Parade

Airports, movie theaters and doctors’ offices are all places where you can expect to feel cold. Even during the summer, it isn’t unusual to see people wearing sweaters in these environments as a reaction to the chilly air conditioning. But what if you find yourself in situations where you’re the only one who feels cold?

“Cold intolerance is not an emergency, but it also should not be dismissed. It could be a sign to get checked up,” Dr. Omodamola Aje, MD, an endocrinologist at Berkshire Medical Center, an affiliate of UMass Medical School, tells Parade.

Related: The Thermostat Is Turned up and Your Sweater Is On, but You’re Still Always So Cold—Here Are 10 Possible Reasons Why

Besides feeling freezing, other symptoms of cold intolerance include pain, tingling, numbness, chills, stiffness, weakness, swelling or skin color changes when exposed to cold temperatures. Even when feeling cold doesn’t include these other symptoms, it can still get in the way of enjoying everyday activities. Think about it: Are you really going to be able to focus on someone’s conversation or a fun hobby when you’re shivering? 

Sometimes, feeling cold simply means you need to put on another layer. But it can also be a sign of an underlying health condition. 

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The First Thing an Endocrinologist Checks When Someone Complains of Feeling Cold

If a patient tells her that they frequently feel cold, Dr. Aje says that the first question she asks is how long it’s been going on, including if it’s a constant feeling or one that comes and goes. She says she would also ask about other associated symptoms, such as fatigue, hair loss, weight changes or bowel changes, such as constipation. 

“If applicable, I’d ask about any menstrual irregularities, any skin or nail changes such as brittle nails and dry skin, and any family history of thyroid disorders,” Dr. Aje says. These are all clues to finding out what the underlying issue could be.

Related: Always Tired? Doctors Say This Common Nutrient Deficiency Could Be To Blame

But questions can only get you so far. Dr. Aje will also run tests.

“A thyroid function test is the highest on the list of tests I would order because it’s well known that hypothyroidism can present with cold intolerance,” she tells Parade. With this in mind, she says she would check the thyroid-stimulating hormone (made by the pituitary gland in the brain and tells the thyroid to make more hormone), thyroxine (the main inactive storage hormone made by the thyroid) and triiodothyronine (an active hormone that controls metabolism). 

Besides this thyroid panel, Dr. Aje says that she would also order a complete blood count test to check for anemia as well as an iron panel. 

3 Health Conditions That Can Lead To Feeling Cold

There are several potential reasons why someone may frequently feel cold, which Dr. Aje’s questions and tests are aimed at helping narrow down. Below are three of the most common reasons.

1. Metabolic changes

According to Dr. Aje, the body’s metabolism is responsible for maintaining its internal temperature. “In patients with hypothyroidism, their metabolism is significantly slowed down, which is why they are prone to feeling cold,” she explains.

Hypothyroidism means the thyroid gland isn’t making and releasing enough hormone. As Dr. Aje explains, this slows down metabolism. Other symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, depression or anxiety, dry skin or hair, heavy menstrual periods, numbness, muscle weakness and unexplained weight gain.

2. Hormonal imbalances 

Having a hormonal imbalance can also cause someone to feel cold frequently, Dr. Aje says, adding that hypothyroidism is a classic example of this. But besides hypothyroidism, she says that feeling cold can be a symptom of perimenopause or menopause. 

“Women in perimenopause or menopause often complain of significant hot flashes followed by cold sweats,” Dr. Aje says.

She explains that estrogen regulates the body’s thermostat, and in a peri- or menopausal woman, as estrogen levels decline, this thermostat can feel broken, leading to hot flashes and cold sweats, which is why some women have covers on and off throughout the night. 

According to a 2019 scientific review published in the Journal of Mid-Life Health, more than 80% of menopausal women experience hot flashes. While anecdotally, much of the focus of hot flashes is on feeling hot, they are often followed by cold sweats.  

Related: Menopause Hot Flashes Ruining Summer? Doctors Share What Actually Helps

3. Low body mass index

If you are significantly restricting your calorie intake, Dr. Aje says that this can also lead to feeling cold frequently. “Significant caloric restriction and weight loss can also slow down metabolism, which compromises the body’s ability to retain heat,” she reveals.

Additionally, people with a low body mass index often feel cold more frequently than those with a higher BMI.

“The lower the body weight, the lower the insulation a person has,” Dr. Aje explains. Especially when weight is lost quickly, she says that the body also downregulates metabolism to conserve energy, which then can lead to feeling cold.

When To See a Doctor About Feeling Cold

If you regularly feel cold when other people around you don’t, Dr. Aje says that it’s worth scheduling an appointment with your healthcare provider or an endocrinologist to find out if there is an underlying reason for it. 

“When frequently feeling cold is associated with fatigue, weight changes, bowel changes, skin, hair and nails changes, or menstrual irregularities, you should definitely see a doctor,” she tells Parade. “This could be a clue to hypothyroidism or iron deficiency anemia that can be easily tested and treated.”

Especially if feeling cold is getting in the way of you enjoying your life, it’s worth talking to a doctor about. All of the causes Dr. Aje touched on above have treatment options. If you don’t see a doctor, you’ll never know the root cause of what’s causing you to feel cold or be treated for it.

Feeling cold is the body’s way to communicate a need. Sometimes, that need is simply a sweater. But other times, it’s something that you need your doctor’s help to meet.

Up Next:

Related: Endocrinologists Are Begging People To Stop Pairing This Common Supplement With Thyroid Medication

Sources

• Dr. Omodamola Aje, MD, endocrinologist at Berkshire Medical Center, an affiliate of UMass Medical School. Dr. Aje specializes in women’s hormonal health, PCOS (now PMOS), menopause, obesity medicine, diabetes, thyroid disease and metabolic wellness. She is also the founder of Hormones with Dr. Damijey, a digital health education platform focused on evidence-based hormone education. 
• Khabbazi, A., Farzaneh, R., Mahmoudi, M., et al. (2022). Cold intolerance and associated factors: a population study. Scientific Reports. Doi: 10.1038/s41598-022-21842-9.
• Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid). Cleveland Clinic.
• Bansal, R. and Aggarwal, N. (2019). Menopausal Hot Flashes: A Concise Review. Journal of Mid-Life. 10(1):6-13.

In 1968, The Zombies released the classic psychedelic rock song “Time of the Season,” which became far more than one of the band’s iconic songs. It also became a track that helped define their legacy and remains deeply embedded in pop culture.

Decades after it was released as a single, the track continued to earn critical acclaim and was later named by Rolling Stone as one of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.

In an updated list published by the magazine, Rolling Stone ranked the greatest recorded songs in music history based on a poll of artists, critics and industry figures.

The Zombies’ song “Time of the Season” claimed the No. 350 spot on the list, where Rolling Stone described the single as “one of the defining songs of the psychedelic era.”

During the band’s commercial peak, following the popularity of their sophomore album Odessey and Oracle, “Time of the Season” emerged as one of the album’s most significant tracks.

The Zombies members drummer Hugh Grundy, singer Colin Blunstone, bassist Chris White, guitarist Paul Atkinson and keyboard player Rod Argent.

Stanley Bielecki/ASP/Getty Images

Penned by The Zombies’ keyboard player Rod Argent, the song was written shortly before the band was scheduled to finish recording the album in 1967 at the iconic Abbey Road Studios in London, where The Beatles also recorded albums like Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, The White Album and Abbey Road.

“It was written in the morning before we went into the studio in the afternoon, and I kind of struggled on the melody,” The Zombies frontman Colin Blunstone told Songfacts. “Rod and I had quite a heated discussion – he being in the control room and me singing the song – and we were just doing it through my headphones. Because it had only just been written, I was struggling with the melody, and he’d be saying, ‘You know that’s not quite right, Colin. Can you do it again?’”

In addition, Blunstone said that he felt a sense of “relief” after the song was included on their studio album.

“We were up against the clock,” he told American Songwriter. “It was the last song we recorded for Odessey and Oracle and we had a minute budget and we were running out of money. I think we finished it with like seconds to go before the budget ran out.”

As for Argent, he felt a sense of excitement upon hearing the song for the first time.

“Also when you hear something for the first time,” he said, adding, “it’s a fantastic feeling and we still feel that way today.”

However, by the time their song “Time of the Season” became popular, The Zombies had already broken up.

The group did not reunite to capitalize on the song’s success when “Time of the Season” became a hit in 1969.

The song became a surprise hit, eventually peaking at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 that year.

Related: 1976 Rock Song, Lasting Nearly 9 Minutes, Recorded in a Munich Basement, Is Still a Generational Hit 50 Years Later

Aldi has a knack for making seasonal shopping feel like a treasure hunt, and its adorable Halloween collection is no exception. From spooky little decorations to festive finds that make your home feel ready for October, the retailer has plenty of ways to embrace the season without spending a fortune. Now, there’s a new cozy addition to the mix that might have you reaching for your wallet—and your favorite Halloween movie.

Aldi’s Halloween collection is bringing six adorable plush throws to the mix, and each one is just $4.99. The 50-by-60-inch throws are an easy way to add a little personality to a couch, chair, bed or reading nook while just spending a few bucks. These new throws will be dropping at Aldi on Sept. 30.

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The Halloween Collection Plush Throw, Haunted House, $4.99 at Aldi

Aldi

And the prints are seriously cute. First up is a purple throw covered in charming haunted houses. It has that classic Halloween look, but the playful design keeps it from feeling too spooky. Then there’s a creamy white version decorated with cute jack-o’-lanterns, making it a sweet choice for anyone who prefers their Halloween decor on the cheerful side.

If ghosts are more your thing, another throw features white ghosts scattered across an orange background. It brings plenty of Halloween color without going overboard—and would look right at home draped over a sofa while you settle in for a spooky movie marathon.

Related: Season Like a Pro With Aldi’s New $5 Acacia Wood Pinch Bowls

Then there’s perhaps the most unexpected of the bunch: black pumpkins printed on a pink-and-white checkered background. The combination gives traditional Halloween motifs a fun, slightly preppy twist and could easily work alongside other pink, orange or black seasonal decorations.

