The streaming giant is projecting that its new French series, "Lupin,"will be watched by 70 million households in its first 28 days of release (it debuted January 8). The series stars Omar Sy as a thief inspired by the French story of Arsène Lupin, who is seeking revenge against a wealthy family.
"Lupin" knocked "The Umbrella Academy" season two out of the top 10, which was watched by 43 million households in its first month.
"Lupin" has received strong reviews and has a 93% Rotten Tomatoes critic score.
Slate's Karen Han wrote that it "doesn't waste a single minute, packing each and every moment full of suspense."
Robert Daniels wrote for RogerEbert.com that the series is "an addictive, clever puzzle that combines elements from Luther, Sherlock Holmes, and Inside Man for an engrossing experience."
Below are Netflix's top 10 biggest original series ever based on its two-minute metric:
Description: "In 1947, Mildred Ratched begins working as a nurse at a leading psychiatric hospital. But beneath her stylish exterior lurks a growing darkness."
Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 62%
What critics said: "No longer a chilling avatar of implacable, self-satisfied state violence who needs no reason to exist other than that the system will always find people like her to keep running, Nurse Ratched is now just another poor, misunderstood antihero."— Slate
9. "Too Hot to Handle" season one — 51 million
Description: "On the shores of paradise, gorgeous singles meet and mingle. But there's a twist. To win a $100,000 grand prize, they'll have to give up sex."
Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 37%
What critics said: "Other than functioning as eye candy, however, the show tends to be a confusing, boring mess."— Observer
8. "You" season two — 54 million
Description: "A dangerously charming, intensely obsessive young man goes to extreme measures to insert himself into the lives of those he is transfixed by."
Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 88%
What critics said: "Whenever a series uproots locale, viewers have good reason to worry about a quality decline. Season 2 of You is an exception, creating new obstacles for Badgley's stalker by placing him in a town full of practiced fakery."— Salon
7. "The Queen's Gambit"— 62 million
Description: "In a 1950s orphanage, a young girl reveals an astonishing talent for chess and begins an unlikely journey to stardom while grappling with addiction."
Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 97%
What critics said: "Anchored by a magnetic lead performance and bolstered by world-class acting, marvelous visual language, a teleplay that's never less than gripping, and an admirable willingness to embrace contradiction and ambiguity, it's one of the year's best series."— RogerEbert.com
6. "Bridgerton" season one — 63 million
Description: "The eight close-knit siblings of the Bridgerton family look for love and happiness in London high society. Inspired by Julia Quinn's bestselling novels."
Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 90%
What critics said: "There are eight episodes of Bridgerton, and they all have endings that are like chapters in a good book: They leave you in a spot where you just want to read one more chapter before you turn off the light for the night."— NPR
5. (tie) "Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness"— 64 million
Description: "A zoo owner spirals out of control amid a cast of eccentric characters in this true murder-for-hire story from the underworld of big cat breeding."
Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 86%
What critics said: "'Tiger King' manages to tell an electrifying story with an open mind, a shrewd eye, and a delicate touch."— Indiewire
5. (tie) "Stranger Things" season three — 64 million
Description: "When a young boy vanishes, a small town uncovers a mystery involving secret experiments, terrifying supernatural forces and one strange little girl."
Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 89%
What critics said: "What these ideas come down to, in the show's thrillingly propulsive and self-consciously familiar conclusion, is the nature of a country that fully believes it's the greatest in the world while also being well aware of its own capacity for destruction."— The Atlantic
3. "La Casa de Papel (Money Heist)" season four — 65 million
Description: "Eight thieves take hostages and lock themselves in the Royal Mint of Spain as a criminal mastermind manipulates the police to carry out his plan."
Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 75%
What critics said: "All the joy in the heist format is wondering how the robbers will escape. With Money Heist, I'm starting to dread the new ways the producers will find to keep me locked in."— Independent
2. "Lupin" season one — 70 million
Description: "Inspired by the adventures of Arsène Lupin, gentleman thief Assane Diop sets out to avenge his father for an injustice inflicted by a wealthy family."
Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 93%
What critics said: "A propulsive and cleverly made piece of work about one great heist and its ongoing aftermath."— Variety
1. "The Witcher" season one — 72 million
Description: "Geralt of Rivia, a mutated monster-hunter for hire, journeys toward his destiny in a turbulent world where people often prove more wicked than beasts."
Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 67%
What critics said: "The [action] is of a kinetic and impressively top-shelf variety, Cavill's Geralt moving like a man possessed as he rends flesh from bone and engages in some surprisingly balletic bouts of swordplay."— Fortune
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Rewind, the Canadian cloud backup startup, just raised $15 million in a Series A funding round led by Inovia Capital.
Founded in 2015, Ottawa-based Rewind has so far helped more than 80,000 businesses worldwide – including Shopify and Procter & Gamble's Charmin and Pampers – keep their data safe.
The firm is working to disrupt the data protection market, which Insider previously reported looks set to be worth more than $103 billion globally by 2027.
"It is no longer a matter of if a company will suffer a data loss, but when," said Mike Potter, cofounder and CEO of Rewind. "Without comprehensive cloud data protection, businesses risk permanently losing critical data without much recourse."
Actively hiring across all core business functions, Rewind said it would use the new capital to strengthen its R&D, sales, marketing and customer service teams to support its global market expansion.
"Cloud data has become a fundamental element of modern business, and therefore, also a primary business risk, as more critical business operations move to the cloud," said Yousuf Khan, partner at Ridge Ventures. "But most organizations need to do much more in protecting their data by having a robust safety net."
Business Insider got an exclusive look at the pitch deck Rewind used to bring investors on board. Check it out below:
Today's best budget laptops offer more value than ever, bringing solid performance and premium designs at an affordable price.
Our pick for the overall best cheap laptop is the Acer Chromebook 15, with, the performance chops for general productivity work, and the 1080p screen and top-firing speakers for entertainment for just $299.99.
We'll be testing more models throughout 2021, including new inexpensive Chromebooks that were announced at CES 2021.
The smartphone may be the hub of our digital lives, but the computer still plays a key role, especially now that many of us are continuing to work and socialize from home.
It used to be that if you want a laptop with power and features, you would need to spend more than $1,000. While you still have to spend upwards of $1,000 for the best features and performance, budget laptops are more than capable of everyday tasks. Those who just want a machine for basic web browsing and word processing can find a promising laptop in the $300-$600 range. That's all thanks to improvements in processors, graphics, and other chipsets, as well as standardization in features like USB and HDMI.
Of course, this is not to say all budget laptops are great — some are definitely better than average, while others aren't worth your hard-earned cash. There are a few important factors you need to consider before making a purchase, such as operating system preferences, size, and above all else: what you intend to use it for.
For this guide, we consider a "budget" laptop to be a notebook that costs about $600 or less, although there are some exceptions. However, if you can afford to spend more than that, you will be able to get something more powerful and arguably better than the computers on this list.
Updated on 01/19/2021 by Lisa Eadicicco: Updated language. Changed our pick food the best budget 2-in-1 laptop to the Lenovo IdeaPad 5 14. Added Microsoft Surface Laptop Go to the section on other laptops we considered. Added new laptops that we look forward to testing.
The best budget laptop overall
The Acer Chromebook 15 delivers the best balance of parts for the price that we've ever seen, making it the best cheap laptop to date.
Pros: Large 1080p display, long battery life, top-firing speakers, plenty of ports
Cons: No biometric login, small local storage
If you're looking for a laptop with the best features for the least amount of cash, then we heartily recommend the Acer Chromebook 15. This Chromebook contains hardware features more often found in laptops twice its price, such as a 1,920 x 1,080-pixel (1080p) screen, top-firing speakers and a USB-C port.
This makes the Chromebook 15 an excellent choice at this price for both general productivity and entertainment, especially for anyone on a budget. The included USB-C ports operate on the USB 3.1 standard, which translates to data transfer speeds of up to 5 Gigabits per second, in addition to DisplayPort support for attaching more displays and device charging.
The Acer Chromebook 15 also features a camera with high dynamic range, or HDR, for wider color support in video chats, and a Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) radio — the previous-generation Wi-Fi protocol that's still fast enough for most basic tasks. . In short, you're getting the benefits of laptops costing twice as much or more for a whole lot less.
This particular Acer Chromebook 15 model calls for $299.99 to start, which features a dual-core Intel Celeron processor (CPU), 4GB of RAM, a 32GB SSD, two USB-C ports, two USB 3.0 ports, a full-sized SD card reader, and a battery that's rated to last for up to 12 hours. You can't really ask for much more from a $300 laptop.
The best budget Chromebook
The 15-inch Samsung Chromebook 4+ crams an insane amount of value into its below $300 list price, with hardware and features found in laptops twice its price and within a good-looking package.
Pros: Decent display, long battery life, lots of ports
Cons: Small local storage, low amount of RAM, no top-firing speakers
Anyone looking to get the absolute most value possible out of a Chromebook that might look a bit more premium than even our top pick, we suggest the 15-inch Samsung Chromebook 4+. There's no question that this Chromebook makes for a close second to the Acer Chromebook 15 as the best budget laptop period.
Samsung's Chromebook 4+ is a sharp, slight 15-inch laptop that's wrapped in a platinum-colored plastic frame featuring a 15.6-inch, 1080p screen, with power from an Intel Celeron CPU supported by 4GB of RAM and a 32GB SSD. That's expanded upon by two USB-C ports, one USB 3.0 port, and a microSD card reader — as well as Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) and Bluetooth 4.0 — for wireless connections.
This all comes driven by a battery that can reportedly last up to 10 hours and 30 minutes per outing. Finally, we love the addition of Google Assistant for voice-based search queries and other assistive tasks. While lacking biometric security and more local storage, this laptop leaves nothing else off the table. — Joe Osborne
The best budget gaming laptop
The Dell G3 15 is an affordable gaming laptop with the latest Nvidia GeForce discrete graphics.
Pros: Compact design, specs on par with more expensive models
Cons: Shallow keyboard and touchpad, dim screen
If you enjoy gaming, but don't want to shell out $1,000 for a gaming PC, the Dell G3 15 might be a decent option for you. The laptop has multiple configurations, but the base model is just above $700, and it comes with Nvidia discrete graphics.
A few factors make the G3 15 a solid option for gamers. The base model comes with an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650GPU, a 10th-generation Intel Core i5 CPU, 8GB RAM, and a 256GB solid state drive. Those are solid specs that should be able to smoothly run most games you want to play, though you'll want something more powerful if you're trying to run more demanding tasks like VR.
You can also upgrade to a version that has 16GB of RAM, an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 GPU and 512GB of storage starting at $930.99.
At 5.2 pounds, the G3 15 is lighter and more compact than most budget gaming laptops.
In terms of ports, you have a power jack, an HDMI 2.0 port, an RJ-45 port, one USB 3.1 port, two USB 2.0 port, an SD card reader, and a headphone jack. That will allow you to plug in a TV, as well as most peripherals you might want to use.
However, for a computer of this price, you'll be missing out on some features of higher-end gaming rigs. For example, reviewers found the display to be a bit dim, and the colors to be washed out. The keyboard and touchpad are also a bit shallow, something that might be important if you'll be spending a lot of time gaming.
The best budget 2-in-1 laptop
The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5 offers solid specifications and a flexible design that allows it to double as a laptop and a tablet at a price that's hundreds of dollars below the $1,000 mark.
Pros: Great value, good performance, durable and attractive design
Cons: Dim and lackluster display
With a convertible design, recent six-core processors from AMD, and a 14-inch 1920 x 1080 touch screen, the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5 14 is a solid choice for anyone in need of a general purpose laptop.
It received high marks in reviews from PCMag, LaptopMag, and Digital Trends for its solid performance, excellent value, and high build quality for a laptop of its price. Lenovo's IdeaPad Flex 5 also comes with a few extra features that are less common on notebooks in this price range, such as a fingerprint reader and webcam privacy shutter.
For $554.99, you get an AMD Ryzen 5 4500U processor, which just launched about one year ago so it's still fairly new, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage. While it's a great value for the price, that doesn't mean it's perfect. The biggest common complaint among reviewers is that the display is too dim and lackluster.
Other budget laptops we considered
Acer Predator Helios 300: It's impressive to see as sophisticated a gaming rig as the Acer Predator Helios 300 clock in under $1000. At 5.1 pounds, it's more portable than a lot of gaming laptops and produces a very high refresh rate for many games, and an excellent keyboard and touchpad. It holds its own against much pricier gaming laptops in real-world gaming tests. However, while $955 is cheap among capable gaming PCs, we felt it was too close to the $1000 mark to name the Predator Helios 300 a top budget pick.
Asus VivoBook F510UA: The Asus VivoBook is far from the cheapest laptop on this list, but if you're looking for something with the look and feel of an ultrabook, the VivoBook gives you good bang for your buck. It's thin and light, at just 3.57 pounds, and with a Core i5 processor and 8GB RAM, it performs about on par with more expensive competitors in benchmark tests. However, it lacks some key features that our cheaper recommendations have, including a touchscreen and all-day battery life.
Acer Aspire E 15: The Acer Aspire E is a bit more expensive than some of our top picks, but it offers excellent value for its price tag. It has a ton of ports, almost 9 hours of battery life, and beats most of its competition in benchmark tests. But a bulky plastic design, lack of a touchscreen, and somewhat washed-out display keeps us from recommending the Aspire E as the best value for your money.
Lenovo Ideapad 320: For folks on a very tight budget, Lenovo's Ideapad 320 is one of the cheapest Windows laptops you can buy. It comes with an Intel Core i3 processor, 4GB RAM, and a 1TB hard drive — usable, but not great specs. And with an Ethernet port, HDMI, headphone jack, USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 port, it should have enough ports for most people's accessory needs. That said, if you can afford something better, we recommend going for that instead. The 1,366 x 768-pixel display is quite low-resolution, and the battery only lasted a measly 4 hours in battery tests. — Monica Chin
Microsoft Surface Laptop Go: Microsoft has earned a reputation for making classy-looking laptops that rival the design of Apple's devices, and that's one of the reasons Microsoft's budget-laptop stands out. The Surface Laptop Go is a less expensive version of Microsoft's main laptop that comes with some compromises, like a low-resolution screen and no keyboard backlighting. But for $549, you're still getting an Intel Core i5 processor, which should offer plenty of power for general productivity and web browsing, particularly for those who prefer Windows over Chrome OS. However, unless you really only want a computer for light web browsing and don't plan on saving much locally on the laptop itself, we'd recommend spending at least $649.99 for the mid-tier version with 8GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. While Microsoft's laptop is worth pointing out, we felt the ones highlighted in this guide provided for value overall.
Budget laptops we look forward to testing
Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2: Samsung's original Galaxy Chromebook from last year's CES had an attention-grabbing design that's uncommon for a Chromebook, but its high price and short battery life limited its appeal. Now, Samsung has addressed those criticisms with the Galaxy Chromebook 2, a revamped version of its Google-powered laptop that comes at a cheaper starting price of $549.99 compared to the previous model's $999.99 price tag. With a premium design, 13.3-inch QLED touch screen, and hopefully longer battery life, the Galaxy Chromebook 2 seems like it could be a promising option for those on a budget.
Acer Chromebook Spin 14: Powered by the latest AMD's latest mobile processors and offering 10 hours of battery life according to Acer's claims, the new Acer Chromebook Spin 14 has potential to become one of our top picks for a budget laptop in 2021. It features a 14-inch 1,920 x 1,080 touchscreen and aluminum build that could make it a compelling choice as a general-purpose laptop. It's launching in March 2021 starting at $479.99.
How to buy a budget laptop
There are a variety of factors you should consider when purchasing a laptop, particularly how much you want to spend and what types of tasks you intend to use it for. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you make your decision.
Operating system: There are a few major computer operating systems out there. You're probably most familiar with Windows, as it's by far the most-used operating system, but there's also Apple's macOS, which is found on the company's Mac computers (we didn't include any Macs because they didn't meet our price requirement for a budget laptop). And, the newest, there's Google's Chrome OS, which is targeted to those with basic computer needs revolves around Google's web-based apps (Chrome OS relies heavily on cloud computing, meaning that a lot of the processes happen online).
Specs and features: Some computers are more powerful than others. Things like the processor and amount of memory (RAM) will dictate how quickly your computer runs, while the amount of storage indicates how many files you can keep on your computer at once. There are also other factors, like the graphics chipset being employed. The type of software you run could also dictate how well a laptop's components perform; for example, Google's Chrome browser is notorious for being a memory hog.
The features have also improved. Premium components like a touchscreen and high-speed ports, like USB 3.0 and USB-C, have trickled down from high-end laptops to budget models. As you research, look for these or if the laptop is still utilizing older tech.
Size: Laptops come in a range of different physical sizes, however, the smaller ones generally sit in the 10- to 11-inch range, while the larger ones can get as big as 17-inches. That's handy for watching movies, but it comes at the cost of portability.
But some actions have gone beyond statements: Businesses and other entities are severing their financial connections to Trump and the Trump Organization.
In the wake of the insurrection and impeachment, some groups formerly affiliated with the Trump Organization are opting to sever ties. The Trump Organization did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment.
Here are all the businesses and entities that have publicly split from the Trump Organization.
New York City is ending its contracts with the Trump Organization.
New York Mayor Bill de Blasio said on Wednesday that New York City "will no longer have anything to do with the Trump Organization."
