ALSO IN THIS ISSUE Exploring Canada’s Golf Trails Lovin’ The Okanagan PARKINSON’S DISEASE Health BULLETPROOF YOUR PORTFOLIO Finance OFFICIAL NEWS MAGAZINE OF THE CANADIAN SNOWBIRD ASSOCIATION | SPRING 2026 | ISSUE 138 Publication mail agreement no: 40063603
Introducing Canada’s official snowbird wireless program. NDesigned for the snowbird lifestyle. NDesigned to keep you connected across North America. NDesigned to save members money! Rogers Preferred Program Offer subject to change without notice, available for eligible Rogers Preferred Program members new to Rogers mobile. Membership verification is required. Taxes extra. 1 10GB’s speed caps up to 150 Mbps, 100GB’s speed caps up to 1 Gbps. If you exceed 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 128 Kbps for 10GB’s and 512 Kbps for 100GB’s. (upload and download) for light web browsing, email and messaging until the end of your billing cycle. Access to Rogers’ 5G/5G+ network, where available, requires a 5G compatible device. Whether connecting to Rogers or another carrier’s network, whether in Canada or internationally, speed, performance and whether a 5G capable device uses the available 5G/5G+ network depend on various factors including your device, configuration, usage, the carrier’s network technology, network and internet traffic, topography, environmental conditions, applicable network management practices, and other factors. See coverage map for more details. Usage is subject to the Rogers Terms of Service and Acceptable Use Policy and the Rogers Network Management Policy. 2 Where applicable provincial 9-1-1 fees are billed monthly. 3 $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. 4 On the Rogers Network within Canada, the U.S., and Mexico excluding calls made through Call Forwarding, Video calling or similar services. Includes unlimited text/picture/video messages sent from Canada, U.S. and Mexico to Canadian, U.S., Mexico mobile numbers and received texts from anywhere. Premium texts (alerts, messages related to content and promotions)Rogers & Design and related brand names and logos are trademarks of Rogers Communications Inc. or an affiliate used under license. © 2025 Rogers Communications. Contact us today to learn more: 1-888-516-7669 www.snowbirds.org/csa-wireless RogersPreferred@fvwireless.com Get a 5G+ plan with 10GB1 Get a 5G+ plan with 100GB1 for only for only $29/mo.2 $50/mo.2 with Auto-Pay3 when you bring your own device. with Auto-Pay3 when you bring your own device. Plan includes data and unlimited talk and text in Canada/U.S./Mexico.4
Editor’s Message CSANews© is published four times a year and is Copyright SPRING 2026 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 & Events Specialist J. Ross Quigley Garry McDonald Christopher Davidge Peter Prusa Paula McGovern Fran Castricone SPRING 2026 | ISSUE 138 CONTRIBUTING EDITORS We acknowledge the support of the Government of Canada. Merv Magus Cover photo: iStock.com/GlobalStock Illustrator We arrived in the U.S. in December. Crossing the border was the easiest it has been in 40 years. My four sons and their families came to visit, with children ranging from a year old to 25 years old. Even two great-grandchildren arrived – all without incident. At the border, my family was all welcomed with open arms and kind words at the five different border-crossing points. Our U.S. friends and neighbours, the little restaurants and shops which we frequent, and even our local grocery store staff also welcomed us with open arms. They all know that we are Canadian, of course, and I wear my CSA hat everywhere. Our winter here in Florida has been nothing short of magical. We have an old chandelier on our open front porch. Our home is 106 years old and the iron chandelier is probably original, with 16 lights that automatically come on at dusk. Amazingly, two doves decided to build a rather awkward nest in between the structural parts. We go in and out the door several times a day and they just look down at us with distain, never saying a word or chirping. Two weeks later, we had two new arrivals and now we have four doves. None of them said anything all during their gestation, birth or stay and then they were gone. And even we had to go home. I am sad that ridiculous news stories have scared some snowbirds away. You missed another wonderful year. Hopefully next year, you will return to your lifestyle once again. Happy summer! Sincerely, J. Ross Quigley Editor CSANews | SPRING 2026 | 3
Snowbird Events FREE SNOWBIRD SHOW For additional information or to volunteer, call the CSA at 1.800.265.3200 or visit snowbirdextravaganza.com/canada Canadian Snowbird Association President Garry McDonald With a special presentation from Sponsored by Join us for a FREE concert to celebrate the snowbird lifestyle! Our all-Canadian, world-class entertainment for this year’s tour includes fiddler Ashley MacIsaac, comedian Bruce McCulloch and singer-songwriter Carolyn Dawn Johnson; this event also includes a special presentation by Canadian Snowbird Association President Garry McDonald. Tickets are required for these FREE* events and will be available beginning June 15 through each theatre’s box office. Tickets may be available on the day of the event, but these events have been known to “sell out” in the past, so we recommend that you reserve early! *Service charges may apply to telephone and online orders. SNOWBIRD CONCERT SERIES Ashley MacIsaac Bruce McCulloch Carolyn Dawn Johnson 4 | www.snowbirds.org
