ABOUT THE AUTHORS

THE BAHAMAS

James Bunting, Penn State University

I've wanted to be a sports writer for a national newspaper or magazine for as long as I can remember. I was the sports editor of my high school newspaper, and I spent the past few summers covering high school baseball for my local newspaper. I've even worked as an intern for a national sports network. Needless to say, I never expected to be writing a travel guide to the Bahamas. I spent a full week in the Bahamas with my best friend and his girlfriend, and probably my most memorable moment from the trip was when we first saw the ocean during our ride from the airport to the hotel. I've spent many summers at the Jersey shore, and I love the beaches and boardwalks in Wildwood, Ocean City, and Atlantic City, so when I first saw the crystal-blue water and sparkling sand in the Bahamas, my first reaction was, "We're not in Jersey any more."

It's the little things on a vacation that make a trip to the Bahamas so special. You wouldn't believe how much cooler drinking out of a coconut feels than a plastic cup. Ordering a drink from a swim-up bar is a much better experience than a regular bar. We spent an entire afternoon going up and down the pool's water slide with dozens of other college kids. It's the small things like these that we will remember for years to come. The best story I have from my trip to the Bahamas was from a snorkeling excursion about a mile from the shore. I spotted a six-foot-long shark swimming right next to me. We were swimming several yards away from the boat, so swimming back there was not an option at the moment. I kept trying to re-watch episodes of the Discovery Channel's "Shark Week" in my head and figure out the right thing to do. I just floated there and watched its every move. Next thing you know, I feel the ocean floor becoming dangerously close, and I cut my left foot on the sharp coral below. So, not only do I have a shark next to me that I can almost touch, I am now bleeding all over the water. After uttering a few expletives, I did my best Michael Phelps impression and flew across the water back to the boat. Thankfully, the shark didn't moved an inch and allowed me to write this guide for everyone.

CAYE CAULKER, BELIZE

Elizabeth Packer, UCLA

After spending my spring break in Caye Caulker, I came home with a tan, some great stories, and a desire to return to this relaxed Caribbean island. I must say, I couldn't have asked for better companions-they made the trip so incredibly enjoyable. Lucy and Natalie, you guys were the perfect travelers-always willing to explore, try new things, and, above all, have a good time. Though we ran into some obstacles-buses that never showed up, Linda and giant cups of coffee, serious wind issues, Henry and his persistence-you two kept me laughing, and I had such a good time discovering Belize with you. I'm already planning our next trip (Greece sounds good, right?), so clear your calendars for next spring break!

Working on this guide has been a pleasure-the perfect way to combine my penchant for travel with my love of writing. It was a great experience, and now I'd like to see if my upcoming year abroad could yield further writing opportunities-anyone looking for anything about Madagascar or Australia? Regardless, it's nice to think that there might actually be a way to avoid a desk job and make a living while seeing the world.

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Conrado O . Bowen, Alfred University

The opportunity to share my experience in Puerto Plata with other potential spring breakers has been awesome. Spring break is an absolutely amazing part of the entire college experience, and I hope that by writing this chapter, I am alleviating some of the stress from the process for many of you. I had a great time in Puerto Plata. At the time, it provided pretty much what I needed from a spring break destination, which was a nice getaway from my hectic routine at school and time to reconnect with my best friends. Of course, I would have enjoyed it more if there were more cute girls in our age bracket and a crazier party scene, but I find I have that problem most times when I travel abroad. After all is said and done, I had a great time, and I didn't want to leave the resort at the end of our stay.

My time in Puerto Plata would not have been the same without my friends: Karim, Nate, Shem, Mike, and Matt-3rd Tefft 4 life. I have since graduated from Alfred University and am now currently living in New York City pursuing a career in writing, film, and acting.

JAMAICA

Jeremy A . Tratner, Loyola Marymount University

These pursuits would not have been possible without the inspiration and support of an intimate group of trusted colleagues and fellow wanderers. With the highest degree of sincerity, I thank everyone who considers my perspective. However, it is my family who deserves the most credit. Without them, this would have all just been a pipe dream. Thank you for making this my reality.

