Parade

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

The start of a new season is the perfect time to refresh your bedding. If the lighter, longer days have you craving a fresher, softer look in your bedroom, Macy's has an array of summer-ready bedding sets discounted right now. French countryside and Paris-inspired designs are especially trendy for summer, bringing relaxed elegance and charm. Right now, Macy's has a gorgeous comforter set on sale that beautifully captures this romantic aesthetic.

The $100 Elodie 8-Piece Comforter Set has been slashed to just $40 in every single size. You can shop this deal in twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, and California king sizes for a complete bedding refresh that includes everything you need to upgrade your space.

Elodie 8-Piece Comforter Set, $40 (was $100) at Macy's

Courtesy of Macy's

Shop at Macy's

This eight-piece set includes one comforter, two standard shams, one bedskirt, one flat sheet, one fitted sheet, and two standard pillowcases. However, if you're shopping for a twin or twin XL bed, those sizes include just one sham and one pillowcase.

The comforter's reversible design lets you switch between two coordinating patterns, giving you two fresh looks in one set. One side has a Parisian motif with gold Eiffel Tower silhouettes and delicate pink roses on a white background, and the other is adorned with crisp white and light gray stripes. 

The sheets and pillowcases are all light pink, while the shams boast the same French-inspired theme as the comforter, and the bedskirt matches the striped side of the comforter. Each piece is made from 100% polyester and is machine washable, so it's easy to care for. Reviewers noted that the set holds up well when washed and dried without pilling or fading.  

Shoppers said this "pretty" set looks "super cute" and feels even better. One reviewer compared the luxurious feeling of curling up in this bedding to "sleeping on a cloud." Plush filling inside the comforter has a light and airy loft that shoppers say gives their bed a "fluffy and beautiful" look. 

Related: Pearls Are So on Trend in 2026, and Macy’s $7 Earrings 'Add the Perfect Amount of Sparkle'

Give your bedroom a cloud-like upgrade for less with the Elodie 8-Piece Comforter Set while it's on sale for just $40. We rarely see large bed-in-a-bag sets marked down this low!

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

By the time Genesis released their thirteenth album, they'd achieved several hits, but a number one had proved elusive. Songs like "Follow You Follow Me," "In the Air Tonight," and others brought them success and fans, but no chart-toppers. That all changed with their 1986 title track, "Invisible Touch." While the album would produce five hit singles, "Invisible Touch" was their first -- and only -- U.S. No. 1 hit.

"Invisible Touch is my favourite Genesis song and it came more or less out of nowhere," singer Phil Collins told The Guardian in 2014. "We would arrive in the studio every day and just start playing. One day Mike Rutherford played a riff on the guitar, with an echo, and I suddenly sang: 'She seems to have an invisible touch – yeah!' It came in to my head fully formed."

A Friendly Rivalry

Ironically, Peter Gabriel's "Sledgehammer" was the song that dethroned "Invisible Touch." Gabriel was the band's former lead singer. Collins claimed that the band had no idea.

"If we had been, we’d probably have sent him a telegram saying: 'Congratulations – bastard,' he said.

When Gabriel decided in 1975 to quit the band that he'd founded, the remaining members, Collins, Rutherford, Tony Banks, and Steve Hackett, were determined to prove that they could succeed without him. The subsequent album was the first with Collins, who had been the band's drummer, as lead singer. A Trick Of The Tail charted higher than any of their previous albums.

Unfortunately, "Invisible Touch" spent a mere week at No. 1 on Billboard's Hot 100 before Gabriel's "Sledgehammer" swooped in and knocked them off.

No Hard Feelings

With hits like "In Your Eyes," "Solsbury Hill," and "Don't Give Up," Gabriel had a successful solo career after leaving Genesis. Despite some tension when he first left, they've all claimed that there were no hard feelings. In fact, Banks, Rutherford, and Collins even reunited with Gabriel for a full show in 1982. Gabriel was struggling to get out of debt that he'd accumulated while putting together the WOMAD (World of Music, Arts, and Dance) festival.

“Whether or not he felt he needed our help to get himself out of trouble, it made sense to us,” Collins wrote in the band's biography, Genesis:Chapter and Verse. "t certainly was not a condescending gesture.”

Toranaga UK, the thrash metal veterans, are kicking off the last quarter of the year with a high-profile live appearance at Onslaught's The Force From Hell European Tour 2026.

The quartet, fronted by lead vocalist Mark Duffy, guitarist Liam Mulpetre, bassist Richard Doney and drummer Toby "The Wall" Wallace, has been announced as part of Onslaught's 40th anniversary tour celebrating the band's second album, The Force.

The upcoming 18-date trek promises fans a series of fun-filled and unforgettable nights fueled by high-energy performances and old-school metal intensity as the tour storms through major cities like Verona, Paris, Lyon and Kraków across eight countries.

Andy Rosser-Davies, Sy Keeler and Jeff Williams of Onslaught during live performance at The Garage, London in 2011.

Kevin Nixon/Metal Hammer Magazine/Future via Getty Images

Joining as a special guest, Toranaga UK is back on the road for the upcoming European tour following  a run of German shows, including an appearance at the Full Metal Osthessen festival earlier this year.

Adding to the excitement, The Prophecy 23 will also take the stage as one of the supporting acts.

View this post on Instagram

Following the announcement, Duffy expressed his excitement about sharing the stage with fellow thrash metal bands once again.

"This is a great opportunity for us to go out on tour supporting the mighty Onslaught along with The Prophecy 23 on their European tour," the vocalist shared, as cited by Blabbermouth. "We had a few support shows with Onslaught last year and they are great guys, we are stoked to be playing alongside with them on this tour."

As the band prepares for a jam-packed October, the band has secured a major milestone after signing with Fireflash Records and will now join the label's roster of classic and modern acts such as Wolf, Ruthless, Holy Moses, Mezzrow, Signum Regis, Furies, Vanaheim and others.

With their new label on the horizon, Toranaga UK, through Duffy, confirmed that they are in the "final stages of recording and mixing our new album."

Moreover, Duffy also hinted that the upcoming tour will give fans a sneak peek at the band's upcoming material.

The Force From Hell European Tour 2026

Oct. 8 – Arnhem, Netherlands – Willemeen
Oct. 9 – Hoogeveen, Netherlands – Het Podium
Oct. 10 – Kortrijk, Belgium – DVG
Oct. 11 – Sittard, Netherlands – Poppodium Volt
Oct. 12 – Paris, France – Petit Bain
Oct. 13 – Lyon, France – Rock'N'Eat
Oct. 14 – Verona, Italy – Damage Inc. Club
Oct. 15 – Nova Gorica, Slovenia – Mostovna
Oct. 16 – Vienna, Austria – Escape
Oct. 17 – Jablunkov, Czech Republic – Rock Café
Oct. 18 – Kraków, Poland – Klub Zaścianek
Oct. 19 – Dresden, Germany – Chemiefabrik
Oct. 20 – Heilbronn, Germany – Machinenfabrik
Oct. 21 – Osnabrück, Germany – Bastard Club
Oct. 22 – Düsseldorf, Germany – Pitcher
Oct. 23 – Freiburg, Germany – Crash
Oct. 24 – Geiselwind, Germany – Music Hall
Oct. 25 – Esch-Belval, Luxembourg – MK Bar

Related: Supergroup Reimagines Hit Song 56 Years Later

For millions of television viewers growing up in the late 1970s and early 1980s, Michael Landon and Melissa Gilbertshared one of the most believable father-daughter relationships in TV history. The actors’ on-screen chemistry on Little House on the Prairie seemed so genuine that many fans assumed the two were as close in real life as they were on screen. In many ways, they were, but they were also exceptionally skilled actors who created the bond needed for such a believable relationship. Judging by Gilbert’s Little House on the Prairie screen test, that chemistry came quickly and with little effort.

Melissa Gilbert was just 9 years old when she was cast in Little House on the Prairie to play the spirited youngest member of the Ingalls family, Laura Ingalls. In her screen test, Gilbert’s innate acting ability was on full display. The test was completed in a single take, with the ending of the scene entirely improvised—a testament to the actors’ instant trust in one another and Gilbert’s remarkable talent at such a young age.

