Exploring the Ceiba Swings in Puerto Rico

Columpio de Ceiba also known as the Ceiba swings are a perfect example of a place that is made more popular from Instagram, but was a bit of a disappointment in real life.

The swings are located in Roosevelt Road, a former US Navy base in the East coast town of Ceiba, Puerto Rico.  Mid way between Fajardo and Humacao, Ceiba is an easy drive along the 53 toll road.  There are two exits for Roosevelt Roads in Ceiba.

Ceiba Swings selfie from the pier
Ceiba Swings selfie

The swings are very popular with locals and tourists alike thanks to Instagram.  Any day you visit will likely require a wait for the photo op on the swings.  Try going early to avoid the crowds and the best lighting. Continue reading “Exploring the Ceiba Swings in Puerto Rico”

Humacao Natural Reserve | Hiking, Biking, Kayaking, Fishing Activities in Puerto Rico

The Humacao Natural Reserve is located on the East Coast of Puerto Rico mid-way on the island near the community of Palmas del Mar.  Behind the small unassuming entrance awaits big adventure exploring the lagoons, swamps, and wetlands. 

Humacao Natural Reserve
Continue reading “Humacao Natural Reserve | Hiking, Biking, Kayaking, Fishing Activities in Puerto Rico”

Arizona Renaissance Festival | Beginners Guide and Frugal Tips

Step back in time and into a world of fantasy at the Arizona Renaissance Festival, full of Knights, Royalty, Mermaids, Pirates, Gypsies, and more.  

Romance, adventure, and entertainment set in a Renaissance period fantasy world full of fun in the beautiful desert of Arizona.Let your imagination run wild in this family friendly excursion back in time!

2016_FrontGate

The festival operates every weekend in February and March, President’s day and a few select school days.  The base ticket price includes entrance to the festival grounds, ample parking, petting zoo, and all shows, including the joust.

Continue reading “Arizona Renaissance Festival | Beginners Guide and Frugal Tips”

Explore Your Own Backyard | Travel Tips to Discover Your Local Treasures

Travel tips to discover the local treasures hidden in your backyard!

For as long as I can remember I have had the Travel Bug, my Dad calls this my “itchy feet” since I could never stand still.  I loved going on road trips and vacation getaways with my family as a child, then exploring on my own as I got older.  I was excited to get my Passport so I could travel to distant lands and experience the World!

Explore Your Own Backyard

After two trips outside the United States I realized that my hometown of Phoenix, Arizona was an exotic location for many people.  The locals that I was visiting were just as fascinated by USD currency, desert climate, and the “wild, wild, west” as I was with their home.  Some of my new British friends even made the trek out to Phoenix to see for themselves.  Treating my home as base camp, we explored my neighborhood through tourist eyes.  And I discovered treasure in my own backyard!

Continue reading “Explore Your Own Backyard | Travel Tips to Discover Your Local Treasures”

How I Paid Off My Debt with a Reverse Budget Strategy

We all have enough time and money for something.  We just may not have enough time and money for everything.  So, we prioritize.  I hear people talking about priorities, what is important to them, then I watch spending habits.  Often what people say is important is different than what their money is spent on.  To me, the best way to understand what is truly important is real spending habits – where someone allocates their time and money.Reverse Budget

I have followed a reverse budget for the last 15+ years.  Meaning that for my income I start allocating money at the top tier and work my way down the list.

  1. Taxes, retirement, and savings (regular savings, plus at least $1,000 emergency fund) are taken out first.
  2. Then I pay mortgage, utilities, car payment, insurance (home and auto), and health insurance (or may be included in paycheck deductions).
  3. Third is where minimal fuel and food expenses are allocated, no splurges, yet.
  4. Next are payments for any debt (Dave Ramsey’s Snowball strategy to eliminate debt is effective and easy to follow). This is debt not attached to a mortgage or primary vehicle, such as student loans, medical bills, credit card debt, and other non-secured loans.
  5. Finally, anything left over is for dinner out, books, movies/tv, electronics, clothes, travel, or whatever else you feel like.

Continue reading “How I Paid Off My Debt with a Reverse Budget Strategy”

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