Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
vendredi 19 janvier 2018
11 Totally Awesome Breakfast Scrambles
When it comes to fast and easy breakfasts (or breakfast for dinner), scrambled eggs are king. Not only are they speedy to cook, but they're stick-to-your-ribs kind of food; light, but satiating. Another reason we love a good scramble: it's near-infinitely riffable, as these 11 variations back up. Keep reading to learn a new technique or two (poached scrambled eggs, anyone), or to find a new favorite mix-in combination.
3 Ingenious Cooking Secrets Straight From an Italian Grandmother
Like many Italian cooks, Laura Vitale learned a lot from her Italian grandmother. Laura grew up spending time in the kitchen, cooked her way to the top, and now hosts Cooking Channel's Simply Laura and YouTube's Laura in the Kitchen, where she has more than 2 million subscribers. After speaking about her chili mac and cheese recipe with me, Laura shared some truly invaluable cooking tips that she learned from her Italian grandmother and that every home cook can benefit from. Get a free cooking lesson by remembering these three rules, straight from an unbeatable source.
1. Buy One Cheap Olive Oil and One Nice One
If you cook with olive oil a lot, it's smart to have one cheap bottle and one higher quality, more expensive bottle. "There should be two different kinds of olive oil you keep on hand. This is something I've done my whole life because my mother and my grandmother do," Laura said. "When you have two different kinds of olive oil, a standard olive oil and a more expensive version, that more expensive version can be used to make no-cook sauces that have such potent, fresh flavor," like basil pesto and bruschetta. Save the cheaper olive oil for cooking dishes where the flavor won't be able to shine as much, like kale and white bean soup with Italian sausage.
2. Freeze Parmesan Rinds to Add to Soup
You might think there's no use for a rind of parmesan cheese once you've grated every last strand, but that's not the case - in fact, you should be cooking with it. Laura notes that parmesan rinds are a crucial component to flavorful soups, saying, "Having a good base for your soup is so important; it's something that my grandma taught me. To make [soup] even better, you throw in a little bit of a wedge of parmigiano reggiano cheese in the pot as it cooks. It releases all that flavor as it cooks. It's not only just for garnish, but hits it at a much deeper level. I keep parmesan rinds in my freezer for times like this - it makes the biggest difference in the world."
3. Treat Time as an Ingredient
The best cooking tip Laura received from her grandmother is to recognize that time is just as important of an ingredient as any other. "Never mistake the difference between what takes a long time to cook and what takes a long time to prepare. One of the most important things when it comes to cooking is time - allowing something to cook for a while and not rushing it. When you're cooking for someone, make sure it comes from the heart; it's a different experience. [My grandmother] says, 'Half the time I don't even want to eat, I just want to cook for people because it makes me feel good.'"
The Absolute Best Way to Cook Zucchini Noodles
Congrats! You've successfully made zoodles in a spiralizer. Now, onto the important question: how do you actually cook them? Unlike pasta, you fortunately don't need to wait around for a pot of water to boil. Instead, you treat the veggie "noodles" as vegetables you'd normally sauté on the stovetop.
The best way to cook a batch of zoodles is to heat one or two tablespoons of oil, such as olive oil or coconut oil, in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the noodles with a generous pinch of salt and a little pepper. After about five minutes, the zoodles will be slightly softened but not mushy, which is what you're after. They'll be similar to the al dente texture of traditional pasta.
And that's it! You can turn off the heat and turn your zucchini noodles into a full meal catered to your preference. You could add homemade bolognese sauce, basil pesto and parmesan cheese, lemon butter shrimp and red pepper flakes, or even more of your favorite satueed veggies to the mix. After trying out this healthy alternative to carb-heavy pasta a few times, you might convince yourself you like it almost as much as the real thing.
Ready to get cooking? Here are some more zucchini noodle recipes to get you started.
I Stopped Working Out For Months - Here's What Finally Got Me Back Into the Habit
I used to work out - every day. After years of avoiding the gym like the plague, I found a type of exercise that not only changed my body, but my life as well. Unfortunately, when my local barre studio closed, I fell off the workout wagon and struggled to find something I was passionate about. Months of half-hearted exercise went by, with unsuccessful gym sessions, weight gain, and toned muscle loss. Feelings of insecurity, self-doubt, and disappointment in myself crept in more and more.
Sometimes, it takes just getting up and doing your usual routine to get back in the habit of working out. Sometimes, it takes majorly shaking up your idea of what a workout actually is in order to remember what it's like to get excited about exercise.
For me, it took getting back in the saddle - literally.
I approached my Backroads Active Travel bike trip through Cuba with both excitement (trip to Cuba!) and trepidation; I wasn't embarking on the adventure as fit as I'd been in the past, and I was worried that I would feel out of shape and would ultimately come away from the exercise aspect of the experience feeling down about myself.
In fact, the opposite happened. After five solid days of biking many miles per day through the absolutely stunning landscape of Cuba (we're talking farmland, beaches, mountains, jungle, and cities!), I remembered something I'd forgotten while I was guilt-tripping myself about falling off the workout wagon: I like exercise - when it's actually fun. When I got back home, I didn't hesitate to get back into a rhythm of working out, because it made me feel good and because I made a concerted effort to choose workouts not because they were the best at helping me lose weight, gain muscle, tone my abs, or reach some arbitrary goal I gave myself, but because I enjoyed them. I promised myself that going forward, exercise would have to have some element of fun; otherwise, I was skipping it.
Now, I know that not everyone can drop what they're doing and take a trip to Cuba in order to restart their workout rhythm. I'm not telling you to do that! But there are simple ways to get back into the habit that I learned based on my not-so-typical experience. The key is simple: do something you think is fun, even if it's not your "conventional" way of working out. Everything else - the stronger arms, toned abs, and yes, even weight loss - will follow naturally. Here's how to get back into the swing of things - and remember, it's never "too late" and it's never "the wrong time." It's all up to you!
- Don't guilt-trip yourself. If you miss a workout or skip a class, that's OK. It happens. Beating yourself up about it isn't going to change anything. Remember, tomorrow is another day!
- Consider where you interests lie. Love watching ballet? Try a barre class. Spend your weekends strolling through the city? Try a challenging hike with beautiful scenery to take your mind off the work.
- Choose workout classes that cater to the things you like. Avoid workouts that have elements that you don't love. If you have a short attention span, do a 30-minute or 45-minute class instead an hour-long one. If you hate moving slowly because it makes the class feel longer, opt for quick cardio classes over slower ones.
- Change. It. Up. It's easy to fall into a routine and get comfortable doing workouts that you're used to. There's definitely a good side to that; it means you're getting up and getting exercise! Still, it's never a bad idea to try something new to make things more interesting. You never know - it may be your next favorite way to get moving.
- Exercise when you travel. Be open-minded when you're away from home, especially when you're traveling internationally. Pick up new ways of working out wherever you go and incorporate them back into your routine when you return.
- Stop overthinking things! Exercise doesn't have to feel like another chore to check off of your to-do list. For many people, it's actually the highlight of their days and something they look forward to. You can feel this way too if you approach it with the right mindset and find the form of exercise that is right for you. We're all different, so what works for one person isn't necessarily going to be what works for you.
