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We tried Rothy's new 'Chelsea boots' made from recycled water bottles — they're comfortable and machine-washable, though they look and feel more like high-top sneakers

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  • Rothy's, the startup best-known for hyper-comfortable flats made from recycled water bottles, just launched Chelsea boots from the same material.
  • Rothy's Chelsea Boots ($145) are available in sizes 5-13 and eight colors — from bright white to cheetah print.
  • We tried the shoes before the launch, and while you can find our full reviews below, here's a tiny summary: We would call these shoes high-tops instead of true Chelsea boots, but they're the characteristically comfortable, low-maintenance, sleek footwear you already know and love from Rothy's. If you're planning to snag a pair from the new launch, we'd recommend ordering at least a half-size up. 

Rothy's — a startup responsible for converting 30 million water bottles into footwear and my subway stop into a parade of brightly colored knit flats — has figured out summer footwear. Their signature material is flexible, breathable, and machine-washable. Its walkable slip-on sneakers and comfortable flats are the kind of shoes you pull on to survive a hot August commute while still looking polished.

Now, Rothy's is firmly planting its newest style into fall footwear territory.

Rothy's new Chelsea Boots ($145) are available in sizes 5-13 and eight colors — from bright white to cheetah print. Like its other offerings, the shoes are sophisticated enough for the office and low-key enough for weekend wear. They're ankle-height, also machine-washable, and have the signature flexible upper and pull-tab for slipping on and off. 

Like other Rothy's footwear, the Chelsea is more than the sum of its parts — but, its parts deserve an honorable mention. 

Rothy's began as a way to turn recycled, single-use plastics into something useful and beautiful. Its signature flexible knit material — which is what the new Chelsea's upper is made out of — is made from repurposed water bottles. In three years, the company has reportedly turned over 30 million plastic bottles otherwise headed for landfills into durable shoes. The outsole is made from vegan, recyclable, carbon-free rubber and TPU. 

Rothy's also offers free shipping and returns to the USA and (for a limited time) free shipping and returns to Canada. 

We tried the shoes before the launch, and while you can find our full reviews below, here's a tiny summary: we would call these shoes high-tops instead of true Chelsea boots, but they're the characteristically comfortable, low-maintenance, sleek footwear you already know and love from Rothy's. If you're planning to snag a pair from the new launch, we'd recommend ordering at least a half-size up. 

We tried the Rothy's $145 knit Chelsea Boots. Here's what four women thought:

Chelsea, $145

I'll be totally honest: These shoes are not Chelsea boots. They're high-top sneakers. That said, they're comfortable, sleek, and easy to wear. I didn't experience much rubbing against the ankle, which I had expected to be the shoes' downfall. They're flexible and forgiving, but in my experience, the toe area is a little cramped. As for arch support, there's not terribly much. 

These are great for a day at work if you sit at a desk, or a day out where you're driving and cabbing around, but I wouldn't recommend them for long days of walking. I tried the white pair, and I have to be honest — I'm a little nervous about how dirty they'll get! But, I'm at least comforted knowing I can throw them in the washing machine for a spruce-up if they get dirty.

I'm usually a 7.5, but I got an 8 in these shoes, which was definitely the right call. — Sally Kaplan, Insider Picks editor



Chelsea, $145

Overall, these are comfortable, breathable, low-maintenance knit shoes that you can wear seamlessly for most — if not all — of your weekly events. They're sleek enough for the office on days when your soul shrivels up at the prospect of something more stuffy, and cool enough for high-waisted jeans and a T-shirt on weeknights or ambling Saturday mornings. Thanks to the flexible upper and pull-tabs, I found myself throwing these on frequently for errands, though they don't have the arch support for a demanding day on your feet. 

As Sally mentioned, they're really more of a high-top sneaker than a Chelsea boot, but that doesn't matter much if you like the look of them. My main piece of advice is to order a half-size up (I wore a 9.5 rather than my standard 9) — especially if you plan to wear them with thick socks in the fall. — Mara Leighton, Insider Picks reporter



Chelsea, $145

I'd never tried Rothy's shoes before this, but I'd often heard the praises of these cool work flats made from recycled plastic. When I was told I'd get to try their new boots, I was very excited. Ultimately, I was surprised to find these really looked more like slip-on high-tops than Chelsea boots, but I wasn't disappointed.

These are super comfortable with a soft upper and supportive insole. The cheetah print is fun, but the colors are still neutral enough that you can easily wear these all the time. If you're not a huge pattern person, these are a good entry into the trend.

I usually am a 7, but I sized up to a 7.5 and am very happy about it. They have enough space to fit a thick sock which I know I'll appreciate when it gets cold out, but not too much that my foot is swimming in space. If you want a classic Chelsea boot, I'd say look elsewhere, but if you want a cool, comfortable high-top sneaker, definitely check these out. — Remi Rosmarin, Insider Picks reporter



Chelsea, $145

For some reason, I had never heard of Rothy's before, so when I looked up the company up and realized they recycle plastic water bottles and other post-consumer materials to make shoes, not only did I think that was a genius idea, but it also accounted for their plastic-like feel. I have horrible bunions, so finding shoes that don't suffocate my feet is always a challenge, but these shoes were flexible and didn't hurt the second I put them on like most shoes do.

I definitely was expecting these Chelsea boots to look more like classic Chelsea boots, but instead they looked more like high-top, slip on Vans in my opinion. At first I wasn't sure if I liked the color, but the mauve grew on me. My shoe size ranges from a 5.5 to 6 and I got these in a size 6 which was perfect.

While these shoes are fairly comfortable, it's really hard for me to find shoes that will be comfortable enough for my weird feet shape. I personally didn't love the material of these shoes, so at the end of the day, I probably wouldn't do any extensive walking in these. — Ciannah Gin, Insider Picks editorial fellow




The best juicers you can buy

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  • A great juicer can help you create better eating and drinking habits to ensure you get enough nutrients for the day.
  • The best juicer for most people is the Hurom HP Slow Juicer because it's durable, easy to use, and extremely powerful.

The nutritional benefits of starting your day with fruits and vegetables are undeniable, but so is the financial hit of being a juice bar regular (if you go five times a week, we're talking hundreds — if not thousands — of dollars a year). With a juicer, however, you can offset the cost of your healthy habit by squeezing your own greens at home. 

But, as anyone who has entered the world of home juicer shopping knows, there's a lot to think about. Like, what kind of produce will you be juicing? (Soft fruits? Tough greens? Roots, like turmeric and ginger?) How often — and how quickly — will you want to make juice? And, how much counter space are you really willing to give up? A few more points to consider: 

  • Type of juicer: Slow, or masticating juicers, if you can spring for them, are king. Rather than mulch, obliterate, and ultimately oxidize produce, they slowly pulverize it, leaving a lot of the good stuff intact. Plus, the juice stays fresh longer. Centrifugal juicers are generally cheaper and higher speed, making for faster juicing, but they also produce a slightly lower yield and are noisier than masticating juicers.
  • Noise level: The machinery inside of a juicer can be a little noisy at times, and that's problematic if you're planning on juicing early in the morning before work. You wouldn't, after all, want to wake up your entire household. In general, high-speed juicers with a centrifugal design are the noisiest, while masticating juicers are quieter.
  • Ease of use: If you're just getting into juicing and don't necessarily know if it's a habit you'll keep long-term, you may want to get a juicer that's easier to use rather than a more complex model with advanced features.
  • Warranty: No matter what kind of juicer you're getting, you want it to last. You should always get small appliances with some level of warranty, but normally the longer the warranty, the better. Not only does it show that a company is confident in its product, but it also means that if something does break, you won't have to shell out any extra cash.

No matter what kind of juicer you're looking for, and no matter what your budget is, there's a juicer for you in our guide.

Here are our picks for the best juicers you can buy:

Updated on 09/10/19 by Owen Burke and Caitlin Petreycik: We replaced our top pick, the Omega NC800HDR Nutrition System, for a few reasons: It has been discontinued, but we also think Hurom's HP Slow Juicer is comparable but less of a counter hog while operating at a lower, more optimal speed for a higher quality juice.

DON'T MISS: The 25 best kitchen gadgets you can buy for under $25

The best juicer overall

The Hurom HP Slow Juicer is small, quiet, and much easier to clean than most other juicers. It also makes ice cream.

Our previous pick for the best overall juicer, the Omega NC800HDR Nutrition System, is a great model — and a top-notch producer of foods like nut butter, baby food, and ice cream — but, sadly, it's been discontinued.

Our replacement is the Hurom HP Slow Juicer, for a number of reasons. First, it's tinier, and vertically stacked, so it maintains a much smaller footprint than the Omega. It might be marginally slower than the Omega simply due to its size, but the shoots on the two models have similar dimensions.

It also has a self-cleaning brush that goes to work as the auger — the screw-like device that pulls fruits and vegetables into the juicing chamber and squeezes the liquid out —  is spinning. What does that mean, exactly? Only that a good portion of that pulp you'd be scrubbing out with the (pretty useless) toothbrush tool that most juicers come with will already be gone when it comes time to empty the thing. In other words, you now have one less excuse to avoid using your juicer. Chatelaine agrees.

And while it's debatable whether or not juice is all that great for you in the first place, the Hurom HP's auger spins at 43 rotations per minute as opposed to the Omega NC800HDR's 80 rpms, meaning you'll get higher-quality, less-oxidized juice.

You don't get the same 15-year warranty that Omega offers on most of their juicers (Hurom offers 10 years on the motor), but you do get two years on all other parts (as opposed to Omega's one). — Owen Burke

Pros: Small, quiet, easy to clean, high-quality juice

Cons: Shorter warranty than Omega



The best juicer under $100

If you want to cut down on prep time, then the Hamilton Beach 67650A might be the best juicer for you because of its large mouth.

Looking for a juicer that doesn't require you to cut up your fruit into bits and pieces first? The Hamilton Beach 67650A Big Mouth Pro might be the right juicer for you. This juicer, as the name implies, has a mouth that measures an extra-wide three inches, which should be enough room for many fruits and vegetables to go in whole.

The advantages to this juicer don't stop at the big mouth. It also offers a stainless steel cutter and strainer that are dishwasher-safe, and according to Hamilton Beach, it's able to make up to 24 percent more juice than its competitors.

The Big Mouth Pro is also pretty powerful, boasting a hefty 800-watt motor, and it has a large pulp catcher, so you can juice a lot of fruit before having to empty it.

There are some disadvantages to consider, though. For example, the Big Mouth Pro is relatively noisy, and the juice jug is pretty small, coming in at 20 ounces. The juice also oxidizes relatively fast, due to the fact that the motor sucks in a lot of air.

However, most reviewers agree that for a juicer under $100, the Hamilton Beach 67650A Big Mouth Pro is a great deal. CNET gave it 3.5 out of 5 stars and was impressed by how well it handled kale and other tough fruits and vegetables for a juicer in its price range. — Christian de Looper

Pros: Wide mouth, powerful motor, easy to use and clean

Cons: Quite noisy, small-ish juice jug



The best juicer for $150

The Breville JE98XL Juice Fountain Plus is a sleek juicing machine with a powerful motor and easy-to-use design.

The Breville JE98XL Juice Fountain Plus is a centrifugal juicer with a long list of great features, including easy assembly (and disassembly), dishwasher-safe parts, and a wider-than-average mouth (meaning you'll spend less time chopping fruits and veggies into tiny pieces). 

Equipped with an 850-watt motor, this model gives users the option of toggling between high and low speeds (whether or not you decide to kick things up a notch probably depends on the toughness of the produce you're juicing). There's also a froth separator, to ensure your drinks go down smooth. 

Of course, the juicer isn't perfect; it's not the best at juicing greens like kale. And while it's less expensive than similar machines, $150 is still a good chunk of change (Breville also throws in a one-year warranty). 

Good Housekeeping says the Juice Fountain Plus is "as good as it gets" for its price range, while Juicer Fanatics says that it's a great juicer for newbies who don't want to spend $300 or more. The Wirecutter agrees that the juicer is fast and does the job passably well — so long as there aren't greens involved — but warns that it's noisy and you could get a higher quality model by spending a bit more.

Regardless, we think it's a great option because it's adept at squeezing juice out of most fruits and vegetables without any problems and it's relatively affordable for a juicer of this caliber. — Christian de Looper

Pros: Easy to use, easy to clean, two speeds, large mouth

Cons: Isn't the best with kale, still a little pricey



The best high-end juicer

Hurom's H-AI Slow Juicer is quiet, user-friendly, takes up little counter space, and yields the most juice and the least waste of any juicer we've tested.

Before receiving the Hurom Slow Juicer for review, I'd owned a juicer or two in my day. But while I love fresh juice, I looked at them as a nuisance: loud, clunky, counter space hogs that are a pain to clean.

Then a magical device appeared before me, and I've been off to the races ever since. The past few months have seen me juicing just about everything one can juice — and a few things, evidently, that one cannot. Another masticating juicer like our previous top pick, the Omega NC800HDR (no longer available), Hurom's juicer is a less versatile but more powerful machine for the devout juice fiend.

Assembly was quick, which is good because juicers are things that require disassembly and reassembly with every use. I also made note of how little counter space the Hurom H-AI Slow Juicer took up. Because it is vertically built, its footprint is only as large as a tea kettle, which is something even the most limited countertops can bear.

In use, the Hurom H-AI Slow Juicer delights even further. A self-feeding hopper means all you have to do is load the thing up with your selection of fruits, vegetables, and whatever else you'd like to run through it, twist the lid into place, turn it on, and walk away — just make sure that the basin is there to catch your juice first. This saves me a ton of time in my morning routine which would otherwise be spent feeding fruits and veggies into the machine one by one. Plus, if you have any members of the household you don't want to disturb, this is the quietest juicer I've ever heard.

Slow juicers like this one really excel at leafy greens, which can leave behind some tough-to-clean pulp. Pro tip: clear out the pulp and soak your juicer in hot, soapy water the moment your done; cleanup will be exponentially easier if you don't give those juice-scraps a chance to solidify. 

