• AMC Theatres Launching 50% Wednesdays in New Orleans

    2 Min Read

    One popular movie theater company is using a retro tactic to get moviegoers back in seats: A sale.

    AMC Theatres is launching a “50% Off Wednesdays” program, which offers AMC Stubs members a 50% discount on the base adult evening ticket price for all showtimes on Wednesdays.

    When Does AMC’s 50% Wednesdays Start?

    AMC Theatre’s 50% Wednesdays pricing begins July 9, 2025.

    This applies to all AMC locations in the United States, though additional charges for premium formats like IMAX, Dolby Cinema, or 3D still apply.

    Some movies and holidays may be excluded, but the program aims to boost midweek attendance and is expected to be widely available if successful.

    Membership in AMC Stubs (Insider, Premiere, or A-List) is required, with Insider being free to join.

    Where Are the AMC Theatres Located in Greater New Orleans?

    NameMailing Address
    AMC Elmwood Palace 201200 Elmwood Park Blvd, Harahan, LA 70123
    AMC DINE-IN Clearview Palace 124486 Veterans Memorial Blvd, Metairie, LA 70006
    AMC Westbank Palace 161151 Manhattan Blvd, Harvey, LA 70058

    How Much Does the AMC Stubs Program Cost?

    The AMC Stubs program has four membership tiers with different costs and benefits:

    1. Insider

    Free. Includes basic perks like 20 points per $1 spent, free large popcorn refills, and Discount Tuesdays.

    2. Premiere GO!

    Free, but requires earning by seeing 8 movies or accumulating 5,000 points in a calendar year as an Insider. Offers enhanced benefits like 40 points per $1 spent and waived online ticket fees for 4+ tickets.

    3. Premiere

    $17.99 + tax per year. Includes all Insider benefits, plus 100 points per $1 spent, waived online ticket fees for any purchase, and free size upgrades on popcorn and drinks.

    4. A-List

    $14.95-$27.99 + tax per month, depending on location and plan (Classic or standard). A-List Classic ($14.95) allows 1 movie per week, while standard A-List ($25.99-$27.99) allows up to 4 movies per week in any format, with additional perks like 100 points per $1 spent and priority lanes. Requires a 3-month minimum commitment.

    Final Word

    Theater venues are a huge part of New Orleans’ culture for sure, from jazz clubs to the city’s diverse bar scene, from historic cocktail bars to trendy craft beer spots. listening to lie music is a popular nighttime activity, especially in areas like the French Quarter and the Warehouse District.

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  • best halter tops for summer

    Best Halter Tops For Hot Weather

    3 Min Read

    The weather has been hot this season and that has afforded us ample opportunity to wear our favorite halter tops.

    This article is going to go over some of the best places to buy halter tops for summer.

    Here Are Some Great Halter Tops To Wear This Season

    If you want to shop in-person, these stores typically have great halter tops:

    Best Halter Tops For Your Money

    Floerns Women’s Solid Criss Cross Halter

    Floerns Women's Solid Criss Cross Halter

    Buy Now

    Casual Leopard Print Halter Top

    Casual Leopard Print Halter Top

    Buy Now

    Summer Sleeveless High Neck Halter Tank

    Summer Sleeveless High Neck Halter Tank

    Buy Now

    Deep V Neck Cut Out Halter Top

    Deep V Neck Cut Out Halter Top

    Buy Now

    Pleated And Sleeveless Tank Top Halter Top

    Pleated And Sleeveless Tank Top Halter Top

    Buy Now

    How To Shop for Halter Tops

    As a savvy shopper looking for halter tops, here are practical consumer tips to get the best value, quality, and style:

    Know Your Body Type and Fit Needs

    • Halter tops accentuate shoulders and arms but vary in neckline and back coverage. Try on different styles (high-neck, deep V-neck, or backless) to find what flatters your figure.
    • Check sizing charts, especially for online purchases, as halter tops can fit differently across brands. Measure your bust, waist, and neck to ensure proper fit.
    • Look for adjustable straps or ties for a customizable fit, especially if you’re between sizes.

