Smart Living

Rising trend: Couples opting for cash funds over traditional wedding registries

Wedding season is here, and as you get those invitations, keep in mind that you're saying yes to an unspoken trade. Click to see what that is!

Is eloping better than having a wedding?

A wedding is supposed to be a celebration. However, even a small wedding can end up turning into a production once family arguments and logistical nightmares are thrown into the mix. Perhaps that's why more and more couples are choosing to elope. It doesn't mean you can't have a separate "party" with loved ones after the fact, it will just be a lot less stressful and expensive to organize... But what exactly are the other upsides to eloping, and should you consider it as an alternative for your big day? Click on to find out more.

The best "would you rather" questions ever asked

"Would you rather" questions are a fun game to play and indeed one that makes us think. The answers to some of these questions can actually reveal a lot about our personality. Granted, some of these are pretty tough choices, but therein lies the fun of it! Whether you're looking for "would you rather" questions for a game night with your friends or family, or you're just curious about your own choices, click through this gallery and check out the best of the best.

Barista Shows How to Make Popular Starbucks Drink at Home for Less Than $1

Cosette Manson, a popular barista on TikTok, went viral with her simple and cheap recipe for a homemade version of Starbucks' Iced Caramel Macchiato.

Clever ingredient swaps that will improve your meals

Here are some of the most helpful ingredient swaps you'll want to remember.

Straw hat inspo for the sunny days ahead

Straw hats have been around for a long time. The material is easy to work with, it's cheap, and it's surprisingly fresh on a hot summer's day. Straw hats have been adopted by farmers, gardeners, boaters, and many other professionals. But beyond their practical uses, straw hats have also been used as stylish fashion accessories. From the classic boater to the Panama, and wide-brimmed chic straw hats, in this gallery you'll find a bit of everything. And of course, all modeled by your favorite celebrities. Click on!

Aespa, Olivia Rodrigo, and More: Singapore Concerts 2024 Lineup Revealed!

With such an amazing array of Singapore concerts 2024, there's no reason to miss out on the fun. Gather your family, secure your tickets, and get ready to create lasting memories together.

Canada's most beautiful natural beauty spots you need to visit

These parks, refuges and natural areas are ideal for anyone looking for the ultimate Canadian experience.

The best oils to cook with (and which to avoid)

We have been cooking with oils for millennia. From sautéing to deep frying, oils have always been staple ingredients in cuisines from around the world. Oils are fat, and there are different types of fats; some really good for us, others not so much. And then there are many other ingredients (e.g. vitamins) that oils contain, and smoke or burning point, which we also need to take into account when choosing an oil. In this gallery, we bring you a list of some of the best oils to cook with, and which ones to avoid. Click on for more.

33 easy minced beef recipes bursting with flavour

Looking for a speedy midweek meal? Minced beef might just be the answer. Here’s we’ve rounded up the tastiest minced beef recipes around, from brilliant burgers to a rich Bolognese.

Moment neighbors save a two-year-old girl after she nearly drowned

A two-year-old girl was saved after she almost drowned in a backyard pond in Jacksonville, Florida on April 17. A neighbor got her out of the water before paramedics stepped in.

Who are the Ascended Masters, and how can they help you?

Have you ever heard of the term Ascended Master? It refers to a group of beings who have evolved past the need to reincarnate. According to some esoteric teachings, these Masters can assist humans on Earth as they work toward enlightenment. The Masters are considered to exist at the lowest level of hierarchy, which is why they are able to interact with humanity. Many Ascended Masters are the spiritual exemplars originating across the spectrum of religious traditions. These saints and sages of the East and the West are said to be able to help those who call upon them. Intrigued? Click on to learn more about the Ascended Masters.

Why Sonny’s Pizza takeaway in Hong Kong is selling by-the-slice New York pizza, and its hot dog and ice cream partners

Takeaway-only Sonny's Pizza in SoHo sells New York-style pizza by the slice. It's the brainchild of chef Son Pham, and Shakib Pasha of Ming Fat Group Sonny's, which uses a special fermented dough for its pizza bases, shares its space with Randy's Hotdogs, and with Milk, which sells soft-serve ice cream Pizza is commonly eaten by the slice in North ...

The 'wet look' is the trendiest style for bob and pixie cuts

From the Cannes Film Festival to the Met Gala, the 'wet look' has been the trendiest red carpet 'do with our fave celebs with short hair. Celebrity stylists share tips on how to achieve the look at home.

