Planning summer vacationhas me thinking about stylish duffel bags and small rolling suitcases so much that I almost forgot about all the lack of airplane etiquette that comes with traveling. I've briefly mentioned an overzealous passenger who swore an overhead bin space belonged to him before, but that's not the only weird and downright inconsiderate behavior that can happen during a flight.
It's just a solid reminder that all the personal prep in the world can't keep other people from getting in the way. There's always at least one person who seems to think you want their feet propped up by you, and we can't forget about the person who's impatient to get to their seat as if there aren't other passengers on the plane. To avoid making the mistake of being inconsiderate or careless, I'm sharing a list of 9 offensive things to avoid while flying. And with that, welcome to Airplane Etiquette 101!
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When you're booking your flight, you usually can choose your seat assignments based on the ticket that you're purchasing. You're usually placed in different boarding groups as a result so please don't think someone is out to get you if you're placed in groups 4-6. All this means is that you purchased an Economy ticket that's placed you in a middle or aisle seat, or you may not have a boarding number.
Assuming someone shouldn't board before you based on their appearance or your annoyance isn't going to change what's on the ticket you purchased.
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This one feels self-explanatory, but here goes: It's not anyone's business why someone is flying first class. Their job could've purchased the ticket, or they may have felt like splurging for once. It's not up to us to look at someone, judge their appearance, and say things like, "They just let anyone fly first class these days."
It's classist and — not to mention — childish.
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We've all been on a flight where at least one person decides they're not going to listen to the flight attendants onboard. This usually looks like refusing to temporarily turn off their cell phones, having their headphones in during important demonstrations and announcements, or being told to calm down if there's ranting involved.
They want to make sure everyone will be safe, including you.
Image via Gustavo Fring/Pexels
At the same time, being an asshole to parents who are traveling with kids just because you "really don't like kids" isn't going to earn you brownie points. This idea that children shouldn't be in public spaces when I'm sure someone travelled with us is wildly hypocritical and whiny.
A child may end up crying because their ears are popping or the plane is experiencing some turbulence. I highly doubt that they took one look at you and decided you were going to be the person they wanted to piss off.
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Respecting someone's personal space is one of the greatest forms of respect in public. You could be waiting to board the plane or you can be sitting in your assigned seat or you can feel comfortable one you're sitting down. Whatever the case may, continuously elbowing the passenger next to you isn't going to go over well.
Photo by Jason Toevs/PEXELS
This really boils down to respecting someone's personal space. If the person sitting by the window has it closed, ask them if they mind opening it. Please don't reach over them to open it yourself because it shows a disregard for their personal space and, possibly, their preference.
This used to happen to me all the time when I was younger until I finally asked someone what they were doing. It's amazing how startled people are when you ask them a simple question because some people genuinely don't believe they're doing anything wrong.
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The first time I flew to California, I wondered how I was going to survive being on a plane for five hours. I figured I'd be okay with reading a couple of books and taking a nap. While I did read, the nap didn't happen thanks to the person sitting next to me.
This person blew their nose the entire flight and balled up their countless napkins before placing them near my elbow. I couldn't even use my armrest because they insisted on elbowing me throughout the flight. Take it from someone who's been subject to this, don't be this person. It's really aggravating.
The solution? Just make your way to the bathroom and blow your nose to your heart's content. That way, you're not bothering the people around you, plus there's a trash can right there for your leftover tissues!
Photo by Polina Zimmerman/PEXELS
Sigh. Please, just don't. If your body has to release gas, the least you can do is say "Excuse me," when seating on a plane that contains over 200 people. It's not like you can open a window to get rid of the scent that may come along with your body's gas so people will be aware of it if it's particularly, well, smelly.
Much like the tissue situation, just take a trip to the bathroom and handle things alone, in a closed room, away from other people.
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Again, there are other passengers on the plane, so everyone will have to wait to exit it. It'll eventually happen, but rushing other people isn't going to make you leave any quicker. You may actually get a few dirty looks or hear some choice words if you're not careful. Please just sit back, relax, and make your move when it's actually your turn.
