The Philadelphia region has been hit with all sorts of wintery weather this season, like snow, sleet and, my favorite, freezing rain. The gray, gloomy sky lingers each day.

Once I found out Global Traveler was hosting its 22nd Annual GT Tested Reader Survey awards in Coral Gables, Florida, I immediately yanked my suitcase out from the basement and started packing my summer clothes.

Ditching the gray and cold, I headed to Florida a week or so early to spend some much-needed time with my close friend, Maddie, who lives in Boca Raton.

We spent the week doing what we do best: living our best lives lounging on the beach and playing mermaids in the ocean. Maddie lives in a prime location (directly across from the beach), so we had easy access for early sunrises (that we never made it to) and each night’s sunset.

Look how blue the water is!

Simple, peaceful and warm, our fun in the sun was exactly what I needed to feel rejuvenated coming from the Philadelphia tundra.

I think it’s time I book my next trip to Florida … .

Miss you, Maddie!

— Emily Gladu, administrative & events coordinator