Find you’re having trouble sleeping lately? Or, maybe you woke up one morning to find a rash on your shoulder? What to do, what to do? The best course will be to head to your doctor’s office. If you don’t have one, that’s a good indicator that it’s time to start looking. But you may be wondering how to find a general practitioner, or what a general practitioner even is.

The doctor for whom you’ll search will most likely be a general practitioner, someone who does not specialize in treating one part of the body or focus his or her practice on one narrow area of medicine.

A general practitioner will serve as your go-to aid for everyday health care problems such as the flu or a temporary bout of insomnia, as a conduit to the specialists you may need for more serious issues such as cardiovascular disease and for overseeing all the care you receive.

These primary care physicians will serve as your medical “home.” He or she will be the doctor you visit for most medical issues, including wellness visits, routine screenings and non-emergency illnesses. Some patient-general practitioner relationships will be short because education or work will take you from place to place and switch you from insurer to insurer. Other doctor-patient relationships can span decades.

How to find a general practitioner

There are some tried-and-true ways of finding a general practitioner. Just ask your mom or dad. Really, ask them. With any luck, the doctor they brought you to as a kid when you had the sniffles or poison ivy has a practice that also treats adults. How simple is that?

Maybe there’s a friend or co-worker you can ask. People who have had the same doctor for many years are likely to sing their praises and could be willing to find out if their doctor is accepting new patients.

If you’re flying a bit blind on this choice, maybe because you’ve recently moved, you can find general practitioners through your state’s health department – which may provide quality ratings on them – your state’s medical society, or even an internet search.

But, here’s the thing: You should get an OK from your insurer or employer’s benefits office before booking an appointment.

Insurance plans typically limit policyholders’ choice of doctors to those medical professionals under contract with them.

Many insurers also require you to choose a doctor (who will be considered your primary care physician, or PCP) from an approved list. The primary care physician will be responsible for your care, will make referrals for you to specialists, physical therapists, or other health professionals in coordination with your insurer and according to what is allowed under your insurance plan.

You should consider a family practitioner (someone who would take on your whole family as patients), a general practitioner or an internist as your primary care physician.

What you should decide is: What is most important for me or my family when it comes to primary medical care?

Depending on your gender and whether you have children, you may want to choose an obstetrician/gynecologist or a pediatrician. All of these doctors are considered primary care practitioners because they can manage your health care. Regardless of whom you choose, make sure your insurance will cover that doctor’s services before you get billed.

How do I know if a doctor is right for me?

Whether you talk to your family and friends about their doctors, or are trying to figure this out on your own, be sure to get a sense of a few things before settling on a general practitioner.

His or her personality, for instance. Do you want someone who is direct and efficient, or warmer and more conversational?

How easy is getting an appointment? How convenient is it to get to their office from home or work? What about the office hours? Or, weekend and night service? Do they use a medical laboratory nearby? Or, are you going to have to plan a separate trip to get tests done?

Once you have a short list of possibilities, you should call the doctors’ offices to learn whether they are accepting new patients and, if so, whether they accept your insurance plan.

When you go, make sure you have a list of previous surgeries or hospitalizations, as well as any major conditions or illnesses and prescription drugs. Remember to bring your insurance card and a current identification with you.

Go into this first visit with a list of questions you want answered, such as a doctor’s special practice areas, who covers the practice when he/she is unavailable or where they have hospital admitting privileges. From the moment you step in the door to a general practitioner’s office, keep your eyes and ears open. You’re less likely to visit a doctor or follow up on recommendations when the doctor and his or her staff are cold and careless.

A relationship with a doctor is one of the most important and intimate in life. You need to feel as if you trust him or her and that they are an ally in your care and well-being. The decision about who will be your primary care physician is up to you. The effort to find a general practitioner is one of the most important health care decisions you will make. Be sure to give it the care and thought it requires. Your life will be better with a doctor on whom you can depend.

What would your advice be to someone trying to find a general practitioner? What do you like about your current GP or primary care physician? Tell us in the comments below.

For those with a taste for adventure, few states across the nation are as suitable as Connecticut. Even among the natural beauty and coastal charms of New England, there’s an overwhelming assortment of engaging, heart-pumping and otherwise thrilling outdoor activities in Connecticut.

