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Surprising Country Named Most Popular Foodie Destination

Thu, 03/05/2026 - 11:02am

When travelers talk about the world’s great food destinations, the same cities tend to dominate the conversation. Paris. Tokyo. Bangkok. But a recent ranking of global culinary hotspots delivered a surprising contender. Canada has emerged as one of the most talked about foodie destinations, thanks largely to the culinary energy of cities like Toronto. A study analyzing social media engagement, dining experiences, and food activities found Toronto the most popular food destinations shared on social media, with nearly 193,900 TikTok posts and 2.7 million Instagram posts tagged #torontofood.

For travelers, the rise of Canada as a culinary destination makes sense the moment you take your first bite. The country’s food scene is not defined by a single cuisine but by its diversity. Immigration, regional ingredients, and a generation of ambitious chefs have transformed Canadian cities into culinary playgrounds. And nowhere captures that energy quite like Toronto.

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Why Toronto Is One of the World’s Hottest Food Cities

Toronto’s food scene works because the city itself is so diverse. Walk a few blocks and the menu can shift from Caribbean jerk chicken to handmade Chinese dumplings to Ethiopian stews.

The city is home to over 100 different cuisines, making it one of the most diverse dining destinations in the world. Neighborhoods like Little Italy, Chinatown, and Little India reflect decades of immigration that shaped the city’s culinary identity.

This global influence means that a single weekend of eating in Toronto rarely follows a straight line. Breakfast might be Taiwanese scallion pancakes, lunch could be a Greek souvlaki wrap, and dinner might be modern Canadian tasting menus built around local produce and seafood. Food here feels like a reflection of the world itself.

Related: These 15 Food & Beverage Items Just Won Product of the Year

Iconic Toronto Foods Every Traveler Should Try

Every great food city has its classics, and Toronto has plenty. The most famous Canadian comfort dish is poutine, a rich combination of fries, gravy, and squeaky cheese curds that originated in Quebec but has become a staple across the country. It is messy, indulgent, and absolutely worth trying at least once.

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Then there are Toronto’s legendary street foods and regional specialties. Peameal bacon sandwiches are one of the city’s oldest traditions, often served on soft rolls with mustard. Jamaican patties filled with spiced beef are another local favorite, reflecting the influence of Caribbean communities that have shaped Toronto’s food culture.

Of course, no conversation about Canadian food is complete without maple syrup. From maple glazed desserts to breakfast dishes, the sweet ingredient appears in kitchens across the country and often shows up in creative ways on restaurant menus. The result is a culinary identity that feels uniquely Canadian yet globally inspired.

Canadian Regional Foods Worth Traveling For

Toronto may lead Canada’s culinary buzz, but the country’s food culture stretches far beyond one city. From French-influenced comfort dishes to coastal seafood and Indigenous culinary traditions, every region offers something distinct for travelers who want to explore Canada through food.

  • Quebec: French culinary traditions shape much of the province’s food culture. Travelers will find dishes like tourtière, a savory meat pie often served during holidays, along with maple-driven desserts that celebrate the region’s famous syrup harvest.
  • British Columbia (Pacific Coast): On Canada’s west coast, seafood takes center stage. Restaurants often feature Pacific salmon, spot prawns, and other ocean-fresh ingredients that reflect the region’s proximity to the Pacific. Vancouver in particular has built a reputation for innovative seafood restaurants and farm-to-table menus that highlight local ingredients.
  • Atlantic Canada (Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, and nearby provinces): Along the Atlantic coastline, seafood dominates local menus. Prince Edward Island is especially famous for its lobster and mussels, making it a popular stop for culinary travelers exploring eastern Canada.
  • Prairies and Northern Canada: In the country’s central and northern regions, travelers may encounter dishes rooted in Indigenous culinary traditions. Foods such as bannock, a type of bread, appear frequently, along with meals built around game meats like bison that reflect the landscapes and cultural traditions of these regions.

Related: 2020s Pop Band Announces U.S. Return, First Tour in Canada

The Rise of Canadian Fine Dining

Street food may be the entry point, but Canada’s fine dining scene has quietly become one of the most exciting in North America. Chefs across the country are embracing seasonal and local ingredients, drawing from Canada’s rich natural landscapes that include fisheries, forests, farms, and orchards. In regions like British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, restaurants often build menus around what is available that day from nearby farms and lakes.

Toronto restaurants in particular have leaned into this farm to table philosophy. Menus frequently highlight regional seafood, Ontario produce, and Canadian wines. What makes Canadian fine dining interesting is that it rarely feels rigid or traditional. Chefs blend techniques from around the world with local ingredients, creating dishes that feel modern, inventive, and distinctly Canadian. For travelers who enjoy tasting menus and culinary experimentation, Canada now offers a compelling reason to book a table.

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Planning a Food Trip to Canada

For travelers interested in exploring Canada through food, Toronto is often the easiest starting point. The city’s density of restaurants and neighborhoods makes it possible to sample a wide range of cuisines in just a few days.

But Toronto is only one piece of the country’s culinary landscape. Cities like Vancouver, Montreal, and Victoria also rank highly for food lovers thanks to their access to fresh seafood, multicultural restaurants, and vibrant markets. Vancouver, for example, is often praised for its high concentration of highly rated restaurants and its seafood driven cuisine. Together, these cities create a cross country culinary journey that spans everything from coastal seafood to prairie comfort food.

Emma Watson Kisses Rumored Billionaire Boyfriend at the Airport in New Photos

Thu, 03/05/2026 - 11:01am

Emma Watson was seen at a Punta Mita airport yesterday, nonchalant and smooching a billionaire. 

Dressed in a gray long-sleeve top and floral-print shorts, the Harry Potter veteran was waiting in the line with Gonzalo Hevia Baillères on Wednesday, March 4, when cameras snapped the two with their hands on each other’s neck before leaning in for a tender kiss. 

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In the photos, published by Spanish magazine Quien, airport staff can be seen smiling at the couple. Completing her ensemble, Watson sports a pink ballcap, nude flip-flops, and a designer backpack. Her man wore a light blue moto jacket with dark pants and shades. 

Also in the photos, the two are seen grabbing drinks and dining at an upscale restaurant, with Watson wearing a strapless white maxi dress and Baillères a suit. 

Their Mexican beso isn’t the first spotting for the couple. First seen in the French Alps in late 2025, per Cosmopolitan, the two were then seen at a wedding in Mexico by DeuxMoi tipsters.

Baillères, 28, is the billionaire heir to a high-profile Mexican business group, Grupo Bal, per Cosmo. His business works with mining, insurance, retail, finance, and departement store chain El Palacio de Hierro. Last linked to Mexican pop star and actress Belinda, who played a role in The Cheetah Girls 2, he’s reportedly the inspiration for her diss song “Hereocromía,” Remezcla shared.

Watson, 35, was previously linked to Brandon Green, per People, the son of fashion executive Sir Peter Green in 2022. Last September, she went on wellness guru Jay Shetty’s podcast and shared insight into her dating life, saying that she prefers dating partners who don’t know too much about her work onscreen.

“It’s funny, occasionally people will apologize to me for the fact they've not seen my films,” she said. “And I will be like, 'Please don't apologize. That is bliss to me.' Like, music to my ears that you're not going to constantly be navigating it. And me also navigating with you this projection of me, or this Emma Watson avatar-person will not be this ghost in the room."

Neither Watson nor Baillères has confirmed their relationship.

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Related: Pedro Pascal Follows PDA Outing With a Quietly Pointed Video

'Today': Jenna Bush Hager Holds Back Tears With Sheinelle Jones After Emotional Savannah Guthrie Reunion

Thu, 03/05/2026 - 10:50am

Today co-anchors Jenna Bush Hager held back tears with Shienielle Jones after an emotional reunion with Savannah Guthrie for the first time since her mother, Nancy Guthrie, 84, was abducted from her Tucson, Ariz., home.

On Thursday, March 5, Bush Hager opened the NBC morning show's fourth hour by announcing, "Savannah has come back to her home here at 30 Rock in Studio 1A."

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"We got to see her this morning," she continued with a shaky voice, as Jones placed a hand on hers for moral support. "And in her perfect way, she talked to all of us, hugged every single person in this room, the crew."

Bush Hager added, "She said that, you know, she has the intention to return to the show even though it feels like the hardest thing to do. It's also her home and where she feels so loved. And she is beyond loved here."

Additionally, Bush Hager noted she isn't sure when, exactly, Savannah will return to Today.

