It's nothing like New York, but it's all about family! There is no question about it: for the biggest Thanksgiving event in the country, head to New York City for its annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. If you can't make it to the city, Mom used to say, ?sit down and you will see the arrival of Santa Claus on TV.?

That still hasn't changed. The old turkey day gets off to a traditional start watching thousands of Macy employees and volunteers begin their march down Broadway. It's a fantastical procession filled with colorful floats, marching bands, and at least a dozen giant helium balloons'to the delight of the millions of spectators that turn out or tune in to watch. Every race, color, ethic nationality celebrates this American traditional Thanksgiving. Mom keeps basting the turkey but stays attentive to the spectacle on television. This is one America's pure moments to share year in and year out, either live or by television, with family and friends alike who come to visit.

That was there and here is now. While we still visit the TV on Thanksgiving mornings, we're in South Carolina and there are plenty of other things to do on a beautiful fall day, especially on Hilton Head.

How would you like to be fishing, golfing, taking in a spa treatment before filling up on the big Thanksgiving feast or strolling down the beach? A Thanksgiving getaway to Hilton Head sure beats the usual family tradition (once in a while). The island is located about 30 miles from Savannah and about 100 miles south of Charleston, with first class resorts and spas, world-class dining, and miles of sandy beaches to walk and maybe get a late fall tan. Fishing and golf in Hilton Head are major draws, and a multitude of championship courses including the world renowned Harbour Town golf links will easily tempt you away from watching holiday football.

If you want to stay in a vacation house for this special family event, there are some of the most beautiful homes available right on the beach. So if you're hoping to spend Thanksgiving somewhere a little more low-key, where you can sit back and relax, Hilton Head Island is your place to be for an easy-paced yet memorable Thanksgiving.

Hilton Head Island has a timeless feel; it didn't even have electricity until 1951, and its second golf club wasn't opened until 1967. Now, with more than 30 golf courses and countless tennis courts, it's a vacation destination for the sports nut.

All in all, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina is one of the most beautiful places in the world to visit and explore. A stressless time getting here will assure you the best vacation for the entire family to enjoy. So get prepared, then relax and get into the vacation mode.

But whether you gather in New York, South Carolina, or wherever in America, Thanksgiving promises a feast prominently featuring turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes and plenty to drink and share in good holiday cheer and thank one another for being family and that's what life is truly all about.