Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2025-09-08T16:31:00

(BPT) – Getting kids to read when they’re not natural bookworms can be challenging. Marvel books are a fun and easy way to get them motivated. Check out five cool and awesome ways to get your kids into reading and prepare them to go back to school.

1. Tap into their beloved Marvel characters

Get kids engaged in reading by selecting books featuring their favorite Marvel characters. Discover great (off-screen!) adventures with Spidey and His Amazing Friends.

At bedtime, how about choosing a copy of 5-Minute Spidey and His Amazing Friends Stories? This collection of 12 short tales easily incorporates reading into your kids’ bedtime routine. Find the perfect read for your young webslinger with plenty of options. Consider Super Readers Pre-Level Marvel: Spidey and His Amazing Friends: Go Team Spidey! and World of Reading Marvel: Spidey and His Amazing Friends: Webs Up! These books are sure to create a memorable reading experience.

2. Engage your kids with age-appropriate book alternatives to movies

With the recent release of The Fantastic Four: First Steps, Fantastic Four books are a great way for kids to learn more about Marvel’s iconic first family of Super Heroes in an off-screen mode. From the Fantastic Four Little Golden Book to Fantastic Four: My Mighty Marvel First Book to Fantastic Four: A Family (Anti)Matter, discover exciting books sure to provide your child with an enjoyable and age-appropriate alternative to their favorite Marvel movies.

3. Enhance their reading experience with creative activities

Take your kids’ reading experience to the next level by pairing creative activities and books! Activity books will keep your kids entertained and engaged in storytelling.

Marvel activity books featuring beloved characters such as Spidey and his amazing friends or the Fantastic Four are a fun way to create a special reading moment. With multiple activity sheets, stickers, markers, and more, Marvel books will spark your kids’ creativity at home, in the car or on a plane.

4. Create core family memories with awesome activities for everyone

Calling all Marvel fans! Engage your kids with activities involving Marvel books and make reading a fun family moment. Bring comics to life with a copy of the 64-page Marvel: Spidey and His Amazing Friends: Jumbo Coloring and Activity Book, or re-create a theater experience at home with Marvel: Spidey and His Amazing Friends: Movie Theater Storybook & Movie Projector.

For aspiring cartoonists, consider Marvel: How to Draw Awesome Characters. From Iron Man to Captain America to Black Widow to Black Panther and many more, there is a beloved character for everyone.

5. Celebrate reading accomplishments with fun treats

A fun and delicious way to celebrate reading accomplishments is with A Taste of Marvel: Snacks: Bite-Size Recipes in a Snack-Size Book! Inside this tiny but mighty book, you’ll find mouthwatering snack recipes from best-selling Marvel cookbooks such as Marvel: Spider-Man: The Official Cookbook, Marvel: Black Panther: The Official Wakanda Cookbook and Marvel: Cooking with Deadpool.

For kids who love stickers, check out Marvel Studios: Discover the Multiverse: Ultimate Sticker Collection. With more than 1,000 stickers, young readers will re-create favorite moments from epic team-ups and battles.

Little artists and lovers of hands-on activities will discover fun projects in Marvel Crafts: 100+ Activities and Art Projects Inspired by Marvel Comics. Filled with photography and clearly illustrated instructions, this book will boost your kids’ creativity.

That’s a wrap! Five awesome tips to foster a lifelong love of reading. Discover more Marvel books for more fabulous and engaging ideas on Amazon.

2025-09-08T09:03:00

(BPT) – Back-to-school is a season of checklists, from supplies and schedules to sports signups and lunchbox prep. But amid the flurry of getting your child back into the classroom routine, certain common health issues can be easy to overlook.

That’s because the start of the school year brings a perfect storm of stress, germs and hectic schedules. In the midst of it all, some everyday aches and pains can sneak by undetected until they turn into something much more serious.