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Related: Savannah Guthrie’s Mom Nancy Update: Sheriff Weighs in on "Missing Piece of Evidence"

Jones, meanwhile, explained, "This is just happening—this just in—and so Jen and I haven't had a chance to talk about it amongst each other. But what I will share with you is, when Savannah's here, you know, we've all been waiting for her, we've been wearing our pins... But it's interesting because I think I handle moments like this differently now."

Jones, whose husband Uche Ojeh died in May 2025, continued, "I'm not smiling, but I'm proud of Savannah. And I'm rooting for Savannah. And I know the strength that it would take to, even just come in here and to be amongst all of us. And so I see it as we're in this storm, and we're not out of the storm, but there's a light somewhere."

To conclude her thoughts on Savannah returning to the Today set for the first time since Nancy's disappearance, Jones said, "I don't know what's ahead of us. We don't know what's ahead of us... And for me, anytime you can take a step, I celebrate that. And so I looked at her, and I hugged her, and I'm like, 'You know what, you are here. And we love you. Everyone loves you. And whenever you are ready, we are here.'"

Next: Savannah Guthrie’s Mom Nancy: Former FBI Agent Points Out "Concerning" Detail in Investigation

1977 Hit Ranked Among ‘Top Soft Rock Songs’ of All Time Became a True Classic

Thu, 03/05/2026 - 10:48am

One of the standout acts of the 1970s music scene, who helped popularize disco music during that era, is the Bee Gees. The trio consisting of brothers Barry, Robin and Maurice Gibb is a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee behind some of the most iconic tracks and projects in music history.

But one of their songs in particular has created a unique legacy for itself as one of the most defining tunes of the soft rock genre, and that's the 1977 hit "How Deep Is Your Love" from their iconic soundtrack for Saturday Night Fever. The ballad stood out among the popular punk rock and new wave songs that were popular at the time and scored a No. 3 spot on the U.K. charts, much to the band's surprise.

The song has a tender groove to it, blending seamless harmonies by the three brothers with some of the most beautiful lyricism ever written for a love song. "How Deep Is Your Love" caught the attention of both the Grammy Awards and the Golden Globes, winning in the Best Pop Performance by a Group category at the former.

Grammy winners the Bee Gees, brothers Robin, Barry and Maurice Gibb hold their Grammy for their Album of the Year Award, "Saturday Night Fever," the largest selling soundtrack in album history with 15 million sold.

Photo by Bettmann/Getty Images

The Saturday Night Fever (1977) soundtrack gave the world several iconic hits beyond just "How Deep Is Your Love," such as the opening track "Stayin' Alive" and the famous "More Than a Woman." The album launched the Bee Gees into newfound stardom and solidified their legacy as one of the most innovative and influential musical acts in music history. Saturday Night Fever (1977) would go on to win the Bee Gees six Grammy Awards, including the aforementioned Best Pop Performance by a Group award for "How Deep Is Your Love," but also in coveted categories like Album of the Year. The album also won the Grammy Hall of Fame Award in 2004.

In a 2020 interview with The New York Times, Barry Gibb shared that his only wish for the Bee Gees is for the music they create to outlive them and continue to impact generations, even after they're gone. "One day, like my brothers, I will no longer be around, and I want the music to last. So I’m going to play it no matter what."

Related: 2000s Country Rock Band Announces Update on North America Tour With Special Guests

Kate Spade Outlet’s 'Elegant' Crossbody Purse Is Over $200 Off, and It Comes in 9 Spring-Ready Colors

Thu, 03/05/2026 - 10:45am

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One of the easiest ways to get your wardrobe spring-ready without doing a full closet overhaul is by adding colorful accessories. Small swaps can completely shift the feel of your outfits and make them look season-appropriate. Think vibrant jewelry, fun shoes, and playful purses that instantly brighten what you already own.

One option that’s both stylish and practical is the Kayla Small Triple Compartment Crossbody. It’s currently 71% off, dropping the price from $329 to just $95. For a highly-rated bag with thoughtful organization and a chic design, that’s a major deal.

Kayla Small Triple Compartment Crossbody, $95 (was $329) at Kate Spade Outlet

Courtesy of Kate Spade Outlet

The bag measures 9.6 inches long, 6.8 inches tall, and 1.8 inches wide, making it compact but roomy enough for daily essentials. It’s crafted from pebbled leather with a two-way script logo lining and features a 22-inch adjustable crossbody strap. Inside, you’ll find a triple-compartment interior with a zip closure, plus a magnetic front pocket that fits your phone. Gold hardware and a metal spade logo add a refined finish.

It comes in nine colors, ranging from year-round neutrals like brown, black, and cream to bolder shades like red, lilac, and yellow. The brighter hues feel especially right as the weather warms up. Whether you prefer classic tones or a pop-of-color moment, there’s an option that fits your style.

Related: Coach Outlet's Newest Powder Pink Collection Has Arrived, and It's Now Up to 67% Off

When it comes to versatility, this bag checks every box. It’s the perfect blend of functional and chic, making it suitable for casual daytime plans, date nights, professional settings, or evening events. Pair it with high-waisted straight-leg jeans, a tucked-in white tee, and clean white sneakers for an easy spring look. It also complements a floral midi dress, a monochromatic knit set, a slip dress, or even a structured trench coat and loafers for something more polished.

This style has a 4.8-star rating from over 50 reviews. One shopper described it as “effortlessly elegant” and “practical,” adding, “It’s spacious enough for my essentials, but chic enough to turn heads wherever I go.” Another called it “comfortable to carry around and not bulky,” writing, “The three compartments keep everything organized and easy to find.”

Shop More Deals

If you’re looking for a purse that blends function with style, the Kayla Small Triple Compartment Crossbody is a smart pick. With a 71% discount bringing it down to $95, you can save over $200 and add a fresh, spring-ready accessory to your rotation.

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‘I’m an Endocrinologist, and This Is the Best Morning Drink for Insulin Sensitivity'

Thu, 03/05/2026 - 10:25am

More than 40 million adults in the U.S. know they have Type 2 diabetes, and around 11 million adults have it but don't know. Plus, more than 115 million people have prediabetes, a reversible condition that's a warning sign that you may develop Type 2 down the road.

That's a lot of numbers. If you have diabetes or prediabetes, your care team will focus on specific numbers, such as your A1C (blood sugar over time). They'll also talk a lot about insulin and insulin sensitivity, which may throw people for a loop at first.

"Insulin is a hormone that helps your body use energy," explains Dr. Jennifer Cheng, DO, the chief of endocrinology at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center.  "Insulin helps move sugars from the blood to the cells, where they may be used. Insulin sensitivity means that your body can use the insulin to help use the sugars. Insulin resistance means that your body needs more insulin to cause the same effect."

Back to numbers for a sec. People with diabetes (and some people with Type 2 diabetes) will also track their post-meal blood sugar and fasting glucose levels. The latter is usually taken first thing in the morning after a sleep-induced fast. Dr. Cheng notes that some people find it more challenging to control their fasting blood sugar.

"There is a hormone called cortisol that can cause more insulin resistance in the morning," she says. "Cortisol usually helps people wake up, but it may cause some more insulin resistance in the mornings."

Opting for a healthy breakfast (and taking your medication as prescribed by your doctor) can help you get your blood sugar under control, whether you have diabetes or not, but you likely consume more than food right when you wake up. Below, Cheng shares a great drink for insulin sensitivity, especially if plain old water isn't your idea of a good time.

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The No. 1 Morning Drink for Insulin Sensitivity, Endocrinologist Says

Drinking water all day, every day, reigns supreme when it comes to insulin sensitivity (and your overall health). However, that can get a bit bland for some people. Thankfully, some delicious alternatives exist. "While water is truly the best beverage for overall health, if we're looking at other options, matcha is a compelling choice for the morning," Dr. Cheng explains. 

Matcha seems to be having another moment in the wellness zeitgeist. What even is it, though?

"Matcha is a powdered form of green tea that has beneficial plant compounds, such as EGCG, which stands for epigallocatechin-3-gallate," Dr. Cheng explains. "It may help with improving cellular response and making cells more responsive to insulin, and inhibit carbohydrate absorption, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation."  

Luis Alvarez/Getty Images

Indeed, EGCG is one of the several bioactive compounds known as
catechins. A 2022 review in Nutrients suggests that catechins improve insulin resistance and help the body use sugar more efficiently and effectively as energy. Matcha also has the flavonoid quercetin, which could help improve glucose tolerance and stop the body from secreting inflammatory markers linked to Type 2 diabetes.