The collection also includes a black-and-white spiderweb print for anyone who likes a more classic Halloween look. And finally, there’s a black throw covered in white skeletons with bright orange pumpkin heads, which might be the most delightfully Halloween-y option of them all.

At under $5 apiece, these throws are also an easy excuse to pick up more than one. Use one in the living room, toss another over a guest room chair or keep one nearby for those chilly fall evenings when you want to get comfortable.

Whether your Halloween style is haunted houses, happy pumpkins, friendly ghosts, creepy-cute skeletons, classic spiderwebs or a little pink-and-black flair, Aldi has a cozy print for it. Just keep in mind that seasonal Aldi Finds can disappear quickly, so if one of these throws catches your eye, it may be worth shopping sooner rather than later.

Related: Give Your Halloween Tablescape a Cute Upgrade With Aldi’s $5 Icon Glasses

Taylor Swift fans suddenly have four new songs to analyze, a new music video to dissect and another historic awards show moment to celebrate. But New York Times bestselling author and longtime Swiftie Olivia Levin says fans are already wondering what could come next.

Parade.com spoke with Levin, founder of Swifties for Eternity, which has more than 630,000 followers, and author of the New York Times and USA Today bestseller The Story of Us: How the Taylor Swift Fandom Changed Our Lives, following Swift’s latest round of surprises.

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Nearly a year after releasing her 12th studio album, Swift expanded it with The Life of a Showgirl: The Encore. The new edition includes “Patient Zero,” “Cleveland,” “Pink Clouding” and “Babylon.”

“It’s such an exciting time to be a Swiftie because it feels like there’s constantly something new to decode,” Levin told Parade.com. “I don’t think any of us saw The Life of a Showgirl: The Encore coming! When Taylor first announced ‘Patient Zero,’ fans were immediately trying to figure out whether this was connected to The Life of a Showgirl or if we were already entering an entirely new era.”

Levin said the darker imagery surrounding the new release reminded some fans of The Tortured Poets Department. At the same time, the surprise songs have given Swifties another collection of lyrics and potential clues to examine.

“Taylor has trained us over the years to pay attention to every little detail, so naturally everyone is already trying to figure out what these four new songs could be about and whether any of the clues she’s been leaving connect back to them,” Levin said. “Half the fun of being a Taylor fan is getting to experience all of this together and watching the entire fandom collectively try to figure out what she’s telling us before we actually get the answers.”

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One date Levin believes fans will be watching closely is Oct. 24, which marks the 20th anniversary of Swift’s self-titled debut album.

“The 20th anniversary of her debut album on October 24 is obviously a really meaningful milestone, especially because it’s the album that started everything,” Levin said. “Fans have been paying close attention to anything that could potentially point back to that era. I have no idea if she has anything planned, but I would be surprised if she let the moment pass without at least acknowledging the anniversary.”

Levin also addressed the possibility of Taylor Swift (Taylor’s Version), while making clear that she does not know whether Swift has anything planned.

“It almost makes too much sense that she could announce Taylor Swift (Taylor’s Version) around that time, especially after delving back into the country world this year and with the CMAs coming up in November,” she said. “Then again, Taylor has made a career out of doing the unexpected, so at this point, we’re bracing ourselves for anything!”

Before October arrives, Swift will add another achievement to her career at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards on Sept. 27 in Los Angeles. CBS and MTV announced that she will receive the inaugural MTV VMA Artist Director Honors, an award recognizing artists whose work behind the camera has advanced music videos and visual storytelling.

The honor also gives Swift 31 career VMA wins, moving her ahead of Beyoncé as the most decorated artist in the show’s history.

Levin said the award stands out because directing has become an increasingly important part of Swift’s work.

“The Artist Director honor feels especially meaningful because directing has become such an important part of Taylor’s artistry,” Levin said. “Her music videos have always been a huge part of the world-building around her music, but over the last several years, we’ve gotten to watch her take even more creative ownership behind the camera. For the VMAs to create this honor and give the inaugural award to Taylor feels like such a special recognition of that evolution.”

The timing also comes as Swift prepares to release the music video for “Patient Zero.” Levin noted that fans now know Swift apparently teased the song months earlier in the “Opalite” music video, something Swifties failed to catch at the time.

“It’s especially funny considering Taylor literally told us in her recent Emmys skit, ‘I think what we’re going to be looking for is hiding in plain sight,’” Levin said.

The VMAs are only one of several upcoming career milestones for Swift. She will also be inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame and has a CMA nomination.

For Levin, those honors highlight the different parts of Swift’s career as she approaches two decades since releasing her first album.

“I’ve followed her career for more than half of my life, and writing The Story of Us gave me the chance to look back at just how much both Taylor and this fandom have evolved over the last two decades,” Levin said. “It makes moments like these especially surreal. Even after everything she’s already accomplished, there are still new milestones to celebrate and new chapters for fans to experience alongside her.”

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‘Tis the season to begin planning your holiday menus! If some festive baking is on the horizon, this is the time to stock up on some cute packaging for the occasion. The Martha Stewart Christmas Cookie Tin collection makes a great choice for your seasonal favorites. Featuring small, medium, and large containers, it’s just $30 at Amazon right now.

The assorted sizes make this an especially practical buy. They’re great for keeping both store-bought and freshly baked cookies fresh, locking out moisture with a snug lid while adding a decorative touch to your home during the holidays.

Martha Stewart Christmas Cookie Tins, $30 at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

The small size exudes a classic vibe with its delicate vertical stripes accented by red bows and sprigs of holly. A medium-size option features a whimsical, old-world stamp motif complete with nutcrackers, deer, ballerinas, snowflakes, wrapped presents, and more. The largest tin is a retro-inspired dream, evoking a bygone era with artwork depicting glass ornaments and frosted baubles, all in vibrant shades of blush, gold, and crimson.

Each one is simply charming, with plenty of room to hold treats of all kinds in each one. At 6 inches, the smallest one is great for holding truffles and other bite-size morsels, while the 7-inch medium tin is great for a bigger batch. The large size comes in at 8.5 inches and can support taller items with ease thanks to its 4.5-inch depth.

The beauty is that they’re decorative enough to add an instant pop of merriment to any part of your home, whether you set them on the kitchen counter or put them in different rooms for a quick color and joy infusion. They aren’t limited to cookies, either! You can just as easily use them to store crafting supplies, hold ornaments, or keep other odds and ends in a dedicated spot. And when they’re not in use, simply nest them to save space.

Related: Dolly Parton’s Limited-Edition 2026 Christmas Ornament Is a Sparkling Mosaic Guitar Fans Will Love

One shopper praised the “super cute and functional” design, adding that they’re both “sturdy” and “retro girly.” Another person agreed, highlighting the “heritage quality” aesthetic and noting that the “non-traditional” colors make them a Christmastime standout.

Shop More Martha Stewart Decor Deals

• Martha Stewart Autumn Harvest Kitchen Towel Set, $13 (was $20) at Amazon
• Martha Stewart Oversized Holiday Throw Blanket, $25 (was $30) at Amazon
• Martha Stewart Ceramic Holiday Travel Mug, $16 at Amazon

Whether you’re picking up a few household essentials for the cozy months ahead or looking for something beautiful to package up baked holiday gifts, the Martha Stewart Christmas Cookie Tins are a fun and dazzling choice full of festive charm. Pick up the three-piece set at Amazon while it’s in stock!

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

Henry Winkler revealed that a shoutout in a Saturday Night Live song led to his friendship with Adam Sandler and a subsequent role in The Waterboy.

Winkler played Coach Klein in the 1998 comedy film, several years after he called Sandler to thank him for giving his Happy Days character, Arthur “Fonzie” Fonzarelli, a shoutout in the 1994 SNL sketch that featured him singing “The Chanukah Song.”

Speaking with People TV’s Couch Surfing, Winkler, 80, explained, “So I call Adam because I’m in ‘The Chanukah Song.’ And I thank him for putting me in ‘The Chanukah Song.’ Adam loves sports, he loves football. [The Waterboy] is one of his favorite movies, I think, that he’s ever made. It is also one of his most popular. So many college football players have told me that as they’re going to the game on the bus, the coach plays The Waterboy for them.”

RELATED: Henry Winkler Addresses Rumors That ‘Laverne & Shirley’ Stars Were a ‘Nightmare’

In Sandler’s famous 1994 SNL Weekend Update bit, he introduced a new holiday song for all the “Jewish kids” after noting the only song they had to sing during the holidays was “Dreidel, Dreidel, Dreidel.”

In his song, Sandler named a list of Jewish celebrities, starting with, “David Lee Roth lights the menorah.” He added, “Guess who eats together at the Carnegie Deli? Bowzer from Sha Na Na and Arthur Fonzarelli.”

In The Waterboy, Winkler’s college football coach character recruits the team waterboy (played by Sandler) to play on his struggling team.

The Happy Days actor once shared details about his unexpected casting in The Waterboy.

“I called Adam a few years before to thank him for putting me in ‘The Chanukah Song,'” he told Forbes in 2019. “And then, all of a sudden, I got picked to be the coach. And I didn’t have to audition. So the man is brilliant.“

While he didn’t audition, Winkler went to unexpected lengths to help Sandler during filming.

“I did [The] Waterboy,” he told the Let’s Talk Off-Camera with Kelly Ripa podcast. “[Sandler] called me up in the middle of the night. He said, ‘Henry, I need a favor. My actor didn’t show up. I need you to drive right now to the park.’ It’s in L.A.; it is now 11:30 at night. I go, and I say, ‘Okay.’ I shave. I drive. I go. I sit. I get makeup until 3:30 in the morning.”

“Do you know what I got?” Winkler added. “A cookie. I didn’t even get to keep my wardrobe.”

Related: Henry Winkler Reveals Why He Still Auditions After 50 Years in Hollywood

When it comes to interior design trends, what’s old becomes new again constantly—and the latest outdated kitchen trend to fall back into favor is not something I would have expected.

However, considering how much this particular item has evolved in design and function over the last few decades, it actually makes a lot of sense that it’s finally in style again.