View this post on Instagram Michael Landon Helped Shape Melissa Gilbert’s Career

Though Michael Landon did not personally discover Melissa Gilbert, he played a major role in the production of Little House on the Prairie, including the casting process. As the series’ star, executive producer, writer, and director, Landon became one of the most influential figures in the young actress’s life from the very beginning.

Melissa Gilbert has remained active within the devoted Little House fan community and has often spoken about Landon’s role as both a mentor and a co-star. Gilbert has said Landon treated the young cast like his own family, creating a supportive environment that helped many child actors grow up in Hollywood without losing their sense of childhood.

Their Bond Extended Beyond Little House on the Prairie @littlebonnethead

Love that he called her that in real life, not just on the show. Also sorry for the bad camera angles! Loved the story so I had to share! #littlehouseontheprairie #lepetitemaisondanslaprairie #michaellandon #lauraingalls #halfpint

♬ original sound - Little Bonnethead

Off camera, Landon became a father figure to Gilbert in ways that extended far beyond casting. While he encouraged professionalism, he also used humor to keep long filming days light. Gilbert has often credited Landon with teaching her not only how to perform in front of a camera but also how to confidently navigate the entertainment industry, laying the foundation for a career that has spanned more than four decades.

When Little House on the Prairie ended in the early 1980s, Michael Landon and Melissa Gilbert remained close. Landon continued to serve as a mentor and friend rather than simply a former co-star.

Melissa Gilbert has often described Landon as a second father and one of the biggest influences on her life, sharing that the relationship they built during the series never truly ended.

Why Their Relationship Still Resonates With Fans

That lifelong bond began with a simple screen test, one in which a young actress was gently shepherded into the bright lights of Hollywood by the man she would come to know as both a mentor and the beloved “Pa” to generations of Little House on the Prairie fans.

🎬SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox🎬

For families who love the comfort of a classic holiday tradition but secretly dream of trading winter slush for tropical trade winds, the ultimate winter getaway just came into view.

Disney Cruise Line has officially pulled back the curtain on its upcoming Very Merrytime Cruises schedule, detailing a lineup of seasonal transformations, deck-side celebrations, and festive character interactions that turn a standard Caribbean sailing into a floating winter wonderland.

Setting sail across the fleet for a limited window, these specialized holiday voyages are designed to bring the signature, nostalgic charm of a classic Christmas straight to the open ocean. Whether you're traveling with a multi-generational family crew or simply looking for a stress-free way to spend the holidays without cooking a single meal, the focus is on wrapping traditional holiday warmth inside a sun-soaked cruise itinerary.

Writing for the Disney Parks Blog, contributor Rachel Paige highlighted how the seasonal shift transforms the entire atmosphere on board from the moment you walk through the doors:

"From the moment you step into the atrium lobby, you’ll find yourself surrounded by dazzling decorations, a massive, brilliantly lit Christmas tree, and garlands that stretch across the railings. It instantly sets the stage for a holiday escape where every single detail feels incredibly thoughtful."

Related: The Multi-Gen Family Guide to Navigating Disney World's New Holiday Season

Tree Lightings and Snowy Deck Parties

The entertainment schedule for the Very Merrytime sailings is built entirely around shared family experiences, kickstarting the festivities the very first night of the cruise with the Mickey’s Tree Lighting Ceremony. Guests gather in the central atrium to join Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and their friends for a lively sing-along that culminates in lighting the ship's towering, multi-deck Christmas tree.

Later in the voyage, the action moves up to the open-air pool decks for Santa’s Winter Wonderland Ball. This high-energy deck party features Broadway-style musical performances, appearance updates from the man in red himself, and a specialized effects show that coaxes an actual flurry of snow to fall directly over the deck while the ship sails through the warm waters of the Caribbean or the Bahamas.

Related: The Reason Disney Is Ending a Popular Holiday Tradition After 27 Years

Festive Characters and Holiday Treats

Disney Parks Blog

A Disney cruise is defined by its characters, and the holiday sailings introduce entirely new seasonal wardrobes for the ship's permanent residents. Characters like Goofy, Pluto, Donald, and Daisy will roam the decks in customized, winter-themed attire, offering unique photo opportunities that you won't find during standard summer sailings.

The ship’s culinary teams are also getting in on the transformation, rolling out specialized holiday menus in the main dining rooms alongside a rotating selection of seasonal treats across the decks. Passengers can expect custom-decorated holiday cookies, specialized warm chocolate beverages, and festive gingerbread displays designed by the ship's pastry chefs.

Related: Disney Treasure Review: Is It the Perfect Family Cruise Line Ship?

A Holiday Escape to Lookout Cay and Castaway Cay

The seasonal storytelling doesn't stop at the gangway. Sailings that call on Disney's private island destinations in the Bahamas—including the classic Castaway Cay and the brand-new Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point—will find the beach resorts fully decked out in their own specialized holiday trim.

Island visitors will greet a tropical iteration of the holidays, featuring island-themed Christmas trees, festive photo backdrops framing the turquoise water, and seasonal music playlists blending holiday classics with local Bahamian rhythms.

Because holiday sailings are traditionally among the most popular and quick-to-sell-out weeks of the entire cruise calendar, travel experts recommend looking at dates and stateroom options early. If you've been searching for a sign to shake up your traditional winter routine, this floating holiday celebration might be the exact reason you need.

Related: 15 Included Extras That Make a Disney Cruise Worth Every Penny (Including One Most Passengers Skip)

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

This past winter, my husband Chris and I got some terrible news: the coffee shop right around the corner shut its doors. We had gotten used to making almost-daily stops for coffee—to or from school pick-up, on the way to run errands, as a "treat" on stressful days, you name it. Without any warning (to the dismay of our town's Facebook group), the location simply closed.

We tried buying nicer beans for our basic drip coffee pot. We placed an order for Blue Bottle's specialty NOLA instant coffee packets to help us drown our sorrows (if only they lasted longer in our house!). We continued to bemoan our bad luck. Then, I was asked if I'd like to try out KitchenAid's Fully Automatic Espresso Machine With Iced Coffee that was launching in May. The timing couldn't have been better.

Well over a decade ago, we bought ourselves a manual espresso machine, but we hadn't touched it in years. (Actually, besides trying it out one or two times myself, I only enjoyed coffee drinks from that machine when Chris made them, because I found it too intimidating.) I've really never been savvy with any type of kitchen appliance or gadget, so the "fully automatic" and "built-in grinder" promises attached to this new machine really intrigued me. Would it be a good espresso machine for beginners (or, ahem, exhausted working moms)?

I also started wondering about the cost per cup of espresso using this at-home option vs. going out. Could it actually help save me money in the long-run if I didn't splurge on a $7.50 latte at the local coffee shop further down the road every time I wanted a pick-me-up?

So, after opening the (especially large) box that arrived this spring and clearing our countertop for this new home barista setup, Chris and I got to testing...and we've made hundreds of lattes, Americanos and coffees ever since. Is KitchenAid's espresso machine worth it? Here's my honest review after using it for the last 12 weeks.

Related: The Brazilian Way To Make Coffee 10x Better

Courtesy Kelsey Pelzer

12 Weeks Later: The TL;DR Verdict

Honestly, my husband and I both give this machine 5/5 stars. After 12 weeks of daily testing, we both agree that this KitchenAid espresso machine is worth the money, especially for beginner home baristas, individuals who are busy with work or kids, or individuals who have a more laidback routine but want to have an elevated coffee experience without leaving their home.

We've been blown away by its performance and still talk about how impressed we are almost every single day. I've especially enjoyed the convenience of the AutoMilk System that steams the milk and the user-friendly touch-screen that walks you through every step—from choosing a beverage to doing a quick clean between uses (you really can't mess it up, trust me).

Although it is an espresso machine, I'd also like to note that in the last 12 weeks, we have not made drip coffee from our regular coffee machine—we've solely used the KitchenAid unit for both espresso drinks and drip coffee, and have been thrilled with the results of both.

Shop the Fully Automatic Espresso Machine KF4 With Iced Coffee at KitchenAid

Courtesy Kelsey Pelzer

Model Differences

KitchenAid's newest espresso machine comes in three different models. Here's what to know about each one (I've been using the KF4 model).

