Professional organizers shared their advice on how to approach decluttering your bedroom.
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Business Insider spoke to two professional organizers about how to declutter your bedroom.
Extra bedding, mismatched socks, and old clothing can take up unnecessary space.
Taking things such as mail, dishes, and empty boxes out of the room helps to reduce clutter.
As tedious as it is, decluttering is a necessary task that can make your space look and feel bigger. However, figuring out where to start can be difficult, especially when the clutter gets overwhelming.
For tips on the process, Business Insider asked two professional organizers who cofounded the organizing service Uncluttered Spaces what people should get rid of in their bedrooms.
Here's what the experts said.
Exercise equipment should be kept outside the bedroom.
Keeping exercise equipment outside the bedroom helps to reduce clutter.
BM_27/Getty Images
Although home workouts are popular, Uncluttered Spaces' Tina Horan said having the equipment in your bedroom could create more clutter and make you feel less relaxed.
She recommended moving the equipment to a designated area for working out in order to make the bedroom feel more organized, relaxed, and spacious.
Dishes should either be kept out of the room or cleaned up right away.
Removing dishes from the bedroom is an easy way to clean up.
Cuchulainn Liam Gent/Shutterstock
Sometimes a snack in bed is comforting β but Horan advised against letting a pile of dirty dishes build up in your bedroom.
"I'm sure we're all guilty of bringing dishes into our room, but don't wait too long to declutter and remove it to ensure a constantly clean room," Horan said.
Mismatched socks can take up valuable drawer space.
Getting rid of mismatched socks is an easy way to reduce clutter.
chickaz/Getty Images
Uncluttered Spaces' Nancy Yerkes told BI that having a graveyard of mismatched socks takes up a lot of useful drawer space.
"It's time to buy a new pack of matching socks β let go of the misfit ones and reclaim that drawer space," Yerkes said.
Collecting old clothes minimizes useful closet storage.
Trying on clothes regularly can help you get rid of items that no longer fit.
Csondy/Getty Images
Keeping items in your closet that no longer fit you is one of the easiest ways for clutter to accumulate.
"Instead of collecting clothes, keep a good routine of trying your pieces on so you know what to keep and get rid of," Horan said.
By routinely trying clothes on, you can stay on top of organizing and maximizing your closet space, she added.
Mismatched hangers are a no-no.
Mismatched hangers can make your closet look messy.
Boogich/Getty Images
For a better-looking, more put-together closet, Yerkes suggested getting rid of mismatched hangers.
"If possible, buy uniform and sturdy hangers. It's the secret to a visually satisfying closet," Yerkes said.
Keeping bills, mail, and other documents in the bedroom can make your space look messy.
Leaving piles of mail and other documents in the room is an easy way to accumulate clutter.
sirtravelalot/Shutterstock
Horan advised against opening mail and keeping documents inside your bedroom.
"Having a buildup of mail can cause stress, but it's also messy to have a pile of documents laying around your room," she said.
Instead, she recommended designating a drawer or basket for your mail to keep the collection nice and tidy.
You donβt need a huge collection of extra bedding.
It isn't necessary to have more than two bed sets.
AdShooter/Getty Images
Having extra bed sets with different designs is a nice way to decorate, but having too many takes up an annoying amount of space, Yerkes said.
"Two sets of everything is all you need β one to use while you wash the other and to switch out when necessary," she added.
Move empty boxes and storage containers outside your bedroom.
Put empty boxes in a storage closet, crawl space, or basement.
Klaus Vedfelt/Getty Images
Horan said breaking down extra boxes is a tedious but necessary step in decluttering your room. This includes old appliance boxes, packaging, and storage bins.
"The boxes might look important, but they also are an eyesore and waste of space you could be using for something else," Horan said.
Instead of keeping them in your room, she recommended stacking and packing them away in a storage closet, crawl space, or basement.
She also suggested throwing away smaller boxes, such as packaging from phones or computers, because they don't offer much storage space.
This story was originally published on August 13, 2024, and most recently updated on May 12, 2025.
Though Costco's chicken pot pie is huge, every bite is delicious.
Anne James
I buy nearly all the groceries for my family at Costco and recently became an executive member.
My family loves the Pura Vida fire-roasted root vegetables and Kirkland Signature chicken pot pie.
I also pick up Kirkland Signature diapers, Clorox ToiletWands, and eyeglasses from the retailer.
My husband and I have had a Costco membership for eight years, but we recently decided to upgrade to the executive level. This membership costs $65 more than the standard version but offers an annual 2% reward of up to $1,250 on most purchases.
Though Costco raised its executive-membership fee from $120 to $130 last year, it's definitely still worth it for our family of four β especially considering we buy the majority of our groceries at Costco.
The Pura Vida fire-roasted root vegetables add variety to our veggie rotation.
I love cooking the Pura Vida fire-roasted root vegetables in the air fryer.
Anne James
The bag of fire-roasted root vegetables from Pura Vida includes sweet potatoes, carrots, parsnips, and red onion.
They're already tossed in extra-virgin olive oil, Himalayan pink salt, and black peppercorns, but we also like to add a bit of honey to give it a nice glaze.
I've found that the air fryer caramelizes the vegetables better than other cooking methods and gives them a nice crunch and texture.
Kirkland Signatureβs everything-seasoning breaded cod is a quick and nutritious air-fryer staple.
I appreciate that the Kirkland Signature everything-seasoning cod isn't too smelly while cooking.
Anne James
The breading on the Kirkland Signature everything-seasoning cod is crisp and flavorful, and the fish falls apart nicely.
Plus, as someone who's sensitive to smells, I haven't noticed any offensive odors while it's cooking.
The Kirkland Signature diapers are high quality and come in cute patterns.
My son loves the bear and bumblebee design on the Kirkland Signature diapers.
Anne James
The diapers from the Kirkland Signature brand are strong, with a high waistband that serves as an extra precaution against leaks.
They come in fun animal patterns in each size β which is absolutely adorable. My son became especially attached to the bear and bumblebee design.
Costcoβs chicken pot pie is like a warm hug.
Though Costco's chicken pot pie is huge, every bite is delicious.
Anne James
The chicken pot pie from Costco is simply heavenly. Everyone in my household enjoys the crisp crust and flavorful fillings.
The only downside is that it's huge β but that can also be considered a plus since it's good for several servings.
The Sanders sea-salt caramels melt in your mouth.
The Sanders sea-salt caramels are some of the best chocolates I've ever had.
Anne James
I am a chocolate aficionado, and the Sanders sea-salt caramels are some of the highest-quality chocolates I've found. We've used them for s'mores, and they elevated the experience to new levels.
The sea-salt caramels would also be great in the center of a cookie or served on a party tray. They frequently go on sale, and Costco sells a peppermint flavor around Christmas.
The Rouge River Farms sweet corn is amazingly fresh.
The sweet corn from Rouge River Farms tastes great even in the offseason.
Anne James
Being from Nebraska, I have high expectations for my corn, as I'm used to the version from farm stands. I was amazed by the quality and freshness of the River Rouge Farms sweet corn, even outside peak season β which makes it a good option in winter.
The corn is great when boiled, microwaved, or cooked. It creams well to make tasty cornbread, elotes, and soups.
The Essential Baking Companyβs take-and-bake loaves taste just like homemade bread.
I use The Essential Baking Company's take-and-bake loaves for sandwiches or as an easy addition to a meal.
Anne James
As someone who enjoys baking bread and eating Parisian baguettes, The Essential Baking Company's take-and-bake loaves are a dream.
They're already partially baked, so they only need to be in the oven for a short amount of time before the crust crisps up nicely.
I've seen three varieties at my store β traditional baguette, rustic, and garlic. They're great for sandwiches or as a simple slice alongside a meal.
If a loaf goes stale, we'll make croutons or a French toast casserole β or even just top off a bowl of soup with the crumbs.
The Kirkland Signature ground beef is another money saver.
There's plenty of meat packed into the Kirkland Signature ground beef.
Anne James
The large quantity of ground beef in each Kirkland Signature pack can make it difficult to repackage into smaller bags to freeze, but the versatility of this meat makes it worth every cent.
Among a myriad of other recipes, we've even made gluten-free meatballs for friends with dietary restrictions.
The Clorox ToiletWand refills save elbow grease.
I prefer Clorox ToiletWands over regular brushes.
Anne James
Though Clorox ToiletWands can be bought elsewhere, Costco often has its bulk size on sale. The ToiletWands cost more than a standard brush and cleaner, but they do such a great job that I think the price is worth it.
Costcoβs eyeglasses are a steal.
In my experience, Costco sells glasses at lower prices than other retailers.
Anne James
Even without in-network insurance coverage, I've found that Costco glasses are incredibly inexpensive. They offer a good selection of brands, and I've been just as happy with these pairs as the ones I've bought from other stores.
At the price my Costco sells pairs for, I was able to buy both prescription glasses and sunglasses.
The Paisley Farm four-bean salad is a family favorite.
Even my preschooler loves the Paisley Farm four-bean salad.
Anne James
I usually dislike green beans, but in the Paisley Farm four-bean salad, they're packed in pickling juice, making everything in the jar delicious.
My preschooler is a huge fan, and it's a quick addition to any meal. Sometimes, we'll add extra red beans β a favorite of ours β to the mix, which makes the salad last a bit longer.
This story was originally published on November 14, 2024, and most recently updated on May 7, 2025.
There are lots of things to avoid doing during work meetings.
Shakirov Albert/Shutterstock
Business Insider asked an etiquette expert about the mistakes to avoid making during work meetings.
She said to avoid showing up late, multitasking, and dominating the conversation.
In virtual meetings, it's impolite to turn your camera off or send too many messages in the chat.
Whether in-person or virtual, work meetings are almost always a guaranteed part of professional life. Unfortunately, employees can unintentionally undermine their professionalism during meetings in several ways.
To help you avoid these missteps, Business Insider asked etiquette expert Arden Clise to share some common mistakes people make during work meetings. Here's what she said.
Showing up late
When it comes to meetings, a common faux pas is showing up late and disrespecting the time of others.
"If everyone's arriving late, then you can't start a meeting on time, and you don't accomplish what you need to accomplish," Clise said.
Clise told BI that she recommends facilitators always start the meetings on time to reward those who show up when they should.
Turning the camera off in virtual meetings
Don't turn your camera off unless you have a specific reason for doing so.
Morsa Images/Getty Images
In a virtual meeting, keeping your camera off can be seen as rude.
"I think it's really disrespectful to just remain with your video off when you're addressed and when you are speaking," Clise told BI.
She added there might be a few exceptions, like if your kid just came in the room or you have coworkers around you, but your camera should generally be on β especially when you're talking.
Trying to multitask during the meeting
According to Clise, it's not polite to juggle other tasks while in a meeting. This includes using your phone, jotting down notes unrelated to the meeting, or thinking about other to-do list items.
"If you're not present in the meeting, if you're doing other work, you're not going to hear what's going on. You're not going to participate because you're missing that opportunity to," Clise told BI.
In general, she said to avoid anything that can pull your attention elsewhere.
Excessively typing in the chat
Another etiquette mistake to avoid in virtual meetings is overusing the chat box. Clise said that continual messages can be distracting for others, so it's best to keep chat box usage to a minimum.
She said that if you have a question for one person, sending them a direct message is much better than drawing everyone's attention to it in the chat.
"Chatting is like a side conversation in an in-person meeting," Clise told BI.
Dominating the conversation
It's important to give others the chance to talk.
Klaus Vedfelt/Getty Images
Another big mistake to avoid is dominating the meeting and not allowing others to share their thoughts.
Clise said it can be extremely frustrating if one person constantly shares ideas or asks questions without letting others talk.
If you're running a meeting, it's also important to make sure everyone is given a chance to speak.
Interrupting others while they're speaking
Interrupting, especially in virtual meetings, is a common misstep.
"It's hard sometimes in a meeting, particularly a virtual meeting, to know when someone is finished or going to be finished. But if you're someone who regularly interrupts people β¦ that can be really offensive," Clise said.
Even if it's accidental, it's essential to avoid talking over other people.
Putting quiet team members on the spot
Clise said it's never OK to point out that someone is quiet in a meeting. Doing so might make them feel uncomfortable, and it can come across as though you're trying to make them look bad.
Instead, politely ask their thoughts on a certain point, reassuring them that they've had great ideas in the past, so they feel comfortable speaking up.
Not following through on assigned tasks after the meeting
Don't drop the ball after the meeting is over.
Natee Meepian/Shutterstock
After leaving a meeting, it's crucial to follow through on the tasks you agreed to handle.
Clise said that sometimes, people forget to follow through on action items because they didn't take notes, make a to-do list, or add items to their calendars. However, forgetting to follow through can come across as disrespectful to others.
