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15 things I learned about hotels and Airbnbs after traveling the world for a year

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Dubai Burj Al Arab Most Luxurious Hotel (37 of 74)

  • I spent a year traveling the world as Business Insider'sinternational correspondent.
  • In that time, I stayed in nearly 100 hotels and Airbnbs that ran the range from ultra-budget to mid-tier to luxury.
  • Some of the most important things I've learned include checking the electric kettle when you enter a hotel room, always asking for late check-out, and cross-checking prices between Booking.com and Airbnb.
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Over the last year, I've spent 300 days or more on the road. That's a lot of nights in hotels, Airbnbs, guesthouses, and everything in between. 

Still, every time I walk into a hotel room or an Airbnb in a strange city, I get excited. I love the feeling of trying to turn a strange city into home, even for a few days.

That being said, I've definitely made a couple mistakes along the way. In February, I assumed a luxury hotel I was staying in had a noon checkout, like nearly every other hotel I've stayed at in the world. I was wrong. In Tanzania, the standard checkout is 10 a.m.

Here are the hotel and Airbnb lessons I've learned and the tips I've picked up after a year of traveling around the world.

SEE ALSO: 15 things I learned about air travel after traveling the world for a year

SEE ALSO: I've been using the Marie Kondo method to pack for trips around the world and it's completely changed how I pack

1. It's not just you: The community and the listings on Airbnb are changing, for better or worse.

I've been an avid Airbnb user for nearly a decade, relying on the platform as I've traveled across 30 or more countries.

When I first began using Airbnb in 2011 — about three years after the company launched — most of the listings on the site were someone's actual apartment. Either you were renting the spare bedroom in the apartment or your host was temporarily staying somewhere else.

Read more: The pillows at Airbnb can tell you all you need to know about how the company is changing for the worse

It was a communal vibe where you felt like a real exchange was taking place: You were helping them offset their rent, and they told you their favorite restaurants and bars in the neighborhood.

But somewhere over the last few years, the dynamic shifted. Now, in my experience, you are almost always renting from a host who manages Airbnb listings for a living or as a lucrative side-hustle.

From my perspective, the shift has meant that apartment listings are equipped with the basics, more so than with the comforts of someone's primary home. My chief complaint is that I've been encountering more places with cheap, low-quality pillows, beds, and furniture. Unless that trend turns around, I, for one, will be using Airbnb less in the future.



2. If you want to know how clean a hotel room is, check the electric kettle.

I am constantly staying in hotels that run the range from ultra-budget to mid-tier to luxury. Depending on the country and the hotel company, those categories could mean very different things in terms of amenities, quality, and cleanliness.

Read more: I've spent nearly 300 nights in hotels and Airbnbs over the past year, and there's a small detail I check to see how clean a room is

Every time I enter a hotel room or an Airbnb, I check the electric kettle or coffee maker— a standard item in nearly every hotel room — to see how clean it is. Poorly maintained or sloppily cleaned hotels will often have dirty, rusted, or outright moldy electric kettles.



3. When booking hotels, guesthouses, or apartments, check prices across Airbnb, Booking, and Expedia. They usually have the same listings at different prices.

Home-rental service Airbnb is now directly competing with travel booking sites like Booking.com and Expedia, as all of the sites have both traditional hotel listings and non-traditional apartment and home listings on their platforms.

What I've observed is that more and more rental listings can be found on multiple sites, often with wildly varied pricing due to different fee structures and pricing algorithms.

Read more: Airbnb is in a war with Booking.com, and taking advantage of that fact can save you a ton of money

Save yourself some money on your next vacation by cross-referencing listings across multiple sites. I often found discrepancies of $100 or more per night by checking listings between Airbnb, Booking.com, Expedia, and others.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

The rise and fall of Victoria's Secret, America's most famous lingerie retailer (LB)

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Victoria's Secret

  • Victoria's Secret is the largest lingerie retailer in the US and has been for several decades.
  • But after achieving explosive success in the late 1990s and 2000s, the brand has struggled in more recent years and has been accused of losing relevance.
  • Here's the story of the rise — and more recent fall — of the brand. 
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

You'd be hard-pressed to find anyone in the US who hasn't come into contact with Victoria's Secret in one way or another.

Since the late 1990s, Victoria's Secret has been one of the best-known and most talked-about brands in the country — increasingly, not in ways that it might hope for. 

It has had a powerful role in defining what sexy is in the modern day via its racy lingerie and runway shows. In its heyday, these enabled the company to achieve blockbuster sales and reach global status.

But increasingly, the tide seems to be turning. Sales have slipped, customers are complaining that quality has dropped, and analysts are becoming more skeptical about its future if it refuses to adapt in an era of #MeToo.

Find out more about how the company achieved success —and stumbled more recently — below:

SEE ALSO: A company that's taking on Victoria's Secret with $35 bras is homing in on its biggest weakness

Victoria's Secret was founded in 1977 by American businessman Roy Raymond.

Inspired by an uncomfortable trip to a department store to buy underwear for his wife, Raymond set out to create a place where men would feel comfortable shopping for lingerie. He wanted to create a women's underwear shop that was targeted at men.  



He named the brand after the Victorian era in England, wanting to evoke the refinement of this period in his lingerie.

His vision was summed up by Slate's Naomi Barr in 2013: "Raymond imagined a Victorian boudoir, replete with dark wood, oriental rugs, and silk drapery. He chose the name 'Victoria' to evoke the propriety and respectability associated with the Victorian era; outwardly refined, Victoria's 'secrets' were hidden beneath."

He went on to open a handful of Victoria's Secret stores and launched its famous catalog. 



By 1982, the company was making more than $4 million in annual sales, but according to reports, it was nearing bankruptcy at the time. It was at this point that Les Wexner swooped in.

Source: Slate

Wexner, who founded L Brands (formerly Limited Brands) was already making a name for himself in the retail world as he gradually built up an impressive empire.

By June 1982, The Limited — which had previously acquired Express and Lane Bryant — was listed on the New York Stock Exchange. One month later, under Wexner's leadership, the company acquired Victoria's Secret's six stores and its catalog for $1 million. 



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

6 sites that make personalized photo gifts — and what each one is best for

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Insider Picks writes about products and services to help you navigate when shopping online. Insider Inc. receives a commission from our affiliate partners when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

momau

  • When you're stumped on what to give Mom this Mother's Day, a photo gift is always a good idea. 
  • They're personal, thoughtful, and not hard to make with a little help from technology. Sites like Artifact Uprising, Shutterfly, Etsy, and Snapfish make customizing your own photo gifts easy.
  • Keep reading to find out more about how these sites work below. Or, if you're looking for more gifting inspiration, check out the rest of our Mother's Day gift ideas here.

Gift-giving is supposed to be exciting, but it can actually be kind of stressful. You don't want to spend tons of money on a gift that'll end up collecting dust in the closet or exchanged for store credit. You could just write a check or give them a gift card, but that's almost too easy — and it tends to feel pretty impersonal.

No matter the recipient or the occasion, you want to a gift that makes someone feel special. That's why so many of us used to give handmade cards, drawings, and scrapbooks as gifts — it's that extra mile that shows you care. Luckily for us, we no longer need to spend hours gluing old photos to construction paper to make a sentimental scrapbook. Thanks to the internet, we can get that same personal feel with just a few clicks of a button. 

There are plenty of sites out there that'll turn your photos into beautiful gifts, like photo books, calendars, and canvas prints, and more. Not only are they thoughtful, but you can feel good knowing you're giving a gift that they can look back at and cherish for years to come. 

Keep reading to learn more about where to make custom photo gifts:

Artifact Uprising

Get personalized photo gifts at Artifact Uprising

Best for: Minimalist, elegant designs and eco-conscious materials. 

