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Kate Middleton had a show-stopping tiara moment at a glittering state banquet last night!

Kate looked every inch the Disney princess in the diamond headpiece and the flowing lemon-yellow gown as she and the other royals sat down to dinner with the Sultan of Oman at Windsor Castle.

The yellow dress brought to mind Belle’s iconic gown from Beauty and the Beast.

The color was an unexpected choice for the Princess of Wales, who usually favors rich jewel tones for the banquets that mark state visits.

The $6,500 pleated yellow dress is by Elie Saab and features a sheer cape and a keyhole detail at the neckline.

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The occasion marked a rare tiara moment for the Princess of Wales, as she has only been seen in a tiara on one other occasion this year, when she she was part of the royal contingent hosting the President and the First Lady of Nigeria.

Related: Kate Middleton Revives Princess Diana’s 163-Year-Old Brooch at Windsor Castle: The Royal Tradition Behind It

Last night’s tiara was, however, a familiar one, as it is the tiara most often seen on Kate at such events. We were a little disappointed that Kate didn’t choose to break out a lesser-seen tiara for the Oman state visit, such as the delicate Lotus Flower or the simple diamond headband that constitutes the Cartier Scroll (which Kate wore at her wedding to Prince William in 2011.)

But we’re not complaining, as the Cambridge Lovers’ Knot is so beautiful and was a huge favorite of Princess Diana‘s as well. The late Diana wore it so much that it became part of her signature look.

It’s also the tiara that Kate wore for the Nigerian state visit in March.

Kate finished off her Oman state visit look with diamond earrings and a diamond bracelet that belonged to Queen Elizabeth II.

Meanwhile Queen Camilla wore a gown in a deep shade of royal blue, and she wore one of the late queen’s favorite tiaras: the sparkling Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara.

Camilla and King Charles III were pictured making their entrance into the glowing banquet hall at Windsor Castle in honor of Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, with Kate and Prince William following behind.

Related: Kate Middleton’s Surprise London Tube Ride With Princess Charlotte: What Commuters Noticed About the Royal Duo

A stunning black and white photo of the Prince and Princess of Wales in their evening wear was posted to their official Instagram account with the caption, “Ready for tonight’s State Banquet in Windsor.”

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Yesterday afternoon Kate had a surprise outfit change even before she got dressed in the yellow banquet gown.

It was pouring rain as the royals welcomed the sultan to Windsor Castle and took part in a traditional carriage procession. Kate was pictured in a bottle-green coat that featured a very significant accessory: the diamond and emerald Queen Alexandra Three Feathers brooch, which has been worn by generations of Princesses of Wales for 163 years.

By the time the royals had moved inside the castle for lunch Kate had ditched her Alexander McQueen coat and black lace blouse, and had changed into a long forest green turtleneck dress by Norma Kamali, which featured a matching leather belt.

She and the other royals accompanied the sultan to the Green Drawing Room where he was shown some of the items in the royal collection that have a historic link to Oman.

A video of preparations for the state banquet that evening was posted to the royals’ Instagram account, where places had been set for 160 guests amid towering candelabra and overflowing floral centrepieces.T

The BBC reports that “even the surface of the salt had an imprint of the cypher of King Charles.”

The menu included croute of Scottish langoustine and Cornish crab, roast pheasant, stuffed cabbage and braised fondant potatoes, and baked Alaska with plum from the Balmoral estate and ice-cream that was flavored with honey from the grounds of the castle, in which the guests had assembled by candelight.

Next, Kate Middleton Turned Heads in Stunning Green Tartan Skirt During Surprise Visit To Belfast

The Osmond family and Elvis Presley shared a surprisingly close bond, frequently crossing paths while performing in Las Vegas, Nevada. Yet, despite their familiarity with the King of Rock and Roll, one unexpected phone call proved a little too surreal to take at face value.

Donny Osmond recently recalled the hilarious mix-up during an interview with BBC Radio 2. When Presley dialed the family home to speak with the family matriarch, Olive Osmond, the brother who answered the phone had no idea who was on the line and failed to put two and two together.

Osmond began, “Elvis would love to talk to my mom all the time. She reminded him of his mom [Gladys Presley].”

“And so one day, he called the house,” the entertainer continued. “And the phone rings, and my brother Alan picked up and said, ‘Hello!’ And he hears, ‘Is your mother there?'”

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“He said, ‘Yeah, who’s calling?’ [Presley responded], ‘Oh, this is Elvis.’ And he didn’t put two and two together,” Osmond added.

The former teen idol concluded that Alan called out to Olive: “Mom, some guy named Elvis is on the phone for you!’ But he was a really nice guy. Just a sweet, gentle giant backstage and onstage-watch out!”

In a since-deleted Osmond family blog post, reprinted on the website LDS Living, Olive and Presley were said to discuss spirituality, one of the musicians’ favorite topics. Additionally, the King of Rock and Roll appreciated the hard work of the family’s stage shows and frequently watched them perform in Las Vegas.

The brothers would hear the code, “The boss is upstairs,” which meant that Presley was at their show. “Elvis was particularly interested in talking to our parents, and he especially loved meeting my mother, Olive, and gave her a big hug,” the late Alan Osmond recalled. “Elvis mentioned to her how much he missed his mother, who had passed away.”

Marie Osmond shared another story with Andy Cohen during an episode of Watch What Happens Live. “We’d go to Vegas, and there was always a room full of flowers, never for us, always for her. Honestly, I think the reason our family is more open with fans through meet-and-greets… is because of him, really.”

Elvis Presley died in August 1977. Olive Osmond passed in May 2004.

Donny Osmond performs a solo residency at the Harrah’s Showroom in Harrah’s Las Vegas.

Related: On This Day: A ’70s Teen Idol Became a Top 10 Solo Star

Dancing with the Stars fans were left emotional after Julia Stiles‘ heartbreaking tribute to her late co-star from 10 Things I Hate About You, Heath Ledger.

Alongside her professional partner Ezra Sosa, Stiles used Dedication Night on the show to honour Ledger, who starred alongside Stiles in the 1999 rom-com as Patrick and Kat respectively.

Related: Julia Stiles Will Honor Dolly Parton With Her 1981 No. 1 Hit in First ‘DWTS’ Performance

Ledger died from an accidental overdose of prescription medications on January 22, 2008, at age 28.

For the DWTS performance, Stiles and Sosa took to the dancefloor for a contemporary routine to Frankie Valli’s “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You”, which featured in 10 Things I Hate About You‘s famous scene in which Patrick serenades Kat on their high school sports field.

The routine ended with an image of Stiles and Ledger in the film, with a voiceover of Kat’s heart-wrenching poem she wrote about Patrick after having her heart broken.

With years in her eyes, Stiles placed a single rose on the steps on stage, before being joined by her 10 Things I Hate About You castmates Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Gabrielle Union, Larisa Oleynik, Andrew Keegan, and Susan May Pratt.

Speaking ahead of the performance, Stiles said that rehearsing for the dedication had “brought up a lot” of emotions.

She told People Magazine: “I’m actually surprised at how emotional it’s been.

“I know from watching the show how emotional Dedication Night is. It’s always very personal stories. But I thought, ‘Oh, I’m distanced enough from it. The movie was so many years ago.'”

She continued: “But something about watching clips from that movie, seeing our pictures, hearing our voices is bringing up a lot.

“I really feel how important it is to honor him. He lives on because his performance in that film was so incredible.”

Stiles also recalled how the fans of DWTS had moved her to tears following their reaction to her routine paying tribute to her iconic role in Save The Last Dance.

“I’m going to start crying. It is a dream for any performer to have people care. … Decades later, to know that people are still enjoying that movie, it means the world to me. And I got to do my do-over. I got a second chance.”

In 1943, Richard James was working as a mechanical engineer in Philadelphia when something fell from a shelf and changed the toy aisle forever.

According to MIT’s Lemelson program, James was experimenting with springs designed to help stabilize sensitive equipment aboard ships during World War II when one of the springs was accidentally knocked from a shelf. Instead of simply dropping to the floor, it appeared to “step” downward in a series of arcs before recoiling itself.

James immediately saw potential.

He spent roughly two years experimenting with the tension, materials and dimensions needed to turn that accidental discovery into a toy that could reliably “walk” down stairs. His wife Betty James would make an equally important contribution: She gave the strange new toy its name.

Betty reportedly searched through a dictionary before landing on “slinky,” a word that evoked the graceful movement of the spring.

But inventing the Slinky was considerably easier than convincing anyone to buy one.

Richard and Betty borrowed $500 to get their business started and produced hundreds of the toys. In 1945, Philadelphia department store Gimbels finally gave them space to sell the Slinky during the holiday shopping season.

