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Fast-food burgers occupy a unique place in American culture. They're the stars of road trips, late-night cravings, lunch breaks and endless social media debates. Ask 10 people to name the best burger in fast food, and you'll probably get 10 different answers—often delivered with the intensity of a sports argument.

Part of the reason these burgers become legends is familiarity. The most famous menu items have decades of advertising behind them, generations of nostalgia and armies of loyal fans willing to defend them online. But popularity doesn't always guarantee that a signature burger is the best thing on the menu.

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Across Reddit, TikTok, Instagram and fast-food forums, burger lovers regularly revisit the same question—which iconic burgers actually deserve their reputation? The answers can be surprisingly divided. While many of these sandwiches remain hugely popular, some diners argue that their fame has outgrown their flavor, value or consistency.

That doesn't mean these burgers are bad. In most cases, the criticism comes from people who genuinely like the restaurant but believe another item on the menu delivers a better experience. Sometimes it's a bigger patty; sometimes it's the ratio between bun, burger and toppings; and sometimes it's simply a matter of getting more bang for your buck.

If you usually order one of these overrated fast-food burgers, it may be time to branch out and try another burger hiding on the menu. Luckily, we've done the work for you and rounded up the best burger alternatives across the top fast-food restaurants. See what picks made our list below.

Overrated Fast-Food Burgers

Here are eight fast-food burgers that frequently get labeled overrated online—and the alternatives that devoted fans often recommend instead.

1. McDonald's Big Mac

McDonald's

No fast-food burger is more recognizable than McDonald's Big Mac. The three-piece bun, shredded lettuce and famous special sauce have made it one of the most famous sandwiches in restaurant history.

The problem, according to many critics, is that the burger's appearance promises more meat than it actually delivers. Because the Big Mac uses two relatively thin patties separated by a middle bun, some customers feel the sandwich ends up being more about bread and sauce than beef.

One Reddit user summed up the complaint by saying they had essentially eaten "a bun with salad and sauce" after receiving a particularly skimpy-looking Big Mac. Similar comments frequently describe the burger as looking substantial in advertisements but feeling surprisingly light once it's in your hands.

Some longtime McDonald's customers argue that nostalgia does much of the heavy lifting for the Big Mac's reputation. The special sauce remains popular, but critics say the burger itself can feel dated compared to modern fast-food competitors that offer thicker patties and a stronger beef flavor. Even former McDonald's corporate chef Mike Haracz has publicly suggested skipping the Big Mac in favor of other menu options that provide a better meat-to-bun ratio.

What to order instead: Quarter Pounder with Cheese. This also-iconic sandwich tends to get higher marks from customers seeking a meatier burger. Unlike the Big Mac's pair of thin patties, the Quarter Pounder features a single larger beef patty (or two) that's cooked fresh to order at many locations, giving it a noticeably juicier texture and more pronounced beef flavor.

With cheese, onions, pickles, ketchup and mustard on a sesame seed bun, it offers a simpler construction. Plus, it only has top and bottom buns, which allows the burger itself to take center stage rather than relying on sauce and bread.

2. Burger King's Whopper

Burger King

The Whopper remains Burger King's flagship sandwich and one of the most recognizable burgers in America. Its flame-grilled patty and fresh toppings have earned generations of loyal fans.

Yet one criticism appears repeatedly in online discussions—inconsistency. Customers often report that a great Whopper can be excellent, but a bad Whopper can be disappointing. In a recent Reddit discussion, one customer described Burger King as "hit or miss," saying quality often depends on which location is preparing the food.

Burger King itself has acknowledged complaints surrounding its signature burger. The company recently updated the Whopper after years of customer feedback involving presentation, quality control and consistency. Even after those changes, many online discussions continue to focus on portion sizes, uneven preparation and whether the sandwich still lives up to its legendary reputation.

What to order instead: Bacon King. For hungry customers looking for a richer experience, the Bacon King often earns stronger praise thanks to its bacon-heavy build and larger overall profile.

Two flame-grilled beef patties, multiple slices of cheese and a generous helping of bacon create a burger that leans fully into indulgence. The focus stays squarely on smoky, savory flavors, making it a favorite among customers who want a more substantial alternative to Burger King's classic offering.

Related: 7 Genius McDonald's Hacks Employees Actually Use When They Order for Themselves

3. In-N-Out Double-Double

In-N-Out

Few fast-food burgers inspire as much devotion as In-N-Out's Double-Double. For many travelers, trying one has become a bucket list food experience.

The challenge is that years of internet hype have elevated expectations to nearly impossible levels. First-time visitors frequently arrive expecting the greatest burger they've ever eaten, which naturally leads some customers to feel underwhelmed.

One Reddit user who finally tried In-N-Out after years of hearing praise described the experience as "nothing exceptional" and argued that local independent restaurants in their hometown made better burgers.

Critics also regularly point to the chain's relatively thin beef patties. Discussions about the Double-Double often mention that the burger feels smaller than expected, particularly when compared with some competitors.

What to order instead: Upgrade to Animal Style. Many devoted fans recommend this upgrade because the patties are cooked with mustard directly on the grill, creating extra caramelization and a more complex flavor. Grilled onions replace the standard raw onions, and extra spread adds richness throughout the sandwich.

The result is a version that many regular customers consider more flavorful, more memorable and a better representation of what makes In-N-Out special.

4. Wendy's Dave's Single

Wendy's

Wendy's built its reputation on fresh, never-frozen beef, and Dave's Single remains one of the chain's most iconic menu items.

Ironically, one of the biggest criticisms of Dave's Single is that it's almost too traditional. While few customers actively dislike the burger, many describe it as safe, predictable and overshadowed by more exciting options elsewhere on the menu. The combination of lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, cheese, ketchup and mayonnaise creates a classic burger experience, but some diners feel it lacks a standout feature that makes it memorable.

That's particularly noticeable at a chain known for indulgent menu items loaded with bacon and specialty toppings. Online discussions frequently recommend more adventurous choices, arguing that Dave's Single feels conservative compared with the burgers that helped generate Wendy's modern fan base.

What to order instead: Double Stack. This substantial burger also happens to be on the value menu, and it delivers the kind of eating experience that many customers associate with Wendy's at its best. It’s meaty and cheesy and comes with just onion, pickle, ketchup and mustard, and it delivers the right ratio of ingredients with two well-seasoned patties.

Wendy's fans are calling it “literally perfect,” and with today’s fast-food prices, it certainly doesn’t hurt that it’s much cheaper.

5. Five Guy's Cheeseburger

Five Guys

The criticism aimed at Five Guys usually has less to do with flavor and more to do with value. Few people dispute that the burgers are fresh, customizable and satisfying. The issue is the price.

Across social media, customers routinely express sticker shock when sharing receipts for meals that cost significantly more than fast-food competitors. Critics argue that while the burgers are good, they're not necessarily so much better that they justify the premium pricing.

This often leads to a common conclusion among regular customers—the standard cheeseburger simply isn't the best value on the menu. Five Guys allows customers to add an extensive list of toppings at no extra charge, so many fans believe the larger burger offers diminishing returns relative to its higher price.

What to order instead: Little Cheeseburger. This smaller but equally as delicious sandwich has developed a loyal following. Despite its modest name, it still provides a substantial burger experience and comes with access to the same wide selection of free toppings.

Customers can pile on grilled mushrooms, grilled onions, jalapeños, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles and sauces to build a burger that feels fully loaded while costing noticeably less than the standard cheeseburger option.

Related: The Best Starbucks Ordering Hack for Cheaper Drinks, According to Baristas

6. SuperSONIC Double Cheeseburger

Sonic

Sonic's traditional burger lineup sometimes gets overlooked because the chain is known for so many other menu items, from slushes and limeades to hot dogs, mozzarella sticks and specialty snacks.

While the SuperSONIC Double Cheeseburger has long been one of the company's flagship burgers, it doesn't generate the same passionate following as some of Sonic's limited-time offerings.

One common criticism is that the burger feels generic in a crowded fast-food market. Customers often describe it as perfectly acceptable but rarely memorable. Reviews frequently praise the burger's size and familiar ingredients, yet many diners struggle to identify anything that truly separates it from comparable double cheeseburgers offered by competing chains.

What to order instead: Garlic Butter Bacon Cheeseburger. If you’re really in the mood for a burger and pull up to the drive-in, this over-the-top option tends to receive stronger reviews because it offers a more distinctive flavor profile.

Rather than relying solely on traditional burger toppings, it incorporates a rich garlic butter sauce that adds a savory, almost steakhouse-inspired quality to each bite. Crispy bacon contributes smoky flavor and texture, while grilled onions help balance the richness with a touch of sweetness. The result is a burger that feels more deliberate and unique than Sonic's standard offerings.

7. Whataburger Original Whataburger

Whataburger

For Texans, the Original Whataburger is more than just a burger—it's a cultural icon. The chain has built decades of loyalty throughout the state, and many lifelong customers associate the burger with road trips, late-night meals and hometown pride.

That reputation, however, can become a double-edged sword. First-time visitors often arrive expecting one of the greatest fast-food burgers ever created, only to discover a fairly straightforward burger with mustard, vegetables and a large bun. The criticism isn't usually that the burger tastes bad; rather, many newcomers feel it doesn't fully justify the near-legendary status that surrounds it.

Online discussions regularly feature comments from first-time customers who describe the Original Whataburger as "good, but not amazing" or "solid, but overhyped."

Another common complaint centers on the burger's size and construction. While the large bun contributes to the burger's signature appearance, some diners feel it can overwhelm the beef and toppings. Others argue that the Original Whataburger simply lacks a defining flavor element that makes it stand out from other classic fast-food burgers. Compared with more modern menu items featuring specialty sauces, bacon or unique preparation methods, the flagship burger can feel surprisingly basic.

What to order instead: Patty Melt. This classic diner sandwich emerges as the menu item that wins over skeptics. Instead of a traditional hamburger bun, it uses thick slices of toasted Texas toast that provide a buttery crunch and a more substantial texture. It combines beef patties, melted Monterey Jack cheese, grilled onions and Whataburger's creamy pepper sauce, creating layers of flavor that aren't present in the Original Whataburger.

The sweetness of the onions, the richness of the cheese and the mild kick from the pepper sauce work together to create a more distinctive sandwich. Even among longtime Whataburger fans, the Patty Melt is often cited as the chain's true signature item and the one most likely to impress first-time visitors.

8. Shake Shack's ShackBurger

Shake Shack

Shake Shack helped redefine the fast-casual burger industry, and the ShackBurger remains the chain's most recognizable menu item. Built around a smashed beef patty, American cheese, lettuce, tomato and ShackSauce, it helped establish the company's reputation for premium ingredients and elevated fast-food dining.

