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 

Saving for a Goal

Whether you’re looking to freshen up a room or gut an entire house from top to bottom to transform it into your perfect oasis, home renovations are exciting – and tricky. After all, you’ve probably got contractors to schedule, materials to pick out, money to allocate, and designs to pore over.

To make your renovation project a success, you’ll first need to identify which room(s) to start with, depending on your budget and timeline (and tolerance for stress!)

Meet Jaime

We caught up with Jaime, our Customer Success Manager at Caddle to tell us about her experience. Since moving back to Niagara in 2016, she’s been putting all her extra savings toward house renovations.

“We bought a house with 1,000 little projects and after gutting and renovating the main floor, we are saving up to completely re-do our second floor into the dream master suite and guest bedroom,” she says, adding every dollar saved helps, especially since unexpected repairs and expenses can eat away at a savings budget.

The appeal of St. Catharines

The former Toronto resident had lived in Canada’s largest city for eight years before moving back to Niagara in favour of higher property values and a smaller city vibe. The vineyards, breweries, and array of fantastic hiking spots sweeten the deal.

“We (also) have a good group of friends that have either never moved or have moved back from Toronto and it’s a quieter lifestyle (here),”

The excitement of renovating spurs Jaime and her partner to do the hard work of bringing their vision to life.

Home Renovations

“I LOVE renovating – new stuff! Fresh paint! Making a vision come to life and making our home uniquely ours,” she says. The couple has already highlighted some of the great features in their century-old house.

“I LOVE renovating – new stuff! Fresh paint! Making a vision come to life and making our home uniquely ours”

On the flip side, though, there are some less-than-stellar realities of renovation.

“I do hate the mess of renovation and having to wait, or when something is delayed. It can feel like you’re living in limbo for months (especially if you’re living in the space you’re renovating), and progress takes time. It’s worth it in the end, but I’m always anxious for things to be completed.”

Tips for home renovations

1) Plan and stick to a realistic budget.

Before you lift a hammer to start demo, get a grasp on a specific dollar amount you’re able to spend, then price out each item on a  budget line. For example, what about tile, fixtures, materials, paint, etc.? Don’t forget to allow for taxes and unexpected expenses (some advise building in a contingency fund of 10%). Source: 15 ways to save money on a home renovation – A Beautiful Mess 

2) Planning a DIY (Do It Yourself) fix?

Learn what you can do yourself versus tasks you’ll need a professional for.  This is another area where you’ll need to strategize. While you may be able to purchase your own materials, do some light demolition, and make cosmetic changes, you’ll probably want to leave serious structural repairs, asbestos removal, and major gas, plumbing or electrical work to licensed, experienced professionals.  Source: DIY vs. professional renovation: What to tackle yourself and what to leave to the pros – Curbed

3) Understand why you’re renovating, and look for deals.

Are you renovating with the intent to sell or to set down roots and invest in your forever home? That will influence how you spend. For example, home renovation blog Real Homes advises that an easy way to save on a kitchen is to purchase cheaper units and invest in good-quality work surfaces and tiles to add a luxury feel. Shop around for appliances, compare prices and don’t be opposed to looking at auctions or architectural salvage yards, or to buying products on display. Source: Cut renovation costs: 15 clever ideas – Real Homes

Now that we’ve told you our best tips for saving for a home renovation you can’t wait to show off, we want to hear from you! What was the first room you’ve ever renovated? Did you DIY, hire a general contractor, or both? What’s your next big project? Share your story and your best savings tips with us!

Exploring Italy

Whether you’re enjoying a view of the sunrise above a Tuscan hillside from your luxury villa, savouring the fresh vegetables you picked at the local market or discovering the Mediterranean waters along the Amalfi coast, Italy is an enchanting destination you won’t want to pass up.

Culture

It’s no wonder the country is the fifth most popular international tourism destination, with 58.3 million international tourist arrivals in 2017, according to UNWTO.  Dotted with world-famous cities, famous cultural hotspots and about 100,000 historical monuments, Italy continues to attract everyone from wide-eyed nomads to experienced globetrotters.

