Seattle is blessed with the stunning backdrop of the Olympic and Cascade Mountains. Beyond that, it’s a city that effortlessly blends the classic PNW vibe with the American dream. Known for its innovative spirit, strong connection to tech, and a history that’s as deep and varied as its waterways, Seattle is one of those special places that just forces people to fall in love after only one visit.
Listed below are ten undeniably unique things that make Seattle such a desirable place to lay down roots or rent the perfect place for a little while.
1. Space Needle
Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, the Space Needle offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the mountains, and the waters that surround Seattle. This landmark, with its futuristic design, symbolizes Seattle’s forward-thinking spirit, drawing visitors from around the world to marvel at the vista from its observation deck or have a meal at the cafe.
2. Chihuly Garden and Glass
Showcasing the art of Dale Chihuly, a native son of Washington, the Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibition blends glass and botanicals in a mesmerizing display. Located near the Space Needle, it offers a visual feast of color and form, illustrating the depth of Seattle’s commitment to the arts.
3. Pike Place Market
Pike Place Market is one of the oldest continuously operated public farmers’ markets in the United States. As such, it is also the heart and soul of Seattle. With its famous fish market, countless artisan stalls, and the original Starbucks coffee shop, Pike Place embodies the Pacific Coast culinary craft in all its glory.
4. Central Library
With its innovative glass and steel design by architect Rem Koolhaas, Central Library redefines what a library can be. It’s not only a great place to learn something new but also a public space that encourages community and focuses on Seattle’s commitment to public services and intellectual growth.
5. The Fremont Troll
Tucked under the Aurora Bridge in the quirky Fremont neighborhood, the Fremont Troll is a testament to Seattle’s creative and whimsical side. This massive concrete sculpture, clutching a real Volkswagen Beetle, has become a beloved oddity and a symbol of the city’s eclectic art scene.
6. Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)
Founded by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) is dedicated to contemporary popular culture. Its exhibits, which range from science fiction and fantasy to music and video games, are housed in a strikingly modern building designed by Frank Gehry.
7. Amazon Spheres
The Amazon Spheres are a striking example of innovative urban workspace design, consisting of three glass and steel domes filled with more than 40,000 plants from around the world. As part of Amazon’s downtown Seattle campus, they underscore the city’s status as a tech hub and its commitment to integrating nature within the city limits.
8. Seattle Great Wheel
On Pier 57, the Seattle Great Wheel extends over Elliott Bay, offering riders spectacular views of the city and beyond. As one of the largest Ferris wheels in North America, it lights up the waterfront with its LED light shows, adding a fun twist to Seattle’s already iconic skyline.
9. Olympic Sculpture Park
Managed by the Seattle Art Museum, Olympic Sculpture Park transforms nine acres of industrial land into an open space designed to blend top-tier art with pristine nature. The park features sculptures from internationally acclaimed artists, set against the stunning backdrop of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.
10. Ballard Locks
Ballard Locks serves as a gateway between the saltwater of Puget Sound and the freshwater of the Ship Canal, which flows into Lake Union and Lake Washington. Visitors can watch boats of all sizes navigate the locks and see salmon make their upstream journey via the fish ladder.
Tucson is a scenic desert city that has a unique blend of natural beauty and new-age convenience. With its stunning sunsets, majestic saguaro cacti, and a thriving arts scene, Tucson is a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the beauty of the Southwest.
From exploring the historic downtown to hiking the surrounding mountains, Tucson has something for everyone.
Whether you’re searching for apartments in Tucson, homes for sale, or want to learn more about what Tucson is known for, this article is the guide you’ve been waiting for.
1. Saguaro National Park
Saguaro National Park showcases the iconic Saguaro cactus, symbolizing the American Southwest. The park is divided into two sections, East (Rincon Mountain District) and West (Tucson Mountain District), offering breathtaking desert landscapes, hiking trails, and more.
2. Fourth Avenue
Fourth Avenue in Tucson, the social heart of Tucson, is known for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and bars. This thoroughfare hosts several street fairs and events throughout the year, drawing locals and tourists alike on a daily basis. Needless to say, no trip to Tucson is complete without a stroll down Fourth.
3. Stunning desert landscapes
Situated in the Sonoran Desert, Tucson boasts breathtaking natural beauty. The city is surrounded by majestic mountains, picturesque canyons, and unique desert flora and fauna. Visitors and residents alike can easily explore the beauty of the desert at a moment’s notice, making Tucson the ideal home for outdoor enthusiasts.
4. Steward Observatory
Steward Observatory, part of the University of Arizona, is a leading center for astronomical research and education. With its state-of-the-art telescopes and facilities, including access to the Large Binocular Telescope, it offers incredible opportunities for discovering the mysteries of the universe.
5. Tucson Gem and Mineral Show
The Tucson Gem and Mineral Show is the largest event of its kind in the world, attracting vendors, collectors, and visitors globally. Held annually in Tucson, it showcases an astonishing variety of gems, minerals, fossils, and jewelry.
6. Mt. Lemmon and the SkyCenter
Rising above Tucson, Mt. Lemmon is a cool escape from the desert heat and hosts the SkyCenter, an astronomical observatory known for its SkyNights stargazing program. The drive up Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway is as breathtaking as the panoramic views and diverse ecosystems it passes through, making the journey almost as rewarding as the destination.
7. Sonoran Desert cuisine
As the first UNESCO City of Gastronomy in the U.S., Tucson celebrates its culinary heritage through dishes like the Sonoran hot dog, tamales, and mesquite flour pancakes. Local ingredients like chiltepin peppers, mesquite pod flour, and prickly pear cactus are staples, showcasing the unparalleled flavors and biodiversity of the Sonoran Desert.
8. Hispanic culture
With a strong Hispanic influence, Tucson’s culture is infused with traditions, celebrations, and flavors that reflect its rich heritage. From festivals to authentic Mexican cuisine, the city’s Hispanic culture is an integral part of its identity. Tucson’s embrace of its Hispanic roots adds a unique and lively dimension to the city’s cultural tapestry.
9. Biosphere 2
Biosphere 2 is a groundbreaking research facility designed to study ecosystems and the possibilities of creating self-sustaining environments for human space exploration. Managed by the University of Arizona, it offers tours to the public, providing a unique glimpse into scientific experiments that range from rainforest conservation to oceanic behavior.
10. University of Arizona
The University of Arizona is a premier public research institution that significantly contributes to the educational and economic prowess of the city. With a strong emphasis on innovation, the university offers a range of academic programs, research initiatives, and community engagement efforts. Beyond that, the campus is also home to a ton of museums, arts venues, and the Arizona Wildcats sports teams.
Forget Aspen and consider the Alps. Depending on how close you live to the mountains, it may actually be cheaper to ski in Europe, including flight costs, than to ski in the U.S.