"It doesn't reflect well on you if you're not holding up your end of the work tasks. If you're not getting work done, you're not helping your coworkers, and you're not allowing the company to accomplish what it needs to accomplish," she said.
When it comes to interviewing, there are several etiquette mistakes that should definitely be avoided.
Lee Charlie/Shutterstock
Business Insider asked an etiquette expert about the mistakes people make during job interviews.
Many people forget to research the company and clean up their social-media pages beforehand.
Arriving on time and sending a thank-you note are easy ways to make a good impression.
For many, job interviews can be a nerve-racking experience. Even with proper preparation, it's common to struggle with this important step in the hiring process.
To help you avoid common mistakes, Business Insider asked business-etiquette expert Jacqueline Whitmore about the things candidates should avoid doing during an interview. Here's what she said.
Not coming prepared for the interview
Whitmore told BI that a simple but common mistake candidates make is arriving to the interview unprepared.
"Most people don't do the proper research about the company. We have so many resources to use, including LinkedIn, websites, and social media," she said. "There's no excuse for you to go into an interview and not know about the company and something about who might be interviewing you."
Whitmore also said it's important to ask the interviewer questions tailored specifically to the company.
Dressing too casually or overlooking small details
When getting ready, it's important to pay attention to the details.
Drazen Zigic/Getty Images
According to Whitmore, dressing too casually is another common mistake she sees interviewees make.
"Very rarely do we see someone overdressed for a job interview," she said. "They oftentimes don't put a lot of thought into the details, like the color of their belt or that their shoes are matching their outfit."
Whitmore told BI that even when candidates do wear suits, they may overlook other key details, like forgetting to cut off the tags or not cutting open the vents in the back.
"Why would an employer want to hire someone who doesn't pay attention to the details?" Whitmore said.
Forgetting to put their best foot forward on social media
Employers will likely look through your social-media presence.
Alistair Berg/Getty Images
Before stepping into a job interview, it's important to consider how you're presenting yourself online, especially since Whitmore said the first thing an employer will likely do is Google you.
"They'll look at all your social-media pages. They'll look at what you eat, what you drink, what you wear, who you hang out with, what your lifestyle is β and they make judgments," she told BI.
For that reason, Whitmore suggested adjusting your privacy settings and cleaning up your social-media presence to eliminate anything that could be used against you.
Using filler words, profanity, or slang
When in a job interview, Whitmore told BI that candidates should never use inappropriate language, such as profanity, slang, or terminology the employer might not understand.
She also said to be cautious of filler words and phrases such as "like" or "um" to avoid muddling the conversation.
Whitmore suggested recording yourself before the interview or practicing ahead of time to ensure you're speaking clearly and precisely.
Having your camera off during a virtual interview
Make sure your background is tidy.
Tint Media/Shutterstock
One mistake to avoid in virtual interviews is refusing to turn on your camera.
Candidates may choose to keep their cameras off for a number of reasons, such as being worried about making eye contact or feeling uncomfortable with face-to-face interaction. However, Whitmore said keeping the camera on is a good idea so the employer can see your facial expressions.
She added that candidates should be wary of what their background looks like and make sure their room appears tidy.
"If you just have to have a blank wall, that's better than a huge distraction. But I definitely recommend that you put a little thought into your background," she said.
Arriving late to the interview
"Showing up late for an interview is a huge no-no," Whitmore said. "I've always said when you're on time, you're still late. You should show up early."
Arriving early ensures you have enough time to find parking or the meeting room. Whitmore added that doing so also allows you to use the restroom and gain your composure before the interview starts.
Not sending a thank-you note
Whitmore likes to send both a thank-you email and a thank-you note.
Oscar Wong/Getty Images
Sending a thank-you note is an important step in the interview process.
"I go overboard. I send a thank-you email and a thank-you note because this is an opportunity for you to get into the employer's eyes at least twice," Whitmore told BI.
Be sure to follow up within 24 hours of the interview and personalize the note.
"Address the person by name. Tell them why you enjoyed the interview and why you would be a good candidate," Whitmore said.
If you're feeling stuck, she suggested writing out a note and using ChatGPT to polish it.
Try branching out from your go-to latte or cappuccino.
udeyismail/Shutterstock
Business Insider asked baristas to share the drinks they think customers should order more often.
An Americano misto is a good substitution for a classic latte.
A macadamia-milk latte is a great option for those who prefer or need milk alternatives.
Whether your go-to coffee-shop order is an Americano or an oat-milk latte, you may feel the desire to switch up your routine every now and then. However, figuring out what to order can be difficult.
That's why Business Insider asked baristas about the underrated drinks they think customers should order more often. Here's what they said.
If it's an option, order a pour-over coffee to enjoy the true flavor of a roast
Pour-over coffee isn't offered at every shop.
Sarayut Sridee/Shutterstock
Pour-over coffee refers to a drink that's made when hot water is poured over coffee grounds.
Alex Greene, head roaster at Gregorys Coffee, told Business Insider that although most coffee shops don't offer this beverage as an option, customers should opt for one if it's available.
"It's coffee in its purest form, so you get to enjoy what the farmer produced without any modifications or milk," Greene said.
An Americano misto is a fine substitute for an expensive latte
"An Americano is just hot water and espresso. You can still get your typical flavoring and ask for an inch or two of steamed milk of your choice. It's still sweet and decadent but costs less than a latte," she told BI.
Spruce up your chai order with a shot of espresso
The flavor of espresso helps to elevate a chai latte.
MrAdelaideRS/Shutterstock
A chai latte is a popular drink that can be enhanced further with the addition of espresso.
This drink, known as a dirty chai latte, can be ordered hot or iced. Both are great options that deliver a delicious mix of chai and espresso.
A cortado is a good option for coffee lovers seeking a balanced profile
Daniel Mentado, owner of mobile coffee bar Sole Cafe, told BI he always recommends a cortado for its perfectly balanced flavor.
"Equal parts espresso and steamed milk create a smooth, rich drink that highlights espresso's bold flavor without being overpowering. Its smaller size ensures a satisfying experience without excessive milk, making it ideal for those who appreciate quality over quantity," Mentado said.
Iced-coffee enthusiasts should opt for a refreshing cold-brew lemonade
A cold brew is a popular option for coffee drinkers year-round, but Chris Dennis, barista and general manager of Ox Coffee, recommends ordering a cold-brew lemonade instead.
"Cold-brew lemonade, especially in the summer, combines two incredible concepts that complement each other well. The best option for this is a cold brew made from berry-forward blends," he told BI.
For those seeking milk alternatives, try an iced macadamia-milk latte
Macadamia milk is sweeter than almond or oat milk.
dourleak/Shutterstock
Connor Nerat, regional manager and barista at Spill the Beans, encourages adding macadamia milk to lattes over traditional milk alternatives.
"Macadamia milk is amazing because it has a natural sweetness that almond and oat milk don't have," he said.
Nerat added that a macadamia-milk latte is also low in calories.
My family and I tried five brands of jarred pickles.
Ted Berg
My family and I tried and ranked five brands of jarred pickles to see which one we liked best.
We didn't like the Vlasic pickles and thought they had an unpleasant aftertaste.
Claussen's kosher dill pickles were the best option by far.
Everyone in my family of four enjoys pickles, but I don't normally give much thought as to which brand to buy.
However, in an effort to be more intentional about my purchases, I recently bought and tasted five brands of supermarket dill pickles to see which ones we liked best.
Here's how they stacked up from worst to first.
We ranked the Vlasic pickles last due to their aftertaste.
We bought another jar of Vlasic pickles to see if our first one had gone bad.
Ted Berg
The Vlasic kosher dill baby pickles at my local supermarket cost about $6 for a 16-ounce container, making them the most expensive per ounce of the pickles I tried.
They had a nice crunch to them, and although they initially had a mild and pleasant briny flavor, there was an off-putting aftertaste. As a result, my entire family placed these at the bottom of the list.
The taste was so unpleasant that I bought a second jar from a different supermarket to see if the first one was an anomaly. It was not.
I wouldn't seek out the 365 pickles from Whole Foods again.
The Whole Foods 365 organic kosher baby dill pickles weren't as crunchy as the others.
Ted Berg
I grabbed a 16-ounce jar of 365 organic kosher baby dill pickles from Whole Foods for $5.
When I took a bite, however, I didn't think these pickles were as good as some of the others I tried. They weren't especially crunchy, and I didn't love the flavor. I thought they were heavy on garlic and lacked the crisp, vinegary bite I seek in good pickles.
I'd eat them again if someone served them to me, but I'd opt for other brands if I were shopping for my family.
To be fair, these were my 7-year-old's favorite, but he's by far the most averse to spicy foods in our family.
Trader Joe's kosher dill pickles were OK, but I wouldn't go out of my way to buy them again.
A jar of Trader Joe's kosher dill pickles only cost $3.
Ted Berg
The Trader Joe's kosher dill pickles were the least expensive of the group, at $3 for a well-stuffed 24-ounce jar.
These pickles had a satisfying snap with each bite but a fairly mild vinegar flavor and some seasoning resembling caraway, which felt unfamiliar. They also didn't have the palate-cleansing zest I sometimes want.
Overall, they tasted like something you'd serve on a cheese board rather than with a cheeseburger.
I'd buy these again β especially considering the price β if I were shopping at Trader Joe's and needed pickles. However, they're not something I'd go out of my way for.
I'd buy the Mt. Olive pickles again for the sake of nostalgia.
I liked the Mt. Olive kosher dill-pickle spears.
Ted Berg
I took home a 24-ounce jar of Mt. Olive dill-pickle spears that was on sale for $4 (about $2 off the supermarket's usual price).
I wasn't sure if I'd ever bought a jar of Mt. Olive pickles before, but when I opened it, I recognized the smell immediately β these were the pickles that came with every sandwich at a popular and delicious deli near where I went to college.
They were a touch mushy and didn't have much crunch, but they won me over with their assertive, classic pickle flavor, which was so tangy it was almost spicy.
I might buy them again if I start feeling nostalgic for that sandwich shop or am looking for a budget-friendly option.
Claussen is my new favorite pickle brand.
Claussen's kosher dill pickles were the clear winner.
Ted Berg
Claussen's kosher dill pickles cost $7 for a 32-ounce jar at my local supermarket. These pickles were the only of the five brands I tried that came from the grocer's refrigerated section.
Having to refrigerate the Claussen pickles made them slightly less convenient to store, but they were so much better than the other pickles we tasted. Vibrant with dill, they were crunchy without being heavy and had a bright vinegary tang.
My wife, our 4-year-old, and I all ranked this as the best pickle by far β so far superior to the others that the extra cost was easily justified.
I will seek out Claussen whenever I'm buying pickles at the supermarket in the future.
Making a small apartment feel personalized, cozy, and luxurious can be tricky. Many renters struggle to find ways to make an apartment feel like home without doing major renovations and potentially violating the terms of their lease.
That's why Business Insider asked interior designers for tips on making a rental feel more luxurious without making big changes. Here's what they had to say.
Choosing a focal point to decorate around can make a room feel more elegant.
Designing a room symmetrically helps to add unity to a space.
Andreas von Einsiedel/Getty Images
Decorating around a specific element, like a fireplace or a piece of wall art, can bring symmetry and unity to a room.
According to interior designer Tommy Kebbson of Kebbson & Co., this can instantly make a space feel more elegant.
"Even small adjustments like placing lamps on either side of a sofa or balancing artwork on both sides of a wall can make a significant difference," he said.
Kebbson also told BI that a symmetrical space doesn't mean all elements have to be identical. Lamps and art can be complimentary without matching perfectly to achieve a balanced, cohesive look.
Use curtains to make your ceilings feel higher.
Long curtains can make a space feel larger and more sophisticated.
onurdongel/Getty Images
Jennifer Jones, principal designer at Niche Interiors, suggests using curtains to trick the eye into thinking your ceilings are higher than they are.
"Mounting tall drapery panels above windows is an easy way to make your small space feel instantly larger," says Jones. "The trick is to pull your eye upwards, which emphasizes the height of the space and makes the volume seem larger. Drapes also add softness and sophistication to a space."
Mirrors can make an apartment feel bigger and brighter.
Mirrors can reflect natural light and make a space feel larger.
New Africa/Shutterstock
Mirrors are a great addition to any room β and not just for touching up makeup or putting an unruly strand of hair back in place.
"A well-placed mirror can reflect natural light and make the space feel much larger and brighter," interior designer Laetitia Laurent of Laure Nell Interiors said.
Laurent told BI she likes to position mirrors opposite windows and in dark corners to draw light to those areas and add a sense of depth to the room.
