STOP Blaming Snowbirds!

[dhdallas]

“I’m mad as hell and I’m not going to take it anymore” ranted Peter Finch’s character, Howard Beale, in the film “Network”. I feel the same about the relentless snide remarks & overt negativity directed at and about snowbirds. Let’s look at some facts & common complaints.

We increase traffic congestion.
Hard to argue with that one but we also reduce congestion by leaving for 6 months or more so is the glass half full or half empty?

Snowbirds are bad drivers. Really? Snowbirds come to Florida from all over the U.S. & Canada, driving thousands of miles. How are we able to do this without causing accidents & chaos? It’s really very simple.

We are healthy overall; without vision & hearing problems, coordination deficits, mental lapses or dementia.
We keep our speed at the level of the posted speed limits or with the natural flow of traffic.
We keep to the right lane unless passing.
We use our turn signals.
We can properly & legally park a vehicle (as in between-the-lines & without blocking other vehicles, fire lanes, handicap spaces, etc.).
We put down the phone in order to pay attention to our driving.
We drive defensively.
We practice patience & courtesy.

Floridians seem to think we are clueless as to navigating roundabouts. Newsflash! Florida does not have a monopoly on roundabouts. We have many in my home state & an accident in a roundabout is actually quite rare & never a daily/weekly occurrence as it is here.

Snowbirds living in The Villages pay the same as full time residents in regard to amenity fees, bonds, insurance, property taxes, school taxes & more, yet we are here less than 6 months. We do not vote or influence local & state elections & leave the politics, policies, laws, etc. to the permanent residents of Florida. It is the politicians you have elected who continue to approve new developments attracting more snowbirds to Florida. “If you build it, they will come”

Snowbird money is important to Florida. In 2019, snowbirds contributed over $95 billion to the Florida economy. That equates to 1.6 million jobs in Florida.

To summarize, people love a scapegoat & snowbirds make an easy target but look at the facts:

We are safe drivers.
We pay the same for year-round services.
We benefit the economy.
We leave the politics to you.
We go away for at least half of the year.

Of course there is one way that we snowbirds could put an end to the complaining; we could all just move here permanently. Now, there’s an idea!

[DonH57]

“I’m mad as hell and I’m not going to take it anymore” ranted Peter Finch’s character, Howard Beale, in the film “Network”. I feel the same about the relentless snide remarks & overt negativity directed at and about snowbirds. Let’s look at some facts & common complaints.

We increase traffic congestion.
Hard to argue with that one but we also reduce congestion by leaving for 6 months or more so is the glass half full or half empty?

Snowbirds are bad drivers. Really? Snowbirds come to Florida from all over the U.S. & Canada, driving thousands of miles. How are we able to do this without causing accidents & chaos? It’s really very simple.

We are healthy overall; without vision & hearing problems, coordination deficits, mental lapses or dementia.
We keep our speed at the level of the posted speed limits or with the natural flow of traffic.
We keep to the right lane unless passing.
We use our turn signals.
We can properly & legally park a vehicle (as in between-the-lines & without blocking other vehicles, fire lanes, handicap spaces, etc.).
We put down the phone in order to pay attention to our driving.
We drive defensively.
We practice patience & courtesy.

Floridians seem to think we are clueless as to navigating roundabouts. Newsflash! Florida does not have a monopoly on roundabouts. We have many in my home state & an accident in a roundabout is actually quite rare & never a daily/weekly occurrence as it is here.

Snowbirds living in The Villages pay the same as full time residents in regard to amenity fees, bonds, insurance, property taxes, school taxes & more, yet we are here less than 6 months. We do not vote or influence local & state elections & leave the politics, policies, laws, etc. to the permanent residents of Florida. It is the politicians you have elected who continue to approve new developments attracting more snowbirds to Florida. “If you build it, they will come”

Snowbird money is important to Florida. In 2019, snowbirds contributed over $95 billion to the Florida economy. That equates to 1.6 million jobs in Florida.

To summarize, people love a scapegoat & snowbirds make an easy target but look at the facts:

We are safe drivers.
We pay the same for year-round services.
We benefit the economy.
We leave the politics to you.
We go away for at least half of the year.

Of course there is one way that we snowbirds could put an end to the complaining; we could all just move here permanently. Now, there’s an idea!

Even if the roads are more congested with snowbirds thank God it does slow the traffic down from being raceways!

[Bill14564]

Funny how the bad behaviors seem to peak when We-who-do-no-wrong arrive.

Is it that You bring out the worst in the non-snowbirds? If so, perhaps the non-snowbirds would be better off if that catalyst were to stay away.

OR, and more likely, the "We" you use assumes a bit more than is actually supported by reality and would be more accurate if replaced by "A few snowbirds, but certainly not all," as in:

A few snowbirds, but certainly not all, are healthy overall; without vision & hearing problems, coordination deficits, mental lapses or dementia.
A few snowbirds, but certainly not all, keep our speed at the level of the posted speed limits or with the natural flow of traffic.
A few snowbirds, but certainly not all, keep to the right lane unless passing.
etc.

[golfing eagles]

Snowbirds are bad drivers. Really? Snowbirds come to Florida from all over the U.S. & Canada, driving thousands of miles. How are we able to do this without causing accidents & chaos? It’s really very simple.

We are healthy overall; without vision & hearing problems, coordination deficits, mental lapses or dementia.
We keep our speed at the level of the posted speed limits or with the natural flow of traffic.
We keep to the right lane unless passing.
We use our turn signals.
We can properly & legally park a vehicle (as in between-the-lines & without blocking other vehicles, fire lanes, handicap spaces, etc.).
We put down the phone in order to pay attention to our driving.
We drive defensively.
We practice patience & courtesy.
We are safe drivers.


Yeah, right :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[Normal]

“I’m mad as hell and I’m not going to take it anymore” ranted Peter Finch’s character, Howard Beale, in the film “Network”. I feel the same about the relentless snide remarks & overt negativity directed at and about snowbirds. Let’s look at some facts & common complaints.

We increase traffic congestion.
Hard to argue with that one but we also reduce congestion by leaving for 6 months or more so is the glass half full or half empty?

Snowbirds are bad drivers. Really? Snowbirds come to Florida from all over the U.S. & Canada, driving thousands of miles. How are we able to do this without causing accidents & chaos? It’s really very simple.

We are healthy overall; without vision & hearing problems, coordination deficits, mental lapses or dementia.
We keep our speed at the level of the posted speed limits or with the natural flow of traffic.
We keep to the right lane unless passing.
We use our turn signals.
We can properly & legally park a vehicle (as in between-the-lines & without blocking other vehicles, fire lanes, handicap spaces, etc.).
We put down the phone in order to pay attention to our driving.
We drive defensively.
We practice patience & courtesy.

Floridians seem to think we are clueless as to navigating roundabouts. Newsflash! Florida does not have a monopoly on roundabouts. We have many in my home state & an accident in a roundabout is actually quite rare & never a daily/weekly occurrence as it is here.

Snowbirds living in The Villages pay the same as full time residents in regard to amenity fees, bonds, insurance, property taxes, school taxes & more, yet we are here less than 6 months. We do not vote or influence local & state elections & leave the politics, policies, laws, etc. to the permanent residents of Florida. It is the politicians you have elected who continue to approve new developments attracting more snowbirds to Florida. “If you build it, they will come”

Snowbird money is important to Florida. In 2019, snowbirds contributed over $95 billion to the Florida economy. That equates to 1.6 million jobs in Florida.

To summarize, people love a scapegoat & snowbirds make an easy target but look at the facts:

We are safe drivers.
We pay the same for year-round services.
We benefit the economy.
We leave the politics to you.
We go away for at least half of the year.