Skier Sam Weintraub, founder of ski resort review website PeakRankings, can attest to the price difference — after all, he’s skied at about 135 resorts worldwide. This past January, Weintraub hit the slopes at six European ski resorts across 20 days. He spent $3,800 in total, including $800 on a round-trip flight to Geneva, Switzerland, from Newark Liberty International Airport.
Weintraub paid about $670 out of pocket for eight days of lift tickets. As for the other 12 days, he flashed his Ikon and Epic ski passes, which are season passes to select ski resorts worldwide. (Those pass prices weren’t included in the $3,800 total price estimate since he had already been using them in the U.S. earlier this ski season).
But he said even travelers who pay for lift tickets individually could see significant savings. The average daily U.S. ski lift ticket costs $198 this ski season, according to vacation rental booking site HomeToGo, which analyzed 48 major U.S. ski areas. Meanwhile, Weintraub paid on average just $83.75 per day for lift access at resorts not covered by his passes.
With a combination of getting a good deal on flights and lift tickets, a European ski trip could be less expensive than you think. Here’s how:
Deals abound on European lift tickets
The lower cost of skiing in Europe is largely due to cheaper lift tickets. A single lift ticket in the U.S. can sometimes cost more than $300 per day. At Deer Valley, which is one of Utah’s priciest resorts, you’ll owe $315 for a one-day adult lift ticket on most weekends after taxes and fees. Tickets for children can cost more than $195.
Contrast that with deals found in Europe, such as Switzerland’s Jungfrau region. Located at the foot of the Alps, it’s traditionally thought of as an expensive bucket list destination. A one-day ski pass costs 75 Swiss francs (about $85 at the time of writing).
But the deal gets even sweeter for families. On Saturdays, each adult who buys a one-day ticket can bring up to three children for free. That’s just over $20 per lift ticket for an adult with three kids who takes full advantage of the deal.
Some people chalk up the lower cost of European lift tickets to increased competition. In the U.S., there are more than 500 ski resorts. In Europe, which is similar in land area, there are almost 4,000 ski resorts, according to ski data provider Skiresort Service International.
Ski passes for international ski resorts
Weintraub’s Ikon and Epic Passes accounted for a big chunk of his low trip costs. These season passes grant access to various resorts worldwide, including three of the six resorts visited on his trip. Depending on how much you ski in the U.S. and abroad, such passes might help you save as well.
If you’re skiing for about a week or more in Europe specifically, multi-resort passes might also be cheaper than one-day lift tickets. For example, Italy’s Dolomiti Superski offers a 500 euro pass (about $540) that lets adults ski eight days across any of its 12 interconnected resorts. That’s less than $70 per day.
Flights to Europe can be affordable
Airfare may be a huge chunk of the budget of skiing in Europe, but it’s getting cheaper. According to the American Express Global Business Travel (AmEx GBT) Air Monitor 2024 report, average economy airfares from North America to Europe are expected to drop by 3.5% this year.
Falling airfares correlate with an increase in routes. For example, Air France’s North America capacity increased by 20% in winter 2023 versus 2019, and includes a new seasonal route to Innsbruck, Austria. The city is famous for snow sports and has played host to two Winter Olympics.
Book flights early
Weintraub booked his flight less than a month before departure. That’s outside the two-to-eight-month window that travel experts recommend for booking international flights. According to Google Flights, flights between Newark and Geneva usually cost between $485 and $770 — lower than the $800 Weintraub paid.
“I would have saved hundreds more if I had been more proactive,” he said in an email.
Other ways to save on European ski trips
Just like the U.S., Europe has ultra-expensive mountain regions. To save money, skip iconic resorts like France’s Courchevel in favor of lesser-known gems like La Clusaz.
Eastern Europe can be especially affordable. At Bulgaria’s Bansko Ski Resort, one-day adult tickets cost about $53. Not only will you typically find lower prices, but also perhaps shorter lift lines.
No matter where you choose to ski across the pond, take into account the costs of lift tickets and airfare, but also other transportation, food, lodging, lessons and rentals to see if a European ski trip might help you save on the slopes.
Southern California’s real estate market is as cold as the snow currently adorning the peaks of its mountains. Interest rates are up. Inventory is down. And deals are few and far between.
In slow markets, the agents at the top — those with experience, connections and plenty of clients — typically maintain a modest but steady stream of business. It’s the agents at the bottom — those just getting into the industry who’ve only managed to close a handful of sales — who starve.
As those agents have grown more desperate for leads, they’re trying alternative ways of finding them. Some are outsourcing the work overseas, and others are turning to AI or automation in a last-ditch attempt to find a seller.
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During the record-breaking pandemic market, there were so many transactions that most determined real estate agents were able to make a living. More than 43,000 single-family homes traded hands in L.A. County in 2021, and more than 42,000 were sold in 2022, according to the Multiple Listing Service.
During that time, tens of thousands joined the National Assn. of Realtors, or NAR, with membership swelling to a record 1.6 million in 2022, up 200,000 since 2020. Real estate wasn’t just a solid job; it was a way to leap into a higher tax bracket.
But then the market started to freeze in 2023 as mortgage rates shot up. Only 11,539 single-family homes sold that year, and sales are at a similar pace so far this year.
Some agents are simply calling it quits. In California alone, NAR lost 9,723 members from December 2023 to January 2024 — a 4.75% decline . But even after the drop, California still holds the second-most active Realtors in the nation at 194,964, and they’re all fighting for an extremely small pool of sellers.
At the peak of the pandemic market, Tyler Andrews, 29, tried his hand at real estate in the Inland Empire, thinking he would use his outgoing personality to sell homes as L.A. residents flocked to the area during the pandemic. He got his license and helped a few friends with their house hunts, but ultimately didn’t earn any commission and stopped in 2023.
He’s one of many agents who rushed into real estate hoping for a taste of California’s latest gold rush.
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From the outside, listing a house in a hot market seems like the easiest of get-rich-quick schemes. Homes sell in days, and a 3% agent’s commission on a $1-million sale comes out to $30,000. If you represent both sides of the deal, it turns into $60,000.
But the real estate industry isn’t an easy one to break into. You typically get paid only if you close a sale, and in any market, most homeowners still prefer to go with an agent with experience.
In a hot market, sellers find an agent. In a cold market, agents have to find a seller. The situation is coming to a boil in many areas, such as Leimert Park, where residents have been barraged by agents asking whether they’re interested in putting their homes up for sale.
Cold calling is time consuming — and stressful, considering the ire it draws from those on the receiving end. So some agents are handing that thankless task to machines.
