Last month a food fight erupted when Anthony Bourdain, chef, author, and host of the Travel Channel’s “No Reservations”, was asked by TV Guide to give his opinion of a handful of celebrity chefs and cooks. Of cooking show host Paula Deen, he criticized how unhealthy her food is, saying, “If I were on at seven at night and loved by millions of people at every age, I would think twice before telling an already obese nation that it’s okay to eat food that is killing us.”
Deen responded, saying, “…not everybody can afford to pay $58 for prime rib or $650 for a bottle of wine…I cook for regular families who worry about feeding their kids and paying the bills…It wasn’t that long ago that I was struggling to feed my family, too.”
Food for the Working Class
You can click the links to read their accusations about “unholy connections with evil corporations,” food that sucks, and lack of charity, but what interested me was what was being said about the was healthy, she countered that it was for the working class. Bourdain, for his part, was accused of “culinary elitism” in the New York Times. Columnist Frank Bruni writes:
“[Deen is a champion] of downscale cooking that’s usually more affordable and easier to master” and that his own personal preferences, “…don’t entitle me, Bourdain or anyone else who trots the globe and visits ambitious restaurants — the most casual of which can cost $50 a person and entail hour-long waits — to look down on food lovers without the resources, opportunity or inclination for that.”
TV Guide knew what they’d get when they asked him to weigh in on celebrity cooks from The Food Network — that’s no surprise. What is surprising to me is the accusation of elitism and the notion that poor people can’t afford to cook healthier food.
Full disclosure: I’m a fan of Tony Bourdain. I’ve never seen Paula Deen’s show, though I’ve read some (but haven’t cooked any) of her recipes.
Of the former, I have to wonder if Deen or Bruni have ever seen Bourdain’s show. He rarely goes to fancy restaurants in “No Reservations”, preferring the following kinds of eateries:
Street vendors
Markets
Pubs
Diners
Cafes
Meals cooked by his local guide’s grandma (As an independent traveler without a personal guide, those family meals make me green with envy.)
Of the latter, I wondered if it’s really a matter of affording the ingredients. To be clear, I’m not arguing that poor people can afford organic food from Whole Foods or spend hours in the kitchen making a gourmet meal. But if you’re planning to cook one of Deen’s recipes, you have to purchase ingredients. Preparing them in an unhealthy way (fried, tons of sugar, unnecessary gobs of butter) doesn’t save money over grilling, broiling, or steaming.
Bruni also argued that “when Deen fries a chicken, many of us balk. When the Manhattan chefs David Chang or Andrew Carmellini do, we grovel for reservations and swoon over the homey exhilaration of it all.” But Bourdain’s point was that millions tune into Deen and buy her books, while most people have never heard of David Chang. She has a massive audience, and if her audience is the working poor, as she implies, who are more likely to be obese, his statement seems all the more valid.
Working With What You’ve Got
While everyone was weighing in on the Tony vs. Paula debate, Bourdain was on vacation with his family. Later he addressed the topic in a any of the world’s mother cuisines — French, Italian, or Chinese — originated with poor, hard-pressed, hard-working farmers and laborers with no time, little money, and no refrigeration.
…French cooking, we tend to forget now, was rarely (for the majority of Frenchmen) about the best or the priciest or even the freshest ingredients. It was about taking what little you had or could afford and Friese took KFC’s challenge. He went to a local supermarket and bought hormone-free chicken and the ingredients for biscuits, mashed potatoes, and gravy. His results:
The KFC meal was $10.58, which included Iowa state taxes.
He made the same meal at home for $7.94.
When he used more organic ingredients, the home-cooked meal cost $10.62.
Friese notes that while it may take more time than a fast food drive-through, J.D.’s review of Mark Bittman’s “101 minimalist meals” article.)
I want to reiterate that I’m not talking about people so poor that they can’t afford a $7.94 meal. I’m more curious about why cooking at home is given the rep of being more expensive (clearly it’s not) and why cooking healthier food is considered out-of-reach for the working poor. Obviously KFC has a good reason to mislead American families, but how can those in the culinary world argue that people without means are “consigned to overloads of animal fat” (as opposed to those who simply choose to eat it), as Bruni wrote?
What do you think? Is it a matter of time, convenience, know-how, or availability of good ingredients? I’d especially love to hear from those of you who manage to eat well on a strict budget.
One quarter of home buyers say they’re planning to move from their current residence, with many saying the COVID-19 pandemic has convinced them to relocate to smaller towns and cities.
Redfin reported last week that its database of more than one million house hunters shows that a record 27% are looking to move to a different metro area from the one they currently reside in.
And it’s not only Redfin that has noticed this trend. Last week, realtor.com released its own report showing that more than half of home searchers in the nation’s 100 largest metros are focused on homes in the suburbs of those areas. Indeed, listing views of homes in the suburbs in May dramatically exceeded those from one year ago. But the migration to the suburbs is not a new trend, as it actually began accelerating prior to the pandemic, according to realtor.com’s director of economic research Javier Vivas.
“After several months of shelter-in-place orders, the desire to have more space and the potential for more people to work remotely are likely two of the factors contributing to the popularity of the burbs,” he said.
In addition, homes in smaller towns are getting more attention too. Redfin said that page views for listings in towns with 50,000 or less residents saw traffic grow by 87% in the last year. That’s almost four-times the 22% annual increase in views of listings in cities with 1 million+ residents.
“While there has been a huge increase in the number of people looking online at homes in small towns, the long-term impact of the pandemic on people actually moving from one part of the country to another remains to be seen,” Taylor Marr, a Redfin economist, said. “People are starting to take the plunge and move away from big, expensive cities, though most of them were probably already considering a lifestyle change. The pandemic and work-from-home opportunities that come with it are accelerating migration patterns that were already in place toward relatively affordable parts of the country. But for many people, the lure of large homes in wide open spaces will be passing a dream fueled by coronavirus-induced isolation.”
The largest net outflow of Redfin searchers in April and May was in the cities of Los Angeles, New York and San Francisco, which means more people are moving out of those areas than moving into them. Moreover, Phoenix; Sacramento, Calif.; Las Vegas; and Dallas saw the highest net inflow of users in the same months. Homes in those metros also tend to be more affordable than in the coastal regions.
Mike Wheatley is the senior editor at Realty Biz News. Got a real estate related news article you wish to share, contact Mike at [email protected]
If you’re like most small business owners, you’re always looking for ways to keep your finances in order. That especially means protecting your hard-earned business revenue.
So are business checking accounts FDIC insured? The answer is both yes and no, depending on the type of account you have and how your bank operates.
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation is a government agency that protects consumer deposits in the event of a bank failure. All FDIC-insured banks are required to display the official FDIC logo at their branch locations.
Let’s unpack this a little bit further, though, because there are nuances you should be aware of.
What’s Ahead:
What are business checking accounts?
A business checking account is not a personal checking account. That much is clear. But what else is a business checking account? And, more importantly, what isn’t a business checking account?
