The Monday morning after spring break is always one of the toughest to face, characterized by an abundance of sunburnt skin, tired eyes and very low morale. With just around six weeks left in the semester, and no more breaks in sight, forcing yourself out of bed for that 8 a.m. seems next to impossible. This being said, one of the best things about the Monday following spring break is hearing everyone’s spring break tales – the classic beachy getaways to the staycations. This year, I noticed a wide variety of spring break trips, and came to the conclusion that laying on a beach for a week straight while relaxing isn’t the only way to make the most of spring break.
Cities
Be it San Francisco, New York, New Orleans, Boston, Las Vegas or Chicago, city destinations are on the rise for spring breakers. The United States has a wealth of vibrant and entertaining cities that make the perfect location for a week-long getaway. Museums, shows, shopping malls, fantastic food and unique history await vacationers who are adventurous enough to tackle a city over spring break.
Cruises
While I myself am prone to seasickness and thus not the biggest fan of a floating vacation on a cruise ship, these luxury liners do a great job of providing endless activities for spring breakers. Ice cream shops, water slides, sport courts and musical performances abound on Royal Caribbean, Carnival and Disney cruise liners. The best part is it’s almost like two or three vacations in one depending on what and how many docks you port at.
Europe
While it might be hard to explore an entire European city, country or region over the time allotted for our spring break, it’s hard for me to advise against it. You can hardly go wrong vacationing anywhere in Europe – every country challenges its vacationers with a new language, never before seen food, and a very different history than we experience in the States. For those who are able, visiting Europe is a bucket list must even if that implies a ten hour-long flight.
Mission Trips
Every year I applaud and admire those students who sacrifice their vacation time to serve in places of need around the world, as these trips are the most rewarding of all. Whether it be an impoverished area in the United States or somewhere south of the border or overseas, no vacation compares to the impact of helping others. It’s amazing to observe the selflessness and generosity of those who continue to serve others year after year on their spring break time.
So, while the classic beach getaway in Florida may seem appealing at first, there are a variety of other options awaiting those who seek a change. So next winter when you’re planning your spring break 2018 trip, think outside your comfort zone and think of venturing beyond the beaches of Florida.