3 Reasons You Should Visit Kansas City, Missouri

If you’re looking for an exciting, family-friendly spot for your next vacation, consider visiting Kansas City, Missouri. This little-known destination holds a world of cultural, culinary and commercial fun that’s sure to put less of a hole in your pocket than most destinations. Check out these three reasons Kansas City should be on your travel radar.

1. It's Affordable and Family-Friendly

Unlike many major cities, Kansas City has countless family-friendly attractions, and, as a bonus, won’t break the bank. Between numerous parks, creative spaces like the Crossroads Arts District and museums like the National World War One Museum and Memorial, you’re sure to find endless activities your kids will love. The beautiful skyline alone is something to behold, filled with world-class institutions, single-family homes and commercial real estate Kansas City MO. It’s hard to believe the cost of living here is actually 2.5% less than the national average!

2. It's Got World-Class Barbecue

While you’re in town, be sure to try the famous barbecue. Kansas City-style barbecue is coated with aromatic spices, wood-smoked and served up with a hefty portion of tomato-based sauce. If you’re thirsty for a drink to pair with your savory barbecue, head to the Boulevard Brewing Company for a tour of the facilities followed by a tasting of the city’s signature craft beer.

3. Its Music Scene is Second to None

It might come as a surprise, but the music scene, especially when it comes to jazz, is flourishing in Kansas City. In fact, it was designated a UNESCO creative city in 2017! The city was the historical site of the development of jazz from its original big-band feel to the more improvisational style it’s known for today. Tourists can visit countless live music venues, including dozens of jazz bars, as well as the American Jazz Museum.

From kid-friendly museums to world-class barbecue to a thrilling music scene, Kansas City truly has something for everyone. The next time you’re booking your family vacation, keep this top Midwestern town in mind.

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Considerations for Choosing the Right Place to Retire

Most people look forward to retirement on a daily basis. The thought of not having to get up and go to work everyday is an extremely appealing one. Many people work their whole lives for a comfortable retirement, and choosing where to retire is just as important as choosing when to retire. Whether you are looking to retire now or in a few years, consider these tips for choosing the right place to retire.

Location

Perhaps you want to stay in your hometown and be surrounded by familiar faces and spaces. However, you may want to branch out and find somewhere new to live. If you love being at the beach, perhaps looking at oceanfront homes Maine is the right next step. If you want a cozy hideaway for your retirement years, consider buying a cabin in the mountains.

Cost

Some places are less expensive to live in than others. This is a major consideration for choosing where you will live in your retirement. If you live in a place where the cost of living is lower, you can help stretch your retirement investment funds even lower. If you are not quite ready to retire and are planning to live somewhere that cost of living is higher, just make sure that you factor that into your financial plans.

Proximity to Family

If you have children and/or grandchildren, you may want to move closer to them so that you can spend more time with them in your golden years. It can be a lot of fun to be able to drive over to your children's houses or go to local events with them.

While retirement may seem like a distant dream, it is never too early to start thinking about this important decision. When you are ready to make the plunge, consider these three factors for choosing the right home.

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