Of course there is one way that we snowbirds could put an end to the complaining; we could all just move here permanently. Now, there’s an idea!

The problem is the term “Snowbirds” is generalized to identify with the entire migratory movement of people from up north? The entire group consists of new renters, new owners or whatever and then legitimate snowbirds. If the whole group is conflated into one term “snowbirds” there is legitimate reason for the thin skin. We all see the extra traffic, accidents in roundabouts and people driving like they don’t know what they are doing. This could aggravate some who quickly set them all into one phylum as “Snowbirds.”

[fdpaq0580]

we could all just move here permanently[/B]. Now, there’s an idea!

By all means, become a "frog". Then you, too, can have fun picking on the "snowbirds".
Reality is that a lot of folks complain about a of stuff and they (often and incorrectly) choose the easy target. Don't take it personally. No one has more right to be here than anyone else. Enjoy TV.

[Kenswing]

“I’m mad as hell and I’m not going to take it anymore” ranted Peter Finch’s character, Howard Beale, in the film “Network”. I feel the same about the relentless snide remarks & overt negativity directed at and about snowbirds. Let’s look at some facts & common complaints.

We increase traffic congestion.
Hard to argue with that one but we also reduce congestion by leaving for 6 months or more so is the glass half full or half empty?

Snowbirds are bad drivers. Really? Snowbirds come to Florida from all over the U.S. & Canada, driving thousands of miles. How are we able to do this without causing accidents & chaos? It’s really very simple.

We are healthy overall; without vision & hearing problems, coordination deficits, mental lapses or dementia.
We keep our speed at the level of the posted speed limits or with the natural flow of traffic.
We keep to the right lane unless passing.
We use our turn signals.
We can properly & legally park a vehicle (as in between-the-lines & without blocking other vehicles, fire lanes, handicap spaces, etc.).
We put down the phone in order to pay attention to our driving.
We drive defensively.
We practice patience & courtesy.

Floridians seem to think we are clueless as to navigating roundabouts. Newsflash! Florida does not have a monopoly on roundabouts. We have many in my home state & an accident in a roundabout is actually quite rare & never a daily/weekly occurrence as it is here.

Snowbirds living in The Villages pay the same as full time residents in regard to amenity fees, bonds, insurance, property taxes, school taxes & more, yet we are here less than 6 months. We do not vote or influence local & state elections & leave the politics, policies, laws, etc. to the permanent residents of Florida. It is the politicians you have elected who continue to approve new developments attracting more snowbirds to Florida. “If you build it, they will come”

Snowbird money is important to Florida. In 2019, snowbirds contributed over $95 billion to the Florida economy. That equates to 1.6 million jobs in Florida.

To summarize, people love a scapegoat & snowbirds make an easy target but look at the facts:

We are safe drivers.
We pay the same for year-round services.
We benefit the economy.
We leave the politics to you.
We go away for at least half of the year.

Of course there is one way that we snowbirds could put an end to the complaining; we could all just move here permanently. Now, there’s an idea!
Feel better now? :1rotfl: :1rotfl:

[Normal]

By all means, become a "frog". Then you, too, can have fun picking on the "snowbirds".
Reality is that a lot of folks complain about a of stuff and they (often and incorrectly) choose the easy target. Don't take it personally. No one has more right to be here than anyone else. Enjoy TV.

Are the roadways crowded, are restaurants packed, are their ridiculously long lines,….absolutely. The place has become a crowded cesspool in the winter. But, when they all leave for summer, we get paradise back!

[shut the front door]

Odd how the OP knows the personal driving habits of every single one of the snowbirds who come to FL.
And yes, full timers can gripe about snowbirds, and there is absolutely nothing that you can do about it other than complaining and griping about it on a message board.

[CarlR33]

You said the same thing back on 8-25 replying to a similar post but now you have created one yourself to further complain? Just go enjoy the crowed pool and relax already!

[Topspinmo]

Why should snowbirds get break?

[CoachKandSportsguy]

By all means, become a "frog". Then you, too, can have fun picking on the "snowbirds".
Reality is that a lot of folks complain about a of stuff and they (often and incorrectly) choose the easy target. Don't take it personally. No one has more right to be here than anyone else. Enjoy TV.

Fact check TRUE

Humans in general prefer stability, and dislike uncontrollable changes.
Humans also generalize, and find scape goats for uncontrollable changes they dislike. Xenophobia runs rampant in the world amongst cultures.

There is about 100 lbs of sh** for every 5 lb bag on the internet. The internet is a alot more bearable if one learns to ignore/not take generalizations personally when they read posts.

The world has every kind of person from a saint to a devil incarnate and everyone in between, so billions of view points versus your one, you are out gunned and out maneuvered. Just ignore it and move on if you can't or think about why their opinions are posted to understand other's usually selfish or human emotions and motivations. .

check, . . your move . .

[Taltarzac725]

The bad drivers happen all year round.

[wisbad1]

You’re an idiot when you pass someone, and a moron when they pass you. Just old entitled people waiting to complain about everything.

[go4fpsb]

Are the roadways crowded, are restaurants packed, are their ridiculously long lines,….absolutely. The place has become a crowded cesspool in the winter. But, when they all leave for summer, we get paradise back!

So you are saying TV is an uncrowded cesspool in the summer?
:1rotfl:

[Normal]

So you are saying TV is an uncrowded cesspool in the summer?
:1rotfl:

I’m saying I can do walk- ons on almost any golf course; I can travel up 75 towards Ocala with way less traffic, and I can go out to eat without reservations when the crowds all have dissipated in late April. Summer is great, winter brings too many and a cesspool.

[MorTech]

Upside: Snowbirds tend to be younger, sharper, energetic, more interesting/less vapid and more fun. Some of them from the dense cities of the Deep North are just demented/parasitic chimpanzees but they are not the majority.

Downside: General Crowdedness.

[fdpaq0580]

Upside: Snowbirds tend to be younger, sharper, energetic, more interesting/less vapid and more fun. Some of them from the dense cities of the Deep North are just demented/parasitic chimpanzees but they are not the majority.

Downside: General Crowdedness.

How dare you malign the noble chimpanzee!
🙈🙉🙊

[fdpaq0580]

Fact check TRUE

Humans in general prefer stability, and dislike uncontrollable changes.
Humans also generalize, and find scape goats for uncontrollable changes they dislike. Xenophobia runs rampant in the world amongst cultures.

There is about 100 lbs of sh** for every 5 lb bag on the internet. The internet is a alot more bearable if one learns to ignore/not take generalizations personally when they read posts.

The world has every kind of person from a saint to a devil incarnate and everyone in between, so billions of view points versus your one, you are out gunned and out maneuvered. Just ignore it and move on if you can't or think about why their opinions are posted to understand other's usually selfish or human emotions and motivations. .

check, . . your move . .

Pull my finger. Mate!

[Shelbyh]

“I’m mad as hell and I’m not going to take it anymore” ranted Peter Finch’s character, Howard Beale, in the film “Network”. I feel the same about the relentless snide remarks & overt negativity directed at and about snowbirds. Let’s look at some facts & common complaints.

We increase traffic congestion.
Hard to argue with that one but we also reduce congestion by leaving for 6 months or more so is the glass half full or half empty?

Snowbirds are bad drivers. Really? Snowbirds come to Florida from all over the U.S. & Canada, driving thousands of miles. How are we able to do this without causing accidents & chaos? It’s really very simple.