A handful of companies such as Slybroadcast and Salesmsg offer “ringless voicemail,” a robocall-adjacent tool enabling agents to send pre-recorded messages straight to your voicemail box without your phone ever ringing. The messages are often meant to trick you into thinking you missed a call, saying things like, “Sorry I missed you! Give me a call back whenever you get a chance.”
In 2022, the Federal Communications Commission declared the trend a form of robocalling and said it’s illegal if the caller doesn’t have the recipient’s prior consent. But that hasn’t stopped agents from sending out such voicemails to potential clients.
“I don’t have time to cold call all day,” said one real estate agent who asked to remain anonymous due to the potential taboo of using the technology. “I have to find clients somehow, and in a market like this, you have to get creative.”
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The thinking is this: An agent could spend eight hours a day calling every home in a neighborhood to ask whether they want to sell their home. Or they could send out 500 ringless voicemails simultaneously, and those who bother to call back have a better chance of needing the services of a real estate agent.
Andrews said he had heard of other agents trying such technology as the market got colder in 2023, but he never bothered doing it himself because it didn’t seem authentic. It also would’ve been an extra expense — one he didn’t have a budget for.
Mary Thompson has owned her home in Beverly Crest for more than a decade. Over the last year, she’s received multiple ringless voicemails asking whether she wants to list or buy a house.
“I was fooled by the first one. I called back and ended up on the phone with an agent for 15 minutes asking about my plans as a homeowner,” she said. “I don’t bother calling back anymore.”
U.S. consumers received more than 55 billion robocalls in 2023, 5 billion more than the previous year, according to the YouMail Robocall Index. Roughly 15 billion were telemarketing calls, and 8 billion were scams. California consistently ranks as the state with the second-most robocalls, behind only Texas.
As a response to thousands of unwanted call complaints, the FCC has established a Robocall Response Team to combat the influx of robocalls, many of which are targeted toward homeowners.
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Last year, the commission shut down a robocalling campaign from MV Realty, a real estate brokerage that was sending out robocalls with misleading claims about mortgages. A whistleblower from the company told a Seattle news outlet that employees were directed how to use software called PhoneBurner and required to make at least 450 calls per day.
Other companies such as VoiceSpin give agents access to auto-dialing software, which, like it sounds, automatically dials numbers from a list. VoiceSpin claims to use AI and machine learning and enables agents to drop voicemails straight into inboxes, record calls or even use local area codes so you’re more likely to pick up.
In that case, you’d be talking to an agent, but sometimes you might find yourself unwittingly conversing with a robot.
The tech company Ylopo recently uploaded a video showcasing an AI assistant conversing with a potential home buyer planning a move to the North or South Carolina coast. The company said it’s “one of thousands of AI calls being made daily already for Ylopo clients.”
Cinc, a real estate lead generation platform, offers agents an AI-powered digital assistant that purposefully misspells words and uses emojis to make interactions with potential leads appear more human.
The NAR itself offers an AI scriptwriter powered by ChatGPT that analyzes housing trends so that agents can appear more knowledgeable about the market. Agents can even choose the tone: professional, engaging or conversational.
Earlier this month, the FCC continued its fight against robocalling by outlawing robocalls that use AI-generated voices. Since the ruling is so fresh, it’s unclear how companies utilizing the technology will be affected.
In a market as slow as this one, even finding numbers to call becomes a challenge; tech becomes useless if it’s being wasted on the wrong potential clients. So many agents are looking for leads.
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On Fiverr, an online marketplace for freelance services, a glut of listings has popped up offering agents potential leads on prospective buyers or sellers. One of the most prolific is Abhishek Rai, who has racked up more than 3,000 five-star reviews offering leads on motivated sellers, vacant properties or absentee owners since joining the platform in April 2020.
Rai, who’s based in India and uses the handle @virtualguy2020, typically charges $10 for 100 leads, $50 for 650 and $100 for 1,500.
“Real estate agents have demanding schedules, and outsourcing lead generation tasks allows them to focus on other aspects of their business, such as client meetings, property showings, and negotiations,” he said.
Rai has clients across the U.S., including many in Southern California. He added that generating leads is a specialized skill and not every agent has the expertise to find them on their own.
For his leads, he combs through public records, online databases and real estate sources such as property records, tax records and foreclosure listings.
To be clear, the vast majority of agents in Southern California still conduct business the old-fashioned way. But the ones trying new things are often doing so in order to make a living.
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In 2022, Realtors with 16 or more years of experience made a median gross income of $80,700, according to the NAR. But those with two years or less experience made just $9,600.
According to a report from business networking platform Alignable, 31% of real estate firms struggled to pay rent for their office in January.
AI’s subtle invasion of the real estate industry doesn’t necessarily come as a surprise because the technology has pervaded nearly every profession over the last few years. But for an industry that has long relied on human connection — handshakes, open houses, fresh flowers and other personal touches — AI’s cold, sterile seep into housing has become unnerving for some.
“When I do need a real estate agent, I need one that I can connect with,” Thompson said. “I don’t want anything to do with their AI assistant.”
Editorial Note: Opinions expressed here are author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
Tim Maxwell
Contributor
Tim Maxwell is a freelance personal finance writer with over two decades of media experience. His work has been published in Bankrate, CBS News, Experian and other outlets. Tim is passionate about financial literacy and empowering people to take control of their finances. When he’s not writing or geeking out over his budget, he enjoys creating memories with his family in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
With more pet ownership happening across the country, finding the best cities for pets could help you live more comfortably. The best cities for pets provide pet-friendly apartments, as well as plenty of amenities, such as off-leash parks, hiking spots, veterinary hospitals and doggie daycares.
Finding the best cities for pets
In our search for the best cities for pets, we analyzed the percentage of apartments in our database that were pet-friendly and allowed dogs or cats.
We also looked at the average cost of veterinarian services in large metro areas with populations above 100,000 and the number of pet-related businesses and parks per capita. Then, we ranked them accordingly.
Here are the best cities for pets in the U.S.
10. Davie, FL
Just north of Miami, Davie is a town with plenty of scenic parks. Head over to Happy Tails Dog Park, the city’s pristine dog park, where your dog can socialize and run obstacle courses. The park has three different play areas and doggie water fountains.
There’s also Central Broward Park, which features 110 acres of fields and playgrounds, Vista View Park, a hilly green space to spend the day hiking and Peace Mound Park, which has an ancient burial site.
Located in Broward County, Davie is known for its colleges, universities and technical colleges. It’s home to plenty of family-friendly activities, such as hanging at the Flamingo Garden and Everglades Holiday Park.
9. Vacaville, CA
Fast-growing city Vacaville in Northern California, just 55 miles outside of San Francisco and because it’s not in the heart of the city, it’s a lot more affordable, too.