To learn more, we spoke with Adina Kornbluth, Principal Designer and Owner of Adina Kornbluth Designs, and Josie Abate, Principal Interior Designer at Ambience Design Group.

And according to both designers, the rise in popularity of this particular kitchen trend has a lot to do with people trying to infuse their homes with more character and personality.

“Post COVID, consumers are bored with kitchens that look similar home to home,” Kornbluth tells Parade. “They are choosing to express their individual tastes and preferences.”

Keep reading for more insights from both designers!

Related: Designers Are Tired of Seeing White in Kids’ Bedrooms—They Say This Calming, Gender-Neutral Paint Color Is a Much Better Choice

This Old-Fashioned Kitchen Feature Is Making a Comeback, According to Designers

DreamMedia / Getty Images

According to Kornbluth and Abate, the kitchen design feature that’s making a comeback is kitchen wallpaper.

To many, wallpapered kitchens may seem outdated and conjure visions of vintage 1970s kitchens covered with floor-to-ceiling maximalist (and even clashing!) wallpapers. However, thanks to the advancements in wallpaper design over the years, wallpaper is now an easy way to add a touch of anything—ranging from vintage nostalgia to modern luxury—to a kitchen!

Wallpapers can be “either in the working kitchen, above a… backsplash or in the breakfast area or butler’s pantry,” explains Kornbluth.

“The composition of these [wallpapers] has also changed dramatically,” Kornbluth points out. “High end design houses have created gorgeous patterns, colorful prints and lush textures on vinyl-based papers, making them a durable choice for heavily trafficked kitchens.”

Related: This ‘Y2K Teen Bedroom’ Trend Is Everywhere—And It’s Pure Nostalgia

Why Homeowners Are Wallpapering Their Kitchens Again

Frederic Lewis / Getty Images

“Wallpaper has made a comeback in today’s kitchens for the many reasons,” Kornbluth explains. “Wallpaper is having a comeback, in all areas of the house. This is a perfect way to add dimension and interest to a standing kitchen without doing a full renovation.”

She also thinks wallpaper is a great way to “add personality” to homes.

“Post COVID, people are more comfortable with expressing their individuality in their interior spaces,” she explains. “Wallpaper, especially in the kitchen, one of the most lived-in rooms in any home, is a perfect way to express oneself and make a house feel like a home.”

Abate agrees, noting that “the use of color and wallpaper has recently been making a comeback in kitchen design as homeowners are boldly embracing their personal style.”

“Wallpapered kitchens are becoming popular again because we’ve had a period of simplistic and minimal kitchens,” Abate adds. “There is a growing appreciation for traditional interiors, which includes wallpaper, as it pairs nicely with elements such as natural wood and painted cabinetry. Wallpaper can also add warmth and sophistication to a kitchen without a big reno, which is part of the appeal.”

What Style Kitchen Wallpaper You Should Choose

atlantic-kid / Getty Images

Abate loves wallpaper that evokes nature, whether it features greenery, flowers, animals or any other nature-derived patterns.

“When it comes to wallpaper, I see it as another opportunity to bring the outdoors [to the indoors],” says Abate.

“By selecting nature-inspired themes, we can mimic the restoration that being in nature brings,” she says. “I like to choose an accent wall to create a focal point in the kitchen, picking up on the color of the cabinetry, upholstery or accessories to create an integrated space.”

Kornbluth is flexible when it comes to wallpaper patterns—what’s most important is that it reflects your personality.

“The patterns can be small, with trellises and checkers, or larger more typical designs,” she says.

Related: 35 Things in Your House Right Now That Could Be Worth Money, According to Certified Appraisers

These 3 Once-Outdated Kitchen Trends Are Also Back in Style

In addition to wallpaper, Kornbluth has observed a few other once-outdated kitchen features coming back into fashion.

1. Colorful and dramatic natural stone

aire images / Getty Images

“After years of variations of clean crisp white quartz countertops, colorful and dramatic natural stone is making a comeback,” Kornbluth says. “Homeowners are requesting beautiful colorations and vivid movement in their stone countertops, often continuing them up until the upper cabinets and using as a dramatic backsplash.”

She adds that “fabulous quartzites and marbles are what can elevate a beautiful kitchen into a working masterpiece. Designing a kitchen with a gorgeous stone is the type of project we designers dream of.”

2. Chrome fixtures

Grace Cary / Getty Images

“Chrome fixtures are showing up in the most fabulous kitchens,” Kornbluth says. “Not the cheap looking faucets of years ago, these new fixtures are a gorgeous addition to a designer kitchen. With beautiful designs and high caliber mechanisms, they are a welcome change from the heavy-handed gold fixtures and hardware that have dominated kitchens for the past few years.”

3. Wood cabinets

onurdongel / Getty Images

“Wood cabinets are also having a comeback,” according to Kornbluth—though that doesn’t refer to the “orange-hued honey colored wood of 30 years ago” or “the typical white shaker cabinets that had dominated the kitchen industry for many years.”

Instead, the wood cabinets people are gravitating to right now “are quietly classy and have a sleek silhouette to give a clean modern profile” and feature “different wood species showcased with rift cuts and quarter saw cuts that show off the beautiful wood grains.”

Up Next:

Related: 9 Back-to-School Organization Tips Professional Organizers Swear By

Sources:

• Adina Kornbluth is the Principal Designer and Owner of Adina Kornbluth Designs.
• Josie Abate is the Principal Interior Designer at Ambience Design Group.

Train travel in the U.S. is about to look a whole lot different, starting in one particularly scenic corner of the country. On Sept. 30, Amtrak will officially put its brand-new Airo trains into passenger service for the first time, giving travelers in the Pacific Northwest the first chance to experience the next generation of Amtrak travel.

The new trains will make their nationwide debut on Amtrak Cascades, which connects Vancouver, British Columbia, Seattle, Portland and Eugene, Oregon. Two Airo trainsets will begin operating four daily trips on Wednesday, kicking off a larger rollout that will continue into early 2027.

And this isn’t simply a fresh coat of paint. The new fleet features panoramic windows, modern interiors, more than 300 seats per trainset and a host of upgrades designed to make rail travel more comfortable, accessible and connected.

Related: A Hogwarts Train Experience is Coming for Harry Potter Fans

What’s New on Amtrak’s Airo Trains?

Passengers can expect ergonomically designed seats with adjustable headrests, enhanced lighting and panoramic windows—which should come in especially handy when traveling through the Pacific Northwest. Each seat will also have its own power outlet and USB port, while complimentary Wi-Fi and digital customer-information displays will help passengers stay connected along the way.

Accessibility has also been upgraded throughout the trains, with automated steps, accessible seating, enhanced wayfinding and six spacious restrooms equipped with touchless controls. There’s a refreshed café experience, too, featuring food and drinks inspired by the Pacific Northwest.

Even the exterior has been designed with the region in mind. Unlike future Airo trains, which will feature Amtrak’s national red, white and blue branding, the Cascades fleet sports an evergreen, cream and mocha color palette with design details inspired by the Cascade mountain range.

Where Can You Ride the New Amtrak Airo Trains First?

If you want bragging rights as one of the first passengers in the country to ride Amtrak’s new fleet, you’ll need to head to the Pacific Northwest. On Sept. 30, the initial Airo trains are scheduled to operate these four trips:

• Train 503: Seattle to Eugene, 7:10 a.m.–1:48 p.m.
• Train 516: Seattle to Vancouver, B.C., 8:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
• Train 508: Eugene to Seattle, 4:30 p.m.–10:50 p.m.
• Train 519: Vancouver, B.C., to Seattle, 4:45 p.m.–9:10 p.m.

Amtrak has ordered eight Airo trainsets for Amtrak Cascades, along with two new locomotives and a spare cab car. More of the new trains will gradually join the route through early 2027, eventually replacing the existing Cascades fleet.

More Amtrak Airo Trains Are Coming

The Pacific Northwest may be getting first dibs, but Amtrak has much bigger plans for Airo. The company has ordered 83 trainsets as part of its effort to modernize passenger rail around the country.

Eventually, Airo trains are expected on routes including the Northeast Regional, Empire Service, Keystone Service, Downeaster, Vermonter, Carolinian, Palmetto, Pennsylvanian, Adirondack, Ethan Allen Express and Maple Leaf, among others.

Next up is the Northeast Regional, although East Coast travelers will have to wait a bit longer. Amtrak says the first Airo trainset for that route has completed production and begun testing, with passenger service currently planned for late 2027.

The trains are being manufactured in the United States by Siemens Mobility, with components coming from nearly 100 suppliers across 31 states.

For now, though, the Pacific Northwest gets to go first—and with panoramic windows framing some of the country’s prettiest rail scenery, it seems like a fitting place for Amtrak’s next generation to begin.

Up next:

Related: We Asked 3 Travel Advisors for the Best Fall Leaf-Peeping Train Trip—They All Said the Same Thing

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Denim jackets are truly one of those timeless wardrobe staples that year after year never seem to go out of style. Though specific cuts and fits might trend every season, reaching for a denim jacket for layering during milder seasons like fall and spring is an easy choice. The versatile layer is perfect for throwing over everything from sweater dresses to classic T-shirts and jeans. Denim jackets can also be dressed up or down, making them easy transition pieces from day to night. 

If you’re looking to refresh your denim jacket without overspending, Walmart has plenty of stylish options worth checking out. The retailer is currently offering a range of denim jackets in trendy oversized or relaxed silhouettes that work no matter where you are headed. Even better, prices start at just $22, making it super affordable to add this fall essential to your wardrobe.

No Boundaries Oversized Denim Cotton Jacket, $22 at Walmart

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A perfectly oversized denim jacket needs to be, well, perfectly oversized. This one fits the bill, with slightly bat-winged sleeves (a godsend for chunky sweaters) and a lived-in silhouette. It comes in this really lovely dark blue dye above, but also a lighter wash for a more casual look. You can shop it in sizes XXS to 4X, and really for just $22, it’s a fall wardrobe no-brainer.

