Additional Coverage:
- I took a day trip from New Jersey to Florida. My flight was $58, and the itinerary for my 11-hour adventure was perfect. (businessinsider.com)
Jersey Girl Ditches Shore for Sunshine, Spends Day in Florida for $178
Ever think about what you could do with $200? A night out?
Some new makeup? One savvy New Jersey resident decided to trade a day at the shore for a day on the beach – in Florida!
Amanda Shammas recently challenged herself to take a whirlwind day trip to the Sunshine State and back, all for under $200. And she pulled it off! No hotels, no luggage, just a perfectly planned itinerary and a whole lot of sunshine.
The secret? Snagging a super-cheap roundtrip flight from Newark to Fort Lauderdale for just $58. Armed with a free personal item and a thirst for adventure, Shammas and her best friend left Newark before sunrise and touched down in Florida just in time for breakfast.
Skipping the rental car hassle, the duo opted for a rideshare to Las Olas Beach, a vibrant Fort Lauderdale hotspot. Fueling up on lattes and mimosas (because, vacation!), they hit the beach for some serious sun-soaking and ocean dips.
After working up an appetite, they indulged in some classic beach fare – chips, guacamole, and margaritas – before exploring the Las Olas strip. Shopping, fresh juice, and live music at the Elbo Room rounded out their afternoon.
As the sun began to set, it was time to head back to the airport. Refreshed and relaxed, Shammas slept soundly on the flight home, landing back in Newark just before midnight and tucked into her own bed by 12:45 a.m.
The grand total? $178, including the flight, rideshare, and all the food and fun.
Shammas proved that you don’t need a big budget or a long weekend to satisfy your wanderlust. Her advice?
Start searching for those cheap flights and get ready for a spontaneous adventure!