Snowbird Lifestyle, Cuisine, Entertainment and Travel
Drone view of gorgeous coastal waters of Miramar Beach in Northwest Florida. Both Florida and Hawaii are known for miles of scenic coastline and colorful hues Florida Vs. Hawaii A Comparison of Weather, Cost of Living Index and Ease of Travel by Vehicle This is …
Florida features 1,146 miles of coastal shoreline and Texas has about 367 miles of shoreline. [Gulf Coast of Northwest Florida, Miramar Beach, Florida] Florida Vs. Texas A Comparison of Weather, Cost of Living Index and Ease of Travel by Vehicle This is the second of …
Let's begin by addressing the obvious. It makes the most sense that if your primary home is on the West Coast that you choose a snowbird community that is also on the West Coast. Right? Investing yourself in an area will be a long term pursuit if you choose wisely and getting there is a huge consideration of where to go. If unsure, then try out different options and see what works best. I highly doubt most snowbirds will repeat a trip from say, Indiana, Michigan or Ohio to Arizona more than once or twice. It's a long, multi-day drive. I'm not a gambler, but if I was, I would put high odds on what I refer to as the big slide. Most snowbirds slide south to their winter destinations.
My region in Northwest Florida primarily attracts people from the Northern Midwest states with a sprinkling of other areas mixed in. Most of my friends and acquaintances drive south on Interstate 65 all the way to our panhandle community. The last thing I want to do is spend more time on the road trip than absolutely necessary, especially with a dog on board.
If an individual or couple does not have pets or a lot of absolutely necessary belongings, flying is a possibility. But, there's more than meets the eye with that and unless you have no other option, such as a medical condition or choosing Hawaii for your winter destination, a road trip makes the most sense for all of the snowbirds I've ever encountered.
Traveling to your snowbird community is a major factor, but the cost of living and weather are also significant. More than one conversation with future snowbirds has taken place about "Which is better?" types of scenarios. This post is the first of several that will discuss "Which is better?" of two states. Florida is the long recognized gold standard of snowbird destinations. It is the king of the country for popularity attracting seasonal residents such as snowbirds. However, it is not the only option and for many, it's not the best option for their own personal circumstances and needs.
Here I will briefly provide the facts of three topics: weather, costs and ease of travel comparing Florida with Arizona. As always, weigh everything carefully and do your own research. The general information provided here is for a basic overview of what to expect and not intended to be specific for my readers.
Florida is the number one hottest state in the US with an average temperature of 73 degrees Fahrenheit in 2024. Arizona is ranked number eleven at 62.5 degrees Fahrenheit in 2024. In-between are Louisiana, Texas, Hawaii, Mississippi, Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina, Arkansas and Oklahoma. Alaska is the least hot with an average temperature of 27.8. Winters in Florida are mild and summers are hot and humid. July is the hottest month of the year in Florida. Temperatures in Arizona in June, July and August average 100 degrees Fahrenheit in Phoenix, but are more mild in other parts of the state. Some parts of Arizona have snow in the winter.
Sources: Climate at a Glance, StateWide Mapping - National Centers for Environmental Information
Annual Weather Averages: Hawaii - Holiday Weather
Humid heat always makes temperatures feel hotter and more stifling because the high moisture in the air makes it difficult for sweat to evaporate from human skin. However, humid temperatures are generally better for sinuses and can decrease symptoms of asthma and allergies. In a dry climate, you may sweat more than in humid heat, but may not notice because the moisture evaporates from skin more quickly. It is easier to become dehydrated in dry climates.
Although Florida is known as the "Sunshine State," Arizona is by far the top state in the US for sun exposure and has the highest percentage of sunny days at 85% and an average of 193 clear days per year. Arizona's average number of 3,806 sunny hours per year is followed by Nevada and New Mexico respectively with 79% and 76% to round out the top three. Data was measured in Tucson, Arizona located on the southern border.
Florida has an average of 66% sunny days per year and an average of 101 clear days and 2,927 sunny hours, making it ninth of the states in the US. Data was measured in Tampa, Florida located on the Western Peninsular side of Central Florida. In-between Arizona and Florida for sunny days in descending order are: Nevada, New Mexico, Colorado, Hawaii, California, Oklahoma and Wyoming. Alaska has the least number of measured sunny days at 41%.
Sources: Average Annual Sunshine by State - Current ResultsSunniest States in the U.S. - Stacker
The UV index is a measure of the strength of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Arizona and Florida both have very high UV rays and are each rated as a "ten," however, Arizona edges out Florida for highest with 3,728 vs. 3,636 average daily UV Irradiance 2015. Other states with a ten rating for UV rays are California and Nevada. With the highest score of 11, Hawaii is the state closest to the Equator and thus has the most intense UV rays. Alaska is the lowest with a score of one.
