In March 2018, media publications worldwide began outing British political consulting firm Cambridge Analytica for unethical business practices. Beyond the horrifying admission to use of bribery, honey traps and prostitutes to discredit politicians opposing their clients, Cambridge Analytica was revealed to have accessed some 50 million users’ personal data without their permission or awareness via a third party Facebook app called “This is Your Digital Life.”

Surprisingly, the massive news story seemed to do minimal damage to Facebook itself, with the internet’s collective focus on the meme-worthy aspects of Mark Zuckerberg’s testimony to US Congress, and an apparent continuation of usage.

Zephoria reports that there are still more than 2.27 billion monthly active Facebook users (a 10% increase year over year) in Q3 2018 and 1.49 billion daily active users (a 9% increase year over year) as of September 2018.

In a Caddle survey following the breaking news, 66% of respondents claimed to have heard of or read at least a little bit about the Facebook/Cambridge Analytica data scandal; 19% stated that they would delete Facebook due to an information breach; and yet only 4% actually deleted Facebook following the news break. Most surprising is that 90% of the respondents admitted to keeping their Facebook profile despite the news.

The number one reason users stated they would delete Facebook? If Facebook were participating in illegal activities. The second reason? If family or friends stopped using it. And the number one reason for users who keep returning to Facebook daily: to keep up with friends and family.

User prioritization of “staying in the loop” should come as no surprise – the whole point of social networks, originally anyway, was to see what’s going on with your friends and family…but is this trending fear of missing out (FOMO) leaving you at risk of privacy breaches or worse?

For a comprehensive guide on the Facebook/Cambridge Analytica data breach, as well as how to secure yourself following the scandal, be sure to check out this guide from Sarah Perez and Zack Whittaker at Tech Crunch, and remember to be safe when you’re being social!

You’re dining at a busy restaurant on a Thursday night and you can’t seem to get your server’s attention. All you want is to get a refill, order dessert or pay your bill. In another scenario, you’re facing down a late night at work and the fate of team dinner rests on your shoulders. No one feels like pizza, but it’s the only reliable delivery option available. Thankfully, these scenarios are less and less common due to rising technology such as tableside and online food-ordering services.

In a survey of Caddle users, 49% of respondents were still unsure about ordering from a tablet in a restaurant, and 66% still unsure about using food delivery apps. However, the relationship between dining and digital seem destined.

SkipTheDishes, which was founded in Saskatoon in 2012, was one of the first nationwide online food delivery networks and focused on secondary markets such as Burnaby, Calgary, Edmonton, Regina, Saskatoon, Winnipeg, Kitchener, Waterloo and Ottawa. In 2016, SkipTheDishes was acquired by Just Eat and continues to expand service in Canada to date, now serving alcohol in select markets.

Digital disrupter Uber, which forayed into food delivery in 2014, has quickly caught up. Earlier this year, Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi announced that Uber Eats has a $6 billion bookings run rate and now serving 250 cities globally. Just this past August, Uber Eats expanded within Canada to 30 more communities including Victoria, Regina, Saskatoon, Winnipeg and Halifax.

Tableside reveals a similar trend. Just last year, Eater reported that US casual dining giant Applebee’s embraced tableside tablets at all of its nearly 2,000 US locations and are seeing a 70%+ interaction rate. What’s more, restaurants who are integrating mobile apps into their service are seeing reduced labour costs and higher earnings for each server (including tips) due to higher efficiency, reduced human error, quicker service and a more positive dining experience.

Earlier this year, QSR Magazine predicted that convenience would be one of five trends restaurants need to prioritize moving forward, and it appears the industry is listening.

CBD and THC

In a 2018 survey of 20,000 Canadians (50% of whom considered themselves cannabis users), the Caddle team found that only 45% of Canadian cannabis users understand the difference between cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). CBD and THC are only two of hundreds of different chemical substances found in cannabis, but are two of today’s most researched substances regarding cannabis and are driving factors in the purchase of particular strains. If you’re new to it, already use it, or would just like to learn more, here are three important aspects to know about cannabis:

1) The plant types

There are two predominant plant types: Sativa and Indica. Canadian cannabis producer Peace Naturals explains that Sativa is used to improve mood, treat chronic pain and anxiety, and increases focus and creativity. On the other hand, Indica improves mental and muscle relaxation, decreases nausea and acute pain, and increases appetite and pleasure.

