How to Help Your Elderly Parents Save Money

December 16, 2020 Leave a Comment

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When your parents reach their senior years, your primary concern is likely to be their health. However, there is another factor that you should not overlook, and that is their financial health. Unfortunately, many seniors have concerns over money, and this prevents them from being able to fully enjoy their retirement. If your elderly parent is concerned about their finances and wants to reduce their outgoings, there are many ways that you can help them with this. Check out these money-saving solutions for seniors:

 

Shop Around for Discounts

 

An excellent way to cut for seniors to cut their spending without missing out on buying their favorite products is to get familiar with senior discount days. Shopping in stores that offer senior discounts, such as Walgreen’s “Senior Discount Day” is an excellent way to pay less for both regular household items and treats. 

 

Making a note of which stores offer senior discounts and which days they offer them will help to make it much easier for your elderly parent to know where and when to shop.

 

Cut the Cost of Repairs and Professional Services

 

One thing that many people worry about is the cost of an unexpected repair bill coming in, and for the elderly, this can be even more of a worry. Creating a list of recommended, trustworthy tradespeople that also offer a discount for seniors is helpful and will mean that if issues do occur, your parent will know who to call without worrying about being charged a fortune.

 

As well as getting discounts on services and repairs from plumbers and electricians, look for hair stylists that also give a senior discount, this is especially useful if your elderly parent likes to have their hair done frequently.

 

Make Savings on Travel

 

If your elderly parent has stopped driving in their later years, then ensuring that they get the best deals on the cost of bus and train tickets is crucial. It is worth investigating to see if they are eligible for further discounts on travel and transport, as this will help to keep their regular outgoings as low as possible without them losing their freedom and being stuck in the house every day.

 

Reduce Bills

 

As well as saving on your elderly parents’ shopping bills, the most significant savings that you can help them to make is by cutting the cost of their utility bills. Helping your parent go through their utility bills to ensure that they are receiving all the senior discounts and support that they are entitled to is an excellent starting point. Once you have established this, you can help them to make further savings by comparing utility providers. If you find a cheaper supplier that your parent can easily switch to, this is something that could help them to make massive savings over a year. 

 

Helping your parents to save money in their senior years is something that may only take up a few hours of your time but could help significantly reduce their outgoings.

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Things You May Need To Do Before Your Next Vacation

December 19, 2019 Leave a Comment

If you are getting ready for your next vacation, you are probably fretting over passports, tickets, and sunscreen. Unfortunately, these are the last things you should be concentrating on for your vacation, and there are some things that you should do to ensure you have the very best time.

 

In today’s post, we are going to be looking at a few things that, when done, can make your vacation far more relaxed and allow you to have the best time.

 

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Why You Should Always Prepare Before Your Holiday

 

While most people treat travel as a whimsical thing, if you truly want to get the most from your trip, planning will be essential.

 

It’s important to recognize that so much can go wrong when you head on vacation, so taking every precaution necessary can give you the ultimate reward when it comes to enjoying the trip. 

 

Make Sure The Bank Know

 

No matter where you live in the world, the first thing you should do when you know you will be leaving the country is to get online and let the bank know when you will be on holiday and where.

 

Nowadays, banks are great when it comes to securing your money, but sometimes if we forget to let them know something, it can have huge ramifications for us. If you fail to tell the bank you are going away, the very first time you use your card while you are away will probably be the last.

 

More often than not, the bank will block the card until you call them and tell them it was you. This alone can cause a few issues and dependant on where you are; you may find the call costs you greatly too.

 

Prepare For Your Destination

 

Dependant on where you are travelling to, there may be some large adjustments you need to make to what you normally do.

 

One thing that can often plan havoc with us is foreign food. It matters not which country you are traveling from or to, any difference in food can really have a huge impact on your tummy. When we eat new cuisine, our body is often not used to it, and when you combine it with the stress of travel and introduction to new bacteria, you are left with an upset tummy.

 

If you want to prepare for this in advance, be sure to pack some anti diarrhea medication, this can really be one of the best things you do, and it can often save a vacation.

 

Do Some Research

 

The best thing you can do before you head on vacation is to do a little research on your destination.

 

Doing your research will often lead you to some of the most amazing places on offer, and it will also help you avoid the darker areas and tourist traps. 

 

If you really like to embrace the culture of any destination you visit, then you should make sure you put some real effort in with your research. You will be surprised as to how much more you get from your vacation.

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4 Things to Consider Before Moving to Houston

December 18, 2019 Leave a Comment

4 Things to Consider Before Moving to Houston

  

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Houston, Texas is one of the most up-and-coming cities in the U.S. With an exciting nightlife, a diverse population, and plenty of fun things to do, Houston is the place to be when it comes to Southern cities. These days, it seems like more and more people are making the move to Houston, whether it be for school, work, or to start a family. If you’ve been considering a big move and have found yourself looking at Houston houses for sale, here are four things to consider before you make a decision. 

