Money key to destination
by Kristin Johansen
reporter

   The one thing on every college student’s mind during second semester is Spring Break. However, finding that perfect destination and the perfect cost becomes a challenge.
   The key to getting that perfect vacation is preparation. Planning ahead saves time and lots of money in the long run. The sooner planning takes place, the better hotels and cheaper airfares can be found.
   For most students, destination is top priority. Many want somewhere fun and exciting—someplace they didn’t go last year. The two most popular locales seem to be either the beach or a ski resort.
   Nalen and Matthew, NE Campus freshmen, have picked a ski resort as their destination of choice.
   “We’d rather go skiing this year because we can show off our skills more than at a beach,” Matthew said.
   The cost of traveling for a college student is another important factor. For many, money is the deciding factor.
   TCC student RaShonda Johnson is planning a Cancun vacation, but she is not sure she will make it.
   “If it costs too much, then I just can’t go, and I’ll have to go to the lake or something,” she said.
   Travel agencies make it easier to plan a fun-filled trip for students. Many agencies focus just on college students and give discounts and group rates. Most of these agencies are easily found on the Internet or in the yellow pages. The most frequently used sites are studentcity.com and springbreaktravel.com.
   Studentcity.com offers several party packages and group rates. It helps users find the perfect destination, and staff members can guide students through the entire vacation.
   According to its Web site, the staff members “will be with you all week to make sure that your well-deserved vacation is hassle-free and loaded with fun.”
   Studentcity’s Web site also guarantees the lowest prices.
   Springbreaktravel.com bases its expertise on experience in the business. It boasts reliable rates and helpful employees.
   The Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex houses many local agencies. Horned Frog Travel Inc. provides easy access for college students because of its location in Fort Worth. The agency is only a phone call away with experienced staff members ready to answer any questions.
   Emerald Travel & Cruises, another local agency, offers cruise ideas and packages. Both of these agencies can help answer any questions about destinations, airfare, hotel expenses and other traveling costs.
   The ideal spring break vacation is out there. However, planning for a vacation is a lot of work and involves time and little procrastination.