Decline in Canadian Snowbird Visits Impacts Fort Lauderdale Tourism

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 17:06:00 +0200

This winter, Florida's 'Little Quebec,' a stretch of coastal towns around Fort Lauderdale popular with French Canadian snowbirds, experienced a noticeable drop in visitors from Canada. Hotels like Richard's Motel and Curtis Inn, which have traditionally relied on long-term stays from Quebec and Ontario residents, faced significant cancellations, reportedly influenced by U.S.-Canada political tensions under President Trump, as well as tariffs, currency exchange rates, and paperwork requirements for extended stays. While some Canadian visitors like Gabriel Tessier and Mimi Gilbert continued to visit despite the political climate, others, including long-time visitor Alain Gingras, opted for destinations like Mexico instead. Despite the decline, Florida's broader tourism industry remained strong, primarily fueled by domestic travelers. Local hoteliers expressed concern over the financial impact, noting that Canadian snowbirds are highly valued for their longer stays and spending habits. Re