The best new hip-hop this week includes albums, videos, and songs from Doja Cat, Diddy, and more.

What a week it’s been in hip-hop. After the MTV VMAs brought a slew of standout performances from Cardi B, Doja Cat, Metro Boomin, and Nicki Minaj, Dunkin’ Donuts announced a drink named after ice Spice and Flyana Boss finally shared a video for their breakout hit “You Wish.” Women are definitely still running rap right now — pun halfway intended.

Meanwhile, in addition to new songs from Denzel Curry, DJ Khaled, Drake, Offset, and Sexyy Red, we got full projects from Diddy, Vic Mensa, and more. Check them out below.

Here is the best of hip-hop this week ending September 15, 2023.

Albums/EPs/Mixtapes

Diddy — The Love Album: Off The Grid

Diddy’s first solo album in over a decade finds him firmly in a dance lane, turning down the tempo from recent house-influenced releases from Beyoncé and Drake for a more groovy, shoulder-rolling vibe taken from ’80s funk R&B acts like George Benson and Heatwave. There are 2000s club jams, afrobeats experiments, and rappin’ Puff… hip-hop has needed this for a minute. We’re finally seeing the culture as a whole slowly worming its way out of the Xanax-induced daze of the past half-decade and it’s so refreshing.

Nas & Hit-Boy — Magic 3

It’s kind of fitting that Nas’ 50th birthday lands just about a month after hip-hop’s 50th anniversary. Nas more or less is hip-hop, and his extended collaborative run with Hit-Boy has both defined and reimagined what hip-hop has been for the past 50 and where it can go as it finally matures out of its awkward adolescent era.

Nasty C — I Love It Here

While lots of attention has rightfully been lavished on music from the West African region of the mother continent, South Africa is not to be slept on. Although most are getting hip to the splendors of amapiano and gqom (you say the “gq” with a click), SA is home to some fun and quirky hip-hop as well. Nasty C is more conventional for US audiences than most, but as a gateway act to the overseas scene, you could do worse. He sounds a little like Don Toliver and Travis Scott here, but with a brighter, more uptempo approach — not a bad thing when you come from the sun-baked cradle of humanity.

Phora — Lucky Me

You know, for as much flak as Drake gets for being the quintessential emo rapper, Phora has utterly locked that lane down. Somehow, the schtick has yet to get as stale from him as it has from the former (no offense intended; Drake just has too much talent to keep bidding for the same audience of 20-year-old college dorm f*ckboys he has been for the past three years). Phora, if nothing else, is consistently entertaining with it and never lets things get too mawkish, which I think is the key.

Vic Mensa — Victor

Vic Mensa has been through the ringer as an artist and as a person, so he has an interesting story to tell. His worldly, well-rounded perspective that goes from the druggy haze of some of rap’s top names and rebellious intellectuals like fellow Chi-Town rapper Noname. The beats here reflect the triumphant mood of a consummate survivor finally coming into his own and doing a little well deserved chest beating. With appearances from Chance The Rapper, Common, D Smoke, Jay Electronica, and Rapsody, this is a “real hip-hop head’s” dream version of the album Vic had in him all this time.

Singles/Videos

Doja Cat — “Balut”

Doja is back talking her sh*t on her latest Scarlet single, so I feel like following her lead. I’ve been telling you people for five years that Amala is a rapper’s rapper, a true hip-hop head raised on backpack rap so dusty that her lyrical skills never should have been in question. Maybe now you’ll finally believe me. (I’m not sure why the song is named after the Filipino duck dish other than say balut is … an acquired taste, as is Doja’s new aesthetic. But if you know, you know.)

Earl Sweatshirt & The Alchemist — “The Caliphate” Feat. Vince Staples

Just… Ayo, really, fellas. Stop playing. Give us the damn album. We know you finished it. Like, you can’t keep dropping stuff like this and then NOT giving us the album. You know how good this is. You see the response. You’re just being mean at this point. Vince did 30 verses. We know Earl’s been working. Just figure out a cover photo and drop the thing. Please.

Rexx Life Raj — “Hook Mitchell” Feat. Dame D.O.L.L.A.

Rexx has figured out a formula that works for him. It’s left-of-center, so it might not ever be the biggest deal, but he’s been pretty successful doing things his way. So, of course, fellow Bay Area native Damian Lillard is the perfect pairing for this hustle benediction as a player who refuses to switch up despite plenty of external pressure to do so. It’s been working out for him pretty well, too.

$NOT — “Cruel World”

I can’t lie, I was getting a little worried about $NOT. He hadn’t really made much noise since dropping Ethereal last year. But it looks like he’s back and sounding much more focused, tapping into an aggressive lane that fits with his laconic delivery in an off-kilter sort of way. This bodes well for his next project, which is hopefully coming soon.

Some artists covered here are Warner Music artists. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.

I know what you’re thinking, “Amalfi Coast” and “budget” will never work together. And in some ways, it’s true — they don’t stand a chance. A shoe-string budget won’t come close to cutting it on this opulent stretch of Italian coastline. However, you don’t have to ball out to have the Amalfi Coast trip of your dreams (not your wildest dreams, perhaps, but still some pretty great dreams).

I traveled this costly coastline for a week with under €1,000 (~$1050) and want to show you that you don’t have to cross the Amalfi Coast off your list! Plus, many of these budget travel tips can be applied to other international destinations. So get out your notebook, because we’re about to dive into the details on the best months to visit, flight finding strategies, free and inexpensive things to do, budget-friendly places to stay, and how to get the most bang for your buck while dining!

Why It’s Awesome (If That Wasn’t Obvious Already)

Rugged Lattari mountains kiss the Mediterranean Sea along Southern Italy’s famous Campania coastline: the ever-fabled Amalfi Coast. A land with aquamarine waters where candy-striped parasols pattern hot-people-covered beaches, pale blue vespas zip around cliff-curved roads, and bursting bougainvillea bloom across… just about everything.

The Amalfi Coast is no off-the-beaten-path destination. And why would it be? But if you’ve never been, let me tell you, you have to go. And if the price tag of an Amalfi Coast vacation has held you back, we’re about to break free of those chains because it is indeed possible to live your best — and most economical! — life.

PART I — The Best Time to Visit (On A Budget)

We all know about European summer, and now we get to discover the perks of European fall. Because the autumn months, particularly October and November, offer those with a budget-conscious mindset the best window to visit the Amalfi Coast.

I got a July-priced €450 Positano B&B for €110 in early November, complete with a beautiful breakfast spread served on the terrace overlooking a Positano sunrise. The catch? Well, for one, I had to wear a sweater in the evenings. Perhaps worst of all, the coast’s most lusted-over restaurants were closed and boat tours were put on hold. But I mean… the pros outweigh the cons.

Though September is technically fall, it’s still a fairly busy month for tourism on the Amalfi Coast — which is reflected in the prices, lines, and crowds. October is a better time to visit, especially considering the boat tours, restaurants, and beach clubs don’t close until halfway through the month. But honestly, October can still be kind of expensive.

