First steps in retirement planning – for all Americans

2021-04-25T01:01:00

(BPT) – Even if you’re young, newly employed or haven’t yet started to save for retirement, many financial professionals agree planning is key to achieving a sense of security for your future. But a new survey shows that if you’re a first- or second-generation American, a woman, African American or Hispanic employee, you may feel disconnected from the financial services industry and its benefits. One reason is that you may be less likely to have opportunities to save for retirement through your workplace — or you may feel the financial services industry is not geared toward serving the needs of you or your community.

The good news? The financial services industry and many employers are working to offer greater accessibility for all employees trying to save for retirement — even with a moderate income — and are trying to make it easier for all their employees to be proactive about financial planning, no matter when or where they begin.

The new survey conducted by Harris Poll for Empower Retirement shows that women and people of color feel underrepresented when it comes to retirement saving. In fact, 70% of all respondents said they agreed with the statement: “Retirement planning is a luxury that is not afforded to all types of Americans.” But the truth is that retirement planning is possible, no matter where or when you start. And it can make a huge difference for your financial situation down the road.

Another issue is that over half (52%) felt they would not be taken seriously as a client by a financial services company. People who feel that financial professionals will not take them seriously instead turn to family (44%) or friends (25%) for advice. While the people you know may have your best interests at heart, they may lack the financial know-how to advise you on how to save effectively for a secure retirement. Consulting a licensed financial professional can be one way to be sure that the advice you receive is based on knowledge and expertise about the best ways to save for retirement. Fortunately, access to financial professionals with specialized certifications is much more accessible than you may think.

Here are tips and resources to help you get started on your retirement planning journey.

  • Start now. No matter where you are in your career, starting with small savings now can make a huge difference down the road — and those savings can accumulate and grow over time.
  • Contact your HR department. Especially if you’re unsure what your employer offers for retirement planning, asking questions is a great place to start. Don’t be afraid to ask for explanations of unclear terms or services.
  • Match those funds. Some employers will match your 401(k) contributions up to a certain percentage point, so you’ll get the full benefit of those funds by making sure you contribute at least that amount.
  • Consult a financial planner. Ask if your employee benefits include the services of a financial planner. Many employers offer consultations with a financial professional free of charge, to help with your planning efforts.
  • Personalize your savings options. Ask about opting into a managed account for your 401(k). This will provide you with a personalized strategy for your funds based on factors including your age, amount saved, timeline and savings goals — even if you’re starting with a small amount.
  • Use digital tools. Online tools can be a great way to track your savings. Retirement planning calculators and other features can help you set and reach your unique long-term goals.
  • Explore government resources. To understand how and when you can most benefit from applying for Social Security, visit the retirement planning sections on the Social Security website, SSA.gov.
  • Boost your knowledge. Blogs like Empower Insights offer free information and tips to help you understand employee benefits and retirement planning strategies.

“Anyone can benefit from professional financial advice,” said Edmund F. Murphy, president and CEO, Empower Retirement. “And even if you’re just beginning to save for retirement, you may reap the benefits years later. Taking full advantage of all your workplace benefits is a great place to start.”

Retirement planning and saving can now benefit everyone, and can help improve your future financial outlook, no matter where you’re starting from today.

Is your dog walking you or are you walking your dog?

2021-04-23T06:01:02

(BPT) – Dogs and leash walking go hand in hand, pun intended. Most people feel their dog’s pull of excitement about what’s ahead. But some dogs lag behind and even stop walking altogether. If you feel like you’re dragging your dog, don’t assume she’s stubborn or lazy. Instead, it could be her way of telling you she’s in pain. These insights from the veterinarians at American Regent Animal Health, maker of Adequan® Canine (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan), will help you understand the subtle health messages your dog may be sending.

1. Healthy joints mean active dogs

Healthy joints allow dogs to sit for a treat, run for a ball and, yes, go on walks. The complex structure of joints is amazing and protecting them is a great way to keep your dog happy.

2. Osteoarthritis can slow dogs down

Unfortunately, estimates show one in five dogs suffers from canine osteoarthritis (also known as arthritis). This degenerative disease develops when joint cartilage, tissues and fluids break down. As osteoarthritis (OA) gets worse over time, it can cause bone-on-bone contact in the joint and an uncomfortable life for your dog.