On Artifact Uprising, you can turn your snapshots into modern, stylish photo gifts. They have basic matte prints, photo books, calendars, and more. All designs are clean and simple, ensuring that your photos are what stand out. The beautiful aesthetic is matched with a commitment to the environment — Artifact Uprising incorporates eco-friendly materials, like acid-free recycled paper, into its designs. Prices start as low as $8 for a set of 10 prints and go up to $299 for a large lay-flat photo album. While the prices may seem premium, they reflect the timeless style and eco-friendly materials that make each gift so special.

What to get:

Find a full review of Artifact Uprising here.



Shutterfly

Get custom photo books, mugs, key chains, and more at Shutterfly

Best for: A breadth of products, letting you personalize just about anything you can think of with photos.

When it comes to photo gifts, Shutterfly is a classic. The site offers an unmatched selection of products ready to be customized with your personal pictures. And, every product comes in a variety of styles to fit different types of decor or taste, so you can find something that is just your recipient's style. Keep it simple with a classic photo book, go practical with a custom smartphone case, or opt for something fun and unusual with a personalized deck of cards. If you're still searching for a gift for Mom, Shutterfly has a very timely Mother's Day gift guide.

What to get:

 



Snapfish

Get personalized photo books, canvas prints, and more at Snapfish

Best for: Quick and easy customization at very affordable prices. 

Snapfish lets you take photos straight from your Instagram profile, Facebook albums, Google drive, Flickr, and most other places that hold your pictures. Snapfish offers creative ways to gift photos beyond the classic photo books and calendars. You can get pictures printed onto tea towels, blankets, and even placed inside of classy frameless glass. The large selection and easy-to-use customization process makes Snapfish a great choice. Plus, the site is frequently offering discounts, so you can get a really special gift at a really fair price. Snapfish has a similar model and similar offerings to Shutterfly, so we'd recommend checking them both out to see which you prefer.

What to get:



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I ate like Warren Buffett for a week — and it was miserable

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warren buffett cherry coke

Warren Buffett is one of the most successful investors in history.

He also has a really weird diet.

Buffett's diet of sugary soda, junk food, and limited vegetables has reached legendary status.

The Berkshire Hathaway CEO drinks about five cans of Coca-Cola products a day, constantly munches on See's Candies, and uses so much salt that John Stumpf, the former Wells Fargo CEO, said it was like a "snowstorm."

Business Insider has tried various people's diets — from Elon Musk's to Tom Brady's — so I decided to take on Buffett's strange food tastes for a work week to see what it was like.

There were some basic ground rules — eat three meals a day, don't drink alcohol, and avoid vegetables.

Overall, I just tried to maintain the general attitude by which the man himself defines his diet.

"I checked the actuarial tables, and the lowest death rate is among 6-year-olds, so I decided to eat like a 6-year-old," Buffett told Fortune. "It's the safest course I can take."

SEE ALSO: Warren Buffett just placed a big bet on a $20 billion chain that truckers are obsessed with — here's what it's like to visit

The cornerstone of the Buffett diet: Cherry Coke.

In 2015, Buffett told Fortune he was "one-quarter Coca-Cola."

Buffett said he favored either Diet Coke or Cherry Coke and had at least five cans of the soda a day.

I decided to opt for exclusively Cherry Coke throughout the week, as I'm not the biggest fan of the taste of plain Coke. I am, however, a fan of cherry and cherry-adjacent soda products like Dr. Pepper and Cheerwine (it's a North Carolina thing — Google it).

I also couldn't purchase cans of the stuff at my local grocery store, but a two-liter works out to 5.6 cans a day, within the ballpark of Buffett's consumption. Thus, I decided to go with one of these each day.

If you're wondering, that works out to 252 grams, or 0.56 pounds, of sugar a day from the Cherry Coke alone. That's right — I got 84% of my recommended daily carbohydrate intake from just the sugar in the Cherry Coke.

I didn't initially do the math on the sugar content of the Cherry Coke, believing it was better to go into the week with a bit of blissful ignorance. While I had assumed it would be rough consuming all of the syrupy-sweet drink, I couldn't anticipate the full devastation the Coke would have on my mood.



On the first breakfast of the week, I was nervous but had a supply of foolish confidence in my ability to handle what was ahead.

In the HBO documentary "Becoming Warren Buffett," the legendary investor said his breakfast each day came from McDonald's and was dictated by the stock market.

Typically, Buffett gets breakfast once the market is open. If stocks are up, he gets a bacon, egg, and cheese biscuit. If they're down, he opts for a cheaper breakfast of two sausage patties. If the market is flat, as it was Monday morning before the open, he goes for the sausage McMuffin.

I get to work around 7:30 a.m. ET every day, meaning I had to base my McDonald's selection on the premarket futures, which tend to be a bit harder to gauge. Regardless, I decided to try to factor in a bit of qualitative analysis based on the overseas markets and the previous day's close (and, by the end of the week, what I could tolerate).

The first breakfast wasn't too challenging. The biggest issue was the lack of coffee, as Buffett doesn't drink the stuff.

I decided to front-load the Cherry Coke to get the caffeine I usually got from my coffee while also preventing myself from drinking soda well into the night.

Additionally, I'd decided to keep track of my weight each morning and night. For the calorie counts, the Cherry Coke totals are added to the count at dinner, since they were dispersed throughout the day.

Breakfast, Day 1: McDonald's sausage, egg, and cheese McMuffin; Cherry Coke

Breakfast calories: 470

Monday-morning weight: 168.4 pounds



The Cherry Coke hit me like a ton of bricks.

I don't drink much soda — I drink mostly water and coffee at work — so the sudden increase in the amount of corn syrup in my diet made me feel incredibly sluggish. Plus, the sugar high was so off the charts that I almost felt the tingle of the carbonation in my fingers as I was typing.

Then again, I also put down half of the two-liter before 11 a.m. in an attempt to front-load the caffeine.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

Brooklinen is celebrating turning 5 years old with its biggest sale of the year — save 20% sitewide through May 7

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Insider Picks writes about products and services to help you navigate when shopping online. Insider, Inc. receives a commission from our affiliate partners when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

Brooklinen

  • Brooklinen is celebrating turning 5 years old with its biggest sale of the year.
  • Now through May 7, save 20% on your entire order of $150 or more during Brooklinen's anniversary sale. Sheets, duvet covers, bathrobes, towels, and more are discounted.
  • In our buying guides, we've ranked Brooklinen as the maker of the best luxury sheets, the best sateen sheets, and the best duvet cover on the internet.

Brooklinenis one of our favorite companies to cover. From itsbed sheets, to its Brooklittles bedding line for babies and toddlers, to its super-plush bathrobes, to its recently launched shower curtain sets, there's a lot to love about the direct-to-consumer darling. 

However, it's not known for holding sales. Prices are usually low enough to warrant what is essentially a year-round sale in itself.

The company only has two sales a year: one during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, and the other to celebrate its birthday in May (which conveniently falls right before Mother's Day). This year Brooklinen turns 5, and the company's anniversary sale is offering steep discounts to celebrate.

Now through May 7, you can take 20% off your entire order of $150 or more.

If you're looking for a new set of sheets, or you've been waiting for a discount as an excuse to try out luxury bedding, this is probably the best time of the year to invest. The company's bedding looks great, feels even better, and can vastly improve your quality of sleep — which, in turn, improves quite a few other areas of your life. When six hours feels like eight, it's easier to operate in the way that you want in your day-to-day.

You can check out Brooklinen's full product lineup here, but we're fans of theLuxe Hardcore Sheet Bundle for every day. It comes with a duvet cover, a fitted sheet, a flat sheet, and four pillowcases for $249.75 in the queen size. Insider Picks' director of content strategy Ellen Hoffman says the sheet bundle is one of the best purchases she's ever made.