As great as all of the above sounds, Dr. Cheng emphasizes that drinking matcha alone will not improve or prevent insulin sensitivity.

"It's crucial to be clear that matcha is not a miracle cure for insulin resistance, she states. "While matcha can be a healthy part of a balanced lifestyle, it should not replace proven strategies like diet, exercise and prescribed medications."

Plus, matcha drinking can go sideways and cause your blood sugar to spike if you prepare it a certain way. Dr. Cheng suggests:

  • Making your own matcha so you can control the ingredients.
  • Not adding sugar to matcha
  • Consider adding cinnamon for flavor
  • Drinking matcha with foods that are higher in protein and fiber helps balance your morning meal 

Related: ‘I’m an Endocrinologist—This Is the Worst Juice for Blood Sugar Spikes’

Alternatives to Matcha

If matcha isn't your jam, Dr. Chen shares that there are some excellent alternatives that can help with insulin sensitivity.

  • Apple cider vinegar/water dilution (Put 1 teaspoon of the vinegar in a large glass of water. "Drink the water afterwards to protect tooth enamel from the acidic vinegar," Dr. Cheng says.
  • Cinnamon water
  • Black coffee ("Avoid adding sugars and creamer as it adds calories," Dr. Cheng advises.)

Related: The One Food Type Endocrinologists Say Supports Insulin Sensitivity as You Age

Other Tips for Insulin Sensitivity

Drinking matcha may help improve insulin sensitivity, especially in the morning, Dr. Cheng and research suggest. Yet, it's far from the only tool you need in your toolbox to keep your blood sugar in check and prevent (or manage) Type 2 diabetes. In fact, many of the tips below are more tried-and-true ways to keep your body's insulin use efficient.

  • Follow a healthy diet. Dr. Cheng suggests following a healthy diet rich in fiber and protein. Both of these nutrients increase satisfaction and keep you fuller for longer, so you're less likely to consume foods and drinks loaded with sugar (the type of protein may matter, though. The Mediterranean diet, which is high in lean and plant-based proteins (such as chicken and legumes instead of red meat), may provide protective benefits against Type 2 diabetes.
  • Exercise. Dr. Cheng shares that exercise helps your muscles use energy, improving insulin sensitivity. The American Diabetes Association suggests getting 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
  • Get a good night's sleep. Don't sleep on Zzzs. Dr. Cheng suggests logging 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. Research links poor sleep to higher risks of diabetes.

If you are looking for tips on improving insulin sensitivity through diet or other lifestyle changes, an endocrinologist or your primary care doctor can share ideas (and perhaps a referral to a registered dietitian).

Up Next:

Related: This Is the #1 Sign of Good Metabolic Health, According to Endocrinologists

Sources:
  • Dr. Jennifer Cheng, DO, the chief of endocrinology at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center
  • Diabetes. CDC.
  • The Role of Catechins in Regulating Diabetes: An Update Review. Nutrients.
  • Therapeutic Potential of Quercetin in the Management of Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus. Life (Basel).
  • Fiber: The Carb That Helps You Manage Diabetes. CDC.
  • Clinical Evidence and Mechanisms of High-Protein Diet-Induced Weight Loss. JOMES.
  • Mediterranean Diet Effects on Type 2 Diabetes Prevention, Disease Progression, and Related Mechanisms. A Review. Nutrients.
  • Weekly Exercise Targets. American Diabetes Association.
  • The Link Between Sleeping and Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review. Cureus.

James Van Der Beek Had a Vision for a 'Dawson’s Creek' Reboot, Creator Says

Thu, 03/05/2026 - 10:22am

Dawson's Creek creator Kevin Williamson recently revealed that the late James Van Der Beek once had plans to write a reboot of the beloved '90s series, though the project never moved forward.

Speaking with Esquire, published on March 2, Williamson shared that the actor first came up with the idea around 2016, saying, "He wanted to do it. And, in fact, there was a moment where he was going to write it — and he had a really great idea for it. He had a beautiful plan. Then I think he got on a show and everybody got busy. It never happened. But there was a lot of talk about it."

Williamson noted that he did not remember the specifics of Van Der Beek's proposed plan to revive the series, but does recall it being "funny" and "along the lines of This Is Us."

1999 Michelle Williams, James Van Der Beek, Joshua Jackson, And Katie Holmes Star In "Dawson's Creek." (Photo By Getty Images)

Getty Images

However, Williamson said he wasn't sure how a reboot would work, especially considering how the series wrapped up.

“I always felt like, ‘Well, we did that. We finished it.’ In the last episode, we jumped five years. We went to the future. The last episode of that show was the remake. So I feel very okay with that. And I don’t feel the need to go back to that world, as much as I love them and would love to," he added.

Dawson's Creek aired for six seasons from 1998 to 2003, with Van Der Beek starring as the titular character, Dawson Leery.

According to People, although a reboot has never happened, the cast did reunite in September 2025 in New York City, in partnership with F Cancer. Van Der Beek was not present at the reunion; he did appear in a pre-recorded video that night, thanking his fans. Van Der Beek's wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, and their six children were in attendance, joining the cast to sing the series' theme song, "I Don't Want to Wait."

Van Der Beek passed away on February 11, at the age of 48, following a battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer.

Savannah Louie Says Rick and Joe’s ‘Survivor 50’ Fight Was Even More Intense Than What Viewers Saw (Exclusive)

Thu, 03/05/2026 - 10:22am

Survivor 50 is here! Every week, Parade.com's Mike Bloom will bring you interviews with the castaway most recently voted off the island.

Halfway through Survivor 49, Savannah Louie received an advantage that set her on the path towards an eventual win. A crucial Immunity Challenge victory (the first of a record-tying four) gave her a secret Extra Vote, as well as the ability to drop in on the people who were voting. It was enough to scare them away from targeting her number one, Rizo Velovic, and it helped pave the way for the two of them to do the impossible and make it to the end. Who would have thought, less than a month later, that not only would Savannah make a return appearance on Survivor 50, but arguably another secret advantage would prove to be the nail in her coffin rather than her saving grace.

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Savannah knew she was (in) trouble when she walked into Season 50. As one of the two biggest unknowns, she garnered plenty of opinions about her in the preseason. Hoping to abate their fears, she came clean about her win almost immediately upon hitting Cila's beach. Unfortunately, a fear of the unknown continued to be the headline for the former newscaster. Savannah went on a journey on Day 4, where she got the incredibly surreal experience of beating Colby Donaldson in a challenge, earning a secret "Block-a-Vote." Not trusting any of her tribemates, she refused to disclose anything about it. But, like Christian Hubicki's soiled pants, everyone saw right through it, immediately clocking she was dangerous.

Whether she knew this perception or not, Savannah sallied forth in trying to create a majority. She looked to form a foursome with Rick Devens, Joe Hunter and Ozzy Lusth. But any aspirations of that dream team quickly turned into a nightmare, as Rick's reticence to play with Joe came to a head, as the two men got into it during a tense beachside chat. Pivoting the way any good "new era" player should, she instead focused her efforts from working with Ozzy to working against him, flagging the increasingly obvious duo between him and Cirie Fields. But despite Ozzy being a perennial target and Joe seemingly rankling the entire tribe, the danger that Savannah presented in theory outweighed it all. At Tribal Council, she got teary-eyed, discussing how she was able to be vulnerable to this group of returnees after putting up emotional walls in her original season. And those tears would soon douse her torch for the first time, as she was taken out unanimously.

Now out of the game, Savannah talks with Parade about why she chose to lie about her advantage, her reaction to the Rick/Joe argument, and how she looks back on a full year of playing and being watched on Survivor.

Related: Read our Survivor 50 pre-game interview with Savannah Louie

You end up not playing your Shot in the Dark at Tribal Council. What did you think the vote would be? How safe did you feel before the votes came in?
Dude, I'll be real with you. I literally forgot that the Shot in the Dark existed. No one played it in 49. And then when you start playing Survivor, they don't make a big announcement. They don't say, "Hey, here's your Shot in the Dark." They just literally put it in your bag. And so I forgot it existed.

And so going into Tribal Council, I wasn't super confident that I was going to make it out on the other side. There's a moment in Tribal Council where I start tearing up, and I get kind of emotional And that's really the point where I come to terms with, "I feel like there's a 1% chance where I'm gonna survive this thing." Just because the narratives and the words that I was hearing from my tribe mates at the time weren't really aligning with the narrative that I was hoping they would have that would get me through that Tribal Council. And at the end of the day, a 1% chance of me getting through, that belief I'll get through this, is enough. But, yeah, I really had no idea.