There was one rather serious problem: A coiled piece of wire sitting on a counter wasn’t particularly exciting. So Richard demonstrated it.

On Nov. 27, 1945, shoppers watched the spring tumble down an inclined board. All 400 Slinkys Richard had brought to Gimbels sold within 90 minutes for $1 apiece. The bizarre little spring was suddenly a sensation.

The couple built James Industries around their creation, and Richard devised machinery that could coil approximately 80 feet of steel wire into a Slinky in about 10 seconds. The toy became one of the great postwar crazes, eventually selling by the millions.

But behind the success, the James family’s story was taking a startling turn.

Related: In 1977, a 20-Year-Old Housewife With No Business Experience Opened a Cookie Shop in Palo Alto; No One Bought a Cookie Until She Started Giving Them Away on the Street

By 1960, Richard had become deeply involved with a religious organization that The Washington Post later described as a cult, while giving away large amounts of the family’s money. That year, Richard left Betty, their six children and the struggling Slinky business behind and moved to Bolivia with the cult.

Their children ranged in age from 2 to 18 at the time. His family never saw him again.

Betty was suddenly responsible for six children and a business in serious trouble. She later said Richard’s donations had left the family nearly bankrupt. She could have walked away from the Slinky along with him. Instead, she saved it.

Betty moved her family near her hometown of Altoona, Pennsylvania, while making a grueling weekly commute to the company’s factory. She worked with creditors, reorganized the business and pushed aggressively to put the Slinky back in front of consumers,

One of her smartest weapons was advertising.

Under Betty’s leadership, the Slinky became associated with the enormously memorable television jingle that helped introduce the toy to generations of children. She also mortgaged her house to promote the Slinky at the 1963 New York Toy Fair, helping generate new orders when the company desperately needed them.

It worked.

Betty ran James Industries for nearly four decades after her husband left. By the Slinky’s 50th anniversary in 1995, more than a quarter-billion had been sold worldwide, according to MIT’s Lemelson program.

The toy Richard James discovered by accident had survived. But the company that made it an American institution survived because Betty James refused to let it fall.

Related: In 1935, a Traveling Salesman Named Duncan Hines Sent Friends a List of 167 Restaurants to Try; His Name Later Became One of America’s Biggest Baking Brands

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Can’t decide between loafers and boots? Turns out, you don’t really have to. Clarks has a pair that combines the best parts of both, and they’re especially cute for fall. The Clarks Marriann Pure Slip-On Booties are currently on sale for 40% off at Macy’s, bringing the price down to $60 from $100. They come in two colors, British tan and black, with sizes ranging from 5 to 12.

Instead of your typical tall ankle boot design, these feature a lower opening that gives them more of a classic dress shoe look. They’re crafted with genuine leather and have a square toe, stretchy side panels, and a 2-inch block heel. You can slip them on without dealing with zippers or laces, and the rubber outsole is designed to hold up to regular wear. 

Clarks Marriann Pure Slip-On Booties, $60 (were $100) at Macy’s

Courtesy of Macy's

Shop at Macy's

These are a fun alternative to the loafers you might normally wear to work, without the bulk of traditional ankle boots. Their low-cut shape also looks great with cropped pants since there’s no tall shaft to bunch around the hem. Whether you’re spending the day at the office or heading out to dinner afterward, they’re easy to slip on and look dressy enough for either occasion.

Clarks has been making shoes for more than 200 years, so it’s no surprise that comfort is a big selling point. One reviewer praised the “nice soft leather” and said the booties are “very comfortable,” with “lots of room for toes” and “no rubbing.” They also mentioned how “easy to put on” they are, while another shopper described them as “comfortable to wear all day.”

Related: Clarks’ Sleek Buckle Ankle Boots Feel Great ‘Right Out of the Box,’ and They’re 40% Off

These would look gorgeous with straight-leg jeans, a cozy cream sweater, and a camel coat for a weekend outing. They’re also dressy enough to pair with tailored pants and a blouse at work, or tights and a sweater dress for a holiday gathering. If dresses aren’t your thing, try styling them with a plaid skirt and cardigan for a cute, slightly preppy fall look.

Shop More Clarks Boots Deals

• Clarks Iridessa Glow Block Heel Boots, $114 (were $190) at Macy’s
• Clarks Carolina Spice Side-Zip Booties, $78 (were $130) at Macy’s
• Clarks Kepley Erin Booties, $84 (were $140) at Macy’s

Scoring genuine leather shoes from a well-established brand for $60 is a great deal, especially when they’re something you can wear for so many different occasions. The Clarks Marriann Pure Slip-On Booties are such a cute choice if you’re looking to switch things up from your usual shoes, so be sure to head over to Macy’s and grab your favorite color while they’re still 40% off.

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.

There’s something to be said for reaching a stage in life when you know exactly what you want out of a vacation. Maybe that’s a five-star beachfront resort where the only decision you have to make is whether to order another piña colada. Or perhaps it’s an island with incredible restaurants, fascinating culture, and plenty of opportunities to explore without spending half your trip in a rental car.

Either way, the Caribbean certainly isn’t short on contenders.

As a travel writer for more than 15 years who’s explored every Caribbean island, I have plenty of opinions about which ones are worth the trip. After all, I’ve spent years seeking out the world’s most romantic escapes for my Rizzoli book, The Bucket List Romantic Escapes, and am now researching my second book on solo travel. And while I’m partial to laid-back destinations with easy flights, unparalleled beaches, and luxury resorts that make vacationing feel effortless, I wanted to see if the experts agreed.

So I polled nine well-traveled advisors about the best Caribbean vacations to book after 60. Although their recommendations ranged from the pink-sand beaches of the Bahamas to the glamorous resorts of St. Barts, one island kept coming up.

Here’s where to consider booking your next tropical getaway.

Related: The 10 Best Tourist Attractions in the Caribbean for 2026

The Best Caribbean Island To Visit After 60, According to Travel Experts Photo by Lex Melony on Unsplash

Photo by Lex Melony on Unsplash

The clear winner? Aruba.

Of the nine experts we interviewed, five recommended Aruba, with three naming it their No. 1 choice. And when you consider its relatively flat terrain, convenient nonstop flights from major U.S. cities, consistently warm weather, and impressive selection of beachfront resorts, it’s not hard to see why.

“Aruba is the easiest ‘yes’ I can give a traveler over 60,” says Andrea Napiontek, founder and CEO of Second Star Wishes. “Its terrain is flat, dry, and the island itself sits outside the main hurricane belt. In return, the weather is steady almost all year.”

Kristin Freman of FlyOver Travel agrees, calling Aruba the island she recommends when clients tell her they don’t want any surprises.

“The trade winds blow almost all the time, so 85 degrees actually feels comfortable with a consistent breeze,” she explains. “They take U.S. dollars, English is widely spoken, and on the way home you clear U.S. customs at the Aruba airport before you board.”

That last perk is particularly appealing after a long vacation. Thanks to U.S. preclearance at Queen Beatrix International Airport, travelers complete customs and immigration formalities before boarding their flight home rather than dealing with them after landing in the States.

Then there’s the island’s geography. Unlike some Caribbean destinations known for their steep hillsides and winding mountain roads, Aruba’s main hotel areas along Eagle Beach and Palm Beach are relatively flat and easy to navigate.

“Eagle Beach is great if you prefer a quieter atmosphere. If you like having restaurants and shops nearby, Palm Beach is a better choice,” explains Andrés Serra, head of operations at Optimise Travel, who recommends spending five to seven nights on the island.

As for where to stay, several experts singled out Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort. The adults-only beachfront property is especially popular with couples seeking a peaceful, romantic escape.

“I did a site inspection there, and it’s the one I’d book for a couple over 60,” says Freman.

Other recommended properties include Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa, a smaller beachfront retreat, Boardwalk Boutique Hotel with its garden casitas, and Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort Spa and Casino for travelers who prefer a larger full-service resort.

And there’s plenty to do beyond lounging on the beach. Consider a sunset catamaran cruise, a visit to the Butterfly Farm, a ride on Oranjestad’s free downtown trolley, or an underwater excursion aboard the Atlantis submarine to admire the reef without getting wet.

Freman also recommends Baby Beach, a shallow lagoon on the island’s southern coast, and dinner at Flying Fishbone in Savaneta, where tables are set right along the water.

For travelers with back, hip, or mobility concerns, however, she suggests skipping the island’s famous Natural Pool, which requires navigating rugged terrain to reach.

“The pictures never show you the hill between your room and breakfast,” Freman cautions when discussing Caribbean resorts in general. “Ask how far your room is from the beach and the restaurants, and whether there are stairs, an elevator or a golf cart.”