    Prioritize Quality Materials

    • Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or blends for comfort, especially in warm weather. For dressier options, silk or satin blends add elegance.
    • Avoid cheap synthetics (like low-grade polyester) that pill or fade quickly. Check fabric content labels for durability.
    • Inspect stitching and hems for loose threads or weak seams, as halter tops rely on sturdy construction around the neck and back.

    Shop Seasonally for Deals

    • Halter tops are summer staples, so shop end-of-season sales (late August to September) for deep discounts on last season’s styles, which often cycle back into fashion.
    • Check for off-season deals at retailers like Nordstrom Rack, Zara, or H&M, where you can find halter tops marked down 30–70%.
    • Use price-tracking tools like Honey or CamelCamelCamel for online purchases to monitor price drops on sites like Amazon or ASOS.

    Compare Prices Across Retailers

    • Browse both physical stores and online platforms (e.g., Revolve, Shein, or Forever 21) to compare prices. Fast-fashion retailers often have budget-friendly options, but check reviews for quality.
    • Look at secondhand platforms like Poshmark, ThredUp, or Depop for gently used or vintage halter tops at a fraction of the cost—often under $15.
    • Use apps like ShopSavvy to scan barcodes in-store and find better deals online.

      Final Word

      Who doesn’t love to wear halter tops? When the weather’s warm, there is no better piece of clothing to put on.

      When you think about the type of body that looks the best in a halter top, the truth is that it depends on how confident the person is. The more confidence you exude, the better you will look and feel in a halter top or any article of clothing.

      With that being said, wearing a nice-looking halter top has a lot to do with the rest of your outfit, to make the ensemble pop, try these killer heels.

      NolaFi.com Articles:

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    1. where to eat for Mothers Day in New Orleans

      Where To Take Mom in New Orleans for Mother’s Day

      3 Min Read

      You don’t have to break the bank to show your mom that you love her this Mother’s Day. In New Orleans, there are plenty places to go, from awesome restaurants to other things around the city.

      In this article, we’ll show you some great places to bring mom for Mother’s Day in New Orleans.

      Mother’s Day Brunch at The Roosevelt Hotel

      Mother's Day Brunch at The Roosevelt Hotel

      he Roosevelt, New Orleans invites you and your family to take part in our Mother’s Day brunch! Celebrate the mothers, and mother figures, in your life with delectable entrees, bottomless mimosas, and live music. The Roosevelt Hotel New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel 130 Roosevelt Way New Orleans, LA 70112.

      Check out these great places to eat in New Orleans right now.

      Bubbles & Brunch: A Mother’s Day Celebration At Marche

      Bubbles & Brunch: A Mother's Day Celebration At Marche

      Treat the special moms in your life to an elegant Mother’s Day Brunch at Marché, nestled in the heart of the iconic French Quarter! This festive, reception-style event features open seating (with the option to reserve a private table when purchasing 10 tickets), a beautifully curated menu, and the option to upgrade your experience with bottomless Veuve Clicquot for a sparkling celebration.

      There will be two seatings:

      • First Seating: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
      • Second Seating: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM

      Ticket Options:

      • General Admission: $75
      • Bottomless Veuve Upgrade: +$45 (Total: $120 per adult)
      • Kids’ Tickets (Ages 3–12): $45
      • Children 2 & Under: Free

      Mom’s Market at Music Box Village

      Mom's Market at Music Box Village

      Mom’s Market is blooming at Music Box Village is a special spring market that celebrates moms, mother figures, beloveds—and the spirit of renewal, growth, and community.

      This year, ‘tit Flea Bazaar and Music Box Village are joining forces to create a vibrant, creative space filled with local makers, good eats, live music, and joyful connection.

      Mom’s Market at Music Box Village
      Saturday, May 10 | 12–5 PM
      4557 N Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70117

      Champagne Stroll on Magazine Street

      Champagne Stroll on Magazine Street

      Businesses along the entire length of Magazine Street will stay open late, offering sparkling wine, special deals, sales, live music, and art shows. Kick things off with a second line down Magazine Street with the dazzling N’Awlins D’Awlins Dolls starting from Gulf Coast Bank & Trust (3200 Magazine St) at 6 pm, then see what surprises our participants have in store.