From its scenic parks and trails to more fast-paced pastimes, the state caters to every desire, offering a strong incentive to those looking to relocate or take a much-needed break from the stresses of daily life. So, before you lock in those travel plans, here are a few reasons why Connecticut needs to be on your must-visit list.

Park it up

One of the key selling points of Connecticut is its wide range of parks. While there are far too many to name here, let’s run through some of the highlights.

Kent Falls State Park: On a visit to this Litchfield Hills locale, you can trek across a covered bridge right up to the cascading falls over the Housatonic River and the shimmering reflecting pool below. Whether you’re in the mood for some fishing – this is a designated Trout Park, after all – or just want to take in the sights, it’s a worthwhile stop.

Talcott Mountain State Park: From this park’s 165-foot-tall Heublein Tower, you’ll be able to take in a 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape. Or you might opt to simply take in the museum of local history housed within the tower itself. Either way, the 1.25-mile hiking trail is sprinkled with natural wildlife, making it the perfect spot for bird-watching of picnicking.

Devil’s Hopyard State Park: This park earned its name because of the round holes in its falls, but we think you’ll agree it’s heavenly nonetheless. Looking for a place to wander, go fishing or otherwise explore the elements? Look no further as this park’s 21 campground sites and wooded surroundings position it as a great place to get away from it all.

Hiking and biking

Despite the prevalence of hiking and biking trails at the parks we’ve already mentioned, there are plenty more options in Connecticut for those looking to get moving.

Hubbard Park & Castle Craig: One of the more unique destinations in Connecticut, this one attracts crowds from all over, largely because of the stone observation platform atop Castle Craig Tower. Below, guests can explore a whopping 1,800 acres of hiking trails and picnic areas. It’s definitely something to keep in mind the next time you’re in or near Meriden.

Mattabesett Blue Trail: Not far from Middlefield, this 9-mile trail leads hikers down mountainous terrain at every turn, including some of the lushest areas around. In fact, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more comprehensive trail than this one, as its interconnected looping trails will keep you busy for hours.

Tunxis State Forest: The next time you find yourself anywhere near routes 20 and 179 in Granby, set aside some time to spend here. Of course, it’s brimming with hiking trails and mountain bike trails, but if you have energy to spare after all that, Tunxis also offers cross-country skiing, fishing, hunting and boating.

Fit for fitness

Once you’re done hiking and biking around the wide range of parks and trails throughout Connecticut, you might be looking for an even greater shot of adrenaline.

Satan’s Kingdom State Recreation Area: In the summer months, people flock here for a ton of different activities, namely those in the water. Tubing, canoeing and kayaking are all popular choices for visitors to this New Hartford locale, as the Farmington River ideally sets the stage for vigorous workouts and lazy afternoons alike.

Hammonasset Beach State Park: This 2-mile beach bears the designation of being the largest shoreline park in the state, so you know it’s something special. In the mood for some swimming, scuba diving and saltwater fishing? Look no further. Hammonasset even offers camping, picnicking and a nature center to ensure that it has something for everyone.

Clarke Outdoors: Since we’re focusing on the many outdoor activities in Connecticut, there’s no way we would dare leave this one off our list. One of northwestern Connecticut’s greatest treasures, Clarke Outdoors gives visitors the opportunity to travel down a miles-long stretch of the Housatonic River via canoe, raft or kayak. A word of advice: Make your reservations now.

Adventure time

Athletically inclined visitors to Connecticut (clearly) have no shortage of things to do, but before we send you on your way, here are a couple more destinations worth considering.

EMPOWER Leadership Sports & Adventure Center: This Middletown locale focuses on adventure as an opportunity to build bonds between family and friends. The half-mile guided zip line canopy tour is among the most attractive features, but don’t forget to make time for the other aerial activities, such as tree-climbing and scavenger hunts.

Brownstone Exploration & Discovery Park: Here’s another adventurous spot with more options than you’ll have time to experience in one day. From rock climbing, wakeboarding, cliff jumping and scuba diving, this is the perfect place to soak in all the intense fun the outdoors can bring. Muster up your courage for the exhilarating obstacle courses, zip lines and other challenges.

