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Originally Posted by mikeod

I notice an increase in those things during the high season, but will not blame it all on snowbirds. For full timers, the change in population is very noticeable leading to fewer tee times available, harder to get into restaurants and rec classes, etc. I think some seasonal residents do try to squeeze as much into their time here as possible, and I really can't judge them too harshly for it. They are paying amenity fees all year while they only get to enjoy what they pay for for a few months.

But I also believe some full timers become less tolerant as they see their tranquility and access compromised, so the rudeness mentioned earlier probably comes from both camps. Those who have been here for several years have noticed the most changes during the high season.

Frankly, I consider January through March as the exception. I will probably play less golf, stay away from the town squares a bit more, eat out less often, and still enjoy the weather and the community. 'Cuz I know I'll have at least six or seven months to do those things to my heart's content.

Oh, on the subject of traffic, a lot depends on where you come from. As a former resident of SoCal, traffic never seems heavy to me. But if I came here from a rural area, it may be overwhelming. Also, aggressive driving is a fact of life in some areas, principally large cities, and it takes a while for full timers to lose that tendency. But some seasonal residents and/or visitors will bring that driving style with them for the winter. To them, it's just normal. Just means you have to be more vigilant on the roads than usual.

mike well stated and I agree. It is what it is and so the best course of action is simply to adjust. The simple fact is that baby boomers are retiring a record pace and many will gravitate to places where there is plenty of sunshine lower taxes, etc