- Find the fun. It shouldn't feel like torture. Design your workouts to fit your interests, your comfort level, and your idea of what is actually enjoyable. Take it from someone who forgot to "find the fun" for a while but then discovered it again: it makes a world of difference.
The bottom line is to shake things up and do something out of the box. Take your mind off the technical parts of exercise and do an activity that will remind you why you loved working out to begin with - or something that will make you fall in love with it for the first time.
I Wish I Hadn't Let Fear Stop Me From Traveling With My Son
For most of my son's two and a half years of life, I've let fear of traveling with him dictate our plans. Even visiting a neighboring state by car was enough to make me overthink every minute detail. My regret now isn't so much about what he missed out on, since let's be real, no real memories would sink in at this age. It's the fact that I didn't give him a chance to surprise me. I let fear prevent me from seeing friends and family and doing fun things.
Travel at any age can be nerve-racking, but with social media and the news, my mind quickly jumped to worst-case scenarios. Screaming, exploding diapers, and having a horde of fellow passengers angry at me because the cabin pressure hurt his ears didn't sound fun. This says nothing for having to contend with a whole new environment once we arrived at our destination. Sleep for such a long time felt like a delicate dance, and one misstep would screw everything up.
With loved ones scattered all over the country, the opportunity was there. We missed out on family weddings, visiting friends, and the chance to travel spontaneously. At this point, there is no telling how the 1-year-old version of himself would have reacted to being on a plane. The moment is gone. All I have to compare it to is how he handles it now.
After much hesitancy and second-guessing my decision, I finally took him on a trip to visit his grandpa. His first plane ride, despite every possible terrible outcome I had worried about, went by without a hitch. It was somewhere flying above Montana that I realized my mistake.
Sure, flying with him at a younger age could have been disastrous, but it also could have allowed us to see and do things I never thought possible. Playing at the beach, which is something the California native in me took for granted for too long, is one example. Camping, water parks, and new city adventures are others that come to mind. I missed the opportunity of him being easily transportable, and I now get to deal with a toddler's whims and desires.
There's no going back and trying again, unfortunately. Instead, I'll have to look forward to taking him on adventures coming up. While the former me would have avoided the four weddings coming up this Summer, I'm choosing this time to trust that he can be flexible and to push him, and me, to see the world in a whole new way.
It's Illegal to Cross America's Second Tallest Bridge For Good Reason (but People Still Do)
Almost 350 feet above the Skokomish River stands the Vance Creek Bridge, the second tallest trestle bridge in the country. There are no guard rails and no safety nets, and the decaying wood of the structure isn't exactly reassuring. Still, the views from the stunning bridge have made it a popular destination for adventurers and Instagrammers alike, and looking at the images, it's easy to see why.
Less than a two-hour drive from Seattle and situated along the Vance Creek Viaduct Trail, the Vance Creek Railway Bridge - which was built in 1929 - spans 422 feet across. It was built originally so trains and timber companies could access Washington's forests but fell into disuse in the 1970s. Though it's on private property - and potentially dangerous considering its age and state of disrepair - hikers flock to the man-made wonder to marvel at both the bridge and the incredible views from it. On a clear day, you can even see Mt. Rainier if you're brave enough to make it to the center.
While undoubtedly breathtaking, it may be better to view the bridge from afar to ensure your safety, and also because in the past, tickets have been given for trespassing.
Check out the photos ahead!
8 Reasons Traveling With Your Sister Will Change Your Vacations Forever
In the weeks that my sister and I started planning our all-inclusive, five-day trip to Riviera Maya, Mexico, we were hell-bent on finding people to travel with us. All we could talk about was assembling a potential "party crew." We both have significant others and a best friend, Mary (who's practically part of our family save for her different last name and other obvious logistics). Could we find a way to settle on dates that worked for ANY of these people?! How could a week of relaxing by the pool and drinking Miami Vices be fun without them? It would be so much more hilarious dancing around in the club at the resort with a group. The days would be so much more satisfying with a little romance involved if I brought my boyfriend Joey and Rachel took her girlfriend Megan.
Well, we ended up traveling by ourselves on that all-inclusive Mexico getaway and I have one big acronym for those naive sisters who were desperate for more company: LOL. After just a few hours into the trip, I could already tell that Rachel was the one and only person I wanted to be with, no questions asked. By the end of the five days, I realized this - and I want the whole world to know it, too! - your sister is, hands down, the best person to travel the world with. In case you need convincing, I put together some reasons why. I hope you'll share them with your sister or anyone you know who has a sister, because missing out on an experience like the one I had would be like missing out on candy at Halloween, pecan pie at Thanksgiving, gingerbread cookies at Christmas, rugelach at Hanukkah, and cheesecake at Easter (yes, all five things).
1. You Can Over-Plan and Get Over-Excited About the Smallest Things
And you won't seem annoying - not to the person you grew up with. Even if you know she's not as thrilled as you are about upgrading to the "preferred section" of the resort or committing to a shopping trip excursion, she's your sister and she won't be selfish. She wants you to enjoy yourself as long as she gets to enjoy herself, too. Since she's not afraid to speak up about that, she'll make sure she's getting her fair share of deals and experiences that are just as exciting to her personally.
2. You Can Do What You Want, When You Want Without Feeling Bad About It
You might wake up and want to head straight to breakfast, starting your day with a tall stack of pancakes. But if she wakes up and says, "I feel like I need to work out; I'm going to the gym," you'll obviously understand and wait for her. You can tap into each other's senses - you known what she needs to feel good and she knows what you need.
3. Making Family Calls Takes Half the Time
Well, sure. When you've got the same family to call, it doesn't take long to catch up with your loved ones. You won't have to make two dials to tell everyone about all the beautiful sights you saw that day. One quick FaceTime, then back to quality time with your sis.
4. You Can Take Totally Staged Photos With No Shame
You're not at all embarrassed to pose for mirror selfies before dinner when you're all dressed up. And if your sister's already taken 1,005 pics of you on the beach or in front of that really pretty, 'grammable building you discovered, you won't be shy about asking her to snap #1,006. Go for it - you're not being annoying, you're sisters.
5. No SO, No Problem
OK, this isn't necessarily ideal at all times. Of course romance is welcome on vacation, but sometimes, it can be a relief not to think about that stuff - sex, canoodling, and all that jazz. Shaving, for example, becomes less of a top priority and more of a "maybe I'll do that" item on the agenda. Unwinding and being carefree with your sister can be satisfying, and sex will be there when you get home. Also, you can still walk around butt naked in the hotel room. It's a no judgment zone.
6. You Might Get Sick
Obviously, getting sick isn't ideal on vacation, but it can happen for a variety of reasons. You're in a new place, likely eating new food, trying new drinks, and adjusting to new air. If you're traveling by plane, there's a chance you'll get congested, and hey, some of us get motion sickness. Who better than your sister to rub your back when you're nauseated, hold back your hair if you, er, overindulge, and scramble to find you medicine if you're stuffed up or having some sort of allergic reaction? She's family!
7. You Can Be Real About How You Feel
When it comes down to packing up to go home and you get that first pang of anxiety (sh*t, you have to go back to work), you can cry about it and even complain. Your sister will let you talk until you're blue in the face. Also, you can make ridiculous inside jokes based on thoughts you might not be willing to share with everyone in your life. You can trust that these hilarious little moments will stay between the two of you.
