Tamila McDonald

Free Things to Do in Annapolis, Maryland

June 10, 2021 By Tamila McDonald Leave a Comment

Annapolis, Maryland, is the state’s capital. The city offers a fantastic vibe, intriguing history, and plenty of opportunities for fun. However, if you’re a budget-conscious tourist or resident who doesn’t want to break the bank on an outing, you may assume that there aren’t many options. In reality, that isn’t the case. If you’re looking for free things to do in Annapolis, Maryland, here are some destinations and activities that are worth checking out.

United States Naval Academy

If you appreciate military history, a trip to the United States Naval Academy is an excellent option. The campus features immaculate grounds, an informative visitor center, a curated museum, and much more. Plus, entry onto the property is free, and you can take a self-guided tour without any admissions costs along the way.

Before you head over, it’s best to make sure you have an approved ID card. Based on the REAL ID Act, not all state or territory IDs meet the requirements, so it’s wise to see what’s accepted before you arrive.

It is important to note that while a self-guided experience is free, if you want a guided tour, that does come with a price. However, this is optional, so it is possible to enjoy the grounds, museum, and more without paying a dime.

Annapolis Historic District

If you’re looking for a place where you can stretch your legs and enjoy the local architecture, the Annapolis Historic District is an outstanding destination. You can wander among hundreds-year-old mansions – including the Hammond-Harwood House and the William Paca House & Garden – as well as lovingly maintained row houses and townhomes.

Overall, the Historic District is great for casual exploration. Plus, you’re close to many amenities, making it easy to stroll your way to a great snack or meal.

Annapolis Arts District

Another great option for exploring the city is the Annapolis Arts District. Along with intriguing architecture, you can take in the neighborhood galleries and artist studios. Some welcome visitors, allowing you to explore the artwork up close. Others aren’t open to the public but do have amazing window displays.

Plus, there are outdoor art installations and fun events throughout the district. As a result, it’s a perfect place to enjoy creative works while spending some time out in the fresh air.

Maryland State House

No trip to Annapolis is complete without a tour of the Maryland State House. It’s the oldest state capital that’s been in continuous legislative use and is also the only state house that has ever served as the nation’s capital. Plus, it was the stage for many historical moments, including President George Washington resigning from the post of commander-in-chief over the Continental Army and the ratification of the Paris Treaty.

Even if you don’t head inside, a trip to the building is worthwhile. The architecture and grounds are stunning, giving you an immediate reward upon arrival.

Ego Alley

Annapolis is a sailing and boating mecca, and that plays a big role in the city’s culture. If you want to spend some time relaxing near the waterways and enjoying boats as they cruise by, consider making your way over to Ego Alley. There, you can watch area boat enthusiasts as they glide across the water, all while being right on the City Dock and adjacent to historic downtown.

As a bonus, this area plays host to many fun events during the year. Along with the world’s largest in-water boat show, there are amazing fireworks displays on Independence Day and New Year’s Eve held here. On St. Patrick’s Day, you can enjoy a parade, and there’s also a Military Bowl Parade in December.

The Kunta Kinte-Alex Haley Memorial

Located just off of the City Dock, the Kunta Kinte-Alex Haley Memorial features lifelike statues that simply must be seen in person. Plus, theirs is a story wall made of bronze plaques that is nothing short of inspiring, as well as a magnificent Compass Rose.

The memorial is located in a completely public space, so it never has an admissions fee. Additionally, since it’s always accessible, you can take a trip to it at any time.

Banneker-Douglass Museum

If you’re curious about African American history, particularly in the Maryland area, then the Banneker-Douglass Museum needs to be on your list. It’s the state’s official museum of African American heritage, providing insights and showcasing items that outline the African American experience in Maryland during the slave trade era, through the civil rights movement, and into modern times.

While the museum is smaller, it is nonetheless educational. Additionally, self-guided tours are completely free, allowing you to explore the museum without having to worry about the cost.

B&A Trail

If you’re looking for an easy way to get some exercise while being out in nature or while crossing town, the B&A Trail is where you should head. It’s approximately 13 miles long and is available from dawn to dusk, giving you a place to walk, bike, rollerblade, or otherwise travel the paved path.

One nice feature of the trail is that there are benches and open lawns regularly available. This can give you excellent spots for a quick rest or a nice picnic lunch

Maryland World War II Memorial

Located near the water’s edge, the Maryland World War II Memorial recognizes the sacrifices of the many Marylanders that died during the war, as well as outlines the state’s role in the events. It’s all positioned around a large amphitheater, giving the entire memorial a sense of greater presence within the landscape.