What were some of those narratives you were hearing at Tribal Council?
I can't really give specifics. And part of it too, is my memory during that time, it's awful. I have such a hard time remembering that period. But I just remember sitting there and listening to people like Christian and Emily talk. And I'll be real; they're a lot smarter than me. Sometimes they will talk and I have no idea what they're talking about. But in that Tribal Council, they would talk, and I'm like, "This isn't making sense." Not just because they're smarter than me, but because they're thinking something that I'm not. And that's where things really felt like there was a disconnect.

Well, let's talk about something you had in your pocket besides the Shot in the Dark. You chose not to reveal the Block-a-Vote you had won on the journey. What made you decide not to disclose this to anyone? And did you get a sense that people were seeing right through it?
I guess I'll give you a little background, a little context. After we voted out Jenna, I was very confident that I would be up next on the chopping block. And so when we had the opportunity to go on a journey, I wanted to go. Not just because maybe I'll get an advantage, but because, if I only have a couple more days out here, I don't want to just sit on the beach with these people. I want to go experience Survivor. I want to go and see if I can meet other people from other tribes. Playing against Colby, that's literally so freaking cool.

My mindset coming into Season 49 was "I'm going to do this to win." My mindset going into 50 was "I'm going to experience and have fun and do everything that I can." And so when I went on this journey, I came back and I won, and I had that advantage. And my mindset is like, "Okay, well, if I tell one person, the entire tribe is going to know." There's no one who I implicitly trust on this tribe, and I didn't want everybody to know I had an advantage. It is something where, if over the course of the couple days, l did feel comfortable and make a connection with someone, where I felt like, "Okay, I can trust them," I would open up to them. But I just never really had that.

Did you have any big plans to use the Block-a-Vote if you survived Tribal Council?
No. I mean, you can only plan for so much, right? I don't even know if I'm gonna be on the same tribe with these people after the Tribal Council. I think going into that Tribal Council, though, I was like, "There's no way this is gonna be a close vote. I want Ozzy to go home, but it could very well be everybody on me or something like that." And unfortunately, that's what it was. My Block-a-Vote wouldn't have made a difference. I knew that.

Let's go back to the beginning of the season. You choose to seemingly immediately open up about winning Survivor 49. Was that always going to be the plan? And did you feel people look at you differently after that information became public?
No. I mean, it felt like everybody already knew I won. And so that's kind of why, when we're out there on the beach, I asked, "Do you guys want to guess how I did?" Because I wanted to see, A, who would actually own up to knowing that I won. And B. I also had a good idea that some of these people were working together. There had been a lot of talks about pregaming before we even got into the game. And if I say, "Do you guys have any guesses about how I did?" and I see two people look at each other, that means maybe they've shared information. Maybe that means that they've pregamed, or they have a connection that is stronger than it might appear.

I know you also didn't reveal everything about Season 49. You actually told your tribe that you and Rizo were largely on separate pages after the merge in your season. And I'm not sure if you know this, but when I visited the Vatu camp, I saw Rizo tell Colby that he was so loyal because he locked in with "his girls" and went to the end together. What's your reaction to how discrepant those stories are?
That's so funny. We actually didn't really get our story completely straight about how we would tell our relationship and everything. What I did ask Rizo, I was like, "Please do not tell everybody that I won four challenges." But when I was out there, I really tried to stress my relationship with Soph from 49. Like, "Me and my best girlfriend, we went to the end together. It was us, Final Two." And I was telling people that because I'm like, "Okay, hopefully you'll think that if I'm your girl, we can go to the end together, just like I just did."

Well, let's talk about some of those people you were trying to build that connection with. Who were you clicking with the most during your time in the game?
I mean, me and Jenna connected right away. And I think part of it is because we're both women who are strong and confident, and we can be a little assertive at times and just aggressive game players. But I also think it's because a lot of the people on the beach seemed like they already had maybe stamps of approval or comfortability with one another before we got too deep into the game. It was wild to see how quickly some of these people connected when we were out there. But Jenna for sure.

And then, other than that, I looked up to Rick Devens when he played his first season. I talked about him in my Survivor application video. So I really wanted to work with Rick. I loved watching Joe in 48, just how loyal he was to his people. I really respected that as someone else who also played a pretty loyal game in 49, so I wanted to work with him, too. And then with Emily, we're kind of the same age. I think there's something so fun and beautiful about two women who can just be badass and work together. So I was hoping I could connect with her too.

You mentioned Jenna. She told me that she was in a confessional when the Ozzy plan was coming together in Episode 1, and that you and Joe had maybe reneged on it. How close was it to being an actual Ozzy vote at that first Tribal Council?
I don't know. I feel like it was always kind of Jenna. And I say that because, I mean, you have Christian, Devens, Emily over here, and then you have Ozzy and Cirie over here. And Cirie was also aligned with the trio over here. So I think at that point, whatever Cirie wanted to do, it was kind of the ball was in her court. And if Jenna is going up against Cirie, Cirie is obviously trying to get Jenna out of the game. And so while Ozzy's name was thrown out, I don't know how serious that plan really would have taken hold.

Speaking of Ozzy, let's talk about this foursome you attempt to form with him, Joe, and Rick.
No. No, no, no, no, no.

Oh, correct the record for me!
This is actually irritating to me. I feel like these people think I was an idiot or something. But Ozzy comes up to me and Devens, and he's like, "We should do a foursome with the three of us and Joe." And in my head, I'm like, "This is the most random hodgepodge group of people, Ozzy. Why would you approach us? None of us are working together at this point." From my perspective, if Ozzy came up to me and said, "Hey, we should do something with the three of us and Cirie," I would have been like, "Okay, I'll buy into that." But it just felt so random. But at the same time, it's Survivor. I'm not gonna say, "No, you're full of BS." I'm gonna say, "Yeah, let's do it." I'll be in any alliance that I can be in, especially when I'm feeling like I'm at the bottom.

And so that was Ozzy's plan, and I think it was his hope. You hear him talk about in Episode 1, how he wanted to get a group of four, and then kind of bring that along with Ciri eand make everybody feel comfortable. And so I think that was his attempt at doing that, but it just felt so inauthentic to me. And so that's why, when I ended up writing Ozzy's name down, I kind of wanted Cirie to go home. But I knew no one was going to vote for Cirie. So I'm like, "Alright, well Ozzy, I know for a fact, is trying to BS me. So I might as well try to go after him. He's Cirie's number two at this point, so I'll fire a shot at them."

One of the reasons why that foursome fell apart was because of this argument that Joe and Rick had before Tribal Council. What was the mood like at camp once word got around as to what had happened?
Dude, it was wild. It was actually wild. Nothing like that happened in my initial season. I haven't seen a blow-up like that on Survivor in a while. And what you saw on the show was a lot more tamed down than what happened in real life. And I think you can tell that too. I mean, you have seven people total on the beach, and six people were really concerned about their ability to work with Joe in the future.

And these six people, we're fairly reasonable people. We've all been in tough moments before. Survivor doesn't bring out the best in anyone, I don't think. But for this amount of people to be this concerned about the possibility of working with someone closely or at all in the future, I think that speaks volumes to how intense that conversation was. You even hear Jeff make a comment about it at Tribal Council. That mood carried and lingered not only through the whole day, but into Tribal Council.

You mentioned during Tribal Council that you were being more vulnerable than your previous season, and were surprised withsome of the people you were connecting with. Talk to me more about that.
Oh my God, I'm gonna get emotional now. had a really hard time in between 49 and 50 just with some stuff that was happening at home and coming back and everything. And when you're out there, you don't have your mom that you can call and bounce ideas off of. You just have these seven other strangers on your initial tribe.

And, boy, everybody was so great just listening and being so supportive. Because Survivor is this wild experience that maybe 751 people can understand. But it feels like very few people can understand. And so to just be out there when you do feel alone, but you have people who are able to listen to you and provide that kind of support, it meant the world to me then. It means the world to me now. And not only people who were so supportive out there on the island, but even after, at Ponderosa and everything. And then even when I got home and just continuing to check in on me, it has meant the world.

Thank you so much for opening up about that.
I get so emotional. I know people think that I cry because I want people to feel sorry for me. No, I'm just like a huge baby! [Laughs.]

[Laughs.] You had this unprecedented turnaround time between seasons, only coming onto 50 less than two weeks after playing 49. Were there more benefits or drawbacks playing back-to-back in such quick succession?
I think for me personally, it was a lot of downhill. [Laughs.] I mean, just physically, it was so hard. I remember that first challenge, the marooning challenge, trying to run through the sand and feeling like my legs weighed like 200 pounds each. This mindset of being constantly paranoid and not being able to — I mean, I guess I couldn't really trust anyone. But I really didn't feel like I could trust anyone in the game, either.