Additional contributions to the Jamaica chapter were provided by Bethany Tillilie of the University of Pittsburgh.

PUERTO RICO

Micah L . Nerio, Southern Methodist University

I graduated from Southern Methodist University as an honors student this past May, with a double degree in anthropology and finance. I am now adjusting to post-graduation life and employed with a major corporation working as an analyst, with future plans of soon going to graduate school for my MBA.

Until then, and while sitting at my computer desk at work, I dream of future travels abroad, getting my dream job, investing well, and one day opening up my own independent bookstore. I enjoy the human experience, travel, short stories, op-ed writing, the stock market, investing, and most importantly, my friends and family.

Writing this guide was a challenge, but one that I enjoyed. I keep a small travel journal with me whenever I travel and planned on using this as a reference when writing, but I found that talking with my travel companions and looking over old photos were better ways to remember and recall specific events-and much more fun, too. For me, the hardest part was writing about subjects that were of weak importance during the trip (mainly nightlife, restaurants/bars). I think I gave a fair assessment, but I encourage whoever reads this to truly experience Puerto Rico for themselves, and go out on a limb this spring break as long as it includes people one enjoys being with.

A special thanks goes out to Courtney's aunt for allowing us to stay at her condo. Special thanks for Courtney and Joseph who accompanied me on my trip to Vieques. Traveling to an unknown place wouldn't be complete without the company of great friends.

CANCÚN, MEXICO

Sanjay Belani, Washington University in St . Louis

In thinking back to Cancún, the first though that comes to my mind is "wow." The experience was unbelievable, and it almost seems as though it was from a movie. There's no doubt in my mind that Cancún is one of the best places to visit for spring break, and I would go back in a minute. Writing this for College Prowler has been an introspective experience-it really made me think about how much of a blast the trip was and how we all felt a little sad when we left. If partying is what you like to do, then this is the place for you-you'll meet beautiful people, drink tons of alcohol, and in the end, have the time of your life. As a graduating college senior, I can personally say that this was one of the best spring breaks I've ever had, one of the best ways to end college, and one insane ride. I'd like to give a shout-out to my college roommates/fellow spring breakers Chris, Dave, Tyler, and Dan, the awesome Alaskans we met (Jessica and Kaylee from ASU!), and our fellow Wash U friends, Carly, Nina, and Emily. The trip would never have been the same without all of you. As for you future Cancún spring breakers, this guide is what I consider the essential places in Cancún; however, there is so much to experience there that it wouldn't possibly fit in these pages. Everyone has a different experience, so go out there and make some memories of your own!

PUERTO VALLARTA, MEXICO

Amanda Buschman, Texas Christian University

I am an avid traveler. I lived abroad in London while in college, traveling all across Europe during my stay. I've also been on spring break trips to St. John and Puerto Vallarta, and cruised to Alaska, the Caribbean, and the Mediterranean.

My favorite part of traveling is learning about how different parts of the world work and play, and making international friends. I went to college at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, Texas, where I was the president of my sorority and enjoyed a great balance of academics and, more importantly, being social. I am currently a writer, voice-over talent, and personal assistant living in Austin, Texas.

HAWAII

Rae Wen Shee, Carnegie Mellon University

I was born in Singapore and have two siblings-an older brother, Bernard, and a twin sister, Rae Hui. Rocky and Buddy are my dogs, and I always refer to them as my other two brothers. Although I had visited several parts of the United States before, 2007 was the first time I had ever lived in America. I am currently pursuing a double major in information systems and business at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, and I am extremely thankful to my parents for the opportunity to study in the States. Living and studying in America has truly created many opportunities for me, one of which is this priceless chance to write for College Prowler.

My trip to Hawaii was generally a pleasurable and extraordinary one. First, the beaches and sceneries were the most amazing that I have ever seen. Second, it was during this trip to Hawaii that I ate the best pancakes (at Kula Lodge and Restaurant) and sea bass (at the Maalea Waterfront Restaurant) in my entire life. Third, the warm climate was a huge contrast to the cold and chilly weather in Pittsburgh. Moreover, I took much delight in the various activities that I did, which included snorkeling, whale watching, and visiting Pearl Harbor. The vibrant nightlife in Hawaii only added to my enjoyment because I never felt bored during my entire stay. The variety of night activities in Hawaii caters extremely well to college students, especially those who are underage, just like me-you do not need to go partying in order to have fun at night. Shopping at night markets and gazing at the star-filled sky are two alternatives to clubbing. On the whole, I am glad that I chose to spend my spring break in Hawaii because it offered me a fresh and dazzling experience that no other place could have provided.