Hurom has been around since 1974, and has had a loyal following since. With the H-AI Slow Juicer, though, the company has outdone itself. CNN Underscored agrees.

There's no denying that the Hurom Slow Juicer is an investment, but this thing pays off in dividends, and using it daily justifies the expense. — Owen Burke

Pros: Convenience, takes up little counter space, extremely quiet

Cons: Expensive



The best juicer for citrus

There's nothing like starting the day with a glass of fresh-squeezed orange juice, and the Hurom Citrus Juicermakes every morning feel like Sunday brunch.

There are few methods of getting your daily dose of vitamin C that are more satisfying than downing a large glass of orange juice. And while that bottle of Tropicana in your fridge may serve your juice-craving needs in a basic way, you know it's not exactly the real deal. Alas, getting a freshly squeezed cup of citrus in the morning is generally relegated to tropical vacations or decidedly overpriced runs to your nearby juice bar. Until now.

The Hurom Citrus Juicer is hands down the best way to get every last drop of juice out of your orange, grapefruit, or citrus of choice. That's thanks to the machine's one-size-fits-all finned juicing cone, which leaves rinds practically empty. When you press the handle down, the motor works automatically to mimic the motion of a hand squeezing citrus, while your hands are free to do important things like brew coffee. (Here we should mention that, at $149, the CJ is cheaper than some Keurig machines.) 

Hurom has previously received flak for creating juicers that are a bit hard to clean, but this particular model suffers from none of those drawbacks. There's a drip-stop outlet, which can quickly be flipped open or closed so you can start or stop the torrential downpour of juice at will. As for cleaning the machine itself, the parts quickly disassemble, and the juicer is as good as new after a quick rinse and dry.

Despite the power of the 120V motor, which spins the juicing cone at an impressive 120 RPM, the juicer is extremely quiet. Hurom also claims that your juice can last up to 72 hours — shorter than the shelf-life of store bought varieties, but longer than similar fresh products. (Although, I'll admit that I've never managed to keep fresh juice around long enough to really test that claim.) 

The secret behind that extended expiration date: the body and filter of the CJ are made of stainless steel, while the juicing cone and chamber are comprised of Styrene acrylonitrile resin (SAN), a type of plastic that is known for its thermal resistance. These materials ensure that there is minimal oxidation, so your OJ maintains its natural taste and maximum nutritional value. 

From an aesthetic perspective, the CJ is quite the looker, too. It's currently available in three shades: silver, pink, and pastel blue. While the silver will doubtless blend into any kitchen decor, there's something to be said about the soft and playful pink and blue colorways. — Lulu Chang

Pros: Extremely effective for your OJ, quiet yet powerful motor, relatively inexpensive

Cons: You can only juice citrus with this Hurom offering 



People are roasting Apple for trying to make 'slofies' happen (AAPL)

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Apple iPhone event 2019

  • Apple unveiled Tuesday its iPhone 11, which will have a number of new camera features and lenses.
  • One of the newest camera features on the iPhone 11 is the ability to use the front-facing camera to take slow-motion selfies, which Apple dubbed "slofies."
  • People on Twitter are already roasting Apple for trying to promote the term, which some users are saying they never want to use or hear used ever again.
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Apple's plan to launch the newest, trendiest term among teens may be backfiring already.

Apple announced a number of new camera lenses and feature for its new phone, the iPhone 11, at its keynote event on Tuesday. One of those features is the ability to use the front-facing camera for slow-motion video selfies — which Apple has dubbed "slofies."

If Apple wanted to get people talking by introducing a new portmanteau to their vocabulary, it's working, but not necessarily in the way the company would prefer. People on Twitter are already roasting Apple for the new term, with some saying they have no plans to ever use the term and would prefer to never hear it ever again.

The iPhone 11, available starting September 20, will start at $699. In addition to debuting the new iPhone 11 (and trying to add new vernacular to people's vocabularies), Apple also revealed two higher-end iPhone models, a new iPad model, and new Apple Watches.

Join the conversation about this story »

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How to properly clean a Samsung Galaxy S10 without damaging your device

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Galaxy S10

Fresh out of the box, your Galaxy S10 is a sleek, jet-black glass monolith. But enjoy it while you can, because it'll rarely look that good ever again. 

The moment you touch the Galaxy S10, it starts to take on natural oils deposited by your fingers, along with makeup, food debris, lint and dust, and other contaminants. At best, it'll be routinely smudged, and the reflective glass surface seems designed to reveal every defect. 

That's why, if you love the way the Galaxy S10 looks when it's new, it's good to know how to clean it.

Check out the products mentioned in this article:

Galaxy S10 (From $849.99 at Best Buy)

Tips on cleaning your Samsung Galaxy S10

Because your Galaxy S10 is water resistant, it's easy to clean safely, as long as you follow some basic rules. Specifically, it has an IP68 rating, which means it is water resistant in up to five feet of fresh water, for no more than 30 minutes. 

That's not a license to give your phone a deep cleaning in soapy water, though. Here are some important things you should not do with your phone:

  • Don't subject it to high pressure water, like the sprayer in your sink. This can force water into ports and openings, damaging the phone.
  • Don't use soapy water. 
  • Don't use household cleaning agents on your phone, like disinfectant wipes, window or countertop spray cleaners, rubbing alcohol, or makeup remover. All of these things can permanently damage the phone's surfaces. 
  • Don't wipe the phone with rough surfaces. In time, even paper towels can scratch the glass. 

How to properly clean your Samsung Galaxy S10

As a general rule, clean your phone exclusively with microfiber cloth. This ultra-soft cleaning surface can wipe away most gunk from your phone — top to bottom — all on its own. You can also wash microfiber cloths, and use them again and again. 

clean 1

You can also dampen the microfiber cloth with lens cleaner spray, but you should avoid spraying the cleaner directly on the phone. Always spray it on the cloth. You can buy small bottles of lens cleaner spray for camera lenses and eyeglasses, and the liquid works very well on phones as well. 

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For stubborn dirt, you can also briefly run your phone under water, such as a kitchen or bathroom sink faucet, as long as you don't use a high-pressure sprayer. Dry the phone with a soft towel or a microfiber cloth. If you get water in the USB port, it won't charge until it dries completely. 

Related coverage from How To Do Everything: Tech:

SEE ALSO: The best wireless chargers you can buy

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Here's what happens when you block a phone number on your Samsung Galaxy S10

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Samsung S10 Smartphone

  • When you block a phone number on a Samsung Galaxy S10, calls and text messages from that number will no longer arrive on your phone.
  • You can still place calls and texts to the blocked number, and the recipient will be able to answer your call, but not your texts. 
  • You can unblock phone numbers any time by removing them from the Block numbers page of the Phone app.  
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Thanks to modern phenomenon like telemarketers and robocalling, we now live in a world where the ability to block phone numbers is virtually a necessity. 

If you find the need to block a number on your Samsung Galaxy, you can do that by following the instructions in the article, "How to block specific phone numbers or all unknown callers on your Samsung Galaxy phone."

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If you're thinking about blocking a number on your Samsung Galaxy S10, here's what will happen if you do so. 

Check out the products mentioned in this article:

Galaxy S10 (From $849.99 at Best Buy)

What happens when you block a number on a Samsung Galaxy S10

Simply put, after you block a number, that caller can no longer reach you. Phone calls do not ring through to your phone, and text messages are not received or stored. 

This is an important point because if you change your mind and want to unblock the caller, you can, but any calls or texts which happened while the number was blocked will not be recovered. All new calls and texts, however, will now arrive on your phone normally. 

Even if you have blocked a phone number, you can make calls and text that number normally – the block only goes in one direction. The recipient will receive calls and can answer and communicate with you. 

The recipient will also receive your text messages, but will not be able to effectively respond, since you won't receive incoming texts from the number you've blocked. If you do want to communicate with this person, you may want to unblock the phone number. 

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Related coverage from How To Do Everything: Tech:

SEE ALSO: We compared Samsung's Galaxy S10 and the Galaxy S10+ to determine which phone you should buy

Join the conversation about this story »

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How to add footnotes in Google Docs in 4 easy steps, to cite your research and provide links

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women working computer

When you begin working on academic papers, one thing that will stand out is the pervasive use of footnotes. 

They can both provide useful context and allow you to show your work, giving the reader access to, and an idea of, all the hours you spent researching and synthesizing complex information.

But you don't have to be an academic to use footnotes, and they can provide value to anyone when used correctly. In general, the most useful footnotes provide not just a notation about where the information in the text came from, but also gives a link for quick access. 

If you use Google Docs, footnotes are a built-in feature you can take advantage of right away. Here's how to add them to any document. 

How to add footnotes in Google Docs

This should take you less than a minute to do, provided you're already in the document you want to add footnotes to. Here's how to get it done:

1. Click your cursor at the point in the document that you want to add a footnote (this way, a notation will automatically be added to the correct spot). 

2. In the toolbar at the top of the document, select "Insert" and then "Footnote."

2 HOW TO ADD FOOTNOTES GOOGLE DOCS

3. The document will automatically add a footnote notation to the bottom of the page, along with a line of delineation — type out your footnote in the space provided. 

3 HOW TO ADD FOOTNOTES GOOGLE DOCS

4. Format the footnote in the citation style of your choice. 

Related coverage from How To Do Everything: Tech:

SEE ALSO: The best budget laptops you can buy

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: I cleaned my entire apartment with 4 of Amazon's highest-rated cleaning robots, but I could've done a much better job myself

50 secret Santa gifts they'll actually want to keep — all under $25

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letterboard

  • Secret Santa is a fun holiday tradition, but too often you end up with cheap gifts that end up going to a White Elephant party or collecting dust in the back of your closet. 
  • You don't have to spend a lot on Secret Santa gifts to find something that's still special. We rounded up 50 fun gifts under $25 that they'll actually really like. 
  • If you're participating in a Secret Santa this year, keep reading for 50 great gift options they'll actually want to keep. 

In theory, Secret Santa is a great idea. In practice, it can be a little underwhelming. You could end up with that cozy scarf your best friend knew you wanted — or, you could end up with lackluster socks from your neighbor that will definitely end up in your re-gift pile.

Whether you're responsible for getting a gift for someone you know really well or someone you barely do, get them a gift they won't relegate to the storage closet. If you're spending money, make it count with something they'll actually want. 

Don't worry, we already did the grunge work and found 50 gifts that your secret Santa recipient will love. We've got everything from the more generically-appealing, like chocolate for your sweet coworker, to the more personal, like a portable cheese melter for your cheese-obsessed friend. Plus, they're all $25 or less, so scroll with abandon.

Most of these items are available with expedited shipping, and some should arrive within a few days' time, so don't stress too hard if you've left it to the last minute — just remember that the sooner you order, the better your chances of a timely arrival.

A sweet snack they'll enjoy eating

Decadent Chocolate Fondue, $20, available at Uncommon Goods

Sweeten up their holiday season with this incredibly easy-to-make chocolate fondue. All they have to do is heat up the stoneware containers (which are pre-filled with chocolate) and find some fruit for dipping. 

 



A scratch-off bucket list to spur their next adventure

100 Things To Do Scratch Off Poster, $15, available at Uncommon Goods

This bucket list suggests 100 unique activities from little things like "take a cooking class" to big ones like "see the Northern Lights." They can scratch each box off after they complete it to reveal a colorful image. It's a cool poster to have hanging and a definite conversation starter.

 



A little candle that smells like home

Homesick Mini Scented Candle, $16.95, available at Amazon

Smell is very closely tied to memory, so it's no wonder that when you smell sugar and cinnamon you're brought back to your childhood ritual of french toast and cartoons on Sunday mornings. Homesick makes candles with customized scents that embody the ethos of states, cities, and experiences, like going on a road trip or to summer camp, making them a sweet and sentimental gift for anyone. 



A charging hub for all of their favorite devices

Elago 3-in-1 Charging Hub, $24.99, available at Amazon

Help them maximize outlet space with this smart charging hub— it has enough space to charge all three of their most important Apple devices simultaneously. 



A set of cool coasters that's worthy of Instagram

Stone Coasters Agate Look, from $20 (set of 4), available at Etsy

Let's be real — nobody wants water stains and rings on their nice tables, but admittedly, telling guests to put down coasters first isn't the coolest move. These agate-style coasters are practical, but also add a nice aesthetic, so you'll actually want to leave them out to be used.



A small speaker they can fit in their pocket

Rokono Bass + Mini Speaker, $19.22, available at Amazon 

This speaker isn't the best in the world audio-wise (for that you'll have to spend a bit more), but for less than $20 it's a great choice. Give it the friend that values convenience, since this thing is so small they fit it in their pocket and can literally take it anywhere. 



A reusable bag that's cute and sustainable

Standard Baggu, $12, available at Baggu

If they hate single-use plastic, they'll love this cute, reusable bag. It comes in a variety of fun colors and patterns and the simple style makes it a go-to choice for bringing to the gym, grocery shopping, or even to use like a purse.



A unique condiment for beer lovers

Beer Mustard Trio, $25, available at Uncommon Goods

Some things just work together. You don't necessarily expect it, but they do — like these mustards, for example. Beer and hot dogs go together seamlessly, and a hot dog is nothing without a drizzle of mustard, so it only makes sense that the two go great together. This trio has three unique flavors that add intrigue to any dish.



A cozy beanie for impending chilly days

UO Esme Fisherman Beanie, $12, available at Urban Outfitters

It's that time of year when everyone needs a cozy hat. With a classic cable knit, this one is as cool as it is comfortable.



An adult card game that will make parties a lot more interesting

Cards Against Humanity, $25, available at Amazon

If they don't already own Cards Against Humanity, you owe it to them. It's a fun party game that always leaves everyone cackling, and I'm not the only one that thinks this — the game has over 29,000 5-star reviews on Amazon.



