ALSO IN THIS ISSUE The Captivating Canary Islands MAINTAINING NORMAL BLOOD PRESSURE Health 12 MONEY MYTHS Finance OFFICIAL NEWS MAGAZINE OF THE CANADIAN SNOWBIRD ASSOCIATION | WINTER 2025 | ISSUE 137 Publication mail agreement no: 40063603
CSA Wireless Member Benefit NEW www.snowbirds.org/csa-wireless 1-888-516-7669 RogersPreferred@fvwireless.com To get started 1 with Auto-Pay , when you bring your own device. for only /mo. 29 $ Starter Plan Get 10GB of 5G mobile data (CAN. only)* /mo. 100GB HERO Get a CAN/US/MEX mobile plan with 100GB* with Auto-Pay . for only 1 50 $ Introducing Canada’s official snowbird wireless program. Offer subject to change without notice, available for eligible Rogers Preferred Program members new to Rogers mobile. Membership verification is required. Taxes extra. ± Where applicable provincial 9-1-1 fees are billed monthly. Sent/received premium texts (alerts, messages related to content and promotions), sent international text/picture/video messages and sent/received text/picture/video messages (as applicable) while roaming outside the U.S. and Mexico are not included and charged at applicable rates. *Plan includes non-shareable high-speed data up to speeds of 1 Gbps and allotment indicated in your plan on the Rogers network, extended coverage areas within Canada, and Roam Like Home destinations (see rogers.com/roamlikehome). Once you have reached the high-speed data allotment of your plan, you will continue to have access to data services with no overage beyond the high-speed data allotment at a reduced speed of up to 512 kilobits per second (for both upload and download) until the end of your current billing cycle. Applications such as email, web browsing, apps, and audio/video streaming will continue to function at a reduced speed which will likely impact your experience. 5G/5G+network access requires a compatible device and a 5G SIM card in a covered area (see rogers.com/coverage). In all cases, usage is subject to the Rogers Terms of Service and Acceptable Use Policy. 1. $10/mo. Auto-Pay Discount available with eligible plans (must be set up on account and remain active to get discount). Discount will end if you move to an ineligible plan or cancel Automatic Payments. If you remove Automatic Payments and re-add it to your account you will get the same discount tied to the wireless plan you subscribed to. Rogers & Design and related brand names and logos are trademarks of Rogers Communications Inc. or an affiliate used under license. © 2025 Rogers Communications. Designed for the snowbird lifestyle. Designed to keep you connected across North America. Designed to save members money! CSA Wireless Member Benefit NEW www.snowbirds.org/csa-wireless 1-888-516-7669 RogersPreferred@fvwireless.com To get started 1 with Auto-Pay , when you bring your own device. for only /mo. $ Starter Plan Get 10GB of 5G mobile data (CAN. only)* /mo. 100GB HERO Get a CAN/US/MEX mobile plan with 100GB* for only 1 Introducing Canada’s official snowbird wireless program. Offer subject to change without notice, available for eligible Rogers Preferred Program members new to Rogers mobile. Membership verification is required. Taxes extra. ± Where applicable provincial 9-1-1 fees are billed monthly. Sent/received premium texts (alerts, messages related to content and promotions), sent international text/picture/video messages and sent/received text/picture/video messages (as applicable) while roaming outside the U.S. and Mexico are not included and charged at applicable rates. *Plan includes non-shareable high-speed data up to speeds of 1 Gbps and allotment indicated in your plan on the Rogers network, extended coverage areas within Canada, and Roam Like Home destinations (see rogers.com/roamlikehome). Once you have reached the high-speed data allotment of your plan, you will continue to have access to data services with no overage beyond the high-speed data allotment at a reduced speed of up to 512 kilobits per second (for both upload and download) until the end of your current billing cycle. Applications such as email, web browsing, apps, and audio/video streaming will continue to function at a reduced speed which will likely impact your experience. 5G/5G+network access requires a compatible device and a 5G SIM card in a covered area (see rogers.com/coverage). In all cases, usage is subject to the Rogers Terms of Service and Acceptable Use Policy. 1. $10/mo. Auto-Pay Discount available with eligible plans (must be set up on account and remain active to get discount). Discount will end if you move to an ineligible plan or cancel Automatic Payments. If you remove Automatic Payments and re-add it to your account you will get the same discount tied to the wireless plan you subscribed to. Rogers & Design and related brand names and logos are trademarks of Rogers Communications Inc. or an affiliate used under license. © 2025 Rogers Communications. Designed for the snowbird lifestyle. Designed to keep you connected across North America. Designed to save members money!