Vacaville is a great place to get on your bike and take your dog on a run through Alamo Creek Bike Trail or Lagoon Valley Park, a green, fenced off area for off-leash dogs to run around.
Besides sprawling, recreational areas and charming parks, you can also spend the afternoon checking out some of the local wineries.
Vacaville even has its own little museum, honoring the local heritage. It’s an ideal place away from the hustle and bustle, but close enough if you ever need to access a bigger city (only 35 miles from Sacramento).
8. Naperville, IL
Naperville is a suburb of Chicago — it sits just 35 miles west of the Windy City and is home to paths and bridges that hug the DuPage River. Just like Vacaville, Naperville is far enough from the concrete jungle of Chicago so residents can enjoy the more scenic vibe of public art, colorful local shops, cafes and restaurants.
Grab the leash and take your dog on a stroll through Naperville Riverwalk, which has a two-mile path that opens up to the heart of the city. It’s picturesque with lots of green space, shopping and places to eat or get takeout along the way.
7. Arvada, CO
When it comes to outdoor activities, you really can’t find a better place than Colorado. Arvada, which is near Denver, offers a unique, small-town feel with a retro vibe. The city has a historic shopping district called Olde Town and offers plenty of parks, trails (it has 125 miles of hiking and biking!) and lakes where you can see the mountains and bald eagles.
You can hike Mesa Trail and see views of the Flatirons or check out Eldorado Canyon State Park to climb amid sandstone cliffs. Because of its close proximity to nature, low crime rate and educated workforce, Arvada is a popular place to live. It encompasses the top 20 of Colorado’s wealthiest ZIP Codes.
6. Scottsdale, AZ
While summers are hot, the rest of the year in Scottsdale is relatively mild, which makes it a comfortable place to live with your pet and get outside. Just outside of Arizona’s capital Phoenix, Scottsdale is well-known for incredible views of rock formations at Camelback Mountain and Hole in the Rock, a geological cluster with big open spaces.
Scottsdale even has a number of popular pet-friendly hotels (for some cool, indoor time for those scorching summers) and is generally welcoming of pets in public places, such as its posh Scottsdale Fashion Square and local wineries.
5. Tyler, TX
In eastern Texas, Tyler is known for its rose gardens and even has a museum dedicated to remembering the rich history of the town’s annual Texas Rose Festival.
Tyler is the kind of place where you can visit popular attractions, such as the Tyler Azalea trail and any of their lakes, such as Lake Tyler and East Lake Tyler.
The city’s location and access to nature make it a great place for pets. The Sunrise Paw Park is a massive dog park — four acres, to be exact. The park, just northwest of Old Jackson Highway, has separate fenced off sections for small and large dogs to play and socialize.
4. Boulder, CO
At the base of the Rocky Mountains is Boulder, CO. The city offers the best of both worlds, with the intricate rock formations of the Flatirons just west and the convenience of Pearl Street’s downtown’s shops, cafes and restaurants.
You can take your furry best friend just about anywhere in Boulder, including hiking trails and picnics with some spectacular scenery.
A dog-friendly must-do hike is the Flatirons Vista and Doudy Draw Trail, which is a beginner-level, 3.7-mile hike that will take about three hours. It’s an incredible way to spend the day, especially in the spring.
3. Ann Arbor, MI
Ann Arbor is near the Huron River and nicknamed “Tree Town” because of its abundance of green space — even their downtown is filled with trees. Known as one of the best places to live in Michigan, Ann Arbor is a welcoming place for young professionals, families and their pets.
A popular destination for dog-lovers is Swift Run Dog Park, which is an outdoor grassy area with 10 acres of freedom for Fido to get some exercise and be off-leash.
Stroll through the coffee shops and historic downtown area that’s lined with vintage clothing shops, independent bookstores and historic theaters. Ann Arbor is also home to the University of Michigan, and its creative, youthful vibe makes it feel like a typical university town.
2. Charleston, SC
For being such an old city, founded in 1670, Charleston is surprisingly pet-friendly, with tons to do and see with Fido, including James Island County Park. This play haven features a dog beach, four acres of grass, a cleaning station and a fenced play area for small dogs.
Besides dog parks, beaches and trails, Charleston exudes an old, historic charm. The port city has cobblestone streets, especially in the French Quarter and Battery districts.
Go for a stroll down the promenade and Waterfront Park for a relaxing view of the Charleston Harbor. There are also tons of local shopping venues, theaters, museums, cafes and gardens.
1. Greeley, CO
The No. 1 city for Fido is in Greeley, a city in northern Colorado, about an hour away from Denver. There’s plenty of outdoor activities to do with your pet, from spending the afternoon at Poudre River Trail or taking advantage of the green space at Rover’s Run Dog Park.
Greeley is a central hub for community events and unlike its more expensive counterparts in Denver and Boulder, it’s considered a hidden gem due to its affordability in housing.
Greeley is a thriving cultural area, known for its art, entertainment and food-driven events, such as their summer-long Friday Fest and OktoBREWfest in the fall.
Greeley also landed in the No. 35 spot in a well-being index report, which measures community social and health data across populations.
The 50 best cities for pets
If you want to know what other cities made the list beyond the top 10, here are the top 50 best cities for pets.
Finding a pet-friendly apartment
Here’s what you need to know in order to find the best find a pet-friendly apartment for your needs.
Search for pet-friendly amenities
Newer apartment buildings come with all sorts of amenities, beyond a pool and fitness center. Pet-friendly apartments will have on-site dog parks, washing stations and even pet daycare.
Get renters insurance
You may have heard why it’s important to get renters insurance. Consider buying it for the year if you’re ready to move to a new apartment with your pet. It could show your new landlord that you’re responsible and are covered in case your pet causes any damage to the unit.
Depending on the type of coverage and policy you choose, renters insurance may include:
Property damage to the unit
Liability in case someone gets hurt in your unit
Theft of belongings in your apartment and car
Additional living expenses if your home becomes uninhabitable as a result of a covered emergency
Get a recommendation
Ask your former landlord to write a letter of recommendation, highlighting your dog’s behavior and the condition of your previous apartment. You may want to include other types of documentation when talking to your landlord, such as:
Obedience school documents
Pet sitters who took care of your dog
A former neighbor
Pay a pet deposit
This topic will inevitably come up when you look for a pet-friendly apartment. Most apartment buildings will require a pet deposit, which is generally a few hundred dollars.
Take photos of your apartment before you move in
When you find the right place to live, be sure to take photos of your apartment before you move in. This could serve a few purposes for you, including proof that your pet didn’t ruin the unit.
You could show these photos to future landlords to state your case that your dog is well behaved. It could also help you get your security deposit back.