Why we're all brushing our teeth wrong

Brushing our teeth is one of the skills we learn early on in life. Many of us have early memories of the adults around us checking we had brushed before school and before bed. Fast forward to adulthood, however, and the reality is that the majority of us don't brush our teeth in a way that optimizes our oral hygiene and health. Luckily for us, there are steps we can take to rectify that fact. Check out this gallery to learn how we are all brushing our teeth wrong.

The best ways to become a morning person

It's a very common thing to say that you are not a morning person. But, if you give some consideration to what this actually means, it can imply that you are more content to get up at the last minute, miss breakfast, and rush around, trying desperately not to be late. This doesn't sound very relaxing, does it? Perhaps it's time for a change. Take a look through the following gallery to discover the best ways to become a morning person!

The history of braille in 20 points

Created by a teenage boy almost 200 years ago, one of the most recognizable tactile writing systems, braille helps give people who are blind or have low vision equal access to the written word. Let’s trace its fascinating history in the following 20 points.

Tacos and Burritos Are Legally Sandwiches, Judge Rules

The issue stemmed from a zoning dispute.

Common baking mistakes and how to fix them

We've all had a moment where a baked creation didn't turn out exactly as planned. Maybe it was a cookie you had to fight to bite through, or a cake that looked perfect coming out of the oven—only to resemble a crater just moments later. It's enough to drive any home baker up the wall! Luckily baking is all about precision, which usually means that with just a few small adjustments, you can count on the perfect culinary creation. In this gallery we discuss some of the most common problems in baking specific items, why they happen, and what you can do to avoid them in the future. Read through and find out how to fix your baking blunders.

The world's oldest chocolate bars (still available today)

Whether or not you have a sweet tooth, you have probably tried a few candy bars over the years. In fact, some of us can only go without one for so long! Loved all around the world, the chocolate bar, either plain or with a combination of candies, is a sweet staple that's not going anywhere anytime soon. Which ones are still available today? Click through the following gallery to find out!

Incredible Hindu temples: architecture of exquisite beauty

Hinduism, originating from ancient Vedic culture around 3000 BCE, is one of the world's oldest religions and ranks as the third-largest globally, after Christianity and Islam. Followers refer to it as Sanatana Dharma, meaning Eternal Law in Sanskrit. With its primary presence in the Indian subcontinent and parts of Southeast Asia, Hinduism influences social and political structures, including the caste system. Temples of diverse styles and colors in various locations are central to Hindu worship, embodying the beauty of this ancient faith. Explore this gallery and wonder at these remarkable religious structures.

The houses of the zodiac explained

Most of us know our star sign based on our date of birth, and perhaps the headline characteristics of a few others. Virgos are organized, Leos are outgoing, and Pisces are sensitive. This is the most basic interpretation of astrology, so basic that it can actually reduce our understanding of human nature rather than add insight. The more you learn about the zodiac and the full birth chart, the more you can develop your knowledge of yourself and others. When you take into account the significance of the rising signs, the planets, and the elements, you’ll find a wealth of insight and understanding that will expand your mind and your compassion for those around you. The houses of the zodiac are one of the lesser-known elements of astrology, but they add fascinating depth to your personal chart. Click on to learn all about the houses, the signs that rule them, and what they mean for you.

He could have been so famous, but he literally just walked away

The Fascinating History Behind 15 Wedding Traditions

Before your big day, learn where our most common wedding traditions come from. The post The Fascinating History Behind 15 Wedding Traditions appeared first on Reader's Digest.

Do you talk to yourself? Find out what science says about it

In certain situations, it can be embarrassing to be caught talking to oneself. It may give the impression that one has lost their sanity. Generally, speaking is seen as a means of communication, so talking to oneself without directing it at someone or without anyone hearing can seem pointless. However, this assumption is not entirely accurate. Speaking serves other purposes as well. How often do we find ourselves looking for our keys and ask, "where are my keys?" Saying it aloud actually helps us locate them because it reminds us of what we are searching for and prevents us from losing focus. This is just one example of the benefits of self-talk. If you want to delve deeper into the reasons why we engage in self-talk, commonly known as "self-talk," continue scrolling through this gallery.

China teenager pleads with father to be better husband after dispute with mother, video ignites family harmony dialogues

Boy takes to Douyin 20 days after his father left home following an argument He says it is his father's responsibility to keep the peace in the home A teenage boy gained widespread attention on social media in China after sharing a heartfelt video pleading with his father to treat his mother with more kindness, following a heated marital disagreeme...