The memorial is easy to access and is open to the public. From here, you also get exceptional views of the Naval Academy, as well as out over the water.

Jonas and Anne Catharine Green Park

If you’re looking for a lovely park to relax or play in, Jonas and Anne Catharine Green Park is worth the trip. There are well-manicured open areas, a nearby walking trail, and an excellent view of the water nearby. You can also fish from a pier in the park or simply kick back and watch the boats cruise by while you soak up some sun.

There is no cost to enter the park. Additionally, there are many simple amenities, like public restrooms and water fountains, to ensure you are comfortable during your visit.

Do you know of any more free things to do in Annapolis, Maryland? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

If you enjoy reading our blog posts and would like to try your hand at blogging, we have good news for you; you can do exactly that on Saving Advice. Just click here to get started. Check out these helpful tools to help you save more. For investing advice, visit The Motley Fool.

5 Amazing Websites For Summer Vacation Savings

June 10, 2021 By Tamila McDonald Leave a Comment

With the pandemic seemingly coming to an end, many households are chomping at the bit for a vacation. The idea of taking some time to get away and see something new is invigorating, particularly post-quarantine. However, that doesn’t mean that they can simply ignore their budget in the name of a warm-weather escape. Luckily, there are plenty of options available that can help you keep costs down. If you need to save money on your next summer vacation, here are five websites for summer vacation savings.

1. Kayak

While there are a lot of travel search engines around, Kayak could be one of your best bets if you want to simplify planning. In the vacation packages sections, you can get lower-cost bundles that make many destinations far more affordable than if you booked what you needed separately. However, you can also go the a la carte route and look for individual services, like airline tickets, hotels, car rentals, cruises, and more.

Overall, Kayak is incredibly user-friendly, offering simple search options to help you find what you need. As a result, it can be a better option for anyone looking to find great deals, particularly if you aren’t as search-savvy.

2. Priceline

While Priceline largely carries the same information as Kayak, it’s a little bit clunkier. However, one particular feature can make it worth using, especially if you’re flexible.

With Priceline Express Deals, you can get some deep discounts by reserving a stay at a hotel before you are told the property’s name. You do have some solid filtering options, letting you drill down to specific neighborhoods, limit your options based on star ratings, or allowing you to factor in user reviews. The site also allows you to review the property description and features list, so you can make sure it has the right amenities.

One of the other nice features of the Priceline Express Deals is that you can see how much you save by choosing a particular room. While the markdown is usually based on the highest price you might pay for the property based on your travel dates and length of stay, it does give you an idea of whether a particular option is a potential bargain.

Within the listing, you may also see a “Guaranteed to be one of these hotel brands” section. That gives you an idea of what type of hotel you’ll likely end up in, which can make the option feel much less mysterious.

Additionally, if you’re open to doing some extra research, you may be able to figure out what the property name is, even if Priceline won’t tell you. You can use the location, original price, and property details to try and work it out.

3. Groupon

If you’re looking for ways to save on accommodations, entertainment, meals, and more, Groupon is worth exploring. You can find amazing discounts on nearly any kind of activity, ensuring you can have a ton of fun while you’re on vacation.

Plus, Groupon does have deals on hotels, allowing you to save on your overnight accommodations. You can even find complete vacation packages, car rental discounts, and, at times, air-inclusive vacation options.

If you really want to make the most of Groupon, flexibility is the key. You never know what discounts may be available. If you’re open-minded, you might be able to end up on a low-cost adventure that that is unlike anything you would usually plan, making your summer vacation enjoyable, unique, and cost-efficient.

4. Skyscanner

When it comes to flights, Skyscanner can be a great place to find a bargain, especially for international travel. It’s a comparison site that can help you find low-cost options for nearly any destination. Additionally, you can read reviews about the third parties it lists, allowing you to explore whether their customer service is up to snuff.

Before you buy, you do need to do some extra due diligence to make sure the third party is legit. However, if you want to make some quick comparisons to start your vacation planning, Skyscanner is the way to do it efficiently.

5. CityPASS

If you’re looking for entertainment options at your destination, CityPASS is worth checking out. With CityPASS, you can gain admission to a set of covered attractions. The group usually covers some of the most popular options in the metro area, and the price is typically notably below what you’d spend if you paid the entry fees at the door.

The main trick with CityPASS is to make sure you have the time and desire to visit most (if not all) of the attractions on the list. If that’s the case, you may save a surprising amount of money by going this route. However, if not, then you may be better off paying individual entry fees.

