Ask anyone who lives in Japan where they buy snacks, and you’ll probably hear one of three answers: FamilyMart, 7-Eleven or Lawson. When it comes to satisfying cravings in daily life, there’s just no place like the nearest konbini — aka convenience store.

Of course, not all Japanese snacks are found at the konbini. Some of the best bites are available as from local market streets or during festivals. And then there are the omiyage boxes containing beautifully packaged snacks meant to be taken home and shared as a souvenir of your travels.

Keep reading for a quick primer on the most important Japanese snacks to know before your next trip to Tokyo, Kyoto and beyond.

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Iconic Japanese Packaged Snacks

First, a quick list of some of Japan’s best or most popular packaged snacks. Many are available at the konbini, though a few may require a quick detour to the nearest supermarket, department store or iconic superstore Don Quijote.

Sweet Japanese snacks include:

• HI-CHEW candies, especially the Ramune flavor, which mimics a popular soda pop
• Kaju grape gummies.
• Pocky.
• Seasonal Kit Kat flavors, like wasabi, sakura or matcha.
• Dried umeboshi (pickled plum).
• Black Thunder chocolate bars.

And salty snacks:

• Jagarico potato sticks.
• Baby Star dried ramen snack.
• Kaki no tane (a mix of peanuts and rice crackers often served with beer).
• Aerial cheddar four-layer chips.
• Senbei rice crackers (the sweet-and-saltyYuki no Yado is my favorite iteration).
• Dried shredded squid.

Konbini-Specific Snacks

If you’re heading out for konbini snacks for the first time, skip Minimart or Seicomart and visit one of the big three. Most people who live here have an all-time favorite — though some of us visit specific convenience store chains for specific snacks.

FamilyMart

FamilyMart, pronounced “famima,” is my personal go-to, if only because it’s just around the corner and stocks the widest selection of canned mocktails. FamilyMart’s most iconic offering is Famichiki, a boneless fried chicken cutlet. Many people also love the brand’s souffle milk puddings and pizzaman, a hot steamed bun filled with marinara sauce and cheese. Pizzaman is great for when you want something piping hot, rather than prepackaged like salt-and-nori potato chips or chocolate-covered peanut clusters.

7-Eleven

Called “sebun” locally, 7-Eleven is my husband’s favorite konbini. He pops by almost daily for tuna mayo onigiri (a triangular rice ball wrapped in seaweed) and the store’s famously jammy hard-boiled egg. It’s a widely held belief that 7-Eleven also stocks the best egg salad sandwiches. Sounds boring, but the filling is creamy, and the bread is so soft. One of my 7-Eleven favorites is a smoothie. Grab one of the cups of frozen fruit from the freezer section, pay, then scan the cup’s barcode at the blender near the doors to unlock and use the machine.

Lawson

Lawson is the king of more specialized or premium snack options. If you can find a Natural Lawson, you’ll have more than enough organic, gluten-free or healthy snacks to choose from. Lawson has its own line of seasonal desserts, along with classics like fluffy cream rolls and smooth custard puddings. This convenience store chain also created the Akuma Onigiri (devil’s onigiri), in which the rice is mixed with dashi and tempura flakes.

Japanese Street Snacks

If you’re traveling around Japan, you’ll notice a wide variety of regional food specialties. But there are a few snacks that can be found in many tourist centers, most covered market streets and during festivals:

• Dango, skewers of chewy rice flour dumplings often slathered in sticky soy sauce.
• Takoyaki, fried balls of battered octopus.
• Taiyaki, fish-shaped pastries traditionally filled with red bean paste.
• Freshly made pressed squid crackers.

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Omiyage: Special Snacks to Take Home

At any tourist destination or major train station in Japan, you will see beautiful and fun omiyage boxes. These aren’t just for foreign tourists either. Omiyage means souvenir, but these souvenirs are meant as return gifts to share a bit of your travels with friends, family or coworkers. This is a common practice in Japan.

The very best omiyage boxes feature hyper-local specialties. Some examples include:

• In the hot springs region of Hakone, it’s common to find beautifully packaged sulfur-steamed black eggs or the more palatable and more packable chocolate eggs made to look like the eggs.
• Nikko, the town at the entrance of Nikko National Park, is known for yuba, or tofu skin. Since Nikko is also home to the original “see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil” monkey trio, you can also find traditional sweets shaped like monkey faces.
• In Hokkaido, Japan’s primary dairy-producing region, omiyage treats may include cheese tarts, biscuits and sweets made with Hokkaido butter.

Good news for the procrastinators: Japan’s major airports also have shops selling omiyage like Tokyo Banana (a cream-filled cake shaped like a banana), specialty chocolates and lots of loved boxes of pastries filled with sweet azuki bean paste.

Which is your favorite Japanese snack, or which one you would you like to try? Tell us in the comments.

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Featured image: Different flavors of Jagarico potato sticks. Photo courtesy of Leandra Beabout.

Last week, oil and gas markets reacted optimistically to reports of cooling tensions in the Middle East, sending crude prices sharply lower: By the close of trading Friday, domestic West Texas Intermediate crude fell about $4.50 per barrel, while Brent crude declined by $6.50 a barrel. Prices fell even more in overnight trading on Sunday, declining by an additional 4.5% amid reports the U.S. and Iran could resume negotiations in the coming days.  

Along with easing oil costs, gasoline prices are facing less pressure thanks to near-record gasoline production by U.S. refiners, which are chasing historically high premiums for gasoline and other refined products. Domestic refiners operated at 97.2% of capacity last week, the highest weekly rate since the final week of 2018, according to the Energy Information Administration (EIA). Total gasoline production climbed by 178,000 barrels a day to 9.87 million barrels a day, the EIA reported. Production has averaged about 1.5% higher over the past four weeks compared to the same period last year, according to EIA figures. Meanwhile, gasoline demand rose modestly by 94,000 barrels a day to 9.04 million barrels a day — still 111,000 barrels per day below the comparable week last year. It was only the fourth time this summer demand exceeded 9 million barrels per day. 

“Drivers might feel like they’ve been on a seesaw lately as pump prices rise and fall in response to developments in U.S.-Iran relations,” said Jillian Young, director of public relations for AAA Northeast. “Over the long term, it remains unlikely that prices will truly settle until a lasting peace deal is reached.” 

AAA’s Aug. 3 survey of fuel prices found the national average down 2 cents from the prior week ($4.11), averaging $4.09 per gallon. The Aug. 3 national average price was 27 cents higher than last week ($3.82) and 94 cents higher than last year ($3.15). 

As of Aug. 3, Texas and Indiana had the lowest prices in the nation at $3.59 and $3.60, respectively. California and Hawaii had the highest prices at $5.65 and $5.45, respectively.  

Gas Prices by State Over Time

*Prices as of Aug. 3, 2026 

The AAA Gas Prices website is your resource for up-to-date fuel price information. Search for average gas prices on national, state and metro levels by regular, plus, premium and diesel.  

If you’re looking to make the most out of your summer in the Northeast, you’ve probably already beached, shopped and road-tripped it. But there’s one aspect of a Northeast summer you really shouldn’t miss, and that’s dining al fresco at the shore.

With miles of coastline at our disposal, it’s no wonder we’re spoiled with choice when it comes to waterfront dining. Out of everywhere to go, these are our picks for the best places to hit the deck this summer.

Connecticut

The Wharf at Madison Beach Hotel

Madison

Perched directly on the shoreline of Long Island Sound at the AAA Four Diamond designated Madison Beach Hotel, the Wharf pairs panoramic water views with modern New England fare. This place has been singled out as one of the state’s top waterfront restaurants and praised for its top-tier service. Watch the sunset over the sound as you choose from a menu built almost entirely around local seafood, including oysters, mussels, scallops, tuna tartar and more.

Shell & Bones Oyster Bar and Grill

New Haven

Shell & Bones is the kind of place where the atmosphere is the entree. Watch a yacht or two drift by in the adjacent marina while digging into the Tower of Shells, piled with lobster, lump crab, jumbo shrimp, oysters, clams, ceviche, and smoked salmon, and you’re pretty much set. Other menu offerings include a 1.5-pound lobster, filet mignon and a whole branzino.

Boathouse Restaurant

Westport

The Boathouse perfectly splits the difference between casual clam shack and refined dining. Sure, there are white tablecloths, but the vibe is pure ease. The seasonal menu features everything from crabcakes to littleneck clams, lobster rolls, linguine frutti di mare and more.

Massachusetts

Beach House Grill at Chatham Bars Inn

Chatham

This is, officially, the best waterfront restaurant in America (at least according to USA Today’s 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards.) Settled on the sand at Chatham Bars Inn on Cape Cod, Beach House offers an outdoor patio with sweeping view of the Atlantic with a menu chock-full of twists on coastal classics. Choose from lobster nachos, crab BLTs and swordfish tacos, among many other fan favorites.

Row 34

Boston

If you’re looking for oysters in and around Boston, Row 34 is the place. Run by the same folks behind Island Creek Oysters, the menu is based around responsibly sourced seafood from local waters (so the oyster on your seafood tower is a Bostonian, too.) With a harbor-adjacent patio, you can glance out at the passing ships while you indulge.  

The Black Whale

New Bedford

New Bedford has one of the most storied harbor histories in the Northeast, and the Black Whale is a place where it feels like history comes alive through food. Rather than the waterfront being merely a backdrop, this spot is rooted in New Bedford’s working-harbor identity with hearty seafood, an unpretentious atmosphere and a front row seat to the port’s daily rhythm of fishing boats.