3. Young, old, large or small: Any dog can suffer from painful OA

While arthritis in people often comes with age, most cases of OA in dogs begin in the first four to six months of life. Any size of dog can develop OA, but overweight dogs and large-breed dogs including Golden retrievers, Labrador retrievers and German shepherds are more at risk for OA.

4. Watch for the early warning signs of OA

Luckily, your dog gives clues if he’s developing OA. He might struggle to get comfortable and frequently change positions, shift his weight from side to side or front to back when standing, act more anxious, hesitate to climb stairs and show less interest in playing or — you guessed it — in taking walks.

5. Help protect your dog’s joints

Good news: Canine OA is a manageable disease, especially if it’s diagnosed early. Managing OA early may help slow its effects and help keep your dog’s cartilage healthy. Talk to your veterinarian about whether Adequan Canine is right for your dog. Caution: Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. For safety information and to learn more, visit adequancanine.com.

6. That leash is made for walking

In addition to treating OA early, walking helps joints function and feel better. Dogs with OA actually get worse if they don’t move enough, because their joints get stiff. Lack of exercise can lead to increased weight, which puts pressure on sore joints. So, grab that leash and remember that a walk a day helps keep OA away.

Next time you take a stroll with your dog, pay attention to how — and where — your dog walks. If you suspect your dog might be suffering from canine OA, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. Work together to manage OA before it’s too late, so you and your dog can walk together for years to come.

The real deal from a top NYC dermatologist on spring and summer skincare

2021-04-23T08:01:00

(BPT) – As days are getting longer and temperatures are heating up, people are enjoying more time outdoors and this requires updating skincare routines for the months ahead. During the spring and summer, people are exposed to stronger UV rays from the sun and for longer periods of time, which makes it an important time to refresh daily regimens.

Top NYC dermatologist Dr. Joshua Zeichner, M.D. shares advice for caring for your skin during warm weather months, so you can continue to look and feel your best — now and for years to come.

1. Safeguard against the sun

You should wear sunscreen all year round, but it is especially important during warmer months. Whether there are clear skies or it’s a cloudy day, apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect your skin against the sun’s harmful UV rays that cause wrinkles, dark spots and even skin cancers.

“Apply sunscreen a half-hour before going outside, and reapply it every 2 hours,” explains Zeichner. “And reapply immediately after swimming or heavy sweating.”

Beside wearing sunscreen, sit under an umbrella and wear a broad-brimmed hat, sunglasses and UV-protective clothing to provide added protection from the sun.

2. Turn to retinol for fresh and healthy-looking skin

“Retinol is one of the best studied ingredients we have to fight the appearance of fines lines and wrinkles, and I look at it like the foundation of any skincare routine,” says Zeichner. “Some people unnecessarily shy away from using it in the spring and summer because it can make skin more sensitive to the sun, but the truth is, you can use retinol all year round. Just make sure to always wear your sunscreen, which is important to add to your everyday routine whether you’re using retinol or not.”

Commonly regarded as the “gold standard of anti-aging ingredients,” retinol is a Vitamin A molecule that naturally occurs in your skin. It works deep within the skin to boost collagen production and increase skin cell turnover. Retinol has been shown to thicken the foundation of the skin, improve skin tone and texture, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. “I usually have my patients apply retinol at night along with a moisturizer,” Dr. Zeichner advises.

“Protecting your skin from signs of aging is more effective if you start now,” says Zeichner. “RoC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Night Serum Capsules use a high concentration of retinol combined with antioxidants, to smooth skin by helping the skin shed dead cells on the surface to reveal fresh, new ones, so your skin looks healthier. Serum capsules are a great option because they are easy to use and portable. They give a pre-measured perfect amount of retinol serum for one application and they are sealed tight to keep the formula fresh and stable. This makes capsules an affordable and effective way to incorporate this key ingredient into your nightly skincare routine.”

RoC was the first brand to stabilize retinol 25 years ago — and the brand’s heavy focus on clinical studies has helped it become the most awarded retinol brand of the past decade. Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Night Serum Capsules are proven to visibly smooth fine lines and wrinkles, and firm skin while you sleep. In fact, 97% of the product’s testers had visibly reduced lines and wrinkles in just one night. Designed to rival prescription skincare without the irritation, the Serum Capsules caused 0% irritation to the testers’ skin in a clinical study.