Editor’s Message CSANews© is published four times a year and is Copyright WINTER 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 WINTER 2025 | ISSUE 137 CONTRIBUTING EDITORS We acknowledge the support of the Government of Canada. Merv Magus Cover photo: iStock.com/CarlosBarqueroPerez Illustrator Well, it is finally official. Starting in late December, the U.S. Immigration Department will REQUIRE you to take a photograph for their files. There will obviously be more delays at the border, so make your plans flexible. You may wish to check the border-crossing times before you get there, as well. Check at: bwt.cbp.gov This has been a long time coming and it appears that the U.S. now has their facial-recognition software working properly. It will certainly be a pain this year, but future crossings should be very simple and expedited. I believe that it is worth the hassle for later benefits. On another note, Medipac has had to cancel their three Snowbird Extravaganzas after 30 years of excellence. Our surveys showed reduced member interest, the booths were almost impossible to sell (we used to have 100 exhibitors, but only seven showed interest this year) and entertainment costs went through the roof. The end of an era, but the beginning of a new one and I am excited for our future. Thanks to Christopher and our show staff for 30 years of great memories. Sincerely, J. Ross Quigley Editor On another note, my friend had some final thoughts on the Blue Jays’ epic battle for the World Series championship... The last game of the World Series was a heartbreak for sure, but I take solace in knowing that the Jays were the better team. They showed it both on and off the field, and in all of the records that they set. The Dodgers may have the trophy but they will forever be on the other side of giving up 30 hits to Ernie Clement; giving up the first-ever pinch hit grand slam to Addison Barger; giving up the first-ever back-to-back home runs to start a World Series game to Davis Schneider and Vladdy; and striking out 12 times in a single game against Trey Yesavage to give him the rookie record for strikeouts in a World Series game. In sum, the Dodgers had one fantastic player in Yamamoto and some incredible luck, which saw them win a World Series that they did not deserve to win. I’m so proud of our team and if any TEAM deserves to be on the cover of Sports Illustrated or written about in terms of what it means to be a team, it’s the 2025 Blue Jays. They will forever live in my heart as one of the greatest teams in major league baseball history. by Michael Farrant CSANews | WINTER 2025 | 3
Table of Contents WINTER 2025 | ISSUE 137 OFFICIAL NEWS MAGAZINE OF THE CANADIAN SNOWBIRD ASSOCIATION Travel overseas is not getting easier A passport is no longer enough for many overseas destinations. by Milan Korcok The Captivating Canary Islands A chain of sunny Spanish isles filled with surprises. by Donna Carter Features 24 14 38 Maintaining normal blood pressure High blood pressure is often asymptomatic; make sure that you’re monitoring for this potentially dangerous condition. by Dr. Robert MacMillan Travel Health 4 | www.snowbirds.org
Table of Contents 46 CSA Update 48 Snowbird Events 50 Golf by David McPherson 52 CSA Online by Alan Breznick 54 Gardening by Judith Adam 56 Food & Drink by Shari McIntyre 58 Fun & Games 59 Grins & Giggles 60 CSA Application 61 CSA Benefits 62 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 40 Health Pulse 42 Longevity by Jennifer Cox 43 Fitness by Jennifer Cox 44 Book Review by Robert Wiersema 28 34 Twelve money myths you need to forget about False financial beliefs that could be hurting your bottom line. by James Dolan Canadians yearn to travel But money is scarce for many younger Canadians. By Milan Korcok Finance Departments CSANews | WINTER 2025 | 5
Bird Talk Dear Bird Talk, I have been travelling to the U.S. for over a decade. I bring some expensive equipment back and forth over the border every time. A pizza oven, golf clubs and some computerized special equipment for simulation racing. The racing stuff alone is worth over $4,000. Over the years, the individual items have been purchased either in Canada or in the U.S. All the U.S.-purchased items have been claimed within the Canadian exemption limits. I maintain a file of all the receipts for the items with their purchase dates. My question is twofold: would that be sufficient for Canadian Customs purposes? And, more important this year, for U.S. Customs with all the new tariff regulations? I remember the old days when there was a little cardboard form we would have for camera equipment used for crossing the border. Am I mistaken in remembering we used to get a stamp on it by Canada customs to “prove” it was purchased in Canada? Mike Meleskie Sherwood Park, AB Ed.: The cardboard card you are referring to is Form Y38. It has been replaced by Form BSF407 (Identification of Articles for Temporary Exportation). It is a Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) form used to register valuable personal items, such as electronics, tools, or sports equipment, before leaving Canada. It serves as proof that these goods were owned in Canada prior to travel, so you won’t have to pay duty or taxes when bringing them back. You can complete and have it stamped at a CBSA office, where officers will record serial numbers or descriptions of your items. Any new equipment purchased in the United States and brought back to Canada would be subject to your exemption limit of $800.00 CAD and would be subject to Canadian duties and taxes when you return to Canada. Dear Bird Talk, I am writing to ask your opinion on whether I am permitted to remove my front Ontario licence plate while vacationing in Florida. As Florida does not require front plates, I was wondering if it would be acceptable to remove mine during my stay. My reason for considering this is to potentially reduce the risk of damage to my vehicle while it is parked. I would appreciate your guidance on whether this would be allowed under Ontario regulations while temporarily out of province. Mark Conrad Ottawa, ON Ed.: If