8. You'll Return Home Closer Than You Thought Possible
Like you could get closer with the one person you're already closest with, psh. It is possible, though. For every time Rachel rolled her eyes at my ridiculous behavior on our trip (I raised my voice at the front desk staff when they charged me the right price for our bill, only to be shushed by Rachel, who knew I was making a mistake . . . and that I had to take my math class pass/fail in college), I knew she was trying to work with me. And by giving up a morning on the beach to sit by the pool instead (which is something Rachel loves to do), I was adapting to her agenda. We were actually practicing a life skill that proves useful elsewhere.
After my trip with Rachel, I was so excited to return home to my bed, to see my parents, and to spend time with my best friend and partner Joey - to lay in bed with him all weekend and be lazy and romantic, you know the deal. But then I went back to work and the first thing I wanted to do was write this story. So go ahead and draw your own conclusions.
This Couple's Romantic Save-the-Date Photos in Hawaii Will Make You Want to Go ASAP
Rather than your typical romantic save-the-date photos on the beach, Taylor and Ryan wanted something a little more offbeat. The couple chose to have an adventurous engagement session in the Hawaiian jungles instead and showed another side of the beautiful islands. They walked through lush landscapes and weren't afraid to get their feet wet when crossing streams. And they of course couldn't leave without taking some breathtaking shots by the ocean. See their photos and prepare to want to visit Maui ASAP.
The 5 Best Winter Cruise Destinations
If you're looking to get away this Winter, cruises are really the way to go. Enjoy your vacation without having to worry about accommodations and food (most lines are all-inclusive!) while getting to explore multiple destinations in one trip. Depending on what your criteria look like from pricing to weather, we've found the best cruise stops for all your Winter travel needs. Get on board with the five ahead.
The Ultimate Harry Potter Travel Bucket List
Did you know that you can actually take magic lessons in a castle or sign a wall in the cafe where J.K. Rowling began to write her famous series? Potterheads who love history, fun book and movie facts, and endless amounts of Harry Potter memorabilia should - no, must - visit these themed spots all over the world. From majestic castles and train rides over rolling Scottish hillsides to historic hotels and secret wizarding shops, Muggles fulfilling this Harry Potter travel bucket list will be entirely convinced that magic truly does exist.
WTF Is a Salt Room, and How Can It Help Your Anxiety?
It started with a way to relieve stress and heal the body and mind - salt soaks, saltwater from the ocean, and then the rising popularity of Himalayan salt lamps. My sister, who apparently thinks I'm so stressed all the time (I'm not, I just have an intense personality), actually bought me three salt lamps for Christmas two years in a row. But it seems that during the last year or so, the existence of salt caves and grottos have been popping up as attractions or even in spas as ways to heal and recharge.
Himalayan Salt, which these caves/rooms are made from, is a natural anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and antimicrobial, which can have appeal to those looking for natural remedies. Halotherapy, or salt therapy, has been around for years (there is one location in Poland that dates back to the 12th century!) as a way to open the nasal passageways. The therapy now has the added benefit of relaxation, and it has been making its way into mainstream wellness treatments during the past few years.
"Halotherapy is about balancing and healing ourselves on a molecular level," Christina Hammarberg, CEO of Channeled Messages by Christina, a company that focuses on intuitive therapy and energy therapy, told POPSUGAR during a phone interview. "Salt, which is a crystal, is known for its cleansing and healing properties because it naturally releases negative ions into the environment. To keep your body, mind, and aura in balance, it's important to regularly counteract those positive ions with negative ones. Spending time outside is a great way to do that, but for most of that, it's not possible. That's what makes salt lamps, salt soaks, and salt immersion so beneficial," she explained.
The experience at a salt immersion venue is not always the same. At some venues, such as the Montauk Salt Cave in Montauk, NY, visitors are placed into a zero-gravity chair or may opt to sit directly on the salt floor. At spas around the country, rooms are built with salt-based floor, walls, and seating areas. In all of these venues, however, there are no electronics allowed and no talking allowed. Many play soothing music to inspire meditation, deep breathing exercises, or even sleeping.
Becky Martino, director of marketing and sales at Las Vegas, NV-based Canyon Ranch SpaClub at The Venetian Las Vegas, told POPSUGAR in an email that the salt grotto at the spa has been growing in popularity because guests are looking for holistic or organic ways to promote healing and relaxation, while going back to the basics and back to nature.
"More people are seeking out salt rooms in an effort to holistically rejuvenate and seek ways to relieve the body of stress-induced ailments, to relieve respiratory conditions, clear skin, and boost immunity," she said.
According to Martino, salt rooms, grottos, and caves can promote a healthy blood sugar level; relieve anxiety and stress; help battle insomnia; help improve digestion and relieve acid reflux; and boost bone strength.
If you're intrigued, Martino suggests scheduling between 25 and 45 minutes for your time in a salt room. This will give you enough time to relax and will have the maximum effect on your system. In addition, leaving your electronics safely locked up and giving yourself the time to meditate, think, or even sleep will also make the experience more enjoyable. Martino also suggests enjoying a salt room made from 100 percent pure Himalayan crystal salt, which is considered the purest and most beneficial salt ever discovered on earth, containing 84 naturally occurring minerals and salts.
"Salt therapy has been known to help regulate brain function resulting in a calmer state of relaxation, encourage deeper sleep, decrease blood pressure, and boost immunity. Resonating at the Earth's frequency, Himalayan salt balances and neutralizes the ill effects of the toxic frequencies we live with every day," she said.
However, while salt rooms can help ease certain conditions, it is not a replacement for regular medical treatment, said Daniel La, M.D., physician at Plainview, NY-based Prohealth.
"Salt therapy may help with relaxation or may help to relieve stress, but it shouldn't be used in place of proper medical attention," he said, noting that conditions may worsen if gone untreated by a licensed physician.
9 Beautiful Beaches Where Clothing Is 100% Optional
If you're one of those people who just loathes having tan lines, then may I suggest you check out a beach where clothing is completely optional? Yes, there are a slew of beaches across the world where nudity is celebrated and no one has a care in the world. You may even be surprised to know that there are some right here in the United States. If being free to bare it all sounds like the perfect way to spend your next vacation, consider one of these nine lovely locales.
I Went to a Honeymoon Resort With My Best Friend - Here's Why It Rocked!
Staying in an overwater bungalow has long been high on my travel bucket list. I mean, what seems more magical than escaping to a luxurious remote villa above sparkling turquoise water off some tropical island? And now that you don't have to fly halfway around the world for this experience (like Fiji or Bora Bora), making my overwater fantasies come true was easier than ever.
After hearing that Sandals South Coast in Jamaica was opening overwater bungalows in December, I didn't think twice before booking a getaway for two on the first available weekend. Being a lover of Jamaican culture (my husband and I even chose Bob Marley's "Is This Love" as our first-dance song for our wedding), I was beyond excited to get my bungalow on at this oh-so romantic all-inclusive destination.
