Last year, one of my financial goals was to take a trip to the US, but instead, we ended up going to Europe for two months. It was my second European trip of the year, so the US trip got postponed… until now.
At the end of the year, we decided to go to the US with my boyfriend’s sister and her boyfriend. We found a cheap flight on Spirit Airlines, just $220 for a round trip from Guatemala to Ft Lauderdale, FL. We had to add $30 for a suitcase on the way back because we plan on buying a lot while we’re there.
I used to laugh at middle-upper class Guatemalans who went to Miami just to shop, but after living in the jungle for over a year, I understand why they do it. In my town, consumer goods are quite limited. For instance, if you want to buy a fridge, there are only about three places to go, each offering two or three models. When I was looking for a fridge with an ice-making machine, I found just two options in the entire town, both overpriced and outdated.
Shopping for clothes is even more challenging. Most of the clothing supply comes from second-hand stores in the US, meaning you have to be really patient to find something worthwhile. We don’t have any name-brand stores, and the few that display brands like Nike or Abercrombie are selling cheap imitations. Big brands are available in Guatemala City, but with a 20-30% markup compared to the US. So with flights costing only $220, it’s easy to understand why people prefer shopping in the US.
Miami isn’t our usual budget travel destination, but we’re saving on accommodation by staying at my boyfriend’s father’s house, which is shared among his siblings. We’ll be there for two weeks for free. Plus, we rented our room on Airbnb and have a guest staying for a month, paying us $800—covering both flights and our round trip to Guatemala City.
The house in Miami comes with a car, so we only rented a car for a day from the airport. It’s cheaper than a taxi for four people, and we’ll return it the next day when we go to a nearby mall to start our shopping. Despite these savings, the trip will still be expensive. Remember, if you’re renting a car, you need to have proof of insurance; otherwise, the rental company will charge you a high daily fee.
Even though I’m not a big shopper, my boyfriend has been complaining about me wearing the same things all the time. Plus, I’ve lost over 10lbs from running, so I could use some new clothes. Since I’m not planning another trip to Europe this year, this is my one chance to treat myself at reasonable prices. Here’s my shopping list:
**Laptop:** I bought a basic laptop three months ago but don’t like it. In my village, old electronics can be sold reasonably, so I plan to sell my current laptop and buy a slim Asus UX21 for around $800, along with a laptop case.
**Running Shoes:** I need a new pair, about $100. My current ones should be worn out by then, and this should last me until the next Europe trip. I also plan to buy an armband for my iPod and possibly a running bra. Around $150 total.
**Bathing Suit:** Living by the beach, I need a new bathing suit. The ones I have are old and have lost their stretch. About $100.
**Clothes:** I need some t-shirts, jeans that fit my new size, and maybe a dress. $500 overall.
**Underwear:** I want to stock up on 100% cotton underwear, which is hard to find in Guatemala. About $80.
**Flip Flops:** My favorite Ipanema’s Anatomic flip flops broke, and I’ve been using cheap imitations. I need a new pair, costing about $12. $20 overall.
**Luggage:** This is optional, but if I find the perfect laptop bag or a small suitcase with wheels, I’ll buy it. $150.
**Miscellaneous:** There might be other gadgets for the house or books I’ll pick up. $100 total.
The total will be around $2,000. Fortunately, the flight and accommodation are covered, and buying these items in the US will save more than the cost of the flight compared to buying them in Guatemala.
We plan to fly with just the clothes we’re wearing, flip flops, and a small backpack with vital items. All the rest, we plan on buying in the US. We’ll probably spend a day or two at the mall. Also, I’ll order some stuff online before we leave so it’s there when we arrive, giving us two weeks to try and return anything if needed.
**Other Things I’m Excited About:**
Having never been to Florida, I’m really looking forward to this trip. Most of what I know about Miami is from TV shows like Dexter!
**Road Trip to the Keys:** With a car at our disposal, I’d love to take a trip to Key West, maybe stay overnight, try Key lime pie and seafood, swim, and enjoy the sights. Can you see Cuba on a clear day from there?
**The Beach:** Even though I live on the beach, it’s in the middle of nowhere. Seeing the ocean, walking along the coast, and people-watching will be a complete change of scenery.
**Real Estate:** I’ve heard there are artificial canals with multimillion-dollar houses in Miami. As a real estate enthusiast, I did some homework and found some very affordable properties. I love looking at houses wherever I go and imagining how people live.
**All You Can Eat Seafood:** We used to enjoy Chinese buffet restaurants when traveling across the US. They offered a variety of seafood at great prices. BF mentioned Miami has some awesome buffets, so we’re in for several treats!
**Concert:** I’ll check for concerts or events while we’re in town.
After so much traveling, I’m happy to stay in one place and get to know it well, enjoying the small things you might miss with just a day or two in town.
Have you been to Miami? What attractions can you recommend? Which is the best mall?