I suggest early November or the beginning of Spring (March) for ultimate Amalfi Coast budget travel. The vibes of summer float in the air, but the high-season prices have cooled off. By the time December rolls around, temps have dipped a bit too low for beach time and the chance of rain has gone up far past my comfort zone. (But if you’re in your winter-wonderland era, I can’t think of a better time to visit the Amalfi Coast than during the holiday season.) And by April, prices start to inch closer to summertime highs!

PART II — How To Get To The Amalfi Coast From The U.S. (On A Budget)

One of the top, if not the top expenditure for an Amalfi Coast trip is the airfare. Worry not, I’m here to help! You see, getting to the Amalfi Coast from outside of Italy doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. It just takes a little strategy, is all! And no, you don’t have to get a VPN or use a dodgy middle-man website.

Flying From the US to Europe:

Your first step is to find an affordable non-stop to Europe as many months in advance as possible. Since these are typically from your state’s largest international airport, you may have to travel a ways past your usual go-to. For example, a direct round-trip flight from JFK to London can cost as little as $400-$600. Same with Denver to Dublin and LAX to Barcelona. If you’re lucky, you’ll find a reasonably priced flight to Italy with a short layover in Spain, like JFK to Naples with a quick stop in Madrid.

I was able to snag a $400 one-way from Costa Rica to Madrid, then take Ryanair to Bari –which suited my long-term travel plans best. But you’ll always find a much better deal doing round-trip. And personally, I avoid non-direct flights since they can end up costing you an entire day of travel.

Flights Around Europe:

Once you’re in Europe, it’s a whole lot cheaper to get to Italy. Just hop on a budget airline like good ol’ Ryanair to Naples, Bari, or Rome. Depending on where you’re coming from, one of these Italian airports will be the cheapest. Remember, if you’re not doing carry-on, you’ll pay extra for a checked bag.

This is your time to practice minimalist packing, friends! Do your research, check all options, and aim for €100 or less. You might consider adding an extra day onto your arrival and departure dates to explore this bonus city (and give yourself a buffer in case Ryanair is… Ryanair-y).

Getting To The Amalfi Coast From Inside Italy:

I won’t lie, getting to the Amalfi Coast is not as easy as hopping on a single high-speed train and saying “Mama Mia!” It will take varying degrees of effort to reach the Amalfi Coast from Italy’s biggest cities, depending on what airport you arrive at.

FROM ROME:

The cheapest and least-confusing route from Rome is to take the 5.5-hour SITA Marozzi bus directly to Amalfi. Otherwise, you’d be looking to take a plane (pricey) or train (cheaper) to Naples, then get to either Sorrento or Salerno. The Trenitalia Frecce to Naples can be as little as €15 and takes around 2.5 hours. Just note that the faster the train, the more expensive the ticket, choose your own adventure!

From Naples and Sorrento, you’ve got some options, but I’ll negate taxis for their exorbitant price and the ferry since they stop running mid-October.

FROM NAPLES:

Make your way to Naples main train station, Napoli Centrale. Oddly enough, the train (Campania Express) is only slightly faster than the FlixBus; both take a little over an hour to reach Sorrento. From Sorrento, hop on a two-hour SITA bus to Amalfi.

Naples to Sorrento is the path more traveled, but my pro tip is to take the 40-minute train from Naples to Salerno — the first big city just outside the eastern end of the Amalfi Coast. From Salerno, you’re only 10 minutes by bus from Vietri sul Mare, one of Amalfi Coast’s less traveled (and less costly), but totally gorgeous and artsy towns. Starting your travels from Salerno instead of Sorrento allows you to see the entirety of the Amalfi Coast from east to west.

FROM BARI:

Since Bari lies opposite the Amalfi Coast in the neighboring Puglia region, you’ll be on a four-hour FlixBus to reach Salerno. Luckily it’s a straight shot, and a beautiful countryside drive through Puglia and Campania. Once again, from Salerno, you’re a quick 10-minute bus ride to the first town of the Amalfi Coast, Vietri sul Mare.

PART III — Getting Around the Amalfi Coast

Thankfully there’s decent public transportation on the Amalfi Coast because taxi-ing everywhere would eat up all your money, fast. During the fall, the SITA bus and the Mobility Amalfi Coast buses are way less packed and behind schedule than they are in the summertime. These two buses will be your main mode of transportation during your Amalfi Coast trip. The FlixBus is great for regional routes, like from Amalfi to Sorrento and Sorrento to Naples. So definitely rely on FlixBus for getting you back to your departure city.

PART IV — Free and Inexpensive Things to Do

Let’s be honest. Life in Italy is more about what you’re not doing than doing. La dolce far niente ring a bell? Still, there are plenty of free and almost free things to do around the Amalfi Coast (besides drooling over sexy Italians).

Hikes:

There’s more to do on the Amalfi Coast than meets the eye (or Instagram), so pack up your athletic shoes because we’re going hiking! One of the best free activities and eco-friendly vacation activities ever. Below are a few hiking paths that have been worn by generations of Amalfi Coast locals (and their mules) to move between lemon and olive groves, vineyards, farms, and villages in the Lattari Mountains Nature Park (Parco regionalale dei Monti Lattari). Fantastico!

Path of the Gods (Il Sentiero Degli Dei):

This ancient path is the most well-known hike on the Amalfi Coast. There’s no need for a guide to hike the Path of the Gods, just make your way to Bomerano by bus and follow the red and white signs for Il Sentiero Degli Dei toward Nocelle and Positano. If you’re up for it, you should absolutely hike the extra mile to Positano! Delight in expansive vistas of the turquoise Tyrrhenian Sea, and the length of the Sorrento Peninsula. Witness all the little Fiats and Vespas below whizzing around while you’re up in the serenity of nature. Take a moment every now and then to spot the island of Capri in the distance. Path of the Gods is about five miles round-trip.

Stairs of Ravello:

I’ll be honest, the stairs to Ravello are steep. This hike is a lot more difficult than the Path of the Gods. I did not want to move at all the next day. But it was totally worth it! I began the hike from Atrani’s cathedral, but since these paths form a network, you can start from other towns like Amalfi. Expect to climb around 1,700 ancient steps to the romantic medieval town of Ravello. This one is a doozy! Let yourself be enchanted (and distracted) by stunning views and the scent of lemons and olives all around you.

For emotional support along the way, pet all the cute kitties! I promise it helps.

Path of Lemons (Sentiero Dei Limoni):

Long ago Amalfi Coast sister towns, Minori and Maiori, were connected solely by this trail, the Path of Lemons. Thankfully, Sentiero Dei Limoni is a lot less daunting than the stairs to Ravello. You can start from either town and follow the small ceramic signage along the path. There are plenty of citrus groves and incredible views to be relished along the hike, with only a handful of stairs (okay, 400 of them).

You’ll pass through the tiny village of Torre and walk by small homes selling fresh lemonade.

