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The best online deals and sales happening now

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best online sales deals

We rounded up the 10 best sales and deals happening online today, with savings on Bluetooth headphones and speakers at JBL, online courses at GoSkills, home goods at Nordstrom Rack, and more.

Deals in this story are subject to change throughout the day. The prices listed reflect the deal at the time of publication. For even more deals and savings across the web, check out Business Insider Coupons.

The best sales and deals happening today at a glance:

Additional Business Insider-exclusive deals and longer-term sales going on now:

Find the details of each sale below:

SEE ALSO: The best mattresses you can buy

DON'T MISS: I got my teeth straightened through an online service called Candid for under $2,000 — here’s how it works

1. Save up to 64% on sale styles at JBL

Shop the JBL sale now

Right now, you can save 64% on a wide variety of Bluetooth speakers and wireless headphones. Whether you're looking for over-ear pairs, noise-canceling headphones, sporty earbuds for working out, or a larger speaker for taking music outdoors, you'll find it here. 



2. Get access to all online courses at GoSkills for $19 per month

Enroll in online courses at GoSkills now.

If your goal is to take your career to the next level in 2020, you're going to need to sharpen your skills. GoSkills has a wide selection of business- and career-oriented online courses that can help you do exactly that. Right now, you can get access to all courses for $19 for the first month or $199 per year — $100 less than the standard $299 annual rate. With most courses priced at $29 each, you'll save big over time.



3. Save up to 85% on home goods at Nordstrom Rack

Shop the Nordstrom Rack sale now

You might think of Nordstrom Rack as a place to find great deals on clothing and accessories, but the discount store also has a wonderful selection of home goods. During the current Happy Home sale, you can save up to 85% on home goods. You'll find bed and bath essentials, storage items, and more. 



4. Save 40% on sale styles at Happy Socks

Shop the Happy Socks sale now

Just because you have to wear a suit and tie every day doesn't mean your outfit has to be completely boring. Swapping out your basic socks for bolder options is the easiest way to bring color and personality to your looks. Happy Socks, a brand that specializes in fun socks and underwear, is having a huge sale with some cool options. Right now you can save up to 40% off and get free shipping on select socks and underwear.



5. Save up to 50% on sale items at REI

Shop the REI sale now

From apparel and footwear to gear and accessories, REI has everything you could possibly need for adventuring into the outdoors — or simply staying warm during the winter. As part of the brand's huge January clearance sale, you can save up to 50% on select items.



6. Get four months of Apple Music for free at Best Buy

Sign up for a free four-month Apple Music trial here.

Apple Music is one of the most popular streaming services available, and Best Buy is offering a free four-month trial with no purchase required. All you have to do is make sure you're signed into your account — and if you don't have one, you can sign up here.  



7. Get a 1-month free trial through ClassPass

Start your one-month free trial with ClassPass.

After the holidays, you may have resolved to get back to the gym and start fresh in the new year. ClassPass is offering a one-month free trial for all new sign-ups from now through the end of January. Your free trial will give you 35 credits that can be used to access thousands of studios and gyms in over 2,500 cities. Click here to find out more about ClassPass and this deal.



8. Get 50,000 miles when you sign up for a Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Click here to learn more about the Capital One Venture.

If traveling is on your bucket list for the new year, then you might want to consider signing up for a Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card. You'll get 50,000 miles when you spend $3,000 in your first three months, and your first year's annual fee of $95 is waived. This card will also earn you 10x the miles when you book hotels through hotels.com, and for every 10 nights you book through Hotels.com, you'll earn a free night. Learn more about the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and other credit card deals here.

Business Insider may receive a commission from The Points Guy Affiliate Network if you apply for a credit card, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.



9. Save 30% off your first delivery and get free cookie dough for the life of your subscription at Hungryroot

Browse Hungryroot's meals.

Hungryroot is a health-conscious meal delivery service that allows you to customize your preferences based on dietary needs and likes. Meals are delivered on a weekly basis, and all of them can be made in approximately 10 minutes. Now through January 23, receive 30% off your first delivery plus get free almond chickpea cookie dough in every box for the life of your subscription. You can read our full review here.



10. Save up to $250 on a Bear Mattress and get 2 free pillows

Shop the Bear Mattress sale now

Bear Mattresses goes far beyond the standard of plush memory foam by incorporating Celliant into its mattresses. The material is designed to convert heat from the body into far-infrared — a type of energy that's been proven to help rebuild cells. The technology can help you wake up feeling well-rested and free of aches and pains. Right now, you can save $150 on orders over $700 with the promo code "WS150," $200 on orders of $1,000 with the promo code "WS200," and $250 on orders over $1,300 with the promo code "WS250" at checkout. Plus, you'll receive two free pillows. 




A day in the life of a Google senior director, who gets up at 5:30 a.m., attends up to 12 meetings a day, and has a 'no screens' rule with her family

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Lilian Rincon

Lilian Rincon, the senior director of product management for the Google Assistant, runs a team of 20 people at Google's campus in Mountain View, California.

Rincon said her team at Google, called the features team, is "at the heart of the Assistant."

"The way that we're organized, there are other teams that kind of handle the mobile surface and the speakers and the hardware, et cetera," Rincon told Business Insider. "But my team is that one that really thinks about what are the types of things that the Assistant should be able to do?"

Before starting at Google nearly two years ago, Rincon worked at Skype and, before that, at Microsoft.

Rincon, who recently spoke at a Latinas in Tech summit in San Francisco, said she tests features of the Assistant in her own life, from cooking along with her smart display to letting her kids request songs from "Coco" on the Assistant in the car.

Here's what a day in her life looks like, from waking up at 5:30 a.m. to fit in a workout before her kids wake up to ending with emails and wine.

SEE ALSO: A Google director who runs a team of 150 people says she doesn't hire people who act like 'rock stars' but can't back it up — here are 3 qualities she looks for instead

Lilian Rincon is the senior director of product management for the Google Assistant. She runs a team of about 20 at Google's headquarters in Mountain View, California, with more team members around the world.



"My team is that one that really thinks about: What are the types of things that the Assistant should be able to do?" Rincon told Business Insider.



She lives in San Carlos, California, with her husband, Nik, and their two children, Hudson, 6, and Bela, 3.



Rincon wakes up at about 5:30 a.m. so she has time to do a quick workout — which includes core work and yoga — and take a shower before her kids wake up at about 6:15.



After her children wake up, Rincon helps her daughter get ready. "These days I find myself trying out new hairdos on her," she said.



Rincon does her makeup with the help of her Google Home Hub smart display. "I didn't actually know how to put makeup on until, like, the last 10 years — so I kind of use it to look at YouTube videos and figure out how to do my eyeshadow or whatever," she said.



When she has the time, she makes a protein shake with peanut butter, almond milk, bananas, and kale to get a healthy start to her day. She takes it in the car with her, along with her coffee.



Rincon's work bag usually contains her computer, wallet, phone, a hair tie, and some lipstick. "I also throw in a fuzzy tuque (I am Canadian, after all) for when the weather gets cooler here in Mountain View," Rincon said.



Rincon drives her kids to school — and they both love to request songs during the ride, she said.



"Right now the obsession is 'Coco,'" Rincon said. '"Remember Me' — I have listened to every single version of that song. It used to be 'Trolls,' so we kind of alternate between ... Disney movies or whatever they're into."



She says goodbye to her children and then continues her commute to the Google campus in Mountain View. "I'm lucky Hudson still likes giving me hugs," Rincon said.



Rincon gets to work between 8:30 and 9:30 a.m., depending on Bay Area traffic. The first thing she does is get an almond-milk latté from the café — for free, of course, as one of the perks of being a Google employee. She said her barista, Juan, knows her order by heart.



Rincon settles in at her desk and catches up on emails before heading to her first meeting of the day.



Rincon said she has 10 to 12 meetings in a typical day, some of them over the phone on her drive to or from work. In this meeting, Rincon and part of her team are reviewing their product goals for the quarter.



Dani Michel is Rincon's administrative business partner. "She is a big part of my support system because she manages schedules, responds to requests, and helps people on the team get what they need so they can keep moving forward," Rincon said.



Rincon doesn't always have time for lunch, but she prefers to have lunch meetings when she can. "It gives me a chance to connect with colleagues and catch up on what they're working on with other teams," she said.



But Rincon doesn't have to take the stairs down to lunch. "We can opt to take a slide down instead," she said.



About once per quarter, Rincon goes to events like the Latina in Tech summit she attended in San Francisco in November, where she talked about growing up in Venezuela, Canada, Indonesia, and the US and how it shaped the way she thinks about building products and teams.



"I really do love my job," Rincon said. "I've been working on the Google Assistant since kind of the first year that it started, and so it's been really awesome to get to figure out the strategy of what are the features that we work on, and kind of see the product evolve."



Rincon typically leaves work before 5:30 p.m. and gets home between 5:45 and 6:30, about the same time as her husband. Their mother's helper picks up the kids from school and helps make dinner. The family has a "no screens" rule while Rincon and her husband spend time with the kids.



Rincon said she likes to cook with the help of her smart display, one of the features her team built this year.



After she and her husband read stories to the kids and put them in bed at about 8 p.m., Rincon usually catches up on emails. "This is not a good habit, but it's one that both my husband and I have," she said.



Sometimes answering emails is accompanied by a glass of wine, Rincon said. "So we're usually online for an hour or two, and then we're in bed between 10:30 and 11:30," she said. "And then it begins again."



27 thoughtful tech gifts that she'll love to get on Valentine's Day

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PopSocket

  • It was long widely believed that women wouldn't accept a piece of tech unless it were simple, lightly colored, or shiny. Today, the consumer tech industry is finally catching up with reality.
  • These days, there's plenty of tech that is specifically made for women that isn't blatantly pandering or clearly misguided.
  • From headphones and wearables to fun accessories, we've found plenty of tech gifts that the women in your life are sure to enjoy. 
  • Shopping for more gifts? Read all of our gift guides on Insider Picks.

Rather than phoning it in with a rhinestone fitness watch or a pair of pastel headphones for her, why not buy the lovely lady in your life the tech gifts she truly wants?

As a woman in the tech media industry, I've seen and tested hundreds of gadgets that are made for women to separate the awesome tech products from the awful.

Whether the lady in your life wants a pair of fantastic headphones that are stylish and sound great, hopes to track her fitness in style, or would love stylish accessories for her phone that aren't simply pink, we've found several ideas for top tech gifts for women in your life.

Top 5 tech gifts for women:

  1. A beautiful piece of smart jewelry that tracks fitness
  2. A pair of wireless over-ear headphones that look great
  3. A Kindle Paperwhite ebook reader
  4. A cleaning kit for her phone
  5. A pretty wireless charger for her phone

SEE ALSO: 51 unique holiday gifts your mom actually wants to get this year — for every budget

A phone grip and stand

PopSocket Grip, available at PopSocket, from $10.00

PopSocket grips make it super easy to hold even the largest of phones no matter how small a woman's hands may be. The grips stick onto almost any phone case, pop out twice to give excellent grip, and double as a stand when she wants to watch videos. PopSockets come in a multitude of colors, patterns, and styles, so you'll be sure to find one she'll love. I have PopSocket grips on all the different phone cases I use because I can't imagine using my phone without one.



A smart display

Google Home Hub, available at Walmart, $99.00

The Google Home Hub puts all the smarts of the Google Assistant into a smart home hub with screen. That way, she can see visual answers to her questions, the weather forecast, news reports, YouTube videos, and more right on the screen as the Assistant reads back the information. It also has a speaker, so she can play her favorite music. Plus, the Home Hub can control smart home devices.



A piece of smart jewelry

Bellabeat Leaf Urban and Leaf Chakra, available at Amazon, from $119

Bellabeat has been making gorgeous pieces of smart jewelry for years now, and the Leaf Urban and new Leaf Chakra make excellent gifts. Not only does Bellabeat's smart jewelry look fabulous as a necklace, bracelet, or brooch, it also packs a lot of smart features. The Leaf Urban and Chakra can track activity, mindfulness breathing exercises, and sleep patterns. It also doubles as a silent alarm so she'll awaken peacefully each morning. The company also has a new Leaf Crystal tracker that has a Swarovski crystal on it for $199.00.



A smart herb garden

AeroGarden Harvest, available on Amazon, $149.95

Who doesn't love fresh herbs? AeroGarden's Harvest herb garden isn't super high-tech, but it is techy in that it uses hydroponics to grow delicious herbs and other produce quickly without much effort on her part. All she has to do to get her herbs growing is pop the seed pods in the planter, give it water regularly, and add the included plant food now and then. The planter does the rest, providing light on a schedule, moving the water, and alerting her when it needs more. In our tests, we had great success with this garden, and we're sure she will, too.



A pair of stylish headphones

V-MODA Crossfade 2 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones, available at Amazon, $239.95

V-MODA makes some of my favorite headphones. The Crossfade 2 are wireless, so she doesn't have to deal with wires or worry whether her phone has a headphone jack or not. These are definitely statement headphones, but they are classy looking and the rose gold accents look gorgeous. Most importantly, these headphones sound great.



A Tile Bluetooth tracker for everything

Tile Mate and Tile Slim Bundle (two each, 2018 versions), available at Tile, $59.99

Women have lots of things to keep track of in their lives, and it can be easy to, well, lose track. That's where Tile Bluetooth trackers come in. She can throw one of these on her keys or in her wallet so that she never has to go scrambling for one of those things when it's time for work or an appointment.



A cool, artistic smart light

LIFX Wi-Fi LED Beam Kit, available at Best Buy, $149.99

If her design aesthetic is modern and a bit funky, she might just love Lifx's cool smart light beam kit. The Kit comes with six light beams that she can arrange on a wall in cool patterns to create accent lighting in her home. In the app, she can choose which colors she wants the beams to display and turn her space into an art exhibit. We tried the Beam Kit and we loved it.



The best portable game console around

Nintendo Switch Lite, available at Amazon, $199.95

It's widely known by this point that women make up half — if not more — of the overall population of gamers, so chances are your favorite lady is just as excited for the next Super Mario as the boys are. Nintendo's latest console is easy to take on the go and already features hundreds of excellent games.



An attractive hybrid smartwatch

Fossil Carlie with Interchangeable Bezels, available at Fossil, $99

If the women in your life don't like smartwatches, but they still want to feel connected to their phones, a smart hybrid watch is a great gift to give. The Fossil Carlie hides high-tech features inside a classic, attractive, simple, analog watch body.

You'd never know that this watch is so smart by looking at it, but it can buzz with notifications, adjust to different time zones, track fitness, and wake her up peacefully with a silent alarm. This gift set also comes with interchangeable bezels, so she can decide which one suits her outfit best each day.



A gorgeous Bluetooth speaker

Marshall Stanmore II Wireless Multi-Room Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Speaker, available on Marshall, $349.99

Although Marshall's aesthetic has traditionally skewed masculine, its newest Bluetooth speakers have subtle touches that look feminine and rock-n-roll at the same time. The Stanmore Bluetooth Speaker comes in three different colors: black, brown, and off-white with subtle gold or rose gold accents.



A fitness tracker that's also a smartwatch

Fitbit Versa 2, available at Best Buy, $149.95

The Fitbit Versa 2 is the best-looking fitness tracker Fitbit has made to date. It looks a bit like a more angular Apple Watch and you can choose from a lot of different brands to personalize it to match your leading lady's style. The Versa 2 has a few smartwatch features and apps, but it's best at fitness tracking and keeping tabs on workouts.



An instant camera

Fujifilm Instax Square SQ20 Camera, available on B&H, $159.95

Instant cameras make cute, fun gifts for shutterbugs, and the new Fujifilm Instax Square SQ20 is the latest and greatest one you can buy. Thanks to a nifty screen on the back, she can preview any photos she takes with it before she prints them — that way she won't waste film on blurry shots. The camera also has 16 different filters, so she can get artistic with her photos.



