Subscribe
The Daily Grind Video
CLOSE

Three cheers for the weekend! It’s just about here and we know that you cannot wait to have a little down time to relax. The best part is that today we have a couple of great things to help you usher in the weekend that won’t cost you anything at all. Today’s installment of Dollars & Sense takes place in the beautiful city of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Check it out below!

Visit The Bahía de Banderas (Banderas Bay)

Whether you’re relaxing on the beach, testing the city’s nightlife (from clubs with excellent ocean views) or checking out the stingrays in the bright blue waters, the pristine beauty of Bahía de Banderas (or Banderas Bay) will be the hallmark of your stay.

Many recommend renting a villa or hotel along the bay, though many of the accommodations can be pricier than those inland. If you’re interested in snorkeling, try the bay’s southern end.

[pagebreak]

Visit The Los Arcos and El Malecón

One of the most iconic and recognizable landmarks of Puerto Vallarta, Los Arcos refers to the row of arches in the oceanfront square of Plaza Morelos on the city’s southern end. The dramatic seaside arches also serve as an amphitheatre. Los Arcos is a great place to stroll during the evenings, especially along the Malecón, the oceanfront walkway that runs along a portion of the Bahía de Banderas (Banderas Bay). Here you’ll find an assortment of sand sculptures, statues, art pieces, street performers and merchants. Free cultural performances on the Malecón and at Los Arcos are standard during the weekends.

[pagebreak]

Financial Tip Of The Day

Take Advantage Of Retirement Accounts.

When you start that new job, be sure to contribute at least enough to your retirement account to get any matching contributions your employer is providing you. Otherwise, you’re leaving free money on the table. A Roth IRA can also be a good place to save for retirement while keeping the money available for emergencies. That’s because the sum of your contributions can be withdrawn tax and penalty-free at any time for any purpose while the earnings can be withdrawn tax-free after 5 years and age 59 1/2.