A portable cheese melter

Portable Cheese Melt Utensil, $16.99, available at Uncommon Goods, or $19.95 at Amazon

Melted cheese can make pretty much every meal better. If you don't believe us, check out this video to see the gooey goodness in action. 



A carry-on cocktail kit to make flights a little more bearable

Old Fashioned Carry-On Cocktail Kit, $24, available at Uncommon Goods

This kit fits right in their carry-on bag and has all of the fixings for two Old Fashioned cocktails. All they need to do is add whiskey or rye. This cocktail kit can be enjoyed at any altitude, but it will most definitely make for a fun flight activity. 



A cheese-making kit for chefs and foodies

DIY Cheesemaking kit, $25.95, available at Williams Sonoma

The only thing better than cheese is cheese that you made with your own two hands. Cheese fiends will love the chance to make their own favorite Italian cheeses. Plus, once they learn they'll be armed with cheesemaking knowledge to last a lifetime — now that's a gift that keeps on giving.



A no-spill travel mug

Contigo Autoseal Insulated Travel Mug, $17.45, available at Amazon

Students, commuters, or anyone who enjoys hot beverages on the go will love this travel mug. As its name suggests, this mug automatically seals to stops leaks and spills, even if it's rolling around in a backpack. Its durability and affordability make it a team favorite.



A mini waffle maker for the cutest breakfast ever

Dash Mini Waffle Maker, $18, available at Urban Outfitters

This miniature waffle maker is adorably small and will look super cute in their kitchen. Plus, it makes for a delicious, easy breakfast.



A hilarious coffee table book

"F in Exams", $8.50, available at Uncommon Goods or Amazon

This is a great gift for the person who can laugh at the little things in life, or for anyone who works as a teacher. It's a collection of hilarious wrong test answers that is sure to keep them laughing. 



A little backpack that can actually hold their things

Nike Brasilla Mini Backpack, $25, available at Urban Outfitters

Mini things are all the rage these days, and this mini backpack is right on trend. Although it's small, it's actually big enough to fit a good amount of their everyday belongings. 



A unique hot sauce blend for an adventurous eater

Gochujang Sriracha, $10, available at Uncommon Goods

Give them a gift to take their hot-sauce habit to the next level. The blend of Thai sriracha and Korean gochujang is sweet, spicy, and unlike anything they've ever tasted before.

 

 



A set of reusable straws

SipWell Extra Long Stainless Steel Drinking Straws, $7.89 (set of 8), available at Amazon

For those trying to make a positive impact on the planet, give them these reusable straws so they never have to rely on the wasteful plastic ones again. These come with a brush so they're easy to clean and ready to be reused. 



A meme-worthy T-shirt

Headline Shirts Nicholas Cage T-Shirt, $24, available at Amazon

The national treasure of all T-shirts. That is all. 



A healing Himalayan salt lamp

Himalayan Glow Salt Lamp, $19.97, available at Amazon

Himalayan salt lamps have recently become a big trend in home decor, but they're also said to have healing properties as they purify the air around them. Whether they believe in the health benefits or not, anyone can enjoy the warm glow and aesthetic appeal this lamp offers.



A motivating water bottle that reminds them to stay hydrated

Drink More Water Bottle, $19.99, available at Uncommon Goods

Staying hydrated is important. If you happen to need a gift for someone who never gets their recommended daily dose of H2O, this water bottle can lend some much-needed motivation.



A five-year journal that asks the big questions — and little ones, too

One Question a Day Journal, $16.14, available at Amazon

A gift for your ambitious friend who's always asking where you see yourself in five years. Help them answer this question for themselves, with a daily journal that poses a new question each day for five years.



A face mask that calms red and irritated skin

Mario Badescu Azulene Calming Mask, $18, available at Nordstrom

This light, refreshing face mask is made with botanical ingredients that calm irritated skin. It's delicate on skin and will leave it looking more hydrated, even, and refreshed. 



A letter board they can leave fun messages on

Felt Letter Board, $18.95, available at Amazon

This is a fun message board and a great piece of home decor all in one. They'll love using this to display mantras, messages for roommates, or just to show off some random thoughts. It comes in plenty of colors, so you're sure to find one that fits their space and aesthetic. 



A mug inspired by "The Office"

The Office Mug, $16.95, available at Amazon

Your boss or any fan of "The Office" will get a kick out of this one. Let them embrace their inner Michael Scott while sipping coffee at the office or at home watching Netflix... maybe even "The Office."



A french press coffee maker for their morning brew

OXO Good Grips Shatterproof French Press, $19.99, available at Amazon

A French press makes it easy to enjoy delicious, rich coffee every morning. It's not as quick as a Keurig (you have to let the grounds steep for a few minutes), but the results are worth the wait. Plus, they'll love that they can fill it with their favorite beans. 



A spice set for rescuing bland pizzas

Pizza Rescue Kit, $15, available at Etsy

All pizza is not created equal. That's why the pizza aficionado in your life deserves this pizza rescue kit. With the three flavorful spices, this set will transform even the most "meh" slices to. If you're not sold, it was made by New Yorkers — and they know good pizza. 



A mug that lets them play with their food

Playful Sports Mug, $25, available at Uncommon Goods

This mug is for the young at heart who refuse to stop playing with their food. With a basketball hoop handle, this could be the most fun way to eat cereal or dunk marshmallows into hot chocolate. 



A microwave popcorn maker

La Roma Microwave Popcorn Popper, $19.99, available at Bed Bath & Beyond

Stovetop popcorn is delicious, but it's so much easier to just pop a bag in the microwave. If they love the stovetop taste, but don't love dealing with the stovetop hassle, gift them this fun gadget. All they have to do is load it up with their choice of kernels and microwave. It's much more convenient, plus it doesn't need oil so it's healthier too — but there is a butter melter on top just in case.



A convenient phone grip for texting on the go

PopSockets Grip, starting at $9.99, available at Amazon

They might seem unnecessary at first, but PopSocket Grips are extremely useful. They can use them as a kickstand to prop up their tablet and to comfortably hold their phone while reading on the subway. It's a very useful way to spend $10 (or less.)



Coffee beans that give back

Coffee Beans for a Better World, $23, available at Uncommon Goods

This coffee grown in Kenya features artwork from local artisans on each bag of beans. The proceeds go to local schools to help children cover school supplies, books, and uniforms. 



A best-selling book for foodies

"Salt Fat Acid Heat", $20.63, available at Amazon

Home cooks will love honing in on their craft with this book. Don't expect just a recipe book, though. The vivid illustrations in this one help explain how to master cooking techniques by looking at those four important elements that are in everything we cook and eat. 



A shower beer holder for mid-rinse brews

Shower Beer Holder, $15, available at Uncommon Goods

Shower time might not seem like the most opportune moment to crack open a cold one — that is, until now. This silicone beer holder sticks to tile (or any other glossy surface), so they can always have their favorite brew by their side, whatever time it is. 



A pair of fuzzy animal slippers for lounging at home

Halluci Cozy Fleece Slippers, $17.99, available at Amazon

For those who love to lounge, go for these adorable animal slippers. They come in a variety of cute animals and will keep their feet extra toasty on cold winter days. 



A history lesson with their cup of tea

Tea Leaf Reading Set, $23, available at Uncommon Goods

Give tea lovers the chance to try something new every day with this tea leaf reading kit. It comes with a mug, loose leaf tea, and of course a lesson that explains how to read different symbols. 



A diary for sports, music, or movie lovers

Ticket Stub Diary, $12.32, available at Amazon

A great gift for anyone who is constantly attending shows, concerts, or sports games — and never throws away their tickets. Instead of keeping them hidden in a shoe box or desk drawer, they can use this diary, which has plastic sleeves to fit all different kinds of tickets as well as open margins on the sides where they can scribble notes to remind them of each event. 



A sequin pillow that changes color

Ankit Reversible Sequin Pillow, $16.99, available at Amazon

You can sleep easy knowing you gave them one of the most fun pillows they'll ever own. With the help of reversible sequins, they can write on it and draw fun designs — even adults will be enamored. 

 



A tracker for keys, wallets, bags or any other important items they’re prone to lose

Tile Mate, $21.97, available at Tile or Amazon

Your forgetful friends and family will be so thankful for this gift. They can place this tracker in their wallet, purse, or phone case to make sure they never lose their things, because if they do, the Tile app makes it easy to retrace. 



A set of K-beauty sheet masks for an at-home spa night

Tony Moly Sheet Mask Set, $12 (5 count), available at Macy's

You don't need to spend a fortune to give the gift of a pampered evening. This face mask set will do the trick on a budget, with sheets aimed at different skin concerns such as purifying, vitalizing, and pore care. They're fun to put on and will leave their skin feeling replenished, too.



A pair of cozy socks for wine lovers

Wine Socks, starting at $9.99, available at Etsy

These toasty socks pair best with a bottle of your favorite wine, a comfy couch, and some Netflix on a Sunday night. 



A pair of touchscreen gloves

Universal Thread Tech Touch Gloves, $12.99, available at Target

They don't need to be a runner to appreciate a nice pair of touch-screen-friendly gloves. This pair will keep their hands warm while they type, scroll, and click away — plus it has reflective detailing for some added safety.



A refreshing post-shave gel for their morning routine

Kiehl's Post-Shave Repair Gel, $22, available at Nordstrom

They're gonna need a good shave after Movember. Help them treat their face right with this post-shave gel made with ingredients to soothe, replenish, and refresh skin.



A fun challenge they can take with them anywhere

World's Smallest Rubik's Cube, $8, available at Urban Outfitters

Maybe they've solved a Rubix Cube before, but have they ever solved a mini version? This little game is an even cuter and possibly more challenging iteration of the real deal. 



A catch-all inspired by their favorite animal

Llama Trinket Dish, $19, available at West Elm

Everyone could use a catch-all to collect the small odds and ends around the house. Llama lovers will love using this cute trinket dish modeled after their favorite animal.



A limited-edition pair of socks inspired by an artist

Andy Warhol Skull Sock, $14, available at Happy Socks

Art is all around us, but there's probably one place you never thought it would be: on a pair of socks. Friends with a funky fashion sense will love this colorful pair inspired by Andy Warhol's art work.



A cute set of planters

Mkono Modern Succulent Planters, $15.99 for three, available at Amazon

Help them add some greenery to their space with these cool concrete planters. Add some small plants if you want to complete the gift. 



A faux plant desk organizer for much needed greenery and tidiness

Kikkerland Potted Pen Phone Stand, $12, available at Amazon

If they're stuck inside an office all day, they could benefit from the sight of something green. This plastic plant isn't as good as the real deal, but it adds some much-needed color and works as desk decor, plus it functions as a phone stand and organizational tool.



A cute illustration for their space

New York City Printable Wall Art, from $25, available at Etsy

No matter where they live, this cute watercolor illustration of New York City will make a great addition to their space. If you think they'd prefer looking at something else, you can check out all of the other unique paintings here



A set of spa-ready essentials

Clinique Stay In & Chill Out Set, $19.50, available at Nordstrom

Winter weather means skin needs some extra TLC. Help them get that, and some time to wind down, with this set of skincare essentials and a comfy sleep mask. 



What happened on 9/11, 18 years ago

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September 11 attacks

  • The terror attacks on September 11, 2001, were the deadliest attacks on US soil since the Pearl Harbor bombing that launched the US into World War II. The plane hijackings that struck the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and a Pennsylvania field killed 2,977 people.
  • The attacks started at 8:46 a.m., with American Flight 11 hitting the World Trade Center's North Tower.
  • The attacks dramatically changed the US, and started the "War on Terror," which targeted the Al-Qaeda extremist group and its leader, Osama bin Laden.
  • Visit Business Insider's home page for more stories.  

It's the 18th anniversary of September 11, 2001, the date of the deadliest attacks on US soil since the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor in World War II.

Nearly 3,000 people died in the 9/11 attacks, which The New York Times called the "worst and most audacious terror attack in American history."

The nation is still working to move past the tragedy, and to effectively combat the techniques and ideology of terrorism that seeks to kill and maim as many people as possible.

These photos tell the story of what happened that morning, much of which was captured on live television to a shocked nation.

SEE ALSO: Here are some of the poignant artifacts you'll see at the new 9/11 memorial museum

The morning of September 11, 2001, started off like any other. The Twin Towers stood tall in the Financial District, as they had for more than 30 years.



At 8:46 a.m., American Flight 11 crashed into the North Tower of the World Trade Center. At first, newscasters weren't sure whether it was an accident or a deliberate attack.



At 9:03 a.m., United Flight 175 crashed into the South Tower, leaving no doubt that this was an attack. Some news channels captured the moment on live television.



The second plane exploded upon impact, caused by the ignition of its fuel. Now both buildings were burning.



People stared from the windows of the Towers, trapped by smoke and flames and destroyed staircases.



This iconic photo captured a man falling from the North Tower. At least 200 people fell or jumped from the Towers.



At 9:40 a.m., American Flight 77 crashed into the Pentagon. Five minutes later, for the first time in history, the FAA ordered all aircraft to land at the nearest airport.



At 9:59 a.m. the South Tower collapsed.



People fleeing the scene by foot were covered in dust and ash.



At 10:03 a.m., hijacked flight United Flight 93 crashed into a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. The plane's target was believed to be the US Capitol. The passengers on board tried to gain control of the flight and divert the hijackers after learning of the other attacks.



At 10:28 a.m. the North Tower collapsed. It took only 12 seconds for the Towers to fall.



2,753 people were killed in the New York attack.



That number includes 343 firefighters and paramedics and 60 police officers who rushed to help in the aftermath.



Another 40 people were killed in Pennsylvania and 184 died in Washington, DC, for a total of nearly 3,000 people.



Rescue efforts at Ground Zero continued until October 9, and the flames from the collapse burned until December 20.



In the months after 9/11, the nation came together to help those affected by the attacks. Blood banks were overwhelmed with donations, and hundreds of people volunteered to sift through rubble at Ground Zero.