"In smaller rooms, even a large statement mirror can work wonders, acting as both a functional piece and a design element that enhances the room's overall flow," she said.
Donβt underestimate the power of a rug.
Rugs help divide a space into subsections.
Westend61/Getty Images
Aside from making cold floors feel more cozy, area rugs can also help add structure to an apartment with an open floor plan.
Kebbson said he uses rugs to subdivide rooms, and finds this method especially helpful when designing a studio apartment.
Interior designer Vicky Floros also emphasized the importance of rugs and said they're good items to splurge on.
"Rugs act as the anchor of a room and can make or break a space," she told BI. "While there are many budget-friendly options available these days, this is one item worth investing in, as it can completely transform the look and feel of your room."
It's wise to choose multifunctional storage pieces and furniture.
A good shelving unit can double as a chic room divider.
Mint Images/Getty Images
When creating a luxurious feel in an apartment, Elissa Hall, lead designer and founder at EDH Interiors, suggests using pieces of furniture that "serve both form and purpose," like a convertible couch or a storage ottoman.
"For a recent project, I included a custom-built shelving system that acted as a room divider, offering storage and space definition without sacrificing the open atmosphere," Hall said.
I was disappointed by the sparkling Fuji-apple-pear and raspberry-peach flavors.
My favorites were the Galaxy Vibe sparkling-strawberry and watermelon flavors.
I've always liked having a cup or two of coffee in the morning, but when I started working out before heading to the office, I found myself craving something cold. So, instead of reaching for iced coffee, I turned to energy drinks like Celsius.
The brand, which launched in 2004, struggled to gain traction at first, but is now the third-largest energy-drink brand behind Red Bull and Monster.
Its rise in popularity can largely be attributed to the distribution and investment deal Celsius struck with PepsiCo in 2022. Celsius doubled its revenue the next year.
In order to find out which Celsius flavor was best, I tasted seven kinds and ranked them from my least favorite to my top pick. However, because Celsius energy drinks contain around 200 milligrams of caffeine, I spaced the test out over four days.
The sparkling Fuji-apple-pear flavor was easily my least favorite.
I didn't like how sour the sparkling Fuji-apple-pear flavor of Celsius was.
Beth Heyn
The sparkling Fuji-apple-pear flavor was way more sour than I expected it to be β my face started puckering at the first sip.
Most of the sour notes were balanced out with the almost overwhelmingly sweet aftertaste, but my first sip was too jarring to rank this one any higher β especially when every other Celsius flavor I tried was so much better.
The sparkling raspberry-peach flavor was only slightly better.
The raspberry-peach flavor did not mask the green tea well enough.
Beth Heyn
The sparkling raspberry-peach Celsius was better than the previous flavor, but it still wasn't the best. I expected it to be a strong contender for the top of the list, but after the first sip, it was a bit of a letdown.
Though there were notes of raspberry and peach present, the flavors weren't as strong as I wanted them to be. I also thought this iteration had the strongest green-tea flavor out of all of the ones I tried.
Celsius' sparkling wild berry had a bit of a medicinal flavor.
I thought the wild-berry flavored Celsius worked well as a pre-workout drink.
Beth Heyn
Berry is usually my favorite flavor, so I expected Celsius' take on it to end up at the top of my list.
However, there was something overtly medicinal about the flavor, making each sip quite off-putting. Once that flavor dissipated, though, it tasted more like a Jolly Rancher and grew on me before I finished the can.
Because the wild-berry flavor didn't have a sugary or tart note that stuck around, I thought it worked well as a pre-workout drink.
The Fantasy Vibe sparkling mandarin marshmallow tasted like an orange creamsicle.
The sparkling mandarin-marshmallow flavor surprised me.
Beth Heyn
I had low expectations for the Fantasy Vibe sparkling mandarin-marshmallow Celsius based on the title of the flavor alone. I couldn't imagine a marshmallow-flavored energy drink, but I was pleasantly surprised.
The drink smelled like the inside of Bath and Body Works, but don't let that deter you. Because of its sweetness, this is the perfect afternoon pick-me-up. It's like a sparkling dessert in a can, and I'll gladly drink this one again.
The Tropical Vibe sparkling starfruit pineapple had a more subtle flavor than the others I tried.
I enjoyed the starfruit-pineapple flavor.
Beth Heyn
I really liked the Tropical Vibe sparkling starfruit-pineapple flavor because it was much subtler than the others I tried.
There wasn't a ton of pineapple flavor, but the starfruit really came through nicely. It also tasted much more like sparkling tea than an energy drink β but that's what I liked about it.
I enjoyed the Galaxy Vibe sparkling-strawberry-watermelon flavor.
The Galaxy Vibe sparkling strawberry watermelon had a nice, balanced flavor.
Beth Heyn
The special-edition Celsius flavors turned out to be better than I expected β especially in the case of the Galaxy Vibe sparkling strawberry watermelon.
Both the strawberry and watermelon flavors came through nicely, but were balanced enough to avoid tasting too sweet or tart.
I'd definitely pick this one up again. In fact, I found myself wanting another can as soon as I finished the first one.
Watermelon was easily my favorite flavor.
I'd choose watermelon over all of the other Celsius flavors I tried.
Beth Heyn
The lack of energy-drink or green-tea flavor ultimately landed watermelon its spot at the top of my list.
In my opinion, this one also smelled the best out of all the flavors I tried and tasted like real watermelon.
Although this flavor was quite sweet, it was less jarring than some of the more out-there flavors.
Hiring a personal trainer is an investment, so it's important to choose the right one for you.
Blanscape/Shutterstock
Business Insider asked experts what red flags to look out for when hiring a personal trainer.
A good trainer shouldn't force you to push through pain or attempt to diagnose it.
Avoid choosing a professional that lacks empathy or has an ego-driven approach to training.
Hiring a personal trainer can be a transformative step toward achieving your fitness goals, but it's crucial to choose the right professional for your needs.
Although many trainers are dedicated and knowledgeable, some may not be the best fit or, even worse, hinder your progress. Recognizing red flags early in the hiring process can save you time, money, and frustration.
That's why Business Insider asked Dr. Susie Spirlock, a doctor of physical therapy and strength-training coach at Move Your Bones, and Ashley Hiben, a certified personal trainer at Future, what red flags to look for when hiring a personal trainer.
Here's what they said.
A trainer should have practical experience in the field
Some skills can only be learned from experience training others.
Rowan Jordan/Getty Images
Practical experience provides personal trainers with invaluable opportunities to build relationships, hone communication skills, and translate technical expertise into accessible guidance, Hiben told BI.
"Time in the field sharpens a trainer's ability to read body language, adapt communication styles, and generate energy and engagement in various environments," she said. "Trainers who gain hands-on experience, whether at a small personal-training gym or in larger groups, learn critical skills beyond the textbook."
Hiben added that some of these skills include reading body language, identifying proper alignment in individual movement patterns, and responding in real time to verbal and non-verbal feedback.
"A robust field experience cultivates the balance between technical knowledge and the ability to connect effectively with clients," she said.
"No pain, no gain" isn't a mantra any trainer should have
It's best to avoid working with someone who encourages you to push through pain while exercising, Spirlock advised.
"Pain is essentially a smoke alarm in your body being set off because there is something going on that may not be right," she told BI.
Although pain doesn't automatically mean there's damage occurring, it does mean that the trainer may need to reassess the exercises and make them more comfortable for you.
"If trainers continually ignore these signals or tell clients to push through them, they may contribute to a longer-lasting issue over time," Spirlock added.
Beware of instructors who lack communication and relationship-building skills
The best instructors have adaptable communication styles to connect with their clients.
The Good Brigade/Getty Images
"In the fitness industry, trainers must excel at reading clients' needs, offering constructive feedback, and even giving a dose of tough love when needed," Hiben said. "It's not enough to deliver knowledge alone."
Hiben told BI that the most successful trainers are adaptable communicators capable of engaging each client based on their unique personality, fitness level, and goals.
Before committing to a trainer, she recommended first requesting a consultation or assessment.
"This session allows you to gauge whether the trainer's communication style aligns with your needs and whether they will push you in a way that feels supportive rather than confusing or intimidating," Hiben said.
Trainers shouldn't try to diagnose or treat pain
Spirlock told BI that diagnosing and treating pain doesn't fall under a personal trainer's scope of practice.
"This should be left to the rehab professionals like physical therapists, chiropractors, and athletic trainers," she told BI.
If you have pain that's not improving after a few sessions with modifications, Spirlock said it's the trainer's responsibility to refer you to the appropriate provider.
She told BI that a highly qualified personal trainer will already have rehab professionals within their network, so they can work together to help you alleviate pain and meet your fitness goals.
Make sure your instructor can explain why they chose a certain exercise
There should be a purpose behind every movement.
LightField Studios/Shutterstock
The point of hiring a personal trainer is to get customized workouts that fit your long-term health goals. Therefore, every movement should have a purpose behind it.
"In the world of fitness, there should always be a reason as to why we choose exercises for a client," Spirlock said.
If a trainer can't explain to you the intent of an exercise, then they may not be considering your goals or have enough experience with designing personalized workouts.
A lack of empathy or an ego-driven approach are immediate red flags
Your instructor should be experienced, open to feedback, and empathetic.
TORWAISTUDIO/Shutterstock
"Empathy is non-negotiable," Hiben said. "Trainers who can't sense when to support a client during tough times risk losing the trust that underpins successful coaching."
Stress, for example, impacts the body's ability to function optimally. When trainers recognize signs of stress, they should adjust their workout plans accordingly and offer encouragement instead of push clients beyond their current capacity.
Similarly, a rigid, ego-driven approach can stifle both individual and team growth.
"Trainers with an inflated sense of expertise are often resistant to feedback, limiting their own development and potentially disrupting team dynamics," Hiben said. "Given that exercise science evolves, humility and openness are invaluable traits in a trainer."
Instead, Hiben said to look for trainers who are experienced, open to feedback, and empathetic.
As a lover of the outdoors, my favorite attractions often involve some adventure.
Emily Hart
I've traveled to all 50 states and am often asked about the best things to do in each one.
When I'm in Arizona, I love visiting bucket-list attractions like the Grand Canyon.
I also like visiting lesser-known spots like Monument Rocks in Kansas and the Art Coast in Michigan.
After visiting all 50 states solo, I'm often asked for recommendations on the best things to do in each one. Although every state offers countless things to do and see, there are some activities and places that really stand out from the crowd.
Whether it's a unique experience, a hidden gem, or a landmark so iconic it's worth braving the crowds for β some destinations just have to be seen to be believed.
Here are my favorite things to do in each state.
Spend a day on the beaches of Gulf Shores, Alabama.
In my opinion, Alabama is an underrated beach destination.
Wirestock Creators/Shutterstock
Gulf Shores, Alabama, is a coastal paradise with a perfect blend of sun, sand, and Southern charm.
The coastal city has pristine beaches, thrilling water sports, and delicious seafood, making it my top recommendation when visiting the state.
Check out the Kenai Peninsula on a visit to Seward, Alaska.
Seward, Alaska, reminds me of the backdrop of a Hallmark movie.
Emily Hart
Seward is the one place in Alaska that I continue to return to over and over.
The charming coastal town on the Kenai Peninsula is home to Kenai Fjords National Park, which has majestic glaciers, astonishing fjords, and diverse marine life.
Outside the park, Seward itself looks like the backdrop for an Alaskan Hallmark movie, with quaint shops, fresh seafood, and incredible views from every vantage point.
Admire the vast Grand Canyon in Arizona.
The Grand Canyon is a place you need to see to believe.
Emily Hart
Although some bucket-list attractions don't necessarily live up to the hype, in my opinion, this isn't the case for the Grand Canyon. Even though I've visited the canyon nearly a dozen times, it still takes my breath away every time.
Larger than the entire state of Rhode Island, this landmark is one I think you have to see up close to truly understand and appreciate.
Spend a day at Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas.
Hot Springs National Park offers an interesting glimpse into history.
Although it isn't one of my favorite national parks for outdoor activities, its location in the quaint town of Hot Springs, Arkansas, offers an interesting and informative glimpse into history.
I like to spend my time walking through the historic bathhouses, shopping or dining in the city, and exploring the nearby hiking trails.
Visit the Yosemite Valley at Yosemite National Park in California.
There's plenty to do in California, but Yosemite National Park takes the cake for me.
Emily Hart
With more national parks than any other state, hundreds of miles of pristine Pacific coastline, towering redwoods, and the tallest mountain in the contiguous United States, California is a nature lover's paradise.
Despite all the state has to offer, there's still one place I'd recommend checking out over any other β Yosemite Valley in Yosemite National Park. Hike to Vernal Falls, lounge by the Merced River, and catch the sunset at Tunnel View for an unforgettable day.
