Here are some of the most interesting things from around the web that I read this week. I’m a bit light on the financial advice this time around and heavy on the fun . Enjoy!

The Empowered Dollar – Ode to the Roth IRA. – Roth IRA’s are pretty much one of the best retirement vehicles out there. Stephanie writes a poem worthy of the majestic qualities the Roth IRA possesses.

NPR – How to Invest in Real Estate Without Being A Landlord. – If you have been reading my “Becoming a Landlord” series you know that I am all about making money slowly through owning investment properties. That just might not be your cup of tea though. REIT’s are the perfect alternative for you to have a little skin in the real estate game without having to deal with all the stuff that comes along with being the actual owner of a specific rental property.

MSN Money – Smarter People Drink More. – This article doesn’t mention money. But have you always wanted to be smarter in the way you handle your dollars? Maybe drinking more is in order. I always knew that the more good craft beer I ingest will ultimately have a positive effect on my intelligence. Now I have proof!

The Chicago Financial Planner – The Retirement Savings Crisis: An Illustration. – Info-graphics can be incredibly useful and they certainly help me digest information. Roger over at The Chicago Financial Planner has created one with some sad stats. Did you know that 30% of American and  workers have less than $1,000 in savings and investment? That means they don’t even have enough for a major car repair. Wow.

Afford Anything – Traveling to 30 Countries by Age 30. – I met my new buddy Paula this week in person. She is awesome – and, by the way, has major travel ambitions. Who can blame her? Travelling the world expands your horizons and teaches you valuable life and cultural lessons. You should obviously do it on the cheap though (like when I went to Ireland).

Don’t read too much. You don’t want to end up like the dude in the photo. Get out there and play too. I hope to see you back here on Monday because I’ve got some updates on Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime that could make cutting the cable cord even easier. Remember to sign up for free reminders of new posts on the upper right hand side of the page!

[Photo courtesy of Mike]