Celebrity Pink Boxy Barn Jacket, $27 at Walmart

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Barn jackets are so in for fall — because who can really resist a corduroy collar — and this hyper-affordable option from Walmart is just darling. It’s slightly cropped and boxy, making it a great layering piece over thicker sweaters, and it’s available in sizes XS to 4X. The medium wash means you can rock it from fall through summer, and those tortoiseshell buttons add the perfect amount of flair.

Shewin Oversized Denim Jacket, $30 at Walmart

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Another standout denim pick at Walmart is the Shewin Denim Jacket, a cotton-polyester layer with a chic oversized fit. The popular coat has racked up over 400 five-star reviews, and it’s not hard to see why. It’s available in five colors and sizes small to XXL to cater to a wide range of body types, it features trendy distressed details that lend it a vintage feel. Starting at just $30, it’s also a steal right now. One reviewer called it a “great lightweight jacket for all seasons, adding that it’s “great for jeans, jeggings, leggings, or over a midi dress with cowboy boots.”

Levi Strauss Vintage Easy Trucker Denim Jacket, $40 at Walmart

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Levi’s is one of the most trusted names in denim, so it’s hard to go wrong with the brand’s spins on denim jackets. This particular option features a relaxed and slightly cropped fit with drop shoulders and long sleeves, leaning into the classic look of an OG denim jacket. Timeless and versatile, it’s the kind of staple that deserves a spot in every closet for spring. It’s available in a light wash and a medium wash, both available for $40. 

Eytino Boyfriend Denim Jacket, From $30 (was $56) at Walmart

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The Eytino Boyfriend Denim Jacket offers a relaxed, laid-back take on the iconic layer, and we love that it comes in five different color options. From a hazy black to a true blue and even a white denim, this effortless piece can work styled over sweaters or lightweight knits. With its casual vibe and comfortable fit reviewers say it’s a simple way to add a bit of cool to any look. “This jacket is absolutely perfect!” one shopper wrote. “The length, the style, the material, the fit…it’s all exactly as I hoped it would be. It is oversized yet flattering. You can wear it for a casual day around town or dress it up to look more put together.”

Related: Walmart’s ‘Soft’ and ‘Comfortable’ Summer Lounge Set Is Perfect for Errands, Walks, and Travel  

Denim jackets have been a longtime staple for transitional dressing, and these affordable finds from Walmart will be sure to make your autumn refresh easier without overspending. Whether you prefer the classic trucker style or a relaxed oversized fit, there’s an option that can work with any wardrobe. With prices starting at just $22, these jackets prove that updating your closet for the season doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. 

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There’s something about fall that makes us want to put dinner on low and let the kitchen fill with the smell of something slow-cooked. As the days get shorter and temperatures begin to dip, you may find yourself craving the kind of meals that don’t need much explanation: hearty, warming and familiar. This is the season for casseroles, soups, stews and, of course, retro slow-cooker recipes.

Maybe it’s because these dishes remind us of a time when dinner was less about following the latest food trend and more about putting something comforting on the table. Classic fall slow-cooker meals have a way of doing that. They simmer away for hours, turning inexpensive cuts of meat and everyday vegetables into a dinner that feels special without being complicated.

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And if there’s one vintage slow-cooker recipe that deserves a spot in the fall rotation, it’s pot roast. With beef, potatoes, carrots, onions and herbs slowly cooked together until the meat is tender and the vegetables are infused with savory flavor, it’s the definition of easy fall comfort food.

Chef Travis Ramsdell agrees. His go-to slow-cooker meal every fall is classic beef pot roast—and he has a few chef-approved tricks to share for making this nostalgic dinner even better.

The Big Reveal: Why Pot Roast Is the Ultimate Fall Comfort Food

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For Ramsdell, pot roast isn’t simply a practical slow-cooker meal. It’s tied to memories of gathering around the table. “Beef slowly cooking with onions, carrots, celery, potatoes and herbs fills the house with an aroma that immediately feels like fall,” he says.

That aroma is part of what makes pot roast so nostalgic. Ramsdell says the dish can bring people back to Sunday dinners with parents and grandparents, making the emotional connection just as meaningful as the ingredients themselves.

That’s part of the draw of a good retro slow-cooker pot roast recipe: It doesn’t need to be reinvented to be delicious. The basic combination of beef, vegetables, herbs and a savory sauce has stood the test of time.

Related: We Asked 4 Chefs Their Favorite Canned Soup, and Their Answers Will Inspire Dinner Tonight

The Chef’s Secret: Do You Really Need to Sear the Meat?

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Technically, no. But if you ask Ramsdell, it’s worth the extra few minutes. “Do you have to? No. Would I recommend it? Absolutely,” he says.

Searing the beef before putting it into the slow cooker creates deep, roasted flavor through the Maillard reaction. That complex browning simply doesn’t happen in the same way when raw meat goes directly into a slow cooker.

And Ramsdell doesn’t stop at searing. After browning the beef, he deglazes the pan with stock or wine, scraping up the flavorful browned bits from the bottom. That liquid then goes into the slow cooker too.

So, do you need to brown meat for slow-cooker recipes? The short version is no—but browning can make a noticeable difference in flavor.

“If convenience is the priority, you can skip it, but if I have an extra 10 minutes, I’m searing,” Ramsdell says.

Upgrading the ‘Retro’ Ingredients for a Modern Palate

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There’s no need to overhaul a classic pot roast just because it’s old-fashioned. In fact, Ramsdell recommends keeping many of the traditional ingredients exactly as they are. “Keep the onions, carrots, celery and potatoes,” he says.

But he likes to add a few vegetables that don’t always get as much attention in modern recipes. Parsnips bring sweetness, while rutabaga adds an earthy flavor with a subtle sweetness of its own.

The same philosophy applies to technique. Rather than piling on trendy ingredients, Ramsdell brings back a few traditional cooking methods that add depth.

He recommends searing the meat, sautéing the aromatics, caramelizing a little tomato paste and deglazing the pan. “Sometimes ‘old-school’ became old-school because it works,” he says.

And that may be the best way to think about vintage Crockpot recipes modernized for today’s cooks. You don’t necessarily need different ingredients. Sometimes you just need better techniques.

How to Make Pot Roast

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For the best cut of meat for slow-cooker pot roast, look for a well-marbled, collagen-rich cut that benefits from long, slow cooking. Chuck roast is a classic choice because the extended cooking time helps break down its connective tissue, resulting in tender, shreddable beef.

Start by seasoning the beef generously. Heat a little oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, and sear the roast on multiple sides until deeply browned. Transfer it to the slow cooker.

In the same pan, sauté the onions, carrots and celery, then add tomato paste and cook it briefly until it darkens slightly. Deglaze the pan with stock or wine, scraping up all of those browned bits.

Add the liquid and aromatics to the slow cooker along with the beef, potatoes and other sturdy vegetables. Add herbs such as thyme or rosemary, then cook until the beef is fork-tender.

The exact cooking time will depend on the size of the roast and your slow cooker, but a low-and-slow approach is what transforms a tough cut of beef into tender pot roast.

Related: The 11 Best Greek Groceries To Buy at Costco (And 3 To Skip)

How to Layer a Slow Cooker So Vegetables Don’t Turn to Mush

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One of the easiest ways to improve a slow-cooker dinner is to pay attention to where you put the ingredients.

Ramsdell says to think about density and cooking time. Sturdy root vegetables—including potatoes, carrots, parsnips and rutabaga—should go toward the bottom and around the meat. Cut them into fairly large pieces so they can withstand hours of cooking without falling apart.

“If something is going to cook for six to eight hours, cut it accordingly,” Ramsdell says.

That simple rule can make a big difference. Smaller pieces have more surface area exposed to heat and liquid, meaning they can soften much faster. Larger chunks of root vegetables are better equipped to hold their shape throughout a long cooking time.

More delicate vegetables can be added later in the cooking process rather than subjected to the full six- to eight-hour cooking window.

In other words, don’t treat every vegetable in the slow cooker the same. Just as you would on the stovetop, consider how long each ingredient needs to become tender.

The Flour Dredge: Fixing Watery Slow-Cooker Sauce

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One common problem with slow-cooker meals is a sauce that ends up thinner than expected. Ramsdell says that’s partly because slow cookers don’t allow liquid to evaporate the way an uncovered pot does. The meat and vegetables also release moisture as they cook.

His solution is to start with less liquid than you think you’ll need.

Additionally, a light flour dredge before searing the beef can also help give the finished sauce more body. If the sauce is still too thin at the end of cooking, there are several ways to thicken slow-cooker sauce, including a cornstarch slurry or reducing the liquid separately on the stovetop.

But Ramsdell has another trick that happens to fit perfectly with the rustic nature of pot roast—purée some of the cooked vegetables directly into the sauce.

“It thickens it naturally while adding even more flavor,” he says. It’s a smart way to get a rich, velvety sauce without making the dish feel overly complicated.

And ultimately, that’s what makes pot roast such a reliable fall dinner. It’s familiar without being boring, nostalgic without feeling dated, and hearty enough to make a chilly evening feel a little cozier.

 With a few chef-approved techniques—especially searing the beef, layering the vegetables thoughtfully and giving the sauce a little extra attention—this retro slow-cooker meal proves that some classics really don’t need much fixing.

Source:

• Chef Travis Ramsdell, CDC, is a culinary executive and operator currently serving as vice president of culinary at True Connection Communities. He leads dining strategy across a national senior living portfolio, focusing on experience, efficiency and growth. With a background spanning higher education dining, including roles with Chartwells Higher Education and Eurest, he brings both large-scale operational leadership and hands-on culinary expertise.

Related: We Asked 5 Chefs Their Favorite Little Debbie Snack, and Their Picks Were Pure Lunchbox Nostalgia

Food influencer Ertan Bek has spent years using his social media platform to shine a spotlight on struggling restaurants and small businesses. Now, one of the restaurants he once helped is rallying its community to support him as he faces a difficult health crisis.

Bek explained in a recent Instagram post that amid his Dining With a Celebrity series, he was dealing with a “debilitating illness” that caused nerve damage in his feet and legs, which ultimately led to numerous opportunity cancellations. He said he lost “everything overnight,” but kept hoping he’d begin to feel better. Despite trying to seek medical care, Bek’s mounting medical bills prevented him from continuing to seek treatment.