Even better, these capsules are 100% biodegradable and available for under $25. Find them in stores and online at Target, or during your next trip to Costco.

3. Hydrate from inside-out and outside-in

As we are sweating more during warmer months, it is important to keep your body and skin hydrated. Thanks to today’s variety of flavored water, sparkling water, herbal tea and sports drinks, it’s easier now than ever to find a drink for every personal preference. The most important thing to do is to actually drink it throughout the day.

“While drinking water is important for your overall health,” says Zeichner, “you still should apply a moisturizer if you have dry skin. There’s no data showing that drinking more water will hydrate your skin, and there’s no data showing that not drinking enough water causes dry skin. I recommend lighter moisturizers like gels and lotions when the weather is humid.”

In addition to applying moisturizers and drinking liquids to hydrate, consume fruits like watermelons, apples and peaches, plus vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes and lettuce, which have a high water content.

4. Feed your skin for a healthy glow

The nutrients in your diet provide your body with the building blocks for optimal functioning. Getting enough nutrition from foods you eat can be a challenge when you’re on the go. Vitamin supplements can bridge the gap if you’re lacking essential vitamins or minerals. Always ask your healthcare provider for recommendations before starting a supplement.

“Some of the most helpful vitamins and minerals for your skin include Vitamins A, B complex, C, and E, along with zinc and selenium,” recommends Dr. Zeichner. These can be naturally found in foods like:

* Avocadoes
* Dark leafy green vegetables
* Eggs
* Legumes
* Olive oil
* Salmon and tuna

Healthy fats found in avocadoes, olive oil, fatty fish, nuts and seeds are also essential to keep your skin looking and feeling great, any time of year.

5. Be comfortable in your own skin

Take time to understand what your skin needs, which may change depending on the time of the year and your geographic location. If you live in a dry climate like a desert region, you may need a richer moisturizer than if you are living in a humid area. Your choice in cleanser may also change depending on your climate and skin type. When the weather is dry, hydrating cleansers may be best, but if it’s hot or humid, foaming options more fully remove oil. “You should also wash your face using warm water rather than hot, which can strip your skin of natural oils,” says Zeichner. “Pat dry then apply a moisturizer within five minutes to lock in hydration.”

Following these tips will help keep your skin looking and feeling its best this season and beyond.

Upgrade Your Wellness Routine with Massy Arias

2021-04-23T02:01:00

(BPT) – With 2020 being a wild year to say the least, many of us found ourselves falling into unhealthy habits. While we understand that transitioning into a new normal and shaking off those familiar practices may be tough, know that the first step to a happier, healthier you can start with smart snacking.

There is a huge connection between what we choose to eat and how we feel. Massy Arias, Los Angeles-based Certified Personal Trainer and celebrity health and wellness coach, will be the first to tell you that leveling up your wellness game can be as easy as following a tried-and-true formula: eating the right foods and finding a way to move your body daily. A healthy lifestyle doesn’t require glitz, glamour or a complicated regimen — start with the basics and build upon that!

Whether you’ve been neglecting self-care or looking to switch up your health and fitness program, Massy’s go-to training circuit and favorite snack-hacks can help you feel your best. Massy reiterates that the key to increasing physical activity, embracing self-care and improving your overall state of well-being is choosing to consume the right ‘natural fuel’ — foods that have energy-boosting nutrients, like a handful of almonds, to keep you vitalized and focused through your workout and day.

“Everyday movement is an absolute must. When you take care of yourself, you’re taking care of the people around you too,” Massy explains. “Personally, I love snacking on almonds and fruit together. It’s easy to make the excuse that we don’t have the energy to do something, but many aren’t aware that simply eating a handful of almonds [23 to be exact] contains major nutrients that your body needs to dominate every hour.”

You can enjoy Massy’s round-up of tasty, almond-powered pre- or post-workout snacks here. Just one serving (1 oz.) delivers a variety of vitamins and minerals, such as 6 grams of protein, 4 grams of fiber, 20% of your daily value of magnesium and 50% of your daily value of vitamin E., to keep you feeling powerful and engaged on your goals.

