According to TD Bank, taking time to recharge doesn’t have to be an expensive endeavor. Lower cost options like a quick US flight or staycation can be easier to budget for and can offer a stronger ROE or Return on Enjoyment.
If you follow me on my social media accounts (@immrfabulous) you probably saw me living it up in Palm Springs last week… Or NYC the weeks prior to that.
The reality is, I’m not a millionaire, I’m just an economical traveller. And when I travel to places where our Canadian dollar isn’t as strong, I look for activities & entertainment that help keep me from financial despair.
With all my recent travel, my friends at TD Canada Trust took notice.
They told me that although 95% of Albertans agree that vacation time is essential to keeping them happy, 46% of them are not taking their full allotment of vacation days.
So they’ve asked me to share a few of my favourite ‘low or no cost’ activities from my most recent trips, so I can hopefully inspire more people to take those getaways they deserve.
1. Bunk Up in NYC
Square footage is at a premium in NYC making hotel stays expensive; but The Jane hotel in one of Manhattan’s trendiest neighbourhoods – Chelsea – keeps stay costs low by stacking & sharing (as low as $79/night).
Your room consists of a single bed (or bunk bed if you’re looking to travel with a friend) and a shared bathroom.
No, this is not a hostel.
Although the bathrooms are shared, they have private stalls & showers, premium amenities and plush towels.
Worried about your hallway commute? Don’t! Your room is stocked with a house coat and slippers, so you’ll be scurrying in style!
The Jane is also home to one of the hippest (in the know) nightclubs.
2. Road Trip outta Palm Springs
There are a million and one reasons to vacation in Palm Springs, and one of those reasons will actually takes you 30 minutes outside the city into Yucca Valley and Joshua Tree National Park.
But before you take in the beauty of one of the country’s most impressive national parks, spend some time Antiquing along the way.
Yucca is home to dozens of amazing and well curated antique stores.
From mid-century modern treasures to estate sale collections, the assortment is endless.
Then after your day of desert discovery, head into Pioneertown – a former film set that’s been converted into a famed tourist attraction – for a free afternoon stunt show.
Then make sure you’ve got reservations at the iconic Pappy & Harriet’s (which I’ve raved about before) for one of the best BBQ meals you’ve ever eaten. And if your lucky (which you probably will be) you’ll be able to enjoy free live music or be in attendance as a music video is being filmed.
Fun Fact: Cyndi Lauper just filmed a new music video that Pappy & Harriet’s a few weeks ago that has yet to be released!
The excitement of Yucca valley is one of my favorite places in the world!
I’ve been very lucky to have travelled as much as I have and if you’re ever in need of a suggestion or hints and tips to any place you’ve seen me travel to, I’m more than happy to help!
My travel secrets are up for grabs… All you have to do is ask!
And if you ever need a bit of financial help, think about using a TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite Card for your daily purchases as the points earned can be redeemed towards just about any travel cost, helping increase the affordability of future vacation plans!
Now start planning!
Vacation and be happy!
Mr. Fab get away tips
The Jane sounds awesome!!