Snowbird Events • SEP • 15 Tues ST. CATHARINES ONTARIO FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre 250 St. Paul Street Box Office: 905-688-0722 or 1-855-515-0722 firstontariopac.ca • SEP • 16 Wed PORT HOPE ONTARIO Capitol Theatre 20 Queen Street Box Office: 905-885-1071 or 1-800-434-5092 capitoltheatre.com • SEP • 17 Thur OSHAWA ONTARIO Regent Theatre 50 King St. E. Box Office: 905-721-3399 regenttheatre.ca • SEP • 18 Fri BELLEVILLE ONTARIO Empire Theatre 321 Front Street Box Office: 613-969-0099 theempiretheatre.com • SEP • 21 Mon KELOWNA BRITISH COLUMBIA Kelowna Community Theatre 1375 Water Street Box Office: 250-469-8940 theatre.kelowna.ca • SEP • 22 Tues SHERWOOD PARK ALBERTA Festival Place 100 Festival Way Box Office: 780-449-3378 festivalplace.ca • SEP • 23 Wed REGINA SASKATCHEWAN Regina Performing Arts Centre 1077 Angus St. Box Office: 306-779-2277 reginapac.com • SEP • 24 Thur BRANDON MANITOBA Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium 205 20th Street Box Office: 204-728-9510 wmca.ca All events from 7-10 p.m. (doors to lobby open at 6 p.m.) Schedule subject to change. CSANews | SPRING 2026 | 5
Table of Contents SPRING 2026 | ISSUE 138 OFFICIAL NEWS MAGAZINE OF THE CANADIAN SNOWBIRD ASSOCIATION Exploring Canada’s golf trails Discover outstanding signature courses, breathtaking landscapes and package savings. by Donna Carter Lovin’ the Okanagan One of British Columbia’s most popular playgrounds. by Donna Carter Features 22 16 28 Building the “bulletproof” portfolio Financial moves to help you survive and thrive during troubled times. by James Dolan Travel Finance 6 | www.snowbirds.org
Table of Contents 42 Book Review by Robert Wiersema 44 CSA Update 46 Golf by David McPherson 48 CSA Online by Alan Breznick 50 Gardening by Judith Adam 52 Food & Drink by Shari McIntyre 54 Fun & Games 55 Grins & Giggles 56 CSA Application 57 CSA Benefits 58 Fast Facts 3 Editor’s Message 4 Snowbird Events 8 Bird Talk 10 Snowbird Alert 12 President’s Message 13 Government Relations Report 14 Insurance by J. Ross Quigley 15 Opinion by Michael Coren 39 Health Pulse 40 Longevity by Jennifer Cox 41 Fitness by Jennifer Cox 34 36 Parkinson’s disease Signs, symptoms and support. by Dr. Robert MacMillan Canada’s health-care conundrum Waiting Longer. Spending More. by Milan Korcok Health Departments 45 Tribute to Wallace Weylie The Canadian Snowbird Association’s first legal counsel retires. Thank you, Wally! CSANews | SPRING 2026 | 7
Bird Talk Dear Bird Talk, Regarding Michael Coren’s article in CSANews 137, Winter 2025 Well said, Michael! Your article was a much-needed reminder that change begins with me. Much of our society is characterized by hate, at times even promoted by leaders. I find myself drawn into that pervasive toxicity rather than stepping back and asking whether what I am about to say, write or do will calm the waters or feed the fire. Passivity is not pacifism – we all have a moral obligation to stand against violence, hatred and injustice, but I will not be able to contribute to a more peaceful society until I learn to respect, yes, even love the people who think differently from me. Henry Vanderveen Langley, BC Ed.: Thank you for the kind words. Dear Bird Talk, If I contact my Ontario doctor while in Florida and he gives me a prescription, how can I get it filled in Florida? Has anyone done this? Anne Anstey Newcastle, ON Ed.: If you don’t travel with enough medication to get you through your trip, you can visit a local doctor to get a prescription that will be recognized in the jurisdiction you are visiting. It is also possible for Canadian snowbirds to have personal-use prescription medications sent to them while in the United States. The medication should be in its original packaging and accompanied by appropriate supporting documentation, such as a valid prescription or a physician’s letter. Dear Bird Talk, Need advice regarding how to fill out form 8840. Question 29 asks: In what Country or Countries were your investments located? I own mostly Canadian stocks in my Canadian stock account. I do own a few U.S. stocks in the same Canadian stock account. I also own a German stock and a Swiss stock in this account. How should I answer this question? Paul Bezanson Halifax, NS Ed.: For Question 29 on IRS Form 8840, you should list the countries where your investments are considered to be located, which is generally based on where the issuing companies are domiciled, not where the brokerage account is held. In your case, you would include Canada, the United States, Germany and Switzerland. Dear Bird Talk, With my husband severely disabled and losing his driver’s licence, we sold our southern home. So I didn’t bother to renew his passport. Now I have all kinds of bureaucratic problems requiring ‘valid, government-issued photo ID’. (His health card is the old kind with no photo.) My advice: keep your passport, even if you are no longer travelling. Gena Gorrell Toronto, ON Ed.: That’s good advice; thank you for sharing. Dear Bird Talk, We purchased a 2011 Honda CRV in AZ in 2013. We have our AZ home up for sale. We have collected a number of treasures over the years. We therefore have to drive the loaded vehicle back to Ottawa, instead of flying. Is there a useful government website where we can find the forms, etc. that we need to complete, as well as information regarding related costs which we will incur importing the vehicle to Ontario. Fred Serafin Ottawa, ON Ed.: You want to go to the website for the Registrar of Imported Vehicles, riv.ca. There, you can take the necessary steps to import your car into Canada. Please be aware that U.S. law requires that export documentation be submitted to U.S. Customs and Border Protection at least 72 hours before export. And you must cross the border at a port at which vehicle export and import transactions are conducted. More information about this topic can be found in the CSA Travel Information Guide. Dear Bird Talk, I know all about the 8840 form and complete it every year, counting all of the days we have been in the U.S. However, I am second-guessing myself regarding when we can return to the U.S. in the fall. We arrived on Nov 16/25 and will be leaving on April 30. So, would the first day on which we can come back be Nov 1? Because we already spent four months here? I know that there are two ways to look at the situation and now I am wondering. Sandra Koss Ardrossan, AB Ed.: The key consideration is that for the period from November 16, 2025 to November 15, 2026, you should ensure that you do not exceed 182 days of physical presence in the United States. Based on that window, a return on November 1, 2026 would leave you just under the 182-day limit, making it a safe date to attempt re-entry. 