We are healthy overall; without vision & hearing problems, coordination deficits, mental lapses or dementia.
We keep our speed at the level of the posted speed limits or with the natural flow of traffic.
We keep to the right lane unless passing.
We use our turn signals.
We can properly & legally park a vehicle (as in between-the-lines & without blocking other vehicles, fire lanes, handicap spaces, etc.).
We put down the phone in order to pay attention to our driving.
We drive defensively.
We practice patience & courtesy.

Floridians seem to think we are clueless as to navigating roundabouts. Newsflash! Florida does not have a monopoly on roundabouts. We have many in my home state & an accident in a roundabout is actually quite rare & never a daily/weekly occurrence as it is here.

Snowbirds living in The Villages pay the same as full time residents in regard to amenity fees, bonds, insurance, property taxes, school taxes & more, yet we are here less than 6 months. We do not vote or influence local & state elections & leave the politics, policies, laws, etc. to the permanent residents of Florida. It is the politicians you have elected who continue to approve new developments attracting more snowbirds to Florida. “If you build it, they will come”

Snowbird money is important to Florida. In 2019, snowbirds contributed over $95 billion to the Florida economy. That equates to 1.6 million jobs in Florida.

To summarize, people love a scapegoat & snowbirds make an easy target but look at the facts:

We are safe drivers.
We pay the same for year-round services.
We benefit the economy.
We leave the politics to you.
We go away for at least half of the year.

Of course there is one way that we snowbirds could put an end to the complaining; we could all just move here permanently. Now, there’s an idea!

Not all year round residents think this way. I have ZERO complaints about snowflakes or snowbirds. I don’t feel you bring any additional problems at all. For those who are the whiners please think about what you are saying, it’s not accurate or makes any sense.

[La lamy]

I think there's all types of drivers no matter if you're a full-timer or part-time. I know I spent a lot of time apologizing for my driving the first time I was discovering TV. I was a newbie to 2 lane roundabouts and trying to find any address in seemingly all circular villages. I am now very confident driving here and have to remind myself that the 'bad' drivers I encounter might simply be newbies that also need a grace period!

[golfing eagles]

I think there's all types of drivers no matter if you're a full-timer or part-time. I know I spent a lot of time apologizing for my driving the first time I was discovering TV. I was a newbie to 2 lane roundabouts and trying to find any address in seemingly all circular villages. I am now very confident driving here and have to remind myself that the 'bad' drivers I encounter might simply be newbies that also need a grace period!

With all due respect, I have to disagree. Driving is driving and a license to drive implies the ability to navigate all driving situations. "Newbies" get a handout on how to navigate 2 lane RBs, and there is a sign at the entrance to every RB indicating proper usage. I don't want to get killed by a "driver" who is enjoying their "grace period"

If those "drivers" have trouble with the RBs in TV, God help everyone if they ever try to "drive" in a foreign country.

[Normal]

With all due respect, I have to disagree. Driving is driving and a license to drive implies the ability to navigate all driving situations. "Newbies" get a handout on how to navigate 2 lane RBs, and there is a sign at the entrance to every RB indicating proper usage. I don't want to get killed by a "driver" who is enjoying their "grace period"

If those "drivers" have trouble with the RBs in TV, God help everyone if they ever try to "drive" in a foreign country.

Agreed….do we always have to live in a land of noobs and their driving habits? Because the population here does change year round.

[Rwirish]

Looking at the facts can’t wait until the snowbirds head back north. 😳

[PennyAnn]

Funny.....I have been saying these very things since starting to winter here - 13 years ago. If it weren't for us, everything would be this busy and hectic all year. Blame The Villages, not the snowbirds.

[Beyond The Wall]

Are the roadways crowded, are restaurants packed, are their ridiculously long lines,….absolutely. The place has become a crowded cesspool in the winter. But, when they all leave for summer, we get paradise back!

Cesspool 😳 is a little strong. No one goes onto a Resturant with an empty parking lot! Crowed, yes. What has made the situation worst is the amount of new homes south of 44, without restaurants, entertainment venues and golf courses. Pitch and Putt don’t count. This puts pressure on the existing places. Then you get a seasonal influx and it gets busy.
Added factor is development around TV. They have access to the entertainment and restaurants .
It’s not just in TV. It’s all of Florida. Adding 900 new permeant residences everyday.
Enjoy life . No paradise anywhere

[rustyp]

Snowbirds are the reason you all are getting a Cosco.

[Bealman]

Snowbirds are the reason you all are getting a Cosco.

Awesome, we are getting a shipping container from China because of snow birds....I guess it makes sense, because you have to bring your stuff some how.

[sdm1222]

Hope you can find more new and interesting topics for 2025. Same old topics from same old residents.

[Topspinmo]

Snowbirds are the reason you all are getting a Cosco.

Some of us don’t care about Costco.

[opinionist]

Stereotyping is never helpful in describing a large group of people. Yes, there is more traffic. If you want to complain about that, feel free to rant away. Judging people by the group is for the ignorant.

[rrman77]

Snowbirds are blamed for extra congestion. Let us not forget that full time residents also have visitors that flock into TV.

[cwmmfink]

They still taste like chicken!

[Johnsocat]

The more the merrier!
Isn't there enough division and hate already?
Slow down, enjoy your your retirement and, if youve forgotten how, learn tolerance and patience.

[Justputt]

Do you feel better? Hope so. Did or will anything change? Unlikely. A more productive post would be suggestions, tips, tricks, and such to get around, get tee times, reservations, etc. easier, or getting out of the bubble for fun when things get crazy in TV.

[MX rider]

The more the merrier!
Isn't there enough division and hate already?
Slow down, enjoy your your retirement and, if youve forgotten how, learn tolerance and patience.
Well said!!

[RoboVil]

Odd how the OP knows the personal driving habits of every single one of the snowbirds who come to FL.
And yes, full timers can gripe about snowbirds, and there is absolutely nothing that you can do about it other than complaining and griping about it on a message board.
Some people need to complain, it is in their soul - I don't know why. Some people need some group they are not part of to look down on - don't know why.

[Bay Kid]

Air B & B people

[tophcfa]

What is the misconception about snowbirds and roundabouts? The novelty of going everywhere in a golf cart never gets old for the birds, it’s a rare day that they use their car in the Villages. The bigger issue is that after not using a car for a couple months, the birds have to resist the unconscious feeling that they should be driving their car in a golf cart lane.

[mkjelenbaas]

“I’m mad as hell and I’m not going to take it anymore” ranted Peter Finch’s character, Howard Beale, in the film “Network”. I feel the same about the relentless snide remarks & overt negativity directed at and about snowbirds. Let’s look at some facts & common complaints.

We increase traffic congestion.
Hard to argue with that one but we also reduce congestion by leaving for 6 months or more so is the glass half full or half empty?

Snowbirds are bad drivers. Really? Snowbirds come to Florida from all over the U.S. & Canada, driving thousands of miles. How are we able to do this without causing accidents & chaos? It’s really very simple.

We are healthy overall; without vision & hearing problems, coordination deficits, mental lapses or dementia.
We keep our speed at the level of the posted speed limits or with the natural flow of traffic.
We keep to the right lane unless passing.
We use our turn signals.
We can properly & legally park a vehicle (as in between-the-lines & without blocking other vehicles, fire lanes, handicap spaces, etc.).
We put down the phone in order to pay attention to our driving.
We drive defensively.
We practice patience & courtesy.

Floridians seem to think we are clueless as to navigating roundabouts. Newsflash! Florida does not have a monopoly on roundabouts. We have many in my home state & an accident in a roundabout is actually quite rare & never a daily/weekly occurrence as it is here.

