How to find the best deals on cruises

I have a confession to make - I am an addict. I've tried for years to coerce myself to let go of my biggest temptation, but the hold is still there; yes, I am addicted to cruising.

 

 

 

I went on my first cruise when I was six years old, and they have become my main source of vacation fun ever since. Oh, and did I mention I met my husband on a cruise? Yep, it's safe to say I owe a lot to Carnival. What a lot of people ask me, however, is how I afford to go on at least two cruises every year without totally breaking the piggy bank. What most people don't realize is that cruises are one of the most afforable ways to vacation and see the world with your loved ones. You basically pay a flat price, and with that amount, get unlimited food and entertainment; oh, and did I mention you get to travel to some of the most beautiful places in the world?! Despite it being a great deal, there are always ways to make sure you save even more money. Check out the top five ways to get the best bang for your buck on your cruising adventure:

 

The view from our balcony!

1. Book Off Season

If you are looking for an affordable vacation, DO NOT book a cruise that leaves during peak months. Follow this as a general rule - if the kids are out of school, don't book a cruise. This includes summer months as well as holidays such as Easter or Christmas. You will, without a shadow of a doubt, pay a premium. Rather, book in the off season months such as September and February. The kids will be in school and sales won't be as high, so the prices will be way lower for the bargain buyers like my husband and I.



Enjoying the scenery in Cozumel, Mexico.

2. Wait until the last minute

Wait, am I really telling you to procrastinate planning your vaca? Absolutely. As a cruise date gets closer, cruise prices will begin to drop. For example, my family and I are going on a cruise over Thanksgiving. My inlaws (who graciously offered to pay for our expenses), paid a premium price of around 800 dollars for an interior room (no window) for my husband and I. Two weeks before the cruise, we checked online and saw the exact same room was going for a grand total of $300 bucks - for BOTH of us! Now, I'm not saying you should leave it until two weeks before the cruise to book, but I would try booking about a month and a half or two months before the cruise leaves. Prices have usually dropped by that point, and you can book knowing you got a great deal.

3. Don't be afraid to haggle

When my inlaws found out they had lost out on getting our room for a lot cheaper, they were not happy. My husband and I recommended that they call Carnival and ask for upgrades because of how much they initially paid for our rooms. Surprisingly, Carnival can be very accomodating when asking for upgrades, especially if you paid a premium. After they were finished talking to the cruise line, Kyle and I had been upgraded to an outdoor room, my inlaws were moved up to a room with a balcony, and the entire family was moved up to a nicer floor where we wouldn't feel the ship rocking. Not a bad result from just talking on the phone, right? And don't get discouraged if the first person tells you no; just hang up, call back, and talk to another attendant. Eventually, someone will give you something.



Unbelievable views!

4. Bring your own drinks

Any cruising veteran will tell you this - Cruise lines do not make money from you booking a room on the ship; they make money on what you buy while on the ship. You know those cute frozen drinks you imagine drinking on your vacation? Yeah, they cost about 9 bucks each on a Carnival ship. They also have a special drink each day that comes in an adorable container - those cost about fifteen bucks! There's no shame in ordering a tropical drink or two while cruising, but buyers beware - the prices will add up. Thankfully, Carnival allows each person to bring a 750 ml bottle of wine or champagne in their carry on for free. Also, each person is allowed to bring a 12 pack of sodas. If at all possible, I would absolutely recommend bringing your own drinks to help save some money.

Fair warning, though - they charge a "corkage" fee if you want to drink your champagne at dinner.



The atrium - something is ALWAYS happening here! 


5. Look at the older cruise ships

Carnival has a lot of realllly nice, brand new ships. Nine times out of ten, though, they will cost more than the older fleets. If you're looking to save some money, look at some of the older ships, such as the Carnival Fascination. While they're a little older, they're still just as enjoyable as any of the new cruises. Plus, in my experience with the newer ships, I honestly find them a bit overwhelming. There is almost too much to do - you don't have time for everything, and that can get frustrating. Don't feel like you're missing out if you book on an older ship!



Holy slide!



 

Happy Cruising!