Methodology
To determine the best cities for pets, we looked at all cities with at least 100,000 people according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2019 estimates and then ranked each city by the following factors:
Pet-friendliness (50%)
The percentage of available properties that allow dogs or cats. Listings are from Apartment Guide and Rent.’s November 2020 multifamily rental property inventory.
Veterinarian costs (20%)
Pet businesses per capita (30%)
Businesses include vets, animal hospitals, pet shops, pet training facilities, pet boarding, pet supplies and parks. Counts come from a database of 8 million commercially licensed business listings and may not reflect recent openings or closures.
Each of these factors was weighted differently, and the cities with the best overall score were determined to be the best cities for pets.
Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) is a collective of high-end properties that meet high standards for service and style. There are more than 500 boutique hotels in 90 countries that make the grade.
SLH will not become one of the many Hilton Honors brands, but the strategic partnership between the two unlocks the door to significantly more luxury properties than are currently in the Hilton portfolio.
For now, the details of using Hilton elite status benefits and credit card perks at SLH properties are still being ironed out, but Hilton members will soon be able to earn and redeem points at the participating luxury hotels.
What happens to the World of Hyatt partnership?
As Hilton Honors ramps up its partnership, World of Hyatt will end its connection with SLH. This comes on the heels of Hyatt’s new acquisition of travel club platform Mr. & Mrs. Smith, which gives World of Hyatt members plenty of opportunity to earn and redeem points at more than 1,500 luxury properties. Hilton will have an exclusive partnership with SLH.
9 Small Luxury Hotels of the World properties to look forward to booking with Hilton points
To book these new hotel options, Hilton Honors members can use any of Hilton’s traditional reservations channels to book a stay at participating SLH hotels. This includes earning and redeeming points, which multiply when you use a Hilton Honors co-branded credit card.
Hilton Honors is also a transfer partner of AmEx Membership Rewards. No matter which credit card you use, these are some of the exciting SLH options that may participate in the Hilton Honors partnership.
1. The Principal Hotel, Madrid
Along the famous Gran Via, this hotel is close to popular shopping, theaters, nightlife, dining and tourist attractions like the Prado and Retiro Park.
Be sure to visit the one of the rooftop restaurants and bar for cocktails and tapas before heading out to a night on the town.
2. Inverlochy Castle, Scotland
Want to sleep in a castle? Hilton Honors points could be your chance. The 19th century Inverlochy Castle is in the Scottish Highlands where guests can slumber like royalty.
Other activities include fishing, hiking, mountain biking, golf and even a ride on the Hogwarts Express train of Harry Potter fame.
3. Hotel Excelsior, Dubrovnik, Croatia
Hugging the Adriatic Sea, this year-round hotel provides excellent views of the city’s famous Old Town (which was used for filming King’s Landing in “Game of Thrones”) and the popular island of Lokrum across the bay.
Instead of a traditional sandy beach, guests have a stone-lined deck from which they can take a dip in the water or lay back in the sun. There is a heated indoor pool and spa when the weather is not ideal for sitting by the sea.
4. Nimb Hotel, Copenhagen
Facing Tivoli Gardens, one of the oldest amusement parks in the world, this hotel looks like part of a fairytale. Not only is there a convenient rooftop pool and sun deck available for guests, but anyone that stays here enjoys free access to Tivoli Gardens when it is open.
5. Hemingways Nairobi
Hemingways Nairobi is a solid option for visitors either before or after a safari trip because of its location near Nairobi National Park. It has its own gardens offering tranquility from the city of Nairobi, one of East Africa’s bustling downtowns.
An outdoor swimming pool, massive guest rooms and plenty of green space are all less than 30 minutes from the city-center Wilson Airport, where many safari flights depart.
6. The Anam Mui Ne, Vietnam
Along the East Sea, this resort is similar to a Hawaiian getaway with beautiful sea views and two sparkling swimming pools.
The Vietnamese restaurant serves traditional regional recipes from around the country, and don’t miss the evening sundowner music and dance performances.
7. Viceroy Bali
This small, family-owned resort five minutes from Ubud is surrounded by rice fields and lush foliage ideal for guests looking for a wellness vacation, especially one focused on meditation and self-improvement.
Its 40 private villas offer oversized infinity pools, and local experiences include everything from a walk through the rice paddies to Balinese dance lessons and temple offerings.
8. Keswick Hall, Charlottesville, Virginia
This luxury resort overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains in the Virginia countryside boasts renovated interiors, a new spa and a Jean-Georges’ restaurant.
History buffs will appreciate its proximity to Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello.
9. The Roundtree, Amagansett
In the Hamptons on Long Island, this boutique hotel provides respite from the bustle of New York City and puts visitors within reach of the Atlantic Ocean.
A beach buggy takes guests to the shore during the summer, but back at the property, there is a lot to do, too. This includes popcorn and s’mores by the fire pit, afternoon tea and cookies, biking around the area, golf, baking classes and wine tastings.
The accommodations are made up of rooms, suites and private cottages.
The Hilton Honors and SLH exclusive partnership recapped
Hilton Honors members have another option for earning and redeeming points now that there is an exclusive partnership between Hilton and Small Luxury Hotels of the World. As long as you make a reservation through a Hilton channel, SLH hotels now offer Hilton Honors members access to more than 500 boutique hotels around the world.
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024, including those best for:
Have you ever been sitting around with your friends and heard everyone talking about something they have done that you haven’t? We’ve all experienced a certain level of embarrassment when we realize that the people around us have had some experience we missed out on. Well, don’t worry because today we will unveil the top twenty everyday things everybody has done… except YOU! That’s right: You may not have hiked mountains or traveled the world, but trust us—there are plenty of experiences and opportunities for growth out there that can easily spice up your life.
So get ready to explore some of the most fun things to do—from social media to common adventures! It’s time for an unforgettable journey through some amazing experiences.
1. Trick-Or-Treating as a Child
One user shared, “Gone trick-or-treating as a child. It was forbidden by my church, so my parents would shut out all of our lights, and my brother and I would sit up in his room and watch all the other kids walking around in their costumes. I have my own kids now, and we trick-or-treat, carve pumpkins, give out candy… the whole nine yards.”
Another user asked, “Do you dress up with your kids and get candy now??”
The OP answered, “I’ve dressed up a few times… one year, my kids were the perfect ages for us to dress as the Incredibles, and it was epic. I even cut/dyed my hair just like ElastiGirl because I was so excited. And yes, I know what wigs are, but it wasn’t that much of a stretch from what I had then.”
2. Snapping Your Fingers
One Redditor posted, “I can’t snap my fingers…”
Another user commented, “Now I’m really curious if it’s a physical situation that limits how your fingers move, or if people have been explaining the moves wrong… Can you fold your ring finger so that its fingertip sits roughly in the middle of the blob of muscle on the palm below the thumb?
