The economy was not doing too well last year, so for many money is tight for any kind of vacation or travel in 2010. If you’re a student, money is usually tight anyway. Our spring break articles will focus on destinations that you can stay without spending a fortune.
Short Term Rentals vs. Hotels
If you’re taking a trip, these are your two main options for the most part. Each has its benefits and disadvantages.
- Short term rentals usually need to be booked weeks or months in advance, while hotels can be booked last minute (you may have to pay more though).
- A lot of hotels come with additional features like a swimming pool, room service, and concierge, among others. With rentals, you might get a couple amenities but you’re on your own.
- Hotel packages can be purchased with your flight tickets, which can save you some cash.
The Sunshine State
Typically, international travel will cost you a whole lot more compared to domestic travel. You might want to save your trip to Aruba, Bahamas, or Cancun for another year where your bank account is looking a little more flush. You still have another great option though – Florida. One great advantage is that you can drive there, provided you’re not too far away.
Florida’s Hot Spots
Besides figuring out your travel, you also need to know where to go. Here is a list of notable Florida beaches, courtesy of About.com:
- Panama City Beach – some consider it to be the “Spring Break Capital”, which is not too hard to believe with half a million spring breakers each year.
- Daytona Beach – famous for its sands, as well as the Daytona International Speedway. It’s about an hour away from Florida’s Disney World and Universal Orlando.
- Miami’s South Beach – it’s the hip place to be, yet not out of control (like some other spring break destinations).
- Orlando – this is a great spot if you’re bringing your family along. You’ve got Walt Disney World, Universal, and Sea World to check out, along with many other attractions.
Booking your flight
You’ll pay less for your flight if you book 6-8 weeks in advance or if you buy your ticket right before the flight takes off, provided there are spare seats left on the plane. Buying last second is probably not the best way to go. Also, you will usually save money by purchasing two way tickets. Don’t forget to check out any hotel discounts you might get with your flight.
Don’t do it alone
Spring break will be more fun and safe if you bring someone along with you. Plus you can split your rent and other living expenses with a partner. Remember, you can enjoy spring break without being summer broke.
Sources:
About.com: Florida Travel
Rentals can be expensive for students who run on a low budget. Their best option is to gather a group of students who are willing to take a break off from the routine University life. If they happen to pool in and gather a huge a group, they can get discounts on their fares and hotel rooms. I think one should travel as often as they get a chance to. Even road trips are fun, and stop overs at motels are a great option.