Now, we've all seen those commercials (you know, the ones where sun-kissed, supermodel-good-looking couples walk hand in hand on the beach, canoodle in hammocks at sunset, and tempt you with dreamy paradise scenarios in the hopes that you'll book a getaway to the Caribbean). Well, this was one of those places. The overwater bungalows were shaped in a heart, no less!
So while the obvious move would be to bring my new husband on this honeymoon-esque retreat, I went the opposite route: I decided to bring my girlfriend instead. And I'm so glad I did.
You always have a buddy to do things with.
Early-morning yoga? Catching rays while reading gossip mags? Postsnorkeling cocktails? There are always plenty of activities and things to do at a resort like Sandals South Coast, and it's awesome to have a close friend to share it all with (bonus points if she's as easy-going as you are).
Who wouldn't want to be treated like royalty with their BFF?
With two personal butlers for each bungalow (and a special cell phone to connect with them 24/7), along with endless amounts of Champagne, wine, chocolate, and whatever else we were craving, we were seriously feelin' the princess treatment. We're talking Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle status. And we soaked up every glorious minute (insert royal wave).
We had a blast capturing the moment.
Our girls' trip - especially at a destination with countless beautiful backdrops - set the stage to create memories that'll last a lifetime. And your girlfriend will have the patience to take a billion photos of you until you nail that Instagram shot (or your next Hinge profile pic).
Days of uninterrupted quality time together.
It's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life (we both work in Manhattan and have superdemanding schedules), so finding real QT to spend together is hard to come by. Being secluded in our own private bungalow was the perfect place to shut it down and connect in a meaningful way. The experience took our closeness to another level.
We were able to be silly, nonstop.
Letting loose in the bungalow brought me back to my college roommate days. If you're anything like me, getting ready for a night out is way more fun with girlfriends. We put on an upbeat playlist, drank a lot of wine, shared makeup, took in fiery sunsets from our patio, and danced around like goofballs. Prepping for our nights out was just as fun as being out.
Bonus: it was QUIET.
I love my man to pieces, but I often joke that I married the loudest mammal in North America. The snoring situation is out of control. That, coupled with me being a light sleeper, can be a recipe for disaster. On the opposite end of that spectrum, my girlfriend is so darn angelic at night, I nearly had to check for a pulse. Ahhh . . . it felt incredible to actually get good sleep on vacation.
I'm sure some people at the resort thought we were indeed a couple, but that didn't matter to us. We thoroughly enjoyed our couples' massage at the spa (you can often score a better price than two solo massages), complete with Champers and chocolate-dipped fruit at the end. Then, there was the night when our butler left a rose-petal path leading out to the patio, where he had drawn us a warm bubble bath (with even more petals and heart-shaped towels laid on the bed). The outdoor tub faced a setting sun over the glistening ocean - it was a scene straight outta those commercials. Pure #InstaGold.
By the end of our long weekend in paradise, we even made some couples friends. We couldn't walk anywhere on the property without someone calling out, "Megan! Jenny!" and waiving us over. We were fun girls having a fabulous time with pretty much no cares in the world. I mean, who wouldn't want to hang out with us?
Moral of the story: there's a whole big, beautiful world out there waiting for you to discover it, and your Facebook status doesn't need to be "In a Relationship" to do so (even at a romantic couples' resort). Travel can be enlightening, soul-soothing, and downright awesome. And there's nothing like experiencing it with your BFF by your side.
18 Secrets From Flight Attendants That Will Change the Way You Fly
Does a cheaper flight mean a less safe flight? What happens if your plane is struck by lightning? And why do we have to put our seats in the upright position for landing? The keepers of the answers to your burning questions are the very same people serving you cocktails and snack packs. Flight attendants see it all, and they know the ins and outs of air travel.
We spoke to two flight attendants who both work for one of the top three major US airlines - they answered our questions on the condition of anonymity. From the things that annoy flight attendants to tips and tricks they practice when they're flying, these expert travelers have secrets that will calm your fears and may make you think twice before you complain extra loud about your dinner not being just right on your next flight. Read on for the juicy details only flight attendants can provide.
1. What are some things that annoy flight attendants?
"Discourteous passengers, touching the flight attendant to get their attention as we walk by, whispering (the airplane can be very loud and I'm not the best at reading lips!), complaining about weather and/or aircraft maintenance delays (we don't have any control over this, and we are just as inconvenienced as you are)."
2. Why do tray tables and seats have to be in upright position for takeoffs and landings?
"Especially the tray tables! During an evacuation, where every second matters to get away from the plane, if a tray table is down it will slow down the egress of the two passengers on the middle and window seat. If the aircraft were on fire, wouldn't you want a clear escape path to the exit? Same goes for the seat back. Any added obstacle will slow egress in an emergency."
3. What is something flight attendants wish passengers knew/understood?
"We don't choose what we serve - we simply show up and serve what's there, and if it's not there, you're not getting any. We also have no control when it comes to delays due to weather and/or aircraft maintenance. So please, be courteous to us in the event those may occur. As Captain Sullenberger said, 'Better a delay than a disaster!'"
4. What are some common myths that people believe about flying that aren't true?
"That the brace position is meant to kill you faster - I find this to be the most ridiculous myth; in a crash landing you wouldn't want to be tucked away and brace your body for impact by compacting it and covering your vitals such as neck, face, stomach, etc. Even flight attendants have a brace position, and we do it every takeoff and landing!"
5. Does a cheaper ticket/airline mean a less safe flight?
"Absolutely not! A lot of variables make up the complex formula for ticket price such as time of booking, cabin, seat, frequent flyer status and miles, airplane configuration, in-flight service on that particular flight, optional items like baggage allowance or seat assignment. Basically, all aircraft are subject to FAA regulations, and we wouldn't be in the business if safety wasn't our number one priority. Airlines are able to customize their product to their brand, but safety remains the number one focus."
6. What sort of training does a flight attendant go through?
"Training is on average five and a half weeks, most of which is unpaid. In training we learn and are tested to proficiency on certain items such as aircraft general, first aid, security, and evacuation drills. Only about four days is spent on service!"
7. What are flight attendants trained in, in terms of safety emergency situations, both plane and people-related?
"We have a lot of formal training in safety and emergency situations. Four of our five weeks of intense, six-days-a-week training was spent on safety and emergency situations. Most of our people-related situations are learned on the job. We have been hired/selected by other professional flight attendants for our ability to make good decisions and to be able to read situations and people with good judgment. So many of us are well equipped to handle these situations that come up, but sometimes it does take a second opinion of another crew member."
8. What happens when one engine goes out?
"All aircraft are certified to fly with one engine operation for a safe landing. The aircraft that fly over water are ETOPS certified. Airplanes are aerodynamic, meaning they are designed so air can easily flow around the airplane to decrease drag so they can glide in descent for an extended time with one working engine. One example is Air Canada Flight 143, which ran out of fuel at 41,000 feet and managed to glide and land without a loss of life. And then there's the all too famous US Airways flight 1549 - so in short, engine failure isn't like a flat tire, just a rare inconvenience."