Where to travel based on your personality type

The Myers-Briggs personality test has been used for many years to assess people's personalities. It assesses different preferences to determine key aspects of our personality, and its results are often quite accurate. People look for different things when they travel, and these things are often influenced by their attitudes and actions in life. These influence the way they perceive the world and what they enjoy doing during a trip. An introverted person will most likely have a different approach to traveling when compared to an extroverted one, for instance. With this in mind, we've compiled a number of destinations specifically tailored for each Myers-Briggs result. If you haven't taken the test, do so to find the perfect travel destination for your bucket list! Click through the gallery and get to know the best destinations based on your personality type.

13 Polite Habits Hairdressers Actually Dislike—and What to Do Instead

Sometimes trying to do all the right things at the salon can backfire. Here's what to avoid when getting your hair cut or colored. The post 13 Polite Habits Hairdressers Actually Dislike—and What to Do Instead appeared first on Reader's Digest.

27 expert tips for perfect pasta every time

Want to cook pasta like a pro? We've rounded up some common myths and hacks that don't actually work to save you time, effort and money.

These are the best canned foods to keep in your pantry

Canned foods often get a bad rap for being high in sodium and sometimes sugar. But it's actually a common misconception that they're not as healthy or flavorful as fresh or frozen options. In reality, they're a pantry essential. Long-lasting, packed with flavor, and often inexpensive, these canned foods make great starting points for simple meals at home. Plus, they can actually be tasty and nutritious, a total win-win situation! Click on for some of the best canned foods to keep in your pantry.

The Best Way to Split the Check at Group Dinners—and Not Leave Grumpy

Apps like Splitwise and Tab can help divvy things up, but don’t be afraid to lean into those awkward money conversations.

The best pet for you based on your zodiac sign

Choosing a pet is not a decision to be taken lightly. You'll need to make sure you'll be sharing your home with an animal that suits your lifestyle, available space, and even your personality type. Naturally aloof people might not want to be constantly hounded for canine kisses, just as cuddly types might be affronted by some cat breeds' haughtiness or a lizard's lack of overt affection. With that in mind, looking at which pets gel well with your zodiac sign can be a good start in deciding which loveable creature you'll be inviting into your life. Ready to get petting? Click through this gallery to discover the best pet for you based on your zodiac sign.

The Fastest-Rising Baby Names of 2024 Are In—and You Probably Haven't Heard of Some of Them

The Social Security Administration released the fastest-rising boy's and girl's names of the year. We're expecting them to climb the popularity charts soon!

Surprising facts about the Middle Ages

The Middle Ages had some rather surprising customs. Archery, for example, was compulsory at one point, and it was even possible to use eels as a form of rent payment. Despite being commonly known as the Dark Ages, this gallery aims to illuminate aspects of Medieval life. Take a look and uncover intriguing, unusual, and occasionally revolting details about the Middle Ages.

Quick and healthy breakfast ideas for a busy morning

Mornings can get real hectic, and making a healthy breakfast may be the last thing on our minds. The good news is that there are plenty of quick and healthy breakfast ideas to try out that guarantee you an energizing start to the day. Click through the following gallery for some great breakfast ideas for a busy morning.

Things restaurants don’t want you to know

While you're sitting down at a table and enjoying your meal at a restaurant, there are so many other things happening behind the scenes that are only known by people who've worked in the food industry. From fast-food chains to fine dining restaurants, there are secrets that these establishments don't want you to know, and you'd be pretty surprised to find out why. So, do you dare to discover what they are? Check out this gallery.

Fascinating ways different cultures ward off evil spirits

Much of the world subscribes to the belief in the dichotomy of good and evil, so it makes sense that most cultures have some form of ushering in the former and casting out the latter. Over the centuries, traditions, rituals, and festivals have developed and adapted to keep these ancient practices alive. The most fascinating part of these rituals is how creative various cultures' approach can be to warding off evil spirits, from jumping over babies to putting up phallic images around town. Click through to take a visual tour of some of the most stunning and most head-scratching practices to cast out evil.

Delicious bean recipes to boost your protein intake

From cannellini to kidney, simple tins of beans added straight from the store cupboard add texture and protein and can bulk out recipes to make them go further. Here's why the humble bean should be your new kitchen best friend.

The two VERY surprising reasons why partners cheat in Australia

A relationship expert has revealed two unexpected reasons people cheat - and it has little to do with being unhappy in a relationship.