“And can you kind of press that fingertip into that muscle to make that finger’s end joint flatten out roughly straight?
“Propping the 3rd finger against the thumb will create that small gap between the base of the thumb & ring finger’s fingertip. Can you aim your middle finger to fly to fill that gap — when the thumb abruptly slides out of the way and lets the ‘spring-loaded’ middle finger fly there?”
Another user commented, “Well, I just snapped for the first time in my 34 years of living!”
3. Breaking a Bone
One user shared, “Prob break a bone; it at least seems common since I’ve seen tons of people with broken bones in school (Brace, cast, crutch, etc.).”
Another user commented, “I never broke a bone til I was 41. I tripped, caught myself and broke my elbow.”
One added, “Well, that’s bizarre. Same exact thing. It was two years ago when I was 41. The first bone break was my elbow (radial head fracture) after slipping on ice and trying to catch myself. Best part? The term for that type of fall is a FOOSH (fall on outstretched hand). So, my wife erupted in laughter and decided to call me a footbag, which was the best way to ease my pain at the urgent care…”
5. Moving Out of Your Childhood Home
“Move out of my childhood home,” shared one user.
Another Redditor commented, “There was a guy in my neighbourhood growing up who was around 70. He lived in the same house he grew up in and still drove his first car, an old … pickup.
“He was a cool old dude. He also told me his dog was the same one he had growing up, and I was little and susceptible, so it filled me with hope and joy about my dog. I think he underestimated my stupidity and felt terrible, so he told me the dog was different.”
6. Having a Messed up Nose
One user commented, “Had a nosebleed.”
Another user added, “Think I probably had your share.”
One Redditor said, “I’ve never had one either, and I have been punched in the nose a few times and nothing.”
7. Walking On Two Legs
“Walk on two legs. I walk just fine, but with a prosthesis,” one Redditor posted.
Another user commented, “Prosthesis etiquette question: Is it considered rude to compliment someone on a prosthesis with a neat design? I saw a guy with the coolest Spiderman-themed leg, but I had no idea whether it was okay to mention it.”
One user replied, “Amputee here. Most would be cool with that. If they have Spiderman on their leg, you’re probably fine. For those that it’s a sensitive subject, they will go to great lengths to hide their prosthesis.”
8. Rolling Your R’s
“Rolled my r’s,” one user posted.
Another user commented, “Dude, my 8-month-old daughter learned she could do it a few days ago and hasn’t stopped since. Instead of crying, we just get really long rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr cries.”
9. Breaking Bad Cycles
One user shared his story of resilience, “I grew up in a [drug] household. My dad. My sister’s. My brother. Their SOs and friends. My boyfriends later on. My sister’s kids. All methods are out all the time.
I was the only one with a job, trying to sleep and eat like an average person. It was crazy. My nephew in prison has asked me numerous times why I never did it. Dude, what? It’s not like they made it look good or fun. Jesus
“Edit to add: holy moly, guys! I didn’t realize this post would get so much attention! Thanks for the well wishes and the awards. I survived, and I’m doing great, given the circumstances. I can’t say the same for all the rest of the family. My sister and BIL did get clean, but unfortunately, two of my nephews did not. One is in prison, and one is off the grid, strung out on meth, living on the street pretending he is Rambo. But I’m proof the cycle can be broken. Thanks again for everything.”
10. Pooping Your Pants as an Adult
One Redditor posted, “[Crapped] my pants as an adult. I know it’s coming, and I consider myself privileged.”
One user shared, “As someone who [messes] their pants way more often than any adult should admit to, I find this comment hilarious. You have it coming in. ETA: Thanks for the award! Now I can say I have an award-winning story!”
One user added, “Broke my unbeaten run of not messing my big boy pants going through chemo. It’s ridiculous enough that you’ve just got to laugh. Funny, though, I mentioned it at work, and while all the guys present were willing to hold their hands up and admit to it happening to them at some point/share stories and have a laugh about it, even the usually stoic and serious guy who doesn’t open up was willing to, which was a surprise…
“All of the women present strongly denied having any experience of it. I don’t believe the numbers. I wonder if this trend of being willing to admit to it holds true as a split between the sexes across the board. Just one of those random occurrences that gives you pause for thought.”
11. Getting Stung by a Bee
“Gotten stung by a bee/wasp,” posted by one user.
Another commenter added, “Same here, still deathly afraid of them.”
One Redditor shared, “It’s nowhere near as bad as you learn as a kid unless you have an allergy. People grow up learning to fear them from kids, but it’s really super minor by adult standards. The initial sting of a wasp is a surprise, and then it’s just sore like a cross between a sunburn and a really big sore mosquito bite minus the itch.”
One replied, “It’s not so bad until you get stung for the first time on your bottom lip the day before your wedding from a bee that decided it was a good idea to climb down the straw sticking out of your tasty, tasty cocktail… Actually, I guess in the end, it was a plus… it was like 24 hours of lip filler for the bottom lip.”
12 Going Skinny Dipping
One user shared, “Skinny dip. And I’m over 60. So disappointed. Never had the opportunity.”
Another user commented, “There’s still time.”
13. Going to Prom
“Been to prom,” one Redditor shared.
Another user commented, “Me too. But it’s all good.”
One commenter shared, “Me too. Unlike what Pretty in Pink made me believe, I have no regrets, and I literally never think of it.”
14. Whistling
One user posted, “Whistled.”
Another user commented, “I have to inhale to whistle. Can’t exhale to do it.”
One Redditor added, “I’ve finally found my people.”
Another user replied, “As a fellow inhaler, I find I can whistle much higher notes than those who exhale. Losers.”
15. Getting Drunk
One user posted, “I’ve never been drunk.”
Another user confirmed, “Me neither. Didn’t discover my gluten allergy until after college. I have visual migraines (kind of like hallucinations during a bad trip) as part of my gluten reaction. I always thought I was a super lightweight—two sips of beer, and I’d feel awful and thought I was super drunk. Since then, I honestly just associate the taste so strongly with that reaction that I can hardly smell it without feeling repulsed. It also triggers my depression for bonus points. No, thank you.”
16. Flying
One Redditor shared, “Got on a plane.”
Another user replied, “I’ve gone up in a plane but have never landed in one, lol. The only time I ever got in a plane was when my boss paid for us all to do this ‘bonding’ thing, which turned out to be skydiving.”
17. Having Surgery
“I have never had surgery,” one user posted.
Another user commented, “I was doing pretty well on this until a couple of years ago when I needed surgery to keep my insides from becoming outsides. The surgery was way better than the recovery.”
One commenter added, “I’ve got you covered. I’ve had enough of them to balance the scales.”
18. Using a Dating App
One user posted, “Used a dating app.”