“Parents and kids are juggling a lot this time of year,” says Dr. Vontrelle Roundtree, Associate Chief Medical Officer at MD Live by Evernorth. “It’s easy to chalk up certain symptoms to stress or adjusting to new routines, but some can be early warning signs of something that needs medical attention.”

Here are five common health issues that doctors say could easily fly under the radar during the back-to-school rush, and how a virtual care visit can help you stay one step ahead.

1. Tummy troubles that won’t quit

Nervous stomach? Maybe. But if tummy troubles like cramping, diarrhea or nausea linger, it could be more than nerves about the new school year. “These gastrointestinal symptoms could point to newfound food sensitivities or allergies, foodborne illnesses, parasites picked up during summer travel or camp, and even anxiety,” says Roundtree. “It’s easy for these to be mistaken for nerves or a sensitive stomach, but if the child’s symptoms are interfering with their daily activities, it’s important to see a doctor to rule out any of those issues.”

2. Fatigue that feels excessive

Back-to-school routines are tiring, especially for younger kids. But excessive fatigue, especially when paired with pale skin, irritability or trouble focusing, can point to an underlying issue like anemia, often caused by an iron deficiency, which is common in school-aged children and teens. This symptom can be easily misinterpreted as the stress of adjusting to early mornings. However, when fatigue is combined with physical or behavioral changes, it is worth exploring further.

3. Headaches that hit at school

If your child is suddenly complaining of headaches more frequently, especially after a long day in front of computer screens or taking notes from the whiteboard, they may be dealing with eye strain, vision issues or even stress-related tension. “These symptoms often show up once kids are back in structured, indoor environments,” Roundtree notes. “It’s absolutely worth bringing up during a doctor’s visit, especially if you find they’re interfering with your child’s concentration or sleep habits.”

4. Frequent bathroom breaks or bedwetting in older kids

If your child suddenly takes more bathroom breaks during the day or has started wetting the bed again, it could be a sign of a urinary tract infection (UTI) or other underlying condition. While these symptoms might indicate something physical, they can also stem from behavioral or emotional factors. Either way, it’s worth discussing with your child’s doctor.

5. Mood swings that keep swinging

Back-to-school jitters are normal. However, unusual mood swings, outbursts, increased irritability or withdrawal may signal something deeper, such as anxiety, sleep disruptions or even a physical issue like undiagnosed strep, which can sometimes cause neurological symptoms in kids.

“Emotional and physical health are connected,” Roundtree explains. “Changes in mood and behavior may be early signs that something deeper is going on.”

Don’t wait for the school nurse to call

Many of the most common back-to-school health issues can be assessed and addressed virtually from the comfort of your home.

“With MD Live, parents can access board-certified pediatricians quickly, whether they need fast answers, peace of mind or trusted guidance on next steps,” says Roundtree. “Virtual visits are a powerful tool for staying proactive during a hectic school year.”

This year, add health to your back-to-school checklist. If something feels off, trust your instincts and give your family a healthier start to the school year.

2025-09-05T20:33:00

(BPT) – As home prices continue to rise, many homeowners are choosing to stay and put their time and money into renovating their existing homes. According to a survey by This Old House, 48% of homeowners have renovation plans for 2025. Of those planning to renovate, two groups stand out: millennials and baby boomers.

Two generations with different priorities

When broken down by generation, millennials are leading the home renovation trends. In fact, the survey found that of those homeowners planning to renovate, millennials made up 60% of the group.

Millennial home renovations are largely focused on making their current home match their lifestyle with projects that boost home enjoyment, style and quality of life.

While boomers are less likely to pursue home renovations, their requests for age-in-place (AIP) renovations are on the rise. According to an article by the National Association of Home Builders, 75% of industry leaders say that requests for AIP features have significantly or somewhat increased in the last five years. Also, 56% of remodelers are currently involved in home modification work relating to AIP.

Renovations all generations agree are important

Regardless of age, This Old House found that the most common spaces homeowners plan to improve are bathrooms (53%) and kitchens (51%), two high-traffic areas. Because these areas see the most use, bathroom and kitchen renovations can improve homeowners’ daily comfort and boost a home’s value.