2) The chemical types

According to CanniMed, THC is the primary psychoactive ingredient in cannabis – i.e., it is responsible for the euphoric high users feel. THC also stimulates appetite, mood, pain relief and relaxation. On the other hand, CBD is often considered the counter to THC. CanniMed explains that CBD is often used to reduce anxiety, insomnia, and is a non-psychoactive, calming chemical substance.

3) The rules

As of October 17, 2018, cannabis is fully legal across Canada. The public possession limit is 30 grams in every province, while the legal age differs (18 in Alberta and Quebec; 19 everywhere else). In Alberta, Manitoba, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Saskatchewan, you can purchase cannabis from private licensed stores; everywhere else you must purchase from a government-operated store. Most provinces offer dried flower, oils, and pre-rolls; edibles are not sold but may be prepared at home. Permitted usage varies by municipality, but you cannot consume while operating a motorized vehicle, near schools and children, on patios and on business properties.

Helpful literature on cannabis is available everywhere – consider checking out the blogs of one of the many growing Canadian cannabis brands, and keep a look out for emerging research now that cannabis is legal. And if you’re considering trying cannabis for the first time, here are a few excellent tips from Toronto-based brand Tokyo Smoke on how to practice safe sesh.

Read more from our Cannabis survey

Cannabis stigma – is there a change on the way?

The Cannabis Industry and marketing to women

The Evolution of Consumer Shopping Behaviour

The evolution of consumer shopping behaviours and the way CPG brands are now able to communicate and interact with their loyal consumers has been fascinating to watch.  Mobile technology has played a pivotal role within this evolution and disruption of the typical brick and mortar channel.  During my six years plus years of experience working alongside many of the fortune 500 CPG brands , I have witnessed the many challenges that come along with trying to adopt to this new day in retail.

Working on the sales side of mobile technology platforms allows for this communication and better understanding of loyal consumers.  I do want to make it clear that I dislike the term sales within this context.

I see myself as a problem solver, or consultant, an extension to a brands marketing team that is here to genuinely assist with any brand challenge that they are currently facing doing so by using technology.

Technology to Provide Data

The main output from this technology is data, consumer insights, which I believe is one of the, if not THE, most important part of any brands marketing strategy. With the emergence of new legislations and brands already limited control over consumer data,.  The CPG industry seems to have fallen behind in gathering and utilizing effective data.  Let’s address this and the reasons why this may be the case.

Data as a Resource of Marketing Strategies

Every marketing strategy should start and end with relevant consumer data.  This should  be monitored and tweaked throughout by new and timely insights.  This includes pre-launch, pre-purchase, and post-purchase insights from a relevant audience. Some may argue that this is impossible due to a lack of resources to gather these new and up to date insights. There are definitely challenges to gathering relevant data before, during and after, cost being the main one.

However, the emergence of new platforms and technology has helped with these challenges. It is important to be open to exploring new ways to collect data.  To not being afraid to be a first mover within the industry, and most definitely not getting stuck in your old ways.

This industry moves faster than ever, with trends coming and going, so it is critical to take advantage when you can and be able to speak the right language to your loyal consumer. It is even more important to listen to them and then react accordingly.

I see how brands are at the mercy of retailer POS data.  For example this is needed to get an understanding of how a new product is performing in market.  Once launched, it takes months to be able to receive these insights and then react. This is why brands need to be innovative and think outside the box.

 

Technology to Understand your Customer

Technology has allowed brands to understand their most loyal consumers more than ever. We need to embrace this and utilize this to our best ability in order to stay relevant and ahead of the competition. Be open to new platforms and new ways of building out your marketing strategy, making sure you’re utilizing data in the most effective way.

CPG brands may not have had control over their data in the past but the opportunity lies in the potential for innovation.

Feel free to reach out to myself and our team here at Caddle to discuss this topic further. We are always happy to demonstrate how we help brands solve challenges with the use of timely and relevant data.

Customers and Clients

I’d like to think I’ve learned a lot when it comes to dealing with people & relationship building. From my experience in working in customer service for over 4 years, I realize now there is always something to be taught. We’ve all heard the saying, “the customer is always right”.   Not to discredit the customer but I’ve learned that in 2019 it’s not that straightforward.

Working with customers is one thing but working with clients is entirely different. From a client perspective, not only do you make the sale but now you must nurture and grow any relationship in order to grow revenue. My mindset was always to keep the customer happy. Now I realize this is the role of my entire team and I assist with this by acting as the advocate for the client.