In our buying guides, we've also ranked Brooklinen as the maker of the best luxury sheets and the best sateen sheets you can buy. The company's Down Comforter (full/queen, $349) is the best we tried from a startup, and its Classic Duvet Cover (full/queen, $119) is another best-in-its-category on the internet. It also makes spa-worthy, blanket-sized towels (Bath Sheets, two for $89) and ultra-plush bathrobes ($98), the latter of which Insider Picks reporter Remi Rosmarin says are the little luxury she never thought she needed

Insider Picks reporter Mara Leighton can't recommend theTwill Hardcore Sheet Bundle (queen, $189) enough. She says they're made to feel like your favorite worn-in flannel. The twill fabrication allows the yarns to move more freely, creating an overall more forgiving, softer experience. As she's mentioned in her review of them, they'll make you wake up and wish you were working from home every day.

When it comes to Brooklinen, our experience is that it's pretty difficult to go wrong. Below, we've put together a list of Brooklinen's best sellers and our personal favorites to help guide your shopping. 

Save 20% on your entire order during the Brooklinen anniversary sale here.

Luxe Hardcore Sheet Bundle

The queen-size Luxe Hardcore Sheet Bundle is $249.75 before a discount is applied

Available in 15 colors that can be mixed and matched, the bundle includes: 

  • Luxe Core Sheet Set (one flat sheet, one fitted sheet, two pillowcases)
  • Luxe Duvet Cover
  • Luxe Pillowcases (an extra pair)

Find a full review of the sheets here. We've also ranked them the best luxury sheets and the best sateen sheets you can buy. 



Classic Hardcore Sheet Bundle

The queen-size Classic Hardcore Sheet Bundle is $219 before a discount is applied

Available in 14 colors that can be mixed and matched, the bundle includes:

  • Classic Core Sheet Set (one flat sheet, one fitted sheet, two pillowcases)
  • Classic Duvet Cover
  • Classic Pillowcases (an extra pair)


Down Comforter

The queen-size All-Season Down Comforter is $349 before a discount is applied

The queen-size Lightweight Down Comforter is $299 before a discount is applied

We ranked Brooklinen's comforter the best comforter made by a startup in our buying guide.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

30 inexpensive, but thoughtful Mother’s Day gifts under $25

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Insider Picks writes about products and services to help you navigate when shopping online. Insider, Inc. receives a commission from our affiliate partners when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

the sill 2

  • Gifting on a budget doesn't have to be stressful. Here are 30 Mother's Day gifts under $25 that make gift shopping this year a breeze. 
  • From small leather accessories to home decor, none of these gifts look or feel cheap. 

Our moms deserve everything in the world, but maybe yours is the type to insist that you don't get too extravagant for Mother's Day, or you're on a budget and want to make every dollar count. Either way, it's still important to show her that you're thinking of and appreciate her this Mother's Day. 

We know that finding affordable gifts that don't look and feel cheap can be tough, so we rounded up a great array for you. From the fun and light-hearted to the ones that could just make her cry, these under-$25 gifts are thoughtful yet friendly on the wallet. 

If you do find yourself with some extra cash on hand, be sure to check more of our Mother's Day gift ideas:

See 30 of the best Mother's Day gifts under $25 below.

DON'T MISS: All of Insider Picks' Mother's Day gift ideas for 2019, in one place

SEE ALSO: UrbanStems delivers fresh, beautiful bouquets with free one-day delivery — we tried it and think it's a great Mother's Day gift

A cutting board in the shape of the state she calls home

Gift a Totally Bamboo State Cutting & Serving Board, $19.95

Available for nearly all 50 states as well Puerto Rico, Long Island, and the contiguous US, this uniquely shaped cutting and serving board doubles as kitchen decor.

 



A scalp massager

Maxsoft Scalp Massager Shampoo Brush, $7-$9

This small brush delivers the everyday dose of soothing relaxation she never knew she needed. It's comfortable to hold and stimulates blood flow to the scalp and oil glands. 

 



The starter set for a smoother shave

Gift the Flamingo Shave Set, $16

If she shaves and you know she's been using the same rusty, dull razor for way too long, give her the upgrade she deserves with shaving tools from Flamingo, the sister brand of Harry's. She'll be a quick convert to its sharp blades, ergonomic handle, and luxurious shave gel. 



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

26 funny and inexpensive Mother's Day gifts that are guaranteed to make her laugh

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Insider Picks writes about products and services to help you navigate when shopping online. Insider, Inc. receives a commission from our affiliate partners when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

mom pin

  • If you've decided to go the funny route for Mother's Day this year, you'll find 26 gift options ready to make her laugh below. 
  • They contain just the right amount of levity to keep this holiday light-hearted, while showing Mom you care for and appreciate her. 
  • For more gifts that aren't as funny but are still thoughtful, check out all our Mother's Day gift guides here

Mother's Day is an important holiday, but that doesn't mean you can't keep it lighthearted. If you or your mom aren't interested in the sappy, cheesy aspects of Mother's Day, she might appreciate these funny gifts a little more. They show lots of personality, acknowledge the challenges and triumphs of being a mother, and keep things fun. 

Year after year of flower bouquets, chocolates, and other stereotypical gifts later, you can try mixing it up and injecting some humor into Mother's Day instead. 

Want to expand your search for Mother's Day gifts? We have you covered:

Shop the funniest Mother's Day gifts below. 

DON'T MISS: All of Insider Picks' Mother's Day gift ideas for 2019, in one place

SEE ALSO: 25 last-minute Mother's Day gifts that are still thoughtful and unique

Slang flashcards

Gift the Slang Flashcards, $10

Get your mom up to speed with all the lingo that the "youths" of today are using. This game has 50 cards to help her understand what you're really trying to say. 

 



An accurate desk sign

Gift the Big Personality Desk Sign, $28

Whether your mother is the CEO of her company, the house, or both, this sign accurately signals that she deserves attention and respect. 

 



Wine socks

Gift the Wine Socks, $11.99-$14.99

The message is pretty clear: if your mom is sitting back and relaxing, make sure she stays that way. 

 



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

This electrolyte powder is a low-sugar way to replenish fluids and prevent dehydration after workouts or long nights out

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Insider Picks writes about products and services to help you navigate when shopping online. Insider Inc. receives a commission from our affiliate partners when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

hydrant electrolytes

  • Drinking electrolyte water to replenish missing fluids and electrolytes is not a new concept, but many of the current options aren't doing enough and may not be as good for your body as you think.  
  • Hydrant, a powdered electrolyte mix, is an exception. It contains an efficient balance of only the ingredients you need to refuel after you work out, fall sick, or drink alcohol. 
  • They taste good, absorb quickly into your body, and combat the effects of dehydration effectively. 

After working out, falling sick, or a night of drinking, what's the first thing after water you reach for? For many, it's a bottle of Pedialyte, Gatorade, or Vitaminwater.

You understand vaguely that they'll replenish your body with the electrolytes and fluids you've lost. I, for one, grew up drinking a lot of Gatorade after sports games and even up until recently drank it to nurse hangovers. 

However, a closer look at their contents reveals they're filled with artificial ingredients, an excessive amount of sugar, or an improper balance of electrolytes. It's not surprising, then, that after chugging one of these drinks, you only feel minimally better and not as re-energized as you'd expect. 

From using powdered rehydration packets as a child whenever he was sick to revisiting them after rugby games and nights out while attending Oxford University, Hydrant cofounder John Sherwin has also experienced his fair share of dehydration experimentation.

He realized while working alongside constantly tired coworkers that they were chronically dehydrated, but this time around, he wanted to find electrolyte powder packets that were actually good for them. The search for clean electrolytes turned up empty-handed, so in typical startup founder fashion, Sherwin created his own, combining his personal experience with his background in biology. 

hydrant electrolytes 1

Each 8.7-gram packet of Hydrant contains eight ingredients and only what your body needs, including sodium citrate, potassium citrate, salt, magnesium citrate, and zinc gluconate. Its balance of electrolytes are based on the World Health Organization's standard for oral rehydration. 

Hydrant does contain cane sugar, but only just enough to activate the sodium-glucose transport mechanism that gets water and electrolytes into your bloodstream faster. Since it doesn't have too much sugar or any artificial sweeteners, it won't lead to a crash and upset stomach later. 

