As much as you might enjoy jetting off to some exotic destination for spring break, or even just driving down Florida to celebrate, there is always a chance that your plans may not work out. Things come up, people bail, and not everyone has the cash needed to celebrate spring break the way characters do in movies and on television. If you find yourself spending spring break at home with your parents, you can still find ways to enjoy yourself and have a little fun.

Rally Your Old Buddies

Did you make a pact with your high school buddies that you would stay in touch, either through social media or email? If you’re like most college students, you probably found yourself focusing more on your new college friends and less on your old ones. Send out a quick email or group text a few weeks before heading home and arrange a get-together. You can meet for dinner, drinks, go to a movie, or even have a small party at home.

Hit Your Favorite Spots

Depending on where you go to school and how far away it is from home, you may find yourself missing some of your favorite restaurants and other hot spots. Spending spring break at home lets you catch up on all of your favorite places. You can stop by the diner for some home cooked food, hit up your favorite cupcake joint for a few sweet treats, and even grab regional dishes that you won’t find back on campus.

Take a Local Tour

Going home for spring break is your chance to be a tourist in your own hometown. Many people ignore the great museums, parks, and historic sites in their cities. Spending spring break at home is your chance to tour all the places you never saw, and the places you haven’t visited since you were a kid on a field trip. When you come back from school, you’ll see all of those places in a new light. Have fun playing with your dog in the park, touring historical museums, and checking out the artwork produced by local artists.

Find New Treasures

Finding new treasures in an old place might appeal to those who wrote about spring break ideas in the past, like celebrated writer Eloise Lynton did. As long as you have an internet connection, you can read reviews about new attractions that have opened since you moved away. You might find that new antique, thrift, and vintage clothing stores opened downtown, that the movie theater introduced a classic movie night, or that a new playhouse opened. Every time you come back for a visit, you might find something new, unique, and different waiting for you.

Make a To Do List

If you really want to make the most of a spring break spent at home, make a to do list before you leave campus. Your to do list should include things you need to accomplish, as well as some fun things you want to do. Write down all of the assignments you will need to finish for school, add a few books you want to read, and include things you want to do every day, like keeping up with your fitness routine. The more things you have on your list, the less likely it is that you’ll get bored at home.

When you fill your schedule with things to do, you’ll love spending spring break with your family.

Everyone loves going on vacation, but finding the perfect destination can take some time and require ample research. But the search can be greatly simplified by joining an organization like the Bluegreen Vacation Club. Members of vacation clubs are provided with all the information they need about vacation destinations around the world. Members also qualify for valuable discounts to make a family vacation more affordable and enjoyable.

Members of vacation clubs are offered much more flexibility than if they were partial owners of a timeshare property. The Bluegreen Resorts destinations are available at more than 60 resorts in popular locations around the United States and the Caribbean Islands. Club members are not limited to vacationing in the same location year after year, so they and their families can choose to vacation when and where they wish. Third party exchange programs can expand the network to include thousands more participating resorts.

Some vacation clubs like Bluegreen are based on a point system wherein a person is allotted a certain number of points when they purchase a membership. The number of points vary in accordance to the type of membership they purchase, and points can be borrowed from following years or purchased at any time. A single person or a couple are not likely to purchase the same level of membership as a couple with children.

There is a lot of variation possible within a vacation club membership since one vacation destination may be considerably less expensive than others. Members are able to accumulate points to be used on a more expensive vacation by skipping a year or limiting the number of points used in preceding years.

Perhaps the greatest advantage of a vacation club membership is the ability to enjoy a great variety of destinations at a considerably reduced cost. Sometimes people dream of traveling to a certain destination, but unexpected costs and events in their life prevent them from saving enough money to ever vacation there. Membership in a vacation club ensures the necessary funds will be available because the payments have been spread out over the year. This makes planning a trip simple, and the vacation can be rescheduled if unforeseen circumstances prevent travel during the intended time slot.

Various studies have shown that people who vacation are happier than those who rarely travel. Enjoying down time is a great stress reliever, so marriages are happier and individuals are more productive when they return home relaxed and refreshed. It is very enriching and educational for children to experience the world from multiple vantage points and within different cultures. Travel can be very costly these days, so vacation club members appreciate the reduced expense owning a vacation membership offers.

Some people have found owning a timeshare works for them until they want to sell it. The process can take a long time, all the while they are still obligated financially. A vacation club membership can be sold or passed on to a family member, and the sale is likely to be faster since it has so much more to offer than a traditional timeshare, all while taking a big chunk of stress out of vacation planning every year.