KEY WEST, FLA.

Deanna Mercado, University of South Florida

To really enjoy Key West, you have to get out on the water because Key West isn't a beach destination-it's a water destination. I had the resources to go on a boat nearly every day. We went out to Marvin Key and Snipes Key, which are both gorgeous sand bars. We took a quick trip down to the Dry Tortugas and snorkeled. We rented Jet Skis and played tag with the fish tails we kicked up. Parasailing, tubing, diving, wakeboarding, water trampolines-we did it all and loved it. When the sun went down, we hit up Duval Street. Flying Monkeys makes the very best drinks in town, so it's the best place to start. Once we had a nice buzz, we'd head over to Rick's and enter a few contests to win free passes on a glass-bottomed boat or Sebago's Water Adventures. Nearly every night we got invitations to house or hotel parties once the bars closed. Occasionally, we made our way to the beach to watch the sunrise with some people we stumbled across earlier. Those were the nights that only digital cameras remember.

When we ate, we always asked the waitress or waiter what they recommended. We tried some things we otherwise would have passed over on the menu. Some were weird, some were slimy, some you craved seconds, but they were all an experience. We met some really great people that helped make our trip one of the best spring breaks ever. And making friends with locals is about the smartest thing you can do. Our locals took us bridge jumping and out to Marvin Key. I'm the kind of person who leaves one hell of an impression, but really, it's Key West that left an impression me.

LAKE HAVASU, ARIZ.

Kalin Mowry, University of Arizona

After doing Lake Havasu for the first time for spring break, I now understand how valuable spring break is. It is a time to lose all inhibitions (not all, but you know what I mean) and just let loose. Besides falling off boats and accidentally drinking too much mysterious lake water, it was pure and utter fun. It is not somewhere to go for romance-it's solely for fun, but that is what spring break is all about, right?

I caught myself cracking up about 20 times while writing this because of the crazy memories we made in Lake Havasu-some that are a bit risqué to write about. It almost seems like a guaranteed good time if you bring a group of friends to boat around on some escapade in search of the perfect time. And that is what this trip wound up being-a perfect party with a perfect group of people for spring break.

LAS VEGAS

Vanessa VanLandingham, The College of William and Mary

I am a senior at the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Va. When I'm not at school, I live an action-packed life in exotic Richmond, Va., where I play a lot of Rock Band during the day and party it up at night. I think everyone needs to get lost in the parallel universe of Las Vegas at least once in their lives.

Additional contributions to the chapter were provided by Brady Neal and Paul Pitner.

PANAMA CITY BEACH, FLA.

Nicholas Tolomeo, West Virginia University

I am a recent graduate of West Virginia University who currently resides in Pittsburgh, working as a sports reporter at a local newspaper with plans to return to graduate school to pursue a career in sports management. While at WVU, I spent two spring breaks along the shores of Panama City Beach. The time spent in Panama City was some of the best days of my life, and I continue to preach to college students the importance of visiting Panama City at least one time. I made the long 15-hour trip to Panama City from Morgantown with my friends Brendan, Ken, Dickey, Syndo, and roommate Tom. The week was one big drunken debacle, and midway through I found a girl that I simply named "Toosh." The name stuck and we have been dating ever since.

While writing this book, I could literally smell the sand, taste the alcohol, and feel the sun beating down on me again. Panama City during spring break is truly a special place, and everyone who has spent a week in March down there has a special bond. Much like all of us who went to Panama City together have been doing for the past year, this book let me look back and reflect on my memories of Panama City-though some are a little cloudy.

