Senior Spring Break in Light of COVID-19

Elana Berger was looking forward to spending spring break on Key Biscayne with her grandparents this year before the outbreak of COVID-19 (Key News via Elana Berger)

BY: ELANA BERGER

This was supposed to be THE Senior Spring break of a lifetime. My friend and I were ecstatic to swap the dreariness of Indiana for the paradise that is Key Biscayne. We were ready to cheer on the Miami Heat at a couple of games with my grandparents, to fill our bellies with exotic flavors from around the world, and to show off our model sides at Wynwood Walls! But, as you probably expected, the CoronaVirus Pandemic had other ideas. The beaches and pools were promptly closed and there were strict regulations on all restaurants and public buildings.

Elana and her friend who had been looking forward to the spring in Key Biscayne (Key News via Elana Berger)

Our Senior Spring break had become, “Who can play the Social Distancing Game best” break… and you know what, we decided to strive for M.V.P.’s. So, here are a few tips and tricks from two high school seniors’ Ultimate Corona-Cation Playbook! 

One:

Get some fresh air into your lungs and sun on your skin by relaxing on a balcony or porch, taking walks, or riding bicycles. 

Two:

Tackle that project you have been putting off for far too long or have a water hose party while cleaning your car or golf cart! (Remember, the better the music playlist, the better the atmosphere). 

Three:

We were lucky to be able to get into Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park right before it closed and it is THE MOVE! We got our steps in by hiking the nature trails full of shady trees and wildlife and the scenic trail that parallels the ocean. The experience gave us a breathtaking view of sailboats, Stiltsville homes, and the open sky. Until it opens for your journey, explore the Island for some of the nicks and crannies that will give you the same pleasure. Keep a journal and share with others.

Four:

Don’t forget to take a little break from cooking and order out meals from restaurants instead (sweets such as gelato, ice cream, and baked goods are included in this as well). I promise, this will bring some excitement to your taste buds and will help out local business owners as well.  

Five:

Use Zoom Conference calls, Social Media platforms, and technology to your advantage. During a time of so many unknowns for all of us, I have found that reaching out to family and friends for support is essential to maintain a positive spirit. In addition, just because things are closed does NOT mean you have to lose your creativity! My friend and I saw beautiful flowers on the side of Ocean Lane Drive and decided we could still show off our model sides! Who needs the Wynwood Walls anyway, when you can have the draw of Key Biscayne.