First reported by Markos Papadatos, Plaka Restaurant has launched a GoFundMe fundraiser for Bek, who is dealing with ongoing health issues that have resulted in hospital visits, medical bills, and an ongoing search for treatment to determine what is causing his pain. In his Instagram post, Bek explained that he didn’t ask for the GoFundMe and never posted about what he was facing because “I felt guilty. I never want to take money from the community, or even the restaurants.”

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But Plaka was determined to help, which has been a humbling experience for Bek. He described the outreach and incredible acts of kindness he’s experienced, thanking everyone who has reached out and contributed to his recovery. He adds that he is more determined than ever to recover and “come back with helping and giving back to the community even more.”

According to the restaurant team, Bek’s health struggles have prevented him from working and supporting himself and his family, adding financial pressure at a time when his focus needs to be on getting better.

The fundraiser is especially personal for the team at Plaka, which said Bek once showed up for the restaurant when it needed support.

“If you’ve followed Ertan, you know how much he has done for small businesses and the people behind them,” the Plaka team wrote in the fundraiser. “We experienced that kindness firsthand.”

The restaurant said Bek came in, shared its food with his audience, and helped bring attention to the business. What began as a visit eventually became a friendship, according to the team.

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Now, Plaka wants to return that kindness.

“We created this GoFundMe to help ease some of the financial burden he is facing and allow him to focus on getting through this difficult chapter,” the restaurant wrote.

The team is asking Bek’s followers, as well as people whose businesses or lives he has touched, to donate or share the fundraiser if they are unable to contribute financially.

“He has used his platform to lift up so many others,” Plaka wrote. “Now we’re hoping his community—and anyone whose business, day, or life he has touched—can help us lift him up.”

The fundraiser comes as Bek’s community rallies around him during a period when, according to Plaka, he is facing both physical and financial challenges.

For the restaurant, the effort is a chance to give back to someone who once used his own platform to help them.

“He was there for us when we needed support,” the Plaka team wrote. “Now it’s our turn to be there for him.”

In 1970, Linda Ronstadt had her breakthrough as a solo artist with the song “Long Long Time.” More than 50 years later, it’s still a beloved fan favorite—but not a favorite performance of the singer.

Recorded for the album Silk Purses, the Gary White-penned ballad features folk rock acoustic guitar and lyrics about unrequited love and moving on. And while it gave Ronstadt her first solo hit, reaching No. 25 on the Billboard Hot 100 in October 1970, as well as her first Grammy nod, the former Stone Poneys singer was critical of her performance on the song.

In her 2013 book Simple Dreams: A Musical Memoir, Ronstadt noted that her musical style hadn’t yet “jelled” when she recorded “Long Long Time” decades prior.

“I never liked my performance on the record,” she wrote. “It was recorded at 10 in the morning, somewhat early for a singer, and we used the live vocal. I learned to sing it better later.”

Even though she didn’t like her vocals on the song, Ronstadt has described “Long Long Time” as one of her favorites and a song that meant “a lot” to her.

In an interview with The Los Angeles Times, she recalled that White played her the song after a Paul Siebel show in Greenwich Village and she “instantly wanted to record it.”

“That same night I also heard Siebel’s great song ‘Louise,’ which I also recorded,” she added. “Elliot Mazer produced them both in Nashville with musicians from the Area Code 615 band. I sang the vocal live with the track at 10 o’clock in the morning, not an ideal time of day for singing!”

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In addition to “Long Long Time,” Ronstadt downplayed her vocal talent on her 1975 No. 1 hit “You’re No Good.”

“I didn’t care for the way I sang ‘You’re No Good,’ I didn’t think the vocal was any good,” she told Rock Cellar magazine in an interview. “I remember being disappointed in that so its success was a false success for me. The success of You’re No Good was not something I was proud about but was rather it was something I was so disappointed in.”

The music legend further explained, “I was tired, and we’d been working on ‘You’re No Good’ for a long time. I was also a little tired of the song anyway because we’d been doing it on stage. I sang it all day, and my voice was all worn out and my rhythm was a little off.  I just didn’t like it and didn’t like my phrasing on it.”

RELATED: Linda Ronstadt, Trailblazing ‘First Lady of Rock,’ Turns 80

Ronstadt broke boundaries throughout her career, transitioning from folk to arena rock to country, Latin classics, standards, and opera. But she has long admitted that she is hard on herself when it comes to her music.

“I don’t like to listen to my own recordings,” she said in a 2015 interview for Delaware Online. “I always hope they are better than I remember them, but they usually aren’t. If I stumble onto one and have to hear it, it’s usually not as good, and I remember [it] as not being good enough. It’s just hard to judge your own work.”

Decades after her breakthrough success with “Long Long Time,” Ronstadt stands as one of the most iconic musical voices of all time, one of rock’s first female superstars who paved the way for so many others.

Related: 1977 Legendary Hit Was Nearly Scrapped Before Linda Ronstadt Saved It

Have you ever walked away from a conversation feeling entirely drained, as though you didn’t just share differing viewpoints with someone, but rather survived an intellectual wrestling match you never signed up to play? Disagreements are a completely normal, healthy part of human connection. Whether you are debating the best route for a road trip, navigating a complex workplace project or unpacking a deeply held personal belief with a partner, friction is bound to happen. However, how we handle that tension dictates whether a conversation builds intimacy or completely fractures trust.

According to mental health experts, communication breakdowns often happen not because of what we disagree on, but how we signal dominance when conflict rises. Certain conversational habits act less like tools for mutual understanding and more like verbal velvet ropes designed to push (and keep) people out. Among the most damaging tools in a difficult person’s conversational arsenal is a deceptively simple four-word phrase that instantly halts dialogue: “You’re missing the point.”

While it might sound like a simple plea for clarity or an attempt to realign two stray tracks of thought, one psychologist warns that this phrase is a classic red flag of “know-it-all” behavior. Rather than inviting your conversational partner deeper into an exchange, it fundamentally alters the dynamic, turning a collaborative dialogue into a silent battleground where only one person is allowed to wear the crown.

Related: Psychologist Says the 1 Phrase That Instantly Shuts Down a Combative Person Isn’t What You Might Think

The Psychology Behind ‘You’re Missing the Point’

When someone drops the phrase “You’re missing the point” into the middle of a tense discussion, they are rarely trying to be helpful. Instead, they are erecting a defensive barrier.

As counseling psychologist and CBT therapist Dr. Sarah Jane Khalid noted previously on Parade, regarding phrases frequently used by know-it-alls, interactions with individuals prone to this behavior “often feel like a contest, where the sole aim is to emerge victorious regardless of the subject matter.” When a disagreement threatens their illusion of absolute correctness, they pivot away from the topic and focus on the other person’s understanding.

Related: A Child Psychologist Says This 6-Word Response Works Better Than Saying ‘Calm Down’

By claiming you are missing the point, the speaker accomplishes two things simultaneously: they elevate their own cognitive standing to that of an objective authority, and they invalidate your perspective by framing it as fundamentally flawed or unintelligent. It is a conversational checkmate designed to force you into a defensive posture. Suddenly, you aren’t debating the merits of the issue anymore; you are forced to defend your basic ability to understand plain logic.

Psychologists also point out that these individuals may persist long after the other person has stepped back or lost interest, entirely driven by one thing.

“Frequently, their motivation shifts from the actual topic at hand to the desire to showcase their own intelligence and superior knowledge, transforming conversations into battles for dominance,” Dr. Khalid stated.

Why This Phrase Destroys Connection and Trust

Communication requires vulnerability and a baseline assumption that the person sitting across from you possesses a valid internal world. When you tell someone they are missing the point, you strip away that baseline of respect. It communicates a subtle yet devastating message: My reality is accurate, and yours is defective.

Related: You Won’t Hear High-Level Thinkers Using This 1 Phrase, Psychologists Say

Over time, the frequent deployment of this phrase breeds resentment and emotional exhaustion. People subjected to this kind of subtle intellectual dismissal eventually learn that speaking up isn’t worth the psychological cost. Instead of engaging in future debates, they withdraw, shut down or practice “gray rocking,” which is where you become entirely non-reactive to keep the peace.

True emotional safety in relationships requires us to tolerate ambiguity and accept that two people can view a situation entirely differently without one of them being inherently “wrong” or “oblivious.” When we weaponize phrases to shut down arguments, we prioritize ego protection over genuine human connection.

Adapted from Parade’s “7 Phrases You’ll Often Hear From a ‘Know-It-All,’ According to a Psychologist” by Ashley Broadwater.

Up Next:

Related: Use This Phrase When You Need a ‘Healthy Way To Agree To Disagree,’ Psychologist Says

Source:

• Dr. Sarah Jane Khalid is a counseling psychologist, CBT therapist, coach and meditation teacher based in the UK and is listed on Doctify, a healthcare review platform.

One of the best parts about traveling solo? You don’t have to wait for anyone else to say yes to the trip.

“Solo travel after 55 is one of the most exciting trends we see,” says Aleem Ahmed, Business Lead at HotelTonight. “These travelers know what they want, and they’re not waiting around for someone to join them.”

But when you’re the only one navigating airports, checking into hotels and hauling your suitcase, a few details matter more than they might when traveling with a partner.

“I don’t believe getting older should make us fearful about traveling alone, but it should make us more deliberate,” says Jen Curnutt, Founder of Jen33Travel and an Adventure & Luxury Travel Expert.

So before you book that solo getaway, here are three things travel experts say are worth checking first.

Related: The Solo Travel Hack I Wish I’d Known About Sooner

1. Check the Neighborhood, Not Just the Hotel

It’s easy to fall for a beautiful hotel room. But when you’re traveling alone, what’s immediately outside the lobby can be just as important.

“Look at a map before you look at the room,” Ahmed advises.

He recommends choosing a hotel in a walkable, well-lit neighborhood near restaurants and transportation, which can make it easier to explore independently without calling a rideshare every time you leave.

Curnutt takes that research one step further by considering exactly what arrival day will look like. What time does the flight land? How far is the hotel from the airport? Will public transportation still be running? Will the front desk be staffed?