Iron Valley (Valle delle Ferriere):

Did you know that you can hike to a nature reserve from Amalfi town? Just follow the main road in Amalfi up and out into the woods. Keep on track with the red and white signs for Valle delle Ferriere, and you’ll discover numerous waterfalls, pass by the moss-covered ruins of old iron and paper mills, and bathe in freshwater swimming holes. Who would have thought?!

The hike there shouldn’t take you more than 45 minutes. Park officials will ask for €5 to access the very top waterfall, so this isn’t an entirely free experience, but almost!

Free Beaches:

In the land of over-priced beach clubs, you’ll be happy to know that almost every beach has a sliver of free beach (spiaggia libera) for anyone to enjoy, free of charge. Yes, even the most popular beaches! More good news? If you’re visiting the Amalfi Coast during October and onward, most of the beach clubs close… in which case every beach is a spiaggia libera! Just note, that many Amalfi Coast beaches are pebbled — so packing a cushy beach towel is a good idea. If you want to be extra comfy, bring a yoga mat.

We’ve all seen the bikini-clad influencer photos at Spiaggia Grande in Positano. And you can get the same shots (if you’re into that kind of thing) without paying a dime. Just claim your slice of pebbled beach where there are no patterned parasols or colorful daybeds. And get there early. Other big-name beaches like Spiaggia di Fornillo in Positano and Marina Grande in Amalfi have free sections. It will feel great to know you’re soaking up the same Mediterranean sea and sun as those spending upwards of €500 for their beach day next to you.

My favorite beach on the Amalfi Coast is Fiordo di Furore, it is simply cinematic. And it’s always free. Beyond swimming and sunbathing, Fiordo di Furore is great for cliff diving, and you can leap off the 100-foot-tall Amalfi Coast road bridge overhead.

Affordable Beach Clubs:

As a rule of thumb, the further east on the Amalfi Coast you go, the more affordable the beach clubs become. For example, Minori, Maiori, Erchie, Cetara, and Vietri sul Mare all have serviced beach clubs at a fraction of the price of those in Positano and Amalfi. Not to mention the beaches here are nice and sandy, and of course, all have free sections as well. But if you’ve got some room in your budget, there’s nothing quite like being served a glass of bubbly beachside on the Amalfi Coast.

These smaller towns are the most affordable places to treat yourself to a splurge beach day.

Ravello’s Villas:

These two villas in the hills of Ravello are absolutely stunning, and though they’re not without a small entrance fee (€7), their value is hard to put a price on.

Villa Cimbrone:

The Villa Cimbrone is no doubt the crown jewel of Ravello. With its stunning Terrace of Infinity and painfully perfect manicured gardens, you’ll soon be under the spell of what makes the Amalfi Coast so alluring. Effortless beauty. (Okay, effortful, but whatever.)

Villa Rufolo:

One of the most widely-known photographs of the Amalfi Coast is taken here at the historic Villa Rufolo. An iconic shot of the bell tower of the Chiesa Dell’Annunziata below the villa’s tall Italian stone pine tree. Villa Rufolo’s gardens are arguably just as hypnotizing as the Villa Cimbrone. For a bird’s-eye perspective of the gardens and the Gulf of Salerno, climb the stairs of the Torre Maggiore museum.

If you’re like me and get startled easily, you should know that there’s a jarringly loud, motion-sensor soundtrack in the museum. It was in Italian, so I assume it was an interesting story of Villa Rufolo’s history.

Duomos:

Of course, visiting churches is a free thing to do on the Amalfi Coast. And they’re aplenty all over Italy. For some, they all look the same. But if you’re a little travel nerd like me, you find appreciation for a church as a glimpse into culture, heritage, history, and way of life. The cathedrals (Duomos) on the Amalfi Coast each have an artistic architectural feature: the Italian majolica dome. These colorful domes are constructed with ceramic tiles that sparkle in the sunlight and are laid in unique patterns. Fun fact? These majolica tiles were made right here on the Amalfi Coast in Vietri sul Mare!

I suggest seeing the Duomo di Amalfi and its fabulous staircase, the Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta in Positano (at night if you can), the Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta in Atrani (the dome is right behind it), and the Chiesa Parrocchiale di San Giovanni Battista in Vietri sul Mare.

Museums:

I’m not a huge history buff myself, but there are some incredible museums on the Amalfi Coast that you can visit for a low cost. Amalfi town has two museums worth checking out. The first is the Museo della Carta: the oldest paper mill in Europe! You’d best grab a few gifts made of Amalfi Paper while you’re here. Amalfi paper is so soft and you can get a name or initials imprinted for a personalized touch. Entrance to the paper museum is €10.

Then there’s the Arsenale di Amalfi (Amalfi Arsenal) which is the museum for history buffs who specifically geek out on military history. Amalfi was an extremely powerful force in its maritime past. Learn all about it and see preserved relics of a bygone era at the onsite museum: the Museum of the Compass and the Maritime Duchy.

If you happen to be in Vietri sul Mare hanging for a low-cost luxury beach day, check out the Museo della Ceramica Vietrense. This little town is where the glittering cathedral domes were made! Vietri is the ceramic capital of the Amalfi Coast. The museum is small, but if you enjoy artsy-fartsy things, you’ll get a kick out of the iconic lemon, stripes, and donkey designs, and of course that special Amalfi yellow — originally Vietri yellow!

PART V — Where to Stay (On A Budget)

Lesser-Known Amalfi Coast Towns:

Remember how I paid €100 a night in Positano? Well, that is definitely considered a budget price. Positano is the most expensive town on the Amalfi Coast. Luckily, you’re about to become familiar with Amalfi Coast’s lesser-known, totally cute towns and villages.

Atrani: I loved my stay in whimsical Atrani because I could literally walk to Amalfi in 10 minutes, then retreat back to my Airbnb for a more relaxed vibe. Airbnb stays can be very affordable here during the autumn months especially. Mine was a discounted $64 a night with a mountain view deck! But make no mistake, this charming town is no “hidden gem.”

Minori & Maiori: You’re bound to find some of Amalfi Coast’s most well-priced hotels and Airbnbs in these two historic towns just east of Amalfi. They’re very well connected with public transportation and have their own ports for ferry access (again, those come to a halt mid-late October). An inexpensive hotel in Minori or Maiori during October goes for around €70 a night. That same hotel in November? €45.

Vietri sul Mare: Though you’re about an hour-long bus ride (and €2) from Amalfi town, Vietri sul Mare is an underrated home base for Amalfi Coast travel. It’s beautiful, authentic (not over touristed), and well-connected to all the towns and villages. Plus you have easy access to larger cities like Sorrento, Naples, and Salerno via train, ferry, and bus. Bed and breakfasts are your best bet for affordable accommodation in Vietri. I paid €70 a night at B&B Sogno.