It also has low osmolarity, which means your body can more easily and quickly absorb the ingredients and feel their effects. 

hydrant electrolytes 2

Because Hydrant is a portable powder, you can drink it anywhere, provided you have a bottle of water to mix it with. Depending on which bulk pack you buy, each packet costs $1 or less, making it less expensive (and less wasteful) than bottled electrolyte drinks. 

It tastes pretty good, like a tangy lime (from lime juice powder) with a hint of salt. Taste is an underrated but important factor considering all the times you'll want to reach for Hydrant: during and after airplane travel, a workout, alcohol consumption, or a stressful work day where you haven't had the time or thought to drink something.

If you notice muscle or brain fatigue, headaches, or nausea, chances are you're experiencing the effects of dehydration. The efficient, clean, and tasty fix to replenish the culprit — those missing fluids and electrolytes — is a packet of Hydrant. 

Shop electrolyte powder packets, available in packs of 30 to 120, at Hydrant here

SEE ALSO: Aaptiv, a $15-per-month fitness app, gets me unlimited access to thousands of audio workout classes

Join the conversation about this story »


Popular jewelry startup Mejuri has an under-$80 zodiac collection — and the styles are great for subtly personalized Mother's Day gifts

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Insider Picks writes about products and services to help you navigate when shopping online. Insider Inc. receives a commission from our affiliate partners when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

Mejuri

Mejuri, a Canadian startup that makes classic, everyday fine jewelry for women, is a perfect one-stop-shop for all things Mother's Day.

Quality is high, prices are relatively low, and the company really only makes the kind of dainty jewelry you'd put on one day and then somehow never need to take off. As the founders told Business Insider in 2018, the goal is to debunk the myth that nice jewelry should never be touched or worn. In other words, "buy yourself the damn diamonds."

Take for instance the highly giftable Zodiac collection ($69-$79)— a chic capsule of a single slender, feminine necklace and ring, each designed with the wearer's astrological sign strewn across its face in shiny stones. It's the sort of gift that manages to check all the boxes: thoughtfulness, personalization, and a piece of functional, everyday luxury. 

Nicole_ _04.09.19 139

Both Zodiac pieces are set with AAA quality white sapphires and come in either gold vermeil (a thick 18-karat gold layer on sterling silver) or sterling silver dipped in rhodium for extra shine and strength — so you can match the gift to whichever metal your mom favors.

The necklaces have an adjustable chain (20 to 22 inches), and since gifting jewelry like rings can be tricky, it's worth noting that the company also has free 30-day returns — as well as a 24-month warranty. 

Thankfully, pricing is competitive. Mejuri estimates that the Zodiac Ring ($69) would run for $205 in traditional retail, while the Zodiac Necklace ($79) would go for $169. Major fine jewelry brands have been known to mark up their products by eight to 10 times the actual cost it took to make. But, in order to keep luxury affordable, Mejuri's uses a leaner model to deliver the same materials and craftsmanship as other luxury brands directly to the consumer, without passing on huge markups. Simply put, you'll be able to give your mom an out-of-budget level gift without actually breaking said budget. 

If you're looking for affordable, beautiful jewelry your mom can wear every day and that'll serve as an ongoing reminder of how much you love her, then you're in the right place.

Shop the Mejuri Zodiac Collection, $69-$79

Gift the Zodiac Necklace, $79 [available in gold and silver]

Gift the Zodiac Ring, $69 [available in gold and silver]

Join the conversation about this story »

13 of the weirdest things you can buy at US airports

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scorpion sucker candy

  • Traveling can be stressful, not least of all due to having to navigate the airport.
  • But some airports in the United States have amusing, unusual offerings for purchase in their stores, from $1,500 hams to drones to fully functional retro push-button phones.
  • Here are some of the weirdest things you can buy in airports around the US.
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Air travel can be tedious, annoying, and even downright infuriating.

Between navigating TSA checkpoints, waiting in endless lines, and dodging hack-coughing seatmates, making your way through an airport isn't typically something that anyone looks forward to.

Luckily, over the years, airports have begun to appreciate that many travelers — and especially those frequent flyers who travel regularly for business — are looking for more things to do while waiting for their flights. As a result, they've begun to offer a whole lot more in the way of shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Nowadays, there are plenty of quirky things you can find in American airport shops, from drones to used horseshoes to a $1,500 ham complete with a leather carrying case.

Here are 13 of the weirdest things available for purchase in American airports.

SEE ALSO: 6 questions you should ask the hotel concierge to get the most out of your stay — and 1 question you should never ask

DON'T MISS: I went to some of New Orleans' fanciest, most iconic bars — but had a better time at the dive bars that locals swear by

1. Scorpion suckers

These are certainly unlike any other plane snack, to put it mildly.

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport sells hard candy with a real scorpion suspended in the center, which they've dubbed "scorpion suckers." These outlandish lollipops are a popular souvenir novelty or gag giftwhen in Arizona for their unique and slightly terrifying look.

The scorpion candy also made the list of Phoenix Sky Harbor's best-selling airport items, per CNBC's 2017 report.



2. Used racehorse shoes

Louisville, Kentucky is known as the home of the Kentucky Derby, an annual horse race that's been running continuously since 1875. So it's no wonder that some of the most popular souvenirs for those making their way out of the city are Derby-related.

Harriet Baskas, a blogger for Stuck at the Airport, wrote that Louisville International Airport officials told her authentic used horseshoes — complete with caked-on dirt from the racetrack — were a favorite souvenir among tourists visiting the airport's Churchill Downs Store.



3. Vaccines and immunizations

Plenty of airports have first aid centers and other medical facilities. But did you know that some even offer full-on doctor's visits, including shots?

The SFO Medical Clinic, for one, provides travelers with travel-related and occupational medical services. In addition to urgent care and immigration-related physicals, the clinic also has a certified travel vaccination center that can provide patients with access to the immunizations currently advised by the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Available immunizations include those for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, influenza, Japanese encephalitis, tetanus, and rabies. While the clinic doesn't accept private insurance, they do accept most major credit cards and personal checks and provide an itemized receipt that can be forwarded to your health plan for reimbursement.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

'Apples the size of watermelons': A psychologist reveals what it was like to grow up in the Chernobyl fallout zone

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chernobyl

Janina Scarlet always knows when there's a storm coming. 

"Migraines," she told Business Insider. "I get whenever the weather changes."

Scarlet was four months shy of her third birthday when disaster struck near the Ukrainian town of Chernobyl. On April 26, 1986 at around 1:23 a.m., a blazing fireball blew the lid off the area's nuclear reactor, spreading toxic radiation into the air.

Radioactive debris released into the atmosphere reached the riverside town of Vinnytsia some 200 miles away, where Scarlet's family lived. 

"For the first couple of weeks, although we knew something did happen at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, we weren't told the extent of it," Scarlet said. "We were told it was contained, and that everything was fine. As a result, people in Ukraine continued going outside, and breathing the fresh air, and drinking un-boiled water, and eating raw fruit. And all of it was poisoned."

Although it's been 33 years since the Chernobyl explosion, the health consequences of that radiation exposure still plague people who lived near the plant. The Chernobyl disaster has been directly blamed for fewer than 50 deaths from radiation poisoning, but many researchers say the full death tally from the Chernobyl explosion and its lingering effects may never be known. The World Health Organization estimates that eventually, the disaster may become responsible for some 5,000 cancer deaths. 

After the accident, everything within a 30-kilometer radius of the nuclear plant was deemed off-limits. But Scarlet's family lived outside that small area, so they remained in the larger fallout zone for nine years post-Chernobyl. She remembers getting sick for long periods of time, staying home from school, and going to the hospital.

"Even a simple cold was something that my immune system had a really difficult time fighting," she said. "I would get nose bleeds that wouldn't clot."