And I think a big thing too. My game for 49, it was pretty straightforward. If you watch 49, you know exactly how I play. I'm really not a scary player. I'm "what you see is what you get." I'll tell you straight up. And I think that if my season would have aired, and if I had more time to kind of digest everything that happened in 49, and other people see that too, I think I would have done a lot better. And I think people would have trusted me a little bit more, and I think I just would have performed a little bit stronger.

We are coming up on the one-year anniversary of you kicking off Survivor 49. When we were out there in the preseason, you said it would be the "Year of Savannah." But I don't think you realized how that would encompass the entire year. So now that we have finally reached an ending — at least for now — how do you look back on what the past year has been like for you?
It's so crazy. I woke up this morning and I know I just cried. But I feel overall very happy. And I feel like I can finally just celebrate my entire Survivor journey. There have been hard moments, for sure. But there have been so much, so many good things to come out of this. And it goes beyond just winning. It goes to fulfilling a childhood dream. It goes to making connections and best friends that I'm going to have for the rest of my life because of this. It goes to being part of something that is just greater than myself. I feel so grateful and just so happy. It's like a weight has been lifted off, and now we can celebrate. I'm going to a Lady Gaga concert tonight! So we're really going to celebrate.

Related: Kyle Fraser Reveals He Argued with Jeff Probst After Devastating 'Survivor 50' Injury: 'I’ll Sign a Waiver!' (Exclusive)

Southwest's New Cleaning Policy Treats Economy Flyers Like Second-Class Citizens

Thu, 03/05/2026 - 10:21am

Air travel has always carried a quiet social contract. When you board a plane, you expect the basics: a seat that works, overhead space if you’re lucky, and a tray table that doesn’t feel like the aftermath of someone else’s snack break.

Now a new experiment reportedly underway at Southwest Airlines is sparking debate among frequent flyers. According to aviation reporting and internal union commentary, the airline is testing a process where cleaning crews board between flights to clean only the premium extra-legroom seats, leaving standard economy seats to the usual quick tidy by flight attendants.

The idea might make operational sense inside airline headquarters. But from a traveler’s perspective, it raises a very basic question. If everyone is sharing the same airplane, why should some seats get cleaned and others not?

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Why Southwest Is Experimenting With Cleaning Premium Seats First

The reported policy emerged through comments from a flight attendant union leader who said the airline circulated a memo about an experiment bringing cleaners onboard between flights specifically for the premium extra-legroom section. The rest of the cabin, according to the report, would continue to receive the typical between-flight tidy done by flight attendants. That process generally involves collecting visible trash and straightening seatbelts rather than fully sanitizing each seat or tray table.

Related: Southwest Airlines Is Still Failing to Address Biggest Complaint From Non-Solo Travelers

Southwest has historically prioritized extremely fast aircraft turnaround times. But fast turnarounds leave limited time for cleaning. In the past, the airline has focused between-flight sanitation on specific high-touch surfaces such as tray tables and lavatories, while more comprehensive cleaning occurs overnight. At the same time, the airline itself is changing. After decades of open seating, Southwest introduced assigned seats and premium extra-legroom rows as part of a broader shift toward tiered pricing and services.

Once airlines begin offering multiple cabin tiers, they often look for ways to make those tiers visibly different. Extra legroom is one element. Early boarding is another. Prioritized cleaning could become part of that same differentiation strategy.

Why the Policy Is Stirring So Much Reaction

For travelers, the idea of “premium cleaning” lands differently than priority boarding or better snacks. Cleanliness feels fundamental. And aviation workers themselves are raising concerns about how the policy might appear to passengers. One flight attendant union leader compared the concept to “Titanic class service,” suggesting it creates a visible divide between passengers in the front and those seated farther back.

The analogy may sound dramatic, but it highlights a deeper cultural shift happening inside Southwest. For decades, the airline marketed itself as a company where everyone on board had essentially the same experience. No first class. No business class. Just rows of identical seats and a famously democratic boarding process. But the industry around it has changed. Competitors increasingly rely on premium products to drive revenue, and Southwest has begun adopting some of those strategies as well.

Customer backlash over recent changes such as assigned seating and premium seat zones has already forced the airline to adjust parts of its rollout. So when news of a cleaning experiment surfaced, it quickly became another symbol of the airline’s evolving identity.

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How Clean Are Airplane Seats in the First Place?

On busy domestic routes, a single aircraft can operate five or more flights per day, meaning dozens of passengers cycle through the same seats. Between flights, the available cleaning time is usually very limited.

Because of those constraints, many airlines rely on a layered cleaning approach:

  • Quick cabin tidy between flights: Trash is collected and obvious messes are removed.
  • Targeted sanitation of high-touch areas: Tray tables, lavatories, and galleys are prioritized because they are touched frequently.
  • Deep cleaning overnight: Aircraft may undergo several hours of cleaning at night that includes wiping surfaces and applying disinfectants. Southwest says its planes typically receive more than six hours of overnight cleaning.

Multiple studies conducted over the years have found that tray tables often contain some of the highest bacteria levels in airplane cabins, partly because passengers eat on them and they are not always wiped between flights. That reality explains why seasoned travelers, myself included, often clean their own seat area before settling in.

Related: Southwest to Introduce New In-Flight Service Passengers Have Spent Years Begging For

What Travelers Can Do to Keep Their Seat Clean

If you travel often, a small “seat sanitation kit” can make boarding far more comfortable.

  • Disinfectant wipes: Perfect for wiping tray tables, armrests, seatbelt buckles, and window shades.
  • Hand sanitizer: Useful after touching overhead bins or lavatory door handles.
  • A scarf or jacket for the headrest: Many travelers drape a layer of fabric over the seat where their head rests.
  • A few tissues: Helpful if you need to reach into a seatback pocket that may contain leftover trash.

Some airlines provide antimicrobial wipes onboard for passengers who want to disinfect their personal space.

View this post on Instagram What This Debate Says About the Future of Flying

Whether Southwest ultimately adopts the policy widely remains uncertain. Airlines test many operational ideas that never make it past internal trials. But the conversation around this one highlights a broader trend. Air travel is increasingly built around tiers. More legroom. Reserved overhead bins. Early boarding. Airport lounges. And perhaps now even priority cleaning.

For travelers who grew up flying Southwest in its earlier days, the change can feel symbolic. The airline that once rejected traditional cabin classes is slowly adopting the same layered model as its competitors. And if this cleaning experiment moves forward, passengers may soon notice something subtle when they walk down the aisle. The seats near the front may look freshly wiped. The ones farther back might not.

My Chemical Romance, Limp Bizkit Among Headliners of Popular Rock Festival This Fall

Thu, 03/05/2026 - 10:21am

Nostalgic rock fans, unite! The 14th iteration of Aftershock is all set up for this fall in California.

The full lineup was announced this week for the popular rock-music festival held in Sacramento. My Chemical Romance, Tool, Limp Bizkit and Pierce the Veil are among the headliners.

The event runs October 1-4 at Discovery Park and will also feature sets from big names such as:

  • Queens of the Stone Age
  • The Offspring
  • Wu-Tang Clan
  • Sublime
  • Danny Elfman
  • Public Enemy

"140+ artists. Four days. And now FIVE stages with an expanded footprint at scenic Discovery Park," the caption of Aftershock's Instagram post on Wednesday, March 4 reads. "The West Coast’s Largest Rock, Punk & Metal takeover returns with the biggest lineup Aftershock has ever assembled- all starting at $1 down."

View this post on Instagram

As mentioned above, passes are on sale right now, starting at just $1 down for the 4-day GA, 4-day GA 4-pack, one-day passes and VIP packages. Click here for more on ticketing info.

“This year’s Aftershock marks a bold new chapter for the festival. We’ve brought together metal, punk, emo, and nu-metal to create a lineup that’s raw, youthful, and unapologetic,” said promoter Wimmer in a statement, per Billboard. “With TOOL anchoring the weekend and Pierce The Veil making their headlining debut, we’re breaking boundaries and redefining what Aftershock can be. And after years of fan requests, we’re finally introducing camping — giving fans the chance to fully immerse themselves in the weekend. This is a new era for Aftershock, and Sacramento is about to feel it.”

In addition to four days of music, the event will feature various food and beverage options, Billboard also noted on Wednesday, including the Cantina del Diablo open-air cantina with Mexican street food, tequila and mezcal cocktail and the Overtime sports bar — which will screen regional and national games all weekend long.