A pretty phone case

Case-Mate Phone Cases for iPhone and Samsung, available at Amazon, from $10.00

Case-Mate has a huge range of cases for iPhones and Samsung phones, so you're sure to find one that matches her style. Whether she wants a classic slim leather case, a clear case, or one that's bedazzled, full of glitter, or covered in real pressed flowers, Case-Mate has an option.



The most popular e-reader

Kindle Paperwhite, available at Amazon, $84.99

Amazon's new Kindle Paperwhite is finally waterproof, so she can take it into the bubble bath with her and read until the water cools and the bubbles disappear. The text appears crisp and sharp, thanks to the great backlight and high-quality E-INK screen. Amazon has an unrivaled selection of ebooks available for download and she can get free ebooks or borrow library books on the Kindle.



A good-looking smartwatch

Apple Watch Series 5, available at Best Buy, from $384

The Apple Watch Series 5 is — hands down — the best smartwatch for women. It comes in several great finishes including a classic rose gold one and she can choose from many different watch band options to suit her style. The 40mm casing is also perfect for women's smaller wrists. Beyond beauty, the Apple Watch has serious brains, too. It can track fitness, monitor her heart rate and health, and buzz with important notifications.



A light therapy alarm clock

Philips Wake-Up Light Alarm Clock, available from Philips, $119.95

Waking up to a blaring alarm is hardly ideal, so the Philips Wake-Up Light alarm clock makes a great gift. It uses a colored sunrise simulation to gradually wake you up 20 to 40 minutes before your alarm is set to go off. She can choose between five different nature sounds for the actual alarm, too, so she won't have to deal with a blaring alarm if the light doesn't work its magic. She can use it as a bedside reading lamp, too.



A smart luggage tag

Tile Slim with Luggage Tag, available at Target, $34.99

Lost luggage is an all too common experience but, with the Tile Slim with Luggage Tag, she'll always know where her bag is. This luggage tag has a Tile Bluetooth tracker inside that connects to an app on her phone to show her where her bag is in real time so long as it's within range of her phone or other Tile members.



A cleaning kit for her phone

WHOOSH! Cleaning Kit, available at Amazon, $15.99

Our smartphones get dirty and nobody likes a grimey phone. Luckily, WHOOSH! is here to save the day with its cleaning kit, which disinfects electronics safely. It comes with a cleaning spray and cleaning cloth. 

 



A pair of stylish glasses that block blue light from electronics

Felix Gray Glasses, available at Felix Gray, $95

Blue light from electronics can lead to eye strain and make it hard to fall asleep at night, so why not get her a pair of blue-light-blocking glasses? Felix Gray makes both prescription and non-prescription glasses that look great and work well to block out those harmful blue rays.

 



A beautiful wireless charger

Native Union Drop Wireless Charger, available at Amazon, from $59.99

Most wireless chargers are boring black or white pucks that are functional but not very pretty. Native Union's Drop charger is the opposite. It comes in a soft rose or dark graphite color that looks gorgeous. The top has grippy silicone on it in a cool pattern so her phone won't slide off it while charging.



A camera lens kit for her phone

Olloclip Lens Kit, available at Olloclip, from $79.99

If she loves taking photos and wishes her phone's camera could do more tricks, pick up an Olloclip lens kit with a fish-eye, wide-angle, and macro lens inside. These lenses work well and are easy to use. The company even has a universal mount in the works.



A pair of touchscreen gloves that are actually warm

UGG Touchscreen Compatible Gloves, available at Amazon, from $155

Touchscreen gloves aren't always attractive, but Ugg makes some very nice ones with genuine leather and shearling for warmth and style. These gloves will make it easy for her to use her phone no matter how cold it gets outside.



A pair of great wireless earbuds

Beats X Wireless Earphones, available at Amazon, $99.95

If she's not into big headphones, the Beats X Wireless Earphones are a great buy. They're comfortable, stylish, and easy to use. The headphones sound great and pair effortlessly with iPhones, thanks to the W1 chip. They'll also work well with an Android phone, of course, because Bluetooth is universal.



A mega-popular smart speaker

Amazon Echo, available at Amazon, $89.99

If she doesn't have a smart speaker yet, the Amazon Echo will be a game-changer. This speaker has Alexa inside so she can ask the speaker to play music, answer questions, order products, play games, and so much more. If she has some smart home gadgets, Alexa can control many of those, too.



A pair of truly wireless earbuds

Apple AirPods, available at Amazon, $129

When it comes to convenience, truly wireless earbuds are the best. Apple's AirPods are very popular with iPhone and Android users alike. They look fair subtle compared to many other bigger earbuds, and they're incredibly easy to use.



A great pair of over-ear headphones

Bang & Olufsen H4 Headphones, available at Amazon, $249

Bang & Olufsen makes some of the most beautiful over-ear headphones you can buy. The new H4 headphones are made from high-quality leather and anodized aluminum. Depending on what color palette your giftee likes, you may want to get her the black ones or the "limestone" ones.



A smart mug that keeps drinks hot

Ember Mug, available at Best Buy, $129.99

With the app-controlled Ember Mug, her favorite hot drink will never get cold again. In the app, she can choose the exact temperature she likes her beverage to be at for drinking, and the mug will keep it at that temperature for up to 80 minutes per charge. The mug itself is made of stainless steel that's been coated in ceramic.



Looking for more gift ideas? We've got you covered.



There's a house designed to look like a giant wooden tent in the middle of a Japanese village — here's a look inside

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STK20190805_763BL

In an agricultural village in Nagaoka, a city in Japan's Niigata Prefecture, sits a tent-shaped house called Hara House.

Takeru Shoji Architects, an architecture design studio based in Japan, built the house at the request of a family who wanted to add a building that would compliment and revitalize the structures that already exist on their estate. Those other structures include things like the main family house, a work shed, a parking area, and a greenhouse

"Instead of designing a conventional fully self reliant building, we aspired to create a buoyant and bustling hub," Takeru Shoji Architects wrote of the project on its website. "We designed a space where passing neighbors, friends, and children can easily stop by to chit-chat under the entrance porch, or workshop meetings and events hosted in the space can spill out to the land."

The two-story house looks like a tent and boasts triangular openings on both the east and west sides. Takeru Shoji Architects' vision, as explained on the firm's website, was to create one large, cohesive space by limiting the amount of storage spaces, walls, and private rooms inside the home. 

Here's a look inside.

SEE ALSO: A 'cave house' blasted into the side of a mountain in Arizona is on the market for just under $1 million. Here's a look inside.

DON'T MISS: 2 empty-nesters bought an abandoned farm in Pennsylvania for $220,000, and they've spent nearly 2 years and $150,000 renovating it. Here's what it looks like now.

In an agricultural village in Nagaoka, Niigata Prefecture, sits a tent-shaped house called Hara House.

Source: Takeru Shoji Architects



Nagaoka is a city in Japan that's home to around 280,000 people. It's located off the coast of the Sea of Japan.

Source: Nagaoka-tourism.navi, Google Maps



Takeru Shoji Architects, a design studio based in Japan, designed Hara House at the request of a family who wanted a building that would compliment and revitalize the structures that already exist on their estate.

Source: Takeru Shoji Architects



It was completed in February 2019.

Source: Takeru Shoji Architects



The two-story house looks like a tent with triangular openings on both the east and west sides.

Source: Takeru Shoji Architects, Dezeen



On the main level of the home there's a living room, a kitchen, a bedroom, and a bathroom.

Source: Dezeen



A set of ladders lead up to the second level where there's a children's room and a study.

Source: Dezeen



There's also an extension on the north end of the house that serves as a garage area.

Source: Dezeen



The architectural vision was to create one large space by limiting the amount of storage spaces, walls, and private rooms inside the home.



The building was not intended to be fully self-sufficient. In fact, according to Takeru Shoji Architects' website, it was built as an "incomplete extension of the main house."

Source: Takeru Shoji Architects



"The aim was to create a way of life that is never complete within just this one structure, it is a piece of the greater architecture; a house that is part of a group of buildings," the website reads.

Source: Takeru Shoji Architects



Actually, it would be pretty easy for Meghan Markle and Prince Harry to build a billion-dollar brand

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Meghan Markle Prince Harry

The Queen issued a rare personal statement on Monday addressing the news that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle would be taking a step back from royal life: "My family and I are entirely supportive of Harry and Meghan's desire to create a new life as a young family. Although we would have preferred them to remain full-time working Members of the Royal Family, we respect and understand their wish to live a more independent life as a family while remaining a valued part of my family."

Part of that "more independent life" would involve funding their own lavish lifestyle rather than depending on the money from a sovereign grant. "Harry and Meghan have made clear that they do not want to be reliant on public funds in their new lives," the Queen continued.

But ultimately, it would probably be relatively easy for the couple to support themselves. They could maybe even build a billion-dollar brand in the process.

David Haigh, the CEO of Brand Finance, an independent brand evaluation consultancy firm in London, told WWD's Rosemary Feitelberg on January 12 that he would be surprised if Harry and Meghan couldn't leverage their celebrity into a billion-dollar brand. He even cited Kylie Jenner's billion-dollar cosmetics company as a replicable phenom for the royal couple.

From book deals and speaking engagement opportunities to branded merch, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are poised to build an empire

Royal commentator and author Kristen Meinzer told Business Insider's Taylor Nicole Rogers that the royal couple has "great earning potential" when it comes to book deals and speaking engagements. She compared their popularity to that of Barack and Michelle Obama and noted that the value of their book offers will likely be in the neighborhood of the Obamas' $60 million advance for their 2017 memoirs.

WWD's Feitelberg also reported that 100 trademarks were secured last year covering a wide range of Sussex Royal branded apparel and other merchandise, but those applications only covered use of the trademarks within the UK. Haigh posited that those trademarks were originally "defensive," i.e., filed so that others couldn't profit off their name. The Guardian just reported that a global trademark application was submitted to the World Intellectual Property Organization in December, seeking to register the Sussex Royal brand in Australia, Canada, the EU, and the US. The international filings mention a total range of items and services, from stationery paper to the "organizing and conducting of emotional support groups," according to The Guardian.

"It's noticeable that every time [Meghan] dotes a particular clothing brand or wears anything, they instantly crash the websites and sell out," Haigh told WWD, insinuating that any Sussex branded goods will surely sell well, but also that any future fashion collaborations would too.

Other opportunities could include leveraging their celebrity status on Instagram

Notoriety sells. Haigh noted that the pair's 2018 wedding brought a billion-pound boost to the British economy and brought in an additional three million tourists to the UK.

Marketing platform inzpire.me, which connects brands like Coca-Cola and UNICEF with potential influencer partners, told Business Insider that Harry and Meghan can expect to earn as much as $105,000 per singular sponsored Instagram post, should they choose to monetize their social media presence. The estimate is based on the current engagement rate of the pair's @sussexroyal Instagram account— which saw 190,000 new followers in the 24 hours following their statement last week, more new followers than the account gains in a typical month.

For comparison, Kylie Jenner, who Haigh highlighted as a particular social media success story, has an estimated maximum post fee of $1.5 million, according to inzpire.me. Meanwhile, the Obamas, who Meinzer directly compared the royal couple to, are projected to have a maximum post fee of $230,000.

Inzpire.me's cofounder Marie Mostad suggested that Instagram influencing may not be far off for Meghan and Harry, noting their initial Instagram announcement in and of itself was "a big departure" from the way royal news is typically announced. "This may be the first of many modernizations we see in the royal family," she noted.

But, as Rogers previously reported for Business Insider, other royal experts don't expect the couple to hit peak millennial and fully commit to an Instagram side hustle. It's just one of the potentially lucrative options to grow their brand.

Though it's also unlikely that Markle will return to acting as a full-time gig, reports have already surfaced that she signed a voice-over deal with Disney. While neither the royals or Disney have confirmed the news, The Times of London reported that payment for the deal will take the form of a direct donation to Elephants Without Borders, emphasizing the couple's commitment to using their celebrity for philanthropy. 

Charity will surely take take center stage in the global brand the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are poised to build — their initial statement included a callout to the future launch of their "new charitable entity," and their philanthropic causes have been a focal point of their work as "senior royals" in the past.

SEE ALSO: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle want to become 'financially independent,' but they're already worth about $30 million — and none of that money belongs to the crown

DON'T MISS: Here's how much money Meghan Markle and Prince Harry could need to maintain their lavish lifestyle if they plan on becoming 'financially independent'

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NOW WATCH: Traditional Japanese swords can take over 18 months to create — here's what makes them so special

Sustainability sells: Why consumers and clothing brands alike are turning to sustainability as a guiding light

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  • Sustainability is becoming a big trend in the packaged goods and fashion industry as environmental concerns are increasingly top of mind for consumers.  
  • The U.S. sustainability market is projected to reach $150 billion in sales by 2021, according to Nielsen
  • We used clothing brand Reformation as a case study of sorts and spoke with experts in consumer behavior and the fashion industry to better understand the sustainability movement, why consumers love it, and how more brands can do their part. 

A good product is no longer enough to win a consumer's favor. Shoppers want more than just quality, often looking for products and brands that align with their personal values

It seems obvious. Why support a brand financially if we don't agree with their social and environmental values? In the face of climate change, those of us who care enough are ready to consider the consequences of our shopping habits.

The fashion industry is one of the biggest culprits when it comes to pollution. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, 26 billion pounds of textiles end up in landfills each year. Realistically, most of us won't quit shopping cold-turkey. We may not even give up all fast-fashion. But, many people are willing to change their habits for the better. 

Dr. Matt Johnson, professor at Hult International Business School and founder of neuromarketing blog Pop Neuro, says, "There is accumulating evidence that consumers are impacted by the perceived sustainability of [a] brand, and further, that consumers are willing to pay a premium for products from a sustainable brand over a non-sustainable competitor brand." 

Value and ease of purchase are still the main drivers of purchase decisions, but sustainability is becoming a bigger factor. A 2019 survey led by Hotwire found that 47% of internet users worldwide had ditched products and services from a brand that violated their personal values. Protecting the environment topped that list. 

climate change reformation

Traditionally, you'd find labels like "organic" and "sustainably-grown" in the grocery aisle, but the same verbiage is becoming popular in the fashion industry, too.

Sustainable fashion doesn't seem like a natural pairing — fashion's trend-driven ways press us to buy new pieces every season, while sustainability asks us to pare down — but more and more brands are bettering their business with eco-friendly practices. Reformation is one of the brands leading the charge.

Yael Aflalo, Reformation's founder and CEO, was in the fashion industry for years and "really started to dislike a lot of the harmful industry practices — overprinting lookbooks and tossing 80% of them, yards of leftover fabric getting thrown out," she says. "On a trip to China, I saw first-hand the devastating amount of pollution there from manufacturing, and I knew that I had to make a change and stop contributing to the fashion industry's waste."

The brand's flowy dresses, dressy tops, cozy sweaters, jeans, and more, are beloved by the "it-girl" set. But, they're also made sustainably — everything from the fabrics used to the manufacturing processes to the hangers used in-store are chosen with keeping a minimal carbon footprint in mind.

Reformation is proof that you can be sustainable without sacrificing style. "Without sacrifice" is the key. Aflalo wants shoppers to see how easy it is to live a more sustainable lifestyle. "The success of our sustainability initiatives is determined by how effortless they are to adopt," she says. "We start with small digestible solutions that people can incorporate into their daily lives to make an impact and highlight how those changes can affect the big picture." Buying clothing that you were going to buy anyway, but choosing the item that was made ethically and with less waste is sustainability made easy. There's no significant behavior change, but a simple choice that can ultimately make a big difference. 

Even if being sustainable isn't a personal priority, the idea of using a purchase to do good is attractive to many shoppers.