The most common criticism isn't usually about taste—it's about value. Many customers enjoy the ShackBurger, but question whether the portion size justifies the premium price. Compared with burgers from traditional fast-food chains or even some direct competitors, the ShackBurger can appear relatively small.

Online reviews frequently mention finishing the burger quickly and wishing it felt more substantial, particularly when adding fries and a drink pushes the total meal cost well beyond what customers expect from a burger chain.

Some critics also argue that the ShackBurger is simply too straightforward to justify its reputation. The burger relies on quality ingredients and careful preparation rather than dramatic flavors or unusual toppings.

For some diners, that simplicity is a strength. For others, it leaves the burger feeling less exciting than competing menu items. As a result, conversations about Shake Shack often include recommendations to skip the standard burger and order one of the chain's more distinctive creations instead.

What to order instead: SmokeShack. This is the option most frequently recommended by fans. It begins with the same beef patty, cheese and potato bun foundation as the ShackBurger, but layers on applewood-smoked bacon and chopped cherry peppers. Those additions dramatically change the experience. The bacon introduces a deep smoky flavor that complements the beef, while the peppers add bursts of acidity and heat that cut through the richness.

Combined with ShackSauce, the result is a burger with significantly more contrast, complexity and personality than the standard ShackBurger. Many regular customers view it as the menu item that best balances Shake Shack's premium ingredients with the bold flavors needed to create a truly memorable burger experience.

Final Thoughts

Not every iconic fast-food burger lives up to its reputation, and sometimes the biggest names rely more on nostalgia and marketing than standout flavor. While chains like McDonald's, In-N-Out and Whataburger have loyal followings, some of their most famous burgers can leave diners expecting more than they actually get.

At the end of the day, taste is subjective—but it never hurts to look beyond the hype before deciding which burger is truly worth your next order.

Related: The Truth Behind the Wendy's Logo

Often, the motivation to exercise stems from wanting to improve physical appearance. Maybe you want to look slimmer, more toned or you want bigger muscles. While exercising regularly can certainly support these goals, one overlooked benefit is that it's good for your brain.

According to a review published in the scientific journal Genes, regular physical activity delays brain aging and lowers the risk of dementia, Parkinson’s disease and other neurodegenerative disorders. It also lowers depression.

Maybe you’ve never been big on exercise and have lived a predominantly sedentary lifestyle for a long time, and now you’re middle-aged and starting to think about your brain health. Is it too late for you to reap the brain-supporting benefits of exercise? Not in the slightest. 

Related: Here's Exactly What Happens to Your Brain Health When You Eat Bananas

“Data from the Framingham Heart Study showed that higher physical activity in midlife and late life, but not early adulthood, was associated with a 41 to 45% lower risk of dementia. Moderate-to-heavy intensity was most effective in midlife, while any intensity was beneficial in late life,” Dr. Babak Tousi, MD, a neurologist at Cleveland Clinic, tells Parade.

He emphasizes that all forms of exercise are good for your brain (and the rest of your body). However you like to get moving will support your health. But perhaps you’re wondering if there’s one, or a few, forms of exercise in particular that’s the absolute best for brain health. If you want to build an exercise routine specifically centered around brain health, Dr. Tousi has some tips.

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The 3 Best Exercises for Brain Health, Cleveland Clinic Neurologist Explains

All forms of movement are beneficial to health. When it comes to the best one, Dr. Tousi says that it depends on your brain health goal. 

“The best exercise for brain health is a multicomponent program. No single one outperforms a combination of aerobic, resistance and mind-body exercise because each targets different cognitive domains. Simply put, aerobics is most beneficial for memory, resistance training is most beneficial for global cognition and mind-body exercise is more beneficial for working memory,” he says. 

Let’s break down exactly what this means and looks like. 

1. Aerobic exercise for memory 

Want to support your short-term and long-term memory? Regular aerobic exercise, such as walking, jogging, cycling and swimming, is a great way to do it. The effects, Dr. Toussi says, are both immediate and long-term. “Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, delivering more oxygen and nutrients," he explains. "Studies show that 10 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous aerobic activity can improve higher-level thinking skills for at least 20 minutes afterward."

As for supporting long-term memory, Dr. Tousi explains that aerobic exercise can slow the natural shrinkage of the hippocampus (the brain's memory center), which is important for learning and memory. “Studies suggest regular aerobic exercise can help maintain or even increase the thickness of the brain cortex, which is the outer layer of the brain, with greater cognitive benefits at older ages,” he says.

Additionally, aerobic exercise increases blood flow to the brain, strengthens connections between brain cells, supports the growth of new blood vessels and reduces brain inflammation, all of which support long-term memory. 

Related: Neurologists Warn That This nightly Habit Could Be Secretly Shrinking Your Brain

2. Resistance training for global cognition

Global cognition is a term neurologists use that refers to a person’s overall mental functioning. The ability to pay attention, concentrate, executive functioning (including skills like planning, problem-solving and abstract thinking), verbal fluency and memory are all part of global cognition.

“One analysis of multiple studies found that strength training [a type of resistance training] was the most effective type of exercise for improving overall cognition in older adults, performing better than aerobic exercise,” Dr. Tousi says. Another study, published in the journal Aging & Mental Health, found that resistance training improved overall cognitive function both in cognitively healthy older adults and cognitively impaired older adults. 

Why is resistance training so beneficial for global cognition? “The biological effects of resistance training are somewhat different from those of aerobic exercise. Resistance training raises levels of IGF-1, an insulin-like growth factor, which helps neurons grow and survive. It also increases BDNF, brain-derived neurotropic growth factor, with maybe a greater effect than aerobic training,” Dr. Tousi says.

Related: The Popular Lunchtime Habit Brain Health Experts Are Begging You To Stop

3. Mind-body exercise for working memory

Working memory is different from long-term memory. It refers to short-term memory used to perform cognitive tasks. It only lasts about 30 seconds. Some examples of using working memory include calculating how much to tip, following instructions or directions, following along in a conversation or memorizing a phone number or code long enough to type it.

If you want to support your working memory, Dr. Tousi recommends mind-body exercises such as tai chi, yoga and Pilates. “Their cognitive effects work through mechanisms different from aerobic exercise, mainly stress regulation, attentional control and neuroplasticity,” he says.

According to scientific research, doing yoga regularly may protect the hippocampus (the part of the brain used for working memory) from age-related shrinkage. Similar to what Dr. Tousi explained, the researchers say that this is due to the stress-reducing benefits of yoga. 

As for tai chi, Dr. Tousi says that it shows the largest effects of any mind-body exercise, particularly for executive function. He adds that this type of exercise has been shown to benefit global cognition as well. 

As you can see, different forms of exercise benefit the brain in slightly different ways. That’s why Dr. Tousi recommends an exercise routine that includes some form of aerobic exercise, resistance training and a form of mind-body movement. 

Having an exercise routine that incorporates different types of physical activity isn’t just a well-rounded approach to supporting your brain health; it’s the best way to support your entire body. Have fun mixing it up! 

Up Next:

Related: Neurologists Warn This Morning Habit Could Be Secretly Shrinking Your Brain

Sources:

• Maria Di Liegro, C., Schiera, G., Proia, P., et al. (2019). Physical Activity and Brain Health. Genes. 10(9):720. 
• Dr. Babak Tousi, MD, neurologist at Cleveland Clinic.
• Grimanesa Revelo Herrera, S. and Leon-Rojas, E. (2024). The Effect of Aerobic Exercise in Neuroplasticity, Learning, and Cognition: A Systematic Review. Cureus. 16(2):e54021.
• Han, H., Zhang, J., Zhang, F., et al. (2025). Optimal exercise interventions for enhancing cognitive function in older adults: a network meta-analysis.Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience. doi: 10.3389/fnagi.2025.1510773.
• Coelho-Junior, H., Marzetti, E., Calvani, R., et al. (2022). Resistance training improves cognitive function in older adults with different cognitive status: a systematic review and Meta-analysis. Aging & Mental Health. 26(2):213-224.
• Cowan, N. (2008). What are the differences between long-term, short-term, and working memory?Progress in Brain Research. 169:323-338.
• Voss, S., Cerna, J. and Gothe, N. P. (2024). Yoga Impact Cognitive Health: Neurophysiological Changes and Stress-regulation Mechanisms. Exercise and Sport Sciences Reviews. 51(2):73-81.

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If you're looking for an easy way to refresh your outdoor space this season, a bird bath is a good place to start. Beyond the decorative appeal, it serves a practical purpose as birds naturally help manage pests and support healthier soil, making your garden more balanced over time. Right now, Walmart has one on sale that's worth considering. 

The Ktaxon Solar Fountain Bird Bath is currently marked down to as low as $32 from $44 during Walmart's Summer Deals event, which lasts through June 28. Designed with a vintage-inspired bronze finish, it features fleur-de-lis accents and soft European-style detailing that gives it a classic, decorative look. It comes in two colors: brown and blue-green. Shoppers appreciated the bath’s appearance overall, with one calling it a “great garden addition.”

Ktaxon Solar Fountain Bird Bath, From $32 (was $44) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

This round bird bath stands 28 inches tall with a 20-inch-diameter basin — large enough for several birds to gather at once. Unlike a traditional still-water basin, it has a built-in solar fountain that activates in sunlight, keeping the water gently moving throughout the day. The rim also features small oval cut-outs that give smaller birds a place to perch as they lean in for a drink. 

Walmart buyers have praised its look and performance, with one describing it as “pretty cute” and “sharp,” while another shared, “My wife loved it and we are sending pictures and videos to friends.” 

The basin and pedestal are made from weather-resistant resin, so it can stay outside year-round without cracking or fading. For added stability, the hollow pedestal base can be filled with sand or rocks. Ground stakes are also included to keep it more secure. Assembly is simple and straightforward. Since the package includes just the bird bath and stakes, setup takes only a few minutes.

Shop More Deals

• Specstar Oval Bird Bath, $25 (was $43) at Walmart
• WEXLYN Solar Water Fountain for Bird Bath, $15 (was $21) at Walmart
• Pennington Earth Smart Hopper Wild Bird Feeder, $7 (was $11) at Walmart

Related: Walmart’s Packable $6 4-Piece Cutting Mat Set Is a Great Budget-Friendly Way to Protect Your Counters

For bird lovers looking to add a touch of charm to their yard, the Ktaxon Solar Fountain Bird Bath is currently on sale at Walmart for $38. It’s an easy, affordable upgrade that brings life to any outdoor space. Because it’s part of a flash sale and included in Walmart's limited-time Summer Deals event, it’s worth acting quickly before the price disappears. 

