The yearly collegiate tradition of Spring Break is almost upon us. Co-eds are packing bathing suits and sun block, preparing to lie in the sun on a beach in Florida, Texas, or Mexico. Seeking a release from the pressures of school, students want to escape to a week long party fueled by fun, alcohol, and wild nights.
Spring Break towns have every reason to welcome students – it is projected that between Texas and Florida, students spend $1 billion over Spring Break. With promoters seeking to make money off of students, and the pressure from friends, it is easy for Spring Break to go wrong and become an unsafe nightmare. When planning your Spring Break, especially if you are under 21, it is imperative to have a plan that allows for safe and legal fun.
The Dangers of Spring Break
Because Spring Break is an event that can be fueled by alcohol, it may be a challenging situation for those who are under 21. Drugfreenoblecountry.org reports that over 20,000 fake ID’s were confiscated last year in Daytona and Panama City, FL alone. The temptation to drink illegally is at an all time high, and students often find themselves in trouble with the police. The arrest rates skyrocket during Spring break. In Panama City, over 650 students were arrested in the first three weeks of the season, and over $80,000 in fines were issued in South Padre Island. Beyond legal troubles – injuries, assault, and high-risk sexual encounters, due to intoxication, are very common during Spring Break.
So, where and how are under-21 college students supposed to have fun during Spring Break? Following some common sense safety tips, having a plan for all of your activities, and choosing the right town are the keys to a memorable and safe Spring Break.
Spring Break in Miami
Miami, Florida is a hot spot for Spring Breakers, with a reputation of being a “cool club town,” with much less of the “outrageous crazy” of South Padre Island, or Cancun. A town with a fashion focus, students dress up in their finest to enjoy the beaches and clubs.
Filled with attractions available to all ages, Miami features stunning beaches, superior shopping, hundreds of restaurants, attractions, and entertainment. While there are no exclusively “under 21” clubs in Miami Beach, there are popular clubs like: The Vagabond, The White Room, Nocturnal, and Club 90 Degree, which offer specific nights that are for 18 and over.
Basic Spring Break Safety Tips
- Always travel with groups of friends, never alone
- Avoid dark alleys or less populated areas.
- Always let people know where you will be.
- Carry a cell phone.
- Don’t leave your hotel key unattended.
- Don’t carry large amounts of money with you.
- Don’t ride in a car with someone you just met.
- Don’t invite someone you just met into your hotel room.
- If you are drinking, drink in moderation and have a designated driver.
Enjoy an unforgettable Spring Break in Miami, Florida!
References
State law enforcement urges safety during spring break. (2013). Retrieved 3/8/13
From http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/os/communications_office/SpringBreak2013.html
O’Hangan, Kathleen. 8 tips for staying safe this spring break. Retrieved 3/8/13 from
http://travel.my-health.ca/en/travel-articles/8-tips-for-staying-safe-this-spring-break.aspx
Burgner, Kathyrn. (2012). Top 5 springs break destinations: Rewards and Risks.
Retrieved 3/8/13 from http://blog.gradguard.com/2012/03/top-5-spring-break-destinations-rewards-and-risks/
Sex and intoxication more common among women on spring break according to AMA
poll. (2012). Retrieved 3/8/13 from http://www.alcoholpolicymd.com/press_room/Press_releases/SpringBreakPollingRelease.htm
Hyman, Alexa. (2013). Crime and partying affects spring break planning. Retrieved
3/8/13 from http://www.albionpleiad.com/2013/02/crime-and-partying-affects-spring-break-planning/
Best under 21 clubs in South Florida. (2012). Retrieved 3/8/13 from
http://miami.cbslocal.com/top-lists/best-under-21-clubs-in-south-florida/
Spring break facts and statistics. Retrieved 3/8/13 from
http://www.infographicsshowcase.com/spring-break-just-the-facts/spring-break-infographic/
