The biggest lesson for my daughter? Everything about living in Washington DC is more expensive than her home state. Well, not everything General tax is 6%, compared to 7.25%, but then the rate jumps to 10% on restaurants and take out, liquor, pop and candy. My older daughter picked up a few groceries to help her meal choices, after finding vegan options, but with massive price points, at a grocery store a 12 minute walk away. Woah- it might be the inflation factor, but I think it's the city. Every restaurant is expensive. Short of fast food, expect lunch is going to be in the $18 range and dinner in the $30-35 a person with tax and tip. Yes, it's a connected city and metro area, but you can't really on feet entirely. Still, I'm looking for ways to get a little stretch to our dollar while still enjoying our time and filling out needs.
- Used Metro to the hotel, saving a significant cab or shared ride cost.
- But, used a discount code to get Lyft available. My feet and knee can't walk everywhere.
- Ordered in Indian food that has enough to feed us lunch today. We'll do a final nice dinner tonight.
- While not a hot breakfast serving due to precautions, we've had oatmeal cups, fruit, and plenty of coffee each day to keep that cost down.
- End of day drinks were wine and beer in the room a couple times instead of drinks out.
- Brought a few of our own snacks out and about and if course, refillable water bottles.
- Finally, DH was and will be our transport, saving parking or airport shuttle.
We've more exploring today and tomorrow morning and afternoon before heading home. Questions were asked, answered, and more out down on paper. She has time to think and learn a bit more. That's it for today as I'll be off in a few hours to bed more money.
Hope you're enjoying your trip!
ReplyDeleteWe are, but biting off more than we maybe can eat.
DeleteIt sounds like you've had a full trip. Safe travels home.
ReplyDeleteDefinitely full. We'll over 15,000 steps and my knee feels every one.
DeleteSounds like a fun trip!
ReplyDeleteEverything is expensive there,esp housing but I'm glad you were able to save some money while still having a good time. Safe travels home
I'm at the point of not bothering to think about costs, but she won't be able to do that.
DeleteIt is a major city, hub for so much political stuff etc. Going to always be pricey!! But sounds like a super fun trip.
ReplyDeleteThere's been fun, and challenge but was expected. Yes, I know from work travel the wow factor, but viewing to live eyes wide open.
DeleteDC is definitely expensive! I moved to the east coast when I was 19 and whew, the sticker shock was intense. We had moved from Florida, where gas was $1.64; when we got to our new station in Connecticut, gas was $3.64. I nearly DIED. It was TOUGH living on the same salary with prices SO much higher. I learned an awful lot about frugality, however, and that's shaped so much of my adult life. I hope your daughter is able to come to the best decision for her now and future life!
ReplyDeleteShe'll have to have a good salary or good pt job with grad school if she goes this route. Fortunately, she has time to make decisions.
DeleteI can only begin to imagine how expensive D.C. is now, but I'm so glad you're enjoying it. And 15,000 steps - go you!
ReplyDeleteOh my knee is woe, but as my girl said, "you're killing it, mom."
DeleteIF you ever do this again, you must stay with Sissie. She would be happy to take you. But, it is expensive and that is why we eat breakfast at her place, then we pack a lunch and she has dinner ready when we get off the metro. There is a lot of walking there, but you can hop one of those bike thingys if the weather permits. And a taxi for a few blocks is not too bad. Also the sites usually have wheel chairs if the old knee gives out. I am so happy you are having a good time.
ReplyDeleteThat's kind! If she moves here, well likely visit on occasion. Maybe she'll get a dream job paying big bucks.
DeleteLiving in major cities is always costly. Wishing your daughter good luck with her decision. Hope, whatever she decides will be in her favor.
ReplyDeleteThe good thing is she has time and options.
DeleteThrift and trips are not usual companions. At least you are giving your daughter a taste of what living there would cost.
ReplyDeleteSince that was the whole point, mission successful, I guess. I hope she does though think long and hard about opportunities closer to home.
DeleteYou are thrifty before and after this so you can afford to do what you need to do.
ReplyDeleteYes, one major reason for looking for thrift every other week.
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