What do you think are some offensive things people can do while flying? Let us know in the comments!
Lead image via Ashley Diego/Dupe Photos
The stars are always moving and shaking things up from day to day, so naturally there's a lot to unpack in your weekly horoscope. Because no two zodiac signs experience these astral changes in the same way, I dug into it all, revealing what the planets have in store for you and how to use astrology to navigate the week ahead. Read along for your sun, moon, and rising sign for additional insight for the first week of May 2024!
Photo by Andres Ayrton/PEXELS
The planets Venus and Mars feel at home, meaning your love life is about to experience that same feeling.
We've ended April fully intact post-eclipse season and Mercury Retrograde. With the moon continuing to wane, this is an ideal period for you to slow down and release. As the moon loses its light each day, it ignites momentum for you to release the unwanted. The Sun, being in the sign of Taurus, extends stability for you to become more solid instead of impulsive.
The love planets, Venus and Mars, enter their dignity signs, Taurus and Aries. This moment will grant you grace and grit as you navigate your relationships these next several weeks. Venus enters Taurus on April 29, and it will beautify your outlook on things that involve creature comforts and love. Indulge yourself by booking a spa or self-care day that invokes the spark inside you, adding the confidence you need. Starting on April 30, Mars in Aries will power up your motivation while adding fuel to your fire involving your passion. This fuels the need for instant results, but practicing patience and optimism will buffer out the impulse. Watch your temper or for those around you who seem to have a short fuse. (Aries energy has a knack for this.) Be observatory in line with conflict.
May 1 is a powerful day as the love planet Venus faces the need to transform with Pluto – it will make love or self-worth feel like a pressure cooker.
Under pressure, Venus in square with Pluto can manifest as power and control issues between love and values. This is the moment to embrace change involving your desires. The split between wanting stability with Venus in Taurus and the radical energy of Pluto in Aquarius can lead to a powerful transformation in your love story while opening the path to realizing your worth. There is a part of you or the relationship itself that needs to evolve to attract a healthier outcome. Hold still, and don’t react. Just observe your environment. Take this as a sign to reevaluate your priorities in your relationship and everything else that can deflect you from living authentically.
Get ready to be “comfortably uncomfortable” because Pluto retrograde starts this week.
If you are unsettled, this Pluto retrograde phase (until October 11th) will help you see clearly what needs to be released from your trajectory to make room for positive changes. It's not a period to control or remain in harsh environments or situations. This can fall in line with unhealthy habits or relationship patterns. It's the moment to let go. Luckily, Mars will ignite that boost and positivity when this retrograde begins when it forms a sextile to Pluto on May 3rd. This phase will enable you to embrace the idea of facing the unresolved and powering through without looking back.
Photo by jasmin chew/PEXELS
Although it's past your birthday season, the spotlight continues to shine on you. Mars entering your sign this week will power up your mojo. Whatever you have your sights on, be sure to initiate, not wait on the sidelines, because that is how you can experience early burnout. The Venus square Pluto can make you feel like you are facing a dead end with your friends or networks. Don’t stress about the results. When your ruler, planet Mars, sextiles Pluto, you will get your second wind as you learn to discern your connections. Assess your connections and those who reflect your values. Remember to hold to your vision and belief. The right people will support your future visions in time. It all begins with you this week.
You will begin to see life around you as a work of art. Venus, your ruler planet, crosses into your first house of self-image, confidence, and identity. This can be a great week to indulge in self-care and upgrade your look. Venus beautifies whatever it touches; you will be magnetic in this sector. Book a photoshoot or update your dating profile, and you will likely attract a flow of potential love partners. The Venus square Pluto this week will trigger you to realize your worth in your professional and personal life. It can present challenges with authority. However, you will be equipped with the ingenuity to stand your ground with grace. Later this week, when Mars sextiles Pluto stemming from your twelfth house, it will grant you a new pattern of thinking that will enable you to establish the terms in your career direction.