How to travel to Europe FOR FREE

Have I mentioned how awesome my husband is lately? Seriously, y'all, he is SUCH a smart guy, and because of his creative thinking, we have now booked a trip to Paris and Rome for absolutely free. I know a ton of my friends are interested in seeing the world on a budget, so I convinced him to tell his secrets! Read below and take notes (believe me, you'll want to!):

About 6 months ago, Bailey and I decided that we wanted to look into going to Europe. We had never been out of the western hemisphere and wanted to visit two different cities while we were there. After looking through our options, we ended up deciding on Paris and Rome. It sounded like a great idea -- until we saw the costs. The hotels in both of those cities were very expensive, as well as the flight over there, between the two cities, and on the way back. After seeing the total bill of our dream vacation, we knew that we couldn't afford such an extravagent trip out of pocket. I did a bit of brainstorming and decided to make it a goal to fly to Paris, stay 4 nights, fly to Rome, stay 5 nights, and then fly back completely free. A pretty lofty dream, right? Thankfully, it was possible because of credit card rewards. While we used these rewards to get a free Europe trip, they could also be applied for a trip to any part of the world.

Note: The main way for this to make financial sense is to pay these credit card bills off each month. You do not want to be incurring interest charges from this! Also this will slightly hurt your credit score in the short run (So you might not want to do it if you are planning on buying a house in the near future), but after about 1-2 years it will actually strengthen your credit score.

Most of these cards carry an annual fee, but the credit card companies waive it the first year! You just need to cancel the card before a year is up to avoid paying the annual fee (Around $60 for most of them). With the right offer, credit card companies will pay for large portions of your trip! Below are a few credit cards that you can use, and gain rewards from, with minimal effort.

1.      The Hyatt Credit Card

https://creditcards.chase.com/credit-cards/hyatt-card.aspx

The first credit card that we applied for was the Hyatt card from Chase. It only takes spending $1,000 in the first three months and you get two free nights at any Hyatt hotel in the world! We used ours on the Park Hyatt Vendome in Paris, which typically goes for over $1,100 a night. We both got this card, so we recieved four nights free in total.

Total trip perks – 4 free nights in Paris

2.      Marriott Credit Card

             https://creditcards.chase.com/a1/marriottpremier/elitehppermv1/

The next card each of us applied for was the Marriott Card. Using the link above, you can get 70k points per card if you spend $2,000 in the first three months.  With both of us getting this card, it was enough for 20 free nights at their lowest level hotels. However, the hotel in Rome that we wanted to stay in is extremely nice ($600+ a night), so we used our entire combined 140,000 points to stay for a total of five nights. Note- If you book consecutive nights with your Marriott points, they only charge you for four nights!

Total trip perks- 5 free nights in Rome

3.      United Airlines Card

https://www.theexplorercard.com/30kAFW?cell=PLD&int_source=loyalty&mode=d&int_medium=uacom&int_campaign=explorer_30kafw&alm=14347&partner_name=chase_acq&asset_position=ua_cc_page&promo_code=cell_pld&launch_date=2014-09-03

For our flights we chose United Airlines. For us to fly from Atlanta to Paris, Paris to Rome, and Rome to Atlanta it would cost us 60k United miles. (This is booked at their saver rate, which needs to typically be booked in advance to avoid it being filled up).

We each signed up for the card in the link. It will give you 30k United miles for spending $1,000 in 3 months. It will also give you an additional 5k miles if you add an authorized user to your account (we added each other to our accounts).

Total trip perks- 70k points out of our 120k points needed for our flights

4.      Chase Sapphire Preferred

https://creditcards.chase.com/credit-cards/sapphire-preferred-card.aspx

For this particular card, only I signed up. If you spend $4,000 in 3 months, you get 40k points.  Also, you get an additional 5k points for adding an authorized user (Which I added Bailey). You also get a point for every $1 you spend. All in all, we spent $5,000 on the card. The nice thing about the Chase Sapphire Preferred card is that you can transfer your points to many different awards. We transferred ours to our United accounts to reach the remaining miles that we needed.

Total trip perks –Remaining 50k points of our 120k points needed for flights

As you can see, these cards require you spend in the thousands to get the bonuses. Below are a few ways you can reach that spending without buying things you don't actually need:

1.      Use your card for all of your spending- Use your new cards for all of your day to day spending (Getting gas, groceries, or going out to eat) Also look into paying your electric or water bill with a card. It all adds up!

2.      Use your credit card for any big purchases- We purchased our new fence using a credit card. If you have any big purchases coming up, I would definitely consider putting it on the card to gain the rewards.

3.      Pay your taxes with a credit card- We were able to pay our city and county property taxes with a credit card. These are usually large dollar amounts, so if you are able to do this then it really adds up. Also, the IRS allows you to pay taxes owed after you file with a credit card.

4.      Prepay your insurance or utilities- You can go ahead and pay for your car or home insurance for the year with a credit card. Not only do you get the spending for this, but you also usually get a discount for paying in full up front! Also, some utilities companies will let you prepay your utilities.