Snowbirds living in The Villages pay the same as full time residents in regard to amenity fees, bonds, insurance, property taxes, school taxes & more, yet we are here less than 6 months. We do not vote or influence local & state elections & leave the politics, policies, laws, etc. to the permanent residents of Florida. It is the politicians you have elected who continue to approve new developments attracting more snowbirds to Florida. “If you build it, they will come”

Snowbird money is important to Florida. In 2019, snowbirds contributed over $95 billion to the Florida economy. That equates to 1.6 million jobs in Florida.

To summarize, people love a scapegoat & snowbirds make an easy target but look at the facts:

We are safe drivers.
We pay the same for year-round services.
We benefit the economy.
We leave the politics to you.
We go away for at least half of the year.

Of course there is one way that we snowbirds could put an end to the complaining; we could all just move here permanently. Now, there’s an idea!
That a lot of typing - I wonder how many minds you have changed. What is that saying about “bigger fish to fry” - time to relax!

[Windguy]

If it weren't for us, everything would be this busy and hectic all year. Blame The Villages, not the snowbirds.

But the part you are not getting is that they could justify building bigger/better roads to handle the peak traffic if y’all stayed year round. Fewer restaurants would fail and more restauranteurs would be willing to open a business here if they could depend on year-round crowds. This applies to all kinds of businesses.

[Driller703]

Are the roadways crowded, are restaurants packed, are their ridiculously long lines,….absolutely. The place has become a crowded cesspool in the winter. But, when they all leave for summer, we get paradise back!

Cesspool? Really?

[tophcfa]

Are the roadways crowded, are restaurants packed, are their ridiculously long lines,….absolutely. The place has become a crowded cesspool in the winter. But, when they all leave for summer, we get paradise back!

Answer this, if the place is a cesspool in winter then why do so many people covet spending the winter there? The real cesspool is the place they are migrating from to come to the Villages.

[Bill14564]

Snowbirds are blamed for extra congestion. Let us not forget that full time residents also have visitors that flock into TV.

What is the misconception about snowbirds and roundabouts? The novelty of going everywhere in a golf cart never gets old for the birds, it’s a rare day that they use their car in the Villages. The bigger issue is that after not using a car for a couple months, the birds have to resist the unconscious feeling that they should be driving their car in a golf cart lane.

My guests visit throughout the year, not just late December through early May. When they visit, they typically travel in my golf cart or the back seat of my car, neither of which add any cars to the roads.

What misconception? The full time residents don't add more cars to the roads in late December through early May, the full time residents are there all year. The guests of the full time residents don't add a significant number of cars during only that time period. So where does the additional traffic come from if not the seasonal residents?

[brianherlihy]

i like snowbirds i hate bike riders don't stop now i don't stop just keep on driving my golf cart nonstop

[LonnyP]

Funny how all the whining and sniveling about bad driving comments never show up in the non snowbird season. Wait, that is not true either. Some of those perfect people that are here year around just like to whine and snivel.

[margaretmattson]

OP...enjoy your time here making wonderful memories with your friends and family. We are ALL getting older and time is not on our side. Feel blessed that you can afford two (or more) homes, YOUR LIFE IS GOOD.

[roscoguy]

i like snowbirds i hate bike riders don't stop now i don't stop just keep on driving my golf cart nonstop

Your sentences don't seem to stop either.

(I just knew that somebody would start an anti-biker tangent here eventually... :rolleyes:)

[NoMo50]

I, for one, appreciate the "true" snowbirds. You know, the folks who are homeowners in The Villages, yet choose to be seasonal residents. They pay the same amenity and maintenance fees as full timers, which helps subsidize the rest of us while they are not here. During the busy season is traffic worse, are the restaurants more crowded, is it harder to get tee times? Absolutely. But come May every year, the full time residents get to enjoy a much less crowded paradise for about 6 months.

My gripe is with the non-owner visitors...you know, the short term renters and the AirBnB crowd. And believe me, there are a bunch of them. Those people are not invested in the quality of life here, and just show up to do whatever they want and then leave, only to be replaced by the next group. The true snowbirds, and snowflakes, care as much about their homes and the quality of life as the rest of us. Rant over.

[rustyp]

Snowbirds are the reason you all are getting a Cosco.

In the unmentionable news today is a letter to the editor which states Cosco will bring more unwanted traffic congestion to The Villages.

Now I'm perplexed. Chicken or the egg ?

Perhaps if we didn't have all these amenities snowbirds would not want to buy houses. If TV would only stop maintaining amenities people would sell and the increased congestion would cease.

[Allie65]

Can't we all just get along? We purchased a home and planned on moving in a while ago. Life got in the way so now we have to travel back and forth until we can make it down permanently. It really bothers me when folks blame others for their resentments. Everyone pays the dues. Maybe people should learn how to share. This wonderful place belongs to everyone that invested their hard earned money into It. Lets just be glad for today and enjoy it! It's the last chapter why waste it being discontent.

[DAVES]

“I’m mad as hell and I’m not going to take it anymore” ranted Peter Finch’s character, Howard Beale, in the film “Network”. I feel the same about the relentless snide remarks & overt negativity directed at and about snowbirds. Let’s look at some facts & common complaints.

We increase traffic congestion.
Hard to argue with that one but we also reduce congestion by leaving for 6 months or more so is the glass half full or half empty?

Snowbirds are bad drivers. Really? Snowbirds come to Florida from all over the U.S. & Canada, driving thousands of miles. How are we able to do this without causing accidents & chaos? It’s really very simple.

We are healthy overall; without vision & hearing problems, coordination deficits, mental lapses or dementia.
We keep our speed at the level of the posted speed limits or with the natural flow of traffic.
We keep to the right lane unless passing.
We use our turn signals.
We can properly & legally park a vehicle (as in between-the-lines & without blocking other vehicles, fire lanes, handicap spaces, etc.).
We put down the phone in order to pay attention to our driving.
We drive defensively.
We practice patience & courtesy.

Floridians seem to think we are clueless as to navigating roundabouts. Newsflash! Florida does not have a monopoly on roundabouts. We have many in my home state & an accident in a roundabout is actually quite rare & never a daily/weekly occurrence as it is here.

Snowbirds living in The Villages pay the same as full time residents in regard to amenity fees, bonds, insurance, property taxes, school taxes & more, yet we are here less than 6 months. We do not vote or influence local & state elections & leave the politics, policies, laws, etc. to the permanent residents of Florida. It is the politicians you have elected who continue to approve new developments attracting more snowbirds to Florida. “If you build it, they will come”

Snowbird money is important to Florida. In 2019, snowbirds contributed over $95 billion to the Florida economy. That equates to 1.6 million jobs in Florida.

To summarize, people love a scapegoat & snowbirds make an easy target but look at the facts:

We are safe drivers.
We pay the same for year-round services.
We benefit the economy.
We leave the politics to you.
We go away for at least half of the year.

Of course there is one way that we snowbirds could put an end to the complaining; we could all just move here permanently. Now, there’s an idea!

My very simple reality. Why do you care? Another word for complaining is GOSSIP.

[DAVES]

In the unmentionable news today is a letter to the editor which states Cosco will bring more unwanted traffic congestion to The Villages.

Now I'm perplexed. Chicken or the egg ?

Reality, change is constant. When we retired, I became aware of an Island for sale in North Carolina. It was like 10 acres a home and a small herd of wild horses. My own KINGDOM. Vetoed by the QUEEN-so we live in the Villages. IF, there is a Cosco how would you get there-boat?

"Chicken or the egg?" Perhaps, the question should be happy or not? That Island. After the hurricane it likely is a bit under water.