When to go: December through April brings some of the driest weather, but also peak crowds and prices. Several advisors recommend late April, May, or early June for a quieter, potentially more affordable getaway. Aruba’s location south of the main hurricane belt is another advantage, although no Caribbean destination is completely immune to tropical weather.

Related: 5 Small Group Tour Companies That Get Travel Over 60 Exactly Right, According to Advisors

Other Caribbean Islands Travel Experts Recommend After 60

While Aruba earned the most endorsements, several other islands stood out for their exceptional hotels, gorgeous beaches, and distinctive experiences. Here are five more worth considering.

1. Turks and Caicos: Best for Beautiful Beaches and Barefoot Luxury Photo by Romello Williams on Unsplash

Photo by Romello Williams on Unsplash

If your idea of paradise involves impossibly blue water, powder-soft sand, and a luxury resort where everything is taken care of, Turks and Caicos should be high on your list.

“Turks and Caicos is another excellent choice for over-60s travelers. It has beautiful beaches, turquoise water and high-end accommodation in a relaxed setting,” says Linda Browne, CEO of Exceptional Villas.

Providenciales, or Provo as it’s commonly called, is relatively flat compared with many other Caribbean islands, with an international airport conveniently located near its main resort areas.

Doni Belau, founder of the women-only tour company Girls’ Guide to the World, is particularly fond of Grace Bay. “It is flat and extremely easy to walk and swim for travelers over 60 who may have trouble with mobility,” she says.

Her hotel recommendation? Grace Bay Club, which has an adults-only section for guests seeking a quieter stay.

For a more intimate alternative, Browne recommends Windsong Resort, which offers accessible beachfront accommodations.

Spend your days snorkeling, cruising around neighboring cays on a private boat, or lingering over a long beachfront lunch. Just be prepared to splurge: Turks and Caicos can be pricier than many other Caribbean destinations.

When to go: February through April offers warm temperatures and generally favorable beach weather, while late spring can bring fewer crowds and potentially better rates.

2. Bahamas: Harbour Island and Eleuthera — Best for Charming Boutique Hotels and Island-Hopping

Photo Courtesy of Eleven Bahama House

For travelers who prefer charming boutique hotels over sprawling all-inclusive resorts, Jessica Parker, founder and travel advisor at Trip Whisperer Agency, has two words: Harbour Island.

“I love the Out Islands, especially Harbour Island and Eleuthera. They’re worlds away from the big resorts: barefoot luxury, great dining, boutique hotels, and the chance to disappear for a while.”

Known for its pastel-colored cottages, pink-sand beaches, chic boutiques, and golf carts in place of typical island traffic, Harbour Island has long attracted travelers seeking an understated but sophisticated escape.

“It’s sophisticated without being pretentious. It’s where many celebrities go to get out of the spotlight,” Parker explains.

Her top hotel pick is The Dunmore, a timeless beachfront retreat that feels more like an exclusive private club than a conventional resort. Pink Sands Resort and Eleven Bahama House are also excellent options, especially the latter if your idea of paradise involves beautiful cottages and an intimate vibe. The 11-key hideaway has all the charm of a private island residence, complete with intimate poolside dinners and the kind of warm, personalized hospitality that makes you want to stay forever.

As for activities, Parker recommends exploring Dunmore Town by golf cart, browsing local boutiques, enjoying leisurely beachfront lunches, and chartering a boat to nearby cays.

“You might even spot Lenny Kravitz cycling around!” she says.

And since neighboring Eleuthera offers a completely different island experience, why limit yourself to just one destination?

On Eleuthera, Parker recommends The Cove Eleuthera for food lovers and beach enthusiasts, or The Potlatch Club for its history and character.

Her insider advice is to split a longer vacation between the two islands rather than squeezing Eleuthera into a day trip. Just remember to arrange boat transfers and reserve your golf cart in advance.

When to go: December through April is ideal for classic Caribbean beach weather, although late April and May can offer fewer crowds and better hotel rates.

3. Jamaica: Best for Timeless Caribbean Glamour

Round Hill Hotel and Villas

There’s a reason some Caribbean resorts have guests returning year after year, sometimes for generations. And according to Parker, few capture that old-school island magic quite like Jamaica’s Round Hill Hotel and Villas—loved for decades by the Kennedys, Grace Kelly and Clark Gable.

“Jamaica does classic Caribbean hospitality so well, with incredible music, food, scenery, and history,” she says. “Round Hill near Montego Bay is a perfect example. Its Ralph Lauren-designed rooms and villas have timeless style, and guests return year after year, often for generations.”

Set on a secluded peninsula near Montego Bay, the legendary property pairs Ralph Lauren-designed oceanfront rooms with private villas, lush tropical grounds, and the kind of attentive service that makes repeat visits practically inevitable.

“I love that familiar, sophisticated-but-never-stuffy atmosphere,” Parker adds.

Beyond Round Hill, she recommends Jamaica Inn for a quieter beachfront escape, Half Moon for golf and resort amenities, and GoldenEye, the former estate of James Bond creator Ian Fleming, where guests can stay in his original villa.

There’s plenty to keep active travelers entertained, too, from private catamaran cruises and rum estate visits to local markets, live music, golf, and spa treatments.

One particularly useful tip from Parker: “Look beyond the big all-inclusives. At Round Hill, consider an oceanfront room rather than a hillside villa if easy access to dining and the beach matters.”

When to go: December through April is prime season, while May can be a quieter alternative.

Related: Irresistible Reasons to Visit Jamaica This Summer

4. Curaçao: Best for Culture, Cuisine, and Colorful Caribbean Charm Photo by Cole Marshall on Unsplash

Photo by Cole Marshall on Unsplash

Not everyone wants to spend an entire vacation at the beach. For travelers who love exploring local culture, discovering great restaurants, and staying somewhere with a little more personality, Curaçao makes a compelling case.

“Curaçao is my top pick, with Aruba and St. Croix close behind,” says Rachelle Lucas, a Fora Travel Advisor specializing in culinary travel and publisher of TheTravelBite.com.

Like Aruba, Curaçao sits south of the main Atlantic hurricane belt, making it an appealing option for travelers seeking relatively dependable weather throughout the year.

Its biggest draw, however, may be Willemstad, the island’s colorful capital, where Dutch colonial architecture, museums, waterfront restaurants, and a UNESCO-listed historic district offer plenty to explore.

Lucas recommends taking a guided walking tour, sampling blue curaçao at Landhuis Chobolobo, or heading out on a sunset cruise. For a taste of the local food scene, don’t miss Plasa Bieu.

“Have lunch at Plasa Bieu, the old market hall in Willemstad, where local cooks serve stew, fresh fish, and funchi (a Dutch Caribbean cornmeal dish) at communal tables,” she advises.

For a more relaxing day, hire a private driver to explore the island’s western beaches, including Grote Knip, without navigating winding roads yourself.

As for accommodations, Lucas recommends Avila Beach Hotel for a classic beachfront stay near Willemstad or Baoase Luxury Resort for a more intimate splurge.

Parker is also a fan of Baoase, describing it as an intimate, food-forward property with a private beach, personalized service, and a more compact layout than a sprawling resort.

When to go: Curaçao is a year-round destination, but late April through June can offer particularly appealing weather, smaller crowds, and better prices.

5. Puerto Rico: Best for a Spontaneous Caribbean Escape Photo by Nils Huenerfuerst on Unsplash

Photo by Nils Huenerfuerst on Unsplash

For travelers who love the idea of a Caribbean getaway but could do without the hassle of passports, currency exchange, or complicated travel logistics, Puerto Rico might be the easiest escape of all.

“For travelers over 60, ease matters as much as scenery. For Americans, Puerto Rico means no passport, no currency exchange, and a short flight from the East Coast,” says Aleem Ahmed, a travel industry expert at HotelTonight.

And unlike destinations where the most sought-after resorts book up months in advance, Puerto Rico can also be a great option for travelers who prefer to keep their plans flexible.

“Last-minute flexibility is a real advantage for 60+ travelers who don’t want to lock in months ahead. In Puerto Rico, we see strong same-week availability across San Juan, the west coast and the smaller towns, so a spontaneous trip is realistic,” Ahmed explains.

Once there, there’s no shortage of ways to spend your days, whether that’s wandering the colorful cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, exploring the lush trails of El Yunque National Forest, or simply settling into a beachfront hotel with a good book and an ocean view.

“Puerto Rico also has a lot of variety. You can experience history by walking through Old San Juan, embrace nature by exploring the rainforest, or enjoy the warm weather at a hotel by the beach,” Ahmed adds.

When to go: December through April is generally the most popular period for warm, drier weather, while late spring can offer better hotel rates and fewer crowds.

