Spring break has been a US tradition since an iconic swimming event in 1933. At this time of year, thousands of people, often young people and students, take vacations to coincide with various springtime holidays including Easter. There is a heavy emphasis on partying and socialising.
Popularised by film and TV, and international schools and universities around the world, the custom has spread. This year’s season has already begun, with some US universities off since early March and others not expected to return to work and study until 6 April. But with so many people seeking a break at once at this time of year, where are the best destinations to head for?
Texas
South Padre Island is a spring break hot spot thanks to its reliable warm weather and huge offering of bars, concerts, DJs and live events, parties, and restaurants. A resort town fanning out along 34 miles (55 km) of Texas’s Gulf Coast.
Florida
Miami is popular thanks to its climate and its party scene. South Beach (or affectionately, “SoBe”) in particular hosts an array of events to appeal to springbreakers, surrounded by golden sands and swaying palm trees. Another party place is Fort Lauderdale, with a baking climate and miles of hotels along the coast attracting beach bums and water sports fans. For those who prefer to get into nature, Everglades National Park, the largest subtropical wilderness in the US, is not far.
Mexico
Despite travel warnings urging caution due to high crime levels and lack of access to healthcare and legal support, Mexico remains America’s favourite spring break destination. Cancún is a well-known Pacific coast party resort, particularly Puerto Vallarta. Another popular choice is Playa del Carmen, (or just “Playa” for short) on the Caribbean, offering year-round sun, white sand, aquamarine seas, shopping, clubbing and restaurants.
Elsewhere
Those looking to get away from the spring break madness, might turn to European destinations – but for those seeking to replicate the season’s social holiday vibe, Alicante in Spain is holding a late spring festival, from 31 May to 1 June. And for island culture and legendary nightlife, Ibiza is unmissable. Pachá is one of the world’s most iconic clubs, but you don’t have to go there to discover the island’s party scene, with DJs and pool parties galore at every resort.
If looking further afield for spring break inspiration, bear in mind that different countries have different calendars and seasons. Kuwait’s season is done with by early February. In Germany, universities enjoy between five and eight weeks off at this time of year. Meanwhile, in the Czech Republic and in Belgium, school authorities have begun staggering their one-week break across different communities, in an attempt to tackle crowding and overtourism.