New Jersey

Blu on the Hudson

Weehawken

For a wow outdoor dining experience, don’t miss Blu on the Hudson. With views that look out to the Manhattan skyline, you’re in for a treat in both atmosphere and cuisine. From the kitchen, enjoy plentiful options like bluefin tuna tartare with caviar, a stacked raw bar of gold Kumamoto oysters and jumbo lump crab, house made pastas and Wagyu tomahawk steak.

Haven

Edgewater

Haven’s modern American menu is second only to the views of the Hudson from its glass-walled dining room. Come for dinner at golden hour to get the most beautiful panorama or try the morning instead — they serve a mean brunch on the weekends.

Tim McLoone’s Supper Club

Asbury Park

Jersey Shore boardwalks have it all. Carnival games, T-shirt shops, a Ferris wheel and everyone’s favorite place to take in the view: McLoone’s. The menu swings confidently from birria tacos to jerk swordfish, which perfectly describes the eclectic, lively and ready for anything vibe. Here, you can enjoy the easy beachside feeling with food that’s many steps up from your typical boardwalk food stand.

New York

Grand Banks

New York City

There’s waterfront dining, and then there’s dining literally on the water. Grand Banks is a seasonal oyster bar set on the deck of a real, retired fishing schooner docked on the Hudson at Pier 25. Sustainably sourced oysters, nautical cocktails and a laid-back, sun-soaked vibe make it feel like a genuine escape from Manhattan. It’s not fine dining in the traditional sense, and that’s totally the point.

Claudio’s

Greenport

Claudio’s has been slinging seafood on Greenport Harbor since 1870, making it one of the most historic waterfront restaurants anywhere in the country. Legend has it there’s even a Prohibition-era trap door behind the bar. Enjoy all of your waterside favorites, like baked clams, crispy calamari, fluke, tuna crudo and more.

Hudson House River Inn

Cold Spring

For a totally different flavor of New York waterfront, head up the Hudson to Cold Spring, a picture-perfect river town where this 1832 landmark building has transformed into a charming inn and restaurant. If you can, grab a table on the wraparound porch for sweeping views of the river and Storm King Mountain.

Rhode Island

The Black Pearl

Newport

Situated on Bannister’s Wharf in the heart of Newport’s bustling harbor, the Black Pearl is about as beloved and classic as Rhode Island waterfront dining gets. The four-season waterside patio allows you to enjoy the sea breeze as you tuck into a bowl of New England clam chowder and clam cakes or lobster or calamari or all of the above.

Waterman Grille

Providence

Providence’s waterfront dining scene tends to fly under the radar compared to the state’s more oceanic destinations, but Waterman Grille makes a case for the state capital. Set along the Seekonk River, it pairs contemporary fare with lovely water views from above.

Matunuck Oyster Bar

Wakefield

After a fire almost leveled the original building, Matunuck Oyster Bar opened al fresco dining just across the street while a new restaurant is built. Until then, the outdoor spot’s got it all: the views, the food, the sustainable sourcing — all creating a perfect coastal dining experience that’s a favorite among locals and visitors.

What’s your favorite place to dine al fresco? Let us know in the comments!

A coastal flood advisory, also known as sunny day flooding, is the lowest level of flood warning — but it can still cause challenges for your vehicle and home if you’re not prepared. 

Here we share what a coastal flood advisory is, how it happens and the steps you can take to protect your home, vehicle and belongings. 

Check your coverage before the next high tide. Get a quote.  

What is a coastal flood advisory? 

A coastal flood advisory is an advisory issued by the National Weather Service to alert those in the local area that a tidal flood is imminent or has already occurred. 

Coastal flood advisories are also known as coastal flood warnings, tidal flooding, sunny day flooding and even nuisance flooding. A coastal flood advisory is the lowest level of flood warning that can be issued. 

What is a coastal flood warning, and what does it mean? 

Receiving a coastal flood advisory warning means low-level tidal flooding is about to occur, or has already occurred, in the following areas: 

• Parking lots located near the shoreline. 
• Low-lying coastal roads.
• Basements or yards of homes in coastal neighborhoods.

Coastal floods occur when ocean and weather conditions combine to push water levels above their usual levels, and can be influenced by the following factors: 

• Time (coastal flood advisories typically occur during high tide).
• Storm surge.
• Wave action.
• Full moon cycles.

Because this type of flooding is tidal, it can, and frequently does, occur without rain.

The impact of a coastal flood advisory

Compared to other types of more severe flooding, damage caused by sunny day flooding tends to be minimal. However, even just a few inches of flooding can bring challenges like road closures, travel delays, vehicle damage and saltwater intrusion into drainage systems and vehicles. 

Sunny day flooding usually lasts only a few hours and occurs about four to eight days per year on average in the U.S. By the year 2050, it’s expected to increase to 45 to 70 days per year. 

How to prepare for a coastal flood advisory

One of the biggest mistakes you can make with a coastal flood advisory is to underestimate the potential for damage and not take precautions. 

Fortunately, there are several simple steps you can take to protect your valuables and minimize damage or the cost of vehicle or home repair.

How to protect your vehicle from sunny day flooding

• Move your vehicle to higher ground: Sunny day flooding occurs on lower-level ground. Protect your vehicle by avoiding coastal parking lots and parking in a more elevated area. 
• Rinse your car’s undercarriage: Salt water can speed up rust and corrosion. Rinse your car’s undercarriage, or any other part of your vehicle that was in contact with the salt water to minimize the effects of salt exposure. Consider coating your vehicle’s underside with a preventive rust treatment before the flooding sets in. 
• Stay away from flooded roads: Avoid driving through floodwater. Even just a few inches of water can do damage to your vehicle or cause you to lose control, so adapt your journey accordingly.
• Consider comprehensive auto insurance: Basic liability insurance won’t protect your car from flood damage. Instead, most comprehensive auto insurance usually protects against floodwater damage, including engine, electrical, upholstery and more. 

Bear in mind that comprehensive coverage may not protect personal items stored in the vehicle. Coverage also typically excludes electric vehicles, which come with additional flood risks, like an overheating battery. 

If your vehicle has been damaged thanks to sunny-day flooding, document the damage and notify your insurer. 

How to protect your home from sunny day flooding

• Secure outdoor furniture: Ensure any outdoor furniture is tied down and bring valuables inside. 
• Clear drains: Remove debris from any drains to help floodwaters drain efficiently. Dispose of any nearby trash to prevent clogging your drainage system. 
• Seal basement openings: Caulk can be used to seal cracks or other small openings in your basement. Consider lining the lower-level parts of your home with sandbags as an extra layer of security. 
• Remove valuables from the floor: Move valuables onto a surface or a higher level of the house. Some flood insurance policies require you to take reasonable steps to protect your valuables. 
• Consider flood insurance: Flood insurance must be purchased separately from your homeowners insurance. Even if your home isn’t located in a high-risk area where flood insurance is required, purchasing it can be a smart move. 

Most home insurance policies won’t cover damage caused by flooding, but a flood policy typically protects your home’s structure, carpeting, damaged cabinets, electrical and plumbing systems, personal property and more. 

Learn more about what to do if your house floods.

Coastal flood advisory FAQs

What is sunny day flooding? 

Sunny day flooding refers to temporary flooding that occurs in low-level, coastal areas when sea levels temporarily rise. It’s also known as coastal flooding, nuisance flooding or tidal flooding.

Which U.S. state has the highest risk of coastal flooding? 

In the U.S., Florida, New York, New Jersey, Louisiana and Massachusetts have the highest risk of coastal flooding, according to Climate Central.

How long does a coastal flood advisory typically last?

Most coastal flood advisories last just a few hours, tied to the timing of high tide. Once the tide recedes, water levels typically return to normal.

What’s the difference between a coastal flood advisory and a coastal flood warning?

A coastal flood advisory signals minor, nuisance-level flooding — think a few inches of water in low-lying areas. A coastal flood warning indicates a more serious threat, with higher water levels that can cause significant property damage or pose a safety risk.

Does homeowners insurance cover sunny day flooding?

Typically, no. Standard homeowners insurance excludes flood damage, including tidal or nuisance flooding. Protecting your home’s structure and belongings from this type of flood usually requires a separate flood insurance policy.

Is it safe to drive during a coastal flood advisory?

Driving through flooded roads is never a safe bet, even during a minor advisory. Just a few inches of water can stall your engine, damage electrical components, or cause you to lose control of your vehicle. Reroute around flooded areas whenever possible.

How much advance notice does the National Weather Service give for a coastal flood advisory?

The National Weather Service usually issues coastal flood advisories a few hours to a day before expected tidal flooding, often tied to predictable high-tide cycles and lunar phases. Checking local forecasts during full moon periods can help you stay ahead of it.

Can sunny day flooding cause long-term damage to a home’s foundation?

Repeated exposure to sunny day flooding can gradually weaken a foundation, especially if water seeps into cracks or basement openings over time. Sealing entry points and addressing drainage issues early helps minimize this risk.

Coastal flood advisories can be a nuisance, but as the climate changes, they’re becoming a reality for more and more people. Fortunately, with the right precautions and insurance protection, you’ll be able to protect your vehicle, home, and valuables. 

Sunny day flooding won’t wait for a forecast — make sure your car and home are covered before it strikes. Get a fast, free AAA auto, home or flood insurance quote today and protect what matters most.

Travel insurance gives you protection for your trip in case of medical emergencies, natural disasters and flight delays or cancellations — here are some covered reasons, what’s excluded and how to choose the right plan.

Protect your trip before the unexpected happens with AAA Travel and Allianz Partners.

Why Buy Travel Insurance?

Increased apprehension over health outbreaks, natural disasters and fear of terrorism have caused a rise in travelers’ desire to seek extra financial protection from travel insurance. These days it could feel like too high of a gamble to go without some kind of benefits.