Up next:

Related: Planning a Caribbean Honeymoon This Fall? These 5 Islands Have One Big Thing Going for Them

Obviously, pretty much every episode of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood was a good one. For generations, Fred Rogers was a beloved presence in the lives of countless families, and a steady one at that. Unlike with so many long running TV shows, there was never a point when viewers started to feel disappointed with the quality of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. But is there one episode that’s better than all the others?

Of course, that depends on who you’re asking. Over on IMDb, however, there is one episode with a higher rating than all the rest, and it just happens to be the very last episode of the series.

First of all, it’s worth pointing out that the vast majority of the hundreds of episodes of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood on IMDB have very high ratings; you can scroll for miles before you find anything with less than 8 stars.

The highest-rated episode, with a 9.5 star rating, is the fifth installment of Season 31: “Mister Rogers Celebrates the Arts,” which ran on Aug. 31, 2001.

What is the episode about? According to the description on The Neighborhood Archive, it opens with Mister Rogers showing viewers drawings of the Trolley “made by some young Neighbors.”

“Sharing the drawings, he notices the differences between each artist’s work — even though they were all drawing the same thing. After he talks about sharing creations with other people you care about, Mister Rogers thinks of many people showing love in different ways.”

Next, Mr. McFeely shows up with a video compilation about different artists, which they watch on Picture-Picture. Meanwhile, in the Neighborhood of Make-Believe, the arts festival is about to begin, but nobody can find Lady Elaine. Finally, she shows up with a portrait of all her Neighbors, then gives first prizes to all of the entries.

The episode ended with the perfect final message: Mister Rogers singing “I’m Proud of You.” But before the song, he shared some very important thoughts:

“There are many ways of saying who you are and how you feel,” he said. “Ways that can be so helpful. Ways that don’t hurt yourself or anybody else. You know, that’s how you can tell when you’re grown up inside.”

“You’re sure that what you’re planning and doing are things that can be a real help to you and your neighbor,” he added. “I’m proud of you, you know that? I hope you do.”

Related: Rarely-Seen Son of Fred Rogers Shares Hopeful Message 22 Years After His Death

Tucked away in a corner of Walt Disney World that rarely gets much foot traffic is one of my favorite resorts. It’s peaceful, with beautiful landscaping, a host of delightful dining, and a wide range of amenities. As an adult without kids who travels to Walt Disney World often, the resort is one of my favorite places to stay. So which under-the-radar Disney World hotel am I talking about? It’s Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa. 

The equestrian-themed hotel takes inspiration from Saratoga Springs, New York, known for its spas and horse racing. The sprawling resort is nestled between one of Disney’s golf courses, Lake Buena Vista, and Disney Springs. Its location makes it a great spot for adults traveling together who want to split their time between leisure activities and the always exciting theme parks.

I recently stayed at the Disney Vacation Club property for a few nights, and it was truly a great spot to relax while still feeling connected to everything Disney World has to offer. Even better, you don’t have to be a Disney Vacation Club member to stay here, as the hotel is bookable through the regular Walt Disney World booking site. 

Related: I Tried Every Single Disney Vacation Club Perk—Here’s What Disney’s Most Exclusive Club Is Really Like

What Are The Rooms Like At Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa? The couch in the living room of a one-bedroom villa converts into an extra bed.

Megan duBois

Checking in at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa was easy, and my room was ready shortly after I arrived. My family and I ( just my parents and me) stayed in a one-bedroom villa. These spacious accommodations feature a master bedroom, expansive bathroom, living room, full kitchen, and a much-appreciated washer and dryer. The kitchen was also incredibly helpful since we like to cook some of our own meals, especially breakfast, which can get pricey for multiple people at any theme park. 

The resort also features studio rooms, which are more akin to traditional hotel rooms. Larger accommodations include two-bedroom villas, three-bedroom grand villas, and even a selection of recently refreshed treehouse villas. I’ve stayed at the treehouses, and it’s one of my favorite unique stays at Disney World. 

Related: Disney Vacation Club Shares First Look at Disney Lakeshore Lodge

Resort Amenities At Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa One of the pools at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort.

Megan duBois

There are two big family-friendly pools with waterslides, hot tubs, and splash pads at the resort. Three smaller “leisure” pools are dotted around the property. My family hangs out at the leisure pools because they are a little less chaotic than the big pools.

Besides the pool, the hotel offers a variety of sports amenities. Of course, there are the rolling greens of Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course. I’ve never played here, but my dad, who loves to hit the links early in the morning, says it’s his favorite course at Disney World. If you’re lucky, your room may even overlook the golf course, getting you closer to the action as players try for a hole-in-one. Two clay tennis courts (complimentary racquets and balls are also available), a basketball court, jogging trails, and bike rentals are also available. 

And if that isn’t enough, there’s a dedicated walking path or water taxi that will take you to Disney Springs. At the shopping and entertainment district, you can enjoy everything from shopping at World of Disney and happy hour along the water to an upscale wine-paired dinner and catching a Cirque du Soleil show. 

Related: The Disney Vacation Club Benefits Members Say Make It Worth Every Penny

Dining at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort

There’s nothing better than a nice big meal after trekking around the theme parks, playing a round of golf, or simply basking in the warm Florida sun by the pool all day. The resort has a handful of options, from pool bars around the property to a dedicated quick-service near the lobby. 

But my favorite option is The Turf Club Bar and Grill, which recently reopened after a lengthy refurbishment. The charming restaurant feels more like a New York racing club, with vintage equestrian memorabilia dotting the space and connected lounge. The dark wood and warm tones make the interior feel cozy. The view out of the restaurant is also fantastic thanks to large windows overlooking Disney Springs, Lake Buena Vista Golf Course, and the resort’s waterways.

The menu at The Turf Club Bar and Grill changes seasonally, but a few mainstays are worth getting a reservation for. The French onion soup is a nearly perfect rendition of the classic appetizer, covered with melty Gruyère cheese. I always order the prime rib, served with a massive baked potato and veggies. It comes to the table with plenty of creamy horseradish sauce for dipping.

After a few days of galavanting around Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa and enjoying some of what the resort has to offer, I’m excited to come back. The resort is truly an oasis for adults who want a Disney vacation without the hustle and bustle of some of the hotels closer to the theme parks.

Related: Disney World Is Opening Reservations for Its Newest Resort—And It’s Unlike Any Other Disney Hotel

Clarks shoes are known for being exceedingly comfortable, in part because the British footwear brand offers its wares in a variety of sizes and widths. With comfy footbeds and simple but sleek styles, these are the kinds of shoes that you want to sink your feet into. And when they’re cute to boot? All the better.

The brand produces everything from sneakers to boots and everything in between. You’ll just be hard-pressed to find any Clarks stilettos—that’s definitely not the vibe here. As we get deeper into fall, you’ll want to update your shoe wardrobe with a pair of its boots, which just so happen to be on sale at Belk.

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Clarks Maye Beth Boots, $87 (originally $145) at Belk

Belk

Here’s the thing: Clarks shoes are really good quality, and with that typically comes a higher price tag. I’m not talking Manolo Blahnik high, but in most cases, they’re well over $100. And while I don’t live near a Belk department store, I’m always on the lookout for a Clarks sale. So when I found these Clarks Maye Beth Boots as a doorbuster deal on Belk’s website, I knew I couldn’t gatekeep the savings. These are regularly priced at $145, but the retailer is selling them for $87 right now. That’s a 40 percent discount.

Related: How to Style Aldi’s $15 Oversized Corduroy Shirt Like You Live in Stars Hollow

Which Colorways Are Available?

Belk has the Clarks Maye Beth boots in three different colorways: light tan, dark brown and black. Sizing runs from 5 medium to 11 medium, with wide width options available in each size.

This style features a side zip closure, making it a breeze to put the boots on and take them off. A chic little buckle adds an extra notch of style. They have a 1 ½-inch heel, so you get a little lift without feeling unstable. These have the “ultimate comfort” foam footbed that Clarks is known for, plus soles with plenty of traction for safety.

Clarks’ Maye Beth Boots look just as cute with jeans and your favorite sweater as they do with a flowy maxi dress this fall. So don’t overthink it; just buy them while they’re still on sale.

Related: Marshalls’ Chic Houndstooth Cardigan Looks Like It Was Pulled From Blair Waldorf’s Closet

Sound the alarm! Jimmy John’s is bringing back the sandwich that “sparked a frenzy” when it first debuted a few years ago—and it’s returning with a series of exclusive collectibles.

Early this morning, the sandwich chain revealed it’s officially reviving the Picklewich, the iconic sandwich that ditches its staple French bread for a bed of thick and crunchy pickles. Though it may sound unconventional, when it first launched two years ago, the majority of fans were immediately enamored and called it a “work of art.”

