Destination Gulf Coast

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Year after year, the popular spring break destinations are predictable--Mexico, Florida, California, Vegas, the Caribbean, and for those who can afford it, Europe. But why not try a new spot and combine your spring break travel with a little volunteering? It can be a great resume builder in this grim job market, and can help cut down the costs of travel at a time when budgets for many are tighter than usual.
 
So this year YPNation is suggesting a spring break destination that offers the beaches and party venues to rival the usual hot spots and could use your help. Where, you might ask? The Gulf Coast!
 
Here are a few Gulf Coast volunteer travel destinations worth considering:
 
NEW ORLEANS:
One of the most popular volunteer operations in NOLA is New Orleans Area Habitat for Humanity (NOAHH). Since Hurricane Katrina, with the help of thousands of volunteers, NOAHH has built more than 200 homes for displaced families. They are always accepting new bodies and their simple five-step volunteer process makes it easy to sign up. Information on housing and food options, as well as waivers is available on the NOAHH site.
 
As for what to do when you are not volunteering, that's easy. New Orleans is rich in culture, music, food, nightlife and history. Here is a list of just a few festivities and free activities for the month of March:
 
St. Patrick’s Day Parade(s)
March 13-21
St. Patrick's Day falls on March 17th, but these parades are considered an extension of Nola's most famous parade--Mardi Gras--and the holiday is celebrated accordingly. The festivities take place for a week in the Irish Channel neighborhood, as well as down funky Magazine street, which is lined with miles of boutiques and shops for spring break souvenir pleasures.
 
Caution: Those pretty paper roses the well-dressed gentlemen pass out to you will cost you a kiss.
 
Fête Française 2010
March 20
This event is all about the French music and food. Sponsored by The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation, The Alliance Française, and The French Consulate of New Orleans, it is an overall celebration of the historic cultural heritage of New Orleans and its French ties. The Fete is held in a student friendly location--the campus of the Bilingual School of New Orleans.
 
For seafood lovers, here is one more reason why New Orleans should be on your list of spring travel destinations:
 
Oyster Jubilee and Road Food Festival
March 26-28
For two fun, food-filled days in the French Quarter, you will be able to taste culinary masterpieces from all over America. Held on historic Royal Street, these epicurean delights are served by the landmark restaurants that make them best.
 
But perhaps you have been to New Orleans, and want to try something new.
 
BILOXI, MISSISSIPPI:
This Gulf Coast destination was also affected by Hurricane Katrina, and through the National Alternative Spring Break (ASB) Program, which runs from March 28 to April 3, 2010, you will have the chance to give back and experience Mississippi.
 
Last year, hundreds of ASB volunteers contributed more than 12,000 hours during spring break in Indiana, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi and Texas. All you need to do is figure out a way to get to Mississippi, fill out an application, and come up with $150 to cover expenses, including meals, lodging and local transportation. Visit the United Ways Web site to learn more about ASB Programs.
 
For post-volunteering activities, Mississippi has 26 miles of coastal waters known as Beach Boulevard. Popular beaches along this stretch include Christian and Long Beach. If you are looking to stay out of the sun, Biloxi also offers casinos and an eclectic art culture.
 
Ship Island:
Ship Island is actually the collective name for two barrier islands off the coast of Mississippi--Hurricane Camille split the island in two in 1969. Named for having one of the top 10 beaches in the United States by USA Today, this destination boasts sparkling Gulf waters for swimming (look for dolphins!) and sandy white beaches for sunbathing, beachcombing, picnicking and more. Ship Island is approximately 10 miles offshore from Gulfport/Biloxi, and is accessible via ferry from the Gulfport Small Craft Harbor. If you are a history buff, be sure to check out Fort Massachusetts, completed in 1866.
 
Other Biloxi Activities: 

• Visit the Isle Casino where you can catch a free concert on Friday or Saturday nights;
• Seafood lovers can catch the Sea Food Feast at the Hard Rock Casino every Friday until April;
• Enjoy a walk through nature at the Wet Pine Savannah
• Art lovers should visit the popular Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art for free exhibits by international and local artists.

Inspired by these spring travel destination ideas? Check out this article about one sea captain's determination to help the people of Haiti.

 
(Photo: On the Mississippi, the Natchez in New Orleans)