Insider's Grace Dean reported that the city had contracts with the Trump Organization to run two ice-skating rinks (and a carousel) in Central Park, as well as a golf course in the Bronx.
The Washington Post reported those contracts brought in $17 million in annual revenue for the Trump Organization.
The PGA pulled its 2022 championship from Trump's Bedminster, New Jersey, golf club.
In a statement to The Washington Post, the Trump Organization said it was "a breach of a binding contract and they have no right to terminate the agreement."
Trump was more upset about no longer hosting the tournament than getting impeached for a second time, The New York Times' Maggie Haberman reported.
Deutsche Bank and Signature Bank are reportedly ending their banking services for the Trump Organization.
Bloomberg reported on Monday that both banks were severing ties. In a statement to Bloomberg, Signature said, "We believe the appropriate action would be the resignation of the president of the United States."
According to the Bloomberg report, Trump owes Deutsche Bank over $300 million, and Signature Bank will close two personal accounts with about $5.3 million in them.
Professional Bank won't provide services for Trump or the Trump Organization.
"Professional Bank has decided not to engage in any further business with the Trump Organization and its affiliates, and will be winding down the relationship effective immediately," the bank said in a statement to Bloomberg on Tuesday.
Bloomberg reported Trump borrowed $11 million from the bank in May 2018 to buy a home for his sister Maryanne Trump Barry next to his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida.
Curbed reported last week that the real-estate brokerage JLL was no longer involved in marketing the Trump hotel in Washington, though it's not clear when the brokerage backed out.
Shopify closed the Trump Organization's store.
Vox reported on January 7 that Shopify closed both the Trump Organization's store and the e-commerce section of Trump's election website.
The insurance brokerage Aon has ended its relationship with the Trump Organization.
When it comes to nailing down a business idea, you may want to turn to the "pinners" for inspiration.
In the third quarter of 2020, more people started new businesses than in any other quarter since 2004, according to US Census Bureau data. And that trend was noticeable across many platforms, including Pinterest, where searches for "small business ideas" grew 90% from the previous year.
Other search terms like "branding your business,""podcast design," and "accounting basics," more than doubled on the platform, which serves more as a visual search engine than just a place to save recipes and DIY home decor. The company tracks more than 442 million monthly users' ideas to predict what might be trending months from now. Eight of its ten predictions for 2020 were accurate.
Pinterest's latest report for 2021 could drum up new business ideas, or guide your existing business into new product launches, stocking fresh inventory, creative marketing campaigns, and expanding your sales channels.
Here are the trends Pinterest predicts will define the next year, as well as popular search terms to guide your next business moves and marketing.
Food and beverages will get spicy, garnished, and gourmet
The pandemic pushed many amateur chefs to practice their cooking and bread baking. This year, that trend will be elevated to curate the full restaurant experience at home, from Instagrammable charcuterie boards to gourmet garnishes. Pinterest has also noticed a new palette for spicy foods and recipes with plenty of seasoning.
People will celebrate the little moments and host pared-back weddings
The pandemic didn't stop weddings from happening, but many couples opted for smaller, more intimate ceremonies, elopements, and virtual celebrations. Expect these to continue through 2021, with an emphasis on laid-back events and casual attire.
According to Pinterest, more people are searching for ways to make the smallest moments in life more special, from gifts for their sweetheart on one-month anniversaries to planning movie nights at home.
Top trends in celebrations:
Low-key weddings
Planning life's small moments
Month dating anniversaries
Trending search terms: small backyard wedding, simple wedding cake one tier, wedding jean jacket bride, courthouse wedding outfit, desert elopement, monthsary message for girlfriend, anniversary box for him, movie date night at home, cheers and beers party, death to my 20s party
Home decor will be bright, modern, and shelves are the prime real estate for artistic expression
Many people probably spent more time in their homes in the last year than they did in the past five years. This new lifestyle prompted a spike in DIY home improvements, furniture sales, and cleaning out the clutter.
Pinterest predicts minimalism will take over home decor with a trend known as "Japandi," which combines Japanese design with Scandinavian style. Those taking Zoom calls in their kitchen or setting up a home office in their closets, known as a "cloffice," have placed a newfound importance on their shelves to display their style with colorful glassware and art.
Top trends at home:
Neon and LED lighting
Kitchen shelves
Eye-catching dinnerware
Japanese design meets Scandinavian minimalism
Hybrid and multi-functional rooms
Home office inside a closet, known as a "cloffice"
Trending search terms: neon room, mirror with LED lights, blue LED lights bedroom, LED light room, LED light signs, copper cookware, colored glassware, kitchen floating shelves decor, plate racks in kitchen, clay plates, wooden bed design modern, neutral color palette earth tones, minimalist bathroom design, Japandi, modern minimalist kitchen, cloffice ideas, home library design, bookshelf room divider, modern mud room, computer gaming room
People will prioritize their sleep regimens and use spiritual practices to improve their mental health
Coming out of a year with high stress and anxiety levels, people will focus on self-care and wellness as another important part of their overall health. Pinterest has seen increased interest in spiritual practices and nighttime rituals to improve sleep quality.
Top trends in wellness:
Manifesting
Affirmations
Investing in sleep
Bathing rituals
Trending search terms: protection crystals, manifestation techniques, fantasy map making, visualize your highest self, zodiac sign facts, night affirmations sleep, sleep blends for diffuser, before sleep workout, silk sleepwear, sleep yoga, spiritual cleansing bath, full moon bath ritual, bath tea recipe, bath in bedroom free standing, deep soaking tub
People will travel increasingly by car, even if it's to a nearby destination
Pinterest predicts that cars will become the new "third space," or the place people spend their time after home and work. Cars will be the preferred mode of fun and transportation, from drive-through movies to weekend getaways. While most travel is on hold, people will use the time to save up and plan vacations to their dream destinations once the world opens up.
Top trends in travel:
Cars for fun and transportation
Planning dream vacations
Remote destinations
Outdoor exploration
Trending search terms: car date night, drive-in cinema, car man cave, dog car seats, car survival kits, luxury vacations, dream vacations, honeymoon pictures romantic, mountain travel, forest resort, wild flower field, RV accessories, motorcycle tent, couple stargazing, nomad aesthetic
Beauty will incorporate colorful and creative takes on the basics, while skincare will lean more natural
Pinterest's predictions for beauty show two opposing trends: simplified routines focused on the basics and amped up creativity inspired by youth culture. Some people's ideas of beauty means a clean, natural face. Others will experiment with bold colors and playful motifs.
Top trends in beauty:
Natural skin
Effortless routine
Homemade products
Pops of color
Creative braiding
Bold eyebrows
Trending search terms: glowing skin how to get naturally, face yoga exercises, homemade skin care, aloe vera face mask, natural everyday makeup, indie nails, smiley face nails, inner eye pop of color, butterfly eye makeup, braids with fade, yarn braids styles, bubble braids, Viking braids men, goth eyebrows, above eyebrow tattoo, ombre powder brows, bleached eyebrows, colorful eyebrows
Fashion will be an elevated version of work-from-home comfort
First we had athleisure. Now in 2021, we'll have a more elegant take on leisure wear, which Pinterest calls "athflow." This kind of oversized and soft clothing is polished enough for a work presentation or socially-distanced coffee meeting, but so comfortable you'll want to wear it into the night as you binge Netflix.
This is also why fuzzy and warm staples like slippers, blankets, and socks will be year-long mainstays regardless of the weather. Need we remind you of Ugg's "Fluff Yeah" slides that were popular last year?
Top trends in fashion:
WFH clothing
All-season cozy accessories
DIY and personalization
Trending search terms: home dress women, oversized outfit, soft outfit, cotton jumpsuits for women, co-ord outfits two pieces, quilted clothes, cozy aesthetic outfits, cocoon sweater, fluffy slippers, slouch socks, jean painting ideas, reworked clothes, sweatshirt embroidery, custom hoodies, tote bag design diy
Parents will incorporate mindfulness and outdoor activities into their kids' education . . . and maybe adopt a lizard
As homeschooling and virtual classrooms continue throughout the country, parents are learning creative ways to keep their kids engaged, teach them about the environment, and instill valuable lessons outside of English and mathematics. Pinterest sees parents incorporating mindfulness practices into their curriculum as well as outdoor activities. And some households might opt for a low-maintenance reptile or amphibian pet instead of the traditional cat or dog.
Top trends in parenting:
Home-schooling activities
Outdoor education
Teaching mindfulness
Moral lessons
Reptile pets
Trending search terms: art education projects, outdoor education, cardboard toys, pencil shaving art for kids, banana feel fertilizer, mindmap ideas creative, stories with moral lessons, teaching kids manners, government lessons, mindfulness activities for kids, pet lizards, tortoise food, pet frog, pet snails, pet chameleon
People will embrace the beginning level of their hobbies and find inspiration from faraway places
If 2020 was the year we embraced new hobbies, 2021 will be the year we embrace the novice life. Pinterest has seen a lot of hobbies trending on its platform — from traditional crafts to more obscure art forms. Those stuck at home itching to travel to faraway places are studying cultures around the globe to inform their hobbies.
Top trends in hobbies:
Embroidery
Crochet
Globally-inspired hobbies
Phone and laptop wallpaper
Embracing being a beginner
Trending search terms: glass etching designs, crochet basics, aesthetic embroidery, bottle painting ideas, leatherworking tools, Jyotish astrology, Ancient Egyptian architecture, Persian calligraphy art, Irish quilt patterns, Japanese carpentry, laptop wallpaper aesthetic high quality, playlist covers photo aesthetic, funny lock screen wallpaper, gaming background wallpaper, get off my phone wallpaper, knife painting for beginners, sublimation for beginners, how to skateboard for beginners, resin art for beginners, candle making for beginners
WarnerMedia has taken big steps to adapt its storied Hollywood studios and businesses for the streaming age since being acquired by telecom AT&T in 2018.
Those steps include industry-shaking moves like streaming Warner Bros. films on HBO Max the day they hit theaters, and internal changes like uniting its once siloed TV, film, and streaming businesses.
The shake-up also means some key WarnerMedia leaders who are experienced in navigating tremendous changes have exited the company and are now free agents.
Insider identified six respected former WarnerMedia executives on the job market who have all have helped the company through transformational moments. The list is based on our reporting and nominations we received. It includes former WarnerMedia veterans and rising stars.
The leaders are listed below, in alphabetical order.
WarnerMedia isn't the only legacy-media company rethinking its businesses. Disney, Comcast, and others have also made big changes to leadership structures.
David Levy ran Turner Broadcasting's sports and entertainment networks as president until shortly after the company was acquired by AT&T through its acquisition of Time Warner.
Levy was president of Turner Sports for a decade before taking on the bigger job in 2013.
During his tenure at Turner, Levy led deals like Turner Sports' acquisition of Bleacher Report, which became the company's first digital sports destination. He spearheaded a pact with CBS that brought the March Madness finals to cable TV. And the company launched new niche streaming services that leveraged the classic catalogs Turner owned, such as Boomerang for traditional animation and FilmStruck, which was popular among cinephiles for streaming the Criterion Collection before it was shuttered in 2018. He left Turner in March 2019, after 33 years at the company.
Since then, Levy has advised firms including The Raine Group, an investment bank in the media, tech, and telecom sectors, and founded Back Nine Venture, which invests in early-stage startups.
Chris Linn
Chris Linn put WarnerMedia's reality network truTV on the map as president of the cable network.
Under his leadership, the reality-focused network that used be Court TV found its lane with hit franchises like "Impractical Jokers," which helped it reach a younger and more affluent audiences. Linn left truTV in May 2019, after its operations were merged with Turner's other entertainment networks TBS and TNT.
He joined truTV from Viacom, where he oversaw programming and production for eight years, and developed reality shows like "Jersey Shore" and "Catfish." He also worked at Spike TV and Nickelodeon.
John Martin
Former Turner chief and chairman John Martin ran the cable-network group for four years, as the traditional TV landscape was being upended. His tenure at Turner ended after parent Time Warner was acquired by AT&T in 2018.
During his time at the helm, Martin oversaw Turner's full suite of news, sports, and entertainment brands, including CNN, TNT, TBS, Cartoon Network, and Turner Sports, and helped kicked start their digital transitions. He also vocally defended the AT&T-Time Warner deal as the Department of Justice was moving to block it.
Martin spent more than two decades at Time Warner, even as the company spun off cable business Time Warner Cable in 2009 and print division Time Inc. in 2014. He was chief financial officer of Time Warner, from 2008 to 2013, under former chairman and CEO Jeff Bewkes. Martin was the financial chief of Time Warner Cable before that.
Martin joined Time Warner in 1993, and left for a two-year stint at the equity-research firm ABN AMRO Securities. He was a senior accountant at Ernst and Young earlier in his career.
Christina Miller
Christina Miller was a top Turner Broadcasting exec.
She most recently led Turner's kids and young adults networks as president of Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, and Boomerang for five years. She took on oversight of Turner Classic Movies during that time, as well.
She helped build shows like "Rick and Morty,""Steven Universe," and "Adventure Time" into blockbuster franchises during her run there, which ended in late 2019.
Over her 15 years at Turner, Miller was also digital manger of the NBA digital portfolio and senior VP in charge of Turner Sports' marketing programming an strategy. She started her career at the company at Cartoon Network, where she built the network's first global consumer products business.
She was also an executive at children's TV distributor HIT Entertainment, where she was responsible for brand management and licensing, before Turner.
Reilly, the former chief content officer at HBO Max, ushered in projects for the fledgling streaming service including its first successful original,"The Flight Attendant."
He also led Turner's entertainment networks, TBS and TNT, during his time at Turner and later added truTV to his purview. Reilly spearheaded an effort to cut back on the number of commercials in shows when he was president of TNT and TBS, and chief creative officer of Turner Entertainment.
Before Turner, Reilly headed up entertainment programming at major TV networks including Fox, FX, and NBC, for several years each. He oversaw the launch of shows like "Glee,""Brooklyn Nine-Nine," and "Empire" at Fox; championed series like "The Office" at NBC; and shepherded in series like "The Shield" and "Nip/Tuck" at FX.
Blair Rich
Warner Bros. marketing exec Blair Rich exited at the end of last year the Hollywood studio where she spent much of her career.
Rich oversees worldwide marketing for Warner Bros. Pictures Group's theatrical and home entertainment divisions in the current post of president. She helped boost some of the studio's biggest recent successes, like "The Joker" and "Crazy Rich Asians," since taking on that role in 2018.
As live events stalled this year amid the coronavirus pandemic, Rich also helped launch the virtual DC fan convention, DC FanDome, which included star-studded panels and new details about "Wonder Woman 1984," the upcoming Snyder Cut of the "Justice League," and other DC titles.
Rich helped drive franchises like Harry Potter and the DC film universe during her more than 20-year tenure at the studio. She began her career at Warner Bros. as a marketing trainee in international marketing.
Rich, based in Los Angeles, is also on the board of the non-profit LA Family Housing.
President Donald Trump's family make up some of the top members of his administration and frequently voice their opinions to an eager media.
It's not uncommon to see Ivanka, Eric, and Donald Jr. flash across your TV screen or splashed across the pages of international newspapers. But Tiffany Trump, 27, who has been called Trump's "wild-card" daughter, has kept a lower profile than her older siblings.
Here's a look at the life of the president's most elusive adult child, who just announced her engagement to business executive Michael Boulos.
Tiffany spent her childhood between her family's New York and Florida properties.
For her fifth birthday, she took over part of the Trump Mar-a-Lago resort for a "Titanic"-themed party.
After Trump and Maples divorced in 1999, Maples moved with her daughter to Los Angeles where she said she raised Tiffany as a "single mother" across the country from her father.
Though she was based in Los Angeles, Tiffany regularly visited New York to see her father.
At age 7, she was photographed at a Mets game with Trump and his then-girlfriend Melania Knauss.
As Tiffany became a teenager, she made more public appearances, usually alongside her father.
She attended an event introducing Trump Tower Dubai in Los Angeles in 2008.
In 2011, Tiffany released a pop-electronic single called "Like a Bird."
She told Oprah Winfrey at the time that though she was focused on college, "we'll see in a couple of years if I actually do want to take it to the next level, to a professional level."
After graduating high school in 2012, she made the move back to the East Coast to attend her father's alma mater, the University of Pennsylvania.
Tiffany gradually became a socialite in her own right after appearing at fashion and art events around New York City.
She attended Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in 2014 in New York City.
Tiffany was considered part of a group of wealthy young socialites called the "Rich Kids of Instagram."
She was often pictured alongside Andrew Warren (son of a New York real-estate investor), Gaia Matisse (great-great-granddaughter of Henri Matisse), and EJ Johnson (son of Magic Johnson).
Though she was still a college student, Tiffany was noticeably on-hand for some early appearances ahead of Trump's presidential bid.
The future first daughter's profile was also rising on social media, where she posted images from glamorous vacations and scenes from her life on campus.
At the time, she had around 150,000 followers. She now has more than 1.3 million followers.
Tiffany made a splash with an unexpected speech at the July 2016 Republican National Convention in Cleveland, Ohio.
Tiffany kept up occasional social appearances during her studies.
She attended New York Fashion Week in her first few weeks of classes in September 2017.
She also joined her siblings at official appearances.