Sorrento: For the utmost budget option, you’ll be staying in Sorrento. Sorrento is not technically the Amalfi Coast, but we’ll let that slide for the sake of visiting one of the world’s most expensive destinations in an economical fashion. Right? Right. Sorrento is the only city near the Amalfi Coast that has a hostel. At Seven Hostel in Sorrento, you can pay as little as €20 a night from mid-October through November. That’s pretty hard to beat!

PART VI — Where To Eat (On A Budget)

Besides staying at bead & breakfasts, the best way to save money on food is to make your own… But that’s like going to a candy store (Italy) and not letting yourself eat sugar (pasta). Live a little! Here are some wallet-conscious ways to eat well on the Amalfi Coast.

Picnics:

You might be tempted to post up on the terrace of Franco’s Bar in Positano and spend a couple of hours sipping cocktails. But at €22 an Aperol, that afternoon will cost a pretty penny. If that bothers you, a picnic is the solution! Get the Italian version of a charcuterie, known as an affettati from a local salumeria (hit Alimentari Paradiso and Latteria Mini market in Positano). Prosciutto and mozzarella are the tip of the iceberg here. I like to ask for the most local and fresh offerings (locale e fresco) and buy a bottle of wine (or two) then head to the beach or a scenic park.

Now if you ask me, that’s a much more original Instagram photo.

Bottegas + Local Spots:

My tip is to try eateries that are more local and less big-name, like an osteria. Off the tourist drag in Vietri sul Mare is Ristorante La Sosta, where I had an incredible five-course meal of down-home Italian cooking complete with a carafe of wine, dessert, and limoncello for like €40 (a treat-yourself-night).

You can also find delicious, fresh food on the low at pizzerias (Mistral in Atrani has a whole margherita pizza for €6), bars (not that kind, the Italian kind) like crowd favorites Chiosco Bar San Francesco in Maiori and Masaniello Art Café in Amalfi (get the €10 burger with eggplant on a housemade bun, omg). And you MUST get a fried seafood cuoppo from one of the many street vendors!

You can also get an aperitif at a spot where drinks are served with a bite to eat. It’s kind of a “hack” if you will. But you’d be surprised at how filling some of the small plates can be, like meats, cheeses, bread twists like taralli, and finger sandwiches (tramezzini).

I know what you’re thinking, “Amalfi Coast” and “budget” will never work together. And in some ways, it’s true — they don’t stand a chance. A shoe-string budget won’t come close to cutting it on this opulent stretch of Italian coastline. However, you don’t have to ball out to have the Amalfi Coast trip of your dreams (not your wildest dreams, perhaps, but still some pretty great dreams).

I traveled this costly coastline for a week with under €1,000 (~$1050) and want to show you that you don’t have to cross the Amalfi Coast off your list! Plus, many of these budget travel tips can be applied to other international destinations. So get out your notebook, because we’re about to dive into the details on the best months to visit, flight finding strategies, free and inexpensive things to do, budget-friendly places to stay, and how to get the most bang for your buck while dining!

Why It’s Awesome (If That Wasn’t Obvious Already)

Rugged Lattari mountains kiss the Mediterranean Sea along Southern Italy’s famous Campania coastline: the ever-fabled Amalfi Coast. A land with aquamarine waters where candy-striped parasols pattern hot-people-covered beaches, pale blue vespas zip around cliff-curved roads, and bursting bougainvillea bloom across… just about everything.

The Amalfi Coast is no off-the-beaten-path destination. And why would it be? But if you’ve never been, let me tell you, you have to go. And if the price tag of an Amalfi Coast vacation has held you back, we’re about to break free of those chains because it is indeed possible to live your best — and most economical! — life.

PART I — The Best Time to Visit (On A Budget)

We all know about European summer, and now we get to discover the perks of European fall. Because the autumn months, particularly October and November, offer those with a budget-conscious mindset the best window to visit the Amalfi Coast.

I got a July-priced €450 Positano B&B for €110 in early November, complete with a beautiful breakfast spread served on the terrace overlooking a Positano sunrise. The catch? Well, for one, I had to wear a sweater in the evenings. Perhaps worst of all, the coast’s most lusted-over restaurants were closed and boat tours were put on hold. But I mean… the pros outweigh the cons.

Though September is technically fall, it’s still a fairly busy month for tourism on the Amalfi Coast — which is reflected in the prices, lines, and crowds. October is a better time to visit, especially considering the boat tours, restaurants, and beach clubs don’t close until halfway through the month. But honestly, October can still be kind of expensive.

I suggest early November or the beginning of Spring (March) for ultimate Amalfi Coast budget travel. The vibes of summer float in the air, but the high-season prices have cooled off. By the time December rolls around, temps have dipped a bit too low for beach time and the chance of rain has gone up far past my comfort zone. (But if you’re in your winter-wonderland era, I can’t think of a better time to visit the Amalfi Coast than during the holiday season.) And by April, prices start to inch closer to summertime highs!

PART II — How To Get To The Amalfi Coast From The U.S. (On A Budget)

One of the top, if not the top expenditure for an Amalfi Coast trip is the airfare. Worry not, I’m here to help! You see, getting to the Amalfi Coast from outside of Italy doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. It just takes a little strategy, is all! And no, you don’t have to get a VPN or use a dodgy middle-man website.

Flying From the US to Europe:

Your first step is to find an affordable non-stop to Europe as many months in advance as possible. Since these are typically from your state’s largest international airport, you may have to travel a ways past your usual go-to. For example, a direct round-trip flight from JFK to London can cost as little as $400-$600. Same with Denver to Dublin and LAX to Barcelona. If you’re lucky, you’ll find a reasonably priced flight to Italy with a short layover in Spain, like JFK to Naples with a quick stop in Madrid.

I was able to snag a $400 one-way from Costa Rica to Madrid, then take Ryanair to Bari –which suited my long-term travel plans best. But you’ll always find a much better deal doing round-trip. And personally, I avoid non-direct flights since they can end up costing you an entire day of travel.

Flights Around Europe:

Once you’re in Europe, it’s a whole lot cheaper to get to Italy. Just hop on a budget airline like good ol’ Ryanair to Naples, Bari, or Rome. Depending on where you’re coming from, one of these Italian airports will be the cheapest. Remember, if you’re not doing carry-on, you’ll pay extra for a checked bag.

This is your time to practice minimalist packing, friends! Do your research, check all options, and aim for €100 or less. You might consider adding an extra day onto your arrival and departure dates to explore this bonus city (and give yourself a buffer in case Ryanair is… Ryanair-y).

Getting To The Amalfi Coast From Inside Italy:

I won’t lie, getting to the Amalfi Coast is not as easy as hopping on a single high-speed train and saying “Mama Mia!” It will take varying degrees of effort to reach the Amalfi Coast from Italy’s biggest cities, depending on what airport you arrive at.

FROM ROME:

The cheapest and least-confusing route from Rome is to take the 5.5-hour SITA Marozzi bus directly to Amalfi. Otherwise, you’d be looking to take a plane (pricey) or train (cheaper) to Naples, then get to either Sorrento or Salerno. The Trenitalia Frecce to Naples can be as little as €15 and takes around 2.5 hours. Just note that the faster the train, the more expensive the ticket, choose your own adventure!