After the terrorist attacks, President Bush declared a "War on Terror," targeting the Al Qaeda terrorists responsible for the attack. Al Qaeda's leader, Osama Bin Laden, was killed 10 years later. The national response included a large expansion of America's security efforts.



In the years after the attack, a Tribute in Light marked the spot where the towers once were.



Now, the 9/11 Memorial is open to the public to commemorate the tragedy.




The best indoor bike trainers you can buy

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  • A high-quality indoor bike trainer can help you replicate the outdoor riding experience, isn't too loud, and is made of durable materials.
  • Our guide features trainers that are easy to use, work with a variety of bike types, and have a track record of performance.
  • The Elite Direto 2 Interactive Smart Trainer is our top pick because it's easy to set up, compatible with the most popular training apps, and lightweight and affordable compared to other direct drive trainers.

With an indoor bike trainer, I can simulate the outdoor riding experience when the weather turns nasty without risking life and limb.

Bike trainers have been around for more than a century. The first trainers were bike rollers, which consisted of three rolling cylinders — two in the back and one in the front — on which the bike rests as you pedal away. You can still find bike rollers, and they are excellent for fine-tuning your balance. However, they are no longer as popular as they once were.

Most of today's trainers hold the bike in place. Here are the types of trainers you will come across:

  • Friction Trainers: Until recently, friction trainers were all the rage. They supply fluid or magnetic resistant to the rear wheel via a small roller. 
  • Direct Drive Trainers: These trainers recently took the industry by storm. With these, you remove your back wheel and attach the rear dropout to the trainer. They require a cassette compatible with your bike. Direct-drive trainers offer the highest level of resistance and are the most accurate. Yet, they also cost the most. Direct-drive trainers are "smart," which means you can connect to your mobile device and experience the wonder of the many virtual riding apps. You can control the resistance yourself or have it adjust automatically based on the workout.
  • Fluid Trainers: Direct-drive trainers are not the only smart trainers. There are also several fluid trainers with Bluetooth or ANT+ connectivity. And even if you choose a "dumb" trainer, you can purchase accessories to make it smart. For instance, the Garmin Bike Speed Sensor 2 and Cadence Sensor 2 bundle should get the job done and can provide you with valuable data when you're riding outdoors as well.

While researching the best indoor bike trainers, we looked at hundreds of buyer and expert reviews and ratings of dozens of models. Our guide features trainers that are easy to use, work with a variety of bike types, and have a track record of performance. When shopping for a trainer, make sure the model you look at is compatible with your bike. If not, you may need to buy additional parts. 

Here are the best indoor bike trainers you can buy:

The best indoor bike trainer overall

The Elite Direto 2 Interactive Smart Trainer provides an optimal balance of performance — with and without inclines — with an attractive price.

The Elite Direto 2 Interactive Smart Trainer uses an optical torque sensor (OTS) power meter to accurately measure power within 2% of the actual output. This combined with Direto's pedal analysis options will help you optimize your training. The smart trainer can also simulate inclines up to 14%. Wireless connectivity is through Bluetooth and ANT+ FE-C, and it's compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.  

In our research, the only difference we could find between the Direto and the Direto 2 is that the newer version comes with a trainer block and features a slight internal upgrade for accuracy. The two are so similar that buyers report that the Direto 2 comes in the same box as the Direto and is simply labeled "Direto" without the "2."

Outdoor Gear Lab recommends the Elite Direto as a "best buy." In their tests, the trainer received high marks for power accuracy and connectivity. The reviewer found of the seven models they tested, the Direto had one of the most accurate power meters — within 1% of actual output. He noted that it's also much lighter than other top smart trainers.

DC Rainmaker recommends this model because it balances value and all-around performance. He notes that other models are quieter, more like riding on a road, and have better automated inclines, but they are all much more expensive and lack multifaceted aptitude in all three of these areas.

Currently, there are only six reviews of the Elite Direto 2 on Amazon, and all but one gives it 5 stars. Spartacus, the most helpful reviewer, likes the direct drive over his rollers because he doesn't need to focus on balance. He found setup was effortless, though he recommends putting plywood or a mat underneath to protect your floors against chain lubes and sweat. The 3-star reviewer would still recommend the trainer, especially for hill climbs, but he notes that the unit gets too warm and doesn't register when sprinting in low gears.

Pros: Accurate, lightweight, affordable, easy to set up, great for hill climbs

Cons: Runs loud, several features are only available through in-app purchases



The best high-end indoor bike trainer

If you are willing to spend a little extra for a trainer that closely captures the feel of riding on the road, the Tacx NEO 2 Smart Indoor Trainer is your best bet.

The Tacx NEO 2 Smart Indoor Trainer features dynamic inertia, which compensates for incline, speed, and weight to provide a smooth and realistic ride feel. It's even able to simulate acceleration on a descent or riding over gravel and cobblestones. Tacx focused on creating a silent trainer that keeps you and your bike completely still while mounted — a much-needed perk for cyclists who live in apartment buildings. The trainer also closely monitors the position of each leg to achieve a more precise pedal analysis.

The NEO 2 Smart can simulate climbs up to 25% and resists sprints up to 2,200 watts. Tacx backs the quality of this product with a two-year warranty.

Smart Bike Trainers recommends the Tacx NEO 2 because of its quick response, realistic road-feel simulation, and accurate power meter. The reviewer also found that there was no calibration necessary to get started. Plus, the unit runs quietly. However, he was bummed that some of the pedal analysis was only available in the Tacx Windows app.

Road.cc recommends this model because it performed better than any other trainer in their tests. The reviewer was also impressed by the sturdy construction.

Of the buyers who reviewed the Tacx NEO 2 on Amazon, 74% gave it 5 stars. Cyclists mention how road-like the simulator is. They also appreciate that the trainer works well with the top apps, such as Zwift, Wahoo, Strava, Rouvy, and Sufferfest. However, there are complaints that the Tacx app either doesn't pair with the trainer at all or works with limited features.

Pros: Excellent performance, accurate power meter, realistic road feel, runs quietly, works with several apps, two-year warranty

Cons: No-carry handle, complaints about the pedal analysis features, connectivity issues with the Tacx app



The best smart indoor bike trainer on a budget

The Kinetic Road Machine Smart 2 Trainer is one of the most affordable smart trainers on the market, and it's built to last.

The Kinetic Road Machine Smart 2 Trainer takes Kinetic by Kurt's popular 2.0 Fluid Trainer and makes it compatible with the top training apps, including Zwift, Trainer Road, and Rouvy. Fluid resistance is controlled by your speed with a max resistance of 1,400 watts at 35 mph. The unit works with an array of bike types, including bikes with wheels as small as 16 inches, internally geared hubs, and thru-axles.

Bicycling recommends the Kinetic Road Machine Smart 2 Trainer because it proved to be sturdy and reliable in their tests. The reviewer also liked that it was portable, good for interval sessions, and seamlessly allowed him to join a virtual crowd with its smart capabilities.

Outdoor Gear Lab recommends the trainer because of its lifelike road feel, sturdy build, and reasonable price. However, in their tests, it received low marks for power accuracy. Road.cc, Bike Trainer World, and Smart Bike Trainers also recommend this model.

Approximately 76% of the Amazon buyers who reviewed the Kinetic Road Machine Smart 2 Trainer gave it 4 or 5 stars. A few of the reviewers are first-time owners of bike trainers and appreciate that it's so easy to set up and get a workout.

Buyers like that it supports ANT+ and works with a variety of different apps. Yet, the biggest complaint appears to be that the Kinetic app either works poorly or not at all. One buyer mentions that he has to uninstall and reinstall the app to get it to track his workout.

Pros: Affordable, supports ANT+, portable, lifelike road feel, sturdy build, easy to use

Cons: The app works poorly or not at all, questionable accuracy



The best accurate indoor bike trainer

The wheel-off design of the Wahoo Fitness Kickr Smart Bike Trainer provides accurate power measurement, and it works well with the top apps using ANT+ and Bluetooth.

The Wahoo Fitness Kickr Smart Bike Trainer is designed to bring the outdoor riding experience indoors. The universal fit, wheel-off design accommodates a broad range of bike types, including 24-inch bikes, mountain bikes, and full-size road bikes. Using Bluetooth, ANT+, and ANT+ FE-C, you can control it wirelessly from just about any device using the Wahoo Fitness App, Zwift, TrainerRoad, and more. The trainer adjusts to simulate a 20-degree incline and generates up to 2,200 watts of power.

The great thing about buying from REI is that you get 10% back in store credit. And the device is backed by their 100% satisfaction guarantee. This means you get up to 90 days to return it if you're not satisfied.

Bike Radar recommends the Kickr because it can provide the exact wattage resistance you need. The reviewer found it paired well with TrainerRoad to bring his training to a new level. And he liked how the resistance adjusted automatically for big-group drafts, virtual climbs, descents, and flats when used with Zwift. 

Cycling Weekly recommends the trainer because it was easy to set up, stable, and packed full of features, including realistic road feel and excellent connectivity to the top apps. 

Around 75% of the buyers who reviewed the Wahoo Fitness Kickr Smart Bike Trainer on REI's website gave it 5 stars. Cyclists are impressed with how realistic the ride is. One reviewer said, "This truly is the closest to cycling while being indoors." 

Another reported that when his unit stopped reporting power, Wahoo provided excellent customer service and was quick to replace it. However, there are reports of a few quality-control issues with this product.

Pros: Realistic road feel, pairs seamlessly with several apps, accurate power measurement, great customer service, one-year return policy

Cons: Expensive, reports of quality-control problems



The best 'dumb' indoor bike trainer

The CycleOps Fluid2 Indoor Trainer is an affordable option if you don't need smart connectivity but still want an indoor ride when the weather isn't accommodating.

Before the recent surge in smart trainers, the CycleOps Fluid2 Indoor Trainer was at the top of the heap. This heavy-duty beast features a 2-inch-round, 16-gauge steel frame made of 100% recyclable, nonrusting materials in the United States. The trainer comes with a steel quick-release skewer, and the 2-inch resistant roller fits a wide array of road and mountain bike wheel sizes. CycleOps backs the quality of their trainer with a lifetime warranty.

Road.cc recommends the CycleOps Fluid2 because of its high-quality construction, durability, and comfort. The reviewer has used the Fluid for four years without any issues, and he appreciates how the resistance offers a smooth, natural feel. He also liked that the unit appears to be quite heavy-duty, which is great for remaining stationary but doesn't make it very portable. And, he got a lot of use out of the DVD that came with the trainer. Bike Radar, Kyle's Bikes, and Turbo Bike Trainer also recommend this model.

About 85% of the buyer reviews of the CycleOps Fluid2 on Amazon are positive. The most helpful reviewer, dpkeith, described how the trainer started to make an off-putting noise after using it for more than four years, three times a week for 45 minutes a workout. He contacted CycleOps, and they replaced it free of charge. Other buyers recommend buying cadence and speed sensors for the bike so the trainer can be used with various apps —essentially smartening up a dumb trainer. 

Pros: Affordable, heavy-duty construction, excellent customer service, lifetime warranty

Cons: No smart connectivity, not easily portable



What else we considered

When researching this guide, we considered several models of bike trainers, and there are a few that we almost included. The following five barely missed the cut:

  • Jet Black Z1 Pro Fluid Trainer ($301.93): This is another "dumb" trainer. It's backed by a lifetime warranty, is foldable, and relatively light so you can bring it with you on road trips. Several expert lists included this trainer. However, we think there are better, more affordable trainers if you don't care about smart connectivity. 
  • FeedBack Sports Omnium Portable Cycle Trainer ($399.99): The Omnium Over-Drive is unique because you remove your front wheel, attach it to the stand, and your back wheel rests on two 4-inch magnetic drums that supply progressive resistance. The set comes with a travel bag that fits in an airplane overhead bin. The trainer is highly recommended by Bicycling, but it only has a 3.9-star average customer rating on Amazon.
  • Bkool Go Trainer ($299.99): The Bkool Go is a fun, low-cost smart trainer for beginner or casual cyclists since it only gets up to 800 watts of resistance and simulates slopes of 8%. However, it works with Bluetooth or ANT+ FE-C to pair with the Bkool app as well as other popular training apps to give you a realistic virtual riding experience. It didn't make our guide because the customer and expert reviews are a mixed bag of positive and negative experiences.
  • Wahoo Fitness Kickr Snap Power Bike Trainer ($500): This is a good mid-range smart trainer made of high-strength carbon steel. It works with popular training software and is compatible with aftermarket power meters. The accuracy levels are impressive but don't compare to the high-end options in our guide. Also, the adjustable incline only reaches a 12% grade, which isn't enough for those of us who like punishing climbs.
  • Kinetic R1 Direct Drive Smart Trainer ($1,050): Kinetic by Kurt is one of the top names in the bike trainer industry, and the R1 is their high-end direct drive trainer. It has all the whistles and bells — compatibility with all the most popular training apps, 20% max slope, 2,000-watt max resistance at 30 mph. However, it's relatively new so the verdict is still out. Keep an eye out as we update this guide because the R1 is likely to move up.


After announcing the iPhone 11, Apple has already stopped selling 3 older models of the iPhone — here's the list of discontinued devices (AAPL)

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iphone 11 dummy models

  • Apple just unveiled this year's updates to the iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch, but it could be the end of the line for other devices in Apple's lineup.
  • Apple's website no longer offers the iPhone XS or XS Max, both of which were introduced last year, and the iPhone 7 has apparently been discontinued. The older versions of the iPad and Apple Watch have been replaced as well.
  • Apple still sells some older model devices through its refurbished store, and pre-orders for the latest models are already live.
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Apple just unveiled its new iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch devices to its lineup, but a few of the company's older devices seem to be headed for the graveyard.

While pre-orders for the newly announced iPhone 11, the seventh generation iPad, and the Apple Watch series 5 are already live, Apple's website is no longer selling the iPhone XS or XS Max, both of which debuted a year ago. The iPhone 10R, which was announced at the same time as the XS and XS Max, is still available. 