Drive through the San Juan Mountains and visit Telluride, Colorado.
Telluride is my top recommendation for Colorado visitors.
Emily Hart
Although my home state of Colorado has no shortage of jaw-dropping beauty, I always tell visitors to visit Telluride.
The views from the town look almost unreal, and driving through the surrounding San Juan Mountains feels like you've escaped to Europe.
Due to its more remote location, the journey to get here is part of the fun.
Explore historic New Haven, Connecticut.
The New Haven Green is a must-see when you're in Connecticut.
Jon Bilous/Shutterstock
New Haven, Connecticut, offers a unique blend of history and culture, and is home to world-class museums, like the Yale University Art Gallery.
Spend a day exploring the historic New Haven Green and savoring the city's famous pizza β a culinary tradition with deep roots.
Spend a day at the beach in Delaware.
I love Rehoboth Beach in Delaware.
Michelangelo DeSantis/Shutterstock
Delaware's beaches offer the classic East Coast experience, with pristine sand and gentle waves. I always recommend visiting Bethany Beach in the spring or fall for some solitude.
Rehoboth Beach is a great summer spot, and the boardwalk has an eclectic and diverse variety of restaurants, shops, and amusements.
Drive the Overseas Highway from Miami to Key West in Florida.
The Overseas Highway connects Miami and Key West.
Emily Hart
One of my all-time favorite trips has been road-tripping from Miami to Key West on the 113-mile stretch of US Route 1 known as the Overseas Highway.
The drive is stunning, with 42 bridges, including the iconic Seven Mile Bridge, connecting the Florida Keys to Florida's mainland.
Spend a day on Cumberland Island off the coast of Georgia.
Cumberland Island National Seashore is an underrated spot in my opinion.
Emily Hart
After seeing so much of the incredible beauty that the US has to offer, I still recommend one lesser-known National Park Service site more often than most: Cumberland Island National Seashore.
The stunning barrier island off the coast of Georgia is as historic as it is beautiful. The island offers history, wild horses, and a 17-mile-long stretch of beachfront.
Catch a sunrise or sunset at the summit of HaleakalΔ in Maui, Hawaii.
HaleakalΔ National Park offers breathtaking views.
Emily Hart
If I had to recommend just one thing to do in Hawaii, it would undoubtedly be watching a sunrise or sunset at the summit of HaleakalΔ β one of the world's largest dormant volcanoes β in Maui.
Located within HaleakalΔ National Park, visitors can drive to the summit for an incredible and unforgettable view. Reservations are required in advance to visit during sunrise, so plan ahead.
Float on the Teton River in Idaho.
I love paddleboarding on the Teton River.
Emily Hart
Idaho has plenty of mountain ranges, hot springs, and waterfalls, but my favorite thing to do is to float on the peaceful Teton River.
Every year, I visit the Teton Valley, where I rent a paddleboard and slowly meander the river while enjoying snacks, wildlife, and great views.
Road trip on Route 66, starting in Illinois.
Route 66 is a great starting point for a road trip through the Midwest.
Emily Hart
When in Illinois, I always recommend combining a visit to Chicago with a quirky road trip through the state on Route 66. I recommend stopping at the kitschy attractions, small towns, and diners that dot the route for a little bit of history and a lot of nostalgia.
Visit Indiana Dunes National Park in Indiana.
Indiana Dunes National Park is a great hiking spot.
Emily Hart
Just an hour's drive from Chicago, Indiana Dunes National Park feels like a hidden gem amid urban areas and industry.
The park is home to 15 distinct trail systems, lush forests, wetlands, gorgeous lake views, and sand dunes β some reaching nearly 200 feet tall. It's a beautiful spot for a beach day or hike.
Explore Des Moines, Iowa.
Des Moines, Iowa, offers plenty of sites to explore.
Jacob Boomsma/Shutterstock
Des Moines, Iowa, is often overlooked as a tourist destination, but there's so much to do in the state capital. With a thriving arts scene, historic sites, museums, and an up-and-coming foodie culture, it's a great city to spend a day exploring.
I recommend visiting the Pappajohn Sculpture Park downtown to view sculptures by over 20 artists.
Check out the Monument Rocks chalk formations in Kansas.
The Monument Rocks chalk formations are an unexpected highlight of Kansas.
Emily Hart
Although Kansas isn't the flattest state in the country, it's not exactly known for its elevation, either. That's why I always recommend taking a short detour to the Monument Rocks chalk formations.
As the first national natural landmark in Kansas, the series of fossil-rich formations appearing out of what seems like nowhere creates an otherworldly and beautiful scene.
Hike at Natural Bridge State Resort Park in Kentucky.
Natural Bridge State Resort Park offers plenty of outdoor activities.
Emily Hart
Of all the adventure options in Kentucky, I recommend hiking at Natural Bridge State Resort Park. The 2,200-acre park and nature preserve has 22 miles of trails, a 60-acre lake, a sky lift, camping spots, and scenic drives.
Explore the French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana.
The French Quarter is one of my favorite spots in New Orleans.
Emily Hart
Although I love Louisiana as a whole, there's nothing like New Orleans and its iconic French Quarter. As the city's historic heart, it's a must-visit for any traveler.
I always recommend attending a performance at the iconic Preservation Hall to take your French Quarter experience to the next level.
Spend a weekend on the coast in Kennebunkport, Maine.
Kennebunkport, Maine, is a quaint coastal town.
Emily Hart
After many trips to Maine, Kennebunkport still stands as my top recommendation.
Just under 90 miles from Boston, this quaint coastal town has gorgeous beaches, outdoor activities, and relaxing accommodations.
Admire the wild horses at Assateague Island National Seashore in Maryland.
Assateague Island National Seashore is a wonderful escape.
Emily Hart
Assateague Island National Seashore allows visitors to admire wild horses and hike, camp, and relax on the pristine beaches.
Just a short drive from Ocean City, the stunning barrier island is part of both Maryland and Virginia, offering what feels like an escape from the world.
Relax during the offseason in Cape Cod, Massachusetts.
I love going to Cape Cod, Massachusetts, in the fall.
KenWiedemann/Getty Images
For a relaxing getaway, I recommend visiting Cape Cod, Massachusetts, in the quieter offseason.
I have great memories of relaxing on the beach for a fall bonfire at the historic Ocean Edge Resort in Brewster, riding bikes on the 25.5-mile Cape Cod Rail Trail, and visiting the iconic Cape Cod National Seashore.
Spend a weekend on the Art Coast in Michigan.
Oval Beach is one of my favorite spots in Michigan.
FotoKina/Shutterstock
Lake Michigan's east coast has a thriving art scene, specifically in Saugatuck and Douglas. Known as the "Art Coast," this lakeside enclave has long been a haven for artists and art lovers alike, with plenty of galleries, shops, and festivals.
The area is also home to delicious wineries, beautiful beaches, and upscale restaurants.
Make sure to visit the iconic Oval Beach, spend an afternoon on an adventurous Saugatuck Dune Ride, and finish the day renting a boat for a relaxing ride on the Kalamazoo River.
See Voyageurs National Park by boat in Minnesota.
Voyageurs National Park is best seen by boat.
Emily Hart
Voyageurs National Park in Minnesota is one of the most unique places I've visited.
Made up of nearly 40% water, the park has four large lakes, 26 smaller ones, and over 500 islands. Because of this, Voyageurs is best seen by boat.
I recommend taking a boat to the historic Kelle Falls Hotel to take in the stunning wildlife.
Drive the Blues Trail in Mississippi.
For those interested in music history, the Mississippi Blues Trail is an interesting attraction.
Jacque Manaugh/Shutterstock
For music fans, I highly recommend visiting the Mississippi Blues Trail, which features museums and historic sites significant to the genre.
Some of the stops include notable cities like Tupelo, the birthplace of Elvis Presley, and Berclair, where B.B. King was born. Another highlight is the Delta Blues Museum in Clarksdale.
Explore St. Louis, Missouri.
There are so many things to do in St. Louis.
Sean Pavone/Shutterstock
In my opinion, St. Louis is an underrated city. From Gateway Arch National Park to Forest Park, there's plenty of greenery to enjoy. I also recommend checking out the Budweiser Brewery for beer tasting or heading to the St. Louis Zoo, which is free to enter.
Plus, with all the restaurants and activities at the historic Union Station, the city has countless attractions to keep any visitor busy.
Drive Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park in Montana.
Driving Going-to-the-Sun Road has brought me to tears multiple times.
Emily Hart
Montana is a vast and gorgeous state, but nothing else compares to Glacier National Park. The park covers about a million acres, with over 700 miles of hiking trails and seven separate entrances β three of which connect to Going-to-the-Sun Road.
On multiple occasions, I've been brought to tears driving this 50-mile road surrounded by some of the world's most impressive beauty. There are plenty of places along the way to stop, admire the view, hike, and learn more about the park.
Take a detour to Scotts Bluff National Monument in Nebraska.
Scotts Bluff National Monument in Nebraska is a great spot to watch the sunset.
Emily Hart
Scotts Bluff National Monument is an incredibly impressive sight in western Nebraska. The towering bluffs rise dramatically above the North Platte River and offer gorgeous scenic drives and hiking trails.
Important in the history of Western expansion, the monument preserves parts of the Oregon Trail and is a beautiful place to visit and catch a sunset.
Drive the βLoneliest Road In Americaβ in Nevada.
Stop by Great Basin National Park while driving the "Loneliest Road in America."
Emily Hart
For a road-trip experience unlike any other, I recommend driving the "Loneliest Road in America." This stretch of Nevada's Highway 50 received its nickname from Life magazine in 1986 due to its perceived lack of attractions.
Despite this characterization, it has become a tourist attraction, luring visitors who appreciate wide-open spaces and desert landscapes. Along the way, you can stop at historic small towns and Great Basin National Park.
Admire fall foliage in the White Mountains in New Hampshire.
I recommend driving Kancamagus Highway and Franconia Notch Parkway for the best foliage.
Emily Hart
The White Mountains of New Hampshire are stunning at any time of year, but I love visiting in the fall to see the breathtaking foliage. For the best views, I recommend driving the scenic Kancamagus Highway and the Franconia Notch Parkway.
In addition to taking a drive, I suggest hiking on the trails and stopping by the Omni Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods for incredible views and a bite to eat.
Go wine tasting in New Jersey.
New Jersey has become an up-and-coming wine destination.
Michelangelo DeSantis/Shutterstock
In recent years, New Jersey has emerged as an up-and-coming wine destination. The state has four AVAs β or American Viticultural Areas, which are regions that have proven to be beneficial for grape growing β and over 50 wineries.
I recommend spending time in the Cape May area, home to the gorgeous Cape May Winery and Vineyard and Hawk Haven Vineyard and Winery.
Visit Ghost Ranch in Abiquiu, New Mexico.
Horseback riding is a great way to experience Ghost Ranch in Abiquiu, New Mexico.
Emily Hart
I love traveling to northern New Mexico and making stops in the tourist-friendly towns of Santa Fe and Taos. However, my favorite place to visit β Ghost Ranch β is slightly less popular.
Located in Abiquiu, New Mexico, Ghost Ranch was once home to artist Georgia O'Keeffe. In fact, many of her iconic paintings were inspired by the area's unique geological formations, vibrant colors, and vast open spaces.
Now, as an educational and retreat center, visitors can stay overnight, hike, or horseback ride on a tour through the otherworldly landscapes.
Hike at Watkins Glen State Park in New York.
If you're looking to get out of the city, check out New York's Watkins Glen State Park.
Khairil Azhar Junos/Shutterstock
I love New York City and think everyone should experience it at least once. However, I also encourage visitors to leave the city and see what else the state has to offer.
For example, I love the Finger Lakes area and recommend checking out the absolutely stunning Watkins Glen State Park. Famous for its dramatic gorge trail that winds through a series of 19 waterfalls, hiking there is an unforgettable experience.
Explore the mountain towns of western North Carolina.
There's so much beauty in North Carolina.
Emily Hart
After visiting North Carolina several times, my No. 1 recommendation is to visit the state's western mountain towns.
From larger towns like Asheville to smaller cities like Brevard and Hendersonville, the area is teeming with outdoor activities, craft breweries, and historic charm.
Hurricane Helene recently brought historic flooding and damage to the area, but when it can welcome visitors again, it should be on everyone's bucket list.
Visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota.
North Dakota is often the last state people visit.
Emily Hart
For travelers attempting to visit all 50 states, North Dakota is often one of β if not the last β state they visit. The state even has a "best for last" club visitors can join if they visit North Dakota as their 50th state.