Affordable Cost of Living

Houston is one of the rare U.S. cities in which you can live pretty comfortably without spending an arm and a leg on rent. Apartments in Houston tend to fall on the more affordable side compared to more expensive cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles, meaning you won’t find yourself cooped up in a tiny apartment with several roommates. This is one big reason more and more millennials have been making the move to Houston, and if an affordable cost of living is important to you, you just may find yourself moving here too.

Thriving Job Market 

Another reason many people are making the move to Houston is due to the city’s thriving job market. Thanks to the oil and gas industries, medical research, and technology fields, there are more jobs than ever up for grabs in Houston at the moment. This. combined with the city’s affordable housing market, makes a great pair when it comes to getting people to move to Houston!

Fun Social Scene 

If there’s one thing Houston isn’t, it’s boring! One of Houston’s biggest draws is that the city is only a quick 45-minute drive from the Texas Gulf Coast, meaning more beach days in your future! Houston is also known for its bustling social scene, especially downtown, where tons of bars, restaurants, and shops can be found. Whatever you’re in the mood to do, Houston has something for everyone. During the summer months, there is even more fun to experience in Houston, from live music to free community events. Houston is the perfect city for anyone looking for a fun and vibrant place to call home!

Food 

Food is a big deal in Houston, and everything from traditional American fare to more exotic cuisine can be found in this great city. Tex-Mex, a unique combination of Mexican and American fare, is one of the most popular types of food in Houston and can be found in many different restaurants both in the city and beyond. Throughout the year, the city also hosts several food festivals, giving locals a chance to try all different kinds of cuisine in one place!

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Building a Happy Life With Your New Puppy

February 21, 2019 Leave a Comment

It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that as soon as you get your puppy, everything’s going to be hunky dory. After all, just look at their little face! Your life is going to be immeasurably better once you’ve got your canine companion by your side. However, this line of thinking is a little incorrect — it assumes that your enthusiasm will be all it takes to create a happy life for yourself and your new dog. This is not the case! You’ll need to actively work towards it. Below, we take a look at a few tried and tested methods to ensure that this comes to pass.

Source: Pexels.com

 

All In

 

It’s easy to want to a dog for all the positive attributes it brings, but what about the less positive side? When you get a puppy, you can’t just commit to, you know, long walks on sunny mornings and cozy evenings spent watching a movie with him or her by your side. You’ll also need to think about going for walks through the rain, or the limitations of having a dog — such as reduced travel freedom and so on. Once you commit to ALL aspects of dog ownership, it’ll be more straightforward.

 

Ironing Out the Kinks

 

Your puppy might look like an adorable teddy bear, but you’ll need to remember that hey, it’s actually a living creature, and they’re not going to naturally fit in with the human way of life without a little help. Everything will run a lot smoother for everyone if you and your pet participate in puppy training lessons. Inside the house and out in public, you’ll need to be able to communicate with your canine buddy — and it’s much easier to do so if they’ve received training.

 

Dedicating Time

 

Your dog isn’t one aspect of your life. Your dog is your life, from which you take breaks every now and again, such as when you go to work. Owning a pet isn’t about only doing the bare minimum; it’s about dedicating your time towards making sure that they’re living their best life. That means going for extra long walks at the weekend (or when you have time), as opposed to just doing the minimum, which would be two short walks a day. Spend time getting to know what your pet likes!

 

Get Into a Routine

 

Dogs are a bit like children — while they like special surprises, their day to day life should remain essentially the same. When you get a puppy, you’ll want to spend a few weeks trialing different ways of being until you stumble upon a routine that seems to work for everyone.

 

Part of the Family

 

Finally, remember to make your puppy part of the family as soon as they’re in your house! They like to live in a pack; you are now that pack. They’ll feel at ease and happy if they know they have trusted people around them. It’s good for you too — dogs give back all the love they receive and more.

 

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Cheap Adventurous Family Holidays Abroad

June 22, 2017 Leave a Comment

The ease with which so many people can travel nowadays means that more families than ever are deciding to go further abroad for their family vacation. Travel to exotic locations is becoming much more affordable, and budget airlines and competitively priced travel companies make this process a lot smoother than it was several years ago.

 

There are so many destinations around the world that are family friendly and which will enable your children to experience a different culture and gain an understanding of the world beyond that of their own country. Traveling to exotic locations also allows your children to get out of their comfort zone and become independent and resilient individuals. Learning how other people live is something that your children will gain from this kind of experience, and can help them understand the importance of integration and tolerance as well as many other life skills.

 

If you have considered going further afield than you normally do on your summer vacation location, or have already been looking around at places you would like to visit, but are worried about cost, then take a look at the following countries which are budget-friendly holiday destinations.