A business checking account is a tool for managing your company’s finances. It’s a place to keep track of your income and expenses, and to make sure that your money is being used appropriately.
A personal checking account, on the other hand, is a place for you to manage your own finances. You can use it to pay your bills, save for retirement, or just keep track of your spending.
A business checking account can be a great asset for any company, but it’s important to understand what it is and what it isn’t before you open one.
What are their benefits?
Running a business is hard enough without having to worry about keeping track of expenses. A business checking account can help you stay organized and on top of your finances.
With a business checking account, you can easily see where your money is going and keep track of business expenses. This can help you save money and make better financial decisions for your business.
In addition, a business checking account can help you build credit for your business. This can be helpful if you ever need to take out a loan or line of credit.
So, if you’re running a business, consider opening a business checking account. It could save you time and money in the long run!
How do you know if your business checking account is FDIC insured?
When you open a business checking account, the first thing you should do is make sure it is FDIC insured. The FDIC is a government agency that protects your money in case of bank failure.
To find out if your account is FDIC insured, look for the FDIC logo on your bank’s website or on your account statements. You can also call your bank and ask a customer service representative.
If your account is not FDIC insured, you may want to consider opening an account at a different bank.
Keep in mind that not all banks are FDIC insured, so make sure to do your research before choosing a bank for your business.
What are the steps to opening a business checking account?
So, you’re ready to take the plunge and open a business checking account. Congratulations! This is a big step for any small business owner. But where do you start? Don’t worry, we’re here to help. Here are the steps you’ll need to take to open a business checking account:
Choose the right bank for your business. This is an important decision, so take your time and do your research. Consider your business’s needs and choose a bank that offers the services and support you need.
Gather the required documents. When you know which bank you’d like to use, they will have a list of the documents they require to open an account. Make sure you have everything on the list before you go to open your account.
Open your account and deposit money. This is the easy part! Once you have all of your documents in order, simply go to the bank (either physically or online) and open your account. You’ll need to make an initial deposit, so make sure you have enough cash on hand or in your source account.
Start using your account! Now that your account is open, it’s time to start using it for your business transactions. Be sure to keep track of your spending and deposits, and to stay within your budget.
What documents are needed to open a business checking account?
When you’re ready to open a business checking account, you’ll need to bring a few things with you to the bank.
First, you’ll need to bring your business license or incorporation documents. These will show the bank that you’re authorized to do business in your state.
Next, you’ll need to bring your Employer Identification Number (EIN). This is a nine-digit number assigned by the IRS that identifies your business for tax purposes.
Finally, you’ll need to bring a voided check from your personal account. This will give the bank the information it needs to set up direct deposit for your business account.
Once you have all of these documents, you’ll be ready to open a business checking account and get started on your way to financial success.
How to use a business checking account to manage your finances
A business checking account is a great tool for managing your finances. You can use it to keep track of your income and expenses and to make sure that you’re paying your bills on time.
The best way to use a business checking account is to set up a budget and stick to it. By knowing what you have to spend each month, you can stay on top of your finances and avoid overspending.
Additionally, you can use your checking account to save money by setting aside funds for future expenses. By planning ahead, you can make sure that you have the money you need when you need it. F
inally, a business checking account can help you build a good credit history. By making on-time payments and keeping your account in good standing, you can improve your credit score, which will make it easier to get loans in the future.
So don’t be afraid to use a business checking account to manage your finances – it’s a great way to stay organized and avoid financial problems down the road.
The importance of reconciling your business checking account
As a small business owner, you wear a lot of hats. You’re the CEO, CFO, and janitor all rolled into one. And while you might be tempted to put off reconciling your business checking account, it’s actually an important part of running a successful business.
Reconciling your account helps you spot errors and prevent fraud, and it also gives you a clear picture of your financial health. Plus, it’s a great way to catch up on the latest gossip from your bank teller. So don’t delay—reconcile your account today!
What are some of the benefits of reconciling a business checking account?
When it comes to reconciling a business checking account, there are a few key benefits that can’t be ignored. For starters, it can help to ensure that all of your transactions are accurate and up-to-date.
This is important for both record-keeping purposes and for making sure that your finances are in good order. Additionally, reconciling your account can help you to identify any discrepancies or errors that may have occurred.
And finally, this process can give you a better understanding of your overall financial picture, which can be helpful in making future business decisions.
Overall, reconciling your checking account is a wise move for any business owner. It may take some time and effort, but the benefits are well worth it.
How does one go about reconciling a business checking account?
If you’re like most people, the thought of reconciling your business checking account probably sounds about as much fun as getting a root canal. But it doesn’t have to be that way! Just follow these simple steps and you’ll be done in no time.
First, get your hands on a copy of your bank statement. Then, grab a copy of your checkbook register.
Next, match up all of the checks and deposits from your register with the corresponding items on your bank statement. If there are any discrepancies, investigate and make corrections as necessary.
Finally, total everything up, and voila! You’re finished.
So there you have it – reconciling your business checking account doesn’t have to be painful. Just follow these simple steps and you’ll be done before you know it.
Family travel is a whole other ballgame. The strategy, gear, planning, expectations and number of times you may answer “Are we there yet?” make it an entirely different sport than solo or adults-only trips.
While traveling with kids is arguably quite different than taking a trip without a child (notice we didn’t call it a “vacation” with kids), it doesn’t have to be intimidating. In fact, there are countless ways to experience memorable moments and make lifelong memories with your kids, whether you hike the mountains of Machu Picchu or ride the newest coaster at Disney World.
Related: TPG’s 10 top family vacation destinations
To make the journey a little easier, we’ve compiled our 43 favorite family travel tips. Whether you’re traveling with infants, teens or some of both, these tried-and-true tips are bound to ease travel headaches and ensure your family travels are as fun and carefree as possible.
Travel tips for infants and toddlers
Having a baby does not mean the end of your time as a traveler. It may cause you to temporarily pause your adventures, and it will certainly change how you travel. But traveling with a baby is still worth the effort.
While it’s true that your baby may not remember the details of your trips during the first few years, quality time together is invaluable. You will always remember their first big vacations.
Some travel is often easier with a small, snuggly baby than with a growing, active toddler, so don’t be afraid to plan something while your little one is still young.
Use the right travel stroller
If you plan on traveling with a stroller, you want one that is lightweight and easy to maneuver through the airport or rough terrain, if necessary, once you reach your destination.
Related: These are the 13 best travel strollers for your next trip
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If you choose to gate-check your stroller, foldability isn’t as important. Instead, prioritize protecting your stroller from dirt and damage by investing in a stroller with a bag. For long layovers, you can request to have your gate-checked stroller delivered to you between flights so that your baby has a safe and comfortable place to rest while you navigate the airport. Just ask the gate agent when you check your stroller.
Baby-wear
To keep your hands free and your baby snuggled, you may choose to baby-wear through the airport or on a flight (though most airlines don’t allow it during takeoff and landing).