“Travel insurance protects so many different scenarios in people’s lives,” said Wendy Marley, a AAA Northeast travel agent in the Newton, Massachussetts, branch. “It includes covered reasons related to their family members, travel delays, missed ports of call [in some cases] for cruises or emergencies that happen while they are traveling.”

What Travel Insurance Can Protect

Hurricanes and Natural Disasters

June through November is a great time for travel deals, but it also happens to be hurricane season. Remember, insurance is designed to protect against the unexpected. Once a storm or weather event such as a wildfire or earthquake is tracked and/or named, it’s considered “known and foreseeable.” A plan purchased on or after the date the National Weather Service issues a warning will not cover losses related to the event.

Medical Emergencies

Unfortunately, no one’s immune to getting sick or hurt on vacation. If you fall ill in another country and are hospitalized for an extended period of time, travel insurance can pay for costs like medical bills and the transportation back to the U.S. in addition to accommodation for family to stay abroad, and their airfare back home.

Travel insurance ensures that any medical care you might need abroad does not get lost in translation. Many U.S. plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, do not cover international travel or out-of-country emergency medical transportation. Without protection, a medical evacuation can cost anywhere from $20,000 to $200,000 or more.

Health Outbreaks

Most travel protection plans exclude losses caused directly or indirectly by an epidemic. Like storms, once a health alert is issued it is considered a “known event” and excluded from coverage.

Check cdc.gov/travel for all warning and alerts.

“Cancel anytime” or “cancel for any reason” insurance comes at an additional cost and provides the most options to travelers, but even these plans may include exclusions due to known events or an epidemic.

Marley has noticed an increased awareness of such travel insurance limits. “While people are more willing to take the insurance, they are more savvy in calculating their risk to the point where I send multi-levels of coverage policy quotes,” she said. “It still takes time to go over all of the benefits of insurance but most people come around once you do.”

Why Buy Travel Insurance?

Protect your trip from the unexpected with travel insurance.

Learn More

Terrorism

Terror attacks can occur anywhere at any time, although the risk is higher in some places more than others. In order to be covered, a terror event must not occur within 25 miles of any city (U.S. or foreign) you are traveling to within 30 days of your certificate’s coverage effective date.

Before traveling anywhere abroad, check the State Department website for travel advisories on potential dangers related to health, politics and violence.

Delays and Cancellations

Delays and cancellations happen. So far in 2026, there have been more than 66,000 domestic flights canceled and almost 600,000 delays, according to Bureau of Transportation Statistics. But the coverage that airlines and credit cards offer for these inconveniences is limited. With travel insurance, a covered delay can mean cash for rebooking fees, meals and accommodations. Similarly, if you are renting a car, you will get more for your dollar than what is provided by a standard car rental policy.

Things Travel Insurance Covers: Quick Reference Guide

Travel Insurance Tips

Most people purchase the one-off insurance on a per-trip basis, but if you travel a lot throughout the year (two to three times per year), you should consider an annual plan. It may work out better for you cost-wise.

Keep in mind that the earlier you buy travel insurance, the bigger your protection window. The best time to buy is as soon as you place your initial deposit or payment for vacation. And always read over your plan documents carefully, including the fine print. Talk to your AAA travel advisor if you have any questions.

Travel should be as stress-free as possible. Your biggest worry should be how many 3.4-ounce liquids you can fit into the 1-quart bag in your carry-on. Let your travel insurance take on the heavier burdens.

Common Travel Insurance Questions and Answers

When is the best time to buy travel insurance?

Purchase your policy as soon as you place your initial trip deposit. Buying early widens your protection window and gets you protected before storms, outbreaks or other events become “known” and lose eligibility.

Does my credit card already cover travel delays and cancellations?

Credit card travel protections are usually limited compared to a dedicated policy. Standalone travel insurance typically protects more of your rebooking fees, meals and accommodations during a delay.

What’s the difference between standard travel insurance and “cancel for any reason” plans?

Standard plans only reimburse you for specific covered reasons, like illness or a natural disaster. “Cancel Anytime” plans cost more but let you cancel for virtually any reason — though it still excludes known events like a named storm or declared epidemic. Reasons other than named covered reasons are eligible for up to 80 percent, versus 100 percent, reimbursement.

Does travel insurance cover pre-existing medical conditions?

Some plans offer a pre-existing condition exclusion waiver, but only if you buy your plan within a specific window after your initial trip payment, often 14 to 21 days, and meet all other criteria. Check your plan’s fine print or ask a travel advisor to confirm your timeline.

Is travel insurance worth it for a domestic trip?

Yes. Even within the U.S., travel insurance can reimburse cancellation costs and reimburse extra costs associated with delays. Medical benefits matter less domestically if your health insurance already travels with you, but trip-cost protection still applies.

How do I file a travel insurance claim?

Contact your insurance provider directly as soon as the issue occurs. Keep receipts, medical records and documentation of the delay or cancellation, since you’ll need them to support your claim.

You’ve Read About It — Now Experience It

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Do you have any questions about travel insurance benefits? Leave us a comment below. 

Having life insurance is an important part of your long-term financial plan, but there are some circumstances that may necessitate the use of supplemental services – like income annuities. Read on to find out what exactly an income annuity is, how it works and if it’s right for you.

What Is an Income Annuity?

Not to be confused with life insurance, income annuities are financial products designed to provide a stream of income for a specified period, typically for the duration of a person’s life. Think of them as a long-term financial safety net with a twist. You can either contribute a lump sum or pay into it over time — kind of like a savings plan — and, in return, you get a steady stream of income immediately or in the future, usually when you retire. It’s sort of like giving yourself a paycheck even when you’re not working anymore, which is particularly valuable for retirees who do not have access to traditional pension plans or who have exhausted other sources of income. 

Income annuities come in two varieties – immediate or deferred income. Income annuities offer protection against longevity risk, as well, which is the risk of outliving one’s savings. By providing a guaranteed income for life (or a specified term), annuities ensure that retirees will not run out of money, regardless of how long they live.  

“People often like the idea of their money earning a guaranteed interest rate and transferring longevity risk to the insurance company,” says Costantino Detore, life insurance and annuity specialist with AAA Northeast.

How Do Income Annuities Work?

In order to get the benefits of an income annuity, you must either contribute a lump sum or pay regular premiums to your insurance company. In exchange, a person receives the promise of future guaranteed income payments. These future payments are based on various factors, including age, gender, interest rates and the length of the term. When you reach a certain age or retire, the insurance company begins paying you back in regular installments, similar to how social security operates.

There’s a good amount of flexibility when it comes to income annuities, too. It’s up to you how long you’d like to receive payments for, whether it’s for a specific number of years or for life. During this time, you receive regular payments, typically on a monthly or annual basis. “If you are concerned about a spouse running out of money, an income annuity can pay lifetime income over both person’s lives. Any remaining balance can also be transferred to children or loved ones,” Detore said.

Income annuities bring some tax benefits, too, which is always a bonus when it comes to money matters. While the specifics vary depending on the jurisdiction and the type of annuity, in many cases the income deferred or received from annuities can be designed to maximize tax efficiency.

What Else Is There to Know About Income Annuities?

There are some potential drawbacks and limitations to consider before opening an income annuity.

First, it’s important to remember that most income annuities are not suitable if you anticipate needing your money back in a lump sum or for emergencies in the short term. This means that annuities should be considered in coordination with a full needs analysis — while being mindful of short-term and long-term financial goals.

While they offer stability, some income annuities do not provide payments that keep up with inflation over time, essentially decreasing their initial purchasing power. Some income annuities do provide this feature, so it is important to work with a financial professional that can match your needs with the right solution.

Talk to a AAA insurance specialist about an income annuity today.

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Have insurance questions? Listen to Episode 3 of our podcast, Merging Into Life: Insurance 101.

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Few things spark more tension on the road than a lane closing ahead. What appears to be a simple merge turns into one of the most debated (and misunderstood) traffic behaviors out there: the zipper merge.

While designed to improve the flow of traffic and reduce congestion, it often frustrates drivers who view it as “cutting the line.”

Brian Butterworth, director of driver training at AAA Northeast, explains how drivers can better understand when zipper merging applies, and how to use it safely to avoid unnecessary road rage.

What is a Zipper Merge?

A zipper merge is a lane management technique used in heavy or slow-moving traffic, in which drivers in both lanes take turns merging at a lane-reduction point. Instead of merging early, vehicles continue using both lanes fully and alternate like the teeth of a zipper at the merge point.

Is Zipper Merge a Law? The Biggest Misconceptions

The merge pattern is considered a recommended best practice rather than a formal law in most jurisdictions. Drivers are encouraged to follow it when conditions are congested, but it is not typically enforced as a legal requirement.

Misunderstandings around zipper merging often lead to unsafe behavior and frustration, according to Butterworth.

“Some common misconceptions are that the zipper merge is cutting in line or causes congestion, when in fact it uses more available road space and can help to reduce congestion,” Butterworth said. “Zipper merges require cooperation, and failing to do so may cause some drivers to rush ahead, only to slam on their brakes when they get to the end of the line.”

How to Zipper Merge

Proper zipper merging most relies on predictable, cooperative driving behavior.

“Cooperation, consistency, and signaling. Drivers in both lanes should work with each other to keep traffic moving by taking turns. Drive consistently — don’t speed up or slam on your brakes. Lastly, use your turn signal when merging at the end of your lane. When everyone uses the zipper method, no one is jumping ahead of their place in line.”

AAA’s Driver Education Approach

AAA teaches drivers to understand when zipper merging is appropriate and how to apply it correctly, depending on traffic conditions.

“It comes down to understanding when the zipper merge is appropriate,” Butterworth said. “When traffic is slow-moving or congested, the zipper merge uses the most available road space and helps keep traffic moving more evenly. When traffic is free-flowing, it’s better to merge early, when safe to do so, rather than waiting until the last moment to change lanes.”