Online Admission Fee

Luckily, you can usually find out what the typical admission fee is for any given attraction online. Simply head to the attraction’s website or contact it directly. Then, you can see exactly how much it would cost out of pocket and compare it to the CityPASS price. It’s an incredibly good move if you aren’t sure you can hit all of the destinations during your trip, as you can see how many you’d have to use a CityPASS on to experience a savings.

Can you think of any other websites for summer vacation savings? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Car Dealerships Are Paying Top Dollar for Used Cars and Here’s Why

June 9, 2021 By Tamila McDonald Leave a Comment

If you have an extra car you are looking to sell or are thinking about trading in your current vehicle toward a newer one, then you may be in luck. Car dealerships are paying top dollar for used cars, potentially allowing you to get more money out of your vehicle. If you are wondering why prices are on the rise, here’s what you need to know.

The Impact of Chip Shortages

One of the driving forces behind rising car prices is the chip shortage. Chips are critical for many modern vehicle functions, including everything from built-in infotainment systems to power windows to cruise control.

Without enough chips, vehicle production can’t maintain its typical pace. They simply don’t have enough parts to complete the standard number of cars. As a result, the new vehicle market tightens.

While it may seem like a shift in the new car market wouldn’t impact how much you can get for your used vehicle, that isn’t the case. Any supply shortage impacts sellers.

Since dealerships have to scramble to keep enough inventory on their lot to attract shoppers, they are willing to pay more to get their hand on cars, including used ones. This works out in your favor, allowing you to secure a higher price when you sell your vehicle.

COVID-19 Supply Issues

In a similar vein, COVID-19-related production slowdowns also impacted inventory levels. During the pandemic, many manufacturers weren’t able to maintain normal production, at least for a time. In some cases, they had to shut down. In others, they had to make adjustments to accommodate social distancing, which could mean only operating at partial capacity.

In either of those cases, fewer cars were rolling off of the assembly line. Since the impact of the pandemic persisted for weeks, lower production rates continued for a notable period. In the end, a shortage ensued.

As mentioned above, new vehicle shortages do impact the used market. Car dealerships will pay top dollar to simply have cars to sell on the lot, making it a great situation for anyone looking to unload a vehicle they no longer need.

Post-COVID Landscape

During the pandemic, demand for vehicles fell dramatically. Many people transitioned to working from home, while others lost their positions, lowering their household income levels. Even overall economic uncertainty played a role, as many who kept their jobs may not have been confident that they wouldn’t lose them later.

Since vehicles are usually considered to be major purchases and working from home eliminates a commute, many people weren’t interested in buying cars during the height of the pandemic. However, as reopening activities continue to move forward and vaccine rollouts are increasingly available, the situation is changing.

Now, many people are preparing to return to their commute. Additionally, some who lost their positions have found something new, and fears about economic instability are declining. As a result, anyone who delayed buying a car is hopping into the market, causing a big shift in demand.

Whenever demand rises, dealerships need to increase their inventory levels accordingly. Without a decent inventory, they miss out on sales, so they are willing to pay more to boost the size of their used car lot.

New Car Pricing

Over the years, the cost of buying a new vehicle has largely risen. In early 2021, the average new light vehicle cost nearly $41,000, which is far more than some prospective car buyers can shoulder.

While used vehicle prices are also going up, they still tend to be lower than what you see when buying new. For budget-conscious households that need to secure a vehicle now, used car purchases are simply the better option, driving demand up.

Again, whenever demand rises, dealerships strive to adjust their inventory to ensure they can secure more sales. As a result, they pay top dollar to anyone looking to sell their car, allowing them to keep more vehicles in inventory and attract more buyers.

Are you thinking about taking advantage of the fact that car dealerships are paying top dollar for used cars? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Save Money by Purchasing Everything on AliExpress

June 4, 2021 By Tamila McDonald Leave a Comment

AliExpress is the retail arm of Alibaba. While Alibaba focuses on wholesale and bulk-selling, AliExpress is more average consumer-oriented, allowing smaller quantity purchases that work better for typical shoppers. While it may seem like AliExpress isn’t unlike many other online shopping destinations, that isn’t necessarily the case. It’s possible to save money by purchasing everything on AliExpress, suggesting you’re savvy about it. If you want to see if AliExpress might be right for you, here’s what you need to know.