Another feature that younger and older generations are prioritizing is utility upgrades. America’s housing stock is aging — with the median age of owner-occupied homes sitting at 41 years — and with it, major system replacements have become more common. For example, according to a Houzz report, nearly 30% of 2022 renovators replaced plumbing systems, often including installing new water heaters.

This isn’t surprising since conventional tank water heaters generally last about 6-12 years. That’s why many homes built in the mid-2000s are now due for replacement of their original systems.

How tankless water heaters make bathroom and kitchen renovations simpler

Given that bathroom and kitchen renovations are top projects for younger and older homeowners, replacing a water heater is essential. While homeowners could replace their old conventional water heater with a similar yet newer model, a more energy-efficient option is a tankless water heater.

As the name suggests, tankless water heaters don’t require a storage tank that must be continuously heated. Instead, tankless water heaters like Noritz EZ Series Pro models flash-heat water on demand.

With a tankless water heater, homeowners will never run out of hot water, and they can save on utility costs. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, for homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily, on-demand water heaters can be 24%–34% more energy efficient than conventional storage tank water heaters. For homeowners who want to save money, run a more eco-friendly house or both, a tankless water heater can help them achieve this critical home upgrade.

There are other home renovation benefits that tankless water heaters offer. They take up less space than a tank water heater — leaving more room for other renovations — are easy to install and have a longer life expectancy. Compared to storage water heaters that last 10-15 years, tankless water heaters can last more than 20 years. Because of their modular design and easily replaceable parts, a tankless water heater can last even longer. To learn more about tankless water heaters, visit Noritz.com.

Hot water on demand without breaking the bank

One thing homeowners should keep in mind when considering a tankless water heater is the cost. Installing a tankless water heater is a long-term investment that can net homeowners savings, but it’s also a pricy upfront cost. That said, some programs can make this home upgrade more affordable.

“Many homeowners don’t know that there are local, state and federal agencies that offer rebates and tax credits for energy-efficient upgrades,” said Emily Logan, Director, Utility Data and Programs at EcoRebates. “By taking advantage of these programs, homeowners can save on their water heater upgrade, leaving more money for other home renovations.”

That said, it’s important to look into rebates and tax credits now. Some federal energy tax incentives, like the Section 25D Residential Clean Energy Credit and Section 25C Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit, will be phased out after June 30, 2026. If you’re a homeowner who is considering upgrading your bathroom and kitchen with a tankless water heater, visit Noritz.com/rebates to find applicable savings programs.

2025-09-05T08:01:00

(BPT) – Medicare comes with important decisions — and areas that often need explanation. For instance, many people think Medicare is free or that it covers everything, including long-term care and routine dental or vision — but that’s not the case. Enrollment isn’t automatic for everyone, and missing your Initial Enrollment Period could lead to penalties unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. Understanding what Medicare actually covers — and when and how to enroll — can help you avoid surprises and choose the right plan for your needs.

2025-09-04T07:01:00

(BPT) – National Tailgating Day is coming up! If you’re a frequent tailgate host — whether you gather outside of the stadium or in your living room — you probably have your own game day traditions, but it may be time to call an audible and change your strategy.

This football season, be open to new ideas that can take your tailgate to the next level. With just a few adjustments, you can make your football parties so memorable that your friends, family and fellow football fans will be begging you to host a tailgate for The Big Game later this season.

Not sure where to start? Check out these four tips to help you turn your tailgate into a championship-winning touchdown.

1. Double down on decorations

Show your team spirit with team-themed decorations! You can, of course, find official merch with your team name and logo, but don’t be afraid to get creative.

When shopping, look for tablecloths, cups, balloons and banners in your team’s primary and secondary colors. Head to your local craft store and find stickers, permanent markers and paint to turn these seemingly plain items into bespoke party decorations. Short on time? Print out themed signage, menus and rally banners, turn boxes into party displays or get creative with food spreads that mirror footballs, fields and jerseys — all the small details will help set the scene and get your guests in the zone.