Skin cancer, premature aging and other health problems are all linked to prolonged UV exposure of the sun. Precautions such as using sunblock and avoiding sun and UV exposure should be taken to lower the risk of sun-related health issues.
Source: EPH Tracking
Although the states of Arizona and Florida are slightly more expensive than the national average, Florida's cost of living index edged out Arizona. Arizona's Cost of Living Index is 111.5 and Florida's score is lower at 102.8. Information included here is the most current "Composite Cost of Living Index 2024 Annual Average" published by the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center.
For comparison, the State of Hawaii has the highest cost of living index with a whopping 186.9 and the state with the lowest score for 2024 is West Virginia at 84.1. My home state of Indiana is a reasonable 90.5 which is similar to Michigan's 90.4 and Iowa at 89.7. Other cold weather Midwestern states have scores as follows: Wisconsin, 97.0; Minnesota, 95.1; Illinois, 94.4; Ohio, 94.2 and Missouri, 88.7.
Northeastern states are all very high cost of living scores as follows: Massachusetts, 145.9; Washington D.C., 141.9; New York, 123.3; Maryland, 115.3; New Jersey, 114.6; Vermont, 114.4; New Hampshire, 112.6; Connecticut, 112.3; Rhode Island, 112.2; Maine, 112.1; Delaware, 100.8 and Pennsylvania, 95.1.
Northwestern states range from a high of California, 144.8; Alaska, 123.8; Washington, 114.2; Oregon, 112.0, Utah, 104.9; Colorado, 102.0; Idaho, 102.0; Nevada, 101.3; Wyoming, 95.5; Montana, 94.9; Nebraska, 93.1; South Dakota, 92.2; North Dakota, 91.9 and Kansas, 87.0.
Source: https://meric.mo.gov/data/cost-living-data-series
The short answer is what major North/Southbound artery can you access without too much trouble? If you are located in the Western half of the US and Canada, Arizona is most logical for your road trip destination. If you are coming from the Eastern half of the US and Canada, Florida is better. The population in the middle US and Canada have the biggest decision to make and it will likely be based on your own personal circumstances.
From East to West, this is the rundown of the major North/South arteries and where you'll end up. Note: There is no direct North/South interstate that travels directly to the heart of Arizona! To get to Flagstaff, Prescott, Sedona, greater Phoenix, Tucson and other popular destinations, take Interstates 25 or 15 and then cut over to where you want to be in Arizona. Because of the lack of a direct North/South interstate to Arizona, Florida takes the win.
Interstate 95: Carolinas and Eastern Peninsular Florida
Interstate 75: Georgia, Central and Western Peninsular Florida
Interstate 65: Northwest Florida and Alabama
Interstate 55: Louisiana and Mississippi
Interstate 45: Eastern Texas
Interstate 35: Middle Texas
Interstate 25: Western Texas and New Mexico
Interstate 15: Northwest Arizona, Nevada and Southern California
Interstate 5: Southern California
--Cyd Charisse, American dancer and actress
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From Summerbird to Snowbird Transition from a Summer to Winter Stay in Your Warm Weather Community Many times I’m inspired to write about questions I receive seeking insight of the snowbird life. This time our repeat vacation rental guests asked about making the transition from …
The December holidays are all about something extra: extra festive, extra special and hopefully not too much extra work. Our city's Parks and Recreation Department offers community cooking classes and I was once again fortunate to learn from one of the
area's best instructors, professional chef Patrick Whetstone.
The small bite hors d'oeuvres we learned to make are beautifully presented, which is much of what makes this time of year so special. Everything is more sparkly and has an element of being that much better. More flavor, high quality ingredients and extra attention to make the presentation gorgeous. These small bite recipes accommodate a variety of dietary requests: plant-based, meat eaters, cheese lovers and keto-friendly. You can adjust the quantities to your preference, the number of pieces is only an estimate, subject to many variables. For less stress, make at least some of the components a day or two in advance or purchase items you prefer not to make such as Parmesan crisps. Chef's tip: cooked food that will be chilled, such as the beef tenderloin and butternut squash relish can be a little more over seasoned when heated because it will become more subdued when chilled.
All four recipes are delicious, easy and most definitely suitable for snowbird entertaining. Not only are these hors d'oeuvres festive for the holidays, they are great for any event year round. The recipes shown here are written based on my notes from the class presented by Chef Whetstone. Bon appétit!