9. Can turbulence make a plane crash?
"No, but it can be unsettling and even throw people about. Due to modern technology, turbulence can now easily be predicted than ever before. In general the pilots know what's ahead of their aircraft at all times, but severe turbulence does happen unexpectedly from time to time. Most turbulence-related injuries are actually to flight attendants, as we are more vulnerable being out of our jumpsuits most of the flight. The main danger to passengers is not being seated with their seat belts fastened when this unlikely event occurs or unsecured items becoming instant projectiles."
10. What happens if the landing gear fails?
"Simple, we land without it! This event is actually called a 'belly landing,' where the plane lands on the belly without the gear lowered. This event has actually happened where LOT Polish Airlines Flight 16 landed with out the gear lowered with emergency vehicles and personnel on the ground standing by. The plane landed without incident on its belly, and the flight attendants warranted an evacuation - all 231 people were evacuated via the escape slides without injury or loss of life."
11. Is it safe to fly during a thunderstorm? What happens when a plane is hit by lightning?
"Planes are designed to be hit by lightning both in the air and on the ground! Thanks to the engineers who design the plane. The skin of the aircraft acts as a conductor to keep lightning from entering the internal parts of the aircraft, such as the cabin or anything such as flight controls that may affect the well-being of the airplane, and the lightning is redirected out through the wings and tail. There may be damage to the plane (rare), but it will make a safe landing. Thanks to the engineers and plane manufacturers, an airliner has not crashed from lightning in over 45 years. From the passenger perspective, there may be a loud bang or white glow, but not to worry, the internal parts if the plane are protected."
12. What are some reasons that a flight is completely canceled rather than just delayed?
"A lot of reasons can a play a factor with this, mostly crew legality comes into play especially out of our hub cities where we don't have ready reserve flight attendants who can easily take over the flight. FAA mandates how many hours a crew can work a day in any given duty period - pilots are usually 12 hours and flight attendants are usually 16 hours. A long day's friend is fatigue and fatigue is usually where mistakes can be made. Planes have been crippled and met demise under fatigue conditions of the crew. Sometimes the delay can be so long that they cancel the flight for the day and run an extra segment the following day.
Although cancellations are becoming more and more rare, with airlines running about 90 percent completion rate of flights. The most common cancellation is weather, where planes are late or never take off to come in or they just simply can't operate a safe operation under the severe weather conditions and it makes sense to cancel the flight vs. stringing the passengers along to departure that will never happen."
13. What are some tips you have for packing light?
"My suggestion is to wear your larger coat and bulkiest shoes on the flight if possible. Also pack things that combine well together. One skirt that goes with four different shirts or a dress that can be worn for day and evening. It cuts down on the number of items you'll have to pack. Things like underwear, socks, tank tops, etc. can be shoved into boots if those are something you choose to pack instead of wear on the plane."
14. What are the essentials you HAVE to have when you fly?
"(Noise-canceling) headphones, sweater/jacket/wrap or scarf, Kiehl's in-flight spray, and empty water bottle to fill up after security checkpoint."
15. What other travel tips/tricks/secrets do you have?
"Do not depend heavily on the airline/flight attendants. Things happen, we make mistakes, and sometimes we aren't having the best day, but if you can make the flight attendants smile or laugh, you'll never go thirsty. Always anticipate delays and your own needs such as temperature - bring a sweater, dietary needs - we aren't a 7-Eleven, bring your gluten-free stuff from home, medication - keep it with you at all times, along with your wallet, keys, and passport!"
16. Any tips for beating jet lag?
"Drink a lot of water! My best advice is to get yourself onto the time of the place you're going as best you can. If I get in and it's 2 p.m. and I really want to nap, I force myself to stay awake until it's 'bedtime.' It can be really challenging, but that's why coffee exists."
17. What's the coolest place you've ever been?
"I have to say that being paid to work a flight to Maui and then getting to lay on the beach all the next day and then working the flight back is not such a rough life. As long as I have enough time, I try to get out and find some things to explore in every city. I also love Boston and NYC (places I'd never been until I got this job)."
18. What made you get into the airline business? What do those in the business love about it?
"I have wanted to be a flight attendant for a long time. I have always been drawn to the idea of traveling all over for work, the flexible scheduling, and the fact that I get to work with a variety of people. Why people stay in the airline business is due to the flexible hours and the travel benefits. And with many of the larger carriers, once you've worked with them for 15 years, you get lifetime flying benefits with that carrier."
22 Airport Hacks to Remember Before Your Next Flight
Traveling is always a fun and exciting experience, but getting through the airport can be a struggle. If it happens to be an unlucky day, you'll get stuck with long lines, rude airport security officials, or delayed flights. Luckily with just a little bit of research, there are many ways you can make your journey faster and more comfortable. We rounded up all the tips and tricks so you don't have to! Learn to navigate airports like a pro with the advice here. You'll be surprised how much time and money you end up saving.
50 States of Unbelievable Tourist Attractions
It's amazing how much there is to get out and do in the United States. Whether it's beautiful beaches to relax on or national parks to admire, there really is something for everyone. So pack your bags for a beautiful Fall vacation and check out one of these tourist attractions wherever your destination may be.
41 Insane Facts You Definitely Don't Know About Disneyland
You think you know everything about Disneyland? Wrong. There's some mind-blowing facts out there that even the ultimate Disney fan doesn't know. Check out all the fascinating things we discovered about the happiest place on earth and test your knowledge.
The 11 Coolest Train Trips in the World
Travel can feel rushed these days as we seek the fastest way to get from here to there. Fortunately, the lost joy of traveling by train is making a comeback. People are rediscovering the pleasure of watching changing landscapes from the tracks and enjoying parts of a country that they would've otherwise missed. It's a way to slow down and revisit the old-world charm of traveling from city to city. There are stunning train routes around the world, from the United States and Canada to Scotland and India - here are 11 once-in-a-lifetime options that you should experience.
Every Change to Expect From Alaska Airlines as It Completes the Merge With Virgin America
Now that Alaska Airlines and Virgin America are officially considered a single airline by the FAA, Alaska is one giant step closer to completing the merge. Though Virgin America's name and logo will be retired by 2019, travelers can expect to see many of their favorite brand elements integrated throughout Alaska's transformation.
Since acquiring Virgin America in 2016, Alaska Airlines has already undergone several changes, including an addition of 82 new routes, which is the most West Coast nonstop destinations of any airline. But that's only just the beginning. As we bid farewell to Virgin America, we welcome a new and improved Alaska Airlines.
Here's what you can expect over the course of this year:
January 2018
- Jan. 1: Virgin America's Elevate Points loyalty program merged with Alaska's Mileage Plan. Members have until Jan. 31 to self-convert their points. Otherwise, it will automatically be done for you by Feb. 8.
- Jan. 18: Alaska Airlines will unveil its new crew uniforms created by Seattle designer Luly Yang, which will officially roll out in 2019.
March 2018
- Alaska Airlines will begin to add high-speed satellite WiFi to its Boeing and Airbus aircrafts.
April 2018
- Alaska Airlines will open its New York (JFK) lounge.
- April 24: Travelers will no longer be able to book flights through Virgin America. Site visitors will instead be redirected to AlaskaAir.com where they'll enjoy a single Alaska Airlines shopping, booking, and airport check-in.
2019
- Alaska Airlines and Virgin America will officially operate under one brand and name.
