So, it’s finals week, and everyone is desperate to have vacation. Oh, vacation—we’ve been waiting for you dearly since we got off one day for Thanksgiving too many months ago!
Some of you have been planning your winter break for months. But there are others of you (yes, we know who you are), you procrastinators, who still haven’t booked those plans even though you’ve been meaning to for months. If you’re still on the fence, or you’re looking for plans for next year, check out this guide to great locations for any type of Stern student.
If you’d like to see every Jew you’ve ever met: Miami Beach, Florida
It’s been a minute since Stern ended but you’re missing your fellow brethren. Have no fear—head down to Miami Beach. All Jews make their exodus back to Florida for the winter, when the weather in New York is just too cold. Whether you choose to stay by your grandparent’s or your friend’s grandparents or great uncle’s cousin (everyone has some relative in Miami), you can’t go wrong with the great beach options and your close proximity to the ocean. Additionally, Kosher food is a breeze. Just make sure that you book your reservations for the great ones like Harbor Grill or Kosh now, as things fill up fast. While Miami is an easy option, if you want a vacation from the people you see every day, you may want to check out other destinations.
If you’d like to see the more “serious” Jews: Israel
Miami is fun for everyone, but if you’re a First Time on Campus Sophomore, you probably want to go back to the Holy Land (#shtark). If you’re looking for a spiritual burst, some feelings of nostalgia, or miss searching for Shabbat plans on Friday afternoon, Israel for winter break is the place for you. Just don’t forget that there’s a time difference when you decide to call home. Another downside of this trip is the price tag. Tickets to Israel (whether El-Al, Delta or even Turkish Air) are at least triple your Miami tickets. To save money, try to see if you can stay at your seminary from, or get on a Birthright trip. Either way, you’ll have a memorable time.
If you don’t mind the cold: Up North or Out West
It’s been a warm winter in New York this year (barring this week). If you miss the cold or have been dreaming of the slopes, head north to Vermont or further west to Colorado to check out some incredible skiing or snowboarding. You’re sure to burn some serious calories skiing every day while feeling the rush of flying down a mountain. One great thing about ski vacations is that based on how long you want to travel, you can alter your destination. Want a week trip? Go out west. Want to go for two days and be back in Miami for Shabbat? Do a driving trip to Killington (in New York), the Poconos (in Pennsylvania) or up to Vermont. The mountains are calling you.
Whether you take any of these choices, you’re guaranteed to have a great trip. And if you want to tell us all about it, email The Observer when you get back to write about your great experiences!