Book 10 for Spring Break '08, Go Free!
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Two words: Daytona Beach, Florida. Ok so that was three but whatever. Vacationing just got a little better. Florida's number one industry is, you guessed it, tourism.
Daytona Beach knows how to have a good time and has an ample array of things for you to do on your spring break trip. Who would argue against the 23 miles of white sand beaches and blue water that grace the coastline? Or how about "The World's Largest Motorcycle Event" in March? If that doesn't roar your engine keep in mind the abundant beach activities like cycling, jogging, fishing, horseback riding and golfing.
Things begin to look a little racy when 88 contestants begin the 24-hour race at the Daytona International Speedway. Unfortunately the race is held in February, so it is a little early for you spring breakers but definitely not out of the question. This of course is known as one of the most premier racing events in the world let alone the country. The track is only 3.5 miles long, but the drivers shift up to 15 times per lap and average a speed of about 120 mph. The total distance of the race ends up to be about 2,450 miles, which is like driving from Seattle to Houston, only in a 24-hour time period.
Too bad spring breakers couldn't make this sort of time on their trips. The drivers will tear up 48 tires, 2 sets of break pads, 500 gallons of gas and make 24 pit stops. Consumption occurs on all levels in Florida. Daytona Beach is famous for this nationally renowned race so if it is the need for speed, the Daytona 500 is your event.
If that doesn't shift your gears don't worry. The beach in Daytona is also known internationally, but for a different reason than racecars. At low tide the water recedes up to 500 feet and the newly uncovered beach is the prime location for adventure seeking, sandcastle building or just hanging out. For west coast beach lovers there is a great twist to this east coast destination. You can drive your cars onto the beach and just park. Somewhat pointless, because why would you need your car on the beach, but a very foreign and intriguing idea to those who have never done it.
Sometimes you just can't beat the tourist traps. Daytona Beach attracts the families and college students that are kids at heart, with their award-winning attractions like the Adventure Landing Waterpark and Entertainment Center and miniature golf center. You can also find beach side the Daytona Beach Boardwalk that includes rides, games, souvenir shops and all sorts of childlike amusements.
Students wanting to save a little money can check out the award winning Tomoka State Park, where camping is the accommodation of choice. You might want to save a little money because while in Daytona Beach you can gamble it all away on the races. The Daytona Beach Kennel Club has greyhound racing Monday through Saturdays. If you do make any money off this race, you can spend it on more gambling on the SunCruz Casino. This is a 560-passenger ship that has all the benefits of Las Vegas in a five-hour day and evening casino cruise. Take a little trip and see if your luck with the dice will be as rewarding as the rest of your trip.
At the Daytona Beach Main Street Pier they offer helicopter rides, an array of restaurants and bars, gondola skyrides and a revolving "Space Needle." It just keeps getting better. Not to mention you can also see the sights and heights by taking a hot air balloon ride that will ensure your vacation doesn't all go up in hot air.
A short drive down the road you can also stumble upon the second-greatest place on earth, Disney World (the first of course would be Disneyland). Disney World is located near Orlando (about a hour and 15 minute drive from Daytona) and brings mobs of people in from all over the world to witness this larger-than-life amusement park.
At the same location you can also find Sea World and Universal Studios Florida. Spending money here is not a problem, but a necessity. The cost of admission is steep and the food is always overpriced, but this could be a great day trip if you are willing to forget the cost and have fun.
To end the day on an even better note there is a range of clubs in Daytona, from comedy and country to karaoke, blues, sports and dance. Daytona Beach after-hours is just as happening as the daytime activities. Of course there is a high price to pay for this larger-than-life vacation, and you will most definitely have to get a part-time job after this week is over so plan ahead, save your pennies and let the good times roll.