The Transportation Security Administration rules state that infants may be carried in a sling or carrier while going through the walk-through metal detector, so you shouldn’t have to remove them for security — at least, according to the rules.
If it’s not too hot, baby carriers and slings also come in handy at theme parks, which allow baby-wearing on many family-friendly attractions. Just be sure you ask about safety restrictions before you ride.
Breastfeeding mamas should consider carriers that allow easy access for on-the-go nursing, such as those in sling or wrap styles.
Consider a Doona
If you don’t want to lug both a car seat and a stroller and your baby weighs between 4 and 35 pounds, you’re in luck: The Doona can serve the function of both. It transforms very easily from a stroller to a car seat and back again, all while your baby is strapped in.
Because of their convenience, Doonas are great for flights, cab rides, Uber rides and, frankly, any part of your busy life with a baby.
Think twice about flying with a lap infant
Most airlines allow children younger than 2 to fly as lap infants instead of purchasing separate seats for them.
The cost savings can be hard to pass up, and during those early months when the little one is nursing or sleeping a lot, it can be the easiest way to go. However, if your baby is fussy or you are flying solo, you may feel more comfortable keeping them in their car seat. If they can sleep through anything or you have someone you can split baby-care duties with, you may have more success flying with a lap infant.
If you do purchase a seat for your baby, there are dozens of portable car seats out there that are much easier to travel with than the bulky car seat you may have at home.
Get a car seat just for travel
The Cosco Scenera is a perennial favorite when it comes to travel car seats. At around 10 pounds and only $50 to $60, this car seat is a winner for travel when you need something easy and affordable. It’s rated for rear-facing little ones weighing between 5 and 40 pounds or forward-facing kiddos weighing 22 to 40 pounds.
Another model to consider is the WAYB Pico portable car seat, which was recommended by several TPG readers.
Use a car seat on the plane
Every kid is different, but if your little one sleeps well in a car seat in the car, they may do the same on a plane. If your kids are generally comfortable in car seats and have their own seat assignments on the plane, consider bringing the car seat on board for a secure flight experience.
Related: Car seats that are airline approved
Bring a Boppy pillow if you’re holding an infant
TPG’s senior director of engineering Mitchell Stoutin recommended using a Boppy nursing pillow for long flights with an infant. In addition to being handy for nursing, it gives your baby a comfortable place to rest. He also advised stashing your Boppy in a vacuum Ziploc bag to save space when not in use.
Sign your kids up for frequent flyer programs
Once you make the transition to buying your child a seat — either because they turn 2 or because you think having a separate seat will work best for your family — sign them up for a frequent flyer account and let the miles start rolling in.
No minimum age requirements exist for kids, so enroll them while they’re young to maximize their earnings.
Related: Earning frequent flyer miles for your kids just got a little easier
Board last
Most airlines let families with young children board early in the process, but as long as your family has assigned seats, you don’t need to worry about rushing to board before others.
Instead, have one parent get all the gear ready and board first while the other waits as long as possible before bringing the baby on board. This will help minimize the amount of time you have your little one in tight quarters, reducing the likelihood of a meltdown or further disrupting their schedule.
Pack your carry-on strategically
Think about everything you may need to easily access for yourself and your baby before organizing your carry-on. That way, you don’t forget any of your must-have items or struggle to find them while on board.
Consider packing food, diapers and extra outfits for at least twice as long as you think you’ll need them for your little one while in transit. Don’t forget to also bring clothes, snacks and drinks for yourself so you have everything you need.
As a general rule of thumb, it’s a good idea to have enough essentials to survive at least 24 hours off of what you bring on board, as you never know what is going to happen.
Bring large Ziploc bags and black trash sacks
Avoid packing a suitcase without tossing in a few Ziploc bags, grocery bags or trash bags. They can be used to stash snacks and store wet or dirty clothing.
As TPG executive editor Scott Mayerowitz shared, large black garbage bags can also work as blackout shades in a pinch.
Related: The best family beach vacation destinations to kick off summer
Find a space in your hotel for the baby to sleep
In the best-case scenario, you’ll have accommodations with at least two bedrooms so your baby has a dark, quiet place to sleep while you relax without disturbing them. However, there are times when having multiple rooms isn’t possible.
If you only have one bedroom, try putting a crib in a hotel closet or bathroom to achieve the same result.
Travel with gear that will help your baby sleep in the hotel
When it’s time for the baby to sleep, there are numerous sleep tents, shades and white noise machines to choose from. Here are a few of our most trusted options:
You don’t always need to buy new gear for a successful trip, though. One reader suggested using painter’s tape to cover outlets as a quick, cost-effective way to baby-proof your hotel room.
Related: These are the best New York City hotels for families to check out
Have diapers and essentials shipped to your final destination
While you need plenty on hand for that first day or two, you can purchase what you need from Amazon and have it shipped directly to your destination instead of traveling with an entire week’s worth of needed items like diapers and wipes.
Alternatively, you can use a service like Shipt or Instacart to have essentials delivered to your hotel or home rental after you arrive.
Pack the snacks
This is true for all ages but especially applies when traveling with infants.
Don’t ever assume anything baby-appropriate will be available while you are in transit. The last thing you want is the stress of scrambling to find what you need at the last minute.
To avoid this potential headache, pack enough formula, snacks and more so you have whatever your little one may need to stay happy and content.
Related: How to pack — and prepare — for travel with a baby
Travel tips for preschoolers
The good news is that when kids are old enough for preschool, they don’t need quite as much sleeping and transportation gear.
With preschoolers, you’ll want to pay particular attention to toys and activities that will keep them entertained, night lights that will help keep the “scaries” away and a few other important travel essentials.
Bring mess-free toys
When choosing toys to pack for a flight or road trip, keep in mind that you don’t want anything that will create a mess or get lost easily, such as Legos or slime.
For mess-free coloring, we love Crayola Color Wonder Markers and coloring pages. If you’re taking a long flight or road trip, consider suction toys that can stick to a car or airplane window.
Related: 14 mistakes parents make when traveling with kids
Pack hidden toys to reveal during your trip
A surefire way to keep your child content for extended periods of time is to hide some toys until your travel day arrives so they feel new and exciting. You can even wrap them up or dole them out periodically throughout your trip — we recommend packing one toy for each hour of a flight — to add an element of surprise.
Try visiting a dollar store or dollar aisle in a store to dial up the surprise factor. Trust us, the $5 investment will pay off in spades.
Related: Your guide to flying with kids of every age
Consider an inflatable booster seat
If your child has graduated to a booster seat (congrats!), there are inflatable and fold-flat booster seats available that are easier to haul when traveling by car.
While there are several options currently on the market, the BubbleBum inflatable booster seat is a TPG reader favorite.
Use a stroller
Should you find yourself covering lots of miles on your trip, having a stroller can come in handy, even if you don’t normally use one at home.
