Still Sprung on Spring Break?

Jacquelyn Watson
Delta Gamma

Winter quarter has just begun. South campus majors are coming up on their first round of midterms and the north end is preparing for impending papers. Yet, we all have one distinct and exciting event period highlighted in our planners: spring break 2012.  

Last year I went home to Sactown for spring break, enjoying a much-needed reprieve from Westwood madness.  As a first year, being home for Easter with my family was not only priceless, but also a necessary relaxation period before the craziness that is spring quarter.  And although the 9-1-6 sounds like a great, serene option for this year’s spring break, I’ve been sucked into the hype and am preparing and researching for an epic, unforgettable vacation.

Caught up in the sorority house banter and gossip, I have peeled through the girlish nonsense to determine the primary wants and desires for this year’s trip.  While the options all appear enticing, I will attempt to expose the drawbacks of our various rousing options, as well as their corresponding appeals.  So let us start our excellent journey (Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure anyone?).

Let's be real – Cabo is always a poppin’ destination.  Cabo San Lucas is situated at the far end of Baja California and is often a popular spot for college students across the nation.  It isn't hard to see why collegiate beach buffs flock to this paradise: a city stocked with good food, drinks and  activities.  With these considerations in mind, we must also consider the cons.  The US Department of State has linked more than 50 American deaths to random Mexican drug violence in the last few years.  Although Cabo is generally very safe to American tourists, it is not exempt from chance shootings, crime, etc.  Arriving by air rather than driving, and practicing safe behavior will likely ensure safe travels.  

Lake Havasu is a go-to as well. I’m booking a promising looking package to this hot spot. (houseboat anyone?).  Havasu has been a classic destination for the college world for decades.  The trek to Arizona is totally doable, so road trips are popular.  The nightlife, food, water activities and more make Lake Havasu appealing to, well, mostly everyone.  However, the spring break scene is a little 'cray.'  Hundreds, maybe thousands, of students from across the country bombard the Havasu beaches and resorts, so if you don’t like crowds and college nonsense, perhaps this isn’t your dream break location. 

Now let us consider Palm Springs.  Although we spend much of our time in LA — scratch that, every waking moment in LA — Palm Springs is a close, warm environment for some fun, lounging break time.  Many find Palm Springs a popular destination in light of its location and abundant sunshine.  If you are bypassing relaxing and going straight to outrageous, this could be your spot.  Since the early '90s, the college scene in the Springs has dwindled due to more exotic destinations in Mexico and abroad.  However, the city is spicing things up and has many pools, club and nighttime destinations to offer the adventurous desert-seekers.  Plus, it is also very affordable and accessible, making Palm Springs a top locale for spring break.

There is also, of course, Vegas.  Las Vegas is the quintessential target of college students for celebrations, outings and breaks.  Obviously the big issue here is age.  If you are not 21 you are precluded from most activities that would entail a successful spring vacation.  However, if you are 21 (and probably spent your 21st celebrating in the Sin City), you know how “memorable” these times can be.  Gambling, dancing, bars, restaurants, amazing shows and more mark this town as the hub of entertainment and mischievious activities.  It isn’t too far for a fun-filled road trip and you can get deals across the strip if you book your trip in advance.  There is always something to do in this city, and you will be thankful that whatever happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas.

Additional ideas for spring break include Lake Tahoe, the Bahamas, San Diego, New York and more.  The costs will naturally affect your vacation location.  If you book your trip early, pick cheaper hotels and split rooms with your friends, drive instead of fly and bring some of your own food and drinks to make your trip more manageable and affordable. 

Now with all this fun in mind, let us get back to reality, buckle down and plan to spend our study breaks fantasizing and booking trips for a much-deserved spring beak 2012.  I’m already feeling a little bit of that Arizona sunshine.

Jackie is a sophomore studying english. You may contact her at jackiewatson101@gmail.com.