Another user replied, “Have been married for almost two decades. Based on all the hoops, it looks like heterosexual men are jumping through just to get a date on these apps; if I ever end up single, I guess I’m just staying single and celibate.”
One user disagreed and said, “It’s not as bad as many guys say. You just need to keep yourself clean and well-groomed and work on your knowledge of socializing. And if that doesn’t work, lower your standards. I’ve seen a lot of stories on Reddit where someone has a friend who can’t get a date, but their standards are way too high. It’s like going on a dating app and only tapping yes to the ones you find super attractive.
“Sure, you should be attracted to your partner, but many people focus on the flaws and have this image in their mind of this perfect, flawless partner that simply isn’t out there because we’re all human and have flaws.”
19. Paying Credit Card Interest
One user shared, “Paid a penny of credit card interest.”
Another user also added, “Same here. I was always taught credit cards are for building credit and getting points. Never actually treat them as buying something on credit.”
One commenter replied, “Same. I use my credit card a lot because I want that cash back, but it’s always paid off at the end of the month.”
20. Going On TikTok
One Redditor shared, “Been on Tiktok.”
Another added, “Never have and never will.”
One commenter replied, “Yeah, I am trying to leave half of the social media, not join more.”
Another user said, “I agree. I quit FB a couple of years ago. I’ve never had anything else. I’ve been on Reddit a lot the last couple of days. Maybe I’m getting lonely. lol.”
Do you have a common thing you haven’t done and would like to share? Let us know in the comments!
Source: Reddit.
10 Actors Perfectly Cast for Their Character Roles
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11 Vampire Movies That Will Make You Thirst for More
You know that feeling where you’re on a movie kick in a certain genre, but you seem to run out of good movies to watch? Well, if you’re down for a vampire movie or three, check out this article for the best ones out there!
10 Incredible Movies That People Rated 10 Out of 10
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10 Famous People Who Canceled Themselves With Their Own Stupidity
We’ve all been there: you make a comment you haven’t thought through at all, and the whole room goes silent at what you’ve just said. But can you imagine doing that as a famous person—and getting canceled? Check out this list of celebrities who did just that!
13 Things You Shouldn’t Do When You’re in the US
Are you planning a trip to the US? Culture varies a lot between countries, even countries that share borders. So if you’re headed to the good old U. S. of A, here are a few pointers to make your travels go more smoothly!
The Adirondack Mountains are a gorgeous outdoor wonderland, attracting tourists from all over the world. The park covers 20% of New York state (3x larger than Yellowstone!). Perhaps the “ADK’s” most extraordinary natural resources are the 46 “High Peaks” in the park’s northeast corner.
Friend-of-the-blog/pod Tyler led me on one of my first High Peak adventures (hey Tyler, thanks for reading!). We conquered the Dix Range, summiting four peaks in one day, trudging ~15 miles through the mountainous woods over 11 hours
Hiking is Hard Work
It was a draining day. I drank more water than expected and chafed in…uncomfortable…ways. I ate dinner for two that night and slept like a baby and learned many applicable lessons for my next hike.
For example, during our rest breaks at the summits, I observed the other hikers around us. What were they doing that I wasn’t? Some were fit and lean, others a bit overweight. Some had expensive gear, others had gym shorts and sneakers. The pros drank from Nalgene bottles and ate rehydrated meals. The amateurs had Poland Spring bottles and Nutrigrain bars.
All shapes and sizes. There was a broad spectrum between the expertly prepared and the woefully inexperienced. Yet all of these hikers had reached the top. And hopefully they all got back to the bottom, too.
Are You Prepared?
More preparedness requires more research, more time, and more money. But it provides a higher probability of summiting the mountain(s), a more straightforward path, and the mental confidence of knowing you’re prepared.
Less preparedness is easier upfront. But is it easy in the long run? Likely not. “A stitch, in time, saves nine,” as Ben Franklin said. This idea rhymes with the concept of, “Hard choices, easy life. Easy choices, hard life.”
Where do you want to fall on the spectrum of preparedness? That’s totally your call. There is no correct answer in general, but only a correct answer for you.
You’ll hopefully reach “the summit” either way. But your preparedness provides flexibility in how easy or hard that journey will be.
Retirement Works the Same Way
In my experience running The Best Interest and working professionally in financial planning, retirement preparedness works the same way. I received a perfect example last week via email from a blog reader, Jon…
Hi Jesse, my wife and I are 56 and 58 years old, respectively, and on the verge of retirement, I hope. We have about $2M in Traditional accounts, $510K in Roth accounts, and $430K in taxable accounts. 95% of that money is invested in diversified stocks. We’ll both receive significant Social Security benefits (north of $3K/month each at age 67). We live within our means…last year our total outflow of money was just shy of $90,000. Do you think we’re ready to retire? Can we chat with you about retirement readiness?
Jon (and Eva)
Some quick math: Jon and Eva have $2.9M in assets to support an $90,000 annual lifestyle. They’re at less than a 3% annual withdrawal rate, and we haven’t even accounted for their Social Security income. They are more than set!
Do Jon and Eva need professional help? I don’t see how.
Could Jon and Eva benefitfrom professional help? I’m positive.
It’s like my adventure in the Dix Range. I conquered the mountains! I didn’t need to be more prepared. But I could have (and should have) done many things differently to make my day more manageable and eliminate the probability of failure.
Many of us don’t need intervention. But it would undoubtedly help.
Questions for Jon and Eva
I find it hard to imagine a scenario where Jon and Eva live a failed financial retirement, regardless of professional advice. They’re on course to “summit the mountain.” Still, many critical financial questions come to my mind:
They’re retiring before 59.5 (the age of normal IRA distributions). What’s their plan for funding those intervening years?
Fof 99%+ of people on the verge of retirement, a portfolio of 95% stocks is inappropriate. Red flag!
In general, how do they plan on balancing withdrawals from their Roth accounts (no tax), their Traditional accounts (fully taxable as Income), and the taxable accounts (with capital gains)? Done poorly, they’ll “leak” money to taxes.
Are they sure waiting until 67 is the optimal Social Security move for both of them? It usually isn’t.
What’s their healthcare plan before Medicare?
Do they have any significant financial goals beyond “live our normal lifestyle?” Are they prepared to fund those goals?
And many more.There are lots of puzzle pieces to retirement and many ways to arrange them.
I’m sure Jon and Eva have answers. However, my experience with similar families is that their answers are rarely optimized. While it’s terrific that they’re better off than most, there’s still room for optimization – and therefore, room for dollars saved and dollars earned.
If they were hikers, they’d be in peak physical shape (peak?!) with plenty of water. I can’t see them failing to get up the mountain. But did they bring a map and compass, just in case? Are they aware those cotton underpants are going to get very uncomfortable? Or that the trailhead parking lot is “by reservation only?”
