With the overwhelming amount of final presentations, papers and exams, most college students feel as though they’re about to break by the end of winter quarter.

Luckily there’s a built-in vacation period that allows us to stay in one piece — at least until week 10 of spring quarter.

Whether it’s marked by increased drinking and sexuality on a foreign beach or an uphill climb with an oversized backpack, spring break is a welcomed pause in the school year for all students. It’s a time to relax, have fun and forget about the UW for seven days.

Some await it six months in advance, and plan accordingly. Others, like myself, still have no plans three weeks out. Either way, there are plenty of questions to be answered.

For the former: Which bathing suit should I pack? How can I avoid seasickness? What SPF will leave me golden brown instead of red as a lobster?

And for the latter: To where can I get a cheap flight at the last minute? Who has a car that can handle a 700-mile drive? On whose couch can I crash?

For this edition, our staff put together some personal accounts of trips we’ve enjoyed over the years. Destinations range from local to foreign and climates from chilly to burning. We’ve also included some tips on how to do it yourself, if you so choose.

Having said that, I hope the this guide to spring break enhances your upcoming vacation. Whether it gets you even more pumped for long-awaited plans or gives you a last-minute idea to throw together, we hope you use it to your advantage.

Enjoy your break — you deserve it.