Take Back Spring Break - 10 Ways to Explore Beyond the Beach

March 22, 2018

The sun is peeking through and jackets are being replaced by t-shirts. Flowers in bloom, sunglasses sales...it only means one thing: Spring is here! And that means it’s time to plan for 'Spring Break'.

Spring Break doesn’t always have to mean boozy beach parties either. 

Don't get me wrong - a beer and a beach is a fantastic way to relax - but is it really how you want to spend your entire vacation? You work hard everyday...let your break be an epic escape.

Here are 10 incredible destinations, experiences, and trips to consider. And on Monday you can regale the office with tales of wonder from around the world!

1. Jordan

Camels in front of Petra, Jordan

Kick off the season in style with a visit to an ancient and fascinating part of the world. Jordan remains one of the most visited countries in the Middle East - safe, stable, and their tourism infrastructure is strong. Ride camels in the desert, enjoy history tours of some of the oldest places in the world, and meet and converse with locals. And of course, visit the amazing city of Petra and channel your inner Indiana Jones.

Trip Suggestion: Spice Trails of Petra

Or see all Jordan guided tours and adventure trips »

2. Southeast Asia

Exploring Southeast Asia on a guided tour

Though it may be famous for nightlife, there is much more to Southeast Asia than what happens under the cover of darkness. There is a powerful interconnectedness here and it will entrance you. Southeast Asia is a great destination for adventurous eaters, and outdoorsy types. Take in relaxing beach days, hike through beautiful rainforests, visit elephant sanctuaries, and cycle among rice paddies.

Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of busy markets in Thailand, visit the ancient temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia, and find internal calm in the delightfully slow paced Myanmar (Burma).

Trip Suggestion: Discover Southeast Asia

Or see all Southeast Asia tours and adventure trips »

3. Greece

Mykonos party island in Greece

For the partiers out there, current students and the young at heart, move beyond Florida and Cabo to exotic Greece for the ultimate Spring Break getaway. Greece is the perfect destination if you’re a history nerd who also loves to let loose.

Take a cruise among beautiful, historic, islands and bright blue ocean waters. Take in ancient sites with a local guide, go snorkeling, relax in the sunshine aboard a yacht, and of course let loose for a night on the famous party island, Mykonos.

Trip Suggestion: Greek Island Hopper

Bonus! Trip Suggestion for students: YOLO Cruise, Santorini to Mykonos

Or see all Greece tours, crusies, and adventure trips

4. Hiking, Trekking, and Camping

Hiker along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Active travel is a great way to clear your head and re-invigorate before heading back to work or school. There are many famous hikes around the world, most of which offer several different levels of difficulty - so you can find the one that perfectly suits your physical level.

Consider hiking along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, or if that has too much of a “been there, done that” feel, challenge yourself to one of the longer Machu Picchu treks: Lares or Salkantay. Though beware that April is still the rainy season in Peru - so pack light waterproof layers!

Ambitious trekkers might also enjoy a hike to Nepal base camp, among the historic spirits of those who reached Everest. 

Trip Suggestion: Machu Picchu Trek

Or see all Hiking, Trekking, and Camping adventure trips

5. Colombia

Cartagena Colombia trip

Looking for some shock value at your next family gathering? Casually mention to grandma that you’re headed to Colombia for and let the magic happen. Once you’ve had your fun though, you can assure her that Colombia is not like what she’s remembering on the news. And plus, you’ll be traveling with a tour group and a guide so you’ll be extra safe.

Colombia is a fascinating country. The culture reflects a unique amalgamation of native and European influences, and it’s a great place for history tours. Get ready to enjoy a fun bar scene with great dancing, beach getaways to islands just off the coast, and delicious coffee!

Trip Suggestion: Experience Colombia

Or see all Colombia tours and adventure trips »

6. China

China cycling tour in mountains

Experience the breadth and depth of hundreds of thousands of years of incredible culture and traditions. China is truly captivating. Walk the Great Wall, sail the magnificent Yangtze, enjoy traditional meals, and immerse yourself in an ancient culture. The language barrier may be daunting, which is why traveling with a guide and other curious minded travelers is a great way to go.

Trip Suggestion: China & Yangtze River Cruise

Or see all trips and adventure tours to China »

7. Iceland

Iceland waterfall

Nothing beats an adventure in Iceland, the “Land of Fire and Ice”. Year round this is a popular destination, but most crowded in the summertime. Spring is a perfect time to visit for less crowds and decent weather (though it could still be nippy!). And bonus! If you go early enough in Spring, there’s a chance you could still see the Northern Lights!

Trip Suggestion: Best of Iceland

Or see all Iceland tours and adventure trips »

8. The Balkans

Croatia city and coastline

Enjoy the springtime weather of this Southeastern European region, still containing the aura of “hidden gem” for many travelers. Croatia has become a mainstream destination, much due to the popularity of Game of Thrones (Kings Landing scenes have been filmed in Dubrovnik since the beginning of the series). But much of the rest of the Balkans maintains an untouched and less touristy feel. 

If you’re after an immersive kind of travel experience, visiting tucked away local establishments and learning about a fascinating history, the Balkans is the destination for you. Plus, it’s easy to visit more than one country in a short amount of time.

Trip Suggestion: Undiscovered Balkans

Or see all Balkans tours and adventure trips »

9. Yoga Retreat

Traveler doing yoga traveling in Thailand

Calm your mind and re-center with a yoga-focused getaway. This is the perfect trip option for those who want to slow down, find energy from within, and improve their yoga and meditation skills. Typically yoga tours are most enjoyed by those who have some rudimentary knowledge of yoga, but beginners are also welcome.

Yoga tours are great because of the community atmosphere, and the encompassing focus on mental wellness as well as physical toning. Ideal for those who stress a lot during work or school! Take the principals of yoga with you and implement during your daily life for a smoother approach to tasks and activities.

Trip Suggestion: Yoga Adventure & Kayak Tour (Mexico)

Or see all Yoga & Meditation trips »

10. Bolivia

Bolivia Salt Flat

Are you a fan of forced perspective photography? No? You will be after a visit to the famous Bolivian Salt Flats. Take in the unique landscape as you attempt to one up your tourmates with creative shots, which the flat, white, and sometimes reflective flats invite. This is also a popular location for exciting 4WD excursions. Get ready for the trip of a lifetime!

Trip Suggestion: Complete Bolivia

Or see all Boliva tours and advenure trips »



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