For example, at a large theme park like Disney World, you may find yourself needing a stroller until your kid is 6, 7 or even 8 years old if you are moving quickly and want them to easily keep up (or if you know they will fall asleep before you are ready to call it a night). This may mean renting one when you get there, though you may prefer to have your own if you’re doing more than spending time at Disney.
Get stroller straps
Because it isn’t socially acceptable to AirTag children (though they do come in handy for finding lost luggage), we instead suggest getting stroller straps that bigger kids can hold on to while you push younger children in the stroller. We’re particularly fond of the Tagalong Stroller Accessory.
Preschedule car service from the airport
If you need car seats or want to be sure you have a ride waiting for you when you land, Uber and Lyft now both have options for prescheduling a ride if you need one.
While the best service depends on where you are going, one option to try is Blacklane. Consider having your driver meet you inside at baggage claim if you’re traveling with a lot of gear.
Pack a night light
For kids who are afraid of the dark, night lights may come in handy. This affordable nightlight is small, sleek and easy to pack.
If you are going on a cruise and don’t have access to traditional power outlets, TPG senior travel editor Erica Silverstein suggests bringing along battery-operated tea lights instead.
Travel somewhere with a kids club
A magical milestone in travel is when your child turns 3 and is potty trained, as this unlocks access to a variety of kids clubs.
Whether you’re on a Disney cruise (like the new Disney Wish cruise ship, pictured below) or at a resort with a kids club (some of which are free to use), children’s clubs are great for preschoolers.
By going somewhere that caters to younger children, you’ll be able to get a well-deserved break while the kiddos are taken care of.
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Plan down days and afternoon rest
Even if your preschooler has dropped daily naps at home, it’s still smart to build some downtime into your vacation schedule. This is especially important because it’s likely that their sleep schedule will be a little off while you’re traveling and that your vacation will be more action-packed than what they’re used to at home.
To help your overtired kid adjust, plan a relaxing pool day or take an afternoon break in your hotel room to keep crankiness at bay.
Travel tips for elementary-age kids
As kids get older, they can do more while on vacation with less help, but the tried-and-true tricks for keeping them entertained may no longer work.
Because their brains are developing and becoming more complex, elementary-age kids will need to have access to more activities while they’re away from home. As a result, you’ll need to adjust your strategy for vacations so they continue to have a good time.
Use packing cubes for the family
This tip applies to all age groups but can be especially helpful when your child starts taking more of an interest in choosing their own clothes. By relying on packing cubes, you can keep clothing for every member of your family organized while saving space.
If you decide to use packing cubes, there are a couple of good methods to choose from.
You can have a packing cube for each day of your trip and put your family’s clothing for each day in one cube. This works well if you will be making multiple stops and don’t want to pack and unpack everything.
You could also pack each family member’s clothing in a separate packing cube, which is helpful when you are encouraging kids to get dressed on their own and choose their own outfits.
Leave 1 day free in the schedule
We’ve already covered the importance of leaving some flex time in the afternoons, but if you are traveling for more than a long weekend, we highly recommend leaving an entire day unscheduled. That way, the kids can either rest and chill or you have the ability to say yes to something they spot along the way.
Depending on your child’s interests, you may want to use your free day for activities like splashing around at a water park, checking out some animals at a zoo, enjoying an epic ice cream-tasting adventure or spending more time at the kids club.
The key is to leave this day flexible so you can cater some activities to what your kid is enjoying the most.
Take advantage of your hotel’s club lounge
Club access can be invaluable when traveling with kids.
If you stay in a club-level room at a hotel, you’ll often have daily access to breakfast, snacks and drinks. An added bonus is that the club can serve as a gathering spot for enjoying more time (and often gorgeous views) with them.
Related: Can you use a World of Hyatt club lounge access award for someone else?
Plan trips with another family
This is the age where having other kids around really starts to matter.
If at all possible, try planning the trip to at least overlap with time spent with cousins or friends. Doing so will virtually guarantee the kids will have a better time, which means you will, too.
For these types of trips, you may want to look into finding a good vacation home rental.
Related: Why the best big family vacation may be skiing
Travel tips for tweens and teens
Traveling with tweens and teens is completely different than traveling with younger kids — something you probably know all too well if you are currently living with them.
At this age, kids are well on their way toward becoming full-fledged adults. As a result, they deserve a taste of the space, privacy and independence that comes along with adulthood.
Build an activity bag
It’s easy to assume the phone will do the trick, but TPG editor Kristy Tolley is a proponent of custom activity bags to keep kids (including older ones) occupied on long trips.
For your activity bag, consider anything from snacks to quiet toys to new games for their Nintendo Switch to art supplies — whatever will keep them entertained while you get to your final destination.
Double-check downloaded content
Wi-Fi on airplanes can be quite finicky. Even if you pay for it, there’s never a guarantee it’ll work for the entirety of your flight. Because of this, download movies, music, games and more to your device (or your child’s) before your trip.
When downloading movies or TV shows, turn to multiple sources like Netflix, Disney+ and Apple. That way, if you run into issues with one provider, you still have content from the others.
Also, remember that messaging others is free on many flights, so be sure your teen has the airline app downloaded if you want them to be able to keep using services such as iMessage while in the air.
Enroll your child in TSA PreCheck
Until they turn 13, kids traveling with a parent or guardian with TSA PreCheck will be allowed to go through the expedited security line even if they themselves don’t have TSA PreCheck.
Even after they turn 13, kids 17 and younger can typically use the TSA PreCheck lines with their parent or guardian as long as the teen has the indicator on their boarding pass.
If you have a credit card that reimburses fees for TSA PreCheck, you can recoup the cost of your child’s application. Note that Clear continues to work to bring kids through until they turn 18.
Related: Why you should get TSA PreCheck and Clear — and how you can save on both
Consider connecting rooms
The days of squeezing two or three kids into one queen-size bed are probably long gone once they reach their teenage years. Not to mention, trying to have the whole family use one bathroom is an ordeal you likely won’t want to go through.
To keep the peace, consider reserving connecting hotel rooms.
With connecting rooms, you’ll have double the beds, bathrooms and storage space. Plus, teens and tweens will have the space and privacy they need without you being too far away to keep an eye on them.
Related: Big news for families: Hilton to guarantee adjoining rooms with ‘Confirmed Connecting Rooms’
Let kids choose a few activities (or plan the whole day)
At this age, kids are not just along for the ride. Give them some input (and independence) by allowing them to help plan your trip. Odds are they’ll be more engaged by being involved in the planning.
Bring a friend
While planning trips with other families is a good strategy with elementary-age kids, by the time kids are teens, just bringing along one of their friends could be sufficient.
To keep the costs down, consider using an airline companion certificate to bring along that friend without spending extra.
Go somewhere with a teens club
If you are visiting a resort or destination where you may be going light on activities, lean into places that have a space just for teens.
Cruise ships are fantastic when it comes to this, as they often have kid-focused spaces divided into pretty distinct age ranges. For example, Disney Cruise Line has a club for kids ages 3 to 12, another for those between 11 and 14 and then one for teens ages 14 to 17.