2. Switch up your beverages

Beer and cocktails are traditional game day beverages, but they’re not the only drink options. This year, add boxed wine to your football shopping list. Wine may seem a bit formal for a sports gathering, but a box of wine is a game-changing addition to any fan or tailgater’s playbook.

Choose a high-quality boxed wine like Bota Box for your next game day. Its portable, durable and no-fuss packaging is shatterproof, doesn’t require a corkscrew and is recyclable, making it perfect for any gathering at home or in the stadium parking lot. For large gatherings, each 3-liter box offers the same amount of wine as four bottles and a pourable spout makes it easy for guests to serve themselves a glass. Heading to a stadium tailgate? Toss a few Bota Box “Minis” in the cooler to add variety. Each 500ml “Mini” carton holds the equivalent of three glasses of wine in a lightweight, recyclable sipper that’s just right for sharing with friends before kickoff.

3. Get everyone involved with football game predictions

It’s always fun to try and guess how the game will play out. Make prediction sheets for your guests. This activity can foster team spirit, encourage social connections and ramp up the fun before the game starts.

There isn’t one right way to make a prediction sheet. However, think about questions like who will score the first touchdown and what the final score will be. Don’t forget to have a prize for the winner, like football memorabilia!

Pro tip: If you’re strapped for time, you can even download prediction sheets online to use for your tailgate.

4. Serve up a selection of homemade wings

Switch up your usual burgers and hot dogs this tailgate season and try cheffin’ up wings at home. You can stick to one flavor or provide a selection of sauces for a customizable tailgate experience. Make sure to offer a mix of beverages to bring out the saucy, savory flavors of your wings and take the tasting experience to the next level.

Pro tip: Do you have a wing recipe you’re proud of? Consider entering the “Wing It with Bota” recipe contest for a chance to win an all-expenses-paid trip to the Bay Area for a recipe cook-off at Guy Fieri’s Flavortown Tailgate, and compete for the ultimate grand prize: two tickets to attend The Big Game. To learn more, visit BotaBox.com/Football.

Are you ready for kickoff?

Whether you’re watching in person or at home, make your next tailgate one to remember. With these four tips, you’ll be ready for game day, no matter if your team wins or loses.

Please drink responsibly. Learn more at responsibility.org.

2025-09-04T06:01:00

(BPT) – Waking up can be a whirlwind of activity, from making breakfast and packing lunches to getting everyone out the door on time. Luckily, finding a moment to prepare a delicious and healthy lunch for your kids without sacrificing precious sleep is easier than you think.

With a few simple strategies, you can transform lunch-packing from a last-minute chore into an easy routine. Here’s how to get ahead of the morning rush and start your day feeling calm, organized, and ready for anything.

1. Pick lunch themes for faster decisions

Boost your creativity and simplify meal prep by choosing a weekly theme like “Taco Tuesday,” “Breakfast for Lunch,” or “Italian Favorites.” Once you have a theme, it’s easier to choose ingredients, prep in batches, and avoid the morning “What should I pack?” scramble. Kids also love the fun twist, making them more likely to eat what you send.

2. Build your own lunch station, and let your kids pick their weekly lineup

During your weekly meal prep, slice and wash fruits and veggies, prep sandwiches, and portion snacks into easy grab-and-go servings. By getting the work done ahead of time, weekday mornings become a breeze — just hand your kids their lunchboxes and let them choose their favorites.

Store items in Hefty^® Slider Bags to help them stay fresh. The easy-to-use slider is perfect for independent eaters to open and close on their own at school. Plus, the expandable bottom makes filling easier, and the secure Clicks Closed seal lets you know it’s shut tight.