Indulge your interests

Ready for your next adventure? There are literally hundreds of other things to do in Connecticut.

Plan your next Connecticut adventure with AAA.

Tell us some of your favorite outdoor activities in Connecticut in the comments below.

Newport, R.I., is best known for its peaceful coastal views, stunning historical sites and delicious local seafood. While summer is popular for tourists, winter in Newport exudes charm, nostalgia and a peaceful quiet that warm-weather crowds don’t have the opportunity to experience.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or just need a relaxing daytrip, Newport has something for everyone, no matter the season.

The Famous Mansions

No matter the season, a trip to Newport isn’t complete without a tour of the opulent mansions. Tours are given daily, showcasing these architectural marvels. You can visit The Breakers, Rosecliff and Marble House in January and February. If you’re interested in learning about the homes’ inner workings, a new underground tour explores the basement and boiler room of The Breakers, with a little history thrown in from the diary of the home’s engineer.

Indulge in Local Cuisine

Newport’s food scene is just as rich as the city’s history. Christopher Hughes, assistant branch manager at the AAA Middletown branch, R.I., and Newport native, provided some suggestions. If you want to splurge a little on your weekend away, the Dining Room at Castle Hill Inn is the “all-star Newport” place to go for dinner. Be prepared for a culinary journey at the AAA Four Diamond Rated restaurant, with the option of a three-, four- or six-course dining experience and over 800 wine selections. For a more casual experience, Midtown Oyster Bar offers local seafood dishes, along with sandwiches, salads, steaks and more.

Newport Winter Festival

New England’s Largest Winter Extravaganza, as it bills itself, is the perfect antidote for beating the winter blues. From Feb. 15-24, visitors can take part in all sorts of events, from beach polo and ice sculpting demonstrations to a mac and cheese smackdown and twinkling illuminated gardens. There’s even an ice bar – Polar Pineapples – at Gurney’s Newport Resort. Bundle up!

Seal Watch Tours

Summer isn’t the only time to head out on the water. Save the Bay hosts seal watch tours from November through April, where you can board an education vessel and observe harbor seals resting on rocks in Narragansett Bay. Opt for the two-hour excursion for a tour of Rose Island Lighthouse.

There’s no harm in hoping that you’re the next Powerball lottery winner, but responsibly managing your personal savings requires more than good luck.

The road to financial security begins with meticulous (and realistic) planning and budgeting. Whether you’re saving for college, retirement, a new car or an emergency, the first step in managing your personal savings is to set a goal. Start off by asking yourself this simple question: What’s your personal savings goal?

Budget

Once you have set your goal, then you can create a budget. Financial advisers often recommend that we put aside 20 percent of our income toward savings, which includes retirement and debt. This is what’s known as the 50/30/20 rule. The gist of the rule is this: Allocate 50 percent of your income toward necessities like rent or mortgage and other living expenses. Another 30 percent should be set aside for vacations and lifestyle expenses. The remaining 20 percent should be put toward retirement and cash savings. Of course, it’s easier to adhere to this plan when you have more income to play with. But managing your personal savings – at any income bracket – can become a habit with practice.

Here’s an easy trick to start saving: Set up an automatic transfer through your payroll system. That way funds from each paycheck will go directly into your savings. Think of your personal savings as another bill. You’re essentially paying yourself and making that a priority before anything else. With automatic transfers, you don’t have to think about the money that’s being allocated to your savings.

If a 20 percent savings plan isn’t practical for your lifestyle, set aside 15 percent or whatever works for your goal and budget. Consider this: How much do you earn and what are your expenses? You’ll likely have to reassess your budget and set your financial priorities. If it’s any comfort, know that you’re not alone in this struggle. In fact many other Americans also have difficulty managing their personal savings. GOBankingRates, in partnership with The Penny Hoarder, surveyed 3,000 Americans in 2014 and found that 44.5 percent didn’t have a savings account at all. Another 28.5 percent had less than $1,000 in their savings account.