- The airline will build a $650 million, 20-gate North Satellite facility, which will include a 15,000-square-foot flagship lounge.
Other Major Changes to Come
- Alaska's Boeing planes will feature new, modern interiors with blue mood lighting.
- Its airport area will play music to celebrate its West Coast roots.
- The interiors of Alaska's Airbus planes will be replaced to include new seats, carpets, and lighting. The number of first class seats will be increased while a premium class will be introduced.
- Travelers will be able to enjoy over 200 free movies, TV shows, and free texting directly from their device.
- West Coast-inspired food and beverage choices will expand to include healthy options and full-pour regional wine and microbrews on board.
- More travel options for the greater Seattle area will be offered.
Keep checking in as we continue to add exciting updates!
12 Unique Things to Do in Seattle
Over the past few years, people have been flocking to Seattle - and with good reason. It's one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, and booming companies such as Amazon and Microsoft have helped with that increase of population and tourism. But what is there to do in Seattle? People often head immediately to Pike Place Market and the Space Needle, but there is so much more to the Emerald City than what you've seen on Grey's Anatomy. Whether you're already a Seattleite or want to visit and find unique things to do, check out this list of 12 spots.
If You Try to Figure Out the Mistake in This Math Problem, It'll Make You Go Crazy
Not all math problems are meant to be solved - some are here just to watch the world burn and make people question everything they ever learned in school. And while some problems have different solutions, others have answers that don't deal with numbers at all, like a Facebook post asking people to find a math mistake.
The photo, shared by Facebook user Antley Lamont Staten, shows a photo of a man holding up two sheets of paper. One paper has the numbers 1-9 written on it. The other paper asks people to share when you find the mistake. Try to solve it for yourself below:
Did you groan? Or are you trying to figure out what the issue is with the numbers? The answer is on the paper to the left - the man spelled "mistake" wrong. The post has clearly struck a nerve, considering it has more than 100,000 reactions, 800,000 shares, and plenty more comments.
Sometimes the answer really is simple and requires no math at all.
This Husband's Hysterical Account of Shopping at Ikea With His Wife Is Every Couple
Ikea can make or break a relationship. How a couple navigates the never-ending aisles, furniture decisions, and assembling instructions at home can have a lasting impact. And yet, it can be almost impossible for couples not to get sucked in at least once.
When Nathanael Showalter found himself being dragged to the massive store, he didn't suck it up for the meatballs or spend the afternoon complaining about the spotty cellphone reception. Instead, he decided to document what shopping with his wife - when they didn't actually need anything - was really like.
His hysterical play-by-play of the outing is going viral because everyone who has ever been tortured by their partner and an insanely long trip to Ikea can relate to it. He starts off by making the purpose of their recent visit clear: "We are here. Our apartment is furnished. I am not sure why we are returning," he shared on Imgur.
He continues to share in perfect detail exactly what a day of browsing at Ikea is like according to a husband who doesn't particularly want to be there. "Perhaps we are here for institutional storage solutions. My wife says, 'Maybe when we have eight kids.' We have zero kids. We move on," he captioned a photo of a storage unit. "She has commented on how sturdy these spoons are. Our other measuring spoons do not strike me as structurally unsound."
Although they ended their day by walking out on a much stronger note than many couples who fall victim to the showroom bickering and box-hauling stress, every person who has ever stepped into Ikea will crack up over the rest of this guy's spot-on commentary.
Mark Consuelos Shares His 4 Secrets to Entertaining Like a Celebrity
With three kids, a superstar wife - he's married to Live With Kelly and Ryan star Kelly Ripa - and a jaw-dropping roster of A-list pals, actor Mark Consuelos is used to having a bustling house, especially when he and Kelly escape to their vacation home in Telluride, CO, where they love to host guests. In short, Mark is an expert at entertaining. Lucky for us, he teamed up with affordable retailer Marshalls to share his tips on how to entertain like a pro. Celebrity or not, you're sure to learn something. Check them out ahead.
11 Supersimple Ways to Make Your Home Smell So Fresh and So Clean
Have you ever come home from a long day of work, stepped through your door, and noticed that your home smells a little musty? Between lingering food smells from the kitchen, damp towels in the bathroom, and other day-to-day activities, there are lots of things that contribute to your home smelling a little less than fresh. It happens to the best of us, but luckily it's an easy fix! DIY air fresheners, houseplants aplenty, and some essential cleaning tips are some of our favorite ways to get a fresh home that smells amazing.
11 Acceptable Ways to Use the Upside-Down Face Emoji
When the upside-down emoji face came into my life in 2015, I instantly knew it was my go-to sarcastic face. But as I used it more, it became my "I'm secretly mad at you" and even my "I feel awkward" face. The point is, the upside-down face emoji has so many uses - and they're all OK.
According to Emojipedia, the upside-down face emoji is meant to show "silliness or goofiness." It also says it's an "ambiguous emotion," with people using it in a joking or sarcastic manner. Basically, everyone uses it so differently and it's not simply a smiley face turned upside down.
Ahead, see all the ways we break down using this emoji.
The Harry Potter: Hogwarts Mystery Trailer Just Dropped, and We Are Officially Obsessed
It's been a little over a month since we first got word that a new Harry Potter game was in the works (and that it would be all about letting you experience Hogwarts for yourself!), but on Jan. 18 we finally got additional details and a trailer for Harry Potter: Hogwarts Mystery, and we're calling it now: it looks freakin' awesome.
"Players will create a personalized student avatar, attend classes, learn magical skills, form friendships or rivalries with other students, and make pivotal decisions that will influence their character's story arc as they traverse their years at Hogwarts and grow as a witch or wizard," the press release issued by Jam City reads. But that's not all - we've also got a lot more info on what it is, exactly, that we can expect.
The game is set in the time between Harry Potter's birth and his enrollment at Hogwarts, when Nymphadora Tonks and Bill Weasley were students. The avatar customization system allows you to continually upgrade your avatar as you gain new expertise and magical skills - you can even choose your own pet. You will join one of the four Houses before progressing through your years at Hogwarts, participating in magical classes and activities such as Potions and Transfiguration. Building your skills will come in handy as you solve mysteries and go on adventures. As players improve their skills, they will unlock new locations, spells and other magical abilities.
Harry Potter: Hogwarts Mystery features both large plot arcs and smaller stories such as relationship quests. The game features a new encounter system in which players' decisions in both actions and narrative impact their quests, and how other characters regard and interact with them. These choices will allow Harry Potter fans to create the legacy of the witch or wizard they want to become.
And if that wasn't enough, here's the trailer in all its glory (and, yes, you might want to have your sound on for this):
For the superfans among us, there's an important thing to note: before the game officially launches on mobile phones everywhere, it'll be featured at the A Celebration of Harry Potter event at Universal Studios in Orlando, FL, on Jan. 26 through Jan. 28. There will be panels, swag, and even a chance to play the game itself at the Jam City booth - well before anyone else you know gets to lay eyes on it.
Suffice it to say, we can't wait for the game to be unleashed upon the world this Spring.
25 Awesome Experiences Today's Kids Will Never Understand
Some children alive today have never used a phone with buttons or a bulky computer. The internet has been available to the public for more than 20 years.
