I have been able to visit Florence, Italy twice and it has been the best experience both times! Once with my family and the second time with my school, so here are a few tips!
Walk Everywhere: Florence is a small city, and the best way to experience it is on foot. Plus, you’ll stumble upon hidden gems that you might miss if you’re driving. Learn Some Italian Phrases: Locals appreciate it when you try a little Italian. Even just saying “Ciao” (hello) or “Grazie” (thank you) goes a long way. Skip the Line Tickets: If you’re visiting popular spots like the Uffizi or the Accademia (where the David statue lives), book your tickets online in advance to avoid the long lines. Don’t Rush: Florence is meant to be savored, not rushed. Take your time, enjoy the food, the art, and the atmosphere. And most importantly—have fun!
Florence is the perfect mix of culture, food, history, and style—and it’s all waiting for you to explore. Whether you’re there for the art, the food, or just to see what all the hype is about, Florence will leave you with memories you’ll never forget. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an adventure you’ll be talking about for years.
When thinking of where to go for your next vacation, the question may come up of where to go. The common places people may choose from is the beach or mountains. When planning a trip, I would think about the months I would be going, and I would also think about what I would be doing while being on the trip. The season would be the last thing I would rank it with while planning a trip.
When planning a vacation the first thing to think about is the time of year and what you will be doing. For the time of year, if it is in between the months of March and August I would pick the beach. If it was between the months of September and December I would pick the mountains., but if I was given the opportunity to go to a tropical beach during this time frame, I would pick the beach over the mountains. So thinking about what I want to do during these months, most of the time I would pick the beach over the mountains.
The next thing I would consider is what I would be wanting to do while there. If I wanted to have a cozy, chill vacation, I would pick the mountains, but if I wanted to relax and enjoy the sunshine, I would pick the beach. In this case I would pick the beach because I would rather sit on the beach and do nothing over sitting in the house doing nothing. So in this case, I would again pick the beach.
The last thing that I would put into consideration is what season I would be going. Spring and summer are probably the best times to go to the beach because it is getting warmer in the spring and it is definitely warm in the summer, so it would be the perfect way to relax. In the fall I would probably pick mountains because when you think of fall you don’t think of the beach you think of it getting cooler outside and the leaves changing. And lastly, for winter I would be in between the beach and mountains for where I would pick, because it would depend on where we were going. If I was given the option between going to a beach where it is cold or the mountains, I would pick the mountains, but if I was given the option between a warm beach in the winter or the mountains, I would pick the beach.
In conclusion, I would pick the beach over the mountains any day. The only day I would pick the mountains is if the beach is cold.
My Labor Day consisted of eleven plus hours on the roads, traveling through 4 states South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, and finally Virginia. We first arrived in North Carolina and stayed at a Marriott hotel in the small town of Boone, NC. While in Boone, we walked down town, but the culture there has shifted since my childhood days of visiting. It is sad to see such a nice town be overrun with drug addicts and homeless people, it is a huge problem that no one else there seemed to notice. During my childhood visits there I remember a nice community of older locals and young tourists which brought a good balance to the town. Our next stop in the Appalachians was Bristol, Virginia, where my Cousins live Katherin twelve and Willam six. Their we watched the Carolina game and hung out with them. We were excited to see them as we do not get many opportunities to. Bristol is a nice little town which starred in the iconic GEICO commercial “Geico Journey”, where the Geico Lizard jumps between state lines of Bristol, Tennessee and Virginia. That night we arrived and went to eat at a very good Mexican restaurant called Mas Tequila right off State Street, the main street of downtown Bristol. That concludes our night in Virginia. The next morning we quickly got up and went to eat at a breakfast place called The Girl and The Raven, which was very good. There I ate a biscuit with eggs, sausage, and grits. It is one of their most popular dishes and I see why. The only downside of The Girl and The Raven was that they had a few dead fish floating in the fish tanks, which was kind of disgusting to see while you’re trying to eat. After that we drove home all five hours and that concludes our labor day with the homeless drug addicts of Boone to the fun times we had in Bristol.