The Bahamas are full of unique people who embrace their diverse cultural heritage. Residents who have migrated from various lands over hundreds of years are proud to call the Bahamas their home. If you’re planning a visit to Paradise Island in the Bahamas, you’ll find friendly people and strong cultural influences that have contributed to some of the world’s best cultural events with exciting festivals, art, food, and music.

Junkanoo

One of the most unique Bahamian festivals is the Junkanoo, held around the Christmas holidays every year. It began as a way to celebrate several days of freedom given to African slaves during Christmas time. Slaves joined together with colorful costumes made from crepe paper, lively music and native dances to celebrate their African roots. Although the Junkanoo festival almost died out with the abolishment of slavery, islanders kept it going, and it became one of the best festivals on the island. Each year, the Junkanoo begins on December 26 in the early morning hours. It starts with a parade through the streets and continues with beautiful costumes, delicious food, and lively music.

Bahamas International Film Festival

Every year in December, the Bahamas host the Bahamas International Film Festival to honor local filmmakers and showcase their work. As a major annual attraction, the event draws famous filmmakers, actors, actresses and directors from all over the world. The opening night gala includes an elaborate party with great food, film screenings, panel discussions and dancing. Although the festival celebrates local filmmakers and their films, the Bahamas International Film Festival is attended by interested film buffs from various regions around the world.

Bahamas Heritage Festival

Each year, at the end of April or beginning of March, The Bahamas Heritage Festival takes place on Paradise Island. It focuses primarily on the culture of the islands and features traditional island dances, music, food, and creative story-telling from the islanders, especially the older islanders who have wonderful stories to tell about their heritage. The Bahamas Heritage Festival also includes the Great Bahamas Seafood Festival which showcases island seafood dishes with Bahamian flavor.

Island Roots Heritage Festival

The Island Roots Heritage Festival is held every May in New Plymouth on Green Turtle Cay. This lively festival celebrates the island’s loyalist heritage and African roots and promotes peaceful cohabitation of the two cultures that has existed for hundred of years. The Island Roots Heritage Festival is a family-friendly cultural event that includes a colorful parade, great island foods, and live music from local musicians. The kids can enjoy a tug-of-war contest, a conch cracking contest, and an exciting pirate demonstration.

Pineapple Festival

In June, you can enjoy The Pineapple Festival which takes place in Gregory Town on Eleuthera Island. The festival honors the pineapple industry and its workers that have been part of Bahamian history since the island was settled. Festival activities are fun for the entire family with activities that include a pineapple eating contest, a pineapple cooking contest, a 40-mile bicycle race around the island, and the Little Miss Pineapple Pageant.

Paradise Island is a wonderful adventure with exciting cultural events year-round. If you’re planning a visit, you’ll find wonderful hotels in Paradise Island with beautiful accommodations. Sunrise Beach Club and Villas offers relaxing island atmosphere that reflects authentic Bahamian culture and heritage.

Top photo: DeusXFlorida/Flickr

Fort Worth, the fifth largest city in Texas and the 17th largest in the US, is situated in North Central Texas. The city covers 350 square miles and serves as the seat of Tarrant County. Fort Worth is made up of about 800,000 people, and here are nine choice restaurants made popular by its inhabitants and a must visit for any tourist.

1. Taco Heads

It is no secret that the taco market is pretty competitive, but Taco Heads is a step above the rest. With fresh salsa, delicious tortillas, and tastiest toppings to go with, you will for sure become a regular after your first trip to this restaurant.

2. Pizza Snob

When what you want is pizza, few places can satisfy your craving like Pizza Snob. They use the freshest ingredients and top their pizzas with creative combinations that include caramelized pineapple, rosemary, goat cheese, and candied jalapenos. Just one slice from this place and you won’t regret why you came.

3. Vivo 53

Vivo 53 specializes in Italian cuisine. They have it all — pasta, homemade meatballs, and pizza. The local favorites include spicy sausage pizza and truffle fettuccine. For a full experience, pair your meal with a glass of sparkling wine.

4. Shinjuku Station

There is no doubt that Shinjuku Station is the best joint in town for Japanese cuisine. They of course have great sushi, but other must-try options include ceviche, ramen bowls, and sake steamed mussels. One visit to this restaurant and you will be recommending it to your friends.

5. Lee’s Grilled Cheese

Lee’s Grilled Cheese brings the most delicious food directly into your mouth! They have a grilled cheese sandwich menu that you wouldn’t have been able to come up in your wildest dreams. How does a cheddar mac n’ cheese sandwich loaded with mustard pork and black forest ham sound? You also must try their peanut butter and jelly grillers. If you are interested in something tasty and cheesy, this is the right place for you.

6. Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steak

Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steak has locations in several cities across the country, but in Fort Worth they cater to the local tastes of their patrons, and they have awesome steaks. What puts them in their own league from other steakhouses is how complete their menu is. They have options like jalapeno mac n’ cheese, a wide selection of seafood, and even chili-glazed calamari. Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steak satisfies a wide variety of tastes.

7. Rodeo Goat

Bringing bar food to a new level, Rodeo Goat has exactly what you need during a night out with your friends and family. Some of the recommendations include Tabasco mayo, chorizo, queso fresco, pico de gallo, and fried eggs. They also have locally renowned “cheese fries surprise” topped with chili, jalapenos, bacon, ranch, and cheese, which makes for an excellent appetizer that everyone can enjoy.

8. Smokey’s BBQ

When it comes to smoking meat, the competition is stiff — especially in Texas — but Smokey’s BBQ serves up some of the very best. They have all the classics available, as well as other popular items like brisket, sausage links, and ribs with a dash of jalapeno. If you’re a fan of meat, then head to Smokey’s and settle into a massive rack of ribs. You’ll be glad you did.

9. Grace

Grace is more upscale than the rest of this list, but if you are looking for an experience and not just a meal, this is the place to go. They have a focus on revamping American favorites, and their chefs won’t let you down. Among the recommended delicacies are the Lobster Agnolotti and Duroc Pork.

Traveling to Texas? Fort Worth hotels will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression. Remember, when scouring for accommodations it is always best to go with a place that is reputable. In Fort Worth, that’s the Ashton Hotel, where you know you will be safe and secure throughout your stay and only have to worry about getting into Smokey’s before they run out of brisket.

When you want to go beyond the all-inclusive resort and explore the real culture of Mexico, the Dominican Republic, or any other Spanish-speaking country, you need to know at least a few key phrases in Spanish. Sure, almost everyone who works at Cancun hotels speaks enough English to answer your questions, but once you set out for more remote locations, all bets are off. Adventurous travelers should master the basics to communicate with the locals for a truly amazing vacation.

Mind Your P’s and Q’s

Most locals are friendly towards a tourist who is obviously trying to reach out in Spanish, even if pronunciation and vocabulary are limited. Use these phrases to be polite and you’ll find that more people will be willing to help you:

• Hola: Hello
• Por favor: Please
• Gracias: Thank you
• ¿Podría ayudarme?: Could you help me?

Getting Directions

Asking for directions is easy; it’s understanding them that’s a challenge. Knowing the basics helps, but it’s best to get someone to draw you a map while they explain so that you have a visual you can take with you. Keep a notebook and pen on-hand at all times; you’ll be glad you did!

• ¿Dónde está ___?: Where is ___?
• Norte: North
• Este: East
• Sur: South
• Oeste: West
• A la izquierda de ___: To the left of ___.
• A la derecha de ___: To the right of ___.
• Calle: Street
• Sigue: Keep going
• ¿Podría darme direcciones?: Could you give me directions?
• ¿Podría dibujar un mapa?: Could you draw a map?

Paying for Things

It’s helpful to know at least numbers one through 10 and a few things about the local currency to get you through a transaction in a small town. Writing numerals helps smooth over misunderstandings with higher numbers and exchange rates.

• ¿Cuánto cuesta ___?: How much does ___ cost?
• ¿Acepta tarjeta de crédito?: Do you accept credit cards?
• Intercambio: Exchange; exchange rate
• Precio: Price
• Cero: Zero
• Uno: One
• Dos: Two
• Tres: Three
• Cuatro: Four
• Cinco: Five
• Seis: Six
• Siete: Seven
• Ocho: Eight
• Nueve: Nine
• Diez: Ten
• Punto: Point (as in decimal point, for making change)

Sampling Local Cuisine

Perhaps the best reason to explore small towns and hidden gems is to sample truly authentic local cuisine. It’s a good idea to research popular dishes before you leave, but here are the most useful terms:

• ¿Qué ingredientes hay en ___?: What ingredients are in ___?
• Leche: Milk
• Agua: Water
• Vino: Wine
• Cerveza: Beer
• Pollo: Chicken
• Bistec: Steak
• Puerco: Pork
• Ensalada: Salad
• Maiz: Corn
• Arroz: Rice
• Frijoles: Beans
• Verduras: Vegetables
• Fruta: Fruit
• Postre: Dessert

Start Practicing

Once you book your hotel in Buenos Aires or San Juan, it’s time to work on your pronunciation. Google Translate offers pronunciation examples for every phrase imaginable and can help you find country-specific words. An app like Duolingo is a fun way to start memorizing useful Spanish terms, and Word Lens can help you with advanced street sign and menu reading once you get to your destination.