If those facts don't make you feel old, think about this: most of your favorite childhood activities have become completely obsolete thanks to modern technology! Today's kids will never experience the glories of Game Boy, a VCR, a boombox, or even a physical encyclopedia. Whether they're better off gone or you'll think back with fondness, let's remember these 25 childhood experiences that technology has made extinct.
Exclusive: Amazon and Match Join Forces to Turn Alexa Into the Ultimate Wingwoman
As I discovered late last year, Alexa is a woman of a great many talents. But with her latest skill addition, Match First Date What Ifs, Alexa is taking on a brand-new role for 2018: being the best dang digital dating assistant there ever was.
"The first date is exciting, nerve-racking, and full of 'what ifs,'" a Match spokesperson told POPSUGAR exclusively. "That's why the new Match skill on Alexa answers all of your 'what ifs' of the first date so you can go in feeling prepared, confident, and ready to dive into your 2018 dating goals."
The partnership between Match and Alexa is now available on all Alexa-powered devices, and was built using data from Match's annual Singles in America poll - a survey that has measured attitudes on dating and relationships among nearly 35,000 singles over the last seven years. As a result, Match has been able to tailor Alexa's Q-and-A function to tackle the issues that really matter to those currently navigating the dating pool.
"The skill's questions and answers touch on everything from 'what if they're a bad kisser' to 'what if they bring up politics,'" the Match spokesperson said, adding, "All of the answers are meant to be fun yet helpful and will no doubt help you get the jitters out and feel confident for your date."
It's also worth noting that the timing of the launch of the skill is no accident. It comes right at the heart of Match's "peak season" - which spans from Dec. 26 to Feb. 14 - a time when Match says it sees "more than 50 million messages sent, five million new photos being uploaded, and one million dates taking place."
In other words, if you're in the market for a significant other, there's no better time than now to take the plunge into online dating. Especially since you can now rely on Alexa to give you some quirky-yet-useful advice at every turn.
But don't just take our word for it. To give you a better sense of what exactly it is that the skill will do, here are a couple of the questions (and their subsequent snarky answers) that Alexa will add to her mammoth library once you enable the skill:
What if I can't wait to text them after the date?
Text them as soon as you like. But if you're trying to play it cool, two days is the sweet spot.
What if they want to have sex?
If you do too, do them. If you don't, DO YOU.
What if I choose the wrong restaurant?
When in doubt, go for sushi. It will boost your chances of a second date by 170%.
What if they want to make out?
Surprisingly, only 15% of men and 7% of women expect a hot and heavy make out session on a first date.
The skill also comes with daily "dating motivation" - advice that comes in the form of digestible wisdom such as "If the feeling is mutual, the effort will be equal so don't try too hard. Just be you." - which in and of itself presents a valuable morale boost, without any of the hassle of having to rehash all the details of your latest date before getting to that oh-so-crucial positive reinforcement from a friend.
Ultimately, Match First Date What Ifs marks Alexa's entry into the more nuanced aspects of our everyday lives, and we couldn't be more excited for the new skill and what it means for the development of the digital assistant's more human-like qualities. And let's be honest: regardless of whether you're single, taken, newly married, or recently separated, who among us couldn't use a little dating advice every now and again?
Michelle Obama's Reaction to Melania Trump's Gift Is Basically Meme GOLD
When Donald and Melania Trump arrived at the White House on Inauguration Day, the new FLOTUS carried a large Tiffany's box that carried her parting gift for Michelle Obama. When the former first lady accepted the blue box, her reaction was absolutely priceless, and there were cameras all around to capture the funny moment. Twitter users everywhere also took note of Michelle's seemingly unimpressed response to the gift, noting how it's predicted to be the next best meme. And we couldn't agree more. Below is a replay of the meme-worthy moment, followed by some of the internet's most spot-on reactions.
Move Over, Neon: These LED Light Panels Change Color With Your Voice (and Your Music!)
It's time to retire those neon signs and upgrade to an altogether new type of hip, customizable lighting: LED panels. There's one particular product that we're absolutely in love with right now, and it's called the Nanoleaf Aurora Lighting Smarter Kit. What rockets the Nanoleaf Aurora above and beyond any of its competitors is its sheer ease of use and the amazing range of functions - oh, and did I mention that you can control it with your favorite smart home companion, using only your voice? And that it has an optional add-on that enables you to have an in-home light show that matches up with your favorite music? OK, I'll admit it: I'm addicted. And here are the very good reasons why that is.
It's so damn easy.
The Smarter Kit comes with nine panels, a ton of connectors to join the panels together, a free Rhythm Module (more on this later), and adhesive pads to install them wherever you choose within your home. From there, all you need to do is pick the configuration of your dreams and plug the cord in, and voila: you've got your very own light show coming to you live from your wall.
It's all controlled by an app - and your voice.
It's well-documented that everything in my house is now controlled by Alexa, and the Nanoleaf Aurora is no exception to that rule. While I use it to turn the unit on and off and do some of the most fun party tricks I've ever pulled off in my home, I do spend a lot of time mucking about in the app and playing with the color schemes and patterns to get the perfect look to match my mood. But it's all intuitive; there's nothing about the app that requires any prior knowledge of home design or lighting - it just does what you want it to do.
It can light up an entire room.
Honestly, I was stunned by how bright the LED panels could actually get - and when I set them to a warm, yellow tone, it's the perfect backdrop for whatever I'm doing on my computer or phone. It's also easy to set the colors to match your other smart lights or custom lighting products - the only difficult part here is deciding what you want at any given time.
The optional Rhythm Module is a game-changer.
The Nanoleaf Aurora Rhythm Module comes with the Smarter Kit, but should you decide to test before you buy, you can always add it in later. And boy, do I recommend it. The add-on is basically a microphone that allows the panels to translate the sounds in your home into visuals. You just select the color scheme, and boom: if you're watching TV, it matches the patter of the dialogue. If you're listening to music, it shows you the rhythm in real time. I was skeptical of this at first - what sets this apart from older light-show tech? - but I was completely sold after testing it out with a variety of music, from jazz to classic rock. All I can say is that it's an absolutely hypnotizing experience - and one that I've now found to be a key way to relax after hours.
All told, if you're looking for the perfect accent piece for your living room or bedroom, I can't recommend the Nanoleaf Aurora highly enough - and here's hoping that 2018 is the year in which we all realize how amazing LED home products such as this one truly are.
Here's How to Make Multiple Stops in Just 1 Uber Trip
Uber just made our lives even easier, just in time for the official kickoff of the holiday season. On Oct. 26, the ride-sharing app launched a feature called Multiple Destinations, which does exactly what we've all always wanted Uber to do: pick up or drop off multiple people at multiple stops, using just one single ride. No longer do you have to wait for several drivers to arrive before parting ways with your friends at a party, and it makes it even easier to make sure that your significant other or loved one gets to an event on time.
Adding multiple stops in the Uber app is easy. Just tap "where to?" and then click on the plus (+) sign to add the addresses you'd like to stop at on the way to your final destination. The driver is also instantly delivered directions to the next closest stop, removing the insta-headache of trying to explain to a driver how to get to a place that you may or may not have actually tried to drive to before. And the best part? It doesn't even require a commitment. The person who booked the ride can add or delete additional stops at any time throughout the ride, so that means when you get a text from someone who somehow still hasn't left yet, you can instantly swing by and add them to your ride, too.
