March break is a popular time to escape from the Canadian winter, especially for those with school-age children and grandchildren. However, the March/spring break is also party time for thousands of college and university students. How can you soak up the sun while still avoiding the party hotspots?

One of the best ways to avoid the party during your March break vacation is to stay away from well-known popular party destinations such as:

Cancun, Mexico
Daytona Beach, Florida
Panama Beach, Panama City Florida
Varadero, Cuba

There are several others, but these are well known for their high-energy nightlife.

Here are some destinations that will allow you to bask in the sunshine — without worrying about being caught up in party central.

Melia Cayo — Santa Maria, Cuba

Recommended for older travellers and rated 4/5 stars on TripAdvisor.com, this beautiful Caribbean getaway offers white sandy beaches, luxurious rooms and friendly staff. While you won’t be bombarded with hoards of teenagers looking to party, the nightlife at Melia is still vibrant with its colourful shows and fun discos.

This all-inclusive resort opened in December 2003 and is set on about 29 acres of ground situated on 400 metres of beaches. Because of the breathtaking beaches, crystal clear water and lush vegetation this resort has become a Biosphere Reserve and one of the ‘most exotic locations in the Caribbean.’

During your stay there are several bars and restaurants to choose from to keep you happy and not hungry.

To learn more, visit the Meliá Cayo Santa María website.

Couples Negril — Jamaica

Recommended for couples and older travellers and rated 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor.com, this stylish resort caters to couples looking for a relaxing, peaceful vacation. Enjoy the swim-up bar while you indulge in the pool, or retire to the comfort of your own room with your in-suite Jacuzzi.

The resort is situated on 18 acres of land and white sandy beaches that is carved into the captivating landscape of Negril Jamaica.

The Couples Negril offers fine accommodations, live nightly entertainment, gourmet meals, and water sports. Try one of the many unique restaurants from The Cassava Terrace to the Beach Grill – one will be sure to tickle your fancy.

For more information, visit the Couples Negril Resorts website.

Casa Los Arquitos B&B — Oaxaca, Central Mexico

Recommended for older travellers and rated 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor.com, this unique getaway is ideal for the adventurous at heart. The Casa Los Arquitos B&B is located on the same quiet, cobblestone street as the historical aqueduct which provided water to the city from the town of San Felipe del Aqua during the 16th century until 1934.

This area is known to be one of the most characteristic tourist spots in the historic area of the city. Within walking distance are several handicraft stores, museums, temples, movie theatres, weekend markets, parks, restaurants, cafes and much more.