This year’s return is even bigger than the last, extending beyond the limited-edition pickle flavor of Jimmy Chips and its Triple Pickle meal combo (which it offered for a limited time in 2025) to introduce an exclusive collection of pickle keychains, which it dubbed the “Pickle Pals.” Here’s everything you need to know if you’re looking to get your hands on the briny sammy or any of the limited-time offers it inspired.

Jimmy John’s Picklewich Returns for a Limited Time, Alongside Limited-Edition Chips and new “Blind Box” Collectibles

Jimmy John’s Picklewich is made just like any other sandwich, sans the bread, of course. Last year, it was available in one of six builds (as a Vito, Turkey, Ham, Roast Beef, Tuna, or Veggie Picklewich) and that appears to be the case this year as well.

Related: Jimmy John’s Overhauls Its Loyalty Rewards Program

What’s completely new is the adorable plush keychains made to look like little pickles launching as part of a blind box-style collector’s series made available only as part of the Triple Pickle meal, which includes customer’s choice of Picklewich, Pickle Jimmy Chips, and extra Pickle Ranch.

The collection features five limited-edition mystery pickle plushie keychains, all in a vibrant shade of green and each showing different emotions, from excited to blissful and even a little hesitant (is this a nod to the mixed feelings fans may have about the sandwich? We can’t say for sure, but it’s a fun theory).

“The return of the Jimmy John’s Picklewich is something pickle lovers look forward to all year, so we wanted to bring it back in a way that gives fans even more to enjoy,” Suzanne DeRouchie, vice president of integrated marketing communications at Jimmy John’s, shared in a statement. “Our new Pickle Pals add a playful element of surprise to the Triple Pickle, with five characters to collect. You never know which one you’ll get until you open the bag, making every Triple Pickle meal a little more fun and giving fans a reason to keep coming back to collect them all.”

Jimmy John’s said its Picklewich and Pickle Jimmy Chips will return on Monday, Oct. 26, with the Triple Pickle meal, and new Pickle Pals will be available the following day (Tuesday, Oct. 27) at participating Jimmy John’s locations nationwide, while supplies last (prices vary).

Are you grabbing one for the meal or the so-cute collectible? Let us know in the comments!

Next: Arby’s Breaks From Tradition With 3 New Cheesesteaks

If the colorful dot cake trend has been all over your social media feeds lately, you’ve probably never seen the viral dessert served quite like this.

Smoothie King is putting its own spin on the popular treat with two limited-time menu additions: the Dot Cake Protein Smoothie and the Dot Cake Protein Toast. Both arrive at participating locations Oct. 27, bringing a protein-packed twist to the sprinkle-covered dessert.

“We’re always looking for ways to tap into what consumers are excited about and put a uniquely Smoothie King spin on it,” said Lori Primavera, vice president of R&D and product marketing at Smoothie King. “Dot Cake was the perfect opportunity to take a viral food moment and turn it into something colorful, craveable and protein-packed.”

Smoothie King’s new Dot Cake Protein Smoothie and Dot Cake Protein Toast bring a colorful, protein-packed twist to the viral dessert trend for a limited time starting Oct. 27.

Smoothie King

The Dot Cake Protein Smoothie features bananas and Smoothie King’s Slim-N-Trim Blend, packing 13 grams of protein. The Dot Cake Protein Toast combines either peanut butter or chocolate hazelnut spread with multigrain bread for at least 11 grams of protein. Both menu items are topped with colorful Supernatural Rainbow Nonpareils Sprinkles, which are made without artificial colors, to provide that signature dot cake crunch.

And this isn’t the first viral trend Smoothie King has incorporated into its menu. Earlier this month, the chain introduced the bedazzled Pretty, Pretty Protein Smoothie, which packs nearly 50 grams of protein into a 20-ounce serving. Smoothie King also announced its Slim-N-Trim GLP-1 Pumpkin Smoothie in late summer as a way of allowing people taking GLP-1 medications to enjoy a more balanced treat.

The two Dot Cake items will be available at participating Smoothie King locations nationwide starting Oct. 27, but act fast: The Dot Cake Protein Smoothie and Protein Toast are only available for a limited time.

Dunkin’ Donuts is giving away 1 million free coffees on Wednesday, Oct. 21!

The limited-time promotion will give the first 1 million customers who claim the offer a free hot or iced coffee. 

Here’s everything to know about the free drink deal—and how to claim yours before the offer ends.

How to get a free coffee from Dunkin’

The first 1 million customers to enter the promo code SIZEDOESNTMATTER in the “Offers & Rewards” section of the Dunkin’ Donuts app will be able to redeem a free coffee.

Once claimed, the offer can be redeemed through Monday, Oct. 26.

The Dunkin’ Donuts app is available on the App Store and Google Play.

RELATED: Dunkin’s Halloween Menu Is All Treats, No Tricks, With 12 New Fall Drinks

More Dunkin’ news

The coffee chain recently announced 12 new festive drinks as part of its limited-time Halloween menu.

The lineup includes five new zero-sugar energy drinks: Green Apple Dunkin’ Zero, Midnight Apple Dunkin’ Zero, Candy Kiss Apple Dunkin’ Zero, Orchard Twist Dunkin’ Zero and Sour Apple Energy.

The menu also features three new refreshers: Dark Spell Daydream Refresher, Midnight Potion Refresher and Werewolf Punch Refresher. Coffee lovers can try three new options, including the Terror-misu Cloud Latte, Creepy Crawler Coffee Chiller and Nutty Nightmare Iced Coffee. Rounding out the lineup is the Franki Matcha, a new matcha drink.

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Halloween is the perfect time for a good ghost story, and even country music legends have a few spine-tingling tales up their sleeves.

The late Dolly Parton once recalled a particularly unsettling experience from her early days in Nashville, when she and her husband, Carl Dean, began hearing mysterious noises inside their home. 

And what happened next was enough to leave the “Jolene” singer wondering whether something supernatural was at play.

In her 1994 autobiography, Dolly: My Life and Other Unfinished Business, Parton explained that she and Dean had shared their home with her longtime friend Judy Ogle and several of the singer’s siblings.

One evening, while the others were visiting family in East Tennessee, the couple settled in for a quiet night.

Or so they thought.

“One night we locked the doors and windows, as we routinely did when living in the city, and went off to bed. We soon began to hear noises in the kitchen. We heard the familiar sounds of cabinets opening and water running,” she wrote.

Parton admitted she wasn’t concerned initially, thinking Ogle and her siblings had already returned, writing, “We weren’t too disturbed because we knew Judy had a key.”

But the noises didn’t stop, as the couple heard footsteps climbing the stairs, followed by the sound of water running in the upstairs bathroom. Parton brushed it off and went back to sleep.

Hours later, however, things took a decidedly creepier turn.

“In the wee hours of the morning, I got up to weewee. Just as I entered the bathroom, the hot water came on full force, all by itself,” she wrote, revealing she “screamed in horror” and “Carl came running.”

“Now, that was a hard faucet to turn on anyway, and it always took a while for the water to heat up. I was scared,” she elaborated as to why the incident was especially unsettling.  

The couple soon realized they were still alone in the house.

Naturally, there could be many explanations, including rats and plumbing problems; they never determined the cause of the mysterious activity that gave them quite a fright that night.

It wasn’t their only spiritual encounter either. 

Parton’s aunt, Dorothy Jo, described sensing the presence of her recently deceased mother, Rena, around the same time. She also discovered an open kitchen window the following morning.

“She said, ‘I believe that Mama visited me last night,'” she recalled.

For Parton, the experiences strengthened her belief that the spiritual world might be closer than people realize.

“I still don’t know what happened,” she explained in her memoir, adding that it made her “feel that much more certain that there are spirits and angels with us.”

“I’ll leave it to you to figure out,” she concluded to fans.

Whether it was an unexplained plumbing problem or something more mysterious, it’s certainly a ghost story worthy of spooky season.

Years later, Partons released a song, “These Old Bones, about a psychic mountain woman who told people their fortunes, on her 2002 Halos & Horns album.

Per SongFacts, she “created this old woman who lived up in the woods that everybody was afraid of. They thought she was witchy. I sang the old lady’s part in the song, the way my Mom and my aunts would sing. So that song is real special to me.”

Parton died on Aug. 25, 2026, at the age of 80, while Carl Dean passed away a year prior, on March 3, 2025, at 82. 

Little Feat has added 11 new dates to their ongoing Last Farewell Tour that marks the end of the band after more than 50 years.

The rock group, which formed in 1969, announced a Spring leg of their final tour that will take place in May 2027, kicking off at the Bologna Performing Arts Center in Cleveland, Massachusetts.

Related: 1977 Rock Song, Originally Disliked by Lead Singer, Became a Career-Defining Classic

They will then play shows in San Antonio, Des Moines, Wausau, Milwaukee, and Morton as part of the Spring run.

