Spring Travel Advisory if You Are Heading to the Islands
This is the time of year when people are super excited about planning their spring vacations. I find people are especially excited to go to an island where they can…
This is the time of year when people are super excited about planning their spring vacations. I find people are especially excited to go to an island where they can see plenty of sunshine since New Jersey had such a wet and gloomy winter! My family and I love taking cruises to the islands and then taking tours around the islands. Unfortunately, some island travel comes with a warning. Even the cruise lines heading to Jamaica and the Bahamas have to rethink what tours their guests should be taking or not taking once they arrive in port. I was surprised to find that, despite the travel advisory, the country had a huge increase in tourists in the previous year. Cruise arrivals alone increased by 48.3%.
Important Update: Travel Advisory for Jamaica and Bahamas
The U.S. State Department issued a Level 3 travel advisory for Jamaica. There are four levels of advisory with Level 4 being the worse. Since issuing a Level 3, they're suggesting travelers think twice about going there. These concerns are mainly because of concerns about "crime and medical services." After researching the concerns, I found that crime is being zoomed in on the tourists. Of course, we seem to be the target.
The advisory says there are common issues with violent crimes in Jamaica, like home invasions, robberies, and sexual assaults. Yes, you even need to worry if you are booked at places like "all-inclusive resorts." According to The U.S. State Department, some of these crimes were committed by resort staff. That is very scary since I always trust the staff! The homicide rate in Jamaica is reported to be one of the highest in the Western Hemisphere - that should be enough to get us to change our plans!
Some Travel Tips:
- If you're planning to go, get travel insurance because U.S. health insurance may not be accepted.
- Medical services might not be available, so be cautious.
- Tips for travelers include avoiding public buses, staying away from secluded places, and not walking or driving at night.
Comparison with the Bahamas:
This advisory for Jamaica comes after a Level 2 advisory was issued for the Bahamas. According to CBS , the concerns in the Bahamas are about crime rates. Travelers were advised to "exercise increased caution" in the area and the water, especially when it comes to recreational water activities. Yes, you can get attacked in the water by more than a big shark.
So, while the idea of a spring vacation in Jamaica to the Bahamas sounds amazing, let's stay safe and listen to the travel advisories and take necessary precautions.
Trendy, Cheap Spring Break Destinations
Spring break always arrives at just the right time. It's when the holiday cheer has totally worn off, and it's also right when spring is around the corner but it's not quite here yet. I remember loving spring break in school. But, even if you're not in school or college anymore, why not take a fun spring break trip this year? If you have a family, all the more reason to do it. If you're solo, that works, too. Thankfully, there are plenty of trendy, cheap spring break destinations available.
If you want to get the most bang for your buck, as they say, stay close to home. It doesn't have to be a staycation. But, why not travel to a town that you've never been to that's within road trip distance? Of course, if you live in a cold climate, you might want to travel to a hot spot. The good news is that a lot of warm spring break destinations have great rates, because tourist is simply their business. So, if you go to a popular spring break spot, chances are they'll have some good deals and be able to cut you a good deal due to just how many people who travel there each year.
The perfect spring break destination is really about getting away from it all. You want a place that fun and exciting. But, you also want a spot that really helps you break away from routine and, hopefully, your electronic devises. Another bonus is if you find a spring break destination near friends who you maybe haven't seen in a while. It can be a really fun trip to find a central location and meet up with long-lost friends.
Read on for some trendy, cheap spring break destinations in the United States. Here's hoping for a super fun spring vacation. Oh, these work for summer, too.
Atlantic City, New Jersey
Vegas can be fun, but Atlantic City offers that fun of Vegas on the East Coast. You can enjoy the entertainment and other activities the city has to offer. You can also explore the boardwalks and beaches.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
If you want a more traditional spring break, try Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. It's one of the hottest spring break destinations in the United States. It's also a pretty reasonable trip, with good, fairly inexpensive lodging options.
Orlando, Florida
It might seem trite, but going to Orlando, Florida, for spring break is really tops. Orlando has some of the best deals you'll find, since they are obviously such a major tourist destination. And, there's Disney World. Enough said.
Macon, Georgia
Sure, Atlanta, Georgia is a big tourist spot. But, if you want to try something new, Macon is a growing hotspot. Macon offers a revitalized downtown area, with lots of shopping and activities for families. The city also has a vibrant music scene. What's not to love?
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
There's nothing wrong with a little education on your spring break, right? Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, has a rich history. It's known for that history and rich historical content. Really exploring Philly can be a great way to spend a spring break.
Detroit, Michigan
Detroit is super hot, thanks to their Lions doing so well in the NFL this season. The Motor City has been splashed on the screen during playoff games, and people are starting to see the beauty of this city. The Detroit River is gorgeous in the springtime. There's lots to do in Detroit, too, from the Henry Ford Museum to GreenField Village to live music.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas, Nevada, offers a fun, wild (if you want it to be) spring break destination. The weather is usually good in the springtime, and there's always lots to do. Hit up the casinos or check out one of Vegas' many live shows.
Charlotte, North Carolina
Charlotte, North Carolina, is a unique spot to pick for a spring break. We mean unique in a good way. The Queen City offers lots of breweries, historical areas and scenic views. It can be a low-key but fun spring trip destination.