From Naples and Sorrento, you’ve got some options, but I’ll negate taxis for their exorbitant price and the ferry since they stop running mid-October.

FROM NAPLES:

Make your way to Naples main train station, Napoli Centrale. Oddly enough, the train (Campania Express) is only slightly faster than the FlixBus; both take a little over an hour to reach Sorrento. From Sorrento, hop on a two-hour SITA bus to Amalfi.

Naples to Sorrento is the path more traveled, but my pro tip is to take the 40-minute train from Naples to Salerno — the first big city just outside the eastern end of the Amalfi Coast. From Salerno, you’re only 10 minutes by bus from Vietri sul Mare, one of Amalfi Coast’s less traveled (and less costly), but totally gorgeous and artsy towns. Starting your travels from Salerno instead of Sorrento allows you to see the entirety of the Amalfi Coast from east to west.

FROM BARI:

Since Bari lies opposite the Amalfi Coast in the neighboring Puglia region, you’ll be on a four-hour FlixBus to reach Salerno. Luckily it’s a straight shot, and a beautiful countryside drive through Puglia and Campania. Once again, from Salerno, you’re a quick 10-minute bus ride to the first town of the Amalfi Coast, Vietri sul Mare.

PART III — Getting Around the Amalfi Coast

Thankfully there’s decent public transportation on the Amalfi Coast because taxi-ing everywhere would eat up all your money, fast. During the fall, the SITA bus and the Mobility Amalfi Coast buses are way less packed and behind schedule than they are in the summertime. These two buses will be your main mode of transportation during your Amalfi Coast trip. The FlixBus is great for regional routes, like from Amalfi to Sorrento and Sorrento to Naples. So definitely rely on FlixBus for getting you back to your departure city.

PART IV — Free and Inexpensive Things to Do

Let’s be honest. Life in Italy is more about what you’re not doing than doing. La dolce far niente ring a bell? Still, there are plenty of free and almost free things to do around the Amalfi Coast (besides drooling over sexy Italians).

Hikes:

There’s more to do on the Amalfi Coast than meets the eye (or Instagram), so pack up your athletic shoes because we’re going hiking! One of the best free activities and eco-friendly vacation activities ever. Below are a few hiking paths that have been worn by generations of Amalfi Coast locals (and their mules) to move between lemon and olive groves, vineyards, farms, and villages in the Lattari Mountains Nature Park (Parco regionalale dei Monti Lattari). Fantastico!

Path of the Gods (Il Sentiero Degli Dei):

This ancient path is the most well-known hike on the Amalfi Coast. There’s no need for a guide to hike the Path of the Gods, just make your way to Bomerano by bus and follow the red and white signs for Il Sentiero Degli Dei toward Nocelle and Positano. If you’re up for it, you should absolutely hike the extra mile to Positano! Delight in expansive vistas of the turquoise Tyrrhenian Sea, and the length of the Sorrento Peninsula. Witness all the little Fiats and Vespas below whizzing around while you’re up in the serenity of nature. Take a moment every now and then to spot the island of Capri in the distance. Path of the Gods is about five miles round-trip.

Stairs of Ravello:

I’ll be honest, the stairs to Ravello are steep. This hike is a lot more difficult than the Path of the Gods. I did not want to move at all the next day. But it was totally worth it! I began the hike from Atrani’s cathedral, but since these paths form a network, you can start from other towns like Amalfi. Expect to climb around 1,700 ancient steps to the romantic medieval town of Ravello. This one is a doozy! Let yourself be enchanted (and distracted) by stunning views and the scent of lemons and olives all around you.

For emotional support along the way, pet all the cute kitties! I promise it helps.

Path of Lemons (Sentiero Dei Limoni):

Long ago Amalfi Coast sister towns, Minori and Maiori, were connected solely by this trail, the Path of Lemons. Thankfully, Sentiero Dei Limoni is a lot less daunting than the stairs to Ravello. You can start from either town and follow the small ceramic signage along the path. There are plenty of citrus groves and incredible views to be relished along the hike, with only a handful of stairs (okay, 400 of them).

You’ll pass through the tiny village of Torre and walk by small homes selling fresh lemonade.

Iron Valley (Valle delle Ferriere):

Did you know that you can hike to a nature reserve from Amalfi town? Just follow the main road in Amalfi up and out into the woods. Keep on track with the red and white signs for Valle delle Ferriere, and you’ll discover numerous waterfalls, pass by the moss-covered ruins of old iron and paper mills, and bathe in freshwater swimming holes. Who would have thought?!

The hike there shouldn’t take you more than 45 minutes. Park officials will ask for €5 to access the very top waterfall, so this isn’t an entirely free experience, but almost!

Free Beaches:

In the land of over-priced beach clubs, you’ll be happy to know that almost every beach has a sliver of free beach (spiaggia libera) for anyone to enjoy, free of charge. Yes, even the most popular beaches! More good news? If you’re visiting the Amalfi Coast during October and onward, most of the beach clubs close… in which case every beach is a spiaggia libera! Just note, that many Amalfi Coast beaches are pebbled — so packing a cushy beach towel is a good idea. If you want to be extra comfy, bring a yoga mat.

We’ve all seen the bikini-clad influencer photos at Spiaggia Grande in Positano. And you can get the same shots (if you’re into that kind of thing) without paying a dime. Just claim your slice of pebbled beach where there are no patterned parasols or colorful daybeds. And get there early. Other big-name beaches like Spiaggia di Fornillo in Positano and Marina Grande in Amalfi have free sections. It will feel great to know you’re soaking up the same Mediterranean sea and sun as those spending upwards of €500 for their beach day next to you.

My favorite beach on the Amalfi Coast is Fiordo di Furore, it is simply cinematic. And it’s always free. Beyond swimming and sunbathing, Fiordo di Furore is great for cliff diving, and you can leap off the 100-foot-tall Amalfi Coast road bridge overhead.

Affordable Beach Clubs:

As a rule of thumb, the further east on the Amalfi Coast you go, the more affordable the beach clubs become. For example, Minori, Maiori, Erchie, Cetara, and Vietri sul Mare all have serviced beach clubs at a fraction of the price of those in Positano and Amalfi. Not to mention the beaches here are nice and sandy, and of course, all have free sections as well. But if you’ve got some room in your budget, there’s nothing quite like being served a glass of bubbly beachside on the Amalfi Coast.

These smaller towns are the most affordable places to treat yourself to a splurge beach day.

Ravello’s Villas:

These two villas in the hills of Ravello are absolutely stunning, and though they’re not without a small entrance fee (€7), their value is hard to put a price on.

Villa Cimbrone:

The Villa Cimbrone is no doubt the crown jewel of Ravello. With its stunning Terrace of Infinity and painfully perfect manicured gardens, you’ll soon be under the spell of what makes the Amalfi Coast so alluring. Effortless beauty. (Okay, effortful, but whatever.)