Tickets and VIP packages for the newly announced shows will go on sale on Friday, October 23, at 10am local time.

The band was co-founded by Lowell George, Bill Payne, Roy Estrada, and Richie Hayward in Los Angeles, California.

Throughout their six-decade career, the band has released a whopping 17 studio albums, 14 live records, and several compilation projects.

Little Feat has had several hit songs across their discography, including “Willin’,” “Dixie Chicken” and “Fat Man in the Bathtub.”

Despite billing this as their farewell tour, keyboardist Payne recently took to social media to explain he saw the shows as less of an end and more like slowing down.

“It is an emotional time for everyone. Lots of memories,” he began. “The band is playing as good as ever, why hang it up? I look at it as easing into the sunset that Jeff [Hanna, from the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band] and I were discussing.”

“Musicians love to play. Bop ‘til you drop is the attitude. But winding things down while the fun quotient is still intact is a good goal, too,” he continued. “Again, it’s not the playing, it’s the travel that knocks you down. So, there’s still a lot left in the tank for all of us. We’ll sort out some fun ways to let it roll!”

When the tour was initially announced, the band confirmed in a statement: “It’s definitely not an absolute, never-gonna-play-again statement.

“This wind-down will take several years to accomplish, and while it does, Feat will continue to perform and record as long as they are able. It’s a retirement from the travel of touring.”

Little Feat Last Farewell Tour Tour Dates

November 9, 2026 — Akron, OH — Goodyear Theater
November 10, 2026 — Cincinnati, OH — Taft Theatre
November 11, 2026 — Indianapolis, IN — Murat Theatre at Old National Centre
November 13, 2026 — Fort Wayne, IN — Clyde Theatre
November 14, 2026 — Skokie, IL — George Van Dusen Theatre at North Shore Center
November 15, 2026 — Champaign, IL — Virginia Theatre
November 17, 2026 — Chesterfield, MO — The Factory
November 19, 2026 — Memphis, TN — Cannon Center for the Performing Arts
November 21, 2026 — Mobile, AL — Saenger Theatre

January 4, 2027 — Osaka, Japan — Festival Hall
January 6, 2027 — Tachikawa, Japan — Tachikawa Stage Garden
February 21, 2027 — Jim Thorpe, PA — Penn’s Peak
February 23, 2027 — Rehoboth Beach, DE — Rehoboth Beach Convention Center
February 24, 2027 — Morgantown, WV — Metropolitan Theatre
February 26, 2027 — Charlottesville, VA — Paramount Theater
February 27, 2027 — Charlottesville, VA — Paramount Theater
February 28, 2027 — North Myrtle Beach, SC — Alabama Theatre
March 2, 2027 — Macon, GA — Macon City Auditorium
March 3, 2027 — Tallahassee, FL — The Moon
March 5, 2027 — Pompano Beach, FL — Pompano Beach Amphitheater
March 6, 2027 — St. Augustine, FL — St. Augustine Amphitheatre
March 7, 2027 — Clearwater, FL — The BayCare Sound
April 30, 2027 — New Orleans, LA —Orpheum Theater
May 1, 2027 — Cleveland, MS —Bologna Performing Arts Center
May 2, 2027 — Greenville, TX —Greenville Municipal Auditorium
May 4, 2027 — San Antonio, TX — Tobin Center for the Performing Arts
May 5, 2027 — Abilene, TX —Paramount
May 7, 2027 — Oklahoma City, OK —The Criterion
May 8, 2027 — Fayetteville, AR — Ozark Music Hall
May 10, 2027 — Des Moines, IA — Hoyt Sherman Place
May 11, 2027 — Shipshewana, IN — Blue Gate Performing Arts Center
May 13, 2027 — Wausau, WI —The Grand Theater
May 14, 2027 — Milwaukee, WI — Pabst Theater
May 15, 2027 — Morton, MN — Venue TBA

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Some pieces of furniture have so much presence that they immediately command attention. That’s definitely the case with the Sobremesa Vintage Accent Chair, a beautifully designed wingback that brims with old-world charm. Like a treasured piece from a bygone era, it exudes an elegant vibe — yet still somehow feels homey and inviting.

Chairs like this typically cost a small fortune, but right now you can score it on sale for only $160 at Walmart. That’s 33% off the original $240 price, an excellent deal for a piece that has the potential to be a forever favorite passed down from one generation to the next. In an era when fast furniture has become the norm, chairs like this stand in a class all their own.

Sobremesa Vintage Accent Chair, $160 (was $240) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

The wingback is a distinctive silhouette that dates back to the 18th century. At the time, it was known as an “easy chair” and was typically used to give elderly family members a cozy spot to relax. The flanked side “wings” were useful for preventing drafts and keeping the occupant comfortable, especially if they were feeling unwell.

From those early days, the chair has evolved into a true showpiece for any room. This one is true to the original aesthetic, with a high backrest that almost serves as a little enclosure. The gently curved armrests add to that sheltered feeling, while shapely dark brown legs provide a neutral balance for the five unique floral patterns. A plump cushion provides a cozy and stable spot to settle in and stay for a while.

The fabric’s pattern options are classy and rich-looking, including a warm red floral and a serene light blue botanical print. Both would look right at home whether you favor a grandmillennial look or have a penchant for English countryside cottage styles. If you prefer something softly romantic, a painterly pink poppy version brings lush color to your space. There’s also an earthy leaf pattern for a more muted look, as well as a bold, electric turquoise floral that makes a fresh, maximalist statement in any room.

Related: Walmart’s ‘Classy’ $24 Cordless Pleated Touch Lamp Looks Like a ‘High-End’ Heirloom Treasure

Standing 37.5 inches tall by 27.6 inches wide and offering a generous 20-inch seat depth with a 350-pound capacity, the chair is really the ultimate blueprint for wingbacks. It serves as an eye-catching accent anywhere, whether you set it up in your living room or use it as a focal point to fill an empty corner. 

Shop More Furniture Deals

• Cerbior 2-Tier Rustic Wood Coffee Table, $90 (was $180) at Walmart
• HLR Vintage Buffet Cabinet, $180 (was $290) at Walmart
• Ledrem 2-Tier Side Table, $55 (was $90) at Walmart

One shopper described this chair as “beautiful,” and that sums it up well for a piece that’s as attractive and substantial as this. Don’t miss the chance to snag the Sobremesa Vintage Accent Chair while it’s on sale at Walmart in your preferred print!

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.

Sibling rivalry is as common as can be. If there’s a house with siblings in it, it’s probably safe to assume that not only have they argued with each other in there at some point, but there have also been some competitive feelings to a certain degree.

Of course, the severity and frequency of sibling fights vary from family to family, and it’s important for parents to step in and make sure things aren’t getting out of hand between brothers and sisters. That said, it can be frustrating for moms and dads to see their kids arguing with each other, leading them to make parenting mistakes when it comes to handling sibling rivalries.

In fact, there’s one common parenting mistake that can make sibling fights a whole lot worse, according to Dr. Kezia Jackson, CEO and clinical psychologist at Healing Spaces in St. Louis, MO. She works with adults, teens and children, and her practice specializes in treating individuals who are Black, POC and part of other marginalized communities.

“Parenting is difficult, and navigating sibling rivalry is often something that comes with the job,” Dr. Jackson tells Parade. “Parents often try to do their best, but there’s no parenting manual; we are all just doing the best we can with what we have.”

Keep reading for her insights.

Related: We Asked 4 Psychologists What Usually Causes Adult Siblings To Drift Apart—They All Said the Same Thing

This Common Parenting Mistake Can Make Fights Between Siblings Worse

According to Dr. Jackson, the common parenting mistake that can make sibling fights even worse is acting as a judge and naming a winner of the argument.

“After overhearing siblings fighting and bickering, it makes sense that parents want to come in as judge and referee,” she explains. “This is often a common mistake.”

Related: 15 Phrases to Effectively End Any Argument, According to Psychologists

Why Can Choosing a Winner in a Sibling Dispute Make the Fight Worse?

“It can be easy to want to quickly stop conflict and decide who ‘won’ so the fighting can cease. However, this often makes things worse,” Dr. Jackson tells Parade.

“We may not always be there to get the complete picture of what happened, so our ‘judgement’ may not be fair,” she explains. “Parents may also be trying to deliver a fair decision for an argument that may not be so logical or black-and-white (these are children we are talking about!).”

Additionally, she notes that when parents choose a “winner” of a sibling fight, it can lead to long-term bitterness between family members.

“It is not uncommon for the loudest child to be deemed the ‘wrong’ one, often leading siblings to quietly provoke one another to get someone in trouble and blamed,” she says. “These all may lead to more stress, tension and even resentment in the home.”