3. Freeze drinks to keep food cool

Freeze a juice box or water bottle the night before to double as a lunchbox ice pack. By lunchtime, it will be perfectly chilled and ready to drink while keeping the rest of the meal fresh. You can also freeze foods like PB&J sandwiches, muffins, or yogurt tubes to help keep lunch cool and make meal prep even easier.

4. Lean into leftovers

Leftovers aren’t just for Friday night dinners. You can easily pack leftovers for lunch! For busy parents, leaning into leftovers can be a huge time saver and a simple way to ensure your child is eating a healthy, nutritious meal. Plus, you’ll save on food waste, helping you save money on your grocery bill.

As soon as dinner is over, pack your leftovers into Hefty Slider Bags, so you don’t have to worry about portioning food out later.

5. Fill up the freezer with frozen meals

During your weekly meal prep, consider making frozen meals for lunch (or even dinner). You can cook multiple dishes in bulk, like breakfast sandwiches, pizza bagels, and taco meat, then freeze them for quick, ready-to-go meals. You’ll have plenty of lunch options, and your kids can even choose which ones they’d like to eat the most.

Once you’re done cooking, store the meals in a large, resealable bag like Hefty’s Gallon sized Freezer Slider Bags. It clicks closed to help keep your food fresh and secure.

Pro tip: Keep some large slider bags on hand. These Hefty Jumbo Storage Slider Bags are perfect for anything life throws at you, from muddy jerseys and sparkly art projects to family-sized snack mixes.

Are you ready for an easier school year? Using these simple tips, you can save time, money and streamline your morning for a positive start to your day.

2025-09-03T14:01:00

(BPT) – For some drivers, their vehicle is just a means of transportation, but for others, it is a reflection of their own personality and, at times, even a partner for adventure. Hankook Tire’s latest Gauge Index Survey revealed new insights into how deeply connected Americans are to their vehicles, highlighting the emotional bonds and confidence drivers have in knowing their cars inside and out.

Drivers’ Emotional Connection

Most American drivers feel a connection to their cars, with over three-quarters of respondents saying they have some sort of emotional attachment. This bond isn’t uniform across generations, however — younger drivers, on average, feel a stronger emotional connection to their cars while older generations are more likely to think of functionality.

For the youngest generation on the road today, Gen Z, having a car creates a sense of pride: 43% of surveyed Gen Z drivers say they are proud of their cars.

More experienced drivers demonstrate an appreciation for their vehicle’s role in their day-to-day life. The majority of Millennial drivers (43%) say they are dependent on their vehicles. Similarly, when describing their car’s personality, Gen X (45%) and Boomers (50%) were most likely to label their cars as reliable and dependable.

Personalization to Match Personality

The connection that drivers feel with their cars can also be shown in how they personalize its interior and exterior, or even how they create a persona for their vehicle: One in four Americans has named their car, which is especially common among Gen Z (40%) drivers and those living in cities (35%). When it comes to accessorizing, most drivers personalize their cars with wheel or seat covers (27%) and performance upgrades (23%), tailoring their vehicles to match their own style and needs.

City drivers tend to customize their cars more than those in other areas: Nearly a third (32%) of drivers in urban areas have upgraded their car’s performance, including changes to their engine, exhausts and even tires, compared to less than a quarter of rural (20%) and suburban (19%) area drivers. Urban area drivers have also customized the look of their cars more than others, with nearly a quarter (22%) of city drivers having had aesthetic work done to their cars, compared to rural (8%) and suburban drivers (13%).

Knowing the Car Inside and Out

Getting to know your car is more than just how it looks and feels. Many drivers report they understand their vehicle’s performance and what it can handle. For example, 85% of all drivers say they know their car well enough to continue driving with the fuel light on. Exactly half of the drivers surveyed tend to fill up their tank before the light appears on their dashboard, yet more than a third (36%) say that they know their cars well enough to push those limits regularly.

Despite how many people say they know their cars’ fuel limits, running out of gas isn’t as rare as it might seem — almost half (46%) of all drivers say they have run out of gas before, and over half of those respondents say that it has happened more than once. More experienced drivers tend to pay closer attention to their fuel level, with three-quarters of all Boomers saying they have never run out of gas while driving, compared to 67% of Millennial drivers who have, and often more than once.

