President Joe Biden at the debate against Donald Trump.
Gerald Herbert/AP
Biden will meet with his family at Camp David to discuss the future of his campaign, reports say.
The trip was planned long in advance but the purpose has shifted after Biden's rough debate.
A chorus of influential supporters have called on Biden to step aside in the last 48 hours.
Today, President Joe Biden will meet his family at Camp David to discuss the future of his election campaign, according to multiple reports.
It will likely be one of the most agonizing decisions of his long political life.
The pre-planned trip — a chance for the entire family, children and grandchildren included, to take a family photo — is a timely opportunity for a private meeting among the people who are perhaps most influential in Biden's life. His family played a key role in his decision to run in 2020.
The discussion follows Biden's disastrous debate performance against former president Donald Trump on Thursday night. During the debate, Biden struggled with a raspy voice and rambling answers that renewed concerns about his age.
In the 48 hours since the debate, a chorus of donors and other supporters have called on Biden to step aside. The New York Times editorial board did the same. Outside a fundraising event on Saturday, voters who support Biden held signs asking him to exit the race. The weekend was dominated by debates about who could take Biden's place.
In just 90 minutes, Biden's debate performance seems to have sparked the most serious challenge to his presidency yet. Biden's campaign, however, has largely pushed back. And Biden himself has made no indication that he would step down.
"Folks, I might not walk as easily or talk as smoothly as I used to. I might not debate as well as I used to. But what I do know is how to tell the truth," he said at a rally in North Carolina.
In response to the reports that Biden would discuss his campaign with his family, Andrew Bates, the White House senior deputy press secretary, said on X that the Camp David trip was pre-planned and dismissed the reports.
From Olive Garden to Denny's, you've likely visited at least one of these chains in the past year. But which chains are faring better than others?
The research firm Technomic recently identified the top 500 biggest chain restaurants in the US. The report, which Technomic said is based on "decades of historical data," analyzes trends in the food service industry and includes each chain's annual sales and unit counts for 2023, which were also reported by Nation's Restaurant News.
We looked at the top 15 chains listed as casual dining, midscale, or family-style for this list. Fast-casual or quick-service restaurants like Chipotle and McDonald's are not included. We also listed the year the company was founded, its 2023 sales, and restaurant count, per Technomic's report.
Rutte, a fierce critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin, will take over from Jens Stoltenberg on October 1, ending the latter's decadelong run at the helm of the alliance.
The 57-year-old, who is the Netherlands' longest-serving prime minister, will take over the reins at a crucial and turbulent time for the alliance, with the US election looming in November and the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza still raging on.
The intray for Rutte is "daunting," Philippe Dickinson, the deputy director of the Transatlantic Security Initiative at the Atlantic Council's Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security, said.
He will have to contend with "reinforcing defense and deterrence across the Alliance in the face of a hostile and bellicose Russia, helping Ukraine to defeat Russia and welcoming Kyiv into the Alliance, and establishing NATO's role in dealing with the rising challenge posed by China," Dickinson continued, "all while evolving the Alliance to keep up with fast-paced technological change and without neglecting NATO's counterterrorism and crisis management responsibilities."
And that's not to mention the upcoming US election, which comes just a month after Rutte will take office.
However, the Dutch politician is familiar with Trump, and he has even garnered the nickname the "Trump whisperer" after successfully placating the former president after he had warned during a NATO meeting in 2018 that the US would go its "own way" if other countries did not start spending more on their militaries, per Politico.
After a fractious few moments, Rutte reportedly "rescued" the situation by telling Trump that other countries' spending had gone up and that Trump was, in fact, to thank.
Rutte's experience and personality could now be key to "Trump-proofing" NATO, Rachel Rizzo, a nonresident senior fellow with the Atlantic Council's Europe Center, added.
"He's seen as cool, calm, and collected. He knows how to handle big egos, he's worked with Trump before (even praising him at times), and he understands the need for European allies to increase their share of the burden of European security," she said.
Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte.
Getty Images
Michael O'Hanlon, a senior fellow and director of research in Foreign Policy at the Brookings Institution, told Business Insider that Rutte is "a consensus builder" and "a person with a track record of improving his country's defense burdensharing efforts."
Rutte is also a major supporter of Ukraine, and he has been a key driver of European military support for the country since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022.