These last few weeks have been lowkey. The tempo will rise this week, involving your ideas as Mars enters your third house of communication. With Venus also entering your twelfth house of the subconscious and dream realms of life, there will be an overflow of inspiration that may be hard to grasp. Take a moment and journal about everything that comes to mind regarding what needs to be improved or beautified in your life. The Venus square Pluto will ignite a phase of you realizing that you must stay true to yourself while empowering you to embrace your nonconformist ways. By the end of this week, you will feel a renewed sense of understanding of your purpose. Clearing out the unnecessary dialogue and finding your inner voice is a great place to start.
This week emphasizes social connections and future ambitions for you. Venus in Taurus energizes friendships and group activities in your 11th house, while Mars in Aries fuels your professional drive in the 10th house. Be mindful of power struggles involving friendship circles or networks, especially when Venus squares Pluto. Diplomacy is key. If you feel a bit of shade, learn how to deflect instead of adding fuel to the fire. Mars sextile Pluto encourages profound transformation and growth, urging you to confront inner fears. Prioritize self-care amidst career demands to avoid burnout. There will also be a lesson regarding boundaries and the power of saying “no." Overall, balancing socializing with career pursuits, maintaining boundaries, and embracing opportunities for personal development will be your main vibe this week. Trust your intuition when navigating challenges, and you will emerge stronger spiritually.
There is a lot of action for you this week, Leo, with your career, beliefs, and relationships. With Venus in Taurus boosting your professional aspirations in your 10th house and Mars igniting your thirst for knowledge in the 9th house, you're in for an exciting ride. Be ready for some intensity in your relationships as Venus squares Pluto, but don't worry, you've got this. Embrace the transformative opportunities coming your way with Mars sextile Pluto. Remember to find that perfect balance to keep things harmonious. Dive deep into open communication and mutual respect with your partner, and watch as your connection blossoms. Discuss your long-term ventures or visualize your dreams. Take time for yourself, nurture your spirit, and trust your intuition—it'll lead you to profound discoveries.
This week is all about exploration and transformation for you. With Venus igniting your curiosity in the 9th house and Mars urging you to dive deep into vulnerability in the 8th house, a lot of inner growth is happening. Watch out for power struggles in relationships, especially with Venus square Pluto. Welcome those challenges—they're growth opportunities, especially with Mars sextile Pluto supporting you in facing the unknown and learning the importance of igniting change in your narrative. Focusing on financial planning and collaborations in your career would be best. Stay on top of your game at work by factoring in those who align with your interests. Regarding your job or your personal life, trust your instincts and make a move if you feel called to step up in your life direction, Virgo.
Expect inner growth opportunities involving your relationships this week, Libra. With Venus in Taurus sparking intimacy in your 8th house and Mars igniting passion in partnerships in the 7th house, your connections are intense. Watch for power struggles, especially with Venus square Pluto powering up a voice or feeling you didn’t know existed. Justice will be on your side when Mars sextiles Pluto, helping you see a clearer picture of your stance on love or close connections. Trust your instincts and communicate openly to strengthen bonds. Remember to capitalize on your well-being and integrity to keep yourself in check.
Scorpio, this week is a blend of relationships, work life, and home matters for you. Venus in Taurus sparks partnership harmony or the need to refine it, while Mars in Aries amps your energy for work and health routines. However, watch for tensions at home due to Venus square Pluto, and utilize this interchange to deepen emotional bonds. Focus on open communication and balance amidst any challenges. In relationships, prioritize understanding, stay productive in work, and care for your well-being. Navigate with patience and aim for harmony at home, especially with family responsibilities. Trust your inner strength to guide you through any turbulence, Scorpio—it's your power source.
Slow down and pay attention to your process of taking care of your mind and body, Sagittarius. With Venus in Taurus in your 6th house, focus on improving your daily routines and well-being. Begin a new fitness regimen or establish a self-care practice. The body is a temple and begins with how you view yourself. Whatever you wish to improve in your life starts with the body. As Mars enters Aries in your 5th house, it will stir fire (your element), and you will feel more passionate than usual. Reignite your connection with your romantic partner or start a new creative venture. This is the week to dial down and become more intentional in your process of life and what stirs your heart. Feel again, and your paradigm will shift.