What AliExpress Is and How It Works

As mentioned above, AliExpress is the retail arm of Alibaba, giving regular consumers a place to buy goods. The shopping experience you find on AliExpress is very similar to other retail websites. You’ll find products across a range of categories, often with more options than you could reasonably review in a single shopping session.

There are a few main differences with AliExpress when you compare it to options like Amazon. First, it is a platform that allows others to sell and doesn’t sell anything directly. This makes it more akin to eBay or the Amazon marketplace taken separately from the rest of the Amazon site.

Second, AliExpress features Chinese-made products essentially exclusively. It allows Chinese resellers that usually buy items in bulk directly from local (to them) manufacturers to tap into an international consumer market, at times more directly than they could otherwise.

How You Can Save Money Purchasing Everything on AliExpress

By shopping at AliExpress, you can potentially save quite a bit of cash on a wide variety of items. Often, the approach cuts out some of the middlemen. While you’re usually buying from a third party, not directly from a manufacturer, there are fewer steps between you and the product. This helps keep prices down because there are fewer layers involved.

Additionally, AliExpress offers many other ways to save. Along with flash sales, you can also find traditional discounts.

If you use the mobile app to shop, you’ll have access to even more discounts, making that the preferred way to shop for many customers. Along with exclusive deals, you can collect “coins” that you can use to save or, potentially, even get items for free.

While the products are coming from China, shipping costs are usually quite reasonable. Plus, some sellers do offer free shipping. Even after accounting for any import taxes, you still can get your hands on a bargain.

The Drawbacks of Shopping on AliExpress

Shopping at AliExpress does come with some drawbacks. First, while shipping tends to be affordable, it can take an incredibly long time to receive your purchase. Since they are coming in from outside of the country, they have to not just journey nearly halfway around the planet, but they also have to clear customs. This can take much longer than some people expect, potentially causing a purchase to not end up in the buyer’s hand for months.

Next, there are scams on AliExpress. In some cases, product descriptions are intentionally inaccurate or vague, causing you to receive a lower quality item or something different than what you expected.

At times, a seller may not ship the item at all. While there are some buyer protections through the site, it may not protect you from everything. Additionally, it may take weeks before you notice that there’s a problem, largely because of the lengthy shipping times.

Finally, purchasing a counterfeit product is illegal. Even if you weren’t aware that a product was counterfeit, you could still be held criminally and civilly liable, so it’s wide to be cautious about any item that looks like a knock-off.

Ultimately, if you’re going to use AliExpress to save money, a little due diligence is wise. Check seller reviews to find reliable ones, review descriptions carefully, and understand which buyer protections are available. That way, you can keep yourself safe while you shop.

Do you save money purchasing everything on Ali Express? Do you think more people should save money by purchasing everything in Ali Express? Why or why not? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

If you enjoy reading our blog posts and would like to try your hand at blogging, we have good news for you; you can do exactly that on Saving Advice. Just click here to get started.

Free Things to Do in Augusta, Maine

June 3, 2021 By Tamila McDonald Leave a Comment

Augusta, Maine, is the state’s capital, featuring a rich history and plenty of opportunities for recreation. However, budget-conscious residents and travelers often can’t spend a bundle on an outing. Luckily, you don’t have to break the bank to have fun here. If you’re looking for free things to do in Augusta, Maine, here are some options that are worth checking out.

Viles Arboretum

If you want to spend some time outdoors and enjoy learning about nature, Viles Arboretum is the destination for you. There are over 200 labeled plant species on-site, allowing you to learn more about them through the available signage as you stroll along the paths.

Not only is it free to explore Viles Arboretum (though donations are welcome), but it’s also highly accessible. Usually, it’s open from sunrise to sundown every day of the week, so you can go almost whenever the mood strikes.

The property features 224 acres, with trails crossing throughout. You can even bring your dog as long as they remain on a leash and you pick up after them, making it a great place to exercise your pooch.

Capitol Park

A 34-acre property adjacent to the State House and nestled near the Kennebec River, Capitol Park is a place where families can spend time relaxing outdoors. Whether you’re looking for a spot for a picnic or to play some games, it’s open to the public and is completely free to enjoy.

It’s also a chance to appreciate the beauty of the State House. It features a large dome topped with a statue of Minerva and is easily a sight that shouldn’t be missed.

At times, free special events also happen at Capitol Park. This can include small concerts, speeches, and other performances.

Old Fort Western

Old Fort Western can be a fun outing for people of all ages. You can learn about the fort’s history, which dates back to the mid-1700s, as well as enjoy the grounds, allowing you to get some exercise in along the way.