Despite being seemingly under the radar for some, North Dakota is home to overwhelming natural beauty, including Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The unique park boasts rugged badlands, rolling prairies, and the winding Little Missouri River.
Visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio.
Ohio's Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a great place for hiking.
Emily Hart
Cuyahoga Valley National Park, located between Cleveland and Akron, is a great place to spend a day or more.
Visitors can ride the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, hike or bike the Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail, and admire the park's gorgeous waterfalls, including the 60-foot Brandywine Falls.
Explore the Joseph H. Williams Tallgrass Prairie Preserve in Oklahoma.
The Joseph H. Williams Tallgrass Prairie Preserve is now less than 4% of its original size.
Joel Irvine/Shutterstock
A unique way to experience Oklahoma is to visit the Joseph H. Williams Tallgrass Prairie Preserve.
Managed by The Nature Conservancy, the 39,650-acre preserve aims to preserve the tallgrass prairie that once covered 14 states but is now less than 4% of its original size.
Here, visitors can hike, take a scenic drive, and observe the abundant wildlife.
Listen to the waves on the coast of Oregon.
The Oregon coast is one of my favorite spots in the country.
Emily Hart
In my experience, there's no place in the US quite as peaceful as the Oregon coast, which includes my favorite spots like Pacific City, Cannon Beach, Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, and Ecola State Park.
There is truly no shortage of incredible views, rugged coastline, hiking opportunities, and laid-back towns to spend a weekend in.
Hike the Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania.
Bushkill Falls is known as the "Niagara of Pennsylvania."
Chiragsinh Yadav/Shutterstock
When visiting Pennsylvania, I always recommend spending time in the Pocono Mountains. The area encompasses many state parks and forests, hiking trails, scenic drives, and lookout points.
I recommend checking out the Delaware Water Gap, hiking at Hickory Run State Park, and visiting the impressive Bushkill Falls β a series of eight waterfalls known as the "Niagara of Pennsylvania."
Explore Newport, Rhode Island.
Newport, Rhode Island, is filled with historical sites, beaches, and stunning views.
Wirestock Creators/Shutterstock
Newport, Rhode Island, is a must-visit for any history or architecture buff. Home to the famed Gilded Age mansions, visitors can walk along the Cliff Walk trail or drive along Ocean Drive for views of the magnificent mansions and the Atlantic Ocean.
If mansions aren't your thing, spend time on the beaches of Newport or plan a visit during the summer to attend the annual Newport Folk Festival.
Float through the swamp at Cypress Gardens in South Carolina.
I loved taking a swamp tour in South Carolina.
Emily Hart
South Carolina has a lot to see and do, from beautiful coastal beaches to swamps, lakes, and mountains. One of my top recommendations may be unexpected β a swamp tour through Cypress Gardens.
The natural preserve and gardens in Moncks Corner, South Carolina, allow visitors to take a guided or self-guided tour through the waters of a tall-bald-cypress and tupelo-tree swamp.
Drive the Needles Highway through Custer State Park in South Dakota.
Driving the Needles Highway is a truly unique experience.
bjlopez/Shutterstock
The Black Hills in South Dakota have long been a favorite vacation destination of mine.
However, the one experience I recommend more than any other is visiting Custer State Park and driving the iconic Needles Highway.
The winding 14-mile road takes visitors through narrow tunnels and past the towering Cathedral Spires, offering breathtaking views at each turn.
Visit the country's most popular national park in Tennessee.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee is worth a visit.
Emily Hart
Great Smoky Mountains is consistently the most-visited national park in the country, with nearly three times the visitation of even the second-most-visited spot.
In my opinion, this park is an iconic American landmark worth braving the crowds for. I recommend hiking, exploring the kitschy streets of Gatlinburg, or visiting nearby Dollywood.
Visit Big Bend National Park in Texas.
Texas' Big Bend National Park is stunning.
Emily Hart
Big Bend National Park is a remote, vast wilderness park in western Texas that blends river, mountain, and desert landscapes to create a truly unique experience for visitors.
Hike, camp, or take a scenic drive through the park before catching some of the most spectacular stargazing in the country.
Visit the orchards at Capitol Reef National Park in Utah.
Capitol Reef National Park is one of my favorite spots in Utah.
Emily Hart
After traversing most of Utah several times, there's one spot I keep coming back to β Capitol Reef National Park.
The park centers on the Waterpocket Fold, a geological landscape stretching nearly 100 miles.
Capitol Reef also offers scenic drives, hiking trails, and even orchards.
Check out the fall foliage in Stowe, Vermont.
Check out the fall foliage in Stowe, Vermont.
Emily Hart
Stowe, Vermont, may be known as a legendary winter-ski destination, but it comes alive in the fall with striking and vibrant foliage.
I recommend driving to the summit of Mount Mansfield on the historic Auto Toll Road for gorgeous views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains, or riding the Gondola SkyRide for foliage views from above. Afterward, spend time exploring the quaint and historic city.
Hike a portion of the Appalachian Trail in Virginia.
Virginia's Shenandoah National Park hosts 2,190 miles of the Appalachian Trail.
Emily Hart
Although there's plenty for visitors to do in Virginia, my top recommendation is to hike a portion of the Appalachian Trail, which is over 2,190 miles long and spans from Maine to Georgia.
A bucket-list hike for many, Shenandoah National Park includes 101 miles of the Appalachian trail to explore.
Visit Cape Flattery in Washington.
Cape Flattery in Washington is known for its rugged coastline and unique rock formations.
Emily Hart
Cape Flattery β the northwesternmost point of the contiguous US β is my favorite spot to recommend in Washington.
Known for its rugged coastline and unique rock formations, Cape Flattery is part of the Makah Reservation, so a permit is required to recreate there. However, permits can be purchased online or at various in-person locations.
Raft on the Gauley River in West Virginia.
I think West Virginia's Gauley River has some of the best white-water rafting in the country.
Emily Hart
I've loved all my visits to West Virginia, but the activity I recommend more than any other is white-water rafting on the Gauley River.
During "Gauley Season" in the fall, controlled dam releases create what is, in my opinion, some of the best white-water rafting in the country.
Visit the smallest city in Wisconsin.
Bayfield, Wisconsin, offers plenty of outdoor-recreation opportunities.
Emily Hart
Wisconsin is one of my all-time favorite states to visit β it's unexpectedly beautiful and offers lots of opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Bayfield is my favorite Wisconsin city and also happens to be the smallest one in the state. In the city's quaint downtown, travelers will find local shops, art galleries, and locally sourced dining experiences.
Cool off in a lake at Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming.
Wyoming's Grand Teton is my favorite national park in the country.
Emily Hart
After visiting all 63 major US National Parks, Wyoming's Grand Teton is my favorite. In my opinion, the park's stunning landscapes and hiking trails are unlike any other.
My top recommendation is to find a lake to enjoy. Whether you're paddleboarding and wading at String Lake or swimming at Jackson Lake, submerging yourself in these waters is a once-in-a-lifetime refreshing experience.
I spend at least $275 at Costco when shopping for my family of four.
I stock up on several essentials, including snacks, dog food, and sparkling water.
I also buy non-food items like journals and children's medicine from Costco.
Growing up in South Georgia, Sam's Club reigned supreme for me when it came to grocery shopping.
However, I started shopping at Costco 12 years ago β which became a game changer when it came to budgeting for my family of four. From snacks for my kids to dog food, here are 11 items I typically make sure to put in my cart.
Prices may vary by location.
I stock up on big bags of snacks to feed my kids and their friends.
The Frito Lay variety snack pack and Wonderful pistachios are my pantry go-tos.
Erin McClure
My two kids, aged 9 and 13, are perpetual snackers. Most of their friends live nearby, so our house β and especially our pantry β feels like it has a revolving door of snackers.
That's why I like to keep a steady supply of snacks on hand for them. On Costco runs, I always buy their favorites: the Frito-Lay variety snack pack ($18), one large bag of Dot's pretzels ($10), and one large bag of Wonderful pistachios ($20).
Kirkland Signature dog food and treats keep our pups healthy and happy.
We feed our pups the Kirkland Signature healthy-weight dog food and dental chews.
Erin McClure
I exclusively buy our two cattle dogs food from Costco. The Kirkland Signature healthy-weight dog food ($32) is not only a great deal, but it's also filled with protein.
I buy the Kirkland Signature dental chews ($37) as well because they keep our pups' teeth clean and cost less than the Greenies dental treats.
I firmly believe Costco has the best-tasting sparkling water.
My husband and I thoroughly enjoy Kirkland Signature sparkling water.
Erin McClure
This Kirkland Signature sparkling water 35-count variety pack ($11) includes lime, lemon, and grapefruit flavors.
My husband likes to pour a can over ice and drink it throughout the day, and I mix it with tonic water and flavored bitters for a dry mocktail in the evenings.
Costco sells my husband's and daughter's favorite ramen.
My husband and daughter love TanTanMen with chili oil and Cup Noodles.
Erin McClure
My husband and 13-year-old daughter consume massive amounts of ramen, and Costco carries two of their favorite quick-cooking varieties: Cup Noodles in the chicken flavor and TanTanMen with chili oil ($12 each).
Eaten as a hearty snack, lunch, or dinner, ramen is a go-to at our house, so I make sure it's always in my cart.
I buy Campbell's chicken-noodle soup year-round.
Campbell's chicken-noodle soup is a great staple item to keep in the pantry.
Erin McClure
In addition to being delicious, Campbell's chicken-noodle soup is made with real broth and hearty chunks of chicken breast, making it a go-to for sick days in our household.
Our local grocery store doesn't stock this variety, so I get an 8-pack at Costco for $13.60.
I buy children's liquid Tylenol and Motrin as sick-day staples.
Children's liquid Tylenol and Motrin are necessities during flu season.
Erin McClure
I keep plenty of children's liquid Tylenol and Motrin ($13 each) on hand, especially during cold and flu season.
Costco's three-packs are a steal compared to buying single bottles at my local grocery store or pharmacy.
I only buy bread at Costco since loaves come in a two-pack.
Grandma Sycamore's white bread is a good option for making cinnamon toast or sandwiches.
Erin McClure
When buying a two-pack of bread ($5), I refrigerate one and freeze the other to prevent mold.
I like to try different kinds, but I opted for Grandma Sycamore's white bread on this particular shopping trip, which is ideal for making cinnamon toast or sandwiches.
I'm obsessed with the Kirkland Signature Italian-sausage-and-beef lasagna.
The Kirkland Signature Italian-sausage-and-beef lasagna is worth the hype.
Erin McClure
I've seen people rave about the Kirkland Signature Italian-sausage-and-beef lasagna ($17) online β and I can see why. It's nice and thick, with hearty layers of sausage that add an extra kick of flavor.
I prefer to cook it in the microwave before throwing it in the oven broiler for a minute or two to get the cheese brown and crispy on top.
Kirkland Signature's whole-bean coffee House Blend is my go-to for a daily pick-me-up.
I love the Kirkland Signature whole-bean coffee House Blend.
Erin McClure
I brew freshly ground coffee every morning, and the Kirkland Signature whole-bean coffee House Blend in the medium roast ($14) is my favorite by far.
The Kirkland Signature version is exceptionally smooth with a mild acidity, meaning it's not too strong or weak. It's perfect for everyday coffee drinkers.
I make dinner using the Kirkland Signature farm-raised Atlantic salmon filets.
The Kirkland Signature farm-raised Atlantic salmon filets make a great dinner for the whole family.
Erin McClure
The Kirkland Signature farm-raised Atlantic salmon filets ($35) are boneless and skinless, making them great for the kids.
For dinner, I prefer to oven-roast salmon on a sheet of Kirkland Signature parchment paper. Sometimes, I'll marinate them in a teriyaki or miso sauce so the edges caramelize to a brown, crispy texture.
I love the notebooks Costco sells.
Costco has a great selection of notebooks.
Erin McClure
I prefer to handwrite the first draft of anything I'm working on, so I'm very particular about the look and feel of notebooks I use. I bought this three-pack of notebooks ($15) on a whim a while back and now I write in them exclusively.
They have an exceptionally sturdy cover and pages that lie flat, making them ideal for writing and transcribing.
There are a few mistakes that should be avoided when hosting for the holidays.
DragonImages/Getty Images
Business Insider asked etiquette experts about the mistakes to avoid when hosting for the holidays.
It's important to make sure everyone feels welcomed β even unexpected guests.
Hosts should also ensure there is enough seating for everyone at the party.
Although hosting friends and family for the holidays can be fun, there's no denying that doing so also comes with its fair share of stress. Without proper planning, things can even get chaotic.
To avoid making etiquette mistakes in the process, Business Insider asked two experts to share the top mistakes they see people make when hosting. Here's what they said.
