Morgan Rose ElliottStudent life can be an endless grind. After a challenging semester, time-consuming lectures, and stressful exams, most students are exhausted and need to rest and recharge. Breaks help students reduce stress levels and be more productive.
Working hard eight weeks straight can take a toll on a young person. Time off is much needed, both for the body and mind. A week or two away from campus gives a chance to recuperate and reenergize, as well as focus on finishing the rest of the semester up successfully.
Whether you use this time break to make up for the loss of sleep, to connect with your family, or unwind on the beach, it is necessary to take some time to rest, reflect and recharge for the final part of the school year.
Cancun, Mexico
Cancun has a reputation as one of the most popular places to be during the spring break. It earned its popularity by being a reasonably priced, stunning tropical spot with an epic nightlife scene. Breathtaking beaches, the sparkling blue waters, great weather as well as awesome outdoor activities and amazing parties make for the ultimate spring break experience. Zip-lining, bungee jumping, snorkelling and boat trips are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Cancun’s wide range of activities.
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
This underrated and fast-growing spring break spot provides a perfect atmosphere for tired students looking to have fun and relax. Punta Cana has plenty of day tours and outdoor activities as well as a wide array of entertainment activities at night. Just imagine sunbathing on a white sand beach, with a tropical cocktail in your hand, while the only thing to think about is choosing between snorkelling, zip-line tours, pool parties, nightclubs and exclusive concerts by some of the A-list artists.
Negril, Jamaica
Famous for its iconic Seven Mile Beach, turquoise waters, breathtaking vistas, and a vibrant nightlife, Negril has a lot to offer to eager spring-breakers. The city provides a variety of activities such as water sports, cliff jumping, waterfall climbing, beach parties, and live Jamaican reggae, as well as superb local cuisine. When it comes to entertainment, there are day parties as well as a lot of clubs where you can dance the night away. Don’t miss out on Negril’s famous sunsets, and make sure to experience a sunset party cruise, which is a must when you’re in this place.
San Juan, Puerto Rico
San Juan is the fifth most popular spot on the Top International Spring Break Destinations for Americans according to an Allianz Global Assistance survey. What is it known for? Aside from the obvious – the beaches, if you want to party, you’ve come to the right place! A number of nightclubs, lounges, bars, salsa dancing and party boats (also known as “the floating nightclubs“) are a part of unique entertainment scenery.
The city is famous for its historic district and glorious views. It offers plenty of fun and recreational activities as well, such as snorkelling, kayaking night tours and tours of Casa Bacardi, San Juan’s world-famous distillery. What is great about San Juan is a myriad of budget-friendly hotels offering affordable deals. Flights are also relatively inexpensive. So, if you are travelling on a budget, then Puerto Rico is a great alternative. A passport is not necessary for U.S. citizens, which is a plus. All this is what makes “the Gateway to the Caribbean“ one of the most popular spring break destinations.
Nassau, Bahamas
Nassau is the capital of the Bahamas, located on the northeastern coast of New Providence Island. According to the U.S. Embassy, over 200,000 U.S. citizens, mainly teenagers and young adults, travel to this destination for the spring break every year. Nassau is known for its white, sandy beaches and the crystal blue waters. It is popular for scuba diving, snorkelling, and fishing.
This pleasure resort is also culturally diverse. As for entertainment, you can take your pick among numerous clubs, bars, and casinos, in which the legal drinking age is 18. Glass-bottomed boats for underwater sightseeing are spectacular too. You can see flamingos and rare tropical plants at the Ardastra Gardens and Zoo.
South Padre Island, Texas
A small island off the west coast of Texas with just over 5,000 residents, relatively quiet during the most of the year, transforms in a non-stop party destination during the spring break. It’s worth noting that drinking is allowed on this Texas beach. Also, the largest free beach concerts in the country are happening right here. If you prefer beach activities, there’s something for you too. Jet skiing, kiteboarding, and ecological tours are just a part of the diverse offer. A great way to bond with fellow students and enjoy new experiences is through exploring museums and lighthouses, as well as the rich sea life.
Alternative Spring Break Trips
Doing something meaningful during your time off can help you boost your resume and provide you with valuable experiences necessary for your personal growth. Engaging in volunteer projects is a great way to discover new abilities in yourself, embark on cultural exploration, visit amazing places and contribute to local communities worldwide.
Keeping It Fun & Safe
Let’s be honest – spring vacations are all about relaxing and letting yourself go. A couple of drinks can help you loosen up after a stressful period. But, always make sure to practice safe drinking, which also means that you should never drink and drive. Moderation is the key to being safe while having fun.
Spring break is the right time to be active and using safety gear such as seat belts or life jackets is a must. And one more thing – always practice safe sex! Nothing can bring you down more than worrying about having an STD after spending a great time with friends.