The iPhone 7, which was released in 2016, has apparently been discontinued as well. Apple has also replaced the 9.7 inch iPad with the 10.2 inch model, and the new Apple Watch has replaced the series 4.

Apple took a similar approach with its product line last year. The company discontinued the iPhone X, which was replaced by the iPhone XS, as well as the iPhone 6S, 6S Plus, and iPhone SE.

Read more:Here's everything that happened at Apple's huge iPhone 11 launch event

The iPhone 11 and seventh generation iPad will be available on September 30, while the series 5 Apple Watch will be available in stores on September 20. Apple will also release iOS 13, the latest update to the iPhone software, on September 19.

The iPhone 8 is now the cheapest available iPhone at $450, while iPhone 11 prices start at $699. Prices for the iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max, which are most comparable to the XS and XS Max, begin at $999 and $1,099, respectively. The XS and XS Max launched at the same price point last year.

If you're still interested in purchasing these discontinued Apple devices, you might be able to find them in Apple's refurbished products store. The shop currently offers the iPhone X, 9.7 inch iPads, and series 4 Apple Watches.

Apple did not immediately respond to Business Insider's request for confirmation on the discontinued iPhones, iPad, and Apple Watch.


Now tell us what you think!


 

SEE ALSO: This is the iPhone 11

Join the conversation about this story »

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34 clever presents for coworkers that they'll actually be happy to receive

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beehive coffee rubbed cheese salami collection o

  • Shopping for coworkers doesn't have to take a lot of time or money.
  • You can find a unique, thoughtful gift under $50 without much research (because we've done it for you).
  • Below, I've compiled 34 gifts under $50 that will serve you well — some are funny, some are thoughtful, all are affordable, and most are impossible to hate. 

Shopping for coworkers can become a never-ending parade of mild pine-scented candles, Hallmark cards, and candy that is destined for retirement in a desk drawer for most of the month. It's easier to buy thoughtful, impactful gifts for your closest loved ones, and it gets harder once you add in the subtleties and professionalism of the workplace.

However, there are hordes of fantastic gifts out there for coworkers. And they don't have to be expensive — in fact, they probably shouldn't be. The ideal colleague present is thoughtful, unique, and lands somewhere in the casual middle ground between re-gifting paperclips from the supply closet and an all-expenses-paid trip to the Caribbean.

Most of these items are available with expedited shipping, and some should arrive within a few days' time, so don't stress too hard if you're doing some last-minute shopping — just remember that the sooner you order, the better your chances of a timely arrival.

Below, you'll find 34 of the best coworker gifts for under $50:

A three-month subscription of freshly roasted whole bean, single-origin coffees from a cool startup

Driftaway Coffee Subscription, Three Months, available on Driftaway Coffee, from $44

If they're practically tethered to the coffee pot, they'll probably love the fun and thoughtful gift of a three-month subscription to this cool Brooklyn startup's beans. Driftaway sends freshly roasted, whole bean, single-origin coffees from around the world to their doorstep.



An Atlas Obscura calendar full of daily photos and tidbits about the world's strangest and coolest places or festivals

Atlas Obscura Color Page-A-Day Desk 2019 Calendar, available on Amazon, $8.99

Add some fun to their day-to-day routine with the Atlas Obscura calendar. There are hundreds of photos that celebrate the world's strangest and coolest places, festivals, and foods. Travelers and life-long learners are particularly good candidates for this one.



A funny mug that acknowledges the bond forged by people who have to fix the same defunct printer every week together

The This is Fine Mug, available on Etsy, from $22.67

A "This is Fine" mug is the perfect gift for the only other people on earth who can truly relate to the particularities of your job: a defunct printer, last night's too-fun team happy hour, and the occasional avalanche of meetings and high-priority emails. Here's a $23 nod to the fond shared stressors.



Mini succulents in ceramic planters

StarPack Home 3-Piece Ceramic Succulent Planter, available at Amazon, $15.97

If your desk-mate doesn't already have a plant, rest assured they would probably like one (fine print: if it requires next to no caregiving). Grab these ceramic planters from Amazon and fill them with an assortment of succulentsAccording to science, it may make them happier just to see the plants every day.



Fun kitchen towels that rate wines by how well they pair with certain foods

Wine Pairing Towel Set, available on Uncommon Goods, $28

If you've got a wine lover on the team, grab these fun wine pairing towels and a bottle to go with them. They're thoughtful, informal, and unique.



A candle that smells like their favorite state

Homesick Candles, available on Uncommon Goods, starting at $30

Homesick candles are a great gift for pretty much anyone in your life. They're a nice acknowledgment of something important to someone else that you're likely to know regardless of intimacy level. Plus, with a candle, they'll get to enjoy it for weeks to come — and if your gift deals with nostalgia, scent is a great place to start.



A three-month subscription to the book club that put "Gone with the Wind" on the map

Book of the Month, Three Months, available at Book of the Month, $44.99

If your team includes a bookworm, they'll appreciate a gift subscription to Book of the Month. It's been around since 1926, and it's credited with the discovery of titles like "Gone with the Wind" and "Catcher in the Rye". A team of experts and celebrity guest judges curate must-read books — usually new releases, hot topics, and debut authors — and send them to the subscriber's doorstep. If they're more into audiobooks or e-reading, check out a gift subscription to Scribd (full review here).



A charging stand for their desk to keep things organized

Twelve South HiRise 2 Charging Stand, available on Amazon, $39.99

This charging stand works with iPhones, iPads, and most other Lightning-charged devices. It takes up minimal space for optimal convenience.



A miniature golf course they can escape to from the comfort of their desk

Desktop Golf, available on Uncommon Goods, $35

Know somebody who'd rather be at the golf course, or who might appreciate the adult equivalent of doodling in class? Say no more.



A water bottle that keeps cold drinks cold for 24 hours and hot drinks hot for 6 hours

Hydro Flask Stainless Steel Travel Coffee Flask, available on Amazon, $21.95

It's often the most practical coworker gifts that make the best and longest impression, and this is one stellar candidate. The Hydro Flask is double-wall vacuum insulated and will keep their cold drinks cold for up to 24 hours, with hot drinks staying hot for up to six. We're big fans of the line.



The best portable battery you can buy

Portable Jackery Bolt 6000 mAh, available on Amazon, $30.59

If you want to get them something they're sure to love, save them from a dead phone on their next long commute or work trip. We ranked this one as the best battery pack you can buy because you can charge two devices at once, and because it has built-in lightning and micro-USB cables.



A self-betterment planner designed using the "best practices" of the most successful people in history

Best Self Co. Journal, available on Amazon, $31.99

If you work with someone especially ambitious or concerned with self-progress, they'll love this daily planner. It was created by a group of "human performance junkies" after researching the most successful, high-performing humans in history, and it uses their common practices and psychology tips to break down a 10-year plan into doable, bite-sized pieces.



Fun, collection-worthy socks

The Beatles Socks Box Set, available at Happy Socks, $42

Happy Socks makes some of the coolest and most elevator-small-talk-worthy socks in the industry. This gift set focuses on Keith Haring, but there are more options to choose from, including some inspired by Andy Warhol.



A green herbal tea kit that lets them create custom blends

Green Herbal Tea Kit, available on Uncommon Goods, $40

If they're more into tea than coffee, they'll love this thoughtful green herbal tea kit. It includes nine herbs and three varieties of green tea, so they can create their own custom blends.



Desk cable clips that keep cords neat and organized

Shintop 6-Piece Cable Clips Set, available at Amazon, $5.99

Pair a few of these cable clips with a nice card and some candy for a low-key, well-rounded gift that's fun and practical.



A limited-edition candle from a cool startup

A Single Flame, available on Otherland, $36

This is one candle they will be excited to receive. Otherland is a startup created by Abigail Cook Stone, a former art buyer for Ralph Lauren. They're some of the most beautifully packaged and best smelling we've seen in a while— and they make great gifts



Reading socks that will tempt them to work from home

GiftCraft Reading Socks, available at Barnes and Noble, $9.99

Make sure to include a book recommendation with these ultra-cozy socks.



An extra-long charging cable, which is the closest you'll get to gifting never-ending convenience

Anker 6 ft Charging Cable, available on Amazon, $14.99

It's something every one of us will feel grateful for a couple times per day, but always put off buying for ourselves: a serpentine, 6-foot long charging cable.



A pillow that immortalizes their photogenic pet

Canvas Pop Custom Photo Pillows, available at Canvas Pop, from $39

If your coworker is a pet parent, you may make the biggest impact by focusing here. Plus, in the days of dog and cat Instagrams, it's not too hard to find your own mini album of options.



Rocketbook Reusable Notebook, available on Amazon, $31.97

The $30 Rocketbook notebook is full of 32 reusable pages that wipe clean with a damp cloth when the owner uses a Pilot FriXion pen (included), so they can keep using the same notebook indefinitely. They can also send hand-written notes to Google Drive, Dropbox, iCloud, email, and more. I use my own a surprising amount.



A cheese and salami collection that looks put-together

Beehive Cheese & Creminelli Salami Collection, available at Williams-Sonoma, $59.95

Everyone likes food, and most people enjoy gifting and receiving a good-looking food package that a) has great pairings, and b) they didn't have to put together themselves.



Anthony Bourdain's best-selling culinary and travel memoir

"A Cook's Tour: Global Adventures in Extreme Cuisines" by Anthony Bourdain, available on Amazon from $7.21

Whether they love to cook, to travel, or just love to eat, they'll enjoy Anthony Bourdain's best-selling travel and culinary memoir. Bourdain spent much of his adult life searching for the perfect meal in all corners of the globe, and he details those great adventures from California to Cambodia here.



A stainless steel French press for convenient coffee always at the ideal temperature

Stainless-Steel French Press, available at Williams-Sonoma, $54.95

The Williams-Sonoma double-walled stainless-steel press brews great coffee right at the table, then keeps it at the ideal drinking temperature.



A to-go sriracha sauce keychain for the hot sauce fiend of the office

Sriracha To-Go Bottle Keychain, available at Amazon, $14.23

Perfect for the coworker best known for adding hot sauce to anything sweet, savory, or edible.

 



A brownie pan that only makes edge pieces

Baker's Edge Nonstick Edge Brownie Pan, available on Amazon, $35.95

This is exactly the kind of gift that seems more fun and clever than it is practical — until you're using it once a month religiously.



Tools for a night off and the "Do Nothing" sloth card made by an independent artist

"Do Nothing" Three Sloth Stationery Cards, available at Society6, $11.99

Pair the sloth "Do Nothing" card with a few relaxing accessories (like face masks) to gift a well-deserved night off to a coworker. Like all of Society6's collection, it's also made by an independent artist — making it a bit cooler than what you might pick up from CVS.



A tiny, convenient Bluetooth key tracker

Tile Mate Key Finder, available on Amazon, $21.25

You can't go wrong with a tracker for their keys that's compact, thoughtful, and useful to pretty much everyone.



A gift card to a popular healthy eating startup

Gift Card, available on Daily Harvest from $25

Daily Harvest is a meal delivery startup that makes healthy fast food that takes as little as 30 seconds to prepare. Meals are delicious, under $10 each, and designed by a chef and nutritionist team for taste and balance. It's great for healthy eaters, busy lifestyles, and solves pretty much all of our main roadblocks to eating well.



A chiller to keep their post-work beer cold

Chillsner, available at UncommonGoods, $16.95

When all your coworkers get together after work to enjoy a beer, this will be the most-wanted accessory. The stainless steel Chillsner fits easily into the bottle and keeps beverages refreshingly crisp.



A convenient, reusable bag that folds up to the size of a business card

Baby Baggu, available at Amazon, $10

Grab a trendy, reusable shopping bag that's perfect for packing lunch, extra shoes, or taking a last-minute trip to the grocery store. This one folds up to about the size of a business card, and its signature version can hold 50 pounds of stuff easily.



A fidget-friendly desk toy that's actually really fun

Speks Original Magnetic Desk Toy, available on Amazon, $27.95

These tiny magnets are one "office toy" we actually liked enough to dedicate a full article to— they're fun, space-saving, and you can fidget without drawing attention to yourself.



A Bob Ross chia pet

Bob Ross Chia Pet, available on Amazon, $20.99

Do yourself, your coworker, and your section of the office a favor with a Bob Ross chia pet. It will be a great conversation piece for as long as it lives.



An echo dot for the virtual assistant you can afford to give them

Echo Dot, 3rd Generation, available on Amazon, $49.99

If they don't already have an Echo Dot, this is a great tech gift without quite breaking $50.



Double condiment bowls that are impossible to hate

Marble Double Condiment Bowls, available on Williams-Sonoma, $26.99

This white marble serving piece can hold the exact right amount of pairings, condiments, and spices. It's small, beautiful, and functional enough to bypass even the pickiest of coworkers. 



These photos of abandoned malls and golf courses reveal a new era for the American suburb

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the 700000 square foot mall had the capacity to host four anchor stores and 100 smaller shops

In March 2017, Business Insider reported a series of stories on "The Death of Suburbia," declaring the end of the suburbs as we once knew them.

By examining the plummeting value of McMansions, the increasingly blurry line between city and suburb, and the shuttered shopping malls across the nation, we saw that the once-flourishing suburbs were no longer what they used to be.

Read more:Millennials are following in baby boomers' footsteps and heading for the suburbs — but there's a key difference in how they're doing it

Ahead, see a collection of photos from Seph Lawless and Business Insider reporters, showing the relics of America's suburban past. Some of these structures are now abandoned while millennials move forward with alternative ways of living.    

SEE ALSO: The suburban mansion may be losing its spot as part of the American Dream, and it highlights just how different millennials' and baby boomers' worlds are

DON'T MISS: The 50 best suburbs in America, ranked

It's been a rough couple of years for the retail industry, and malls are shutting down across the country. Chicago's Lincoln Mall, pictured here, shut its doors in January 2015.

Source:Business Insider



It had originally opened in 1973.

Source: Chicago Tribune



The 700,000-square-foot mall had the capacity to host four anchor stores and 100 smaller shops.