There are numerous budget apps and online calculators available through your bank which can help you manage your budget. Take advantage of them. The first step in managing your personal savings is to gain financial awareness.

Trim the fat to bolster your personal savings

With a budget in hand, you can begin eliminating unnecessary expenses. Research how you can lower your phone, electric, gas and/or other monthly expenses. Find out if you’re eligible for cost-savings programs. Keep track of your spending, and, as a rule of thumb, always live below your means. You’ll be surprised to know that some of the richest people in the world are also some of the most frugal.

Distinguish between what you need and what you want. Perhaps you need new shoes, but do you need designer ones that you really can’t afford? Instead of impulse shopping for items that are out of your budget, wait a few weeks before making a purchase. After a few weeks pass, see if you still want to make that purchase. These short-term financial goals will help you meet long-term plans like retirement and paying off your debt.

The best savings account

Now that you’ve established your financial goal and created a budget, you can move on to the next step: What’s the best savings account for you?

Choosing a bank account really depends on your personal needs. Are you looking for an account to hold your cash and accrue the highest possible interest? If so, find a personal savings account with a competitive annual percentage yield (1.20 percent or 1.15 percent). Or perhaps you want to take advantage of signup cash rewards. Banks often give new customers cash bonuses when they open a new account with a minimum balance. Do a bit of online research and find the right bank account for your needs.

While you’re looking at bank account features, you may also consider opting out of overdraft protection, especially if you’re prone to overspend and accrue overdraft fees. Over time these fees add up. That money spent on unnecessary fees could have been used toward a fun experience like a tropical getaway.

Here’s another savings tip: Open a savings account with a different bank than your checking account. Do you often transfer money from your savings to your checking under the empty promise that you’ll repay it? Having accounts at different banks makes it more cumbersome to borrow money from your savings.

Find the resources you need to make sure you’re on track with your personal savings goal. Many banks offer interactive guides and calculators to help you stay focused and meet your personal savings goals. And if you’re not sure, contact a financial planner. The experts are there to help.

Have any tips of your own for saving money? Share them with your fellow AAA members in the comments section below!

Couponers have a bad reputation for being extreme. But you don’t have to quit your job and recruit a cadre of family and friends to clip coupons to see real savings. By learning basic couponing skills you can guarantee that you’ll save money on your next shopping trip just like the pros.

Don’t be disillusioned from watching TV shows about extreme coupon enthusiasts who purchase a stockpile of shampoo, dried noodles and toothpaste for only $5.16. Couponing doesn’t have to be extreme to produce significant savings. That’s welcomed news for first-time couponers, considering how overwhelming it can be to learn couponing policies, lingo and store rules.

Before you venture out on your next shopping excursion, learn the ins and outs of couponing to help you stick to your savings plan.

Couponing basics

Are you in a need of a primer on couponing? Let’s start with the nitty-gritty: where to find coupons. There are essentially two types of coupons: store coupons and manufacturer’s coupons. Manufacturer’s coupons are found in Sunday newspaper inserts or they can be downloaded from various websites like Coupons.com, RedPlum.com, SmartSource.com and many others.

Everyone coupons differently, but veteran couponers swear more savings come to those who subscribe to the Sunday edition of the newspaper, which is filled with coupon inserts. You can also find coupons directly on the manufacturer’s websites. Search for deals on products you need, and then send those coupons to your phone to digitally scan them at checkout. If you have a printer, print the coupons out and organize them in a binder or folder. Coupon websites will also often display paper coupons and tell you which inserts they ran in and what date they were published.

Store coupons work the same way as manufacturer’s coupons. Store coupons are available on the retailer’s websites like CVS, Target, Wal-Mart, Kroger and more. They can also be “clipped” via apps like Grocery iQ, Checkout51 and SnipSnap. Take your printout of the coupon to your store’s checkout or send the coupon electronically to your store’s loyalty card. To discourage scams, most websites only allow you to print two coupons per computer. Couponers get around this by using two different computers to print four coupons, if they’re buying multiples.

Want more coupons? Check the store aisles next to your favorite products or find coupons on the backs of products, where they can be peeled off or cut out. Don’t forget to grab “Catalina” coupons, which are printed by the cashier and given with your receipt. Devote a couple weeks to collect and organize all of your coupons.