Don't chastise guests for bringing an unexpected plus-one
Diane Gottsman, a national etiquette expert and the owner of the Protocol School of Texas, told BI that hosts should never reprimand a guest for bringing an unexpected plus-one.
If this happens, she said to address the issue later β not in front of others.
"You don't want to reprimand the guest or the guest's guest in front of anyone. Later on, you can say, 'Sally, I wasn't expecting a plus one because it kind of put me in an awkward position with other people.' But you can say that privately at another time, not that night," Gottsman said.
Make sure there is enough seating for all guests
Use your head count to ensure everyone has a place to sit.
Rawpixel.com/Shutterstock
When it comes to seating, it's important to double check your head count and ensure everyone has a place to sit. Gottsman said this should also be done for more casual events like cocktail or dinner parties.
"You want to have enough seating for people," Gottsman said.
Avoid creating a chaotic environment
Etiquette and hosting expert Carla Shellis said another common mistake hosts make is not considering how they want their event or home to feel.
By yelling and scrambling to get things done at the last second, the host can unintentionally leave the space feeling more chaotic than welcoming.
Gottsman shared similar thoughts, telling BI, "When the doorbell rings with your first guest, you should not still be in your hair rollers, or lighting candles, or racing around talking about how busy you are."
To combat a chaotic situation, Shellis likes to play music, light candles, and clean the space before her guests arrive. She also gives herself plenty of time to get everything done so she doesn't have to rush.
Be cautious when serving alcohol
Alcohol can sometimes do more harm than good at a party.
wilpunt/Getty Images
Shellis told BI that serving too much alcohol is an easy way to create unnecessary issues at a party. That's why it's important to ensure everyone is enjoying themselves in moderation.
For instance, Shellis said when people ask her if she has any more wine, she'll say no and redirect them by offering other beverages like iced tea or soda.
"For 30 years, I've been hosting parties, and I'm going to tell you there's nothing that will kill a beautiful environment quicker than somebody that's hammered and acting foolish," Shellis told BI.
My party of two spent $165 on the multicourse, two-hour dining experience.
The dinner show was very entertaining, and our meal was delicious, making the price tag worth it.
During a recent visit to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, I checked out Dolly Parton's Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud show.
I'd been to her nearby Dollywood theme park many times while in the area β and Parton's other dinner shows β but this was my first time visiting this particular venue.
Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud is loosely based on the real-life feuding families from the 19th century. Operating since 2011, the two-hour experience features a live show and multicourse meal housed in an extravagant theater.
Adult seats start at about $60 each, though visitors can pay more for VIP perks. Reservations can be made online, over the phone, or in person at the box office.
I booked two adult tickets in advance for $135. Here's what the dinner show was like.
First, we explored the merchandise shop.
I bought an at-home mix and branded soup bowl from the merchandise shop.
Carly Caramanna
Before showtime, we walked around the venue's large merchandise shop. I'd heard about the dinner show's famous soup, so I couldn't resist purchasing an at-home mix and branded soup bowl.
Before heading into the theater, we also passed a bar selling alcoholic beverages, like moonshine cocktails.
The theater's seating setup offered great views all around.
We could clearly see the stage from our seats.
Carly Caramanna
After we checked in, we were seated in the theater. The seating was stadium-style, meaning you could have a great view of the stage from just about any vantage point.
We were immediately greeted by our server, who offered unlimited Coca-Cola, tea, or coffee, included in the cost of the experience. Dinner was promptly served after.
The first course was the famous soup.
I was impressed by the creamy soup.
Carly Caramanna
I couldn't wait to try the show's famous starter, which is simply called the original creamy soup.
It was deliciously rich and savory without being too heavy.
The Southern-style main course was next.
The main course featured large portions of each dish.
Carly Caramanna
The main course was a homestyle Southern meal featuring bread, coleslaw, mashed potatoes, buttered corn on the cob, fried chicken, and pulled pork. I couldn't believe how large the portions were.
Dairy-free, vegan, and gluten-free meals were also available by request.
The fried chicken was my favorite.
I also enjoyed the mashed potatoes that came with the fried chicken.
Carly Caramanna
I enjoyed everything but was especially impressed by the fried chicken, which was crisped to perfection with a juicy interior.
It ended up being my favorite of the main course, along with the extra creamy and garlicky mashed potatoes.
The show began after the meal and was extremely entertaining.
The show was extremely elaborate.
Carly Caramanna
The elaborate stage was impressive, featuring water and fire elements, as well as a 24-foot-deep diving pool.
The show, which featured dozens of talented performers, was engaging and funny. It also had pyrotechnics, stunts, dancing, and live music.
At the time of booking, diners choose which side they'd like to be seated on, either Hatfield or McCoy. So, the audience was split and encouraged to root for their respective side.
Overall, the content felt family-friendly, making it perfect for audience members of any age.
The meal ended with dessert.
I was glad the dessert was light after such a heavy meal.
Carly Caramanna
By the time we got to dessert, I was pretty full.
Still, the pudding and whipped cream were refreshingly light, which was perfect after a heavy meal.
I've been to Parton's other dinner shows, but this was my favorite.
Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud was worth the $165 we spent to see it.
Carly Caramanna
I've dined at Parton's other shows, including Pirates Voyage and Dolly Parton's Stampede, but the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud show is now my favorite.
From the delicious food β especially that fried chicken β to the engaging entertainment, I thought it was worth the $165 price tag for two tickets.
I definitely recommend checking it out if you're in Pigeon Forge.
There are a few products I swear by when traveling alone.
oatawa/Shutterstock
I swear by a few items to help make my solo trips more convenient.
My portable tripod allows me to capture photos of myself without relying on help from strangers.
My other must-haves include a back-lotion applicator, first-aid kit, and portable charger.
As a travel writer, I'm often taking off by myself β as often as 15 times a year.
Because I typically travel without a partner, I make sure to pack a few essential items to make my trips easier, safer, and more enjoyable.
Here are seven things I don't leave for a solo trip without.
Having a tripod means I don't have to rely on strangers to take pictures for me.
My tripod makes it easier for me to take photos of myself.
Kelly Magyarics
I like to take pictures of myself traveling, whether to post on social media or send to my boyfriend. I'm not into selfie sticks, and unfortunately, I can't always rely on strangers to take photos for me. So, having a cellphone tripod is a good compromise.
I love my ToneOf universal cellphone tripod because it easily slips into my carry-on luggage and expands when I need to snap a picture. It also includes a rechargeable remote control for the shutter.
My portable speaker doubles as a white-noise machine.
My LectroFan Bluetooth speaker is a versatile staple in my travel bag.
Kelly Magyarics
When I'm traveling by myself, I always carry my LectroFan Bluetooth speaker with me. The sound is incredible considering its tiny size, and it has several white-noise settings to drown out noisy neighbors or street sounds.
When I'm feeling lonely, I also like to use it to have a solo dance party in my room.
This back-lotion applicator helps me avoid getting sunburn in the areas I can't reach.
My sunscreen applicator doesn't take up much room in my bag.
Kelly Magyarics
Since I often travel to tropical places, I prefer to pack bottles of sunscreen lotion since the coverage is heavier than spray. However, it's tricky to apply the lotion to my own back and shoulders.
Foam brush applicators are clunky to pack, but luckily, I found a cloth applicator from Steugo that folds up and doesn't take up much room in my suitcase.
I pour some lotion onto the fabric and then use the handles to rub it onto my back as if I'm drying myself with a towel. I rinse or hand-wash it between uses and throw it in the washing machine once I return home.
A first-aid kit is a must-have when traveling alone.
I supplement my first-aid kit (not pictured) with over-the-counter medicine.
Carol Yepes/Getty Images
When I get injured or start to come down with something while traveling alone, there's no one to run out to the drugstore to get medicine or first-aid supplies for me.
Sometimes, I'm not even in an area with a nearby drugstore, so I make sure to bring along any items I might need.
My first-aid kit is stocked with bandages, cleaning wipes, gauze, tick removers, nosebleed plugs, sting relief, burn ointment, and a thermometer.
I also pack some over-the-counter medicine for pain, gastrointestinal issues, motion sickness, and congestion.
A portable charger is always good to have on hand.
A portable charger prevents my phone from dying while I'm out.
Kelly Magyarics
One of my biggest concerns when traveling alone is my cellphone battery running low.
After all, I need my phone to navigate cities, book Uber rides, make restaurant reservations, and research tourist attractions. That's why I always carry a USB portable charger with me.
Slip-on shoes are a must for airport travel.
I love my Kizik slip-on sneakers.
Kelly Magyarics
When TSA PreCheck isn't available, I often have to remove my shoes and coat and take my laptop and liquids out of my bag when I go through security.
Without a travel partner to double-check I grabbed everything, I like to make sure the process is as quick and easy as possible. That's why I always wear my favorite slip-on sneakers from Kizik.
They're also incredibly comfortable even after a long day of exploring.
Having a portable wash bag allows me to do my laundry.
My portable wash bag allows me to freshen up clothes I want to wear again.
Kelly Magyarics
I never check my luggage, and being a single traveler means I can only bring one carry-on with me. Even though I can fit a lot in my bag, I sometimes need to re-wear and freshen up my clothes.
Because hotel laundry service is often expensive, I bring my own Scrubba portable wash bag with me.
To use it, I fill the packable bag with socks, underwear, and t-shirts and then add water and a laundry sheet. Then, I deflate the bag and rub my clothes along the inner washboard before rinsing, wringing, and hanging my garments to dry.
I'm a solo traveler who recently visited Alaska for the first time.
I recommend taking the Alaska Railroad for its scenic views and efficient transportation.
I loved taking in the wildlife at Kenai Fjords National Park and Potter Marsh.
Over the years, I've watched many of my friends and family members go on weeklong cruises to Alaska.
As a solo traveler, I thought a cruise would be the best way to see the state. However, I didn't want to spend my entire trip on a boat and decided to make my own itinerary instead.
Here are four activities I recommend to those visiting Alaska for the first time.
Take advantage of the views on the Alaska Railroad.
The views from the train were gorgeous.
Malika Bowling
During my trip, I loved talking a ride on the Alaska Railroad, which just celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2023.
Since I was staying in Anchorage and wanted to see Kenai Fjords National Park, I took the train from Anchorage to Seward and back.
If you have the means to splurge a bit, I recommend opting for the GoldStar service, which featured glass-dome ceilings and incredible panoramic views of Alaska.
Cruise through Kenai Fjords National Park.
The views from the boat were incredible.
Malika Bowling
Taking a boat ride through Kenai Fjords National Park is a terrific option for anyone who doesn't want to spend their entire trip on a boat. I loved seeing the fjords and watching the playful sea lions and orcas.
Our ship even stopped for lunch on Fox Island. Although there isn't much exploring to do on the small island, it was nice to get off the boat and warm up with some soup and salad.
Take a flightseeing tour to Denali.
Even though I didn't get to see Denali, I saw many glaciers and mountains.
Malika Bowling
I knew booking a flightseeing tour to Denali was a gamble because of how weather-dependent the activity is.
When I arrived at the office, though, I was disappointed to find out the cloud cover would prevent us from seeing Denali, the tallest mountain in North America.
However, the pilots had a backup plan, and I still got to see lots of gorgeous glaciers and breathtaking snow-covered mountains.
Check out the wildlife at Potter Marsh.
I enjoyed observing the birds at Potter Marsh.
Malika Bowling
If you're looking to enjoy some fresh air and see different species of birds, Potter Marsh is the place to go. I loved walking along the wooden boardwalk and having close-up views of the wildlife.
Although there are tours of Potter Marsh, I'm glad I drove myself and could take my time soaking in my surroundings.
I asked ChatGPT to recommend Christmas gifts for my family.
Getty Images; iStock; Natalie Ammari/BI
I asked ChatGPT to come up with gift ideas for my dad, mom, and sister.
The AI tool gave me unique, thoughtful suggestions on what to get my parents.
I wasn't as impressed with its gift ideas for my sister, but overall, ChatGPT did a great job.
Although I love Christmas shopping and gift-giving, finding unique, meaningful gifts for my family can be difficult year after year.
Determined to switch things up, I turned to ChatGPT to help me come up with some gift ideas for them.
My hope was that the AI service would produce ideas that I wouldn't have thought of otherwise, with suggestions more creative than just another cookbook for my mom or band T-shirt for my sister.
Here's how it went.
Going into the holiday season, I was most worried about what to get my dad
He doesn't care much for material things, so I was curious if ChatGPT could suggest practical gifts or experiences he'd appreciate.
Here's the prompt I gave ChatGPT:
Please give me unique gift recommendations for what to get my dad for Christmas based on his interests. He loves anything about World War II history, is trying to learn Spanish via Duolingo, always rewatches "Breaking Bad," is on the keto diet, and loves making breakfast food.