If you’re an Augusta resident or an active duty member of the military, a trip to Old Fort Western won’t cost you a dime. Children under six are also always free, though non-residents who aren’t active duty military members do have to pay an entry fee.

Historic Downtown

In Augusta’s historic downtown, you can appreciate amazing examples of Victorian-style architecture as you stroll down the well-manicured streets. The city actively works to maintain the charm of the area, something that many visitors and residents appreciate experiencing first-hand.

Plus, there are free events and celebrations in the downtown area regularly, particularly during the warmer months. This can give you access to more entertainment options, all without having to pay to enjoy them.

Kennebec River Trail

Whether you want to walk, bike, skateboard, or exercise your dog, the Kennebec River Trail is a great option that anyone can access for free. The trail is 6.5 miles long, featuring a paved walkway to keep the journey comfortable and ensure you stay on course.

Along the way, you can appreciate the beauty of the river and surrounding landscape, all while having a chance to stretch your legs. You could also pause for a picnic if you’d like, allowing you to enjoy a meal you prepare at home during your trip.

Colby College Museum of Art

If you’re open to heading to a neighboring town to enjoy a free attraction, make your way to Waterville and explore the Colby College Museum of Art. All members of the public can enjoy the facility without having to pay for entry.

Once inside, you can explore numerous exhibits featuring a wide range of art pieces, both historic and modern. This can be an excellent option for any day when the weather makes outdoor fun impractical, allowing you to explore amazing art while staying warm and dry inside.

Do you know of any other free things to do in Augusta, Maine? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Save at Least $1,000 Per Year By Tweaking Your Habits

June 3, 2021 By Tamila McDonald Leave a Comment

If you are saving up for your next vacation, a big purchase, or even just looking for little ways to achieve financial freedom, we have some tips for you.

Everybody should be interested in holding on to an extra $1,000 per year. It is a low effort goal, with a big reward. Saving $1,000 per year only requires you to withhold $2.74 per day or refrain from spending about $20 a week.

An extra $1,000 each year equates to approximately 100 burritos, 20 sporting event tickets, or, depending on where you live, 2 plane tickets to the Bahamas. Perform these tiny changes, and watch your savings account grow.

Transaction Free Tuesdays.

Implement a 1 day per week no-spend day. Now that you can purchase anything from the palm of your hand, it is easier than ever to spend money. Try a “spending fast.”

Decide on one day each week where you don’t buy anything. If you are feeling extra ambitious, go for an entire no-spend week.

You will be surprised by how many impulse purchases get pushed to the side and how much money you can save when committing to a transaction-free day.

One no-spend day per week will save the average American $1040 per year.

Find Freebies & Never Pay Full Price.

It is the 21st century, and with access to air fryers, we have also gained access to every sale and freebie on the world wide web.

There is no reason to ever pay full price for anything! There are all sorts of freebies on the internet just waiting to be claimed by financially savvy shoppers.

Use Rebaid to find freebies offered by sellers on Amazon, Walmart, Ebay and even Etsy. Business and brand owners use Rebaid to increase their purchase volume by offering their products with a rebate. Their marketing budget is passed onto you, the buyer, in the form of a rebate.

Companies are essentially offering samples of their products to get them out into the world. The best part is that you can “sample” things you need for your home or items you can buy as gifts.

Rebaid offerings change every day, but you can find home necessities like meat thermometers, towels, and vitamins- while also shopping for fun things like headphones, kid’s toys, or candle-making kits. Many products are free or over half off.

With the average American spending $1050 on gifts alone per year, purchasing your gifts through Rebaid will easily cut that number in half.

Understand Your Finances.

Figure out exactly where all of your money is going, and make a budget. If you already have a budget, decide whether it is realistic for your current lifestyle.

If you have a $40 a month budget for take-out, but you know you order take-out 3x per week – alter your budget to reflect your reality. Unless you are prepared to exercise significant restraint, focus on areas in your life where you can reasonably make a difference. A budget is only helpful if you respect it!

The 50/30/20 budget rule has been popularized in recent years- which outlines a spending guideline of 50% to necessities, 30% to wants, and 20% to savings. But breaking spending patterns down into even smaller categories is very helpful if you want to get serious about saving.

Mint is a convenient App for organizing finances. It automatically categorizes purchases for users and then charts the categories, showing you exactly where every cent you spend is going.

Implementing a budget that devotes 20% of funds to saving keeps $8,000 per year in the pocket of the average American.