As soon as the Canadian winter begins residents start to dream of taking a winter vacation. Trading the snowy streets and winter coats for a sandy beaches is a wonderful allure. Florida and Texas are two popular destinations for snowbirds in winter since they offer relatively warm winter weather, beautiful holiday beaches and wonderful art and cuisine. Florida is called the “Sunshine State,” boasting fascinating beaches, thrilling cities, and fun fairgrounds. The ‘Lone Star’ state of Texas has varied southern terrain, historical sights, and cultural immersion. Although both states are famous amongst Canadian snowbirds, each has its own peculiarities. So which is the perfect winter escape for you?
Climate Comparison: Florida vs Texas
1.Southern Florida’s has a sub-tropical Climate
Winter temperatures are generally between 20°C and 28 °C. Florida rarely has a winter temperature that drops below freezing. Such a climate means that it is ideal for tourists to escape the cold winter that characterizes a large part of Canada.
2. Texas: Varied Climate Across it’s Regions
Texas has a more varied climate during the winter season. Southern Texas is quite warm. Corpus Cristi literally sits in the Gulf of Mexico. It boasts moderate temperatures not going below 15 °C. However, as one proceeds further north, the climate gets progressively cooler. Do not be surprised to have a snowfall in Dallas.
Heat and Humidity
- Florida is usually more humid throughout the entire year. Granted it is not as bad in the winter months, but this humidity, can make you feel quite uncomfortable.
- Texas on the other hand Is relatively dry during the winter, which may be suitable for people with humidity intolerance.
Weather Patterns and Precipitation
1. Florida’s dry season is in the Winter
This is the primary reason Walt Disney chose Disney World. Florida has significantly less rainfall during the winter. Sunshine remains a typical weather feature in Florida.
2. Texas: Unpredictable Winter Weather
One of the most recognized draw backs for Texas is it’s volatile winter weather. Frequent visitors to southern Texas expect primarily pleasant weather. For those in the central and northern part of the state you need to add cold fronts, movements of occasional winter storms, and, at times, even freezing rain. For those Canadians who want the same sunny warm weather every day, Florida wins this bracket
Sunshine and UV Index
Both states have lots of sunshine in the winter. Florida has a higher average of sunny days, so there are more days you will be exposed to Ultra Violet light. For Snowbirds – Skin cancer is always a risk so no matter which of these two states you choose, one must never forget to protect oneself from the sun. Sunscreen is a must. Don’t forget hats, long sleeves and long pants – especially if you will be outside for long periods of time.
Weather Risks
1. Hurricanes in Florida
During Florida’s summer months Hurricanes and extensive tropical storms are all too familiar. Usually, by the middle of November most of the tropical storms have subsided. Thankfully, come December, the danger of hurricanes is relatively low.
2. Tornado Activity in Texas
Tornadoes are always a concern in Texas. They are more prevalent in the summer, but even during the winter you need to be watchful.
Cost of Living
1. Florida’s Housing Costs
The general cost of living in the state of Florida is quite expensive. More prominent destinations such as Miami and Naples will cost you more. On the other hand, numerous towns in the interior are cheaper. For renters there are usually seasonal short-term leases. The problem for Canadians is the currency exchange.
2. Texas Housing Options
The variety of housing that can be found in Texas is very similar to Florida’s, but in general prices are lower in Texas. Again the problem for Canadians is the currency exchange.
Lifestyle and Activities. Here is a real mixed bag of fun. Florida’s Beach Life is quite dramatic. The beaches are world-famous that stretch from the powdery white sand of Clearwater Beach to the Key’s tropical charm. Recruitment includes boating, fishing, and other water-based sporting activities in the Sunshine State. In comparison, Texas’s Hiking Trails and National Parks are magnificent. Texas is ideal to visit for mountains. Natural landscapes such as Big Bend National Park have some of the best and longest hiking trails, especially in the desert. Another activity is horse riding and exploring large ranch areas.
Legal Rights in Case of an Injury. Whenever you travel take care. Cross border accidents are very complicated. Few travellers know a state’s car accident laws, let alone understand their very own car insurance policy. Snowbird Accidents specializes in helping Canadian snowbirds who find themselves involved in accidents in the U.S.
Helping Snowbirds Injured Across North America
For over 40 years, we’ve been helping Canadians involved in car accidents and other personal injury incidents while traveling in the United States. Each year, millions of snowbirds-residents from Canada (and the northern U.S.A) – head south to escape the cold. Unfortunately, accidents happen. When they do we are here to help navigate the legal and insurance challenges that arise.
Cross Border Accidents and claims are very complicated!
Call the Free Snowbird Helpline 1-800-587-6992
Or Email – snowbirdaccidents@yahoo.com,
Or https://snowbirdaccidents.com/contact/