8 | 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, 4:00 a.m. – arrived at the U.S. Ambassador Bridge border crossing & advised the CBP officer that we had acquired provisional I-94s (can only be filed/paid for less than 7 days prior to entry) and were looking to secure the I-94s for our 4.5-month winter in Florida. He tagged our driver’s vehicle and advised us to head inside. At secondary inspection, they advised us to open the car and place the dog in the outside kennel, and they radioed officers inside that three people were entering. We entered and were advised to take a seat. (Fortunately, being early, no one else was there.) 4:10 – advised that my wife’s little dog was cold and, after asking if it was harmless, advised that she could retrieve it and bring it inside; radioed outside that she was coming out to get it (very thoughtful). 4:20 – the individual CBP I-94 officer came in the door and took his place at the counter. 4:26 – called us up. My wife went first; passport was reviewed with data entered; they fingerprinted and photographed her. (Advised them of her NEXUS card, however appeared irrelevant.) 4:30 – same process for me. Upon completion, handed us both of our passports which were stamped with B-2 visas for six months. Thanked all the officers and wished them a happy thanksgiving. Headed to the airport, arriving as planned at around 5:00 a.m. Two days later, checked on i94.cbp.dhs.gov and found that our electronic I-94s were now current and indicated that we were permitted to be in the U.S. for six months from entry. In summary, the overall experience went quite well; very pleased that we gave ourselves adequate time and, being that early in the a.m., there was no one ahead of us. Could be stressful if it were busy, causing delays. Marcel Asschert Kingsville, ON Ed.: Thank you for sharing that detailed experience with us. I think that we can all rest assured that the new rules and procedures are designed to keep the “bad guys” out and let the “good guys” in. I hope that you enjoyed your winter in the sun. Dear Bird Talk, I keep seeing ads about getting a NEXUS card now, because they are soon going to be mandatory to go to the U.S. Are they just trying to suck me into getting something I don’t need? Terry Petersen Olds, AB Ed.: There is no truth to the rumours that NEXUS cards will be mandatory for entry to the United States. Dear Bird Talk, Should we still submit an 8840 form for someone who passed away during that year? Scott MacDonald Bath, ON Ed.: A final Form 8840 should still be filed for the year of death if the individual met the substantial presence test prior to passing, as it helps confirm their closer connection to Canada and avoid unintended U.S. tax residency status for that year. Dear Bird Talk, Between Christmas and New Year, my partner and I were driving to Ft. Myers from Palm Beach on Hwy 81. A police car pulled us over and asked to see our driver’s licence. The policeman then proceeded to tell us our licence plate cover was illegal. He also stated it was a criminal offence and that this has come into effect in October 2025. We assured him that we would remove it when we got to Ft. Myers. He said that he would let us off with a warning, since the law was new and many out-of-state visitors may not know about this recent ruling. Just thought it was worth passing along to other snowbirds who may have licence plate covers. Carolyn Kinsman Burlington, ON Ed.: There is a new law that took effect on October 1, 2025 in the state of Florida that bans all items which block any part of a licence plate, including clear or tinted covers, stickers, sprays and decorative frames. Apparently, the Florida Highway Patrol is currently educating the public about this new law for now, but it could eventually lead to a $500 fine. Dear Bird Talk, We filled out Form G-325R in April 2025 while we were in Florida because we didn’t have an I-94 at the time. Does Form G-325R need to be updated for each stay? Is this form sufficient, or do we absolutely need to obtain an I-94 as well? I admit, all of this is very confusing... Gilles Banville Sherbrooke, QC Ed.: Yes, a new Form G-325R must be submitted for each stay of 30 days or longer if a formal I-94 was not issued upon entry to the U.S. Upon submission of a new G-325R, you may receive a courtesy notice indicating that you are already registered, and we recommend printing this and carrying it with you during your stay. CSANews | SPRING 2026 | 9
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. 10 | www.snowbirds.org
Snowbird Alert A simple guide to digital spring cleaning Your online accounts and services may not have physical drawers to go through, but this doesn’t mean that you can’t tidy them up. Springtime is a great opportunity to get things in order, and digital file cleanup is no exception. Here are some tips to get you started: Update passwords and account details It’s a good idea to change passwords regularly, instead of relying on them for long periods. When you’re coming up with them, here are some pointers: ▶ Use a different password for every account, in case one gets compromised; ▶ Make them hard to guess, but easy to remember – try longer passwords or pass phrases with just a couple of numbers or special characters sprinkled in; and ▶ Be cautious with password managers. Data breaches do happen, and having all of your eggs in one basket could compromise multiple passwords. Organize important documents and receipts The spring season is also tax