the front plate is required in your home jurisdiction (Ontario), then you will need to keep it on the vehicle even while visiting Florida, otherwise you will be breaking the law. Dear Bird Talk, Does anyone know if and how much (in $) we can bring into the United States without paying a tariff? We want to bring down some foodstuffs like soups, melba toast, Clamato juice, etc. and we don’t want to be hit with a 25% duty/tariff when we cross the border to go to Florida in October. Ted Karas Toronto, ON Ed.: As far as we know, Canadians have not been charged any tariffs on personal food items in their possession when entering the United States. Just remember that importing ruminant meat products into the U.S. is prohibited. Dear Bird Talk, We own a place in Florida. We are selling our Florida home. Can you recommend a safe area in Mexico that we can drive to. Guy Viggers Cloyne, ON Ed.: Several Canadian and American snowbirds have enjoyed the areas of San Miguel de Allende and Lake Chapala. There are vibrant “ex-pat” communities there. Dear Bird Talk, I renewed my passport recently, therefore the passport number on my I-94 will not match. Should I apply for the other form prior to my departure to the U.S.? What will happen when the border patrol scans my new passport. Will he also see my history of travel prior to this new passport? Monik Gagnon Pointe du Chene, NB Ed.: Yes, the Customs and Border Protection agent will see your previous travel history despite having a new passport number. The I-94 that you acquire when you enter the United States this year will reflect your new passport number. Your past I-94 registration is not relevant to your next visit of 30 days or longer. Dear Bird Talk, We are snowbirds and spend six months in Florida and we drive. I am a little confused on the requirements of the I-94 form. I have my recent I-94 record which shows my latest arrival and Admit Until Date, which was 2025 September 06. On entering the U.S. this October by car for six months, do I need to pre-register for the I-94 or do I cross the border with my passport only. Lindsay Brannen Wasaga Beach, ON Ed.: You do not need to pre-register. Cross the border with your passport in the same manner as you always have. You may have to pay $30.00 per person for your I-94 registration at the border, provide your digital fingerprint and have your photo taken, but that’s all. If the CBP agent doesn’t complete your I-94 registration, you will have to complete a G-325R form on the United States Citizenship and Immigration website when you reach your southern home. 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, With the recent approval of Trump’s big, beautiful bill, was there any inclusion regarding taxing the sale or capital gain on foreign property. I have heard an individual stating that starting in 2026, there will be a separate tax on foreign property sales in the U.S. and if this is the case, then it certainly would discourage Canadians from buying property in popular places like Arizona and Florida. Joe Shafer Bonnyville, AB Ed.: Currently, there are no new tax implications for Canadians selling their U.S. real estate. Business as usual. Dear Bird Talk, My husband and I will be returning as snowbirds to Arizona in November. I assume we will be issued I-94 forms for six months when we fly out of Toronto. In February, we plan to take a cruise to Mexico for a week. Will this trip out of the U.S. impact our I-94 forms when we depart the U.S.? Will we be issued new I-94 forms on our return, or will the expiry date of the initial forms still be valid? Paula Travers London, ON Ed.: Taking a cruise to Mexico generally does not reset or extend your I-94 validity. In most cases, short trips to Canada, Mexico or adjacent islands are considered travel to “contiguous territory,” meaning that your existing I-94 remains valid upon re-entry to the United States, as long as it has not yet expired. However, in some cases – depending on your specific circumstances, the port of entry and how you are processed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection – a new I-94 may be issued when you return. Dear Bird Talk, I have a flight booked to California from mid-November to mid-February. I believe a shortly expiring passport can be a reason to decline entry. My passport expires in August 2026 and I’m wondering whether this expiry is far enough out. John Lynch Calgary, AB Ed.: Canadian citizens visiting the United States have to have a valid passport for the duration of their visit. Visitors to the U.S. who are citizens of other countries have to have a passport that is valid for six months beyond their anticipated date of departure from the U.S. Dear Bird Talk, We understand the new border-crossing requirements. My question pertains to Nexus cardholders. Are the rules any different? They already have all our information. Anita Simpson Maryhill, ON Ed.: Nexus cardholders are subject to the same rules and procedures as any Canadian citizen travelling with just a passport who intends to stay in the United States for 30 days or longer. Dear Bird Talk, We believe in democracy and are leery of the current situation as snowbirds to Florida. Are other snowbirds concerned? We are seriously considering not going south this winter. As we own a home there, we have also thought of selling. We are very sad as in the past 12 years, we have loved our winters south. Almost all our neighbours, family and friends have mentioned to us that we should not go; they won’t be going or visiting us. If we didn’t own, we absolutely would not go. And are close to being positive in not going even though we own a home there. We feel we must take a stand for democracy! Emily Port Toronto, ON Ed.: Hundreds of thousands of Canadians are going south for the winter. We suspect that many of them are doing it quietly. The media loves a negative story and gets lots of attention when they amplify the rhetoric. Do what is right for you, your family and your conscience. Enjoy your winter and travel well! Dear Bird Talk, If you travel down to the states but come back to Canada for family events, etc., do the days you’re back in Canada still count towards the 183 days? Anne Upton-Taylor Alberta Ed.: They could be counted. Short visits back to Canada may be counted toward your six-month limit, at the discretion of the U.S. CBP officer handling your entry. To be safe, it’s advisable not to exclude these brief trips from the day count of your overall stay duration. CSANews | WINTER 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. 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
