Amy Bertrand, St. Louis Post-Dispatch, March 12, 2012
I made the mistake of booking a Caribbean cruise during March two years ago. Loud spring breakers running through the halls, sleeping on the lounge chairs so it was impossible to get one and heckling performers during shows did nothing to endear them to me.
Lets Fly Cheaper offers business and family travelers five easy tips to avoid Spring Break revelers for those who prefer a more businesslike or family atmosphere.
1. Fly business class or first class. The single best way to avoid contact with traveling students is with a physical divider. College students, especially those on package tours, fly economy class. The upcoming weeks - through the beginning of April - are an ideal time to "spring" for an upgrade.
2. Fly midweek. The best flying days are always Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Official Spring Break schedules run Monday through Friday. In general, students will try to fly into their Spring Break destination on a Thursday or a Friday. Schedule permitting, it's wise to travel in the middle of the week.
3. Fly early or late. The best time to fly - always - is early in the morning or late at night. Seasoned business travelers routinely take the earliest flight of the day. The red-eye is another good option, and not necessarily just for long flights.
4. Know the schedule. By this Lets Fly Cheaper means know the local students' Spring Break schedule and plan around it.
5. Avoid Spring Break cities. "Our final tip is somewhat counterintuitive: If you don't want to be around lots of wild college students, don't go to their party," notes Ramon van Meer, Lets Fly Cheaper marketing director. "Most people know that Florida and Mexico cities historically attract the most Spring Break action. They may be in for an unwelcome surprise if their March or April travels take them to any of these top 2012 Spring Break destinations," says van Meer.
Top 2012 Spring Break Destinations for Students
Cancun, Mexico
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Acapulco, Mexico
Panama City, Florida
Daytona Beach, Florida
Miami, Florida
Nassau, Bahamas
Negril, Jamaica
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
South Padre Island, Texas
Las Vegas, Nevada