Zipper merging works best when drivers understand both the strategy and the etiquette behind it. While not always legally required, it is a safer and more efficient way to manage congestion as lanes close or merge.

If you or someone you know is ready to learn how to drive, sign up for AAA Driving School, available in Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

Does merging stress you out? Tell us how you feel about the zipper merge in the comments below!

With July designated National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month, AAA Northeast is reminding drivers to take preventive measures against vehicle theft, especially since summertime is primetime for this crime.
 
There is some good news: Vehicle thefts in the U.S. declined 23% in 2025 from 2024 to the lowest levels in several decades, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB). There were 659,880 vehicles reported stolen nationwide last year, a steep drop from the historic peak of 1,020,729 thefts in 2023.
 
Despite the decrease, the NICB reports approximately one vehicle is still stolen every 48 seconds in the U.S., and the risk is higher in some urban areas.
 
“While the significant decrease in vehicle thefts is good news for drivers, thousands of vehicle owners across the Northeast are still dealing with this crime every year,” said Jillian Young, director of public relations for AAA Northeast. “Especially during the summer, putting the proper protections in place can help deter thieves from taking off with your car or valuable items inside.”
 
AAA Northeast recommends the following to prevent vehicle thefts:
 

• Close windows and lock your car when parked — even at home.
• Always remove the keys and any valuables.
• Store key fobs as far away from your car as possible and consider putting them in a metal container to prevent a signal boosting attack, when thieves use an antenna to hack the key fob.
• Park in areas that are well-lit, visible to you or protected by security cameras.
• Never leave your car running unattended.
• If your car isn’t equipped with an anti-theft system, consider purchasing security devices for further protection, including:
  • Vehicle immobilizers
  • Steering wheel locks
  • Brake pedal locks
  • Theft-deterrent decals
  • Audible alarms
  • GPS trackers

Immediately reporting a stolen vehicle in the first 24 hours increases your chance of recovery by 34%, according to the NICB. Have information ready including your vehicle’s make and model, license plate number and vehicle identification number (VIN). Once you’ve filed a police report, notify your insurance company about the theft. Comprehensive insurance is needed to be covered for theft, so vehicle owners should review their auto insurance policies to ensure they have the coverage desired for each vehicle on their policy.

State Data

 
In Connecticut, there were 6,359 reported motor vehicle thefts in 2025, down nearly 28% from 2024, according to Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection. Theft from motor vehicles and theft of motor vehicle parts also saw significant decreases. The latest FBI data shows that 36% of vehicle thefts in Connecticut took place from May to August.
 
The greater New York metropolitan area had the second highest number of vehicle thefts among the nation’s metros with 27,138 thefts. The latest FBI data shows that more than 37% of vehicle thefts in New York took place from May to August.
 
In New Jersey, there were over 14,600 motor vehicle thefts reported in 2025, according to the latest FBI data. Roughly 35% of those thefts took place from May to August.
 
In Massachusetts, there were 6,491 reported motor vehicle thefts in 2025, a 14% decrease from the 7,540 reported in 2024, according to the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security. The latest FBI data shows that nearly 40 percent of vehicle thefts in Massachusetts took place from May to August.
 
In Rhode Island, there were over 1,300 reported motor vehicle thefts in 2025, and over 35% of those thefts took place from May to August, according to the latest FBI data.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often is a vehicle stolen in the United States?

Approximately one vehicle is stolen every 48 seconds in the United States, according to the NICB.

Are vehicle thefts decreasing?

Yes. NICB data shows vehicle thefts nationwide declined by 23% from 2024 to 2025, falling to 659,880 reported thefts from a historic high of more than one million thefts in 2023.

Which areas in the Northeast experience the highest levels of vehicle theft?

The greater New York metropolitan area recorded 27,138 vehicle thefts, one of the highest totals among U.S. metro areas.

What are the most effective ways to prevent vehicle theft?

AAA Northeast recommends locking vehicles, closing windows, removing keys and valuables, storing key fobs securely away from vehicles, parking in well-lit areas, and using anti-theft devices such as steering wheel locks, immobilizers, alarms, or GPS trackers.

What is a signal boosting attack?

A signal boosting attack occurs when thieves use electronic devices to amplify the signal from a nearby key fob, allowing them to unlock or start a vehicle. Storing key fobs away from vehicles and in metal containers or signal-blocking pouches can help reduce this risk.

What should I do if my vehicle is stolen?

Contact law enforcement immediately and provide your vehicle’s make, model, license plate number, and VIN. After filing a police report, notify your insurance company as soon as possible.

Does auto insurance cover vehicle theft?

Vehicle theft is generally covered under comprehensive auto insurance coverage. Vehicle owners should review their policies and speak with their insurance provider to confirm coverage for each vehicle on their policy.

New preliminary data from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) shows pedestrian fatalities across the United States have declined for a third consecutive year. In 2025, 6,732 people were struck and killed by vehicles, down 7% from 2024. However, that number is still 5% higher than 2019 pre-pandemic levels.

Pedestrian fatalities fell in 28 states from 2024 to 2025, including Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York and Rhode Island, according to GHSA. Connecticut was among 17 states that saw an increase from 2024. Preliminary data shows there were:

• 65 pedestrian deaths in Connecticut in 2025, up 5% from 2024.
• 220 pedestrian deaths in New York in 2025, down 27% from 2024.
• 178 pedestrian deaths in New Jersey in 2025, down 23% from 2024.
• 76 pedestrian deaths in Massachusetts in 2025, down 3% from 2024.
• Seven pedestrian deaths in Rhode Island in 2025, down 46% from 2024.

“While a continued decline in pedestrian deaths nationwide is promising, vehicles still strike and kill 18 people across the country every day,” said Jillian Young, director of public relations for AAA Northeast. “Communities must continue to emphasize education, enforcement and improvements to infrastructure to create a safer space for pedestrians and all road users.”

Though U.S. pedestrian deaths have been on the decline, federal crash data shows some troubling trends.

• The proportion of all pedestrian crashes involving a fatality more than doubled from 4% in 2015 to 10% in 2024.
• Larger vehicles continue to grow in popularity — and can be more deadly. Sport
  utility-vehicles (SUVs), pickup trucks and vans accounted for more than half of pedestrian fatalities in 2024.
• Hit-and-run crashes accounted for 24% of all pedestrian fatalities in 2024.
• Distraction-related pedestrian fatalities are on the rise. In 2024, 22% of pedestrian deaths involved a distracted driver, compared to 16% in 2019. In 2024, 29% of pedestrian deaths involved a distracted pedestrian, compared to 15% in 2019.

“To ensure those walking get to their destinations safely, we urge drivers to obey the speed limit, ditch distractions and use extra caution, especially at night when most pedestrian deaths occur,” Young said. “We also urge pedestrians to take precautions to protect themselves, including wearing clothing that makes them visible to drivers, using crosswalks and sidewalks when available and staying alert to their surroundings.”

Crude prices finished about $8.50 a barrel higher last week when trading ended on Friday as fighting continued across the Middle East for a second week. Since the unraveling of the ceasefire agreement reached in mid-June, crude prices have climbed roughly $20 a barrel — and retail gasoline prices have followed suit, swelling solidly above $4 a gallon on average across the Northeast. 

However, pump prices could stabilize in the coming days as crude and wholesale gasoline prices began this week sharply lower after the U.S. and Iran announced a pause in attacks on Sunday. In overnight trading, U.S. crude fell more than $6, and Brent crude declined more than $7 a barrel as markets reacted to the news. Despite the sell-off ahead of market open on Monday, crude prices remained about $14 higher than they were a month ago. 

Aside from higher crude costs, gasoline prices remain under pressure from tight inventories and steady demand. Strong U.S. production helped boost supplies by 800,000 barrels last week, according to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), but they’re still more than 8% below year-ago levels. Demand climbed 103,000 barrels a day week-over-week to reach 8.9 million barrels a day, the EIA reported. While solid for late July, the figure landed 20,000 barrels a day lower than the comparable week last year. 

“Pump prices have been on a rollercoaster this summer as geopolitical tensions shift between escalation and deescalation,” said Jillian Young, director of public relations for AAA Northeast. “Oil and gas markets are likely to remain unsettled as long as the situation in the Middle East remains volatile.” 

AAA’s July 27 survey of fuel prices found the national average up 11 cents from the previous week ($4), averaging $4.11 per gallon. The July 27 national average price was 24 cents higher than the previous month ($3.87) and 97 cents higher than the previous year ($3.14). 

As of July 27, Indiana and Mississippi had the lowest prices in the nation at $3.49 and $3.66, respectively. California and Hawaii had the highest prices at $5.64 and $5.42, respectively.  

Gas Prices by State Over Time

*Prices as of July 27, 2026 

The AAA Gas Prices website is your resource for up-to-date fuel price information. Search for average gas prices on national, state and metro levels by regular, plus, premium and diesel.  

Renters insurance protects your belongings and covers liability for accidents in your apartment. This renters insurance FAQ covers what’s included, how to score discounts and when a rider makes sense for valuable items.

AAA provides coverage for people in all sorts of living arrangements, including renters insurance. For more information, contact a AAA insurance agent.

Why should I buy renters insurance?

Renters insurance provides coverage for lost, stolen or damaged possessions in your apartment. The items in your living area can be worth a lot of money and expensive to replace after a disaster.

What does renters insurance cover?

Renters insurance protects you in case of injury, liability and other catastrophes, like if a stove fire wrecks your kitchen, a thief steals your home entertainment system or a guest slips and falls in your bathroom. With renters insurance, you are protected from damage to your belongings and if someone injured themselves while inside your apartment.

Learn more about renters insurance coverage. 

How is rental insurance different from homeowners insurance?