      Mother’s Day Floral Workshop with Doris Ione

      Mother's Day Floral Workshop with Doris Ione

       The New Orleans Pharmacy Museum is havinfg a flower-arranging workshop led by florist Destiny Pinson, founder of Doris Ione. Guests will enjoy complimentary sparkling wine and rosé while creating fresh custom floral arrangements in the historic courtyard of the museum, which once served as an herb garden. The ticket price covers all florals, drinks, and food provided by the event sponsor, Black Pearl Catering Co. Options include cheese & charcuterie, caviar deviled eggs, lemon aioli shrimp rolls, tomato pie bites, and seared beef pho bo rolls. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, May 11. New Orleans Pharmacy Museum, 514 Chartres St. New Orleans, LA 70130.

      Final Word

      New Orleans is a melting pot of French, Spanish, African, and Creole influences, seen in its architecture (French Quarter’s balconies, Garden District’s mansions), traditions (Mardi Gras, second-line parades), and multilingual heritage. From jazz clubs to the city’s diverse bar scene, from historic cocktail bars to trendy craft beer spots. listening to lie music is a popular nighttime activity, especially in areas like the French Quarter and the Warehouse District.

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    2. free food New Orleans

      More Moms Will Eat Out Before Mother’s Day: Report

      3 Min Read

      You may be trying to watch your weight, but not everybody, and not for this special holiday coming up. About a third (31%) of American moms will consider dining out multiple times for t Mother’s Day, according to research from OpenTable.

      This includes without the kids: 31% of moms will consider dining out with friends, 21% will consider a date night sans kids and 10% may dine out solo.2

      Mother’s Day Celebrations for the Ages
      While dining out will be central to Mother’s Day this year, OpenTable research reveals how celebrations differ generation to generation:2 

      • Gen Z and Millennials showing up strongly for a Mother’s Day meal out: While the majority of Americans (54%) plan to dine out this Mother’s Day, the share spikes for Gen Zers (65%) and Millennials (64%) and drops for Gen Xers (49%) and Baby Boomers (39%).
      • Big spenders revealed: 62% of respondents are planning to spend more at a restaurant, bar or cafe this Mother’s Day than last year. Not everyone sees eye to eye on splurging: 71% of Gen Zers and 68% of Millennials plan to spend more, while only 58% of Gen Xers and 44% of Baby Boomers plan to spend more.
      • One thing everyone can agree on, no phones at the table: Over a fourth (26%) of Americans said their ideal Mother’s Day dining experience involves no phones/tablets at the table – nearly the same share across generations agrees, with 26% of Gen Zers, 24% of Millennials, 27% of Gen Xers and 26% of Baby Boomers also wanting to go screen-free.

      “People are increasingly choosing to celebrate the mothers and special women in their lives with a meal out, bypassing breakfast in bed – and they’re going all out, too,” said Steve Sintra, SVP, Americas Restaurant Sales & Services. “Mother’s Day festivities now include dining out multiple times all weekend long, and diners are planning to spend more than last year, with Gen Z more likely to splurge than any generation.”

      Mother’s Day Brunch OpenTable’s Top 100 list
      OpenTable data confirms what’s long been assumed: Mother’s Day and brunch go hand-in-hand. Last year, OpenTable data revealed nearly half (43%) of all Mother’s Day dining happened during brunch hours (11:00 am – 2:59 pm), making it the most popular meal for the holiday.

      Final Word

      When New Orleans’ food is mentioned on a national level, it somehow always reverts back to gumbo, which is the best around, although the city’s eateries certainly represent those dishes well, there’s so much more.

      More From NolaFi.com:

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    3. Fun things to do with kids in New Orleans, Louisiana

      Really Fun Things To Do With Kids In New Orleans

      5 Min Read

      It ‘s not just an adult playland n New Orleans, because there is plenty to do and see for kiddos. Louisiana’s largest city is known for fun-filled entertainment.

      This article will show you all of the fun things to do in New Orleans with kids and then some. You’ll enjoy the many outdoor activities that you can do with your family.

      What To Do In New Orleans With Kids

      New Orleans offers a variety of fun activities for kids. Here are some ideas:

      Gift Card To All The New Orleans Things

      Fever gift card for New Orleans.

