Christmas at Home – Mary Murphy
The Christmas season is upon us… carols, hot cocoa, presents, light shows and snow fill the air. Christmas time is often referred to as the most beautiful time of the year, thank you “Mistletoe” by Justin Bieber.
One common question that comes up when approaching the holiday season is: Are you traveling for Christmas? While it might be tempting to jump on a plane or drive hours and hours to see loved ones, there are so many reasons to sit back, relax, and enjoy the holiday at home.
First off, airports during Christmas are like a holiday special episode of Survivor. The lines are outrageous, tickets are so expensive, the risk of your flight being cancelled due to weather is super high, and don’t even get me started on overbooking. It is a holiday nightmare. There is a reason Kevin McCallister got lost in the airport.
Staying home on the other hand means no stressful queues, and no airport headaches. Not to mention, going somewhere tropical for Christmas should be a crime. Blissful peace is one of the best gifts you can get and you wont get it at the airport.
Arguably the best part about Christmas is all of the traditions. Having a Christmas tree, opening presents in your pjs, making a special breakfast, and even waking up in your own bed are all little miracles. While being at home, these traditions won’t be rushed and the feeling of nostalgia and peace will be present in everyone around.
Senior Sydney Wilson said, “I love staying home for the holidays because it reminds me of Christmas when I was little. Waking up in the morning to presents and hot chocolate was something I always looked forward to. If I was not at home for Christmas, it wouldn’t feel the same.”
Christmas isn’t about rushing around and trying to make it to every family gathering. Christmas is about seeing and connecting with the people that matter the most to you. Staying home for the holiday allows you to slow down and appreciate all the holiday season has to offer. It is a time to show your appreciation for your loved ones and trust in the spirit of Christmas. Christmas at home opens the door for tradition and connections. With all being said, Christmas at home is the best way to go.
I’ll Be Gone for Christmas – Camila Jackson
As Christmas break draws near, students and staff alike are counting down the days for some well-deserved time away from the pressures of school and daily life. Whether your plans involve traveling or enjoying the comforts of home, there’s something special about embracing the holidays. Personally, I believe traveling offers a far better experience than staying at home.
Traveling opens the door to discovering new places, cultures, and activities, creating holiday memories that will last a lifetime. If you go abroad, you’ll see ways each country celebrates Christmas, giving you a new perspective into holiday traditions.
Wandering through the Christmas markets of Germany, Japan’s light displays, or the beaches in Australia can deepen your appreciation for the season’s global significance. These experiences can inspire you to add new traditions into your own holiday celebrations or just have a better understanding of others’ traditions.
The holiday break often presents one of the rare opportunities to truly disconnect from our everyday lives. For me, traveling is the ultimate way to recharge because it shifts my perspective and revitalizes both my body and mind. In a new environment, stress melts away, allowing me to return home refreshed and re-energized.
In contrast, staying at home typically feels like going through the same routine, just without the usual responsibilities, which may not provide a refreshing change.
Moreover, traveling strengthens the bonds with family and friends. Exploring a new destination, hiking trails, or trying local cuisines together creates deeper connections and experiences. These moments create lasting memories that are often harder to make when everyone is at home, preoccupied with daily distractions.
Sophomore, Yackie Castro said, “I think traveling is a lot better than staying home because at home there just isn’t a lot you can do and honestly it can be a bit boring because it just feels like experiencing that full break.”
Traveling during the holidays is more than just a break; it’s a chance to deepen relationships, absorb new traditions, and rejuvenate your spirit for the coming year. While the comforts of home can be appealing, the adventures that travel brings offer experiences and memories that truly make the holidays extraordinary.
