Local plans for Spring Break save money

By Klarissa Rodriguez | Pulse staff reporter

It is always nice to be able to spend Spring Break in a luxurious and exotic location. Unfortunately, the cost of driving and flying to these exotic locations can really put a dent in your bank account.

Without traveling very far, you can still have a great time in a beautiful destination by taking advantage of all that there is to do right here in Texas.

Jesus Pedroza, a Financial Advocate II and Student Branch Advocate with Generations Federal Credit Union, said, “My best advice for Spring Break college students would be to plan locally. Nothing [too] outrageous. You have the rivers in New Braunfels. Schlitterbahn, Sea World and Six Flags have water parks.”

In addition to the water parks and rivers, travelling outside city limits can provide more options for students.

Hamilton Pool, located south of Austin, Texas, offers a limestone 50-foot waterfall featuring a jade green pool as well as hiking trails for visitors. A historic watering hole, its geological remains date back 8,000 years.  Early arrival and comfortable shoes are suggested, as there is limited space and a quarter mile trek to the pool.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, in Fredericksburg, Texas, offers visitors camping sites, hiking trails and rock climbing. There is a $7 daily fee for adults, and children, ages 12 and under, are free.

Natural Bridge Caverns is another location near the city. They offer a 60-foot, four-tier canopy challenge obstacle course, zip lines, and tours to explore the beautiful caverns.

The coast is another option for students. They can visit and enjoy a day at the beach. Veronica Sanchez, a freshman Business Administration major, said, “When we make plans to go to the coast, we [visit] Corpus Christi. We stay at the Quality Inn because it’s right on the beach. The complementary breakfast is great!”

Another alternative way to spend Spring Break is by giving back to the community.

Habitat for Humanity of San Antonio seeks volunteers every Friday and Saturday during the springtime. They also need help forming lunch crews to feed fellow volunteers.

The San Antonio Food Bank also seeks volunteers. Opportunities are available to assist in their Community Garden by planting and caring of fruits and vegetables. Volunteers can also help out in the warehouse sorting and packing food.

Palo Alto College is not offering any volunteer activities for students during Spring Break this year, but Carmen Velasquez, director of the Office of Student Engagement and Retention said, “…In conjunction with the college’s Service Learning initiative, our office is planning an alternative Spring Break for Spring 2014. ‘Alternative Spring Break’ is an opportunity for students to spend the week of Spring Break participating in some type of organized volunteer effort.”

Make the most of your Spring Break without breaking the bank by staying local. Visit local attractions and help your community by volunteering. Make this a Spring Break worth remembering, not because of the money you spent, but the great memories you created.