Old spring break sites learn to manage
Former college hot spots deal with lack of spring breakers

By JENNIFER BELLANTONIO
Collegian Staff Writer

Spring break. For students, these two words generate images of people sunbathing, relaxing and rejoicing during a week's interlude of entertainment and excitement at their favorite vacation spot.

However, these different locations become pass when people keep changing vacation spots along with ever-changing opinions about what area is most desirable.

"People choose different areas just for a change of pace," said Sharon Dixon, owner of Worldwide Travel, 231 N. Allegheny St.

But for many individuals the question is not whether to partake in the festivities but where to go for the best sunshine, parties or recreational sports -- without hassle and bloated prices.

"A lot of it is word of mouth --where is everyone else going," said Dave Hutchinson, co-owner of Hutchinson Travel, 230 McBath St.

During the years, student destinations have varied for different reasons. Francine Mason, director of public relations at the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention and Visitor's Bureau, said 1985 was a peak year for Fort Lauderdale, Fla. with 350,000 students overwhelming the beaches during spring break. But since then, times have changed.

"Spring break is part of Fort Lauderdale's history," Mason said. "The area has new beach front, cultural areas and cafes, but there are no activities specifically geared for students."

Although the bureau is expecting approximately 10,000 to 15,000 students this spring break, Mason said recent renovations have attracted more families and tourists, increased hotel costs and ultimately subdued the area.

Marc Jones (junior-administration of justice) and his roommate Marc Mabie (junior-mechanical engineering) both decided to spend three days in Fort Lauderdale before embarking on their cruise to the Bahamas. However, it was the discount hotel rates that drew them to the area.

"It was kind of a spur of the moment thing," Jones said. "I was actually thinking more of Cancun or Daytona, but we got a major discount for going to Fort Lauderdale."

As March approaches, many eager students head for the travel agencies hoping to catch an economical deal to their favorite vacation spot. Mexico, Jamacia, Florida and the Caribbean are just a few of their options and many agencies have package deals.

"The point of spring break is to have fun," said Gail Anthony, travel consultant at Centre for Travel, 114 Hiester St. "And if the price is right, (the students will) go."

Jennifer Hunter (sophomore-nutrition) is gearing up for a week's vacation on the tropical Cancun beaches. By word of mouth, she and many other students have heard that Cancun offers a beautiful terrain, entertainment and nightlife.

Tara Dressler (senior-speech communications) is also headed for Cancun with friends. She took into consideration the fact that Mexico may have fewer restrictions.

"The reason people pick Mexico is because they don't have to deal with the hassles of not being 21," Dressler said.

What makes an area more popular than others is not exactly certain. Hutchinson said it just depends on what the individual is looking for.

"If they want more of a party they can go to Daytona and if they're looking for more sun and relaxation they may go to Mexico," he said.

The bottom line -- students will go where they are welcome.

"Panama City is going to reach to students and make it enjoyable for them, so why wouldn't they go there," Anthony said.