Entries about break

I leave Saturday to visit my last Central American country: Nicaragua. Spring break starts Friday once school let's out, and once again, I'm heading overseas. I plan on seeing volcanoes, zip lining through jungle canopies, checking out mountain lakes, pre-Columbian history, and more! The weather is supposed to be in the 90s all week, so this should be the perfect antidote to a long, cold winter.

As usual, I encourage you to follow my travels and pass along my blog to others who might be interested...thanks!

-- worldwidemike

Okay, so I know most Spring Breakers head to sunny climes, like the beaches of Florida or even the Caribbean. And I know that by March most people are fed up with the cold and snow - at least people from Ohio, like me. However, I have been wanting to visit Iceland for more than a decade. And when Jenny and I saw a package including 6-nights hotel and airfare for around $600, we couldn't resist. Sure, there will be things I won't be able to do that I could if I visited in summer. It'll be cold there, but usually no worse than the Midwest of the United States. The Gulf Stream current warms Iceland though its tip touches the Arctic Circle. Add to that the possibility that I might see something I wouldn't be able to if I visited in summer: the northern lights,or aurora borealis. I have been dreaming of seeing those most of my life. One vacation in northern Michigan I went out late several clear nights, hoping to spot them. So far, no luck. Iceland is smack in the middle of the swath where they are most visible, though. With luck and clear nights, I may finally attain that goal.

So, that is only one of the reasons I'm heading to Iceland. I have always been fascinated by Viking history, and Iceland is a living museum of it. Toss in natural wonders like glaciers, waterfalls and geysers, and the lures outweigh the negatives of a nippy spring break in the far north. I leave in 3 days, so look for my updates once again. I hope to have some great stories and photos for readers, soon. Until then, cross your fingers for clear nights and bright northern lights...!