KitchenAid Model

Features

Best For

Price

KF2

- 6 preset drinks (including iced coffee and iced espresso)
- Panarello auto steam wand to manually steam and froth milk
- QuietGrind and IntelliGrind technology

Great for individuals who like a more hands-on approach, and don't need a huge menu of drink options

$799.99

KF3

- 15+ preset drinks
- AutoMilk System to automatically steam and froth milk (milk container sold separately)
- QuietGrind and IntelliGrind technology
- User profiles (up to 4 people) for saved personalized drink preferences
- 2.4" color display touchscreen

Great for individuals and families who want an at-home cafe experience but don't need as much customization

$999.99

KF4

- 20+ preset drinks
- AutoMilk System to automatically steam and froth milk
- Comes with milk container
- QuietGrind and IntelliGrind technology
- User profiles (up to 4 people) for saved personalized drink preferences
- 3.5" color display touchscreen

Designed for users who want the most choice, customization and convenience

$1,299.99

Related: I Tried 11 Popular Cold Brew Concentrates To Find the One You Should Stock in Your Fridge

Courtesy Kelsey Pelzer

Pros and Cons of KitchenAid's Fully Automatic Espresso Machine With Iced Coffee

Here are some important things to keep in mind.

Pros

• Before you make your first drink, the machine asks you to use a water test strip to determine your water hardness level.
• You can make both hot and iced coffee (and espresso) drinks (a first for the brand).
• The IntelliGrind technology grinds all the beans without you needing to make any manual adjustments, and if you need to add more beans in the process of drink-making, it lets you know on the screen and then continues after you've filled it up.
• There is a separate spot to pour in already-ground coffee if you don't want to always purchase whole beans.
• The AutoMilk System (in the KF3 and KF4) makes the perfect frothy espresso drink, balancing the milk and espresso effortlessly. I've used manual steamers in the past, and have found them pretty finicky (and also harder to keep clean).
• Thanks to the QuietGrind technology, making drinks isn't noisy at all. My husband will often surprise me in the middle of the day with another cup, which I didn't hear from a couple of rooms away.

Cons

• Although the brand says it's "25% smaller" than its larger KF6, KF7 and KF8 units, the espresso machine's depth still might seem pretty hefty, depending on your available counter space. Still, the width is impressively narrow, which helps.
• This is barely a con, but because so many other elements of the process are truly automatic and, therefore, "brainless," you do still need to remember to check your water level (and/or milk level) before starting the process of making a drink.

Related: We Had Coffee Experts Rank 13 Instant Coffee Brands, and You Can Buy the Winner at Target

Courtesy Kelsey Pelzer

The Daily Workflow: Making a Drink at 6:30 a.m.

Over the past 12 weeks, Chris and I have made coffee at many different hours of the day—including in the early morning before getting our kids ready for school.

The steps are simple and clear, which I've appreciated as I've often still been rubbing my eyes when I drag my feet into the kitchen in the dark:

• The first thing I do is grab our milk container from the fridge and attach the milk system hose to it.
• Then, I click "Caffe Latte" on the touchscreen, and the checkmark that shows up after.
• It quietly grinds the beans, pulls the milk, and I have my beverage roughly within a minute.
• Immediately after, it recommends having you empty the coffee puck tray and drip tray, and then doing the "easy milk rinsing" that involves just moving the hose from the milk container back to the appropriate area of the unit, and clicking on the checkmark.

I appreciate how mindless the process is because, let's face it, I'm usually not fully awake and alert until my second cup.

Courtesy Kelsey Pelzer

Maintenance and Deep Cleaning: The Unglamorous Truth

The idea of cleaning any appliance really bums me out. I know it's necessary, but it feels like a herculean task. And for a machine that contains multiple areas to store beans, a water tank, milk system and all of the various systems that help differentiate between lattes, cappuccinos, Americanos, iced coffee and more, I can only imagine the intricacies of the inner-mechanics.

Besides the "easy milk rinsing" and removal of any water or "coffee pucks" that's done after each beverage (I've included a photo example of what this looks like below), there are options to deep clean—either with descaling or focusing on the milk system or brew unit.

Courtesy Kelsey Pelzer

Fortunately, the deep cleaning processes really only take about 10 minutes or under, and are easy to follow since you're given step-by-step instructions on the screen itself.

About a month in, we got a notification on the touchscreen that we should do both a deep milk cleansing and brew unit cleansing for the first time.

Deep milk cleansing

With the deep milk cleansing, it has you run a cleaning solution through the milk tube which rinses it out. It doesn't come with a cleaning solution, but Chris did a search on YouTube and saw that people recommended a little bit of light soapy water with Dawn dish soap.

You stick the end of the tube in the soapy water and put a large container under the machine (where you would normally put a cup of coffee). We ran another round with just plain water after.

Brew unit cleansing

For the brew unit cleansing, it gives you detailed instructions on the screen, and instructs you to pull out the brew unit itself (Chris likens the process to how it feels when removing an ink cartridge from a printer). It tells you to rinse out the unit, and then tells you to insert a cleaning puck in the unit (the box comes with two cleaning pucks), put it back in and then it runs a clean cycle. It's super easy.

Since then, we've received the brew unit cleansing notification only one additional time.

Descaling

Within these last three months, we have not seen any alert that's recommended the descaling process, so we have yet to try this out. The owner's manual says that we can expect to see a notification on the screen when descaling is recommended.

One more thing to note: If you ignore the maintenance notifications, a bubble in the top right corner will remain to remind you.

Related: ‘I’m a Registered Dietitian Who Swapped Regular Coffee for Mushroom Coffee for a Week—Here’s What Happened’

Is the Price Tag Justified?

Looking at a $1,299 price tag can be intimidating, to say the least. However, with everything that this machine does (and with such ease!), it's a justified amount. The drinks are professional quality at the touch of a button, truly.

I wanted to calculate my ROI by comparing the machine cost to what was previously my weekly drink cost of stopping at coffee shops. While I love supporting local businesses (and still do/will!), I also love saving money.

It would begin to save me money in less than a year, so with that insight and the convenience of having cafe-style drinks with a tap of my finger, I believe the price tag is absolutely worth it.

By calculating your own ROI, you can see if it would be worth purchasing for your own home.

Buy at KitchenAid

Up Next:

Related: We Tried 10 Aldi Coffees and the Winner Tastes Way More Expensive Than It Is

In 1981, Red Rider released their biggest song, ”Lunatic Fringe.” Written by Tom Cochrane for the album As Far as Siam, the haunting rock classic wasn’t a Billboard chart hit in the United States, but it was all over the radio—enough so that the Canadian rock band is considered a one-hit wonder in the U.S. 45 years later.

Moody and intense, the guitar-heavy track featured a dark and defiant warning about hate, intolerance, antisemitism and political violence.

But “Lunatic Fringe” was almost never released.

Speaking on New York’s Q104.3, Cochrane revealed that his management team initially balked at the cinematic song, but he moved forward with it after the tragic death of John Lennon. The Beatles legend, who was one of Cochrane’s biggest influences, was murdered on Dec. 8, 1980, outside of his New York City apartment.

"I remember at the time, everybody was saying, 'You can't do this,’” Cochrane recalled of “Lunatic Fringe,” per iHeart. “Management...was saying, 'Just write some pop songs, will you? Let's get on with making some money.'"

Cochrane admitted he almost abandoned "Lunatic Fringe"—until he learned of Lennon’s death.

"I thought, for better or for worse, [Lennon] was a guy who wore his heart on his sleeve and always called it the way he saw it,” Cochrane explained. “And I said, 'I don't care. The song is gonna go down, and we're gonna record it, and we're gonna release it.’ So I stood by my principles on that, and of course it became the biggest hit that Red Rider ever had."

“Lunatic Fringe" climbed the charts in Canada, played all over the radio in the United States, and was later featured in the 1985 movie Vision Quest. Cochrane went on to have a massive solo hit with the song "Life is a Highway,” but “Lunatic Fringe” still held a special place in his heart.

Decades later, Cochrane looked back on the song during an appearance on Behind the Vinyl.

“’Lunatic Fringe,’ man, that was a big, big song for Red Rider," he said. "It just kept gathering momentum and kept going, and to this day, it still gets a ton of airplay, especially in the States, on classic rock radio. …This song was magical.”

But he noted that it wasn’t an easy song to record.

“Sometimes you wonder whether a song is, whether you can't kill it with a stick," Cochrane shared. “I don't know about the song, because we recorded it once, the tape fell apart… Never been that depressed in my life… it turned out it was on the master, so we had to totally re-record the song.”