She attended the White House Christmas Tree lighting ceremony with Donald Trump Jr., Kimberly Guilfoyle, and Lara Trump in 2018.
Her close proximity to her father's administration in the public eye has sometimes put some of her suspected political beliefs under a microscope.
After President Trump's administration didn't acknowledge Pride Month for the second year in a row, some were surprised when Tiffany was pictured with her friend, fashion designer Andrew Warren, celebrating Pride in New York City in June 2018.
Tiffany turned heads when she wore white to the 2019 State of the Union, a statement color that's connected to women's suffrage.
Many lawmakers wore white after Rep. Lois Frankel of Florida, the chairwoman of the House Democratic Women's Working Group, invited attendees to wear white in honor of the women's suffrage movement.
Tiffany's romantic relationship with Michael Boulos, the son of the owners of a multi-billion dollar conglomerate based in Nigeria, has also attracted interest.
Tiffany's social life also came under scrutiny following reports that a March 2019 trip she took to Belgrade, Serbia, for 10 days cost taxpayers $23,000.
On January 19, 2021, one day before her father left office, Tiffany announced her engagement to Boulos on Instagram.
"It has been an honor to celebrate many milestones, historic occasions and create memories with my family here at the White House, none more special than my engagement to my amazing fiancé Michael!" she captioned a photo of her and Boulos standing in the White House's West Colonnade. "Feeling blessed and excited for the next chapter!"
While some may joke that Tiffany is the forgotten Trump, she has built her own star power over the years.
In the 22 years since being founded by Sara Blakely, Spanx has firmly entrenched itself into popular culture and become synonymous with looking and feeling confident in your evening dress.
Though it's usually associated with smoothing, panty line-eliminating shapewear, another part of its business — which has expanded far and wide to include activewear, swimwear, and men's underwear— is quietly raved about, too.
Spanx leggings have earned their own share of fans because they feature the same comfort and flattering look of the famous shapewear, but take everyone's favorite form of pants-that-aren't-really-pants.
The sleek and slick Faux Leather Leggings are slimming and make an ordinary outfit instantly more edgy, while the Moto version turns the edge up further with its textured moto seams. Though you'd expect these styles to be uncomfortable or restrictive, they're quite stretchy and have control tops.
Meanwhile, the stretchy knit Seamless Leggings are an attractive legging basic you'll default to on the weekends, but won't feel ashamed to wear out of your home.
In total, Spanx sells more than 30 styles of leggings, from "Jean-ish" to luxe velvet to active. They run from $58 to $128, with most styles priced around $100 to $110 — on par with premium athleisure brands. The Spanx difference, however, benefits from a design philosophy that has both comfort and style in mind, and executes through features like shaping waistbands and the absence of center seams.
We tried a few pairs of Spanx leggings to see for ourselves what the big deal was and came away impressed with their fit, quality construction, and flattering style. You can read more about our experiences and shop all of Spanx's leggings below.
For both stylistic and functional, breathability purposes, I love leggings with mesh details or panels, so I was immediately drawn to this pair. They have a lengthening and slimming mesh stripe down each leg that somewhat mimics the popular side stripe pant look of the moment, but has its own unique effect.
Your legs and butt will look great in these leggings because the fabric compresses and hugs your curves, but they'll also feel surprisingly comfortable the whole time. They're stretchy, and though I wouldn't work out in them, they easily adapted to the unexpected squats and light jogs that can be required during an active day in the city.
The other parts of the comfort equation were the soft, antimicrobial finish and breathable fabric that allowed me to wear these leggings from day to night. — Connie Chen, senior reporter
Look At Me Now Cropped Seamless Leggings
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I'm firmly in camp "leggings as pants," and this semi-high-waisted pair has everything going for it. The extreme opacity means I never have to worry when I bend over to pick something up (which is often, I have a cat and a slippery phone), and the seamless construction is incredibly smoothing and comfortable. There's no elastic strip in the waistband, so there's no digging. The waist is basically just a continuation of the leggings themselves.
They're also not as tight as Spanx shapewear, but they still hold me in without pressing too hard anywhere. I don't wear these to work, but I do wear them as often as possible when I'm not in the office. I'm also 5-foot-1, so cropped leggings fit me perfectly as regular-length pairs. — Sally Kaplan, senior editor
I was prepared not to love Spanx's leggings. I spend most of my time in athletic leggings, and I had decided I'd outgrown athleisure pairs. I stand corrected.
The Every-Wear leggings are flattering and slimming, and surprisingly thin enough to wear all day comfortably. The four-way stretch lets you move around unencumbered. The design is smart: the absence of a center-seam and a waistband-free construction makes the transition from what is essentially shapewear to a more natural second skin (and no muffin top). It hit at my natural waist, and the seams in back work both functionally and as a kind of slimming and uplifting contour.
All in all, they're movement-friendly, make for a lean and streamlined silhouette, and avoid most of my athleisure complaints. $110 is expensive, but I'd personally rather own one pair of these than three inferior pairs. —Mara Leighton, senior reporter
Spanx makes my all-time favorite pairs of tights, so I had high hopes for its leggings. And my faith was not misplaced … the Active Printed Leggings are amazing. They're breathable, supportive but not suffocating, and surprisingly comfortable, offering more stretch than similar compressive leggings I've tried that makes them much easier to get into and out of. I'm not sure what witchcraft went into the design, but they also manage to create a smooth-all-over look I love. —Ellen Hoffman, Insider Reviews Executive Editor
Looking for more leggings and tights options? Let Insider Reviews help you:
Valentine's Day is coming up soon on Sunday, February 14, and if you haven't thought about what to get, now's the time to start brainstorming. Whatever you decide to gift or plan, an arrangement of fresh flowers is never a bad idea to include.
With more than 80 beautiful bouquets available, The Bouqs Co. is one online flower company we come back to time and time again. It has everything from classic red roses to mixed bouquets with flowers and succulents and even gift sets with flowers and candles or chocolates. To make shopping even easier, there's a handy "One-Click Valentine's Day Roses" feature at the top of the page for a traditional bouquet of roses. And if you're looking to save, currently you can get a Deluxe bouquet for the price of an Original with the code '2XBLOOMS'.
Since Valentine's Day is a busy time, you should order your flowers sooner rather than later to ensure you get the bouquet you want. Anyone with an account will pay $12 shipping, otherwise, it usually costs $18; making an account is free so we definitely suggest doing so.
We picked out some of our favorite arrangements in case you need some inspiration. Each page features background information about the farmer involved, and you can add a vase to any bouquet for an additional fee.
White flowers may be unconventional, but they're still every bit as beautiful. Use the code '2XBLOOMS' to upgrade to a Deluxe bouquet for the price of an Original.
Available in three sizes: original (12 stems, $49), deluxe (24 stems, $64), and grand (79 stems, $84)
Profits of this gorgeous tropical bouquet will go toward Campaign Zero, an organization that aims to combat police brutality through data-informed solutions.
Available in one size: 14 stems, $64
A mix of romantic flowers and elegant alstroemeria
If they're a bit wild at heart, they'll love this untraditional mix of roses, alstroemeria, and eucalyptus. It's equal parts romantic and unexpected, and right now, you can use the code '2XBLOOMS' to upgrade to a Deluxe bouquet for the price of an Original.
Available in three sizes: original (12 mixed stems, $49), deluxe (24 mixed stems, $64), and grand (36 mixed stems, $79)
Inspired by the sunset and guaranteed to last longer, these bi-color roses are every bit romantic and stunning. You can get a Deluxe bouquet for the price of an Original with the code '2XBLOOMS'.
Available in three sizes: original (12 stems, $49), deluxe (24 stems, $64), and grand (36 stems, $79)
The Vibrance bouquet's bright sunflowers and aster accents will bring a smile to anyone's face. Add The Bouq's signature vase or mason vase to your purchase for $10. Use the code '2XBLOOMS' to upgrade to a Deluxe bouquet for the price of an Original.
Available in three sizes: original (12 mixed stems, $54), deluxe (24 mixed stems, $69), and grand (36 mixed stems, $84)
Spice up the traditional rose bouquet with the added touch of mini calla lilies. Because the calla lilies' petals bloom upward instead of outward, a larger bouquet will give a fuller, more dramatic look.
Available in three sizes: original (15 mixed stems, $49), deluxe (30 mixed stems, $64), and grand (45 mixed stems, $79)
This mixed arrangement is paired with trendy, eco-friendly succulents in the Never Desert You bouquet. Plant the succulents for a gift that keeps on giving.
Available in three sizes: original (12 mixed stems, $59), deluxe (24 mixed stems, $74), and grand (36 mixed stems, $89)
Using a pizza stone is a simple way to get better pizza out of your home oven or grill.
The Original Baking Steel is our top pick because it's durable, easy to clean, and produces exceptional home cooked pizza.
Table of Contents: Masthead Sticky
If you've ever tried making pizza in your home oven without any special equipment, you've probably found the results markedly different than what you get from your favorite pizza joint. Home-cooked pizzas tend to emerge from the oven pale, doughy, and less flavorful (browning = flavor). That's because home ovens max out at around 550 degrees Fahrenheit, unlike commercial or wood-fired pizza ovens that can reach 900+ degrees. In order to achieve a pizza with a well-browned, flavorful crust and airy, chewy interior, you need to cook the pizza as hot and as fast as possible to mimic the intense heat of a traditional wood-fired oven.
That's where pizza stones come in. Pizza stones are rectangular or circular slabs of relatively thick stone or metal that absorb heat to cook pizza much faster than a pan or sheet tray. With practice and the right pizza stone, you can churn out pizzas that resemble the pies you get from your favorite slice shop.
I'm no stranger to pizza stones after working in professional kitchens for many years, where we used these slabs for much more than just pizza. They're great for baking bread, especially oblong loaves like baguettes, and they can put a mean sear on steak or vegetables. For this guide, I focused primarily on pizza, using each stone to make multiple thin-crust pizzas in my oven. I also used each stone to bake bread in the oven, though I weighed this test less heavily. I had the tough job of evaluating the quality of the finished pizza through multiple taste tests and also based my recommendations on how easy the stones were to move, use, and clean.
If you want to make the best, most bubbly, and well-browned pizza, The Original Baking Steel produces a crust like no other and is easy to move, clean, and use.
Pros: Excellent thermal conductivity for superior pizza in your home oven, preheats faster than cordierite stones, easy to clean, practically indestructible, doesn't show wear like cordierite stones
Cons: Heavy to lift, gets too hot for baking bread or cooking on the grill
If you're buying a pizza stone, it's because you want to significantly up your game from the type of pizza you can get using a pizza pan, baking sheet, or skillet. The Original Baking Steel offers the biggest leap in pizza quality out of all the stones we tried.
Unlike most traditional pizza stones, which are made from cordierite stone, the Baking Steel is (as the name suggests) made of steel, which transfers heat much faster. All materials have different thermal conductivity, meaning they hold and transfer heat differently. Some materials can behave much hotter than they actually are. That's why, for example, food cooks slower in a glass versus metal baking dish, or why it hurts to touch a hot oven rack, but only feels warm when you hold your hand in the oven air. When heated to 500 F, the Baking Steel behaves the same way as the surface of a traditional 900 F brick oven.
The Baking Steel consistently made the most well-browned, bubbly pizzas, with great speckling across the bottom of the crust. This not only made for pizza with a better texture, but also a more robust flavor, since those browned bits offer much more flavor. "If you're really obsessed with pizza, get the Steel," said Janjigian, who primarily uses the Baking Steel when making pizza.
However, Janjigian said that the properties that make the Baking Steel great for pizza make it a bad choice for bread, which needs slower, more consistent heat to bake properly. In testing, the Baking Steel burned the bottoms of my loaves. Steel also isn't a good choice for making pizza on the grill, where the temperatures exceed 700 F and the exceptional heat transfer from the steel becomes overkill. "All that heat in the grill is going directly into the steel, which in turn is going into the bottom of your pizza," Janjigian said. "By the time it's done on top it's going to be burnt on the bottom."
That said, the Baking Steel really shines for turning your home oven into a pizza-making machine. I could tell from the second the dough landed on the steel and started to hiss and sizzle that I was in for an excellent pie. The slick, seasoned surface cleaned up easier than other stones, and while this is a minor attribute, I liked that the dark color didn't show wear the way cordierite stones do.
Practically speaking, the steel is a rectangular 14 inches by 16 inches, which makes it versatile for pizzas that are large or aren't perfectly round. Since it's made from steel it's also basically indestructible and thus much more durable than cordierite, which is prone to cracking and breaking. If you're really serious about pizza quality, the Baking Stone is absolutely the best all-around choice.
The best pizza stone for bread
This cordierite pizza stone bakes good pizza, but also produces excellent bread, making it a great choice for those looking to make a variety of recipes with their pizza stone.
Pros: Makes decent pizza and excellent bread, cleans up easily, has feet for easy maneuvering
Cons: Produces less browning, takes a long time to preheat, cordierite is prone to cracking and staining
Previously our best overall pick, the Solido 14x16 Cordierite Pizza Stone makes delicious pizza that is moist, springy, and chewy. However, it didn't produce quite the level of browning as the baking steel — the pizza was good, but still distinctly home-baked pizza not reminiscent of restaurant pizza. Still, the results are much better than what you'd get from a pan or baking sheet, and this stone excelled in one area where the Baking Steel couldn't: baking bread.
Unlike steel, which gets hot fast and channels all that heat right into the pizza, cordierite stones like the Solido absorb and release heat slowly. They take about two hours to preheat in the oven and a very long time to cool down enough to handle after cooking. This slow heat is decent for pizza but exceptional for baking bread, which relies on consistent heat over a much longer bake time. The Solido stone is well-shaped to accommodate longer, oblong loaves like baguettes or rustic bread, and made loaves that were beautifully browned.
Design-wise, it's pretty basic: a 14-inch by 16-inch rectangular slab of cordierite, similar to most cordierite stones out there and a good shape and size for making both pizza and bread. However, the Solido stone has one small feature that gave it the edge over the other cordierite stone we tried: feet. The stone has raised grooves along the bottom that lift it off the oven rack and make it much easier to grab and move around. While this is a minor design feature, it distinguished the Solido stone from other very similar stones.
Its rounded corners also fit better when I tried it on a charcoal grill. However, like all cordierite stones, it takes a long time to preheat, which makes it an inefficient option for grilling unless you want to waste a ton of propane or charcoal.
This is a great stone if you loathe the idea of a unitasker — it made great oven pizza and excellent bread. It was also simple to clean, though it retained stains like all cordierite stones are prone to do. Cordierite is prone to cracking or breaking if not cared for properly, so we don't expect this stone is any different, though we didn't see any cracking during testing.
The best pizza stone for the grill
This round cast-iron stone has handles for easy maneuvering and is perfectly sized and shaped for making pizza on both charcoal and gas grills.
Pros: Good thermal conductivity for well-browned pizzas, cleans up easily, doesn't show stains, circular shape fits well on round grill, handles make moving easy
Cons: Difficult to slide a pizza onto its circular shape
While you can make pizza directly on your grill's grates (in fact, this is the method Janjigian recommends if you're interested in grilled pizza), a stone makes the process less daunting and potentially less messy. However, using a pizza stone on the grill requires some adjustments to standard pizza stone best practices. While the Baking Steel will heat up super quickly, it will also burn your pizza in minutes in the ultra-hot grill. By contrast, cordierite stones make underbaked pizzas on the grill unless you preheat the stone for an hour or so beforehand, using a lot of fuel.
That's why the Lodge 15 Inch Seasoned Cast Iron Pizza Pan is really well-suited to cooking on the grill; it offers a happy medium between steel and cordierite in how quickly it heats up and how fast it transfers heat to your pizza. In testing, the Lodge pan was ready to go after about a half-hour of preheating on my gas grill, and it cooked a beautifully baked pie with good spotting on the top and excellent browning on the bottom. The built-in handles made it easy to transfer the stone in and out of the grill, and it cleans up easily with just a sponge and some water. Note that it's best to use soap sparingly when cleaning cast iron, so you don't strip the slick nonstick seasoning.
Grilling was also the only situation where I found the circular stone to have an advantage over rectangular stones; you can read more about circular versus rectangular stones here. While the rectangular stones fit fine on my gas grill, some didn't fit at all on my small kettle charcoal grill. The round stone fit nicely in both the gas and charcoal grill and left plenty of room for air circulation.
The stone isn't just for grilling though; it made excellent pizza in my oven, but I found its circular shape was less forgiving than rectangular stones. With a round stone, you have to aim perfectly. If I was off-center by just a bit when sliding the pizza off the peel, the dough hung off the edge and made a mess in my oven. This stone is a great option if you're a seasoned pizza pro or are dabbling in the world of grilled pizza, but most other users will get better benefits from one of our other rectangular picks.
What else we recommend
Pizza stones are relatively simple pieces of equipment; usually just slabs of stone or metal with little difference between models. All of the products we tested made great pizza, and top choices came down to minor differences like size, shape, handles, and feet. Here are noteworthy models that didn't quite make our top picks, but are still good choices:
Honey-Can-Do 14x16 Cordierite Pizza Stone ($59.99): Previously sold as the Old Stone Oven pizza stone, this model has changed a bit now that it's sold by Honey-Can-Do. Reviewers report that the new stone doesn't have feet like the old stone, and that the corners are sharper. I tested the new stone and found it made great pizza on par with the Solido 14x16 Cordierite Pizza Stone in our lineup. However, it had no distinguishing features to earn it a space on our top picks. Furthermore, it seems as though there's still confusion among retailers about the old stone versus the new stone, with listings on Amazon and Walmart showing photos of the old stone, but sending buyers the new stone instead. These issues are made more frustrating by fluctuating stock and significant price mark-ups from third party retailers. We'll revisit whether this stone makes the top picks when the company clears up the confusion.