[Velvet]

Why should snowbirds get break?

I agree. Depends on what they are used to and bring those habits with them. My friend who drives me 20 hours from the north, likes to drive close to double the speed limit. When he does illegal traffic maneuvers he calls it, “Advanced driving skills”. He used to be a driver instructor. But when we enter TV I mention to him, ”Now you are in my town. We drive according to the rules.” And he does.

[rustyp]

Reality, change is constant. When we retired, I became aware of an Island for sale in North Carolina. It was like 10 acres a home and a small herd of wild horses. My own KINGDOM. Vetoed by the QUEEN-so we live in the Villages. IF, there is a Cosco how would you get there-boat

Don't be silly. There are horses on the island.

[fdpaq0580]

Anyone know a therapist that this OP can use while they are here for the short period.

Dr Jack Daniels has helped me relax from time to time.🫠😉

[fdpaq0580]

I agree. Depends on what they are used to and bring those habits with them. My friend who drives me 20 hours from the north, likes to drive close to double the speed limit. When he does illegal traffic maneuvers he calls it, “Advanced driving skills”. He used to be a driver instructor. But when we enter TV I mention to him, ”Now you are in my town. We drive according to the rules.” And he does.

I also was a driving instructor. Your "friend" sounds like a menace to society with a dangerously over inflated ego. No one's past job function gives them the right to break the law or endanger others, yourselfincluded. Thank you for insisting he drive properly here.

[Indydealmaker]

“I’m mad as hell and I’m not going to take it anymore” ranted Peter Finch’s character, Howard Beale, in the film “Network”. I feel the same about the relentless snide remarks & overt negativity directed at and about snowbirds. Let’s look at some facts & common complaints.

We increase traffic congestion.
Hard to argue with that one but we also reduce congestion by leaving for 6 months or more so is the glass half full or half empty?

Snowbirds are bad drivers. Really? Snowbirds come to Florida from all over the U.S. & Canada, driving thousands of miles. How are we able to do this without causing accidents & chaos? It’s really very simple.

We are healthy overall; without vision & hearing problems, coordination deficits, mental lapses or dementia.
We keep our speed at the level of the posted speed limits or with the natural flow of traffic.
We keep to the right lane unless passing.
We use our turn signals.
We can properly & legally park a vehicle (as in between-the-lines & without blocking other vehicles, fire lanes, handicap spaces, etc.).
We put down the phone in order to pay attention to our driving.
We drive defensively.
We practice patience & courtesy.

Floridians seem to think we are clueless as to navigating roundabouts. Newsflash! Florida does not have a monopoly on roundabouts. We have many in my home state & an accident in a roundabout is actually quite rare & never a daily/weekly occurrence as it is here.

Snowbirds living in The Villages pay the same as full time residents in regard to amenity fees, bonds, insurance, property taxes, school taxes & more, yet we are here less than 6 months. We do not vote or influence local & state elections & leave the politics, policies, laws, etc. to the permanent residents of Florida. It is the politicians you have elected who continue to approve new developments attracting more snowbirds to Florida. “If you build it, they will come”

Snowbird money is important to Florida. In 2019, snowbirds contributed over $95 billion to the Florida economy. That equates to 1.6 million jobs in Florida.

To summarize, people love a scapegoat & snowbirds make an easy target but look at the facts:

We are safe drivers.
We pay the same for year-round services.
We benefit the economy.
We leave the politics to you.
We go away for at least half of the year.

Of course there is one way that we snowbirds could put an end to the complaining; we could all just move here permanently. Now, there’s an idea!

Too much of your defensive diatribe is solely from your personal perspective. You personally may drive well and not need lical meducal care. However, every snowbird season brings a super influx of medical appointments which noticeably impacts lead times. Each of these seasons attracts drivers totally confused by our roundabouts and who apparently do not know how to use gps navigation if one can judge from the number of last minute lane changes or stops in the middle of the road.
Your point that if birds all settled here full time is well taken. However, the culture here will not change for the foreseeable future. Hence, the reality is every year we have 50,000 people flock to The Villages who are in vacation mode and lost and hungry. We can still be friendly and accommodating and within our rights to complain. Just laugh it off. Generic complaints are nothing personal.

[fdpaq0580]

They still taste like chicken!

Use a good marinade.

[Bucci1920]

Almost all of the villagers were snowbirds from other cities.
Not many native Floridians living in TV. Most everyone came from
somewhere else.
Snowbirds bring their cash with them when they come for the winter. They pay the many tourist taxes added to the bills. Thank them when you don't have to pay a state income tax.
"If you build it they will come"
You keep building and people keep coming.
Whose fault is that?
The family that is buying land all the way to Clermont?
Enjoy what you have and appreciate the role snowbirds play in the FL economy.

[CybrSage]

Odd how the OP knows the personal driving habits of every single one of the snowbirds who come to FL.
And yes, full timers can gripe about snowbirds, and there is absolutely nothing that you can do about it other than complaining and griping about it on a message board.

Odd how you know the personal driving habits of every single one of the frogs who never leave the bubble.
And yes, part timers can gripe about frogs, and there is absolutely nothing that you can do about it other than complaining and griping about it on a message board.

[graciegirl]

“I’m mad as hell and I’m not going to take it anymore” ranted Peter Finch’s character, Howard Beale, in the film “Network”. I feel the same about the relentless snide remarks & overt negativity directed at and about snowbirds. Let’s look at some facts & common complaints.

We increase traffic congestion.
Hard to argue with that one but we also reduce congestion by leaving for 6 months or more so is the glass half full or half empty?

Snowbirds are bad drivers. Really? Snowbirds come to Florida from all over the U.S. & Canada, driving thousands of miles. How are we able to do this without causing accidents & chaos? It’s really very simple.

We are healthy overall; without vision & hearing problems, coordination deficits, mental lapses or dementia.
We keep our speed at the level of the posted speed limits or with the natural flow of traffic.
We keep to the right lane unless passing.
We use our turn signals.
We can properly & legally park a vehicle (as in between-the-lines & without blocking other vehicles, fire lanes, handicap spaces, etc.).
We put down the phone in order to pay attention to our driving.
We drive defensively.
We practice patience & courtesy.

Floridians seem to think we are clueless as to navigating roundabouts. Newsflash! Florida does not have a monopoly on roundabouts. We have many in my home state & an accident in a roundabout is actually quite rare & never a daily/weekly occurrence as it is here.

Snowbirds living in The Villages pay the same as full time residents in regard to amenity fees, bonds, insurance, property taxes, school taxes & more, yet we are here less than 6 months. We do not vote or influence local & state elections & leave the politics, policies, laws, etc. to the permanent residents of Florida. It is the politicians you have elected who continue to approve new developments attracting more snowbirds to Florida. “If you build it, they will come”

Snowbird money is important to Florida. In 2019, snowbirds contributed over $95 billion to the Florida economy. That equates to 1.6 million jobs in Florida.

To summarize, people love a scapegoat & snowbirds make an easy target but look at the facts:

We are safe drivers.
We pay the same for year-round services.
We benefit the economy.
We leave the politics to you.
We go away for at least half of the year.

Of course there is one way that we snowbirds could put an end to the complaining; we could all just move here permanently. Now, there’s an idea!

Take a deep breath. It is most likely folks who are either snowbirds, renters, or someone not familiar with not entering a roundabout when someone is in it, who is parking right smack dab in front of Publix........or it could be folks from another planet, but I don't give much credence to that. Many of us FROGS. .(here til' we croak) think that it is the snowbirds from Manhattan, all wealthy and successful who don't own a car who is to blame for not even curtsying at STOP signs. We think it is Folks from the coastline who never drove a tractor or saw a cow up close and personal. We people who like to talk among ourselves about snowbirds are the ones with the red necks and the hay sticking out of our collar according to SOME..................but you just can't label people. Nope. It's wrong.