time, so it’s a good opportunity to go through any receipts and documents which you have lying around. You can also check your internet, phone or TV service contracts to make sure that you’re getting everything that you were promised. If you spot a problem, you can reach out to your provider to get them to fix it. You have options if they don’t resolve the complaint to your satisfaction, such as going to the Commission for Complaints for Telecom-television Services (CCTS). This is an independent agency that handles unresolved internet, TV, phone and wireless service issues from thousands of Canadians each year. Reduce unused or forgotten services Many online services work by auto-renewing, so it’s possible that you’re paying for things which you don’t use anymore. Take stock of your entire list – don’t forget to check your banking and credit card statements for regular charges. For each one, take the time to consider if it’s something that you still actively want. If it’s not, let it go. Spring cleaning is a chance to take charge of your space, and the same is true for your digital space. Don’t be afraid to make cuts, and don’t forget that you have the right to have complaints addressed. You can learn more about resolving issues with your telecom provider at letsstayconnected.ca. www.newscanada.com Springtime Snowbird Checklist Go to the doctor Get those pre-existing medical conditions under control and work with your doctor to make any necessary adjustments to your medication as soon as possible. Get followup tests and procedures scheduled, so that you have a clear 90-day stability period before you head south in the fall. While you’re there, make sure that all of your vaccinations are up to date! File your 8840 Form When you fulfil the requirements of the substantial presence test, you can be treated as a resident of the United States and be taxed by the IRS on your worldwide income. Declare your closer connection to Canada by completing the IRS 8840 Form and sending it in. Update your Personal Health Record When you or your spouse are dealing with a medical emergency – either away or at home – you don’t want to run around looking for prescription medication bottles or be concerned with an accurate recollection of what year or instance in which either of you received medical treatment. Write it down now, while you have time and presence of mind, and keep it in a handy spot – such as on your fridge – for quick and easy access, should the time ever come at which you need to answer medical questions quickly. Renew your CSA membership Support the only organization that actively lobbies governments in both Canada and the United States to protect and defend the snowbird lifestyle. Download the new CSA app The CSA has just launched its first smartphone app which keeps your membership details, information booklets and membership card all in one place. CSANews | SPRING 2026 | 11
President’s Message Garry McDonald CSA President Florida’s ongoing property tax debate has become one of the most important financial issues facing Canadian snowbirds in 2026. While no changes have been enacted yet, the proposals under discussion could significantly reshape who pays for local services – and many seasonal residents may find themselves at a disadvantage. At the centre of the debate is a proposal advanced in the Florida House of Representatives that would dramatically reduce or even eliminate the non-education portion of property taxes on primary residences, known as “homesteads.” These tax breaks are designed to benefit full-time Florida residents, many of whom have seen rising home values drive up their tax bills. While the proposal passed the House, it has not been approved by the Senate and has not yet made it onto a statewide ballot. As a result, the current system remains in place – for now. Non-education property taxes currently fund police, fire services, infrastructure and municipal operations. If these taxes are removed, local governments could be faced with significant revenue shortfalls. It’s important to remember that Florida does not have a state income tax; at the end of the day, the money must come from somewhere. To compensate, local governments may be forced to cut services, increase fees or shift the tax burden elsewhere. For Canadian seasonal residents, this raises a clear issue of fairness. Snowbirds already pay higher effective tax rates than do permanent residents on comparable homes due to caps and exemptions which they cannot access. While politically attractive, this approach narrows the tax base and, again, may shift a greater share of the burden onto non-homesteaded properties – a category that includes Canadian snowbirds, rental properties and most commercial real estate. What may appear at first to be separate constituencies are increasingly aligned around one central concern – maintaining a fair, sustainable and adequately funded local tax base. Where the alignment becomes especially significant is with fire, police and first responders, whose services are funded largely through local property taxes. These departments rely on stable and predictable revenue in order to maintain staffing, equipment and emergency readiness. From their perspective, the issue is not about who pays less, but whether there is enough funding to maintain essential services. This is where their interests converge with those of both snowbirds and commercial stakeholders. So, what is the Canadian Snowbird Association doing in response to this challenge? CSA officials have been meeting with these diverse groups in Florida in an effort to present a united front and increase the strength of this coalition seeking to ensure equitable property tax reform. We have increasingly emphasized this shared interest in our advocacy. Rather than positioning seasonal residents in opposition to Florida homeowners, the CSA has highlighted the importance of equitable