Tropical Summer Vacations for Students

School’s out for summer, and it’s time to kick up your feet and have a well-deserved getaway, especially if you’re a hard-working college student. As you pack up your dorm, you might wonder, “Where are the best summer vacations for students?” If this sounds familiar, you’ve come to the right place. 

Put the stunning tropical Caribbean Islands at the top of your list! There’s something for everyone in this unique and diverse region, whether you prefer thrilling experiences or peace and quiet. 

The Caribbean is an excellent choice for college students craving an authentic break from the long hours of reading textbooks, studying notes, and taking challenging exams. Refresh for the fall semester by taking a lovely trip to one of the destinations below. 

Experience Untouched Paradise in the Dominican Republic 

The growing Caribbean tourism industry hasn’t taken away the untarnished charm, rich history, and vibrant culture of the Dominican Republic. As an authentic and affordable Caribbean experience, it’s one of the best vacations for students looking for lifetime memories without breaking the bank. 

The Dominican Republic’s capital Santo Domingo is a beautiful display of historic architecture and cobblestone streets surrounded by local shops and restaurants warmly welcoming visitors. But that’s not all– Students can also enjoy untouched nature by taking tours through the island’s lush forests, diving into the turquoise waters, or taking an exciting zipline ride through the canopy. The Dominican Republic is excellent for college students with a limited budget and a desire for exploration! 

Make Lifelong Memories in Jamaica 

For many years, Jamaica has been recognized as one of the most affordable vacations for students, families, groups, and even solo travelers. While some of the island is occupied with stunning resorts and luxurious spas, plenty of options are easy on a limited student budget.  

For instance, Negril is the spot for less extravagant travelers. However, you won’t be missing out on much besides the glamorous accommodations and perks of a resort. Negril has a gorgeous coast with white sand beaches and calm seas lapping the shore. Here, the hotels are affordable, and it’s not far from other exciting parts of Jamaica. Travel away from the coast for a thrilling mountain hike and visit the Blue Mountain Coffee plantation or walk around the cities to see the beautiful culture of Jamaican life. 

Dive into the Culture of Curacao 

You get a little of everything when you book a tropical trip to Curacao. Like the Dominican Republic, a recent boost in tourism hasn’t overtaken the authenticity and charm of this Netherlands territory. Stroll in the colorful fishing villages, check out the wonderful museums and local art galleries, or have close encounters with unique wildlife. 

And, of course, there are many white sand beaches where you can take the afternoon to relax without spending a dime. While there are plenty of adventures you can pay for, there are just as many opportunities for college students tight on cash. 

Summer Vacations for Students: Traveling on a Budget 

It’s no mystery that college students have to stick to strict budgets. Between all the classes, assignments, and tests, there is little time left for a job, especially a full-time position. So, money is usually tight. How are students able to afford these tropical summer vacations?  

The key is to be smart with your travel planning down to the smallest details, like what you will eat each day. There are endless ways to experience the Caribbean on a tight budget. Below are some of the top tips for students planning summer vacations.  

1 | Look for the Deals. 

Start planning your trip as early as you can, but don’t book the first deal you see. As the rainy season approaches, hotels, resorts, and excursions will continue to announce discounts and packages perfect for a college student’s summer vacation. In other words, if you research, you will discover a deal that will make your dream trip a reality! 

2 | Save on Food. 

One of the best ways to save money during travel is to be smart with your food choices. As tempting as it may be to enjoy each meal at a nice Caribbean restaurant, you want some extra cash for other island experiences. So, plan for a couple of meals out but rely primarily on local markets, food stands, and cheaper cafes.  

3 | Choose Public Transportation. 

Transportation is another travel expense that can quickly add up. If your budget is limited, it’s never a good idea to rent a car once you arrive at your Caribbean destination. Public transportation or even bike rentals will be the most convenient and affordable option for traveling students.  

 
CITED: Adventurestudenttravel.com, Alicesadventuresonearth.com, Globetrottergirls.com