Purchasing expensive products that are environmentally-friendly in some way can help us compensate for the guilt we feel about our self-indulgent spending, Dr. Johnson explains. "A part of us feels guilty about the money we're spending on a new Prius, for example, but the fact that it's a product which has an environmentally friendly angle helps us feel better about the purchase."

everlane factory

For many shoppers, though, choosing a sustainable product is a personal priority, and they want people to know it. It's called Social Signaling, a theory that we buy certain things because of what they say about us to the people around us. People buy designer bags not only because they like the style, but because of the message they tell the world when they're holding one and the social status the product imbues.

The same goes for the environment. Dr. Johnson shares the example of a new Prius. "We may buy a Prius (at least in part) because it is a purchase reliably associated with environmental consciousness, and we want to signal that we're environmentally conscious," he says. And, it turns out that these social motivations are more important than practical features like gas mileage. In a 2007 survey, Prius owners proudly reported that the primary reasons for purchasing the car are because it "makes a statement about me" and that "it shows the world that its owner cares."

While we may be willing to pay more for something that is environmentally friendly, the ultimate goal should be for sustainability to be accessible.

Aflalo wants to break down the notion that sustainability is inherently more expensive. By definition, she says, it isn't — instead, it is "related to less waste and material use, which can actually lead to savings ... But there are some aspects of responsible manufacturing and better materials that may lead to marginally higher costs. So as we scale our business, we are committed to making our stuff even more accessible and passing on efficiencies and savings to our customers wherever possible."

A $28 Reformation tee may seem pricey when compared to a fast-fashion option, but the sustainable fashion movement asks us to consider environmental cost, not just the cost to our own wallet. 

There are plenty of brands capitalizing on the movement. Everlane has become a popular choice with its self-proclaimed "radical transparency" in everything from pricing to using innovative materials, like recycled water bottles. Naadam is redefining luxury with its affordable, sustainable cashmere that's better for the environment and its workers. 

It's not just startups that are getting in on the positive trend. Big-box retailers are adding more sustainable products to their aisles and committing to cleaning up their practices. The "Clean at Sephora" section of the beauty giant brings eco-friendly, clean beauty products to the masses. Target has a goal to use 100% sustainable, organic cotton in all products from Target-owned brands by 2022. Nordstrom recently launched a Sustainable Style category to help shoppers easily find responsibly-made products.

These efforts surely attract a more sustainably-minded demographic, and it's something worth showing off. Dr. Johnson thinks sustainable brands can certainly use marketing and branding to their advantage. Even though they are typically for-profit companies, he says, with a genuine sustainability foundation, non-profits are more likely to partner with these brands. In turn, this likely adds credibility to sustainability claims. 

reformation climate change

For Reformation, sustainability plays a significant role in branding.

"Being naked is the #1 most sustainable option. We're #2."

The brand's kitschy slogan is an homage to their sustainable practices, but that's just the start of it. "In recent years," Aflalo says, "we've taken a more formalized approach to transparency through initiatives like RefScale, factory tours, and sustainability reports, educating consumers about the environmental impact of fashion." On the brand's website, you can find plenty of information about its sustainable practices, including a quarterly Sustainability Report that delves deep into the brand's overall environmental footprint. 

As someone who has started a fashion brand of their own, Aflalo understands it's not always easy to completely switch up production in favor of more sustainable approaches, which is why she suggests starting small. "To start," she says, "[brands] can focus on sustainable materials — so they can source an organic or better material, and just plug that into their same business model ... This one is a bit harder, but look into operations and business impact to offer better transparency around manufacturing processes (which is often the dirtiest part of the industry) and hold your business accountable to start making changes. The big and small changes will add up," she says. "If we want to have transformational change, we all need to participate."

The same goes for us, the shoppers. We may not all be ready to be minimalists and pare our wardrobes down. We may not be able to give up eating meat, driving to work, or wearing cashmere, but we can tweak these habits to make them better for the planet. Carpooling, meatless Mondays, or shopping with an eye for sustainable materials are small changes we can make for the better.

Shop sustainable fashion at Reformation

Check out Dr. Johnson's blog about consumer psychology

Read more about some of our favorite sustainable brands:

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The 9 best 'Shark Tank' products that didn't land deals but are still doing incredibly well

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  • We love watching "Shark Tank" because it gives us a preview of the startups and products that have the most potential to make it big.
  • As these 9 products underscore, the show's contestants don't necessarily need to secure a deal from the investors in order to go on to succeed. 
  • Notable examples of "Shark Tank" rejects that became very successful include home security company DoorBot (now known as Ring) and protein breakfast brand Kodiak Cakes

Throughout its 11 seasons, the show "Shark Tank" has averaged two to nine million viewers. It's the biggest public platform that an entrepreneur could hope for, and a 10-minute pitch on the show can translate to huge sales.

Household names like the Scrub Daddy and Tipsy Elves all got their start after successfully striking deals on the show, but even companies that walked away without securing an investment have done as well as — if not better than —companies that did. 

The founders of these companies took their "Shark Tank" rejections in stride, using them as learning lessons to make millions in sales. Money from the judges would've been nice, but it turns out the national exposure can be just as valuable. 

Check out the 9 companies that you'll be surprised didn't get deals on "Shark Tank" 

The Bouqs Co.

Shop flower bouquets at The Bouqs Co.

Online flower delivery service The Bouqs Co. left the Tank in 2014 without an investment, but Robert Herjavec kept them in mind three years later when he was planning the flowers for his wedding. Herjavec eventually ended up investing after getting a firsthand glimpse into the process behind creating the beautiful arrangements. Co-founder and CEO John Tabis said that there were several days in 2017 when the company sold $1 million in flowers in a day. It's now valued at $43.1 million. 

 



Ring

Ring Wi-Fi Enabled Video Doorbell in Satin Nickel, $99.99, available at Amazon

This smart video doorbell gives homeowners peace of mind about who's at their door, whether they're at home or not. When Ring founder Jamie Siminoff appeared on the show, he valued his company, then called DoorBot, at $7 million.

Since then, it's counted prominent investors like Kleiner Perkins Caufield Byers, Qualcomm Ventures, Goldman Sachs, and Richard Branson among its supporters. Most recently, Amazon bought Ring in a deal worth over $1 billion, a testament to its versatile capabilities beyond home security.

 



Kodiak Cakes

Kodiak Cakes Power Cakes Pancake, Flapjack and Waffle Mix (3-Pack), $16.50, available at Amazon

Kodiak Cakes Power Cakes Unleashed Flapjack On the Go Baking Mix (12-Count), $24.38, available at Amazon

The co-founder and COO of Kodiak Cakes, a natural food brand that makes whole grain, protein-rich breakfast options, went on the show seeking a $500,000 investment for 10% of the business. Though the Sharks all liked the taste and nutritional benefits of these pancake mixes, none of them agreed with the valuation. 

Now, it's the fastest-growing pancake mix brand in the US, growing 80% year-on-year and approaching $100 million in revenue. 

 

 



Nerdwax

Nerdwax, $10.99, available at Amazon

Glasses that are always sliding off your nose are an annoying distraction, but according to the "Shark Tank" judges, not annoying enough to justify the cost of $10 per tube of Nerdwax. The natural, non-irritating wax can be applied directly to the nosepads of your glasses to help them stay up and now has thousands of mostly favorable reviews on Amazon. 

Before appearing on the show, the founders say their sales were $136,000, but glasses-wearers across the country who watched the show loved the concept and helped bring sales to $1 million. 

 



The Lip Bar

Shop The Lip Bar lipsticks at Target

Former Wall Street executive Melissa Butler sought to create an affordable, vegan-friendly, and cruelty-free makeup brand that showcased more diverse imagery than the rest of the current beauty industry. In an interview with Rolling Out, she said she saw the harsh "Shark Tank" rejection more as a "spring forward" because it made her realize that she needed to focus more on an audience that understood the problem she was solving.

Actress Taraji P. Henson wore The Lip Bar lipstick to the 2018 Oscars ceremony, and the products are now available in 44 Target stores nationwide.

 



Xero Shoes

Shop Xero Shoes on Amazon

After constantly getting injured while running, cofounder Steven Sashen switched to barefoot running and loved the effects, so he created a thin running sandal. He and his wife Lena Phoenix ultimately turned down the $400,000 for 50% equity offer from Kevin O'Leary for Xero Shoes.

Though they didn't find a celebrity investor, they did find plenty of other supporters among the public and have raised $1 million through crowdfunding. 

 



MealEnders

MealEnders Signaling Lozenges (25-count Pouch), $30.99, available at Amazon

The idea of MealEnders, a two-layered candy lozenge meant to prevent overeating, intrigued the judges, but some did not like the taste. Others doubted its expensive marketing strategy. However, it still caught the attention of plenty of viewers who wanted a little help with their willpower. 

When the episode aired in early 2017, the company had sales of a modest $1.2 million. One short year later, sales were at $5 million. 

 



Eco Nuts

Eco Nuts Organic Laundry Detergent, $10.99, available at Bed Bath & Beyond

Eco Nuts are dried berries that act as a natural laundry detergent, making them a great option for people sensitive to traditional detergents. Though the judges didn't like the pitch, the company has since grown to $1 million in annual sales. Beyond the original soap nuts, Eco Nuts now also sells other natural home cleaning products like surface sprays and floor cleaners. 

 



Copa Di Vino

Shop wine at Copa Di Vino

Copa Di Vino founder James Martin walked away from Sharks' offers not just once, but twice, and he's now notoriously known as one of the most disliked entrepreneurs on the show. Despite his arrogant attitude, you have to admit that his patented, single-serving wine containers are a fun idea. The appearances on the show led sales to skyrocket from $500,000 to more than $14 million. 

 



These interactive toys aren't just dog's play — they sharpen your dog's problem-solving skills while rewarding them with treats

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Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Composite

  • Outward Hound's Nina Ottosson Interactive Dog Toys challenge dogs with complex problems that are fun to solve. Dogs are rewarded with treats hidden inside the puzzles.
  • The popular dog puzzle toys tap into a dog's natural instincts to forage, scavenge, and problem-solve.
  • Outward Hound offers 10 interactive toy models in three levels of difficulty, ranging in price from $10 to $25.

A decade ago, when I was a dog lover working to become a professional dog trainer, a friend gifted me the Nina Ottosson Dog Casino toy. "My dog can't figure it out," she told me. "Maybe you can use it."

Inside the box was a blue plastic tray with drawers tucked into its sides. White bone shapes anchored to the top of the tray had to be moved in order for its corresponding drawer to open, revealing treats hidden inside.

I experimented on little Roo first. He sidled up to the toy, sniffing for the treats hidden in its drawers. I left the dog bones loose to start, making the game a little less complex until he got the hang of it. Half-an-hour later, Roo was moving bones and opening drawers like a champ.

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If Roo could work through the Dog Casino in under an hour, what could Bentley, the smartest dog I knew, do? Watching the Australian Cattle Dog figure out how to approach and solve the problem at hand was 10 minutes of pure joy.

Not everyone excelled at the game, which Outward Hound scores a level 3 out of 3. Scully ran around the tray pawing and whining. Within two minutes she had given up. Charlie sniffed it twice, then returned to the couch. But I was hooked. Enrichment had taken on a whole new dimension.

Why many (but not all) dogs love Outward Hound's Nina Ottosson Interactive Dog Toys 

These dog puzzle toys are used for enrichment. The term refers to the activities and objects that provide mental stimulation and encourage a captive or domesticated animal to tap into the natural behaviors they (or their ancestors) would practice in the wild. For dogs, toys that promote scavenging, foraging, and problem-solving, as well as novel sights, scents, and experiences are considered enrichment.

Sold in three different skill levels — Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 — each Nina Ottosson puzzle requires a dog to problem-solve in order to earn a food reward. The Dog Tornado, for example, has four layers of bone-shaped trays that can be stocked with treats. To release it, the dog must rotate each layer.

Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Interactive Dog Toys Dog Tornado

Nina Ottosson Interactive Dog Toys are made of high-quality plastic or composite wood-plastic. Even though my Dog Casino regularly earned the scars left by hard-thinking doggy teeth and paws, it never succumbed to a serious injury. The toys are sturdily made. Fill their drawers and nooks with soft food or peanut butter, and they can even be frozen.

Drawbacks to Outward Hound's dog puzzle toys

I recently traded another trainer my much-loved Dog Casino for the Dog Twister, another Level 3 Nina Ottosson toy where the dog must move blocks around a round tray to locate the treats. For extra complexity, the blocks can be locked with pegs that the dog has to paw open before moving a block.

I introduced the Dog Twister to Ripley soon after. Not the most confident dog on the block, Ripley was uncertain. She considered the toy, sniffed it, retrieved a treat I uncovered for her and then sat staring at the humans like we'd set the whole thing up as an elaborate trick. Maybe she'll get the hang of it in time...

Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Twister

That's the way it goes with the Outward Hound's Nina Ottosson toys. Some dogs excel, others — usually less confident dogs or dogs whose intelligence may not be geared toward complex problem-solving — become confused and quickly give up. If the puzzles aren't a great fit for your dog, there are other options for play and stimulation including the Kong Classic or chew toys.

For those dogs that figure out Level 2 and Level 3 puzzle toys in short order, there's a different problem. Once they know how to solve the puzzle, they do it quickly and unceremoniously. The less of a challenge it presents, the less enriching it becomes over time. If only there were a puzzle toy library for exchanging Nina Ottosson Interactive Toys so boredom would never be an issue.

My only other issue with the toys is in the cleaning department. Though the material is easy to clean, with their rotating pieces and drawers, the puzzles are a challenge to scour properly and, once washed, never seem to completely dry out.

The bottom line

I love Outward Hound's Nina Ottosson Interactive Dog Toys for the enrichment they provide, but they are not for every dog. Those with drive and confidence will love these puzzles — at least until they've conquered them over and over. Those who are timid or unmotivated probably won't quite know what to do. For a smarty-pants dog, these toys are a win, but it's worth making an investment in several models  (from $10 to $25 per toy) and rotating them to keep the puzzles novel for as long as possible.

Pros: Provides a high level of enrichment and mental stimulation, sturdy and made of high-quality materials, 10 models with different levels of difficulty

Cons: Timid or less motivated dogs may not be interested, difficult to clean, sharp dogs may become bored with them once the puzzle has been solved several times

 

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I spent a night in one of New York's coolest hotels, The William Vale — here's why the Williamsburg hotel is worth the big splurge

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  • The William Vale in Williamsburg is one of the coolest hotels in New York, known for super chic rooms, a thriving pool scene, and the rooftop bar Westlight and Italian restaurant Leuca — which warrant a visit on their own.
  •  The hotel is not cheap: many standard rooms will run around $400 and are tight on space. More expansive suites offer ultra-luxurious accommodations but can cost well over $800 per night.
  • I spent a night in an upgraded King One-Bedroom Suite with Balcony and think it's worth every penny for the spacious, art-infused room, glam bathroom and amenities, and a stunning balcony.
  • Read all Insider Picks hotel reviews here. 

I'm a fan of the staycation. You can rest and recharge without stepping foot in an airport. And by removing actual travel costs, you might have extra cash to spend.

But as a resident of Williamsburg in Brooklyn, the idea of one at The William Vale felt a bit funny. My own bed would be just a 20-minute walk away. It would have to be a pretty special hotel to feel worth it.

It was.

The William Vale is, quite simply, one of the coolest hotels in New York. It's effortlessly sophisticated and super modern, best evidenced by the fact that locals actually hang out here. I would know; I'm one of them. 

Since the hotel opened in 2016, I've been a regular visitor to Westlight rooftop bar, as well as the on-site Italian restaurant, Leuca. They are both top choices for celebrating special occasions and anniversaries or to impress out-of-town friends and family.

It was only after booking a room however that I realized I was missing out on half the experience. Staying overnight won't come cheap, but it's worth it.