burden-sharing and fiscal sustainability –principles that resonate strongly with municipal leaders, business groups and public safety officials alike. In practical terms, this alignment is shaping the policy conversation. There is growing discussion around solutions that: • preserve some level of homestead relief while avoiding extreme shifts onto non-homesteaded properties; • ensure dedicated funding streams for emergency services; and • maintain a broad and balanced tax base to support long-term community stability. As the 2026 debate progresses, this coalition – snowbirds, commercial property owners and public safety stakeholders – may prove highly influential. Their shared message is straightforward: tax reform must be fair, but it must also work. Without balance, the risk is not just inequity, but weakened services and economic disruption – outcomes that none of these groups can afford. Leaders in the Florida legislature are expected to call a special session focused on this issue in the late spring or early summer for possible inclusion as a ballot item that would be presented to Florida voters in November of 2026. We will be engaging these officials throughout the process. To help reduce printing and distribution expenses, this year’s renewal campaign will take a slightly different approach. Members will first receive two email reminders encouraging them to renew online. Hard-copy renewal letters will then be sent only to those who have not completed their renewal online. This approach is expected to help lower overall renewal costs. Whether you’re heading to the U.S., Mexico, the Caribbean or staying within Canada, travel today is more complex than ever. Each destination brings its own rules, from entry and residency requirements to health care, taxes and local laws that can impact your plans. And these rules are evolving quickly, which means that missing an update could easily disrupt your trip. In short, uncertainty doesn’t disappear when you change destinations, it simply takes on a different form. That’s where the Canadian Snowbird Association comes in. Please renew your membership to stay informed, travel with confidence and continue benefitting from trusted updates and advocacy on your behalf. 12 | www.snowbirds.org
Government Relations Report Johanne Blain First Vice-President Canadian snowbirds who are used to quick and flexible travel throughout Europe should be aware that two upcoming changes will introduce a more formal and carefully regulated border experience. The European Union is in the process of implementing two new systems, the Entry/Exit System (EES) and the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), both of which will affect how Canadians enter and move within the Schengen Area. The Schengen Area includes 27 European countries that have abolished internal border controls. Some examples that are popular with Canadian travellers include France, Italy, Spain, Germany and Portugal. Other Schengen countries include Greece, the Netherlands, Austria and Sweden. It also includes such smaller destinations as Malta and Luxembourg, as well as non-EU members – Norway and Switzerland – that still participate in the agreement. The first of these, the Entry/Exit System (EES), represents a significant modernization of Europe’s border controls. Traditionally, travellers have relied on passport stamps to track their time in and out of the Schengen Area. Under the new system, those stamps will be replaced by digital records linked to your passport, along with biometric identifiers such as fingerprints or facial images. Officially launched in October 2025, the EES is being introduced in stages across member countries and is expected to be fully operational by 2026. While the process at the border may initially take some getting used to, the long-term goal is to streamline entry procedures while improving accuracy and security. For travellers, however, the most important implication is how precisely the system will monitor time spent in the Schengen Area. The long-standing rule allowing visitors to stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period remains unchanged, but enforcement will become far more exact. With electronic tracking in place, even minor overstays will be automatically flagged, potentially leading to fines or future travel restrictions. As a result, snowbirds who divide their time between Europe and other destinations will need to be especially diligent in planning their itineraries and keeping careful track of their days abroad. Complementing the EES is the European Travel Information and Authorisation System, or ETIAS, which is expected to launch in late 2026. This new requirement will apply to visa-exempt travellers, including Canadians, and will introduce a pre-travel authorization process similar to systems already in place in countries such as the United States. Although ETIAS is not a visa, it will be mandatory for entry, even for short stays such as vacations or brief visits with family and friends. The application process for ETIAS will be completed online and is designed to be straightforward. Most applicants can expect a quick turnaround, often within minutes or hours, although travellers are encouraged to apply well in advance of their departure in case additional review is required. Applicants will be asked to provide a range of personal information, including their full name, date and place of birth, nationality, home address, email and phone contact details, as well as passport information. Additional questions will cover education and occupation, the country of first intended stay and the address of their accommodation. There will also be background questions relating to criminal history, prior travel to conflict zones and any recent immigration decisions requiring a return from another country. The fee for an ETIAS application is expected to be €20, or roughly $32 