Every summer, my family and I visit Marco Island, a barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico right off of southwest Florida. This small island is why I look forward to my summer vacation. For as long as I can remember, my family and I have been going there every year for a week-long vacation. The sandy white beaches and clear blue waters are what we enjoy to the max while there. This place is very special to us — it not only has become a yearly tradition for us, but it is a place that holds many precious memories.

My parents used to visit with my grandparents when they first started dating and they enjoy telling us stories of the old days. Bike rides through the town and sunset walks on the beach are some of the many things we enjoy doing while we vacation here. Every year, the island never fails to surprise us with new things and fun memories. This year we discovered a new restaurant. It's a little hole-in-the-wall called La Cuisine: Peruvian Restaurant. It is located about a 15-minute drive into Naples from Marco Island and it is definitely worth the drive. The place is small, but cozy, with a friendly and inviting atmosphere. The owners cook while a friendly waitress attends to your needs. I highly recommend this restaurant. The service was exceptional, the food absolutely delicious and the portions were hefty. It is affordable and everything is homemade. My family had an amazing experience and we can't wait to go back. We also enjoy visiting our regular favorite, Joey's Pizza & Pasta House. As you can tell by the name, they are known for their Italian cuisine and specialties in pizza and pasta. They offer traditional pizza toppings as well as chicken alfredo and make your own pizza. Their staff is always friendly and very helpful. What I like most about this place though, is the dessert. My favorite dessert to order is the cannoli — a shell filled with a mascarpone cream and chocolate chips garnished with chocolate sauce. I have so many fond memories of the many times we have come year and I can't wait to go back.

Memories, traditions and family are what makes my summer so memorable. As I grow older I have come to appreciate the small things in life. So for me, it doesn’t matter what I do or where I go, as long as I am with my family and loved ones, there's no place I'd rather be.