Currently, working at a startup, I am learning that as similar as customers & clients may be, more effort goes into supporting clients daily.  My time is spent supporting clients’ objectives & goals and this is where communication is key in order to  make these actions happen.

Teamwork makes everything work

Communication is a key factor in my approach for all involved in sales and campaign management.

A team needs to know how to provide all the details in order to communicate their expert views back to the client for a successful campaign. To dive a little deeper, the client needs to communicate their needs their account manager.   Then it is the account managers responsibility to address and communicate those needs to the team in unison to achieve the goal of success for all.

These goals include; organization, time management, managing both internal (colleagues) and external (client) relationships. Every department within Caddle possess their own expertise within their department.  By working together in a team, our clients receive the best feedback/improvement in order to meet their objectives.

Through proper engagement & communication with the entire team, the client gets the best experience possible.  It’s amazing to see as the many aspects within a team it takes to create and implement a successful campaign, but together the team pulls it off, always!

Every client holds new opportunity for learning and that makes my day much more exciting.  I enjoy learning and building the relationships with Caddle clients.  I’d like to end by saying, yes, “the customer is always right” and also yes “working together as a team equals success”.  Success comes from finding the balance and that’s the role of a strong account manager.  Learning how to communicate best gives the best possible service to any potential client.

Marketing to Women

In a recent survey conducted by Caddle prior to October 17, 2018 (the day cannabis became legal across Canada), we found that 62% of male users were likely to purchase cannabis, while only 45% of female users were likely to do so as well.

This result comes with little surprise, as cannabis use trends have historically leaned more toward men – particularly in places where and times when cannabis has been considered illegal. In a 2012 study by Statistics Canada, 49.4% of male respondents and 35.8% of female respondents admitted to using cannabis at least once in their lifetime.

Legalization of Cannabis

However, with the legalization of cannabis in several U.S. states, across all of Canada, and more and more throughout the world, we’re seeing a rise in the female cannabis consumer. In a 2017 survey of 1,200 adult cannabis users in Colorado and California, cannabis research firm BDS Analytics found that 45% of the overall respondents were women.

Why are women different?

Toronto-based cannabis company Van der Pop focuses on female consumers and shares the following research:

• 87% of women who use cannabis use it as a sexual aid and find it effective
• 3.4 million Canadian women are interested in how cannabis can help them relax; 1.5 million are interested in how it can complement their exercise; 1.3 million want to try including cannabis in their cooking
• 52% of cannabis users say it helps them sleep
• 51% of female users are interested in cannabis’ potential skincare powers

With cannabis now fully legalized across Canada, cannabis producers, consumers and researchers are excited about all of the potential opportunities to improve safety and quality. They also want to learn more about the plant.

Most importantly, the move will hopefully help keep cannabis out of the hands of children, reduce the ability for illegal entities to profit from it, and enable women to feel more empowered in trying and using cannabis for all its potential positive benefits.

If you’d like to learn more about how to safely and legally purchase and use cannabis in your home province, check with the Government of Canada here.

Read more from the Caddle Cannabis Survey

Cannabis 101: Bud Basics explained

Cannabis Stigma – is there a change on the way?

Travelling to the United Kingdom

When you think of the United Kingdom, what comes to mind? Maybe it’s watching the comings and goings of the royal family, seeing the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, indulging in some mouthwatering pub food or exploring the picturesque Scotland Highlands. Whether you’re backpacking solo, looking for a romantic escape or travelling as a family, there are famous attractions and charming getaways waiting to be discovered.

Great Britain

Located off the coast of mainland Europe, the United Kingdom comprises the whole of the island of Great Britain – which contains England, Wales, Scotland and the northern part of Ireland, according to Britannica.com.

You can pick any number of reasons the U.K. was the seventh most popular destination for international tourist arrivals in 2017. According to the UNWTO – the World Tourism Organization – more than 37 million visitors flocked to the country to take in its immense coliseums and historic hotspots, elegant royal palaces, gorgeous gardens, exciting sports events, traditional pubs and more.

If you’re thinking of spending some time in the country yourself, we’ve got some great tips for you on how to save cash while sightseeing in a world-renowned land known for its British hospitality.

Think beyond expensive hotels

Stumped for affordable places to stay during your visit? You’ve got a lot of options for accommodations in the U.K. even during what’s referred to as the “high season”. Travel blog TripSavvy has a comprehensive list of hotel alternatives, from Airbnb (stay in a castle near Glasgo for as low as £5 per person, per night) and bunking in college dorms to couch surfing and even camping in someone’s backyard.