If you’re looking to travel to Italy on a budget, you’re in luck – we’ve put together some tips based on our personal experiences visiting this world-renowned destination.

Keep an eye out for savings while booking online, exploring the Italian coast or sitting down to a scrumptious meal at a restaurant in town. It’s possible to save cash while immersing yourself in everything this country has to offer.  Options include strolling through the historic city centre of Naples and exploring ancient cathedrals to marvelling over Renaissance art.

Travel in groups

Mick found traveling in a group and visiting the local market for food offers an authentic Italian experience and saves everyone cash.

“You can get outrageous deals on Airbnb for luxury villas in scenic areas. I love this experience – going to the local markets, preparing local food right in your villa – it’s a huge cost savings, and the only way to truly experience Italy, in my opinion,” he said, adding that keeping your phrasebook with you can come in handy at most grocery stores on the Amalfi coast, where a fruit and veg attendee will pick the produce for you.

Book excursions in advance

After you’ve enjoyed a delicious home-cooked lunch, it’s time for some adventure! Here’s where planning ahead can save you considerable cash.

“Book any excursions (in advance) online, as you can find sales or discounts if (you purchase them earlier), and it may be worth it to pay a little extra to bypass the massive lines at certain iconic areas,” says Ajay.

Tip: Don’t pass up an opportunity to explore iconic sights like the Leaning Tower of Pizza, the Sistine Chapel, Coloseum, Amalfi Coast and Herculaneum.

“Look out for the City Pass – most include many restaurant discounts, free transport and discounts to many top sites in the city. Always worth the price!”

As for where to venture first, Ajay recommends Venice, Rome, Milan and Florence.

“I tell everyone, one day I want to retire in Venice (a long time from now) because of how simple life feels by the water, but I would highlight the city pass used in Rome – which included the Skip-the-line for the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel, which was jaw-droppingly beautiful. The most iconic area I visited would have to be the Colosseum, just envisioning the gladiator battles and the different time and way of life people used to live. Needless to say, it was a trip of a lifetime with some close friends.”

Amalfi Coast

Looking to explore the picturesque Amalfi coast? Take a boat tour. Although traveling by road can be difficult on the Italian coast, hopping on a boat and visiting a few ports is an excellent way to see multiple towns in one day.

If traveling on four wheels is more your speed, rent a car with front and side sensors – worth the extra cost.

“The roads on the Italian coast are extremely narrow, so to keep your car safe, it’s worth having the best available collision prevention technology in your rental vehicle,” says Mick.

Tip: Italy’s currency is the Euro. But skip currency conversion desks and head to an ATM to save money.

Save on transit

Another option: the hop-on hop-off double-decker bus tours.

“They’re basically taxis (that take you) around the entire city (and) drop you off at the biggest destinations, and they’re a great way to see the whole city on a budget,” says Ransom, who also swears by train or public transit whenever practical.

“(Take) the high-speed Rail Europe train or public transit whenever you can, and (look) for cheap inter-European flights, like Ryanair. We flew from Belfast to London for 1 pound!”

Costs to travel in Italy

Here’s what you should budget for major expenses while in Italy:

Accommodations: $70 to $400 (CDN)/night depending on location and amenities (Airbnb)

Transportation: See Rail Europe for destinations, times and ticket prices

Meals: Budget in the range of $70 daily for lunch and dinner.  The food is amazing and you will want to eat.

Social norms

• When greeting friends and family, kiss both cheeks, starting with the left
• Expect Italians to arrive 15 to 30 minutes late for dinners and parties
• Italians appreciate openness and sincerity. Maintain eye contact when speaking to someone

Visit local eateries

Ajay also suggests going to restaurants off the beaten path.

“The ones on the main strips are typically way more expensive – they have to pay through the nose to be there – and the quality of the food is typically lower,” he explains, adding downloading the latest travel food app can help you hunt down the best places to eat that blend quality and value. Choose from a wide variety of dishes, from traditional pizza to pasta dishes like…, and local wines and cuisines.