When you fuel good, you feel good and can accomplish so much more. Ready to level-up your everyday routine? Massy has laid out some of her most effective moves to inspire greatness. Massy recommends that each workout is performed back-to-back as a circuit with no rest in between. This beginner-level circuit training routine is a great way to get your heart pumping! You can also perform this physique-shaping routine with Massy herself by watching her LIVE movement class here.

Overall Circuit Time: 15 minutes

Squat with Standing Rotation:

  1. Standing with legs shoulder width apart, you’ll take a deep inhale and lower yourself down.
  2. Exhale and stand up. Twist to one side of your body (rotating at the hips) and reach arm above head.
  3. Squat down and repeat on the other side of the body.

High Plank:

  1. Start in a high plank position with arms shoulder width apart. Make a straight line from shoulder to wrist while tucking your hips under to engage the core.
  2. Squeezing thighs together, you will keep your arms straight while pushing away from the floor with heels of the palms.
  3. Maintain this position for the duration of the exercise.

Lateral Toe Touch:

  1. Start in a standing straddle position.
  2. Reach your right arm toward your left toe as you bend your left knee, shifting your weight towards your left hip and keeping your right leg straight.
  3. Repeat with opposite side and alternate for the duration of the exercise.

Bicycle Crunches:

  1. Start with your back against a mat and hands behind your head. Start reaching your right elbow to your left knee. Always keep your left elbow and right leg on the floor.
  2. Alternate sides of the body. Use the elbow that remains on the floor to help lift your upper back completely while performing the bicycle crunches.

Hip Bridge:

  1. Start with knees bent and back on the floor.
  2. Curl your hips under while tucking rib cage down and raise your hips to the ceiling to find glutes.
  3. Inhale and bring hips down.
  4. Repeat for the duration of the exercise

4 Top-of-Mind Questions from College Students Filing Taxes for the First Time

2021-04-23T03:01:01

(BPT) – Are you in college, or a recent graduate getting ready to file your taxes for the first time? You probably have many questions, such as how to file, whether you can get any tax breaks, and did you receive all of your stimulus payments. It can be daunting to tackle your taxes for the first time, but the good news is there’s help and answers available.

Here are several frequently asked questions, along with the answers you’ll need to get started:

1. How do I know if I am a dependent?

The first step in preparing your own taxes requires a conversation with your parents or guardians. Ask whether they’ll be claiming you as a dependent on their return this year. If they do, this will affect some credits and deductions you may claim on your return. Additionally, if they claim you as a dependent, your parents will be able to claim credits for your educational expenses.

Generally, a parent can claim you as a dependent until age 19, but if you’re a full-time student, they can claim you as a dependent until you’re 24. There are other requirements, including how much financial support you and your parents provided during that year. Most often, a full-time college student can still be considered a dependent if they’re under 24 and don’t generate more than half of their own financial support. For example, if you’re paying your own rent and food during the year, your parents might not be able to claim you as a dependent. If your parents can claim you as a dependent, you will need to know this for your own tax return.

2. Do I need to file?

If you made more than $12,400 from working last year, you are required to file a tax return. If your earned income was less than that, you aren’t required to file but may want to still consider filing to get a refund on the federal and state income taxes that were withheld from your paychecks. You also must file if you have unearned income more than $1,100.

If your income was from a side hustle, like working for DoorDash, and at least $400, you’ll also need to file a return for self-employment income. The good news is that you may have some expenses that count as deductions associated with your gig work.

If you are unsure on the best tax outcome for your situation, an H&R Block tax pro can explain your options and answer your questions. You can also study up with H&R Block’s Student Tax Guide.

3. Will I get a stimulus payment?

The most recent, third stimulus package includes payments for all dependents, a key difference from the first two stimulus payments. All dependents claimed on a person’s tax return will qualify the parent(s) to receive an up to $1,400 benefit for each qualifying person in their household, including children 17 and older and adult dependents, such as college students. College students who were dependents don’t need to do anything, as your parents will receive the stimulus money. You can’t claim your own stimulus payment if your parents claimed you as a dependent.

If you are a college student or graduate who was on your parents’ return last year but will file your own for this year, you can get a stimulus payment when you file by claiming the Recovery Rebate Credit.