Related: Child Psychologists Are Begging Parents and Grandparents To Stop Asking Kids This Question (and What To Ask Instead)

3 Other Mistakes Parents Make During Sibling Fights

Thanasis Zovoilis / Getty Images

“There are a few other things parents do that can make siblings fight worse,” says Dr. Jackson.

1. Automatically placing blame on the older sibling

One mistake is “always making the older child give in because they ‘know better,'” says Dr. Jackson.

“While eldest children have more responsibilities and knowledge, just because they are older does not mean that they are automatically at fault in the argument,” she explains. “By just defaulting to this belief, it can leave the eldest sibling vulnerable to feelings of resentment and frustration. It can also peel back any old wounds related to not feeling as cared for or seen.”

2. Disregarding emotional regulation

According to Dr. Jackson, it’s important to help children regulate emotions when trying to resolve a dispute; however, adults tend to force children to talk about what just happened when their emotions are still heightened, which is rarely productive.

“During heightened emotions, the brain prioritizes the part of the brain responsible for survival and emotions, as opposed to the frontal cortex, which is responsible for logic and processing,” she explains. “The frontal lobe isn’t fully developed in children, so we are asking them to do a lot in the moment if we do not help them regulate their emotions first.”

So, before talking through a sibling fight, Dr. Jackson recommends helping your kids take a few deep breaths or try other calming techniques “before having a serious conversation to prevent such disagreements in the future.”

3. Comparing children

“When you have multiple children, it can be easy to notice differences between them,” Dr. Jackson notes. “However, comparing them to each other, especially in the middle of an ongoing argument, is not helpful.”

Related: Why Child Psychologists Say You Should Stop Telling Kids ‘I’m Proud of You’

Try This Psychologist-Approved Parenting Method for Resolving Sibling Arguments

Dr. Jackson has found that the best way to deal with sibling fights is to mediate without judgment.

“While this may not always be possible in the moment, it allows parents to stop acting as the sole judge and teach children how to effectively problem-solve,” she says. “This allows the parents to come from a place of neutrality, asking questions to help identify what happened, allow the children to identify and label their feelings, as well, to help them come up with a solution.”

Not only does a parent acting as an impartial mediator make children feel heard, but it can also have major long-term benefits.

“When they also come up with the solution themselves, they are more likely to do what needs to be done without additional conflict or resentment,” she notes.

Related: Should You Actually Ignore a Tantrum? Big Little Feelings Settles the Debate

These 3 Habits Can Help Avoid Sibling Conflicts, According to a Psychologist

travelism / Getty Images

“Here are three things I recommend parents do to help calm sibling conflict,” says Dr. Jackson.

1. Spend one-on-one time with each child

Spending time with your children individually can “help strengthen your individual relationship with each child” as well as “reduce siblings wanting to argue or provoke their siblings for parental attention,” explains Dr. Jackson.

“By already providing that attention and one-on-one time, it can help reduce conflicts that may be based on attention-seeking, whether that’s conscious or unconscious,” she reveals.

Related: 3 Psychologists Agree This Is the Most ‘Underrated’ Positive Parenting Habit

2. Set clear rules to avoid conflict

“We know when it comes to certain toys and gadgets, there can be automatic arguing,” Dr. Jackson notes. “Therefore, it can be helpful to set up the parameters from the beginning regarding who gets to play with it first, the amount of time each child gets and how they are going to share.”

She adds: “By outlining these things in advance, it can help reduce the arguments that come from lack of direction and understanding about expectations.”

Related: If Your Child Says ‘I Can’t Do It,’ Big Little Feelings Says To Remember This—‘People Are Not Going To Want To Hear This’

3. Learn to calm yourself down

Being able to keep calm as an adult “is an often underrated and underestimated skill,” explains Dr. Jackson.

“Parents juggle a lot, and oftentimes sibling rivalry can come when you’re tired or in the middle of doing something,” she states. “So, your reactions in the moment may be heightened by frustration, exhaustion and, frankly, annoyance. If you have the skills to regulate yourself, it will be easier to regulate your children; it will also be easier for you to see the argument from your rational brain and remember to focus on mediation.”

Up Next:

Related: 6 Benefits of Living With a Grandparent, According to a Child Psychologist

Source:

• Dr. Kezia Jackson is a clinical psychologist and an expert in psychological assessment, as well as the CEO of Healing Spaces.

George Peabody, a banker who grew up in a poor Massachusetts family, gave away millions of dollars to support education, help struggling families and improve housing for the poor. 

Born in 1795 as one of seven children in a family with little money, he rose to become one of the wealthiest American businessmen of the 19th century and earned lasting recognition for his charitable work.

Peabody is widely known as the “father of modern philanthropy” because of his large gifts to schools, libraries and housing projects. Estimates of his lifetime donations vary, with historical accounts placing the total at about $8 million to $9 million from a fortune worth more than $16 million.

One of his major contributions was a gift of about $2 million to support education in the southern United States. The money helped rebuild schools, improve public education, and train teachers after the American Civil War.

American financier George Peabody is often considered to be the ‘father of modern philanthropy.’ In Britain, he founded the the Peabody Trust, one of London’s oldest and largest housing associations. Find out more about Peabody here: https://t.co/aRexhaZQpQ #CharityHistory pic.twitter.com/pqakwdfpsa

— The British Newspaper Archive (@BNArchive) April 27, 2026

His story began far from the world of banking and great wealth. According to Philanthropy Roundtable, Peabody had only a few years of formal schooling before leaving school at age 11 to work in a general store. After his father died, he helped his brothers support their mother and siblings, an experience that shaped his views on money and poverty.

Peabody started his business career in the dry-goods trade, selling everyday goods. He later became a partner in a wholesale business backed by merchant Elisha Riggs. The company grew, allowing Peabody to build wealth while helping support his family.

He moved to Baltimore in 1816 and expanded his business connections across the Atlantic. In 1837, he settled in London, where he built a successful banking business that helped connect American businesses and governments with British and European investors.

His work helped strengthen the United States’ credit reputation abroad. In 1854, he took Junius Spencer Morgan, the father of future banking leader J. P. Morgan, into partnership. Their business later became part of the financial legacy associated with the Morgan banking name.

Despite his success, Peabody remained careful with his personal spending. Stories about his life describe him choosing cheap public transportation instead of a private carriage, even when he had become extremely wealthy.

His childhood experience with poverty appeared to influence both his frugal habits and his later decision to give much of his fortune to charitable causes.

Peabody began making major charitable gifts during the 1850s. He supported libraries, educational institutions, museums and other projects in the United States. His donations helped establish the Peabody Institute in Baltimore and supported learning through libraries and museums.

In 1862, he established a charitable fund in London to provide better housing for working-class families. The organization, now known as the Peabody Trust, helped create affordable homes for people who could not easily afford decent housing.

His commitment to education also reached the American South. In 1867, he established the Peabody Education Fund with approximately $2.1 million to help restore and improve schools in states affected by the Civil War. The fund supported public education and teacher training for decades.

Peabody received the Congressional Gold Medal in 1867 in recognition of his contributions to education and charity. Queen Victoria also honored his work and offered him a title, but he declined.

He died in London on Nov. 4, 1869, at the age of 74. His body was temporarily placed at Westminster Abbey before being returned to Massachusetts for burial.

Peabody’s legacy continues through the schools, libraries, museums and housing organizations connected to his gifts. His life remains a notable example of how a person who experienced poverty early in life used business success to support education and improve conditions for others.

Related: W.K. Kellogg donated more than $66 million in Kellogg Company stock and investments to his trust in 1934; the foundation now manages $9.66 billion in assets

When cruise lines roll out massive, multi-level entertainment hubs filled with heart-pounding waterslides, ropes courses, and carnival midways, everyday sunbathers often end up paying the price in lost lounge chairs and cramped pool space. Finding a ship that delivers high-energy adventures for the family alongside quiet, sprawling oceanfront relaxation has long felt like an elusive compromise.

With its newly announced flagship, Norwegian Cruise Line is proving it heard that traveler feedback loud and clear.

NCL officially opened bookings for Norwegian Bella, the sixth and final grand finale vessel in its groundbreaking Prima Class. Debuting in May 2028 as the newest mega-ship sailing European waters, the 3,901-passenger vessel will sail week-long, round-trip Western Mediterranean voyages from Barcelona, calling on iconic bucket-list ports including Rome, Florence, and Salerno in Italy; Marseille, France; and the sun-soaked island of Palma de Mallorca, Spain.