      Want to do all the things? Check out this Gift Card, which is valid for one year on all Fever experiences in New Orleans. Get the deal.

      New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival (April 24-27, 2025)

      • What: Jazz Fest is one of the biggest events in New Orleans, featuring a stellar lineup of music across 14 stages at the Fair Grounds Race Course. Expect headliners like Dave Matthews Band, Lil Wayne & The Roots, Kacey Musgraves, and John Fogerty, alongside local legends like Irma Thomas and Trombone Shorty. Beyond music, enjoy signature Louisiana cuisine (crawfish, gumbo, po-boys), craft vendors, and cultural exhibits.
      • Why It’s Cool: It’s a celebration of New Orleans’ music, food, and culture with a mix of global and local acts. The festival’s vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings make it a must-visit.
      • Details: Located at 1751 Gentilly Blvd. Tickets range from ~$76-$504 depending on the day and package. Louisiana residents may get special pricing. Check www.nojazzfest.com for tickets and schedules.
      • Pro Tip: Arrive early to explore smaller stages for local acts and bring sunscreen for the sunny April weather (highs around 78°F).

      Explore the French Quarter’s Live Music Scene

      • What: While Jazz Fest is the main draw, the French Quarter offers live music every night at iconic venues like Preservation Hall (726 St. Peter St.) for traditional jazz or Snug Harbor (626 Frenchmen St.) for modern jazz shows. Frenchmen Street is perfect for spontaneous music-hopping with brass bands, funk, and soul.
      • Why It’s Cool: New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz, and Frenchmen Street’s vibrant, less touristy vibe compared to Bourbon Street offers an authentic taste of the city’s musical heartbeat.
      • Details: Most venues have shows starting around 8 PM. Preservation Hall tickets are ~$20-$40; Frenchmen Street bars often have no cover but expect a drink minimum. Check www.frenchquarter.com for band schedules.
      • Pro Tip: Catch late-night Jazz Fest after-parties at venues like Tipitina’s (501 Napoleon Ave.) featuring local acts like Dumpstaphunk or Galactic

      Audubon Zoo

      Audubon Zoo

      Explore the zoo, home to a wide range of animals from around the world. Kids can enjoy feeding giraffes, riding a safari simulator, and visiting the Louisiana Swamp Exhibit.

      Monet: The Immersive Experience

      Monet experience in New Orleans

      Looking for a classically artful time with the kids? Monet: The Immersive Experience is a 360º digital art exhibition that invites you to step into the world of the French painter Claude Monet. Check out Monet in New Orleans.

      Louisiana Children’s Museum

      Louisiana Children's Museum in New Orleans

      This museum provides a hands-on learning experience for children of all ages. They can engage in imaginative play, build structures, explore exhibits related to science and nature, and participate in art activities.

      Dinos Alive In New Orleans

      Dinos Alive exhibit in New Orleans

      Take a prehistoric journey that the kids will enjoy! The Dinos Alive immersive experience is one you do not want to miss. Book Dinos Alive now.

      City Park

      City Park in New Orleans

      Spend a day at this expansive park that offers numerous recreational opportunities. Kids can enjoy playgrounds, riding the carousel, exploring the Botanical Garden, and taking a gondola ride on Big Lake.

      There’s also a City Park Exploration Game you won’t want to miss.

      Storyland: Located within City Park, Storyland features larger-than-life storybook characters and themed play areas, offering a whimsical experience for young children.

      Steamboat Natchez Cruise

      400 Toulouse St, New Orleans, LA 70130 |  (504) 569-1401

      Steamboat Natchez in New Orleans is great to take the kids.

      Take a steamboat cruise along the Mississippi River. Kids will enjoy the views, live jazz music, and the chance to learn about the river’s history.

      Van Gogh

      Van Goph exhibit in New Orleans is fun for kids and adults alike.

      The Van Gogh Immersive Experience is a must for you and your child. This 360º digital art exhibition in New Orleans that invites you to step into the universe of the Dutch genius, Vincent van Gogh and his many works of wonder. Get tickets.