Rutte was influenced by the shooting down of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 in 2014, which killed 196 Dutch nationals. The Netherlands says Russia played a key role in the incident.
"He won't stop at Ukraine if we don't stop him now. This war is bigger than Ukraine itself. It's about upholding the international rule of law," Rutte said of Putin in 2022.
On the other hand, flip-flops and water sandals aren't doing anything for your look.
Sandals aren't just what you toss on to take out the trash anymore. Popular brand Birkenstock alone reported an annual revenue of $1.5 billion in 2023.
But before you run out to find this season's latest trends, Business Insider asked stylists and designers to share which sandals are in and out this summer.
Here's what the experts said.
Neutral earth tones pair well with a range of outfits.
Neutral shoes are great for summer outfits.
Milov_Alexey/Shutterstock
Neutrals and nudes will always be in style, according to Melony Huber, designer, founder, and design director of the ethical lifestyle collection La Peony.
"You can wear them over and over again with a variety of looks, so you will get your use out of these shoes," she told BI.
According to Abby Young, lead stylist and CEO of Abby Young Styling, brown leather, tan suede, and beige raffia are all acceptable options.
Asymmetrical sandals are making their way onto the scene.
Funky straps are in.
Milov_Alexey/Shutterstock
Asymmetric sandals often have straps or embellishments that wrap around the foot unevenly, creating an eye-catching look.
"These sandals are fun, unique, and something everyone must try," Huber told BI. "They are a great addition to everyone's summer closet."
The asymmetric lines also add visual interest, which can be very flattering.
Fisherman sandals are trending.
Fisherman sandals have gotten a makeover.
Sabelnikova Olga/Shutterstock
According to Michelle Barrett, stylist and founder of Capsule Closet Stylist, fisherman sandals are one of the season's biggest trends.
Think flat and chunky leather styles in black, brown, and off-white.
Fisherman sandals are easy to pair with shorts, dresses, and other everyday looks, Young said.
Metal accents are going to be everywhere.
Chunky metal chains are in right now.
andersphoto/Shutterstock
According to Barrett and Huber, we'll see metal embellishments everywhere this summer.
"It upgrades the overall look of your sandals and is an eye-catching fashion choice, perfect for elevating your outfit instantly," Huber told BI.
Barrett recommended opting for simple touches of gold or silver rather than stone and sequin embellishments from years past.
Strappy sandals are making a comeback.
The strappy look from the 1990s is back.
Victoria Fox/Shutterstock
With the recent resurgence of '90s fashion, thin straps are making a comeback.
According to Huber, lightweight, strappy sandals are great for hot summer days.
"Perfect for a range of outfits, these go great with everything from summer dresses to flowy pants," she told BI.
On the other hand, flip-flops are dead.
You can get rid of the crusty flip-flops in the back of your closet.
yayhastudio/Shutterstock
According to Alina Lundin, CEO, founder, and designer of Miharo, flip-flops are often seen as too casual and lack the support needed for extended wear.
As a replacement style, consider slides or stylish mules.
"These offer more support and a chic, polished look," the designer told BI.
Styles from the 2010 era should stay there.
Cork wedges are so yesterday.
Danielcc/Shutterstock
From cork wedges and espadrilles to gladiator sandals, Young said it's too soon to bring back any 2010s trends.
The stylist recommended more interesting styles this season, such as toe-ring, fisherman, or cross-strap sandals.
Water sandals aren’t doing anything for your look.
Sporty hiking sandals are great for adventures but not every day.
"If your vacation plans involve both outdoor and indoor activities, such as going out to dinner, consider keeping an extra pair of leather sandals to change into later," the stylist told BI.
Swap any thin heels for platforms.
Tiny heels aren't comfortable.
Valentina Frugiuele/Getty Images
Although stylish, high-heeled sandals can be impractical and uncomfortable for summer activities, according to Lundin.
The designer recommended swapping these out for platform sandals, which provide comfort and support while still being fashionable.
In this pool photograph distributed by the Russian state agency Sputnik, Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un toast during a reception at the Mongnangwan Reception House in Pyongyang on June 19, 2024.
VLADIMIR SMIRNOV via Getty Images
Putin and Kim held a major summit early last week and agreed to a mutual defense pact.
The agreement is as bad for China as it is for the US, a top Korea watcher said.
Russia and North Korea's closeness leaves China with few options on how to respond.