Standard rooms typically cost around $400 per night, though if you're able to stay on a weeknight or book a special package, you might snag a deal as low as $228. Entry-level offerings are quite small for a rather expensive price; if you're able to afford an upgrade (or have credit card points to use), I think the price will feel more worth it. 

While spacious suites start at around $800 per night, they offer the chance to spread out in one of New York's hippest hoods with unrivaled views. I spent the night in a King One-Bedroom Suite with Balcony, comped for review purposes, and wouldn't hesitate to recommend it for anyone looking for a super stylish splurge. It's also why we named William Vale one of the best hotels in New York City for 2020.

Indeed that's who stays here: a well-heeled set in search of sophisticated accommodations, with the budget to pay for it. They want VIP access to the hotel's on-site hotspots, but without the typical snobbery that sometimes accompanies high-end hotels.

And, as any Brooklynite will tell you, staying over the river in Williamsburg is so much better than cramming into Times Square.

Need more hotel recommendations in New York? Read our list of the 20 best hotels in New York City.

Keep reading to see why I was so impressed by The William Vale in Williamsburg.

SEE ALSO: Hotel review: The Knickerbocker in Times Square is the perfect upscale base for first-time visitors to New York — here's why

SEE ALSO: Hotel review: We stayed at the Moxy Chelsea and were impressed by its central location, co-working spaces, and great views

SEE ALSO: Hotel review: We spent a night at the boutique Park Terrace Hotel in Bryant Park and loved the mod room, free breakfast, and upscale amenities

SEE ALSO: Hotel review: We stayed at the Conrad New York Downtown — here's why the all-suite Hilton offering is worth the high price tag



Everything about The William Vale, from the courtyard to the understated lobby, and the towering building itself, is super sleek. The entrance is part of a larger, hip compound comprised of on-site venues including Leuca Restaurant, Du's Donuts, Suit Supply, and an elevated green space dubbed Vale Park. There, you'll find a trendy Airstream Mr. Dips, serving juicy cheeseburgers and ice cream cones.



The lobby itself is surprisingly small for such a strong first impression. There's a simple long desk under a dangling light installation, where check-in was fast, friendly, and easy. I was quickly off to the elevator, key in hand. Adjacent to the elevators I found lobby lounge seating set against striking artwork. There was a small desk for the concierge, too.



But the strongest first impression came moments later, as I stepped out of the elevator to the 20th floor. I was immediately greeted by floor-to-ceiling views of Brooklyn and Queens, which were quite impressive, and a hint of more to come in my room.





I was upgraded to a King One Bedroom Suite with Balcony and while this can be quite costly, typically starting at $800 a night, if you have the budget, you won't be disappointed. The price could also be easily split between a group sharing the suite.

At 550 square feet, it's larger than many New York City apartments. In fact, it felt like the kind of apartment I'd envision myself in if I didn't live here. Heck, I do live here and left wishing I could make it my permanent abode.

There's a spacious living area, separate bedroom, spa-like bathroom, a generously-sized terrace, as well as a mini-fridge, which was really the minibar. Lavazza coffee was complimentary, and the minibar was stocked with snacks so intriguing, I actually found myself contemplating the high price tag for items such as individual craft cocktails.

One thing glaringly missing was a desk. With many business types on-site, I was surprised to see such an omission. There are co-working areas within the hotel, but it felt disappointing to leave my lovely room to do work at a proper desk elsewhere.



The overall design was super stylish, with bright pops of blue and yellow peppered against geometric, Art-Deco inspired furniture and art. The look was contemporary, with an L-shaped chaise sofa, TVs in both rooms, hardwood floors, and floor-to-ceiling windows that opened onto an incredible terrace. The balcony was outfitted with a day bed and two sitting chairs for unobstructed, stunning views of Manhattan and Brooklyn.



I actually felt that the balcony rivaled the views upstairs at Westlight. So much so, that had I stayed longer, I would have foregone a trip to the bar to enjoy cocktails on my own private terrace instead. This was, without question, the highlight of the room.



The bedroom could be fully closed off from the living room, making it a great option for families and multiple guests. Similarly, there were two entrances to the bathroom. One, from the bedroom, and the other from the living room to the toilet, which connected to the bath and shower.



I slept well in the very comfortable King-sized bed, however, I did hear loud noise from neighbors when they returned to their room late at night. It wasn't terrible, but I did stay on a Monday.

Knowing the hotel has much higher occupancy on weekends, with a late-night crowd packing Westlight, I'd imagine noise could be a bigger concern at those times. This could feel like an annoyance when paying such a high premium to stay, especially in smaller rooms.

If noise is a concern, I'd suggest flagging it to the very helpful front desk. A high floor should help too; I heard zero traffic noise — a true rarity in New York!



The bathroom was posh, stocked with my favorite hotel toiletries from Le Labo. The mosaic-like tiled floors, huge step-in rainfall shower, deep soaking tub, and Frette robes cemented what already felt like a trip to the spa.



Overall, my room was impressive, extremely comfortable, and felt like a real respite. Just staying there made the night feel special and memorable. If you can manage it, I'd recommend spending extra and upgrading to a suite, as smaller rooms that are also quite expensive might not feel as worth the high price tag. But if price is a concern, or you don't need so much space, there are several cheaper, yet equally lovely options. 

Standard rooms include King, Queen, or two Double beds. They're about half the size, at approximately 250 square feet, with no living room or soaking tub. However, all rooms boast balconies, so there's no sacrifice when it comes to what is arguably one of the hotel's best features. Though you will have to pay more for views of Manhattan as opposed to Brooklyn or Queens.

Compare room types at The William Vale on Booking.com





If you're staying at The William Vale, it would be a shame to skip the incredible on-site offerings. As a guest, I received priority access to the Westlight rooftop, which offers expensive, but very worthy craft cocktails framed by some of the best views of New York City. The VIP treatment is a huge plus, especially on weekends when the public queue to enter can wrap around the block. Stop in for drinks as the sun dips below the New York City skyline, and nosh on elevated bar fare. The drinks are inventive and unique; this is not the place to stick to your tried-and-true staples. Instead, your best strategy is to simply open the cocktail menu and point anywhere.

Follow with dinner at Leuca, a Southern Italian-inspired restaurant from famed chef Andrew Carmellini serving delicious house-made pastas, as well as wood-fired pizza, seafood, and meat. 

The William Vale also houses the aforementioned donut shop and outdoor venue for burgers and ice cream, plus a gym, and work stations. There's also a seasonal pool, which attracts major crowds. Expect inflated room rates in summer, when demand surges.



Williamsburg has exploded in popularity in recent years, and rightfully so. It's filled with chic stores, incredible food, and artisan finds. It's a mecca for design and vintage furniture with gems such as Dobbin Street Co-op, Porter James, and Copper & Plaid.

If you're visiting on a Saturday, the seasonal Smorgasburg is an incredible outdoor food market. The lines are long and crowds plentiful, but your belly will depart oh-so-happy.

For something sit down, these are some of my neighborhood favorites: Maison Premiere for oysters and absinthe, Samurai Mama for sushi and udon, Extra Fancy for seafood, Sweet Chick for chicken and waffles, Sunday in Brooklyn for brunch, Lilia or Misi for out-of-this-world pasta, Marlow & Sons or Diner for upscale American fare, Shalom Japan for Asian-meets-Jewish comfort food, and Emmy Squared for Detroit-style pizza. Need more? Email me.

Manhattan is only one stop away on the L train, or take the ferry for a fun commute on a nice day.



The William Vale has four-and-a-half out of five stars on Trip Advisor, and is ranked six out of 83 hotels in Brooklyn. It holds an equally revered 8.7 score on Booking.com.

Reviews highly praise the staff, as well as comfortable rooms, fantastic views, and both Westlight and Leuca. Negative feedback cites high prices and the smaller rooms, which can feel cramped.

Read reviews, compare rooms, and book on Trip Advisor



Who stays here: Tourists visiting New York for the second or third time and want to be Brooklyn-based; wedding guests, bachelor parties and those in town for events; business types; and the staycationer, especially in the summer for the pool.

We like: Westlight and Leuca. The priority access feels pretty special when you breeze past a line wrapping around the block.

We love (don't miss this feature!): The one-bedroom suite. I'll be saving up to stay here again.

We think you should know: The crowd here on weekends can be rowdy, and even more so in the summer when the pool becomes a massive draw. As such, expect prices to be higher in warmer months.

We'd do this differently next time: I'd love to visit in summer to access the pool and feel like a real Williamsburg VIP. 



The William Vale is a beautiful hotel with such a fun scene and so many great on-site venues, you could easily spend your whole stay within the hotel, especially when the pool is open.

Of course, that would do your visit a disservice, as the hotel offers a prime position to explore one of New York's coolest neighborhoods.

Rooms aren't cheap, but you can expect them to be incredibly posh, with incredible balcony views, and in a great location.

Book The William Vale starting at $228 here



Award-winning European mattress brand Emma has launched in the US — its namesake mattress has 3 layers of supportive, breathable foam that also prevents motion transfer

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Emma Mattress

  • Emma, a European mattress company, recently launched in the US. Its namesake mattress features multiple levels of foam that keeps you cool, relieves pressure, and contours to your body.
  • The 12-inch thick foam also minimizes motion transfer so it's great for sensitive sleepers like me who share a bed with a thrasher like my husband.
  • It isn't a bargain as prices start at $465.99 for a twin on Amazon, but it's comparable to other direct-to-consumer brands that would cost at least double for similar quality. 
  • If you buy directly on the Emma site now through January 17, you can take 35% off mattresses and 40% off bundles that include a mattress, mattress protector, and pillow with the code "SNOWDAY". Prices would be lower than Amazon's and start at $389.35. 
  • See more: The best mattresses

 

I've slept on a ton of mattresses from Purple, Casper, Avocado, Linenspa, and Ikea. I've lost count of how many I've tested, but I haven't been able to find one that married price and quality so well until I slept on an Emma mattress. 

Emma is relatively new to the US, but it's the fastest-growing startup in Germany and Europe, and has also won multiple awards in Europe as well. It makes one mattress also called Emma — an all-foam style with different layers, or zones, of foam that address temperature control, pressure relief, motion transfer, and more.

The all-foam Emma mattress has three layers of foam that keeps your body cool while relieving pressure and dampening motion transfer

The bottom-most layer is 8 inches of firm, or cold, foam that supports your lower back and shoulders so you won't wake up sore or achy.

The next layer is 2 inches of memory foam that conforms to your body. It helps distribute weight and pressure more evenly, and can be compared to what makes up a TempurPedic mattress. 

The top layer of the Emma is 1.5 inches of medium-firm foam that adapts to pressure and is incredibly responsive to isolating movement. It's sort of like a foam mattress topper, but it helps isolate motion so you can sleep through the night even if your partner is a turner.

Last but certainly not least, are the climate-regulating cover and breathable mattress cover.

Foam can trap and exasperate body heat so it's not great for people who sleep hot, but with the two covers, it can be much more comfortable, Terry Crall, a registered nurse and certified sleep educator, tells Insider Picks. "For those who sleep hot, gel, air, and latex mattresses are good choices. For those who love the feel of memory foam, foams infused with gel that provide cooling properties are a good choice," she explains. 

The king-size mattress arrived vacuum-sealed in a box and took 24 hours to fully expand

Emma Mattress 2

Like many other mattresses I've tried, the Emma arrived at my home in a box. I was surprised by how compact it looked on my front porch. To give you an idea about weight, a twin is about 35 pounds while a California King is 72.

I carried our King upstairs, unwrapped the plastic wrap, and watched it quickly expand into a substantial mattress in moments. While I could have slept on it immediately, it did take around 24 hours to fully expand to its full 12-inch thickness. The mattress was also odorless, which isn't always the case with mattresses and toppers I've tried.

It was immediately comfortable and I didn't overheat or notice my husband moving around next to me

I was literally floored by how comfortable it was after the first night.

My husband usually prefers firm mattresses, and he found the Emma to be incredibly comfortable too. It was just the right firmness that cradled and supported my back, so I didn't feel like I was sinking in. Instead, it conformed to my body. I'm one of those people who can literally wake up with a bad back after one night of sleeping on a bad mattress.  

As for motion transfer, if you're sensitive to movement like I am, then the Emma is a great option. My husband moves around at night, so it's important for us to have a mattress that dampens motion transfer. I can barely feel him moving around from the other side of the bed, making it a winner in this category.

My husband and I also both sleep hot, so having a temperature-regulating mattress is crucial. In addition to the breathable foam, Emma's climate regulating top cover have made night sweats a far off nightmare since we've been sleeping on the mattress. 

The mattress starts at $465.99 for a Twin and goes up to $1,099 for a California King on Amazon, and has a free 100-night trial and 10-year guarantee

On the Emma site directly, the mattress usually starts at $599 for a Twin and escalates up to $1,099 for a King, but it's running a sitewide sale right now. All mattresses are on sale for 35% off and bundles that include a mattress, mattress protector, and pillow are up to 40% off with code "SNOWDAY", so prices start at $389.35. The sale ends on January 17. Prices are generally lower and start at $465.99 on Amazon, but we'd suggest checking out the sale on Emma itself for the best deal right now.

I have to admit that I'm shocked by how reasonably priced Emma is considering the quality. Other comparable DTC mattress brands have cheaper styles, but in my experience, those are generally less substantial, lower quality versions of their trademark mattress. In my opinion, the only model that Emma offers is equivalent to the luxury models of other DTC brands. 

There is free delivery and returns, as well as a 100-night trial and 10-year guarantee. Basically, if you don't agree with me that Emma will give you one of the most comfortable sleep experiences of your life, you'll get your money back.

For the price, Emma is one of the best mattresses I've ever slept on. There are few others that I would choose before it, like the organic and totally luxurious Avocado Green Mattress and the Purple Hybrid Premiere Mattress, but they're in the several thousand dollars range and aren't as affordable. At this price point, Emma is a solid pick if you're looking for a just-firm-enough foam mattress that will keep you cool and undisturbed by movement. 

 

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NOW WATCH: Most maps of Louisiana aren't entirely right. Here's what the state really looks like.

We cooked meals from Blue Apron and HelloFresh to see which meal kit delivery service is best

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Blue Apron vs HelloFresh 4x3

  • Eating at home instead of getting taking out has gotten a lot easier with the rise of the meal kits.
  • But with so many options to choose from, it can be hard to know exactly which of the myriad of options available is right for you.
  • We put Blue Apron and HelloFresh head to head to determine which meal kit wins our hearts and our bellies. In this case, it was simply too close to call.
  • HelloFresh is ideal for simplicity, speed, and convenience, while Blue Apron is better for cooks who want to get creative and explore new flavors.
  • See more: The best meal kit delivery services

 

If ever there was a cure to your Seamless obsession, it's another kind of delivery — the meal kit delivery. Here to save you from the never-ending rotation of takeout, these meal kits are re-introducing you to your kitchen in all its wonder. As it turns out, your stove is just as important as your microwave.

But just as it can be a challenge to pick your favorite take-out restaurant, it can be difficult to pick your favorite meal kit delivery service. We've taste-tested plenty of brands to put together our comprehensive buying guide, which you can check out here, but we're also helping narrow down your decision-making process with comparison pieces like this. It's a tough job, but someone has to do it.

Both Blue Apron and HelloFresh are veritable giants on the meal kit scene. They've been around for years, and have built up a loyal base of followers thanks to their tasty recipes, wide selections, and ability to cater to various dietary restrictions. Both feature solid produce and protein options and are fantastic for a date night activity.

But there are certainly some aspects in which Blue Apron and HelloFresh begin to differentiate themselves from one another, and that's really how you'll be making your decision. Here are our thoughts after testing both.

Ease of use

Blue Apron vs HelloFresh Graphic 2

If we're thinking in terms of pure convenience, HelloFresh is a bit easier to use than Blue Apron. While both are extremely convenient, HelloFresh is more focused on providing meals that are truly no fuss, and as a result, can be ready in just a matter of minutes.