      Mardi Gras World

      1380 Port of New Orleans Pl, New Orleans, LA 70130 |  (504) 361-7821

      Mardi Gras World in New Orleans

      Step into the magical world of Mardi Gras with a visit to Mardi Gras World. Kids can tour the workshops and see the amazing floats and sculptures being created.

      Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve: Explore the natural beauty of Louisiana’s wetlands and learn about the area’s history through interactive exhibits and ranger-led programs.

      New Orleans City Park Train Garden: Ride the miniature train through beautifully landscaped gardens, complete with miniature replicas of famous New Orleans landmarks.

      Crescent Park

      Crescent Park Trail, 2300 N Peters St, New Orleans, LA 70117

      Crescent Park in New Orleans is one of the best places for kids.

      Take a stroll along the riverfront at Crescent Park. Kids can play on the climbing structures, enjoy the views of the Mississippi River, and have a picnic in the park.

      Final Word

      If you’re looking for some fun things to do in New Orleans with the kids, you should know that you have plenty of options. When it comes to New Orleans hotels, you can even get a third night free for a limited time.

      The children may be yours every day or just on the weekends. Either way, they need to have fun.

      First, to find all the good things happening in the city this week, all you have to do is take a look at downtown New Orleans. That’s where some of the best restaurants are as well as where the visitors, namely tourists, are.

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    4. top airlines in the world to fly internationally

      Report: The World’s Top Airlines For 2025

      2 Min Read

      Flying the friendly skies is a great way to relax and get away from the cares of the world. The first thing you’ll need to consider is which airline provides the best comfort and other amenities.

      Much of the last year has been marked by big troubles in the airline industry, from frequent flight delays, cancellations and even pilot strikes. With all that going on, you may wonder what airlines are the best in the world?

      The site AirlineRatings.com listed the best airlines in the world.

      • Qantaslink came in first as Best Regional Airline for its efforts promoting the remote Australian outback.
      • JetBlue received the Excellence in Long Haul travel award, along with Turkish Airlines (Europe), Qatar Airways (Middle-East/Africa), Korean Air (Asia) and Air New Zealand (Pacific).
      • Best Low-Cost Airlines were: Southwest (Americas), easyjet (Europe) and Jetstar (Asia/Pacific) and Fly Dubai (Middle-East).

      The World’s Top 20 Airlines

      1. Qatar Airways

      2. Air New Zealand

      3. Etihad Airways

      4. Korean Air

      5. Singapore Airlines

      6. Qantas

      7. Virgin Australia

      8. EVA Air

      9. Turkish Airlines

      10. All Nippon Airways

      11. Cathay Pacific Airways

      12. Virgin Atlantic

      13. Japan Air Lines

      14. JetBlue

      15. Finnair

      16. Emirates

      17. Hawaiian

      18. Air France/KLM

      19. Alaska Airlines

      20. British Airways

      How To Travel Cheap

      As always, the way to find the cheapest flights is travel during slower months. Know the best times to book cheap flights.

      What we’re seeing now from Southwest is just a preview. Airfare prices are about to drop as more airlines battle for your vacation dollars.

      The good thing about Southwest flights are that you get two major perks:

      • No change fees
      • 2 free checked bags

      Final Word

      Because travel has roared back since the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Airlines are having sales, but you have to know how to find them. New Orleans is literally a hot ticket for people looking to take a vacation. To find flights that are affordable, it’s going to take some strategy.

      Here’s how to search for low-cost airfare online.

      More From NolaFi.com:

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    5. How to save for holiday travel

      How To Save Money On Holiday Travel In 2025

      3 Min Read

      Traveling for less is the best thing for your wallet in 2025 and Memorial Day is a big traveling day for millions of Americans.

      This article will show you how to save money on travel for the holiday if you’re an apprehensive traveler. Here’s what you need to know about flying this holiday season.

      How To Save Money On Travel This Year

      For the fall, there have been some good sales, especially with Southwest Airlines, so you can save money if you want to. The real issue is whether you’re ready to risk it all to fly to a vacation destination or home for the holidays.

      Read our in-depth Travel Savings Guide to see how to take trips for less.

      If you want to know what safety measures airlines have put in place, here’s what to know:

      Typically, you may be asked to quarantine from 10 to 14 days, so you’d better have some vacation days to spare.