Source:Chicago Tribune



Closer to its final months, the mall had just 40 storefronts in business.

Source: Chicago Tribune



In 2013, the mall's owner told The Chicago Tribune that the property was losing $2 million a year.

Source:Chicago Tribune



The closure of the mall's Sears was a major blow to its business.

Source:Chicago Tribune



The same year, a court-ordered receiver was appointed to force the location to pay taxes and fines as well as make necessary repairs.

Source: Chicago Tribune



The mall's tenants did not generate enough in rent to pay for the improvements or repairs, according to an attorney for the owner.

Source:Chicago Tribune



The mall reportedly failed to make these changes, which included creating new exits to comply with fire codes and replacing electrical and air conditioning systems.

Source:Chicago Tribune



In November 2014, a Cook County judge ordered the closure of the mall following the holiday shopping season.

Source: Chicago Tribune



For nearly two years, the mall sat empty.

Source:Chicago Tribune



Its shops' signage stayed intact, however.

Source:Seph Lawless



Some banners also remained hanging.

Source:Seph Lawless



Demolition began on the property in May 2017.

Source:Chicago Tribune



The Rolling Acres Mall in Akron, Ohio, had a similar fate.

Source:Ohio.com



This mall originally opened in 1975.

Source:Cleveland.com



With JC Penney as one of its anchor stores, this mall's parking lot was packed with visitors in the early 1980s.

Source:Ohio.com



It officially closed in 2008.

Source: Cleveland.com



Demolition of the mall began in 2016.

Source:Ohio.com



The Metro North Shopping Center in Kansas City, Missouri, has also shuttered.

Source:KansasCity.com



This mall opened in 1976.

Source:KansasCity.com



The mall was massive. Sitting at 1.2 million square feet, it once housed more than 150 retailers.

Source:KansasCity.com



The mall officially closed in 2014.

Source:KansasCity.com



Originally, a $200 million makeover was in the works, but the developers ditched the plan in 2015, citing difficulties attracting tenants.

Source:KansasCity.com



Even some malls that are still open for business look like ghost towns. Here's the Regency Square Mall in Richmond, Virginia, in March 2017, for example.

Source:Business Insider



Empty storefronts lined the halls.

Source:Business Insider



Similarly, Valley View Mall in Dallas, Texas — which opened in 1973 — was mostly empty of both people and stores when Business Insider visited on December 23, 2016.

Source:Dallas News, Business Insider



The mall flourished in the 70s and through the 1980s.

Source:Labelscar.com



However, as early as the 1990s, after one of its anchor stores, Bloomingdale's, closed, it began experiencing financial trouble.

Source:Business Insider



Some of Valley View's original shops had been taken over by what looked more like a neighborhood garage sale than a store.

Source:Business Insider



It also seemed that many of the shops had been repurposed.

Source:Business Insider



Valley View Mall officially closed in July of 2017.

Source:Dallas News



Demolition of the mall began in May of 2019. The site will be replaced with mixed-use high-rise buildings that will include office space, retail space, entertainment space, and residential units.

Source:WFAA



Many retailers have struggled to adapt to changing consumer behaviors. As for the anchor stores that are still open in malls, such as this Sears store in Glen Allen, Virginia, the lack of products can be alarming.

Source:Business Insider



In July 2017, Business Insider correspondent Hayley Peterson visited the Glen Allen Sears and found empty shelves in the shoe department.

Source:Business Insider



A broken display shelf was found in the appliances department.

Source:Business Insider



A corner of the store featuring travel items had the same products hanging on multiple hooks in a likely attempt to fill space.

Source:Business Insider 



A department devoted to curtains also appeared to be missing some inventory.

Source:Business Insider



This section was better stocked than other departments, but it also lacked wall signage.

Source:Business Insider



Ripped carpet lined the walls below empty shelves.

Source:Business Insider



The men's department was also very empty.

Source:Business Insider



This Sears location in Woodbridge, New Jersey, which we visited in February 2017, didn't look much better.

Source:Business Insider



This Richmond, Virginia location was also lacking merchandise.

Source:Business Insider



In November 2018, Sears announced that 40 Sears and Kmart stores would close its doors. This news came in addition to the 142 stores already set to close by the end of the year.

Source: Business Insider



The number of store closures announced in 2018 brought Sears' total store count down to around 500 — a major decrease from 2,000 stores in 2013.

Source: Business Insider



In July 2016, we visited the flagship Macy's store in Manhattan, only to find messy shelves and lots of sales. Macy's closed 68 locations in 2017.

Source:Business Insider



The apparel department was also a mess.

Source:Business Insider



It's not just the malls' anchor stores. Crocs closed 158 locations in 2017.

Source:Yahoo.com



In 2017, nearly everything was on sale at RadioShack as they prepared to close 1,430 stores nationwide.

Source:Business Insider



In 2017, Wet Seal announced the closing of all 171 locations.

Source:Business Insider



In 2018, Mattress Firm announced that it will close up to 700 stores across the United States.

Source:Business Insider



Malls and shopping aren't the only things that have changed in suburbs across America. Once a community staple in many American suburbs, the golf course is also now a slowly dying breed.

Source:Business Insider



More than 800 golf courses have shuttered across the US in the past decade, and data from the Sports & Fitness Industry Association has shown that millennials between the age of 18 to 30 have a lack of interest in playing the game.

Source:Business Insider



The Apple Ridge Country Club, located in Mahwah, New Jersey, opened in 1966.

Source:Business Insider



Complete with an event space, 18-hole golf course, swimming pool, and tennis courts, Apple Ridge was a place the whole community could enjoy.

Source:Business Insider



Since it officially closed in late 2015, the country club has seemingly remained uncared for.

Source:Business Insider



This is how it looked when we paid a visit in February 2017.

Source:Business Insider



Today, millennials are doing everything they can to live in cities rather than traditional neighborhood homes.

Source:Business Insider



In lieu of traditional housing, some millennials are turning basements, boats, and vans into homes.

Source:Business Insider



Young homebuyers with different attitudes towards conspicuous consumption are also killing off the McMansion, a sprawling, often architecturally mismatched home boasting several thousand square feet of space.

Source:Business Insider



6 places to buy prescription glasses online using insurance, HSA, or FSA money

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  • Instead of haggling with a store clerk for a pair of generic eyeglasses, take your prescription eyewear shopping online. 
  • EyeBuyDirect, Zenni, Warby Parker, Felix Gray, GlassesUSA, and Eyeconic are making it easy and affordable to find a pair of stylish prescription glasses and sunglasses. 
  • Some accept insurance, while all accept FSA and HSA dollars to help bring down the cost of your glasses.
  • A couple also have virtual try-on options so you really never have to step into a physical store again. 

I remember visiting the optometrist's office as a kid, emerging from my eye exam to peruse the books of gorgeous glasses-donning models with furrowed brows — as if I could afford those frames then or even now as an adult. 

Traditional optometrist offices and glasses retailers tend to overcharge or upsell you on their frames, but it's easier to skirt this awkward and painfully expensive process today. Grab your prescription and go to your laptop or phone instead. There are now many online glasses retailers that can provide a seamless, convenient, and affordable shopping experience. 

As a glasses-wearer, you probably often feel like you're being punished for not having perfect vision, but these retailers will make you enjoy shopping for glasses again. They offer a large variety of frames, from the classic to the quirky; are able to accommodate for all different types of lenses; and even throw in a nice discount now and then. 

Some other things to take into consideration when shopping online for glasses are whether the retailer accepts insurance and FSA/HSA dollars, offers a virtual try-on option (and if not, whether it has a generous return and exchange policy), and has kids' styles if you want to shop for the whole family. 

Learn more about the six best places to buy glasses online:

EyeBuyDirect

Shop glasses at EyeBuyDirect here

Types of prescription eyewear you can shop at EyeBuyDirect:

Why you should shop at EyeBuyDirect: Not only are EyeBuyDirect's frames incredibly affordable, but they're also really stylish, so you never feel like you have to decide between your wallet and your look. They're made from metal and premium acetate and hold up well, and since they're so inexpensive, you can get multiple pairs if you tire of wearing the same frames every day. Lenses start at just $7, and available options include single-vision distance, reading lenses, Transition lenses, progressives, and bifocals. 

Virtual try-on option: No. But you can see its guides for how to pick glasses for your face shape and how to take frame measurements. It has a 14-day free exchange and return policy. 

Insurance and other programs: Does not accept insurance but can provide you with the information necessary for a reimbursement. It does accept FSA and HSA dollars for prescription eyewear and sunglasses purchases.  



Zenni

Shop glasses at Zenni here

Types of prescription eyewear you can shop at Zenni:

  • Eyeglasses for men ($7-$46), women ($7-$46), and children ($10-$36)
  • Sunglasses for men ($30-$46) and women ($26-$46) 
  • Blue light blocking can be added to any of the lenses

Why you should shop at Zenni: Similarly affordable is Zenni Optical, where it's easy to shop by style, face shape, and collection. You can also find specialty frames such as Sports Glasses and Goggles, so the range of options is truly diverse. It's a great place to shop for the whole family because it separates the kids section further into little kid, pre-teen, and teen categories. Its resource library of guides is robust and demystifies all your questions about the costs of wearing glasses, why you might want to consider progressives, and many more topics. 

Virtual try-on option: Yes. Use Zenni's video capture tool to get a 180-degree view of how the frames will look on you. It has a 30-day return policy where you can get 50% back directly or 100% back in store credit. 

Insurance and other programs: Does not accept insurance but can provide you with the information necessary for a reimbursement. It does accept FSA and HSA dollars for prescription eyewear and sunglasses purchases.  



Warby Parker

Shop glasses at Warby Parker here

Types of prescription eyewear you can shop at Warby Parker: 

  • Eyeglasses for men ($95-$145) and women ($95-$145)
  • Sunglasses for men ($175) and women ($175) 
  • Blue light blocking can be added to any of the lenses

Why you should shop at Warby Parker: Most of Warby Parker's frames cost $95 and include the price of the lens (if you get the classic, non-blue light and non-light responsive ones). This does make them pricier than other online glasses brands, but you do get the benefit of free Home Try-On, a large variety of on-trend styles to choose from, and the opportunity to visit a physical Warby Parker location near you. In addition, the company distributes a pair of glasses to someone in need for every pair purchased. 

Virtual try-on option: Yes. Its iOS app, available for iPhone X, features a Virtual Try-On option. It also has a Home Try-On program where you can pick out five frames to have sent to your house for free. You have five days to try them and decide which to keep. Send them all back and Warby will send you a fresh pair. It has a 30-day free return and exchange policy. 

Insurance and other programs: Accepts insurance from major providers, including UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, Anthem, etc. If your provider is not listed, you will need to contact your insurance company directly for reimbursement. Check your vision benefits here

Warby Parker also accepts FSA and HSA dollars for all prescription eyewear purchases. 



Felix Gray

 Shop glasses at Felix Gray here

Types of prescription eyewear you can shop at Felix Gray: 

  • Eyeglasses for men ($145) and women ($145)
  • Sleep glasses for men ($145) and women ($145) 

Why you should shop at Felix Gray: Felix Gray started primarily as a computer glasses company, highlighting the negative effects of our increasingly digital world. All of its glasses contain a blue light filter to provide relief from the harsh light of our computer and phone screens. If you already know you want blue light glasses, Felix Gray is probably the most convenient place to get them since it bundles the feature directly into all its prescription glasses options

Virtual try-on option: No. Check Felix Gray's Fit Guide to see which pair will look best. It has a 30-day free return and exchange policy. 

Insurance and other programs: Does not accept insurance but can provide you with the information necessary for a reimbursement. It does accept FSA and HSA dollars for prescription eyewear and sunglasses purchases.  



GlassesUSA

Shop glasses at GlassesUSA here

Types of prescription eyewear you can shop at GlassesUSA: 

Why you should shop at GlassesUSA: GlassesUSA is the largest online eyewear retailer, operating in over 92 countries, and selling both designer and in-house brands. Though prices can run into the hundreds and even thousands because of the designer leaning, it often runs sales and promotions (and we also have some Business Insider promo codes for you here), which can help you save on a sleek new pair of glasses. There are multiple ways to give your prescription information: You can fill it out online, upload it, have your doctor send it directly to the site, or use previously saved information. 

Virtual try-on option: Yes. You can use its virtual mirror, and see its guides for how to find your frame size and the best glasses for your face shape. It has a 30-day free return and exchange policy. 

Insurance and other programs: Does not accept insurance but can provide you with the information necessary for a reimbursement. It does accept FSA and HSA dollars for prescription eyewear and sunglasses purchases.  



Eyeconic

Shop glasses at Eyeconic here

Types of prescription eyewear you can shop at Eyeconic: 

  • Eyeglasses for men ($96-$600+), women ($96-$500+), and kids ($102-$200+)
  • Sunglasses for men ($65-$700+), women ($69-$900+), and kids ($64-$185) 

Why you should shop at Eyeconic: Eyeconic is part of VSP Vision Care and thus accepts insurance. It also helps connect you to 38,000 doctors if you need an optometrist, giving you a more convenient and online-centric version of the traditional eye care experience. Like GlassesUSA, it offers designer brands as well as many discounts and promotions— the difference is that Eyeconic is more closely tied to the eye care professional community and insurance companies, plus it has a couple retail one-stop shops. 

Virtual try-on option: Yes. Use Eyeconic's video capture tool to get a 180-degree view of how the frames will look on you. It has a 30-day free return and exchange policy. 

Insurance and other programs: Accepts insurance from VSP, MetLife, and Cigna Vision. If your provider is not listed, you will need to contact your insurance company directly for reimbursement. 

Eyeconic also accepts FSA and HSA dollars for all prescription eyewear purchases. 



Photos show how dramatically the World Trade Center site and Manhattan's skyline have transformed since the 9/11 attacks

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ground zero world trade center transformation 9/11

  • The terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, changed America forever. They also permanently altered New York City landscape. 
  • Over the past 18 years, the site of the World Trade Center has become a memorial to the 2,977 lives lost on 9/11, and new buildings like One World Trade Center have been constructed. 
  • Visit Business Insider's home page for more stories. 

The terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, took the lives of nearly 3,000 Americans and transformed the US in countless ways.

It sparked the global war on terror (which the US is now fighting in 76 countries) and the invasions of Iraq and Afghanistan, the longest war in US history and one that the Trump administration is struggling to withdraw from. 

It led to the creation of the Department of Homeland Security, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the Patriot Act.

And it also fundamentally changed New York City.

In honor of the 18th anniversary of the horrific attacks, we compiled 18 photos showing how Manhattan's Financial District and skyline have changed since 9/11 as the city rebuilt ground zero.

SEE ALSO: Inside St. Paul's chapel, where George Washington prayed after taking the oath of office — that remained standing when the Twin Towers fell across the street

DON'T MISS: Aerial images of the World Trade Center show the site's evolution from 1966 to now

Here's an aerial view of the Twin Towers on a peaceful June day in 1999.



But that skyline was horrifically altered a little more than two years later.



You can see the stark difference between the top photo, taken on August 30, 2001, and the bottom photo, taken from the spot 16 days after the attacks. It would take several months for rescuers to go through the rubble.



In December 2003, a design for the new One World Trade Center was finally unveiled.

In addition to the 1,776-foot-tall One World Trade Center building, the site would come to include four other World Trade Center buildings, a 9/11 Memorial and Museum, the Ronald O. Perelman Performing Arts Center, a WTC Transportation Hub, and Liberty Park.

Source: Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, Curbed



A "Tribute in Lights" shone on the anniversary of the September 11 attacks in 2006, where the World Trade Center once stood. The lights still shine in tribute each year on the anniversary.



As late as 2007, the site still looked about the same, as construction was hamstrung by lawsuits, budget overruns, design changes, and a recession.

Source: Time



In 2009, the 9/11 memorial waterfalls were starting to take shape.



One World Trade Center, also known as the "Freedom Tower," was just starting to rise from the rubble.



In June 2010, the skyscraper was slowly rising.



By July 2011, the memorial waterfalls were being tested, and One World Trade Center's facade was beginning to reflect the sky.



Here's the Manhattan skyline in August 2011. You can see the unfinished tower beginning to peek over the other skyscrapers.



The memorial waterfalls officially opened in September 2011, and the museum, seen on the right, opened in May 2014.



By November 2014, One World Trade Center was complete, as was 4 World Trade Center (left) and 7 World Trade Center (far right). But 3 World Trade Center, seen here with a crane above it, still wasn't finished.



The WTC Transportation Hub, on which the soaring white Oculus was built, was also under construction in late 2014.



The hub officially opened in June 2016, while 3 World Trade Center was still under construction.



The $50 million Liberty Park also opened in June 2016. From there, visitors can get an overhead view of the ground zero memorial.

Source: Gothamist



It took 3 World Trade Center another two years to be completed. This photo, taken on June 8, 2018, shows 3 World Trade Center, One World Trade Center, 4 World Trade Center, the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, and Liberty Park, all finally complete.



And the Manhattan skyline was forever changed.

Editor's note: Daniel Brown contributed to an earlier version of this article.



How to cancel a Lyft ride and not get charged with a fee

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business woman iphone

Lyft and other rideshare services are all about ease of us, so it only makes sense that the app makes it easy to cancel a ride. 

If you suddenly change your mind and decide to walk, learn you have to leave your home or office a bit later, or if your plans change for any other reason, you can cancel your Lyft ride with just a few taps in the Lyft app for iPhone or Android

But be quick — you have only two minutes to cancel a Lyft after you request a ride before you're charged a fee, which is $10 in most locations but varies by region

And speaking of changed plans, if you scheduled a Lyft in advance, you need to cancel before you're matched with a driver, or else you'll be hit with that same fee.

Check out the products mentioned in this article:

iPhone Xs (From $999.99 at Best Buy)

Google Pixel 3 (From $799.99 at Best Buy)

How to cancel a Lyft ride you just booked

1. As soon as you decide to cancel the trip, tap "Edit ride" at the bottom left corner of the screen.

2. Tap "Cancel ride."

IMG_5528

3. Confirm the cancellation by clicking the red words "Cancel ride."

IMG_5529

How to cancel a scheduled Lyft trip

1. Tap the calendar icon on the top right corner of the Lyft app homepage.

2. Tap the "x" above "Cancel ride."

3. Hit "Cancel" in the purple window to confirm the cancellation.

Related coverage from How To Do Everything: Tech:

SEE ALSO: The best truly wireless earbuds you can buy

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The iPhone 11 camera design is being roasted on Twitter (APPL)

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iPhone 11 Pro

  • Appleannounced the new iPhone 11 on Tuesday — it's the first iPhone released since Apple design chief Jony Iveleft in July.
  • The iPhone 11 has two cameras, and the iPhone 11 Pro and Pro Max have three cameras. 
  • People on Twitter can't stop chuckling about the camera-heavy phone's resemblance to other things — like bowling balls, coconuts, stoves, spiders, and Pikachu.
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Apple announced the new iPhone 11 on Tuesday, and Twitter is having a field day making fun of the phone's camera-heavy design.

The iPhone 11 has two cameras stacked atop one another, and the iPhone 11 Pro and Pro Max both sport three cameras, arranged in a triangle. Given Apple's history of making sleek, elegant gadgets, the new phones struck many people as looking decidedly clunky. Some joked that the design was reminiscent of unglamorous objects, from stoves and spiders to bowling balls and... Pikachu.

The iPhone 11 is the first iPhone to be announced since since the departure of longtime Apple design chief Jony Ive in July.

Check out 13 comparisons Twitter has for the iPhone 11 camera design:

The new iPhone 11 has two cameras, and the iPhone 11 Pro and Pro Max have three cameras.



Twitter just can't help seeing the Pro cameras as other things ...

 



Like a bowling ball.

 



Or Superman's enemy Brainiac.

 



Some see a fidget spinner.

 



And an electric shaver.

 



One person even compared the phone to the monsters in hazmat suits in the film "Monsters, Inc."

 



There's a certain resemblance to a Furby.

 



And Pikachu.

 



All those shiny cameras might also bring to mind a spider.

 



Or the Little Green Men from Toy Story.

 



It's a phone, no, it's a stovetop.

 



The phone's camera layout reminded a lot of people of a stove.

 



But you can't really cook a stir fry with an iPhone...yet.

Read more about iPhone 11:



How to delete messages on your iPad in 2 different ways

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ipad mini

  • It's easy to delete messages on your iPad in two different ways. 
  • You can delete individual messages on your iPad, or you can delete an entire conversation with all of its messages.  
  • When you delete messages on your iPad, it can clear up storage space and protect your privacy — although the messages will still exist on the recipient's device. 
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Your iPad's messaging app works just like an iPhone's messaging app, though your device will need to be connected to Wi-Fi for you to send or receive messages (unless you have an iPad with cellular capabilities). 

And just like with iPhone messages, you can easily delete iPad messages. 

Whether you want to erase iPad messages for privacy purposes or to free up space on your device (messages containing images, videos, or other files can take up a lot of space) the process is quick and easy.

Here's how to do it. 

Check out the products mentioned in this article:

iPad (From $329.99 at Best Buy)

iPhone Xs (From $999.99 at Best Buy)

How to delete messages on your iPad

1. Launch the Messages app and tap the conversation from which you wish to delete a message. 

2. Hold your finger down on the specific message or image you want to delete.

3. Tap "More…" on the popup window that appears at the bottom of the screen.

4. Tap the circle beside the item you want to delete, then tap the trash can icon at the bottom of the screen, and then hit "Delete Message" to confirm.

IMG_D4E9F723C008 1

How to delete a conversation on your iPad

You can also quickly wipe an entire conversation – including all of its messages and attachments – off your iPad.

1. Launch the iPad Messages app.

2. Hold a finger on the thread to be deleted, then swipe left.

IMG_0464

3. Tap "Delete," and then hit "Delete" again on the pop-up box to confirm your choice.

When you delete messages on your iPad, you will no longer be able to access them on your device — but they may still appear on connected devices, and they will still exist on the recipient's device. 

Related coverage from How To Do Everything: Tech:

SEE ALSO: The best iPads you can buy

Join the conversation about this story »

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In defense of expensive denim — why I willingly spend $200 on Rag & Bone jeans

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denim

  • As I've grown up, I've realized that it's better for my closet and my wallet to invest in certain pieces rather than buy cheap throw-aways. 
  • Denim is one such item, as I've noticed that there really is a difference between high-quality and budget denim. 
  • I present to you my defense of expensive denim — specifically, the pairs I love from Rag & Bone

I have to admit, I have a vice. But, it's probably not what you think.

I don't even feel guilty about how much I love it, much to my wallet's chagrin. 

Denim— it's one of my favorite things to buy, and of course, wear. 

Not just any denim will do, though. Over the years, I've dabbled in it all. From sub-$20 pairs at Forever 21 to the kind of splurges that took months of saving up allowance and babysitting money, my shopping adventures have taught me a lot about what to look for in my denim and what is most worth my money. Over the years, I've come to the conclusion that expensive denim is worth it— and I'll tell you why. 

Why jeans are worthy of an investment

There are many reasons you may find it smart to invest in a good pair of jeans for yourself. For the purpose of this article, I'll let you in on my philosophy. The "less is more" principle is surely nothing new, but as I've aged, it's become particularly relevant for many reasons. We're living in a time where the environmental impact of our habits is becoming clearer than ever — and the picture isn't so pretty. Choosing to buy investment pieces that we'll use for years rather than fast fashion throw-aways is one small step to being a more conscious consumer.

Personally, I find that investment pieces are usually more wallet friendly in the long term, too. Yes, spending $200 on just one item can feel like a lot, especially when that money could buy you multiple cheap pieces, but often, when buying cheap pieces you may feel less of an obligation to wear or use them for an extended period of time. Wearing a $200 item 50 times is more cost-effective than wearing a $20 item just two times. Longevity really does make an item more affordable in the long term, and jeans are a style you'll get years of wear from.

rag and bone

Additionally, jeans are one of the clothing items where I've noticed a significant difference when choosing between cheap and expensive pairs. Of course, there are exceptions to every rule, but in general I've found cheaper pairs are quicker to rip at the seams, fade at the knee, stretch out, pill, and tear. Part of this is due to shoddy construction, or the fact that most cheap jeans are not made completely of denim— many pairs include some percentage of spandex or elastic. 

Rag & Bone jeans are the best I've found

When it comes to splurging on a pair of jeans, there are many ways to do it. My personal favorite brand is Rag & Bone. The jeans (which are mostly non-stretch denim) are comfortable, the styles range from trendy to timeless, and while the denim is expensive, it's durable enough to last years. Prices are undeniably high, ranging from $190 to $375, but like any other brand, you can often snag good deals on their pieces whether its on their site or at a department store like Nordstrom or Bloomingdale's

rbjeans

Every pair of jeans I've had from Rag & Bone have lasted me seasons, which keeps me coming back for more. But there are a few other reasons for my brand loyalty. One is the styles. Everyone should have a few pairs of the basics: a good pair of dark wash jeans, a skinny, maybe even a ripped pair, depending on your style. But, it's just as fun to spice up your wardrobe with some more unusual cuts, washes, or patterns. Rag & Bone has a great combination of both, making it a fun spot to pick up classic and contemporary pairs. With an ethos that oozes effortless cool, Rag & Bone is always a place I want to shop. 

When it comes to sizing, Rag & Bone actually runs pretty large. They offer sizes 23 to 32. I am usually size down a size or two when I shop there, so if you're new to the brand I'd recommend trying on a few sizes in-store to see which you like best. But, regardless of size, I always find their pairs to be comfortable. They wear in well, not showing scuffs or holes for a long time (if at all). Eventually, all good things must come to an end, so when your Rag & Bone jeans meet their end and are truly unsalvageable, you can bring them back to the store to recycle them and get 20% off your entire denim purchase that day. Another great way to save some money and feel a little better about your shopping trip.

Bottom Line

Expensive denim may seem unnecessary when you can buy pairs for $50 or much less, but in the long run, it's usually a good decision. Everyone's experience will be different, and maybe the jeans that you feel best in are best for your budget too. I often like to go for budget pairs myself when I'm choosing trend-driven pieces. But, if you want to invest in denim that'll only get better with age, I can't recommend Rag & Bone enough. 

Shop women's denim at Rag & Bone

Shop men's denim at Rag & Bone

Join the conversation about this story »

Meet the Americans, Brits, and Europeans flocking to Italy's rural ghost towns to buy abandoned, dilapidated homes for $1

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Sambuca €1 homes

  • Italy's rural towns are in the midst of a revolution as they trial selling homes for as little as one euro ($1.12).
  • The radical schemes are aimed at combating the effects of urbanization, which is leaving some of Italy's most picturesque towns and villages deserted and derelict.
  • Thanks to widespread media coverage, many of the towns have been inundated with interest from foreign buyers in search of a bargain.
  • I recently visited a number of such towns in Sicily, and spoke to numerous foreigners who had decided to invest, as well as town mayors, deputy mayors, and councillors.
  • Some conversations were translated by Insider's Associate Translation Editor Ruqayyah Moynihan.
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

"It was an invasion — but a positive one!"

That's how Giuseppe Cacioppo, deputy mayor of Sambuca, Sicily, described the sale of his town's abandoned homes to foreign buyers, the auctions of which started at just one euro ($1.12).

Sambuca succeeded in selling off 16 historic but derelict stone homes to buyers from the United States, China, France, Britain, Russia, and Argentina.

It is one of many towns in rural Italy to trial selling homes for just $1 in a last-ditch bid to save rural settlements that have been slowly decimated by urbanization while cities and their suburbs thrive and become overpopulated.