The blend of emotional attachment and practical understanding underscores a unique relationship that Americans have to their cars: Personalizing vehicles, naming them and knowing their quirks all point to a deeper, more meaningful connection that drivers have with their cars.

2025-09-03T08:01:00

(BPT) – Ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages are having a moment. Vodka iced teas and vodka lemonades have become summer’s hottest drink trend, covering the crowds in sports stadiums, lining the beaches, and flying from coolers during backyard hangouts. And Sun Cruiser Iced Tea & Vodka is leading the pack for good reason – made with real iced tea, premium vodka and without carbonation to achieve the perfect balance of light sweetness and big refreshment.

Whether you’re rooting for your favorite team at a ballgame, vibing at a concert or unwinding at your go-to local bar, chances are you’ve probably spotted a Sun Cruiser can in the wild. Hospitality insiders agree: Sun Cruiser’s super smooth, deliciously refreshing profile with no bubbles is the perfect choice when looking for something both familiar and fresh. And with just 1 gram of sugar, 100 calories and 4.5% ABV per 12oz. serving, Sun Cruiser’s smooth flavor is the perfect choice for savoring the final days of the summer season.

New hospitality survey reveals increased interest in ready-to-drink beverages, with recent entrant Sun Cruiser Iced Tea & Vodka making waves across industry

Since launching in market just over a year ago, Sun Cruiser quickly became the fastest-growing RTD in on-premise locations nationwide, selling faster than long-established competitors like High Noon, Surfside and Nutrl¹.

According to a recent survey² of hospitality industry professionals conducted by Dynata, about 60% prefer RTDs when off duty, with 72% who said they choose RTDs instead of mixing a drink for themselves when off the clock. Among survey respondents who have tried Sun Cruiser, two-thirds say they would recommend it to others, with more than half crediting its convenience – particularly its portability and no-mix format – as major factors in their choice.

Savor the Last Summer Moments with Sun Cruiser

Curious to try the new RTD that hospitality insiders are buzzing about? The Sun Cruiser variety packs slide perfectly into any cooler situation — lakeside lounging, post-volleyball celebrations in the sand, pool parties and outdoor concert moments. It’s the sweet spot between effortless and elevated. Sun Cruiser is available in a variety of flavors, including Classic Iced Tea, Peach Iced Tea, Raspberry Iced Tea, Lemonade + Iced Tea, Lemonade, Pink Lemonade and Strawberry Lemonade.

Summer days may be coming to an end, but Sun Cruiser is here to let the good times cruise all year long. Visit DrinkSuncruiser.com and follow @DrinkSunCruiser on socials to find Sun Cruiser near you and make the most of your warm weather days and transition into fall.

Please drink responsibly. If you or someone you know struggles with alcohol, visit Responsibility.org.

1 Nielsen CGA On Premise Data Total US L12W Through 6/14/25

2 About the Survey

1,000 U.S. Hospitality industry professionals aged 21+ at venues serving alcohol were surveyed in a project commissioned by Boston Beer and conducted by Dynata (formerly Research Now/SSI), an independent research firm, between June 21 and June 30, 2025. The maximum margin of sampling error was plus or minus 3 percentage points with a 95% level of confidence.

2025-09-03T07:01:00

(BPT) – Whether you’ve already visited Italy and yearn to return, or you’re dreaming of your first trip, you may not be fully aware how much charm, beauty and history the country offers apart from its most famous cities. When you’re searching for “la dolce vita,” you may want to focus more attention on the authentically engaging character of some of Italy’s lesser-explored cities and towns.

To immerse yourself in warm sun and warmer people, stunning scenery, exquisite art and the best food on the planet, look beyond Italy’s largest cities to explore the irresistible cuisine, fascinating history and lush beauty found in many smaller towns. Travel expert Steve Perillo, president and third generation owner of Perillo Tours, offers his experience to help travelers enjoy the best of Italy, in honor of Perillo’s 80th anniversary.