“I remember when I demoed the song…everybody at that time, management, everybody's saying, 'What are these lyrics? These are way too heavy for rock and roll. Why don't you just get down to writing a pop song?,'" he recalled. “And I thought, no, this is important to say. The song speaks out against racism, it speaks out against a number of things.”

“[John Lennon’s death] just hit me like a ton of bricks, and I thought, here's a guy that always wore his heart on his sleeve, and I thought...these lyrics are going to stand,” he added. “And I didn't think the song would see the light of day because it was just so different, so unique. And it did.”

Cochrane added that he felt “very lucky and blessed” to write songs that have stood the test of time.

“And ‘Lunatic Fringe’ is one of them,” he said.

Related: 1981 Radio Hit, Written by Rock Legends, Was Inspired by an Argument

Imperial Teen proudly announced a surprising treat to fans as the band makes its long-awaited return to touring.

Ending a lengthy absence from touring, the band unveiled a string of upcoming shows, marking a major milestone in the quartet's return to live performance.

In an Instagram update, the indie pop and alternative rock band featuring Roddy Bottum of Faith No More, Will Schwartz of Hey Willpower, Lynn Perko Truell, formerly of the Wrecks and Sister Double Happiness, and Jone Stebbins, also a former member of the Wrecks, announced a 10-date tour spanning August, October and November.

In a post, the band promised fans a fun-filled performance, teasing "new era, new music, new us (them)."

The run begins with two sold-out shows in San Francisco on Aug. 22 and 23 where Imperial Teen will open for The Breeders before launching its highly anticipated headlining run.

Jone Stebbins and Will Schwartz of Imperial Teen during 21st Annual SXSW Film and Music Festival.

Following the opening shows, the band will embark on a coast-to-coast tour with stops in Los Angeles, Seattle, Portland, Boston, Philadelphia, New York City and more.

Joining as a special guest for the October leg is jangle pop outfit Kids on a Crime Spree, while the special guest for the November dates will be announced at a later time.

View this post on Instagram

Before announcing its long-awaited return to the road, the band last performed at a headlining show in Los Angeles and a hometown concert in San Francisco as part of the Noise Pop Music and Arts Festival.

The upcoming run marks Imperial Teen's first tour in six years.

Formed in 1994 in San Francisco, the four-piece band is celebrated for its distinctive sound, blending upbeat, energetic, sugar-coated pop melodies with dark, witty and sarcastic lyrics.

Their signature track, "Yoo Hoo," rose to fame after being featured on the soundtrack of the 1999 cult classic film Jawbreaker, a milestone the band has described as one of its defining moments, apart from "getting 'Demo Of The Week' in the SF Guardian" and playing its first show.

“The year Seasick came out, we played at South by Southwest, and it was another defining moment where we were embraced by the press,” Schwartz told Magnet. “The next defining moment was “Yoo Hoo” being on the Jawbreaker movie soundtrack and having the video with Rose McGowan, getting added on KROQ, then touring with Hole. Then we were dropped by London/Universal, another defining moment. Then we landed happily on Merge, which has been kind of the current defining moment. I think we’re due for a couple more?

Throughout its career, Imperial Teen released six studio albums, beginning with Seasick in 1996. The band also released the live album Live at Maxwell's in 2002.

Imperial Teen Tour 2026:

Aug. 22 - San Francisco, CA @ The Castro Theatre
Aug. 23 - San Francisco, CA @ The Castro Theatre
Oct. 14 - Los Angeles, CA @ Zebulon
Oct. 15 - San Francisco, CA @ Bottom of the Hill
Oct. 17 - Seattle, WA @ Barboza
Oct. 18 - Portland, OR @ Swan Dive
Nov. 3 - Boston, MA @ The Lilypad
Nov. 4 - Brooklyn, NY @ Baby's All Right
Nov. 5 - Philadelphia, PA @ Nikki Lopez
Nov. 7 - Durham, NC @ The Pinhook

Related: 1985 Rock Song, Written by One of the ‘Best Supergroups’ of All Time, Became a Timeless Anthem

In 1982, Todd Rundgren’s Utopia released a self-titled album that strayed far from the band’s progressive roots. The three-sided set featured the singles “Feet Don't Fail Me Now" and "Hammer in My Heart,” but the opening track, “Libertine,” was also a standout.

Penned by Rundgren, keyboardist Roger Powell, and drummer Willie Wilcox, “Libertine” delivered a synth-driven power pop punch, with lyrics about a mysterious woman that the singer knows he should stay away from. In the end, the reality of being alone with the intoxicating woman doesn’t measure up to his fantasies about her.

“Libertine” became an FM radio classic, receiving airplay on rock and pop stations that played the song right from the album. But the song left all but diehard fans confused. Casual listeners assumed it was Rundgren singing the song— and his voice could be clearly heard in the chorus. But the lead vocals came from guitarist Kasim Sulton, who had briefly quit the band during the recording sessions and returned just in time to make the cut for “Libertine.”

Of the Utopia album, a review posted by AllMusic addressed the nearly interchangeable band members with, “Utopia finally became a true collective here, with each member's contributions sounding remarkably similar, in performance and composition.”

Speaking with Songfacts, Sulton confirmed he had nothing to do with writing “Libertine,” before addressing the song’s lack of chart status.

“That record didn't become a huge hit the same way every other Utopia record didn't become a huge hit: because there were forces afoot that did not want Utopia to become successful,” he claimed. “There were players behind the scenes that went out of their way to kind of sabotage Utopia, because they were more interested in Todd's solo career than in Todd's band career.”

Still, thanks to radio support, “Libertine” became a cult favorite. But 19 years later, fans were in for another surprise. When the 2001 collection Todd Rundgren Demos and Lost Albums Vol. 4 was released, fans were surprised to find that keyboardist Roger Powell recorded the lead vocals on the original demo, over a nearly identical arrangement to the 1982 album track. That bombshell provided a clue that, had Sulton not returned, “Libertine” would have been a Powell track.

In an interview with Goldmine, Rundgren explained that he embraced a collaborative effort for Utopia as the band changed direction just as the prog-rock movement began to fade out.

“So we started focusing more on a song-oriented approach,” he said. “It became more of a round-robin thing rather than everybody doing everything all at the same time.”

Nearly 45 years later, fans still praise “Libertine” one of the best cuts from Utopia.

Related: 1979 Rock Classic, Reimagined from 1975 No. 1 Hit, Remains a Timeless Breakup Anthem 47 Years Later

Summer might be the season for vacations and backyard fun, but it can also mean busy schedules, hot kitchens, and little interest in spending an hour making dinner. Costco just made mealtime a lot easier with a new ready-to-cook option that goes from fridge to table in under 20 minutes.

The Custom Made Meals Chicken Kabobs are packed with chicken breast, bell peppers, onions, and Greek-style seasoning. The heat-and-serve meal is currently selling for around $18.69 for a 45-ounce package (Item #2068468).

You can see them up close in this July 15 TikTok from @costcofam4u:

@costcofam4u

I think I just found my summer go-to meal at Costco! ☀️🍢 These ready-to-cook kebabs come packed with seasoned meat, bell peppers, and onions, making dinner incredibly easy with almost no prep. Just grill over medium heat, turning every few minutes until fully cooked, or bake them in the oven for an easy weeknight meal. Would you grill these or bake them? 👇 #costcofam4u #costcodeals #easymeals #summergrilling #dinnerideas 🚫 Not affiliated with Costco 🚫 Not affiliated with any brands, items, companies, products in this content and video

♬ Originalton - Matway Costco’s New Ready-to-Grill Chicken Kabobs Make Dinner Easy

Each kabob is loaded with chunks of chicken breast, red and green bell peppers, and onions, all seasoned with a Greek-style blend of oregano, black pepper, marjoram, basil, thyme, tarragon, parsley, red pepper, and peppermint. The vegetables look fresh and colorful, while the generous pieces of chicken make each skewer substantial enough to serve as the centerpiece of a meal.

Related: Costco's New High-Protein Freezer Find Is the Easiest Summer Meal Hack

They also require very little hands-on work. The kabobs can be grilled in about 12 to 17 minutes, turning every 2 to 3 minutes to prevent burning, making them a convenient option for weeknight dinners when nobody feels like spending an hour in the kitchen. Prefer cooking indoors? They can also be broiled in the oven for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. The package does note one exception: the kabobs should not be microwaved.