This week revolves around fulfillment, home life, and financial matters. Venus enters Taurus in your 5th house, inspiring you to express yourself creatively and find joy in your hobbies. Mars moves into Aries in your 4th house, energizing your domestic sphere and prompting action on home-related projects. However, be cautious of power struggles around money or values as Venus squares Pluto. Accept the potential for transformation and empowerment with Mars sextile Pluto, especially regarding your financial security and family dynamics. Become open to receiving input from your loved ones to clear the air or establish a better path with your family unit.
This week is all about communication, emotional security, and personal growth. With Venus in Taurus in your 4th house, focus on nurturing your emotional well-being and finding comfort in your home environment. It's time to orchestrate a spring cleaning or beautify your surroundings. This will attract a flow of opportunities involving prosperity. When Mars enters your 3rd house, it will energize your communication style and prompt action on your ideas and plans. This will be an ideal week to get your message and witness movement. Practice your pitch or message by writing it down or speaking aloud to establish confidence. You will be heard. However, be mindful of power struggles, especially concerning your identity or self-expression, as Venus squares Pluto. Prioritize open communication, integrity, and truth when handling any challenges.
Focus on your inner dialogue, finances, and personal beliefs this week, Pisces. Venus entering Taurus in your 3rd house will ignite heartfelt conversations and harmonious interactions with siblings or neighbors. Be mindful of power struggles concerning communication or hidden influences, go within, and analyze the state of your connections energetically as Venus squares Pluto. Prioritize clear and compassionate communication when handling any conflicts. This is your opportunity to clear the air with any message that was left unresolved and make amends. As Mars moves into Aries in your 2nd house, it will motivate you to take initiative towards your stability and self-worth. To gain the upper hand is to face your subconscious patterns, and Mars sextile Pluto this week will extend the solution for you to learn how to rewire yourself into a better version.
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This post has been updated. Lead image by Getty/We Are.
I can't be the only one who dreads deal with TSA during security checkpoints, so it's important for me to find small rolling suitcases that make traveling 10x easier. I can't tell you how many times my items have been haphazardly ransacked during 'random' security checks only for me to curse my packing skills — ugh!
There's one bright side to my dilemma though: small rolling suitcases that have study exteriors and well-proportioned interiors. This is the key to making sure my travel essentials stay in one place. Tired of tripping over your suitcase because of its unstable wheels or fearing that you still won't do everything TSA agents ask? I've got 8 chic small rolling suitcases that'll help you navigate the airport without breaking a sweat in no time!
One of the most important features of small rolling suitcases is their exterior. Since you'll likely be sprinting through the airport or jogging down escalators if they're not busy, you need something that can withstand being dragged. Herschel is known for creating luggage that's travel-tested
This carryon luggage is made with 70% recycled polycarbonate and it has silent wheels. It's like your travel companion that truly understands you have places to be and doesn't complain as you're navigating your busy airport.
Here's your sign to get a rose gold rolling suitcase that can serve as your carryon item. It has 360-degree spinner wheels that'll work with you and not against you (IYKYK), plus the internal pockets make it easier for you to pack efficiently. You may want to check with the attendants on your flight, but this suitcase is designed to fit under your seat so you don't have to fight with an inconsiderate person for a space in the overhead storage bin.
Sometimes you just want something cute and floral like this limited edition rolling suitcase. It's water-resistant and has an internal lining that's made from 100% recycled polyester! The internal features I like are the buckle straps that makes sure your clothes won't slide all over the place and the removable compression pad with zippered pockets to store flat items.
We've all had experience with the dreaded TSA line that makes us question our sanity and age. But, BÉIS wants to eliminate your stress with their pink carry on rolling suitcase. It also have 360-degree wheels that'll happily go wherever you do and the interior? Well, let's just say you'll be able to find what you need when it's time to place everything on the conveyor belt.
Take that TSA agents!