It’s time to go shopping

To double up on your savings, matching sales with your coupons. The process is a lot simpler nowadays than when your grandma couponed. Utilize websites like thekrazycouponlady.com or grocerysmarts.com to match your coupons with sales.

Another way to maximize your savings is to get the store’s sales ads and mark off the items you want. Then search online for manufacturer or store coupons for those specific sales items. Before you go to the store, make a shopping list and bring all of your coupons. Remember that coupons have expiration dates. Carefully read your coupons to be clear about expiration dates and the restrictions, which are written in small print.

More couponing tips

Most extreme couponers recommend going to many different stores to increase savings. But set realistic goals for your savings plan, especially if you’re new to couponing. Focus on one store and make sure you understand that store’s coupon policy. Kroger, for example, won’t let you stack manufacturer’s coupons with e-coupons. Other stores have different policies. Have a hardcopy or electronic copy of the store’s coupon policy with you in case your coupons can’t be scanned. And keep an eye on the checkout screen as you’re being ringed up.

Here’s another tip of the trade: Use coupons for smaller sized items and travel-sized products to get the most savings. Let’s say you have a Scope coupon for 99 cents off and the travel size scope is $1. You just paid a penny for the Scope. Items that are always a good bang for your buck are nonperishables that you use often like toilet paper, tissues and toothpaste.

The savings doesn’t end after you leave the store. Many apps now give shoppers rebates and redeemable reward points. With the iBotta app you can unlock rebates before you go to the store. The ShopKick app gives you reward points that add up to free gift cards.

While it’s exciting to save money, be strategic with your coupons and only buy only things you need. Otherwise you’re wasting money. A case of candy may be on sale for $2.99 and you have coupon for $1 off, but do you really need junk food even if it’s only $1.99?

Don’t waste unnecessary time and effort couponing. Think about the energy, gas money and time that goes into couponing when you factor in any savings. The saying “time is money” is true, especially when it comes to couponing.

Do you have any advice for couponing newbies? Tell about your tips or experiences with coupons in the comments section below.

For even more savings, visit AAA.com/Discounts. 

The bad news: Your luggage is delayed, lost or battered beyond recognition. What can make you feel better? Having travel insurance.

Comprehensive insurance for a trip — which can include protection from unexpected expenses incurred by issues such as flight delays, trip interruptions, and medical treatment—provides more than just “peace of mind” when the things that can go wrong do go wrong. It provides financial protection.

Baggage insurance basics

What is baggage insurance, exactly, and why would you need it if the airline already covers lost and stolen luggage?

According to the experts at AAA travel insurance partner Allianz, “’Baggage insurance’ is a general term for travel insurance benefits that can protect your bags and possessions while traveling.” It’s often part of a more comprehensive travel insurance package, but not always; be sure to check when you’re comparing insurers and policies.

Airlines can and do cover luggage that’s delayed, lost or damaged, but (obviously) aren’t responsible for luggage troubles that may occur during your trip — when you’re backpacking in Peru or traveling via rail on a city-by-city tour of Italy. Coverage throughout your journey is one of the key benefits in having a travel insurance package with baggage benefits.

What airlines are responsible for

Getting baggage benefits in your travel insurance policy is a good idea even if you’re planning a flight in/flight out holiday with a single destination, offering more robust protection than you might get from the airline. Here’s the low-down of what airlines are responsible for, straight from the U.S. Department of Transportation:

• If a passenger’s bag is delayed, airlines will pay reasonable expenses the passenger incurs while he or she waits for the delayed bag.
• If a passenger’s bag is damaged because of rough handling, airlines will pay for the repairs or negotiate a settlement to pay the passenger the depreciated value.
• If a passenger’s bag is lost, airlines will reimburse the passenger the depreciated value of his or her lost belongings.

The key phrase above is “reasonable expenses.” Elsewhere on the site, the DOT notes, “You and the airline may have different ideas of what’s reasonable, however, and the amount it will pay is subject to negotiation.”

