Escape the Freeze During Christmas Break

Who doesn’t love the freezing cold in Minnesota? If you don’t, Charlotte Garman lived your dreams in the Bahamas over winter break. For her first winter at Cretin-Derham Hall, the Garmans went big over the two weeks, from tropical cruises to sea lions – it was anything but boring! Growing up in the Twin Cities, she describes how she “hates the cold, and would do anything to get rid of it.” So, excitement ran rampant as she got her travel permit signed ready to escape what felt like the longest two days of our lives, the Thursday and Friday before break. Then came Thursday morning, suitcases were packed and the Garmans were sprinting out the door to make the flight. Although it was a close call, they made the flight to Miami, Florida where the Royal Caribbean Cruise ship was waiting to transport them into tropical paradise. Finding activities to exterminate any boredom was no challenge while she waited to walk barefoot in the warm, comfortable sand. Buying jewelry, soaking in the hot tub heat, and spa treatments were just a few of her chosen weapons against boredom. Then, eightish hours later, the boat arrived in Nassau, Bahamas! Minnesota’s frost felt like a distant memory. The next week and a half were simply described as “fun, relaxing, and too fast.” At Nassau, Charlotte and the ocean were basically inseparable, with swimming, tanning, boat rides, or simply walking – what was there not to do on those beaches?! Although the beaches were unforgettable, nothing could beat having a real life sea lion directly in her hands, or even swimming and playing with it. Milo, her sea lion, left memories of his friendly and lively nature that she will never forget. Soaking in the warm, tropical air one last time, Charlotte and her family boarded the cruise, saying their farewells to the Bahamas. Although leaving was bittersweet, and returning to school became a very real reality, it felt nice to get some much needed rest and sun.