In total, ChatGPT gave me 19 suggestions β three for each of the five interests I mentioned, along with additional ideas under categories suggesting quirky and personalized gifts.
I was most impressed with ChatGPT's suggestions for my dad
ChatGPT suggested I give my dad a keto snack-box subscription.
ZikG/Shutterstock
Some of the ideas ChatGPT gave me included a personalized World War II history book, Duolingo merchandise, a Los Pollos Hermanos (a restaurant from "Breaking Bad") apron, a keto snack-box subscription, and gourmet bacon.
I was impressed, as these were all ideas I wouldn't have come up with on my own. However, my favorite suggestions were under ChatGPT's "Fun and Quirky" and "Personalized Gift" sections.
The quirky ideas included a World War II-themed board game like Axis & Allies, and a movie-night pack comprised of a collection of Spanish-language films (with snacks to enjoy while watching).
Under the personalized gift section, ChatGPT suggested a keto-friendly breakfast basket with treats like low-carb muffins and nut butters.
Because my dad isn't really into collecting memorabilia, I decided the best idea would be to combine two ideas and pair the Spanish movie-night pack with an assortment of keto-friendly snacks.
I think he'd appreciate the experience of watching movies together. I may also check out some keto-snack-box-subscription websites for ideas on what to put in his basket.
I figured my mom would be easier to shop for
Going into this holiday season, I was a bit less worried about what to get my mom because she plans to retire next year and is looking for more hobbies to keep her busy.
Still, I didn't have anything particular in mind, which is where ChatGPT came in handy.
I asked it to come up with gift ideas based on this prompt:
Now, can you help me come up with ideas for my mom based on her interests? She is super excited to go to Iceland for the first time next year, is always trying to find low-carb, low-sugar TikTok recipes, wants to get more into exercising (recently bought a Peloton and Apple Watch), and is overall just looking for more hobbies to pick up when she retires next year.
It gave me 22 suggestions in total β four for each of the four points I mentioned and additional ideas under categories suggesting personalized and mindfulness-related ideas.
ChatGPT came up with some pretty unique ideas for my mom
ChatGPT suggested an herb garden for my mom.
dennispentek/Shutterstock
Among the ideas ChatGPT suggested were a packing kit for Iceland that includes items like a travel adapter and language guide, a personalized binder of her favorite TikTok recipes, Apple Watch bands, and cooking or baking classes to enjoy in retirement.
Compared to my dad's results, I was less impressed with the additional categories ChatGPT created for my mom. Under the "Something Personalized" category, it suggested a customized Icelandic map, a personalized fitness-tracker case, and motivational-quote wall art. In my opinion, none of these seemed very practical or creative.
I thought the "Mindfulness and Relaxation" category had much better ideas: a subscription box for relaxation, a weighted blanket, and an indoor herb-garden kit.
A weighted blanket isn't likely something she'd buy for herself, but I can imagine her getting a lot of use out of it while unwinding after a long day. She's also been trying to eat healthier, so an indoor-herb-garden kit could lead her to a fun new hobby while allowing her to add fresh garnishes to her dishes.
I also liked the personalized recipe-binder idea since my mom usually just watches the same videos over and over again to remember the ingredients. Writing down and compiling her favorite TikTok recipes would be a practical and affordable gift.
I already had a gift idea in mind for my sister, so I was less reliant on the ChatGPT results
I was leaning toward getting my sister concert tickets for Christmas, but I still wanted to see what ideas ChatGPT had.
I figured if any of them stood out, I could give her another gift in addition to the tickets β or just replace them altogether.
Here's the information I gave ChatGPT:
Can you now help me come up with unique Christmas gift ideas for my sister based on her interests and hobbies? My sister loves everything music (she plays five instruments), likes unique party games, lives in San Diego, is graduating from college next year, is going to Bali next year, and likes to get merchandise from her favorite artists.
It gave me 26 gift suggestions, with ideas specific to all six of the points I mentioned and more under a category titled "Something Fun & Personalized."
None of the ideas for my sister blew me away
Although ChatGPT gave me the most ideas for my sister, I was actually the least impressed with these suggestions. However, this may have been because I already had an idea of what to get her.
Some of the ideas it gave me were a custom instrument case, specific party games (most of which she already owned), a Bali guidebook, a memory box to keep mementos from college, and merchandise from San Diego or her favorite artists.
These ideas seemed a lot more generic than the ones it produced for my mom and dad. For example, I wouldn't have thought to put together a TikTok-recipe binder for my mom or a Spanish movie night for my dad.
However, there weren't any ideas for my sister that I thought were especially unique or practical.
Perhaps it was due to the types of interests I entered for my sister, but I wouldn't choose any of those gifts over β or even as an addition to β concert tickets for her.
Before making any future holiday purchases, I'll consult ChatGPT first
Despite being slightly disappointed with ChatGPT's suggestions for my sister, I'll definitely be taking some of the ideas it gave me for my parents.
Although the AI tool may not have all the answers for mind-blowing, personalized gifts, I think it's a decent place to start if you need some ideas for brainstorming.
Based on this success, I plan to return to the platform to ask for gift suggestions for upcoming holidays and birthdays.
Gordon Ramsay has several streams of income contributing to his estimated status as a multimillionaire.
Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty Images
Although Gordon Ramsay's exact net worth is unknown, he is estimated to be a multimillionaire.
Ramsay has over 80 restaurants worldwide and stars in several hit shows on Fox.
He also has other business ventures, including wine and frozen-food lines.
With numerous Michelin stars and several TV shows, British chef Gordon Ramsay has cemented himself as one of the most well-known celebrities in the food scene.
The 58-year-old's success in the restaurant and entertainment industries has made him millions. Although his net worth isn't confirmed, Forbes estimated he was worth $70 million as of 2020.
From his projects as a chef to his career as a television personality, here's a breakdown of the empire Ramsay has built.
Ramsay started his career as a chef.
Gordon Ramsay got his start as an apprentice under Marco Pierre White.
GERRY PENNY/Getty Images
At 19, in the 1990s, Ramsay began his career apprenticing under famous chef Marco Pierre White.
By 1993, Ramsay was the head chef at the London restaurant Aubergine, and he'd go on to earn the restaurant two Michelin stars.
In 1998, he founded Gordon Ramsay Restaurants with the opening of his first eatery. Today, the company has more than 80 restaurants around the world β many of which have continued to garner acclaim.
In 2001, Ramsay's flagship restaurant, Gordon Ramsay, received a three-star Michelin rating, which it still holds today. Most recently, his Restaurant 1890 in London earned its first Michelin star in February.
However, not all of his restaurants are fine-dining establishments. Ramsay also owns casual eateries like Street Pizza and Street Burger, along with Gordon Ramsay Burger β which has locations in the United States, Canada, Qatar, South Korea, and more.
Although it's unclear how much Ramsay makes from his restaurants, Fortune reported in 2023 that his restaurants had brought in Β£95.6 million (about $119.8 million at that time) that year.
Television is one of the food star's big sources of income.
The celebrity chef's most well-known shows include "MasterChef," "Hell's Kitchen," and "Kitchen Nightmares."
Fox/Getty Images
Ramsay's first introduction to television was on the British documentary series "Boiling Point" in 1999. He went on to judge and host British shows like "The F-Word," "Hell's Kitchen," and "Kitchen Nightmares."
His foray into American television began in 2005 with the US debut of "Hell's Kitchen" on Fox. The US version of "Kitchen Nightmares" followed, debuting in 2007.
From there, he's starred on many other shows and has appeared as a judge on several competitive cooking series on Fox. Perhaps most notably, he's served as a judge on "MasterChef" throughout its 14 seasons. He also judges "MasterChef Jr." and "Next Level Chef."
Although it's not clear what Ramsay has been paid for his shows and appearances, Forbes reported in 2020 that his shows generated more than $150 million yearly in ad sales for the Fox network.
One of his shows has inspired a series of restaurants.
Hell's Kitchen has seven locations across the US.
George Rose/Getty Images
In 2018, Ramsay began opening Hell's Kitchen restaurants based on the series of the same name. There are now seven locations across the US in cities like Las Vegas, Atlantic City, and DC.
It's not clear how much revenue the Hell's Kitchen restaurants bring in, but the Las Vegas location sold 129,554 beef Wellingtons and 135,000 sticky toffee puddings β two signature Ramsay dishes β in its first year alone, according to Forbes.
The chef has also launched a cooking school.
Gordon Ramsay Academy in England offers various cooking courses.
Franco Origlia/Getty Images
His first and only cooking school, Gordon Ramsay Academy, opened in September 2021 in Woking, England. Gordon Ramsay Academy offers hundreds of cooking courses for all ages and skill levels.
Classes range from Β£70 (or about $90) for half-day and junior classes to Β£485 (or about $615) for full-day courses that offer qualifications.
A second location is set to open in London in 2025.
Ramsay also has a few product lines, including a wine label and frozen foods.
Gordon Ramsay's and Lisa Vanderpump's wine collections were featured on "Gordon Ramsay's Food Stars."
FOX/FOX Image Collection via Getty Images
Further expanding his food empire, the celebrity chef also has a few product lines.
In 2023, he launched By Chef Ramsay, a frozen-food line sold exclusively at Walmart. The collection includes some of Ramsay's favorite dishes, such as shepherd's pie and fish and chips.
He also launched a Gordon Ramsay wine label in 2021.
The line was also featured on his show "Gordon Ramsay's Food Stars" β a reality competition where he offered to invest $250,000 of his own money into entrepreneurship. On it, he and TV personality Lisa Vanderpump served as judges
In fact, "Gordon Ramsay's Food Stars" was produced by his own television production company.
"Next Level Chef" is one of the shows produced by Studio Ramsay Global.
FOX/FOX Image Collection via Getty Images
In 2021, Fox Entertainment and Ramsay launched Studio Ramsay Global, which produces several of the chef's shows, including Fox's "Kitchen Nightmares," "Gordon Ramsay's Food Stars," and "Next Level Chef."
It also produces shows starring other chefs, like National Geographic's "No Taste Like Home."
Before this, in 2016, he'd launched the production company Studio Ramsay in the UK. It produced projects like "Gordon Ramsay's 24 Hours To Hell and Back," "The F-Word Live With Gordon Ramsay," and "Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted."
In 2024, he partnered with Fox to launch Bite.
Fox and Gordon Ramsay have continued to work together throughout the years.
Roy Rochlin/Getty Images
Ramsay and Fox Entertainment joined forces in 2024 to launch Bite, a global food brand and platform offering a range of culinary content, products, and experiences.
The brand's digital and social content hub, Bite Digitial Network, features multiple original series, such as "Idiot Sandwich" β a digital culinary competition series based on Ramsay's viral meme.
He's made several other investments and has had a range of partnerships throughout the years.
Gordon Ramsay has invested in cookware brands and partnered with several other companies.
Franco Origlia/Getty Images
Among his numerous business ventures, Ramsay has partnered and invested in several brands.
He invested in HexClad in 2021 β and, in July 2024, Studio Ramsay Global agreed to invest $100 million in the cookware brand.
In 2023, Ramsay joined Borealis Foods, a food tech company, as a shareholder, advisor, and brand ambassador. In September 2024, he also partnered with THOR Kitchen to launch an exclusive line of kitchen appliances.
He could also be making money from his social following.
Social media likely serves as another stream of income for the celebrity chef.
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At the time of writing, Ramsay has 40.8 million followers on TikTok and 21 million subscribers on YouTube β so social media could be another source of income for the chef.
In addition to clips from his hit Fox shows and various miniseries, Ramsay's YouTube channel and TikTok account feature him cooking with celebrities like Matthew McConaughey and Selena Gomez.
The chef continues to expand his restaurant and entertainment empires.
"Kitchen Nightmares" is scheduled to return in 2025.
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The chef is slated to open his first Ramsay's Kitchen restaurants in Virginia later this year and one in North Carolina in 2025.
Additionally, Ramsay has plans to open five new culinary experiences in one of London's tallest office buildings in 2025.
He also announced his show "Kitchen Nightmares" is set to return with a new season in January.
I spent $244 on a meal for two at DΕgon in Washington, DC.
Tyson Bateman
I ate at Kwame Onwuachi's new restaurant, DΕgon, in Washington, DC.
We ordered coco bread, piri piri salad, chicken and rice, oxtails, and rum cake.
Our tasty dinner was $244, and I'm already looking forward to my next meal there.
Kwame Onwuachi was only 25 when he appeared on "Top Chef: California" in 2015.
Just four years later, he was named Rising Star Chef of the Year by the James Beard Foundation, Chef of the Year by Esquire, and one of the best new chefs by Food and Wine β all thanks to his restaurant, Kith/Kin, in Washington, DC.