When you own a home, you also own the property in and around your home. If you rent your home, your landlord is the property owner.

A landlord has the responsibility to protect and maintain the building structure. But a landlord, who may own your building, is not responsible for the objects inside your rented apartment, accidental injury or other legal liability. In fact, your landlord may have insurance, but not for your specific living area.

Similarly, condo insurance acts differently since a condominium association usually owns the property. The association takes responsibility for day-to-day maintenance of buildings and common areas, like a gym or a pool. However, the condo association may not cover individual units and the property inside. Examine your condo association’s bylaws and look for gaps in coverage. You might want to get a policy for yourself to protect your individual unit and your possessions.

Is renters insurance mandatory?

Renters insurance isn’t legally required, but your landlord may make it a condition of your lease agreement. Failure to aquire it in this case may result in lease cancellation or eviction.

When it comes to landlord vs. renter insurance, the two are very different. While we know renters insurance covers you, the tenant, landlord insurance protects the physical building and is not something you need to have if you are simply renting.

Is it possible to find cheap renters insurance?

No matter the cost of renters insurance, it’s not as expensive as replacing all of the items in your apartment without insurance. Insurance gives you a chance to replace and repair items without breaking the bank.

Plus, you can ask for discounts. If you have smoke detectors, fire extinguishers or a security system, you may be eligible for a discount. Ask your insurance agent as you apply.

Cheap renters insurance is possible, but it is more important to have insurance that provides good coverage for the items that you hold dear and depend on every day.

Are there any situations renters insurance doesn’t cover?

In a similar way to homeowners insurance, renters insurance may have coverage limits, or not apply to certain situations. Of course, check with your insurance agent and ask about the specifics of your policy. Ask if you need an add-on to your coverage, especially if you have pets or a home business.

What if I have rare or unusual items? Will renters insurance cover them if they are lost or damaged?

Purchase an add-on or rider (also known as a floater) on your insurance policy to protect especially valuable items, such as jewelry, collectibles and antiques. You will have to provide a receipt for the purchase of the item, or have it appraised for its value. An appraisal must be kept recent especially since collectibles may change value over time. So it is a good idea to keep appraisals recent and update them every three to five years.

Alternatively, you can ask your insurer to raise the liability limit on your policy without adding a rider.

What if I have a storage unit? Will renters insurance cover the items inside that as well as the possessions in my apartment?

Some policies have coverage for items in a storage unit while others do not. You can also buy additional coverage for your storage unit through your insurance, or from your storage unit company.

How can I get the most out of my renters insurance?

Don’t be afraid to ask your insurance agent about any part of your policy, especially if you’d like renters insurance deductibles explained. Be honest, and tell them if you plan to make a change in your life, like remodeling your kitchen or making a big purchase. Agents are here to help you, make your life simpler and ensure the important things in your life are covered for any emergency.

In addition, make an inventory of the items in your home. This helps you know exactly the value of your possession and their condition before they were destroyed.

Do you have renters insurance? How has it helped you? Let us know in the comments.

Get a Renters Insurance Quote  

Before heading to college or sending a child off to school, there is a lot to think about: there’s financial planning, touring the campus, and of course, potentially meeting roommates and decorating the dorm room.

As you open this exciting chapter, don’t forget to take advantage of any available savings on your insurance for college students and update your policies. Think of it this way: If the college to-do list was a syllabus, getting your insurance needs in order would be one of your first assignments.

Insurance for College Students: Home and Renters

Parents may not be aware that homeowners insurance can extend some protection to their children going away to college. Approximately 10% of the personal property coverage on your policy (also known as “Coverage C”) will cover possessions in a child’s dorm room.

“So, if the Coverage C on your policy was $250,000, $25,000 would be afforded to your child’s stuff if a covered loss were to occur,” said Emily Buckley, AAA Northeast insurance sales manager.

Expensive items such as computers and other technology are often subject to coverage limits under a standard homeowners policy. If the limits are too low, parents may want to consider purchasing a special personal property endorsement.

Students living off-campus should consider purchasing renters insurance, which covers belongings and provides protection from liability if someone is injured on the property. It may also provide funds if a dorm room or apartment becomes uninhabitable because of a fire, burst pipe or other debilitating circumstance.

Extracurriculars

• Pack thoughtfully. While some valuables, such as laptops, may be needed on campus, other items like expensive jewelry are probably better left at home.

• Create a detailed “dorm inventory” that includes photos and receipts of everything in your living space. If you need to file a claim, an up-to-date inventory will help make the process easier.

• Burglaries make up about 50% of all on-campus crimes, and the library, dining hall and other public places are the primary areas where they occur, according to the Insurance Information Institute.

• Always lock your dorm room door and never leave belongings unattended on campus.

Auto Insurance for College Students

Auto insurance coverage depends on where you attend college. If you commute or stay at college in your home state and remain on your parents’ policy, coverage likely still applies. Check with your insurance provider to ensure minimum coverage requirements are met.

Parents who have kids attending school 100 miles or farther away could qualify for the student-away discount on their auto insurance policy that some companies offer. A young adult who doesn’t own a vehicle and drives the family car only when home is considered a lower risk, hence a lower rate. Full-time students who maintain at least a B (3.0) average or equivalent may also be eligible for a good student discount.

To see what discounts you may qualify for and to ensure you have adequate coverage while you or your child is at school, contact your insurance agent.

“Any life event is the perfect time to give your agent a call to review and assess if any changes can be made to your policy to better protect you and your family, all the while saving you as much money as possible,” said Buckley.

Car Care at College Tips From AAA

Whether driving many miles to an out-of-state school or commuting back and forth every day, it’s a good idea to keep your car well-maintained and running smoothly to help avoid any risks on the road.

• Check tires at least once a month using a tire pressure gauge.

• Regular upkeep such as oil changes, battery service, brake checks and filter replacements help extend the life of your car and helps mitigate repair costs. Check your owner’s manual to get to know your car’s maintenance schedule.

•  Find a trusted AAA Approved Auto Repair facility near your school.

• Breakdowns and other roadside emergencies happen. Make sure your vehicle has a well-stocked roadside emergency kit. In areas with winter ice and snow, add an ice scraper, snow brush and kitty litter or other material to increase traction if you get stuck in the snow. Emergency roadside assistance is available 24/7 for AAA members.

Tuition Insurance

There are a variety of reasons why a student may need to pause or stop going to college. Tuition insurance can provide reimbursement for non-refundable expenses like tuition payments, housing and even meal fees for students who need to leave school before the end of the semester for reasons which could include any covered illness, injury or psychological condition.

Insurance coverage may differ by state. Speak to a AAA Insurance agent to learn more about how you or the college student in your life can save on insurance.

As the heat turns up, so does the risk of heatstroke.

As 2025 finished up as the third warmest year on record, the frequency, duration and intensity of heat waves that we experience every year is only projected to increase, according to the World Health Organization.

When the mercury starts to rise into the 90s and push up into the 100s, it can become dangerous to our health, homes, cars and pets. However, it’s important to start thinking about hot car and extreme heat safety, even if there isn’t a heat wave in the forecast, as even a mild, sunny day, can make the inside of a car lethally hot. Here’s how you can guard against the risks.

Health

Soaring temperatures cause your body to strain to maintain normal conditions, which can quickly lead to organ failure and even death in some cases. Excessive heat is the leading weather-related killer in the United States, according to the National Weather Service.

It is often a combination of high heat and humidity that can lead to illnesses like heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. It’s important to learn the warning signs of heat exhaustion vs. heatstroke so if you experience the symptoms or notice them happening to someone else, you can act right away.

Populations most prone to heat-induced sickness include the elderly, overweight individuals, infants, children and pregnant women. Outdoor and manual workers are also at higher risk. If you are a business owner with employees that often works in these conditions, such as a contractor, you want to make sure you have the right insurance coverage in place.

Pets, particularly dogs and cats with thick coats and short snouts, can quickly fall victim to heatstroke, as well. Signs include panting or difficulty breathing, drooling, weakness, increased heart rate, lethargy and collapsing. Make sure your pets stay cool and well hydrated, don’t over-exercise them when it’s hot and keep them out of the direct sun.

More heat advisory precautions include eating light and consuming water even if you don’t feel thirsty.

Protecting Children and Pets From Hot Cars

Heatstroke is the most common non-crash, vehicle-related cause of death in children under the age of 15. Over 20% of deaths result when a caregiver knowingly leaves a child in a car, typically to run a quick errand or let the child finish a nap, according to NoHeatStroke.org.

On a typical 80-degree summer day, the interior temperature of a vehicle increases by 20 degrees in only 10 minutes and reaches a deadly 109 degrees in 20 minutes. On hotter days, the interior temperature can easily reach 120-140 degrees, and cracking the windows has little effect.

And it doesn’t have to be scorching hot outside to get dangerously hot inside a car. Although most hot car deaths occur when temperatures are over 80 degrees, a child has succumbed to vehicular heatstroke in 70-80-degree weather in each of the past ten years.

To prevent hot car deaths, AAA Northeast recommends caregivers practice the following:

• Stop and look at the backseat before exiting a parked vehicle. Make it a habit to check the entire vehicle before locking the doors and walking away. Place personal items, like a purse or briefcase, in the back seat as another reminder to look before you lock. Ask childcare providers to immediately call if your child doesn’t show up for care as expected.
• Lock your vehicle to prevent unsupervised access and a child getting trapped inside. Keep car keys away from children and teach them that the inside of a car should never be used as a play area.

Statistics about pets dying in hot cars are not tracked as closely, but the American Veterinary Medical Association reports that every year, hundreds of pets die of heatstroke in parked vehicles. In most Northeast states, it is illegal to leave a pet unattended in a parked car.