Classic chicken and vegetable kabobs on the grill.

Photo by Mario Verduzco on Unsplash

Viewers shared their thoughts in the comments. One person wrote, “I need this!” While @tootsuzy, shared firsthand experience with the product, writing, “I bought those recently when they were on sale. They were delish!!”

The versatility doesn’t stop at cooking methods. Pair them with tzatziki sauce for dipping, serve them alongside a Greek salad or a simple green salad, or add rice or noodles to round out the meal.

Each serving also provides 35 grams of protein, making the kabobs a filling option for anyone looking for a quick meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or convenience.

With fresh ingredients already cut and assembled, and the seasoning done, this Costco find makes summer meals easier and helps get dinner on the table in under 20 minutes.

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

Mediterranean hotspots like Málaga, Spain, and Cinque Terre, Italy, are summer perfection—ideal for breezy beach days, enjoying late-afternoon tapas, and soaking up the Italian dolce vita. I recently got to experience both back-to-back on a preview sailing for Royal Caribbean's newest ship, Legend of the Seas, using Málaga as our embarkation port and exploring the rugged Italian coast during a port day.

While both countries sizzle in the summer, temperatures across Europe have steadily climbed in recent years, making packing a strategic puzzle. You need ultra-breathable fabrics for trekking through coastal villages in the midday sun, but substantial layers in case you're traveling by chilly, air-conditioned ship. And you don't want to stand out like a tourist. The temptation to overpack for a multi-country trip like this is incredibly real.

However, traveling comfortably through Europe with only a carry-on doesn't require sacrificing style—it just requires a system. By sticking to a highly curated wardrobe of breathable, mix-and-match staples and utilizing a tactical "three-bag" packing strategy, you can easily transition from daytime tapas on a pedestrian walkway to late-night cocktails on the ship’s deck, completely hassle-free.

Related: I Went on a Mediterranean Cruise With Just a Carry-on—These 8 Quince Pieces Let Me Blend in Like a Local

Marlow Laptop Backpack

When you're managing embarkation at a busy port like Málaga or navigating European airports, a hands-free personal item is a lifesaver. This sleek backpack holds your heavy tech and important travel documents right under the seat in front of you while keeping your posture perfectly aligned. Plus, its polished leather-look exterior ensures you still look incredibly chic walking up the ship's gangway.

Shop It at Quince!Cotton Linen Relaxed Crew Sweater

Europe's summer heat is intense, but the air conditioning inside a massive cruise ship like Legend of the Seas can feel like a total deep freeze. A relaxed cotton-linen blend is the ultimate transitional layer. It’s lightweight enough to throw over your shoulders during a breezy sunset on deck, yet substantial enough to keep you comfortable during a three-course indoor dinner.

Shop it at Quince!

Related: 87% of My Travel Wardrobe Is Quince—Here’s What I Pack on Every Trip

100% Washable Silk Drawstring Wide Leg Pants

Nothing screams Mediterranean luxury quite like silk, and these are comfortable enough to double as the ultimate plane pants. They take up virtually zero space in a carry-on, feel completely weightless against your skin in the humid heat, and easily elevate a simple tee into an elegant look fit for late-night cocktails. Best of all, they're fully washable, so you can easily refresh them in your cabin or hotel sink if you want to wear them multiple times on your trip.

Shop it at Quince!Skechers Women's Lifted Comfort

Navigating Europe's historic, sun-baked cities means dealing with endless stairs and unforgiving cobblestones. While leaving your heavy sneakers at home sounds risky, these sandals are a great alternative. They are structured and supportive enough for walking-intensive days, yet far more breathable than closed-toe shoes in the summer heat. Plus, the clean, minimalist silhouette and subtle platform blend seamlessly with elevated European styles, helping you look like a local rather than a tourist.  

Shop it on Amazon!

Related: I’m a Travel Editor and This $100 Quince Blazer Is My Packing Secret Weapon

Pill Bottle Organizer for Travel

Packing individual bottles for all your daily vitamins and prescriptions is an immediate carry-on dealbreaker. But if you hate the tedious chore of sorting pills into tiny day-of-the-week compartments, this modular organizer is the ultimate hack. Instead of meticulously mapping out your weekly doses, you simply fill up the sleek, moisture-proof tubes and go—saving you serious packing space and prep time before you head out the door.

Shop it on Amazon!Brookstone Hooded Neck Pillow

An overseas flight requires arriving at your embarkation port feeling refreshed, not completely wrecked. This memory-foam neck pillow provides excellent support to prevent mid-flight neck cramps, but the real game-changer is the built-in hood. It blocks out harsh cabin lights and gives you a cozy sense of privacy so you can actually catch some sleep before your European adventure begins.

Shop it on Amazon!Vera Bradley Springbrook Sling Crossbody

Pickpockets love crowded European squares and bustling pedestrian walkways. That’s why a secure, chest-hugging sling is an absolute necessity for port days. It keeps your passport, phone, and wallet locked down right against your body, leaving your hands completely free to hold a camera or a plate of tapas.

Shop it on Vera BradleyLe Sportsak Carlin Tote

This is the personal item I always find myself going back to. It packs down small enough to fit flat inside your luggage on the way out, makes for the perfect day bag while in port, but it can easily become your official personal item on the way home when you're loaded down with souvenirs. It's incredibly lightweight yet amazingly durable, and the straps are designed to stay firmly in place on your shoulder without slipping. Plus, unlike floppy packable bags, it has a top zipper, a handy trolley sleeve to slide over your suitcase handle, and just enough structure to keep everything secure while you browse popular tourist spots.

Shop it on LeSportsak!

Related: I’m Heading to Nantucket This Summer—These 8 Affordable Quince Staples Help Me Nail Preppy Coastal Style

Denise Austin is aging with grace... and a whole lot of chutzpah!

The workout queen, 69, rose to fame with her line of exercise tapes and DVDs that got millions of Americans to be active. She went on to become a force in the movement for activity and even served as a member of the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports. Now known for her Fit Over 50 magazine and app, Austin is still going strong and looking better than ever. In a new video emblazoned with the words "This is 69!!!!" the health legend jumps up and down on a bed in a blue dress, while her adorable dog sits there minding its business.

"THIS IS 69!!!! JUMPING into the weekend with so much JOY!!! I truly believe that age is just a number!!! It’s all about a POSITIVE mindset and keep MOVING!!!! It’s never too late to FEEL GREAT Longevity and vitality Baby!!! Health and cheerfulness is naturally related.. one breeds the other!! Let’s lift our spirits, get moving and spread good vibes all weekend!!! YOU GOT THIS!!!!! Sending you all so much love and positive ENERGY!!! XOXOXO," Austin shared with her typically enthusiastic attitude.

Check out the video below:

View this post on Instagram

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬

Austin Loves a Throwback Post

In a recent Instagram post, Austin shared a photo of herself wearing one of her old white leotards in 1988. Flash forward to 2026, and Austin still has the same leotard and wears it with style.

“Here I am in 1988. The ‘then’ photo is from one of my first VHS cover photoshoots!! And the ‘now’ is from my recent Fit Over 50: Vitality for Life Magazine cover shoot!! So fun!” Austin captioned the photo set.

View this post on Instagram Why She Keeps Those Legendary Leotards

Since many people wonder why Austin has held onto her treasure trove of ’80s leotards, the workout queen recently shared that they’re important keepsakes from her past.

“I saved all of my leotards from back in the day, from the ‘80s and ‘90s, which I used to wear on my videos and on my TV show,” she told Fox News. “I’m so happy I kept them all because [my daughter] Katie loves to wear them. My other daughter, Kelly, loves to wear them too.”

Related: Denise Austin Just Dropped New Swimsuit Photos—and Fans Can't Believe She's 69

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

If your summer plans include dining al fresco, melamine dishware is worth checking out. It looks just as sleek as ceramic while remaining lightweight and shatter-resistant, so you can spend less time worrying about it breaking. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, enjoying snacks by the pool, or hosting gatherings with family and kids, melamine dishware is an ideal summer entertainment option.

Right now, the Better Homes & Gardens Bamboo Melamine Floral Serving Bowl is just $2 at Walmart, down from $10. This serving bowl features a charming floral design that gives it a more elevated look. Shoppers loved the quality for the price, with one reviewer writing, “I can’t believe how nice it is.” 