What tax credits or incentives are available for students?

Here are several tax credits and incentives that students or their parents may be eligible for:

  • The American Opportunity Credit provides up to $2,500 for students or their parents who pay tuition and fees and buy course materials during the first four years of college.
  • The Lifetime Learning Credit provides up to $2,000 for students or their parents who pay education expenses, such as tuition and fees. Students do not need to pursue a degree to claim this credit, so someone acquiring or improving their job skills through an eligible educational institution may use it. However, the credit phases out as income climbs and your filing status will factor into whether you can claim the credit.
  • The tuition and fees deduction allows taxpayers with qualified higher education expenses to deduct up to $4,000 even if they do not itemize their deductions. However, people with higher incomes may receive only a partial tax benefit or none at all.

These education credits and deductions can be complex and it’s important for you to coordinate which tax breaks you claim. For example, the IRS doesn’t let people double up on these benefits, but depending on the kind of academic program, what year the student is in, income and other factors, a student may qualify for one or more of the benefits. And a family will want to plan ahead if they have multiple students in school at the same time or a student plans to attend more than four years. To help you answer which education tax break is the most financially beneficial for you, an H&R Block tax pro can help you understand and navigate each of the education credits to create your best outcome.

If you are confident you understand all of your available education credits and prefer to prepare your own taxes, the most common tax forms students need can be filed for free with H&R Block Free Online.

Going green: 5 tips to create an eco-friendly home

2021-04-22T16:01:00

(BPT) – With sustainable practices top of mind and a revived shift toward conscious consumption, Americans everywhere are seeking ways to lead a more sustainable, eco-friendly lifestyle. From saving water to reducing energy usage, these are the top five ways to go green for the environment and your wallet.

What does it mean to go green? 2021 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year Bosch home appliances defines this as the commitment to empowering consumers with more environmentally friendly and ecologically responsible products. Leading an eco-friendly lifestyle starts within the home. What products and appliances are you utilizing in key home spaces to achieve a low carbon footprint and lower energy bills? Check out the below key features and practices that make sustainable living easy.

1) Reduce your energy usage.

By using less energy, you can help reduce your carbon footprint and save on your household bills. If you’re purchasing a new refrigerator, laundry pair or dishwasher, look for the ENERGY STAR label to find the most efficient appliances. For example, Bosch compact laundry pairs feature dryers with heat pump drying technology, a ventless, sustainable drying solution that was awarded Most Efficient of ENERGY STAR in 2021.

For further energy savings, some refrigerators have high-efficiency compressors to generate less heat when they are running for a lower energy output, as well as an Eco Mode that automatically adjusts the appliance’s temperatures to run in an energy-saving setting. A simple eco-conscious practice is letting your leftovers cool post-mealtime before storing them in the refrigerator, avoiding the increased energy it takes for the refrigerator to cool down its interior.

2) Shop smartly.

You can reduce your carbon footprint when you buy locally sourced fruits and vegetables in season, which don’t need to be transported for long distances. Shop at your local farmer’s market, and don’t be afraid to ask questions, like “Where is this produce from?” and “When was it picked?” Pro tip: Fruits like cantaloupe, apricots, raspberries, honeydew and white cherries are in season for spring.

Another green way to shop is bringing your own reusable grocery totes to avoid the plastic bags provided at the store. Consider using a cotton or other reusable produce bag as well when picking fruits and vegetables, further cutting down on plastic waste.

3) Limit food waste.

To best limit food waste, focus on appliances that keep your food fresher longer and organize your refrigerator to keep items in view. A recent study found that Americans toss 103 pounds of spoiled food per year — that’s roughly $3,000 wasted annually. The latest refrigerators on the market can do much more than just cool food — look for one with innovative technologies that help limit food waste, such as Bosch French door bottom mount refrigerators that feature a four-point FarmFresh System with pre-programmed freshness settings and odor control.

Another way to combat food waste is saving leftover ingredients for meals you can prep ahead and stretch across multiple days. Consider making a leftover vegetable soup using veggies you have remaining from other prepared dishes throughout the week — you’ll make a tasty dinner, reduce food waste and save money when buying produce.

4) Use eco-friendly cleaning products.