Our testing methodology
In addition to interviewing Andrew Janjigian, a pizza expert, we put each pizza stone through a series of tests to judge how well they made pizza, and how easy they were to move, use, and clean. Here's how we tested and rated pizza stones:
Shape: I researched dozens of stones, but after conferring with Janjigian, focused on rectangular stones when I could because the shape is more versatile and easy to use.
How it made pizza: We preheated each stone in a 500-degree oven for two hours and then used it to make three thin-crust pizzas using a recipe from Serious Eats, a website known for its science-based, well-tested recipes over the course of several weeks, adjusting cook time, oven temperature, and stone position in between pizzas in pursuit of the best results. A good pizza should have a well-browned, bubbly crust that is crisp on the outside and moist and chewy on the inside; cheese should be fully melted in the time it takes to cook the crust. My husband and I both sampled each finished pizza for flavor and texture. I only tested the cast-iron pan on a charcoal grill because its size, shape, and material were best suited for that use.
How it made bread: Many people bake bread with their pizza stones, so I used each to make an easy recipe for crusty white bread from King Arthur, a respected flour company where Janjigian teaches baking classes. I looked for loaves that were well-baked inside and browned (but not burnt) on the bottom.
Ease of Use: I frequently moved the stones in and out of the oven using oven mitts, and with my bare hands when the stones had cooled down, noting how easy and comfortable they were to move. After each use, I cleaned the stone according to manufacturer instructions, evaluating how easily they cleaned up and noting their appearance after use and cleaning.
Durability: I didn't intentionally drop any stones during testing, as I know that cordierite in particular is prone to cracking and breaking, having broken a few of these stones in the past. Instead, I consulted with an expert and did my own research about the durability of different materials.
What we look forward to testing
We plan to continually test new pizza stones and add them to this guide. Here are some products on our radar:
Nerd Chef Steel Stone, Standard ($119.99): Slightly less expensive than our top pick, the Original Baking Steel, this steel pizza stone is also made of conductive steel. The shape and thickness are similar to our top pick, but the Nerd Chef model has two finger-sized holes for moving and storing the steel.
Dough-Joe Samurai Pizza Steel ($65.21): Another Baking Steel copycat, this model was reviewed by one of our reporters, who found it identical in performance to the Baking Steel. I look forward to putting it through all the tests for this guide and reporting back my findings.
Love This Kitchen Ultimate 16-inch Round Pizza Stone ($44.99): Previously our top pick for best circular stone, this model was out of stock at the time of testing for this guide. While I think rectangular stones are more versatile and easy to use than circular stones, I was intrigued that this circular stone offers a "no-spill stopper"— a little raised lip at the back of the stone that's meant to stop the pizza from sliding over the edge (a common complaint in circular stones). Now that it appears back in stock at Amazon, I look forward to seeing how this model compares to the top picks in our guide.
Bialetti Taste of Italy Baking Stone Tile Set ($27.99): This set comes with four 7.5 inch tiles that you can either use individually or put together to make one large stone. The smaller and customizable shape might be a good option for those with smaller home ovens that can't fit a large 14 inch by 16-inch pizza stone.
What to look for in a pizza stone
Here are some considerations to think about when looking for a pizza stone:
Shape: One might think that since pizza is round, a pizza stone should be too. But we actually think you'll get much better pizza out of a rectangular stone. "With a round stone, if you miss that target by a little, [the pizza] is going to hang off the edge," said Janjigian. "You don't have to aim perfectly with a rectangular stone." Rectangular stones are often larger, so they also hold more heat, which can make a pizza with better browning. Finally, rectangular stones are more versatile. "I want the real estate for things that aren't perfectly round," said Janjigian, who also uses a pizza stone to bake bread. The only time we see a round stone having an advantage is for grilling since larger rectangular stones sometimes don't fit, especially on circular grills. For almost all uses, rectangular is the way to go.
Size: "I want my stone to be as big as my oven rack, minus some space for airflow," says Janjigian. A larger stone not only holds more heat but provides plenty of real estate for larger pies and long baked goods like baguettes. We found a stone that is about 16 inches by 14 inches to be the ideal size for most home ovens. If you're looking for a cordierite stone, thicker is also better, says Janjigian, because thicker stones are less prone to cracking. Our favorite cordierite stone measures ¾ inch thick, and we found this size to be a good compromise between durability and maneuverability.
Weight: While lighter stones may be easier to transport in and out of the oven, Janjigian says that heavier stones will produce better pizza. "The lighter it is, the less mass it has, and the less it can heat the pie," he says. A heavier stone will hold a lot of heat, and make a well-browned pizza. Pizza stones usually weigh about nine pounds, but most of our top picks are 13 to 16 pounds because they're thicker or made with heavier material like steel or cast iron.
Material: We looked at stones made from steel, cordierite (a heat-resistant mineral), and cast iron, all of which have different thermal properties, and thus, different uses. Of these, steel absorbs and transfers heat the fastest, which makes it ideal for pizza in the home oven. If you're serious about good home pizza, we recommend opting for a pizza steel. Cordierite stones make decent pizza but have less thermal mass than steel, so the crust tends to be paler and less developed. However, cordierite is a great choice if you plan on using your stone to bake bread since other materials tend to burn loaves. If you hate the idea of a unitasker and have a robust baking repertoire, a cordierite stone will absolutely do the trick. Finally, cast iron offers a happy medium between steel and cordierite in terms of heat conductivity. However, we have yet to find a rectangular cast iron stone, only circular pans, which are trickier to use. We think circular cast iron pizza stones are a good option if you're interested in grilled pizza, especially if you have a round grill.
Price: Pizza stones are basically just slabs of material so be wary of any stone priced significantly more or less than competitors made from the same material. Expect to pay about $40 to $60 for a cordierite or cast iron stone and $70 to $90 for a steel one. You won't get a significant increase in performance from something priced higher.
FAQs
Why do I need a pizza stone?
A pizza stone can help you make restaurant-quality pizza at home. Many pizza joints use commercial or wood-fired ovens that can reach 900+ F, creating the well-browned crust you expect from a restaurant pie. Home ovens don't get that hot, so pizza made in a pan or sheet tray usually comes out doughy and pale. A pizza stone recreates some of the restaurant experience by providing a super hot surface to cook the pizza, resulting in better browning and bubbling.
Can I use a pizza stone in a countertop oven or toaster oven?
The stones we tested are too big for most toaster ovens, and most toaster ovens don't reach the temperatures needed to churn out good pizza (many max out at 450 F). Some circular stones may fit in large countertop smart ovens like the June Oven.
Do I need to preheat my pizza stone?
Absolutely. You'll only get the benefits of using a pizza stone or steel if you preheat it. You should preheat most stones and steels for one to two hours, enough time for the stone to get as hot as the air around it. If you don't, the results won't be much different than what you get from using a pizza pan or baking sheet.
Why does my stone look discolored or dirty, even after cleaning it?
The discoloration is totally normal and, while your pizza stone will never look as pristine as the day you bought it, those stains and smudges can actually help make your pizza stone more nonstick over time. Materials like cast iron and carbon steel become more "seasoned" with use, as oils bond to the surface and form a natural protective coating. It's important to clean all types of pizza stones gently and without soap when you can; cordierite is very porous and that soapy flavor can soak into the stone and impact the flavor of your pizza. Steel and cast iron should similarly be cleaned lightly so as not to disturb the built-up seasoning. Use a metal or plastic spatula to scrape big chunks of debris off of the stone when you're done cooking, and wipe the surface lightly with water and a soft sponge. Any leftover stickiness or stuck-on bits will likely burn off the next time you preheat the stone. Those leftover marks might be unsightly, but they won't impact performance.
Can I cook frozen pizza on my pizza stone?
Thermal shock from placing frozen items on a hot stone can cause your stone to crack. Most frozen pizzas are parbaked at the factory and heating them simply involves warming the crust and melting the cheese. You likely won't see a marked difference if you're using a stone to cook a frozen pizza. If you do want to try, thaw your frozen pizza before placing it on the stone.
Why did my stone crack?
Cast iron and steel stones should never crack, as both are extremely durable materials. Almost all cracking occurs with cordierite stones. Despite being "stone," cordierite pizza stones are relatively delicate. A common cause of cracking is thermal shock, which is when the stone is rapidly exposed to a drastically different temperature. You should never put a room temperature stone in a hot oven; always put the stone in a cold oven and allow it to preheat. Similarly, avoid putting frozen food onto a blazing hot stone (yes, that includes frozen pizza) and let the stone cool completely in the oven before removing or washing it.
Stones can also crack from too much moisture. Cordierite stones are very porous; they'll absorb moisture from the food cooking and from washing. If you don't give your stone time to dry after washing it, the water can remain in the stone and cause a build-up of steam the next time you heat the stone, resulting in a crack. Finally, stones can crack from even minor drops (this is how I broke my first stone); treat your stone as gently as you would a piece of pottery when handling or moving it.
Pizza stone tips and tricks
Making great pizza at home takes practice. Here are some tips and tricks I've learned over seven years of working in professional kitchens for getting the most out of your pizza stone.
Crank up the heat: Heat is your friend when cooking pizza. Some pizza aficionados have been known to toggle with broiler settings and even try to hack their oven's self-clean cycles in pursuit of perfect home pizza. While we don't think you need to go that far, we recommend cranking the heat in your oven up to 500 F if you're using a steel or 550 F if you're using a cordierite stone.
Preheat your stone in the oven: Put your stone in the cold oven and preheat both stone and oven together for one to two hours. This step is essential for achieving a well-browned pizza.
Use a pizza peel: A peel is a tool to shuttle your pizza on and off the blazing hot stone. After years of using makeshift peels, including the back of a skillet and an overturned sheet pan, I finally took the plunge and purchased a pizza peel. It makes the process significantly easier and less daunting. I build my pizza right on the peel for an easy transition from the counter to the oven.
Rotate the pizza: Give the pizza a turn once through baking with the help of your peel or a good set of kitchen tongs. The back of the oven tends to be hotter than the front, so rotating your pizza once during cooking can help prevent burning.
Tweak and refine: It takes practice to make great pizza at home. Don't be discouraged if your first pizza ends up burnt or too doughy inside. Try different recipes and tinker with cooking times and temperatures until you find what works for your oven.
Turbocharge your pizza making: If you're really wild about homemade pizza, Janjigian says you can buy both a stone and steel and put them together to "supercharge" your pizza making. "If you put the steel on top of the stone, the stone acts like a battery to continually pump heat into the steel," he says. This tip is primarily for those super-invested in making pizza at home, but the steel-on-stone method can be great for churning out pie after pie, or getting the char and bubbling on the crust you normally only really get from wood-fired ovens.
Let your stone cool: After you take out your pizza, let your stone stay in the oven until both are completely cooled to avoid any potential cracking. This can take several hours, but it's important for maintaining the durability of your stone.
Use soap and water sparingly: Use a spatula and a dry cloth to scrape any burnt bits off the pizza stone; this should be enough for most messes. With all materials, be reserved with soap, which can strip the seasoning off of steel and cast iron and impart a bad flavor onto pizza made with porous cordierite stones. If you use water to clean a cordierite stone, let it dry for at least 48 hours before you use it again.
A romantic retreat doesn't have to mean a stay at a pricey hotel or busy resort. With social distancing a continuing priority due to COVID-19, a private vacation rental may just be the ideal getaway for two, with plenty of space to relax in addition to utter privacy and seclusion. And these rentals for couples don't just deliver a room for the night. You'll also get unique locations, exclusive amenities, and memorable experiences.
While these secluded retreats are great for special occasions from anniversaries to birthdays, with Valentine's Day around the corner, consider that a romantic weekend away can make for a particularly memorable gift that allows for quality time together. Caroline Burns, travel expert and head of public relations at HomeToGo, agrees. "After spending so much time at home, couples booking Valentine's Day getaways this year are looking to detach from the everyday and reconnect by escaping to remote hideaways," she told Insider. She also noted that "nearly 90% of HomeToGo's overall searches in 2020 were for rural destinations," with that trend continuing as couples opt for relaxing, secluded areas that offer a quiet escape.
Before you hit book even on a more remote vacation rental, keep in mind that with the ongoing pandemic there's no guarantee of safety when it comes to travel right now. We always recommend following guidelines from the CDC, practicing social distancing, washing hands frequently, and wearing a mask in public spaces. Additionally, take extra precautions if you plan to travel to or from a hot spot area and always assess personal risk factors.
With that in mind, for those who are seeking a domestic couple's retreat, there's no shortage of blissful vacation rentals. Since the only thing missing from a private home stay is room service, consider packing some picnic provisions or romantic additions such as champagne, chocolates, candles, flowers, or anything else that makes it feel like a special night.
We selected our top romantic vacation rentals based on the following criteria:
All listings are private residences, in line with current expert recommendations.
The selected properties offer easy access to nature, another expert recommendation, so the two of you can swim in pools, a lake, or the ocean; hike in gorgeous scenery; play in the snow; or watch the stars come out around a glowing fire.
All are top-rated properties with a review score of 4.9 or higher.
We found a wide range of price points to suit various budgets and needs. Listings range from $65 to $800 per night, with an average price of $294 per night.
Here are the best romantic vacation rentals, sorted by price from low to high.
Proof that a luxe-feeling couple's getaway doesn't have to empty your savings account: This beachy 19th-century charmer in the Kempner Park neighborhood of Galveston comes loaded with style, including period details like wood floors and shiplap walls, on a truly tiny budget. And there's plenty of details to set a romantic tone in this renovated, one-bedroom carriage house, including an indulgent King-size bed, and a cozy gas fireplace. Use the all-white kitchen to whip up some breakfast to eat at the granite-top table or to take back to bed.
Extra bonus: The carriage house's mid-island location means it's a quick eight-minute walk to the sand and seawall for beachside strolls or swimming in the surf, and close to the harbor and Fisherman's Wharf for seafood splurges.
This home still has plenty of available throughout February and March.
Turnkey rating: 5
COVID-19 policies: As part of Turnkey properties, all rentals include a professional Guestwork cleaning system and keyless entry.
The Yurt at Danville, northeast of Orlando, provides a unique getaway that's plenty private. Although it looks like it's been plucked from a medieval movie set, you and your sweetie won't have to rough it. The space is filled with creature comforts, including air conditioning, a kitchen, Wi-Fi, and a flat-screen TV, and a 14-foot vaulted ceiling complete with a five-foot skylight for indoor star gazing. This luxurious yurt also has a fire pit and grill on the deck for outdoor enjoyment.
Surrounded by live oaks and Spanish moss and all of the natural beauty of Florida, there's one more element of the outdoors to enjoy at this peaceful getaway: your next-door neighbors are a sweet family of alpacas that you can feed with grapes supplied by your host.
This yurt has scattered days open in February with more dates open in March and beyond.
Airbnb rating: 4.96
COVID-19 policy: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
Bucolic orchard cottage in Timberville, Virginia, $100
Nestled in a scenic apple orchard, the peaceful and private Orchard House is an idyllic spot to relax and unwind together. The cottage is light and airy with clerestory windows perfectly situated to take in the vistas of apple trees as far as you can see to the west, and of the Shenandoah Valley to the east.
A brick patio under the canopy of enormous oak trees makes for a sweet spot to enjoy the outdoors in any season, including the colder months when you can warm up at your private firepit.
And of course, you'll want to sip some hard cider while you take in the bucolic countryside. The production facility and tasting room for Old Hill Cider is right on the premises. stock up to sip while you watch the stars come out over the quiet orchard. During the summer and fall, you can even pick your own fruits and veggies from the garden or orchard to enjoy back in your shabby chic getaway.
This home is popular but still has scattered dates available over the next few months.
Airbnb rating: 4.95
COVID-19 policy: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
Expansive water views greet couples at this coastal home with a beachy vibe set right on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. Stroll along the beach hand in hand, then warm up in front of two wood-burning fireplaces that grace the spacious home's living area and retro-chic kitchen. A game room with a pool/ping pong/air hockey table offers up some classic fun.
On a sunny day, the two of you can watch the waves roll in from the Adirondack chairs on the upper-level patio. Or, just relax in the master bedroom, where an en-suite bathroom features a freestanding, two-person soaking tub and glass walk-in shower with dual showerheads. The master bedroom also offers access to another balcony where you can enjoy a sunset cocktail at the table for two.
This home is already largely booked for much of 2021. It may be worth planning ahead and booking now for a trip further in the future.
Turnkey rating: 5
COVID-19 policies: As part of Turnkey properties, all rentals include professional Guestwork cleaning system and keyless entry.
European romantic cottage in New Hope, Pennsylvania, $200
It's hard not to think you've touched down in a quaint English village when you arrive in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. The local area boasts centuries-old homes and buildings with medieval doors and iron gates. Not to mention the adorable cottages, like this herringbone hideaway, sprinkled in.
