| Spring break is a week-long recess from studying in early spring at universities in the United States. It is
traditionally a time when students travel to a tropical location and party hard for a week. Recently, many students have begun
traveling to other countries, such as Mexico and Jamaica. There's often unusual things going on: increased drinking
and sexuality, or public nudity.
Spring break ranges from the end of February to mid-April, but most schools are out the first two weeks of March. Starting in
September, leading spring break companies such as, Trip Invite (http://www.tripinvite.com/springbreak) go to campuses to promote trips for the coming spring
break.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida was once a notorious
spring break destination in the United States. Residents of the area
became so upset at the damage done by vacationers, however, that the local government passed laws restricting parties. Spring
break partygoers responded by moving to the much more liberal Daytona Beach area. Fort Lauderdale suffered a recession as a result of the self-imposed boycott, but the local
hotel industry survived by catering to the retirement population.
The most popular spring break spots today include Cancun, Jamaica, Acapulco, South Padre Island, and Panama Beach. About 1,000,000 students go on spring break to these locations (USA Today, 2003-01-05). Most students purchase specialized packaged tours.
There are several logistics companies that charter airplanes and buy large blocks of hotel rooms to offer the deep discounts most
college kids need. Prices range from about $600 to $1400 which includes airfare, hotel, and 50 hours of open bar.
Alternative Spring Break trips are becoming more popular. For the more socially-conscious student, package trips are available
to help people in poor countries, experience nature, and other "non-partying" activities.
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