A deepening partnership between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is causing ripple effects worldwide, from the Indo-Pacific region to Ukraine.
And while the growing partnership may increase tensions and create problems for the US and its allies, it's not exactly great for China either, a top Korea watcher said.
Last week, Putin visited North Korea for the first time in 24 years. During a glitzy and high-profile trip to Pyongyang, the two signed an agreement declaring they'd aid each other should the other be attacked.
The mutual defense agreement followed earlier arms deals between the two, which have seen Russia receive North Korean weapons to address its ammunition shortages in Ukraine in exchange for Pyongyang likely receiving food, petroleum products, and potentially more dangerous and advanced capabilities and technologies for nuclear-powered submarines, intercontinental ballistic missiles, or other priority programs.
South Korea's 24-hour Yonhapnews TV shows a file image of North Korea's missile launch during a news program on a TV at Yongsan Railroad Station in Seoul.
Kim Jae-Hwan/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images
The pact was a notable turning point, marking Russia and North Korea's closest relations since the Cold War and leaving the door open for future cooperation. None of this is good for the US — the partnership fuels Putin's war, gives North Korea opportunities to bypass global sanctions, and stirs up increased tension on the Korean peninsula, among other challenges.
But US President Joe Biden isn't the only one dealing with the problems of this new partnership. The closeness of Russia and North Korea leaves Chinese leader Xi Jinping in a rather odd spot as well.
"This relationship is as bad for China as it is for the United States," Victor Cha, the senior vice president for Asia and the Korea chair at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, said.
US President Joe Biden (R) and China's President Xi Jinping (L) meet on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Nusa Dua at the Indonesian resort island of Bali.
SAUL LOEB/AFP via Getty Images
Beijing has long enjoyed a strong influence over North Korea, and it has gone to great lengths to maintain relations with Pyongyang despite navigating North Korea's internationally condemned nuclear weapons tests and UN Security Council sanctions.
At times when it seems like other countries could compete for North Korea's interest — such as summits between Kim and Donald Trump or between Kim and Putin — China has sought to reposition itself carefully, so as to maintain its role as North Korea's closest ally.
But this year's a whole new ballgame. In early 2024, Cha and others predicted that because of Putin and Kim's previous summit in September 2023 and arms deal to provide Russia ammunition, North Korea would find itself "sitting pretty" as both Russia and China courted it and the US remained ignored on the sidelines.
Now, with China left out of a budding relationship between Putin and Kim, it doesn't really have any good options on the table.
"They could join with the United States in condemning this, which they will never do, even though this relationship is not in their interest at all," Cha said.
"They could publicly criticize North Korea, and they'll never do that. Or they could stop industrial support for Russia to try and stop the Russians from working with the North Koreans, and they'll never do that either," he added.
Chinese soldiers practice marching in formation ahead of military parade to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China in Beijing, China.
Pool
A major problem facing both China and the US is the risk of further tensions on the Korean peninsula, a place neither wants to see conflict.
Dangerous dominoes
With Russia forging closer ties with North Korea in a way that could potentially lead to advances in North Korean military capabilities or improved weapons production, South Korea finds itself facing an increasingly emboldened and capable enemy neighbor. And Seoul's already threatened a response to that.
South Korea has been supplying Ukraine with much-needed ammunition via the US, bypassing restrictions, but the threat escalates things.
Putin warned South Korea against direct support for Ukraine, suggesting that if it does decide to go all in, Russia could flood North Korea with more military support, fueling tensions on the peninsula. "Those who supply these weapons believe that they are not at war with us," he told reporters, adding that, "including in Pyongyang, that we then reserve the right to supply weapons to other regions of the world."
Cha explained that Russia holds a bit of leverage in this situation, capable of responding by helping North Korea improve its stockpiles, produce better munitions, and even potentially provide high-end technology for nuclear-powered submarines or better military satellites.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un at a launch ceremony for a new "tactical nuclear attack submarine" in early September 2023.
KCNA via REUTERS
Were Russia to take such a retaliatory step, it could prompt Seoul to think more seriously about a nuclear weapons program, something that's long been in discussion but has typically been deterred by stronger US commitments to defend South Korea.
Last year, South Korea agreed not to pursue the development of its own nuclear weapons, which the North has developed over a series of illegal tests, in exchange for the deployment of US nuclear-powered submarines in the area.