By taking advantage of clubs that are broken up into designated age groups, your teen can have plenty of fun without the annoyance of hanging out with younger kids.
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SUMMER HULL/THE POINTS GUY
Related: Child turning 18? Here’s everything you need to know before the next time they travel
General family travel tips
Some family travel tips transcend age groups.
Regardless of how old your kids are, where you’re traveling or how you’re getting to your vacation destination, there are a few tips you’ll always want to keep top of mind.
Utilize airport lounges
Airport lounges are becoming more and more kid-friendly, as they offer dedicated family rooms with toys and kids shows on TV, plus food that will please picky eaters. Additionally, if you have a long layover or are dealing with flight delays or cancellations, you’ll be much more comfortable waiting in a lounge instead of at your gate.
You can purchase a day pass to many lounges but may be able to get yourself and your family in for free with certain credit cards or airline status. For example, The Platinum Card® from American Express grants the cardmember and one guest complimentary access to Priority Pass lounges and access to Centurion and Escape lounges, though complimentary guest access depends on how much you spend annually.
Related: Best credit cards for airport lounge access
Upgrade to a suite
Similar to springing for connecting rooms, upgrading to a suite will buy you additional space and, sometimes, a pullout sofa that adds another sleeping option.
You’ll also have more room for your family’s belongings and areas for relaxing and dining so your kids don’t spend all their time jumping, eating and lounging on the beds.
Check for reciprocal zoo and museum memberships
If you have a membership to your local zoo or museum, you may be able to use reciprocal benefits for free or discounted entry to other zoos and museums that you can visit on vacation.
This information is usually available on your zoo or museum’s website, but you can also check lists on the Association of Zoos & Aquariums’ page about reciprocal admissions or on the North American Reciprocal Museum Association website.
Get a travel tracker that doubles as a memento
There are so many unique travel souvenirs you can get that also serve as keepsakes for remembering your child’s travel “firsts.”
These Junior Frequent Flyer flight logbooks allow you to record your child’s flights while teaching them about aviation.
If a national park visit is in your future, order a standard or junior National Parks Passport and collect stamps every time you visit a new park.
Don’t forget important medicines
When you are away from home, you have to be prepared for anything. That includes unexpected sicknesses and accidents.
Pack kid-safe and grown-up medicines, as well as Band-Aids, antibiotic ointment and other first-aid necessities in your carry-on bag so you won’t be without them if your checked luggage is delayed or lost.
Bring an extra bag
If you are traveling between a cold climate and a hot one, pack a lightweight tote bag that can fold into your carry-on so you can easily gather up everyone’s coats once on the plane. By keeping this tote tucked away until you’re on board the aircraft, you’ll enjoy an extra allowed bag, saving you the headache of trying to determine where to put bulky coats.
Get Global Entry for each family member
Unlike TSA PreCheck, which allows kids to travel with an eligible adult until they turn 18 (in most cases), anyone wishing to use Global Entry to expedite reentry into the U.S. needs to apply for the program.
Global Entry can save valuable time spent waiting in line. However, you’ll need to apply well in advance of your trip so you have time to submit your application, complete an in-person interview and await approval.
Similar to TSA PreCheck, you can use a credit card that will reimburse your child’s Global Entry application fee.
Try out the games built into many spaces
It’s easy to miss, but many resorts, theme parks and cruise ships have a hidden layer of fun that ranges from traditional scavenger hunts to interactive activities you can unlock with an iPhone or similar device.
While the youngest travelers won’t benefit from these types of experiences, they can be fun for a variety of age ranges, especially elementary-age kids and tweens.
Related: Disney World rolls out all-new MagicBand+: Here’s what this wristband can do for your trip
Bottom line
Family travel has its own built-in challenges, but it also comes with immense rewards.
By knowing all the tips and tricks to traveling with kids, having the right gear with you, mapping out a game plan and having the right attitude and realistic expectations, you can have a memorable vacation every member of the family enjoys.
You may not get to do everything you want or sometimes feel like it’s more of a hassle than a vacation. However, if you’re willing to be flexible and appreciate when things go according to plan — even if the end result isn’t quite what you had hoped for — you’ll find yourself eager to book your next family trip before you have the bags unpacked and put away.
The Federal Reserve is pressing pause on its series of interest rate hikes designed to tame inflation – for now at least.
The Federal Reserve Open Market Committee announced Wednesday that it would leave the federal funds rate unchanged, forgoing what would have been an 11th consecutive rate hike. Those increases, which began in March 2022, have brought the federal funds rate from near zero to its current target range of 5-5.25%.
A financial advisor can help you protect your money from the effects of inflation. Find an advisor today.
The increases have been the central bank’s primary weapon in its fight against inflation, which crested at 9.1% in June 2022 but has since receded to 4%. Despite inflation’s recent downward trajectory, it remains well above the Fed’s long-term target of 2%. In fact, officials signaled they expect to see two more quarter-point increases.
What It Means for Retirees
While inflation’s downward trend feels encouraging, retirees and those on fixed incomes remain vulnerable as inflation is still double the Fed’s target range.
“It’s like saying, ‘He’s getting much better because he only robs four people a week and he used to rob 20 people a week.’ Inflation is a kind of robber which steals the value from retirees’ savings accounts and monthly pensions,” said Christopher Manske, founder and president of Manske Wealth Management in Houston.
“The fact that inflation is now stealing a bit less is still too much theft.”
Here are a few things retirees should be thinking about related to inflation and current interest rates:
Put Interest Rates in the Proper Context
High interest rates have made various savings vehicles, including certificates of deposit (CDs) and money market funds, more attractive. But Hao Dang, an accredited investment fiduciary at Consilio Wealth Advisors in Bellevue, Washington, says retirees should remember that the net return on their savings is barely outpacing inflation.
Yet, there is still a benefit to holding more cash at higher rates.
“Safe money can help them sleep better at night and help withstand any future sell-offs in the stock and bond markets,” he said. “If a retiree typically holds six months’ worth of expenses in cash, it could help to increase that to nine months to a year.”
And while a traditional portfolio of stocks and bonds benefits from diversification, savers can also stand to benefit from diversifying their cash position with an eye toward the future.
“Bonds are sensitive to rate hikes so if there are more rate increases down the line, there could be some losses in even the safest bonds,” Dang added.
“Enjoy higher rates while they can but start anticipating where to place cash for two to three years down the line.”
Good News for Pensions?
High interest rates not only mean better yields on bonds, they can also boost the investment returns of public pensions. In fact, a 2019 study conducted by the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston found that low interest rates often lead public pensions to assume more investment risk in an attempt to generate higher yields. This was especially true for funds that were underfunded or affiliated with states that had weaker public finances, the researchers found.
When Will the Fed Lower Rates?
If you’re expecting the Fed to lower interest rates this year, at least one heavyweight in the financial services industry says you may be setting yourself up for disappointment.