Plus, this year's iteration will include the first-ever RV and car + tent camping at nearby Cal Expo.

Do we have your attention, rock fanatics?

Popular Beverage Brand Drops New Frosted Lemonade Flavor, and Fans Are Saying, 'I Need to Try'

Thu, 03/05/2026 - 10:15am

As March has arrived and the days start to lengthen, shoppers begin craving bright, refreshing flavors. Seasonal anticipation, warmer-weather marketing and a desire for lighter, citrusy drinks and treats often drive interest in products that evoke sunshine and outdoor gatherings—even before spring officially begins.

The coconut water brand Vita Coco is giving lemonade a bit of a twist with the launch of its newest drink in the Vita Coco Treats lineup, Frosted Lemonade. The flavor blends tart lemon with a creamy coconut finish, creating a dessert-like beverage designed to feel refreshing and indulgent at the same time. According to the brand, the drink aims to turn an everyday moment, like a busy commute or a long workday, into a quick "sweet escape."

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Vita Coco Treats Frosted Lemonade Is Now Stocked on Supermarket Shelves

Courtesy Vita Coco

The new flavor follows the viral popularity of earlier Treats varieties such as Strawberries & Creme and Orange & Creme, which helped establish the line as a playful take on coconut water-based drinks. Frosted Lemonade keeps that formula but adds a citrusy twist, combining the bright and familiar taste of lemonade with the smooth texture and coconut flavor the brand is known for. The company says the result is a balance of zesty refreshment and creamy sweetness.

The brand says the launch taps into growing consumer demand for "mindful indulgence"—treat-style products that still use recognizable ingredients and offer functional benefits like electrolytes and hydration. "Our Treats line is designed for the person who wants to indulge without compromise," said its chief marketing officer, describing the drink as a familiar flavor reimagined as a portable pick-me-up.

Related: Fan-Favorite Energy Drink Brand Drops 'Sexy Fizzle Punch' in Collaboration With This Eccentric Musician

Availability and Fan Reactions to Vita Coco's New Frosted Lemonade

The new Treats flavor is now available nationwide in the coconut water aisle and online through the brand's website and major retailers like 7-Eleven and Target. The release also comes alongside another addition to the Treats family—Cherry Vanilla, a flavor that's found exclusively at Target stores across the U.S.

Fans of Vita Coco are reacting to the newest flavor on its social media accounts. "OMG I need to try!😋😋😋," said one excited fan. "Ummm YUMMMM," exclaimed another. "This looks very refreshing!" and "This looks like the kind of flavour that makes you go 'ahh' with the first sip! ❤️" were a few additional comments. It's available now, and I'm already hoping it is a permanent fixture on Vita Coco's menu.

Related: Sam's Club Unveils New All-Day Easter Grazing Menu That's Perfect for Holiday Entertaining

I Spent 5 Years Working on Cruise Ships and This Is the One Port You Shouldn’t Skip

Thu, 03/05/2026 - 10:10am

Many people think about cruise itineraries out of Florida and immediately associate it with ports like Nassau, St. Thomas or Cozumel. One port that often gets forgotten is Key West. In my opinion, this is one of the best cruise ports to visit. I used to work as a performer on cruise ships, and have spent nearly five years of my life at sea. One ship that I worked on, the adorable Norwegian Sun, went to Key West twice a week during my time onboard. I got to know the port incredibly well, and fell in love.

Currently, there tends to be between two to three ships in port at Key West on any given day. Cruise lines like Celebrity, NorwegianCruise Line and Virgin Voyages tend to be the lines seen here most often–however other popular lines make stops every now and then, too. Whether you have a cruise already booked that is going to Key West, or you’re still trying to figure out which itinerary you want to go on for your next voyage–I’m here to tell you the best things to do in Key West.

Related: This Sneaky Hack Will Save You Hundreds On Your Next NCL Cruise

Rent A Bike And Tour The Island View this post on Instagram

Since I visited Key West multiple times a week for about seven months, I got to know the island fairly well. At first, I would get around on foot, exploring different neighborhoods and streets. One day, I realized that I could rent a bike and get around a lot easier. I did this with a few friends, and it ended up being one of the best days I’ve ever had in port.

First and foremost, Key West is very bike friendly. You will find bike racks all along the public streets, outside of cafes and restaurants, and along the water as well. This makes it easy to hop from place to place without having to worry about where to park your bike. There are also dedicated bike lanes as well as many different routes posted that you can follow.

One route, the East Perimeter Trail Loop, takes you along the boardwalk as well as historical sights. It takes about an hour in total if you don’t stop, however there are lots of great places to stop along this route. If you decide to ride around without following a specific path, make sure you visit areas like Old Town, Bahama Village and The Meadows. To rent a bike on Key West, there are a ton of places to do so right near the cruise port. I’ve used Fury Key West Bike Rental, which I found very easy and affordable.

Related: The Worst Time To Go On a Cruise, According to Cruise Experts

Have A Delicious Meal At The Grand Cafe

In Key West, there are tons and tons of restaurants, bars and cafes that you can stop in. Many get filled very quickly, especially if more than one cruise ship is in port that day. Many of these restaurants have a “tourist trap” type feel to them, and while I definitely did visit a few of those here and there, I found that the quieter, nicer restaurants were much more worth the time and money.

My all time favorite restaurant in Key West is called The Grand Cafe. This restaurant is on Duval Street (the main street in town) and is located in a Victorian Mansion. Not only is it absolutely gorgeous, but the food is top tier as well. This is a spot to go to if you’re looking for fresh seafood made within unique and exciting dishes. Some of my favorites include the Grilled Rare Yellowfin Tuna, which is served with black sesame rice noodles and wasabi aioli, or the Blackened Mahi Mahi which comes with rice, black beans, plantains and salsa.

After a long bike ride around the town, having a nice meal at The Grand Cafe is the perfect way to end the day.

Related: The One Thing You Should Never Do on a Cruise Ship, According to Cruise Experts

Grab A Cookie At Mattheessen’s View this post on Instagram

As you head back to your cruise ship, you’re going to want to make one final stop. This is at Mattheessen’s, a bakery that’s located right at the top of Duval Street. The bakery is famous for its giant cookies–and trust me, you don’t want to miss grabbing one of them. These cookies weigh half a pound each, and many different flavors are served each day. I highly recommend either the classic chocolate chip or the oatmeal raisin cookie.

No matter how good the food is onboard your cruise ship, I can almost guarantee you that no dessert will be as good onboard as a Matthessen’s cookie. They are perfectly chewy, extremely decadent, and have the perfect balance of sweetness. So, do yourself a favor, and grab one to bring back onboard the ship with you.

Related: 10 Great Things to Do in the Orlando Area Before or After a Cruise

Sources:

Classic Rock Is Getting Crushed in Its Own Hall of Fame Fan Vote

Thu, 03/05/2026 - 10:05am

Fans are already weighing in on who deserves a spot in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame — and the early results may not be what you expected. 

Just a week after this year’s nominees were announced on February 25, more than two million fan ballots have already been submitted. The early voting totals offer a first look at which artists are resonating most with fans, and the leaderboard spans far beyond traditional rock acts.

After the first week of voting, Phil Collins has pulled into an early lead, collecting more than 258,000 votes as of Thursday, March 5. 

But the rest of the rankings may surprise fans who prefer the Hall stick strictly to rock music

R&B group New Edition currently sits in second place with more than 219,000 votes. Pop star Pink follows closely with just under 212,000 votes, while soul legend Luther Vandross rounds out the top four with a little more than 190,000. 

Billy Idol currently sits in fifth place with about 170,000 votes, followed by Sade, INXS, MariahCarey, Wu-Tang Clan and Lauryn Hill to complete the top 10. 

The early results also highlight how much the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame’s nominee pool has broadened in recent years, with pop, hip-hop and R&B artists now regularly appearing alongside classic rock acts. 

RockHall.com

Meanwhile, legendary metal band Iron Maiden currently sits in 11th place with just over 122,000 votes. Frontman Bruce Dickinson, a three-time nominee, has been openly critical of the Hall’s nomination process. 

“I actually think the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame is an utter and complete load of bollocks, to be honest with you,” he previously said. “It’s run by a bunch of sanctimonious bloody Americans who wouldn’t know rock and roll if it hit them in the face. They need to stop taking Prozac and start drinking fucking beer.” 

The other big rock contenders are further down the list, with Britpop icons Oasis in 13th place and Southern rock band The Black Crowes in 14th. 