Four million copies. A full year on the New York Times bestseller list. A Goodreads Choice Award and a spot on the Times' list of the 100 best books of the 21st century. Gabrielle Zevin's Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow has been one of the most discussed novels of the decade, and for three years its readers have been waiting for news of the film adaptation. On June 19, they got the most concrete update yet in the form of a date.

Paramount Pictures announced that the adaptation will open in theaters on November 12, 2027. Daisy Edgar-Jones will star as Sadie Green, the brilliant game designer at the center of the story. Siân Heder, who won the Academy Award for Best Picture for CODA in 2022, is directing and writing the screenplay.

The novel follows Sadie and her collaborator Sam Masur across several decades, from a chance encounter at a hospital when they are children to a long creative partnership building a video game studio called Unfair Games. The setting, the rising video game industry of the 1990s and 2000s, is unusually specific for a love story, and it is part of what made the book resonate so broadly. Readers who grew up playing games in that era recognized the world immediately, and readers who didn't found a story about creative ambition and the cost of intimacy. The Wrap confirmed that the roles of Sam and Marx Watanabe have not yet been cast.

Edgar-Jones, who broke through in Normal People and has since starred in Where the Crawdads Sing, Twisters, and On Swift Horses, has become a reliable adapter of beloved source material. Her casting as Sadie, announced earlier this year by Variety, was met with wide approval from fans of the novel.

Related: Ginny Weasley Is Being Recast Before Harry Potter Even Premieres

Zevin is writing the screenplay herself, working from earlier drafts by screenwriters. That's an unusual level of authorial involvement that suggests she intends to protect the novel's specific detail in the translation to film. The book was named a best of the year title by more than 25 publications, including The Atlantic, Time, The Washington Post, and Oprah Daily, when it published in 2022.

The November 12 slot places the film in the traditional awards-season corridor, which signals that Paramount is treating the adaptation as a major release rather than a specialty title. Hollywood Reporter noted the competitive positioning of that date. Whether the adaptation captures the novel's particular blend of nostalgia, heartbreak, and creative obsession is a something we'll have to wait until November 12, 2027 to know.

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“I Dig Rock and Roll Music” was a 1967 song released by Peter, Paul and Mary that poked fun at iconic artists like the Mamas & the Papas, Donovan, and The Beatles. The lyrics were written by Paul Stookey, James Mason and Dave Dixon—but Stookey, 88, has recently admitted that he regrets one line in particular.

“When you write songs, you sometimes get overwhelmed by the desire to rhyme something rather than to say what it is you mean,” he said when speaking with Rolling Stoneon June 23. “I was young and impatient when I wrote ‘I Dig Rock and Roll Music,' and the verse that says, ‘And when the Beatles tell you they got a word love to sell you, they mean exactly what they say,' I never meant to demean their motives.”

He went on to explain that he has always loved The Beatles and said, “I thought [Paul] McCartney and Lennon, Harrison, Starr, they were digging deep into personal relationships, and there was a truth there. There still is. I mean, in pop music today, it's very hard to summon, how shall I say, the substantiation of wanting to do the twist to ‘This Land Is Your Land' or to boogie or to dance to ‘Blowin' in the Wind.'”

Stookey continued, “I thought The Beatles did an amazing job of bringing first-person angst into the public arena, ‘She Loves You,' I mean, even their early tunes. As they got later and later in their careers, I don't think they lost a thing, and their musicality was off the charts. It was just some brilliant writing."

Related: 1962 Classic Hit, Named One of the Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll, Never Reached No. 1

Stookey also added that he thinks people will be “talking about the immense library of work that still is performed that was created by Paul McCartney and John Lennon” 50 years from now.

Peter, Paul and Mary were a folk group comprised of Stookey, Peter Yarrow, and Mary Travers. Some of their most iconic songs were "Leaving on a Jet Plane," "Puff, the Magic Dragon," and “500 Miles.” In 1999, they were inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame, but the band dissolved after Travers died in 2009. Yarrow died in 2025, making Stookey the last surviving member of the band.

There are two kinds of Trader Joe's shoppers: those who walk in with a carefully written list, and those who think they're walking in with a carefully written list. Somewhere between the frozen Mandarin Orange Chicken, the unexpected seasonal treats and the snack aisle that somehow demands a quick detour every visit, most carts end up a little fuller than planned.

But tucked away in the produce section sits one of the longest-running bargains at Trader Joe's: the humble banana.

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For decades, the grocery chain's bananas sold for just 19 cents each—a price that became almost as iconic as its Speculoos Cookie Butter or Everything But the Bagel Seasoning. While nearly everything else at grocery stores seemed to get more expensive, the Trader Joe's banana price barely budged. Even when the company finally raised the price to 23 cents per banana in 2024, shoppers barely blinked. After all, where else could you still grab a fresh piece of fruit for less than a quarter?

It turns out that those famously inexpensive bananas aren't just a lucky break for shoppers. They're the result of a business philosophy that's been part of Trader Joe's DNA for decades—one that puts customer convenience ahead of tradition, trims unnecessary costs wherever possible and occasionally listens to a single shopper who has a really good idea.

The story behind Trader Joe's bananas begins with one customer, continues through one of the grocery industry's leanest business models and helps explain why those little yellow fruits have become one of the store's most recognizable bargains. Read on to learn more about why Trader Joe's bananas are so cheap.

The Senior Citizen Who Changed the Pricing Model

Photo by Adhitya Sibikumar on Unsplash

Believe it or not, Trader Joe's didn't always sell bananas individually.

Years ago, Trader Joe's sold them by the pound, much like many supermarkets do today. The difference was that Trader Joe's doesn't have scales to weigh a specific quantity, so bananas were sold in pre-packaged bundles. On episode one of the Inside Trader Joe's podcast, former Trader Joe's CEO Dan Bane recalled a brief conversation he had with a customer while visiting a store in Sun City, Arizona. After observing an elderly shopper examine and then put down a bunch of bananas, Bane asked the customer why she hadn't placed them in her cart. The woman responded, "Sonny, I may not live to that fourth banana.”

Inspired by the notion of living life one banana at a time, the company changed how they sold bananas the very next day. Trader Joe's seized an opportunity to make shopping easier for everyone, and it was a small change that quickly became one of the chain's signature perks.

It's a simple story, but it perfectly captures the company's willingness to rethink even the smallest details if it improves the customer experience.

Why Selling by the Banana Just Made Sense

Photo by Mockup Graphics on Unsplash

Selling bananas individually solved more than one problem too. For shoppers, it meant buying exactly what they needed instead of committing to an entire bunch. Someone packing a lunch could grab one banana, a large family could buy nine, and nobody had to worry about wasting money or fruit going bad simply because it came bundled together.

The system also sped up shopping. There was no need to pre-weigh produce or print labels before stocking shelves. Customers simply grabbed the number of bananas they wanted and kept moving.

That approach fits neatly with Trader Joe's philosophy of making grocery shopping feel approachable rather than complicated. Instead of overwhelming shoppers with dozens of versions of the same product, the retailer offers a carefully edited selection of items—most sold under its own private-label brands. Selling bananas one at a time became another example of putting convenience ahead of convention.

Related: 9 Discontinued Trader Joe's Frozen Meals Shoppers Are Still Mourning

The Direct Supply Chain Advantage: Cutting Out the Middleman

Photo by Monika Guzikowska on Unsplash

Of course, convenience alone doesn't explain how Trader Joe's has kept banana prices remarkably low for so many years. The answer lies in the company's overall business model.

Unlike many traditional grocery chains that stock tens of thousands of products, Trader Joe's carries a much smaller assortment, with the vast majority sold under its own private-label brands. That approach allows the retailer to work closely with suppliers, simplify distribution, reduce marketing costs and eliminate many of the expenses that can drive up prices elsewhere.

Those savings don't just apply to frozen meals or pantry staples—they extend throughout the store, including to fresh produce.

Rather than relying on flashy promotions or weekly sales to attract customers, Trader Joe's focuses on offering consistently competitive everyday prices. Bananas have simply become one of the most visible examples of that philosophy in action.

The 2024 Plot Twist: The End of the 19-Cent Era

Fred Hernandez

Every legendary bargain eventually faces reality. After holding steady at 19 cents for more than two decades, Trader Joe's quietly increased the price of its bananas to 23 cents in early 2024 after rising costs throughout the supply chain finally made the longtime price unsustainable.

Even so, the increase was hardly dramatic. Four extra cents still leaves Trader Joe's bananas among the least expensive available at major grocery stores, and the company noted that it also lowered prices on several other products around the same time.

In other words, the goal wasn't to abandon its reputation for value. It was to continue balancing affordability with the economic realities of running a grocery business.

For longtime shoppers, the price change marked the end of an era. However, it also reinforced something Trader Joe's has demonstrated for decades: low prices aren't about gimmicks—they're the result of countless small decisions designed to make grocery shopping easier, more efficient and a little more enjoyable.

So the next time you toss a banana into your cart, remember that you're not just buying one of the cheapest items in the store. You're holding a tiny piece of Trader Joe's history—one that started with a simple conversation and became one of the company's most enduring traditions.

Related: 5 Best Produce Items To Buy at Trader Joe's (and 4 To Skip)

Colliderrecently ranked World War Z: An Oral History of the Zombie War as one of the “Best Post-Apocalyptic Books of All Time.” The novel, which was released by Max Brooks in 2006, was turned into a movie starring Brad Pitt in 2013. It was also adapted into a video game.

The novel, which has a 4.2 rating on Goodreads, includes a series of interviews conducted by a fictional version of the author. When asked about what caused the book to connect with so many readers in an interview with ScifiNow, Brooks said, “Beats me. Maybe it’s that I approach the subject matter with as much realism as I can. Maybe it’s that I try to tackle big, complex stuff and explain in language simple enough for me to understand. Maybe it’s just that zombies are popular.”

Related: 1944 Classic Film Ranked Among the Greatest Crime Movies Was Inspired by a Real Murder Case

Brooks continued, “I think we’re living in very uncertain times. People have a lot of anxiety about the future. They’re constantly being battered with these very scary, very global catastrophes. Just like the 1970s, I think a lot of people think the system is breaking down, and just like the 1970s, people need a ‘safe place’ to explore their apocalyptic worries. They can’t read stories about real plagues or nuclear war. That’s too scary. That’ll make them turn away. Zombie stories give people the opportunity to witness the end of the world they’ve been secretly wondering about, while, at the same time, allowing themselves to sleep at night because the catalyst of that end is fictional. Reading Cormac McCarthy’s The Road will keep you up all night because you’ll be thinking, 'This could really happen!' You won’t have that problem with World War Z.”

