overall, the country is home to 30 national parks and a remarkable five per cent of the entire world’s biodiversity. 780 miles of beaches that are some of the most beautiful in the country and where surfers come for the big waves, good fishing and scuba diving. The two coasts have superb and distinctive characteristics, with the Caribbean shoreline being charmingly natural and less commercial than the Pacific side. Since both coasts feature some of the best beaches in the world, there are no bad choices to be made. Beaches Costa Rica’s more than 900 miles of sand beach coastlines are a natural attraction for surfers, swimmers, sun bathers and shell seekers. Moreover, a number of the beaches are identified as nesting turtle sites for the Green and Leatherback species. On the Caribbean side of the country, there are 130 miles of calm turquoise waters, pristine sand shores and various coral reefs perfect for snorkelling. The longer Pacific coast features CSANews | SPRING 2025 | 17 Travel
Sports Scene In a country that’s smaller than the province of New Brunswick, the range of Costa Rica’s sports activities is remarkable. Whitewater rafting is a big attraction, with the country having more adrenaline-rushing rivers, deep gorges and incredible rapids than any other place in the world. Off shore, hundreds of miles of coastline waters provide unlimited surfing, windsurfing and kayaking together with world-renowned fishing. Anglers can choose the thrill of deep-sea fishing or casting a line in one of the country’s freshwater lakes. The country’s popular game fish include marlin, sailfish, tuna, snapper and grouper. On land, there are more than a dozen golf courses known for their lush green fairways, rolling hills and stunning ocean views. Some of them have been designed by such worldclass architects as Robert Trent Jones Jr. and George Fazio. Central America and catching sight of one is a gold-star experience. This somewhat-elusive bird with its stunning iridescent green and red plumage was a symbol of spiritual power among ancient civilizations, which used its tail feathers ceremonially. While the quetzal wins the beauty contest, the clay-coloured thrush is Costa Rica’s national bird. Regarded among the top birdwatching spots in the country are the Monteverde Cloud Forest, La Selva Biological Station and Carara National Park. Achieving the richest viewing experience is greater at parks, reserves and other sites that have treetop platforms and raised suspension bridges. Birdwatching With at least 850 identified species, Costa Rica is a birdwatcher’s paradise and one of the country’s chief natural assets. To put this number in context, the country is home to more varieties of birds than all of Canada and the United States combined. One of the reasons for the country’s extraordinary range of avian species is its great variety of habitats – rainforests, mangrove swamps, beaches, cloud forests and rivers. In a country that provides a range of both climates and altitudes, its popular birds include the toucan, scarlet macaw, 50 species of hummingbirds and the resplendent quetzal. The quetzal is unique to the cloud forests of 18 | www.snowbirds.org Travel
info@timothybeach.com | www.timothybeach.com | 1 (888) 229-2747 TIMOTHY BEACH RESORT Your Caribbean Home Away From Home! Frigate Bay, St. Kitts | Friendly. Affordable. Just Right. SPECIAL CSA OFFER • Stay 2 Weeks, Save 15% • Stay 3 Weeks, Pay for 2.5 • Stay 4 Weeks or more - ask us about custom discounts Mention code: CSA2025 when booking Valid for stays up to February 28, 2027 Escape the ordinary and experience the authentic charm of St. Kitts at Timothy Beach Resort – the island’s only beachfront resort on the Caribbean Sea. • Beachfront studios & condos • On-site restaurant & beach bar • Canadian-friendly hospitality • Easy access to groceries, golf, dining & local culture • Direct flights from Canada Wildlife Viewing Costa Rica ranks among the world’s top 10 destinations for its incredible biodiversity and opportunities for seeing animals in their natural environment; in some cases, up close and personal. In fact, the country’s tropical rainforests are home to 5% of the world’s wildlife. This figure comprises 250 mammals alone that include, but are not limited to, the adorable, slow-moving sloth, vampire bat, anteater and jaguar. Added to the list are ocelots, pumas, reptiles, lizards and crocodiles. Moreover, the country’s bonanza of wildlife is not limited to the land. Offshore waters teem with dolphins, sea turtles and whales, with Costa Rica having the benefit of one of the world’s longest whale-watching seasons when humpback whales migrate to the country’s Pacific coast for nearly eight months of the year. Coffee Time Renowned for its ideal coffee-growing conditions, the country is famous for producing some of the finest Arabica beans in the world, making it a sought-after destination for coffee enthusiasts. With rich volcanic soil, high altitude and the right amount of rainfall, Costa Rica is home to dozens of coffee plantations with many of them offering plantation tours and more. Such tours are often paired with other local activities such as a volcano visit, a rainforest tour, ziplining, river tubing and waterfall rappelling. Despite supplementary attractions, coffee tours are framed around the richness and global reputation that the award-winning product has earned. With thousands of farms across the country – both large and small – there are coffee-growing plots everywhere. Getting a good cup of “Joe” in Costa Rica is guaranteed. CSANews | SPRING 2025 | 19 Travel
Cloud Forests Costa Rica has numerous cloud forest regions where tropical evergreens rise into the clouds, forming a lofty canopy. Among the most scenic areas in which to see this awesome natural phenomenon is the country’s Central Highlands, where spectacular mountain peaks literally rest within cloud banks. Sometimes called water forests, they are cool retreats from the tropical zones of the country and are likewise hotbeds of diversity. With their high humidity and moisture, they are rich habitats for mosses, ferns, orchids and other flowering plants. They are also a cool habitat for hundreds of species of birds, sloths, monkeys and a host of others within Costa Rica’s inimitable wildlife menagerie. Regarded among the country’s top cloud forest reserves are the Monteverde, Santa Elena, Bajoz del Toro and Los Angeles. Resources and Information As a Canadian, you can stay in Costa Rica for up to 180 days without a visa. Anybody planning to stay for longer than that is required to obtain a residency status or visa issued by the Costa Rican Immigration Authority. For full and complete information about this awesome sun destination, visit the country’s official website at www.visitcostarica.com. The site includes everything from getting there to staying there and what to see and do. 20 | www.snowbirds.org Travel
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