“A cheaper flight is not necessarily a bargain if it leaves you alone outside a closed train station at midnight,” she says.

She also familiarizes herself with the neighborhood and route to her hotel before leaving home so the surroundings aren’t completely unfamiliar upon arrival.

And don’t forget what’s waiting inside the hotel.

Ahmed recommends checking for a 24-hour front desk, elevators and accessible rooms, depending on your needs.

“Knowing someone is downstairs at 2 a.m. and that you won’t be hauling a suitcase up three flights of stairs is real peace of mind when you’re on your own,” he says.

Related: ‘I’ve Been Solo Adventuring For 3 Decades—This Is the One Destination I Recommend to Everyone’

2. Check the Real Solo Price—and the Solo Experience

That $2,000 cruise or tour may look like a steal until you realize the advertised price assumes two people are sharing a room.

“Don’t assume ‘solo-friendly’ means ‘solo-priced,’” says Amy Kilbreath, founder of Port and Passport Travel and a Virtuoso-affiliated luxury travel advisor specializing in Gen X and 50+ travelers.

Solo travelers can face a single supplement, an additional charge that can sometimes push the cost close to what two travelers would have paid.

Kilbreath says that’s slowly changing, with more cruise lines offering true solo cabins and more tour operators reducing or waiving single supplements. Still, always check the total price you’ll actually pay before booking.

Price isn’t the only consideration.

“A trip can accept solo travelers without actually being good for solo travelers,” Kilbreath says.

She suggests finding out what happens after the day’s sightseeing ends. Are there communal tables, solo dinners, group get-togethers or a host who facilitates introductions? And who typically books the trip?

“A 58-year-old traveling solo on a tour packed with families may have a very different week than they pictured when they booked it,” she says.

That’s one reason Kilbreath likes small ships, river cruises and the right guided trips for some solo travelers: You can spend the day independently but still have people to join for dinner if you want company.

Her advice if you click with fellow travelers on night one? “Book tomorrow’s dinner for four!”

Related: The U.S. Travel Destination Everyone Should Visit at Least Once, According to Getaway Guru Samantha Brown

3. Check What You’ll Have to Manage Alone

When you travel with someone else, you automatically have an extra set of hands—and a backup if something goes wrong.

“When you travel with someone, they’re automatically your backup,” Kilbreath says. “Solo, you need to line some of that up ahead of time.”

That means thinking beyond the destination’s highlight reel. Kilbreath recommends researching stairs, cobblestones, walking distances and even whether a cruise ship docks at a port or requires passengers to tender ashore in a smaller boat.

“Dubrovnik’s walls are fantastic,” she says. “They are also not the right choice for every 55+ knee.”

Curnutt, who is 55 herself, takes a similarly practical approach.

“Even though I consider myself pretty fit, at 55, I’ve learned not to assume that I can muscle my bags up a flight of stairs or carry them across a station,” she says.

Before booking, she checks for elevators and luggage assistance, as well as steep streets, uneven terrain and how much walking is actually involved.

It’s also worth knowing who you can call if something goes wrong. That could be a hotel with a staffed front desk, a tour manager, cruise staff, responsive local host or travel advisor. Kilbreath also recommends travel insurance.

The point isn’t to eliminate spontaneity. In fact, Ahmed recommends using one of solo travel’s biggest advantages to its fullest: flexibility.

“Booking as you go, rather than locking in a rigid itinerary, is one of the best parts of traveling alone,” he says.

And if you’re wondering where to start, Ahmed counts Charleston, Savannah and Santa Fe among his favorite U.S. cities for solo travelers over 55 because they’re walkable and welcoming, with plenty of food, history and culture concentrated in relatively compact areas.

After all, traveling alone isn’t about having someone beside you every minute. It’s about knowing you can handle the trip comfortably on your own—and then doing exactly what you want once you get there.

Up next:

Related: 8 Smart Carry-On Items That Keep Solo Travelers Safe and Comfortable

A quirk in the eligibility rules is the sole reason why “The Sopranos” is missing from The New York Times’ new ranking of the 100 best TV shows of the 21st century. The show many critics still call the greatest drama ever made didn’t crack a list built to define its own era.

The Times released the full ranking on Friday, rolling out 20 titles a day over the course of a week. The paper’s Upshot data team didn’t rely on its own critics. Instead, it sent ballots to hundreds of actors, showrunners, writers and other television professionals, asking each to name up to 10 shows they considered the best of the century so far. The eligibility rules were broad. Shows could come from any language or format, including reality competitions and documentaries. Only two restrictions applied; a show needed more than a single episode, and it had to premiere on or after January 1, 2000.

That second rule is what knocked out “The Sopranos.” The HBO drama debuted on January 10, 1999, just nine days before the cutoff. 73 of the show’s 86 episodes actually aired after 2000, meaning the vast majority of its run falls squarely inside the window the list covers. Meanwhile, “Gilmore Girls,” which premiered in October 2000, made the ranking at No. 99. The date on a calendar (not the quality of the work) is the entire difference.

Forbes contributor Erik Kain argues the Times could have written a better rule. Rather than a hard date cutoff, he suggests eligibility based on where the majority of a show’s episodes aired. That approach would have let “The Sopranos” onto the list, along with other transitional shows like “The West Wing” and “Futurama” (a personal favorite), while still keeping genuine 1990s holdovers such as “The Simpsons” out of the running. The series finale of “The Sopranos” aired June 10, 2007, capping an eight-year run that helped define the exact era this list was built to celebrate.

Related: George Clooney Cries Accepting Career Honor, Then Thanks Amal

“The Sopranos” wasn’t the only notable absence. Not a single Taylor Sheridan series made the cut, even though “Yellowstone” ranks among the most watched and culturally influential shows of the last decade. Its prequels, “1883” and “1923,” fared no better. Unlike “The Sopranos,” Sheridan’s shows had no eligibility issue standing in their way. Voters simply left them off their ballots.

Lists like this one are designed to spark exactly this kind of argument. The Times built its ranking from the collective taste of more than 500 people working in television, which guarantees disagreement and debate. While there will be few arguments about the show that landed at No. 1, which turned out to be “Breaking Bad,” there’s bound to be a lot of grumbling over what didn’t make the cut. And for a show as massive as “The Sopranos” to get whacked just because of a few weeks of pre-cutoff airtime? Fuhgeddaboudit.

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Holiday programming is gearing up to start soon and we have your guides to what networks and streamers have the best Christmas content and how you can stream some of the content for free, even if you don’t have a subscription! Apple TV is offering limited free viewing windows for some of their classic holiday Peanuts programming along with three new holiday premieres (subscription required).

Let’s check out what Apple TV has to offer!

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What new holiday programs are coming to Apple TV? Snoopy Presents: 12 Days of Snoopy

Apple TV

Snoopy Presents: 12 Days of Snoopy

Premieres Friday, Nov 13
Featuring original music from John Legend, Kamasi Washington, Leon Bridges, Laufey

In the latest special under the acclaimed “Snoopy Presents” banner, the Peanuts kids are on their best behavior—but Snoopy has landed on Santa’s naughty list. With just 12 days until Christmas, he sets out to prove he’s not such a bad beagle after all, discovering along the way that the season is about more than gifts.

Fraggle Rock: A Holiday Gift

Apple TV

Fraggle Rock: A Holiday Gift

Premieres Friday, Dec.4
Featuring Nicole Scherzinger

An all-new musical special from The Jim Henson Company, Fraggle Rock: A Holiday Gift features an appearance by singer and actress Nicole Scherzinger. When Wembley is named Spirit Captain, he sets out to spread cheer throughout the Rock—but after the Fraggles unknowingly take a cherished snow globe from Doc’s workshop, the holiday spirit begins to fade. Wembley must find the courage to return it, learning that kindness, giving, and helping someone in need are the true gifts of the holidays.

Chris Pratt, Jude Hill

Apple TV

Way of the Warrior Kid

Premieres Wednesday, Nov. 25
Starring Chris Pratt, Lindad Cardellini

Middle school has been a nightmare for Marc (Jude Hill), a good kid who’s bullied by his classmates and feels like he’s behind in everything, from academics to P.E. to just making friends. That changes when his injured Uncle Jake (Pratt), a decorated Navy SEAL, comes to spend the summer and recuperate with Marc and his mom, Sarah (Cardellini). To help Marc defend himself, Jake devises an ambitious program he calls “Operation Warrior Kid” based on his SEAL training. Instead of teaching his nephew how to fight, Jake shows Marc what real courage is, facing down his own demons along the way.

Classic Holiday Programming Streaming for FREE for a Limited Time It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown

Stream for FREE Saturday, Oct. 17 to Sunday, Oct. 18

Celebrate 60 years of this Peanuts classic. Join the Peanuts gang for a timeless adventure as Charlie Brown preps for a party, Snoopy sets his sights on the Red Baron and Linus patiently awaits a pumpkin patch miracle.

A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving

Stream for FREE Saturday, Nov. 14 to Sunday, Nov. 15

Peppermint Patty invites everyone to Charlie Brown’s for Thanksgiving, even though he’s going to see his grandmother. Snoopy decides to cook his own version of a Thanksgiving meal with help from his friends.

A Charlie Brown Christmas A Charlie Brown Christmas

Stream for FREE Saturday, Dec. 12 through Sunday, Dec. 13

In this beloved Peanuts special, feeling down about the commercialism of Christmas, Charlie Brown becomes the director of the gang’s holiday play. Can he overcome his friends’ preference for dancing over acting, find the “perfect” tree and discover the true meaning of Christmas?

What You Can Stream Now on Apple TV The First Snow of Fraggle Rock

Apple TV

Fraggle Rock – “The First Snow of Fraggle Rock”

The Fraggles eagerly await the start of the holidays—but when only a single snowflake arrives and Gobo has writer’s block, the season is thrown off course. The special also features internet sensation Lele Pons in a cameo role including a musical performance alongside Gobo for “Our Melody.” A journey to Outer Space leads to unexpected musical inspiration, while back at the Gorgs’ castle, Junior is overwhelmed by the surprise arrival of a baby sister. Together, the Fraggles and Gorgs learn that the most meaningful moments aren’t perfect—they’re unique, like snowflakes.