Other items to keep in mind:

• The airline liability ceiling, currently at $3,500 adjusted for inflation every two years. Liability for international flights, about $1,675 at the time of this being written, is actually set by the Montreal Convention using a “currency surrogate that floats daily.” (You’d have to check the IMF to check current values.)
• These are the maximums. If the value of your stuff (depreciated) is less than the liability limit, you’ll get the lesser amount.
• As a small consolation, if your luggage is actually lost (rather than delayed), your checked baggage fee will be refunded. (This may seem like a “well, of course!” kind of thing, but this is a new rule.)

Bolster your protection with baggage insurance for a trip

The protections airlines provide have two things going for them: They’re free (or rather, included in the price of the ticket) and their reimbursements may be sufficient for some passengers.

But it’s still a good idea to bolster that coverage by purchasing travel insurance that includes luggage benefits. Here’s why:

• It covers your entire trip, not just the parts that take place at the airport.
• Airlines offer depreciated values for items, not what it would cost to replace them. Travel insurance protection could provide reimbursement for replacement of items lost or stolen.
• While travel insurance companies do have exclusions, airlines have long lists of items they will not cover — and you may not care to engage in a lengthy process of “negotiation” with them if you disagree about what expenses are “reasonable.”
• Keep in mind that even travel insurance policies have their limits and that big-ticket items, like expensive jewelry and electronics, may be better protected under your homeowner’s insurance. As always when researching policies, know what you need covered and read the fine print to determine whether the coverage will be sufficient.

Do you have any personal stories about delayed, lost or otherwise trouble-plagued luggage? Did having travel insurance help you out? (Or did it make you wish you’d gotten the travel insurance?) Share any tips or insights you may have  in the comments section below.

Your AAA travel advisor can help you choose a travel insurance policy that’s right for you. Learn more.

I’m going to go out on a limb and say that part of deciding to eat at fast food restaurants is making peace with the fact that you’re not going to be eating your healthiest meal. And that’s fine occasionally – so long as it doesn’t become too much of a habit. Everything in moderation is often the best policy when it comes to leading a healthy lifestyle.

But if you’re counting calories, fast food healthy choices do exist, believe it or not. Although the healthiest fast food options are not always as obvious as you might think.

Whether you’re having fast food because of what’s in your wallet, how much time you have, your kids or (admit it) a craving, it doesn’t always mean having to commit to the subsequent heavy, greasy guilt trip that inevitably comes with it.

Yes, you can still go to your favorite fast-food or fast-casual restaurants and eat well. We’ve outlined a few of the healthiest fast food options at 10 popular chains to prove it.

Counting calories

First things first, let’s understand some basics about calories. All of the following fast food healthy choices are based on calories, so what exactly is a calorie and why do we count them?

A calorie is a unit of energy that your body obtains from eating or drinking something. Ideally, you want to strike a balance where you are putting in as much energy as you lose in a day because if you consume more than you burn, the excess could be stored as fat. Check out the video below to learn more:

It makes sense why calorie counting is the focus of so many diet plans, but it’s important to note that is not the only thing you should consider if you want to lose weight healthily.

Per the most recently published Dietary Guidelines for Americans (2015-2020), women should consume an average of around 2,000 calories per day, while men should have about 2,500.

These are estimates based on average weight, physical activity and muscle mass, they are not absolutes. Depending on factors such as your age and activity level, you may require more or less calorie intake in a day. Take this Dr. Oz quiz to help you to determine the perfect calorie range for your metabolism.

Based on key recommendations highlighted in the guidelines, a healthy eating pattern also limits saturated fats, trans fats, added sugar and sodium.

Within your calorie limit, it is suggested that you should consume:

• Less than 10 percent of calories per day from added sugars
• Less than 10 percent of calories per day from saturated fats
• Less than 2,300 milligrams per day of sodium

Salad does not always mean healthy

One point to keep in mind once you’ve been lured into the glow of the golden arches – or bell, or smiling colonel – or whatever glow it may be, is not to be fooled by the common misconception that salads are usually the healthiest fast food options on the menu.

After you’ve factored in the amount of sugar and fat in some heavy salad dressings – not to mention all the fried bits that may be tossed into it – salads can easily have just as much, if not more, calories than a basic hamburger.