A word on pounds and pence

Just to make things interesting, there are different currencies in the U.K.. According to TripSavvy, England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland use the pound sterling (£). However, if you’re planning a trip to Ireland, you’ll need to use the euro (€) there, not the pound.

Compounding the confusion is that while Scotland and Northern Ireland use the pound sterling, their bank notes are different from those issued in England and Wales. While most shopkeepers will accept Scottish and Irish bank notes, they are not obligated to do this because that currency is not afforded legal tender status in England and Wales.

You can exchange money at most bank branches and post offices. For more must-know tips on legal currency and how to exchange it, see TripSavvy’s Know Before You Go: A Traveler’s Guide to UK Currency.

Rent a car or hop on public transit

Heading to London? Pick yourself up an Oyster Card – for £5 (non-refundable), you can get around town for 10 quid (£1 coins) a day. The best part: any credit you don’t use can be refunded.

Using the tube (subway) is an easy and exciting way to get around the city, but Ajay quickly learned to only ask certified transit workers if he had questions or needed help.

“Many people may try to take advantage of you being a tourist and try to scare you by taking your tube card and claiming the refund,”

Explore the Scotland Highlands

“I would highly recommend visiting Scotland if you’re in the U.K.,” says Helen, adding Edinburgh and Aberdeen are her favourites. “But if you have time, it’s also worth hiring a car and exploring the highlands.”

Another option is to take the trains, but book in advance to snag tickets for a fraction of the price of a spur-of-the-moment ride. There are rail connections to each of Scotland’s seven cities, and you can buy tickets at train stations, from major travel agents, over the phone and online with a credit or debit card (ask your bank if your card will work). There are also automatic ticket machines. See tourism website VisitScotland.com for details on types of train tickets, discount fares and travel passes.

Find some pub grub

When you’ve spent the day on the track or the road, your stomach will be growling for some sustenance. You won’t have to go far to find some delectable pub food and stimulating conversation.

In England, buy your food at the grocery store as much as possible to save cash.

“Sure, it’s your vacation and you might not want to cook every night, but groceries are so much cheaper in England,” notes Keith. “It’s crazy to waste money eating out.”

Heading out? You’re in for a treat.

“The food (in London) was amazing, because at every meal I ended up chatting with the locals, who are just amazing,” says Ajay.

It was the closest I felt to being at home in Canada! People were so friendly, and the food always tastes better when you have great company.

If you’re a fish & chips fanatic, this is the place to be! London gets a ringing endorsement from Mark, who savoured the fish & chips he ate almost every day of his 10-day tour.

“From restaurants to street vendors serving your meal in a newsprint cone, you won’t ever be too far from a fish & chips place!”

Food Diversity

For those who crave Indian fare, many are BYOB (Bring Your Own Beer), so check out the brick lane area for leading establishments and stop at a local convenience store if you’d like wine with your dinner.

Since London is a bustling metropolis, locals often grab a bite on the go.

“Get used to seeing people on the move in London – you’ll see lots of people eating sandwiches and dinners at lunch time as they walk and talk. Londoners can really multitask,” says Mick.

If you’re looking for a familiar chain restaurant, Tim Hortons has expanded to England and has a few pop up shops in London.

In Scotland, order yourself a plate of fish & chips with mushy peas. Helen adds Wetherspoons is the place to go for an inexpensive drink.

“And if you are right in the region and get offered mint sauce, try it! It sounds so gross, but it’s delicious,”

Roam the streets of London, see historic sites and take in a game

Ajay spent eight months on exchange in Europe and found he thoroughly enjoyed taking long walks through the city’s streets and experiencing many of its beautiful historical attractions during his last month there.

“I stayed in London for just over a week and had some friends from Canada met up with me met up with me. We backpacked all over, starting in London,” he says, adding, “Most of my time was spent roaming the beautiful streets of London day and night.”

London is full of historical sights to see, but your back will be sore by the end of your trip if you carry a backpack all day. Instead, stop by Tate Modern coat check, where you can check your bag for free (although they do ask for a small donation). Bonus: this allows you to hit up many tourist sites that aren’t usually backpack friendly.

Stonehenge

Make Stonehenge one of your first stops. Although it’s far from the city, the trip is worth it.

