Mer’s spring break specials

As we settle into March and the warm weather approaches, students are undoubtedly ready for a much-needed spring break. Next week, our long-awaited daydreams about what we could be doing during a week-long break, instead of what we can afford, are finally a reality. I know most of us want to escape the cold for somewhere warm to relax and push away all the stress of school for a week. However, we probably cannot afford an all-inclusive vacation in the Bahamas. Below, I’ve listed some affordable things to do depending on where you’ll be this spring break.

If you are staying in Bozeman or traveling to nearby Idaho or Wyoming, you are probably in desperate need of a vacation that includes listening to your favorite throwback songs on a road trip. Especially if you are looking to go out and explore over spring break instead of sitting around. Yes, I know you already do that when you procrastinate on your homework, but we all know this is different. In Bozeman, you can take a nice hike up the ‘M’, grab dinner at the amazing restaurants on Main and head to Bozeman Hot Springs. With the recent snow, you can also hit the slopes at Big Sky or Bridger Bowl.

Or, you can pack your bags and head south. Utah's Zion National Park is a fantastic location for everything adventure. Ranked one of the most beautiful locations in the United States, it provides some amazing views and hikes. You can also check out Utah’s Arches National Park. However, be prepared for a five-hour drive between the two. Camping is available at both locations and offers you the chance to sleep with nature just outside the zipper of your tent that always seems to get stuck. Spring break is a perfect time to head down to explore these wanderlust parks since the average weather will be around 50 degrees Fahrenheit (heatwave right?), which is perfect for long hikes and beating the summer crowds. However, it’s important to note that some places may still have snow and could be inaccessible.

Or, are you one of the hundreds of students who are begging for more relaxation and/or hotter temperatures? Head to Oceanside Pier just outside San Diego. This is a great place to catch some amazing surf, stroll along the longest wooden over-water pier on the west coast, catch some rays on the beach, fish off the pier and enjoy some amazing local food right on the beach. You can also enjoy beach games, bonfires, kayaking or even paddle boarding. This is a great location with a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. If you’re looking for a great place to pull out the selfie stick and take a few daydream-worthy photos, you can certainly do that here. ( Quote)

Around Oceanside, the community also hosts many events including the dreamy and ever-growing flower fields that are open from the beginning of March until May, where you can enjoy bright colors and fresh smells for the perfect photo-op or a great place to picnic. Or, if you are desperate for an exciting but relaxing adventure, you can also catch the Western Surfing Championship tour on Saturday, March 19 and Sunday, March 20 live at the South Harbor Jetty in Oceanside. I know if I was there I would certainly be envious of the ability to surf a wave. You can find more information about events at https://visitoceanside.org/ where you, too, can see the exciting relaxation that awaits you. 

For those of you driving and in desperate need of a playlist, you’re in luck. I put my blood, sweat and tears into creating the best playlist for any spring break adventure.