A popular tradition among high school and college students alike is heading somewhere warm and sunny for the week known as Spring Break. Regrettably, most people?s current financial state with this economy eliminates a few of the more expensive destinations.

However, I still have five amazing beaches that college students can make reservations for now and look forward to several days of sun and sand without breaking the bank.

* Perhaps the most well-known of all destinations is Ft. Lauderdale. Florida has changed over the years, but Ft. Lauderdale is still the place which college students can afford traveling to during Spring Break.

* Acapulco also tops the list for popular destinations, especially for college students. You can usually find travel packages that help make this destination affordable as well as trendy.

* One of the perennial favorites, Bermuda, has become somewhat more expensive over the past few years and therefore has been taken off our list. Happily Aruba has become a fantastic alternative destination offering beautiful beaches, friendly people, and unbelievable weather. An additional bonus is that all Aruba hotels are located on the beach, unlike Bermuda.

* For affordable accommodations and fabulous beaches, the Bahamas is also considered one of the great Spring Break destinations in 2009.

* Finally, for an all-inclusive package to either “nowhere” or from Florida to the Bahamas, cruises have become highly touted as the best possible vacation venue for most college students.

Safety is also a concern this year, especially in Mexico. Crime has risen in well-known resorts such as Cancun, and it is advised not to travel there this year. Acapulco, however, is the exception.

There is one other destination you may wish to consider: Panama City Beach. It has become a thriving Spring break destination. With beach parties, clubs, and pubs, this is one area college students may opt for as a last “resort.”

Any one of these destinations would be a wonderful way to relax and enjoy Spring Break. It is highly recommended that you book early. Either check with your travel agent or utilize the online travel companies.