So let's start again and let's be nice because 2025 is coming straight up and believe me, I am one who is ready to kick 2024 in the fanny.

We really love you snowbirds. Act nice now.

[JanRoberts]

Hate the crowding, love the snowbirds I know!

[rsmurano]

When I hear patience and driving defensively, all I hear is 10mph slower, and stopping at those magically appearing stop signs at the roundabouts.
It is crowded on the streets, in the squares, on the courts, and that’s ok, but I see a lot of people in cars with out of state licenses doing stupid things on the roads, more so than full timers doing stupid things.

[RRGuyNJ]

Friendliest Hometown? Definitely not the case if you follow "Talk of the Villages". Don't forget those heathen "Short Term Renters" LOL

[juddfl]

I love the snow birds. I live here all the time, but I do have some friends that are snow birds. They flutter in and flutter out. I miss them when their gone, but some still work or watch grandkids in the summer break. Snow birds are good for The Villages.

[golfing eagles]

I love the snow birds. I live here all the time, but I do have some friends that are snow birds. They flutter in and flutter out. I miss them when their gone, but some still work or watch grandkids in the summer break. Snow birds are good for The Villages.

Snowbirds, fine
Sunbirds, fine
renters of 1+ months, especially those that return year after year, fine
Airbnb's-----a growing problem and it doesn't add to the appeal of TV or enhance our quality of life

[twoplanekid]

When I hear patience and driving defensively, all I hear is 10mph slower, and stopping at those magically appearing stop signs at the roundabouts.
It is crowded on the streets, in the squares, on the courts, and that’s ok, but I see a lot of people in cars with out of state licenses doing stupid things on the roads, more so than full timers doing stupid things.

As I now own and drive a 2024Tesla M3 with V13 FSD, it's the car and not me making mistakes. :icon_wink:

[Snakster66]

Snowbirds, fine
Sunbirds, fine
renters of 1+ months, especially those that return year after year, fine
Airbnb's-----a growing problem and it doesn't add to the appeal of TV or enhance our quality of life

Finally. Someone rational.

[dhdallas]

Funny how the bad behaviors seem to peak when We-who-do-no-wrong arrive.

Is it that You bring out the worst in the non-snowbirds? If so, perhaps the non-snowbirds would be better off if that catalyst were to stay away.

OR, and more likely, the "We" you use assumes a bit more than is actually supported by reality and would be more accurate if replaced by "A few snowbirds, but certainly not all," as in:

A few snowbirds, but certainly not all, are healthy overall; without vision & hearing problems, coordination deficits, mental lapses or dementia.
A few snowbirds, but certainly not all, keep our speed at the level of the posted speed limits or with the natural flow of traffic.
A few snowbirds, but certainly not all, keep to the right lane unless passing.
etc.

I will repeat, one million snowbirds come to Florida from all over the U.S. & Canada, driving thousands of miles AND arrive safely without causing accidents & chaos? It is NOT just a "few".

[Bill14564]

I will repeat, one million snowbirds come to Florida from all over the U.S. & Canada, driving thousands of miles AND arrive safely without causing accidents & chaos? It is NOT just a "few".

As opposed to the daily carnage before the snowbirds arrive?

Something changes and, by definition, it's not the full time residents.

And I've been on the highways during migration season - I disagree about the lack of accidents and chaos.

[Velvet]

Friendliest Hometown? Definitely not the case if you follow "Talk of the Villages". Don't forget those heathen "Short Term Renters" LOL

Well… people who behave well, wherever they are from, are valued. Reputation is earned.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Stereotyping is never helpful in describing a large group of people. Yes, there is more traffic. If you want to complain about that, feel free to rant away. Judging people by the group is for the ignorant.

We can reverse the stereotyping easily:

The problem isn't the snowbirds. It's all the geezers who never leave the bubble. They're all too drunk on the kool-aid to know quality drivers when they smash into them.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I, for one, appreciate the "true" snowbirds. You know, the folks who are homeowners in The Villages, yet choose to be seasonal residents. They pay the same amenity and maintenance fees as full timers, which helps subsidize the rest of us while they are not here. During the busy season is traffic worse, are the restaurants more crowded, is it harder to get tee times? Absolutely. But come May every year, the full time residents get to enjoy a much less crowded paradise for about 6 months.

My gripe is with the non-owner visitors...you know, the short term renters and the AirBnB crowd. And believe me, there are a bunch of them. Those people are not invested in the quality of life here, and just show up to do whatever they want and then leave, only to be replaced by the next group. The true snowbirds, and snowflakes, care as much about their homes and the quality of life as the rest of us. Rant over.

You can't have a problem with short-term renters, and not also have a problem with their snowbird home-owner landlords.

There would be very few seasonal tenants if those "true snowbirds" didn't rent out their homes. (and yeah I know there are people and companies that buy properties just for investments and never live in them and just rent them out. That's why I said "very few".)

[thelegges]

You can't have a problem with short-term renters, and not also have a problem with their snowbird home-owner landlords.

There would be very few seasonal tenants if those "true snowbirds" didn't rent out their homes. (and yeah I know there are people and companies that buy properties just for investments and never live in them and just rent them out. That's why I said "very few".)

Usually a snowbird occupies their home during high season, at least that what we did. Those who buy their home pre retirement and rent high season 3-4 months for same tenant, or long term for years, has always been the norm. Many returning to same rental for years until they finally buy a home. Many Renters form bond with neighbors returning year after year, treat the home and neighbors with respect.

It’s the 1-7 day Short Term rentals that most are unhappy with. Maybe owners are desperate for $$ and have to take the drive by renter. Or they have no idea the management company is renting however they choose.

[DarrenandKathy]

As a person that rents their home out on the Airbnb platform here’s the list of people that rent short term here:
-people coming down to explore the villages to see if the lifestyle is for them. Many end up purchasing a home here.
-people visiting parents or families that can’t be accommodated in their loved ones place of residence.
-people hired to fix the Villages infrastructure post weather events.
-people left temporarily homeless from a weather event elsewhere.

Which ones don’t deserve to be here?

[golfing eagles]

As a person that rents their home out on the Airbnb platform here’s the list of people that rent short term here:
-people coming down to explore the villages to see if the lifestyle is for them. Many end up purchasing a home here.
-people visiting parents or families that can’t be accommodated in their loved ones place of residence.
-people hired to fix the Villages infrastructure post weather events.
-people left temporarily homeless from a weather event elsewhere.

Which ones don’t deserve to be here?

Any of them that don't respect the property, don't respect their neighbors, throw parties until 3 AM, park in front of their neighbor's driveway, litter their neighbor's property, abuse the amenities and in extreme cases commit serious breaches of the law.

Now, which group does one think more likely describes some of the reported behavior----3 day Airbnb renters or 10 year full time residents?

[NotGolfer]

Griping and worry can fall into the same catagory.....it all brings NO solution!!

[Bill14564]

As a person that rents their home out on the Airbnb platform here’s the list of people that rent short term here:
-people coming down to explore the villages to see if the lifestyle is for them. Many end up purchasing a home here.
-people visiting parents or families that can’t be accommodated in their loved ones place of residence.
-people hired to fix the Villages infrastructure post weather events.
-people left temporarily homeless from a weather event elsewhere.

Which ones don’t deserve to be here?