      How To Save On Holiday Travel

      Let’s talk about some ways you can save on holiday travel. Always check Southwest’s Fare Calendar for days with cheaper prices. If you’re traveling abroad, I love Going.com as well. Here’s how to save on airfares for cheap travel anywhere in the world.

      1. Be Flexible With Your Travel Dates

      The Sunday after a holiday weekend is always the most expensive day to travel. Make sure you remain flexible so that you can book the cheapest travel days, which are typically a few days earlier or later than the weekend.

      The cheapest days to buy travel is typically a couple days before a holiday — except when those days happen to fall on any of the three weekend days. So that means buying on Tuesday through Thursday is typically your best bet.

      2. Pack One Bag Only

      If you want to save money, always only take one travel bag with you. Most airlines charge between $30 to $40 for a carryon bag. That’s up to $80 coming and going.

      For example, Delta Air Lines charges $40 for a second checked bag.

      Delta baggage fee

      Even if you have to wear the same thing for a day, it’s worth it to save on baggage fees.

      3. Look For Travel Bundles

      If you need a rental car, you can save money if you bundle that purchase with your airfare. The same is true for hotels, although you typically won’t need one if you’re going home for the holidays.

      Travel sites like Priceline and Orbitz has deals galore on trip bundles that include flights and hotel itineraries.

      4. Compare Prices

      Consider alternate airports or destinations that may have lower fares.

      Check prices for nearby airports, as they might offer more affordable options.

      For example, flying out of New Orleans may be more affordable than flying out of Baton Rouge.

      Final Words

      Money-saving travel is more of an art than science, but you can save for the holidays if you put your mind to it.

      The main thing you need to remember is that airline travel has changed drastically since early 2020. You will need to pack differently, including bringing plenty of masks and gloves.

      You will also need to adjust your eating habits as many restaurants close their kitchens earlier or still have limited menus.

      Whatever you do, try to have fun and be safe on your travels.

      To New Orleans is one of the most convenient places to travel to and from. A large part of that is because Louis Armstrong International Airport is so accessible.

      More Articles Like This:

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    6. How to book cheap airlines

      What Are The Cheapest Airlines?

      3 Min Read

      When you’re searching online for cheap flights, it’s a good feeling when you can find airfares that are affordable amid rising prices.

      In this article, I’m going to show you some of the cheapest airlines so that you can make an informed decision when it’s time for you to choose a flight.

      What You Need To Know About Cheap Airlines

      Cheap airlines are not grown on a tree. Affordable airfare is a result of market forces that the carriers have been forced to respond to. Airlines have determined that it’s in their best interest to have cheaper fares along with more expensive ones.

      Some of the major airlines know that they can’t compete with low-cost airlines so they have introduced cheaper fares, known as Basic Economy fares. The truth is that these types of fares mimic what you get on a cheap airline.

      Are Cheap Airlines Safe?

      One argument that many people use is that cheaper airlines have a safety problem, but that has not been substantiated. The latest 2021 data shows that budget airlines are no safer or no less safe than their larger counterparts.

      When it comes to fatal crashes, the safest airline over the past 70-plus years is Quantas, which last had a downed plane in 1951.

      Now you may have some questions pertaining to which airlines are the cheapest. Here’s a chart based off data from the U.S. Department of Transportation.

      What Are The Cheapest Airlines?

      RankAirlineHeadquarters
      1.Spirit AirlinesMiramar, Florida
      2.Frontier AirlinesDenver, Colorado
      3.Hawaiian AirlinesHonolulu, Hawaii
      4. Allegiant AirLas Vegas, Nevada
      5.Sun Country AirlinesMinneapolis/St. Paul
      6.Alaska AirlinesSeattle, Washington
      7.JetBlue AirwaysLong Island City, New York
      8.American AirlinesFort Worth, Texas
      9.United AirlinesChicago, Illinois
      10.Southwest AirlinesDallas, Texas

      How To Book Cheap Flights

      The #1 way to book cheap flights is to compare flights by going to a site that aggregates fares. prices are available. Google Flights or Momondo are two of the best places to start.

      Once you find the best prices for airfare, make sure you book on the right day.