Today, Scarlet works as a licensed psychologist and lives in San Diego, California, though she still gets weather-related migraines even there. She also suffers about one seizure each year and is forbidden from driving a car for that reason. Beyond her physical health, the lasting trauma of the nuclear disaster has influenced the trajectory of Scarlet's life and career. 

Early memories of Chernobyl

janina scarlet in ukraine

Scarlet said tiny "snippets" of memories from the months after the disaster still linger in her mind.

"Gigantic fruit," she recalled. "Apples almost the size of watermelons." 

Other consequences of living in the fallout zone were eerily serene.  

"My parents tell me it was the most beautiful spring they'd ever seen because, apparently, it caused a lot of blossoming, a lot of booming," she said. "Unfortunately, a lot of it was toxic."

Kids who lived near the Chernobyl site have increased instances of thyroid cancer, and adults who helped with the reactor cleanup are more at risk of developing leukemia. 

The American Cancer Society says "there is no threshold below which this kind of radiation is thought to be totally safe."

Scarlet said she wishes the government had been more proactive about warning Ukrainians like herself about the health risks. 

"I did know a couple of people that were very young and developed cancer very rapidly and then died very quickly," she said, adding that a few years after the accident, "my friend's mom died of cancer when she was 35." 

'Being a mutant, in a way, is actually special'

janina scarlet as a child in ukraine

By the mid-1990s, the former Soviet Union was going through tough economic times, and ethnic tensions in Ukraine had intensified.

As people lost their jobs and violence escalated, Scarlet said, it no longer felt safe for her Jewish family to live in the country. They applied for asylum in the US, and after more than a year of background checks and paperwork (conducted quietly so their neighbors wouldn't know), Scarlet moved with her parents and older brother to a Russian-speaking neighborhood in Brooklyn, New York in 1995.

Scarlet was 12 when they arrived, and American junior high wasn't easy.

"That first year I didn't really have any friends and it was a very, very challenging year, getting used to the American culture, learning the language," she said. 

As a teenager, Scarlet said, she used to studiously watch episodes of "Family Matters" with closed-captioning subtitles.

"I had a giant dictionary on my lap, and I'd try to translate as quickly as I could what I was reading and hearing on the screen," she said. She credits the show's nerdy, suspender-clad character Steve Urkel with teaching her English. 

But knowing the language didn't change the fact that she felt like a "freak" at school, Scarlet said. 

ukranians in brooklyn

A few years later, Scarlet was introduced to the X-Men movie series.

"I saw that being a mutant, in a way, is actually special," she said. "Sometimes our adverse experiences give us superpowers. Sometimes our pain stories can give us more strength than we ever realized we could have."

The superhero world is replete with traumatic origin stories, but to comic-lovers like Scarlet, these challenges are not tragic flaws; instead, they're some of the characters' most endearing traits.

"Every single superhero has a vulnerability, and it's not despite of it but because of it that we like these characters," she said. 

Wolverine, for example, lived through a nuclear bomb, according to X-Men lore. The character has something called "toxic immunity," which means that he is completely immune to diseases, and radiation can't harm him at all.

logan wolverine

Scarlet's favorite X-Men superhero to this day is Storm. 

"Storm can control the weather," she said. Because of her migraines, she added, "the weather typically controls me, so seeing Storm's superpower was really exciting for me." 

Using superheroes in psychology

Today, Scarlet turns to superhero stories to inform her practice as a clinical psychologist, working with clients who may have symptoms of depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). She often asks her patients — whether they're teens going through a rough patch or veterans returning from war — which superheroes they identify with most.

janina scarlet today

Like the beginning of a superhero comic series, a healing process might start with patients identifying their own traumatic origin story. Scarlet suggests patients look to a particular superhero whose tragic journey they identify with or understand well.

"For example, somebody who experienced a painful loss might then have a conversation with Batman," she said. "Batman might encourage that person to learn from their painful experience and become the hero of their own journey, helping other trauma survivors or meeting with other people."

This process of helping people find hope and meaning from their traumatic experiences is called post-traumatic growth, she said. 

Scarlet is now putting a similar therapy technique to work in her forthcoming book called "Therapy Quest," which comes out in some independent bookstores on May 7 (with a wider release on June 4). Each chapter in the book teaches readers a different mental health skill, with the overall goal of de-stigmatizing mental health and making healing fun.

It's a kind of superhero training course for real-world disasters.

"You might learn the mindfulness spell, or self-compassion potion," Scarlet explained. "At the end of the book, in order to fight the sorceress, you need all of these spells and potions."

SEE ALSO: Michael Phelps teaches his 2-year-old son a special 'lion's breath' technique — part of the mental-health routine that Phelps says saved his life

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: People are moving back to Fukushima and hunting radioactive boars

More than half of city dwellers consider themselves poor or working class, and it highlights 3 of the biggest differences between living in the city and the suburbs

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city life

  • More than half of city-dwellers consider themselves poor or working class, according to a recent INSIDER and Morning Consult survey.
  • Meanwhile, more than half of those living in suburban areas identify as some level of middle class.
  • While these two groups are fairly financially similar otherwise, these findings reflect three of the biggest differences between city- and suburban-dwellers: demographics, cost of living, and lifestyle.
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

More than half of those living in cities consider themselves poor or working class, according to a recent survey by INSIDER and Morning Consult, which polled 4,400 Americans. Of the total respondents, 1,107 said they live in an urban area and 1,901 said they live in a suburban area. 

Of those who responded, only 37% of city-dwellers consider themselves middle class or upper middle class. In contrast, more than half of those living in suburban areas think they're middle class or upper middle class — around 14% said they're poor and roughly 27% said they're working class.


According to many of the survey responses, those living in the city and those living in the suburbs are otherwise pretty similar financially — but their class identifications reflect the three key differences between them: demographics, cost of living, and lifestyle.

City-dwellers are younger and earn less

Those living in urban areas tend to take home less money, according to the survey. Nearly 60% of those living in cities make less than $50,000; nearly 30% earn between $50,000 and $100,000 and only 11% earn more than $100,000. In the suburbs, a little less than half earn less than $50,000, 34% bring home between $50,000 and $100,000, and nearly 20% make more than $100,000.

The difference in income levels may be attributed to the fact that urban areas are home to younger residents, who likely aren't as far along in their careers. Around 42% are Gen Z or millennials (aged 18 to 37) and roughly 33% are baby boomers (age 54 and up). That's compared to 30% of Gen Z and millennials and nearly 44% of boomers living in suburban areas. Roughly a quarter of Gen Xers (age 38 to 53) live in both areas.

Read more: Nearly half of indebted millennials say college wasn't worth it, and the reason why is obvious

Considering that more millennials than boomers have student loans, the larger share of millennials in urban areas may explain why more city-dwellers have student loans— and why they might feel poor. Around 31% of city-dwellers are currently paying off their student loans, compared to 21% of those living in the suburbs. More than half of the latter have never even had student loans, compared to less than half of city-dwellers.


Student loan debt has made it harder for younger generations to build wealth. They also haven't had as much time to build wealth as boomers, who typically characterize the suburban area.

Cities have seen hikes in cost of living

It's even more difficult to save in cities, which have become increasingly expensive. A big cost of living increase has hit America's middle class particularly hard in cities like Sacramento and Houston, according to GoBankingRates.

Urban residents may be more inclined to feel they're not part of the middle class because many don't own a home — nearly half are renters, compared to a little more than a quarter of suburban residents, according to the survey. Around 61% of those living in the suburbs own a home. 


This is a reflection of both city lifestyle and living costs — rents have increased by 46% from the 1960s to 2000 when adjusted for inflation, according to Student Loan Hero. The current median US rent, according to Zillow, is $1,650. 

Read more: Rent in cities like NYC and San Francisco is so expensive that it's pricing people out of the real-estate market, and some of them are turning to houseboats instead

Homeownership and car ownership usually go hand — it makes sense then, that more of those living in the suburbs than the city own a car. Suburban-dwellers also spend slightly more on transportation — more than half spend $100 to $250 a month and only a quarter spend less than $50 a month, compared to 30% of those living in urban areas.

