2010: Top Spring Break destinations for the ultimate experience

After waiting eons for Spring Break to fall in line with the dozens of other universities in Georgia, I'm sure everyone is looking forward to a fun-filled, inexpensive excursion to a place where one can find a golden honey tan and a good margarita.  But after shelling out the big bucks for Valentine's Day, last Saturday's club night and determining the future of that St. Patty's Day celebration in Savannah, the coins could be limited.  No need to fear, if you book early, you can go to some of the top Spring Break destinations for less than you thought.  So where is everyone going?  What about cruising?  Should I just work instead?  We have all the answers and more.

Nassau, Bahamas

Reason to go: You could really use a tan, and because of the proximity of this destination as well as its reputation as a perfect tropical getaway, the cost of travel is significantly discounted.

Things to do:

Water Adventure

There are dozens of water sports and activities to engage in when you're so close to it.  Depending on what location you choose to lodge in when you're there, often the hotel will have lists of guided boat tours, scuba and snorkeling excursions offered by partnering companies.

Land Adventure

Travel to the dozens of islands that make up the Bahamas called The Out Islands.  If you're lucky enough, arrange a trip to look over The Exumas, which are said to be amongst the prettiest sites to see in the Bahamas.  Or you can visit Bimini for the best access to shallow-water sites for snorkelers and scuba divers.  You can also go fishing, kayaking and interact with the rich marine life that lives in the corals surrounding the island.  Of the more than ten islands that compose the Bahamas, your options are limitless.

Miami, Florida

Reason to go:  You can drive there from Atlanta in the time it would take to spend an entire day on campus.  Hook up the iPod and listen to that playlist you listen to in class when you're supposed to be taking notes, maybe even take that customary nap, but do it now while gas still isn't high.

Things to do:

Everglades

If you are going to be in Miami for an extended period of time, you should take a short trip outside of the city and head forty-five miles to Homestead, Florida.  There you have a chance to explore the 1.5 million acres of swamp, grass prairies and the abundant life that exists in the Florida Everglades. March is a great time to visit as the temperature is not unbearable and neither are the mosquitos.  It is also incredibly inexpensive to visit the Everglades as well as tour them.     

If you enter from the Homestead entrance, it's only $10 per car and $5 if you walk or ride your bike.  You can travel on foot, bike or boat either independently or through the use of a guided tour.  You can find information about these tours at the Royal Palm Visitor Center, located at the entrance of the park or if you wish to camp, you can find a spot about 7 miles away from the entrance at the Long Pine Key Campground. 

You can also go canoeing at the Flamingo Visitor Center, also located in the park at the end of the main road.  If you find yourself at the Shark Valley Visitor Center, which is north of Miami, you can receive discounted tickets to enter the park so $8 instead of $10.  You can also take guided tram tours at this location for $14.  Bring sunscreen, mosquito repellant and lots of water.

South Beach

If you've had enough of partying in Miami, take a quick hop and skip to South Beach to join the other Spring Breakers who decided to go there instead and experience another kind of party.  South Beach is known for its beautiful beaches, sizzling nightlife and exquisite shopping, kind of like Miami but in a different location and sometimes that is all you need. 

Miami MetroZoo

Because of Miami's excellent climate, Miami is able to house animals from all over the world in their zoo.  It is one of the few free range zoos in the country and all the exhibits are cageless.  There are over 300 acres of animal exhibit space but if you do not wish to walk you can rent two-or-four seat bicycle carriages.  For only $14 to enter you can see over 300 rare species of birds, endangered and exotic species of crocodiles and even a black rhino and for an extra $2 you can feed the giraffes.   Remember, it is not too often we get to experience all the beauties of nature confined to our concrete city dwellings.

Jamaica

Reason to go: It's Jamaica. 

Things to do:

Negril

The most important thing to remember as a non Patois speaking American is you should stay in Negril.  It's just smarter since Negril natives are used to the alternative lifestyles and rowdiness tourists tend to embrace on their vacation.  Not to mention you can visit the beach, for which Negril is famous.  Dine at Kuyaba and order the lobster, which is delicious or jump off the cliff at Rick's Café.  If you go during sunset  there is a guaranteed party, or stop by earlier for a quieter time.

Montego Bay/Martha Brae River

The likelihood of you landing in Montego Bay, Jamaica is high.  While you are there go bamboo rafting on the Martha Brae River.  Take the guided tour and an opportunity to relax as you listen to the sounds of the jungle while viewing the beautiful flora and fauna it has to offer.