Growing unease
With the Putin-Kim alliance, China is also likely to face greater pressure from US-led alliances. Cha explained that the security pact between Russia and North Korea "ensures the US-Japan-South Korea military alliances will grow even tighter," which makes the Indo-Pacific region even more of a hotbed for joint military exercises, demonstrations, and an increased US presence.
China has long been against such alliances and criticized US operations in internationally open waters. In recent years, as the US has strengthened ties with Japan and South Korea in direct response to growing concerns about Chinese aggression, it has stirred frustration in Beijing.
Now, that's seemingly only going to grow as the US and its allies watch North Korea and Russia more closely. But China has, for now, kept its thoughts on this matter to itself.
"The cooperation between Russia and the DPRK is a matter between two sovereign states," Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Li Jian said last week, referring to North Korea by its official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
"We do not have information on the relevant matter," he said.
Russian President Vladimir Putin, left, and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un pose for a photo during a signing ceremony of the new partnership in Pyongyang, North Korea.
Kristina Kormilitsyna, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP
There may be more playing out behind the scenes, as US Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell suggested at a think tank event earlier this week.
"I think it is fair to say that China is somewhat anxious about what's going on between Russia and North Korea," he said at an event hosted by the Council on Foreign Relations. "They have indicated so in some of our interactions, and we can see some tension associated with those things."
"China is probably worried that North Korea will be somehow encouraged to take provocative steps that could lead to a crisis in Northeast Asia," Campbell said.
Terri Peters and her husband got closer while vacationing together.
Courtesy Terri Peters
My husband drinks alcohol, but I've been sober for nearly seven months.
Recently, we visited Sandals' newest all-inclusive resort in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
I was nervous about how it would go, but we both fully enjoyed the trip.
The last time my husband and I visited an adults-only, all-inclusive resort was over a decade ago. My memories of that trip are hazy, filled with drinks at the swim-up bar, wine-fueled dinners, and feeling a bit hungover each morning. Since then, I've chosen an alcohol-free lifestyle, but my husband still drinks.
Recently, we traveled to Sandals' newest resort in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and I was a little nervous about flexing my sobriety muscles in an environment where the booze would be flowing and my husband would be drinking it.
As it turns out, the trip was one of my favorites ever. St.Vincent and the Grenadines is a beautiful country, Sandals' newest resort is stunning, and being sober to fully experience it all was a true joy. The trip only solidified my decision to live alcohol-free and made me proud of how far I've come since beginning my sobriety journey nearly seven months ago.
Here's what it was like to stay at an all-inclusive resort as a sober person, and how I navigated my husband's decision to drink alcohol while I abstained.
There were as many alcohol-free options at the resort as alcoholic
Terri Peters found there were plenty of non-alcoholic options while on vacation at an all-inclusive resort.
Courtesy Terri Peters
I wasn't sure what to expect visiting an all-inclusive resort for the first time since I stopped drinking, but Sandals was incredibly accommodating. Many of the bars had zero-proof cocktails and mocktails on the menu, I drank tons of fresh juices and coconut water, and after requesting my in-room refrigerator be stocked with club soda and grapefruit juice, I had festive things to sip on while in my room.
To my surprise, there were just as many options for alcohol-free drinks as there were alcoholic ones, including two separate coffee shops that made amazing lattes.
I kept busy with activities rather than drinking
On our five-night trip, we spent two full days at the resort. While resort days would have previously involved me floating on a raft or sitting at the swim-up bar drinking cocktails, I focused on the activity schedule instead.
From kayaking to artisanal soap-making, there were plenty of things to do that didn't involve alcohol. I even spent a morning making friendship bracelets and sipping an iced latte with other guests while my husband had a few beers by the pool.
Evenings were a bit more challenging, as my husband would go from wine at dinner to cocktails at the bar, and I struggled to know what to do when drinking felt like the focus. Luckily, there were also evening events, like Caribbean dance shows and poolside movies. Sticking to some of my favorite bar orders, like club soda with a splash or juice or ginger beer, made it easy to stay alcohol-free, as did having nighttime activities to pay attention to.
On excursion days, I was well-rested and energized
Terri Peters found she had more energy on excursion days.
Courtesy Terri Peters
Waking up without a hangover is a part of sober travel that will never get old. On the two days we left Sandals to do excursions on the island, I woke up bright and early to get breakfast and meet up with our tour guide.