Blue Apron, on the other hand, sometimes requires just a bit more prep work or expertise — as a tradeoff, however, you may find Blue Apron's meals a bit more complex and interesting.

I've found many of HelloFresh's recipes to be a bit more straightforward and easy to follow, which is ideal for the beginner chef. If you're just looking to dip your toe into culinary waters and are beginning to make your way around four burners and an oven, then HelloFresh certainly seems a bit less intimidating.

While both Blue Apron and HelloFresh's directions are very clear, it often seems as though HelloFresh's recipes simply require fewer steps. Not only is that ideal for the beginner chef, but it's also well-suited for folks who perhaps are in a bit more of a rush. And if your main draw to a meal kit is convenience through and through, then HelloFresh is the way to go.

Winner: HelloFresh


Recipe quality and creativity

What Blue Apron may lack in convenience, it makes up for in creativity. The meal kit service is looking to put a bit of a gourmet spin on home cooking, and consequently, if you're looking to expand your horizons a bit, you'll be able to do so with Blue Apron.

I appreciate the internationally-inspired meals like Mushroom Tempura Rice Bowl or Crispy za'atar Chicken Tenders, which have the capacity to introduce cooks not only to new flavors but perhaps new techniques as well. Indeed, it's not all that often that you'll find meal kits making use of ingredients like fregola sarda, but Blue Apron could make it a staple in your kitchen.

For slightly more experienced chefs, Blue Apron is an ideal way to begin to expand horizons and check out different flavor combinations in a relatively risk-free environment. I've also had a number of friends adapt Blue Apron recipes to their own needs, something that seems more unique to this particular meal kit service than any other that I've tried.

Winner: Blue Apron


Ability to cater to dietary preferences

Blue Apron vs HelloFresh Graphic 3

HelloFresh has recently become something of a meal kit behemoth, acquiring a number of smaller meal kit services including Green Chef. As a result, HelloFresh now offers a wide range of menus, including pescatarian, paleo, and vegetarian options.

While Blue Apron also offers some menus that are catered specifically toward these various dietary restrictions, they're not quite as well-curated as those of HelloFresh. As a result, if you're really looking to satisfy very specific dining or cooking habits, you may have a slightly easier time picking out your weekly menu through HelloFresh.

While Blue Apron also caters to different needs, it's a bit more difficult to actually narrow down your search by way of specific filters, so HelloFresh is a clear winner in this category.

Winner: HelloFresh


Taste

Blue Apron

Perhaps the deciding factor when it comes to picking a meal kit, taste is inevitably a subjective metric. I will say that given the variety of meals that I've been able to experience through HelloFresh with its many different menu options, there is more room for exploration through this service.

However, it's not always the case that all recipes are equally delicious. I've found that some HelloFresh meals are much more interesting than others and that there's more variation in terms of the level of quality.

Blue Apron, on the other hand, seems a bit more reliable in terms of quality. Though there may be a slightly lesser range of options available, I know that all options will be equally delicious.

Winner: Blue Apron


Price

The best way to compare meal kit prices is by meal and serving; to that end, Blue Apron costs $9.99 per serving and offers free shipping if you opt for three recipes a week. HelloFresh, on the other hand, will cost you $8.99 per serving if you order three recipes a week, but will also add on an additional $6.99 in shipping. If you opt for two recipes per week, then you're paying $9.99 per serving and an additional $7.99 in shipping.

Winner: Blue Apron


The bottom line: Too close to call

Blue Apron vs HelloFresh Graphic 1

The choice between HelloFresh and Blue Apron ultimately comes down to convenience and your desire for new flavor profiles. If your priority is a quick, convenient, and delicious dinner, then HelloFresh becomes the obvious winner.

On the other hand, if you're looking to do a bit more exploration with your cooking and are eager to try out new techniques, then Blue Apron is the one for you. Either way, you'll be doing yourself a favor by giving takeout a day off.

 

 

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The Moxy East Village, a Marriott Bonvoy hotel, trades space for affordable prices — here's why the small rooms are no compromise

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Moxy East Village 4x3

  • Moxy East Village is a new four-star hotel in New York's East Village neighborhood, themed after its vibrant culture. The hotel features clear nods to rock and roll, street art, and other East Village countercultures.
  • As part of the Marriott Bonvoy family, Moxy East Village is a great option if you want to earn or redeem points during your stay.
  • I spent a night in an 11th floor Queen Room, which was small, yet comfortable. The historic decor, bustling common areas, and great location were the real draw.
  • Read all Insider Picks hotel reviews here.

New York City's East Village has long enjoyed a gritty and rebellious history. Located directly across from Webster Hall, a music venue that helped contribute to that reputation, the brand new Moxy East Village takes inspiration from its surroundings, with nods to the cultural movements and counterculture for which the neighborhood is known.

While the Chelsea location has more of a botanical theme (read our full review here), Moxy East Village channels rock and roll and avant-garde street art, which can be found throughout the hotel.

Current rates start at $185 midweek and rise to around $299 on weekends and holidays, with room configurations including Queen, Queen with Daybed, Double Double, and Quad Bunks.

I spent a night in a Queen Room, which was comped for review purposes, and found the hotel to have all the amenities needed for a comfortable and hospitable stay.

While it just opened its doors a few months ago and is still finding its way, I think the hotel has the potential to become a favorite for travelers looking for good value and a unique experience in a locally loved neighborhood. As part of the Marriott family, you can also redeem and earn Marriott points here. 

Need more New York inspiration? Read our list of the 20 best hotels in New York City.

Keep reading to see why I was so impressed by Moxy East Village.

SEE ALSO: Hotel review: We stayed at the Moxy Chelsea and were impressed by its central location, co-working spaces, and great views

SEE ALSO: Hotel review: Most rooms at the micro-hotel Arlo SoHo are barely 150 square feet — here's what it's like to stay there

SEE ALSO: Hotel review: Hotel 50 Bowery brings approachable luxury to New York City's bustling Chinatown



The entrance felt warm, inviting, and was filled with artwork. All of the lighting fixtures, paintings, neon signs, and shattered mirrors were designed by local East Village artists.

Checking in was incredibly easy and quick, with no hassle. I, along with all guests of drinking age, was given a wooden token for a complimentary glass of prosecco at the bar, which felt like a nice, welcoming perk.

I decided to bring my belongings to my room before checking out the bar, though I'll touch on that in a bit.



The elevator was another clear indicator that Moxy East Village wasn't a typical chain hotel.

With full-length mirrors and an illuminated graphic on the back wall, it was the first thing I noticed when the elevator doors opened and definitely made a statement.

Keep scrolling to take a closer look at the graphic ... 

 



While different parts of Moxy East Village represented different eras in history, the elevator represented present-day and the future. The choice to include Emojis on the wall was a fun, yet accurate depiction of language and expression in the late 2010s, and beyond.



When I stepped out of the elevator onto the 11th floor, the first thing I noticed was the carpet. The grey-ish black color looked like asphalt with orange spray paint-style graphics. It was unmistakably reminiscent of New York City streets, although thankfully, much cleaner.





Given its size, the Moxy East Village is not the type of hotel where you hole up in your room.

My Queen room was rather small though it made great use of the space. When the hotel was developed, the rooms were designed to be small so that they could remain affordable, while offering other on-site amenities. 

When I walked in, I was immediately impressed by the bathroom with large rain shower head, a beautiful green sink, and countertop. Even though it was small, the shower felt spacious and refreshing.



The bed was tucked away near tall windows. I really appreciated the back-lit headboard and reading lights on each side of my bed, which provided the perfect amount of light at night.

The windows were large and great for letting in natural light, though there wasn't much of a view. I could see the roof of Webster Hall and the taller builder behind it.



At the foot of the bed was a 43-inch smart TV. It's by no means the biggest TV I've seen in a hotel, but it doesn't need to be. Considering that it's right in front of you, you won't feel like it should be bigger. This is another example of how Moxy East Village proves that bigger isn't always better.



Storage is also a major concern in small hotel rooms, but Moxy East Village addressed it wonderfully. The safe was located in a pull-out drawer under the bed and there was a cubby hole for more belongings. My backpack fit just fine and I imagine a small suitcase could fit as well.

The room also had wooden pegs on the wall, a clothing rack, and a few hangers.



The gritty New York City motif carried into the room through a graffiti and stencil-style painting on the bathroom's glass walls and while I did not have a full desk, the sofa was a nice place to check emails.

While I didn't feel the small room was a compromise and loved the look and amenities, I know a nightly rate starting in the $200s might seem high for such a compact space. I also know as a New Yorker that it's comparable to other similar hotels, and staying here means you're paying for a well-designed and thoughtful room, with great on-site perks, and a fantastic location. It's also worth noting that you may score a lower deal in slower seasons and if you travel midweek, as opposed to staying on a weekend in prime fall as I did.

Compare room types and prices for Moxy East Village





The hotel's Alphabet City Bar and Café, aptly named after the section of the East Village with the same name, is a great area to lounge, grab a drink, or a light bite on-site. I snapped this photo immediately after check-in when it was still empty, but by 5:30 p.m., it was bustling. 

There are plenty of cozy spots to sit and enjoy a drink, both indoor and outdoor. Moxy is planning to install a retractable roof glass and heaters to keep it open year-round.



You'll also find chess and checkers, a free skeeball machine, and a few swinging sofas. 

The far wall features a bookshelf full of classic movies and cassettes. I spotted everything from "The Karate Kid" and "RoboCop," to Michael Jackson and Bruce Springsteen. All of these items are authentic and sourced from eBay. They've since been glued together as previous guests mistook the tapes as freebies.

However, there's also a cart full of books from the legendary East Village bookstore Strand Books that are free. If one sparks your interest, it's yours to keep. The hotel regularly replenishes the books from Strand.



Located on the lower level is Cathédrale Restaurant, a French-Mediterranean-inspired restaurant owned and operated by Tao Group. To get there, you have to walk down an alley-inspired staircase, accessible from the bar, or directly from the street.

I wasn't able to get a reservation with short notice on a busy Friday night, so if you want to eat during your stay — or just for dinner in the city — make your reservation well in advance.

 



Since I wasn't able to get a table on Friday night, I woke up early on Saturday to go for breakfast and it was much quieter. The food was tasty, and a good option for hotel guests who don't want to venture far in the morning.





Moxy East Village is located directly across the street from legendary club and event venue Webster Hall. The popular brunch spot The Ainsworth East Village, and a pool hall, are also on the same block. All of these spots attract people, which brings liveliness, but it didn't hinder me from getting a good night's sleep.

In the larger surrounding area, you can get to Union Square Park in a 10-minute walk, Tompkins Square Park in a 14-minute walk, and Washington Square Park in a 15-minute walk.

If you're into vintage-style sportswear, hats, sneakers, and other gear, check out Mr. Throwback located at 437 E 9th Street. Moxy guests can save 20% on everything during their stay.



At the time of writing this review, Moxy East Village was only open for a short period of time, but reviews indicate that the hotel will be a successful addition to the Moxy's other New York City locations. 

The hotel has a four-and-a-half out of five-star rating from 119 reviews on Trip Advisor and an 8.8 out of 10 rating from 39 reviews on Booking.com. Most reviewers praise Moxy East Village for its unique decor, lively common areas, and the great use of space in the small rooms, while others lament the compact rooms and untraditional experience. Ultimately, you should decide what kind of experience you're looking for, to see if Moxy fits the bill.

Read reviews, compare prices, and book on Trip Advisor



Who stays here: Couples and families that don't plan to be in their rooms often, but value quality amenities and plenty of things to do in the area, plus Marriott loyalists.

We like: The nods to East Village (and New York City as a whole). If you're visiting New York City as a tourist, you'll appreciate feeling immersed in the city during your stay, unlike standard hotels.

We love (don't miss this feature!): Visiting the Alphabet Bar and Café is a must. It's a great space to start the morning with coffee, unwind with a drink, or just lounge and socialize.

We think you should know: Moxy East Village just opened in September 2019, so it's a brand new space. As good as it is, there are plans to make it even better and new properties can take a bit of time to iron out kinks. You can expect the Moxy East Village rooftop to open in Spring 2020. 

We'd do this differently next time: Stay in Double Double or Quad Bunk room with others to see how the living space feels when shared with other people.



The rooms at Moxy East Village are small. If you want a room with 20 feet in between the bed and the bathroom, a large desk, and a couch, then you should stay somewhere else. But if you're looking for a comfortable and affordable base while exploring the city, this is a wonderful choice.

Although I was inside and surrounded by plenty of comfort and amenities, I still felt like I was in New York City. It's not a typical chain and has a lot of personality.

While it's only been open a short time, I suspect the hotel will become a very popular destination due to its nostalgic East Village spirit and affordable prices.

Book the Moxy East Village starting at $185 a night here



We tried the Furbo dog camera that lets you monitor and play with your pet from afar — here's what it's like to use

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  • With the Furbo dog camera, you can keep an eye on your dog when you're away from home using your smartphone.
  • Not only is the Furbo a pet camera, but you can also toss treats to your dog and it has a clicker sound for reinforcing training.
  • For $174 at Amazon, I consider this dog camera a great deal and plan to continue using it well into the future.

 

I'm familiar with most of the pet cameras currently on the market, but the Furbo dog camera is the first one I tried for myself.

My sister and her husband recently came home to visit, and they left their French Bulldog Hemingway in the care of his sister. Both of them work demanding jobs with long hours, so they were using the Furbo dog camera to stay connected to their pup when they were away from home. Curious to see the product in action, I asked them to show me how it worked, and I played around with the app a little bit.

So, when I was presented with the opportunity to try the Furbo dog camera for myself, I pounced on it. Before testing the Furbo dog camera for myself, I knew a couple of things about it:

  • It was designed specifically with dog owners in mind, giving them the ability to check in on and interact with their pet when they are away from home.
  • It is equipped with two-way audio and 1080p HD video capability as well as infrared night vision.
  • It's compatible with Alexa, though this was not part of my testing.
  • It enables you to toss treats to your dog by pushing a button on the smartphone app.
  • It can help you reinforce your dog's obedience training with a clicker feature, and it has an indicator light that changes color to attract your dog's attention.

I'm lucky enough to work from home, so my Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppy, Archie, spends most of the day by my side. There are times, however, when I need to leave him home alone. He is fully housetrained and does well on his own for extended periods of time, but I still feel bad leaving him alone — that's why I came to love the Furbo dog camera. I can still keep an eye on him using the Furbo smartphone app and can show him some love by tossing him a few treats.

What's in the box

When I received my Furbo dog camera, I was pleased to find that the package was very simple and produced very little waste. The device itself was packaged securely in a minimalistic box along with the power adapter, a 7-foot USB cable, and the quick-start guide.

In terms of construction, I found the Furbo to be very well-made. It seemed sturdy and had a wide enough base that it wouldn't be easily knocked over. The lid covering the treat storage compartment was secure but easy to remove and unlikely to fall out if the device tipped over. I also found the USB cable to be plenty long enough to plug the device in where I wanted it.

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How to set up the Furbo dog camera and app

Overall, the Furbo dog camera was fairly easy to set up (in spite of a few hiccups), and I found the app very simple to use.

I was able to download the app quickly from the Google Play Store and logging in was a breeze. After logging in, the app automatically searched for and paired with my Furbo via Bluetooth. The device originally connected to my Wi-Fi account quickly but, when it came time for setup, the connection failed several times before it began to work. As I was reviewing the setup guide again, I received an email from Furbo with troubleshooting suggestions and was able to reset the device and complete the setup.

Before testing the camera, I completed Archie's profile in the app and adjusted some of the settings. Using a simple menu, I was able to adjust the video quality, turn the night vision on or off, set the time zone, adjust the volume, and toggle the Wi-Fi on and off. I was also able to record my own "Snack Call" for the device to play prior to shooting out treats.