Follow the torch-lit walkway that meanders through the garden to arrive at the historic home. Unwind among the dark wood furnishings or enjoy a meal out on the private brick patio under a colorful green umbrella. In the evening, head to Philips Mill just down the garden path. The famed restaurant is noted for being one of the most romantic spots in Bucks County, and this house is the closest building to it.
During the day, follow the towpath outside the garden for one mile to New Hope and Lambertville, European-style villages you can explore by horse-drawn carriage for a completely transporting afternoon of sightseeing.
Plan to spend a few evenings in the country since the cottage is only available for multi-night stays. This home still has plenty of available in February, March, and April.
Airbnb rating: 4.96
COVID-19 policy: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
Enjoy the views of the Great Smokey Mountains from this one-bedroom cabin in Gatlinburg. The mountain hideaway is just three miles from the national park entrance, making it especially easy to get out and explore the natural area. Though, you might just be tempted to hole up in this cozy pine cabin duplex.
With views from every room, and even from the plush bed, you'll be able to keep an eye on local wildlife, including black bears, both indoors and outside. Laze in the hammock on the second-floor deck for eagle-eye views of the valley and the sky. On the deck below, you can soak in the hot tub as you stargaze. Inside is a billiards table, kitchen, living area with fireplace, and a King bed and deep soaking tub in the loft upstairs.
This cabin is still available nearly every day over the next few months, including Valentine's Day weekend.
Vrbo Rating: 4.9
COVID-19 policy: Property is cleaned with disinfectant with additional focus on high-touch surfaces (like countertops, light switches, handles, and faucets); check-in and check-out with no person-to-person contact; towels and bedding washed in minimum 140ºF water.
Chic beach hideaway in Los Angeles, California, $250
Located in the hip area of Venice Beach, this skylit one-bedroom bungalow provides a designer hideaway with sumptuous touches for a romantic escape that feels like you've traveled far away, even though you're still in the city. You'll especially feel like you're in a hidden oasis when you step into the bamboo-framed courtyard. An al fresco bathtub for two provides an intimate spot for a soak under the stars.
Inside, the master bathroom features an oversize marble steam shower for the ultimate in relaxation. There's also a gourmet kitchen for whipping up snacks, or you can always order in some decadent takeout from Venice's beachside eateries to enjoy on the private deck. Of course, just cozying up in the black-and-white living area by the fireplace is always an option too.
This home still has almost every date open over the next few months, including Valentine's Day weekend.
Rating: New listing, no ratings yet
COVID-19 policies: As part of Turnkey properties, all rentals include professional Guestwork cleaning system and keyless entry.
Although it's just 15 minutes from the hippie arts outpost of Woodstock, Willow Treehouse is less a bohemian hideout and more a sleek contemporary sculpture settled into the treetops. It's a dramatic overnight space for a country getaway, providing a secluded nest in the forest for the two of you to reconnect. The glass-fronted treetop cabin overlooks a small swimming pond, ideal for a dip on a warm day.
If you come during the winter, when ice may deter you from a swim, you can still enjoy the wood-fire-warmed hot tub before sitting in front of the wood fire indoors.
This listing is super popular and already booking up fast for dates throughout 2021. It may be worth planning well in advance and booking now for a trip far in the future.
Airbnb Rating: 4.94
COVID-19 policies: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
Nestled under giant oaks at the end of a quiet country road is this colorful and contemporary cottage overlooking Sonoma Valley's vineyards.
Nestled on over six acres, you'll have ample space to spread out, and you can survey the vines from the private outdoor hot tub or the large deck. And with few neighbors nearby, you'll have deliciously dark skies for unimpeded evening gazing from around the firepit.
The ultimate abode for wine lovers, stock up at more than a dozen award-winning wineries within 10 minutes of your doorstep to create a private at-home wine tasting experience for just the two of you.
Up for a swim? The cottage also has access to a gorgeous pool and patio overlooking the surrounding vineyards. However, be aware the outdoor area is shared with the separate main home.
This listing has wide open availability over the next few months, including over Valentine's Day weekend.
Turnkey rating: 5
COVID-19 policies: As part of Turnkey properties, all rentals include professional Guestwork cleaning system and keyless entry.
There's something magical about being surrounded by the red rocks of Sedona, whether or not you believe in their purported spiritual and healing energy. You can't get any closer to the stunning rock formations than this special property that backs directly up to national forest and the impressive stone peaks.
The artistic home brings the natural world inside with stacked stone and wood detailing, enormous windows, and Southwestern art. Additional highlights include a King bed in the master suite, a sunken living room with a fireplace, and a gourmet kitchen, too. Trailheads are within walking distance to explore the forest, but you can also enjoy private views from the outdoor dining area and the hot tub.
This home has wide open availability over the next few months, including over Valentine's Day weekend.
Rating: 5
COVID-19 policy: The property notes it is actively following CDC cleaning/disinfecting guidelines.
A secluded tree house in a city is tough to come by, but this whimsical wooded wonderland accomplishes the seemingly impossible. It delivers a completely hidden forest stay, complete with twinkle lights strung throughout, just minutes from downtown Atlanta.
A fairytale escape for grownups, there are swinging rope walkways, a bed on wheels that peers over the edge of the upper deck and into the trees and can be pushed into the open air, an open-sky living room to listen to the rustling leaves, a tin roof, plus high-end sheets and antique furnishings to complete the special stay.
Note that if you're scared of heights, this probably isn't your ideal escape, especially since you need to climb down to ground level to use the private, though not attached, bathroom.
This super popular listing is one of the most wish-listed properties on Airbnb. While there are a few scattered dates available, it may be worth booking now for a trip in 2022.
Rating: 4.95
COVID-19 policies: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
Waterfront getaway on Puget Sound, Washington, $395
The luxurious Bluff House was built for romance, with views over the Puget Sound from every room through, count them, 45 windows! It feels like you're walking on water while you watch the sun set and the moon rise from the viewing deck outside, and the barefoot luxury of a private beach means you can enjoy solitude away from prying eyes.
Wood burning fireplaces both indoors and out create a nice atmosphere for snuggling up while you look out over the gently lapping Sound, and take in the views of Admiralty Inlet, the Cascade Mountains, Whidbey Island, and Mount Baker. Follow the stairs down to the fabulous soft sand and driftwood beach, ideal for beachcombing and afternoon picnics.
A viewing platform at the water's edge is just the spot for star gazing and a cocktail. With more than 800 square feet of deck and 1.5 acres of wooded grounds, you and your amour will be able to find an outdoor space for just the two of you to enjoy.
This home has wide open availability over the next several months, including over Valentine's Day weekend.
Vrbo rating: 5
COVID-19 policy: The property notes it is actively following CDC cleaning/disinfecting guidelines.
For ski bunnies looking to splurge, a luxurious winter wonderland awaits in Vail at this exclusive Lionshead Mountain condo. This is a bit of ice-covered paradise, reflected in the high price tag, and you'll be just steps away from the Eagle Bahn gondola, meaning you can hit the slopes before anyone else and be cozied up back in your luxe abode before any crowds gather on the snow.
Apres ski in your lavish retreat where the double wall of windows showcases sweeping mountain views. In the open living area snuggle up on the plush sectional and watch a movie on the 70-inch television, or sip some mulled wine in front of the gas fireplace.
Although you'll have total privacy in your penthouse apartment, you can also enjoy resort-style amenities at Lionhead, including year-round access to an outdoor heated pool and three rooftop hot tubs, plus complimentary ski lockers, a fitness center, and even a fire pit for s'mores for two.
This home still has several dates available throughout February and March. It's wide open from April onward.
Turnkey rating: 5
COVID-19 policies: As part of Turnkey properties, all rentals include professional Guestwork cleaning system and keyless entry.
Here is a comparison of nine popular online mattress companies like Casper, Leesa, Bear, and more to help you find one that suits your specific sleep needs.
All of the online mattresses listed below offer a 90- or 100-night risk-free trial, free shipping and returns, and a 10-year warranty.
The fact that buying a new mattress no longer requires driving to a showroom and then spending a few hours testing different options under fluorescent lights is a perk of modern life.
The explosion of online mattress startups means we can try out beds in the comfort of our homes, without hovering attendants, and skip the prices that accompany brick-and-mortar stores. What used to be a tedious afternoon has been simplified to a click.
But the proliferation of options in a vast online marketplace where most mattresses look the same can make the buying process more convoluted than it should be. The products are cheaper, more convenient, and often better — but it can be impossible to distinguish which retailers' mattresses will suit your needs.
Keeping that in mind, we aimed to streamline the comparison process for you. Below are nine popular online mattress retailers and a cheat sheet comparing what each one's products are known for, to save you time.
All nine mattress retailers offer:
A 10-year warranty
Free shipping and easy returns
A generous 90- or 100-night sleep trial (Tempur-Pedic offers 90, most offer 100)
Types of mattresses: Leesa has four mattresses, which we've reviewed here. The Original has three layers of premium foam, the Hybrid has foam and one layer of springs, and the Legend has foam and two layers of springs. The most recent is Studio, which is the brand's most value-oriented mattress and has three layers of foam.
We like that the hybrids combine the support of traditional springs and the comfort of foam for the best of both worlds, though at a higher price point. We named Leesa's mid-tier Hybrid mattress as the top hybrid mattress in our buying guide for the best mattresses online.
Price range:$599-$2,099 depending on the type and size of the mattress.
Types of mattresses: Casper has eight mattresses, five of which are sold on its site and three that are sold exclusively at retailers like Target and Zola; we reviewed the five most popular ones here. There are all-foam and hybrid versions of the Original and Wave, and the Snug, cost-effective Element, and super-soft Nova, which also comes as an all-foam or hybrid. The Essential was dropped and renamed to the Element.
Types of mattresses: Purple has three mattresses: an original Purple mattress, Purple Hybrid, and Purple Hybrid Premiere. The original Purple mattress offers balanced support with its signature Purple Grid layer. The Hybrid has dynamic support with its Purple Grid and coils. The Hybrid Premiere is an extra inch thick, with coils and 50% more Purple Grid than the Hybrid.
Price range: $649-$3,798 depending on the type and size of the mattress.
Delivery: Deliveries are still ongoing, but might be delayed.
Special features: The Purple Mattress is billed as the world's first No-Pressure Mattress, or, in other words, it supports the body without creating any painful pressure points or pockets of heat. The company's Purple Grid facilitates airflow and was built to eliminate pressure points altogether.
Current discounts:
Get free sheets and two pillows free with select mattress purchases
Types of mattresses:Depends. After filling out a questionnaire with information such as your height, weight, firmness preference, and sleeping style, Helix will develop your very own sleep profile, which will be analyzed to optimize the performance of your mattress. Altogether, the site offers about 13 different options.
Price range: $600 to $2,199 depending on the type and size of the mattress
Delivery: Helix is offering free no-contact delivery.
Special features: Customization of the mattress based on your individual sleep profile. Helix can even set you up with a split mattress so that you and your partner can both be perfectly comfortable sleeping side by side.
Types of mattresses:Tuft & Needle makes three mattresses: the Original, the Mint, and the Hybrid. The Original has 10 inches of Adaptive Foam, the Mint has 12 inches of Enhanced Adaptive Foam, and the Hybrid has 12 inches of Adaptive Foam and springs.
Price range: $350-$1,745 depending on the type and size of the mattress.
Delivery: Standard shipping is available in the contiguous US, white glove delivery is available for $150.
Special features: The T&N foam is meant to adapt to every individual's body; the more pressure you apply, the more it supports you.
Current discounts:
Up to $150 off mattresses
Year-round discounts for active and veteran members of the military, first responders, and healthcare professionals
Learn more about Tuft & Needle from Insider Reviews::
Types of mattresses: Bear makes three types of mattresses: the Original, the Pro, and the Hybrid. The Original is medium-firm and has 10 inches of graphite memory foam. The Pro is medium-firm and includes 12 inches of both copper and gel memory foam. The Hybrid is medium-firm and 14 inches high, made from the company's Serene foam as well as coils.
Price range: $500-$1,690 depending on the type and size of the mattress
Delivery: Bear offers contactless delivery.
Special features: Bear claims its premium graphite gel memory foam was engineered specifically for optimal cooling, comfort, and muscle recovery, so if you want to decrease your chances of waking up sore after a workout, this might be worth considering. Plus, Bear has donated over $150,000 and more than 2,700 pieces of equipment to local youth sports programs in Jersey City through Good Sports Charity.
Type of mattress: Eight Sleep makes one temperature-regulating mattress, and two with more high-tech sleep-tracking features. The Pod can adjust the temperature of your bed to be cooler or hotter while The Pod Pro and The Pod Pro Max has sensors to monitor your health and heart rate and technology to help you wake up more gently.
Price: Starting at $2,295 for a Full
Delivery: Free shipping and free returns. Eight doesn't offer white glove delivery or mattress removal.
Special features: It uses warm or cool liquid in its Active Grid Tech cover to keep you at your ideal temperature — regulating each side of the bed from 55 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit. It also includes sensors that track your individual biometrics on each side of the bed, including sleep stages, sleep time, tosses and turns, heart rate, and more. You can control settings and access sleep reports and insights via an app. You can also set your Pod temperature remotely from outside the house.
Current discounts:
Take up to $150 off the Pod Pro at checkout
Year-round discounts for members of the military, students, first responders, and more
The Tempur-Cloud is the cheapest in its signature Tempur material, the Tempur-Adapt has the addition of a cool-to-the-touch cover, and the Tempur-PROAdapt has 20% more pressure relief thanks to its Tempur-APR material and an added washable, zip-off cooling cover.
The Tempur-Luxe has two different iterations (Luxe and Pro) and is 30% more body-conforming than the Tempur-PROAdapt. Both the Luxe and Pro versions use the same Tempur-CM material with great breathability, but the LuxeBreeze also has built-in ventilation channels. The LuxeBreeze can help you sleep up to 8 degrees Fahrenheit cooler at night, and the PRObreeze can manage 3 degrees cooler. We named the Tempur-Pedic PRObreeze the best mattress for hot sleepers.
Price range: $1,699-$8,398 for a Twin to Split King.
Delivery: In-home delivery and installation services are paused temporarily. There is an additional option for curbside delivery.
Current discounts:
Save 30% on select mattresses
Get $300 in free accessories or instant credit with select mattress purchases
Learn more about Tempur-Pedic from Insider Reviews:
Types of mattresses: Allswell makes three mattresses: the Allswell, Luxe, and Supreme. The original Allswell is a hybrid made with memory foam and coil. The Luxe is also a hybrid foam and coil mattress, with the addition of cooling gel swirl foam. The Supreme is a hybrid foam and coil mattress with extra padding and a temperature-regulating foam layer.
Price range: $265-$1,245
Delivery: There's free ground shipping in the contiguous US over $35. The $149 white glove delivery and $199 white glove plus mattress removal options are temporarily paused.
Special features: Allswell is one of the cheapest hybrid foam and coil mattresses on the market.
Current discounts: There are no current discounts.
We have buying guides for virtually everything you can purchase online. We test dozens of products and then rank them in one easy, straightforward list so you get the best without having to dump hours into internet research.
Below, you'll find a few of our guides to the best sleep products on the internet:
Table of Contents: Masthead StickySummary List Placement
An air purifier can help clear your indoor air of pollutants, dust, and smoke.
We tested and researched more than 10 air purifiers to determine the best ones for your needs and budget.
The Blueair Blue Pure 211+ is the best air purifier because it can clean a 650-square-foot room in 15 minutes and has an indicator so you know when to clean or replace filters.
An air purifier can greatly help improve the quality of indoor air, which can be more polluted than the air outside your home. According to the EPA, air purifiers outfitted with a HEPA filter are an effective way to remove particles from smoke and ash and can be particularly helpful in improving symptoms for individuals with asthma or COPD that are triggered by wildfire smoke.
If you're considering an air purifier to help protect against the novel coronavirus, according to the EPA, a portable air cleaner by itself is not enough. However, when used along with other best practices recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention such as hand washing and social distancing, operating an air cleaner can be part of a plan to protect you and your household.
Our guide of the best air purifiers recommends models that are easy to maintain, remove a broad array of irritants from the air, and performed well in our tests. When we examined each model, we considered its Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR), noise level, long-term costs, maintenance, and filtration systems. We also noted how easy they are to use, as well as any other useful features.
We explain our testing methodology here at the end of our guide, and included other models we looked at that didn't make the cut as well as air-purifying techniques.
The Blueair Blue Pure 211+ Air Purifier filters the air in medium-to-large rooms up to five times per hour, and it's so quiet that you won't notice it's operating.
Pros: Does an excellent job of removing dust, pollen, and smoke; indicator lets you know when to clean/replace filter; attractive appearance; easy to use
Cons: Filter replacement is expensive
The Blueair Blue Pure 211+ Air Purifier is designed to remove bacteria, mold, pet dander, dust, pollen, viruses, and other airborne pollutants. And, with a Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) of 350 cubic feet per minute, it can clean the air in a 650-square-foot room approximately four times in an hour. Plus, it's small and lightweight enough for you to effortlessly move it from one room to the next.
The Blue Pure 211+ has three-stage filtration: a fabric pre-filter, particle filter, and carbon filter. And, the unit tells you when it's time to clean or replace the filter. Replacing the filter can be quite pricey though it should be done every six months to ensure you continue to breathe properly filtered air. The Blue Pure 211+ is Energy Star-certified and has relatively low energy costs (using 30 to 60 watts).