If you see a child or animal confined in a hot car, act fast and do whatever is necessary to get them to safety as quickly as possible. Immediately notify a nearby business so they can make an announcement to find the potential caregiver, call 911 and wait until help arrives.

Cars

AAA stays busy in the summertime, as breakdowns tend to spike on hot days.

Extreme heat can take a toll on cars and can be especially stressful on engines. Check the coolant and make sure that it is periodically flushed and replaced as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer to prevent long-term engine damage and overheating.

Car batteries also hate the heat. Battery fluid evaporates faster in the summer, leading to corrosion. If a car’s battery is more than three years old, it’s a good idea to have it tested by a trained technician. AAA members can request Mobile Battery Service or take their car to any AAA Approved Auto Repair facility to be tested. And while you’re there, have them make sure your tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s specification and the AC is operating at full capacity.

If all precautions fail, you know you can call AAA Roadside Assistance any day or time.

Check out more summer driving safety tips from AAA.

Home

When it gets to be too hot outside, you want your home to be a place of refuge where you can cool down. To cool your home in summer, Ready.gov recommends weather-stripping windows and doors, installing window air conditioners with insulation, covering windows with drapes or shades, using attic fans and setting up window reflectors such as aluminum foil-covered cardboard to deflect heat outside.

Preparing your home for extreme heat should be part of seasonal maintenance. Aside from making sure your house is as cool and energy-efficient as possible, without proper upkeep, heat can eventually start to take its toll on the structure. In the Northeast, this might include roof damage. Over time, roofing can expand and contract during extreme hikes and dips in temperature, making it susceptible to splits and leaks.

Protect you car, home, small business, pets and more with AAA Insurance.

What are your ways for staying cool in a heatwave? Tell us in the comments.

EPISODE SUMMARY

Figuring out how to make friends as an adult can feel surprisingly high stakes. If you’ve ever felt like everyone else already has their people, you’re far from alone. In this episode of Merging Into Life, host Sabrina Pierotti is joined by returning guest Vassia Sarantopoulou, psychologist and founder of AntiLoneliness, to explore why it’s so hard to make friends as an adult, loneliness versus being alone, and what it takes to find meaningful connection when life keeps getting in the way.

Whether you’re navigating a big life change like how to deal with loneliness after a career change, struggling with how to make friends when you have social anxiety or just wondering how to meet new people in your 30s, this episode offers honest, practical insight to one of the most universal struggles of modern adulthood.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Have you ever wondered, “Why do I feel lonely around people?” It’s because loneliness isn’t about being alone, it’s about feeling disconnected. You can be surrounded by people and still feel deeply lonely, especially when connections stay surface-level or when life shifts faster than your sense of belonging can adapt. Making friends after moving to a new country, changing careers, becoming a parent or while going through a breakup or divorce, can all quietly trigger loneliness, even when things look fine from the outside.
• Building meaningful relationships as an adult requires patience. Adult friendships take longer to form, and that’s not a personal failure. The reason friendships felt easier when we were younger is simple: proximity and repeated time together. Now we see people once a month if we’re lucky, and we carry more emotional baggage that makes our brains naturally more cautious, making overcoming fear of rejection in adult friendships a necessary step.
• Challenging limiting beliefs about making friends, like “it’s too late to make friends” or “everyone already has their circle” is essential, because they are closing doors before you even try. These over-generalized thoughts feel protective, but they keep you stuck. If you are looking to interrupt the isolation cycle or dealing with social anxiety after 30, the goal isn’t to replace these thoughts with toxic positivity. Instead, replace them with something realistic: Yes, some people will be flaky, and there are also people out there who will show up for you. Your job is to find the second kind.
• Finding community as an adult starts with your values, not a checklist. The most natural adult friendships tend to form around shared interests and beliefs like volunteering, fitness classes, dog parks and hobby groups. When you show up to something you genuinely care about, you’re already in a room with people who have something in common with you.

TRANSCRIPT

[00:00:02] Vassia Sarantopoulou: There is some security at staying at home, and yet there’s something poking you, there’s something bugging you, like, go out, come on, go out! And it’s that innate need we all have as human beings to go out and connect with others. It’s a need we are wired with, we cannot forget that. We love being seen, being understood, having fun with other people.

[00:00:27] Sabrina Pierotti: Listen, lifestyles change. It can become so hard to make new friends. Funny story: so, there is this girl who actually lives in my apartment complex, and for years, I had wanted to introduce myself and exchange numbers, because I always just got great, great energy from her. One day, we were walking in from work at the same time, and I did it. I asked for her number, and it truly sounds like I was asking her out on a date, but this is truly how high stakes it felt. I was worried she was going to think I was weird or like too abrasive, but now her, her husband, and me and Kyle are hanging out and getting to know each other, and it’s awesome. Even though that story has a happy ending, it does make me sad that friendships are just not as easy as they used to be. But you know what? We have an amazing guest returning to the show today that is going to go into the science behind this. It’s important we can provide some ways we can make some more friends. Welcome back to Merging Into Life. I’m your host, Sabrina Pierotti. Today, we’re talking about loneliness, adult friendship, and how to meet new people when it feels like everyone already has their people. We’ll get into why loneliness can be about more than just being alone, how past experiences and life changes shape the way we connect and what it actually looks like to build meaningful relationships as an adult. Joining me today is Vassia Sarantopoulou, who helps people better understand connection, relationships, and the emotional barriers that can make adult friendship and loneliness feel so complicated. Through her work and her own personal experience, she offers insight into what it takes to build relationships that actually feel meaningful. Hi, Vassia, it’s so, so good to see you again. Thank you for joining us on season three.

[00:02:21] Vassia Sarantopoulou: Yes, I’m so happy to see you again.

[00:02:23] Sabrina Pierotti: I’m really, really excited to talk more about what you focus on a lot, which is loneliness and anti-loneliness and building that movement. And today, we’re specifically going to talk about friendships. This is really coming at like such a perfect phase in my life, because I’m in my early 30s and my friendships that I used to have, you know, in my 20s are starting to change and meeting new friends in your 30s, it’s just a very different experience. So, to start, when we talk about loneliness, what does it actually mean to feel lonely versus simply just like being alone and by yourself?

[00:02:56] Vassia Sarantopoulou: Wow, that’s a really important distinction. Loneliness, it’s not the same as being alone. You can be alone and actually feel really peaceful and calm and restored and creative. On the other hand, you can be surrounded by people and feel lonely, deeply lonely, even though physically you are around them. So, loneliness is the feeling that there’s some connection missing in our lives. When we don’t feel understood, emotionally understood by others. When we don’t feel like we belong somewhere. We don’t have our tribe. So that’s one layer of loneliness, the emotional disconnection from others. There’s another even deeper layer of the loneliness, which is the emotion disconnection from ourselves. When we have been ignoring our needs, when we have been performing roles that they don’t really align with who we are, they don’t feel authentic when we have been living to other people’s expectations. So, all these accumulate. And there’s a point that we feel like we don’t even know who we are, why we do what we do.

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*The views and opinions expressed in this podcast do not constitute medical advice and are not necessarily the views of AAA Northeast, AAA and or its affiliates.

Among the cruelest realities of crashes involving impaired or distracted drivers is how quickly everything changes. One minute, people are laughing in the car. The next, they are on the way to the hospital — or worse.

Speakers at the 2026 New York Teen Driver Safety Summit on Long Island, hosted by AAA and Mothers Against Drunk Driving, wanted to make sure that more than 60 high school students in attendance got that message. Several presenters talked about how a driver’s lapse in judgement for a second has impacted their own lives forever.

“The summit focused on impairment and distraction behind the wheel and made a significant contribution to advancing the national AAA-MADD Campaign to End Impaired Driving,” said Mary Maguire, vice president for public and government affairs for AAA Northeast. “The speakers were impactful, and their real-life stories reminded the Public Affairs team that our community outreach matters. If we can convince just one more student to wear a seat belt or to think twice before driving drunk or distracted, we can potentially save a life.”

Sobering Statistics

The numbers alone are jarring. About 32 people in the United States die in drunk-driving crashes every day — the equivalent of one person every 44 minutes. In 2024, 11,904 people died in alcohol-impaired driving crashes.

Inexperience also plays a role. Teen drivers have the highest chance of being involved in a fatal crash in the first six months after receiving their license, noted Maureen McCormick, special assistant for legislative initiatives in the Suffolk County district attorney’s office.

Among drivers ages 15 to 20 who died in car crashes, 29% had a blood alcohol concentration of 0.01 grams per deciliter of blood (0.01%) or higher. About 28% were at or above the legal adult level of intoxication of 0.8%. 

Committed to Change

For Jacy Good and Steve Johnson, founders of Hang Up and Drive, a split-second distraction forever changed their lives and set them on a mission to warn young people about the dangers of distracted driving. Since they began speaking to groups in 2010, Good and Johnson have done countless public interviews and delivered more than 1,900 presentations in 44 states and three countries.

“You have the power to save lives,” Johnson told the students.

College sweethearts, Good and Johnson were planning their lives together after graduating in May 2008. Good and her parents were driving to their home in Pennsylvania after the ceremonies when a teenage driver, distracted by his phone, started to turn left at a red light. The driver of a tractor trailer swerved to avoid hitting him and crashed head on into the Good’s car. Good’s parents were killed instantly; she was rushed to a hospital, where after 8.5 hours of surgery, doctors said she had about a 10% chance of survival.

But she persevered through months of hospitalizations and rehabilitation and has mostly recovered. Although she still has some lingering effects. Johnson was by her side the entire time.

Sharing Their Reality

Less than a year after the crash, Good was busy urging Pennsylvania’s General Assembly to prohibit cellphone use while driving. No charges were filed against the driver who caused the truck to swerve, since at the time, Pennsylvania had no laws regulating cellphone use by drivers. In 2025, the state legislature passed a law making cellphone use while driving illegal.

