–pswanson@my.apsu.edu
Since the start of the semester, the weather here in Tennessee has been almost unbearable. Every day, we get up to the rain and to the cold and watch as the workload piles up in front of us. After several weeks of this nonsense, most of us are hoping and praying for a vacation.
Thankfully, we are almost there. In just a few days, we all get a nice long week off to tie up loose ends and hopefully relax.
No matter where you go on your break, please use caution and discretion during your activities. If you decide to drink, don’t drive.
Call a cab or designate someone to stay sober and drive for you. We all know that driving while intoxicated is illegal and very dangerous. There is absolutely no reason for you to ruin your vacation by potentially hurting yourself or someone else. Unfortunately, many students “let loose” on spring break and engage in unsafe sexual activities.
Qpid.me is an online site that will send anyone a report of your STD status free of charge, as long as you authorize it.
Always use discretion in choosing to have sex and always use protection. Remember, this is a time to relax, not a time to make things more stressful on yourself.
I’m sure that most of you have long since planned your spring break getaway and already have your tickets and “mental bags” packed. For those that haven’t, however, I have a couple last minute getaway ideas that might be of interest.
If you absolutely have to get to the beach for spring break, then Gulf Shores, Ala. might be just for you. The city is located around 500 miles from Clarksville, which is about eight hours of driving. It is right on the edge of the gulf and plays host to a large amount of things to do.
You can parasail over the gulf from Orange Beach, go on a deep sea fishing venture with one of the charter boats nearby and even head to one of the nearby amusement parks to ride go-karts and golf. Most of the hotels are around $75-100 a night, and at vacationrentals.com, you can get package deals that have your hotel and amusements included in one package.
The beach is great if that’s what you’re looking for, but there are closer, cheaper destinations as well. The Smoky Mountains in East Tennessee are a great destination for those who enjoy the cold weather. Gatlinburg is only about 250 miles away and is tucked away in the hills, far away from the busier side of life.
Given the recent weather, there will probably be a bit of snow up in the mountains, which could make hiking a very beautiful experience. However, if you don’t want to hike, there are a multitude of stores to shop in along the main strip. You can visit the Space Needle and eat in one of the restaurants at the top or play laser tag, as well as plenty of other activities.
You can even climb the mountains or travel along zip lines and see the city from a view you’ve never seen before. Visit Gatlinburg.com/deals for more information about lodging and coupons for your trip.Wherever you choose to go and whatever you choose to do this Spring Break, stay safe and enjoy your time off. You’ve earned it.