One of the best surprises about Park City? How much there is to do besides skiing. We arrived in Park City just as a fresh blanket of snow had settled over the town. It was like stepping into a snow globe. The streets were lined with twinkling lights, the air was crisp but not painfully cold, and the mountains loomed in the background like gentle giants. It felt cozy, welcoming, and somehow festive even though it wasn’t Christmas. We spent one afternoon wandering historic Main Street popping into quirky shops, grabbing hot chocolate, and visiting the Park City Museum, which was surprisingly fun for all of us . We also took a horse-drawn sleigh ride one evening up the mountain. It felt like something out of a movie, the cold air, the quiet crunch of snow, the mountains turning blue in the fading light. And the food? Incredible. From cozy mountain lodges with giant fireplaces to family-friendly pizza spots, we never struggled to find a good meal. We even splurged one night on a fondue dinner. Park City stole our hearts. It was the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, activity and family time. We came home tired in the best way muscles sore, bellies full, hearts happy. Everyone is already asking when we can go again, and when we are available for another trip! If you’re considering a winter family vacation, Park City should be at the top of your list. Whether you’re first-time skiers or seasoned pros, it’s got that magical combination of charm, fun, and ease that makes travel feel less like a chore and more like a true adventure.
The best time of year to go to New York is in December. I have been to New York multiple times and my favorite time I’ve been was in December. New York turns into a winter wonderland when December comes around. The busiest time of year for New York with over four million people that visit New York during the holidays. I personally love being in cities when it’s colder. The decorations all throughout New York during December are gorgeous. New York goes all festive lights, especially in places like Fifth Avenue, Bryant Park and the West Village.Such as The Rockefeller Center Tree. New York hosts a tree lighting ceremony every year for the lighting of the 74 foot tree. This is a festive backdrop that includes New York’s famous ice skating rink. Another traditional decor item New York puts up every year is The Fifth Avenue Window Display. Stores like Macy’s, Saks, Bergdorf Goodman on Fifth Avenue compete on who has the best window. During the holidays when people visit New York they also go and see The Rockettes perform. The Rockettes are a world-famous, all-female precision dance team. They put on a great show for those who go and watch them. New York City in December is a destination like no other. With its festive ambiance, cultural richness, and iconic attractions, it captures the imagination and hearts of those who visit. Whether you’re skating under the Rockefeller tree, enjoying a Broadway show, or simply strolling through snow-dusted streets, the city offers countless opportunities to create lasting holiday memories. For anyone seeking a mix of tradition, excitement, and wonder, New York in December is an unforgettable experience. New York when it’s not during the holidays does not give the same experience or excitement as it does in the winter.
Out of all of the places I’ve traveled to, I have a list of my favorites that I’ve been to in the past two years. In the past two years I’ve traveled to Harbour Island, New York City, and Rosemary Beach. These three places have been put at the top of my list of recommended travel destinations.
The first destination is Harbour Island, Bahamas. This place is definitely my favorite place I’ve traveled to. In Harbour Island, I went to the beach most of the time, but I also explored the islands on a boat charter that took us to swim with sea turtles, places to snorkel, and beaches to look for conch shells. If someone asked me what to do in the Bahamas, I would tell them to definitely do the boat charter. The guy who took us asked us what we wanted to see and he took us to every place we asked. That was the best thing I did while I was there.
The second destination I would recommend is New York City. New York is a great place to go if you want to take a short trip that you want to always remember. New York is known as the city that never sleeps which I can second that famous phrase. When I was there I went on a boat cruise around new the Statue of Liberty, shopped a lot, and went to a Broadway show. The Broadway show I went to was “The Lion King,” and I would highly recommend it. I would also recommend staying at the Plaza while in New York because everyone there made sure that we had the best stay possible.