Another nice feature is that it runs quietly, ranging from 31 decibels on its lowest setting and 56 on its highest — quiet enough to use in a bedroom.
Last year, the Blueair 211+ was sold out at many online retailers or were selling at marked-up prices due to the California wildfires and the novel coronavirus pandemic. The purifiers are more available now, and we never suggest buying items that are marked up if you can help it.
The best on a budget
If you're looking for an air purifier that offers an impressive balance of price and performance, the Honeywell HPA300 True HEPA Air Purifier is your best bet.
Pros: Affordable; intuitive controls; easy to transport; does a very good job of removing smoke, dust, and pollen
Cons: Complaints of odors; might be too loud on high speed for some; expensive replacement filters
Honeywell is a trusted brand when it comes to air purifiers, and the HPA300 True HEPA Air Purifier is the company's most acclaimed model. In a crowded field of expensive models, this Honeywell unit does the best job of balancing performance with price.
With a CADR of 320 for dust (300 for smoke and pollen), the HPA300 is suited for rooms of up to 600 square feet. It has an activated carbon pre-filter, which needs to be replaced every three months, and three HEPA filters, which need to be replaced every year. A year's supply of replacement filters will run you approximately $70, so the operating cost is quite high. An indicator light lets you know when it's time to change the filter.
The biggest drawbacks are the high costs for filter replacement and operation.
This was also previously available on Walmart via third-party sellers, which we don't recommend as shipping dates and prices are unreliable and return policies are dubious at best. Thankfully, the item is available via Honeywell now.
Pros: Low filter and operating costs; silent operation; wall-mounted; outstanding at removing particulate matter; attractive appearance; five-year warranty
Cons: Expensive upfront cost
When installing an air purifier, you not only have to account for the space the unit takes up, but you also have to provide clearance around it to allow for airflow. When real estate is at a premium and appearances are important, the wall-mounted RabbitAir MinusA2 Ultra Quiet HEPA Air Purifier addresses this.
The MinusA2 has a six-stage filter: pre-filter, medium filter, patented BioGS HEPA filter, charcoal-based activated carbon filter, optional negative ion generator, and a customized filter. The custom filter is unique in that you can choose to target toxins, odors, pet dander, or germs depending on your needs. The filter replacement kit is expensive, but you only need to budget for it every two years or so.
This was previously only available on Amazon via third-party seller, which we don't recommend, but it's now available on Amazon via the RabbitAir store directly.
Pros: Quiet; attractive design; energy-efficient; cleans the air in a 760-square-foot room in 15 minutes
Cons: Expensive filter contributes to the overall price
The Airmega 400 Smart Air Purifier is Coway's top-of-the-line model. It features two sets of filters on each side of the unit: the easy-to-clean pre-filter and the Max2 filter, which is a combined True HEPA filter and activated charcoal. When it's time to change the filters, the indicator light turns on. The Airmega 400 can monitor the air quality and adjust the fan speed to quickly filter the air.
I tested this air purifier on the main floor of my home in a centrally-located spot. Although it's designed for rooms up to 760 square feet, it still did a great job in my open, 1,400-square-foot area, filtering the air in about 15 minutes.
On Smart mode, the fan speed ramps up when I get overzealous with my meat searing in the kitchen. After a year of use, I'm just now nearing the end of the original filter's lifespan. Replacing the filters is incredibly pricey, however.
While some recommend the Wi-Fi-enabled version, the Airmega 400S, the only real difference between the 400S and 400 is the app-connectivity and Amazon Alexa compatibility. Other than that, performance is essentially the same.
This was previously out of stock at many online retailers but it's more readily available now.
In addition to three filters, the Coway AP-1512HH Mighty Air Purifier includes ionization, and the fan speed adjusts based on the air quality.
Pros: Automatically adjusts fan speed based on pollutants in the air; timer; four-stage filtration; eco mode
Cons: High power consumption, gets loud on high
Coway is one of the top names in air purifiers and the Coway AP-1512HH Mighty Air Purifier is its most popular model. It has an array of high-end features, including an air quality indicator, an auto mode that adjusts the fan speed to the air quality, and a shut-off timer.
The Mighty has a CADR of 246 cubic feet per minute for dust, 240 for pollen, and 233 for smoke, which makes it a good option for rooms of up to 460 square feet. The air goes through four filter stages: pre-filter, odor filter, true HEPA filter, and an ionizer. An ionizer electrically charges air molecules for purification; it can lower bacterial infections by removing particles in the air. But note that the effectiveness has been questioned and may emit ozone. Fortunately, any ozone exposure is minimal, and you can turn the ionizing feature off if you're concerned.
The Coway Mighty is one of three air purifiers I'm currently running in my home. My son has it in his bedroom so we can minimize our home's "teen odor index." We've had it for a year, and it does an outstanding job. And, I like how easy it is to clean the pre-filter: When the indicator light tells me it's time for cleaning, I just run a cordless handheld vacuum over it. So far, I haven't had to replace the filter, but it's pretty affordable and it lasts for a year.
If you're looking for a similar model, Coway has a newer version called the Airmega 200M. Based on our testing, the 200M is more powerful but is otherwise similar in performance to the Mighty. Depending on the color, you can sometimes find the newer Airmega 200M to be significantly cheaper than the Mighty. If you come across this, we suggest going with the cheaper of the two because the performance is so similar. We think you'll be satisfied with either.
The Mighty didn't experience discernable shipping delays or inventory issues previously and is readily available on Amazon.
What else we recommend
While researching this guide, we looked at numerous models and brands of air purifiers. Many of them just missed the cut, but are otherwise strong products in their own right. Here are five that almost made it:
Product Embed: Product Name: Coway Airmega 200M Air Purifier Card Type: medium https://produktor.businessinsider.com/productCardService?id=5d83721c2e22af158442d343&type=medium&live=true Width: 100% Height: 150%Product Embed: Product Name: Alen BreatheSmart Classic Large Room Air Purifier Card Type: medium https://produktor.businessinsider.com/productCardService?id=5e440ff03b62b72764466ee7&type=medium&live=true Width: 100% Height: 150%Product Embed: Product Name: Dyson Pure Cool TP04 Air Purifier Card Type: medium https://produktor.businessinsider.com/productCardService?id=5d7a5a652e22af17bf3fc1b3&type=medium&live=true Width: 100% Height: 150%Product Embed: Product Name: AeraMax 100 Air Purifier Card Type: medium https://produktor.businessinsider.com/productCardService?id=5e4411304b661b2bcf78a6c7&type=medium&live=true Width: 100% Height: 150%
How we test air purifiers
When I test an air purifier, there are several things I look for such as the rate in which it cleans, noise level, and more.
In addition to hands-on testing, I turn to other established reviewers, such as Wirecutter and Consumer Reports, for their assessments. Based on my and other experts' research and testing, and looking through the manufacturers' specs, I'm able to compare the key performance indicators of the top models.
Here are the main attributes when testing air purifiers:
CADR: Clean Air Delivery Rate is a rating developed by the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers that is used to determine how many cubic feet of air an appliance can clean in a minute. If you multiply the CADR by 1.875, you can determine what room size the air purifier can clean four times in one hour, which is the recommended minimum number of air changes per hour (ACH). This calculation assumes an average ceiling height of 8 feet. Don't worry if this sounds confusing: We put it in easy-to-understand terms in our guide.
Noise level: A good air purifier will operate in the background without most people noticing it. Loud air purifiers are a deal-breaker. I use a sound meter positioned four feet from the air purifier and measure the decibels when the fan is at its lowest speed and highest speed. The average unit should register less than 40 decibels (like light rain) most of the time and about 60 decibels (normal conversation) on high.
Long-term costs: Air purifier filters don't last forever. They need to be replaced every 3 to 24 months, depending on the type of filter. When buying an air purifier, you need to factor in filter costs and operating expenses. Look for Energy Star-certified units if you want to save money on electricity.
Maintenance: If your filters are dirty, then they won't perform well. You need to clean your filters regularly. I prefer an air purifier that tells me when it's time for a cleaning. A cordless hand vacuum is all you need to clean most filters. You can clean some with water, but read the user's manual to make sure it's okay before doing this, and be sure to thoroughly dry the filter before using it again.
Filtration: You want a true HEPA or HEPA-type filter that can remove at least 99.97% of 0.3-micron airborne particles. The purifiers in our guide all meet this requirement. Additionally, some models have ionizers. Ionizers are controversial, but they reportedly produce negative ions that cling to air pollutants, which makes them easier to filter or vacuum up.
What we're looking forward to test
We'll continue to test our top picks to see how they hold up long-term. Here's a look at other air purifiers we're looking to test for future updates to this guide:
FrescheAir ($99.99): This is a portable air purifier and deodorizer, so it'd be interesting to see how the smaller size might affect the performance.
Rx Air 400 ($899.99): This is one of the most expensive air purifiers we've seen so it'd be great to see how the quality stacks up to others we've tested. It's also labeled as a Class II Medical Device, which other air purifiers are not.
Dyson Pure Cool TP04 Purifying Fan ($549.99): My colleagues have tested older generations of this air purifier but I have yet to test it personally.
PURO²XYGEN P500 Air Purifier ($169.97): This is among the least expensive air purifiers we've seen so it'll be a good contender for our best budget pick. Like the RabbitAir, this has a six-stage filtration system, and it's effective in smaller spaces up to 500 square feet. It'll be interesting to see how its low price
How to keep your air clean if you don't have an air purifier
Intense wildfires that raged in California and Oregon in 2020 burned more than 3 million acres, displaced hundreds of thousands of people, and blanketed cities hundreds of miles away from the epicenters in ash and eerie orange skies. Between wildfires and the novel coronavirus, air quality is at the forefront of many minds.
With so many people struggling with poor indoor air quality, we spoke with Dr. Junfeng Zhang, Ph.D., Professor of Global and Environmental Health at Duke University, for advice on what you can do if you don't have an air purifier.
Dr. Zhang is particularly concerned about how individuals with asthma, COPD, heart disease, and other pre-existing diseases will cope with the poor air quality on the west coast, which is currently the worst in the world. "In the absence of a HEPA-based air purifier," Dr. Zhang said, "I'd suggest that people, especially those who are more susceptible/vulnerable, wear N95 face masks, even when staying indoors."
Unfortunately, true N95 masks are still hard to come by and should be reserved for medical workers but there are some more widely-available alternatives, such as KN95 masks, which can provide a decent level of filtration. The CDC has released respirator assessment results for some of these. There is a lot of misinformation and counterfeit products floating around, so be extra cautious in ensuring that you're buying from a trusted seller.
And think again before filling your house with plants. Dr. Zhang said he didn't think they were helpful, and a 2019 article in The Atlantic cites research showing that indoor vegetation will not remove significant pollutants from the air.
If you are one of the lucky ones with an air purifier, remember to clean your filter thoroughly and often so it can do its job. But for an effective multi-pronged attack on pollutants, you'll want to test and improve your air. Here's a guide on how to test and improve indoor quality and simple steps you can take to clean your air more effectively:
Ventilate: This could include installing ventilation fans in your bathroom or kitchen, or running (well-cleaned) ceiling fans. Freestanding fans can also help clean air circulating, here are the best ones. Be sure not to open windows or doors to prevent polluted air from coming inside.
Store chemicals outside of your house: Abrasive cleaners and other harsh chemicals are often a source of irritation. Store them in your shed or garage and not where you will be exposed to them regularly.
Known for its moderate year-round climate, perennially popular beach towns, and thriving surf culture, San Diego has long captured the imaginations of travelers near and far. It doesn't hurt that the life and legend of Ron Burgundy continue to reign supreme here, so much so that one of the city's most beloved organic taco shops even has a burrito named after him (pro tip: it's delicious).
Appealing to those seeking a laid-back beach getaway, it evokes more of a small town in a big city vibe, especially compared to its formidable neighbors to the north, Los Angeles and San Francisco.
As COVID-19 continues to spread across the US, many travelers are seeking scenic domestic getaways with easy access to nature. Experts and the CDC have also noted that private vacation rentals like Airbnbs are safer than hotels due to little to no contact with staff or other travelers. And according to a recent survey released by Airbnb, California is one of the most popular locations for rentals right now.
However before you click the book button, you might want to read up on California'scurrent travel restrictions and advisories, especially when it comes to staying in an Airbnb. As of December 9, the governor of California enacted the state's most extreme regional stay home order to date, which also included a ban on "leisure lodging bans" across large swaths of Northern and Southern California. As such, you may want to plan now, but put any actual travel plans on hold until the future.
That said, for those who are eyeing a trip to San Diego, there's plenty of variety to keep you busy. Much like New York City, every neighborhood has its own distinct personality and flavor. For the urbanites, the Gaslamp Quarter and Little Italy are chock full of bars and nightlife. La Jolla with its idyllic La Jolla Cove and upmarket restaurants and boutiques has long been a fan favorite. Drive 25 miles up the 101 and you'll find yourself in beach towns from Cardiff and Encinitas, both of which are a great option for surf and beach bums looking for a more casual atmosphere.
While there's a premium placed on staying a bit closer to the ocean, if you're willing to explore farther afield and stay in some of San Diego's most beloved local neighborhoods, you can have a more affordable vacation. No matter your preferences, there's no shortage of amazing accommodations to choose from.
We selected San Diego Airbnbs based on the following criteria:
Listings are for the entire home, cottage, or stand-alone apartment to avoid interaction with owners or other guests, in line with recommended COVID-19 precautions.
We kept affordability in mind but found a range of rates to suit various budgets, with listings priced between $87 and $318 per night to start.
All are top-rated properties, listed by Airbnb Superhosts, with a review score of 4.85 or higher.
Each property has a variety of appealing amenities from private pools and hot tubs to and decks with water views, and many are within walking distance of the beach.
Here are the best Airbnbs in San Diego, sorted by price from low to high.
A cozy craftsman home in historic Golden Hill, $87
Set in a 100-year old craftsman-style home in San Diego's historic Golden Hill, this one-bedroom abode is clean, quiet, and excellent for exploring one of San Diego's most eclectic neighborhoods.
Tastefully decorated with design charms in every nook and cranny, this hidden gem is located just south of Balboa Park and the World-Famous San Diego Zoo, a must-visit for first timer's traveling to San Diego. A vetted Airbnb Plus listing, this home features a soothing neutral color palette and southwestern flair by way of decorative pillows, sheepskin rugs, and succulents galore. The host is a local San Diegan, and guests rave about her responsiveness and tips on local spots to explore.
This cozy historic home has a lot of availability starting at the end of January.
Rating: 4.89
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
Charming cottage with a private patio in Normal Heights, $89
Tucked away in a residential area on the outskirts of San Diego's trendy Normal Heights neighborhood, what this private studio lacks in physical space it more than makes up for in character.
The gray and white minimalistic decor help the space feel bright and open. Ideal for the solo traveler or couples, this studio also features an enclosed private courtyard that comes with a gas grill, cushy loveseat, and wooden dining table.
The property has received a near-perfect rating by more than 175 guests who've stayed here and past guests rave about the studio's convenient location to some of the area's most beloved bars and cafes.
This cozy getaway has scattered dates of availability starting at the end of January and beyond.
Rating: 4.99
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
Set in one of San Diego's most iconic locales, this cozy studio in South Mission Bay is ideal for couples or solo travelers. Complete with a Queen bed, bikes, and boogie boards, it's just a quick walk to get to San Diego Bay and all that this venerable neighborhood has to offer.
Guests who have stayed at this wood-clad studio with bamboo accents have lauded its convenient location to the boardwalk and nearby Belmont Park, both of which are great places to spend an afternoon sightseeing and people watching. The apartment also comes furnished with a small patio and grill, ideal for those warm San Diego nights.
There are scattered days available in January and February, and the home has wider availability starting in March and beyond.
Rating: 4.86
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
If you're looking to explore a different side of San Diego, this cute cottage on Coronado Island is a great place to start. Coronado is perhaps best known as the home of the legendary Hotel Del Coronado (known locally as The Del,) and this newly renovated home, which features a great soaking tub and fully stocked kitchen, is right nearby.
Just a quick trip over the iconic Coronado bridge from downtown San Diego, this spot comes stocked with all the cooking essentials you need and is well within walking distance to shops and restaurants. Guests who've stayed here have raved about the unique location while still being in close driving proximity to the Gaslamp Quarter in downtown San Diego. The black-and-white checkerboard flooring, white subway-tile shower, and lovely interior living room space make this a great option for guests looking for a different kind of island getaway.
One important thing to note is that the washer and dryer are shared in the complex, which might be a turn off to some travelers right now.
This popular home tends to book in advance, with the first dates of availability starting in the middle of March.
Rating: 5.0
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
One of San Diego's most exciting neighborhoods, this boho-chic loft in the heart of Little Italy boasts Southwestern-style with a twist, from the longhorn skull accent to the colorful red and yellow tones to the portable art deco bar. It features a gorgeous garden oasis, but the big sell is the private rooftop with views of downtown and San Diego Bay. Not to mention its convenient location close to the Gaslamp Quarter.
With more than 400-reviews and a near-perfect rating, guests here love watching the sunset from the rooftop and the walkability factor of the neighborhood.
Housed inside The Dutra Inn, this one-bedroom unit is a five-story walk-up with no elevator, be aware this option might be limiting to some travelers.