They’ll reach the summit regardless. But their day will be more annoying than it needed to be. Who wants that?!
Is Preparedness Worth It?
Just as I wrote earlier, I’m asking Jon and Eva,
“Where do you want to fall on the spectrum of preparedness? That’s totally your call. There is no right answer in general, but only a right answer for you.”
Based only on Jon’s short email, I have plenty of questions for them. They could use a sanity check (or more) for retirement preparedness.
But preparedness costs money, time, energy, etc. Do they want to incur those costs to get more prepared? Will they see enough benefit from those costs, or are they beyond the point of diminishing returns?
Perhaps they’re ready to hit the trail as is. They’ll reach their retirement goals regardless. But they might have more annoying financial moments than needed. Who wants that?!
Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed this article, join 7500+ subscribers who read my 2-minute weekly email, where I send you links to the smartest financial content I find online every week.
-Jesse
Want to learn more about The Best Interest’s back story? Read here.
Looking for a great personal finance book, podcast, or other recommendation? Check out my favorites.
Was this post worth sharing? Click the buttons below to share!
The Adirondack Mountains are a gorgeous outdoor wonderland, attracting tourists from all over the world. The park covers 20% of New York state (3x larger than Yellowstone!). Perhaps the “ADK’s” most extraordinary natural resources are the 46 “High Peaks” in the park’s northeast corner.
Friend-of-the-blog/pod Tyler led me on one of my first High Peak adventures (hey Tyler, thanks for reading!). We conquered the Dix Range, summiting four peaks in one day, trudging ~15 miles through the mountainous woods over 11 hours
Hiking is Hard Work
It was a draining day. I drank more water than expected and chafed in…uncomfortable…ways. I ate dinner for two that night and slept like a baby and learned many applicable lessons for my next hike.
For example, during our rest breaks at the summits, I observed the other hikers around us. What were they doing that I wasn’t? Some were fit and lean, others a bit overweight. Some had expensive gear, others had gym shorts and sneakers. The pros drank from Nalgene bottles and ate rehydrated meals. The amateurs had Poland Spring bottles and Nutrigrain bars.
All shapes and sizes. There was a broad spectrum between the expertly prepared and the woefully inexperienced. Yet all of these hikers had reached the top. And hopefully they all got back to the bottom, too.
Are You Prepared?
More preparedness requires more research, more time, and more money. But it provides a higher probability of summiting the mountain(s), a more straightforward path, and the mental confidence of knowing you’re prepared.
Less preparedness is easier upfront. But is it easy in the long run? Likely not. “A stitch, in time, saves nine,” as Ben Franklin said. This idea rhymes with the concept of, “Hard choices, easy life. Easy choices, hard life.”
Where do you want to fall on the spectrum of preparedness? That’s totally your call. There is no correct answer in general, but only a correct answer for you.
You’ll hopefully reach “the summit” either way. But your preparedness provides flexibility in how easy or hard that journey will be.
Retirement Works the Same Way
In my experience running The Best Interest and working professionally in financial planning, retirement preparedness works the same way. I received a perfect example last week via email from a blog reader, Jon…
Hi Jesse, my wife and I are 56 and 58 years old, respectively, and on the verge of retirement, I hope. We have about $2M in Traditional accounts, $510K in Roth accounts, and $430K in taxable accounts. 95% of that money is invested in diversified stocks. We’ll both receive significant Social Security benefits (north of $3K/month each at age 67). We live within our means…last year our total outflow of money was just shy of $90,000. Do you think we’re ready to retire? Can we chat with you about retirement readiness?
Jon (and Eva)
Some quick math: Jon and Eva have $2.9M in assets to support an $90,000 annual lifestyle. They’re at less than a 3% annual withdrawal rate, and we haven’t even accounted for their Social Security income. They are more than set!
Do Jon and Eva need professional help? I don’t see how.
Could Jon and Eva benefitfrom professional help? I’m positive.
It’s like my adventure in the Dix Range. I conquered the mountains! I didn’t need to be more prepared. But I could have (and should have) done many things differently to make my day more manageable and eliminate the probability of failure.
Many of us don’t need intervention. But it would undoubtedly help.
Questions for Jon and Eva
I find it hard to imagine a scenario where Jon and Eva live a failed financial retirement, regardless of professional advice. They’re on course to “summit the mountain.” Still, many critical financial questions come to my mind:
They’re retiring before 59.5 (the age of normal IRA distributions). What’s their plan for funding those intervening years?
Fof 99%+ of people on the verge of retirement, a portfolio of 95% stocks is inappropriate. Red flag!
In general, how do they plan on balancing withdrawals from their Roth accounts (no tax), their Traditional accounts (fully taxable as Income), and the taxable accounts (with capital gains)? Done poorly, they’ll “leak” money to taxes.
Are they sure waiting until 67 is the optimal Social Security move for both of them? It usually isn’t.
What’s their healthcare plan before Medicare?
Do they have any significant financial goals beyond “live our normal lifestyle?” Are they prepared to fund those goals?
And many more.There are lots of puzzle pieces to retirement and many ways to arrange them.
I’m sure Jon and Eva have answers. However, my experience with similar families is that their answers are rarely optimized. While it’s terrific that they’re better off than most, there’s still room for optimization – and therefore, room for dollars saved and dollars earned.
If they were hikers, they’d be in peak physical shape (peak?!) with plenty of water. I can’t see them failing to get up the mountain. But did they bring a map and compass, just in case? Are they aware those cotton underpants are going to get very uncomfortable? Or that the trailhead parking lot is “by reservation only?”
They’ll reach the summit regardless. But their day will be more annoying than it needed to be. Who wants that?!
Is Preparedness Worth It?
Just as I wrote earlier, I’m asking Jon and Eva,
“Where do you want to fall on the spectrum of preparedness? That’s totally your call. There is no right answer in general, but only a right answer for you.”
Based only on Jon’s short email, I have plenty of questions for them. They could use a sanity check (or more) for retirement preparedness.
But preparedness costs money, time, energy, etc. Do they want to incur those costs to get more prepared? Will they see enough benefit from those costs, or are they beyond the point of diminishing returns?
Perhaps they’re ready to hit the trail as is. They’ll reach their retirement goals regardless. But they might have more annoying financial moments than needed. Who wants that?!
Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed this article, join 7500+ subscribers who read my 2-minute weekly email, where I send you links to the smartest financial content I find online every week.
-Jesse
Want to learn more about The Best Interest’s back story? Read here.
Looking for a great personal finance book, podcast, or other recommendation? Check out my favorites.
Was this post worth sharing? Click the buttons below to share!