Not feeling exhausted and nauseous on long bus rides, beach walks, and waterfall hikes made my choice not to drink feel worth it, and I didn't envy the people who couldn't wait for their first drink of the day to chase away last night's drinking headache.
At dinner each night, I focused on the resort's cuisine, not a glass of wine
Terri Peters enjoyed the food on her vacation.
Courtesy Terri Peters
The food at Sandals was truly amazing, from its staple Japanese izakaya-style restaurant to a St. Vincent and the Grenadines-exclusive restaurant, Buccan, which served Vincentian food in a family-style setting. A pro tip for non-drinkers traveling to an all-inclusive resort? Make sure the resort is known for its food — not just its bar menus. Each evening, I'd focus on the delicious food in front of me rather than waiting for my wine glass to be refilled, and it was way more rewarding.
We had a few tough discussions about alcohol during the trip
It's tough traveling together when one person drinks and the other doesn't. There were times during our trip when I felt like everyone but me was feeling tipsy, and I was the solo non-drinker, which felt like a true bummer.
My husband and I had a few big discussions about alcohol during the trip, from digging deeper into the reasons I stopped drinking in the first place to discussing how his drinking impacts my own feelings. It's always tough to have hard-hitting conversations with the person you love most, but the trip provided a great opportunity to open up some discussions we'd not had previously.
It was fun to enjoy the resort's amenities fully, without the impairment of alcohol
Terri Peters' room had a swim-up pool.
Courtesy Terri Peters
Sandals St. Vincent and the Grenadines, which just opened in March 2024, is truly among the most beautiful resorts I've visited. Our room had a swim-up pool, and it was lovely to use the semi-private swimming area daily and enjoy such a beautiful view.
Whether using the cruiser bikes provided by the resort to get from one part of the grounds to the other or eating lunch on a porch taking in views of the rainforest and beach, I felt overwhelming gratitude for my sobriety and all it allows me to enjoy.
We grew closer as a couple on the trip, tough conversations and all
Terri Peters and her husband enjoyed traveling together.
Courtesy Terri Peters
Tough conversations aside, my husband and I grew closer as a couple on our all-inclusive trip. Being in such a beautiful, adult-only atmosphere and bonding together without our two kids around was truly special, and I'd do it again, regardless of whether either of us consumed alcohol during the trip.
My biggest advice for couples embarking on a similar journey is to give each other space to follow your own convictions and be respectful of how your actions impact one another. At the end of the trip, we walked away better as a couple, both from having gone through an all-inclusive resort experience at this stage in our lives and from taking in the beauty of St. Vincent.
Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams at the premiere of "The Notebook" in June 2004.
Ray Mickshaw/WireImage/Getty
June 25 marks 20 years since the release of "The Notebook," starring Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams.
Despite initial tensions, Gosling and McAdams' chemistry contributed to the film's success, and they eventually dated.
Here's a look back on their relationship.
In June 2004, we were not only given a big-screen adaptation of Nicholas Sparks' best-selling novel "The Notebook" but also one of the steamiest celebrity couples of the aughts: Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams.
"The Notebook" was the breakout hit for both then-rising stars. The film chronicles the relationship between Noah (Gosling) and Allie (McAdams) from the 1940s through the present day, as the now elderly Noah (James Garner) retells Allie (Gena Rowlands) their love story, as she suffers from dementia.
Though its release in theaters was initially soft, by the end of its run, the movie earned over $118 million worldwide on a $29 million budget. It's now considered one of the best romantic movies of the last two decades.
A major reason for that is the chemistry between Gosling and McAdams, which started with the two hating each other on set and concluded with them dating for a few years after filming wrapped.
In honor of the 20-year anniversary of the film's release in theaters, here are the best photos of Gosling and McAdams promoting "The Notebook."
Rachel McAdams starred in the 2002 Rob Schneider comedy "The Hot Chick" and "Mean Girls" in early 2004 before "The Notebook," which marked her first major lead role.
McAdams at "The Notebook" premiere.
Steve Granitz/WireImage/Getty
Ryan Gosling starred in the Denzel Washington football movie "Remember the Titans," the Sandra Bullock thriller "Murder by Numbers," and the indie movie "The Believer" before "The Notebook."
You're not seeing things, Gosing has a cigarette dangling out of his mouth. The aughts were different.