This home has limited availability in February, but is pretty much wide open starting in March.
Rating: 4.98
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
One of San Diego's last "authentic" beach communities, this modern two-bedroom bungalow in Ocean Beach is a great place for a small group or family. The area, known locally as OB, is home to some of the best local eats, quirky boutiques, and surf shops, as well as being in close proximity to Sea World and downtown San Diego.
Just a block away from the beach, this light-filled home features a spacious roof deck with sweeping views over the bay and ocean. Boasting a modern minimalist design, unique highlights include the hammock swing in the ground floor bedroom the rooftop sun lounger, ideal for soaking in a sunset. Plus, large windows can be opened to let a cool ocean breeze waft through.
This popular modern home is available for bookings starting at the end of January with most of February still up for grabs.
Rating: 4.85
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
Colorful pet-friendly beach home in the heart of Encinitas, $172
California living doesn't get much better than this pet-friendly beach house in the heart of Encinitas. Complete with a stone fire pit in the backyard and wooden picnic table on the spacious covered porch, this home is designed to showcase the best of indoor and outdoor living San Diego has to offer.
The colorful paintings, cheerful accents and backsplashes, along with bright blue and green furniture in this two-bedroom home make for an exuberant atmosphere. The master bedroom features a King bed and direct porch access. The second bedroom includes a Queen bed and bunk beds, making this ideal for a family or small group of friends. It also has a washer/dryer, which comes in handy for those doing longer stays.
Pop over to nearby Swamis Café or the Encinitas Ale House for a local bite.
This Airbnb books quickly and has limited availability through February, so it's best to make plans a few months in advance.
Rating: 4.92
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
Charming La Jolla beach cottage with a secret garden, $191
It's tough to beat enjoying breakfast in the secret garden of a beach cottage in the heart of La Jolla. This beautiful light-filled abode features one King bedroom along with a full kitchen and plenty of outdoor space.
Tucked away on a residential street of La Jolla Village, the area features some of San Diego's most upscale shopping and boutiques. Best of all, you'll find one of San Diego's premier beaches just a short distance away at La Jolla Cove, along with some of the best fine dining restaurants and oceanfront restaurants and bars.
The home expertly balances a unique mix of retro beach decor with romantic accents, including ornate headboards, a marble-topped breakfast bar, ocean-themed pillows, and blue and white accents throughout.
As popular with local San Diegan's looking for a staycation as it is for out of towners, this cottage has limited availability in January with more dates opeing in February.
Rating: 4.98
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
Secluded country casita in the heart of Encinitas, $235
While most people traveling to San Diego dream of staying near the beach, this gorgeous casita in rural Encinitas just might convince you not to. Set within an exclusive gated community in a country-like setting, this guesthouse boasts a private entrance and hundreds of miles of hiking, biking, and horseback riding right outside your front door.
Stylish furnishings like elegant French doors, a bright white kitchen complete with espresso machine, and an indoor fireplace in the bedroom make this a standout stay. However, it's the outdoor amenities that are the biggest draw here. With access to the home's private tennis court and 45-foot pool, as well as a private patio and gardens, this is a great option for nature lovers looking for some peace and quiet away from the fray of city life.
While this is a guesthouse located on a larger property with another home, if you're skeptical of the privacy, one recent reviewer praised their experience saying, "Wonderful peaceful stay. Clean, spacious, bright guesthouse. Gorgeous yard with lush trees and gardens. Loved the hot tub and tennis court. Family was at home in the main house but our space felt very private. Loved sitting out on the patio reading."
This home books quickly and has limited availability until the middle of February.
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
One of southern California's coolest beach towns, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, is beloved by locals and visitors due to its laid-back atmosphere and world-class surf culture. In fact, you don't have to stray too far if you want to check the surf report here since you can see the ocean from the home.
Just across the street from beautiful Glenn Park, this elegant two-bedroom home offers modern amenities and beachy but calming decor, along with a 900-square-foot patio and fire pit for cozying up and watching the sun set.
Inside, a large wrap-around breakfast bar and full kitchen, as well as a laundry room and two full bathrooms, make this a great long-term stay option for families. Also featuring a private two-car garage, heat lamps, grill, and outdoor shower, the indoor-outdoor living room set up is is great for both warm and chilly nights by the beach.
This popular home tends to book in advance, with the next available dates starting in mid-March and wide availability in April.
Rating: 4.94
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
Inauguration Day 2021 is unlike those in the past.
President-elect Joe Biden and VP-elect Kamala Harris will be sworn in amid a coronavirus pandemic that has claimed more than 400,000 lives in the US as of Tuesday and just two weeks after the deadly breach of the US Capitol.
Last week, Harris said that she and Biden would not "yield to those who would try and make us afraid of who we are," in response to soon being sworn into office outside of the US Capitol.
"We cannot abandon the appreciation that we should all have for the traditions that are symbolic of our commitment to our democracy," she told NPR.
Biden also said he was not afraid to take the oath in the traditional outdoor ceremony at the Capitol building despite security concerns throughout the country.
Since the Jan. 6 Capitol riots, DC Mayor Muriel Bowser has urged Americans to stay home and out of DC during the inauguration. In their place, 200,000 American flags have been set up at National Mall for the ceremony.
Here are photos that show what DC looks like a day before Biden and Harris are sworn into office.
National guardsmen on the outer perimeter along Massachusetts Avenue, NW.
Man showing his middle fingers as his wife take a picture of him, John Hyde, from Oakland, CA. "This is to the entire regime, the 4th Reich," he said.
Close up detail of wanted billboard on bus stops from January 6 insurrection.
More than 145 pro-Trump rioters have been charged in the Capitol insurrection.
A soldier from the 29th Infantry Division of the Virginia National Guard at the Capitol on Pennsylvania Avenue.
Typically filled with celebration-goers, downtown streets in DC are deserted this year.
The 2021 presidential inauguration will be scaled back and is expected to gather a smaller crowd than at past events due to COVID-19 restrictions and heightened security.
President-elect Joe Biden said last month that he expected his Jan. 20 inauguration to be a "more imaginative" virtual event.
"It is highly unlikely that there will be a million people on the mall, going all the way down to the [Lincoln] Memorial," Biden said.
And even if they did, it would be difficult for them to celebrate in person or in the city altogether.
DC Mayor Muriel Bowser, Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan, and Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam issued a statement ahead of the ceremony that typically draws hundreds of thousands of people calling on Americans to stay out of DC for the inauguration.
"Due to the unique circumstances surrounding the 59th Presidential Inauguration, including last week's violent insurrection as well as the ongoing and deadly COVID-19 pandemic, we are taking the extraordinary step of encouraging Americans not to come to Washington, D.C., and to instead participate virtually," the joint statement read, according to WTOP News.
In an effort to prevent hate groups from disrupting Biden's inauguration, Airbnb announced it would cancel and block all reservations in Washington, DC made for the week of the ceremony.
The Transportation Security Administration "significantly increased" security at DC airports ahead of Inauguration Day. TSA is processing hundreds of names with law enforcement agencies for a thorough risk assessment, according to a statement published Friday.
Guard trucks at the inner perimeter in front of the Teamsters building.
Union Station was near-empty ahead of Inauguration Day.
Fences and soldiers surround the Capitol.
National Guard troops are being taught to screen their colleagues as US defense officials said they fear an insider attack on Biden's inauguration.
"We're continually going through the process, and taking second, third looks at every one of the individuals assigned to this operation," Army Secretary Ryan McCarthy said.
Anti-abortion activists chalk the residential streets of the Capitol Hill neighborhood.
Solider from the 29th Infantry Division of the Virginia National Guard at the Capitol on Pennsylvania Avenue.
Cement blocks have been placed around the Capitol perimeter.
National guardsmen on the outer perimeter along Massachusetts Avenue, NW.
National guardsmen on the outer perimeter along Massachusetts Avenue, NW.
Caution tape has been put up to block off streets around the Capitol building.
threats that police/fbi is looking out for on jan 20
Pedestrian walks with a political sign near the Capitol building.
The US Capitol went into lockdown Monday following an "external security threat" that turned out to be a fire at a nearby homeless encampment, according to law enforcement officials.
The alert came as security at the complex has been increased to unprecedented levels ahead of Inauguration Day.
Learning German — a language with over 132 million speakers and famously tricky grammar — can be a difficult solo undertaking, but it can also be a fun way to spend any spare time during the pandemic.
Whether you're brushing up on high school German or completely starting from scratch, there are several online platforms available to help you meet your goals. But where to start? E-learning platforms like Rosetta Stone and Duolingo boast millions of users and promise a fast track to fluency, each with their own respective pedagogies. There are also many great books and free online resources, depending on your needs and learning style.
Learning a language on your own can be tough, and you're going to want to use a combination of resources to fully practice speaking, listening, writing, and reading. For example, pairing an online learning platform with a physical vocabulary book is a great idea to get you acquainted with the language before working with a virtual italki tutor or diving into more in-depth YouTube videos.
Once you choose the resources and methods that work best for you, you'll be watching Netflix's "Dark" without subtitles in no time.
The 9 best online courses, apps, books, and websites to learn German online:
Platforms and apps
For intuitive learning
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German grammar is notoriously difficult for people who haven't studied languages with case systems. If you want to find a way to learn the language more intuitively, Rosetta Stone might be your best bet because it's focused on immersive learning that replicates the way infants learn their native language. It also provides feedback on your pronunciation and gives you real-life scenarios to work with.
For ambitious language learners, Rosetta Stone offers an unlimited-language annual subscription for $189, but if you'd like to focus on German, you can pay $11.99-$14.92 a month, depending on your subscription plan.
For bite-sized games
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Duolingo offers a little bit more structure than Rosetta Stone, and it's free (unless you opt for Duolingo Plus, which gets rid of ads and gives you unlimited mistakes). Users are able to see the entire lesson plan from the start, so it's easy to see where you are in relation to the big picture, which can be encouraging. Since Duolingo is structured like a set of mini-games, it works best for people who enjoy learning in fun, bite-sized chunks and can commit to quick daily exercises.
For more visual cues
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GermanPod101 is one of many, many languages offered by Innovative Language– a company whose programming extends from Afrikaans to Nepali and practically everything in between. Most of the materials are free and audio/visual-focused, with incremental learning similar to Duolingo. There are premium subscriptions available that allow users to ask teachers quick questions, which might clear up some of the problems you'll find in the first steps of learning any language.
For a (virtual) classroom experience
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Udemy offers over 130,000 courses in almost anything, with more lectures being added each month — and often on sale. As far as its German language offerings are concerned, new learners can pay as little as $9.99 for class packages, focusing on skills as specialized as pronunciation with a native speaker. Other courses cover all the basics, beginning at level A1, and provide built-in tests and pronunciation practice exercises.
For one-on-one tutoring
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If you're looking to work one-on-one with a German speaker, italki tutors range in experience, from sociable native speakers to professional teachers well-versed in guiding students from A1 to fluency. Each tutor posts an introductory video showcasing their language skills and teaching style, and often offer trial lessons for a reduced price.
Books
For a simple breakdown
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One of the best books out there for a survey of the German language is "German Made Simple," which, as the title suggests, makes German pretty simple. This book will probably remind you of a workbook that you used for language classes in high school or college, which is why it's a great resource for people who want to brush up on particular skills but maybe aren't looking for an intensive learning plan. You can just flip to the chapter on the dative case or glance at the glossary to re-familiarize yourself. One of the best features in the book is that there are tons of little exercises in each chapter, making for a user-friendly fusion of textbook and workbook that doesn't quite feel like homework.
For getting German grammar down
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McGraw Hill's "Practice Makes Perfect" language series has an edition called "Complete German Grammar," and like the rest of the books in the collection, it's very cut-and-dry. This no-nonsense tome is great for people who are looking to get the nitty-gritty of the language very quickly. Like "German Made Simple," there are plenty of exercises, but this book wastes no time in exploring grammar extensively. If you want to tackle German grammar head-on before developing your vocabulary, it would make sense to master this book and pair it with its sister text, "German Vocabulary" or Barron's "501 German Verbs."
Websites
For real-life examples
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The Youtube series "Easy German" has dozens of videos featuring native speakers conducting man-on-the-street-style interviews in various German-speaking cities. One of the first things you'll notice when interacting with this language is that to the untrained ear, the German spoken in Zurich may as well be an entirely different language from how it's spoken in Vienna. Easy German addresses these issues — and others that you won't be able to find in a textbook or on an e-learning platform — in a way that's watchable and unintimidating. The videos come with subtitles in English and German, so you can follow along and make side-by-side comparisons.
For realistic reading practice
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DW (Deutsche Welle) is another excellent resource for anyone interested in learning the language from reading. In addition to being a popular news source in Germany, its language learning website has over 300 instructional videos and full-blown courses — all for free. Organized by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), there are courses available from A1 all the way to C.
It's a new year and that means it's time for a new book or two (or ten!). Whether your resolutions this year included more reading, you're seeking a screen-free escape, or you're looking to broaden your perspective, books provide an excellent tool for navigating these uncertain and often anxiety-riddled times.
With all of this in mind, Amazon's book editors have gathered a list of their top 12 reads for January. The top pick, "Black Buck," is a satirical novel that Amazon editor Al Woodworth describes as "a wildly funny and exuberant page-turner, a mash-up between the humor of the everyday and the insanity of start-up culture."
Captions have been provided by Amazon's book editors.
"Black Buck" by Mateo Askaripour
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This is a wildly funny and exuberant page-turner, a mash-up between the humor of the everyday and the insanity of start-up culture. The novel follows Darren Vender, a Starbucks employee who joins a new tech company and quickly transforms into "Buck," the company's best salesman—and only Black salesman. You'll root for Buck, his neighborhood, and his mission—just hang on to your hat. —Al Woodworth
"The Prophets" by Robert Jones, Jr.
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The intimate connection between two male slaves toiling on a Mississippi plantation is the only thing that cuts through their otherwise brutal existence. This is the one bright spot in a lyrical but devastating debut novel that shines a harsher light on a shameful legacy that is still deeply felt today. It's also a profound reminder of love's power to repudiate it. —Erin Kodicek
"Waiting for the Night Song" by Julie Carrick Dalton
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This debut novel, which tackles issues as broad as climate change and racism, will rightly be compared to Delia Owens's "Where the Crawdads Sing.""Waiting for the Night Song" has the lyricism of a poem, and the pacing of a thriller. Dalton is a writer to watch. —Sarah Gelman
"Outlawed" by Anna North
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Cowboy antics abound in Anna North's novel about a band of outlaws and their quest to establish a place where they belong. There are hideouts and shoot-outs but also the grim reality of what it means to be an outcast from society and a barren woman at the turn of the century in America. This is a brilliant twist on the Western genre and a welcome addition, indeed. —Al Woodworth
"Better Luck Next Time" by Julia Claiborne Johnson
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Johnson's wryly funny novel celebrates the complexity of friendship and love in its story of a 1938 Reno ranch that caters to women seeking divorce. Charmingly told through the eyes of a ranch hand who is pulled into the shenanigans of two guests, this bighearted story offers hard-won wisdom and will leave readers smiling at the end. —Adrian Liang
"The Mystery of Mrs. Christie" by Marie Benedict
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Readers will hone their own detective skills as they race through Marie Benedict's exhilarating novelization of Agatha Christie's true-life disappearance in 1926 on the cusp of her leap to mystery-writing greatness. Whether you're a Christie enthusiast or a historical fiction lover, every page is a revelation, and Benedict builds this tale of a marriage on the rocks to a flawless finale. —Adrian Liang
"Marion Lane and the Midnight Murder" by T.A. Willberg
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"Marion Lane and the Midnight Murder" reads like "Harry Potter" for adults — set in foggy 1950s London — with dashes of "The Kingsmen" and even a sprinkle of steampunk. Below an unassuming bookshop lies a secret, subterranean detective agency, stunned by a murder in its ranks. Atmospheric world-building, a satisfying locked room mystery, and brave detecting apprentice Marion Lane make this a delightful page-turner. —Vannessa Cronin
"Nine Days" by Stephen Kendrick and Paul Kendrick
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To paraphrase Lenin, sometimes there are weeks where decades happen. Or in this case, nine days. The authors place the reader into a tense historical moment, populated by historical figures just coming into their own, to illustrate how King's jailing, and Kennedy's reaction, formed an inflection point that still defines our political parties today. —Chris Schluep
"Aftershocks" by Nadia Owusu
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Achingly intimate and flaming with rage, hurt, and sadness, Nadia Owusu's memoir wrestles with big questions of identity and demonstrates just how fragile it can be. After the death of her father and the discovery of tectonic-shifting secrets of her family's past, Owusu must "construct a story, to reconstruct her world." A blistering and searching portrait of what it means to belong and to whom. —Al Woodworth
"The Wife Upstairs" by Rachel Hawkins
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Part of the fun of "The Wife Upstairs" is seeing how closely Hawkins sticks to the plot of "Jane Eyre," and the other part is how inventively and audaciously she strays from it. And going from English Gothic to Southern Gothic is just the beginning. Unpredictable twists, smart spins on the canon, and even a hat tip to "Rebecca" make this a fun read. —Vannessa Cronin
"Walking with Ghosts" by Gabriel Byrne
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"Walking with Ghosts" would be a fascinating, moving, lyrical, and touchingly funny memoir even if one didn't know its subject and author were actor Gabriel Byrne. No celebrity-studded tell-all, Byrne, with the wonder of someone examining pieces of sea glass, touchingly and self-deprecatingly recounts the people and events that shaped him and set him on his life's path. — Vannessa Cronin
"Drug Use for Grown-Ups" by Dr. Carl L. Hart
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Dr. Carl L. Hart, a neuroscientist and expert on drug use, presents a shocking and revelatory argument for a revisionist drug policy. Hart's scientific research, close examination of racist drug laws, and his personal experiences shed new light on decades of propaganda and compel us to take a fresh look at the facts of drug use, addiction, and incarceration. —Seira Wilson
President Joe Biden arrived in Washington, DC ahead of his inauguration not on a US Air Force plane, but on a chartered private jet.