Villa Rufolo:

One of the most widely-known photographs of the Amalfi Coast is taken here at the historic Villa Rufolo. An iconic shot of the bell tower of the Chiesa Dell’Annunziata below the villa’s tall Italian stone pine tree. Villa Rufolo’s gardens are arguably just as hypnotizing as the Villa Cimbrone. For a bird’s-eye perspective of the gardens and the Gulf of Salerno, climb the stairs of the Torre Maggiore museum.

If you’re like me and get startled easily, you should know that there’s a jarringly loud, motion-sensor soundtrack in the museum. It was in Italian, so I assume it was an interesting story of Villa Rufolo’s history.

Duomos:

Of course, visiting churches is a free thing to do on the Amalfi Coast. And they’re aplenty all over Italy. For some, they all look the same. But if you’re a little travel nerd like me, you find appreciation for a church as a glimpse into culture, heritage, history, and way of life. The cathedrals (Duomos) on the Amalfi Coast each have an artistic architectural feature: the Italian majolica dome. These colorful domes are constructed with ceramic tiles that sparkle in the sunlight and are laid in unique patterns. Fun fact? These majolica tiles were made right here on the Amalfi Coast in Vietri sul Mare!

I suggest seeing the Duomo di Amalfi and its fabulous staircase, the Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta in Positano (at night if you can), the Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta in Atrani (the dome is right behind it), and the Chiesa Parrocchiale di San Giovanni Battista in Vietri sul Mare.

Museums:

I’m not a huge history buff myself, but there are some incredible museums on the Amalfi Coast that you can visit for a low cost. Amalfi town has two museums worth checking out. The first is the Museo della Carta: the oldest paper mill in Europe! You’d best grab a few gifts made of Amalfi Paper while you’re here. Amalfi paper is so soft and you can get a name or initials imprinted for a personalized touch. Entrance to the paper museum is €10.

Then there’s the Arsenale di Amalfi (Amalfi Arsenal) which is the museum for history buffs who specifically geek out on military history. Amalfi was an extremely powerful force in its maritime past. Learn all about it and see preserved relics of a bygone era at the onsite museum: the Museum of the Compass and the Maritime Duchy.

If you happen to be in Vietri sul Mare hanging for a low-cost luxury beach day, check out the Museo della Ceramica Vietrense. This little town is where the glittering cathedral domes were made! Vietri is the ceramic capital of the Amalfi Coast. The museum is small, but if you enjoy artsy-fartsy things, you’ll get a kick out of the iconic lemon, stripes, and donkey designs, and of course that special Amalfi yellow — originally Vietri yellow!

PART V — Where to Stay (On A Budget)

Lesser-Known Amalfi Coast Towns:

Remember how I paid €100 a night in Positano? Well, that is definitely considered a budget price. Positano is the most expensive town on the Amalfi Coast. Luckily, you’re about to become familiar with Amalfi Coast’s lesser-known, totally cute towns and villages.

Atrani: I loved my stay in whimsical Atrani because I could literally walk to Amalfi in 10 minutes, then retreat back to my Airbnb for a more relaxed vibe. Airbnb stays can be very affordable here during the autumn months especially. Mine was a discounted $64 a night with a mountain view deck! But make no mistake, this charming town is no “hidden gem.”

Minori & Maiori: You’re bound to find some of Amalfi Coast’s most well-priced hotels and Airbnbs in these two historic towns just east of Amalfi. They’re very well connected with public transportation and have their own ports for ferry access (again, those come to a halt mid-late October). An inexpensive hotel in Minori or Maiori during October goes for around €70 a night. That same hotel in November? €45.

Vietri sul Mare: Though you’re about an hour-long bus ride (and €2) from Amalfi town, Vietri sul Mare is an underrated home base for Amalfi Coast travel. It’s beautiful, authentic (not over touristed), and well-connected to all the towns and villages. Plus you have easy access to larger cities like Sorrento, Naples, and Salerno via train, ferry, and bus. Bed and breakfasts are your best bet for affordable accommodation in Vietri. I paid €70 a night at B&B Sogno.

Sorrento: For the utmost budget option, you’ll be staying in Sorrento. Sorrento is not technically the Amalfi Coast, but we’ll let that slide for the sake of visiting one of the world’s most expensive destinations in an economical fashion. Right? Right. Sorrento is the only city near the Amalfi Coast that has a hostel. At Seven Hostel in Sorrento, you can pay as little as €20 a night from mid-October through November. That’s pretty hard to beat!

PART VI — Where To Eat (On A Budget)

Besides staying at bead & breakfasts, the best way to save money on food is to make your own… But that’s like going to a candy store (Italy) and not letting yourself eat sugar (pasta). Live a little! Here are some wallet-conscious ways to eat well on the Amalfi Coast.

Picnics:

You might be tempted to post up on the terrace of Franco’s Bar in Positano and spend a couple of hours sipping cocktails. But at €22 an Aperol, that afternoon will cost a pretty penny. If that bothers you, a picnic is the solution! Get the Italian version of a charcuterie, known as an affettati from a local salumeria (hit Alimentari Paradiso and Latteria Mini market in Positano). Prosciutto and mozzarella are the tip of the iceberg here. I like to ask for the most local and fresh offerings (locale e fresco) and buy a bottle of wine (or two) then head to the beach or a scenic park.

Now if you ask me, that’s a much more original Instagram photo.

Bottegas + Local Spots:

My tip is to try eateries that are more local and less big-name, like an osteria. Off the tourist drag in Vietri sul Mare is Ristorante La Sosta, where I had an incredible five-course meal of down-home Italian cooking complete with a carafe of wine, dessert, and limoncello for like €40 (a treat-yourself-night).

You can also find delicious, fresh food on the low at pizzerias (Mistral in Atrani has a whole margherita pizza for €6), bars (not that kind, the Italian kind) like crowd favorites Chiosco Bar San Francesco in Maiori and Masaniello Art Café in Amalfi (get the €10 burger with eggplant on a housemade bun, omg). And you MUST get a fried seafood cuoppo from one of the many street vendors!

You can also get an aperitif at a spot where drinks are served with a bite to eat. It’s kind of a “hack” if you will. But you’d be surprised at how filling some of the small plates can be, like meats, cheeses, bread twists like taralli, and finger sandwiches (tramezzini).

A lot of Richard Linklater’s movies are worth seeing multiple times. Boyhood was shot over 15 years, so you literally get to see the cast grow up with the film, while A Scanner Darkly required multiple viewings in order to really understand what the heck is happening to Keanu Reeves. So it makes sense that Linklater is a fan of re-watching movies, though you might not expect him to head to the theaters multiple times for the intricate musical numbers, but the man is a complex person.

The director admitted to NME that he thinks Barbie is one of those movies you have to rewatch. In fact, he thinks it’s probably the best thing to ever happen to the industry.

