SPRING BREAK 2012: Hasty living might prompt UHCL students to opt for staycation

Slideshow created by The Signal reporter David Hensley.

Lakeisha Moore
The Signal
Spring Break generally conjures up visions of beautiful sandy beaches, tranquil blue water with crashing waves and warming sunrays, but for some UHCL students, upcoming midterms and rising gas prices are prompting them to plan a staycation.

The word staycation, a vacation spent at or nearby one’s home, made its way into the Merriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary in 2009. The makers of the dictionary report the term as first being used in 2005.

Planning a Spring Break vacation within close proximity can be extremely beneficial to students who may be short on time and cash. For UHCL communication major Debra Machemehl, a staycation is just what she needs during the break.

“With gas prices rising, I believe that many people will not travel far,” Machemehl said. “I plan to do things locally.”

Machemehl is expecting her 21-year-old son, Jonathan, and his 19-year-old foreign exchange student friend, Dan, during Spring Break. She is currently pondering plans to ensure the boys have an enjoyable stay. So, what could students like Machemehl do to keep things interesting and cut costs simultaneously? From foam parties at Discovery Green to kayaking in Galveston, there are numerous Houston-area staycation offerings during Spring Break.

Foam Party at Discover Green

A public park located in the heart of downtown Houston, Discovery Green prides itself on being a cultural melting pot. There, one will find diverse and enriching cultural experiences with a primary interest in “green” activities.

The park offers a vast number of amenities such as a playground, water fountain, dog runs, a mist tree, lake, performance stage, jogging trail and a reading room.

A “Spring Break Foam Party” is scheduled from 1 to 4 p.m., Tuesday, March 13. The event is open to the public and is free.

For more information visit www.discoverygreen.com.

Houston Rockets

Grab a friend or two and check out the Houston Rockets as they battle the Charlotte Bobcats at the Toyota Center Wednesday, March 14, at 7 p.m. Tickets are currently available for purchase at www.toyotacentertix.com, the Toyota Center Box Office, via phone at 866-4HOUTIX and at participating Houston-area Randalls’ stores for as low as $10.

Children’s Museum of Houston

The Children’s Museum of Houston, located at 1500 Binz St., has dubbed itself as being the ultimate Spring Break destination for children. Children and families can embark on a daily adventure by participating in one or more of CMH’s ongoing Spring Break activities, including Pi Day in celebration of Albert Einstein’s birthday, March 14. Participants will honor Einstein and the number 3.14 by tossing around shaving cream pies.

“We are America’s number one children’s museum and ranked as one of Forbes top 12 children’s museums in the country,” said Henry Yau, public relations and promotions director for CMH. “The Children’s Museum is really a place for families to come and stay here. There’s always something for each family member to do.”

All events are open to the public. Tickets are $8 for adults and children (1+), $7 for seniors (65+). The museum offers free admission Thursdays from 5 to 8 p.m.

Visit www.cmhouston.org or call 713-522-1138 for more information.

Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo

It’s rodeo time! Folks from across the world come in droves to become honorary cowboys and cowgirls during the 20-day run of the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo. Spring Breakers looking for a bargain might consider attending the HLS&R’s Value Wednesday March 14. Tickets to the rodeo and concert featuring The Band Perry are being offered at $10 each.

Those in attendance also will have an opportunity to play select games for $1 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and partake in tasty rodeo treats at the same price.

Tickets are available for purchase at www.rodeohouston.com.

Kemah Boardwalk

In addition to its selection of restaurants and carnival rides, Kemah Boardwalk will offer free live music every day throughout Spring Break. For a list of performers and other information, visit www.kemahboardwalk.com or call 877-AT-KEMAH.

Galveston Island State Park Kayaking Adventure

Care for an out-of-the-box adventure? Consider kayaking through Galveston Island State Park from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Tuesday, March 13.

“We have about 12 public adventures starting March 10 that all occur in places of natural significance on Galveston Island,” said Karla Klay, executive director of Artist Boat. “What is unique about Galveston Island State Park, and really any kayaking location on the bay, is that great birds are there this time of year.”

The guided kayak tour is being offered at $25 per person; kayak equipment is provided for an additional fee. Children and adults ages 7 and older may participate without previous kayaking experience. Visit https://kayak.destinationnext.com or call 409-770-0722 for more information.

Not all UHCL students plan to take a vacation during Spring Break, not even a staycation.

UHCL business student Sandra Brizendine plans to utilize her time off during Spring Break catching up on assignments.

“I plan to stay home and catch up on school work,” said Brizendine, who works full-time. “While a vacation would nice, I feel the need to prioritize. Being a working professional and part-time student, my free time is limited.”