Canadian dollars. Once approved, the authorization will generally be valid for up to three years or until the traveller’s passport expires, whichever comes first. During that time, it will permit multiple entries into the Schengen Area, provided that travellers continue to respect the 90-day limit within any 180-day window. Importantly, while travellers aged 70 and older will be exempt from paying the application fee, they will still be required to complete the application and obtain authorization before travelling. Taken together, the introduction of EES and ETIAS signals a broader shift in how Europe manages its borders, with a clear emphasis on security, data accuracy and accountability. For Canadian snowbirds, this means that the days of informal tracking and relatively relaxed entry procedures are coming to an end. Careful planning, awareness of the rules and timely completion of required applications will be essential to ensuring smooth and uninterrupted travel. As these systems continue to roll out, staying informed will be key. We will continue to share timely updates, practical guidance and any changes to implementation timelines through our regular email advisories, thereby helping to ensure that Canadian travellers remain well prepared for this new era of European travel. CSANews | SPRING 2026 | 13
J. Ross Quigley CEO Medipac International Inc. Insurance Our doctors and nurses say things like this to me every day. I used to need interpreters but, after 35 years, I now understand most of these acronyms. And I bet, so do you. The bottom line above is that RSV is deadly stuff. These two claim definitions are real and represent a US$650,000 and a US$350,000 hospital bill. There were hundreds of other RSV claims this year and they were mostly preventable. All you had to do was get the RSV vaccine. The horror of hospitalization is just too high a price to pay. The money is irrelevant, but the pain and suffering are all too real. We have had hundreds of RSV claims, with many of them arising in Arizona. I am not sure if the weather or the valley fever incidents have any effect on the statistics, but they are certainly far above normal. Speaking of vaccines, there are enormous health benefits to receiving almost any vaccine. The shingles shot and the pneumonia shots are musts. Just get them, as they prevent nasty, nasty diseases and perhaps even death. We are reading about the upsurge in measles almost every day. Hopefully, we all had our shot many, many years ago and are well protected, but it is still worth checking with your doctor to make sure. And, of course, the most common vaccine of all is the flu shot and hopefully, you have been wise enough to get it every year. The new (at least to me) studies have shown that receiving annual flu shots is associated with a significantly lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia in older adults. What??? Vaccinated adults over 65 show a 40-55% reduced risk of developing Alzheimer’s. The senior, higher-dose flu shots also reduce inflammation and provide the best protection against Alzheimer’s and dementia. Other, earlier studies have shown that other vaccines can contribute to significantly reduced dementia as well. These are brandnew studies done in 2026 and I recommend that you get the high-dose flu vaccine every year, without fail. For full disclosure, I do not get Covid vaccine updates. A huge side benefit will be reduced claims and, therefore, lower travel insurance prices. In Canada, summer 2026 astronomically begins on Sunday, June 21, with the summer solstice. The solstice marks the longest day of the year, when the sun reaches its highest point. I am ready! Have a wonderful summer. “RSV multi focal pneumonia/sepsis/hyponatremia” “Rt pneumonia/pe/intubated pulm hypertension” 14 | www.snowbirds.org
Opinion with Michael Coren “Excuse me, may I ask you a question?” says a middle-aged man sitting at the next table in the pub. “Don’t want to be rude but you’re wearing a clerical collar. Didn’t you used to be Michael Coren?” Good question, because sometimes I’m not entirely sure. The days of hosting television and radio shows ended more than a decade ago. I still write columns and books, but these generally concern Christianity and discuss where the Gospel essence of forgiveness and love meets the body politic. My main work – my vocation – is as an Anglican priest. I was ordained almost seven years ago and on that terrifying but completing day, took an oath “to serve all people, particularly the poor, the weak, the sick, and the lonely.” Now a book, Diary of a Lowborn Cleric, is an attempt to open a window through which people might see what we do, whatever our denomination and however long we’ve been on this journey. Frankly, we could do with some favourable exposure. The title? A reference to martyred Archbishop of Canterbury Thomas Beckett. Contrary to what’s commonly believed, King Henry II probably didn’t ask “who will rid me of this troublesome priest,” but complained that a “low-born cleric” had humiliated him. My father was an east London taxi driver, the son of eastern European Jewish refugees; my mother a working-class cockney. Low-born will do nicely. I like to think that an earthy background has helped me in my work. Nothing shocks…I was raised to speak my mind and welcome others doing the same. That matters when you’re a priest because the days of assumed deference are generally long gone. Not always, though. On one trip to England, I noticed that groups of young, fairly rowdy men were friendly, even affectionate when they saw the collar. “Oy, father, you alright, buy you a drink mate.” I tried to do my benign appreciation look but it probably just looked like I had gas. I asked a priest friend what this was all about. “Oh”, he said, “that’s common. You’d be amazed how many of them have been in prison or the army. The only person they see with compassion is