Some household cleaning products contain chemicals that can be harmful to the environment. Make your own all-purpose cleaner with natural ingredients for an eco-friendly approach to spring cleaning. For example, let orange peels sit in a jar with white vinegar for 7-10 days, drain the liquid into a spray bottle and you’re left with a great smelling, homemade, all-purpose cleaner.

5) Be water wise.

There is a widespread myth that dishwashers use more water than hand-washing, when in fact, far less water is consumed when you run a dishwasher designed with water efficiency. On average, hand-washing uses about 27 gallons per load compared to the dishwasher which uses around three. A recent study found that 94% of consumers hand-wash glassware, plastics and more, when these items can be washed in the dishwasher. Many Americans also have a preconceived notion of needing to fully wash their dishes before loading the dishwasher, but the truth is you simply need to scrape off leftover food and let the machine do its job.

Saving water outside the kitchen is just as important; choose a laundry pair with a washer designed to reduce water consumption. Many washers on the market have connected features that offer consumption forecasts for each laundry program so you can stay on top of your usage. A good rule of thumb when doing laundry is “less is more” — avoid adding too much detergent to the washer, as the machine will take longer to rinse and will use more water.

4 areas to consider when doing a home upgrade

2021-04-22T09:01:00

(BPT) – With more Americans working remotely, the pandemic has sparked an unprecedented wave of home improvement projects, with three out of four homeowners reporting having completed a major upgrade since the start of 2020. People are spending more time in their homes and are thinking differently about how every available space can help them live, work and play at home. Looking for a project? Here are some spaces worth considering:

1) The garage: More than just a place to park your car, the garage is home to your tools, sports equipment and toys. And, for most (47.5 million Americans), a bustling passageway to the home. Smarten up your garage with the Chamberlain Secure View Smart Garage Door Opener with Camera and ensure your family and prized possessions are safe and secure. The Secure View works with the myQ app so you never have to worry if the garage door was left open. You can check the status of your garage door, plus open and close the garage door from your smartphone — no matter where you are. The built-in camera enables live video streaming and two-way communication so you can see when the kids get home from school or tell your neighbor where to find the ladder, even when you’re not home. You can also install a LiftMaster Smart Lock on your garage entryway door. It works with the myQ app as well so you can control multiple home entrances all from your phone within the same app. Another added bonus, specifically for Amazon Prime members, is taking advantage of myQ and Key by Amazon for convenient In-Garage Delivery to ensure your packages are secure until you’re free to get them. Make your garage work for you.

2) Outdoor space: Spending time outside comes with an abundance of mental and physical health benefits and has been linked to reducing stress and boosting overall immune system health. By adding a functional, beautiful outdoor living space to your yard, you can take advantage of nature and all its perks whenever you want. Refreshed landscaping, a patio upgrade, a firepit area, and even an outdoor kitchen can help transform your yard into your own personal oasis and improve your quality of life at home. If you’re one of the 70 million households with a pet, you might want to take them into consideration when thinking about your outdoor space. Pet-friendly plants, sturdy grass and dog toys can help your pet feel at home. Add a water station or fun water feature so your pet can hydrate and cool off after playing.

3) The doggie door: Don’t overlook other home upgrades that benefit man’s best friend. As COVID-19 restrictions begin to lift, many dogs will experience a dramatic change in their routines. For the overwhelming number of dog parents who feel guilty leaving their best buddies at home (80%), the myQ Pet Portal is a must-have smart home pupgrade. It is the only no-compromise solution for homeowners who want to enhance the exterior appearance of their home while providing the four-legged member of the family with the freedom to potty and play on demand. Designed with security and pet safety in mind, this aesthetically pleasing smart doggie door allows pet parents to safely let their pup out to potty and play when they’re away. The best part about the myQ Pet Portal is that you have access to your furry friend anytime through your smartphone via the myQ Pet Portal app.

4) The laundry room: The average American family does 8-10 loads of laundry a week. Like it or not, you probably spend a lot of time in your laundry area. Updating this space can be easy and budget friendly. Consider installing items that will help you work more efficiently and make use of the existing space such as a utility sink, drying racks and storage. Homeowners with a front-loading washer and dryer can make use of the space on top by adding a butcher block to create a folding station. If you have a basement, garage or detached laundry area, consider adding white paint to the walls and ceiling to brighten up the space.