Snowbird Alert New Incoming U.S. Biometric Border Rules What Canadian Travellers Need to Know for the 2025-26 Winter Season The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced a significant change that will affect how Canadians and other foreign nationals enter and leave the United States. On October 27, 2025, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) published a final rule authorizing the collection of biometric information – such as facial photographs – from all non-U.S. citizens. This regulation, listed as Federal Register – Rule 2025-19655 will take effect on December 26, 2025. It represents a major expansion of the United States’ ongoing effort to modernize border management and improve security tracking at all ports of entry. What’s Changing Under the new rule, all foreign nationals, including Canadian citizens, may be photographed upon entry to, or departure from the United States. CBP officers or automated systems may capture these images at airports, land crossings, seaports and other official border points. Previously, certain categories of travellers – such as Canadians entering by land – were exempt from biometric collection. These exemptions have now been removed. The rule creates a uniform biometric entry/exit process across all travel modes. Biometric data, typically a facial photograph (and, in limited cases, fingerprints) will be compared to passport or travel document photos to verify identity and confirm lawful entry or exit. According to DHS, these systems are designed to reduce document fraud and strengthen border security, while streamlining future crossings. What This Means for Snowbirds For the thousands of Canadians who spend part of each year in the U.S., the new rule does not alter travel eligibility, visa requirements, or permitted length of stay under existing agreements. However, it does change the information collected during border processing. Travellers may notice: • CBP officers taking photographs on entry and/or departure. • Automated facial comparison kiosks at airports and land crossings. • Longer processing times, especially during the early months of implementation. These procedures are already in partial use at major airports and are expected to expand to more locations over the coming year. Privacy and Data Protection The DHS has stated that biometric images will be stored in secure government databases and used solely for identity verification and border management. However, privacy advocates continue to monitor how this information is retained, shared and used. The Canadian Snowbird Association (CSA) is closely following these developments and engaging with both U.S. and Canadian authorities to ensure that members’ privacy and civil liberties are respected throughout the rollout. What You Can Do to Prepare To make your crossings smoother and stress-free: • Carry valid travel documents – a passport is essential, along with proof of Canadian residence and travel insurance. • Allow extra time for processing, particularly during the early implementation phase after December 26, 2025. • Review your travel plans to ensure that you remain within permitted stay limits (generally six months less a day in any 12-month period in the U.S.). • Follow CSA updates for the latest information on border procedures and policy changes. CSANews | WINTER 2025 | 9
President’s Message Garry McDonald CSA President I was delighted to meet so many of you during our recent series of Fall Snowbird Lifestyle Presentations. This year’s tour began in Ontario, with stops in Sarnia and Orillia. We continued on to Parry Sound, before concluding our Ontario shows in Owen Sound. We then proceeded east to entertain our guests in Moncton, New Brunswick and Summerside, P.E.I., wrapping up the season with a show in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. I am pleased to share that we welcomed many new members to the association along the way, and I extend my sincere thanks to all of the volunteers and members whose support helped make these presentations such a success. In November, the U.S. Department of State issued a global directive to U.S. consulates and embassies instructing visa officers to treat certain chronic health conditions including obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancers and some mental health conditions as factors in visa eligibility. The directive emphasizes that visa officers can assess whether an applicant’s health condition could lead to long-term medical costs and thereby pose a potential burden on U.S. public resources. At this time, there is no indication that Canadians entering the United States as tourists (who do not need to pre-apply for a visa) will be affected by this policy. The vast majority of Canadian snowbirds also travel to the United States with comprehensive private travel medical insurance, which further reduces any concern that they would be viewed as a potential burden on the U.S. health-care system. As of mid-November, the National Hurricane Center reported 13 named storms in the North Atlantic this year, of which five became hurricanes. Despite this activity, Florida has so far been relatively spared, with no major landfalling hurricane. Forecasters earlier had predicted an above-average season; for example, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration outlook called for 13-18 named storms, six to 10 hurricanes and two to five major hurricanes. With the season winding down, the risk for Florida remains much lower, but it’s not yet zero as we go to press. Hopefully, a calm finish to hurricane season will contribute to steadier insurance markets for