The treat-tossing function

I opened the video feed and pressed the button to shoot out a treat. The Furbo dog camera played my recording then shot out four treats. Needless to say, Archie was immediately intrigued. The recording of my voice caused his ears to perk up and the mechanical noise of the treat feeder drew his attention. As soon as the treats were dispensed, he chased them down.

I originally filled the hopper with the bag of Crazy Dog Train-Me treats that came with the unit. They are made with pork liver, barley flour, and whole ground potatoes, among other ingredients. They are small enough in size to fit through the hopper and they contain just 1.5 calories each. They are also corn-free and made in the USA.

Unfortunately, Archie wasn't a fan of the flavor of these treats and I didn't like that the unit shot four treats out at one time. I ended up swapping them out for a handful of Archie's kibble.

The audio and video quality

After testing the treat-tossing feature, I played around with the app a little more to test the audio and video quality. Because I was in the same room as the Furbo at the time of testing, I noticed a slight lag in both audio and visual streaming. This lag is unlikely to affect the function of the device at all, however, since it is intended to be used from outside the home.

I found that the Furbo dog camera can record up to 60 seconds of audio/video content and snaps pictures, which you can share via smartphone text message, email, or social media. The audio quality of the device left something to be desired, but that isn't a feature I intend to use heavily anyway. The picture quality was high, and the wide-angle lens allowed me to view the entire room, depending on where the unit was placed.

The barking alert function

Another feature the Furbo has to offer is the Barking Alert function. When the unit detects your dog barking, it sends a push notification to your smartphone. I wasn't able to fully test this feature because the only time Archie barks is when one of my cats is trying to eat from his food bowl.

Based on other user reviews of the product, however, it seems that while the Barking Alert may be a useful feature it is a bit over-sensitive. If you find that to be the case, you can adjust the sensitivity of the feature or simply turn it off.

The bottom line

Overall, the Furbo dog camera was well-designed and easy to use. While some improvements could be made to the audio quality and the sensitivity of the Barking Alert and treat-tossing features, both the device and the smartphone app are perfectly usable as they are. I was not disappointed by the Furbo dog camera, and I plan to continue using it well into the future.

Whether you're seeking a way to keep an eye on your dog and ease his separation anxiety when you're away from home or simply looking for a fun way to interact with your pup, the Furbo dog camera is a great option. It may not be at the top of the list for things like audio clarity, but it is easy to set up, simple to use, and it gets the job done.

Pros for the Furbo dog camera

  • Specially designed for dog owners with input from thousands of dog parents, veterinarians, and professional dog trainers.
  • Quick and easy to set up, connects to the smartphone app via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, and sends real-time alerts and push notifications.
  • Enables you to view video and hear audio both night and day when you are away from home to help you keep an eye on your dog.
  • Has the ability to toss treats and has a clicker sound to use in reinforcing obedience training.
  • High-quality construction and spill-proof design. Can be set up anywhere with a strong Wi-Fi connection.

Cons for the Furbo dog camera

  • Audio capability is fairly weak. Both the microphone and speaker could be of higher quality.
  • Bark Alert feature could be overly sensitive. You may want to disable it or turn off the push notifications if you receive them too frequently.
  • May not withstand heavy chewing if your dog knocks it onto the floor. Be careful where you place it to ensure stability.
  • The device shoots out as many as 4 or 5 treats at once. Be careful to use low-calorie treats or switch to your dog's kibble if it is small enough.

 

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15 great pairs of fall and winter boots on sale right now for men and women

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  • Right now is an opportune time to find great savings on winter boots, since retailers are putting their stock on sale to make room for spring styles.
  • Mid-winter sales mean you can pick up discounted pairs to wear through the rest of the season or stock up for ones you can wear next year.
  • To make it easy, we rounded up 15 great pairs of boots on sale right now for both men and women.

It's already January. If you've planned accordingly, you probably have enough winter boots to get you through the season. But, if you could use another pair, now is a great time to buy. 

Most retailers are already getting shoppers excited about spring, which means you can find lots of your favorite winter pieces — think coats, scarves, and boots — on sale. 

Mid-winter is the perfect time to snag those boots you were eyeing back in November, but couldn't justify the cost of. We've got you covered with a few great pairs for both men and women that you can find on sale right now. 

15 great pairs of winter boots on sale right now:

Men's To Boot New York Finnegan Chukka Boot

To Boot New York Finnegan Chukka Boot, available at Nordstrom, $197.49 (originally $395) [You save $197.51]

Handcrafted in Italy, these boots add a simple, stylish touch to any outfit. The low profile is casual enough for everyday wear, but sharp enough for a more dressed-up look. 



Women's Sam Edelman Winona Booties

Sam Edelman Winona Bootie, available at Nordstrom, $63.98 (originally $159.95) [You save $95.97]

With a chunky stacked heel and easy, pull-on style, these Western-inspired booties work for just about any season. Go for a basic black or one of the more funky options, like a navy patent leather snakeskin or a rich mahogany croc-embossed situation. 

 



Men's Cole Haan Feathercraft Grand Plain Toe Boot

Cole Haan Feathercraft Grand Plain Toe Boot, available at Nordstrom, $119.98 (originally $200) [You save $80.02]

A nice leather lace-up boot is perfect for colder winter days. We recommend this one from Cole Haan because it features the brand's GrandOS foam, which provides a lightweight cushion that's easy on your feet.

 



Women's Aquatalia Nathalia Water Resistant Knee High Boot

Aquatalia Nathalia Water Resistant Knee High Boot, available at Nordstrom, $237.98 (originally $595) [You save $357.02]

Fashion and practicality don't have to be mutually exclusive. These Aquatalia boots are a chic, simple knee-high boot for everyday wear and they are covered in a water-resistant treatment, so they won't get ruined from rain or snow. 



Women's Sperry Saltwater Rain Boot

Sperry Saltwater Rain Boot, available at Nordstrom, $69.90-$79.90 (originally $119.95) [You save $40.05-$50.05]

The Sperry Saltwater Rain Boots are our top pick for the best women's rain boots overall, for their water-resistant construction, classic style, and an affordable price. Right now, you can snag them for less than $100 at Nordstrom, making them an even more affordable pick. 



Women's Hunter Original Gloss Packable Rain Boots

Hunter Original Gloss Packable Rain Boots, available at Bloomingdale's, $105 (originally $150) [You save $45]

While they're made for heavy rain, these Hunter Rain Boots are flexible, comfortable, and totally waterproof, making them perfect for snow days, too. Wear a thick pair of socks and you're set for winter or wear them alone for spring showers. 

 



Men's Cole Haan Zerøgrand Hiker Boot

Cole Haan Zerøgrand Hiker Boot, available at Cole Haan, $129.95 (originally $300) [You save $170.05]

Comfortable enough for exploring the outdoors and cool enough for wearing just about anywhere else, these hiker boots work for all sorts of occasions. They're water-resistant and the inside has a molded liner that adds lots of cushiony comfort. 



Men's Ugg Neumel Stitch Chukka Boot

Ugg Neumel Stitch Chukka Boot, available at Nordstrom, $74.96 (originally $149.95) [You save $74.99]

Get the look of a classic Chukka boot with the all-day comfort you'd expect from Ugg. The inside of the boot is lined with UGGpure wool, a moisture-wicking material that feels soft like shearling. 



Women's Cole Haan Zerøgrand Explore Hiker Boot

Cole Haan Zerøgrand Explore Hiker Boot, available at Cole Haan, $199.95 (originally $280) [You save $80.05]

Whether you want to go for a hike up a mountain or a stroll down a city street, these shoes can take on just about any activity. They're waterproof with a cushioned GrandFøam footbed for extra comfort and durability, rain or shine. 



Men's Johnston & Murray 1850 Lofting Chelsea Boot

Johnston & Murray 1850 Lofting Chelsea Boot, available at Nordstrom, $148.98 (originally $298) [You save $149.02]

A simple, sleek Chelsea boot is a great addition to any wardrobe. With a thick rubber sole, this pair is perfect for winter weather. 



Women's Frye Melissa Button 2 Knee High Boot

Frye Melissa Button 2 Knee High Boot, available at Nordstrom $199.90 (originally $347.95) [You save $148.05]

If you like the style of a riding boot, Frye's iteration is a classic. The vegetable-tanned leather has a worn-in look, which only gets better with time. 



Women's Jeffrey Campbell Sopas Lugged Platform Boot

Jeffrey Campbell Sopas Lugged Platform Boot, available at Nordstrom, $99.90 (originally $129.95) [You save $30.05]

A lug sole boot is not only trendy but perfect for trudging through snow and slush. This pair comes in black or white, both with a black sole and black laces.



Men's Allsaints Mid Plain Toe Boot

Allsaints Mid Plain Toe Boot, available at Nordstrom, $147.90 (originally $248) [You save $100.10]

For a more bold look, these combat-style boots from Allsaints are a great pick. A sleek leather upper and cool laces make them stand out. 



Women's Vaneli Chelsea Boot

Vaneli Ladan Chelsea Boot, available at Nordstrom, $134.96 (originally $224.95) [You save $89.99]

Studs add a fun accent to this otherwise simple pair of suede black Chelsea boots. The neutral color means you can still wear them with everything. 



Men's Nordstrom Medallion Toe Boot

Nordstrom Medallion Toe Boot, available at Nordstrom, $74.96 (originally $149.95) [You save $74.99]

A suede brogue boot is a fun addition to any outfit. The perforations add a unique touch. 



I built a 7-figure business in less than a year —and I don't have an MBA. Here are 4 ways forgoing a degree actually lead to my success.

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Luisa Zhou

  • Luisa Zhou is the creator of the Employee to Entrepreneur system, which teaches people how to leave their day job and start their own six-figure-plus business working for themselves. She's been featured in Forbes, Inc., Entrepreneur, Success magazine, and more. Get her free blueprint for building a profitable online business that frees you from the 9-to-5.
  • Zhou argues that not having an MBA when she started her business was actually beneficial — and part of the reason why she's made over a million in revenue in less than a year.
  • Not having debt — and having a steady income from past jobs — allowed her to invest heavily in getting her company off the ground.
  • Not knowing what she didn't know also allowed her not to get stuck in the weeds worrying about nailing down her business plan or stressing about how hard starting a business is.
  • And learning on the job forced her to be open to changing her way of thinking and make mistakes that became learning lessons.
  • "It doesn't matter what you know. If you have an MBA, great. You still have plenty to learn. If you don't, that's fine, too. You'll learn as you go," she concludes.
  • Click here for more BI Prime stories.

After about a year of college, I'd made up my mind. Getting my bachelor's degree was the last piece of formal education I was ever going to get. (More schooling just wasn't for me.)

So years later, when my friends and family advised me to get an MBA before starting my own business, guess what I said? "No thank you."

And I'm glad I did. Because here's how not having an MBA helped me grow my current business to over a million dollars in revenue in less than a year:

1. I had no debt

Through a combination of financial aid, scholarships, and the college fund my parents had saved for me, I was lucky enough to have zero student loans or debt.

However, that would have changed dramatically if I'd decided to expand my formal education with an MBA. When Bloomberg Businessweek surveyed over 10,000 MBA graduates, they found that almost half of the students at top schools had borrowed $100,000 or more. So it's safe to assume that's approximately the amount of debt I would have taken on as well.

Having been raised to avoid debt, I would have made paying it off my primary financial goal. Which means I wouldn't have traded in my steady paycheck for the much more financially risky option of building a business. 

Having no debt wasn't the only financial advantage I gained. Because I was earning money at a job instead of spending it getting an MBA, I was able to set aside over $20,000 specifically for my "business fund."

Strategically using that money in paid advertising and premium branding relatively early on played a huge role in helping me grow my business faster.

2. I didn't know what I didn't know

Looking back, there are a few reasons I'm incredibly grateful for what I didn't know as a result of not pursuing an MBA.

First, I didn't get bogged down with the "theory" of building a business. When I started building my first business, I hadn't thought about my business plan or done a SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) analysis. 

Instead, I focused solely on getting one client at a time. I didn't overcomplicate it, either. I started talking to people — acquaintances who I thought might be interested in hiring me as well as potential clients I found through Facebook groups — about how I could help them while answering their questions about my area of expertise. 

And that's how I got my first client. And then my second. And my third.

Second, I didn't know how hard it would be. According to data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 20% of small businesses fail within their first year. And by the end of their fifth year, roughly 50% of small businesses fail. 

Not knowing this at the beginning of my business journey was a massive blessing for me. Instead of thinking about the odds stacked against me, I blissfully assumed that success was inevitable if I worked hard enough and created enough value in the world.

3. I wasn't attached to a certain way of thinking or doing

What's more, because I didn't know much about traditional marketing and sales, I wasn't attached to a specific way of marketing or selling. Instead, I followed the good old trial-and-error method.

Here are two examples of how that made a massive difference:

  • It helped me get my first clients faster. I didn't know anything about traditional content marketing, SEO, or other growth strategies. So instead, I did what made the most sense to me at the time. I figured out where my potential clients were spending their time online (by asking them). Realizing they were in Facebook groups, that's where I went. In the first few months of my business, sharing valuable advice and connecting with potential clients in Facebook groups led to over six figures in revenue.
  • I created a unique method to sell out my first product (an online course). Not knowing the traditional strategies for marketing and selling a new product, I came up with my own. Having observed how well potential clients connected with me via my video content, and knowing that competitions and rewards can be huge engagement boosters, I cobbled together a "Challenge" product launch strategy: Over five days, I shared one information-based prompt a day that showed participants the value of what I had to share. What's more, I hosted daily video live streams during the Challenge to engage with participants and establish rapport. Finally, I gave participants incentives for engaging via a points-based system that rewarded participants based on their engagement, with the prizes being my course and software that my potential clients would want. This allowed me to sell out my first course despite being a newcomer in my industry and not having a lot of brand awareness. 

4. I got a different sort of education

Last but definitely not least, that time I spent not getting an MBA wasn't wasted. Instead, I used it to earn a different type of education.

Here's how I spent the four to five years leading up to my seven-figure business: I built an (ultimately failed) tech startup, a career coaching business, and a Microsoft Excel consulting business. 

Through these experiences, I learned so many valuable lessons that helped me cross a million dollars in revenue in the first year of my current business:

  • Action beats theory. My tech startup failed in large part because we spent way too long — years, in fact — thinking about our business plan, adoption strategy, and marketing material when we should have been taking action and selling our product. Any action would have been more impactful than the great strategy we had (in theory) but didn't execute.
  • Prioritize building relationships with your audience. Each time I got paying clients at the start of a new business, it was because I had taken the time to connect with them, human being to human being. They hired me because they trusted me after speaking with me and getting my help (through my free content and answers to their questions). They didn't hire me because of my beautiful website (I didn't start out with one!), rockstar marketing, or perfect product — essentially, the things it can be tempting to focus on instead of building relationships.
  • Make sure you know your clients: who they are and what they truly care about. In my Microsoft Excel consulting business, I spent months working on my first product, a small course teaching Microsoft Excel shortcuts. When I finally tried to sell it, it completely flopped. The reason was because I had created the product after assuming that since I was interested in Microsoft Excel shortcuts, other people must be, too. I hadn't spent any time on figuring out who my potential clients were and what results they'd want with Microsoft Excel. Which meant that I created something no one cared about.

These massively valuable lessons taught me to focus ruthlessly on the right things — and not waste time on things that didn't matter.

At this point, having run my current business for six years and having in the process helped over 1,000 students go from employee to entrepreneur by building their own online businesses, here's what I've seen: It doesn't matter what you know. If you have an MBA, great. You still have plenty to learn. If you don't, that's fine, too. You'll learn as you go. What matters infinitely more is if you are open to learning — and taking action based on what you learn — every step of the way. 