There are some limitations to Multiple Destinations, but most of them can be accounted for by thinking through your travel plans before starting your ride. First, there is a maximum of three stops per Uber ride, so be sure to take that into consideration while figuring out your ride-sharing plans. Second, there isn't currently a way to map out each rider's cost based on distance, so you'll be splitting the ride equally across everyone you pick up - and if you know that someone in your crew is a stickler, you probably want to have that conversation before you arrive at your destination. And third, the feature is not compatible with UberPOOL, which means that you can't just try and split a more costly ride over the cost of three random people on the way to where you're going.
Multiple Destinations is available in the Uber app now, and for more information on the new feature, head on over to the Uber site.
What Happened When I Decided to Stop Planning
Calendar reminders, Outlook invitations, notes in my phone, early morning gym classes, work deadlines, work events, dinners with friends, date nights: these were a few of the things that made up my life as of about four months ago. If you're anything like me, this list probably sounds pretty familiar. You're constantly moving from one thing to the next barely stopping to process all that's going on. My weeks were scheduled to the minute - I rarely had an evening where I went straight home after work, and if someone wanted to make plans, the conversation usually went something like, "Great! How's two weeks from next Tuesday?"
Now, I'm not complaining. It was a blessed life, one I am so grateful for and worked hard to get. I had an amazing job as an editor for a fashion magazine in NYC, lived in a studio apartment on the Upper East Side, and had an awesome group of friends. It was everything my little 16-year-old self had only dreamed of. But for some reason, something felt like it was missing.
Let me take a step back and explain. Throughout my years working my way up the magazine ladder, I simultaneously learned more about my religion. I was raised secular, as a reform Jew in a suburban town in New Jersey, but throughout college and in the real world, I got connected to classes that taught me so much more about the magic of Judaism. We delved into classes on relationships, prayer, the power of the Jewish woman, and where it all stemmed from. Slowly, I began wanting more. I started observing Shabbat, began keeping kosher, and completely fell in love with the spirituality of it all. While doing so, I learned about different programs in Israel where I could live and learn for a period of time to go even deeper. But I never thought I would be able to do one. I've been planning out my life since college, going nonstop just to get to exactly where I was. I wanted it so badly. How could I give it all up?
Well, in reality, as much as I loved what I did, it wasn't what it used to be. People were getting laid off at the magazine right and left, I was going on one bad date after another, and when it came to the day-to-day, I started to feel a bit robotic, commuting nearly an hour each way with pushy New Yorkers, and found myself in a bit of a rut. I needed a change, and going to Israel seemed like the perfect (albeit most terrifying) one.
I'll never forget the day I went into my boss's office to tell her I was leaving. It was the most surreal experience of my life - quitting everything I've worked for? I don't think I've ever been more nervous. But when we talked it through, she was incredibly supportive and encouraged me to go for it, which gave me just the extra boost I needed. Three weeks later, I was on a plane, headed into the unknown to a school that's known for teaching women leadership skills, opening up space for introspection, and in my case, pushing me completely out of my comfort zone.
I went from living alone to sharing an apartment with seven other girls and from a full-size bed all to myself to the bottom bunk. I went from brushing elbows with celebs on the red carpet to sitting in a classroom for nine hours a day. And it was undoubtedly the best thing I've ever done. I had a roommate from South Africa and another from Amsterdam; I had teachers who challenged me to think outside the box, to figure out who I am and want to be, while at the same time really learning to trust myself. I became less attached to the crutch of NYC and learned how to live in a totally new, foreign city. I met the love of my life and got engaged. And it was all because I decided to throw out the rule book for a second and, as cliché as it sounds, just say "YOLO."
I'm not saying it was easy. It was the scariest thing I've ever done. I've been a type-A planner since I was born, always knowing exactly what's coming next. Yet going completely against my nature and just letting go, not knowing for once, ended up gifting me with the greatest things I've ever received.
I'm not saying everyone needs to make a drastic move in their life to get to the same place. But if you're itching for adventure, a break from the routine you've been living in for years, a new career, whatever it may be, I urge you to go for it. You may be completely terrified, you may stumble and meet obstacles along the way, but you have no idea how much you'll gain on the other side after you take the leap.
Many Kids Aren't Getting Vaccinated - and It Has Nothing to Do With Antivaxxers
Good news: childhood vaccination rates are on the rise and increased by 12 percent from 2010 to 2016, according to a report from the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. And while we're jumping for joy at that statistic, the report also shed light on the biggest reason kids aren't getting vaccinated - and it has nothing to do with the antivaxx movement. The main reason little ones aren't getting vaccinated on time? Missed doctor appointments.
The report Early Childhood Vaccination Trends in America found 77 percent of those born in 2013 were up to date on their vaccinations, which is a series of seven vaccines given over a three-year period. This amount is up from the 69 percent of kids born in 2010 who completed the vaccine series. Researchers also found that the most common reason for babies not being completely up to date with their vaccines was because parents missed their child's wellness visits and forgot to reschedule them. In total, missed doctor appointments accounted for 62 percent of undervaccinated cases for children born in 2013.
And, honestly, that's pretty shocking. What's more, the report broke down the vaccination rates by state and found North Dakota had the highest percentage of vaccinated children, at 86 percent, while Nevada came in last, at 63 percent. They even went as far as to evaluate major metropolitan areas and concluded that the nation's highest vaccination rate was in Fargo, ND (92 percent), and the region with the lowest vaccination rate was Albany, NY (63 percent).
Lastly, the group analyzed the documented parental/guardian vaccine refusal rates for babies who were born in 2013 and found that it climbed nationwide from 2.5 percent for children born in 2010 to 4.2 percent for kids born in 2013. According to the research, the state with the highest rate of refusal was New York - by a landslide. The region with the highest parental refusal rate was 25.6 percent, in Richmond County, NY (which includes Staten Island).
"While new advances in medicine are important, this report reminds us that vaccinations remain a fundamental healthcare innovation that substantially reduces morbidity and mortality for Americans," said Dr. Trent Haywood, senior vice president and chief medical officer for BCBSA, in a press release. "Continued public health efforts can increase childhood vaccination rates by simply touting the benefits of attending regular children's checkups. This report demonstrates that vaccine use among commercially insured people in the US is increasing in the right direction. The data, however, also show large regional variation, indicating there are further improvements to be made."
Grandma-to-Be Has NO Idea That the Literal Bun in Her Oven Is a Pregnancy Announcement
Because of her daughter-in-law's decade-long struggle with infertility, Cynthia Dozier never expected a surprise pregnancy announcement from her kids . . . even as it was playing out right in front of her. When expectant mama Shantelle Dozier and her husband, Wesley, decided to surprise Cynthia with the old "bun in the oven" trick to reveal the news about her new grandma status, they had several phone cameras ready to capture her reaction; they just didn't realize they'd need them rolling for so long!
Cynthia's emotional journey of figuring out "who put the bun in the oven" will make you laugh and cry in turns. Give the sweet viral video a watch as this whole family shares in the joy of a long-awaited pregnancy announcement!
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