snowbirds. While Florida’s insurance landscape remains challenging overall, every season without significant landfall damage helps to slow upward pressure on premiums. A reminder that CSA members may book a member of your board of directors to make an information presentation directly to their winter community or club. These presentations provide updates regarding all of the latest initiatives on which the association has been working and we attempt to answer any questions which you may have about a wide variety of snowbird-related topics. To book a presentation, please contact the CSA office in Toronto. On October 14, the residents of Newfoundland and Labrador elected a Progressive Conservative majority government. We created and distributed a provincial election handbook to all of our members in Newfoundland and Labrador prior to the election. The handbook contains key information about our major issues in the province and details regarding how to vote, along with key dates to ensure that our members had all of the information which they needed in order to exercise their right to vote. Congratulations to Premier Tony Wakeham and to all members of the provincial legislature. We look forward to working with all of you on issues of importance to travelling Canadians. As you have likely already heard from our recent email advisory, the Canadian Snowbird Association is now on Facebook and Instagram. Whether you’re planning your next winter escape or already enjoying the sunshine down south, we’d love for you to connect with us online. Our new social media pages are your go-to spot for everything snowbird-related. You’ll find timely travel and border updates, helpful health-care tips, stories and photos from fellow members, and news about upcoming CSA events and advocacy work. Best of all, they’re another way for you to get the trusted information on which snowbirds rely, straight from the CSA team. By following us on social media, you can stay informed, share your own experiences and feel connected to the CSA community no matter where your travels take you. We look forward to connecting with you online: Facebook Facebook.com/CanadianSnowbirdAssociation Instagram Instagram.com/canadiansnowbirds Have a safe and enjoyable winter with your family and friends. 10 | www.snowbirds.org
Government Relations Report Johanne Blain First Vice-President With many Canadian snowbirds already settled at their winter destinations, recent announcements from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have prompted new questions about what to expect at the border for the rest of the season. To help provide clarity, the Canadian Snowbird Association (CSA) has reviewed the latest information and prepared a summary of what has changed, what remains the same and how these updates may impact your stay or upcoming travel. In late October, the CSA began receiving reports that some Canadians entering the United States by land, particularly those planning to stay for 30 days or longer, were being asked to complete new entry procedures. Some travellers were required to file Form I-94 at the border and undergo digital fingerprinting and photographing, while others were not asked to do so, thereby creating confusion. After consulting with officials and monitoring reports from various crossings, the CSA has confirmed that these measures are not being applied consistently. Requirements continue to vary by location and by officer, and there has been no official announcement of a uniform policy applying these steps to all Canadian visitors. For most travellers, crossing the border continues much as before. Snowbirds should continue to travel with their valid Canadian passport, proof of residency and travel health insurance. After entering the United States, it is advisable to check whether you were issued an I-94 form. If you were, print and keep a copy for your records. If you were not issued an I-94, the CSA recommends that you file Form G-325R with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) within 30 days of your entry. This form provides basic biographic information and serves as a record of your arrival. To assist members in completing this form, we have uploaded a step-by-step video guide which can be accessed from the “News Releases” section of our official website – www.snowbirds.org. It is important to remember that these procedural differences do not change your eligibility to travel or the duration of your permitted stay in the United States. They do, however, highlight the increasing use of biometric and digital record-keeping tools at the border. The CSA is continuing to monitor how these procedures are being implemented and will keep members updated as new information becomes available. Beyond these procedural variations, there is a broader policy change on the horizon of which that all Canadian travellers should be aware. On October 27, 2025, CBP published a final rule that will take effect on December 26, 2025, introducing a comprehensive biometric entry-exit system for all non-U.S. citizens, including Canadians. Under this new rule, travellers entering or leaving the United States by land, air or sea may have their photograph taken and, in some cases, digital fingerprints collected. The goal, according to CBP, is to create a consistent biometric record of each entry and exit to strengthen border security and streamline future crossings. This new rule eliminates the previous exemptions that applied to certain groups of travellers, meaning that biometric screening will soon become a standard part of the entry and exit process for nearly all foreign nationals. While the change does not alter how long Canadians can stay in the United States, nor does it affect the rights of Canadian visitors under existing immigration law, travellers should expect border processing to take a little longer as the system is rolled out. You may encounter automated kiosks, facial-recognition cameras and/or other digital screening technologies during your next trip. For snowbirds, this means planning ahead and allowing extra time at the border, particularly in the early