Apple TV

The Velveteen Rabbit

Based on the treasured, classic children’s book by Margery Williams, “The Velveteen Rabbit” celebrates the magic of unconditional love. When seven-year-old William receives a new favorite toy for Christmas, he discovers a lifelong friend and unlocks a world of magic.

Apple TV

Frog and Toad – “Christmas Eve”

In “Christmas Eve”, Frog and Toad are looking forward to spending the winter holiday together, but a last-minute errand into town sidetracks Frog, causing Toad to wonder if his best friend will make it home in time.

Apple TV

Shape Island – “The Winter Blues”

“Shape Island,” the acclaimed stop motion series for kids and families based on the internationally bestselling trilogy of Shapes picture books written by Mac Barnett and illustrated by Jon Klassen, is back on December 1 with an all-new holiday special titled “The Winter Blues.” The chilly season leaves Square feeling sad, so Circle and Triangle try to cheer him up by creating a new holiday: Yeti Night.

Apple TV

The Snoopy Show – “Happiness is Holiday Traditions”

In “Happiness is Holiday Traditions,” Snoopy searches for the perfect tree topper; Woodstock gets trapped in a window display; and Snoopy and Woodstock visit Spike for Christmas.

Apple TV

Sago Mini Friends – “New Year’s Steve”

In an all-new holiday special titled, “New Year’s Steve,” Harvey makes a wish to stay awake until midnight when a firefly swoops in to help—and kickstarts a scavenger hunt for the whole crew. The series is an adorable nod to gratitude, featuring Harvey the floppy-eared dog and his best friends, Jinja the cat, Jack the rabbit, and Robin the bird. Along with a unique cast of residents as colorful as their own whimsical world, the four friends play, explore, imagine and celebrate daily in their joyful town of Sagoville. In each episode, Harvey and all his friends express their true thankfulness for all things, big and small, through optimism, kindness, preschool-friendly humor and unforgettable original songs!

Charlie Brown’s Christmas Tales

Celebrate the merriest time of the year with the Peanuts gang in this special from Mendelson/Melendez Productions and Peanuts Worldwide. Snoopy, Charlie Brown, Linus, Lucy, and Sally each star in Christmastime tales adapted from the original Peanuts comic strips.

Apple TV

Eva The Owlet Holiday Special – “Eva’s Moon Wish”

“Eva the Owlet,” the animated series based on the New York Times bestselling Scholastic book series “Owl Diaries” by award-winning author Rebecca Elliott, stars Eva, a creative, cheeky owlet who lives next door to her best friend Lucy in the woodland world of Treetopington. With big ideas and an even bigger personality, Eva goes on high-flying adventures, expressing herself in her diary along the way! In “Eva’s Moon Wish,” as Treetopington celebrates a special holiday, Eva helps a lost oriole look for his family—and learns the true meaning of community.

Apple TV+

Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock – “Night of the Lights”

Jim Henson’s fun-loving and musical Fraggles — Gobo, Red, Wembley, Mokey, Boober and new Fraggle friends — have returned in Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock “Night of the Lights” holiday special for all-new adventures about the magic that happens when we celebrate and care for our interconnected world. It’s the Night of the Lights, the most Fraggily holiday of the year, and the Rock is filled with songs and cheer. When Jamdolin (voiced by Emmy Award nominee Daveed Diggs, “Hamilton”) encourages Wembley to make a special wish, the Fraggles head out on an adventure to find the brightest light and, maybe, the true meaning of the holiday.

Apple TV

Get Rolling With Otis – “A Winter’s Cow Tale”

In a special episode, “A Winter’s Cow Tale,” it’s Christmas Day and Rosalie is due to have her baby. Daisy can’t wait to be a big sister, but she’s disappointed when she can’t decorate the tree with her mama. Otis rolls into action to help Daisy decorate the tree and when the snow builds up too high, he plows his way through the snow, so Daisy can meet her new baby sister.

Apple TV

Hello, Jack! The Kindness Show – “Jack’s Snow Globe Cafe”

In “Jack’s Snow Globe Cafe,” when a snowstorm postpones the winter gazebo lighting, Jack and friends make the most of the moment with a “kindness cascade” at the cafe.

I Want a Dog for Christmas, Charlie Brown

All Rerun wants from Santa is a dog, but his mother won’t let him have one. Spending time with Snoopy provides the perfect pick-me-up. But when Snoopy gets too busy to play with Rerun, they call in a substitute—Snoopy’s brother Spike.

Apple TV

Interrupting Chicken – “A Chicken Carol” 

In the holiday special, “A Chicken Carol,” Ebenezer Wolf decides to cancel the holidays so, Piper teams up with the Three Little Pigs and some ghostly friends to change his mind. This animated preschool series which debuts globally on Apple TV November 18 is based upon “Interrupting Chicken,” the 2011 Caldecott Honor-winning book series written and illustrated by David Ezra Stein.

It’s Christmastime Again, Charlie Brown

It’s Christmastime Again, Charlie Brown is a collection of Christmas-themed vignettes, including: Charlie Brown tries to sell wreaths; Peppermint Patty worries about her Christmas book report; Charlie Brown tries to buy gloves for Peggy Jean; and the gang is in a Christmas play, where Sally worries about her single line and Peppermint Patty plays a sheep.

Apple TV

Pretzel and the Puppies – “Merry Muttgomery!”

In “Merry Muttgomery,” when a heavy snowfall jeopardizes the annual holiday festival, the pups find unique ways to celebrate with all the snowed-in dogs in the city.

The Snoopy Show – “Happiness Is the Gift of Giving”

In “Happiness Is the Gift of Giving,” Snoopy adapts a Christmas poem to help Sally sleep, Charlie Brown makes gifts for his pals, and Snoopy finds waiting to open his presents a challenge.

Apple TV

Stillwater – “The Way Home”

In “The Way Home,” while helping Stillwater make treats to celebrate the winter solstice festival, the kids learn he plans to share some with a neighbor they’re wary of.

Apple TV

The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse

A story of kindness, friendship, courage and hope for viewers of all ages in a heart-warming, classically animated Academy Award winning film based on Charlie Mackesy’s book, “The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse.” The poignant and heartfelt journey follows the unlikely friendship of a boy, a mole, a fox and a horse traveling together in the boy’s search for home.

Apple TV

Spirited

Starring Will Ferrell, Ryan Reynolds

Each Christmas Eve, the Ghost of Christmas Present (Will Ferrell) selects one dark soul to be reformed by a visit from three spirits. But this season, he picked the wrong Scrooge. Clint Briggs (Ryan Reynolds) turns the tables on his ghostly host until Present finds himself reexamining his own past, present and future.

Apple TV

The Family Plan 2

Starring Michelle Monaghan, Kit Harington, Mark Wahlberg

In The Family Plan 2, it’s the holiday season and Dan (Mark Wahlberg) has planned the perfect vacation for his wife Jessica (Michelle Monaghan) and their kids to celebrate overseas – until a mysterious figure from his past (Kit Harington) shows up with unfinished business. An international game of cat-and-mouse ensues as Dan and his family battle, bicker and bond their way through a series of bank heists, holiday hijinks and car chases amid scenic European terrain. The Family Plan is also available on Apple TV.

Apple TV

Hannah Waddingham: Home for Christmas

In the musical event, Emmy-winning star Hannah Waddingham rings in the holidays as she welcomes special guests for a musical extravaganza at the London Coliseum. The special is recorded live in front of an audience, and audiences around the world will be able to join Waddingham in celebrating her favorite time of year on Apple TV as she performs festive classics accompanied by a spectacular big band.

Apple TV

Mariah Carey’s Magical Christmas Special

Faced with a holiday cheer crisis, the North Pole knows there’s only one person who can save the day: Santa’s great friend Mariah Carey. The Queen of Christmas, Mariah Carey, creates a fabulous and star-studded spectacular to make the whole world merry! The special lineup also includes guest superstars Tiffany Haddish, Billy Eichner, Ariana Grande, Jennifer Hudson, Snoop Dogg, Jermaine Dupri, Misty Copeland and Mykal-Michelle Harris. Extra special appearances are also made by Carey’s twins, Moroccan and Monroe.

Apple TV

A Carpool Karaoke Christmas

James Corden passes the keys to Zane Lowe, a fellow interviewer and trusted voice among today’s top artists, as he jumps into the driver’s seat in this festive installment of “Carpool Karaoke: The Series,” featuring Lady Gaga, Dua Lipa and Chappell Roan singing along to Christmas classics, including “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” and Wham!’s “Last Christmas,” along with their signature songs, such as Lady Gaga’s chart-topping “Die With A Smile,” Dua Lipa’s number one hit “Houdini” and Chappell Roan’s breakout hit “Good Luck, Babe!” As a holiday treat, Zane Lowe and Lady Gaga debuted a special version of “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town” on Apple Music and all major music platforms.

For Auld Lang Syne

Apple TV

For Auld Lang Syne

After the Peanuts gang experience a disappointing Christmas because Grandma can’t visit, Lucy resolves to throw herself the best New Year’s Eve party ever, while Charlie Brown struggles to accomplish just one of his resolutions before the clock strikes twelve.

Next, Hallmark Just Revealed Its 2026 Christmas Movie Lineup—See the Full Schedule

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If you’re on the hunt for a cozy addition to your home, Amazon has an option that you’ll definitely want to check out. The Exclusivo Mezcla Fleece Throw Blanket is perfect for snuggling up on the couch or adding a layer of warmth to your bed this fall, and it’s selling for a steal of a price on Amazon! 

You can currently snag this throw blanket (measuring 50 inches by 70 inches) for as low as $9 by opting for the classic pink option. There are 17 other color varieties available — including gray, blue, black, white, and lilac. They’re all discounted to $15 or less right now, so you’ll snag a great deal no matter what. Made from soft jacquard flannel, this blanket is designed to keep you comfy throughout the year. 

Exclusivo Mezcla Fleece Throw Blanket, From $9 (was $10) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

With over 8,000 five-star reviews, it’s evident that this is a popular pick with Amazon shoppers. This blanket is brushed to give it that extra soft and lightweight feel. In addition to the throw size, you can also find it in twin, queen, and king sizes.

