Displaying items by tag: lifestyle

In 2023, smaller watches were popular, and this trend is expected to continue in 2024. Instead of making predictions, how about what's currently happening and what we might see throughout the year. 

Interest in steel watches remains strong despite the focus on smaller, dressier models. Brands are expanding their offerings beyond just sizes, catering to diverse collector interests. 

Special watches continue to fetch high prices at auctions, while more common models struggle. Lastly, there's hope for more transparency from dealers and auction houses in the watch market, as the market starts to swing towards buyers.

Finsum: Rolex’s acquisition of Bucherer was a huge signal for change in the watch market at the end of 2024 and it is starting to be present. 

Home cooks always have new ingredients and methods to explore but balancing curiosity with reliable recipes and limited time is challenging. Recent surveys reveal a trend towards quick, budget-friendly meals, with 54% of home cooks focusing on time-saving and low-effort recipes. 

"Quick and easy" dishes are those taking 30 minutes or less, and simplicity in ingredients is increasingly preferred. Creative recipe mash-ups and pantry-friendly cooking are on the rise. Additionally, international ingredients are becoming more accessible, encouraging home cooks to experiment with global flavors.

Many professional cooks are seeing the benefits of incorporating a many different international options for a new twist and elevating the culinary experience. 

Finsum: These diverse options could help round out the kitchen for your next meals.

Planning a vacation around attending MLB games can be a thrilling way to experience America's pastime while exploring different cities. 

Start your journey at Wrigley Field in Chicago, home to the Chicago Cubs, where the historic charm and ivy-covered walls offer a nostalgic baseball experience. Next, head to Fenway Park in Boston, the oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball, where the iconic Green Monster and passionate Red Sox fans create an electric atmosphere. 

If soaking in the history isn’t as much of a concern, travel to Oracle Park in San Francisco, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Bay while watching the Giants play. 

Beyond the games, these cities offer rich cultural experiences, from Chicago's deep-dish pizza to Boston's historic Freedom Trail and San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge. Planning your trip around these iconic ballparks ensures not only memorable games but also unforgettable adventures in some of America's most vibrant cities.

Finsum: Baseball’s new rules vastly improve the going experience as compared to the last couple of years. 

This summer brings a chance to refresh your wine experience by exploring local wines, visiting new wineries, and shaking up your routine to discover fresh and exciting vintages. Engage with local wine merchants and delve into the wines of different regions or varieties. 

Supporting local wine regions and occasionally splurging on a special bottle can elevate your wine journey. When traveling, seek out regional wines and visit local wineries to expand your palate. Encourage restaurants to feature local wines by asking about them, helping to boost their visibility. 

Embrace the adventure of trying something new, guided by recommendations from wine experts. This year, keep an eye out for trends like wines from minority and female winemakers, sustainable packaging, and alternative wine options.

Finsum: I think the combination of pairing a winery you know and one that is new for a tasting day allows a more intricate tasting experience.

The traditional leisure activities have shifted in the last couple of years and one of the most prominent is cycling. The summer months highlight the many benefits of cycling, with enthusiasts like 65-year-old Brooks Boliek calling it his "longevity drug." 

Research supports cycling’s health benefits, including reducing the risk of osteoarthritis and knee pain by age 65. A new study involving 2,600 participants found that cyclists were 21% less likely to show signs of osteoarthritis. The study, published in the journal Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, emphasizes cycling as a low-impact exercise that strengthens knee muscles and circulates joint-lubricating synovial fluid.

While the study was observational and cannot prove cause and effect, it aligns with advice from healthcare providers promoting non-weight-bearing exercises. Despite risks like overuse injuries and accidents, cycling is associated with increased longevity and can be a lifelong activity.

Finsum: Cycling also presents wonderful opportunities to engage with larger groups of enthusiasts as the communal aspect is very strong.