“Milan was where I had the best Pizza in Italy (in the shape of a star), each star tip had a different flavour of crusted pizza,” says Ajay. “I can’t begin to describe the food I tasted in Italy.  We’ll just say pasta or gelato has never tasted the same since I’ve returned to Canada.”

Tip: It’s customary to tip your tour guide €10 per day, but don’t worry about tipping other service people such as wait staff, bartenders, taxi drivers or baggage handlers.

Exploring Italy

You can explore Italy on a modest budget and enjoy the country’s vibrant culture, historical attractions,  and the spectacular Amalfi coast.  If you plan ahead, look for deals and ensure you are willing to forgo expensive tourist restaurants for more local favourites.

Is this your first trip you are planning?  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 and tell us what destinations are on your wish list.  Our team love saving for holidays and we hope to inspire our members with exciting suggestions to spend your Caddle money.

Mick Higgins, our CMO and resident Irishman here at Caddle, is no stranger to traveling on a budget. He frequently returns home to Ireland, and over the years, he’s had quite some experience getting to know the best ways to get travel deals.

Now, to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day this week, Mick is sharing his Ireland travel tips with our Caddle users!

If you’ve always dreamed of going to the homeland of Guinness and visiting the historic Dublin Castle, now is your chance to get insider tips and advice.

Check out Mick’s advice!

Price Watching

Any frequent traveler knows the value of price watching when it comes to your flight. But it’s hard to know when the best opportunity for the best deal is. That’s where technology comes in.

There are many apps out there that can help you keep track of your trip. Here are two main apps Mick says he can’t travel without.

Hipmunk: This app will track flight, hotel, and car rental prices for you and let you know when the best time to purchase is. Just input your travel information and let it track for you.

Hopper: On this app, you can watch and track your flight to see when the price changes.

Skyscanner: This is a great one for adding alerts for the dates you want to keep track of. You will receive an email when the price changes so you don’t have to check in to get the best price.

Plan to Visit Attractions Accessible by Public Transit

In Ireland, public transit is the most efficient way to get around, and many attractions and destinations can be located this way.

Check out some travel websites to figure out where you want to go during your trip.

Discover Ireland has popular tourist attractions, and Lovin Dublin as a good mix of local hangouts and must-see landmarks. These sites have attraction recommendations and information about how to get to each one, so you can plan your bus or train route.

A Hop On Hop Off bus tour is also a great way to see as many attractions as possible with travel ease. You just pay for a pass, then you can jump on the bus and get off at whatever stops you want, at your own pace.

Pick an Area Based on Your Travel Needs

There are a few main forms of transit that are used in Ireland. Check out their websites to see which routes to take. Then, plan to stay at accommodations that are located on those routes and can be easily accessible this way.

• Luas: Dublin’s streetcar system, named after the Irish word for “speed.”
• DART: the Dublin Area Rapid Transit system, which is an electric rail service.
• The Dublin Bus: the city’s main bus system.
• Larnród Éireann: in English, this is known as “Irish Rail” and it’s the city’s other rail system.
• My Taxi: Uber is super popular in Canada, but in Ireland, it’s not the only option! For the more popular Irish equivalent look at My Taxi.

Don’t forget about currency! In Ireland, they use the euro, so make sure you account for this in your travel budget.

Searching for a Hotel

When it’s time to book your accommodations, think about weighing your options. This is when travel websites make a huge difference on your savings.

Try out Airbnb, where you can find some really nice accommodations at decent prices.

If you’d rather stick to a hotel chain, try out Expedia or Travelocity to compare hotel deals and get the best price.

Claiming the VAT

You’re probably wondering what the heck a VAT is. VAT stands for value added tax, and in Ireland it’s 23% of your purchases.

In Ireland, you can claim a sales tax refund on the purchases you’ve made during your trip when you leave.