Better Homes & Gardens Bamboo Melamine Floral Serve Bowl, $2 (was $10) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Measuring 13 inches in diameter and 4.1 inches tall, it offers plenty of room for serving everything from fresh salads and fruit to barbecue sides and party snacks. The serving bowl is made from a durable blend of 55% bamboo and 45% melamine, which makes it well-suited for outdoor entertaining. Melamine dishes like these are often more affordable than delicate porcelain or stoneware pieces, plus they’re a reusable alternative to disposable plates and bowls. 

The floral finish adds a decorative touch to patios, picnic tables, and summer tablescapes. One shopper praised the “beautiful colors and soft floral print,” noting that they “will definitely enjoy this for outdoor pool use.” 

The bowl is dishwasher safe (top rack only), so clean-up is a breeze. Just keep in mind that it’s not microwave safe.

Even at its budget-friendly price, shoppers said this bowl looks like a much more expensive find. One reviewer shared, “This bowl should be $30, but it’s so affordable!” Another said it was “perfect for serving big bowls of chips or fruit or snacks for kids on the patio.”

Related: The Pioneer Woman’s $12 Vintage-Style Stoneware Pie Plate Is the 'Best Baking Dish' for Summer Desserts

At just $2 at Walmart, the Better Homes & Gardens Bamboo Melamine Floral Serving Bowl is an easy way to add a pretty, practical piece to your summer table. Since rollback deals this good tend to disappear quickly, shoppers should act fast before they sell out!

Don’t miss future deals!Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

Costco is known for carrying unique international finds, but one recent snack find is causing a stir amongst shoppers.

The warehouse giant has stocked its shelves with a new Lay's product that's unlike anything customers have tried before.

The Lay's Thinly Sliced Taro Chips, imported from China, bring a fan-favorite international snack straight to your local warehouse.

Instead of potatoes, these chips swap in real taro root, a starchy vegetable popular across Asia with a subtly sweet and nutty flavor. The addition of a zesty citric lime seasoning gives them a bright and unexpected twist.

"These unique chips deliver a delightful crunch paired with a zesty lime flavour that adds excitement to your snacking routine," the description of the chips notes.

For many Costco shoppers, the snack is an exciting change of pace, as the taro gives them a light, crispy texture that's noticeably less greasy than regular chips.

Related: Costco’s Most-Anticipated Food Court Item Is Finally Available Nationwide

Some shoppers even compared the taste to their favorite desserts, with one Redditor pointing out that the lime almost tastes like "lemon meringue pie or key lime pie."

A handful of others were in agreement that they tasted "exactly like Fruity Pebbles."

"Very refreshing and summery," another shopper commented.

The buzz around the imported taro chips continues to grow, even among those who simply picked up a bag out of pure curiosity not knowing what to expect.

Parade's editors gave these a taste-test upon spotting them on the Costco shelves, with one noting, "The way I inhaled a giant bag of these... they're SO GOOD."

Retailing for around $7 for a nearly-17-ounce bag, the chips are already "selling out fast," according to social media account Costco New Deals.

And there's a reason for it, as one comment expressed, "Omg I got those Taro chips for my family’s 4th party and they were destroyed!!!! People couldn’t stop eating them!!!"

"Those taro chips are the best chip I have ever had," someone else stated, while another added, "Those taro chips are 🔥."

The popular Costco Buys Instagram account also highlighted the chips, confirming, "Lay’s Taro Chips in Lime flavor at Costco are such a unique and addicting snack find! These are imported thinly sliced taro chips with a zesty lime crunch and once you open the bag it is genuinely hard to stop."

View this post on Instagram

If you haven't yet, toss them into your cart during your next Costco run!

There's been a huge spike in international flavors making their way to this side of the pond, as Lay's previously introduced 3 globally-inspired flavors in honor of the World Cup, including brand-new Brazilian‑Style Garlic Sauce Potato Chips and Wavy French Onion SoupChips, as well as the returning Argentinian‑Style Steak with Chimichurriflavor it initially launched as part of a limited-time collaboration with soccer star Lionel Messilast summer.

Related: I Ate at Madrid’s New Lay’s Restaurant. Here’s Why We’ve Been Eating Potato Chips Wrong for 94 Years

If you've ever wished your everyday travel essentials had a little more Disney magic or simply cannot keep track of your car keys, there's a new collection designed with fans in mind.

Life360 has teamed up with Disney to launch a limited-edition line of Tile Bluetooth trackers featuring two of the company's most beloved characters: Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse.

The new collection arrives just in time for the busy summer travel season and back-to-school shopping, giving Disney fans a fun way to keep track of the items they never want to lose.

Whether attached to luggage, backpacks, strollers or even passports, the themed trackers work with the Life360 app to help families locate important belongings using Bluetooth technology.

The collection includes three products:

• Tile Starter Pack – Mickey Mouse ($49.99), which includes a Tile and Tile Slim
• Tile Starter Pack – Minnie Mouse ($49.99), which includes a Tile and Tile Slim
• Tile – Mickey Mouse ($24.99)

The trackers aren't just about the adorable designs. Each features up to a 350-foot Bluetooth range, a three-year battery life, a ring feature to help locate misplaced items and an SOS button for added peace of mind. They're also compatible with both Apple and Android devices through the Life360 app.

For Disney fans planning vacations or parents getting ready for another school year, the collection offers a practical way to add a little extra pixie dust to everyday essentials.

The limited-edition Disney x Life360 Tile collection is available now through Amazon and Life360 while supplies last.  

RELATED: This Classic '80s TV Cast Is Finally One Step Closer to Reuniting

River cruising has quietly become one of the most sought-after ways to explore Europe, offering a rare travel luxury: the ability to unpack a suitcase just once while a boutique floating hotel drifts seamlessly from historic metropolitan centers to remote riverside villages.

The appeal is showing up clearly in the data. According to a study by IG River Cruise and Centouris, European river cruise passenger volume jumped 8% to 1.49 million travelers, with industry forecasts predicting sustained upward momentum. But as iconic waterways like the Danube and the Rhine draw increasingly dense crowds, savvy travelers and top travel advisors are shifting their gaze toward the Iberian Peninsula.

For those seeking a more intimate, design-forward, and scenery-driven escape, Portugal’s Douro River has emerged as the ultimate alternative. When we polled three top travel advisors for their absolute favorite European river itinerary, they all pointed to the exact same route: Viking River Cruises’ highly coveted "Portugal’s River of Gold" itinerary—a 10-day journey that sails with just over 100 guests aboard specialized vessels like the Viking Hemming.

“Unlike the more commonly traveled Danube or Rhine rivers, the Douro offers a lesser known yet equally enchanting experience, showcasing Portugal’s stunning landscapes, vibrant towns and world-renowned wine regions,” explains Caroline Swift, a luxury travel specialist with Cruise Planners in Laguna Niguel, California. “This itinerary is special because it allows travelers to explore the heart of Portugal while enjoying the luxury and comfort of a river cruise, making it a perfect option for those seeking something different.”

Here's a breakdown of exactly why this specific Douro River itinerary stands out, how it completely eliminates the friction of traditional European exploration, and what it's actually like to experience it firsthand on the water.

Related: : We Asked 3 Travel Experts To Pick the Best First-Time River Cruise

1. Starting Your Journey in Lisbon aerial view over the rooftops of Lisbon. In background is Tagus River

Getty

One of the smartest elements of the itinerary is that it doesn't force travelers to rush straight from an overnight transatlantic flight onto a moving ship. Instead, the journey begins with a built-in, two-night hotel stay in the heart of Lisbon. This creates an intentional staging ground that functions as both a rest period and a cultural deep dive before the nautical portion of the trip even begins.

“You have time to adjust to European time, explore the neighborhoods, listen to Fado music, ride the historic trams, and enjoy the city's incredible food scene before the cruise even begins,” says Angie Brandt, a travel advisor and owner of Both Worlds Travel in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Having sailed this exact route last month, I can confirm that beginning in Lisbon is a total game-changer for beating jet lag. Viking uses the Corinthia Lisbon as its home base, which felt like an incredibly polished sanctuary with a standout staff who pointed me toward hidden, lesser-known alleyways I would have totally missed on my own. On our third morning, Viking handled all of our luggage and chartered us smoothly up to the ship in Porto. They even built in a midway stop in Coimbra, a gorgeous, historic university town, which meant we got a full day of sightseeing instead of a boring bus transfer. Instead of managing rental cars, train schedules, luggage transfers or hotel changes, travelers can simply enjoy the journey.

