The following is an editorial and does not necessarily represent the views or opinions of The Drury Mirror.

Spring break is coming up faster than you think. Do you have any plans? Well do not fret, I am here to offer ideas. This is the alternative-alternative spring break.

Perfect for history majors

It’s been cold as heck, why not bop down to New Orleans? In March they have an average high of 75 and low of 55. Back home your friends will be riding out Missouri’s average of 60/35. In New Orleans, there is a little bit of something for everyone so convincing a group of your friends will be easy.

For those that want to destroy their liver, New Orleans bars are open 24/7, and there are no open container laws as long as it’s plastic. At all hours, one can stroll the French Quarter taking in live-music, craft-cocktails and burlesque shows.

For the foodies out there, New Orleans is famous for beignets; check it out at Café Du Monde. You can also get Creole food, a spicy mix of southern comfort and Spanish/French flair.

For the adrenaline junkies, New Orleans offers swamp and bayou river boat rides, or you could dip your toes into the ancient traditions of voodoo that are alive and well in New Orleans.

How to get there

A round trip to New Orleans and back is estimated at $103. Once you get there, I recommend an Airbnb. This option ends up being cheaper and nicer than a seedy motel. On Airbnb, one can get an entire house near downtown for as low as $60 a night.

Perfect for nature lovers

Don’t mind the cold? The mile-high city could be where it’s at in Denver, Colorado. It’ll be a bit colder than Springfield at 58/29, but they make full use of the weather with snowboarding, skiing and hiking.

If the great outdoors is not your style, take a tour of some of Denver’s craft breweries, tour their museum of contemporary art or find out the double meaning behind “mile-high” city. It may seem daunting but really all you need is to be over 21 and possess a valid government ID. Denver prohibits public and open uses of cannabis, so this activity will have to happen behind closed doors.

How to get there

Driving from Springfield is 11 hours and costs about $120 round trip. If you’re looking for a fun road trip, this would not be a bad option. Just make sure to pack some snacks, download a podcast, and for the love of god have Spotify premium–no one needs to hear ads for 11 hours.

For accommodations, there are hostels, hotels and of course Airbnbs. My recommendation is, once again, an Airbnb.

Perfect for anyone

For those that don’t want to break the bank, stay in this season. It may sound lame but trust me, a stay-cation is just as valid. Sometimes your bank account needs a break and that’s okay. Instead, go try a new restaurant, catch a movie at The Alamo Drafthouse where food is served directly to your seat, or if you’re feeling ambitious, shell out the $50 for a Wonders of Wildlife ticket at Bass Pro.

Whatever it is Drury students end up doing, make sure it’s a time dedicated to you. Don’t feel guilty for taking a break because odds are you need it. In the words of Parks and Recreation’s Donna Meagle, “Treat Yo Self.”

Article by Ciera Duban.