When March arrives in North America, there’s only one thing on the youth population’s mind… Spring Break!

Universities in Canada and USA hand their students a week-long recess (although the exact dates vary from school to school and year to year) that inevitably turns into one great big MTV-sponsored party and a college rite of passage.

But where to head if you want don’t fancy hanging with the rabble in Florida and the underage kids across the border in Mexico?

And, more importantly, where can you enjoy Spring Break on a budget to avoid ringing your folks and desperately pleading for funds to see you through the trip?!

Here’s a few top spots away from the crowds and the prices of the big tour destinations…

Vegas, Baby!

With a recession in full swing, legendary ‘city of excess’ Las Vegas is suffering from tourist nonchalance. Book a Las Vegas hostel on The Strip and party all day and all night to the sound of the slots. If you stick to the huge value-for-money casino buffets and avoid the high-roller tables, a few creditable gambling skills could even see you making a few bucks on holiday.

Many of the city’s famous attractions are also free and budget-friendly – marvel at The Bellagio Fountains (immortalised in Clooney/Pitt flick Ocean’s 11), check out the art in The Venetian, white tigers at The Mirage, lions at The MGM, circus acts at Circus Circus… and a full-scale pirate ship battle outside Treasure Island.

Chillin’ in Costa Rica

Clubs, diving, white sand – it’s easy to see the attraction of Central America, and just why so many hordes of college students end up in Mexico every Spring Break!

But Costa Rica has all the benefits of this part of the continent – cheap beer and restaurants, beaches on the Caribbean Sea – without the crowds. It’s also known for outstanding natural beauty and a range of hostels geared towards eco-travel – all of which offers a more alternative Spring Break experience.

Stay Classy in San Diego

If you’re looking for a relaxing day at the beach and a busy club scene after sunset, San Diego is an excellent budget choice for Spring Break.

Away from the pricey East Coast and Florida, San Diego hostels provide a cheap place to crash, whilst award-winning brew pubs and the trendy bars of the Gaslamp District offer a varied and vibrant nightlife.

AW – Any great ideas for an alternative Spring Break during the credit crunch? Let us know where you’re headed!