SEE ALSO: I went from earning $65 an hour to building a multimillion dollar business on my own in two years. Here are the 4 most important steps I took.

READ MORE: I built a multimillion-dollar business in two years. Here are 3 templates I used to make my first $10,000 in 3 months.

Join the conversation about this story »

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Meet Michael Avenatti, the former star lawyer now facing multiple federal charges who was just arrested again for violating his pretrial conditions

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michael avenatti Stormy Daniels Lawyer

  • Michael Avenatti is an attorney whose most famous client was Stormy Daniels.
  • He has inserted himself into the national conversation, often making claims about high-profile people, including President Donald Trump, Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh, and R. Kelly.
  • Avenatti was also considering a 2020 presidential bid, but ruled it out after suffering numerous legal and professional setbacks.
  • A federal judge ruled against him in Daniels' defamation suit against Trump, he was referred to the FBI on accusations of lying to Congress, he was arrested on suspicion of domestic violence, and on March 25, New York federal prosecutors charged Avenatti with attempting to extort more than $20 million from Nike.
  • Here's a look at his career, and claims he's made over the last several months.

Michael Avenatti may have been the most high-profile lawyer in America for a moment. The 48-year-old litigator has made headlines largely thanks to his former client, porn star and director Stormy Daniels.

Just days before the 2016 US election, President Donald Trump's personal lawyer Michael Cohen arranged a $130,000 payment to Daniels to keep her silent about an affair she says she had with Trump in 2006.

Avenatti sued the president, on Daniels' behalf, accusing Trump of invalidating a non-disclosure agreement, and of defaming Daniels.

Appearing on dozens of cable news shows, tweeting frequently, and often making claims that he has explosive information on people in the news, Avenatti has attempted to make himself a household name.

But in recent months, Avenatti has suffered a number of legal setbacks — including a judge ruling against him and Stormy Daniels in their defamation lawsuit against Trump, being referred to the FBI on suspicion of submitting false statements to Congress, and being arrested on suspicion of domestic violence.

While the Los Angeles district attorney's office declined to press felony domestic violence charges against him, Avenatti decided to rule out a 2020 bid for the Presidency on December 4.

And on March 25, New York federal prosecutors charged Avenatti with attempting to extort more than $20 million from Nike, alleging he tried to get the money by "threatening to use his ability to garner publicity to inflict substantial financial & reputational harm on the company if his demands were not met."

A few weeks later in April 2019, federal prosecutors in California charged Avenatti with a slew of separate financial crimes, including embezzling from clients. And in May, New York prosecutors further charged him with embezzling $300,000 from Daniels. Avenatti has pleaded not guilty to all charges, and is awaiting trial in both cases. 

On January 14, 2020, federal authorities in California said they had arrested Avenatti for violating the conditions of his pretrial release.

Here's what you should know about Michael Avenatti's rise and fall:

SEE ALSO: Meet 'Stormy Daniels', the porn star Trump's lawyer paid to keep quiet about an alleged sexual affair — who's finally telling her side of the story

Avenatti graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 1996. Three years later, he received his JD degree from George Washington University.



During college and law school, Avenatti worked for The Research Group, a campaign research firm founded by Rahm Emmanuel, former President Barack Obama's chief of staff and the current Democratic mayor of Chicago.

Source: Chicago Magazine



After graduating law school, Avenatti worked at O'Melveny & Myers, a high-powered Los Angeles law firm. Over the course of his legal career, he has contributed to several high-profile cases involving Paris Hilton, Jim Carrey, and members of the rock band The Eagles.



At O'Melveny & Myers, Avenatti worked with Dan Petrocelli, the attorney who represented the family that sued OJ Simpson for murder. Simpson was found not guilty in 1995.

Sources: Avenatti, Business Insider



In 2007, he formed his own firm called Eagan Avenatti, where he has settled and won lucrative cases against the NFL and medical manufacturers Kimberly-Clark and Halyard Health, among others.



In 2013, Avenatti bought Tully's Coffee, a Seattle-based coffee franchise that had just gone bankrupt.



In March 2018, a spokesman for Tully's said Avenatti no longer owned the company, but still served as its general counsel. The company then abruptly closed all its stores.

Sources: Puget Sound Business Journal, Business Insider



Avenatti is also an auto-racing fanatic. He has participated in numerous races around the US and in Europe. "Life is meant to be lived; there are no dress rehearsals," he told GW Law School magazine in 2010.

Source: GW Law School



One of Avenatti's former law school professors witnessed his ambition up close. "He is an adrenaline junkie," Jonathan Turley, who taught Avenatti at GW Law, told The Washington Post. "I think he needs that adrenaline rush. He lives his life aggressively. In both litigation and in life he shows a certain aggressive style."

Source: The Washington Post



Those words were proven true as Avenatti began making the rounds on cable news, giving interviews about Daniels' case against Trump.



During a particularly fiery exchange on CNN in March 2018, Avenatti excoriated Michael Cohen, Trump's personal attorney, repeatedly calling him a "thug."

Source: CNN



In another theatrical performance, Avenatti held up a picture of Cohen on live TV, accusing him of "dodging questions" by refusing to talk to the media.

Source: CNN



In April 2018, Daniels appeared on "The View" to release a composite sketch of a man she said threatened her to keep quiet about her alleged affair with Trump. Avenatti said a $100,000 reward was waiting for correctly identifying the unknown man.

Source: Business Insider



Avenatti has been a thorn in Trump's side for years. While working at Greene Broillet & Wheeler, a law firm in California, Avenatti helped sue Trump for allegedly stealing the idea of his hit reality TV show on NBC, "The Apprentice."

Source: The Washington Post



Following criticism from conservatives, Avenatti released a statement in May 2018 saying that no political groups or "left wing conspiracy" were funding his legal battle against Trump and told critics to "get over it."



But he has reportedly sought financial help from Democratic donors in his legal fight against Trump. Avenatti has insisted that the money has come from a crowdfunding campaign and not from Democrats.

Source: Business Insider



In a report titled "Project Sunlight" released in May 2018, Avenatti alleged that Cohen received $500,000 from a Russian oligarch shortly after the 2016 election, and claimed that money may have served as a reimbursement for the payment to Daniels. Cohen denied this.

Source: Business Insider



In an interview with MSNBC in May 2018, Avenatti revealed that he was working with at least two other women who claimed they had signed NDAs with Trump similar to the one Daniels had signed with Trump for hush money before the election.

Source: Business Insider



Avenatti has also taken an adversarial approach to Daniels' former lawyer, Keith Davidson. He claims Davidson did not work in her best interest and instead worked closely with Cohen and Trump.

Source: Business Insider



Avenatti claimed in May 2018 that Cohen was leaking to the press audio tapes seized in the FBI raids of Cohen's apartment and office. He also argued that Cohen should have to turn over all conversations with Daniels' former lawyer.

Source: Business Insider/Business Insider



Avenatti attempted to appear in Cohen's federal criminal case, but he eventually withdrew the motion in May.

Source: Business Insider/Business Insider



Also in May, Avenatti's law firm was handed down a $10 million judgment to reimburse a former attorney at the firm who Avenatti failed to pay $2 million that month.

Source: Business Insider



Another person close to Trump who has drawn the criticism and ire of Avenatti has been Rudy Giuliani, who is now Trump's attorney. The two attorneys have had a war of words.

Source: Business Insider/Business Insider/Business Insider



Trump reportedly doesn't pay "much attention" to Avenatti and thinks that Daniels' lawyer is a "fool", according to Giuliani.

Source: Business Insider



Avenatti's adversarial approach to Trump led many to speculate about his chances of running for president in 2020. Some on the left even called him a "hero" for taking on Trump with his own rhetoric.

Source: Business Insider



In an interview with Business Insider in June, Avenatti said he "can see why people might think" that he's getting more involved in politics.

Source: Business Insider



Avenatti was critical of Trump's family-separation policy and said he was planning to represent at least 20 detained migrant mothers and children as clients in their legal cases to get their kids back.

Source: Business Insider



Avenatti also said he had resources and whistleblowers deployed on the ground at the border providing leaked video, audio, and photos of what was going on inside the detention centers.

Source: Business Insider/Business Insider/Business Insider



Avenatti tweeted in July that he would run for president as a Democrat if Trump seeks reelection in 2020. He also said that no candidate running on the Democratic side has a real shot at beating Trump in the election.

Source: Business Insider



Avenatti then traveled to Iowa to give a speech at a Democratic dinner, increasing speculation that the attorney could run for president.

Source: Business Insider



While they were once public enemies, Avenatti and Cohen started working together after they ran into each other at a swanky Manhattan restaurant in July. Avenatti said he believed Cohen would help his case and tell the truth about Trump.

Source: BusinessInsider



"I'm exploring a run for the presidency of the United States," Avenatti said in August to The Des Moines Register. He also said the Democratic party "has yearned for a fighter."

Source: Business Insider



In August, Avenatti released a policy platform and said that he is "more bullish than ever" about running for president.

Source: Business Insider



After Cohen pleaded guilty to eight federal crimes in August, Avenatti said he and Daniels were "vindicated."

Source: Business Insider



On September 23, Avenatti revealed he had "significant evidence" that Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh took part in sexual misconduct in high school.

Source: Business Insider



He then submitted a sworn declaration from a woman named Julie Swetnick who alleged she had seen Kavanaugh and his friend Mark Judge present at parties in the early 1980s where girls were "gang-raped."

Source: Business Insider



But the allegations came under scrutiny when Swetnick contradicted and walked back key portions of her sworn declaration in an interview with NBC.

Source: Business Insider



One woman who signed a sworn declaration supporting Swetnick's allegations later walked back her story, saying she only "skimmed'" the sworn statement she signed and accused Avenatti of "twisting" her words.

Source: Business Insider



Chuck Grassley, Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, referred Avenatti and Swetnick to the FBI, accusing them of lying to Congress (a felony offense) and obstructing an investigation in sworn declarations submitted by Swetnick and another witness.

Source: Business Insider



On October 15, a federal judge in California ruled against Avenatti and Daniels in their defamation lawsuit against Trump on First Amendment grounds, and ordered the two to pay Trump's legal fees in the suit.

Source: Business Insider



The decision prompted Trump to mock "3rd rate lawyer" Avenatti for "having no money," and call Daniels "horseface" on Twitter. Avenatti decried Trump as a "moron" in response.

Source:Business Insider



In November, Avenatti said he was investigating claims that Fox News host Tucker Carlson assaulted a "gay Latino immigrant" at a Charlottesville, Virginia country club.

Source: Business Insider



Carlson issued a lengthy statement in response, stating he had assaulted no one, but his son had thrown a glass of red wine on the man after he called Carlson's 19-year-old daughter a "w---e" and a "c---."

Source: Business Insider



Also in November, TMZ reported and the Los Angeles Police Department confirmed that Avenatti had been arrested on suspicion of felony domestic violence. Actress Mareli Minutti accused Avenatti of dragging her across the floor of his apartment by her arm.

Source: Business Insider



"I have never struck a woman, I never will strike a woman, I have been an advocate for women's rights my entire career and I'm going to continue to be an advocate," Avenatti said. "I am not going to be intimidated from stopping what I am doing."

Source: Business Insider



Daniels said she planned to fire Avenatti as her lawyer if the domestic violence allegations against him turned out to be credible.

Source: Business Insider



"We should all reserve judgement until the investigation — an investigation Michael has said he welcomes — is complete, and that's what I'm going to do," Daniels added.

Source: Business Insider



The Los Angeles district attorney's office ultimately declined to press charges against Avenatti, referring the allegations to the LA city attorney for a possible misdemeanor charge.

Source: Business Insider



In late November, Daniels told The Daily Beast that Avenatti had filed his unsuccessful defamation lawsuit against Trump on her behalf "without my approval" and "against my wishes."

Source: Business Insider



On December 4, Avenatti announced he would not be running for president in 2020.

Source: Business Insider



After federal prosecutors recommended Cohen receive "substantial" prison time in December, Avenatti took a victory lap, saying he was "happy to see Michael Cohen is in a lot of trouble."

Avenatti said in a statement:

"Over the weeks and months that followed our early March filing, we endured death threats, insults, and numerous attacks on our character, which have continued to this day. We sat and listened while many 'expert pundits' criticized our approach, including our constant media push, failing to recognize that we were playing the 'long game' and had a strategy.

"Today is yet more evidence that our efforts have brought us closer toward realizing our goal. But we are not done. To our supporters — THANK YOU! To the others — better luck next time."

 



Also in December, a federal judge in California ordered Daniels to pay Trump $293,000 in attorney fees and $1,000 in sanctions for filing a defamation lawsuit against the president.

Source: Business Insider



In another case, a grand jury convened in Chicago in February to evaluate potential sexual misconduct charges against R. Kelly, after Avenatti presented a tape to state attorneys that he alleged shows Kelly engaging in sex acts with a girl who says she was 14 years old at the time.

Kelly is facing 10 counts of aggravated sexual abuse in connection to three underage girls and one adult woman. He has denied any wrongdoing and is pleading not guilty.



In March, Avenatti faced another setback in Daniels' cases against Trump when a federal judge tossed out their lawsuit aiming to break the NDA she signed. But Trump's lawyers said they wouldn't sue her for breaking it, so Avenatti declared victory in the case.

Source: Business Insider



A few days later, Daniels announced she had a new lawyer. Avenatti responded cryptically in a tweet, saying he he informed her "in writing" on February 19 that he was "terminating...legal representation of her for various reasons that we cannot disclose publicly due to attorney-client privilege."

"This was not a decision we made lightly and it came only after lengthy discussion, thought and deliberation, as well as consultation with other professionals," Avenatti added, saying he wishes Daniels "the best."



On March 25, New York federal prosecutors charged Avenatti with attempting to extort more than $20 million from Nike, alleging he tried to get the money by "threatening to use his ability to garner publicity to inflict substantial financial & reputational harm on the company if his demands were not met."

Avenatti has pleaded not guilty to the charges, and is currently awaiting trial.



A few weeks later in April 2019, federal prosecutors in California charged Avenatti with a slew of separate financial crimes, including embezzling from clients.

Avenatti was charged by a grand jury in the Central District of California on a slew of financial crimes, including 10 counts of wire fraud related to the alleged embezzlement of his clients' money, 19 counts of tax fraud, four counts of bankruptcy fraud, and two counts of bank fraud. 

The indictment alleged that Avenatti committed wire fraud by embezzling $12 million from financial settlements and legal judgments won by four of his clients and that he often lied to clients about how much money they had received or falsely said their judgments would be paid out over the course of several months.  

One count of the indictment accused Avenatti of embezzling nearly $4 million from a settlement issued to a client with paraplegia — and then using the money for his business ventures. 

Source: Business Insider



In late May, federal prosecutors in New York further charged Avenatti with identity theft and defrauding his famous client Stormy Daniels out of $300,000. He has pleaded not guilty.

Source: Business Insider



On January 14, 2020, federal authorities in California said they had arrested Avenatti for violating the conditions of his pretrial release.

Brennan Weiss and Pat Ralph contributed to previous versions of this report.

Read more:

Prosecutors say that Michael Avenatti was $15 million in debt when he sought to extort Nike

Embattled attorney Michael Avenatti pleaded not guilty to defrauding Stormy Daniels out of $300,000

Michael Avenatti charged over attempted extortion of Nike, bank fraud, and wire fraud in 2 criminal investigations

'I'm not f---ing around': Prosecutors outlined brazen details on how Michael Avenatti allegedly attempted to extort more than $20 million from Nike



I'm the CEO of a company that offers benefits to all contingent workers. Elizabeth Warren is right to call out workplace inequality — and business leaders can fix it.