Good and Johnson further sealed their partnership when they married in 2013. While it was a joyous day, Good said she missed wedding rituals like dress shopping with her mother and a father-daughter dance.

“We built the life we have,” Johnson said. “But these are not shoes you want to be in.”

Be The Change

During their presentations, the two stressed that just having cellphones within reach while driving is distracting.

“There is an idea that we can be connected all the time, but that’s just not true,” Good said.

Even using Bluetooth devices can affect your attention, according to Johnson.

“Just listening to people talking on the phone while driving isn’t safe. It distracts people,” he said.

Discipline and good friends can help.

“Get to your car five minutes earlier. Finish your call and then put on your seatbelt and put your phone away,” Good said.

Or let a friend be the designated texter, and have them hold the phone and respond to messages.

“You have the power to make a difference,” Good said.

 “You can be the one who says, ‘slow down,’ Johnson added.

For Tyniah, 18, of Uniondale High School, who soon will be driving, the warnings hit home.

“Hearing about the crashes is scary,” she said. “I need to make sure I drive the speed limit, drive sober and not drive with anyone who has been drinking.”

What Good most wanted students to take away from her story is that there are faces behind all the crash figures.

“Reality is not just numbers,” she said. “It’s real people.”

When volunteers are needed, AAA Northeast members answer the call.

As part of its commitment to strengthen communities, AAA Northeast encourages employees and members to volunteer with local charitable organizations, supporting causes ranging from environmental conservation to combating food insecurity and assisting families in need.

Earth Month cleanups at local parks and beaches are some of the most popular member volunteer opportunities.

Among those who return every April are Jim Goulet of Wakefield, Rhode Island, and Wanda Ruiz and her daughter, Amorah, of Worcester, Massachusetts. They were recently given AAA Cares baseball caps in recognition of their dedication. Pins on the brim mark the number of years they have participated in the annual cleanups — four years for the Ruiz family and three years for Goulet.

Would you like to volunteer with AAA Northeast? Find upcoming community events near you.

Building Community Teams

For AAA Northeast, building community involvement is a priority.

“Our goal was to get more members involved,” said Branch Manager Maggie McMenemy, who leads the Earth Month events. “Year over year, we have made progress to increase our member involvement.”

Previous volunteers are asked every year if they want to participate again.

“Jim and Wanda always say yes,” said McMenemy.

Loving Giving Back

For Ruiz, the AAA Earth Month events were the motivation she needed to jump into community service.

“I started volunteering four years ago when I received an email about the Earth Day cleanup at Elm Park,” Ruiz said. “I was looking for a way to get involved, and that was the perfect opportunity! What I like most about engaging in community service is giving back to the community I grew up in and coming together with like-minded people who have a similar passion. Earth Day for me is special, as we get to take care of the planet we live on, not only for now but for future generations.”

Her 10-year-old daughter, Amorah, has joined her every year.

“She’s always willing to help and is great with recycling, so we figured this is a great way to get out there and hopefully motivate her to do her part,” Ruiz said.

Goulet, a 45-year AAA member, joined Save the Bay with AAA for the past three years, because he values giving back to the community.

“I like making things cleaner and better,” Goulet said. “I spend a lot of time on the beach, and I enjoy walking, swimming and relaxing.”

Goulet was paying his membership dues at a AAA branch three years ago when he saw a notice about the beach cleanup.

“I’ve always done beach cleanups and things, in other areas. I always want to give back,” he said.

He posted the call for volunteers in a coffee group he belongs to, in an effort to spread the word.

Help Us Make a Difference

Anyone who has been thinking of volunteering should just get out there, Ruiz said.

“There’s an instant satisfaction when you go help and do something good. And if they don’t want to do it alone, things like this are a perfect way to start. Get together with your community or gather a few friends and family and make a difference no matter how small it may seem.”

This is what AAA Northeast has been aiming to build over the years, according to McMenemy.

“A group of like-minded people who we can count on to return and continue our journey together. It makes all this worth it, and I can’t thank them enough,” she said.

We’d love to see you at our next community event! Find AAA community service events in your area.

Left to right, Maggie McMenemy, AAA; Amorah Ruiz, Wanda Ruiz, Kelly Haynes, AAA, participating in the cleanup at Elm Park.

Hawaii and California may get more of the pipeline glory, but people have been surfing the waters off New England, New York and New Jersey since local lifeguards brought longboards back from the West Coast back in the early 1960s. Diehards will tell you the best waves arrive with winter storms, with wetsuits a must in the chilly waters, but you can catch a decent swell almost any time of year at these Northeast surfing destinations. 

Narragansett, R.I.

Narragansett Pier is longboard heaven, with surfers lining up in the shadow of this beach town’s iconic Towers to catch the long offshore break rolling in toward the seawall at Narragansett Town Beach. The area around the Point Judith Lighthouse and nearby Matunuck in South Kingstown are other popular surfing destinations. 

• Where to stay: The Break Hotel not only has a vintage surfing vibe but is also close to one of the best reef breaks in the Northeast.  
• Where to hang loose: Chill out at sunset with a cocktail at Chair 5, the rooftop bar at The Break Hotel, then catch some live music at the Bon Vue Inn. 
• Where to gear up: Narragansett Surf & Skate has surfboards, accessories, swimwear and lessons. It’s owned by local surf legend Peter “Pan” Panagiotis, who has been surfing Rhode Island’s waters since the “Summer of Love.” 

Newport, R.I.

South-facing shores capture wind-driven surf on Newport’s Easton’s (First) Beach and nearby Middletown’s Sachuest (Second) Beach, while diehards challenge the waves below the mansion-lined Cliff Walk at spots like Ruggles and Bailey’s Beach. 

• Where to stay: The Atlantic Beach Hotel is just steps from the surf, while the Sea Breeze Inn is a laid-back alternative for those traveling on a surf bum’s budget. 
• Where to hang loose: Located within walking distance of Easton’s Beach, Rejects Beer Co. is named for Newport’s famous locals’ beach and has a counterculture vibe to go along with on-site brewed stouts, ales and Twelve O’Clock High, a classic New England-style IPA. 
• Where to gear up: Local surf legend Sid Abruzzi has been setting up surfers with boards, swimwear and more at Waterbrothers since 1971. Rhody Surf offers private surfing lessons and summer surf camps on Easton’s Beach. 

Cape Cod, Mass.

Known as Four Mile to local surfers, White Crest Beach in Wellfleet takes a little effort (namely climbing up and down dunes) to reach, but the reward is the best surfing on the Cape, with sandbars providing good wave breaks for both longboarders and shortboards. But you can surf almost anywhere on the ocean-facing side of the Outer Cape, from Nauset Beach in Orleans to Head of the Meadow Beach in Truro. Just mind the sharks, which seem to be making the Cape waters home in greater numbers in recent years. 

• Where to stay: The Four Diamond Mansion at Ocean Edge is one of the Cape’s poshest resorts and close to White Crest Beach in Wellfleet. 
• Where to hang loose: The Beachcomber in Wellfleet is a toes-in-the-sand bar that’s close to the surfing beaches. 
• Where to gear up: The Pump House Surf Shop in Orleans has hordes of boards — surfboards, stand-up paddleboards, skateboards, skim boards and more. 

Montauk, N.Y.

The birthplace of East Coast surfing, Montauk has evolved from a sleepy fishing village to a trendy weekend destination but still attracts surfers to take-off spots at Turtles (right below the lighthouse), Ditch Plains for longboard action, and Terrace with its reef-generated waves. Fall can be the sweet spot for a surfing road trip to Montauk, with the Hamptons summer crowd seeking warmer shores, water temps still tolerable and occasional big waves arriving with hurricane season. 

• Where to stay: The oceanfront boutique Marram Montauk resort sits amid the dunes at the Terrace surf break.
• Where to hang loose: The Surf Lodge hotel has high-design guest rooms, a waterfront restaurant serving fresh local seafood and a free summer concert series. 
• Where to gear up: Sunset Surf Shack is a low-key surf shop a block off the beach in the heart of Montauk. 

Rockaway Beach, N.Y.

Maybe you don’t want to hitch a ride to Rockaway Beach like The Ramones suggested, but this may be the only surfing destination that you can reach by subway (take the A train). Surfing beaches are located between Beach 68th St. and Beach 71st St., Beach 87th and Beach 91st St., and Beach 110th and Beach 111th St. 

• Where to stay: The Rockaway Hotel has coast-inspired rooms with water views, a rooftop bar and a heated pool with cabanas, plus surf lockers and lessons from Locals Surf School. 
• Where to hang loose: The Rockaway Beach Surf Club has a surfer themed outdoor patio alongside the elevated subway line, craft cocktails and Mexican food.  
• Where to gear up: Breakwater Surf Co. was named among USA Today’s 10 Best surf shops by readers in 2026.

Manasquan, N.J.

Snooki didn’t surf, but you’ll find surfers all along the Jersey Shore, including Seaside Heights. Hardcore surfers, however, are most likely to be found at Inlet Beach in Manasquan, a small beach town squeezed between Sea Girt and Point Pleasant. A jetty at the inlet helps intensify a long offshore break. 

• Where to stay: The Casa Del Mar, a boutique motel on the Point Pleasant side of the Manasquan Inlet, has newly renovated rooms and is within walking distance of the ocean, boardwalk and inlet. 
• Where to hang loose: The Reef & Barrel offers seasonal seafood, pub grub, specialty drinks and live music.
• Where to gear up: A short drive from the renowned breaks of Manasquan in Spring Lake, hit up Bare Wires Surf Shop for surfboards, accessories and laid-back coastal style.