Top travel trends for U.S. travelers this season

2021-04-22T09:07:00

(BPT) – After a devastating pandemic kept us in our homes for over a year, wanderlust is at an all-time high and more Americans are starting to get back out there. In fact, one-third of us plan to travel out of town this spring, while a little over another third plan to do so this summer.1 With that in mind, Priceline looked at how travel has changed and what trends are emerging as we enter the spring and summer peak travel season.

1. Escapism is top of mind

When it comes to air travel, hotel stays and car rentals, Americans are prioritizing warm, tropical and entertainment-focused destinations, such as Hawaii, Las Vegas, Mexico and Orlando. Florida, in particular, is a traveler favorite right now. The Sunshine State dominates the top 10 destinations across all three categories with at least four cities on each list.2

2. Local exploration matters more than ever

When the pandemic took hold, flights came to an almost screeching halt. According to round-trip flight bookings on Priceline, travelers flew four billion miles fewer in 2020 than they did in 2019. Not only did people fly less often, but they also did not travel as far: The average distance dropped by 20% in 2020 (1,307 miles), compared to the same period in 2019 (1,654 miles).3 Instead, Americans are opting to explore locally, with 70% of car rentals used for road trips within their own state, and driving an average of 184 miles.4 Likewise, today’s travelers are booking hotel stays within their own states 10% more than prior years.5

3. Wallet-friendly stays abound in the South and West

Travel deals are more important than ever. This year, the average hotel stay costs under $125 a night in Las Vegas, The Black Hills, South Dakota, Denver and Orlando, which means you can enjoy a great getaway without blowing your budget.6 Explore the outdoors at South Dakota’s majestic Black Hills, home to Mount Rushmore, and Pigeon Forge, only a 25-minute drive from Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

4. Package deals enable workcations

The blurring of work-life boundaries gave rise to the “bleisure” trip or workcation, a hybrid of business and leisure travel, last year. As flexible work schedules become a long-term possibility for many, these extended leisure-first trips, which incorporate remote work as part of the experience, will continue to drive unique booking preferences. Because of this, Priceline is seeing increased interest in bundled or package trips, which are conveniently booked together and offer great savings.

As domestic tourism ramps up, we will see continued preference for beach getaways and entertainment, alongside an ongoing appreciation for our local surroundings and an increased willingness to blend our vacations with work. And as consumers resume regular travel in search of connection and new experiences, Priceline is here to help them do just that by making unforgettable trips — at great values — available at their fingertips.

Methodology

1 Harris Report survey: “Springing Back to Normal? Planned Spending Signals Cautious Optimism Amid Vaccine Rollout” (2021).

2 Based on all hotel, car rental and round-trip domestic flight bookings for travel anytime from Apr. 1 to June 30, 2021.

3 Based on all flight bookings made by U.S.-based consumers for travel anytime between Jan. 1 to Dec. 7, 2020, compared to Jan. 1 to Dec. 7, 2019.

4 Based on car rental bookings for all car types made by U.S.-based consumers between Jan. 1 to Feb. 24, 2021, for travel anytime between Apr. 1 and June 30, 2021. Intrastate travel and average mileage traveled is based on car rental bookings for travel anytime during 2020.

5 Based on hotel bookings for all stars made by U.S.-based consumers for travel anytime between Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2021, compared to 2020 (Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2020) and 2019 (Jan. 1, 2019, to Dec. 31, 2019).

6 Based on the average daily rates across all stars for hotel booking for travel anytime between Apr. 1 and June 30, 2021.

Registered dietitian shares 4 foods to fuel any fitness routine

2021-04-22T09:27:00

(BPT) – As the country is opening back up and the summer months approach, maintaining health and wellness is top of mind for many. Getting up and moving your body regularly is an important aspect of healthy living, but it can be challenging to muster up the energy to kick off a new exercise plan. Fortunately, there are a variety of wholesome, nutritious foods that provide essential vitamins and nutrients to fuel any fitness routine, no matter the skill level.

Registered Dietitian, Nutritionist and Founder of MPM Nutrition Marissa Meshulam provides her expert recommendation on which foods to work into your meal plan to support a healthier, more active lifestyle:

“Many pantry and refrigerator staples provide ample nutrition while giving your body what it craves,” says Meshulam. “Before restocking your pantry with the latest wellness trend, consider turning to wholesome ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.”