Ray Mickshaw/WireImage/Getty
It definitely wasn't love at first sight for Gosling and McAdams. In fact, director Nick Cassavetes said the two got into a screaming match once while filming.
From enemies to lovers.
Gregg DeGuire/WireImage/Getty
Cassavetes revealed Gosling had also asked him to replace McAdams.
But by the time filming ended, a love between the two had sparked.
Love is in the air.
Kevin Winter/Getty
In 2005, Gosling and McAdams gave us one of the most memorable moments in MTV Movie Awards history when they reenacted their streamy kiss from "The Notebook."
Iconic pop culture moment.
KMazur/WireImage/Getty
They were accepting the award for — you guessed it — best kiss.
The two had fun with "The Kiss" moment at the 2005 Teen Choice Awards a few months later.
Gotta love a surfboard award.
KMazur/WireImage/Getty
While accepting the award for best chemistry, McAdams locked lips with presenter Ryan Reynolds.
Wrong Ryan.
John Shearer/WireImage/Getty
"I think I got the wrong Ryan," McAdams said once she got on the mic.
Gosling and McAdams broke up in 2007.
It was fun while it lasted.
John Shearer/WireImage/Getty
But it's not all bad: Gosling has been in a relationship with Eva Mendes since 2011, and McAdams has been dating screenwriter Jamie Linden since 2016.
Regardless of your socioeconomic status, choosing how to travel from Manhattan to the Long Island destination can feel like navigating a maze of options.
I recently explored two contrasting bus journeys: the luxurious Hamptons Streamliner (a new partnership between Blade Helicopters and The Jet luxury bus service) and the budget-friendly Jitney coach bus. The Streamliner cost $195 one-way, and the Jitney cost $41.
Here's what I discovered about each bus.
The luxury first-class seats on the Streamliner were on a different level.
The Streamliner had motion-canceling seats.
Elizabeth Blasi
On the Hamptons Streamliner, I sank into memory-foam HoverSeats with motion-canceling technology. The legroom was so generous that I could fully extend my legs without touching the seat in front of me.
It felt like I was flying first-class with a 45-degree recline, pop-out footrest, and cashmere blanket. Needless to say, the ride was incredibly smooth and comfortable.
The Jitney, however, had standard coach-bus seating. It was basic but functional, with enough legroom for my needs and a handy footrest in front of each seat.
It didn't offer the same luxury, but for $41, it was perfectly adequate.
My internet connection wasn't as strong on the Jitney.
I couldn't work from the Jitney, but I could from the Streamliner.
Elizabeth Blasi
The Streamliner's high-speed internet was a lifesaver. I could work seamlessly, stream videos, and even open design platforms on my laptop.
In contrast, the Jitney's WiFi was spotty. I was able to check emails, but anything more demanding was frustrating.
I noticed many passengers relying on personal hot spots.
Both buses provided snacks — of varying degrees.
The Streamliner was absolutely stocked with snacks and drinks.
Elizabeth Blasi
The food and beverage service on the Streamliner was a highlight. Riders can enjoy three complimentary alcoholic beverages and snacks like PopUp Bagels and Sweetgreen salads (depending on your departing time).
There were also snack-sized bags of chips and cookies to munch on.
Drinks were served in stylish custom tumbler glasses, and the on-board attendant ensured I had everything I needed. It almost felt like a mobile lounge.
The Jitney offered a more straightforward service with cold water and a snack. But I wasn't expecting anything at all, so it was a surprising treat.
I found the service friendly and efficient across the board.
My Jitney bus driver kept everything moving on time.
Elizabeth Blasi
On the Streamliner, the dedicated bus attendant provided a high level of service reminiscent of first-class air travel.
From refilling drinks to answering questions, they ensured my journey was comfortable and enjoyable.
The Jitney's attendant was also efficient, checking tickets, handing out water and snacks, and helping as needed. Although it wasn't as personalized, it still ensured a comfortable ride.
The bathrooms shouldn't even be in the same category.
The Streamliner bathroom (left) was much nicer than the one on the Jitney (right).
Elizabeth Blasi
The bathroom on the Streamliner was a revelation.
It had all the amenities: ample toilet paper, soap, hand sanitizer, a backlit mirror for makeup touch-ups, a full-length mirror, and a spacious design for changing clothes. It was more like a high-end powder room than a bus bathroom.
In contrast, the Jitney's bathroom was extremely basic but functional in a pinch.