Related: Is River Cruising Only for Retirees? 5 Surprising Truths from a Cruise Pro

2. Skipping the Stress of Driving Portugal’s Roads The famous Ribeira District of Porto, Portugal featuring Douro river and various vintage houses, shops and restaurants by the riverside

Amith Nag Photography

Portugal is a country defined by its dramatic, terraced geology, which means that exploring its interior by car requires navigating incredibly narrow, winding, and steep mountain roads. For many travelers, the anxiety of handling international car rentals, train timetables, and heavy luggage transfers often overshadows the beauty of the destination itself. A river cruise effectively acts as a logistical safety net.

“For well-traveled clients, the Douro is a fantastic opportunity to see many highlights of a country,” notes Nancy Shirey, a travel agent and owner of Dream Vacations Stowaway Travel Group in Millsboro, Delaware. “For clients who are unsure about self-drive exploration and have Portugal on their list, this type of trip gives them the best of both worlds: city experiences and the ease of river cruising coupled with high touch on the ground logistical support.”

Because the logistics are completely invisible to the guest, the vacation shifts from a series of tactical decisions into a genuinely restorative escape. As Swift points out: “Logistics are handled for the traveler so all they have to do is pack their bags, and board the plane.”

As a first-time visitor to Portugal, I was completely struck by how effortless the entire journey felt. I didn't have to stress over missing a train or dragging a heavy suitcase up Porto's famously steep, cobbled hillsides. Instead, the Viking Hemming served as my permanent, upscale home base. The level of high-touch service from the onboard crew meant that every detail was anticipated before I even thought to ask, allowing me to fully disconnect and just absorb the culture.

Related: This Under $20 White Blend Will Be Your Go-To Summer Wine

3. Diving into the Wine Culture of the Douro Valley

Getty

The Douro is not just a transport route; it's the lifeblood of one of the oldest and most spectacular wine regions on earth. Sailing past centuries-old, stone-walled vineyards that climb vertically from the water's edge provides a visual perspective that simply cannot be replicated from a highway.

“When I talk to clients about the Douro, I’m not simply selling a cruise,” Shirey explains. “I’m helping them picture the feeling of sitting on the sun deck with a glass of wine, watching the countryside drift by, and truly disconnecting from everyday life.”

The itinerary winds through port-wine hubs like Régua and Pinhão before reaching Barca d’Alva, a quiet village resting right on the Spanish border that provides access to the medieval hilltop ruins of Castelo Rodrigo. The programming is specifically curated to push past surface-level tourism, favoring deep, hyper-local interactions with the families who have shaped the valley for generations.

“What makes Portugal different is that it feels like you've stepped into the destination instead of simply passing through it,” Brandt says. “Travelers aren’t just seeing Portugal, they’re sharing time with Portugal: sitting with winemakers, wandering neighborhoods, and experiencing the daily life in a way that feels increasingly rare in travel today. Instead of simply checking off famous landmarks, they want experiences that feel active, personal, and meaningful.”

There's an undeniable magic to waking up, grabbing a coffee, and stepping onto the top deck to watch the morning mist rise over miles of terraced green vineyards. But what really stayed with me was the hospitality of the Portuguese people. On our shore excursions, we weren't just observing from afar; we were sitting down with local winemakers in their own estates, wandering through historic Jewish quarters in remote villages, and sharing genuine moments that made the destination feel deeply personal.

4. The Value of the All-Inclusive Small-Ship Local entertainers perform a traditional Portuguese dance onboard the Viking Hemming.

Erica Lamberg

With a capacity capped at roughly 100 guests, vessels like the Viking Hemming feel less like standard cruise ships and more like intimate, floating boutique lodges. This smaller footprint allows the ship to dock right in the center of historic towns like Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its colorful riverside quarter and historic port lodges.

From a value perspective, the inclusion of a dedicated guided shore excursion in every single port drastically simplifies the daily rhythm of the trip. Travelers can head into destinations like Salamanca, Spain—home to golden sandstone architecture and one of Europe's oldest universities—with guaranteed access.

“Viking’s Portugal’s River of Gold itinerary encapsulates this charm, offering travelers a blend of breathtaking river views, cultural excursions and culinary delights. The combination of historical landmarks, wine tastings, and local cuisine makes this itinerary a must-book for anyone looking to experience the best of Portugal,” Swift says. “And Viking’s shore excursions are well-organized and often included in the cruise package, allowing travelers to explore the local culture, visit historic sites, and enjoy culinary experiences without the stress of planning.”

The ultimate takeaway from travelers who return from the valley is often centered around the sheer beauty of the region and the hospitality of the local residents. “When my clients and I debrief on their trip to Portugal,” said Brandt. “The word I heard most often is ‘beautiful.’ You just have to visit to understand.”

For me, this trip was a total 10 out of 10, largely due to the incredible value proposition. Because a guided tour is completely covered at every single stop, your daily itinerary is essentially organized for you at the highest standard, with zero extra planning required. You get the elite historical context from local guides, access to exclusive port tastings, and world-class regional meals both on and off the ship, making the overall investment feel entirely worthwhile.

My Insider Tips for Sailing the Douro River

After spending a week navigating the River of Gold, here are my top personal recommendations for making the absolute most of this itinerary:

Prioritize regional culinary experiences on shore: Whenever you are exploring a port, seek out authentic local flavors. My absolute favorite memories involved tracking down simple, local spots to enjoy authentic regional bites, fresh local bread, or just sitting back with a glass of crisp Portuguese wine.

Maintain a daily wellness routine: The endless food, free-flowing wine, and standard cruise temptations make it incredibly easy to overindulge. I highly recommend staying active by maximizing your steps on port days (I easily hit 20,000 steps just walking off the ship) and prioritizing fresh salads and steamed vegetables at lunch to keep yourself feeling great throughout the 10-day journey.

Lean on the onboard perks: One of the loveliest benefits of moving up the loyalty tiers with Viking's outstanding, seamless service is that it handles your wants and needs for you. Take advantage of things like the laundry service so you can pack light, and enjoy the effortless flow of having your room service taken care of without a second thought.

Related: The 5 Best River Cruises to Take in Your 40s

The Gothic novel Frankenstein, or The Modern Prometheus, was written by English writer and novelist Mary Shelley when she was just 18 years old. And the story of how it came to be almost reads like a Gothic story in and of itself.

It was a rainy summer in 1816, when 18-year-old Mary and her lover (who would be her future husband) Percy Bysshe Shelley visited Lord Byron near Lake Geneva in the Swiss Alps. Because of the weather there was not much to do and the trio were effectively housebound.

While sitting around a fire, Lord Byron proposed that the three of them each attempt to write their own ghost story. After several days, Mary thought of the idea "perhaps a corpse would be re-animated." She originally intended for it to simply be a short story, but at the encouragement of Percy she began developing it into a full novel. Mary would later to go on to say that rainy summer was "when I first stepped out from childhood into life."

The novel that was born from the ghost stroy prompt was Frankenstein.

View this post on Instagram

Much of Frankenstein was written while Mary spent time in Bath, England in 1816 following the death of her sister. The novel was first published when she was 20 on New Years Day, 1818. It was initally published anonymously, with Mary being first credited as the author on a French translation published in Paris in 1821.

The novel Frankenstein centers Victor Frankenstein who tells his story to the explorer Robert Walton who has rescued him from the Arctic. Frankenstein was an ambitious young scientist who was seeking to discouver the secret to life. He does this by creating a grotesque and disfigured monster who becomes sentient, but is shunned by society. When rejected by humans and his creator, the monster seeks revenge on Frankenstein who then faces the consequences of what he has created.

Frankenstein is widely influential and now considered a classic amongst English literature. Many also consider it to be the first true monster novel. It also pioneered science fiction and was innovative in Gothic horror as it replaced the supernatural with true science and humans behind the horrors that occur.

Without a doubt, this novel written by an 18-year-old girl truly changed literature as we know it today.