I would like to dedicate this book to the many people who shaped my spring break experience, most notably, DJ Big Donna, the LSU fan from the Tiki Bar, the hotel manager who evicted 10 of us from our room, the 12-year-old kid who tried bonging a beer, the 54-year-old mom who did bong a beer, the bartender at Hammerhead Fred's, Brendan and Beata, every Mountaineer fan at Harpoon Harry's, our waitresses at Hooters, the Mathletes next door to us, and the WTF guy at the TIKI Bar.

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, CALIF.

Zach Bourque, Loyola Marymount University

I was born in Dallas, Texas, but luckily my parents realized what kind of place Texas was early on and shipped the family off to lovely San Diego to blossom amidst the perfect weather and beach lifestyle.

I currently reside in Playa del Rey, Calif., and surf daily and enjoy the fruits of Los Angeles while working in the film industry and as a freelance writer. My infatuation with snowboarding started in the sixth grade and has continued to provide my life with exhilaration and joy ever since. I had heard about the rowdiness of South Lake Tahoe and decided to take a gander myself, heading out for a spring break trip with some friends my sophomore year of college. I have gone every year since, including spending a record two weeks with a fellow named Grady Winn in December 2007 amidst the biggest storm Tahoe has had in years.

I want to personally thank Clete, the man behind the phenomenal Doug's Mellow Mountain Retreat, for putting up with our incessant boozing. Tim, be sure to wear something other than jeans next time you're riding the slopes. Lakeside Casino and Bar, you provided me with endless $2 Moose Drool pints, which supplemented my karaoke aspirations and provided a pregaming destination before moving on to other establishments. Thanks to Alex and Grady for providing me plenty of meat and potatoes to go along with the different sections in this guide. Big ups to Jay Thrasher and Steve Azzi for housing me and helping me support my snowboarding habit. Above all, I must give ubiquitous shout-outs to my wonderful parents, Dennis and Dianne, and my three brothers, Nathan, Benjamin, and Joseph, who provide me with more love and laughs than they can understand. I encourage everyone who is reading this to call their friends stupid for going to Mexico and take lots of photos of themselves airing off logs into 10 feet of powder to rub into their faces the following week.

SOUTH PADRE ISLAND, TEXAS

Joshua Currie, Trinity University

After two years of making South Padre my spring break destination, I joked that I could almost write a book about the subject. So when I was presented with the opportunity to do just that, I jumped on it. When I first started writing, I completely underestimated the time and effort that I would have to put into this. This book wasn't easy, but it was a great experience, and I now officially know more about South Padre Island than I could ever need to know.

I'm now a junior at Trinity University in San Antonio, and I'm loving every minute of college. If spring break has taught me one thing, it's to do it big or go home. Seriously, when in our lives are we ever going to be in a situation like college, where we can choose when we want to go to class, where there are few, if any, rules, and where we determine how much fun we have each week? I plan on taking advantage of my final two years, and I hope readers do, too. When I went to Padre the first time, I went with a massive group of 18 people-big groups are the way to go. I promise you that trips like this will give you some of your best life stories. For example, one of my friends was arrested. It doesn't sound too funny, but believe me, even he laughs now. I plan on doing it big again next year, too- maybe Cancún or Acapulco but probably South Padre again. Either way, I'll be with my friends. So I guess this is the part where I throw out a couple of shout-outs to all the guys who were always by my side in Padre no matter what and have either helped provide hilarious stories or kept me out of them: Thanks Chase, Matt, Paulson, Endsley, Jordan, Mike, Cypher, David, D Sanch, Dalton, George, Noah, Jacob, and Brandon.

Additional contributions to the chapter were provided by Cody Hilder.

WALT DISNEY WORLD, FLA.

Mallory Huron, University of Connecticut

Mallory attends the University of Connecticut in Storrs, where she spends most of her time writing, drawing, and rooting for the No. 1 Huskies basketball team. Wherever she is, though, she'd always rather be at Walt Disney World! Her favorite rides are the Rock n' Roller Coaster and Kilimanjaro Safaris, and she could definitely eat the Pineapple Floats from Adventureland for every meal of the day. She wants to thank her mom, dad, and brother for always putting up with her on their Disney vacations- whether she's acting like an evil stepsister or a fairytale princess!