the chaplain. They never lose that respect.” Then there’s the surreal. We spend a lot of time in hospitals and, on one visit, someone shouted that I’d stolen his sausages. I said I hadn’t but would be happy to find him some food. He became increasingly convinced, then stood up to reveal that he’d removed his pyjamas. A nurse calmed him and then reassured me. “Was it the sausages?” I said it was. “Don’t worry. Last week, he accused a rabbi of walking off with his cheese.” That’s especially true when dealing with pain, loss and death. Listen rather than speak, be there rather than be clever, and allow God the space and time. When I started out, I would drive home and sometimes cry in the car. So much grief. The man who apologized to me in his last few moments because he was taking up my time; the children who didn’t arrive at their father’s bedside in time to say goodbye; the teen suicide; the sudden cold isolation of a woman who lost her spouse after so many decades and could only stare in fear and incredulity. I don’t know if I do any good and I’m not sure it’s the right question. Yet how to do this job, how to preach love, hope and faith when the world looks so grim? Old hatreds considered long exorcised given new and obscene life, hideous bullies silencing careful diplomats, war and violence made more grotesquely capable by the abuse of science and technology and, in my ministry, a regular experience of poverty, homelessness and injustice. In other words, the repeated triumph of all that Jesus preached against. It’s because and not in spite of this that the church and its people have more relevance and significance than ever. We’re not supposed to go with the flow, even though that’s happened more times than I like to remember. “The Christian ideal has not been tried and found wanting” said GK Chesterton.” It has been found difficult, and left untried.” He wrote that more than a century ago. Didn’t you used to be Michael Coren? Still am but occasionally, through reliance on God and a commitment to the beatitudes, this lowborn cleric might be doing something right. CSANews | SPRING 2026 | 15
Becoming captivated by the Okanagan Valley’s repertoire of attractions is both easy and irresistible. On my first trip there, I was immediately seduced by the region’s natural charm and, as the excursion unfolded, every day produced a new reason to love the place. With sun-drenched hills and mountains, together with a mild Mediterranean-like climate, this stunning valley in the province’s south-central interior is sometimes referred to as the “Tuscany of Canada.” Its assets, however, are greatly expanded beyond its pleasant continental temperatures. The region’s enviable reputation has been largely built on its rare blend of world-class wineries, top-notch golf courses, year-round outdoor recreation, charming towns and a plethora of lakeside beaches. The showstopper – and arguably the area’s main attraction – is the 84-mile-long Lake Okanagan. In fact, the valley’s geography is primarily shaped by this scenic lake that divides the valley from north to south. Consequently, it serves as the central spine of the region in addition to providing a wealth of sandy beaches and water sports opportunities. Overall, it’s impossible to be unimpressed by the valley’s vast trove of attractions, both natural and man-made – a claim easily supported by the sheer abundance of what the area has to offer. Missionaries who built the valley’s first settlement in the mid-1800s – together with the indigenous people who were already there – could never have envisioned the Okanagan Valley of the future. Today’s bonanza of things to see and do would have been merely the stuff of wild dreams. Over time, and by every measure, the wild dreams became real. What follows are some of the features which make this remarkable region one of the country’s prime travel destinations – one which causes me to berate myself for not having visited sooner. Lovin’ The Okanagan One of British Columbia’s most popular playgrounds By Donna Carter 16 | www.snowbirds.org Travel
A Wine Lovers’ Utopia It is not from a sudden rise to distinction that the valley’s wine industry presently ranks as one of the Okanagan’s top attractions. The first grapevines were planted in 1859 by a French Catholic priest, thereby marking the beginning of the region’s entry into the world of winemaking. Today, with as many as 200 wineries, the Okanagan Valley is among the largest grape-growing areas in Canada, with only Ontario’s Niagara Region quantitatively bigger. At present, the region’s extensive wine-producing operations range from iconic estate wineries to small boutique enterprises and hidden gems. While it took decades for the industry to achieve its present state and its reputation as the “Napa Valley of the North,” today’s Okanagan wines enjoy an enduring reputation and international recognition. Large-scale establishments such as the Mission Hill Family Estate Winery and Quails’ Gate share the region’s vast viticulture space with an outstanding variety of others, including Nk’Mip Cellars – the first indigenous-owned winery in North America. For visitors, group tasting tours are an ideal way to get introduced to the Okanagan’s rich and varied wine tableau. These are typically led by expert guides who know both their wines and the valley’s history of grape growing and winemaking. There are sipand-savour tours of various lengths, with many offering dining options ranging from casual patio fare to fine dining. A natural bonus to any of the area’s wine tours is the valley’s breathtaking scenery – stunning views of rolling hills, forested slopes, glacial-sculpted mountains, blossoming fruit orchards and vistas of Lake Okanagan, together with unique desert stretches in the valley’s lower south. While there is no bad time to visit this special region in which wine tours are offered year-round, spring and fall provide optimum weather conditions. My own trip was a summer excursion in hot, dry, sunny weather, often considered some of the best in Canada. CSANews | SPRING 2026 | 17 Travel