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elizabeth warren

  • John H. Chuang is the founder and CEO of Aquent, a talent services company that has been providing benefits to the extended workforce since 1993.
  • Chuang writes that Senator Elizabeth Warren is right to put a spotlight on the inequalities between full-time and contingent workers, especially as contingent workers play a more significant role in the US economy.
  • He says that business leaders can step up and offer these benefits — which will make workers happier and more productive — or wait for the government to take charge.
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

United States Senator and 2020 presidential candidate Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) recently announced plans to introduce legislation that would give gig workers the ability to unionize. Senator Warren deserves credit for shining a much-needed spotlight on a serious problem that exists in corporate America today — the significant inequalities that exist in the workplace between full-time and contingent workers when it comes to benefits. While political and legislative pressures have forced a healthy conversation about addressing this urgent challenge, there is good news: Companies can solve this issue right now without waiting for government intervention.

Contingent workers are playing an increasingly significant role in the US economy. In many companies today, up to 50% of workers are contingent. In 2017, The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimated that over 15 million US workers have non-traditional jobs — including those who work as independent contractors, temporary help agency workers, and workers provided by contract firms. And that figure doesn't even include people who supplement their traditional job income by driving for Uber, for example, on nights and weekends. 

This change in the makeup of the American workforce is good. It makes companies more flexible and enhances their ability to compete. It gives workers more control over their professional lives and schedules, and allows them to pursue career opportunities that might not be available to them if they were tied down to a 9-to-5 job.

A serious problem, however, is that while many companies provide extensive, high-quality benefits to their full-time employees, their contingent peers have access to far fewer benefits — or even none at all. They are walking the same halls, performing the same tasks, and contributing just as much to the success of the companies where they work, but are treated as second-class employees. In an age where we are rightly addressing inequality issues in other areas of daily life, allowing this kind of unfairness to exist in the American workforce is simply wrong.

Change is coming. Prior to Warren's legislative proposal, an October strike by United Auto Workers members led to a deal that included better pay and benefits for temporary workers. This summer, a group of Democratic senators urged Google CEO Sundar Pichai to convert the company's more than 120,000 contingent workers to Google employees. In California, Assembly Bill 5 became law. This sweeping legislation requires many companies that utilize contract workers to classify them as employees and provide pay, benefits, and worker protections accordingly.

John H. Chuang

Companies are trying to do the right thing. Earlier this year, Google announced that it will require its staffing suppliers to offer comprehensive benefits to contingent workers at Google by 2022. That is a welcome step.

In America, health, welfare, and other social benefits are delivered through the employer/employee relationship. In many other countries, the government provides these benefits directly and determines what additional benefits are offered to workers. Government mandates could be instituted here as well, as Senator Warren has proposed. If employers don't take on this issue on their own — especially if the 2020 election changes the political makeup in Washington — they could easily find themselves facing mandatory federal controls on their benefits offerings.

But there's also a free-market solution to providing equal benefits for all. Employers should step up and do the right thing, especially at large corporations that set the tone for other businesses. We certainly don't want to turn back the clock and make everyone a traditional, full-time employee again; the flexible workforce is a real asset for US competitiveness. Instead, we must support the gig economy by providing those modern, flexible workers with the benefits everyone deserves.

Companies should embrace a strategy of leveling the benefits playing field; if not because it's the right thing to do, then simply because it's good business. Workers who are happy with their benefits are more productive. And good benefits can help companies attract and retain the very best workers — especially those with sought-after skills — in today's tight labor market. 

I know this is a winning strategy because, in 1993, Aquent became the first staffing company to offer full comprehensive benefits to its temporary employees. We have been successfully offering these benefits now for 27 years to more than 100,000 gig workers. 

Senator Warren and others have rightly sounded the warning bell to corporate America that equal benefits for all workers are coming. It's just a matter of whether employers want to make it happen themselves today, or wait for the government to take charge tomorrow. I encourage all corporate executives to step up, be leaders, and provide contingent workers with the benefits they have earned.

SEE ALSO: Everything contractors and freelancers need to know about navigating California's new Assembly Bill 5, which is set to drastically change the gig economy in the state

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I went to TEDWomen to hear the wisdom of rule breakers. Here's what I learned from 6 innovators about their strategy for shaking up the world.

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Jiabao Li speaks at TEDWomen 2019

  • Carole Zimmer has been a journalist for 30 years covering news for Bloomberg, NBC, National Public Radio, and public radio programs including Marketplace. She's also the host of an award-winning podcast called "Now What?"
  • She went to TEDWomen to hear what disruptors, risk takers, and famous grandmas have to say about solving the world's problems.
  • Zimmer asked six innovators what strategy they use every day to have a more positive attitude toward life, achieve their goals, and shake up the world. 
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

The TEDWomen conference focuses on the power of women and girls to be change makers. It's part of the TED brand that has become a virtual idea machine and a global powerhouse.  

Carole Zimmer Profile

The cultural gabfest featured speakers who span several continents, including Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, the former President of Liberia, Vagina Monologues creator Eve Ensler, actress and climate activist Jane Fonda, and other risk takers who are trying to solve the world's biggest problems.

Inspired by the presence of such women, I spoke to six different innovators and asked them, "What strategy do you use every day to shake up the world?"

SEE ALSO: I spoke to Gloria Steinem, Mandy Patinkin, Alan Alda, and other celebs about what makes them tick. Here are my favorite answers.

Eva Galperin, director of cybersecurity for the online security organization Electronic Frontier Foundation, a digital civil liberties organization, and organizer of the Coalition Against Stalkerware

  1. Talk to the people I want to help and listen to what they have to say about the best way to make that happen.
  2. Put a plan together and set achievable goals.
  3. Enjoy my wins and give myself credit for having moved the conversation forward. That's how I'll make sure that, by the end of 2020, antivirus software will offer stalkerware detection to discourage abusers who spy on their victims — and protect those victims from secret surveillance.


Yifat Susskind, executive director of Madre, an international human rights organization that supports women's groups in places damaged by war and environmental disaster

I think like a mother. Mothers understand what it's like to be responsible for the most vulnerable people — our children — and we can also imagine a better world. When I get up in the morning, I look at every meeting on my calendar and figure out the best role I can play in each one. Then I remind myself to bring along a sense of joy and fun. 

When I come home from work, I get a lot of love from the first creature that greets me at the door: my dog, who doesn't know anything about all the problems in the world. There's something really grounding about getting that kind of pure devotion.



Abeer Abu Judeh, president and CEO of startup Lexdock, a technology company that allows clients to manage their own legal affairs

Every day I look in the mirror and ask myself what I'm going to achieve next. Then I say, "Go get 'em." I never give up. Maybe I'm so persistent because I'm a Muslim who was born in a refugee camp in Palestine, and we had to work very hard to achieve little things. To me, a "no" is not a rejection. It means try again. So every day, I work on building relationships, selling subscriptions, and trying to connect with the right investors who are going to help me grow my business.



Jiabao Li, perception engineer and prototype designer in consumer electronics. She creates projections and installations that explore how technology is transforming our perceptions.

I think all the time. When I run into a problem, I say I can figure this out. I'm always working on ways to make people realize that technology is designed to change what we see and what we think. I want to show that, in many ways, it has separated us from each other. By exploring how we interact with these technologies, I want to help people step out of their habitual, almost machine-like behaviors and find common ground with each other. I'm very optimistic. I feel the world is mine. I'm very optimistic.



Norma Pimentel, sister with the Missionaries of Jesus who works for the Catholic Church at detention facilities on the border between Texas and Mexico

I get up at 5:30 in the morning to say my prayers before going to mass. God is my compass. He's the one I must connect with so that I know what he wants me to do for the day. I get my strength from god. That helps me to hold on to a sense of respect for life. Do I get tired? Definitely. But there's also a sense of satisfaction in being able to do the right thing and be present with each person who's hurting. Being present in the moment lets them know they're not alone.



Alice Sheppard, disabled dancer who devotes herself to creating movement that challenges the conventional understanding of disabled and dancing bodies

The first thing I do every day is to try and get out of my own way, be in touch with my body, and let my body lead. Then I practice, practice, practice. Once I decided to do dance seriously, I knew I had to train to do difficult physical work, day after day, week after week. I'm fully living in each day.  I'm working to make art. I'm really looking to make work that's focused on using disability as an aesthetic and seeing how disability drives technological innovation. Yes, I'm very focused. I'm willing to turn the dance world on its ear.

Carole Zimmer is the host of the award-winning podcast "Now What?" Curated conversations with people you want to know. (Subscribe for free here.) She's a journalist with more than 30 years of experience working in radio, television and digital media including Bloomberg News, NPR, and NBC. Her work has also appeared in the New York Times, Washington Post, New York Magazine, and other publications. She has received numerous awards, including an Edward M. Murrow award for her radio documentary, "Stalking a Silent Killer." You can find more of her work at carolezimmer.com.



How the world's top 15 luxury housing markets will perform in 2020

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paris france

Political instability in Hong Kong, ongoing Brexit negotiations, and trade tensions between the US and China made 2019 an uncertain year for luxury real estate around the world, according to global real-estate consultancy firm Knight Frank.

In its recent Prime Global Forecast 2020 report, Knight Frank looked ahead to how the world's top prime housing markets will perform in the next year.

Paris is expected to have the world's strongest luxury real-estate market in 2020, thanks to low interest rates, economic stability, and a limited inventory of high-end properties, according to the report.

Berlin and Miami are also forecasted to have strong years. Cities like New York, Dubai, and London, on the other hand, are expected to see prices go down. 

Here's how the world's top luxury housing markets are expected to fare in 2020, ranked in ascending order by expected price growth. 

SEE ALSO: The 25 most expensive cities around the world to rent a two-bedroom apartment

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15. Vancouver

The British Columbia port city of Vancouver will see a 5% decrease in luxury home prices in 2020, but the decline is actually slowing down, according to Knight Frank.

The housing market is slowly recovering thanks to less and less inventory and a gradual adjustment to property market regulations.



14. New York City

New York City is forecasted to see high-end home prices go down by 3% in 2020 due to lower mortgage rates and strong employment indicators.



13. Dubai

While luxury real-estate prices are expected to drop by 2% in 2020, Dubai's prime housing market will be boosted by its hosting of Expo 2020 in October.

The city has poured money into new infrastructure such as expanded metro lines leading up to the event, according to Knight Frank.



12. Mumbai

Buyers in Mumbai are expected to be "cautious" in 2020 after the economic slowdown in 2019 and an increase in the stamp duty tax, according to Knight Frank. Prime real-estate prices are forecasted to shrink by 1%.



11. Hong Kong

The political unrest in Hong Kong indicates the high-end housing market will remain mostly static, with neither significant price growth or declines anticipated.

There were, however, several high-end sales in the city's most exclusive neighborhood, the Peak, in 2019, according to the report.



10. London

With some of the uncertainty surrounding Brexit dissipated after a Conservative majority was elected to Parliament, London's housing market should see the release of a "pent-up demand that has built in recent years," with expected growth of about 1%, according to the report.



9. Los Angeles

Luxury home prices are expected to grow by 2% overall in Los Angeles in 2020, but the growth depends on which price range you're looking at.

The LA market is forecasted to see strong demand for homes under $2 million and moderate price growth in the $2 million to $10 million range. The $10 million-and-above range, on the other hand, is "slow [and] patchy at best," according to Knight Frank.



T6. Melbourne

Luxury prices in Melbourne are expected to grow by 3% thanks to a lower interest rate environment.

The Australian city is seeing high demand from buyers who want to downsize to properties that are easy to maintain and close to a city center.



T6. Singapore

In Singapore, the high-end market will grow by about 3% as well, thanks to wealth moving in from Hong Kong amid political tensions there.



T6. Madrid

Knight Frank expects Madrid will see price growth of 3% in 2020 thanks to an increase in international buyers.



T4. Sydney

Prices are forecasted to grow 4% in Sydney in 2020 thanks to lower interest rates, a limited supply of high-end homes, and major investments in its light rail system.

Like Melbourne, high-end homes in Sydney are particularly in demand for those looking to downsize.



T4. Geneva

Geneva will see prices swell by 4% for similar reasons to Sydney: low interest rates and investment in transportation — in Geneva's case, the Leman Express commuter rail network.



T2. Miami

Luxury real-estate prices in Miami will increase by 5%, according to Knight Frank, largely thanks to theinflux of wealthy people fleeing tax reform that made it more expensive to own high-end homes in places like New York, Connecticut, California, and New Jersey.



T2. Berlin

The German capital will see prime price growth of 5% in 2020, thanks to high demand from both domestic and international buyers, according to the report. 



1. Paris

Paris is expected to be the strongest luxury housing market in 2020, thanks to price growth of 7%, low interest rates, economic stability, and a limited supply of prime properties, according to Knight Frank.

The French capital's real-estate market will also see a boost thanks to the upcoming 2024 Summer Olympics and the Grand Paris Project, Europe's largest infrastructure initiative.



More women are freezing their eggs to delay having kids — but the process costs thousands of dollars and still might not work. Here's what you should know.

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egg freezing costs

As more 30-something women have babies than ever before, egg freezing is becoming more popular.

Female fertility starts to decline around age 35, but egg freezing allows women to preserve higher-quality and younger eggs for use later on to try and get pregnant.

However, as Caroline Praderio reported for Insider, the American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) and American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) currently only endorse egg freezing for medical reasons, not for the sole purpose of delaying motherhood.

Egg freezing also isn't cheap. Here's what you should know about how much egg freezing costs.

How much does egg freezing cost?

A single egg-freezing cycle takes four to six weeks and costs an average of $6,000 to $10,000, Dr. Jane Frederick, MD, a board certified fertility expert in California, told Praderio. That typically includes initial tests, injections, and retrieval surgery, but not the annual storage fee for frozen eggs. Storage fees typically start at $600 per year, according to Yale Medicine.

Fertility IQ puts average medical treatment and medication costs even higher, at $15,000 to $20,000 per cycle, based on cost data from 4,000 egg-freezing patients. It broke average costs down as follows, assuming five years of storage with the first year free and $500 for the additional four years:

  • Treatment: $11,000
  • Medication: $5,000
  • Storage: $2,000

These costs, however, vary depending on where you live. FertilityIQ found the cost of an egg-freezing cycle can range from $13,800 in Boston to $17,773 in NYC. But most women undergo more than one cycle: Most undergo an average of 2.1 cycles, putting total egg-freezing costs between $30,000 and $40,000.

Frederick told Praderio that each cycle yields an average of 10 eggs, but not all are high-quality enough to be frozen. So, the more cycles, the higher chance of success — and the older you are, the more eggs you'll want to freeze, Praderio wrote.

And none of the estimates above include using the eggs to get pregnant — thawing the eggs, fertilizing them with sperm, and transplanting them into the uterus (along with more appointments, tests, and drugs) can cost up to $18,000, according Eggsurance.

Is the cost of egg freezing worth it?

Egg freezing usually isn't covered by insurance, although some plans cover it when it's done for medical reasons, Praderio wrote. Only 16 states require insurance companies to cover or offer coverage for infertility treatment.

Some companies, like Google, Apple, and Facebook, are offering egg freezing as a company benefit so employees can have more freedom to plan for a family on their own timeline, but it remains an uncommon perk.

With insurance or employer coverage being far and few in between, many women are left covering costs themselves. It's important to know, though, that success isn't guaranteed. Studies indicate there's only a 3% to 9% chance a frozen egg will result in a baby.

However, most doctors collect multiple eggs, and Frederick said that women who use frozen eggs have a 25% to 50% chance of having a baby, depending on their age.

Ultimately, deciding if the cost of egg freezing is worth it boils down to your own personal goals and finances.

Are you in the process of, or considering, freezing your eggs? If you have a story you'd like to share, contact Hillary Hoffower at hhoffower@businessinsider.com.

SEE ALSO: How much it costs to have a baby in every state, whether you have health insurance or don't

DON'T MISS: Millennials are having kids later than any other generation, and it might be putting mothers at greater risk of depression. Here's what experts say every mother should know about the potential risks.

Join the conversation about this story »

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