Hottest Destinations for Spring Break

By Nicole Wowchuck

One thing most college students have in common is looking forward to spring break. Raritan Valley’s spring break schedule extends from March 12 through 17. With two weekends, this allows for a nine-day, eight-night break.

Some students need the time to get things done that they can not do while consumed by school. Some look forward to vacations and time away from home. Student Juliana Jones went to the Bahamas last year. This year she will be spending spring break in Florida. “Florida will never be the same.”

If you leave the country make sure that you have a valid passport. Many laws changed in January. Even the smallest amount of traveling may require a passport. Check with the airline. Passports take about 4-6 weeks to complete; although for an extra charge they can rush them for a 48 hour delivery.

Cancun is the number one college getaway (see box). It has over 3 million visitors a year. Depending on your budget it can be a lavish place to vacation. Hotels can be as low as $40 a night. Camping on the beach for free or in some places $3 a night, is a way to save a lot of money. Buying food from local venders is more cost efficient than going out to restaurants and is a good choice for someone on a tight budget.

The greatest expense is airfare, about $465 round trip. With some research, one can often find student discounts.

Sidestep.com and About.com are some of the travel sites that cater to students and their needs. They also offer package deals that include hotel, flights and car rentals.

Another choice is to visit a US territory where a passport is not needed, such as Puerto Rico.

Rounding out the list is Puerto Rico. The drinking age is 18. That alone might be enough for the younger crowd to be drawn to the beautiful island.

Whether Cancun or Puerto Rico or somewhere in between, you can not possibly go wrong in your choice of destination when you are spending spring break with your friends.

Remember your college years are not just for learning more facts and keeping your nose in books, it is also about finding out who you are and experiencing life to the fullest. So get out there and see places and do things to expand your knowledge and awareness. Most importantly have fun but be safe.