5.      Buy giftcards- If you are getting close to the time frame that you have to reach your minimum spending by, you can buy giftcards to reach it! You can buy gas station or grocery giftcards and use them throughout the year. You can also buy Visa or Amazon Giftcards. This gives you a way to extend the time frame for your spending. If you still have $400 left to spend on a card and you are at the end of your three months, you can buy a Visa gift card and spend it whenever things come up and not have a time frame.

Our European adventure ended up being worth the estimated value below:

Flight from Atlanta to Paris for two ~ $4,000

Flight from Paris to Rome for two ~ $500

Flight from Rome to Atlanta for two ~ $6,000

4 nights in Park Hyatt Paris Vendome ~ $4,500

5 nights in Rome Marriott grand hotel ~ $3,000

Total ~ $18,000

$18,000 trip COMPLETELY FREE with only three months of minimum work?! I'll take it!

All in all, with a little planning and organization on what card you use on your spending, you can get any trip for free.

Happy traveling, readers!

Wednesday Date Night

Hey, love bugs!

How's everyone's week going? IT'S ALMOST FRIDAY! I'm definitely ready for a relaxing weekend filled with family get togethers, church, movie watching, and sleeping in. As much as I enjoy my job, it's always nice to not have a schedule to abide by, don't you think?

 

Last night, my hubby and I went out for a weekday dinner date. We had grand plans to go to our favorite hibachi restaurant and enjoy some sushi together. When we walked in, the place was filled to the gills and the wait was over two hours! So guess where we ended up? WAFFLE HOUSE! Not exactly what we had imagined for a romantic night out, and I was probably a little overdressed, but we had the best time just enjoying each other's company and indulging in some waffles and hashbrowns.

 

It just goes to show, it doesn't matter where you are; it matters WHO you're with!  



 

Warning: Subject in pictures is not as pale as she appears (I SWEAR)

 

 

 

Weekend Shopping Finds

As y'all probably know, I am a bargainista through and through. I rarely spend more than $20 bucks on anything! You'd think this would make me pretty picky on what I buy, but what most people don't realize is there are PLENTY of awesome, stylish sale items out there; you just have to know where to look. For me, I find a ton of good deals every week - the hard part is convincing myself not to buy all of them!

 This weekend, I was on the hunt for stylish, neutral colored necklaces. I wanted to find jewelry that would go with most outfits, especially when I was running late to work or just didn't have time to plan out a head to toe outfit. With my husband in tow (against his will, maybe), I went to the local mall and a few other stores. I found the jewelry that I wanted and maybe a few other things, too:

Woven Necklace from Von Maur:

Retail Price: $16.00

What I paid: $10.00

Graphic Tank from Von Maur:

Retail Price: $24.99

What I paid: $6.00

Milky Stone Statement Necklace from Charlotte Russe:

Retail Price: $6.00

What I paid: $5.00

Gold Feather Bracelet from Charlotte Russe:

Retail Price: $6.00

What I paid: $1.99




White Sweetheart Skinnies from Old Navy:

Retail Price: $34.94
What I paid: .87 cents 
(and yes, I actually bought them at Old Navy - brand new!)

Ladies, never underestimate the power of a little bargain shopping.


XOXO, Bailey

7 Rules of a Bargainista

If I'm being totally honest with myself, I would say that I usually buy at least one thing for myself every week (sorry, hubby!). Whether it be a latte (or 5), a new top, or a nice scarf, I always find a way to spoil myself! Thankfully, my husband and I budget for a little "me money" each month, so it doesn't totally shock our bank accounts. Before I buy anything though, I always make sure to follow the 7 rules of a good bargainista:

1.  Set a budget before you leave the house

We've all watched Say Yes to the Dress and saw a bride fall in love with a gown that was way out of her budget. After much pressure from her friends and family, the bride usually caves and splurges on the dress she couldn't afford. What happened? She probably started eyeing things that were too expensive because  she didn't have a specific budget in mind. Don't let this happen in your day to day life! Before you leave the house, decide a concrete number in your head that you're willing to spend. Going over that number is not an option, ladies (it's tough, I know). If you keep this in mind, you won't even allow yourself to fall in love with that $200 sweater that you can't afford.

2. Check out the clearance section

When I went shopping last week, I saw a necklace that I loved. The only problem? It was $50 dollars! There was no way I was willing to spend that much on a necklace, so I decided to put it back and move on to the clearance section. As I was looking at the clearance jewelry, I saw the exact same necklace in a slightly lighter color. Guess how much? TEN BUCKS!  Before you decide to go over budget, always be willing to check in clearance!