Take, for example, the pecan crusted chicken salad at TGI Fridays. With mixed greens, kale, dried cranberries, mandarin orange, pecans, celery, blue cheese, pecan-crusted chicken breast and balsamic vinaigrette, it doesn’t sound so bad, does it?

Well, one full serving contains 1,080 calories. That’s basically half of all the calories you should consume in an entire day in a salad. The Jack Daniel’s flat iron steak (without sides), on the other hand, only has 589 calories.  So if it’s any consolation, sometimes you’re better off just going with the steak (you know you want to, anyway).

The healthiest fast food options

Now let’s get to the good stuff. As of the publishing of this post, here are some of the top fast food healthy choices on the menus of 10 popular restaurants based on calories. All nutritional information has been obtained from each restaurant’s menu.

MCDONALD’S 

Breakfast

Fruit ‘n Yogurt Parfait: 150 calories / 2 g fat / 70 mg sodium

Egg White Delight McMuffin: 260 calories / 8 g fat / 750 mg sodium

Egg McMuffin:  300 calories / 12 g fat / 750 mg sodium

Lunch/Dinner

Premium Southwest Salad (without chicken and dressing): 140 calories / 4.5 g fat / 150 mg sodium

Chicken McNuggets 4-piece: 190 calories / 12 g fat/ 360 mg sodium

Hamburger: 240 calories / 8 g fat / 480 mg sodium

BURGER KING

Breakfast

Croissan’wich Egg & Cheese: 300 calories / 15 g fat / 580 mg sodium

Lunch/Dinner

Chicken Nuggets 4-piece: 170 calories / 11 g fat / 310 mg sodium

Hamburger: 220 calories / 8 g fat / 380 mg sodium

Whopper Jr.: 300 calories / 16 g fat / 460 mg sodium

Grilled Chicken Salad with Tendergrill Chicken (no dressing): 320 calories / 14 g fat / 650 mg sodium

Tendergrill Chicken Sandwich (w/o mayo): 320 calories / 18 g fat / 610 mg sodium

WENDY’S

Breakfast

Sausage & Egg Burrito: 280 calories / 20 g fat / 70 mg sodium

Oatmeal Bar: 290 calories / 10 g fat / 230 mg sodium

Steel Cut Oatmeal 330 calories / 12 g fat / 250 mg sodium

Lunch/Dinner

Jr. Hamburger: 240 calories / 10 g fat / 510 mg sodium

Power Mediterranean Chicken Salad (half size): 240 calories / 8 g fat / 550 mg sodium

Grilled Chicken Go Wrap: 270 calories / 10 g fat / 640 mg sodium

TACO BELL

Breakfast:

Breakfast Soft Taco – Egg & Cheese: 170 calories / 9 g fat / 330 mg sodium

Lunch/Dinner:

Fresco Soft Taco – Shredded Chicken: 140 calories / 2.5 g fat / 470 mg sodium

Crunch Taco: 170 calories / 9 g fat / 310 g sodium

Shredded Chicken Mini Quesadilla: 180 calories / 8 g fat / 530 mg sodium

KFC

House Side Salad (no dressing): 15 calories / 0 g fat / 10 mf sodium

Kentucky Grilled Chicken Drumstick: 80 calories / 3 g fat / 230 mg sodium

Original Recipe Chicken Breast: 390 calories / 19 g fat / 1330 mg sodium

PANERA

Breakfast:

Sprouted Grain Bagel Flat: 240 calories / 15 g fat / 310 mg sodium

Wild Blueberry Mini Scone: 160 calories / 7 g fat / 300 mg sodium

Lunch/Dinner:

1 cup Low-Fat Vegetarian Black Bean Soup: 90 calories / 1 g fat / 74 mg sodium

Half Seasonal Greens Salad (no dressing): 90 calories / 6 g fat / 75 mg sodium

Superfruit Power Smoothie with Greek Yogurt: 120 calories / 0 g fat / 0 mg sodium

Half Caesar Salad (no dressing): 160 calories / 13 g fat / 310 mg sodium

Half Mediterranean Veggie Sandwich on Tomato Basil: 230 calories / 6 g fat / 590 mg sodium