Map Of Europe Map Experienced Travel Destinations

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If you want an unforgettable adventure on an entirely different continent, then consider visiting SouthEast Asia which includes Thailand, the Philippines, and Malaysia. While this subregion of Asia is renowned for being a backpackers destination, it is also seeing an increase in families who come to visit this beautiful, diverse part of the world. Flights to the various countries within this region can also be purchased cheaply if booked in advance.

 

Malaysia

 

One of the many great things about Malaysia is the Malaysian people who are incredibly welcoming and family orientated individuals who will make you and your family feel comfortable. They are also particularly welcoming and warm towards children! Malaysia is a culturally diverse country that offers an enormous amount of places to visit such as Kuala Lumpur, Penang, the Cameron Highlands, as well as countless other destinations. There are also many attractions which cater to children such as Legoland Malaysia and the Sunway Lagoon theme park. Another plus of visiting Malaysia is that it is a very affordable country to visit, with the price of living and traveling within this country is far less than many other nations you might go to for a vacation. Getting around by train bus and plane is straightforward as Malaysia is very well connected. Choosing to rent a home while visiting this country can be much more affordable than staying in a hotel as well as providing you and your children with the comfort and security that comes with a home. There are many ways you can find apartments to rent, and going through a certified estate agent or renting site is the most secure way.

 

Thailand

 

Thailand is now a popular tourist destination for many reasons, not least of which is the beautiful landscape which includes jungle, coast and the infamous hustle and bustle of its capital city Bangkok. Traveling here with a family is easier than you would think, and even if their bus systems are known for being a little chaotic, their trains are renowned for their comfort and relative affordability. The many markets, temples, and cultural attractions will mean that there is something new to do every single day, and the only problem you will have is trying to fit in everything you want to see in the time you are there. Chiang Mai, Bangkok and the well-known islands and beaches offer you a range of different experiences depending on what kind of experience you and your family want to have in Thailand. As with any other country that has a different culture to our own, make sure you are aware of any cultural differences or sensitivities and make sure you keep this in mind when deciding where you want to go. One tip is to bring a scarf or shawl with you when visiting temples as you will need to cover your shoulders.

 

The Caribbean

 

The laid back atmosphere of the Caribbean, the crystalline water and the all-year-round sun make it one of the best locations for a family who want a beach holiday. The Caribbean is home to over 7,000 Islands which makes a choice a little overwhelming. There are, of course, many countries and islands that are more well-known such as Jamaica, Barbados and the US Virgin Islands however if you want a unique experience then it might be worth checking out Belize and St Martin.

 

 

Belize

 

Belize is a cheap destination that is home to an incredible array of waterfalls, beaches and archaeological sites. Tourism is on the rise in this country, with it ranking as the second biggest industry in the nation. As a result of this, Belize caters for all types of travellers and English is spoken by many people. The wildlife alone will keep your kids entertained, as well as the underground rivers, jungle tours and Mayan remains which you can experience together as a family. As Belize is well connected to other parts of Central and South America, you might consider visiting neighboring Islands or countries.

 

 

St. Martin/St. Maarten

 

This Island is split between a French and Dutch side, with both sides being easily accessible. Each side has its own culture, with food, languages, and currency being completely different. Despite their differences, both sides share the same laid back attitude and beautiful beaches. This is one of the cheaper Islands of the Caribbean, with the Dutch side being slightly more cheaper than the French. Consider visiting the island with bikes and taking one of the many tours this Island has to offer.

Mahal Taj Architecture Taj Mahal Landmark India

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India

 

Visiting India as a family might not have been on your list of things to do before your children grow up, perhaps in part to the reputation India has as a chaotic and sometimes overwhelmingly busy country to visit. Visiting India, however, is an experience that you will never be able to forget as the colours, smells and tastes of this country are entirely unique. If you still have your reservations, consider visiting Kerala on the south coast of India. Kerala is a family friendly destination with beautiful backwaters and rolling hills, that is a lot more slow-paced and tranquil than perhaps Mumbai or New Delhi but still, allows you to experience the essence of India.

 

Prague, Czech Republic

 

Visiting Prague is an excellent way to enjoy a city holiday without feeling like your children will get bored. This city is simply heaving with museums, open air festivals, markets and shops, including several chocolate factories! This is an affordable place to visit with a large amount of hotels, hostels, guesthouses and apartments to choose from. Walk along Charles Bridge all the way up to the Castle and make sure you stop along the way for some delicious pastries! The famous John Lennon wall is worth going to have a look at as well as the Old Town Square

 

Dublin

 

The Republic of Ireland’s capital is an excellent destination for all kinds of travellers, and the many things to do there means that there are plenty of options for young children to enjoy the delights of this culturally rich destination. Dublin offers all the modern amenities that you would expect, while also providing a rich history and sense of mystery that makes this country so unique. There are a big theatre district, many shops and restaurants and countless museums to entertain everyone. Make sure to check out the National Leprechaun Museum for a fun, interactive storytelling experience for children and adults alike.

 

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