Temperatures are quickly rising and the smell of sunscreen is becoming more and more apparent. It is that inevitable time of year again when students start emerging from their college towns for a Spring Break adventure.
The destination options are endless -- California, Florida, even Europe. But one trip seems to stand out above the rest -- a cruise. Who would not want to spend days on a boat avoiding reality, while having the opportunity to visit multiple tropical islands? Okay, some people wouldn't -- but I did.
It is a crazy concept to have little to no contact with those on shore. Everything below is entirely unknown. I was engulfed in darkness whenever I walked out on the deck at night and it was the most exhilarating feeling. Being on a cruise keeps everyone on a schedule, but it can also be personally spontaneous. I felt extremely carefree, which is far from my norm.
The first time I went on a cruise I was in fifth grade and was with my family. This second time around was obviously different. Going on a cruise ship with friends is like a huge party. I had no choice but to come into contact and converse with complete strangers. Luckily the company of the people I was forced to sit with every night at dinner were more than tolerable.
To fulfill the partying expectations, I was one of the spring breakers who decided to throw some more cash to my cruise line by purchasing the alcohol drink package. Finding a favorite bartender is key... and by favorite, I mean the one that is going to regularly give a more generous pour.
The constant rocking back and forth was not bothersome for myself, but if anyone is at all prone to getting seasick, a cruise may not be the most enjoyable. The hangover from that drink package is most likely going to feel a lot worse. The movement is impossible to escape, even after stopping at ports. In other words, the vodka sodas are not the only reason it was difficult to walk in a straight line.
Nothing is actually free. But no matter how much money I spent, in a weird way it never really seemed like I was spending any money. This is such a relief after blowing hundreds of dollars. The wifi costs at least $5 per day and am proud to say I did not buy it even though I have somewhat of an addiction. I would probably text people I shouldn't and be frustrated that it only partially worked.
Cruises are a convenient vacation. The food is unlimited. If I want to eat a pizza and 24 soft serve ice cream cones at 3 a.m., I could. If I need a drink, I lounge in a chair until someone asks what I would like.
A cruise is not the type of vacation that a sane person could handle every few months. However, I think they are the perfect getaway for a group of young adults, especially college students who want to go all out.
I lost money, gained pounds, and would not have done my Spring Break any differently.
