Summertime for college students usually consists of internships, summer classes, study abroad programs, or a job. After two long semesters of college, the aforementioned summer experiences are great, but a vacation is also much needed. It can be hard traveling big with small pockets. As college students, we have school expenses and necessities that can take a toll on our pockets. While paying tuition, taking a vacation usually is not one of the first things that comes to mind because it is seen as another expense. But a vacation does not have to be extremely expensive. It should be seen as a necessity before the start of another stressful school year. During the summer is the time when students should take advantage of traveling. A study done by the Applied Research in Quality of Life showed that the largest boost of happiness comes from the simple act of planning a vacation. The study also confirmed that the effect of anticipating a vacation can boost in one's happiness for as long as eight weeks.
Two months of fluctuated happiness can make or break students who are starting a new school year. College is fun, tons of fun, but everyone needs a getaway from their regular day-to-day life. In fact, I just came back from Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, where I spent my time on a beautiful resort with no worries. Last year, after my school year came to a close, I went to Nassau, Bahamas. These trips made me realize how necessary a getaway is after those long, sleepless nights in school. So, here are five less expensive destinations to consider for your next vacation!
1. Cancun, Mexico.
Cancun is the definition of late nights and early mornings, from clubs like Copacabana until 6 a.m. to drinks on clear water beaches at 9 a.m. I visited Cancun in March 2014, and it was the best vacation that I have ever had. Did I mention that 18 is the legal drinking age in Mexico? There are also all-inclusive resorts in Cancun, as well as resorts where you can pay for your own drinks/food. Regardless of the steps you take in choosing a resort, for less than $1,000, a week trip can be made to Cancun and you are bound to have the time of your life.
2. A seven day cruise.
With a cruise, you may experience multiple islands, unlimited food and drinks, captain dinners, dressing to impress – what is not to love about that? There are cruises that go to just one island and others that go to many islands. Carnival cruises are popular and oftentimes they are not too pricey. The best part of a cruise is that sometimes it is possible to have two vacations in one because the ships leave from various ports including New York, Maryland and Florida. For a few hundred dollars, a cruise is the ultimate journey for you and your college crew during summer break.
3. Key West, Florida.
Everyone thinks of Florida and automatically thinks of Miami and Orlando, the state's main attractions. However, Key West is a city in Florida that has a relaxing atmosphere and great prices for student getaways. For less than $1,000, you can experience a great getaway at Key West and try one of their awesome excursions that include snorkeling, swimming with dolphins, and scuba diving. These excursions are popular at many vacation spots, but it is why Key West is most popular. So, be adventurous and enjoy the atmosphere of a less popular, but just as entertaining, city in Florida.
4. San Juan, Puerto Rico.
It is the home of the Bacardi factory and drool-dripping food. San Juan, Puerto Rico is the ultimate vacation spot for an inexpensive getaway. For students without a passport that want an exotic, non-American experience, this is a perfect location. I visited Puerto Rico in August 2010 and although I was not legal there, I still had an amazing time. There are not many clubs in San Juan, but there are several bars, beach parties, and historical landmarks that make for a memorable vacation.
5. Ocean City, Maryland.
Maryland may be close to home for many on the East Coast, and it is a great destination for those on a budget who still want to relax from everyday life. Ocean City also has fun attractions including an amusement park, so if you and your friends are into roller coasters during the day and restaurant/bars at night, this is your location. Ocean City is another city that can be visited for a couple of hundred dollars and offers the same relaxation and happiness as other expensive locations.
While you still have time, take a break from everyday life this summer and go out on an excursion. Visit somewhere new and really live up what's supposed to be “the best years of your life."
