The holidays are a time for family and friends to get together and have fun. Most importantly, it’s a time for everyone to take a break and relax.

    With many options in mind, the holiday season can be more enjoyable by traveling. Staying at home offers extra time for favorite activities that people do on a daily basis, but traveling allows people to learn and take part in new activities.

    Although the phrase “home sweet home” brings feelings of warmth and safety, new memories and atmospheres from traveling is refreshing.

    “When staying home there’s only so much you can do, it’s harder to find something intriguing,” junior Emily Luo said. “While traveling, you could look at tourist attractions or go to local festivals.”

    For people that hate the cold weather, there’s the option of visiting a warm and sunny location, like the Bahamas. Even though bundling up in layers and layers of clothing is an option, the comfortable choice would be a moderately sunny day at a popular vacation spot.

    Expenses may be an issue, but the result of a perfect vacation will be worth cutting around some corners. Luo said that “there is a wide range of activities that either don’t require a lot of money or are even free. This allows for people of all different financial states to be able to enjoy a nice getaway trip.”

    Traveling also provides more time for family and friends, which helps create the atmosphere of a perfect holiday.

    You can pick out the specific elements you want and do not want during your time off. You can escape from your old environment, relax and learn about what you truly like to do. “Staying at home can get boring sometimes, traveling is definitely more exciting,” junior Angela Song said. “You can expand your knowledge of the world around you and experience new things.”

    Even in a different location, you can pick up new hobbies and enjoy experiencing different cultures and traditions. Traveling can mean a day filled with activities, but it is also an opportunity for relaxation and sleep. Traveling brings us the qualities of being home and adventuring–the best of both worlds.