Eggplant Lovers—Pasta Alla Norma Will Be Your New Favorite Pasta Dinner

Fried eggplant simply belongs in pasta.

These historical figures were incredibly good looking

We're exposed to attractive famous people everywhere we look it seems. But before the age of the internet and indeed the proliferation of photography, how did we know how someone looked like? Luckily, some photos and paintings survived to tell the story. Curious to see who the hottest people in history were? Click on!

Pisces: Your daily horoscope - May 16

Pisces: here are your free predictions for the day May 16

Signs that someone will grow up to be a millionaire

Many great entrepreneurs showed early signs of having the self-discipline and determination to reach their goals. Nonetheless, becoming a millionaire is a common ambition to have, and most people will say they want to be rich in a way that means they think it is merely a fantasy. However, this does not have to be the case! Take a look through this gallery to see the types of behavior that can lead to becoming a millionaire.

Costco Has A New Bakery Item & Shoppers Are Obsessed

"I’d risk my life for this."

Mexican taco stand becomes first ever to receive a Michelin star

Arturo Rivera Martínez, who works at a taco stand in Mexico City, has become a Michelin star chef for serving $5 tacos with quality meat. His secret is simplicity and an extremely hot grill.

Products with a lifetime warranty you only need to buy once

Most brands will accept returns of products if they're defective, but offering a comprehensive lifetime guarantee is not something all companies do. Luckily, there are some brands that swear by their products, so much so that they will attest to their quality for the lifetime of the product. This means that consumers can return their products to be repaired or replaced, often years after purchase. It's worth mentioning, however, that exemptions usually apply to these lifetime warranties, including normal wear and tear as well as accidental damage, to name a few. In this gallery, you'll find a list of brands that offer a lifetime warranty on their products. Click on and find out which items you'll only ever have to buy once!

Books everyone lies about having read

The older you get, the wiser people assume you are. That’s all good and fine until they want to discuss impressive books. You know the ones: written many years ago, canonized in our culture, etched permanently into the student reading lists. But while you panic and lie about having read whichever extremely long novel you thought you'd escaped after high school, don’t be so hard on yourself. As it turns out, a whole lot of other people are lying about having read those books too. The books people usually lie about reading are the ones considered to be classics, the foundational literature that has changed our world, immovable parts of the social zeitgeist. But who has time to read all those books and also read things written this decade? Maybe you lied because you watched the movie, but we all know that doesn’t count. That being said, there are quite a few cases when the film is actually better than the book. Sometimes you just want to read clear, easy prose, perhaps by writers who have experienced more of the same things you have. It could also be the case that these canonical books just won’t be your cup of tea! That’s a hard thing to accept, especially when you’re tens of thousands of words deep. Few and far between are the people who have actually read all of the classics, and it’s likely they’ll be having too hard of a time keeping the plot lines and characters straight to see through your lies. And there are so many liars! In a poll with more than 83,000 voters, hosted by Ranker, people came clean (anonymously, of course) about the books they lie about having read the most. Check out this gallery to see how you compare.

The lives of America's first ladies before the White House

Over 50 women have held the role of First Lady of the United States, however, they have all been more than just the wives, daughters, or nieces of the nation's leaders. Until the 20th century, most of these women had little education, no careers, and were expected only to stand beside the country's leaders. But even before women had the right to vote, some of them still wielded great power, becoming prominent figures in US politics and culture. Then there are those who built up impressive resumes prior to becoming first ladies. So click on to discover the lives of America's first ladies before they moved into the White House.

The heartbreaking tradition of the Unknown Soldier

The idea of honoring the memories of all soldiers killed in conflict with a single tomb containing one unidentified combatant has its genesis in the First World War. On November 11, 1920, the first Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was dedicated in London. Across the Channel on the same day, a second memorial was unveiled in Paris. The following year, the United States dedicated its Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington, Virginia. The idea of a symbolic Tomb of the Unknown Soldier then spread to other countries to remind us of the ultimate sacrifice made by others on the battlefield. Do you want to pay your respects? Click through and honor the fallen, wherever you live.

Curious facts about witchcraft that will keep you spellbound

If you were accused of being a witch a few centuries ago you could expect to be persecuted, tortured, and burned at the stake. Heresy and black magic were simply not tolerated. But many of those who met a fiery end were totally innocent and died purely because of their religious beliefs. Here are 30 interesting facts and anomalies about witches and witchcraft that will have you spellbound. Click through the gallery to get started.