months of implementation. Ensuring that all travel documents are current and easily accessible will help reduce potential delays. Travellers who stay for extended periods should also continue following CSA guidance regarding USCIS Form G-325R and related documentation. The CSA understands that changes like these can cause uncertainty, especially for those who cross the border frequently or regularly spend part of the year in the United States. Rest assured that the Association remains in close contact with both Canadian and U.S. authorities and is committed to advocating on behalf of our members. As these new biometric systems and entry procedures evolve, the CSA will continue to provide updates, explanations and support to ensure that snowbirds have the accurate, practical information which they need to travel with confidence. For more than three decades, the Canadian Snowbird Association has worked to defend the rights and privileges of Canadian travellers. While the upcoming border and biometric changes may represent an adjustment, being informed and prepared will make your journey smoother and more predictable. The CSA encourages all members to stay connected through our website and social media channels for ongoing updates. Gilles and I wish you safe travels as you enjoy your time in the sun this winter season. CSANews | WINTER 2025 | 11
J. Ross Quigley CEO Medipac International Inc. Insurance After 50+ border crossings, I am happy to say that I only had one bad experience. Amazingly, it was with Canada Customs and not the U.S. customs or immigration officials. I was a bit of a car guy, so I thought that I would give my parents a treat. I was driving them to Florida that year, so I purchased an older 1972 Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham D’Elegance so we could go “in style.” Everything was fine until a few months later, when we were returning to Canada. The customs official looked at the fancy car and the two 90-year-old seniors in the back seat and determined that there was something amiss. They tore the car apart and searched every nook and cranny in it, delaying us for threeand-a-half hours at the border crossing. Mom and Dad were stoic and my wife Pat knew to stay quiet, otherwise I might go crazy. The idiots charged me $14.00 as duty for a supposedly new suitcase. It was an older suitcase that belonged to my parents (who kept it in like-new condition), but I was not going to argue. That never works when dealing with officious turkeys. The car was never the same after its strip search. No drugs, no weapons, no illegal booze, no illegal immigrants stuffed into the trunk and no reason whatsoever to even stop us. I sold the car shortly thereafter, at a loss. Lesson learned, I guess. Anyway, about 15 years ago, we decided that we should fly and often, the U.S. immigration officials at the airport would ask me to put my hand on this square green light – which I willingly did. It never really registered that they were taking my fingerprints, but that is exactly what they were doing. They then asked me to look in the mirror and took a picture of my eye irises and, of course, my face. I really did not think anything about it until recently, when this all became an issue, although I am not sure why. Several years ago, Pat and I went to the airport and signed up for our Nexus cards and Trusted Traveler ID. These “investigators,” for that is what they were, tore us apart and asked difficult questions, but we did get our cards and never looked back. We have been shooed through dozens of immigration and customs lineups and border crossing has actually become a pleasure. Oh, and those pesky I-94 forms are automatic when you fly. The United States has every right – I would even say “duty” – to determine who is entering their country. So, you may be stopped at the border, and be fingerprinted, and be subject to facial recognition software and iris scans. Please tolerate this with grace. I believe that one year’s inconvenience is well worth it. And do not be overly concerned about the I-94 form. Just be sure to check and confirm that an I-94 record of admission has been issued when you arrive at your winter home. If it has not been issued, register for a G-325R form, print off a copy of the application receipt and keep that copy with your passport. A little work, but it’s worth the effort. Happy travels. I am a snowbird! For more than 30 years, I have been crossing the Canada/U.S. border, partially for business but mostly for pleasure. The business part was overseeing Medipac’s Snowbird Extravaganzas and the Canadian Snowbird Association’s Winter Information Meetings. I also used some of our time to review hospitals and check in on our clients now and again. And… I was not cold. 12 | www.snowbirds.org
Opinion with Michael Coren We’ve just celebrated the 500th anniversary of the anabaptist movement, a statement that will likely be met with overwhelming indifference. What are anabaptists and why should we care? Thing is, it’s extremely relevant in Canada in particular, where there are numerous Mennonite and Brethren communities – especially in Winnipeg and Kitchener – but also throughout the country. Anybody familiar with the University of Waterloo will know of Conrad Grebel College named after the man who, in 1525 in Zurich, effectively established this branch of the Protestant Reformation. They preached radical views on baptism, separation of church and state, simple living and pacifism. Belief in pacifism, Christian or otherwise, is in short supply right now and the seemingly endless and ever darker and deeper cycle of violence and hatred spins around, funded by international arms dealers and provoked by empty nationalism and the hideous perversion of religion. Jesus told us that if somebody struck us on the cheek, we should offer the other as well; that we should embrace those who wished to do us harm and, by personal example, transform the entire world. He also said that his ideas would bring division, even among families, and history has proved him right. I was reminded of this back in late September while watching the