The last travel destination I would recommend is Rosemary Beach, Florida. Rosemary Beach is located on 30A that is along the Gulf of Mexico. While you are there, I would recommend going on the beach, of course, and I would recommend going to other towns surrounding it. When I went, my family and I rode bicycles from Rosemary Beach to Seaside and it was beautiful. I would recommend stopping at all of the cute beach shops along 30A as well.
I have made some really good memories in these three places, and I would definitely recommend going to one of these three places at least once.
The UK is a very popular place for many different people to visit, and for good reason. It has a long history that you can learn about if you travel there, with many destinations relating to historical events, such as where the Magna Carta was signed, or where past Kings and Queens have visited. The UK also has beautiful scenery, from the English countryside with cozy cottages to the lochs of Scotland. I myself have travelled around parts of the UK while I was there for a couple months over this summer. Overall the UK has much to offer for people willing to travel there.
Probably the most popular place to travel to in the UK is London, England. London is a centuries old city located in the south of England. Its history can be traced back to when the Romans had power in England. Because of its hundreds of years of history, there are many monuments to visit while you are there. One of them is the Tower of London, which is one of the most popular monuments in London. The tower has been used for multiple things, such as executions, a prison, a zoo, and houses the Crown Jewels. You can also visit other historic buildings such as Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, or Kensington Palace. There’s also many shopping areas, such as Oxford Street or Covent Garden.
Scotland is a beautiful country, known for its beautiful landscapes of lochs and highlands. One of the most popular lochs in Scotland is Loch Ness, which is said to have a sea monster in it called Nessie, with many people claiming to have seen her. You can also travel through the highlands by walking, train, or by car, and also visit the many old castles they have there, such as the Urquhart Castle or the Eilean Donan Castle. Another place to see is Edinburgh, which is a dark academic city that is hundreds of years old, you can see the Edinburgh Castle, Cathedrals, and museums.
Ireland has many beautiful places to visit, including the beautiful and unique landscape and old castle ruins. You can also visit the capitol city, Dublin, which has multiple historical areas, Dublin Castle, museums, and shopping areas. Another popular place to visit in Ireland are the Cliffs of Moher, which are stunning cliffs in Clare, Ireland, where you can also see lots of birdlife. You can also visit the ruins of Rock of Cashel, which is centuries old and has been visited by many historical figures such as saints and kings.
Wales is a country that borders the west of England, it is a country that also holds beautiful scenery and years of history. I was lucky enough to get to travel there for a couple days over last summer while I was in England. St. Briavels Castle is located near the Welsh-English border, and is known for its many ghostly hauntings and a place where royalty once visited. It’s now a youth hostel that you can stay in. Also in Wales is the River Wye, which is a beautiful river that you can canoe on with a tour guide. Wales also has many castles that you can visit, such as the Caerphilly Castle or Cardiff Castle.
Overall the U.K. has much to offer for people that want to travel there. It holds many historic places including cathedrals, castles, palaces, or prisons. The U.K. also has vast amounts of beautiful landscape that is different from any other place in the world. And is great for people who are interested in the great amount of history it has.
I could eat Zaxby’s everyday. I always get the big zax snack. Their fries are probably the best fries from any fast food place. Zax sauce is so good and goes perfectly with everything they have. They also have the best salad. They used to have raw fries which they should bring back because I remember always getting them when I was younger.
Chick-Fil-A
There isn’t anything bad from there. I like that they don’t only have chicken on the menu; they have a nice variety of different choices to choose from. They have healthier options like salads, wraps, and fruit. They probably have the best mac and cheese out of any fast food restaurant, and they have by far the best ranch. I also like their waffle fries because no other fast food place has those kinds of fries and it makes them unique. They have the best breakfast out of any other place, but my only complaint would be that it ends at 10:30 and not 11, because who wants to eat lunch at 10:31? They are overall the nicest fast food place and have good, Christian morals and values.
