When I Choose a Hotel Over an Airbnb
As much as I tend to lean toward staying at an Airbnb, there are times when it simply makes more sense for me to opt for a hotel: If I’m…
Valerie Lai
Valerie Lai is a writer at NerdWallet specializing in social-first content. She always asks herself, "Is this something I would share?" She has written branded content for Business Insider and led influencer marketing campaigns at Disney Interactive. She currently lives in San Francisco with her husband. In her free time, she trains to become a yoga instructor and eats a lot of ice cream despite being lactose intolerant.
Posts by Valerie Lai:
Why I Prefer Airbnbs Over Hotels — and How They Save Me Money
Many travelers still prefer hotels over vacation rentals, but I choose an Airbnb almost every time. Over the years, I’ve stayed at more than two dozen, including a yurt in…
How I Bought a Home in Cincinnati
In this series, NerdWallet interviews new homeowners across the country about their unique homebuying journeys and the financial decisions that helped them get there. In May 2016, Nelson and Chelsea…
4 Savvy Strategies to Save Money on Car Expenses
Driving your car can bring you joy — and the freedom to go on road trips or see friends whenever you like — but paying for its upkeep can be…
How I Bought a Home in Denver
Between the fresh mountain air, ample sunshine, growing startup scene and the progressive image that was strengthened after the legalization of recreational marijuana, it’s no wonder why young adults are flocking to Denver.…
How a Self-Taught Baker Became a Rising Entrepreneur
Scroll through Keiyana Roberts’ Instagram feed — a mesmerizing display of rose-gold glitter cakes, mermaid-inspired cupcakes and more — and you’ll see that she’s more than your run-of-the-mill baker. Roberts…
How I Bought a Home Near the Beach in Capitola, California
For some, living near the beach is a dream. At least it was for Sandy Martinelli, a product manager at eBay who also designs and sells her own line of jewelry.…
How I Bought a Home in Madison, Wisconsin
In this series, NerdWallet interviews homeowners across the country about their unique homebuying journeys and the financial decisions that helped them get there. Madison, Wisconsin, is known for a strong…
How a Freelancer Turned Dog Sitting Into a Successful Side Gig
Good news: Spending time with dogs can be as good for your bank account as it is for your soul. Just ask Melanie Lewis, who has earned up to $2,500 a…
How I Bought a Home in Austin, Texas
In this series, NerdWallet interviews new homeowners across the country about their unique homebuying journeys and the financial decisions that helped them get there. It seems like everyone wants to move…