“Italy contains so many hidden gems that travelers may be unaware of, especially when they are new to visiting the country,” said Perillo. “To help our guests make the most of their trips, we create itineraries specially designed to introduce less-explored towns and areas that allow guests to dive deeper into the culture and truly experience what makes Italy one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world.”

Here are Perillo’s top picks for 5 lesser-known Italian gems.

1. Birthplace of Christopher Columbus: Genoa

Not far from Portofino and Turin, Genoa’s position on Italy’s northwest coast lends it a rich maritime history. You’ll imagine you’ve traveled back to medieval times as you stroll narrow alleyways and explore stunning churches and historic palaces.

When you’re not soaking in Genoa’s timeless beauty, savor cuisine like fresh seafood, local specialties like focaccia and the renowned “pesto alla Genovese,” a vibrant sauce made with fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Sardo cheese and extra virgin olive oil.

Enjoy Genoa’s stunning coastal views with Perillo’s new 9-Day Gems of Italy Tour, combining Genoa’s maritime heritage with Florence’s Renaissance wonders for an authentic taste of Northern Italian culture.

2. Food lovers’ paradise: Val d’Orcia

Gorgeous rolling hills and cypress-lined roads in Val d’Orcia resemble a living painting, perfect for photography or just soaking in the Tuscan countryside’s breathtaking beauty. The climate and soil around this town, 30 miles from Siena, make it ideal for creating the world’s finest wines, cheeses and olive oil. A trip to Val D’Orcia is not complete without visiting charming area vineyards like the home of Brunello di Montalcino wines.

Val d’Orcia is featured in Perillo’s 9-Day Gems of Italy Tour.

3. Medieval masterpiece: Todi

For history buffs and beauty lovers, Todi’s well-preserved medieval architecture, cobblestone streets and charming piazzas will charm the eye, as will stunning panoramic views of the Umbrian countryside. Perched atop a hill, Todi’s rich cultural legacy is filled with historic landmarks like its beautiful square featuring the impressive Palazzo del Popolo, and the Cathedral of Todi. Stop at a local trattoria to enjoy Umbrian cuisine celebrating local ingredients like wild boar, wild mushrooms and truffles.

Discover the wonders of Todi through the 10-Day Heart of Italy Tour, featuring Rome, Florence and smaller gems like Todi with activities like chocolate and wine tasting, plus plenty of free time to explore.

4. Legendary town: Gubbio

Legend has it St. Francis (San Francesco in Italian) once tamed a wolf that struck fear into the hearts of Gubbio’s residents. You can imagine saints and monks strolling the narrow medieval streets and entering beautifully preserved buildings in Gubbio, a town not far from Perugia. Highlights include the beautiful Palazzo dei Consoli, Roman Theater and Church of San Francesco, which all transport you back to the Middle Ages.

Gubbio is also famous for the world’s largest “Christmas tree”: a giant tree made of lights arranged along the slopes of Mount Ingino, nearly 2,460 feet high and over 3,280 feet wide, which is visible from miles away. You can ride the funivia (cable car) to the top of Mount Ingino for breathtaking views of the Umbrian countryside.

Gubbio is also included in Perillo’s 10-Day Heart of Italy Tour.

5. Beach lovers’ utopia: Otranto

Otranto’s crystal-clear waters and stunning sandy beaches are perfect for relaxing. Just 30 miles from the town of Lecce on Italy’s eastern coast, Otranto is known for its rocky cliffs with breathtaking views of the Adriatic. You can also step back in time by visiting the town’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, plus nearby Aragonese Castle and Otranto Cathedral.

Explore Otranto on the 12-Day Best of Southern Italy Tour, highlighting two of Italy’s most beautiful regions: Campania and Puglia, to visit important historic towns and sample some of Italy’s finest food.