The book was a critical and commercial success, becoming a number one New York Times bestseller. The film adaptation was also a massive success, becoming the highest-grossing zombie movie of all time.

Related:1985 Novel Ranked the ‘Heaviest Book of All Time’ Became an American Classic

When asked whether the zombies were a metaphor, the author said, “Not really, because what happens in a zombie plague is pretty much what happens in any real disaster. Pandemics, hurricanes, conventional wars, you name it, the human reaction is the same. For me, the zombies are just the catalyst of looking at how humanity deals with calamity.”

Collider’s list of the “Best Post-Apocalyptic Books of All Time” also included the aforementioned The Road, The Stand, and I Am Legend.

The next generation of creators don't need a million followers or a blue checkmark to get corporate backing. And they don’t have to sell a part of their company to a celebrity billionaire on television to get it, either.

For years, if makers invented a new tool or built a clever piece of furniture in their garage, the path to the big leagues was usually to appear on Shark Tank and ask for cash. But the sharks always demand a massive chunk of the company in return. Entrepreneurs gave up permanent ownership to get boxes onto a retail shelf.

Lowe’s just opened a backdoor to the whole industry and they are skipping the equity problem completely.

The home improvement giant dropped an open casting call for a program called Lowe’s Creator: Into the Blue. If makers have a blueprint or an existing small-business item, you can pitch it directly to their corporate merchants before September 1, 2026. If they like it, they will use their own factories, trucks, and assembly lines to manufacture the item and put it in their stores. They want to sell the product, not a percentage of the business.

The biggest surprise? They do not care about your follower count.

Many corporate talent deals require a large digital footprint. But this program bypasses the usual influencer requirement. Makers can have zero followers and a quiet social media page. If the physical product solves a problem for someone standing in a hardware aisle, you get the same shot as an internet superstar.

The strategy builds on a recent test run with online giant MrBeast, whose collectible toy kits showed the retail chain that buyers want items designed by the actual people using them. Now, they want everyday builders.

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“Creators today are evolving their ideas and audiences into businesses, brands and products,” Jen Wilson, Lowe’s senior vice president and chief marketing officer said in a statement. “Through Lowe’s Creator Network, we’ve helped creators grow through content and curation, and we took it a step further with MrBeast by expanding the collaboration into creation with the launch of new products and workshops. Lowe’s Creator: Into the Blue is the next evolution of that strategy, allowing us to help more creators move into creation and turn their ideas into products and scalable businesses.”

The move is meant to shake up the traditional TV pitch model.

On the broadcast show, an investor cuts a check, but the struggling companies still need to figure out factory negotiations, overseas shipping, and freight logistics on their own. Lowe’s already operates the factories and the 1,700 storefronts. They supply the infrastructure without taking ownership.

The hardware giant is looking for three things: items that need massive retail scaling, raw sketches that need factory sourcing, or clever add-ons that fit into their current tool lines. In all likelihood, the next great invention isn't coming from a corporate design firm. It is sitting on a workbench in someone's backyard right now.

Imagine a family vacation where you wake up each morning in the heart of a different gorgeous European town—no packing and repacking or navigating between cities. You spend your days strolling cobblestone streets and vibrant village squares, cycling through vineyard-covered hillsides and exploring ancient castles, then gather for dinner as you drift to your next destination overnight.

That's the appeal of river cruising through Europe, and families are catching on fast. Long thought of as an adults-only pursuit, river cruise lines now offer more options for multigenerational travel than ever, from adjoining staterooms and accessible excursions to itineraries that pass through some of Europe’s most breathtaking scenery. Whether you're traveling with young kids, aging parents or four generations all at once, there's a river cruise that’s perfect for your family.

We talked to experts to find out which European river cruises are best for every type of family group—and how to make the most of every moment on the water.

Related: We Asked 3 Travel Advisors To Pick the Best First-Time River Cruise

Best for Disney-Loving Families and Exclusive Experiences: Adventures by Disney Adventures by Disney offers exclusive sailings in collaboration with AmaWaterways, a leader in luxury river cruising.

Photo courtesy of Disney

If you're looking for the most family-focused river cruise experience in Europe, Adventures by Disney is tough to beat. Operated in partnership with AmaWaterways, these sailings traverse the Danube, Rhine, Rhône and the waterways of Holland and Belgium, with Disney-trained Adventure Guides hosting curated activities on board and local guides leading immersive excursions on shore. The minimum age for sailing is either 4 or 5 (depending on the itinerary), with a recommended minimum age of 8. It's Disney's unmatched level of service and attention to detail, set against a European backdrop.

“Adventures by Disney sails on AmaWaterways ships, but they charter the entire vessel and create a completely different onboard experience,” said York, Pennsylvania-based travel advisor Kate Newland, owner of Kate's World Travel and the website River Cruise Girl. “They bring Adventure Guides who travel with your family through every excursion, and these guides take photographs and document the whole trip. After you get home, all the photos are yours to download. It’s perfect for families who want every moment captured.”

Related: AmaWaterways Unveils Europe's Largest New River Cruise Ship

Best for Multigenerational Groups: AmaWaterways Children are welcome on most sailings on AmaWaterways, such as this one sailing past the town of Cochem in Germany's Moselle Valley.

Photo courtesy of AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways is one of the most respected names in European river cruising, known for its premium, activity-rich sailings along the Rhine, Danube, Main, Moselle, Rhône and Portugal's Douro. For families with children ages 4 and up, the practical details matter: many ships offer connecting staterooms, and the AmaMagna ship has connecting suites roomy enough for larger multigenerational groups. Children are welcome on most sailings.

“AmaWaterways does a great job of making sure there are wonderful options for everyone,” Newland said. “For example, if you have a family member who uses a cane or needs to walk at a slower pace, they have the Gentle Walkers tour—but they also have bike rides, food tours, architectural tours and regular walking tours. Family members can do different excursions or choose something everyone can do together.”

Related: Celebrity's Viral River Cruises Are Expanding Across Europe

Best for Families with Younger Children: A-ROSA Cruises The pirate-themed kids club aboard A-ROSA SENA, the family river cruise ship from A-ROSA Cruises.

Photo courtesy of A-ROSA Cruises

If traveling with young children, German cruise line A-ROSA is a wonderful choice for a family vacation. With no formal minimum age on all sailings, the line regularly schedules family sailings during school holidays and summer vacation periods, and its ships often offer supervised kids' activities and family entertainment depending on the departure. Its standout family ship, A-ROSA SENA, features a pirate-themed Kids Club, family staterooms that sleep up to five and a children's pool. The line sails the Rhine, Danube, Seine, Rhône and Douro.

“A-ROSA SENA is perfect for families with younger children because it has a kids’ club and supervised kids activities,” said Rachelle Lucas, publisher of ActiveVoyager.com. “A-ROSA also has a generous ‘kids cruise free’ policy that allows children to sail free of charge in select stateroom categories.”

Best Luxury River Cruise for Families: Riverside Luxury Cruises Riverside Luxury Cruises is known for its stylish, upscale river cruise ship experience.

Photo courtesy of Riverside Luxury Cruises

For multigenerational families who want to travel in serious style,Riverside Luxury Cruisesfeels less like a river cruise and more like a five-star floating hotel. The line operates some of the most spacious ships on Europe's rivers, with oversized suites that are especially appealing for grandparents traveling with grandchildren. Children of all ages are welcome, and private family excursions can also be arranged in many ports.

“Riverside Luxury Cruises offers a very high-end, luxurious experience,” Newland said. “They’re known for their massive suites, and the food is absolutely incredible. The excursions also aren’t automatically included, so it’s a great choice for foodies who want flexibility.”

Best Budget-Friendly Family River Cruise: CroisiEurope CroisiEurope is very popular among European families, known for its high value and inclusive fares.

Photo by Alexandre Sattler, courtesy of CroisiEurope

Proof that a river cruise doesn't have to break the bank, CroisiEuropeis Europe's largest river cruise operator and one of its best-kept secrets for families. The Strasbourg-based, family-owned line offers a wide range of itineraries, frequent discounts for children and family groups and access to smaller waterways. Fares are highly inclusive, covering meals, onboard Wi-Fi and complimentary drinks, and the line is known for its authentic French dining and exceptional value. Children of all ages are welcome on its European itineraries.

“CroisiEurope is a great choice for families who want an authentic European river cruise experience,” said Calgary-based writer and cruise industry consultant Aaron Saunders. “The onboard flair is decidedly French, but crew (and many guests) speak fluent English. It's a nice compromise between a stay on land, immersed in European culture, and a river cruise that offers the comforts of home. Plus, CroisiEurope's affordable price point is seriously hard for families to ignore.”

Best for Grandparent-Grandchildren Trips: Tauck Bridges Tauck Bridges journeys bring multigenerational families closer through shared experiences.

Photo courtesy of Tauck

Tauck'sBridges family travel program was designed for generations traveling together, with one upfront price that covers nearly every expense. With a minimum age of 4 (but recommended for ages 8 and up), its family-focused river cruises pair sightseeing with hands-on experiences designed to keep kids engaged, from scavenger hunts and local performances to workshops that bring European history to life. For grandparents who want to share Europe with their grandchildren without managing complicated logistics, this one delivers.

“The Tauck Bridges program makes trips really, really special for kids,” Newland said. “The programming is amazing for both grandparents and grandchildren. They have tours and activities with exclusive private experiences like dinner at a palace, perfect for families looking to enjoy something incredible together.”

Best for Immersive Family Vacations: Uniworld Boutique River Cruises Uniworld's Generation Collection sailings feature family-focused amenities and activities.

Photo courtesy of Uniworld

Uniworld is known for its high crew-to-guest ratio and all-inclusive luxury, and its Generations Collection sailings bring that same level of care to family travel. These select departures feature kid-friendly excursions and activities designed for younger travelers while maintaining the upscale experience that the line is known for. Itineraries naturally incorporate kid-approved destinations like castles, medieval villages and interactive cultural stops. The minimum age is 4 on the line’s Europe itineraries.

“Uniworld has great offerings for kids. On their Generations Collection sailings, they offer kids’ cooking classes, craft classes and movie nights,” said McKinney, Texas-based travel advisor Erin Johnson, owner of My Live Love Travel agency. “They offer great multigenerational family excursions on most of their sailings, too, from treasure hunt trekking and city scavenger hunts to a full daytrip themed to The Sound of Musicor a cable car climb with stunning views of the Rhine.”