Beans

Dried or canned beans are found stowed away in cupboards across the country but may not be the first item you reach for when you’re hungry. Consider making them a regular part of your meal planning, because this underrated food is packed with a variety of nutrients to support health and wellness. In addition to being an excellent source of plant-based protein, they are loaded with fiber — helping you feel full longer so you can make it through your workout without any pesky hunger pangs. When buying canned beans, keep in mind purchasing a low-sodium option and rinsing to manage salt intake. From dips and spreads to soups and stews, beans are versatile and great for snacks and meals.

Eggs

Eggs are known as a good source of protein, but they offer so much more than that. However, it’s important to recognize that not all eggs are equal. Eggland’s Best eggs are the only egg with superior taste and nutrition such as 25 percent less saturated fat, more than double the Omega-3s and Vitamin B12 and more compared to ordinary eggs. Omega-3s along with protein can help reduce soreness and aid in recovery after a strenuous exercise and Vitamin B12 provides a natural energy boost, making Eggland’s Best eggs a perfect, versatile food to enjoy before or after a workout.

Potatoes

Potatoes are a bit of a misunderstood vegetable. While French fries and chips are not the healthiest choice due to how they’re processed, fresh potato options are nutrient-packed, tasty and easy to make. In fact, one medium 5.3-ounce potato with skin-on provides 26 grams of carbohydrates, which can help boost energy. They’re also an excellent source of vitamin C, which is an antioxidant that supports the immune system, and fiber, which prevents blood sugar highs and lows for consistent energy throughout the day.

Leafy greens

Fresh leafy greens are a must-have to keep in your fridge or even grow in your own garden. Some of the most nutrient-dense options include spinach, kale, collard and chard. Don’t worry if you’re not a salad person; there are so many ways you can still enjoy leafy greens and reap the nutritional benefits. Add greens to a wrap or sandwich or top your soup or pizza with a handful of greens for a crunchy twist. You can also blend into smoothies or juices or add to an egg frittata or omelet. Get creative and you’ll be surprised how many ways you can enjoy your greens.

Liven up pantry staples with new recipes

Try new recipes like this Spanish-inspired dish that combines some of these powerful ingredients:

Spanish Tortilla

Ingredients:
6 Eggland’s Best eggs, large
3 medium yellow potatoes
1/4 cup olive oil, divided
Salt to taste (approx. 1/4 teaspoon)

Optional:
2-3 chopped scallions for topping
Optional: plain Greek yogurt for topping

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 425 F.

While the oven preheats, use a mandolin to thinly slice potatoes. Lay potatoes on a baking sheet and toss with 2 tablespoons of olive oil until they are coated evenly. Spread the potatoes out and place in the oven to roast. After about 20 minutes, flip the potatoes and allow them to continue cooking until browned on both sides (an extra 5-10 minutes).

While the potatoes are cooking, beat the 6 Eggland’s Best eggs and salt in a large bowl. Once the potatoes are done, let cool for a few minutes. Then add the slightly cooled potatoes to the egg mixture and toss together.

Place the rest of the olive oil (2 tablespoons) in a cast iron skillet (or any pan that is oven safe) and turn the stove on medium. Add in the egg mixture and cover it with a lid. Let it cook for 5 minutes or until the edges of the frittata start to pull away from the sides of the skillet.

Next, remove the lid and place the skillet in the oven (already set to 425 F). Let it bake for another 5-10 minutes or until the top is brown.

Enjoy immediately or place in the fridge to serve cold later. Top with some scallions or Greek yogurt for extra flavor.

Need workout inspiration?

Nutrition and fitness go hand-in-hand, which is why Eggland’s Best has teamed up with digital fitness platform Daily Burn to continue its mission of empowering families to choose an active, healthier lifestyle. From now through June 25, fitness fanatics and families can visit www.dailyburn.com/sweepstakes and enter for a chance to win a variety of fitness-themed prizes such as workout swag, EB coupons and free Daily Burn memberships! Plus, Eggland’s Best and Daily Burn are offering free, easy-to-follow workouts led by Daily Burn fitness experts and delicious recipes using EB eggs!