Where’s your favorite surfing destination? Tell us in the comments! If you need some help deciding, check out our guide to the best Northeast beaches.

Atlantic hurricane season begins June 1 and extends through Nov. 30, making this a good period of time to stay ready in case of a storm (or two).

Despite even the most accurate forecasts, it’s hard to pinpoint the property damage total that can result from a hurricane or severe storm. From Katrina to Sandy to Ian, storms continue to make historic benchmarks in losses. Weather and climate disasters in the U.S. from 1980 to February 2025 cost approximately $2.9 trillion in damages, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Without the right insurance coverage, it can be hard to recover after a hurricane hits. Here are some of the most important things to know about hurricane insurance deductibles.

To speak to a AAA insurance agent about your storm coverage, schedule a call today. 

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Have insurance questions? Listen to Episode 3 of our podcast, Merging Into Life: Insurance 101.

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The History of Hurricane Insurance Deductibles

In 1992, Hurricane Andrew left insurers with $15.5 billion in losses – at the time, the costliest hurricane in U.S. history. From that point, hurricane insurance was determined to be a necessity in coastal areas to help cover high-cost property losses due to storm risks like hail and high winds.

“After the wake-up call of Andrew, insurers in many coastal states began to sell homeowners insurance policies with percentage deductibles for storm damage,” according to the Insurance Information Institute. “These deductibles are stated as a percentage of the insured value of the homes and generally are a higher dollar amount than traditional dollar deductibles used for other types of losses such as fire damage and theft.”

Nineteen states and the District of Columbia have hurricane deductibles. In the Northeast, this includes Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York and Rhode Island.

It should be noted that hurricane deductibles do not include flooding. Flood insurance must be purchased separately.

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What Is a Hurricane Insurance Deductible?

A deducible is the amount of loss paid by the policyholder before insurance kicks in. Percentage deductibles are calculated as a specified percentage of the insured value of your property.

The exact percentage and explanation of your windstorm insurance deductible will be noted on your homeowner policy.

When it comes to hurricane coverage cost, you’ll be responsible for around 1-5% of the insured value before your coverage starts. As explained by the Insurance Information Institute, “If a house is insured for $300,000 and has a 5% deductible, the first $15,000 of a claim must be paid out of the policyholder’s pocket.”

Based on where you live, some insurance companies may offer named storm deductibles (a deductible for losses caused by named storms only), hurricane deductibles stated as higher dollar amounts or possibly no separate hurricane deductible at all. In each case, this will be reflected in the premium that’s being charged. You can ask your agent about what options are available to you.

When Does Hurricane Insurance Coverage Kick In?

How insurance deductibles work is with a series of event triggers. These triggers vary by state and insurance carrier, but a good indicator comes from the National Weather Service. Once a hurricane watch or warning is issued, the intensity level is crucial. The moment a Category 1 hurricane makes landfall is when the deductible becomes applicable.

How Well Do You Understand Your Hurricane Insurance Deductible?

Of the homeowners surveyed in New Jersey, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas and Florida 34% had never heard of hurricane deductibles, according to a 2017 report by the Insurance Research Council. It was found that over 25% lacked understanding of basic deductibles and 33% were unsure of the percentage applied.

New Jersey respondents demonstrated the lowest level of awareness and understanding of several hurricane deductible issues, despite the fact that about 346,000 homes in New Jersey were damaged or destroyed by Sandy.

This lack of understanding makes it harder to gain coverage in the aftermath of a hurricane-related event.

Know Your Insurance

When shopping for insurance, always check the financial rating of a company, especially if you live in an area that is prone to hurricanes. Catastrophic weather events result in large swaths of damage that may generate large losses for a particular company and can exceed their ability to pay all the claims.

Each state has its own rules regarding hurricane insurance. Talk to your insurance agent to run through all of the technicalities of your policy to make sure you can get the right coverage.

Speak to a AAA insurance agent today.  

Did we help you to better understand hurricane deductibles? Leave a comment below.

Crude oil prices climbed more than $11 last week as tensions continued to escalate across the Middle East following the July 8 breakdown of the ceasefire agreement that had helped calm oil and gas markets. By the close of markets on Friday, the price for a barrel of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) settled above $81 and Brent crude finished at $88, as markets reacted to fresh U.S. and Iranian attacks and announcements from both sides regarding the closure of the critical Strait of Hormuz. 

Higher crude prices aren’t the only factor putting pressure on prices at the pump: Domestic gasoline inventories have fallen to 12-year lows, according to the latest figures from the Energy Information Administration (EIA). Despite strong production from U.S. refiners, supplies of gasoline decreased by 1.5 million barrels last week, reaching their lowest summer levels since August 2014, the EIA reported. Steady, but not spectacular, domestic demand and record gasoline exports have constrained supplies all summer. Last week, domestic demand settled at 8.8 million barrels a day — just shy of the benchmark of 9 million barrels a day that markets interpret as a signal of stronger demand. That mark has been exceeded just three times since mid-May. By comparison, demand surpassed 9 million barrels a day five times last year and six times in 2024 over the same period. 

“For months, the status of the Strait of Hormuz has heavily influenced oil and gas markets and the latest developments in the war have shown again how quickly that influence can impact what drivers pay at the pump,” said Jillian Young, director of public relations for AAA Northeast. “Where prices head next will depend on a combination of gasoline inventories, demand and the war with Iran.” 

AAA’s July 20 survey of fuel prices found the national average up 13 cents from the previous week ($3.87), averaging $4 per gallon. The July 20 national average price was 5 cents higher than the previous month ($3.95) and 86 cents higher than the previous year ($3.14). 

As of July 20, Indiana and Mississippi had the lowest prices in the nation at $3.35 and $3.57, respectively. California and Hawaii had the highest prices in the nation at $5.49 and $5.41, respectively.  

Gas Prices by State Over Time

*Prices as of July 20, 2026 

The AAA Gas Prices website is your resource for up-to-date fuel price information. Search for average gas prices on national, state and metro levels by regular, plus, premium and diesel.  

Fly into Washington, D.C., or Baltimore, pick up a rental car and head west. In less than two hours, you’ll arrive in West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle, where Jefferson and Berkeley counties pair outdoor adventure with rich history, welcoming small towns, cozy stays and delicious meals.

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park and Trails

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park sits where the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers meet. Visitors can fish, go rock climbing and hike the park’s trail network.

Harpers Ferry sits at the crossroads of three iconic trails — the Appalachian Trail, the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal towpath and the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail — making it one of the few places where you can collect several stamps on your National Park Passport in one visit.

“You can visit four national parks in five minutes,” said Kristen Maxfield, park ranger and interpretation and education program manager for the park.

Besides its beauty, there’s also a lot of history to take in here, as the site of John Brown’s Raid to free enslaved people in 1859 and Civil War battlefields.

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Charles Town and Shepherdstown

From Harpers Ferry, head to Charles Town, founded by George Washington’s brother Charles. There’s a wealth of Washington family history in the area; George owned property here and encouraged his brothers to purchase land as well.

At the Jefferson County Museum, you can learn more about the region’s history and see the original wagon that transported John Brown to his hanging following his conviction of treason, murder and conspiring with enslaved people to rebel.

For a different kind of history lesson, stop by O’Hurley’s General Store in nearby Shepherdstown. Housed in a building that feels frozen in the 1800s, the store sells everything from handcrafted rocking chairs to handmade soaps and jewelry. There’s even a working blacksmith shop on the property, and on Thursday nights, the fireplace room fills with local musicians for a traditional folk jam session.

“It’s more like an experience than shopping,” said owner and manager Genevieve O’Loughlin.

More History in Martinsburg

Whether you’re interested in trains, Civil War history or architecture, the Matinsburg Roundhouse is not to be missed. Recognized as the only cast-iron railroad roundhouse left in the world, it features a full-size turntable once used to reposition locomotives. It’s also the site of the first national labor strike in 1877. You can hear about the roundhouse and its history during a guided tour, offered seasonally April through October.

Martinsburg also is home to some notable figures, including as Adam Stephen, a Revolutionary War general and the city’s founder. You can learn more about him as you tour the General Adam Stephen House, constructed in the late 1770s to early 1780s of native limestone. Another notable local figure is Belle Boyd, a Confederate spy who became an actress after the war. Her story is told at the Belle Boyd House, which also serves as the Berkeley County visitors center and historical museum.

Satisfy Your Taste Buds

As you travel through Jefferson and Berkeley counties, you’ll find a variety of eateries and restaurants that are sure to please your appetite. A great starting point, Bolivar Bread in Harpers Ferry bakes up artisan loaves such as sourdough, wheat and rye, plus the West Virginia state food, pepperoni roll. Perhaps unexpected in these historic West Virginia counties, Thai Martinsburg offers authentic Thai cuisine in a circa-1885 Queen Anne-style building. Sample everything from pad thai to panang curry. For something sweet, grab a gourmet chocolate at DeFluri’s Fine Chocolates.

In Shepherdstown, Blue Moon Cafe features a full menu of sandwiches, salads and burgers that are perfect for lunch. If the weather is nice, ask for a table on the outside patio under the trees. For a lovely dinner out, head to the Potomac Room at Bavarian Inn, also in Shepherdstown. Choose from traditional German entrees like Wiener schnitzel or try a European-inspired dish like shepherd’s pie.

For accommodations, the Bavarian Inn is an ideal home base for your stay in West Virginia’s eastern panhandle. Choose from the inn’s chalet rooms overlooking the Potomac River or opt for a room in the Schwarzwald Building, which overlooks the Grey Stone Manor. You can even stay in the manor in the mansion suite. No matter which you choose, you’re sure to have a great vacation.

Plan your trip with a AAA travel advisor and rent your car with Hertz. AAA members can save up to 20% on Hertz rentals.