Embarking on a few quick getaways this summer and don't want to be weighed down by heavy luggage? You'll need to consider small rolling suitcases that are sturdy, yet lightweight. OLOV'S under seat carryon features an interior buckle to keep your items secured and allows you to pack the basics.
It also has a three digit combination lock in case someone decides to press their luck if you happen to fall asleep during your flight.
In need of a portable rolling suitcase that can hold your clothes and serve as a charging dock for your phone? Vera Bradley already read your mind and has just the thing for you. The interior has two zippered sides that allow you to separate your necessities from each other based on function (clothes on one side and sandals on the other).
This spinner luggage also has an integrated lock that makes your time in TSA go a little smoother. If it's not obvious, we've had some rather unpleasant experiences with agents mishandling our items 😖.
If you thought we were done showing you chic and functional small rolling suitcases, you're almost right. Besides reminding us of the sunny weather we've been experiencing during spring, this carryon has a three stage telescopic handle that makes holding on a breeze!
From there, the interior has a pretty printed lining, full zipper section and mesh pocket, a stretchable strap to protect your items, and a shoe/laundry bag!
And just when you thought the features stop there, the carryon wants you to know it has a TSA-approved lock that comes with a universal key that only security can use to carefully inspect your items.
Sigh, we just love thoughtful designs!
Doesn't this cute mint green and floral suitcase seem like it was made to store all your vacation outfits? Designed in none other than Brooklyn, NY, this beauty is available in three sizes and is as functional as it's chic. It also has spinner wheels that make traveling a breeze and will look good no matter how it's stored.
Follow our storefront for more travel inspo!
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Lead image via Monos
Ladies and fashionistas, hold on to your Manolo Blahniks because our favorite New York City dames are coming back for a third season of And Just Like That.... That's right, the cult classic Sex and the City spinoff is set to grace our screens once again! So, what can we expect from AJLT's junior season? Buckle up, darlings, as we delve into all the juicy details.
Photograph by Craig Blankenhorn/Max
Now, here's the catch — while the fabulous return of our beloved Manhattanites is on the horizon, there's no set return date just yet. The writers strikeand SAG-AFTRA strike put production on hold for a while, but this delay gave us all the more time to binge-watch and reminisce about Carrie's iconic rent-controlled apartment. So, don't fret; we'll have more than enough time to sip our cosmos and rekindle our SATC love affair.
On May 1, 2024 Sarah Jessica Parker confirmed the series was back in production when she posted a photo of her script! "Here. We. Go. X, SJ," she says in the caption. While she perfectly positioned her pen to block the name of the first episode's title, we can see the last three letters look like "OOD." The title could be anything from "For Good" to "The Neighborhood" and I'm very curious to find out.
Photograph by Craig Blankenhorn/Max
Before we dive into the excitement of season 3, make sure you're up to speed by streaming the first two seasons of And Just Like That... on MAX. That's where we'll find season 3, too!
Photograph by Craig Blankenhorn/Max
Let's talk about the heart and soul of And Just Like That... — the cast. Sans Samantha, it's likely that all of our favorite characters from season 2 will be making a glorious comeback for season 3. With Sarah Jessica Parker, Cynthia Nixon, and Kristin Davis all donning the executive producer hats, it's a safe bet that ¾ of the original SATC gang will grace our small screens once more. Fingers crossed Nicole Ari Parker, Sarita Choudhury, John Corbett, Karen Pittman, and more of our AJLT faves come back, too!
Who's not returning? According toThe Daily Mail, Sara Ramirez was let got from the show. Ramirez, who uses they/them pronouns, hinted at their departure from AJLT on Instagram. They wrote this statement on their story:
"Our industry is so duplicitous. While they give awards away, casting directors and agents are making blacklists of actors and workers who post anything in support of Palestinians in Gaza to ensure they will not work again. While they lift up some of their own clients who have spoken up against this genocide, they are firing and letting others who have smaller platforms go. While they award 'lgbtq orgs', they are silent on those orgs ties to weapons manufacturers who are currently supporting the Israel military as it commits genocide on Palestinian lives that include LGBTQIA2S+ lives."