Basically, the ones that don't do things the way I do:
- If I'm full time then the snowbirds are a pain
- If I have a long term lease then those renting only three months are too temporary
- If I have a three month lease then I don't understand why anyone would rent for just 30 days
- If I'm a monthly renter then I don't want those weekly renters living next to me
- And don't even mention those who stay for only a few days.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Usually a snowbird occupies their home during high season, at least that what we did. Those who buy their home pre retirement and rent high season 3-4 months for same tenant, or long term for years, has always been the norm. Many returning to same rental for years until they finally buy a home. Many Renters form bond with neighbors returning year after year, treat the home and neighbors with respect.

It’s the 1-7 day Short Term rentals that most are unhappy with. Maybe owners are desperate for $$ and have to take the drive by renter. Or they have no idea the management company is renting however they choose.

You missed the point. It doesn't matter why owners are renting their property out, or why they've chosen a management company. It doesn't matter that many renters form bonds.

What matters - is that I was responding to someone who was blaming the tenants. My response is - if you are blaming tenants, then you have to blame the landlords for renting their properties in the first place. No landlords = no tenants.

I am not of the opinion that it's the tenant's fault. I'm disputing their opinion. My opinion is that the original deed restrictions were written before the Internet existed, there was no such thing as Air B&B, and the next generation of developers just flat out didn't even consider that people renting their properties would be a "thing." They were myopic in their vision, and had their heads stuck firmly in the bubble of their own creation.

As a result, we now have a generation of internet-savvy owners who can sign up strangers to rent their properties when they're not living there at all, and there is no rule built in to stop them. Owners no longer have to CARE about what their neighbors think - because it is a profitable endeavor. Rent to some strangers for a week and by the time Community Standards shows up to observe the neighbor's complaint, the tenants are already on their way back to wherever they came from.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Any of them that don't respect the property, don't respect their neighbors, throw parties until 3 AM, park in front of their neighbor's driveway, litter their neighbor's property, abuse the amenities and in extreme cases commit serious breaches of the law.

Now, which group does one think more likely describes some of the reported behavior----3 day Airbnb renters or 10 year full time residents?

The people at the corner who converted their driveway into a circular driveway. We were all SO happy to see this, because (we thought) it meant they'd have more room to park, thus making it easier for us to see beyond the car closest to the street when we wanted to cross the intersection.

But no - they rarely even use the other half of their fancy new driveway, and still park their cars with their bumper just inches away from the streetline. It's impossible to see if someone is coming toward us when we stop at that intersection.

And there's nothing preventing them from pulling up 2 feet closer to their garage. There's enough room for another car in front of them AND another few feet of wiggle-room.

They're long-term homeowners (we moved in 5 years ago. They were there then).

[coleprice]

My wife and I live here in The Villages year around and appreciate the energy that Snowbirds bring to the area. We don't like crowds, but (for example) Town Squares are much more fun when a lot of people are out dancing and/or "rocking out" together, enjoying the great bands each night. Also, my wife and I have met a lot of very nice and interesting people that we've been paired with on the golf courses.

[dano121]

I had a Healthcare Worker tell me that the reason I had to wait 4 months to see a Specialist was because a lot of the Birds set up their healthcare down here and then overwhelm the system when they show up for all of their physical needs. Anyone's thoughts???

[Normal]

You missed the point. It doesn't matter why owners are renting their property out, or why they've chosen a management company. It doesn't matter that many renters form bonds.

What matters - is that I was responding to someone who was blaming the tenants. My response is - if you are blaming tenants, then you have to blame the landlords for renting their properties in the first place. No landlords = no tenants.

I am not of the opinion that it's the tenant's fault. I'm disputing their opinion. My opinion is that the original deed restrictions were written before the Internet existed, there was no such thing as Air B&B, and the next generation of developers just flat out didn't even consider that people renting their properties would be a "thing." They were myopic in their vision, and had their heads stuck firmly in the bubble of their own creation.

As a result, we now have a generation of internet-savvy owners who can sign up strangers to rent their properties when they're not living there at all, and there is no rule built in to stop them. Owners no longer have to CARE about what their neighbors think - because it is a profitable endeavor. Rent to some strangers for a week and by the time Community Standards shows up to observe the neighbor's complaint, the tenants are already on their way back to wherever they came from.

Correct. For the op to post a restricted list they have their answer for doesn’t mean all renters are great or just renting for their 4 reasons. Renters aren’t the greatest thrill and they do violate deed restrictions. We have one home near us that the landlord has never visited. Every car that pulls in brings neighbors to wonder what the result will be. Sometimes this is 3 times a week. Not ideal in the forever home world.

[Bolsadd]

Snowbirds living in The Villages pay the same as full time residents in regard to amenity fees, bonds, insurance, property taxes, school taxes & more, ???????????

Really I don’t think so. I don’t believe all snowbirds own here and for $50 for a guest resident pass is ridiculously low considering the amount of taxes and amenity fees us owners do pay and if they are renting the owner of that property doesn’t even get that money to go towards the amenity fees they are paying the winner winner chicken dinner again are the developers so snowbird renters do not pay the same as an owner think about it.


however I do love my snowbird friends.

[Nancy@Pinellas]

I love seasonal residents. They pay amenity fees year round which keep everyone's lower.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

We've also had a part-time resident who owns the property, and isn't a snowbird. They come down sporadically throughout the year and rent via air B&B when they're not here. They've rented to a young family who was waiting for their own house outside the Villages to be built. It was supposed to be just for a month. Remember little kids aren't supposed to be here more than a month during the year. They had two kids, the oldest was maybe 9 or 10. The tenant's new home was taking longer than expected, and the homeowner told their tenant that they could stay a couple months longer. Which - they did.

The homeowner claimed to not know that this 55+ community didn't allow young children to LIVE here, only visit. The tenants shouldn't have been able to move in at all, even short term. They weren't visitors. They weren't visiting the homeowner. The homeowner wasn't even in Florida when this family was renting. The family wasn't related to the homeowner, or friends with the homeowner. Strangers from the internet who answered an ad. FORTUNATELY they were a nice family, the kids were only rambunctious a few days before they left, having a sprinkler fight on the front lawn with their dad. It was adorable.

But just knowing that the owner doesn't even understand the basic rules about the 55+ community they moved in to (no kids unless they're visiting for up to 30 days a year) - it makes me worry about who their next tenants will be.

[golfing eagles]

We've also had a part-time resident who owns the property, and isn't a snowbird. They come down sporadically throughout the year and rent via air B&B when they're not here. They've rented to a young family who was waiting for their own house outside the Villages to be built. It was supposed to be just for a month. Remember little kids aren't supposed to be here more than a month during the year. They had two kids, the oldest was maybe 9 or 10. The tenant's new home was taking longer than expected, and the homeowner told their tenant that they could stay a couple months longer. Which - they did.

The homeowner claimed to not know that this 55+ community didn't allow young children to LIVE here, only visit. The tenants shouldn't have been able to move in at all, even short term. They weren't visitors. They weren't visiting the homeowner. The homeowner wasn't even in Florida when this family was renting. The family wasn't related to the homeowner, or friends with the homeowner. Strangers from the internet who answered an ad. FORTUNATELY they were a nice family, the kids were only rambunctious a few days before they left, having a sprinkler fight on the front lawn with their dad. It was adorable.

But just knowing that the owner doesn't even understand the basic rules about the 55+ community they moved in to (no kids unless they're visiting for up to 30 days a year) - it makes me worry about who their next tenants will be.

Exactly my point, thank you

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Exactly my point, thank you

Once in awhile we agree on things.