Bojangles
Bojangles is at #3 because they don’t have a nice variety on the menu, but their food is good quality. Their Southern style chicken is one of my favorites. The seasoning is something that you will not find at any other fast food place. This really sets them apart from any other fast food place. Their breakfast is also very good; one of my favorites is the Cajun chicken biscuit. The biscuit is buttered perfectly, but also has a sweet taste, which makes it a good combination of sweet and salty. Their food is also very fresh and they have some of the best honey mustard that you can get out of anywhere.
Cook out
Cook out has a great variety on their menu. They have from barbecue to burgers, so they have something for everyone. They also have some of the best milkshakes you can get anywhere. The portion sizes are very good and the meals fill you up. The prices are very affordable, and the portion sizes makes it a great deal. They also add a good Southern aspect to the menu from barbecue to hush puppies to banana pudding milkshakes.
Sonic
Although sonic is not one of my favorites, they have a very good variety on the menu. They also offer slushies, which fast food restaurants often don’t have. Their drinks can be customized to anything you want added to them. The carhops are something that no other fast food place has and makes Sonic unlike any other place.
This summer I went on a road trip with my aunt and her best friend. This trip included a week of driving and stopping at different places on the east of the United States. Starting in Sumter we drove to Virginia to pick up my aunt’s best friend. We spent the night there and left first thing the next morning to head to Tennessee to go to a zoo with one of the only spotless giraffes in the world. This was fun but the giraffe looked like a horse with a long neck, very anticlimactic.
We then left and drove to Kentucky to spend the night. The next day we went and did 2 tours in the Mammoth Caves. This is the longest cave system in the world. Even though it was a long day of walking, a lot of squeezing, and an insane amount of stairs, it was my favorite part of the trip. It was pretty and the history behind it was insane because this cave is over 420 miles long. The entire thing was dug by hand.
After this we got in the car and drove for a few hours and spent the night in utah. This was just halfway to New York which was our main reason for the road teip. We spent the night in Utah and drove to Buffalo, New York and went to the restaurant that inspired the road trip in the first place, Southern Junction. This was a place that my aunt saw on the news and had a big idea that we ended up doing. It was good but not my favorite food.
We spent two nights in Buffalo and went to Niagara Falls the next day which was another great part of the trip. We took a walk over to Canada and then went and had dinner. The next day we hopped back in the car and drove it to Pittsburgh to spend the night and then woke up to finish the drive to Virginia. We spent one last night there before heading home after a week-long road trip.
This trip was a great experience and a great way to spend part of the summer and I highly recommend everyone doing a road trip at least once in their lives.
Number 2 on my top 5 places I have visited was Guatemala. Guatemala was not just a normal trip, it was a mission trip that I went on with my mom. We went with Christ Community Church through an organization called 4:10 Bridge. Guatemala was absolutely beautiful! The place we visited in Guatemala was a community called El Triunfo. It was a very small community, and they all knew each other very well. They were so kind, welcoming, and grateful for what they had. While visiting we performed many different tasks. We farmed, played with the children, cooked and many more things.
The farming in Guatemala was different than any farming I have seen. Their main crop was coffee bean plants which was also what Guatemala is known for. Guatemala is very mountainous, and they plant their coffee plants up the mountains and it is just so interesting to see how they do it let alone do it yourself. The people in El Triunfo were so kind to let us plant some of their coffee plants and they were just so patient with us and it was just such an amazing experience!
Another thing we did while we were in the community was simply bonding with the children. This was my favorite part because the children were so kind and grateful. The kids never looked unhappy, anytime you looked over at them they were smiling and laughing with each other. We colored and played soccer with the kids and we also did some fun Bible games with them as well that they absolutely loved.
One of the last things we did was help the ladies cook a meal. They cooking there is way different than it is here. There kitchens are nothing like ours are back at home so it was so interesting to see these people cook in such a different environment then we are used to. When the ladies cook they are just cooking for their family. They all get together and cook a meal together for almost all the families in the community and it was so awesome to see that.
Overall Guatemala was such an amazing trip and I would highly recommend going on a mission trip to Guatemala. It will change your life. Overall I give this experience a 10/10!!
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