The statement ended with a very tongue-in-cheek reference, "It's wild how performative so many in Hollywood are, even more performative than the last character I played."
Though Ramirez intimated that they got fired for their political beliefs, but allegedly the show has other reasons for the cast change. According to reporting from The Daily Mail, a source revealed that Che was "too annoying" as a character. It's no secret that people have strong feelings about Che Diaz, but we haven't received an official statement from the AJLT team confirming this reasoning.
Reporting from Varietyrevealed that Che's character simply came to a "natural conclusion." Their sources maintain that the severed ties with Sara Ramirez had nothing to do with their politics and everything to do with the fact that Miranda and Che's relationship was over.
Photograph by Craig Blankenhorn/Max
The burning question on everyone's mind...will Samantha Jones make a triumphant return to the city that never sleeps? Season 2 did give Samantha's fans a taste of what they craved when Kim Cattrall made a brief appearance in the finale. However, for those yearning for a classic brunch scene with all four of the original cast members, it's time to temper your expectations.
After a revealing interview on the Today Show back in June, Kim Cattrall put the Samantha saga to rest. When asked by Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager about a potential season 3 comeback, Cattrall left us with lingering uncertainty, stating, "That's as far as I'm going to go."
Though it might be disheartening to know that Samantha won't be gracing our screens in the upcoming season, it's essential to remember that the magic of And Just Like That... extends beyond one character. Carrie, Charlotte, and Miranda's enduring friendship and the vibrant energy of New York City are still very much at the heart of the show.
Image via Max
While we all anxiously await any news about And Just Like That... Season 3, watch this homage to Carrie's classic apartment.
Who's your favorite And Just Like That character? Let us know in the comments!
Header image via Craig Blankenhorn/Max
If you've been missing Chad Michael Murray as much as we have, then you're going to want to tune into Mother of the Bride. Chad stars opposite Brooke Shields and Miranda Cosgrove in the new rom-com, and the Sullivan's Crossing actor is trading the cozy forest for a tropical beach! The flick has plenty of romance (that is, after all, the "rom" in question), but instead of ending with a big proposal like a lot of other romantic movies, Mother of the Bride begins with a wedding announcement. And, naturally, relationship chaos unfolds from there. There's dancing, there's yoga, there's pickleball. This is one movie you won't want to miss! Here's everything we know.
Image via Netflix
Lana (Brooke Shields) is thrilled when her daughter Emma (Miranda Cosgrove) returns to the states from her time abroad. She's less thrilled, however, to learn that Emma is getting married on the other side of the world...in 30 days. Lana is ready to support Emma however she needs, but things take a turn for the worse when she realizes Emma's future father-in-law is the man who broke her heart in college. Watch the Mother of the Bride trailer here!
Image via Netflix
Mother of the Bride begins streaming on Netflix Thursday May 9, 2024, which makes this the best movie to watch this weekend. You can check out the rest of our Most-Anticipated May Movies For 2024 to update your monthly watchlist!
Image via Netflix
Alongside Brooke Shields and Miranda Cosgrove as Lana and Emma, we'll see Chad Michael Murray, Benjamin Bratt, Rachael Harris, and Sean Teale. Michael McDonald, Wilson Cruz, Tasneem Roc, and Dalip Sondhi also star.
Image via Netflix
Mother of the Bride was filmed on location in Thailand. That sounds like a dream! According to Miranda Cosgrove, the movie filmed for six weeks, and the cast and crew spent almost every minute together.
Image via Netflix
The mother of the bride can be an important part of any wedding ceremony (should the couple choose to include her). While she provides some serious emotional support for the bride, the MOB also helps with wedding planning. Plus, in the past, she's also had a role in making sure any religious, cultural, or traditional elements are incorporated into the ceremony. Basically, she's the bride's right hand woman! (In addition to the Maid of Honor, of course).
Are you excited to see Brooke Shields, Chad Michael Murray, and Miranda Cosgrove? Add the rest of our 54 Most-Anticipated Spring Movies For 2024 to your watchlist for your next weekend binge watch session.
Lead image via Netflix
