families

Page 12December 2007By Chelsea MeeganWith December 25 coming upand a winter vacation to follow, a niceholiday retreat is a perfect idea for anyonelooking for a little extra relaxation. Fromthe beautiful ambiance of Italy, to the turquoisewaters of the islands, here arethree of my favorite winter getaways.If your idea of a vacation is hoursspent sun-bathing on mile-long beaches,the Cayman Islands may be the havenyou’ve been looking for.The Caymans consist of threeislands: Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, andLittle Cayman.Each island is comprised of anarray of different things to do— fromsnorkeling and caving to spoiling yourselfwith delicious dining and shopping.But the recurring vacation favoriteare the warm, white-sanded beaches.Visitors can suntan and relax on the Caymanssun-kissed beaches for hours at atime. Others have the option to take asurfing lesson or go parasailing in the sparklingwaters of the Western Caribbean.There is just so much to see, like600 pound turtles at the Cayman TurtleFarm, and historic graves of the islandsancient pirates. Without a doubt, a vacationat the Cayman’s will keep you entertained.Another beautiful place to visit isBy Erin MoriartyThe winter break isone of the most anticipatedtimes of the school year, and theH-K community is taking fulladvantage of it. What are someof these plans?“For my birthday my mom isgiving me a plane ticket to Florida for aweek. I’m going to get a tan, go to Disneyor Universal Studios and I’m going tobond with my grandma. But I’m spendingChristmas at my house.”–Stephanie Venuti“Wrestling practice and hopefullygoing to Disney with my family. Andplowing snow to make money.”–Nick DiGioia“Hoping it snows and goingcamping with my friends.” –Mike OssaFEATURESTop Three Vacation Spotsthe U.S. Virgin Islands.A very friendly atmosphere, theVirgin Islands are perfect for a winter familytrip.Activities such as trekkingthrough tropical forests or snorkeling withthe sea turtles and underwater wildlife aresure to keep you out of that hotel room,and exploring the beautiful islands.Trunk Bay of the Virgin IslandsA senior this year, ChristineTischbein, has been visiting for years.“We usually go about every four years andI’m excited because we’re going this February.I cannot wait! We go swimmingand snorkeling every day, and I love it!”With its delectable cuisine, stunningviews, and variety of fun activities, aholiday spent on the Virgin Islands is alittle piece of paradise.For my top vacation getawayHolidays Look Bright For H-KJoy.”“Over the river and throughthe woods to grandmother’s house Igo.”–Christina Pudeler“Probably gonna go snowmobiling andwork a lot to make money for gas.”– Jason Jansak“I’m going to Canada to Mount– Darcy Hughes“I’m going snowboarding and toa Vanna concert with my friend Chris.”–Tyler Reiser“We plan on going to NewYork to go shopping and visiting ourgrandmother.”–Avalon and Alisha Taboada“Over Christmas all my cousinsare coming down and I’ll be at basketballpractice. And we’re having Christmas atmy house so it will be epic.”– Lindsay GormanShopping in Milanspot, I chose Milan, Italy,Known as the world’s greatestfashion district, this Italian city is full ofhistoric sites, tastes, and a naturally vintagelook. There are many things to do such asvisiting the gorgeous hidden gardens andhaving a bite to eat at the various ethnicrestaurants.Many tourists in the city enjoystrolling around the city and admiring thebuildings and mixtures of colors displayedaround them.A city of beauty indeed, Milan isa match for any traveler.Everyone deserves a vacationonce in a while, so maybe next time you’rethinking about going away, you can try oneof these lovely places.“I plan on going to Foxwoodsto the huge buffet. I’m going to play withmy presents a lot, go sledding, and hopefullyget a new phone for Christmas.”– Steve Cavanaugh“Spending time with my family,friends, and especially my best friendKelly. And hopefully getting somethinggood, like moccasins.” – Paige Baccaro“I am spending Christmas withmy niece, Cassie, and my best friendPaige.”– Kelly Lisitano“I’m going snowboarding.Snowboard until I can’t move.”–Mr. KishIt looks like most peopleare either headed for theslopes or just chilling at homethis year!