Ever wonder how people your age go on vacation to the Bahamas or Mexico? Some would say money, others would say family relations, but my only explanation is that they are lucky as h-e-double hockey sticks.
If you're one of those students who has worked his or her butt off for the vacation in the Bahamas or Mexico, then I applaud you. Because that is a vacation is well-earned.
For the students that pay out of pocket for supplies, tuition, etc., it's baffling that other students can take the time off of work for a week and take a plane somewhere. We scroll through the photos on Facebook and see all of the drunk tweets, and we think, "In my dreams."
But it doesn't have to suck, you just have to know where to go, what to do, and how long you can be there for. In reality, going to the places on this list can be expensive, but only if you let yourself spend the money. Budget yourself!
Treat yourself. Not necessarily by taking a week off a work, but maybe just a day or two, in order to relax and renew your motivation.
Majority of the funding from these trips would be for gas. And for those who can't take a week off of work, these trips only need to last a weekend.
Check out these Michigan destinations for the broke college student:
1. Grand Haven
The drive is far for the students in the southeast, but for students in west Michigan, the drive is a breeze. On this vacation, the destination is exploration. It doesn't cost a thing to explore the sand dunes, walk on the beach or explore the downtown area. The hotels in the surrounding cities are affordable and decent. But, let's be honest, you'll spend the most time in your hotel room when you're asleep.
2. Grand Rapids
Just 40 minutes shorter of a drive than to Grand Haven, Grand Rapids is a great destination for city exploring, bars, and local entertainment. This up and coming city is more expensive to lodge in, so staying in a hotel in a surrounding city is worth the commute.
3. Pine Knob
It's never too late to learn how to ski or snowboard! And if not, riding the ski lift can be just as fun as a roller coaster. If the snow has yet to melt, then this would be a great destination to go with a group of friends to. Or even a romantic date. If your date is ready for you to fall on your butt all weekend. Rates are higher than we may like, but southeast college students will not pay as much for gas. Plus, we all know it's cheaper than the Bahamas.
4. Frankenmuth
Hallo frühling brechen or hello spring break! Fudge, taffy and a mirror maze!? What a deal. Frankenmuth is a town full of cheap fun, if you know where to find it! Budget well, don't spend all of your money on fudge!
5. Tahquamenon Falls State Park
You may fill up your gas tank a couple of times before arriving at this destination. But, again, that'll be where most of your budget lies. The park is free to roam in, and frozen waters are most definitely a sight to see. Bundle up before you head out on your adventure!
6. Downtown Detroit, more specifically Campus Martius
Detroit is a beautiful city in the winter. The park is open year round, but it's best to go in the winter for the ice skating experience. The rink is overflowing with gorgeous lights, smiling faces and smooth skating. Luckily, Detroit isn't too much of a drive for southeast Michigan students, but it's definitely worth the drive for students anywhere else in Michigan.
7. Muskegon Winter Sports Complex
Ever tubed down an Olympic luge track? Now's your chance to try. Hotels in Muskegon are generally cheap, as are surrounding cities' hotels. Venture out into the cold, pure Michigan air and luge down an 850 foot track designed by a United States Olympian Frank Masley! And the rates are cheaper than 2 pints of Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream.
8. Ice Fishing in the Great Lakes
Our Great Lakes are convenient for great ice fishing!
9. Pictured Rocks
Most people go to see these beauties in the summer. They are just as gorgeous (if not more) in the winter. The waves are ferocious and the views are breathtaking. Lodging is inexpensive.
10. Traverse City
Cheap bars, free views and trails, galore!