Vanguard economists say it’s far more likely that the Fed will either raise interest rates or leave them at their current target as opposed to cutting them this year. In fact, Vanguard’s model predicts that the Fed won’t start to lower rates until the middle of 2024.
“Our model suggests that it’s nearly three times as likely that the Fed will raise its target for the federal funds rate or keep it on hold this year than that it will cut rates,” Asawari Sathe, a Vanguard senior economist, said in a recent edition of Vanguard Perspective. “Our model’s output underscores our conviction that the Fed’s fight against inflation hasn’t yet reached an inflection point.”
As a result, if a saver is looking to open a new savings account or lock in a long-term CD, they’ll want to do so in the next six to 12 months, says Mark Hayes, a certified financial planner (CFP) and founder of Infinitive Wealth Advisory in Fishers, Indiana.
“Savers should consider taking action soon to lock in rates while borrowers might want to hold off,” he said.
Bottom Line
The Federal Reserve chose to leave interest rates untouched at the June meeting of the central bank’s Federal Open Market Committee. The pause comes after 10 consecutive interest rate hikes that brought the federal funds rate from near zero to its current target range of 5-5.25%. With more rate hikes potentially on the way, retirees may want to reevaluate their debt and even consider refinancing, as well as diversify their cash positions.
Retirement Planning Tips
A financial advisor can help you navigate the complexities of retirement planning. Finding a financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with up to three vetted financial advisors who serve your area, and you can have a free introductory call with your advisor matches to decide which one you feel is right for you. If you’re ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.
Social Security and portfolio withdrawals are two vital components of a retirement income plan. But how much income do you expect to generate in retirement? SmartAsset’s retirement calculator can help you estimate how much money your portfolio
Patrick Villanova, CEPF®
Patrick Villanova is a writer for SmartAsset, covering a variety of personal finance topics, including retirement and investing. Before joining SmartAsset, Patrick worked as an editor at The Jersey Journal. His work has also appeared on NJ.com and in The Star-Ledger. Patrick is a graduate of the University of New Hampshire, where he studied English and developed his love of writing. In his free time, he enjoys hiking, trying out new recipes in the kitchen and watching his beloved New York sports teams. A New Jersey native, he currently lives in Jersey City.
Whether you have school-aged kids or are planning to start a family, school rankings is probably high on your priority list when relocating. But not all cities or towns with great schools come with a hefty price tag.
Additionally, these towns with a lower cost of living and nationally-ranked schools have lots of activities to offer families. For example, Nashville has a great adventure science center, Pueblo, Colo. offers lots of family-friendly outdoor activities and Indianapolis is home to several professional sports teams.
The research for this infographic is based on a U.S. News study, as well as Census data. We found the top eight cities with a low cost of living using the U.S. Census. We found the top-ranked high schools through the U.S. News study, which looked at 22,000 public high schools in 49 states, as well as the District of Columbia.
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There have been a lot of so-called mortgage disruptors entering the space of late, but this might be the biggest yet. Could Amazon Mortgage be in the works? One recent clue says yes.
Earlier this week, HousingWire noted that Amazon appears to be in the process of setting up a mortgage shop, and is apparently hiring talent from a nonbank in the top 10 HMDA lenders.
I believe that includes the likes of Quicken Loans, loanDepot, and Caliber Home Loans, though it’s unclear if any of their former employees are actually involved.
All the publication could say beyond that is Amazon is looking for someone to head up their “newly-formed mortgage lending division.”
A 1-Click Mortgage Sounds Kind of Nice, But…
Amazon makes shopping really easy
Allowing millions of customers to buy millions of items with one click
But mortgages are a different beast
Though the hope is technology will make them a lot easier and faster
If you use Amazon, which I’m going to assume you do, you’re probably familiar with how easy they make everything.
For example, you can setup 1-click ordering that allows you to purchase items you see on the site with a single click of the mouse.
Or you can use a Dash Button to quickly reorder an item you use on a regular basis. You can also get most items delivered to your door in two days, though getting a mortgage in two days is another story.
While home loans will inevitably never be this simple, Amazon does seem to have a knack for making things a little less painful.
Some of the disruptors like Better Mortgage, Rocket Mortgage, and SoFi are already making things easier by allowing loan documentation to be pulled direct from the source, instead of having to print it out and upload it.
I’m not sure how Amazon would innovate in this space, but I’m sure they’d think of a way to do things faster, and perhaps in a more productive fashion while maybe driving the price down.
It probably wouldn’t be good news for mortgage loan officers, who could stand to lose their jobs to automation.
Why Would Amazon Want to Offer Home Loans?
If you’re wondering why Amazon would bother with mortgages
It might be because they see a big opportunity to disrupt
A very antiquated business model that hasn’t changed much in decades
New lines of business are the only way to grow bigger
The next logical question is why? Why on earth would Amazon want to get into the loan origination game? Don’t they realize how chaotic and stressful this business is?
Well, maybe that’s exactly why. Maybe they see an opportunity to make something that hasn’t changed for a long, long time, better.
They recently announced plans to fix the healthcare system, an initiative partly driven by the fact that Amazon has some 840,000 employees to take care of.
Amazon also recently launched a generic line of medicine called “Basic Care” to compete with the likes of Advil and other household names in the space.
Maybe they want to make it easier for their near-million strong workforce to buy homes too, or refinance their existing mortgages.
It’s hard to say right now. The more likely reason is they might just want to be involved in everything.
After all, with a market cap of around $762 billion, it’s not very easy to grow without entering into new lines of business.
This might explain why Amazon bought Whole Foods and then launched an automated grocery store. Their latest acquisition was Ring, which makes those video doorbells.
They May Start with Basic Banking Services First
Expect Amazon to offer checking accounts
Before they offer mortgages to customers
But after that they might aim to become a one-stop financial shop
Much like what they are in the retail space today
HousingWire also mentioned that Amazon was planning to start by offering checking accounts, and then make their way into other offerings, like mortgages.
There’s already an Amazon credit card, though it’s a co-branded effort backed by Chase.
The checking account service sounds like a competitive move aimed at Walmart, which coincidentally launched a huge marketing campaign recently to tout its free home delivery service.
The ad campaign features colorful Walmart boxes and free 2-day shipping with no membership fee. So it’s clear that it’s game on.
At the moment, Walmart and Amazon employees can actually get a discount on their mortgages via a partnership with BBMC Mortgage.
BBMC offers a rate match guarantee and $1,000 off closing costs, and has loan options ranging from FHA loans to jumbo loans to USDA loans.
For the rest of us, the best we can do at the moment is buy mortgage books on Amazon. Stay tuned if and when that changes.
Amazon Buying loanDepot?
The latest rumor related to Amazon’s impending mortgage move
Is a buyout of mortgage lender loanDepot
Though it didn’t seem to be based on any real truth
But it’s been doing the rounds lately
If, and this is a big if at the moment, Amazon makes a foray into the wonderful world of home loans, they could do so via a takeover, similar to their Whole Foods purchase.