Although I didn't get to visit Kith/Kin before it closed in 2020, I was excited to be able to dine at the chef's latest DC venture: DΕgon.
The Afro-Caribbean restaurant's buzzy opening has been covered by the likes of Vogue, Forbes, and Eater β but, as a restaurant critic, I was curious to check it out myself.
Here's what it's like to dine at DΕgon.
It was tough to get a reservation.
The lobby of the Salamander hotel.
Tyson Bateman
DΕgon is located in the DC-area Salamander hotel, close to the city's southwest waterfront.
I had to make my reservation at DΕgon nearly a month in advance. Although 5:15 p.m. felt early for dinner, it was the only time I could get so I happily took it.
The cozy, basic hotel lobby didnβt prepare me for DΕgon.
DΕgon had a very distinct aesthetic.
Tyson Bateman
The lobby's subtle yellows, browns, and blues contrast greatly with the chain-link curtains that beckon diners into the hotel's restaurant to the left.
Upon entering, I was immediately struck by the dark atmosphere. Music blared from the dining room to the hostess counter.
But once I was seated across from the bar, an illuminated glass ball provided sufficient light for me and my camera.
More light glowed from the open kitchen.
I peeked into the kitchen to see the staff at work.
Tyson Bateman
When I walked to the back of the restaurant, I was drawn to the view of the open kitchen.
A large group of chefs appeared to be working in harmony to bring the menu to life.
It was tough to decide what to order.
Our server guided us through the menu.
Tyson Bateman
Onwuachi's menu includes dishes with influences from Nigeria, Jamaica, Trinidad, and New Orleans.
Several staffers helped throughout my meal, but my primary server, Andrea, especially stood out. When she found out it was our first time dining at DΕgon, she walked us through her favorites.
Our partyΒ had an allergy, which eliminated a few options from the menu. However, Andrea offered to adjust some dishes so that we could enjoy them.
Andreaβs first recommendation was the coco bread.
I'm glad we started with the coco bread.
Tyson Bateman
Andrea suggested we order the coco bread, and although the $15 price tag of it horrified me, I'm glad we did.
The five petite balls of sweet, buttery dough were far lighter than coco bread I've had at Jamaican restaurants. I was impressed with the bread's cloud-like texture and how easy it was to spread the malted-sorghum butter that came with the dish.
The piri piri salad was so good I had to finish it with a spoon.
I wanted to savor every last bite of the piri piri salad.
Tyson Bateman
The piri piri salad was smaller than I'd hoped for, especially given its $22 price tag. But any complaints I had quickly vanished when our server arrived to pour papaya dressing over the flower-adorned salad.
The thick papaya sauce was flavored with garlic and chiles β the same mixture used in the hot sauce that Andrea had already brought to our table.
The sauce helped accentuate bites of cucumber, tomato, cape gooseberries, and grapes, along with the almond-butter-filled avocado half.
The salad's balance between creamy and crunchy textures and spicy and sweet flavors made it extremely compelling. Once I'd eaten all that I could with my fork, I spooned the remnants into my mouth, savoring every last bite.
My favorite dish was the chicken and rice.
I loved all the different flavors of the chicken and rice.
Tyson Bateman
For years, I lived and worked in Houston, where I frequently indulged in food from the Nigerian community and became mildly addicted to skewers of suya and jollof rice.
Although Onwuachi's $63 chicken wasn't as spicy as the dishes at the mom-and-pop restaurants I used to frequent, he still brought some heat to the dish.
The roasted half chicken that dominated the plate barely required a knife. The tender meat was rubbed in a paste flavored with an earthy spice mix known as berbere and crowned with an herb salad.
The rice β made with tomatoes, chiles, and complex spices β tasted just like a grandmother's comfort food.
The deceptively simple dish was also plated with half a lime, more berbere paste, and a sweet-and-creamy mix of ricotta and honey. It was fun to mix and match these toppings to make each bite taste slightly different.
Onwuachi recently brought his famous oxtails back to the menu, too.
I dined just days after the oxtails were introduced to the menu.
Tyson Bateman
The Caribbean-style oxtails that Onwuachi made at Kith/Kin returned to DC on November 1, just days before I dined.
At $65, they weren't cheap, but I ordered them over the $110 wagyu short rib I'd been considering. The sugar and collagen in the sauce made it delightfully sticky β the dish felt like a beefy dessert.
Extracting the pillowy meat from the bones reminded me of gamja-tang, my favorite Korean stew made from a pig's neck bones. It was tougher to get the meat off without the chopsticks or gloves usually provided at Korean restaurants.
However, I did my best to finish every bite, spooning the sauce over the coconut-infused rice and peas to experience the unique flavor combination of sweet heat and flesh.
I didnβt have room for dessert, but I ordered it anyway.
The rum cake was a surprising delight.
Tyson Bateman
I didn't get any pressure from Andrea or the other servers to order dessert, but I didn't want the meal to end just yet.
There were only two desserts on the menu, so I chose the $17 rum cake over the spiced cherry sorbet β and I'm glad I did.
Although the sweet treat sounded a little boring on paper, the crisp edges and fluffy center of the two slabs of cake made it a textural delight. It was squiggled with a vanilla whip and then finished with mint leaves and boozy, blistered cape gooseberries.
I'll definitely be returning to DΕgon.
I can't wait for my next visit to DΕgon.
Tyson Bateman
DΕgon took some of my favorite dishes from around the world and elevated them to levels I had never imagined.
I can imagine the dining experience will be even more eye-opening for guests who haven't tasted as many world cuisines.
Either way, DΕgon is a must-visit restaurant in DC. I spent $244 there on dinner for two with no alcoholic beverages, and I would happily do it again.
Moving from Washington, DC, to Denver was a big change.
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Since moving from DC to Denver two-and-a-half years ago, I've experienced many culture shocks.
I've found people like to discuss their hobbies in Denver, but many focus on their careers in DC.
I've also noticed that people in Denver seem more laid-back compared to those in DC.
When I boarded my flight from Washington, DC, to Denver in May 2022, I ruminated in my window seat for hours, wondering what my new home would be like.
I was leaving behind the nation's capital β the place where I'd spent almost three years launching my career and growing through my 20s.
Hopping from city to city wasn't new to me. I was born in Seattle and raised outside New Orleans before pursuing my master's degree in Phoenix.
However, every region has its own distinct culture, and I suspected the transition from the East Coast to the Rocky Mountains would be a little bumpy. Still, I didn't expect just how different the two parts of the country would be.
Here are a few of the biggest culture shocks I experienced when I headed west.
Many seem enamored with their hobbies in Denver, but careers typically come first in DC
I started a new job in Denver after launching my career in Washington, DC.
Megan Ulu-Lani Boyanton
Your choice of ski pass isn't just a question Denver residents will pose to you as an icebreaker. In my experience, it's a constant topic of conversation among friends and colleagues.
In fact, I've found that skiing, snowboarding, camping, hiking, rock climbing, and white-water rafting are topics that constantly come up in conversation.
I've met plenty of Denver residents with impressive careers, but their hearts often belong to their hobbies.
Meanwhile, many people I met in DC lived to work. I'd inevitably be asked what I did for a living at almost every house party I attended. Young professionals primarily move to DC for their education and careers, so networking is a way of life.
The city is packed with journalists, lobbyists, and government employees, so it's not uncommon to see someone toting a work laptop to happy hour.
The cities' definitions of style don't align
In DC, my favorite activity was ticking restaurants and bars off my list, taking in the cosmopolitan city in seasonal dresses and heels.
However, since moving to Denver, what's left of my collection of cocktail dresses is gathering dust on hangers. Here, athleisure, flannels, and denim are the norm.
The climates in Denver and DC are completely different beasts
I had to buy my first pair of snow boots when I moved to Denver.
Brad McGinley Photography/Getty Images
I was adept at handling DC winters. When snow occasionally fell over the city, I bundled up in a coat and gloves to build snowmen on the National Mall or braced myself for the chill in the air when I exited a Metrorail subway station.
Preparing for my inaugural Colorado winter, however, was much more intense. I bought my first pair of snow boots at age 27, and learned that Halloween usually brings a snowstorm, and the flurries continue through April.
For context, according to the National Weather Service's data from 1882-2015, Denver averages about 57.1 inches of snow per season. DC's average snowfall, which is based on data from 1991-2020, is roughly 13.8 inches.
Local attitudes couldn't be more different
Colorado straddles two prominent regional personality traits β the Midwest's kindness and the West Coast's easygoingness. Residents of the Centennial State get the best of both worlds with their friendly attitudes and sense of ease.
Despite Denver's urban sprawl, niceties from its cow-town days persist. Walking down a neighborhood sidewalk, I can usually count on smiles or greetings from passersby.
However, while living on the East Coast, I found many DC residents exuded the region's no-nonsense air, buzzing from place to place as efficiently as possible.
I got used to avoiding small talk in elevators and found the standard attitude in DC was both a little guarded and direct. It's not that locals were unkind β they're just booked and busy.
Yet, both places have one thing in common: hometown pride. I'm excited to embrace that attitude in Denver like I did in DC.
The Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia, is a great sunny spot for outdoor activities.
I loved getting to experience the rich history and great beaches in Cape Town, South Africa.
Though many people take their big trips in the summer, the winter is a great time for a grand escape. I've always been someone who needs sunshine and warmth in my bones, so when winter rolls around each year, I plan a sun-soaked getaway to escape the cold.
I've traveled to more than 50 countries and have come across a few destinations offering a winning combination of stunning scenery, memorable experiences, and warm weather.
Here are four places I'd recommend checking out in the winter months.
The Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia, is sunny practically all year round.
Burleigh Head National Park is a great place to catch ocean views on the Gold Coast in Queensland.
Kevin Hellon/Shutterstock
With beautiful beaches and plenty of theme parks, the Gold Coast in Australia's Queensland is filled with things to do.
The Gold Coast has a sub-tropical climate with about 300 days of sunshine a year, so you're likely to encounter optimal weather for outdoor activities.
My favorite activity here was walking the trail from Tallebudgera Creek to Burleigh Heads, which goes through Burleigh Head National Park. I witnessed plenty of scenic ocean views along the way and often stopped to watch the surfers catch a wave.
If you have any interest in monkeys, Ubud in Bali, Indonesia, is the place to go.
Visiting the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary was one of the highlights of our trip to Ubud.
Flash Vector/Shutterstock
If chill island vibes, monkey spottings, and melodious insect cacophonies appeal to you, Ubud is the place to go.
One of the top attractions is the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, home to more than 1,200 monkeys. You can explore ancient temples and meet the local long-tailed macaques in their natural habitat.
Just make sure you follow the rules and don't take any food or water bottles with you. I learned that lesson the hard way when one enormous monkey leaped on my backpack, giving me the fright of my life.
Another highlight for me was sitting on our veranda at the Green Field Hotel while overlooking the rice fields at sunrise and listening to the cricket orchestra.
My 8-year-old son and I sat out there one morning for about two hours while everyone else was asleep, chatting and enjoying the sounds of nature around us.
For a nice, easy nature hike, check out Campuhan Ridge Walk. I loved the scenery and took my 4-year-old with me. At one point, we stopped for a rest on the trail, and I looked up to find the biggest spider I'd ever seen lurking right above us β so keep your eyes peeled.
Bonito, Brazil, is an incredible snorkeling destination.
The clear rivers in Bonito are a great place to spot fish.
Gustavo Castellon
Bonito, which means "beautiful" in Portuguese, lives up to its name. The town is in the southern region of the Brazilian Pantanal, the world's largest tropical wetland. We stopped here on our way from Rio de Janeiro to Bolivia and fell in love with this hidden paradise.
Surrounded by lush forests, Bonito has amazing crystal-clear rivers where you can spot an abundance of fish while snorkeling.
During our trip, a massive thunderstorm rolled in above us when we were snorkeling. Watching the fish dart around underwater as raindrops landed on my back was such an awe-inspiring experience.
I loved exploring wineries and beaches in Cape Town, South Africa.
We enjoyed a delicious lunch and wine tasting at Groot Constantia in Cape Town.
GTW/Shutterstock
When it comes to epic coastal scenery, warm people, delicious food, and historical sites, Cape Town delivers.
One of our favorite spots was Groot Constantia, the oldest wine estate in South Africa. We had a mouth-watering lunch and did a wine tasting before learning about the history of Cape farmers at the Manor House Museum and walking through the grounds.
Cape Town's sun-soaked beaches were also postcard-perfect. The water can be pretty chilly, however, even in the summer. I only dipped a toe in, but if you enjoy a little cold-water therapy, feel free to dive right in.