I'm not against renters, in general. I just wish all rental arrangements had to go through a singular property management (such as The Villages). Some homeowners are just - not good landlords, not good stewards of their homes or their neighborhoods. Some care, but don't have the skill. Some don't care. When the Villages is representing your home on your behalf, you know that it'll be cared for, the tenants vetted. Whether it's for one day or for two years - I just wish all rentals HAD to go through professional, on-site (not based out of some other state) property management.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I love seasonal residents. They pay amenity fees year round which keep everyone's lower.

Many seasonal residents are TENANTS and don't pay any amenity fees at all, ever.

[jimjamuser]

I had a Healthcare Worker tell me that the reason I had to wait 4 months to see a Specialist was because a lot of the Birds set up their healthcare down here and then overwhelm the system when they show up for all of their physical needs. Anyone's thoughts???
Since snowbirds are here for 7 or 8 months of the year, you would have to expect them to want and get healthcare while they are here. The problem is on the delivery side of the healthcare equation. The hospitals and medical office budget for employees based upon year-around quantities of patients. So, because they will have fewer patients in the summer they budget their medical staff for that amount. They can't just budget for the number of patients during the winter months because then what do they do during the summer months. They can't "LAY OFF" Doctors and Nurses for the summer months. They can't say take a 3 or 4 month vacation and then come back. medical staff won't stand for that treatment. They either get permanent work (for 12 months) here or they will LEAVE to a situation up north where they can work all year.
........So here in The Villages where there are a lot of snowbirds, the only solution is to budget Doctors and Nurses to staff the summer months and then just struggle with that minimum number throughout the winter months. Then the Doctors and nurses get overworked with more appointments per day. They try to shorten the average appointment time. I imagine sometimes that the medical employers would consider employing traveling Nurses and Doctors, but that would cost a ton of money.

[jimjamuser]

You said the same thing back on 8-25 replying to a similar post but now you have created one yourself to further complain? Just go enjoy the crowed pool and relax already!
The crowded pool means more beautiful people to look at and talk to. The summer is more boring.

[jimjamuser]

But the part you are not getting is that they could justify building bigger/better roads to handle the peak traffic if y’all stayed year round. Fewer restaurants would fail and more restauranteurs would be willing to open a business here if they could depend on year-round crowds. This applies to all kinds of businesses.
Since peak traffic is for the greatest part of the year, then yes, they should build the roads for the peak traffic. Having vehicles sitting idling for several traffic lights is a waste of gasoline. That costs money that could go toward building more lanes.

[SoCalGal]

Many seasonal residents are TENANTS and don't pay any amenity fees at all, ever.

But the landlords do, always.

[SoCalGal]

We have one home near us that the landlord has never visited. Every car that pulls in brings neighbors to wonder what the result will be. Sometimes this is 3 times a week.

Would you elaborate a bit, please? What do you mean by "Every car that pulls in brings neighbors to wonder what the result will be." And this occurs three times a week?!

[SoCalGal]

Snowbirds bring their cash with them when they come for the winter. They pay the many tourist taxes added to the bills. Thank them when you don't have to pay a state income tax.

I just visited TV on a lifestyle tour. I didn't notice a "tourist tax" added to anything. Please 'splain. Thanks.

[johnblackwell]

If a new house is built in TV, it is a fair bet that someone will come live in it, either frogs or snowbirds. Frogs increase traffic year-round, snowbirds only part of the year. Which would you prefer?

On the other hand, frogs tend to be the ones keeping the clubs and other voluntary services running. They also patronize stores, restaurants, medical practices, etc. so they are still around when the snowbirds return in the fall. Both groups add to the wonderful life here.

If you really need something to gripe about, why not complain that your last lottery ticket didn't win $1B. At least that would make sense!

[Tustin714]

But the landlords do, always.

This fact seems consistently to be overlooked by some here. I'm a part-time owner (don't rent out the house) and don't mind paying year-round for the incredible amenities provided.

[midiwiz]

“I’m mad as hell and I’m not going to take it anymore” ranted Peter Finch’s character, Howard Beale, in the film “Network”. I feel the same about the relentless snide remarks & overt negativity directed at and about snowbirds. Let’s look at some facts & common complaints.

We increase traffic congestion.
Hard to argue with that one but we also reduce congestion by leaving for 6 months or more so is the glass half full or half empty?

Snowbirds are bad drivers. Really? Snowbirds come to Florida from all over the U.S. & Canada, driving thousands of miles. How are we able to do this without causing accidents & chaos? It’s really very simple.

We are healthy overall; without vision & hearing problems, coordination deficits, mental lapses or dementia.
We keep our speed at the level of the posted speed limits or with the natural flow of traffic.
We keep to the right lane unless passing.
We use our turn signals.
We can properly & legally park a vehicle (as in between-the-lines & without blocking other vehicles, fire lanes, handicap spaces, etc.).
We put down the phone in order to pay attention to our driving.
We drive defensively.
We practice patience & courtesy.

Floridians seem to think we are clueless as to navigating roundabouts. Newsflash! Florida does not have a monopoly on roundabouts. We have many in my home state & an accident in a roundabout is actually quite rare & never a daily/weekly occurrence as it is here.

Snowbirds living in The Villages pay the same as full time residents in regard to amenity fees, bonds, insurance, property taxes, school taxes & more, yet we are here less than 6 months. We do not vote or influence local & state elections & leave the politics, policies, laws, etc. to the permanent residents of Florida. It is the politicians you have elected who continue to approve new developments attracting more snowbirds to Florida. “If you build it, they will come”

Snowbird money is important to Florida. In 2019, snowbirds contributed over $95 billion to the Florida economy. That equates to 1.6 million jobs in Florida.

To summarize, people love a scapegoat & snowbirds make an easy target but look at the facts:

We are safe drivers.
We pay the same for year-round services.
We benefit the economy.
We leave the politics to you.
We go away for at least half of the year.

Of course there is one way that we snowbirds could put an end to the complaining; we could all just move here permanently. Now, there’s an idea!

ok let's look at some facts about snowbirds, aka birds. It's hunting season in Florida, target? Birds - all of them. I'm not a native Floridian and I've lived in other parts of this state not just here. I will tell you we can't wait for birds to leave because everything you seem to think is ok actually isn't. Here's a great example a route that normally would take me 8 minutes start to stop changes to 30 minutes during bird season. Now you tell me what the problem is.

As far as TV, the parking gets worse, the crowds are horrid, and more. What this is really about, as an example, when you buy a new car you start noticing that same car on the road everywhere you go. before that you never did even though it was there. same thing just that we didn't buy or ask for birds.

Complain all you want I will never change my mind about this I've dealt with it since 2006 and every year no matter where in this state it just gets worse.

[fdpaq0580]

"Hope I die before I get old."

Too late! But at least I live in The Villages. It ain't perfect, but it's home. Here till I croak!

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

What does "FROG" stand for?



"Freakin' Reprobate Old Guy"

I read that on a senior living forum so it must be true.

[golfing eagles]

What does "FROG" stand for?

I recently read on a health discussion forum that KSM-66 Ashwagandha Root Powder Extract is an herbal supplement that reduces stress and anxiety. It helps one feel calmer and more relaxed, helping them sleep better and stay asleep longer. The Physician's Choice brand has nearly 7,000 positive customer reviews. I'm gonna try it for insomnia.

It's not an acronym----it simply refers to that group of people who will live here "until they croak"

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

It's not an acronym----it simply refers to that group of people who will live here "until they croak"

The guy who posted it on a senior forum, who heard it from his brother's step-daughter's hairdresser's father-in-law says otherwise. Freakin' Reprobate Old Guy.