After all, it’s sometimes easier to just throw money at something than start a new venture from scratch.
One rumor that began circulating recently was a potential Amazon and loanDepot tie-up, though it didn’t seem to be based on any real truth.
Sure, sometimes whispers proceed a major announcement, and are often spot on. But in this case it sounds more like fantasy.
To squash the rumors, even loanDepot founder Anthony Hsieh took to LinkedIn (his favored social media platform) to say the following:
“Just talked to an industry titan that asked if we are under an agreement to sell to amazon. I responded how much was the deal for? Rumors are simply amazing and this one is a good one. mmca.”
For the record, mmca stands for “making mortgages cool again.” Other than that, it doesn’t sound like there’s much here.
Approximately 60% of commissioned mortgage professionals claim to be living paycheck to paycheck because of delays in payment in the midst of lower origination volume, a survey from payroll technology company Everee found.
A 84.4% share of respondents, who held a variety of roles besides loan officers, felt getting paid faster would enable them to manage their personal finances more effectively.
“When you look at wage growth compared to inflation, real earnings have been down for the past 26 straight months, and that has its impact on employees,” said Ron Ross, president of Everee, in an interview.
Ross added the findings that 60% are living paycheck to paycheck was a surprise, but noted that mortgage industry workers are not immune to the pressure others are feeling, where nearly three out of four are dealing with a personal financial crunch between pay periods.
Bill Corbet, partner and managing director lending strategy at BlackFin Group, agreed with this sentiment.
“This is certainly exasperated by the lag between their sale and closing, which triggers the standard (delayed) pay cycles,” Corbet said in a statement. “Faster pay cycles clearly help the loan officer but the customer may also benefit in that the LO is not pushing to close just to meet a cut-off date for getting paid.”
Because home sales transactions are taking longer, mortgage workers on commission are getting paid at a less frequent pace.
“So once that deal closes, they want their commission within a day versus having to wait another two weeks, sometimes even upwards of 45-plus days,” added Dana Gagnon, Everee’s chief marketing officer. “It’s not really acceptable anymore.”
And while the Federal Open Market Committee did not hike rates at its June meeting, it left the door open for future upward movement, creating more uncertainty for the housing market, Ross said.
“So if you’re a mortgage professional, you’re having to start to think, is this going to get worse, should I be thinking about staying in the profession and if I’m going to stay in the profession, what would it take me to stick around?” Ross said. “We’re seeing them appreciate more predictability and quicker payments when they’re owed that money.”
While more than half responded that they were not planning on leaving the mortgage industry in the next 12 months, 32% answered the question in the affirmative and 15% said they didn’t know.
For those considering dropping out of the business, 56% stated the uncertainty of the market affects their decision on whether to stay or go.
The fundamental problem is that the mortgage industry still has too many loan officers chasing fewer opportunities, said Jim Cameron, senior partner at Stratmor Group, in an interview.
“Our data over the years has shown that the bottom quintile of loan officers have a turnover of roughly 100%,” Cameron said. “So basically, the bottom dwellers rotate out every year.”
But with volume dropping by half year-over-year, more of that group is likely to consider a change, and that is shown in the response to the stay or go question, he said.
The declining number of transactions has resulted in a 48% decline in commissions, Stratmor’s data found.
Over eight in 10 of respondents to the Everee survey, 82%, claimed they would remain at their current lender long-term if they were paid commissions within 24 hours. However, more than 60% stated they had to wait at least two weeks to get paid, with 22.3% claiming it took a month and 11.5% reported it was even longer.
However, loan officer compensation in particular has long been a hot button topic in the mortgage industry, with a panel at last October’s Mortgage Bankers Association annual convention warning against having overly creative arrangements for pay.
On the other hand, with all the turmoil, especially with mass layoffs and company closures, employees have been suing to recoup allegedly unpaid wages.
In choosing a place to work, the commission rate was No. 1 among the factors respondents were asked to rate, which was no surprise given their desire for predictability and the size of their earnings, said Gagnon.
The next two were having flexible working hours and offering flexible work locations.
“Like with the rest of the American workforce, there’s that push to return to office and mortgage professionals are in that same boat,” Gagnon said. However, “they still want the flexibility that they were afforded during the pandemic.”
Fourth was company leadership, followed by speed of commission payments, the consistency of business and company culture.
In the bottom two positions on the list were health and retirement benefits.
Everee surveyed 314 mortgage workers compensated on a commission basis during May. Managers made up 35% of the sample, with 27% being LOs, 18% loan processors, 8% underwriters and 12% holding some other role. Just over half of the respondents have been in the mortgage business for five years or longer.
With a gentle wave of the wingtip to its hometown, Red Way lifted off from Nebraska’s Lincoln Airport for the first time on June 8, 2023.
The passengers on board were the first to fly a unique new airline that could serve as a model for other small regional airports: Red Way, operated by Global Crossing.
Despite the Red Way name, you’ll find “Global X” painted on the side of each aircraft and generic blue seats on board. So, what is Red Way? And how does Global Crossing play into this brand-new airline?
Here’s what you need to know about the newest airline taking to the skies.
Red Way or Global Crossing?
It’s both! Throughout the Red Way experience, you’ll see and hear the phrase “Red Way, operated by Global Crossing.”
Indeed, you won’t find any aircraft with “Red Way” paint on the side. That’s because of the unique arrangement that makes Red Way possible.
In short, the Lincoln Airport Authority is chartering flights from Global Crossing to launch the new airline called Red Way.
This complicated arrangement could cause some confusion when “Red Way” passengers see a Global X-labeled aircraft and only see Global X materials on board.
However, it’s a strategy that allows airport authorities to use expiring funding to create air service from the airport without negotiating long-term aircraft leases or hiring crew members.
That means you’ll be served by flight attendants sporting Global Crossing outfits instead of “Red Way” gear, too.
Red Way routes
On launch day, Red Way piloted flights to Orlando, Florida and Las Vegas. But that’s not all it has planned in the future. Red Way’s initial plans include routes to Atlanta, Dallas, Minneapolis, Austin, Texas and Nashville, Tennessee.
All seven routes are advertised on banners hanging from the gallery above the Red Way check-in desk at Lincoln Airport.
These seven new routes more than triple Lincoln Airport’s total air routes. Before Red Way launched, United Airlines was the only airline that regularly served the airport, with routes from Chicago, Denver and Houston.
Despite being in the middle of the country, Red Way isn’t planning to connect passengers through Lincoln to other destinations. For now, you can only book nonstop Red Way flights to or from Lincoln.
Red Way ticket options and bag policy
Red Way offers four ticketing options: Basic, Go Light, Go Plus and Go Extra. Here’s a breakdown of what each fare type offers and how they compare to other airlines.
Basic
Red Way “Basic” is similar to basic economy on other airlines, with a couple of positive exceptions. Red Way basic includes complimentary seat selection and allows changes for a $50 change fee, plus any fare difference.
