Life on the street in Key West.
We’re halfway through the semester, which means most of us can use a little vacation. Luckily, Fall Break is fast approaching. If you cannot make it home for the weekend, consider taking a quick weekend getaway. Here are a few Distraction-approved suggestions:
Bimini
A popular weekend retreat amongst South Floridians, Bimini is just a few hours away traveling by boat. Sure you can go to South Beach, but imagine the look on the faces of your friends’ up North when you tell them you’re heading to an exclusive island. Plus the crowds are much smaller and the beaches much more serene. You can enjoy a view of the ocean as you eat fresh seafood and drink a cold beer at a local restaurant. Or, if you feel more adventurous, you can experience the reefs by SCUBA diving. And in case you don’t have your own yacht anchored at the marina, the Bimini Day Cruise makes daily trips to Bimini out of the Port of Miami. There’s even gambling and dining on board. Best part: Groupon is offering tickets at a 51% discount. Act fast! Oh, and don’t forget your passport.
Orlando
Orlando is most famous for one thing: theme parks. Fall is full of great events at two of the most popular parks. Disney World is an obvious favorite, with its turkey legs, character parades and freakishly friendly staff; add the Food and Wine festival and we’re sold. Epcot’s annual festival, which will take place until November 11, is a great way to travel the world through food and drinks. Try some croissants and vodka slushies in Paris then head over to Germany for pretzels and bier. Tell your parents it’s a cultural experience.
If you are looking for an adrenaline rush, then Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios might be the better choice. Inspired by AMC’s The Walking Dead, you will be chased by zombies while waiting in line for some of Florida’s best roller coasters.
Miami Stay-cation
Maybe you want to get out of Coral Gables but still want to stay in Miami. Consider renting a hotel room on the beach and soaking up some sun without the swarms of tourists from the summer and winter months. Check websites like airbnb and hotwire for great deals in the area. Split between a group of friends, you could be living the high life on the cheap.
Key West
Key West is unofficially officially the nation’s capital of laid-back, go-with-the-flow fun. Join in the Duval Crawl – including the world’s smallest bar – and visit the southern-most point in the US. We recommend being there Friday to join in the craziest party of the year: Fantasy Fest. You’ll be sure to come back with some entertaining stories.
words_nicole vila. photo_raquel zaldivar.