Even if an artist does well in the fan vote, it doesn’t mean they’ll be inducted. Last year, for example, Phish finished first and Billy Idol came in third — yet neither made it into the Rock Hall.

Voting runs through April 3, with fans allowed to cast one ballot per day at RockHall.com. The 2026 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees will be revealed sometime later in April, according to Future Rock Legends.

Related: 83-Year-Old 'Twist' Icon Refuses Rock Hall — His Response Is Legendary

This Patriotic Song Hit No. 1 60 Years Ago Today—and Became the Biggest Hit of 1966

Thu, 03/05/2026 - 10:04am

One of the most unusual No. 1 hits of the 1960s reached the top of the charts exactly 60 years ago today.

On March 5, 1966, Staff Sgt. Barry Sadler’s patriotic ballad "The Ballad of the Green Berets" climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song would remain there for five weeks and later be recognized by Billboard as the No. 1 song of the entire year.

At a time when many songs tied to the Vietnam War era reflected protest or uncertainty, Sadler’s recording took a very different approach. The song honored members of the U.S. Army Special Forces, often known as the Green Berets, highlighting their bravery and sacrifice.

RELATED: 1973 Classic That Defined a Generation Was a No. 1 Hit 53 Years Ago

Sadler had firsthand experience with the unit. According to accounts of the song’s creation, he began writing it while training as a Special Forces medic. Author Robin Moore, whose book "The Green Berets" helped popularize the elite military unit, later helped Sadler finish the lyrics and connect with RCA Records.

The song quickly became a phenomenon. It reportedly shipped two million copies in its first five weeks, making it the fastest-selling single in RCA’s history at the time. Ultimately, the single sold more than nine million copies worldwide.

Despite its straightforward patriotic tone, the song resonated with a massive audience during a complicated cultural moment.

RELATED: This 1971 Classic Ranked No. 1 ‘Acoustic Guitar Intro of All Time’

As country superstarTim McGraw wrote in "Songs of America: Patriotism, Protest, and the Music That Made a Nation":

"The Ballad of the Green Berets” is a great patriotic song, and it was very nearly dated even when it was released. That Barry Sadler’s straight-ahead march—the music lets the message of the lyric stand out—was so successful in 1966 tells us a lot about how the Vietnam War was viewed in the earlier days of our involvement, because it’s hard to imagine the song doing as well two years later.

McGraw also contrasted the song with another Vietnam-era classic that arrived just a few years later:

Three years later brought a very different song. In 1969, Creedence Clearwater Revival released “Fortunate Son,” a rock number incorporating the timeless motif of poor men fighting rich men’s wars.

RELATED: 1991 Hit Ranked No. 1 ‘Greatest One-Hit Wonder’ of All Time

Though the national conversation around the war would evolve rapidly by the end of the decade, "The Ballad of the Green Berets" remains one of the defining chart hits of the era.

In fact, when Billboard later revised its year-end rankings for 1966, the song was officially recognized as the most successful Hot 100 single of that year.

Sadler’s life after the song was far more complicated than his brief moment atop the charts. In later years he was involved in several violent incidents, including a 1978 Nashville shooting that left a songwriter dead, though no charges were filed against him. Sadler eventually moved to Guatemala, where he was shot during a robbery attempt in 1988 and died the following year at age 49.

For a brief moment in 1966, a solemn tribute to American soldiers stood atop the pop charts.

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Walmart's 'Gorgeous' $89 2-Drawer Console Table Is 'Perfect for Dressing Up a Room'

Thu, 03/05/2026 - 10:03am

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

A great console table can add interest to a room and also offer some handy storage space to organize your items. If you want a reliable option that's both stylish and spacious, look no further than Walmart's HLR 40-Inch Modern Console Table. It features a stunning farmhouse-style design and comes in three versatile colors: black, blue, and green, all of which are currently on sale for nearly 45% off. 

For a limited time, you can snag the versatile console table for just $89, down from $160. You can also shop it in several larger configurations (including a 47-inch option and a 4-drawer option) at varying prices.  

HLR 40-Inch Modern Console Table, $89 (was $160) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walma

At 11.4 inches deep, 40 inches wide, and 30.7 inches high, the slim frame is perfect for small spaces, including apartments, dorms, entryways, or offices. Despite its compact build, the table offers ample storage capacity. The bottom shelf is spacious enough to hold decorative baskets, accent pillows, or multiple pairs of shoes, while the two large drawers are ideal for stashing items like keys, phones, books, and more.

Thanks to the simple, clean design, the console can serve a wide range of functions. Use it as a traditional entryway table, or position it behind the sofa as an accent piece in your living room. It can also work as a TV stand or as an elevated printer stand in an office. 

Related: Walmart's 'Beautiful’ $160 Arched Display Cabinet ‘Holds a Ton’ and Comes in 2 Colors

Multiple shoppers have praised the HLR console for its incredible quality and upscale look. One reviewer called it "gorgeous," noting that it's "very expensive-looking" even at such an affordable price. Another praised the "pretty" design," adding it's "perfect for dressing up a room."

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Elevate your entryway, home office, or living space with this highly rated farmhouse console table that's versatile enough to work in any room. Snag it while all three colors are still on sale and in stock at Walmart.

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Savannah Guthrie's Mom Nancy: Former FBI Agent Points Out 'Concerning' Detail in Investigation

Thu, 03/05/2026 - 9:55am

Today co-anchor Savannah Guthrie‘s mom, Nancy Guthrie, is still missing more than a month after the abduction from her Tucson, Ariz., home—and a former FBI agent recently pointed out a "concerning" detail in the search for the 84-year-old.

During an interview with Newsweek published on March 5, Jennifer Coffindaffer, a retired FBI agent, weighed in on the case's latest development.

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Coffindaffer admitted during the chat that she thought it strange that investigators haven't released more details about the alleged suspect.

“I think it is concerning that law enforcement has not made known any other details,” she said, referring to the FBI releasing photos and video footage from a Nest doorbell camera showing a masked individual on Nancy's porch the night she disappeared.

Coffindaffer added that the Pima County Sheriff's Department (PCSD) has the FBI "as a resource to more define the photographs as well as the video to make more details out, and yet they have not seemingly identified the clothing further or the mask or the holster.”

New images in the search for Nancy Guthrie:
 
Over the last eight days, the FBI and Pima County Sheriff’s Department have been working closely with our private sector partners to continue to recover any images or video footage from Nancy Guthrie’s home that may have been lost,… pic.twitter.com/z5WLgPtZpT

— FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) February 10, 2026

Related: Savannah Guthrie Returns to Today Set for First Time Since Mom Nancy’s Abduction

So far, the FBI has identified the suspect's backpack as a 25-liter Ozark Trail Hiker Pack. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos shared an update on the bag in early March.

"We’ve now learned that maybe it wasn’t purchased at a Walmart,” he revealed. “That backpack is an exclusive to Walmart. But whose to say I didn’t buy it and put it on eBay? That’s what we’re looking at.”

Additionally, Nanos confirmed that a black glove found near Nancy's home was not related to the case.

“There was some talk and discussion that it was police officers out in the field just discarding them, that is so far from the truth," he told KVOA. "We knew that at that time, we believed wholeheartedly that those gloves belonged to a restaurant, and guess what? The owner of the glove, we found working at a restaurant across the street. It has nothing to do with the case."

Related: Savannah Guthrie’s Mom Nancy Update: Key Detail Could Have Prevented Abduction, Says SWAT Commander 

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On Feb. 1, the PCSD launched its search for Nancy, who was last seen at her Catalina Foothills home on Jan. 31. Savannah and her siblings, Annie and Camron, have posted several video messages to the potential captor(s) since then and have received several alleged ransom notes. Most recently, Savannah offered a $1 million reward for any information leading to Nancy’s return.

Those with any information about Nancy’s missing case are advised to contact the FBI tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI.

Next: Savannah Guthrie’s Mom Nancy Update: Sheriff Weighs in on "Missing Piece of Evidence"

Viola Davis Has Fiery Response To Heated 'The View' Debate Involving Whoopi Goldberg

Thu, 03/05/2026 - 9:55am

From one EGOT-winner to another, Viola Davis has Whoopi Goldberg's back.

Davis, 60, recently came to Goldberg's defense following a tense confrontation on The View with Elisabeth Hasselbeck, who has been guest hosting on the show this week in Alyssa Farah Griffin's absence.

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But things haven't been going totally smoothly for Hasselbeck, as she recently butted heads with Goldberg during the Wednesday, March 4 episode of The View, after the Sister Act alum criticized the ICE agents who have been hiding their faces behind ski masks while apprehending people on the streets.