If you sign up for a HORIZON card, you can swipe it as you make purchases and it will automatically tack them as you go, so you won’t have to keep track of a bunch of receipts.

At the Dublin and Shannon airports, there are FEXCO kiosks set up where you can present your HORIZON card. You’ll also need your boarding pass, passport, and credit card information.

Download Caddle to Earn Extra Cash For Your Irish Getaway

Caddle rewards users for their purchases, feedback, and engagement. You can earn cash quick just by saving your receipts and taking our user surveys.

It only takes seconds to start earning- less than the time it takes to choose your favourite Snapchat filter.

New offers come out every week with more opportunities to save and earn, so keep checking back!

It can be stressful when you check your bank balance and suddenly realize you’ve got more month than money left. After rent, groceries, gas, repair bills and all of life’s little daily expenses, you feel like you barely scrape by, never mind save for the future. What can you do to give yourself a bit of a cushion, even get ahead?

We’ve got a solution for you: get paid to drive your car. Yes, you can earn cash just by using the car you have now to cart food, people and equipment around town, and make others’ lives easier in the process. You can even rent your car out, so you don’t have to drive at all. Here are some tips on how to earn money driving your car:

Join Lyft or Uber

Are you a people person and a natural conversationalist who enjoys helping others get where they need to go? Signing up for a ridesharing app like Uber or Lyft might be for you.

Both ridesharing services allow you to set your own hours and make more during peak times, such as after hours or when bars close. You’ll have a couple of payment options for each. In addition, you’ll need to pass basic requirements to become a driver for either Uber or Lyft, so be sure to have your licence, registration and all paperwork in order before applying.

With the latter, you also have to own a smartphone.

Learn more about:

Uber’s driving requirements and how it works

Lyft’s driving requirements and how it works

Transport equipment

Are you more introverted but are fine with delivering items instead of people? Consider transporting equipment – it doesn’t talk back, and there’s no need to maintain a conversation.

If you’ve ever bought an oversized, bulky item from a department store or garage sale, you know it can be a hassle to get it home…if you’re not lucky enough to have a pickup truck, van or large SUV. If you do have one of these vehicles at your disposal with room to spare, why not lend your services?

You’d be helping people avoid paying the outrageous prices stores charge for home delivery and earn a little cash in the process. An added bonus: you don’t have to depend on word of mouth alone to build up business – you can sign up for the app TaskRabbit to promote your services in your neighbourhood.

Bonus: Rent your car out

This option may not be for the risk-averse, but if you only use your car for incidental trips, why not let it make money for you while you’re at your day job? That’s the idea behind HyreCar, a car sharing platform for rideshare drivers.

It works much like the ridesharing apps themselves, but this one lets you rent your car out to other drivers. You’ll create a free listing, describe your car, upload a few good-quality photos, your vehicle registration and Uber/Lyft inspection documents. There’s a time limit on rental requests – someone asks to rent your vehicle, you’ve got 24 hours to confirm. According to HyreCar, drivers tend to book multiple vehicles to increase their chances of getting on the road faster, so the first owner to approve their booking request will earn that money.

Next, you’ll verify documents, including registration, vehicle inspection and insurance, verify the driver’s licence and hand off the car. When you approve the application, drivers are charged and there’s a secure payment system to ensure you get paid. When the rental is over, you coordinate a pickup time and location with the driver.

Wrapping up

These are just a few of the multitude of options you can consider to make money driving or renting out your car. While they can earn you extra cash and it doesn’t take much to get started, don’t forget about extra expenses you may need to take on and factor into your budget, such as maintenance, gas, and general wear and tear that happens with such regular use.

Learn more about how to earn money driving your car

40 ways to make money with your car (with apps) – MoneyPantry

19 flexible ways to make money with your car – The Work at Home Woman

9 apps that let you make money with your car – NerdWallet

5 ways to make more money driving your own car – HyreCar

Beyond Lyft and Uber – How to make money using your car – Forbes

What it’s like delivering food for Uber – Ridesharing Driver

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