Mussomeli €1 homes

Read more:Italy's $1 homes might be dirt cheap, but they need a lot of work — take a look inside

It sounds too good to be true, and there is, of course, always a catch. The properties for sale are almost always in a dilapidated condition, and towns stipulate that buyers must commit to spending thousands of dollars in restoration and renovation to make them habitable again. Some towns even stipulate that you must work there or bring your family in order to purchase a home.

In Sambuca's case, for example, buyers must agree to spend at least 15,000 euros ($16,700) on renovations, and hand over a 5,000 euro ($5,600) security deposit, which is refunded as long as the conditions of the purchase are met.

Despite all of that, foreigners have flocked to Italy's ghost towns in search of a bargain — particularly those that have received widespread media coverage.

Cammarata €1 homes

But who exactly are these people willing to throw caution to the wind and invest in properties they may not have even seen, in areas they know nothing about, with no idea of the town's prospects?

I traveled to Sicily, where a number of the towns trialling the one euro scheme are concentrated, to see them for myself, speak to the people buying the houses, and the town mayors and councillors behind them.

'We agreed in the end that yes, it was crazy and yes, we wanted to do it'

I spent the majority of my time in Sambuca di Sicilia, a small town in the center of Sicily that — it's fair to say — has received the widest media coverage of any towns trialling a one euro home scheme.

After CNN Travel wrote about the town in January, the mayor's office was flooded with emails from prospective buyers.

"I'd never dreamed the story of Sambuca would have become this big," Sambuca's mayor Leonardo Ciaccio told me.

"But thanks to this news coverage about what was happening in Sambuca and the region, everyone took notice of it and it just exploded."

Sambuca €1 homes

None of the homes actually sold for a euro. In May, the homes were sold in a blind auction where bids started at one euro, and the 16 houses owned by the municipality ended up selling for prices between €1,000 ($1,100) and €25,000 ($27,600).

But that was just the beginning. What about the people who fell in love with Sambuca, but lost out at auction? What of those for whom a major renovation project was not on their agenda?

I guess we can blame the Facebook algorithm.

 

On top of the 16 owned by local government, a further 50 properties were sold on the private market, raking in more than a million euros ($1.1 million) in investments — and that figure has undoubtedly continued to rise in the months since.

"We're in our late sixties and we didn't want to take on a project of undefined dimensions," Deborah Cavin from Austin, Texas told me.

Deborah and her husband Guyle bought a house from a private buyer for €50,000 ($55,000) after tacking a visit to Sicily onto the end of a trip to London.

They, like many others, heard about Sambuca via CNN's coverage, and once they started looking, Sambuca became inescapable.

"I guess we can blame the Facebook algorithm," Deborah said.

Guyle and Deborah Cavin from Texas.

The Cavins were shown around several homes that were part of the one euro scheme, but none were quite right for the couple who wanted enough space for their family to come visit but also wanted to remain in the town's historic Arab quarter.

Then, on the morning of their flight, their guide asked if they wanted to see one last home before they left.

"We thought, 'Well okay, one more,' and of course that was the perfect house for us," Deborah said.

"We agreed in the end that yes, it was crazy and yes, we wanted to do it."

Sambuca €1 homes

Gary and Tamara Holm from California were also happy to have ultimately missed out on the houses at auction, though not by choice.

"We picked one and we bid €5,050 [$5,580] on it," Gary told me. The house ended up going for 1€0,000 [$11,040] — a price that Gary thought was 'way too much.'

"When it was a euro — absolutely. But when it became kind of a blind auction, it made it a little more challenging to get what the investment should be," Tamara explained.

Gary Holm on the roof of his Sambuca property

Gary and Tamara eventually paid €19,000 ($21,000) for their home, which they bought from a private seller with help from the deputy mayor, Cacioppo.

"We like spending a little more upfront to have it a little less unknown," Gary said.

Nevertheless, the pair acknowledged that the case uno euro had been a great introduction to the small town: "If I hadn't heard about it through that, I would've never found Sambuca and then flown out there and then realized that there was so much opportunity there," Tamara said.

"As an advertisement for the city: brilliant."

Gary and Tamara Holm in Sambuca

Not all the buyers had flown in from halfway across the world. For Marie Ohanesian Nardin, Sambuca was a little closer to home.

Nardin was originally from Los Angeles, but has been living in Italy for more than 30 years since marrying a third generation gondolier from Venice.

Roberto Nardin Marie Ohanesian Nardin

Nardin told me that when she began expressing interest in Sambuca, none of her Italian friends had even heard of it because CNN had taken a much larger interest in the project than local press.

However, word didn't take long to spread — when Nardin's husband was at the bank picking up a cashier's check for the deposit on their new home, the bank teller asked for the number of their architect.

"I think Sambuca stands out because it got such international attention," Nardin said.

Nardin, too, opted to buy property in Sambuca from a private seller, saying only that she paid "a little more than what the highest bids were" on the auctioned homes.

$1 won't get you a house that's ready to move into

Now for the reality of the situation — if a home for $1 sounds too good to be true, that's because it is.

Mussomeli €1 homes

Most of the properties involved in these schemes have been abandoned for decades. After an earthquake in 1968 killed more than 200 people, many residents in southern Sicily simply cashed in on their insurance and built new, modern homes just down the road.

This means that the homes are derelict and, in some cases, full of junk and graffiti.

"I mean there were a couple of them that weren't even structured," Tamara, who had looked around Sambuca's one euro properties herself, told me.

Likewise, Nardin said: "What I was most impressed with was how much work would have been involved in cleaning them out.

I mean, it's not the greatest place, obviously, but it's 1,000 euros.

"And who knows what is in there. I don't know if there are toxic materials in there. You have to deal with that kind of thing."

Frankly, they're $1 for a reason — but that doesn't mean they're not a good investment.

Gillian Payne from Scotland and her husband Danny were one of the few people who actually managed to get a house in Sambuca's auction — and they ended up paying a mere a €1,000 euros for their property.

Gillian and Danny Payne

"I mean it's not the greatest place, obviously, but it's €1,000," Payne told me. "I came to the conclusion that it was a bargain."

Payne — who buys, renovates, and resells properties for a living back in the UK — said that her reaction was probably quite different to the other foreigners who had been led around the one euro homes.

"I'm looking at it going, 'oh my goodness, this isn't so bad,'" she said.

"I was pleasantly surprised, to be honest, with the size of the rooms, and the amount of rooms as well.

"I think we really have got a complete bargain, we're really lucky."

Sambuca €1 homes

It comes down to whether you, like the Paynes, are willing to take a risk. The people I spoke to primarily purchased through private owners not because they missed out on the one euro properties, but because they wanted more control over their purchase. They wanted more space, less work, or a place in the old quarter next to the nice restaurant.

If you're willing to accept that the perfect home doesn't exist, then the one euro homes still seem like the best investment.

'Now I'm a little bit Sicilian, a little bit Mussomelian'

Bert Vanbellingen and Nina Smets Sicily one euro homes

In Mussomeli, which is also offering homes for a euro, Bert Vanbellingen is one of the many Belgians repopulating the Sicilian town.

Mussomeli, a town of Sicilian foundation, Arabic heritage, and, now, Belgian émigrés.

The place was flooded with interest from Belgians after the Dutch-language Belgian newspaper Het Laatste Nieuws began covering it.

Shortly after, low-cost carrier Ryanair recently announced a new route from Brussels to Catania, Sicily's second city.

Vanbellingen was so entranced by Mussomeli, that he bought more homes than he knew what to do with.

"[We bought] one house for me and my wife," he said.

"And after we have an apartment I built for the children. And a third house ... We don't know what to do with it yet."

Vanbellingen admitted that he'd also paid more than one euro for the properties, but hastened to add that "if you compare it with England or Belgium, very cheap. Very cheap."

Bert Vanbellingen house Mussomeli

It's not all plain sailing for Mussomeli's new demographic, though — I was told that certain local papers had launched something of a campaign against them after one exceedingly drunk Belgian had been arrested.

That's why Vanbellingen took extra measures to make sure he and his family were perceived as a blessing, not a nuisance to Mussomelian society.

Bert Vanbellingen house Mussomeli

Shortly before I'd arrived, the Belgian had put on a party for the town's youngsters, complete with a bouncy castle and fun-filled activities. There wasn't a person in town who didn't have a good word to say about him.

"You have to integrate. The town belongs to them," Vanbellingen told me.

"And yeah, now I'm a little bit Sicilian, a little bit Mussomelian."

Italy's rural towns are stunning to behold — there's just no one there to enjoy them

It's not just Vanbellingen who's settling into local life. Many of the people I spoke to cited their town's rustic charm as one of the most significant factors in their decision to invest.

"It is lovely. There's a peace about the town," Nardin said.

"It looks like a Disney movie," Tamara said; "like 'Pinocchio.'"

Indeed, Sambuca was nominated in the 2016 Italy's Most Beautiful Towns contest, and it's hard to argue with the new residents when taking in the views from the Terrazzo Belvedere, which you'll most likely have entirely to yourself.

Columns in Sambuca, Sicily

While the town may be stunning, it is unassailably quiet. I ate at one of the town's few restaurants upon my arrival, and despite the stunning sunset view and incredibly good value of the menu, the place was practically empty.

Sunset restaurant Sambuca

When I visited, many of what few restaurants and cafes Sambuca had to offer simply weren't open, and the nearest supermarket was a short drive away. 

Another day I visited the town's museum, which they had to open up especially for me.

Sambuca museum

Take all this into account and you can forget about a gym, a spa, a golf course, or any of the other leisure facilities one might expect on vacation.

"I think the city has a lot of potential and I hope that the younger people stay or come back and open up more and more vegetable shops and restaurants and that kind of thing," Nardin said.

"Because if you've spent a few nights here, you'll know there's not a whole lot of choices for restaurants."

Cavin agreed: "I would say that in terms of bars and cafes and stuff there's not a huge selection."

Cafe in Sambuca Sicily

That's one of the reasons Vanbellingen decided on Mussomeli for his investment: "Sambuca, like Aquaviva, is very quiet. We like to be at rest, but Mussomeli is a town. It lives.

"There are supermarkets, there is everything. There are people here on the streets," he added.

"That's the difference between Mussomeli and Sambuca."

Though admittedly still very quiet, Mussomeli did have a lot more going on than Sambuca.

The new Sambucans are hopeful, though. "I met a young woman who's already starting to work on her English because she wants to be able to do walking tours and that kind of thing," Nardin said.

"There is a sense of competition that I got in getting involved in who is and who isn't selling."

Indeed, the mayor confirmed to me himself that Sambucans had been learning English in preparation for their new visitors: "They [Sambucans] had to adapt a little because English isn't spoken well here — so there was a need to train people to be able to successfully communicate with this group of people," he said.

I was shown around my B&B by the owner and his teenage daughter who translated for him since she was learning English in school. For young Sambucans, do these newcomers finally provide a reason to stay in their homeland?

Bargain or not — it's the people that make the investment worth it

The author, bottom-left, sunburnt, with some of Cammarata's town administrators.

Of all the people I spoke to, one factor in their decision to invest in a home came up time and time again.

"I worked with the local people. Great people with big hearts," Vanbellingen told me.

"We laugh, we make pleasure, we fiesta, we eat together, we drink together. That's Mussomeli."

"The people were I think more than any other single element [...] the difference to us getting serious about buying a place there," Cavin similarly said of Sambuca.

"Everybody to whom we've been introduced [...] has been so seemingly pleased that someone from America has taken an interest in their town. And of course, that's just so, so friendly and so charming," she added.

Tamara too said it was the people that made her "turn around and come back."

"I don't speak great Italian and I didn't know anyone and I showed up and I made friends," she said, "Day one. It was crazy."

Man in Sambuca

Cacioppo is confident that this is a turning point in Sambuca's history.

"It's a revolution for us," he said.

"In the six months, maybe 60 families have arrived from different countries to buy houses in Sambuca.

"Around 2,000 tourists have come too [...] They stay in Sambuca, eat in the restaurants, buy the wine, stay in the B&Bs. For the economy, it's the future of Sambuca."

Based on the way its new residents talk about the potential of the town and its charming people, it's hard not to agree with him.

Read more of Tom Murray's dispatches from Italy here.

Join the conversation about this story »

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How to use the Find My iPhone feature for a Mac, to locate your computer if it's lost or stolen

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iphone mac combo

If your iPhone has been lost or stolen, your first move is usually to check Apple's Find My iPhone feature. 

But did you know you can also do this for other Apple devices, including your Mac?

By syncing your Mac computer with your iCloud account and enabling Find My Mac on your computer, you can locate your Mac in just a few easy steps. 

Check out the products mentioned in this article:

iPhone Xs (From $999.99 at Best Buy)

MacBook Pro (From $1,299.99 at Best Buy)

How to use Find my iPhone on Mac 

1. Open System Preferences on your Mac (shown here using a MacBook Pro). 

2. Click on the iCloud icon (resembling a blue cloud). 

Mac1

3. Scroll until you see Find My Mac in the menu's list. 

Mac2

4. If there is not a blue check mark on the left, click the box. 

5. A pop-up will ask if you want to allow Find My Mac to use your computer's location. Click Allow. 

Mac3

6. A check mark will now appear next to Find My Mac, indicating the use of your computer's location for the feature. 

Mac4

How to use iCloud to find your Mac

1. Go to https://www.icloud.com/.

2. Next, use your Apple ID or email address associated with your Mac and password to sign in to iCloud. During this section you may get a pop-up on your Mac's homescreen notifying you of new sign-in to your iCloud account along with a verification code. Enter the verification code, then click the arrow. 

Mac5

3. Once you are signed in, click Find iPhone. 

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4. In the middle of the page, click My Devices to access the dropdown menu. 

5. In the menu, find the name of your Mac and select. 

Mac7

6. Once you've selected your Mac, you have the ability to play a sound on your Mac to help you locate it, lock your Mac so no one without the access code can unlock it, or erase the device from your iCloud. 

Mac8

Related coverage from How To Do Everything: Tech:

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