Hasselbeck, 48, fired back at Goldberg's point to call the Democratic Party the "party of masks," referring to the mask mandates during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Bulls—t!" Davis clapped back online, after a clip of the intense exchange was posted to Threads on Wednesday.

The How To Get Away With Murder actress went on to say in her response on social media, "Kicking in the doors of homes w semi automatic weapons w masks? Drawing guns on people while driving wearing a mask? Ripping children from a mother’s arms is waaaaaayyyy different than masks during Covid!!!"

"By the way, all of this while not showing a badge or practicing Due Process!!!" she added. "Have we really come to this???!!!!"

Related: Whoopi Goldberg and Oprah Winfrey Reunite on 'The View' 40 Years After Legendary Film

1970s Airline Regarded as ‘Most Glamorous of All Time’ Served Steak on China Plates

Thu, 03/05/2026 - 9:51am

I know that every decade has had its ups and downs, but truthfully, I think the 1970s had a lot going for it when it came to music, style, and quality. I'm very much a "vintage vibes, not values" type of girl, and purely from that perspective, I think it was a hell of a time to be alive. Led Zeppelin was still together, feathered layers were all the rage, and Pan Am dominated the skies.

The luxury airline, which began in the '20s and peaked in the '70s, took travel to entirely new, classy heights. Before its decline in the '80s, Pan Am was known for its gorgeous stewardesses, impeccable accommodations, and literally fine dining options.

Today, you'll spend a few hours cramped in a far-too-small seat and be served high school cafeteria-level food. But just a little over half a century ago, if you were on a Pan Am flight, you were eating like a king.

They served a variety of truly delectable foods in first class, with options like steak and roast beef prepared fresh daily. Even economy class ate well. Thanks to the preservation efforts of the Virtual Pan Am Museum, a 1970s flight menu from New York to Tokyo had themed, delicious options like broiled beef teriyaki and supreme of chicken hasamiyaki as main entrées, while offering appetizers like braised beef bourguignonne and a jardinière of vegetables.

And what's more, they served it all on fine china, silverware, pristine linen tablecloths, and top-shelf liquor. You basically forgot you were flying.

Related: Is Your Favorite Cruise Ship on the CDC's "Cleanest" List? 25 Ships Just Earned a Perfect 100

How Did Pan Am Prepare These Elaborate Meals?

It's hard to imagine an airline being capable of whipping up such gourmet finds, but Pan Am was dedicated to its glamorous image. They were able to out-dazzle their fellow airlines by being innovative: According to Tasting Table, they installed electronically heated quartz grills so flight attendants could cook steaks to order. The steaks themselves were painstakingly prepped before the flight, frozen, and, through genius technology, able to be cooked to order quickly.

Other plane galleys installed convection ovens so they could roast meat. Roast sirloin of beef was served cooked to order as well, and flight attendants were specifically trained in serving and knife skills so each cut was perfect.

Related: I’m 45 and Officially Done with 'Average' Travel—My Soul Needed This One Luxury Weekend More Than Three Cheap Ones

Will We Ever Experience This Type of Luxury Flying Again?

Honestly, we probably won't ever touch the glamour of the '70s when it comes to in-flight dining, but we could be close to luxury again. Pan Am is making strides to return to the skies sometime soon. In late 2025, they announced they were beginning the FAA certification process to operate as a U.S. airline.

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Recently, they announced that they are one step closer to takeoff thanks to a strategic partnership with Holland America. In honor of Pan Am's 100-year anniversary, they will be launching a 28-day sailing cruise aboard the Zuiderdam that "retraces the storied Clipper routes that first opened the Caribbean to the world." The route begins in Miami and ends in Mérida and promises to capture the glamour of the past. That's happening in October 2027, but they are taking reservations for it now.

Anne Hathaway Releases First-Ever Single for A24's 'Mother Mary'

Thu, 03/05/2026 - 9:51am

Anne Hathaway has proved her singing capabilities before, with A24 having officially released her debut single for her upcoming movie Mother Mary. The song "Burial" has fans floored with the stunning visuals and haunting vocals they've never experienced before from the actor.

A24 announced on their official X account that the first single is from the Mother Mary: Greatest Hits album. While Hathaway is behind the vocals, it was co-written byJack Antonoff,Charli XCX, George Daniel, and the actor. The album will officially be released on April 17.

The announcement was accompanied by stunning visuals related to the upcoming film, with Hathaway dressed as a representation of the holy figure. Scenes also show her performing on stage, teasing the intensity of the film. Hearing the actor's vocals, fans were blown away, not realizing she isn't just an on-screen actor.

Mother has arrived. "Burial" the first single from the Mother Mary: Greatest Hits album is out now. Performed by Anne Hathaway, and co-written by Jack Antonoff, Charli xcx, George Daniel and Anne Hathaway. Album arrives April 17. pic.twitter.com/3DXF2eKYN1

— A24 (@A24) March 5, 2026

"Anne Hathaway dropping a track produced by Jack Antonoff and Charli Xcx was not on my 2026 bingo card," said one fan.

"OH she coming to shake the charts," said anotherm while another chimed in saying, "Co-written by the queen of sad bangers herself. Anne ate this up."

"hold on i’m moving i knew she sang in soundtracks but i didn’t know she could sound like a pop diva," said a fan.

Related: ‘Scream 7’ Director Teases Universal Monsters Series Described as an ‘Adult Vampire Diaries’

While Hathaway's career has largely focused on acting and on-screen works, she has lent her vocals before for movie soundtracks. She famously sang "I Dreamed a Dream" as the character Fantine in Les Misérables, a role that won her an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress. She also performed multiple songs and covers for Ella Enchanted, and sang a brief song in The Princess Diaries 2. "Burial" is her first official single under her name.

Mother Mary is a psychological drama thriller written and directed by David Lowery, with Hathaway as a global pop star under the name Mother Mary. The plot followed the psychosexual affair between the pop singer and a fashion designer named Sam (Michaela Coel). They're brought back together when Mary needs a dress for her upcoming tour.

A Heat-and-Serve Korean BBQ Favorite Is Back at Costco

Thu, 03/05/2026 - 9:47am

If you’ve found yourself asking, “What’s for dinner?” this week, Costco’s latest grab-and-go option might have the answer.

Back in the prepared food section is fan-favorite Beef Bulgogi, a Korean BBQ-inspired dish marinated in a savory sauce with sliced onions. The heat-and-serve meal is priced at $6.99 per pound, making a typical 3.37-pound container about $23.56, and it can be quickly warmed on the stovetop for an easy dinner at home.

On February 3, TikTok creator @discovering_costco spotted the returning meal and shared a closer look at the dish.

@discovering_costco

The fan-favorite is finally back 👀 This savory, marinated beef bulgogi at Costco makes dinner so easy—just cook and serve. If you missed it last time, now’s your chance 🛒✨ #costcofinds #costcofood #beefbulgogi #koreanbbq #costcohaul

♬ Stateside + Zara Larsson - PinkPantheress

The marinated beef can be served several ways, depending on what you’re in the mood for. Spoon it over steamed rice for a simple dinner, put it into warm pita or flatbread for a quick sandwich, or pair it with lettuce wraps and fresh vegetables for a lighter meal. The sweet-savory marinade also works well in stir-fried noodles or grain bowls. And it pairs nicely with simple sides like steamed vegetables, kimchi, or a quick cucumber salad for a well-rounded Korean-inspired meal.

Related: A New Costco Bakery Dessert Brings an Early Taste of Summer

Beef Bulgogi Is a Classic Korean BBQ Dish Known for Its Sweet and Savory Flavor

Beef bulgogi is one of the most recognizable dishes in Korean cuisine. Traditionally made with thinly sliced beef, the meat is marinated in a mixture that generally includes soy sauce, garlic, sugar, sesame oil, and fruit such as pear or apple, which helps tenderize the beef while adding subtle sweetness.

Beef Bulgogi over fried rice.

Image via Shu

The dish is typically grilled or cooked quickly over high heat, creating caramelized edges and deep savory flavor. As the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage explains, bulgogi has long been a staple of Korean barbecue cooking, where marinated meat is prepared fresh and served with rice, vegetables, and a variety of side dishes known as banchan.

Costco’s version captures many of those familiar flavors in a convenient heat-and-serve format, making it an easy way to bring the sweet and savory taste of Korean BBQ to the dinner table without the prep work. As always with Costco prepared foods, availability can vary by warehouse.

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