This finding mirrors city lifestyle — residents are more able to get around by walking, riding a bike, or using public transport than suburban residents, who need to pay for gas for daily commutes.

The city lifestyle creates tighter budgets

Faced with higher costs of living and student loan debt, city residents may be more inclined to budget on discretionary spending. For example, they save more than suburban residents when eating out, even though urban areas typically offer more dining options.


More than half of the those living in suburban areas spend $50 to $250 eating out a month, compared to roughly 46% of city-dwellers. Nearly 37% of urbanites spend less than $50 eating out a month, compared to roughly 32% of suburban residents.

It's not surprising considering that some city residents need more money just to buy essentials. When asked how they would spend an extra $1,000, those living in both urban and suburban areas prioritized using it to pay debt, save, and invest — but more of those living in urban areas would use it to purchase necessities.

SEE ALSO: More Americans making $100,000 consider themselves working class than rich, and it shows just how expensive the US has become

DON'T MISS: America's middle class is set apart from the rich by 2 distinct measures of wealth

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: Here's what 'Game of Thrones' stars look like in real life

61 of the best Mother's Day gifts you can give for under $100

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Insider Picks writes about products and services to help you navigate when shopping online. Insider Inc. receives a commission from our affiliate partners when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

snowe $98

  •  Mother's Day is a great opportunity to show thanks for your mom or guardian. 
  • Below, I've compiled 60+ of the best gifts you can give this year — all under $100. 

When my older sister had a minor role in the first-grade play, my mom gave up the chance to meet Mother Teresa so she could be in attendance. And when I decided I absolutely had to be Marie Antoinette for sixth grade Halloween, she spent over an hour in the noxious fumes of gray hairspray and a teasing comb to fashion my hair into a gravity-defying poof.

Those are just a couple of personal examples, but the fact of the matter is that moms seem to consistently put everyone else's (even trivial) needs ahead of their own — a fact that may mean you've grown up to actually believe that "giving is better than receiving", especially where she's concerned. And Mother's Day is the perfect excuse.

In the spirit of getting the most out of a day dedicated just to her, this list contains 61 presents moms will love — from delicate jewelry to globally curated coffees to a self-watering herb garden. And since your love might outstrip your budget, none of the gifts will cost you more than $100. 

As a professional product reviewer who has given her mom many of the gifts included on this list, I can safely say your mom is going to love anything you pick.

If you're looking for more gifts for mom, we have you covered with plenty of ideas that cover all budgets: 

SEE ALSO: All of Insider Picks' Mother's Day gift ideas for 2019, in one place

A beautiful necklace or pair of earrings she can wear with any outfit.

Gift a pair of Mejuri Loop Earrings, $55

There's something satisfying about being able to afford to give your mom something delicate, luxurious, and special. Too often our moms put us first and themselves last, and something that isn't strictly "necessary" is a good way to make sure they feel pampered from time to time.

Mejuri is an Insider Picks favorite, and the Canadian company will likely be a new one of hers as well.



A beautiful bouquet she can keep in the house.

Gift a bouquet from The Bouqs, from $36

You can grab her a potted plant if she enjoys caring for them over time, but another great option is sending her a beautiful bouquet of flowers that she can enjoy for a few weeks with minimal effort and then throw out. If you want to get her something more lasting, you can pick up a vase ($9-$186), too. 



The Instant Pot for tons of easy and delicious meals.

Gift the Instant Pot Duo60 7-in-1 Multi-Use Programmable Pressure Cooker, $69.99

The Instant Pot is a cult-favorite for a reason; instead of doing the work of one kitchen gadget, it does the work of seven, making the time she spends cooking (if that's something she does regularly) that much more efficient. Especially if she's the kind of person who somehow always unconsciously spends most of the family get-togethers in the kitchen perfecting the meal for everyone else to enjoy, this is one way to ensure the food will be delicious while also allowing more time for her to relax, too.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

25 unique Mother's Day gifts that are Prime eligible and guaranteed to arrive in time

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Insider Picks writes about products and services to help you navigate when shopping online. Insider, Inc. receives a commission from our affiliate partners when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

foreo luna

  • Mother's Day is a few weeks away, so you still have a decent amount of time to get a great gift for your mom. 
  • But as the days fly by and shipping deadlines pass, make sure to keep some back-up options in mind. As long as you're an Amazon Prime member, however, you should be in the clear since it offers millions of products that will ship in two days. 
  • These 25 gift ideas across home, kitchen, tech, skin care, and accessories can make Mom happy this year — and best of all, they're Prime-eligible. 

Though an Amazon Prime membership includes a long list of benefits, nearly everyone is initially drawn to it for its convenient two-day shipping policy. If you're like me, you often fall behind on gift shopping and by the time you figure out the perfect gift, you've already missed the shipping deadline and your gift won't arrive in time.

Instead of biting your nails as you shop for Mother's Day this year, consider Amazon a solid backup plan — because chances are your gift is going to be one of the millions of products that's Prime-eligible. 

From simple and affordable treats and accessories to fancy home and kitchen gadgets, we found 25 thoughtful Mother's Day gifts that also just happen to be Prime-eligible, so you have the peace of mind that they'll arrive in time for the special day. 

If you're looking for more Mother's Day gift ideas, we have you covered: 

READ MORE: Check out all of our Mother's Day 2019 gift guides here

A Kindle e-reader

Gift the Kindle Paperwhite, $129.99

Amazon's most popular e-reader makes reading much more convenient and enjoyable — it's light and portable, lets you download books wherever you have Wi-Fi, has an adjustable light, and boasts a long battery life. 



A mini diffuser

Gift the VicTsing 150ml Mini Aroma Essential Oil Diffuser, $19.99

With seven different color options and three timer options, this small diffuser is versatile and effective. Just add a few drops of essential oil to fill the room with relaxing scents. 



Soft, breathable Casper sheets

Gift the Casper Supima Cotton Sheet Set (Queen), $112

Gifting an entire mattress for Mother's Day is a little excessive (plus you might not know her mattress type preference). The soft, durable sheets from Casper is the next best thing you can give to help improve her sleep. 



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

I haven't gone to a grocery store in months or a drugstore in years — I use Instacart and Amazon Subscribe & Save instead

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Insider Picks writes about products and services to help you navigate when shopping online. Insider Inc. receives a commission from our affiliate partners when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

Instacart cart photo

  • Ordering groceries and household items online has saved me so much time and money — I haven't been to a grocery store in months or a drugstore in years. 
  • I buy groceries via Instacart and use Amazon Subscribe & Save for household items like laundry pods, toothpaste, contact-lens solution, and more. 
  • In addition reclaiming my time, I've also never run out of anything I need since I'm forced to take inventory of items before I put in an order. 

I am, by no means, an Adult who has her life together, but I'm actually proud to report that I haven't gone to a grocery store in months or run out of toothpaste in years. Not because I forage or have questionable personal hygiene, but because I've been using Instacart and Amazon Subscribe & Save.

With the exception of going to Costco on weekends for its endless samples and surprisingly good assortment of succulents, I haven't gone to a grocery store in months. Instead, I use the online-delivery service Instacart. The stores in which you can shop at are determined by your location, but major chains like Whole Foods, Fairway, and Costco are available in most metropolitan places.

There are monthly and annual Express and Non-Express plans starting at $9.99; my fiancé and I have a $99 annual Express membership that gets us unlimited free delivery over $35. We're able to hit the minimum easily since we do a bi-weekly Costco haul. 

All you have to do is select the grocery store you want to shop, choose a delivery window, and put whatever you want in your virtual cart — it's really just like the in-store experience but without the physical aspect. I've been able to buy nearly every item I want from fresh produce to frozen fruit to pantry staples and have never felt like the online selection is smaller than what's in stores.