A Boeing Business Jet 737 flew Biden from Delaware New Castle Airport to Andrews Air Force Base on Tuesday, taking the then-president-elect to the nation's capital in style and luxury as the aircraft is typically reserved for the upper echelon of private flyers. Biden had used a similar but less luxurious 737 on the campaign trail after initially turning one down.
California's Jet Edge International operates the airliner-turned-private jet, a veritable flying penthouse apartment complete with a master bedroom and onboard shower. The aircraft is ideal for intercontinental flying as its amenities allow for it to be a true home away from home.
And now that the 737 no longer being used by the president, the plane can be chartered by anybody that can afford the high price tag. An hour alone on the jet is likely in the tens of thousands of dollars.
Here's the plane that flew then-President-elect Biden from Wilmington, Delaware to Washington, DC.
The Boeing Business Jet 737 is based on the popular 737-700 airliner used by the likes of Southwest Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and United Airlines in the US and countless others around the world.
Two CRM56-7B20 engines power the aircraft with 20,600 pounds of thrust enabling a top speed of 470 knots and range of 6,200 nautical miles.
On the inside, it's hard to tell that you're onboard an airliner and not in a luxurious apartment or hotel suite.
The living area of the plane features a mix of club seats and divans accompanied by a mid-cabin bar.
There are only six of these club seats, also known in the industry as captain's chairs, in this section with the three divans providing the bulk of the seating.
Moving back in the plane, then comes the interchangeable dining and conference area with a six-place table.
The accompanying high-definition television also comes with AppleTV and Blu-ray capabilities.
The final two sections are private spaces for the principal flyer including this office.
The space can be used to hold meetings or get work done in private using the aircraft's complimentary domestic WiFi.
The plane also features a private bedroom but it's unlikely that Biden used the bed given the short flight time from Delaware to Maryland.
Directly adjacent to the master bedroom is the en suite bathroom.
It's the largest on the aircraft complete with a full vanity and shower, a key selling point for these airliners-turned-private-jets.
The other bathroom is smaller with no shower but still a world away from the typical lavatory on a commercial airliner.
Despite all the space, there's only seating for 16 passengers in total.
In the front of the plane is the galley, or the main workstation for the flight attendants onboard, where onboard meals and beverages are crafted
But while the Boeing 737 BBJ is a highly-capable and luxurious aircraft, Biden now has access to a larger jet known as the "Queen of the Skies."
Table of Contents: Masthead StickySummary List Placement
The best soft coolers should offer enough capacity to keep a variety of drinks and food chilled, properly distribute weight to make them comfortable to carry, and come standard with straps for easy transport.
We recommend a selection of soft coolers from brands like Yeti and IceMule that performed well on multi-day camping trips, afternoons spent at the beach, or even short day hikes.
Our top pick, the Yeti Hopper M30, is a highly-durable and easily-accessible soft cooler that's as quality a product as there is in Yeti's lineup — and it'll be a staple in your outdoor kit for years.
For more of our cooler picks, check out our best coolers guide— featuring more than the soft-manufactured options we selected here.
If you spend any amount of time outside, it's likely you have a cooler stashed somewhere around your home. Maybe it's one of those tried-and-true Coleman coolers with its indistinguishable exterior texture or perhaps you have a few squeaky styrofoam ice chests laying around. No matter the form, they all provide the same function: Holding ice and keeping food and beverages chilled.
But the design of traditional coolers (i.e. that hard plastic shell or shoddy styrofoam) often makes them unappealing for outings that take you beyond the tailgate of your vehicle or just into your backyard. Lugging a cumbersome cooler down even a modest hiking trail is hardly a pleasant experience, and it's the kind of thing you do only once before thinking, "There has to be a better way."
Thankfully, there is, and that better way is a soft cooler. True to its descriptive name, a soft cooler maintains the ice-retention capability of standard coolers but in a more comfortable form factor. They're smaller, yes, but they're also more practical, especially for camping, hiking, fishing, or picnics at the park. Though there's still a time and place for a traditional cooler, soft coolers are a rising commodity — and for good reason.
With dozens of hours spent testing some of the top soft coolers on the market, the following guide features our five favorites, all classified into categories they particularly excelled at — save for the Yeti Hopper M30, which is our favorite soft cooler overall.
YETI's Hopper M30 tote-style cooler is the most durable and serviceable cooler for most people, and it will last for years.
Pros: Sturdy, sleek, airtight
Cons: Heavy compared with some other picks (but that's due to the quality insulation), stiff
Capacity: Holds 20 cans or 28 pounds of ice (only)
Dimensions: 14.5" L x 12" W x 25" H
Weight: 7 lbs.
Yes, it's expensive, but before you scoff at the price tag of the Yeti cooler, let's get something straight: These coolers last.
Although some people call them overbuilt, the criticism is something of an overstatement. While it may be true that cheaper coolers can be just as efficient when it comes to keeping ice, our testing and personal experience show that many soft coolers begin falling apart before a Yeti Hopper M30 even shows vague signs of use or wear. Plus, Yeti offers a three-year warranty on its soft coolers where many other manufacturers only offer one.
I threw this cooler down a grip tape-lined set of stairs thinking it would lead to at least one abrasion. Nothing. I tipped it upside-down and left it that way for hours. Not a drip. I yanked, ripped, and pulled at the zipper in every wrong way with all my might. Not even the hint of a budge, and it was still airtight afterward.
Aside from its durability, the Hopper also does really well to keep anything stored inside chilled throughout the day (even in warm weather). Featuring the brand's Coldcell Insulation, which is Yeti's patented name for closed-cell foam, you can expect upwards of 15 to 20 hours of kept ice — give or take a few hours depending on how often you open and close it, if it's left open for any amount of time, or if it's sitting in direct sunlight.
Capacity-wise, it's able to hold a surprising amount of both food and drink. Even when I'd stock it with plenty of cans and bottles, there'd still be enough room to throw in a few sandwiches and some additional snacks. Its padded shoulder strap came in handy on more than one occasion when it was full up, too, whether I was walking from car to campsite, hauling it down to the beach, or even slinging it on my back while biking to the park.
The bag itself is also fairly rigid, and so much so that you need two hands to do anything with it, which is the only remaining downside of the Hopper.
Capacity: Holds 12 cans plus about 5 pounds of ice
Dimensions: 14" L x 7" W x 12" H
Weight: 0.17 pounds
Budget coolers tend to have inferior insulation, stitching, or leakage, so we generally avoid recommending them. AO Coolers buck the trend by offering relatively well-constructed options that are also affordable.
What makes its coolers particularly impressive is its 3/4-inch insulation and durable exterior lining, whether you choose the canvas, vinyl, or woven vinyl model. It's worth noting that I could sometimes feel cool air escaping, but it wasn't enough to cause my ice to melt at an alarming rate.
Its size and capacity were best-suited for shorter outings like day hikes or even picnics, so ice melt wasn't a glaring issue when I tested. If you take it on a several day camp trip, do expect to need to replenish the ice more than a few times — this was especially true on hotter days, too.
The stitching throughout isn't the best and out of the box, I noticed a few loose threads. These wouldn't spell the end of the cooler, even if they did go, but these inconsistencies and loose stitches, as well as the basic YKK zipper, do put it in a different category durability-wise than the Yeti. At this price range, however, it's the best we've found.
If you're not storing things for days at a time, there's really no need to spring for a premium soft cooler like Yeti's (which is six times the price). For those that already own a Yeti, or plan on picking one up, this is the best inexpensive secondary cooler in which to keep sandwiches and drinks.
The best versatile soft cooler
The OtterBox Trooper LT 30 is a sort of customizable Swiss Army knife of soft coolers, coming standard with an accessory mounting system while also offering a 30-quart capacity and insulation designed to keep ice for up to three days.
Pros: 30-quart capacity can hold plenty of ice and drinks for 2-4 people, padded shoulder straps make for easy transport, rugged and durable construction, accessory points allow for a wide variety of customization
Cons: May be bulky for on-the-go transport
Capacity: 30 quarts
Dimensions: 21" L x 17" W x 11" H
Weight: 1.49 pounds
Although OtterBox may be more well-known for its phone cases, the company also makes a line of seriously impressive coolers, including a highly versatile soft cooler called the Trooper LT 30. Outfit with accessory hooks that allow you to put everything on it from a bottle opener or dry box to tie-down loops or a hook for more gear, the Trooper LT is great for a wide variety of use cases.
The same indestructible construction design of the brand's phone cases is apparent in the Trooper LT as it features a robust base that allows it to stand on its own, a TPU-coated nylon exterior that's puncture-proof, and a reliable clasp system that's durable and leak-proof. The interior offers up to 30 quarts of capacity, which tended to be good for a little more than a bag of ice (of which there's even an ice-fill line drawn on), as well as 10 or 12 cans of soda or beer, and a few chilled snacks, as well.
Carrying the Trooper LT was hardly a tough task, too (even when full), as it comes with two padded backpack-like straps on the rear which can also turn into a shoulder strap if need be. Two exterior pockets can hold bottle openers or even a smartphone and have water-tight zippers for added security.
OtterBox lists the cooler as being able to hold ice for up to three days which I found to be a close assessment. On two-day camp trips, I was able to purchase just one bag of ice and it held up the entire trip, and on single-day hikes, there was very little water to drain after a few hours on the trail.
Though I mostly used this on car camping trips or while hiking, its versatility allows it to work well while fishing, biking, or just hanging out in your backyard. It's not exactly cheap, but this cooler isn't going anywhere anytime soon and figures to be a durable addition to your outdoor kit for years. -- Rick Stella, Health & Fitness Editor
The best soft cooler backpack
The IceMule Pro is lightweight, compactable, essentially waterproof, and it won't break the bank.
Pros: Lightweight, fairly priced, stowable, features a burping valve to let out excess air, easy to clean
Cons: Insulation could be better
Capacity: Holds 23 liters or 18 cans, plus ice
Dimensions: 14" L x 11" W x 17" H
Weight: 3.1 pounds
IceMule's wonderfully-designed dry-bag-style coolers are insulated to the point of being just sufficiently padded to wear as a backpack without having precariously packed beer bottles digging into you. They're also completely airtight thanks to the roll-top design, which eliminates the fail point of a zipper.
The IceMule line has received a good deal of praise despite a few early hiccups with design, including torn inner lining, water getting between the exterior and interior linings, and a cheap, beach-ball-like air release valve.
As far as I can tell, all of these issues have been addressed and resolved, and having an IceMule Pro to zip back and forth between the dock and the apartment for fishing trips has been an absolute delight. And, when you're not using it, it folds flat and stores easily. It also doubles well as a regular backpack.
The IceMule Pro comes in either vinyl or canvas, and after having tested both, I feel a little more confident in and comfortable wearing the canvas. On the other hand, the canvas only comes in black, which may not be the best color for a cooler.
Its insulation does leave a bit to be desired, though a lot of that can be attributed to how often I'd open or close the bag. IceMule rates the Pro as able to hold ice for up to 24 hours (and cold temperatures for as many as two days), but judging by how quickly the ice would melt while I used it, 24 hours seemed like a stretch. What this means is a little more water in the bag after a day's use, and the need to re-up ice on days two and three if you're camping.
The best multi-purpose soft cooler
REI's Cool Trail Split Pack offers ample storage space for both chilled and dry food and beverages, making it the perfect day hike companion.
Capacity: 29 liters
Dimensions: 22" L x 15" W x 8" H
Weight: 2 pounds, 2 ounces
Pros: An area for both chilled and dry goods, padded shoulder straps and back panel make for comfortable transport, features REI's tried-and-true durable construction
Cons: Lacks the capacity of most dedicated soft coolers
Most soft coolers (even those considered soft backpack coolers) are one-trick ponies in that they only offer one area for storing and chilling your food and beverage. REI Co-op's Cool Trail Split Pack blends the best of both worlds by featuring the ability to house both chilled and dry goods at the same time.
It does this by effectively splitting the pack into two sections: A cooler-like bottom for storing ice and anything that needs to be cold and a dry top for everything else (i.e. food, change of layers, smartphone, car keys, etc.). It's as if REI took the zippered top brain pockets off one of its backpacking packs and stitched it to the top of a soft cooler. And it's not just a clever design, it functions incredibly well, too.
Because of that design, the Cool Trail Split Pack looks like a sort of boxy backpack, featuring padded shoulder straps, as well as a chest strap and a padded back panel for added comfort — something that was much appreciated while testing this on multi-mile hikes and longer-than-expected bike rides. The pack is manufactured out of recycled ripstop nylon (like what you'd find in REI's tents) and a polyester interior, making it highly durable both inside and out.
In terms of performance, the pack was able to keep everything stored in the cooler section chilled for an entire day spent hiking or hanging at the park in the middle of summer. Ice would begin to melt throughout the day, and especially so when the cooler section was left open while taking a short break, but I never experienced any leakage, even if the pack was laid on its side or jostling around on my back.
One minor drawback would be that the pack is good enough for nourishing maybe two or three people as its capacity is far smaller than others on this list. But with how much it makes up for that lack of capacity by offering a spot for dry good, it's well worth the investment. -- Rick Stella, Health & Fitness Editor
How to shop for a soft cooler
To the fisherman, a reliable cooler makes the difference between bringing home fresh fillets or wasting the catch as it spoils in the heat. At a tailgate party or picnic, a good cooler means cold beer and soda instead of dealing with warm swill. For campers, a cooler keeps food chilled and safe for days on end even when the nearest refrigerator is a three-day hike back out of the woods. The use cases can go on and on.
The cooler you chose is largely determined by how often you use it and what you use it for the most. If you're just transporting your lunch to the office or bringing some snacks and drinks to the soccer field for an afternoon, there's really no need to spring for something that runs $100 or more. However, fishermen, frequent campers, and hikers will probably want to invest in a long-lasting soft cooler like the indestructible and well-built models from brands like Yeti or IceMule.
Closed-cell insulation vs. open-cell insulation
If you're buying a cooler for camping or you're dabbling in van life, you're probably going to want a cooler with some quality closed-cell insulation for keeping your groceries fresh. You'll also want a smaller, auxiliary cooler for things you reach for often so that you're opening your main cooler as infrequently as possible.
Closed-cell insulation is a heavier, pricier material with tidier, more individual air bubbles that insulate far better. This is partly what makes coolers in the Yeti and Rtic tiers so much more expensive. Of course, we can't deny that you're paying for the name, too.
Open-cell insulation, on the other hand, is basically polyurethane packaging foam. It's lightweight, airy, and the air bubbles that form the insulation are loosely arranged, which isn't terribly effective.
How we test
Each soft cooler in this guide went through a series of tests across hikes, camping trips, fishing outings, and casual trips to the park to assess how well they stood up across these four categories: Capacity, ice retention, portability, and value. Specifically, here's how each category factored into which soft coolers ultimately made this guide:
Capacity: Aside from ice retention, a soft cooler's main job is to be able to not only store chilled beverages and food but to have enough space for plenty of both. Some soft coolers come in dedicated sizes, which makes their capacity rating easier to judge, and also makes the shopping process simple: If you need more space, buy a bigger cooler. We also looked at how if the soft coolers offered storage for other essentials like smartphones, car keys, dry food, etc.
Ice retention: A cooler is hardly reliable if it doesn't at least somewhat live up to its namesake and keep ice for longer than a few hours. Thankfully, most modern coolers feature insulation technology that allows them to hold ice for several days — though we still put these claims to the test to see just how reliable each cooler's ice retention actually was.
Portability: One of the hallmarks of a soft cooler is its portability. Be it via backpack-like straps, a pair of comfortable handles, or even a shoulder strap, it should be easy to haul around (even when full of ice, food, and drinks).
Value: Coolers of any variety can be expensive, and soft coolers are no different. However, the value of a soft cooler is more than just its sticker price and more so a combination of the three categories above and if it's worth the investment. We always feel that it's better to spend a little more on something that's designed to last than to spend less more often on an inferior product.
Backpack coolers are a convenient and comfortable way to carry cold food and drinks with you when you're camping, hiking, or wandering about the wilderness. These are our top picks for the best backpack coolers.
From your dad's classic plastic cooler to one with rugged wheels to take on tough terrain, the coolers we chose are all distinct from one another in multiple ways. There's a great chance that at least one will be the absolute best cooler for you.
Bringing your lunch to work every day is a great way to save money and eat healthier. But you'll need a great lunch box to keep your lunch fresh and your chips uncrushed. These are our top picks.
A great refillable water bottle will help you stay hydrated while you're on the go. We tested many firsthand for their rugged construction and great temperature retention. Here are our picks for the best water bottles you can buy.
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