“I was lucky enough to visit before the whole site was roped off, and got to walk right up to the site and touch the stones, which I don’t believe you can do anymore,” recalls Mark. “Regardless, it is an amazing site to see. Definitely don’t pass up the chance!”

On your walk back, pause to appreciate the poppies.

“The walk was long, but I’ve never had the chance to see such a long and glorious field of poppies,” says Ajay. “It was unreal and quite the unexpected experience.”

It was unreal and quite the unexpected experience.

Tip: You’ll see the best weather in England from April through September.

London

Some of the most iconic sites in London are free to visit. See Buckingham Palace’s changing of the guards, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, London Bridge, Hyde Park and some museums. See The Full-Time Tourist’s 21 Tips for First-Timers to Help You Explore London for more info.

The city is also well-known for its many cathedrals, including the iconic St. Paul’s Cathedral (more than 300 years old), the Southwark Cathedral near Borough Market, Holy Trinity on Sloane Street, Westminster Cathedral in Victoria, and several more.

During Mark’s tour of these magnificent centuries-old sanctuaries, he noticed floors in stairs and entrance ways are worn down in many places and can be tripping hazards. Many attractions now route tourists on different paths, and switch them up constantly, to help reduce the effects of foot traffic on stone. See a map of cathedrals in the U.K.

Tip: Watch your step on stairs and entrance ways in old cathedrals. Because the structures are hundreds of years old and experienced constantly by countless visitors, they’re not as accessible as buildings built today. – Mark

Soccer

If you’ve got an athlete or sports enthusiast in your group, “get yourself to a football (soccer) game. You’ll be able to enjoy a warm cup of tae and meat pie at a majority of stadiums, and experience a match day atmosphere like no other,” says Mick.

Wrapping up

You’ll never be at a loss for things to do, sights to see and dishes to try during your visit to the United Kingdom. You can travel to the country on a budget if you’re willing to look beyond hotels and venture to an Airbnb or other alternative, keep an eye out for free attractions and hop on public transit.

Are you travelling to the United Kingdom for the first time? Returning to a favourite destination? What your best tips when it comes to saving for vacations? We’d love to hear what you’ve planned, or any tips we missed! Share your story in the comments!

Learn more about traveling in the United Kingdom

18 places you have to visit in the U.K.! – Hand Luggage Only

We asked 25 Londoners the coolest things to do in their city – Thrillist Travel

100 most popular attractions outside of London (Infographic) – Bit Rebels

Hunting for Harry Potter in the U.K. – A Dangerous Business Travel Blog

10 great reasons to visit the United Kingdom – TripSavvy

Why should you visit the U.K.? – VisitEngland

Where else does Caddle recommend?

Australia

Germany 

The Bahamas

New York

France

A Vacation to the Bahamas

Already wishing you could trade in your cold weather hat and mitts for a hammock swinging softly in a warm ocean breeze, a bathing suit and maybe even a colourful fruity drink at your side this winter? Look no further than The Bahamas.

This collection of 700-plus islands, cays and islets sprinkled across the Atlantic Ocean lies just 50 miles off the coast of Florida.  The country welcomes about 6 million tourists a year, and it’s easy to see why.  Sun, sand and miles of coastline bathed by the clearest water on the planet await you! And the archipelago is an ecological oasis – the world’s third largest fringing barrier reef (The Andros) is home to many species of exotic ocean life.

The best part: you can soak up the Bahamian sun, enjoy the tropical metropolis capital Nassau and even take some unforgettable adventures on a modest budget.  Here are our best tips based on our personal experiences and research about this perfect year-round destination.

Take public transportation

Once you touch down at one of several airports  or step off your cruise ship, you’ll have different transportation options depending on the island you’re headed to. There are 57 airports and airstrips across the islands, many of which have port of entry status. You could take the national Bahamas Air airline, an air-conditioned Bahamas Ferry, or perhaps a mailboat (essentially, slower ferries). You can also charter a yacht or flight.

From there, you’ll also want to consider your options for getting around the island you’re staying on. Most likely, you’ll end up on Nassau of New Providence, Paradise Island or Grand Bahama. Here, options are for the most part similar to what you’d see at home. Take a public bus (also called jitneys), taxi, or rent a car. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, you can even rent a scooter or take a horse carriage ride. Bermuda Attractions has a great guide to getting around the island, as does bahamas.com.

