Some Ideas for Spring Break!

Hey Everyone, it's Rei! 

It's already March, which means spring is on the way! Even in Parkland, we have been experiencing warm and cold, sunny and rainy days lately, and I can feel the change of seasons. I am kind of burning out from last week's midterm, but one thing that has been keeping me motivated is the spring break that is coming next weekend! Since the break is just around the corner, I would like to introduce some places for those of you who have not yet decided your plans or want to go somewhere! 

1. Vancouver, Canada

The first place I would recommend is Vancouver! I myself visited this city for the first time with my friend last spring break and loved it so much that it is our destination for this year's spring break as well. The best thing about Vancouver in my opinion is the urban landscape, similar to Seattle, lots of art galleries, and tons of amazing food places! Vancouver's neighborhoods are city-like and similar in some ways to Seattle, but seem more compact and easier to explore than Seattle. In addition, the numerous museums, such as the Vancouver Art Gallery and the Contemporary Art Gallery, offer much to learn and are must-see for art lovers! And there is plenty of good

Inari place @Grab N Go 

 food there. One of the traditional Canadian dishes you should try is called poutine, which is a combination of french fries and gravy, and it tastes different in each store! Vancouver is a land border with the U.S. and is a close, approximately 3-hour drive from PLU, but Canada is a completely different country from the U.S. Of course a passport is required for immigration inspection. One thing to keep in mind when traveling to other countries as an international student is the Visa process. Depending on the person traveling outside the U.S. on the I-20, a new travel signature may need to be requested. Forms must be completed by March 20th (tomorrow!) so that the I-20 can be returned before spring break. There are a number of Visa-related procedures involved in traveling to a different country, but I would 100% recommend that you do so, as it will definitely make your trip enjoyable and rewarding! 

2. Leavenworth, Washington

With its picturesque scenery and lovely German Bavarian-style buildings, Leavenworth is the gateway to Bavaria in the Cascades, a 2.5 hour drive from PLU. The city offers more than 100 unique stores and restaurants, cozy lodging, art and live music, and a host of award-winning events. Leavenworth is famous for its snowy winter views and Christmas lights, but you can also enjoy a different, warmer, atmosphere in the spring! I have not been there yet, but many of my friends have said it was a great place, and it's definitely on my bucket list to visit someday! 

3. Portland, Oregon

Spring break could be a good opportunity to get out to a different state! As you know, Oregon is only 2.5 hour drive from PLU and is neighboring states to Washington. Like Seattle, it remains a bustling metropolis, but it is noticeably less hectic and very easy to get around by car and bus. The best thing about Oregon is that it is a tax free state, making it great place to shop. Besides that, there are a variety of hiking spots and natural environment that are perfect for a few days of travel during spring break! 

4. Redwood National and State Parks (in CA) with Outdoor Recreation

Did you know that PLU's Outdoor Rec is planning a trip to California for Spring break? Outdoor Rec is PLU's wilderness adventure club. They lead trips each weekend to scenic places around the Pacific Northwest, rent gear out to the PLU community, and provide the resources necessary for any adventure! This year, they are traveling to Redwood National and State Parks (with lots of fun outdoor and CA activities along the way) for spring break (the trip will be from 3/25 to 3/30). The cost ($280) covers your transportation, food, park fees, accommodations, and any necessary outdoor recreation rentals (tent, sleeping bag, etc.). They are welcoming any Lute, of any outdoor experience level, to join them! Sign up can be done through the PLU Rec app or website. I recommend you do so as soon as possible as there is a limited number of spots available. If you have any questions or concerns, please send them their way via the outdoor@plu.edu email. 

These are just a few of the places I know of, and there are probably many more where you can go on break. You can stay in your dorm and relax, or you can finish all the things you have left to do at once. I hope you will be able to enjoy your 10 days of spring break as much as you like. And after the break, we will grind for the studying and living our daily life as usual again! 

-Rei