🎬SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox🎬

Related: 1967 International Bestseller, Written by a 16-Year-Old, Became a ‘Most Influential Novel’

Camille Gottlieb, the granddaughter of the legendary Grace Kelly, is a red carpet queen just like her late grandma.

Gottlieb, a Monaco-based content creator, is the daughter of Princess Stéphanieof Monaco and Jean Raymond Gottlieb. Kelly, of course, was an American actress and Princess of Monaco thanks to her marriage to Prince Rainier III. While Kelly tragically died in a car accident in 1982, her legacy lives on forever, particularly due to her tremendous contribution to film. She earned acclaim for her roles in Alfred Hitchcock's classics Dial M for Murder, Rear Window, and To Catch a Thief.

This weekend, Gottlieb hit the red carpet at the 77th Red Cross Ball in Monaco and showed the world those movie star good looks she inherited. Wearing a soft yellow silk gown with her long blond hair in gentle waves, Gottlieb shined brightly.

Stephane Cardinale - Corbis / Getty Images

🎬SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox🎬

Gottlieb Loves to Soak Up the Sun

In the present day, Gottlieb has inherited her grandmother’s blonde hair and classic beauty. Lounging on the beach in Mauritius in a leopard print bikini, Gottlieb looked like she was having the time of her life on vacation.

“Sunshine, friends, turquoise water, our favorite island on earth and lots of love. 🥰,” Gottlieb captioned the post, which was originally written in French.

View this post on Instagram She Recreated One of Her Grandmother’s Most Famous Looks

Last July, Gottlieb wore a gown similar to the one that Kelly wore in Alfred Hitchcock‘s iconic 1954 film Rear Window. Dressed to the nines for the 76th Red Cross Ball in Monaco, Gottlieb looked absolutely stunning.

“When I was very little, I was often told that I looked like my grandmother,” Gottlieb told French publication Galawhile getting ready for the big event. “To me, it’s one of the best compliments I could ever receive.”

In the photo’s caption, originally written in French, Gottlieb wrote, “Thanks to [Elisabetta Franchi] was able to pay tribute to my grandmother with this magnificent dress.”

View this post on Instagram

While the jewelry is a bit different than what Kelly wore in the film, the dress is pretty close.

Michael Ochs Archives / Getty Images

Her Dreams of Meeting Her Grandmother

While Gottlieb never got to meet her grandmother due to her untimely death, she has heard endless stories about her wit from her own mother.

“For me, she is above all my mother’s mother. I would really have liked to know her and talk with her. From what my mother tells me, from what we hear, she was a very funny person, with ideas, who had character and who was a very admirable person on all levels,” Gottlieb told Vanity Fair last year, Tatler reported.

Related: Grace Kelly’s Granddaughter Camille Gottlieb Turns Heads With Her Sun-Drenched Bikini Photos

Billy Joel almost skipped putting the song “Just the Way You Are” on his album The Stranger—until Linda Ronstadt convinced him to keep it.

In a new interview with Rick Beato, Joel, 77, admitted that Ronstadt stopped him from scrapping the Grammy-winning love ballad when recording his megahit 1977 album.

“I didn't even want to put it on the album because I thought it was too mushy,” Joel told Beato of "Just the Way You Are" during the July 2026 sitdown. “And then we were in the studio. I thought it was too soft, too mushy."

“Linda Ronstadt and Phoebe Snow are in the studio, and we played the song for them," Joel continued. "I said, ‘I don't like this song that much.' Linda Ronstadt goes, ‘Are you out of your mind? That's a hit record! You got to put that on the album. That's a great song.'"

“It’s really, she talked me into it," Joel revealed. "So, I have to thank Linda Ronstadt for that song.”

RELATED: 1977 No. 1 Soft Rock Hit Became a Career-Defining Classic

“Just the Way You Are” featured a romantic piano medley, a Phil Woods saxophone solo, and lyrics about unconditional love.

After Ronstadt stopped by his studio, Joel realized that “Just the Way You Are” would appeal to his female fan base.

“[Ronstadt ] said, ‘You guys are crazy, you’ve gotta keep that on the album,'" Joel recalled in a 2008 interview with  The Republican. "We said ‘Yeah? Well ok, I guess girls like that song, it’s a chick song.'”

Not only did Joel include “Just the Way You Are” on his album, but the song went to No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 amid a 27-week run on the music chart.

In response to the song, The Stranger became one of Joel’s biggest albums and was Columbia Records’ biggest-selling album from 1977 until 1985, per Joel’s official website. While the Phil Ramone-produced album included other hits such as “Movin’ Out” and “Only the Good Die Young,” “Just the Way You Are” was by far the biggest song and helped propel The Stranger to multi-platinum status.

And it’s lucky that Ronstadt stepped in. In The Republican interview, Joel revealed that The Stranger had been a do-or-die album for him.

“I found out after the fact that had The Stranger not been a successful selling album, they (Columbia Records) probably would have dropped me from the label,” he shared. “I don’t really know what’s going to be a big commercial hit. We almost left ‘Just The Way You Are’ off the album because we really didn’t like it that much.”

But Joel’s issues with the song continued. For starters, he wrote "Just the Way You Are” for his first wife, Elizabeth Weber. After they divorced in 1982, he grew tired of playing the song live and boycotted it onstage for years.

In an interview published by USA Today, Joel jokingly warned fans against using “Just the Way You Are” as their wedding song.

“Hey, look, I wrote that song for my first ex-wife. So what the hell do I know?” he cracked, before adding, “I’m aware that it’s been played a lot. And that it means a great deal to some people. But I’m able to see it both ways.”

Related: Trailblazing ‘First Lady of Rock’ Turns 80

Veteran musician Aaron Lewis has released his new solo country album, Give My Country Back, marking another milestone in a career that began 36 years ago. 

The multi-platinum artist, who first rose to fame as the frontman of Staind before launching a country career, announced the release on Instagram with a simple message:

"My new album 'Give My Country Back' is out now."

Released through Big Machine Label Group, the 10-track project is Lewis' sixth solo country album. It explores themes of accountability, resilience, faith, patriotism and personal growth while blending traditional honky-tonk sounds with modern country production.

Aaron Lewis of the band Staind performs at Target Center on May 28, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Photo by Adam Bettcher/Getty Images

Produced by Sol Philcox-Littlefield, the album features songs written by Lewis alongside longtime collaborators Jeffrey Steele and Bobby Pinson, with additional contributions from Casey Beathard, Travis Meadows, and other songwriters.

View this post on Instagram

Speaking about the album's central message, Lewis said, per antiMusic, "That's life's struggle right there. You are the master of your own destiny, and everything happens because of your actions - whether you want to admit it or not. Self-ownership is a huge thing to learn how to do in this life, and it's always an internal battle."

Lewis first entered the music industry in 1990 and became widely known after forming the rock band Staind in 1995. Since beginning his solo country career in 2010, he has earned two No. 1 Billboard Country Album debuts with Town Line and Sinner.

His catalog also includes the Platinum-certified collaboration "Country Boy" featuring George Jones and Charlie Daniels, along with the Gold-certified No. 1 country hit "Am I The Only One." Across both his rock and country careers, Lewis has accumulated more than 5.7 billion worldwide streams.

The new album opens with its title track, "Give My Country Back," which Lewis describes as carrying on the patriotic tradition of his country music influences.

Speaking about the song, he said, "I actually care about the fact we have people we put in their positions, who are in no way, shape, or form doing anything in any way that is better for us."

The album also includes tracks such as "The Door," "Bad Thing to Be Good At," "Too High for This," "Let Go Like the Rain” and "People I've Known."

Lewis co-wrote five songs on the project while balancing personal reflection with the direct storytelling that has become a trademark of his solo work.

The album arrives just weeks after Lewis unexpectedly made headlines when pages from the Give My Country Back album booklet appeared as packing material inside promotional Taylor Swift merchandise shipments before the record's release.

After the incident spread online, Lewis said he was surprised to learn that artwork and lyrics from his unreleased album had been shredded for packaging. He later clarified that he did not blame Swift for what happened and said he simply did not understand how the mistake occurred, according to USA Today.

With Give My Country Back now officially available, the focus returns to the music itself as Lewis adds another chapter to a career that has spanned more than three decades, from rock stages with Staind to country music success as a solo artist.

Related: Country Star, With No. 1 Hit Song, Announces News Amid 2026 Tour