Stay in Nassau to save cash

As for where to stay in Nassau, you’ll find there are a range of options even on a budget. Rent an Airbnb to save cash on a hotel room, or find a good deal on a nearby hotel or villa. The Towne Hotel and Nassau Palm Hotel in the heart of downtown Nassau, along with Sunrise Beach Villas, are all close enough to the action that you’ll save on transportation costs.

Discover Nassau and Paradise Island

When you venture outside to explore Nassau Paradise Island, you’ll discover it lives up to its name. Whether you’re looking to dive to the water’s depths to meet some of the beautiful marine life, search for handmade treasures in locally owned shops or indulge in a decadent night out, it’s all here. Learn more about what you can do for free in Nassau.

Tip: No need to switch your US currency to the Bahamian Dollar before you take off; the two are almost the same in value.
Source: Everything Everywhere

Waterparks

Though Mark found The Bahamas to be Americanized, he did discover some attractions worth checking out, including the massive 141-acre Aquaventure Atlantis Waterpark. As the Caribbean’s largest water-themed attraction, it draws international attention for its grandeur; you’ll find pools and beaches galore, one of the world’s largest open-air, man-made marine mammal habitats at Dolphin Cay, luxury accommodations, restaurants, fitness and sports facilities, and much more.
<blockquote"We didn't have the time, as this is a vacation on its own, but if you aren't going to visit Aquaventure Atlantis Waterpark at least take a cruise around Paradise Island,"

You’ll probably get to see homes of a few high-profile celebrities, including Nicholas Cage and Oprah.

And the Rum Punch served onboard the island cruises is a must.

Dining out

Tip: Try some Bahamian cuisine – shellfish, lobsters, crabs, and tropical fruits are popular. Pineapple tarts and fruitcake are among your delicious choices for dessert.

Source: Everything Everywhere

Craving a little taste of home? You’re in luck – there are Burger Kings all across the island to satisfy your appetite.

Excusions

For a one-of-a-kind experience, you’ve got to visit The Exumas, a chain of islands that stretches just south of Nassau. You’ll be greeted by miles of soft sparkling white sand beaches, turquoise waters and wondrous aquatic life, including stingrays and pigs – yes, pigs! Wild swimming pigs can be found near Staniel Cay on Big Major Cay, and you can even jump in the water with them. More about that (and a few other things to do while you’re there, here and here).

Planning that dream trip

As we’ve discovered, The Bahamas is an unspoiled paradise of immaculately clean beaches, blue waters, sublime resorts, and an entire ecosystem of marine wildlife to experience up close – all of which you can see on a budget.

Are you about to make your first visit to The Bahamas? Returning to a  favourite vacation spot? What are your best tips when it comes to saving for vacations? We’d love to hear what you’ve planned, or any tips we missed! Share your story in the comments.

Where else does Caddle recommend?

Australia

Germany 

New York

The United Kingdom

France

Learn more about traveling in The Bahamas

exumabahamas.org

Official home of the swimming pigs – bahamas.com

Best things to do in Atlantis Resort Bahamas – Diana’s Healthy Living

Travel to The Bahamas – Everything Everywhere

The Big Apple

Looking at pictures of New York City, you expect to explore a metropolis bustling with millions of people from all around the globe, a world-class stage for arts, fashion, and culture, and a never-ending selection of unique experiences for the most discerning foodie.

NYC saw a record-breaking year for tourism in 2017 , welcoming more than 13 million international visitors (an all-time high) and 62.8 million visitors in total who come to the city year-round. With numbers like that, you might think this is a once-in-a-lifetime trip that’s likely to empty your wallet. But we’ve found that even if you’re traveling on a budget, it’s possible to enjoy much of what the city has to offer – if you plan ahead and know where to look for deals. We’ve compiled our best tips based on our personal experiences visiting the city that never sleeps.

Take public transit

In New York, you can always find something to entertain and delight you whether you’re browsing the street markets in Times Square, taking in an unforgettable Broadway Show, touring the city’s iconic infrastructure, or just satisfying your appetite with a heavenly slice of pizza.

Since the transit system is phenomenal, there’s no need to drive. In fact, Mark strongly discourages the idea. “We drove to New York City and found that once we got there, our car was practically useless unless we were headed out of the city,” he remembers.

“The transit system is amazing and while it can be confusing taking the subway and walking when we could (or taking a cab when we couldn’t), it was much easier and less stressful. The time wasted getting lost and the cost of parking simply aren’t worth it.”