Since 1945, three generations of the Perillo family have perfected the art of traveling to Italy, making Perillo Tours America’s leading tour operator to the country. Crafting itineraries with an ideal balance of sightseeing, free time and activities, Perillo offers glimpses into each Italian city and region’s rich traditions. As a growing company, Perillo has expanded to new destinations, offering fully escorted tours to Greece, Ireland, Portugal, Spain, and Hawaii. Through Perillo Custom Vacations, independent travelers can also design and book a customized vacation to meet their individual needs and desires. For parties of 10 or more, Perillo’s Custom Groups will create bespoke itineraries to various European destinations.

Visit PerilloTours.com to plan your trip today.

2025-09-03T07:01:00

(BPT) – Whether you’re single or have a family, budgeting for household expenses can be challenging. Balancing necessary expenses like rent or a mortgage payment, groceries, utilities and health care costs with discretionary spending like shopping for clothing, eating at restaurants and going to the movies can seem almost impossible.

However, with just a few adjustments to your spending habits, you can simplify your budget. These five simple tips can help you keep your household expenses in check so you can save money and have some cash left over for fun experiences.

1. Meal prep and batch cook to reduce grocery waste

Prepping meals for the week is a great way to spend less money. When you prepare meals at home, you won’t have a reason to spend money on food at the cafeteria, coffee shop or a restaurant. Plus, cooking multiple meals ahead of time can help you reduce grocery food waste!

Batch cooking — cooking a lot of food for multiple meals ahead of time — allows you to buy ingredients in bulk, which can cost less than buying food items one at a time or in smaller quantities. Plus, not only are you saving money, but meal prepping on the weekend means you are also spending less time cooking during the week.

2. Bundle internet and streaming services

Paying for internet and subscription streaming services individually can quickly add up. Instead of deciding which subscriptions to keep or cancel, consider looking for bundles. Check with your internet or phone provider to see if they offer discounts or bundles for multiple services and streaming platforms.

3. Enroll in low-cost, affordable vision insurance coverage

Taking care of your vision can be costly. However, don’t let the cost keep you from taking care of your sight. You can enroll in an individual vision plan to help reduce vision-related expenses and stay on top of eye health.

A great vision insurance option that can help you save money without compromising your well-being is a VSP^® Individual Vision Plan. When you enroll in a low-cost VSP vision plan, you can easily manage exams, glasses and contacts for everyone in the family — even when employer insurance isn’t available.

There are several benefits to purchasing an individual vision plan through VSP. Unlike other vision coverage options, you can purchase a customizable vision insurance plan at any time. No need to wait for open enrollment or deal with waiting periods. VSP Individual Vision Plans offer same-day use of benefits once you are enrolled; use your plan the same day you buy it!

You can also save an average of $350 annually, which includes 20% savings on additional glasses or sunglasses, including lens enhancements, from a VSP network doctor within 12 months of your last exam. Plus, VSP members have access to over $3,000 in savings with Exclusive Member Extras. Compare vision plans and find the best fit for you.

4. Shop secondhand or hold clothing swaps

Shopping for clothing can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. Instead of hitting your local department store, find thrift and consignment stores in your area. By buying gently used clothing, you can pay a fraction of the cost of a new item while refreshing your closet. Plus, you’ll be doing your part to keep clothing out of the landfill.

Another option is to get new-to-you outfits by organizing clothing swaps with friends. Ask everyone to gather their unwanted clothes and set a day, time and location to hold the swap. Not only will you get free clothing, but you can also spend time with friends.

5. Choose energy-saving home upgrades

If your electric bill is one of your highest utility expenses, consider upgrading your home appliances with energy-saving models. When shopping for a new fridge, washing machine or dishwasher, opt for an Energy Star certified model. By choosing an Energy Star appliance, you can save 10-50% compared to conventional models, including older models like the one you may own.

You don’t have to give up the things you love to stay on top of your budget. Try these five easy money-saving tips and see how far your budget can stretch.