It had plenty of toilet paper but lacked soap or hand sanitizer, so I had to pack my own. It was practical for emergencies but didn't offer any degree of luxury.
The Jitney is likely more convenient for most travelers.
The Jitney runs on the hour, so there are plenty of departing times each day.
Elizabeth Blasi
The Streamliner runs a few daily trips from Hudson Yards in New York City to East Hampton, Southampton, and Bridgehampton.
Its exclusivity means the schedule is less flexible. But if the times and stops work for you, it's perfect if you want a luxurious and relaxed journey.
On the other hand, the Jitney runs almost every hour with multiple stops in NYC and throughout the Hamptons. It's ideal if you need a convenient and accessible travel option or if you need to get to far-east destinations like Montauk.
Both buses have their merits.
I'd ride both the Streamliner (left) and the Jitney (right) again.
Elizabeth Blasi
After riding the Streamliner and the Jitney, I appreciated them both for different reasons.
The Streamliner is worth the splurge for its luxurious amenities, comfort, and impeccable service. The journey just felt special.
But if you're looking for a cost-effective and convenient way to get to the Hamptons, the Jitney is an excellent alternative. The coach bus offers basic comforts, frequent schedules, and multiple stops.
For my next trip, I'll likely do another split: Riding the Streamliner one way for luxury and the Jitney the other for practicality.
The CEO of Nutrafol, Giorgos Tsetis, left, says thinning hair shouldn't be blamed on our fathers.
Courtesy of Giorgos Tsetis
In my 20s, I was a model and started to lose my hair; I blamed my dad's genetics.
I started taking medication to slow my hair thinning, which had bad side effects.
I eventually learned stress and overall health are big factors in hair loss.
I often think about my father's impact on my life — from cultivating an adventurous mindset and entrepreneurial spirit to influencing how I now parent my son.
For many men, one of these reflections — as once was mine — is something seemingly trivial yet profoundly impactful: their hairline. When my hair started thinning in my 20s, I feared I was taking after my father, who's mostly bald.
It's a common cultural assumption that we inherit our hair fate from our fathers. But as someone who dedicated nearly a decade to understanding hair health, I now believe we shouldn't blame our dads for our hairlines.
I had to navigate my own hair health challenges
When my hair started to thin, I was modeling to put myself through engineering school. I was juggling a hectic career alongside my own personal relationships and commitments. Unsurprisingly, you are acutely aware of your appearance as a model. So when I noticed shedding after running my hands through my hair, I was terrified. I literally started counting the number of hairs I was losing on a daily basis. You're expected to lose around 80, and I was losing double that.
I got flashes of my own father's experience and couldn't help but think that I was destined to follow suit. I recall speaking to him around this time — it wasn't a conversation we'd had previously — and learning for the first time how young he was when he started losing his hair.
Afraid I would be doomed to the same fate as the men in my family before me, I turned to prescription hair drugs. I ended up taking prescription drugs for nearly eight years. While it provided some benefits at first, the significant side effects — decreased libido and sexual dysfunction — made me seriously question whether the health costs were worth it. My confidence plummeted, and it started affecting my relationships and self-esteem. This experience, while challenging, was the catalyst needed to pursue a drug-free, holistic solution to tackle my own thinning hair.
When beginning to navigate the world of hair thinning, I quickly learned that the assumption of genetic inevitability is only part of the story. Yes, genetics play a role, but they are far from the whole picture. Our hair is a window into our overall health, and it's impacted by many external factors like stress, nutrition, hormones, and more. This was a transformative realization for me, and I believe it can empower many men.
There are lesser known external factors that impact your hair health
Stress, for example, is one major factor in hair health. If not managed, stress can impact our bodies in various ways, including our hair. It disrupts the hair growth cycle, leading to increased hair shedding and slower growth. When I reflect now, it's obvious that my hair thinning in those stressful early years of building my career was exacerbated by all the demands I was putting on my body and mind. By taking a whole-body approach and supporting my diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management, I improved my hair health and quality significantly.
Since becoming a parent to a son of my own in 2022, I have an even greater appreciation for the interconnection of our body systems and the importance of a holistic approach to well-being. Parenthood is a beautiful and life-changing experience, but it also opened my eyes to how many stressors can impact your health. It wasn't until the early days of fatherhood that I could clearly see sleep — or lack thereof — was taking a toll on both my mental and physical health. Consistent lack of sleep felt like one continuous bad hair day, and I had the increased hair shedding to prove it. It became even more critical to prioritize self-care from a whole-body perspective.