3. Don't blow the bank on fads

Remember when overly ripped jeans were in style back in high school? I dropped at least 80 bucks on the hottest pair of Hollister jeans I could get my hands on - and I looked RIDICULOUS. Fast forward a year later, nobody was rocking the ripped jeans. I basically blew close to $100 bucks on an item that A. wasn't even that cute and B. didn't stay in style long enough for me to get my money's worth! Learn from my mistakes - don't drop the big bucks on something that won't be considered stylish next year.

4. Splurge on timeless pieces

I don't spend a lot of money on anything, but even I can admit I do have a few weak spots. Purses, for example, are the one thing I will always splurge on! I tend to gravitate toward more classic, stylish, neutral bags. They go with everything and I carry them for years, so I don't mind spending extra cash on them. If it's an item you know you'll appreciate and wear for years to come, then it's ok to spend a little bit more money.

5. Always check for coupons

So you're standing in a long line at Macy's, waiting {impatiently} to check out with your new goodies. Should you get on your phone and check your Facebook? Nope! Get on Google and try to find some coupons! Pretty much all department stores will have coupons online. Just type in the name of the store and see what you can find. Not seeing any? Ask the person who's checking you out! Usually they will have a handful of coupons next to their register just waiting to be used.  

6. Will you still be thinking about this item tomorrow? No? Then you don't need it.

This is hard for most shoppers. You may think you're in love with that sweater in your hands, but how bad do you really want it? Put it back, go to another store, or even go home for the night. If in a day or so that sweater is still on your mind, then go back and get it. If you're more like me, however, that sweater will be the furthest thing from your mind and you'll be moved onto your next obsession. With this in mind, you are guaranteed to avoid unnecessary spending. 

7. Don't be afraid of used goods

As a devoted Goodwill shopper (no shame!), I promise you thrift stores have a million awesome choices for any fashionista! I can't tell you how many times I've found high end brands like Dolce & Gabbana or even found expensive goods with the tags still on! You have to be willing to dig for the items (there's a lot to go through!), but the end result is always worth it. 

Happy shopping!

XOXO, Bailey

Election Day Recap!

Hello Hello!

How is everyone? Since it was election day today, my school had the day off! WOO! I spent the day running errands, catching lunch with my hubs, and shopping at the mall (and voting, of course!). Since I had the day off, I was able to rock one of my favorite Mean Girls inspired graphic tees. Maybe it's a bit "pre-teen" of me, but I love a good graphic top. What better way to express how you're feeling that day?! Hint - I was feeling a bit dramatic!

One trend I am really loving this season is the denim vest. It takes any simple outfit to a whole new level! Whether it be to give your look a little more edge, or to dress down a typically formal piece, these vests will definitely come in handy this season. The one I'm wearing below is actually from Goodwill! When old styles are suddenly fashionable again, I absolutely recommend looking in your local thrift store. I found ten different denim vests to choose from when I went searching (literally!). I paid 3.50 rather than fifty bucks, so I'm a happy camper and my bank account isn't suffering for style.

Denim Vest - Goodwill - Similar style here
"You Can't Sit with us" top - Forever 21 - Peep it here
Black Skinnies - Old Navy - Peep them here
Leopard Loafers - Target - Similar style here
Kate Spade Crossbody in Dark N Stormy - Old - Similar style here

P.S. - Don't worry, you can definitely sit with me. :)

Fall Weekend Wear

Happy November, everyone!

How was everyone’s Halloween? In true “old married couple” fashion, Kyle and I stayed in, watched scary movies, and passed out candy to the kids in our neighborhood. Call me crazy, but I always have the best time when I’m just hanging with my hubs at our house. It’s the little things for us! 

It’s officially fall weather in Atlanta (I thought it would never come)! The air is crisp, the trees are nearly bare, and piles of gold and orange leaves are all over my yard. This is my favorite time of year – not only for the stunning scenery, but for the new outfit choices. For those who know me, you know I am addicted to a good pair of leggings and a chunky sweater. This weekend was finally the time to break those pieces back out again! I've been bundled up in comfy sweaters and riding boots all weekend long to try and beat the cold. When I woke up this morning for church, I knew that trend would have to continue.

 Jesus still loves me in oversized sweaters and leather leggings, right? Here’s hoping!

Chunky Cream Sweater - Goodwill - similar style here 

Faux Leather Leggings - Bongo - Peep them here

G.H. Bass & Co Black Leather Boots - old - similar style here

 Michael Kors Medium Satchel - old - similar style here

Leopard Infinity Scarf - old - similar style here

Hope you all have a fabulous start to your week!

XOXO, Bailey