“I liked the musical numbers,” the director admitted. “I liked the movie a lot. It’s worth seeing a couple times. The best thing that happened to cinema in a while is Oppenheimer and Barbie. Sends a good message. I’m glad those are doing well.” Doing well is an understatement.

It makes sense that Linklater is fixated on musical numbers. The director is currently working on a 20-year-long adaptation of Merrily We Roll Along which is slated to hit theaters sometime in 2040. It’s nice to know that Paul Mescal will still be just as relevant a few decades from now.

(Via IndieWire)

Nas clearly heard all the jokes. For years, the rap veteran has been maligned — perhaps unfairly, although likely not — for having bad taste in beats. For rushing his projects as they neared deadlines. For giving halfhearted effort to the preternatural gifts he’d been given. For never truly living up to the bar set by his seminal 1993 debut, Illmatic. And sometime during the music industry shutdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, he decided he’d had enough of the critiques.

That was when, after he was jokingly called out by Big Sean, Nas decided to get serious. A chance meeting with Fontana producer Hit-Boy spawned not only the greatest creative chemistry he’s shared with a producer since that groundbreaking debut but also an astonishing six full-length albums comprising two separate trilogies in the next four years. The finale of this collaborative project, Magic 3 , dropped on Thursday, Nas’ 50th birthday.

Now, I’m not here to break down the new project or review it; if you’ve heard the five albums prior, you know what to expect. You either like it or it’s not for you. But I have to say I don’t think we have really talked enough about how incredible this whole moment has been — what it represents for both artists’ careers, for hip-hop music, or the culture at large. So, let’s talk about it. Nas and Hit-Boy’s four-year run should go down in hip-hop history as the best of what this genre can be; it should be an instruction manual for artists to follow for years to come.

At the time Nas announced the first King’s Disease album produced by Hit-Boy, he was coming off of yet another creative slump that saw his legacy reeling from the dreary The Lost Tapes II and the disastrous Nasir. Not to mention, he’d been accused of some rather nasty behavior by ex-wife Kelis; he had some work to do to get back into the public’s good graces. For an artist who’d once been lyrically derided by Jay-Z for his fitful work ethic, no one could have expected the burst of output to come.

(“Four albums in ten years, n***?” isn’t actually that bad when you think about it, but compared to his prolific rival, looked pretty bad, especially considering the reception of those albums.)

On its face, the decision to link up with Hit-Boy could have seemed to an outsider to be confusing at best, if not downright cynical. Here you had two artists who were opposites in almost every way you could think of: East Coast/West Coast, old-school staple/new-school hitmaker, one recovering from back-to-back duds, the other, still celebrating his most recent beat placement winning a Grammy for one of LA’s most-revered late rap titans, Nipsey Hussle. Nothing about it made sense; maybe that’s why it worked.

For Nas, Hit-Boy’s production was a jolt of both fresh air and much-needed consistency, providing a diverse array of complementary soundbeds for Nas’ complex, time-tested flow. He also plugged the weathered veteran into a whole new world of contemporary collaborators, allowing him shake off the mantle of disgruntled old head and instead play the role of the sage mentor, the voice of experience guiding his successors’ generation with a steady hand and just enough burst to keep up with the kids.

No doubt, artists like A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, Anderson .Paak, ASAPs Ferg and Rocky, Big Sean, Blxst, Don Toliver, Fivio Foreign, Lil Durk, and 21 Savage had grown up revering Nas’ contributions to hip-hop music. But Nas’ generation has proven … less than generous in issuing accolades, advice, or acknowledgment to their successors. Instead, there has been a slew of gruff admonitions, gatekeeping, and laments about the “state of hip-hop.” Nas himself had been accused of the same when he released Hip-Hop Is Dead in 2006.

So, for him to make that effort to bridge the generation gap — aided by Hit-Boy, who provided the connective glue to make such tricky collaborations stick — is meaningful to both his career and the fabric of rap as a whole. Yes, it helped Nas to quell speculation that his music is no longer relevant — some of which even came from one of his future collaborators, 21 Savage — but it also provided a Golden Era parallel to what Gucci Mane’s been doing in Atlanta as a godfather of trap rap.

It showed that hip-hop doesn’t HAVE to be just a “young man’s game” (if anything, I wish he’d included more women’s voices to prove it’s not only a man’s game, either). It showed that the vets don’t have to dismiss the kids in their own twilight; in fact, by embracing subsequent generations, the older artists get to hang on to their golden years just that much longer. And it showed that the best approach for anyone isn’t just to chase trends or follow the market, but to find the spark that comes from doing what you love out of inspiration, not obligation.

And it’s wild to think that we have Hit-Boy to thank for lighting this fire under Nas; aside from both being cast aside by a certain superproducer who couldn’t be bothered to dedicate his time, resources, and appreciation to them for their collaborations with him, both had incredible bounces back as a result. Hit-Boy got even more prolific while working with Nas, churning out enough material for collaborative projects with Dom Kennedy, Dreezy, Music Soulchild, and even his own formerly incarcerated father.

Thanks to Hit, Nas gets to have the last laugh, and thanks to Nas, Hit’s name is buzzing more than ever. Their collaboration resulted in the producer taking home even more Grammys hardware and the rapper bringing in his first-ever trophy despite his 30-plus years of hip-hop prominence. It was, as they declared with the title of their second trilogy, Magic. Now, we can’t wait to see what comes next for them both.

Nobody can do what Rihanna can. The singer, songwriter, actress, and businesswoman took the Jay-Z mogul mold and elevated it — even beyond what HOV could. At the height of Kanye’s powers with Yeezy Brand, back when he could do no wrong, Rihanna was still more beloved, more respected, and more vital to culture.

It’s why we are still hotly anticipating a followup to 2016’s ANTI. It’s why people lost their minds when she revealed a baby bump during a Super Bowl Halftime performance. It’s why FENTY continues to be one of the most forward-thinking brands in all of fashion. Rihanna is just different.

And only she could save PUMA.

Did PUMA just eclipse Adidas, Nike, and New Balance? For one week, at least, yes. This week brought the release of PUMA and Rihanna’s latest collaboration == the Fenty x PUMA Avanti, a sneaker so layered with sneakerhead geekery, that I can’t help but be psyched for it.

The sneaker is PUMA and Rihanna’s fourth collaboration, following the Fenty x PUMA Trainer, Fenty x PUMA Fur Slide, and The Creeper, and features a premium leather upper, dual gold foil branding, leather piping, and an attached fold-over tongue in leather, with brown leather lining and a gum outsole. It’s available in two colorways, black and white, and silver chrome.

It’s easy to write this sneaker off as simply a dope design, but it’s actually layered with meaning. The design of the Avanti is a combination of PUMA’s King Football boot, which was worn by legends like Eusebio, Pelé, and Maradona, and the heritage running shoe Easy Rider. It’s a great combination of PUMA classics, but it goes deeper than that, the design of the sneaker makes a sly reference to the Jil Sander King — a collaboration between PUMA and German designer Jil Sander — who was actually the first person to combine the world of high-end fashion and sportswear. A nice tip of the cap from one groundbreaking female designer to another, right?

