Cabo with the girlfriend? Miami Beach with the boys? Euro trip? While these are common spring break options that many of us consider when planning that ‘epic’ week of salvation from our studies, this post is all about spring breakin’ it alternatively. These are ‘off the beaten path’ ideas if you will, and while it can be fun to get caught up in the mobs of people invading beaches everywhere, maybe you’re looking for something fresh and new:
1.) The ‘Stay-cation’ – While most locals are sometimes bothered by the visiting tourists, actually taking on the role of tourist within your own city can really open you up to a few sides of it you never knew existed. The whole idea hinges on only trying new things throughout the whole week; that means new restaurants, new entertainment, new company, and finally crossing a few activities off that mental bucket-list we all for things we really should try yet never seem to have the time to in the hustle and bustle of ‘everyday life.’ Go to the zoo, take a guided tour with all the other ‘real’ tourists, or wander through a neighborhood you’ve largely ignored. It’s an awesome way to learn more about the variety one’s city has to offer, and since you don’t have expensive airfare and accommodations to worry about, you can splurge elsewhere and not feel too guilty about it all. If you really wanna embrace the stay-cation, break out those Hawaiian shirts and ‘I’m lost’ facial impressions and you’ll be surprised to find how quickly perceptions of you shift from the trendy local to the clueless tourist (it’s fun, I promise).
2.) Get Outta Dodge With Service – If you don’t have a bunch of cash to blow during break yet still want to get away for the week, you might want to consider some sort of humanitarian service option. Churches, non profits, and community organizations are often looking for any additional support, and they sometimes venture to some pretty unique, attractive locations serving some pretty compelling missions. Depending on what you find given your timing, you can have the opportunity to provide disaster relief, help feed and clothe the homeless, or build homes for those in need. Not only will you get to travel somewhere new, but you’ll also feel fulfilled by your contributions and selflessness. Other perks include meeting a group of like-minded individuals and usually having most of your travel expenses covered (or at least subsidized).
3.) Hone in on a Hobby – While this option doesn’t involve any traveling, it can provide you with a much-needed break from your monotonous routine. I don’t know about you, but I have quite an extensive list of things I’d love to do if only I ‘had more time.’ For me starting a music blog and learning how to play the piano top my list, and while I don’t think I’d be able to build an explosive blog following or accompany Elton John on stage in his next show in a week, but a full, uninterrupted week of dedication would give me a promising start. It’s a great option for those of us who need to take a deep breath and slow things down for once rather than sprinting blindly 100% of the time. If you really end up tapping into one of your passions during this week, you’ll reap the benefits for much longer than any alcohol you might absorb during a ‘typical’ spring break vacation.
I hope I’ve sparked some creative inspiration for you when it comes to your spring break plans this year. It definitely takes a little more spontaneity and planning on your part to make these things happen, but you’ll be handsomely rewarded with memories and experiences rather than a beer belly and awkward tan lines.
Photo by colebees8.
