So you have decided to fly south for the winter and escape the frigid temperatures of the north. Congratulations on retiring that snow shovel and embracing the Sunbelt’s welcoming climate!
Now comes the tricky part–picking the perfect location that will match up with all of your warm weather expectations. There are thousands of places to park your RV from coastal Florida to the Gulf of Mexico to the Southwestern desert. Consider the following topics before settling on a destination, and you will be much more likely to find your ideal home away from home.
1. Climate
Do you prefer warm and humid tropical climates? Then the southern coast of Florida might be perfect for you. Or would you rather have warm, dry days and cooler nights? If so, look into the greater Phoenix area in Arizona. Some snowbirds prefer a more temperate location and choose Myrtle Beach in the east or Tucson in west. Look carefully at a region’s average daily temperature and seasonal rainfall when doing your research.
RV Vacation in the American West
2. Landscape
When you picture your ideal snowbird location, do you see ocean, lakes, or mountains? The Emerald Coast Area of Florida and the Gulf Coast of Texas are favorite beach retreats. Lake Havasu City in Arizona is a favorite destination for lake front living. Arkansas and North Carolina offer options for those in search of mountain scenery.
3. Population
Decide if you are more comfortable living near a large city like Miami, a smaller city like Tucson, or a small town such as South Padre Island, Texas. Make sure the location offers dining, shopping, and arts opportunities that will please your particular tastes.
4. Social Opportunities
If it is important to meet new people and develop new friendships during your stay, look for a location that offers plenty of social opportunities. Many larger snowbird destinations have dynamic communities for residents who are interested in photography, birding, golf, tennis, or any other pastime you can imagine.
There are thousands of wonderful snowbird destinations available for retirees looking to escape the northern freeze. Thinking through these four location characteristics will help you focus your search and identify your ideal Sunbelt retreat…one that has the climate, landscape, population, and social opportunities to help you make the most of your time down South.