How I Saved $300 in Boston Without Sacrificing Comfort

I just got back from Boston, using one of the PTO tricks I shared in a previous issue.

So, I turned the weekend into a four-day vacation.

If you want a copy of the calendar I use for trip planning, you can find it here.

Traveling on a budget doesn't mean sacrificing comfort and convenience!

During my recent stay in Boston, I saved about $300—and you can too!

We all want to stay in nice locations, and you can do so without breaking the bank. Whether you choose a location in the heart of the city or one further out, it's important to pick a spot close to a transportation hub. A metro is a great example.

In Boston, I stayed just one minute away from the Red Line. This allowed me to reach many places within the city faster and more affordably than using an Uber. I purchased the Charlie Card (i.e. Boston's metro pass), which cost only $22 for a seven-day pass.

Here's the math: I took the metro 17 times instead of using Uber. At $20 per Uber ride (including tip), that would have cost $340. Subtracting the $22 Charlie Card fare, I saved $318.

This incredible hack didn't sacrifice any convenience.

Before you travel, ensure the city you're visiting has a reliable transportation network. You'll also want to choose a location that's not too close to avoid noise pollution or crowds, so be sure to plan accordingly.

The next time you travel, try this tip and let me know how it works for you.

Keep traveling, 

Andrew

What money-saving tips do you use when booking accommodations?

Cocktail of the Week

The Caipiroska is a modern twist on Brazil’s national cocktail, the Caipirinha, swapping cachaça for vodka to cater to international tastes. Though it originated in Brazil, this vodka-based version gained popularity worldwide, especially in countries where cachaça is less common.

Ingredients:

• 1 lime, cut into wedges

• 2 teaspoons sugar (or to taste)

• 2 ounces (60ml) vodka

• Ice cubes

Preparation:

• Place the lime wedges in a glass and add the sugar.

• Muddle them together to release the lime juice and dissolve the sugar.

• Fill the glass with ice cubes.

• Pour in the vodka and stir well.

Random Travel Thought

I always encounter Germans when I travel. Good people.

Follow me on Instagram.

The Plug

Cheap flights:

• Going.com : This might be the only discounted flights website you need. It’s a paid service that sends you notifications when deals become available, but they expire in a couple of days so Act Fast!! 
• Secret Flying 🤫: This website emails you about free flight opportunities and even better… it doesn’t cost a thing!!
• Skyscanner : An older, but still reliable website that’s also *FREE* so there’s no reason not to use it. Use the "Explore the World" feature and set your departure date to "Whole Month" to find the cheapest deals.

Insurance:

• Safety Wing : I use Safety Wing as my travel insurance because the plans are flexible. You can easily insure a 1-week trip for like $11 dollars which is less than the cost of a cocktail at the bar.

Travel Gear

• Compression socks: Sitting for extended periods of time is not good for the body, so keep yourself healthy enough to go on more trips. Link
• Apple AirTags: Consider getting Apple AirTags for the peace of mind of always knowing where your luggage is. Link
• Smart Phone holder: It's a foldable sheet that can be used as a stand for your iPhone or iPad.Link
• Packing cubes: Having a separate container works wonders for keeping clothes wrinkle-free. It also makes packing/unpacking much easier.Link
• Donut Power Strip: Power outlets are always in demand, but sometimes they're in weird spots. I use this bagel because it's lightweight, and I don't have to think about it. Link
• Travel Case Organizer: Cable organizers can be a pain, but this is what I use to keep my cables organized. Link
• Backup batteries: I like these backup batteries because they have three important components for me: 1. They have enough power to recharge my phone multiple times at once, 2. Are small enough to put in my pocket, and 3. Are sturdy enough to survive a fall. Link
• Yoga Mat: I use this thin mat to get my stretching in even when I'm traveling. Link
• Jump Rope: It's so easy to bring a jump rope with you for exercise because it weighs almost nothing and takes up no space. Link
• Liquid IV: Great for hydration to keep you from dying. When you're traveling, it's time to live it up!  Link
  
  *Above are Affiliate links at no additional cost to you.

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