Save time and money

Travel blog Contented Traveller suggests taking a flat rate taxi from JFK airport, which will come to $59 US, including the Manhattan Bridge toll and the shuttle for $50 or the Super Shuttle if you’re coming from Newark. Depending on traffic, you can walk or grab a taxi from Penn Station or the Port Authority.

Taking the subway to get around the city is also a great money saver, or if you want to fit in a lot of activities, grab an hop-on, hop-off bus tour ticket, which gives you the flexibility to see the city’s famous attractions at your own pace.

Getting yourself a seven-day MetroCard for $29 and taking the subway is also a great money saver.

Find affordable rooms

With so much to see and do in New York, you probably won’t be in your room very much during your trip. Why pay full price? Accommodations may go for a premium in the Big Apple, but that doesn’t mean you have to spend all your cash here. Check into Airbnb. Prefer hotels? You can find reasonable rooms in Manhattan and near Times Square.

Once you’ve dropped your luggage off, one of the first things you’ll want to do is discover a few of the iconic sites you’ve probably only seen in the movies or on your laptop screen, up close.

See Macy’s

Some of the best shopping opportunities in the world await! First, go browse Macy’s flagship store in Herald Square, a “must-visit for shoppers!” says Mick.

If you’re in the city close to the holiday season, stop to appreciate the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center – “a picture of holiday cheer.”

Times Square

Of course, we can’t forget Times Square, one of the most iconic urban hubs in the world. Sometimes referred to as “The Crossroads of the  World”, it’s home to a tourist destination, arts and entertainment district, shopping and of course, stunning digital billboards and ads. About 50 million visitors pass through here annually. You simply can’t visit New York without taking a visit to this mecca in Midtown Manhattan.

Other big draws in the city that are free to visit include the Guggenheim Museum, Central Park and the Bronx Zoo. You can also catch a live taping of The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon or Saturday Night Live.

Grab some pub food

By the end of the day, you’ll probably have worked up an appetite, so stop by Long Hall Pub & Grocery for a glimpse of what a true traditional Irish pub looks like. “What is rarely exported is the fact that many Irish pubs traditionally served as both the grocer and the publican,” Mick explains. “The Long Hall maintains this tradition in NYC, and you can purchase all sorts of goodies.”

With more than 40,000 restaurants in the city and 12,000 street food vendors, there’s something for your taste buds around every corner, whether you’re looking for a tried-and-true hot dog vendor, comfort food (think mac and cheese) or something more adventurous, like falafel and shawarma, or even a delicious Mexican taco.

Take in a Broadway show

Have a theatre aficionado in the family? They’ll be in heaven on Broadway, which puts spectacular performers on stage in the heart of the city. Take them to see any one of the breathtaking plays or musicals and you’ll both be happy, as Mark discovered.

“The production value was quite impressive, and it was quite an experience overall,” he said, cautioning hopeful theatre goers to book a visit in advance as shows sell out quickly. “If there is something you had in mind or you are picky, definitely plan ahead.”

“If there is something you had in mind or you are picky, definitely plan ahead.”

In the mood for a summertime escape? Take a trip up the coast to Rhode Island.

“Depending on the season, this is a beautiful drive with many stops along the way. It is a great way to spend a day or two outside of the hustle and bustle of the city.”

Providence

Three hours away, Providence boasts some amazing food and scenery. Tour its distinctive neighbourhoods or take the kids to the Roger Williams Park Zoo. In the winter, you can even ice skate downtown. If you’re up for it, take a scenic, comfortable ride on the Long Island Ferry back to the city.

There’s a dizzying array of things to do, places to see and experiences to try during your visit to New York City. Whether you stay in Manhattan or venture out to Providence and Rhode Island, traveling affordably is doable if you stick to public transit and take advantage of the many free-to-see attractions.

Travelling to New York

Are you travelling to New York for the first time? Returning to a favourite destination? What are your best tips when it comes to saving for vacations? We’d love to hear what you’ve planned, or any tips we missed! Share your story in the comments!

Where else does Caddle recommend?

Australia

Germany 

The Bahamas

The United Kingdom

France

Learn more about traveling in New York

New York on a budget – How to enjoy New York with very little money – Arzo Travels

Best cheap hotels near Times Square in New York – Postcards from Ivi

20+ Things to do in New York City that won’t cost you a penny – To Europe & Beyond

The most iconic movies filmed in each state – Mashable 

New York City on a budget: 50 free and low-cost tips – Solo Traveler