      Book On The Right Day

      Not a lot has been written about this, but Southwest usually drops its fares on Tuesdays, which is when its members get emails advertising cheap flights.

      For example, on Tuesdays, Southwest matches prices to compete with low-cost carriers. You can either try to book in the morning or afternoon to get a flight.

      Avoid Baggage Fees

      With budget airlines, it’s common for the flight to be $20 or $30, but the baggage fee will be $40 one way. That means you could end up paying $80 more for a roundtrip flight.

      If you can, try to pack smart so that you can save money on your trip.

      Download this free packing list to help you make room for your belongings.

      Final Word

      Finding a cheap flight is more of an art than a science, but doing your research will typically save you money. Always compare flights on the sites we mention above. And don’t be afraid to use a budget airline, if you find a good fare.

      More From NolaFi.com:

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    7. cheap travel internationally

      How To Travel For Cheap For 2025

      4 Min Read

      Traveling for less is a trip, literally, and that’s why you should always look for ways to save when you’re visiting another city domestically or internationally.

      This article will show you how you can travel for cheap anywhere in the world this fall. You can use these money-saving tips anytime of the year.

      In This Article:

      Research Cheap Fares

      The #1 way to start your journey to finding cheap fares is to research online. Don’t book on the first travel site that you run across. This step takes some real research.

      Sites like Priceline, Orbitz and Google Flights are great resources to find cheap flights.

      Kayak has a map that shows you cheap fares. So does Google Flights.

      You’ll also want to consider whether you need travel insurance, which could cover you in the event something unexpected happens.

      Consider purchasing travel insurance to protect yourself against unexpected events, such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage. Many insurance providers offer coverage specifically for travel to Rome.

      Be Flexible

      Flexibility is perhaps the most important strategy in finding cheap flights. It pays to know whether the timeframe you plan to travel is the destination’s peak tourist season or offseason, when things are cheaper.

      If you’re locked in on a date and can’t change it, the likelihood is that you’ll pay more.

      Know The Exchange Rate

      If you’re traveling to another country which has a favorable exchange rate compared to the U.S. dollar, you can save money by buying things there.

      For example, the euro is trending lower than the dollar right now, which means you can pay for things like food or other expenses for less.

      Use this Historical Currency Converter to research how much a particular country’s money has increased or decreased in value.

      Get A Sightseeing Pass

      Some cities have what is called a sightseeing pass or city tourism pass. That is usually the cheapest way to experience several of a destination’s top landmarks for less.

      Before you book your travel, research the particular city you’re going to and see what it offers where sightseeing passes are concerned. They typically offer bundled deals that are less expensive than buying admission tickets a la carte.

      Stay Near A Big City

      Tourist destinations attract visitors for a reason: They have the amenities, landmarks and infrastructure to accommodate travelers. The downside is that visitors will pay a premium to stay there, but if you fly into a major city but stay outside the city, you can save on lodging.

      Of course, you’ll bear some expense to travel in and out of the travel destination each day, but depending on where you book your hotel, it could be worth it by a lot.

      Book Free Tours

      Always search for free tours and book early. That way, you get to experience the city on your own terms without it costing you an arm and a leg.

      Free tours may not include many of the stops or features that a paid tour will have, but it will let you know what you need to pay for.

      Book At The Right Time

      Buying a flight at the last minute will be expensive. If you can help it, try to book at least a month out to get a reasonably priced fare. Anything within three weeks will likely be higher.

      For lodging, Airbnb used to be the best bargain, but that’s not necessarily the case anymore. Hotels are increasingly offering flat rate deals that are competitively priced.

      If you don’t mind living with strangers, CouchSurfing offers some cheap options.

      Save On Food

      One website that allows you to see what most locals are eating in any given country is EatWith, which shows you immersive culinary experiences.

      Take Advantage Of Lunch Specials

      If you want to experience a certain restaurant you’ve read about, don’t wait until dinner when the menu is pricey. Go to lunch!

      The lunch menu is typically cheaper than any other time of the day, so that’s when you should patronize that particular restaurant you’ve always wanted to try.

      Final Word

      You can travel for less if you keep your goal in front of you: saving money. That means you need to use travel apps and other strategies that help you lower your expenses.