Best for Families who Want a Combined Land-and-River Adventure: Avalon Waterways Avalon Waterways is part of the Globus family of brands, offering seamless options for pairing river cruises and land tours.

Photo courtesy of Avalon Waterways

Avalon Waterwaysstands out for two reasons: its spacious Panorama Suites with wall-to-wall windows, and its status within Globus, a Swiss-based tour operator with an extensive network of escorted land tours. With a minimum age of 8 on most European river cruises, families can easily add on pre- or post-cruise land adventures, and choose from a wide range of active excursions during the cruise itself.

“Avalon Waterways has these really hands-on special itineraries called Active & Discovery, where excursions include painting workshops, e-bike tours or kayaking in the canals in Amsterdam,” Newland said. “They also have some really interesting land extensions that you can add on, such as a week-long train adventure through Switzerland followed by a Rhine River cruise.”

Best for Flexible Family Travel: AMADEUS River Cruises AMADEUS River Cruises is known for its authentic, destination-focused itineraries.

Photo copyright: Lueftner Cruises/Amadeus

Austria-based AMADEUS River Cruisesis a smart pick for multigenerational families who prefer to set their own pace. The line sails iconic waterways including the Danube, Rhine, Main, Moselle and Seine, and its relaxed, destination-focused approach works well for families who'd rather spend a free afternoon exploring a market or a castle on their own than follow a structured program. The minimum age to sail is 8 and there is no child-specific programming, so this one is best for independent-minded families.

“AMADEUS River Cruises provides a luxurious experience at a lower price point, and there’s a lot of flexibility,” Newland said. “Because excursions cost extra, it’s a great choice for families who want the choice to explore cities on their own or go on a tour.”

Best for a Relaxed, Resort-Style Ship Experience: VIVA Cruises VIVA Cruises offers sleek, modern ships and an all-inclusive river cruising experience.

Photo courtesy of Viva Cruises

VIVA Cruises offers a contemporary river cruise experience that works well for families who don't need a packed schedule. The ships feature modern accommodations, flexible dining and a laid-back atmosphere that appeals to travelers of different ages. Children of all ages are welcome, and families can spend their days exploring European cities together and return to a comfortable ship without worrying about rigid schedules or formal dress codes.

“VIVA Cruises is known for its highly flexible dining, with no set dining times or assigned seating,” Lucas said. “Families can choose from multiple onboard restaurants and eat when it works best for them.”

Best for Families with Teens: Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours itineraries cater to families with older children and teens.

Photo courtesy of Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

Families with teens who are interested in history, culture and active exploration will find a lot to love about Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours. The line's included excursions often feature immersive experiences, and complimentary e-bikes give families the freedom to explore destinations at their own pace. With a minimum age of 12, there's no dedicated kids' programming, but many teens will appreciate the freedom and flexibility that come with the cruise line’s excursion options.

“The excursions are incredibly interactive,” Newland said. “If you sail on the Seine in France, there is this amazing tour guide named Ben Baillie who dresses up as Rollo the Viking, the raider who founded the Duchy of Normandy in modern-day France. He really brings history to life.”

Best Guided River Cruise for First-Time Visitors to Europe: Trafalgar River Cruises Trafalgar's river cruises are perfect for families new to Europe.

Photo courtesy of Trafalgar

If Europe is new for your family, Trafalgar's river cruises are a great way to get to know the continent. Known for its popular escorted land tours, Trafalgar recently expanded into river cruising with the same emphasis on immersive cultural experiences and locally guided excursions. With a minimum age of 5 for its river cruises, itineraries mix guided sightseeing with free time, allowing families to customize each day based on their interests and energy levels.

“I think Trafalgar is a great opportunity for travelers who are traveling to Europe for the first time because of the brand’s expertise with land tours and how they incorporate that into the river cruise experience,” Johnson said. “They prioritize in-depth cultural connections and unique dining experiences, like the brand’s exclusive Be Our Guest dinners that let travelers dine with locals.”

Related: Trafalgar Just Launched Boutique River Cruises

Tips for Making the Most of a Family River Cruise Adventures by Disney itineraries feature immersive excursions such as canoeing through Strasbourg, the cultural center of France’s Alsace region.

Photo courtesy of Disney

Work with a travel advisor. “Make sure you’re working with a travel advisor who really knows the difference between the different river cruise lines and itineraries to make sure this trip is perfect for your family,” Newland said.

Prep kids for the experience. “There’s something so magical about learning about something and then seeing it in real life. For example, show kids Disney’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and then go on a river cruise along the Seine and visit the Notre Dame Cathedral of Paris,” Johnson said.

Consider timing carefully. “European Christmas market sailings book up fast; I tell families to plan those at least two years in advance because the window is so short. If the kids have a Thanksgiving school break, those sailings are often on sale and it’s a wonderful time to go,” Newland said.

Don’t overschedule excursions. “Spacing out big excursions is best. If you’re booking all-day excursions every single day, you’re going to exhaust your family. Try to build in time to go to a café and enjoy hot chocolate and pastries,” Johnson said.

Consider extending your trip. “One of the joys of river cruising is that you’re typically starting in a major European city and ending in another, so I definitely recommend adding a few days on either end and seeing more of Europe,” Newland said.

Pack lighter than you think you need to.
“There are no formal nights on a river cruise, so there’s no need to overpack. Nearly every line also offers laundry service onboard for a fee; Uniworld even offers complimentary self-service laundry on most ships,” Johnson said.

Don't skip the slow moments.
“As Americans, we tend to live life very fast-paced—but there’s something incredible about going somewhere and sitting in a piazza where everything around you could be 1,000 years old. River cruising is about soaking in history and building in time for the slow moments, too,” Johnson said.  

Related: I Got an Early Look Inside Celebrity's Sold-Out River Cruise—Here's Why It's Already the Most Anticipated Launch of 2027

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If you grew up in the ’90s, there’s a good chance you slept on Wamsutta sheets. The iconic American bedding brand was a longtime staple at Bed Bath & Beyond, earning a loyal following for its crisp cotton percale sheets and luxurious bed and bath linens.

After Bed Bath & Beyond’s 2023 bankruptcy, Wamsutta reemerged as a direct-to-consumer brand. Curious whether the quality lived up to my memories, I tested the Wamsutta Supreme Egyptian Cotton Sheet Set. Starting at $290, the set includes a flat sheet, fitted sheet and two pillowcases, and promises an ultra-smooth, silky-soft sleep experience. Here's how it performed.

What Is the Wamsutta Supreme Egyptian Cotton Sheet Set?

Ashley Zlatopolsky

The Wamsutta Supreme Egyptian Cotton Sheet Set is made from 600-thread-count long-staple Egyptian cotton, a premium material known for its softness, breathability and durability. It also features a sateen weave, a construction technique that creates a silky-smooth feel and lustrous sheen, giving the sheets a more luxurious look and feel than traditional cotton bedding.

Available in full, queen, king and California king sizes, the set features deep-pocket fitted sheets designed to accommodate mattresses up to 20 inches thick. One thoughtful detail I appreciated: the fitted sheet is labeled "Top" and "Bottom," which takes the guesswork out of making the bed.

The Wamsutta Supreme Egyptian Cotton Sheet Set can be machine washed on a normal cycle. The brand recommends tumble drying on low heat and advises against dry cleaning.

My Honest Review of the Wamsutta Supreme Egyptian Cotton Sheet Set

Ashley Zlatopolsky

As a Certified Sleep Science Coach and self-proclaimed picky sleeper, I have high standards when it comes to bedding. I'm also a hot sleeper who tends to toss and turn, so I look for sheets that are soft, breathable and cooling.

The Wamsutta Supreme Egyptian Cotton Sheet Set felt silky-smooth straight out of the package. Even better, it retained that luxurious feel after washing. Many sateen sheets lose some of their signature softness after the first wash, but that wasn't the case here. I also appreciated the fitted sheet's "Top" and "Bottom" labels, which made making the bed much easier.

One feature I wasn't as enthusiastic about was the pillowcase design. I personally prefer envelope closures because they keep pillows neatly tucked inside. These pillowcases have an open-end design, which isn't a deal breaker but leaves some excess fabric at the end that I find less polished.

Ashley Zlatopolsky

Sateen sheets are notoriously polarizing. Some sleepers love their buttery-soft feel, while others prefer the crisp texture of percale. Sateen also gets a bad rap for retaining heat, which initially concerned me as a hot sleeper. Fortunately, these sheets stayed surprisingly cool throughout the night and never felt overly warm against my skin, meaning they regulate temperature well. They struck a nice balance between softness and breathability.

The deep-pocket fitted sheet was another standout feature. There's nothing more frustrating than waking up to find a fitted sheet slipping off the corners of your mattress. On my 13-inch mattress, the sheet stayed securely in place all night. I can easily see it working just as well on taller mattresses or beds topped with thick mattress pads.

Ashley Zlatopolsky

Overall, these sheets delivered the elevated, hotel-like feel I associate with luxury bedding and the classic Wamsutta quality I remember from my teenage years. The lustrous sheen added a refined, sophisticated touch to my bedroom, and I’d be interested in pairing them with a matching duvet cover for a complete set.

While the price might give you pause, I think the comfort, quality and durability make it a worthwhile investment. I’d recommend the Wamsutta Supreme Egyptian Cotton Sheet Set to anyone seeking incredibly soft sheets with a refined look and surprisingly breathable feel.

Related: Aldi's Breathable New 4-Piece Sheet Sets Are Perfect for Hot Summer Nights

The flashing cameras at Project Angel Food’s "Lead with Love" benefit broadcast in Los Angeles came to a temporary standstill when Barbara Eden stepped onto the carpet. At 94, the television veteran bypassed standard red carpet poses. Eden stood on the carpet in a crisp white pantsuit and locked into the signature move that made her a global household name six decades ago. By crossing her arms and tilting her head, Eden delivered an immediate visual reference to I Dream of Jeannie, the mid-century sitcom that permanently established her place in American pop culture history.

In the widely shared photographs from the event, a pop of royal blue silk under her white blazer serves as a nod to the iconic 1960s harem costume that once kept network censors working overtime. In her left hand, Eden held a pair of oversized sunglasses, her blonde hair styled in bouncy, classic layers  against a backdrop featuring the logos of City National Bank and the Herb Ritts Foundation.

Eden's career spans beyond the five seasons she spent living in a fictional pink bottle in Cocoa Beach, Florida. Born in Tucson, Arizona, in 1931, she initially trained as a singer at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. She fronted local bands as a teenager before pivoting sharply toward Hollywood in the mid-1950s. Early television appearances on The Johnny Carson Show and I Love Lucy led to a contract with 20th Century Fox, where she accumulated a string of diverse film credits.

