by Taye Foster Bradshaw

Created on: February 25, 2009

It is getting warmer, the end of Mardi Gras and beginning of Ash Wednesday, signaling the Lenten Season also signals another important season the most elementary, secondary, and college students - Spring Break. This important time of year offers the chance to take a much needed respite from the books and the doldrums that accompany the semester after a long winter break. In some areas, it is more important that winter break because it opens the door to the promise of a summer waiting.

This spring break will be different for many students due to the severe and shrinking economy. While there are bargains for air travel, hotels, and some cities that depend on tourism, it is increasingly harder to plan a beach get-away. A student can still have an enjoyable break - usually about 10 days - without breaking the bank.

One of the best alternative breaks is to explore one's own city. This is even better if living in a major or secondary metropolitan area.

Most big cities have museums, quaint neighborhoods, eclectic shops, zoos, sports, historic sites, and great architecture. Be a tourist at home.

St. Louis, for example, is a perfect place to have a hometown-tourist-spring-break. The growing metro area, anchored by the St. Louis Arch is home to Cardinals Baseball, The St. Louis Zoo, The Missouri History Museum, Forest Park, The Missouri Botanical Gardens, Delmar Loop, The Central West End, The Historic Laclede's Landing, Soulard, the nation's second-largest Mardi Gras celebration, Powell Symphony Hall, Fox Theatre, The Black Repertory Theatre, Washington University, St. Louis University, and all manor of quaint neighborhoods, small suburbs, tucked away coffee shops, restaurants, and bars. The affordable location in the heart of the Midwest even makes this a great destination for neighboring college towns in Columbia, Rolla, Jefferson City, and Normal Illinois.

How would a home-town spring break unfold in the Gateway to the West? A couple of energetic young people could start off their morning with a hearty Greek breakfast at the Majestic Restaurant located on LaClede in the Central West End. This family owned business has been around for well over a decade and for about $8, one can dine on a hearty serving of eggs, potatoes, bacon, toast, and juice. This little spot has watched condos, banks, and businesses grow up around it while it still holds court on the corner. Seating is open except for the Greeks Only booth just outside the kitchen.

Once the belly is full, a quick walk

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