      Here are cheap flights from New Orleans.

      More From NolaFi.com:

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    8. how to save on groceries right now.

      5 Consumer Goods That Will Get More Expensive With Tariffs

      4 Min Read

      America is in the midst of a tariff war with pretty much the whole world. What the ordinary American consumer may not realize is that tariffs will affect some household goods they use daily.

      But what items will tariffs specifically affect? And what do the price increases mean for you and I? Let’s get into it.

      What Products Are Going To Increase in Price Due To Tariffs?

      Tariffs are likely to raise prices on a variety of consumer goods in the United States by increasing the cost of imported products, which is often passed on to consumers. Based on current economic analyses and the types of goods commonly imported, here are five consumer goods that are particularly vulnerable to price increases due to tariffs:

      Electronics (Smartphones, Laptops)

      A significant portion of electronics, such as iPhones and laptops, are manufactured in countries like China, which has been subject to tariffs as high as 20% (with proposals up to 60% or more). These tariffs directly increase the cost for importers, and studies indicate that much of this cost is passed onto consumers, potentially raising prices by 10% or more depending on the tariff rate and company pricing decisions.

      Automobiles and Auto Parts

      Automobiles and Auto Parts
      Photo by Jayson Hinrichsen: https://www.pexels.com/photo/woman-sitting-on-hood-of-black-car-11921769/

      The U.S. relies heavily on imported auto parts and vehicles, especially from Canada and Mexico, which face 25% tariffs, and other countries subject to a baseline 10% tariff. This could add thousands of dollars to the price of cars—estimates suggest an increase of $2,500 to $5,000 for lower-cost models— impacting both new car buyers and those needing repairs with imported parts.

      Fresh Produce (Avocados, Strawberries, etc.)

      best healthy vegetables

      Agricultural products like fruits and vegetables, particularly from Mexico (which supplies about 90% of U.S. avocados), are hit with 25% tariffs. Since these are perishable goods with limited domestic substitution in the short term, prices are expected to rise quickly, potentially by 2.9% or more, affecting grocery bills.

      Clothing and Footwear

      Where to sell unwanted clothes

      A large percentage of apparel and shoes sold in the U.S. is imported from countries like China, Vietnam, and Bangladesh, facing tariffs ranging from 34% to 46%. Retailers often pass these costs to consumers, which could lead to noticeable price hikes for everyday items like sneakers and jeans.

      Household Appliances (Washing Machines, Refrigerators, etc.)

      appliance refrigerator

      Many appliances are imported from China and other nations, and past tariffs (e.g., on washing machines in 2018) have shown price increases of over 11%, adding roughly $86 per unit. With new tariffs in place, similar or greater increases are likely as manufacturers and retailers adjust to higher import costs.

      Are Tariffs All Bad? Not Necessarily

      One lesser-discussed aspect of tariffs is their potential to act as a strategic tool for economic development, beyond just protecting domestic industries or raising revenue. Economists often focus on the inefficiencies tariffs introduce—like higher consumer prices or trade wars—but rarely highlight how they can be used to foster long-term industrial growth in specific contexts.

      Historically, countries like the United States, Germany, and Japan used tariffs in their early development phases to shield nascent industries from foreign competition. This allowed them to build domestic capabilities, achieve economies of scale, and eventually compete globally. The “infant industry” argument is acknowledged in economic theory, but it’s often downplayed because it’s hard to implement without corruption or inefficiency creeping in. Success requires precise timing—knowing when to phase out protection so industries don’t become permanently dependent.

      Another secret is the bargaining power tariffs create. By threatening or imposing tariffs, a country can negotiate better trade deals, extract concessions, or deter unfair practices like dumping. This isn’t just about economics; it’s geopolitics masquerading as trade policy. Few economists emphasize this because it blurs the line between their field and political strategy.

      The catch? Tariffs are a double-edged sword. They can backfire if other nations retaliate, or if domestic firms get lazy behind the protective wall. Data from the World Bank shows that countries with prolonged high tariffs—like India pre-1990s—often stagnated compared to those that liberalized strategically. So, the real secret is less about tariffs themselves and more about how they’re wielded: as a scalpel, not a sledgehammer.

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