Barbara Eden strikes a pose at Project Angel Food's Lead With Love 7. (Photo: Getty)

Photo by Tommaso Boddi on Getty Images

She played opposite Elvis Presley in the 1960 Western Flaming Star. She braved the deep ocean in Irwin Allen’s sci-fi adventure Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea in 1961. She shared the screen with Peter Marshall and Tommy Noonan.

But television ultimately proved to be her golden ticken. In 1965, writer Sidney Sheldon created I Dream of Jeannie as a programming answer to ABC's hit comedy Bewitched. Eden took the title role alongside Larry Hagman, who played NASA astronaut Major Anthony Nelson. The show ran for 139 episodes, entering syndication and introducing her physical comedic timing to subsequent generations of viewers worldwide.

After the series concluded in 1970, Eden transitioned into a wide variety of roles. She starred as a single mother in the 1978 box-office comedy Harper Valley PTA, later reprising the role for a two-season television spin-off in the early 1980s. She became a spokeswoman for L'eggs pantyhose, headlined musical theater tours across the country, and performed on 21 separate Bob Hope USO specials, including a tour entertaining combat troops in the Middle East.

For decades, fans who spent summers watching her network reruns have viewed her as a symbol of television’s golden era of sitcoms. Her appearance at the Los Angeles charity event proves that her love of her iconic role remains strong.

“Up on the Roof,” which was recorded by The Drifters in 1962, was written by Gerry Goffin and Carole King. The song rose to No. 5 on the pop singles chart and No. 4 on the R&B chart. Although it never reached No. 1, the song made the list of The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's “500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll.”

According to the New York Festival of Song, “Carole King, hit songwriter of the Brill Building’s heyday (and inspiration for the Broadway hit musical, Beautiful), says she came up with this melody while driving. Imagining a song entitled ‘My Secret Place,’ she presented it to lyricist (and then-husband) Gerry Goffin. Inspired by the images in the 1961 film version of West Side Story, Goffin chose a tenement rooftop as the song’s urban haven.”

Although “Up on the Roof” never reached the coveted No. 1 spot on the charts, The Drifters had a lot of recognizable hits over the years. They include “Money Honey,” “There Goes My Baby,” and “Save the Last Dance for Me.”

The band was originally formed with Clyde McPhatter, who eventually left to pursue his solo career. Michael Williams, who became one of The Drifter’s lead singers for over a decade, spoke about joining the iconic band in a 2015 interview, citing the song “Up on the Roof” as one of the best.

“It really means a lot as my folks were big Drifters fans. They loved Clyde McPhatter,” Williams said. “There was a lot of Motown music around the house growing up, so I that was my introduction to music, and I guess my parents twisted my arm into loving The Drifters. But joking aside, really, hearing hits like ‘Under The Boardwalk’, ‘Up On The Roof’ and ‘There Goes My First Love,’ you can’t help but become a big fan even without the parental influence.”

Related: 1981 Romantic Ballad by the King of Pop Became His First No. 1 Hit in the UK

Williams also explained how he was recruited into the band in the first place. “I was spotted by Tina Treadwell, daughter of George and Fayerene Treadwell, when I was in a club singing with a band I was in. She asked me if I wanted to be an understudy for The Drifters, and heck – you don’t get asked questions like that every day! I was excited, jumped at the chance, and so spent a year as an understudy, learning how to walk and talk like a Drifter, you know, understanding their make-up and learning the back catalogue of hits. Then, about 10 years ago, I got my chance to join this amazing group properly.”

The Drifters were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1988. All of their original members have passed away, including McPhatter, who died when he was only 39.

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If you deserve new jewelry but don't want to splurge too much, we've found a great deal at Walmart for you. Say hello to the Bestyle Pure Sterling Silver Birthstone Pave Necklace, now just $33 during Walmart's Summer Deals event, down from $69. 

This dainty pendant is more than just jewelry. It's a charming keepsake designed to make every day feel a bit more magical.

Bestyle Pure Sterling Silver Birthstone Pave Necklace, From $33 (was $66) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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With 12 birthstone colors to choose from, one for each month, this necklace is ready for birthdays, anniversaries, or just because. The elegant shape is timeless, and the thoughtful packaging (a velvet-lined box) makes it instantly giftable. Whether you're surprising your mom, daughter, best friend, or treating yourself, it's a sweet way to celebrate milestones and everyday moments alike.

You can also make this necklace even more personal by choosing from three chic shapes: hearts, squares, or triangles. Whether you want to express a little extra romance, go for a bold geometric vibe, or keep it playful and modern, there's a pendant style to match any mood or personality. It's a sweet way to treat yourself to something unique — or to pick out the perfect gift that feels tailor-made for someone special.

Bestyle Pure Sterling Silver Birthstone Shape Necklace, From $33 (was $66) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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The center birthstone, in any color from blue topaz to red garnet, is surrounded by twinkling cubic zirconia. Every angle catches the light, so whether you're out in the sun or snapping a selfie, you're guaranteed a subtle shimmer that flatters every neckline. 

Bestyle’s birthstone necklace isn't just pretty, it's practical, too. The lightweight feel makes it perfect for daily wear, while the sturdy sterling silver means it can handle whatever adventures your summer brings. Shoppers call the necklace "pretty," “sparkly,” and “absolutely precious."

The pendant itself is crafted from genuine 925 sterling silver, making it hypoallergenic and gentle on sensitive skin. The high-polish finish resists tarnish and scratches, so your necklace stays looking as fresh as the day you unbox it. Plus, the durable lobster clasp and adjustable chain (16 inches plus a 2-inch extender) mean you can tailor the fit for layering or wearing solo.

Shop More Deals

• Michael Kors Jet Set Travel Dome Crossbody Bag, $60 (was $289) at Walmart
• Beautiful by Drew Barrymore 6-Quart Slow Cooker, $54 (was $64) at Walmart
• Temofon Wide Leg Pants, $12 (was $29) at Walmart

Related: Tupperware's Retro Pink and Purple Bowl Set Is the Prettiest Way to Store Your Leftovers

Walmart's Summer Deals mean you can grab this solid silver necklace for less than half price through June 28. This $33 sparkly little treasure is perfect for your jewelry box or as a thoughtful and convenient gift.

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

One of our favorite things to do while traveling abroad is visiting local pharmacies to see what types of makeup and skincare products we can get our hands on. Trends can vary vastly from one country to the next, so it's always fun to see what local cultures are into and what sort of ingredients they value in their beauty routines.

In recent years, many Americans have begun to embrace the appeal of Korean beauty (aka K-beauty) and have adopted several of the culture's skincare secrets. Similarly, Korean fragrance has been trending, so Parade consulted a few perfume pros to learn about the 11 Korean perfume brands they wish more people knew about.

Darryl Do, a senior perfume and fragrance expert at Delbia Do Fragrances & Flavors, describes Korean fragrances as "transparent and intimate."

"There is a big culture around clean skincare and beauty, which does extend into the fragrance world as well. Many brands draw inspiration from familiar, everyday imagery to create scents that are easy to wear at any time of day and with any group. Many brands also tend to be gender-neutral," he tells Parade.

From traditional fragrance notes to what makes Korean fragrance brands different from their French counterparts, we asked the pros to dish on everything you need to know about these quiet luxury scents before you start adding a few K-beauty perfumes to your collection.

Related: 11 Perfumes Women Over 50 Get the Most Compliments On, According to Fragrance Experts

Top Korean Fragrances

• Best Korean Perfume Overall:Sisology On the Sofa Eau de Parfum
• Best Clean Korean Perfume: Nonfiction Gentle Night Eau de Parfum
• Best Niche Korean Fragrance:Tamburins Chamo Perfume
• Best Luxury Korean Perfume:pesade An Unseen Parfum
• Best Floral Korean Perfume:A'ddict Naked Muguet 313 Solid Perfume
• Best Gourmand Korean Perfume: Elorea Cloud Daze Eau de Parfum
• Best Celebrity-Loved Korean Perfume:BORNTOSTANDOUT Drunk Saffron Eau de Parfum
• Best Solid Korean Perfume:Longtake Solid Perfume
• Best Korean Perfume for Summer:SW19 6 am Eau de Parfum
• Best Vanilla Korean Perfume:SRHY 10. Vanilla Bloom Eau de Parfum
• Best Affordable Korean Perfume: KST Scent Rice Cake

What Makes Korean Perfumes Different From French Fragrances?

Chavalia Mwamba, the principal perfumer at Pink MahogHany, says Korean perfumes are "often crafted directly from a cultural connection."

"There is a clear note focus and the fragrance is built and blended around the focus," she tells Parade.

According to Interparfums, Inc. VP of Product Development Walter Johnsen, French and Korean perfumery are both shaped by cultural traditions but they also differ in many ways.

"In simple terms, French fragrances often ask to be noticed, while Korean fragrances are more likely to be discovered," he explains. "What I find particularly interesting is that Korean fragrances often prioritize how a scent lives close to the wearer, while traditional French perfumery has historically focused more on how a fragrance projects into the room. Neither approach is right or wrong. They simply reflect different cultural interpretations of beauty, luxury and self-expression."

Related: These 7 Perfumes Actually Last All Day Long, Fragrance Expert Reveals

Per Do, Korean perfumes tend to differ from French fragrances in style and presence.

"A lot of the time, French perfumery has fuller bodied compositions that can evolve on the skin with noticeable presence and sillage. Many French fragrances make a grand entrance and leave an impression," he says.

Johnsen notes that modern Korean fragrances have been "influenced by the broader Korean skincare philosophy of enhancing rather than transforming."

"Many Korean perfumes favor transparent textures, soft florals, delicate musks and lighter diffusion. The goal is often to create a scent that feels intimate, comfortable and naturally connected to the wearer rather than one that immediately commands attention," he says.

Related: If You Wore These 11 ‘Iconic’ Perfumes in the ’80s, You Have Great Taste

What Notes Are Most Common in Korean Perfume?

Johnsen says certain fragrance notes appear more frequently in Korean perfumes since they align with "the Korean preference for freshness, cleanliness, subtle elegance and everyday wearability."

"Common top notes include citrus materials such as bergamot, lemon, grapefruit and yuzu, along with green notes, pear, apple and light tea nuances," he tells Parade. "These ingredients create an immediate sense of brightness and cleanliness without feeling overpowering."

When it comes to "the heart of the fragrance," Johnsen adds that soft florals are popular.

