Make the most of a Santa Monica "staycation"

While some students are off to Cancun and other popular spring break destinations, others may face the reality of an empty bank account, and have to stay local. For Santa Monica College students, being stranded can actually be an opportunity, and a vacation in itself. Tourists arrive from all over the world to enjoy Santa Monica, with its Mediterranean climate and beautiful beaches.

Montana Avenue is sometimes overlooked by locals. Stretching from 7th to 17th Streets, the ten-block district is home to more than 150 high-end boutiques, restaurants and businesses. Even with a lightweight wallet, just strolling down the tree-lined street can be a pleasant activity.

For the active student, an hour of free Zumba is offered at the Santa Monica Place every Saturday morning at 9 a.m.

The First Annual Otis Kite Festival will take place at Santa Monica Beach on April 14 and 15, between 12 and 5 p.m. The event is free, and gives participants a chance to create and fly kites with famous kite-makers and designers, including Tom Van Sant.

Spring break is also a chance for students to take their minds off of essays, midterms and everything else that has to do with school. Those who want to embrace their mental freedom to the fullest can visit Santa Monica Public Library’s Fairview Branch, located at 2101 Ocean Park Blvd., for a free 30-minute session of Mindful Mediation on Tuesday, April 10 at 7 p.m.

For those who still long for that Mexico feeling, there is always Cabo Cantina on the 3rd Street Promenade. For those 21 and over, a 36-ounce Patrón Mega Margarita is bound to get the ”staycation” started.