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Exploring Spring Break Options

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Maryland chapter.

Nothing beats the cold weather like fantasizing about spring break plans; getting the chance to get away from the realities of school and work for a week seems ideal. But what we consider as “taking a vacation” can be different for everyone; that’s why I’m here to help! I will uncover different spring break options so whether you are looking for a wild party, or a trip that allows you to give back to a community, there is something for everyone.

Typically when we think of Spring Break, we think of MTV filming wild concerts while girls in bikinis dance around on the beach. To some, having a wild spring break trip like this might be ideal. If this is the case, I would suggest checking out http://www.studentcity.com/. They offer trips like this, which are full of fun in the sun and constant parties at local beaches, bars and clubs and provide such opportunities through various party packages.

As someone who has first hand experience traveling with Student City, they are very reliable and their packages are typically all-inclusive which makes for a much more stress-free spring break vacation experience. Among their top destination spots are Cancun, Mexico; Panama City, Fl.; I traveled to Acapulco, Mexico with them. It was truly an unforgettable spring break experience and one that I would recommend to anyone who loves having a good time, and dancing the night away.

If a crazy trip isn’t really what you consider an ideal spring break, there are many other options that can fulfill the desire to enjoy break in different ways. In fact, right here at Maryland, the Adele H. Stamp Student Union-Center for Campus Life sponsors a bunch of alternative spring break trips. These trips are free from substance use and instead feature a community service-learning trip that focuses on helping mediate social issues in various locations.

These trips during university breaks, range from national projects like in Florida and New Orleans, to trips outside of the U.S. like outreach in the Bahamas or helping rebuild Haiti. It is important to note however, that there are many requirements and preparation work that needs to be completed in order to attend UMD’s Alternative Break trips so I would highly suggest visiting http://thestamp.umd.edu/lcsl/involvement/alternative_breaks/ for more information.

Finally, if you want to go a more economic route (if you’re are a broke college student, like so many of us are!) planning a road trip with friends can be another awesome way to spend break. Taking the approach, its not where you go, but who you go with, grab your closest friends and plan out a trip to see some sites you have never been to before, even if you only go through a few states.

Also, splitting gas and motel costs will be cheaper the more people you go with, so try and recruit as many friends as possible. Also, after a few days of motel fees, things can begin to get a little pricey. Plan to stop in a state that has campgrounds and camp out for a night or two.

I guarantee that you will have just as much fun hanging out with friends around a campfire as you would anywhere else. Although road trips may take a little extra planning, and some serious i-Pod playlists, spending time with friends exploring new places is a great way to spend spring break and save a few bucks.

Hopefully I have provided you with some great spring break options to explore either by yourself or with your friends. Remember, break is a time to unwind from the daily grind of school and do something that really makes you happy. Regardless of which avenue you choose, pick something that appeals to you and go for it!