So you might be asking yourself, where can I pick up a pair of Avantis? Unfortunately, not at PUMA. The sneaker is clean sold out (toddler versions are still available, no you can’t size down into those though), which means if you want to score a pair you’ll have to hit aftermarket sites.

StockX, eBay, and GOAT are all great choices that authenticate their sales so you can buy with some piece of mind. As of now, the prices for the Avanti aren’t too out of line — they’re just above retail depending on size, so your options are either to pay a slightly inflated price, or just wait until PUMA inevitably drops more.

Take a closer look at the design below.

It’s rare when a live-action adaptation of a beloved animated tale actually hits the mark, but many of them end up missing the said mark. Sometimes by a lot. We’ve seen it a lot recently (like, too much) but the recent live-action adaptation of the hit anime series One Piece is actually getting some positive reactions. And it’s hard to make a good reimagining of a show that has 1,075 episodes and counting.

Netflix’s adaptation of the popular series (based on the long-running manga and the animated series) dropped in August and was an instant hit with fans, landing at No. 1 on the Netflix Top 10 for the past two weeks. The series tells the story of Monkey D. Luffy, a quirky kid with a rare ability to stretch out his limbs, which is a great power for a pirate to have. Luffy and his crew sail around the seas in order to find the coveted “one piece” treasure.

The series was just renewed for a second season, meaning there will be plenty more sea tales in the future. Here is the official announcement, which was posted to socials:

To the Straw Hat Grand Fleet: What did you think of Season 1 of the live-action One Piece? I spent a long time working on it with Netflix and Tomorrow Studios. It seems people around the world have been enjoying the show, which makes the hard work from the production team truly worth it. Two weeks after the launch, I just received some great news. Netflix has decided to renew the show! The adventures of Iñaki and the live-action Straw Hats will continue onward!

Considering that the manga has been around for 25 years, it’s safe to say that Luffy will have a ton of new adventures in the upcoming season. You can catch the first season of One Piece now streaming on Netflix.

(Via Deadline)

Fall is around the corner, which means it’s time to retire all of the “Barbie summer” energy and instead shift to “Joe Pera Fall.” You know — lots of soup, woodworking, and the soothing sounds of Joe Pera building a small fire in order to lull you to an autumnal slumber. It’s unfortunate that Pera’s show Joe Pera Talks With You was canceled after just three seasons, but the comedian/Mister Rogers protege is back with something new.

Joe Pera: Slow & Steady is Pera’s first comedy special, and it will debut on Pera’s own website and YouTube channel on October 6th at 8 pm ET. The special will consist of footage from Pera’s 18-month tour around the world, where he workshopped “new jokes, old jokes, jokes addressing people calling me Dahmer.”

Pera also announced that he self-funded the project, adding, “It’s okay, it cost my savings, but we made a stand-up special just the way we wanted to.” The special was directed by Marty Schousboe with music from Ryan Dann. Check out the trailer above.

Since his show ended, Pera has made numerous appearances on late-night shows, appeared on season five of HBO’s Search Party, and also launched a new podcast, Drifting Off with Joe Pera. There were rumors that he might be the next James Bond but that’s still unclear.

Ashton Kutcher has resigned as chairman of the board for Thorn, an anti-child sex abuse organization that he co-founded while married to Demi Moore. The actor is stepping down after unsealed court documents revealed that both he and wife Mila Kunis wrote letters of support for Danny Masterson asking the judge to apply leniency after the That ’70s Show star was convicted of raping two women.

Kutcher and Kunis were target of intense backlash after the letters were published, and Kutcher in particular was called out for running an organization that helps purportedly victims of sexual abuse. The hypocrisy was not lost on him as he offered his resignation.

Via TIME:

“Victims of sexual abuse have been historically silenced and the character statement I submitted is yet another painful instance of questioning victims who are brave enough to share their experiences,” Kutcher wrote in a Sept. 14 letter to Thorn’s board, which was shared exclusively with TIME.

“After my wife and I spent several days of listening, personal reflection, learning, and conversations with survivors and the employees and leadership at Thorn, I have determined the responsible thing for me to do is resign as Chairman of the Board, effectively immediately,” Kutcher wrote. “I cannot allow my error in judgment to distract from our efforts and the children we serve.”

Kunis served as an observer on Thorn’s board and has also stepped down. “Moral fraud” Kutcher and Thorn had already received a lot of scrutiny over the years for doing more harm than good, enhancing the police surveillance state and essentially waging war on consensual sex workers. Further, Kutcher has also waged war against media outlets that have been critical of Thorn.

“The mission must always be the priority and I want to offer my heartfelt apology to all victims of sexual violence and everyone at Thorn who I hurt by what I did,” Kutcher wrote. “And to the broader advocacy community, I am deeply sorry. I remain proud of what we have accomplished in the past decade and will continue to support Thorn’s work. Thank you for your tireless advocacy and dedication to this cause.”

We’ll see if this will do much to stem the criticism of Kutcher. But we doubt it.

(Via TIME)

The world of John Wick will eventually expand into the Ana de Armas-starring Ballerina, and it sounds like Keanu Reeves wants to get back into the saddle for John Wick 5 (despite you-know-what happening). For at least five years, however, The Continental limited series has been gestating, first as a version that would have aired on Starz and been based in LA rather than NYC. Fast forward some years, and The Continental is a three-part special event (based in NYC) landing on Peacock this month. Can we expect to see Keanu Reeves pop in as Baba Yaga?

As much as everyone would like to see more Keanu, this doesn’t seem possible. The Continental will be a prequel that takes this universe back to the 1970s. Granted, Keanu is happy to appear in Wick spinoffs in general (and will be in Ballerina, coming out in June 2024). However, Mr. Wick’s very first dog wasn’t of this earth in the 1970s, and Wick himself was not on the scene yet. Also, getting Keanu involved would add up to time travel, which is probably a bad idea in this universe.

This series will be focused on (as the title suggests) the early days of the assassin-welcoming hotel where Winston is gaining his bearings as portrayed by Colin Woodell (The Flight Attendant). Mel Gibson will also appear as “Cormac,” a kingpin who plays a pivotal role in running the hotel. Here’s the limited series’ synopsis:

The three-part event will explore the origin behind the iconic hotel-for-assassins centerpiece of the John Wick universe through the eyes and actions of a young Winston Scott, as he’s dragged into the Hell-scape of 1970’s New York City to face a past he thought he’d left behind. Winston charts a deadly course through the hotel’s mysterious underworld in a harrowing attempt to seize the hotel where he will eventually take his future throne.

Formally titled The Continental: From the World of John Wick, viewers can check into Peacock’s series for part one on Sept. 22nd. Part two arrives on Sept. 29 with Oct. 6 bringing part three.