Shoppers said they love this blanket for its softness and cozy feel. “Luxurious comfort on a grand scale,” one customer wrote. “Its soft flannel fleece texture provides an indulgent, skin-friendly touch. The blanket is lightweight, striking the perfect balance for year-round use.”

Exclusivo Mezcla Fleece Throw Blanket, From $9 (was $10) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

Additionally, many customers mentioned how lightweight the throw is while still managing to keep them warm. Reviewers also noted that the blanket is a great way to brighten up home decor thanks to its stylish design and wide array of color options that can mesh well with any space.

Related: Martha Stewart’s Vintage-Inspired 100% Cotton Gauze Floral Duvet Cover Set Is 72% Off at Wayfair

“Absolutely beautiful blanket! Not too thick. Not too thin. The color is spot on,” a customer commented. Another bonus? The blanket is machine washable and can go in the dryer. These features make the upkeep extremely simple.

This $9 Amazon throw blanket is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for something comfy, cute, and budget-friendly. Its attractive price and great design make it a must-have for anyone looking to up their cozy game. Don’t miss your chance to score it on sale ahead of fall! For under $10, you might even be tempted to stock up on multiple colors.

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

When you think of Barry Manilow and David Cassidy in 1975, very different corners of the pop music world come to mind.

Yet the two superstars will forever be connected by one massive, career-defining song. Long before Manilow turned “I Write the Songs” into a soaring, Grammy-winning signature anthem, Cassidy recorded and released the track first.

The song was first recorded by Captain & Tennille, but not released as a single. Cassidy released his version first in early 1975 on his solo album The Higher They Climb (co-producing the track with Beach Boys member Bruce Johnston) and it became a Top 20 hit in the United Kingdom. Manilow recorded his version of the song later that same year.

When legendary Arista Records chief Clive Davis heard the track, he knew it had mega-hit potential in the States, and insisted that Manilow record it. However, Manilow was initially reluctant, worried listeners would think he was bragging about his own songwriting when he hadn’t written it at all, but Davis’s instinct was spot-on, according to American Songwriter.

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“It was an intriguing song,” Manilow said in his memoir, Sweet Life, as excerpted by American Songwriter “The melody was simple, but the lyric was ambitious.”

He continued, “It gave credit to ‘music’ for having written every song. I am music, and I write the songs, the lyrics went. I liked that.”

Manilow concluded, “Many times, I had felt that another force was helping me to create the music I made. The problem with the song was that if you didn’t listen carefully to the lyrics, you would think that the singer was singing about himself. It could be misinterpreted as a monumental ego trip.”

When performing the track live in front of packed concert halls later in his career, Cassidy would pause to share a quick story with fans. He stated, “This is a very special song. It went to No. 3, and it was platinum all over the world except in my country, America.”

“That’s because, after it was a hit all over the world, the genius who was running the record company said the song was too soft for the market,” Cassidy continued. “I don’t think it’s ever going to be a hit here.”

“Two weeks later, it became Barry Manilow’s theme song. So here is my rendition of the very first recording of the song that no one in America has any idea I ever sang, ‘I Write the Songs,'” he concluded.

Looking back, the wild journey of “I Write the Songs” only adds to its timelessness. It took a Beach Boys member’s genius, David Cassidy’s vocal passion, and Barry Manilow’s flair for the dramatic to bring one of pop music’s most enduring anthems to life. Whether you prefer Cassidy’s understated original or Manilow’s grand chart-topper, there’s no denying this 1975 classic still has the power to make the whole world sing along.

Related: 55 Years Ago, ‘The Partridge Family’ Quietly Fired Its Season 1 Star And Never Explained Why

Passengers setting sail on one of Royal Caribbean‘s biggest ships are getting an unexpected itinerary change before their vacation even leaves the dock.

Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas is scheduled to welcome passengers aboard in Miami today, September 26, for a seven-night Western Caribbean cruise. But instead of sailing away this afternoon as originally planned, the massive ship will spend an extra night at PortMiami for what the cruise line is calling “required maintenance.”

The ship is now expected to depart Miami at approximately 4 p.m. on Sunday, September 27—about a day later than planned.

And the delay means passengers will miss one of their scheduled ports entirely.

Related: You’ll Have Two More Royal Caribbean Icon Megaships to Sail By 2030

Why Is Icon of the Seas Delayed?

Royal Caribbean notified passengers that Icon of the Seas needs to remain in Miami overnight for maintenance, although the cruise line has not disclosed specifics about the work being performed.

“Due to required maintenance, we’ll now depart from Miami, Florida, on Sunday, September 27, 2026, instead of Saturday, September 26, 2026,” Royal Caribbean told passengers in a message shared with travel advisors.

@anhphanthanh3

Royal Caribbean is facing challenges with unscheduled maintenance on the Icon of the Seas and a canceled cruise, while the Utopia of the Seas had a power outage impacting guests. Stay tuned for the latest updates from the Spanish cruise industry! 💼⚓️ #CruiseNews #RoyalCaribbean #CruiseIssues #SpanishCruiseIndustry #IconoftheSeas

♬ original sound – anhphanthanh3 – anhphanthanh3

Despite the delayed departure, passengers are still required to board the ship today as originally scheduled, according to the cruise line.

The good news? Their vacation can essentially begin once they’re onboard.

Dining venues, available bars and lounges, entertainment and spa services will remain open while Icon of the Seas is docked in Miami. However, onboard shops and the casino must remain closed while the ship is in port.

Passengers can also leave the ship to spend additional time in Miami after checking in. They’ll need to be back onboard by 2:30 p.m. Sunday ahead of the new 4 p.m. departure.

Icon of the Seas Is Dropping Costa Maya

Unfortunately, losing nearly a full day means Royal Caribbean has also had to adjust the ship’s itinerary.

Icon of the Seas was originally scheduled to visit Costa Maya, Mexico, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday, September 28. That stop has now been canceled and Monday will instead become a day at sea.

As of now, the remainder of the itinerary is unchanged.

The ship is still scheduled to visit Roatán, Honduras, on September 29; Cozumel, Mexico, on September 30; and Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas on October 2 before returning to Miami on October 3.

Passengers Are Getting Onboard Credit

Royal Caribbean is offering passengers refundable onboard credit as a goodwill gesture for the delayed departure and canceled port.

Guests in inside and oceanview cabins will receive $300 per stateroom, while balcony cabins will receive $350 and suites will receive $800. Cabins with a third or fourth passenger will receive an additional $50 per additional guest.

Better yet, the credit is refundable. If passengers don’t spend the entire amount onboard, Royal Caribbean says the remaining refundable balance will be returned to the card on file within 14 business days after the cruise ends.

Anyone who booked a Costa Maya shore excursion directly through Royal Caribbean will also have it automatically canceled and refunded to their original form of payment.

Travelers who booked tours independently, however, will need to contact those operators directly regarding cancellations or refunds.

The Cruise Is Still Going Ahead

While losing a port stop is undoubtedly disappointing—especially for anyone who already had their Costa Maya day planned—the seven-night cruise itself has not been canceled.

Passengers still get to board Icon of the Seas today, enjoy most of the ship’s attractions and spend an unexpected extra night in Miami before heading to the Caribbean Sunday afternoon.

In other words, it’s not quite the sail-away passengers packed for.

But at least there’s an extra day of vacation onboard—and a little spending money to soften the blow.

Up next:

Related: Royal Caribbean Completely Changes 9-Night Cruise at the Last Minute

Sometimes, there’s nothing better than a night with a movie on and chopsticks in hand, as Chinese takeout has long been a staple in American households.

Even “traditional” Chinese restaurants aren’t always so traditional when you’re accustomed to dousing orange chicken and fried rice in soy sauce—and that’s where Chef Fei, “The King of Stir-Fry,” is ready to shake things up by showcasing authentic Chinese cuisine beloved across China.

Related: Whoopi Goldberg’s Favorite Meal Is Still Served at This ‘Greasy Spoon’ Diner Where She Worked as a Dishwasher Over 40 Years Ago

Without a bottle of soy sauce in sight, there’s no hiding from adventurous flavors you won’t find at Panda Express. The restaurant’s U.S. signature dish—Stir-Fried Beef with Peppers—has roots in a brand that has earned acclaim with more than 200 locations worldwide.

Stir-Fried Beef with Peppers served at Chef Fei in San Diego, CA.

Sam Sears

The brand had never made its way stateside—until now, with Chef Fei opening its doors in San Diego, California, at the revamped Westfield UTC mall.

The signature dish costs $32.79 with plenty to share for two people, while individual entrees range from American-friendly fare to full-blown Travel Channel.

On the safer, more familiar side of the spectrum is Crispy Pineapple Orange Chicken for $22, and on the adventurous side is Hunan Spicy Braised Assortment, featuring a stir-fried medley of pork tongue, pork ears, and pressed tofu, for just a few bucks more.

A good middle ground is the Glass Noodle Clay Pot with Seafood Sauce, and at $22, it feels like a steal considering the delicacy crowning the dish.

Related: Celebrity-Favorite Michelin Hotspot Makes Its West Coast Debut to Rave Reviews

Prepared in a clay pot, it’s all in the presentation—meaning you’re all but guaranteed to never get the full experience on a takeout night.

Plus, this entree comes topped with “caviar”—tobiko, to be exact—for a burst of umami.

Glass Noodle Clay Pot with Seafood Sauce served at Chef Fei in San Diego, CA.

Sam Sears

The menu uses pepper logos to signify spice levels—and remember, Chef Fei originated in Hengyang, Hunan, a region known for its fiery, chile-forward cuisine.

In other words, order accordingly—or wash it down with a handcrafted Iced Lemon Tea, “Chef Fei’s ultimate cooling companion,” or a minimal selection of local and Asian beers.

Rave reviews are already pouring in on Google despite the restaurant being open for just three weeks.

From “Worth the wait!” to “Best authentic Hunan restaurant!” diners are quickly embracing Chef Fei’s U.S. debut.

Let freedom ring—bring on the sting.