Another good topic for a Friday!
Looking for a sandy escape but loath to share your stretch of beach with beer-guzzling college students?
We don't blame you. Over 100,000 students travel to resort areas throughout Mexico each year on spring break, according to the U.S. Department of State. Other favorites include Nassau, Bahamas; Panama City, Fla.; and San Juan, Puerto Rico. Most see rambunctious revelers from mid-March to mid-April.
Then there is Cancun. Arguably the mother of all spring break destinations, it is living up to its reputation by hosting MTV Spring Break 2007 through the end of this week. But there's little doubt the party will carry on long after the cameras are packed away.
Fortunately, for those seeking a more peaceful setting than the satellite set of Total Request Live, there is a select group of properties across Mexico, the Caribbean and the southern half of the U.S. that cater to a more sophisticated, upscale clientele.
Casa Triton
Careyes, Mexico
If the last place you want to be this season is lining up for TRL's wet T-shirt contest in Cancun, tap into that cash stash and splurge on Casa Triton in Careyes, Mexico. This ultra-exclusive, six-bedroom villa features a personal chef, butler, driver, masseuse and activities including swimming, snorkeling and horseback riding. All this and more, for just $75,000 per week.
The Cove Atlantis
Paradise Island, Bahamas
Spring breaker-friendly Nassau might take the exclusivity out of the Bahamas, but the yet-to-open The Cove Atlantis on Paradise Island intends to put it right back in. Scheduled to open next month, it features 600 deluxe suites with unobstructed views of the peninsula's lush landscape. There are also adult-only pools if you wish to avoid the kiddies--even if they're gripping sand pails rather than Tequila Sunrises.
Jamaica Inn
Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Heading to Jamaica? Be sure to avoid the crowds in Negril and instead make your way to the Jamaica Inn in Ocho Rios. Each suite has a private waterfront veranda along with many other luxurious amenities, including comfy sofas and marble bathrooms.
The Ritz-Carlton
Amelia Island, Fla.
Panama City might play host to raunchy spring breakers, but Florida also boasts Amelia Island, considered by some to be the pinnacle of luxury and ease. The Ritz Carlton stands at the forefront of the area's exclusive accommodations and plays host to families and honeymooners alike.
Villa Amanecer de los Sueños
Baja, Mexico
Los Cabos is a favorite among Californian college students, so its no wonder upper-crust escapists find refuge on The East Cape, just an hour and a half north. Here rests the secluded Villa Amanecer de los Sueños. It comes equipped with a jacuzzi, barbecue and incredible views of the Sea of Cortez. Each bedroom includes its own patio, bath and king-size bed.
The Phoenician
Scottsdale, Ariz.
Its close proximity to Phoenix makes Lake Havasu City the go-to destination for Arizona State students. So, unless youre interested in a 24-7 kegger, the world-renowned Phoenician Resort in Scottsdale may prove a better bet. Nestled at the base of Arizonas Camelback Mountain, this 250-acre resort boasts a championship golf course, spa and nine heated pools.
Calliaqua
Sugar Hill, Barbados
Fortunate renters of Calliaqua at Sugar Hill, an elegantly furnished villa that boasts a 1000-square-foot mosaic tiled pool, complete with mini waterfalls, can relax on their terrace or enjoy dinner on their coral stone table under a crystal chandelier. The amenities are seemingly endless and include four en-suite bedrooms, a master bedroom as well as a guest cottage.
Las Casitas Village
Puerto Rico
San Juan may be a spring break mainstay, but Las Casitas Village, only an hour away from the capital, boasts 157 private villas as well as the El Conquistador Resort and Golden Door Spa. The complex even boasts its own private island, Palomino. If youre hungry for world class dining, theres an outpost of Manhattan's famous Strip House restaurant.