memorial to the conservative and Christian activist Charlie Kirk, during which his widow said that she forgave her husband’s murderer. Then President Trump told the crowd, and the millions watching, that he had a very different opinion and that he hated his enemies. The Christians still applauded and the brief moment of hope from a young woman in deepest agony was thrown into the dust. I may not agree with all of her ideas, I may come from an entirely different culture, but I admire her for walking the walk at its hardest and most painful. Not that forgiveness is the same as pacifism. I’ve interviewed many Second World War veterans over the years – most of them gone now, alas – and the vast majority said that yes, they’d do it again and the war had had to be fought but no, they didn’t hate their enemy, and they forgave the ordinary German soldier. Their heroism and sacrifice defeated Nazism but didn’t stop wars and oppression – the Soviet oppression of half of Europe, wars in Korea, Vietnam, India, the Middle East and so many other places. The United Nations sometimes tries to keep the peace, but more often keeps the status quo and postpones wars rather than stops them. We look at past ages and lament their barbarism, ignoring the fact that we can now slaughter with more effectiveness than at any time in human history and regularly do so. The early church was largely pacifist and only changed – and lost its way in many other areas as well – when it was co-opted by imperial power. Pacifism was a major factor in the growth of Christianity and the anabaptist ideal tried to recapture such moral radicalism. The world had to be turned upside down. They, too, walked the walk. In 1596, Dirk Willems was arrested and imprisoned for his anabaptist beliefs. He escaped and fled across a frozen lake, but was pursued. Willems was thin due to prison conditions but the man chasing him was fit and strong, and the ice broke beneath him. Willems was free. But seeing the man drowning in the freezing water, he turned and rescued him. Which led to Willems’ recapture, torture and execution. Some beliefs come at a great price. Today? I don’t see authentic pacifism and Christian ideals in taking raw, often extreme political positions, in loud public demonstrations, or in self-righteous gestures. Too often, these become mere fashion, an outward sign that you’re one of the good guys, that you’re on “the right side of history,” which achieves nothing and helps nobody. Some of the visceral hatred I see at these displays has nothing at all to do with peace and understanding. Real change, a change that will genuinely provide solutions and solve problems comes from within, by looking at where we are flawed, how we are broken and what we can do in often small and unknown ways to bring peace and open new doors. It’s much easier to point out other people’s failings than to admit, and then try to rectify, our own. I don’t pretend to have anything resembling all of the answers, but I do know that I have to ask the questions. CSANews | WINTER 2025 | 13
By Donna Carter The Captivating CANARY ISLANDS A chain of sunny Spanish isles filled with surprises 14 | www.snowbirds.org Travel
Sometimes called “the Hawaii of Europe,” the Canaries are remarkably similar to the famous Hawaiian Islands. Both possess beautiful beaches, a subtropical environment, lush rain forests, historical sites and a unique cultural identity. Of course, the major difference between the two is location. They lie on opposite sides of the globe, with Hawaii situated in the central Pacific Ocean and the Canary Islands lying in the Atlantic off the northwest coast of Africa. Both are volcanic archipelagos with year-round sunshine and long histories as popular travel destinations, although it took the Spanish Canaries longer to develop their global reputation. The British and Europeans discovered them decades before the chain’s many endowments – natural and otherwise – became known to people worldwide. Today, the islands welcome millions of visitors a year, knowing that they can count on reliable weather and an abundance of interesting things to see and do. Like the Hawaiian Islands, the Canaries were formed by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago, hence their geographic similarities: a mix of mountain peaks, volcanic cones, fertile valleys and verdant forests. The islands also boast great stretches of beautiful sand beaches, together with dramatic cliffs and rocky coastlines. As a group, there are eight main islands and several islets that, collectively, are an autonomous region within the nation of Spain. Prior to Spain’s conquest of the islands in the 15th century, a rich history had already been shaped. The seeds of it were originally laid by an indigenous north African population that first settled the archipelago around the first millennium BC. They were later followed by the arrival of European explorers and traders from France, Portugal and beyond. The multiple mix of different cultural backgrounds continued to flourish over the centuries, producing the Canaries’ unique identity and character, qualities that helped stoke the islands’ reputation as a big-league player among world travel destinations. The melting pot that exists there today is revealed through various cultural traditions: cuisine, arts, festivals, music, museums and more. Overall, there is much about this beautiful chain of islands that makes it an attractive winter escape for many. In fact, recent statistics show a rising number of Canadian snowbirds opting for long-term stays there – especially during February and March. While each of the eight primary islands shares the commonality of abundant beaches, stunning volcanic landscapes and lush forests, each singularly possesses its own distinctive personality and attractions. Excellent flight and ferry links make island-hopping easy for both visitors and long-stay snowbirds, who can settle on one island with easy access to all others. Island by island, here is a glimpse of what this beautiful, “winter sun” destination has to offer. CSANews | WINTER 2025 | 15 Travel