"White florals such as neroli, orange blossom, lily of the valley, peony, freesia, jasmine and rose are often used in a more transparent and airy style than in many traditional Western fragrances," he says.

Related: How to Properly Layer Perfume, According to a Fragrance Expert

When it comes to the base, Johnsen explains that Korean fragrances typically rely on "clean musks, soft woods, cedarwood, sandalwood, cashmere woods and skin-like accords."

"Rather than emphasizing heavy amber, leather, patchouli, or animalic notes, many Korean fragrances focus on creating a smooth, comforting second skin effect," he adds.

Additionally, tea notes are also quite common in Korean fragrances.

"Green tea, white tea, black tea and herbal tea accords are often used to convey calmness, wellness and understated sophistication," Johnsen says.

Related: The 14 Best Jasmine Perfumes for an Intoxicating Floral Scent, According to Fragrance Experts

11 Korean Fragrance Brands a Perfume Expert Wishes More People Knew About

Here are some of the best K-beauty scents to have on your radar.

1. Best Korean Perfume Overall: Sisology On the Sofa Eau de Parfum, $178

Niche-Beauty

Shop It at Niche Beauty

Key Fragrance Notes: Bergamot, musk, black pepper, woody notes and amber.

"The best kinds of perfumes tell a story with their scent, and that’s exactly what Sisology is all about. Each fragrance captures a specific memory or emotion," Vince Spinnato, aka The Couture Chemist, an award-winning cosmetic chemist and luxury product formulator, tells Parade.

This eau de parfum is a "cozy, powdery musk" scent that the fragrance pro says is a great introduction to Korean fragrances.

2. Best Clean Korean Perfume: Nonfiction Gentle Night Eau de Parfum, $130

Nonfiction

Shop It at Nonfiction

Key Fragrance Notes: Bergamot, fig, white tea, suede, moss, musk, vanilla and cedarwood.

Spinnato describes this eau de parfum as "soft, clean, slightly musky and elegant."

“It has a soothing, gender neutral composition that perfectly balances boldness and sweetness,” he says.

3. Best Niche Korean Fragrance: Tamburins Chamo Perfume, $48.99

DODO

Key Fragrance Notes: The fragrance's "distinctive composition" creates a scent that has notes of chamomile and clary sage.

Spinnato is a fan of this "fresh, airy, slightly floral and sophisticated" scent.

"It's great for a clean, luxury feel," he explains. "It has a deeply calming, elegant and uniquely balanced genderless profile."

4. Best Luxury Korean Perfume: pesade An Unseen Parfum, $124

DODO

Key Fragrance Notes: Neroli, pine, mandarin orange, rose, clove and oakmoss.

Spinnato says this perfume from Korean fragrance brand pesade has "excellent longevity." 

"It perfectly captures the highly coveted clean nature-centric aesthetic. Unlike heavy Western perfumes, it offers a calming, airy blend of neroli and pine balanced by warm, skin-like musks," he says.

Related: 7 Best Fine’ry Luxury Perfume Dupes at Target, According to a Fragrance Expert

5. Best Floral Korean Perfume: A'ddict Naked Muguet 313 Solid Perfume, $10

A'ddict

Key Fragrance Notes: Lily of the valley, sandalwood.

Soft floral and fresh greenery notes join forces with sandalwood to create a lily of the valley scent that Spinnato describes as "delicate, clean and effortlessly addictive."

It's "designed to blend intimately with your body's natural warmth, it creates a subtle 'my skin but better' scent," he says.

Related: 9 Most-Requested Discontinued Fragrances, According to a Perfume Expert

6. Best Gourmand Korean Perfume: Elorea Cloud Daze Eau de Parfum, $240

Elorea

Shop it at ELOREA

Key Fragrance Notes: Lemon, juniper, amyris, makgeolli, cognac, jasmine sambac, rice, vanilla, balsam, dalgona.

"This milky, warm gourmand opens with fresh juniper before melting into a sweet heart of rice and dalgona (Korean honeycomb), rounded out by rich vanilla," Spinnato says.

The fragrance pro says the eau de parfum is a tribute to makgeolli (Korean rice wine).

"It's a soft, comforting gourmand fragrance. It is highly celebrated for its unique concept and sensory experience," he adds.

Related: 11 Best Gourmand Perfumes That Actually Smell ‘Delectable,’ Fragrance Expert Reveals

7. Best Celebrity-Loved Korean Perfume: BORNTOSTANDOUT Drunk Saffron Eau de Parfum, $220

BORNTOSTANDOUT

Key Fragrance Notes: Brandy, saffron, vanilla.

"Designed as a playful rebellion against traditional K-beauty, this brand creates bold, provocative scents. Drunk Saffron blends rich saffron, plum and suede for a deep, lingering impression," Spinnato says.

The fragrance pro says the eau de parfum "masterfully balances rich, fruity openings with warm, spicy depths" and says it's perfect for "the evening or cooler months."

8. Best Solid Korean Perfume: Longtake Solid Perfume, $36

Amore Mall

Shop It on Amazon

Key Fragrance Notes: Sandalwood, lime, eucalyptus, violet, iris, mint, amber and cedarwood.

"Known for botanical and hair-focused fragrances, Longtake's scents punch well above their weight class and are often compared to luxury niche fragrances," Spinnato says.

This alcohol-free, solid perfume offers a more compact alternative to traditional fragrances.

Spinnato is fond of the gel texture, which he says "nourishes skin," the "travel-friendly design" and the "nature-inspired, gender-neutral scent."

9. Best Korean Perfume for Summer: SW19 6 am Eau de Parfum, $119

SW19

Key Fragrance Notes: Wild grass, white musk, cedarwood, grapefruit, cardamom, bergamot and basil.

If you could bottle the feeling of summer, this fragrance would come pretty darn close.

"It captures the crisp, quiet air of early morning woods with notes of wild grass, white musk and cedarwood," Spinnato says.

The perfume pro says the fragrance recreates the feeling of "early summer mornings or a refreshing cool down during the sweltering midday."

Related: 9 Perfumes Women Over 50 Are Obsessed With Right Now, According to a Fragrance Expert

10. Best Vanilla Korean Perfume: SRHY 10. Vanilla Bloom Eau de Parfum, $199

SRHY

Key Fragrance Notes: Vanilla, amber, vetiver, coconut, peach, floral musk, jasmine and ylang ylang.

"This fragrance wraps a floral bouquet in a deep, velvety base of vanilla, amber and vetiver," Spinnato says.

The end result? A "comforting, mindful and high quality sensory experience rather than an overpowering scent."

Related: A Perfumer Says This Is the Best Place To Apply Fragrance

11. Best Affordable Korean Perfume: KST Scent Rice Cake, $9

KST Scent

Key Fragrance Notes: Steamed rice, fig leaves, rice cake, sesame, white musk and amber.

Mwamba says this affordable find has an "excellent combination of starchy sweetness."

Per the brand, this particular fragrance "embodies the spirit of the New Year and wishes for good luck."

Up Next:

Related: These Are the 9 Best-Smelling Perfumes for Women, According to a Fragrance Expert

Sources:

• Darryl Do, senior perfume and fragrance expert of Delbia Do Fragrances & Flavors, and a member of the American Society of Perfumers, WFFC, Fashion Group International and the NY Society of Cosmetic Chemists
• Walter Johnsen, VP of Product Development at Interparfums, Inc
• Chavalia Mwamba, principal perfumer at Pink MahogHany
• Vince Spinnato, aka The Couture Chemist, award-winning cosmetic chemist and luxury product formulator

Bad English, the hard rock supergroup, is among the few bands that left an unforgettable mark on music despite a relatively short career.

The five-piece band, consisting of members from the highly influential bands Journey and The Babys, has earned a spot among the greatest supergroups of all time.

Louder Sound named its top 20 best supergroups in rock history, with Bad English securing the No. 14 spot.

Formed in 1987, the group, composed of Ricky Phillips, John Waite, Neal Schon, Jonathan Cain and Deen Castronovo, delivered a perfect blend of classic hard rock and soaring ballads through its self-titled debut, released in 1989.

With the massive commercial success of the album, Bad English released the chart-topping single, "When I See You Smile," which landed at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Bad English performs live in Chicago in 1990.

Paul Natkin/WireImage

The iconic track spent two weeks atop the charts and a total of 22 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100, further solidifying its status as a defining hit of the era.

Fusing classic hard rock power and soaring ballads, their self-titled 1989 debut made a whole nation simultaneously punch the air and weep.

Written by the iconic songwriter Diane Warren, the song was inspired by her father.

Warren once admitted that she didn't initially recognize the song's potential until Bad English released "When I See You Smile."

"I didn't, in all honesty, think that it was that great,” she said in an interview as cited by Stereogum.

The same was true for Waite, who was also surprised by the public's reception to the song and later came to recognize it as part of the band's legacy.

"'When I See You Smile' that was not what we should have been doing in Bad English," he said in an interview. "We kind of owed the A&R guys a favor. I thought we would just cut it and tell them we at least tried and then they would let us go our own way. When we recorded it, then it really did sound like a No. 1. It went to No. 1 everywhere – and I have to ask, what is wrong with being No. 1?”

In 1991, the band released its second and final album, Backlash.

The 10-track album featured a radio-friendly arena rock sound. However, it was considered a commercial disappointment as musical tastes shifted in the early 1990s. Despite its underwhelming commercial performance, the band parted ways on good terms, with its members choosing to return to their respective projects.

Related: '80s Rock Band, Disbanded After Two Years, Ranked Among the 'Best Supergroups' of All Time

Floor Jansen, the legendary heavy metal singer behind the band Nightwish, announced exciting news to fans.

Amid her back to back 2026 tour that includes European summer festivals and solo headline concerts, she has unveiled a brand-new song.

Widely regarded for her powerful and highly versatile voice and musical style, the frontwoman is marking a new chapter as a solo artist.

Jansen’s newly released track "Run" is her first solo single following the release of her debut album Paragon in 2023.

Officially launched on June 26 through REVAMP Music in collaboration with Warner Music, the 45-year-old vocalist reunited with Gordon Groothedde, who also worked on the final album by her former band After Forever, to bring the song to life.

Floor Jansen of Nightwish performs on stage at Mediolanumforum on December 4, 2018 in Milan.

Francesco Prandoni/Redferns

Prior to the official release, the iconic singer explained what the song truly meant to her.

In an Instagram update, she emphasized embracing yourself and not trying to please others.

As for her music, Jansen said she was introducing a heavier, bolder sound while staying true to her core.

