I've been vacationing in Siesta Key, Florida for as long as I can remember. A barrier island off the coast of Sarasota, Siesta Key is a funky little beach town on the Gulf of Mexico. My family loves it here, and for good reason: Siesta Key is warm year-round, a convenient 2.5-hour direct flight from Toronto, and the beach was rated the best in North America in 2015 (the sand is 99% pure quartz!).

This Christmas, we forewent our usual holiday traditions to spend some quality family time in Siesta Key. After such a busy year, I am so grateful I had the opportunity to enjoy a week with no responsibilities. I read three great books (and exceeded my Goodreads Reading Challenge!); enjoyed memorable meals at Captain Curt’s, Clayton’s, and a Taste of Germany; explored Siesta Key Village and Downtown Sarasota; and successfully avoided my computer for the majority of my stay. All in all, a great way to spend the holidays. Happy New Year everyone!