I hope my son feels empowered to take things into his own hands
Now that I have a son of my own, I think about the lessons I want to instill in him. I aim to lead by example and hope my own prioritization of a health-forward lifestyle provides a positive influence. He's just a toddler now and has an incredible head of hair, so it's hard to picture otherwise. It is also impossible to predict the future or what technology will be at our fingertips in 20-odd years. But should he one day experience thinning or shedding, I hope he feels empowered to take things into his own hands — and not entirely blame me.
So, to all the sons out there starting to scrutinize their widening part lines or depleting crown coverage, my advice is this: Don't just accept your supposed "genetic fate." You have the power to take control of your hair health through lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, quality sleep, and stress management. Your dad may have contributed to some genetic factors, but you dictate just how much those genes get expressed through your lifestyle choices.
Make hair health a priority. Follow a hair-healthy regimen, and you may be surprised by your results — no matter what may have been passed down through the generations.
Giorgos Tsetis is the co-founder and CEO of Nutrafol, a hair growth and skin health supplement brand.
Warren Buffett skipped local cuisine in favor of fast food during his China trip in 1995.
REUTERS/Rick Wilking
Warren Buffett's junk food diet threatened to ruin his trip to China in 1995, a biography explains.
Bill Gates and his family made sure the investor was served his favorites: burgers, fries, and soda.
Buffett toured a local Coca-Cola plant and rushed to McDonald's when they arrived in Hong Kong.
Warren Buffett is a fast-food fanatic who eats McDonald's for breakfast, munches on See's Candies, devours Dairy Queen ice cream, and guzzles five cans of Coke daily.
The investor's unusual diet meant his 17-day trip to China in 1995 was a terrifying leap out of his culinary comfort zone. Luckily his close friends, Microsoft cofounder Bill Gates and his then-wife Melinda, went to great lengths to ensure he wouldn't starve.
Author Alice Schroeder tells the story of the Berkshire Hathaway CEO's vacation in her biography of him: "The Snowball: Warren Buffett and the Business of Life."
Before departing, the Gateses invited Buffett to complete a questionnaire about what he liked to eat. Wary of a repeat of the 15-course sushi dinner he suffered through in 1989, during which he didn't take a single bite, the billionaire wrote: "I don't eat any Chinese food. If necessary, serve me rice and I'll just move it around on my plate, and I'll go back to my room afterward and eat peanuts."
Burgers, fries, and soda
The first test came when Buffett sat down for a grand Sichuanese dinner in Beijing's Palace Hotel during his first night in China.
"Waiters placed course after course on the rotating platters: tea-smoked duck, twice-cooked pork with chili sauce, spicy chicken, and Sichuan hot pot," Schroeder writes.
Fortunately for the picky eater at the table, the Gateses had arranged for the tour company to dispatch people beforehand to instruct the hotel's chefs how to prepare hamburgers and fries.
"To his delight he was served course after course of his french fries —even for dessert," Schroeder reported.
The group went sightseeing the next day. When they stopped at restaurants for lunch and dinner, Buffett was again served burgers and fries while the others chowed down on Chinese food.
Moreover, on the third day of the trip, when the party summited the Great Wall, Buffett found Cherry Coke waiting for him while the others enjoyed Champagne.
Warren Buffett enjoying his signature drink.
Rick Wilking/Reuters
In between gulps, Buffett cracked a joke about the Wonder of the World beneath his feet: "Boy, I sure would have liked to have been the company that got the brick contract for this thing."
True to form, Buffett declined a martial arts lesson the next morning, opting for a tour of the nearest Coca-Cola plant instead.
Schroeder's book also said that the touring party later rented Chairman Mao's personal train and tracked the Old Silk Road through northwest China. They rode camels in the desert, marveled at ancient architecture, observed giant pandas, and saw the Terracotta Army. During a scenic private cruise, Buffett, Gates, and Gates' dad played bridge.
The Berkshire chief may well have enjoyed some of the country's fantastic sights and experiences. But he was clearly hungry for home comforts by the time the tour concluded in Hong Kong.
"Buffett towed the Gateses straight to McDonald's to buy hamburgers in the middle of the night," Schroeder wrote.