Related: Norwegian Cruise Line Unveils First Look at Massive New Island Waterpark Launching This Fall

Norwegian Cruise Line

“Norwegian Bella marks a milestone moment in our fleet as the culmination of our award-winning Prima Class,” said Marc Kazlauskas, President of Norwegian Cruise Line. “Drawing on the innovations and guest feedback that have shaped the class from the very beginning, Norwegian Bella brings together our most sought-after experiences in one extraordinary ship. From enhanced outdoor spaces and family-friendly attractions to elevated venues for relaxation and connection, every detail has been thoughtfully designed to give guests the freedom and flexibility to vacation exactly how they want to, without anyone having to compromise.”

Related: Royal Caribbean’s New 2028 Itineraries Make a Shoulder-Season Trip to Europe Irresistible

That listening tour shows up most noticeably on the top decks. The ship’s main pool deck has been expanded by more than 15% compared to sister ships Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna, making for wider rows of oceanfront loungers, an infinity hot tub, and a giant outdoor LED screen for open-air entertainment.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Active travelers and multigenerational families have room to roam across Ocean Heights, a four-deck open-air complex featuring the Bella Ropes Course, the nine-hole mini golf greens, carnival-style midway games, and the multi-story Moon Climber obstacle course. High-thrill water features include the Bella Free Fall slide, the side-by-side Eclipse Racers, the four-person pendulum raft slide The Wave, and The Drop, a ten-deck dry slide that plunges riders down the side of the hull in seconds.

For cruisers craving peaceful seaside downtime away from the splash zones, deck 8 features an expanded wrap-around Ocean Boulevard leading directly to Infinity Beach, where guests can lounge on plush daybeds beside dipping pools that visually blend directly into the horizon. Those seeking an elevated sanctuary can book passes into Vibe Beach Club, an adults-only haven complete with private infinity hot tubs, a dedicated bar, and cushioned cabanas.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Travelers booking top-tier accommodations can reserve one of 159 luxury suites inside The Haven by Norwegian, NCL’s signature keycard-access ship-within-a-ship enclave designed by Italian architect Piero Lissoni. The aft retreat includes private elevators, an exclusive restaurant, a dedicated lounge, and an expansive two-story sundeck boasting an outdoor sauna, cold plunge room, and infinity pool.

The ship will also turn heads in European harbors with vibrant floral hull art created by acclaimed Australian contemporary muralist George Rose, who designed the exterior visuals to evoke natural movement and the wonder of global exploration.

Whether you are coordinating a milestone family reunion across Europe or looking for an easy, unpack-once Mediterranean voyage that lets you explore historic ports without sacrificing poolside comfort, Norwegian Bella hits the water as one of the most thoughtfully balanced ships of the decade.

Related: The Best New 2027 Cruises Built for Everyone From Kids to Grandparents

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It may only be October, but savvy hosts know it’s never too early to start prepping for the winter holidays. From festive serving pieces to dinnerware that can make a gathering feel a little more special, getting those entertaining essentials early means one less thing to worry about when the holiday season arrives.

Dolly Parton fans can get a head start on holiday entertaining with the Holly Dolly 12-Piece Melamine Dinnerware Set, currently available for $60 at Wayfair. That’s a great deal considering the collection breaks down to just $5 per piece! Decked out in a festive, Dolly-inspired holiday design, the set is made from durable melamine that resists breaking and shattering. It’s a practical pick for serving a crowd, whether you’re hosting holiday guests or simply sitting down for a family meal. 

Holly Dolly 12-Piece Melamine Dinnerware Set, $60 at Wayfair

Courtesy of Wayfair

Shop at Wayfair

The 12-piece set includes four dinner plates, four salad plates, and four bowls, providing a complete place setting for four people. The dinner plates feature the text “Have a Holly Dolly Christmas,” while the salad plates are inscribed with “Deck the Halls with Songs of Dolly.” All of the pieces are also decorated with festive red and green hues and holiday-inspired motifs like poinsettias, mistletoe, candy canes, and Christmas tree branches, giving your holiday tablescape a playful dose of country-chic cheer. 

Don’t feel like you have to wait for December to break these out, though. They’re made for everyday meals, with a chip-resistant, lead-free design that’s dishwasher-safe when you’re done. The one catch? They’re not microwave-safe, so you’ll want to move your food to another dish before reheating. 

The set arrives in a beautiful gift box with shipping-ready packaging, making it a thoughtful gift for a Dolly Parton fan or a fun housewarming present. One reviewer described the set as “so cute” and “great quality.” Another called them the “perfect pieces for Christmas,” adding that the set was “very well done and beautiful.”

Shop More Deals

• Dolly Parton Jeweled Mosaic Lazy Susan, $43 at Wayfair
• Dolly Parton “What Would Dolly Do” Rolling Pin, $21 at Wayfair
• “Have a Holly Dolly Christmas” Wine Glass Set, $40 at Wayfair

Related: Dolly Parton’s Charming $17 Soup Mug Comes With an Airtight Lid to Prevent Spills

At just $60, the Holly Dolly 12-Piece Melamine Dinnerware Set is a fun, budget-friendly find for Dolly Parton fans who want to make their holiday table a little more memorable. Head to Wayfair and snag one early while it’s still in stock! 

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Billionaire investor Robert F. Smith made headlines in 2019 when he announced that he would pay off the student loan debt of the entire graduating class of Morehouse College. 

Smith’s $34 million gift helped 396 graduates start their next chapter without the burden of their college loans. He made the surprise announcement on May 19, 2019, during his commencement speech at the historically Black, all-male college in Atlanta, Georgia.

Students, parents and school officials were stunned by the news. The crowd responded with a standing ovation and chants of “MVP!”

“On behalf of eight generations of my family who have been in this country, we’re going to put a little fuel in your bus … and my family is making a grant to eliminate their student loans,” Smith said.

The announcement turned the Morehouse College graduation ceremony into a major news story. For the graduates, the gift meant they could begin building their careers and personal lives without having to make payments on the student loans covered by the donation.

Smith, the founder, chairman, and CEO of investment firm Vista Equity Partners, later fulfilled his promise by donating $34 million to cover the student debt of the 2019 graduating class. The gift also drew attention to the high cost of college and the financial pressure many students face after earning their degrees.

At the time, the full amount of the graduates’ debt was still being calculated. By September 2019, reports confirmed that Smith had donated $34 million to make good on his promise.

The graduating class included 396 students. The reported total covered student loans as well as debt taken on by some parents and guardians to help pay for college.

Morehouse College President David A. Thomas described the gift as a “liberation gift.” He explained that student loan payments can limit the choices graduates make as they enter the workforce and plan their futures.

“When you have to service debt, the choices about what you can go do in the world are constrained,” Thomas told CNN. “[Smith’s gift] gives them the liberty to follow their dreams, their passions.”

The amount was especially significant because Morehouse students typically graduated with between $35,000 and $40,000 in student loan debt, according to the college. Removing that burden gave the 2019 graduates more room to make decisions about their careers, homes, families, and future goals.

Smith also urged the graduates to help others when they had the chance. He said he expected them to “pay it forward” and hoped future graduating classes would have similar opportunities.

“We are enough to take care of our own community,” Smith said. “We are enough to ensure we have all the opportunities of the American dream. And we will show it to each other through our actions and through our words and through our deeds.”

The impact of Smith’s donation reached beyond the Class of 2019. The college used the gift as part of its broader effort to address student loan debt through the Morehouse Student Success Program.

The program was designed to accept donations from other people who wanted to help students reduce or eliminate their college debt. According to Thomas, Smith’s announcement encouraged people to contact the college and ask how they could contribute, even if they could not give millions of dollars.

The program also included research to study how reducing student debt could affect graduates’ lives. Participating members of the Class of 2019 would be compared with graduates from the Class of 2018 to examine changes in their career decisions and other life outcomes.

The goal was to learn more about what happens when students leave college with less debt and more financial freedom.

Smith’s gift was part of a longer record of support for education and other causes. In January 2019, he had donated $1.5 million to Morehouse for a scholars program and a campus park. He also committed $50 million to Cornell University, his undergraduate alma mater, in 2016. Cornell later named its School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering in his honor.

Before entering the investment business, Smith studied chemical engineering at Cornell and earned an MBA from Columbia University in 1994. He later worked at Goldman Sachs, where he focused on technology investments, before founding Vista Equity Partners in 2000.

In the years following the Morehouse donation, Smith also called for broader solutions to the student debt crisis. In a June 2024 essay, he explained that one-time gifts could provide major relief but would not solve the nationwide problem on their own.

He helped establish the Student Freedom Initiative, which works to expand affordable education opportunities, particularly for students at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and other participating institutions. The initiative offers financial support, including loans with flexible repayment terms for eligible students studying science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Related: Dr. Dre and Jimmy Iovine donated $70 million to USC in 2013, creating the Iovine and Young Academy for arts and technology