Let Hipmunk help you get there so you can enjoy your Spanish adventure!

This post was published by Fiona Moriarty on Hipmunk’s Tailwind blog on July 17, 2015 and has been republished with permission.

Top photo: stefano60/Flickr

Jurgen Strumpf never used to think of himself as an entrepreneur. He didn’t even regard himself as a businessman. He was a wine seller who liked to invite his friends over to his shop for wine tastings and some food. He couldn’t bear to charge them full price, so instead he asked them to pay what they could afford. Very quickly, this concept of Pay What You Want became a Berlin institution.

The Wine Bars

Jurgen Strumpf owns two Pay What You Want wine bars in the city: The Forum and Perlin. With paintings by the owner on the walls and the kind of furniture you would find in a 1950’s German living room scattered throughout, both create a homey feeling unlike any other bar in the city. The main difference between them is their clientele. Perlin is popular with the locals and has only 40 seats, so you have to book in advance. The Forum is far bigger, catering to the tourists that flood in from the nearby hotels in Berlin, especially the Mitte district. The Forum is a lot rowdier than Perlin.

The Concept

When you walk through the door from 8PM onward, you pay only two euros for a wine glass, which you can refill with as much red and white wine as your stomach and head can handle. The catch? At the end of your night you throw what you think you owe into a huge tip jar at the entrance.

The Menu

In keeping with their laid back attitudes, neither bar has a set menu. The menu is usually decided on that day and one thing that’s for certain is that any food served will be fresh and organic. The wines, all brought in from a nearby weinerei, or wine shop, include Spanish Tempranillo and Bavarian prosecco. There’s also a popular house wine from Strumpf’s hometown of Franken.

Weinenfrei, like so much of Berlin, does not discriminate. Whether you are staying in an expensive Berlin hotel such as Das Stue or a budget Berlin hotel like Mark Apart, at Strumpf’s bars anyone can afford a quality night out and a true cultural experience.

Top photo: uchansichan.com

There is so much to do in Honolulu — the capital city of Hawaii, located on the island of Oahu. People come from all over to swim, sunbathe, surf, stay in Honolulu’s famous beach hotels — like the legendary Moana Surfrider — and learn more about Hawaiian history. There are countless places to eat great sushi in Honolulu, and we’ve rounded up some of the best.

1. Doraku

Located just around the corner from the Trump International Hotel Waikiki Beach Walk on Kalakaua Ave., locals and visitors alike agree that Doraku may have the island’s best sushi. An outpost of a restaurant originally started in Southern Florida, Doraku serves upscale sushi in a Japanese gastropub environment. The restaurant has a selection of sushi rolls, but regulars of the restaurant say you must try the Nigiri and Sashimi — the fish here is just too fresh to pass up.

2. Tokoname Sushi Bar and Restaurant

Tokoname, located near the University of Hawaii at Manoa, is an excellent choice of sushi restaurant in Honolulu. Tokoname offers quality sushi in a quiet and cozy atmosphere — all at an affordable price. If you want to learn more about different neighborhoods in Honolulu and escape to a place that feels truly local, there’s no better sushi spot than Tokoname. The restaurant offers a full bar that stays open late for students in the area, so make sure you try one of their signature cocktails.

3. Sansei Seafood Restaurant and Sushi Bar

Sansei is a restaurant dedicated completely to seafood. The sushi they serve is touted to be some of the best in all of Hawaii, and there are additional locations on Maui and the Big Island. They tout their special rolls like the Kapalua Butterfly Roll, made up of salmon, crab, fresh shiromi, and veggies in a crisp deep-fried panko crust, and the crab salad handroll. Come to Sansei, right around the corner from Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach, for a vibrant and relaxed atmosphere.

4. Hakone

Located at the Hawaii Prince Hotel Waikiki is Hakone, a sushi restaurant that is known for its food and its views. The restaurant serves up an extensive menu of high-quality sushi in an elegant atmosphere. What makes the dining experience at Hakone so unique, however, is the idyllic view of the Ala Wai Harbor that patrons can enjoy as they dine.

Given its proximity to the ocean, it’s no surprise that Honolulu’s sushi is a culinary draw for visitors to the town. The fish served at the best sushi restaurants in town is so fresh, it is often pulled out of the water the same day it is served!