“To me, RUN is about no longer making yourself smaller to fit into a shape that was never yours. It’s about taking off the mask, trusting your own movement, and daring to be seen that way. Musically, it feels like the start of something new. A little heavier, a little more direct, but still honest, still melodic, still completely me. I’ve been looking forward to this moment for a long time, and I can’t wait for you to hear it!” she said, as mentioned in the caption.

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Despite being active in her solo career, Jansen clarified that Nightwish has not disbanded but is on a touring hiatus.

“Yes. That’s what we’ve always said,” the vocalist shared in 2025 when Louder Sound asked about the band’s plan to return to touring in the future. “ It’s a break from touring, it’s not a permanent stop. Otherwise we would have said, ‘That’s it, we’re not touring, we’re just going to make albums.’”

In the same interview, she also hinted at her plans to release her second solo album.

“Not touring with Nightwish gives me time to write my second solo album,” she told the outlet, adding, “I have ideas, I have people I want to work with, I even wrote a song before Lucy was born. Nothing is finished yet, but it will come.”

Apart from her upcoming album, Jansen is also gearing up for a major milestone next year as she embarks on her South American tour, scheduled to begin in April 2027.

Related: '80s Rock Band, Disbanded After Two Years, Ranked Among the 'Best Supergroups' of All Time

A simple swap can completely change the feel of a room. Whether you're refreshing your living room for summer or making your bedroom feel more relaxing, one home upgrade often has the biggest impact without requiring a full makeover.

Costco shoppers are always on the hunt for affordable home finds that look far more expensive than they are. The retailer has built a loyal following for furniture, decor and seasonal pieces that blend style with value. One of the latest Costco home finds is reason enough to love shopping there.

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Costco's Neutral Rug Looks Like a Designer Find View this post on Instagram

User @costcojacque shared that the Nourison Indiana Area Rug has arrived at Costco for $149.99. It's an easy way to give your home an instant refresh. Measuring 7 feet 10 inches by 9 feet 10 inches, the oversized rug comes in three versatile neutral colorways featuring white, brown and gray patterns that work with a wide range of decorating styles.

The rug has a low-profile design, making it easy to place under furniture or in high-traffic areas without adding bulk. It's also easy to spot clean, making it a practical choice for busy households.

Its subtle patterns and earthy palette give it a modern look with a relaxed, boho-inspired feel. Rather than overpowering a room, it blends into the background while adding warmth and texture. Neutral rugs like these create a calm foundation that allows furniture, artwork and decorative accents to stand out.

Related: Costco Just Dropped a Sleek Home Accent That Will Elevate Your Living Room

Why Neutral Rugs Never Go Out of Style

Unlike bold patterns or trendy colors that can quickly date a room, neutral rugs tend to work with almost any decor style. Whether your home leans modern, farmhouse, Scandinavian or traditional, a rug like this can tie everything together.

This Costco home find would look especially good in a bedroom, where soft colors help create a calming atmosphere. Add crisp white bedding, natural wood furniture and a few stylish throw pillows, and the room instantly feels more like a boutique hotel.

In a living room, it provides a cozy backdrop for everything from colorful accent chairs to minimalist sofas. Because the palette is so versatile, it's easier to update your decor over time without replacing one of the biggest pieces in the room.

Are you looking to refresh your space this summer without spending a fortune on new furniture? Costco's latest home find is the perfect pick for you and your home.

Related: Costco's New $30 Home Find Is the Ultimate Camping Essential, According to Shoppers

Noah Kahan addressed an unusual situation on social media after a fan reportedly had a bathroom accident on the general admission floor during one of his recent concerts. The incident, which quickly became a topic of discussion among attendees, prompted a direct response from the Vermont-born singer-songwriter regarding venue cleanliness and fan etiquette.

Kahan took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to address the situation after reports surfaced that human waste had been left on the floor of the venue. The singer did not mince words, using his platform to urge concertgoers to utilize the provided public restrooms during his performances rather than staying in the crowd.

“If you have to poop at a show please dear god just go to the bathroom lmao I’ve pooped my pants as much as the next 29 year old but you guys gotta understand there’s a venue worker out there with a 1000 yard stare after dealing with that,” Kahan wrote.

If you have to poop at a show please dear god just go to the bathroom lmao I’ve pooped my pants as much as the next 29 year old but you guys gotta understand there’s a venue worker out there with a 1000 yard stare after dealing with that

— Noah Kahan (@NoahKahan) June 27, 2026

The post immediately went viral, drawing hundreds of reactions from fans who praised the singer for using humor to address a difficult situation for the local arena staff.

But Kahan was not finished sharing. In a follow-up post on the same thread, the Grammy-nominated artist offered a surprising revelation about his own past touring history. He admitted that he has experienced a similar mishap while performing live on stage earlier in his career.

“I [sic] myself onstage in Charlottesville but that’s because I’m dedicated to my craft,” Kahan added.

The incident highlights growing conversations within the music industry regarding live event behavior and the treatment of venue staff. In recent years, artists have increasingly spoken out about crowd safety, objects being thrown on stage, and general decorum in general admission areas. Kahan's comments shed light on the behind-the-scenes difficulties faced by maintenance crews who handle post-show cleanups.

Kahan is currently in the middle of a global tour following the multi-platinum success of his album Stick Season. Known for his candid, self-deprecating humor and close relationship with his fanbase, the singer frequently interacts with listeners online about the realities of life on the road.

Neither representatives for Kahan nor the venue have issued statements regarding the cleanup operations. The singer's online plea remains active, with fans echoing his calls to respect the workers responsible for keeping concert environments safe and clean.

If you’ve been watching everyone in your social feed jet off to Portugal lately, you already know the Algarve is having a massive moment. It has the dramatic cliffs, the postcard-perfect beaches and that slow-paced southern European rhythm that makes you want to permanently delete your email app. But finding a place to stay that nails that effortlessly chic, boutique hotel vibe—while still letting you tap into a major world-class points program—has been a surprisingly tough tightrope to walk.

The sudden surge in popularity comes down to a perfect storm of accessibility and effortless appeal. Long a beloved summer escape for European sun-seekers, the region has captured a massive new wave of global travelers—particularly North Americans—thanks to newly launched direct flights straight into Faro Airport. Travelers are discovering that the Algarve offers a much more laid-back, reasonably priced alternative to crowded Mediterranean hotspots like the Amalfi Coast or the French Riviera, boasting over 300 days of annual sunshine, a booming Michelin-starred culinary scene and an incredibly high safety rating that makes it an easy choice for an effortless getaway.  

Related: Lisbon Is the Perfect European Escape for Solo Women Over 50—and Here’s Why

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That is exactly why the latest news from hospitality giant IHG is worth circling on your calendar. They just announced a massive partnership to take over the current Crowne Plaza in Vilamoura and completely transform it from the inside out, turning it into the ultra-chic InterContinental Vilamoura—Algarve. Set to officially cut the ribbon in April 2027, the property is shedding its old corporate look for an ultra-modern aesthetic defined by massive floor-to-ceiling windows, clean lines and sun-drenched spaces that frame the Atlantic views.

For design-conscious travelers, this points-fueled transformation is a massive win. IHG One Rewards has quietly built an impressive empire of design-forward, boutique-leaning brands—including the effortlessly cool Kimpton Hotels and the ultra-curated Vignette Collection. Upgrading this prime Vilamoura property into an InterContinental means loyalty members can rack up or redeem points while enjoying top-tier luxury perks, including the brand’s legendary Club InterContinental lounge access, which is widely considered the gold standard for high-end concierge floors.

The location is a total home run if you love being able to step out of your room and immediately explore without relying on rental cars or confusing rideshare apps. The property sits on a prime piece of real estate right next to the yacht-lined Vilamoura Marina and the gorgeous sands of Praia de Vilamoura, meaning you can easily transition from a lazy morning beach stroll to a late-lunch spot along the harbor. The finished property will feature 323 entirely redesigned rooms and suites outfitted with a minimalist, modern design, neutral coastal tones and sweeping vistas of the ocean.

Related: Is This the New ‘It’ Spot for a Solo Trip? Hyatt Just Opened a Stunning Coastal Retreat in Portugal

"Vilamoura is one of Portugal’s most established and dynamic luxury resort destinations," explains Willemijn Geels, Vice President of Development in Europe for IHG. She notes that the new property is all about leaning into what modern, sophisticated travelers actually want: a seamless balance between an independent, culturally rich vacation and the effortless peace of mind that comes with world-class hospitality.

The new footprint is getting a highly curated lineup of new restaurants, an indoor-outdoor wellness sanctuary and plenty of hidden corners to sneak away with a good book. Mario Vasco Pereira, Chairman of HDP Algarve SA, summed it up perfectly, noting that the goal of this massive flip is to deliver a fresh, elevated experience that matches the cooler, more design-conscious crowd that is heading to Southern Portugal right now. If you've been looking for a sign to finally plan that empty-nest milestone trip or a long-overdue coastal escape with your favorite travel partners, consider this your official head start on booking the best seat in the house.

Related: Is This the New 'It' Spot for a Solo Trip? Hyatt Just Opened a Stunning Coastal Retreat in Portugal

It's one of the most recognizable songs in country music, but Willie Nelson's "On the Road Again" had surprisingly humble origins.

Before becoming a signature song for Nelson, "On the Road Again" started out as an idea jotted down on the back of an airplane barf bag — but little did he know that it would end up becoming a Grammy-winning chart-topper.

Nelson himself has confirmed that the unlikely story of how the song was born did indeed start out on an airplane, when the country crooner was on a flight with the producers of the film Honeysuckle Rose.

"I was on an airplane with Sydney Pollack and Jerry Schatzberg, who was the director of the movie Honeysuckle Rose," Nelson said, according to American Songwriter. "They were looking for some songs for the movie, and they started asking me if I had any idea. I said, 'I don’t know, what do you want the song to say?’ I think Sydney said, 'Can it be something about being on the road?' It just started to click in my head."

He ended up writing the song on the only thing he had on hand at the time: an airplane barf bag.

After ten minutes, he had finished the lyrics, and he created the song's iconic melody a week later.

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"On the Road Again" would go on to become not only one of Nelson's most recognizable tracks, but it also earned him a Grammy for Best Country Song in 1981. It also spent a week at No. 1 on Billboard's Hot Country Songs chart and reached No. 20 on the Hot 100.

Since then, "On the Road Again" has cemented a spot in history as one of the most famous road trip anthems of all time. It frequently appears on popular driving playlists and ranks on a number of "best-of" lists for road trip songs, including curations from SiriusXM and Solo Traveler.

Related: 1975 Career-Defining Hit for Willie Nelson Wasn't Originally Sung By Him