Tenerife The archipelago’s largest and most visited island boasts a bonanza of beaches, with dozens of them featuring either golden sand or the black volcanic variety. Widely known as the “island of eternal spring,” Tenerife is saturated with an impressive array of attractions from natural wonders to exciting theme parks, scuba diving, whale-watching, kayaking, paragliding and catamaran tours. The island is also dotted with flea and street markets selling everything from local handcrafted items reflecting the Canarian culture, to antiques, clothing, local cheeses, fresh produce and more. Cash is king at these markets and bargaining is expected. There are also numerous historical and cultural venues, plus a reputation for some of the finest wines in Europe, together with multiple Michelin-star restaurants. On the flip side of fine dining, Tenerife boasts a plethora of regular eateries serving genuine Canarian food at reasonable prices. While the island brims with things to see and do, there are certain must-see highlights. Topping the list is Mount Teide – the third-highest volcano in the world and the highest peak in Spain. Dominating a lunarlike landscape, the mountain is the star of the island, together with Tenerife’s Mount Teide National Park, a UNESCO-listed site of remarkable beauty. There are numerous hiking trails for all levels, in addition to cable cars for transporting visitors to the upper viewing station of this currently dormant volcano. Beyond Mount Teide, the island is full of surprises such as an Asianthemed water park featuring the world’s largest artificial wave pool. Considered among the best water parks on the planet, it features extreme, free-fall slides and a host of other adrenaline-pumping thrills. Tenerife’s tableau of activities also includes underwater submarine tours, a monkey park, botanical gardens and tandem paragliding. Island excitement peaks in February, with the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival ranking second only to Brazil’s world-famous Carnival of Rio de Janeiro. The buzzing, festival city of Santa Cruz lies cheek by jowl with the neighbouring community of La Laguna, widely considered Tenerife’s most beautiful city. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Laguna is famous for its colonial architecture and historical significance. 16 | www.snowbirds.org Travel
Gran Canaria The Canaries’ third-largest island boasts an abundance of enticing activities and beaches galore. There are more than 80 of them, from the iconic, dune-backed beaches on the south coast to others scattered along the island’s perimeter. The island’s capital – Las Palmas – features a vibrant arts scene, numerous historical sights such as the oldest defence fortress in the Canaries, plus a palace that once hosted Christopher Columbus. Today, this historic edifice (Casa de Colon) is a museum dedicated to the explorer’s four voyages to the Americas, as well as to the history of the Canary Islands. Among several island highlights is the picturesque town of Puerto de Mogen, nicknamed the “Little Venice” of Gran Canaria for its charming canals and whitewashed buildings. The whole island is jam-packed with activities and attractions that include crystal-clear waters for snorkelling, together with fishing, whale-watching, endless hiking opportunities and camel riding. In fact, popular camel-riding tours exist across the Canaries, a tourism scheme that sprang up when modern techniques replaced the archipelago’s tradition of using camels as pack animals. Overall, Gran Canaria is an island that provides something of interest for everybody, including a host of bustling resorts and vibrant nightlife, together with endless eateries from rural taverns to casual waterfront restaurants and fine dining options. CSANews | WINTER 2025 | 17 Travel
Lanzarote Known for its breathtaking volcanic landscapes, national parks and good beaches, Lanzarote is the Canaries’ fourth-largest island. One of its jewels is the Timanfaya National Park covering nearly 20 square miles of dramatic landscape. This Marslike park is a must-see visitor attraction consisting of still-active volcanoes, lava fields and sand dunes. More than 1.5 million people a year visit the park to see, among other things, demonstrations of continued volcanic activity. A 14-km trail weaves its way among the park’s different craters; one park restaurant uses geothermal heat from the volcano to cook its typical Lanzarote dishes. Another of the island’s big attractions is the Jameos del Agua natural cave complex featuring an underground lake and concert hall. Like its larger sister islands, Lanzarote features the same general attractions as the others: excellent beaches, water sports, whale-watching, traditional Canarian dining, interesting small towns and the archipelago’s distinctive street markets. On Lanzarote and across the islands, traditional Canarian dining is a distinctive culinary landscape marked by a mix of indigenous flavours and techniques brought by the Spanish colonizers. Visitors can expect reasonably priced meals, often featuring hearty stews, grilled meats and fish, and fresh-from-the-farm, locally produced fruits, vegetables and cheeses. Fuerteventura The second-largest island in the chain, Fuerteventura, is generally considered the Canary Island which has the best beaches. Its miles of white and golden sand – and its strong winds – make it a top destination for surfing, windsurfing, paddleboarding and kitesurfing. However, the island has much to offer beyond its spectacular beaches. Among its popular activities are dune buggy safaris, glass-bottom boat tours, volcano hikes, vineyard tours and excursions to the island’s famous Ajuy Caves. Beyond the island capital of Puerto del Rosario, there is a host of charming towns flavoured with colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings and limitless dining options featuring everything from traditional Canarian dishes to international cuisine. Shopping across the island includes everything from modern malls to street markets. 18 | www.snowbirds.org Travel
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