The delivery is also equally impressive and seamless. You just choose any two-hour window in which you're home to accept the groceries; sometimes I've been able to get them within two hours of ordering.  

One of my favorite things about the whole service is its customer service. If produce isn't fresh or a boxed item gets dinged up badly during transit (which isn't often), you can contact customer service and they'll refund you for the amount of the item. I've also had maybe two instances where delivery was delayed, but they were around the holidays and I was notified early on in the process so they weren't an issue for me. Instacart and the shopper assigned to your delivery will also regularly update you between when you put in the order and actually receive it, so you always know where your avocados are.

I'm also fully aware of Instacart's track record of bad management and taking from tips from its shoppers, so I make sure to give an extra tip to my shopper and driver through the app after delivery or directly in cash. 

Instacart walking photo

For household items and pantry items like dishwashing liquid, matcha powder, batteries, and toothpaste, we use Amazon Subscribe & Save. It's an overlooked Amazon service in which you subscribe to certain items for regular deliveries — basically a customized subscription box in which you'll actually use all the items.

We set up a three-month subscription for the 25+ items that we're subscribed to, but we really just get the same five or six items each month. It's so annoying to realize that you're out of everyday items like contacts solution, toothpaste, and toilet paper right before you need it and then be forced to go out to the pharmacy at some weird time of the evening. That never happens to me now. I'm so well-stocked that it's like I'm running a mini-mart out of my living room.  

If you have five or more items in your Subscribe & Save shipment, you can get up to 15% off on your whole order. On top of that, if you have an Amazon store card (which I highly recommend getting), you also earn 5% cash back on your order. I won't/can't do the math, but it's a great deal. And because it's Amazon, it comes in just a few days.

I really like the fact that both services give us our time back and help us save money in the long run. I no longer spend 30 minutes browsing through aisles at the grocery store or pharmacy for things I don't need or picking up three boxes of pasta because they're on sale for $0.79. I will however hit up Costco this weekend for some more succulents. 

Sign up for Instacart starting at $9.99 here

Sign up for Amazon Subscribe & Save here

SEE ALSO: The 32 best things we ever bought on Amazon for under $25

Join the conversation about this story »


Despite proposed fines for anti-vaxxers in Germany and New York, vaccine exemption bills may be on the rise

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measles virus

  • Bills that fine people who fail to get life-saving vaccinations are gaining attention.
  • On Sunday, Germany's health minister proposed fining parents of school-age children who haven't received a measles inoculation up to $2,790.
  • The proposal came on the heels of recent order in New York that requires measles vaccinations and fines people who don't comply up to $1,000.
  • But policies that allow people to forgo key vaccinations may actually be on the rise instead, reports suggest. 
  • Read more stories like this on Business Insider's homepage.

Bills that fine people who fail to vaccinate are gaining attention, but policies that allow people to forgo vaccinations may actually be on the rise.

On Sunday, Germany's health minister proposed fining parents of school-age children who haven't received a measles inoculation up to $2,790. The suggestion comes amid concerns that the virus could make a comeback in that country, as it has recently in 22 states in the US. On the heels of a historic outbreak of measles in New York City last month, officials ordered people in four affected zip codes to get vaccines, with anyone failing to do so facing fines of up to $1,000. 

But while these bills gain a foothold in the press, policies that allow people to avoid vaccines may actually be on the rise in the US, the American Academy of Pediatrics recently told CNN

"The volume of legislative activity is greater than in past years," the organization said, noting that 20 states have introduced bills this year that make it easier for people to avoid inoculations.

Read more: What you need to know about the US measles outbreak — the largest since the disease was eradicated

As Business Insider has previously reported, measles is highly contagious and can be fatal, killing one or two of every 1,000 children who contract it, according to the CDC. Measles can also cause permanent hearing loss or intellectual disabilities. Unvaccinated young children are most at risk.

In most cases, the vaccine exemption bills — introduced in states like Washington, Arizona, Texas, and Maine — broaden the reasons why parents can opt out of vaccinating their kids against diseases like measles. In other cases, they simply require that doctors give more information about the potential risks of vaccines, which are generally confined to mild redness and swelling at the site of the injection.

Last year, a study published in the journal PLOS One suggested that the rate of Americans failing to vaccinate for non-medical reasons has steadily risen since 2009. 

And since 2013, the number of vaccine exemption bills has risen every year, with seven bills introduced in 2013 and 19 bills introduced in 2017, according to CNN and the American Journal of Public Health.

Still, not all of those bills become laws. It remains to be seen how many of the 20 such bills introduced this year will turn into policies. 

SEE ALSO: Facebook plans to tackle anti-vaccine misinformation by rejecting false ads and de-ranking harmful pages

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: A recent Harvard study found men who wore boxers had about 25% more sperm than those who wore briefs

'Do Google Pixel phones have wireless charging?': Here's what you need to know

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Google Pixel 3 and wireless stand

  • The Google Pixel 3 phone is the first model of its line to include a wireless charging feature, complete with a specific base.
  • However, there is a way around that problem — If you're willing to buy and use a compatible receiver. (Most cost less than $15.)
  • Receivers connect to the Pixel phone and create an external link that's necessary for the power from a wireless charger to reach the phone.
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Wireless is a huge trend for phones — whether it's wireless headphones (spurred on by the slow death of the headphone jack) or wireless charging, there's something to be said for the overall convenience and freedom that it affords.

If you have a Google Pixel phone, be advised: The Pixel 3 is the first version of the model to advertise wireless charging (using the Google Pixel Stand, which is sold separately.) So those with the original model, or the Pixel 2, don't have it built in. But just because it's not a built-in feature for those earlier phones, it doesn't mean that wireless charging is a total no-go: There are receivers you can add to your Pixel phone to make a wireless charging station.

Google Pixel Stand

Those consist of a charging port as well as a slim sensor strip that would lie relatively flat against the back of your phone. So the wireless charger would feed power through the sensor strip, which would then direct the power into the phone, thereby charging the device. The receiver does constitute an additional cost on top of your wireless charger, but they tend to be pretty cheap, usually coming in at $10 to $15.

Here are a couple receivers that work with the Pixel and Pixel 2:

This wireless charging receiver has a durable metal interface that will fit your Pixel's type C USB port, as well as a slim design. The "short version" will also not cover your phone's fingerprint sensor when attached.

nillkin type c wireless charging receiver

QI says this gold receiver works "well with any Qi wireless charger," and it's advertised as a fast-charging wireless receiver. It also features a "0.04 IN ultra slim design."

Once you have a receiver, you'd connect it to the charging port and align the back with your wireless charger and you're all set.

qi charger

You could also opt to get a phone charging case, if you don't already have one. But that would mean your USB port, the only one on your device, would always be occupied by the receiver. That's probably fine if you already have wireless headphones and don't need that port, but others will have to be more flexible in periodically changing out their setup.

Related coverage from How To Do Everything: Tech:

SEE ALSO: How to take a screenshot on a Google Pixel 2 or 3, with alternate methods

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NOW WATCH: 14 problems that can make touch screen laptops infuriating

Save $50 on the Apple Watch Series 4 and $40 on the Instant Pot Duo Plus — and 6 other sales and deals happening now

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Insider Picks writes about products and services to help you navigate when shopping online. Insider Inc. receives a commission from our affiliate partners when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective. This list includes Sponsored Products that have been suggested by ESPN and that also meet our editorial criteria in terms of quality and value.*

Apple Watch Series 4

1. Save $50 on the Apple Watch Series 4 at Best Buy

The latest version of the Apple Watch, the Series 4, released late last year, and it's currently on sale. During Best Buy's Apple Shopping Event, you can save $50 on Series 4 Apple Watches including 40mm, 44mm, Nike+, GPS, and Cellular variations. For more deals and savings at Best Buy, visit Business Insider Coupons here

Shop the Apple Watch Series 4 at Best Buy now

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2. Save $40 on the Instant Pot Duo Plus 6-Quart Cooker

As the best-selling cooker in the Instant Pot family, the Duo Plus is a useful addition to any kitchen. The multi-purpose cooker can be used as a standard slow cooker, pressure cooker, rice cooker, steamer, yogurt maker, warmer, and sautée pan, cake maker, egg cooker, and sterilizer. Its six-quart design is ideal for feeding families of four to six people.