Snowbird meals tend to be much simpler, using fewer ingredients and a very limited selection of appliances and gadgets to prepare them. Choose the freshest, highest quality ingredients and find alternate ways to make your favorite recipes. Forget about what you don't have to cook with, instead focus on what you can accomplish with what you do have. - Midlife Snowbird
24 - 36 Parmesan crisps, homemade or purchased
2 - 3 oz Prosciutto ham, torn into pieces
1/3 cup orange marmalade or apricot preserves, or to taste
Celery leaves for garnish
*Pre-made Parmesan crisps are typically available in the cheese or deli section of the grocery or specialty food store
Homemade Parmesan crisps recipe or use pre-made crisps from the grocery
Assemble Prosciutto ham piled on the Parmesan crisps, then top with a dollop of preserves and a celery leaf for garnish. Serve at room temperature.
6 oz. beef tenderloin, room temperature
4 oz. blue cheese wedge or crumbles, room temperature
1/4 c. heavy cream
2 - 3 t. fresh chives or to taste, sliced thin
2 T. canola oil, approx
Fresh cracked black pepper to taste
Kosher salt to taste
ALTERNATE CHEESES: Brie, goat or fresh mozzarella
Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees.
In a small bowl, combine blue cheese and heavy cream. Set aside.
Heavily coat all sides of the beef tenderloin with salt and pepper.
Heat oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil and bring to temperature.
Sear tenderloin in hot oil on all sides until there is a crust on every surface.
Place skillet with beef tenderloin in oven to finish cooking, about 5 to 7 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check until it reaches the desired temperature: rare, medium rare, medium, well done etc.
Remove meat from oven and let it rest about 5 - 10 minutes.
Slice beef tenderloin against the grain into 1/4" wide pieces.
Pipe or spoon blue cheese mixture into the middle of each slice of tenderloin. Fold over and place mini plastic fork into it to hold it in place.
Garnish with fresh chopped chives.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.
*Mini plastic party forks can be purchased at party supply stores such as Party City
1 - 2 English cucumbers
Honey ginger balsamic vinegar to taste
3/4 c. cream cheese, room temperature
1/4 c. heavy cream
Zest from one lemon
Zest from one lime
Fresh chives to taste
Fresh cracked black pepper to taste
Kosher salt to taste
Combine cream cheese and heavy cream, then add salt and pepper to taste plus lemon and lime zest. Set aside.
Remove ends and 50% of the peel from cucumber/s, slice into approximately 1/4" rounds.
Pipe or spread a dollop of the whipped cream cheese onto the top of each cucumber slice.
Top with fresh chives. Drizzle with honey ginger balsamic vinegar or a flavored balsamic vinegar of your choice.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.
One loaf pre-sliced baguette bread
1/4 c. Extra virgin olive oil or as needed
Kosher salt to taste
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Brush tops of sliced baguette with olive oil
Bake on sheet pan approx 3 - 5 minutes or until toasted, the center of the bread should be soft. Do not over bake.
Remove from oven, sprinkle with Kosher salt, set aside to cool
3 cups fresh butternut squash, small diced
1/4 c. red onion, diced fine
2 T. Balsamic vinegar
2 T. Extra virgin olive oil
Fresh basil, approx 5 - 6 leaves, sliced chiffonade style
Kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper to taste
Preheat skillet to medium-high. Add oil to skillet and allow oil to get hot.
Pan fry butternut squash in skillet until it is softened and brown, approx 10 to 15 minutes. Remove from heat.
Add onions to squash, season with salt and pepper to taste. Chill mixture in the refrigerator.
Prior to serving, add balsamic vinegar to the butternut squash mixture. Re-season if necessary.
Set basil chiffonade aside until ready to assemble.
2 T. butter, room temperature
1 T. garlic, chopped (from a jar has stronger flavor)
1/2 c. onion, diced
2 fl oz. white wine
1 can (15 oz) garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained
1 1/2 c. vegetable stock
3 c. arugula
Kosher salt and fresh cracked black pepper to taste
Sweat onions and garlic in butter in saute pan.
Add garbanzo beans and white wine, cook until wine reduces.
Add stock, let simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Strain liquid into bowl and reserve it.
Puree bean mixture with arugula until smooth in food processor OR use an immersion blender. Add reserved liquid as needed to achieve a spreadable texture. The desired consistency is wet sand, it should not be runny. Adjust reserved liquid if more is needed to obtain the proper thickness. Re-season as necessary.
Chill mixture in the refrigerator.
Assemble crostini with a thick slather of the Arugula hummus mixture. Top with butternut squash relish. Garnish with basil chiffonade. Sprinkle with kosher salt.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.
-- Jack Fitzgerald, Canadian Author
Chef Patrick Whetstone expertly demonstrated elegant hors d’ oeuvres for the community cooking class Thick cut candied bbq rubbed bacon topped with garlic sauteed shrimp and fresh minced chives Beautiful bite sized purple potato salad bites stuffed with mustard aioli, hard boiled egg, bacon bits …