However, you’ll need to pay $25 for a carry-on bag. Alternatively, you can check a bag, also for $25.
That’s a pretty appealing option. If you can snag one of Red Way’s $17 inaugural fares on select routes, you can travel to your destination with a full-size bag — whether carried on or checked — for just $42. And you won’t have to pay for seat selection.
Go Light
Red Way’s Go Light fares are similar to standard economy fares on legacy airlines. You can bring a full-size carry-on bag and get free standard seat selection — including aisle and window seats behind the emergency exit row.
Plus, you gain the ability to change your flight with no change fee, by simply paying any fare difference.
The only “light” part of this fare is that you don’t get to check a bag for free. However, paying $25 each way for a checked bag is cheaper than most domestic airlines.
Go Plus
Travelers don’t get much more with Go Plus fares than they do with Go Light fares. The only addition is a cheaper fee to add preferred boarding. You’ll still need to pay $25 to check a bag, and you’ll only get standard seat selection for free.
This fare type seems to serve as a “full fare” ticket for when a flight is almost full and you want the benefit of preferred boarding.
Go Extra
Go Extra is essentially Red Way’s business class fare. You’ll get free seat selection in one of the first few rows of the aircraft, priority boarding, a full-size carry-on bag and two free checked bags.
Plus, these fares are fully refundable as long as you cancel and request a refund at least three hours before scheduled departure.
Red Way aircraft and seat types
The inaugural Red Way flight was operated using a former Alaska Airlines (and Virgin America) Airbus A320 aircraft.
This aircraft is arranged with two different types of seats: three rows of business class seating at the front and economy seats for the remainder of the aircraft.
The first four rows of economy (rows 6-9 of this aircraft) offer at least 35 inches of seat pitch. However, you’ll generally have to pay a premium to select these seats. On one flight we priced out, you’ll need to pay $60 to select an aisle or window seat in this section.
Two emergency exit rows measured at 38 inches of pitch.
The remainder of the economy cabin offered between 31-32 inches of pitch. That’s slightly more legroom than you’ll find on many legacy U.S. carriers nowadays. On the inaugural flight, I overheard several casual travelers who noticed the difference.
Does Red Way have a loyalty program?
For now, Red Way isn’t launching a loyalty program. Also, as a public charter, Red Way flights aren’t sold through travel booking portals like Chase Ultimate Rewards® or AmEx Travel. That means you can’t earn or redeem points on Red Way flights — other than any credit card points earned on your airline purchases.
A Red Way representative told me that they haven’t ruled out starting a loyalty program at a later time. For now, they’re focused on getting the airline off the ground.
Other things to know about Red Way
Get TSA PreCheck: While Red Way isn’t a TSA PreCheck airline, Global Crossing Airlines is. If you’re a TSA PreCheck member, you can enter your Known Traveler Number at booking. Then, double-check your boarding pass at check-in to ensure it shows TSA PreCheck. If not, Red Way check-in agents should be able to reenter your number.
Free snacks and drinks: “Go Extra” business class passengers will receive a small meal on board, and even economy passengers will still get a small snack and a beverage. If you want something more substantial, you can bring other food and drink on board.
Power and Wi-Fi: In the pre-departure email, Red Way noted that “Wi-Fi and in-seat chargers are not available on the flight.” However, the aircraft used on the inaugural flight had both universal and USB power outlets, plus free Gogo-powered Wi-Fi. Not every Global Crossing aircraft has Wi-Fi, so make sure that you’re prepared to be offline and have enough of a charge to make it to your destination, just in case.
No pets allowed: Red Way only allows certified service animals. No pets are allowed in the cabin or in the cargo hold, and Red Way doesn’t accept emotional support animals on board.
Final thoughts on the new Red Way airline
After losing commercial air service during the pandemic and struggling to attract new service, Lincoln Airport decided to try something revolutionary: Funding a new hometown airline.
And Red Way is a big bet, adding scheduled charter flights to seven new destinations to complement the three existing routes on commercial airlines.
Red Way is operated by Global Crossing. Because of this unique arrangement, you’ll find Global X on everything from the side of the aircraft and safety cards to the check-in desk and flight attendant uniforms.
Since Global X operates an eclectic mix of aircraft, details like seat power and Wi-Fi availability may vary. However, with low fares, flyer-friendly policies and nonstop flights, Red Way is now the airline to fly between Lincoln and the destinations it serves.
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 2023, including those best for:
Have you ever thought about renting a short-term apartment? Whether you’re seeking short-term accommodation for business or pleasure, here’s what you need to know.
When
If you’re on the road for work frequently or just love to travel for personal reasons, it may be worth it to you to look into staying at a short-term corporate or vacation rental rather than a hotel. Or, if your situation requires that your living arrangements stay flexible (like if you’re a student, are in between leases or are planning to purchase a house in the near future, etc.) renting a short-term apartment may make sense for you.
Why
While you may not be offered a free continental breakfast or other amenities like housekeeping or room service, the benefits and added perks can often give the advantage to staying in a short-term apartment when you’re vacationing. And, if you’re a business traveler relocating for a few weeks or a few months, the flexibility of staying in a short-term apartment can be worth it.
More from Apartment Guide: Month-to-Month Leases: What You Need to Know Understand Your Lease Before Signing ItKnow the Components of an Apartment Lease Agreement
What You Get
The extras. We’re not talking about stale bagels and subpar coffee. Perks like a personal washer and dryer, hot tub, luxury fitness center, and extra space are more common in apartments than hotels. When you’re traveling on a budget, having a fully equipped kitchen is a great way to save some money while staying in and cooking a meal. Outdoor amenities like a front porch, balcony or patio can be a nice perk and allow for some fresh air that you might not get in a hotel room.
Price is right. If you’re staying for an extended amount of time at your destination, hotel fees can be pricey. Even for the most budget-friendly hotels, you can expect to pay up to $800-$1,000 a week. A short-term apartment, however, may charge a similar price for a month’s stay, getting you more time for your money.
Location, location, location. Staying in a hotel when you’re traveling may mean you’re relegated to a being in a commercial area rife with chain restaurants and fast food joints. To really immerse yourself in the city, choose a short-term apartment in a neighborhood that is known for its cool location and environment. You’ll have access to public parks, trendy restaurants, and unique retail shops that will give you a better sense of the personality of the city while you’re there.
What to Look Out For
The fine print. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the policies before you sign on the dotted line. Cancelation policies vary, so be aware of the potential penalties for canceling or changing the dates of your visit. If you have young children or pets traveling with you, check ahead of time to ensure they can be accommodated. Most apartments don’t allow smoking, so smokers may need to seek out alternate accommodations.
Know the details. One benefit of a hotel is having round-the-clock access to a concierge desk. In a short-term apartment, that may not be available, so make sure you have the details squared away before arriving. When and where will you pick up the keys? When can you check in? Who is your contact in case your flight is delayed or plans change? Knowing before you go can save you a headache.