Instant Pot Duo Plus 6-Quart Cooker, $89.95 (Originally $129.95) [You save $40]

ESPN+

3. Get one year of ESPN+ and UFC 237 for $79.99 as a new subscriber

If you're a big sports fan, ESPN+ is a subscription you may want in your streaming arsenal. You'll get access to premium sporting events and can stay up to date on scores from pretty much any device. Right now, new subscribers will get one year of ESPN+ and access to UFC 237 on May 11 on pay-per-view for just $79.99. Originally valued at $109.99, you'll save $30 with the current offer.

*Sponsored by ESPN+

ESPN+ and UFC 237, $79.99 (Originally $109.99) [You save $30]

J.Crew

4. Save 25% sitewide, plus an extra 15% off at J.Crew

For the next five days, J.Crew is having a different sale for each day of the week. Today only, you'll automatically save 25% on full-price arrivals, and you can get an extra 15% off with the promo code "MONDAY" at checkout. To potentially save even more at J.Crew, visit Business Insider Coupons here

Shop the J.Crew Sale now

 

51mBukH+tFL._SL1000_

5.Save $20 on the Fire TV Stick 4K and 3rd Gen Echo Dot Bundle

The Echo Dot and Fire Stick are two of Amazon's most popular products for creating an interactive smart home and entertainment system. With the power of Alexa, you can easily stream your favorite movies and shows, listen to music, control smart home devices, check the weather, set timers,  and use thousands of other skills. Right now, you can save $20 by bundling the latest versions of each — the Fire TV Stick 4K and 3rd Gen Echo Dot — together.

Fire TV Stick 4K and 3rd Gen Echo Dot Bundle, $79.98 (Originally $99.98)[You save $20]

Fossil

6. Save up to $76 on touchscreen smartwatches and 25% on hybrid smartwatches at Fossil

If you're looking for the perfect watch to give your mom this Mother's Day, Fossil's smartwatches offer connectivity, function, and great style. A big selection of touchscreen watches are marked down to $199 (from $275) and you can save 25% on hybrid smart watches by using the promo code "FORMOM" at checkout. For more deals and savings at Fossil, visit Business Insider Coupons here

Shop the Fossil sale now

llbean

7. Save 20% on women's clothes and shoes at L.L.Bean

In preparation for Mother's Day, L.L.Bean is having a big sale on women's items — and it's the perfect time to pick up outdoor gear and apparel for the outdoorsy or adventurous moms in your life. Right now, you can save 20% on women's clothing, footwear, and outerwear by using the promo code "MOM20" at checkout. The sale ends today, so start shopping now. To potentially save even more at L.L.Bean, visit Business Insider Coupons here.

Shop the L.L.Bean sale now.

Leesa Mattress On Sale

8. Save 15% on your entire order at Leesa

As the best overall choice in our mattress buying guide, we're confident that Leesa has the right mattress for most people. Even at full price, Leesa mattresses are a great value, but right now you can save 15% through an offer exclusive to Business Insider readers. Simply use the promo code "BUSINESSINSIDER" at checkout to receive the discount. In addition to the all-foam Leesa and spring and foam Leesa Hybrid Mattresses, you can also save on accessories like pillows, sheets, and blankets.

Shop the Leesa mattress sale now.

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Meet the billionaire behind iconic casinos like The Venetian and Marina Bay Sands, who's worth $37 billion, lives in a Vegas mansion, and has donated more than $25 million to Trump

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Sheldon Adelson

 

You may not have heard of Sheldon Adelson, but you've probably heard of some of his world-famous properties: the Venetian and the Palazzo hotels in Las Vegas, or perhaps the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore made famous by "Crazy Rich Asians."

Adelson is the billionaire chairman and majority shareholder of the world's largest casino operator, Las Vegas Sands. His company operates the Venetian in Las Vegas and the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, among others.

Read more: I stayed in the $6.6 billion mega-hotel in the heart of Singapore, and it wasn't anything like 'Crazy Rich Asians'

He's also given millions of dollars in political contributions to high-profile Republican politicians. Adelson gave at least $17 million in political contributions to Newt Gingrich during his 2012 presidential campaign, according to The New York Times. And Adelson has made at least $25 million in political contributions to Trump, earning him the nickname "Trump's Patron-in-Chief."

Adelson and his wife, Miriam, reportedly live in a Las Vegas megamansion, own a 300-foot superyacht, and travel in a 380-passenger private jet.

Here's a look at the Las Vegas billionaire's life, career, and wealth.

SEE ALSO: 9 mind-blowing facts that show just how wealthy Jeff Bezos, the world's richest man, really is

DON'T MISS: What it's like to be a billionaire in Tel Aviv, one of the most expensive cities in the world, where old wealth and new tech money live side by side

Sheldon Adelson is the 85-year-old billionaire behind the world's largest casino operator, Las Vegas Sands.

Las Vegas Sands operates properties worldwide including the Venetian Las Vegas, the Palazzo Las Vegas, the Sands Expo & Convention Center, the Sands Macao, the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, the Sands Bethlehem, and more. 



Adelson was the son of a cab driver in Boston.

His first jobs included selling newspapers on street corners, selling ads in trade magazines, and serving as a court reporter.



Adelson first started making big money in trade shows. He launched COMDEX, a technology trade show in Las Vegas, with partners in 1979.

The trade show became one of the most attended in the world, and in 1995, Adelson and his partners sold it along with other smaller shows to SoftBank for $862 million.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

21 Amazon Prime-eligible gifts for Mother’s Day — all under $100

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Insider Picks writes about products and services to help you navigate when shopping online. Insider Inc. receives a commission from our affiliate partners when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

Skip Hop Diaper Bag Backpack

  • Amazon has a ton of Mother's Day gift ideas your mom will love, whether she's into cooking, fitness, home decor, tech, or something totally unexpected.
  • We've rounded 21 gifts all under $100 that can be unboxed in just a few days with Amazon Prime's free two-day shipping.
  • If you don't find the perfect gift on this list, check out more Mother's Day 2019 gift ideas here.

Mother's Day is just around the corner, and thankfully, Amazon Prime has a ton of gifts that are all eligible for free two-day shipping. Wearables, workout gear, and luxurious body care — you name it, Amazon has it.

We've already combed through the catalog to hand-pick 21 gifts any mom would love — all for under $100 and eligible for free two-day Prime shipping. Now you won't have to pay a hefty fee for expedited shipping.

Here are 21 Prime-eligible Mother's Day gifts all under $100:

A mini K-cup coffee machine that brews a personal cup

Keurig K-Mini Plus Single Serve Coffee Maker, available from Amazon for $99.99

Mom can enjoy a delicious cup of coffee every morning with this personal single-serve K-cup coffee maker. It can store up to nine K-cups at a time and can brew a cup of joe between six to 12 ounces, depending on how strong she prefers. Also, it comes with a removable one-cup reservoir where she can add fresh water before each brew.



A customized necklace

EFYTAL Three Initial Necklace (customizable), available from Amazon for $39.95

Personalize this gold-filled necklace with initials of you and your sibs, or whatever else you want, for a sweet touch. Chains are available in both 16-inch and 18-inch lengths, and the manufacturer will replace the chain within five years of purchase if issues arise.  



A personal blender that she can take on the go

Ninja Personal Blender, available from Amazon for $48.59

Your mom can take her power smoothie directly in the single-serving blender cup, then take the cup to-go with the bonus sip-and-seal lids, or transfer it to her favorite tumbler. This 700-watt blender is powerful enough to crush through ice and frozen fruits so there's no need to break out the knife and cutting board either.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider
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