Tee Up for Golf When it came to golf, the Okanagan Valley hit my sweet spot as a player and lover of the game. Back when the region was defined by little other than orchards, vineyards and ranch land, it couldn’t have taken much imagination to picture the area becoming one of Canada’s premier golf destinations. Blessed with the sunniest and driest climate in the country, together with a diverse topography of mountains, rolling hills and lakes, golf course development was inevitable. A couple of decades ago, clubs began popping up like dandelions in spring. Today, this balmy region boasts well over 30 courses ranging from low-lying valley layouts to mountain and hillside tracks spread over a natural canvas of jaw-dropping scenery. Along with the wine industry, golf now ranks as one of the region’s main attractions. With many of the courses designed by some of the world’s top golf architects, the Okanagan has become a premium place to hit the links. Legendary designers such as Jack Nicklaus, Thomas McBroom, Doug Carrick and Fred Couples have turned stretches of the region’s remarkable landscape into some of the finest courses anywhere on the planet. Names such as Predator Ridge, Quail and Bear, Black Mountain and Tower Ranch are names in the golf world capable of getting a player’s heart pumping. In addition to the big-name courses, the valley offers numerous affordable options beyond the high-end tracks. There are plenty of excellent, value-focused courses, as well as golf packages for bundled savings. Once golf became part of my Okanagan journey, I knew that my first trip there would not be my last. Urban Hubs Among its wealth of engaging towns and villages, the Okanagan Valley’s largest cosmopolitan centers are Vernon in the north, Kelowna in the centre and Penticton in the south. With all three surrounded by the region’s four-seasons playground, the defining feature among them is their immediate and easy access to wineries, vineyards, golf, hiking, biking, water sports and more. Beginning with the largest of the three, Kelowna takes full advantage of its Lake Okanagan waterfront. The beaches and offshore waters provide everything from guided lake tours to parasailing, kayaking, jet skiing and wakeboarding. The city proper features art galleries, a sculpture garden, the Okanagan Heritage Museum, farmers’ market and a state-of-the-art aerospace museum. The picturesque city of Penticton lies between Lake Okanagan and Lake Skaha. Among its extensive inventory of attractions is a booming craft beer industry, earning it the title of “Craft Beer Capital of Canada.” It also boasts a vibrant culinary scene, garden market, marine museum and a family-friendly fun-packed adventure park. Vernon, third member 18 | www.snowbirds.org Travel
of the big three, is surrounded by three lakes (Okanagan, Kalamalka and Swan) offering extensive water sports, fishing and beach activities together with miles of hiking trails. It’s home to the Okanagan Science Centre, art galleries and museums. The city is also a starting point for a wine tour named the Scenic Sip Trail which runs from Vernon to Kelowna, with tasting stops at various area wineries such as Ancient Hills and Gray Monk. While each of the region’s three biggest cities benefits from the valley’s hospitable climate and natural surroundings, they are individually defined through separately developed personalities. Desert Sun and Sand The Okanagan’s southernmost town of Osoyoos is widely known as the home of Canada’s only desert. While ecologists refer to it as a semi-arid environment rather than a true desert such as the Sahara, it is the hottest, driest spot in the country. Its natural flora includes sagebrush and cactus and its creepy crawlies can be scorpions, salamanders and rattlesnakes. I spent two days in the charming community of Osoyoos, a place that lives up to its reputation as Canada’s only desert – semi or not. For the record, during my stay there I never saw a rattlesnake or any of the desert’s creepy crawlies. Lying just two miles north of the Canada/U.S. border, the town and surrounding area enjoy a hot, dry climate, plenty of sunshine and low rainfall. It’s these special climate conditions that helped shape the Osoyoos region’s booming wine industry, vast fruit orchards and endless outdoor activities. Together, the town and surrounding area boast four quality golf courses including the indigenous-owned Nk’Mip Canyon links owned and operated by the Osoyoos Indian Band. In addition to golf, the area has at least 40 wineries plus dozens of wine tours and festivals with such catchy names as Corks & Cactus, Sip Happens, Half Corked Marathon and Festival of the Grape. Wine and dining, of course, are not strangers; consequently, there are oodles of restaurants large and small. From fine dining to simple fare, Osoyoos eateries generally practise a farm-to-table culinary culture in which everything is local, farm-grown and on the table – often on the same day as when it was harvested. Beyond wine, dining, golf and a host of outdoor activities, the town boasts various cultural attractions. Among them is the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre, a large facility that celebrates thousands of years of Okanagan First Nations life on the surrounding desert lands. With the town and area’s bounty of attractions, as well as its mild winter climate, it’s hardly surprising that the place eventually caught the attention of Canadian snowbirds. Hundreds of them return there every year – October through April – with the numbers lately increasing. Osoyoos’ accommodations include vacation properties, resorts, hotels and RV parks. CSANews | SPRING 2026 | 19 Travel
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