TGI FRIDAYS

Side House Salad with Breadstick (no dressing): 210 calories / 7 g fat / 290 mg sodium

Turkey Burger: 250 calories / 11 g fat / 1250 mg sodium

Cobb Salad with Grilled Chicken (lunch portion): 300 calories / 19 g fat / 530 mg sodium

Bruschetta Chicken Pasta (half portion): 430 calories / 18 g fat / 440 mg sodium

APPLEBEE’S

Southwest Black Bean Soup (lunch): 180 calories / 6 g fat / 1230 mg sodium

6 oz. USDA Top Sirloin Grill Masterpiece: 230 calories / 4 g fat / 1450 mg sodium

Cedar Grilled Salmon Grill Masterpiece: 340 calories / 4.5 g fa t/ 1110 mg sodium

Thai Shrimp Salad: 370 calories / 19 g fat/ 1720 mg sodium

RED LOBSTER

Tilapia (lunch portion): 210 calories / 6 g fat / 90 mg sodium

Farm-Raised Catfish, Blackened (lunch portion): 220 calories / 8 g fat / 350 mg sodium

Garlic Shrimp Scampi: 260 calories / 20 g fat / 440 mg sodium

Salmon (lunch portion): 310 calories / 19 g fat / 90 mg sodium

Grilled Shrimp Salad & Manhattan Clam Chowder Lunch Special: 330 calories / 9 g fat / 1280 mg sodium

Lighthouse Maple-Glazed Chicken: 370 calories / 5 g fat / 870 mg sodium

Grilled Maine Lobster Tail: 390 calories / 37 g fat / 650 mg sodium

CHILI’S

1 cup Southwest Chicken Soup: 110 calories / 5 g fat / 660 mg sodium

Fresco Salad: 140 calories / 10 g fat / 260 mg sodium

Grilled Chicken Dippers: 290 calories / 21 g fat / 800 mg sodium

6 oz. Sirloin with Grilled Avocado: 410 calories / 20 g fat / 1610 mg sodium

Spicy Chile Chicken: 420 calories / 11 g fat / 1750 mg sodium

So now you know. You can have your fast food and be healthy, too. But try not to overthink it too much. If you’re routinely exercising and otherwise making smart food and lifestyle choices every day, an occasional cheat or treat is well-deserved.

Were you surprised to find out about some of these healthiest fast food options? Are you curious about the items at any other fast food restaurants? Tell us in the comments.

The world is full of wonders. Originally there were seven, although the Great Pyramid of Giza is the only one of the designated ancient sites that is still standing.

Today there are seven new wonders of the world, including the Great Wall of China, Machu Picchu and the Colosseum. But locations deemed worthy enough to make these lists are far from the only must-see places on the globe. There are countless cities, natural spaces and historic sites waiting to be explored.

Whether you want to stay in the states or journey overseas, prepare to be inspired by these surprising bucket list destinations.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is becoming more and more popular, but the extensive list of experiences that make it such an incredible travel destination is still off the radar for some travelers.

Find your bliss in this land of lush rainforests, volcanoes, natural hot springs and beaches. For nature lovers, it is a must-visit. Home to more than 20 natural parks and eight biological reserves, wildlife thrives throughout the country. Imagine spotting sloths and colorful exotic birds in a lush cloud forest among orchids and lush greenery.

If the nature alone doesn’t have you totally enchanted by Costa Rica, the vibrant culture and warm people will.

Sedona, Arizona

Arizona is known for one of America’s most recognized and visited natural landmarks, the Grand Canyon. While the national park boasts breathtaking panoramic views and one of the most beautiful sunrises you’ll ever see, the state has plenty more to offer, including a hidden treasure just 30 miles from Flagstaff.

Sedona rests among stunning red rock mountains and pine forests. In addition to sunshine and scenery, travelers will find spas, storefronts, galleries and a bustling arts community. There are lots of trails leading to Red Rock State Park, the perfect place to watch for birds and picnic. And don’t forget to check out the popular Slide Rock State Park; the outdoor recreation hub features a natural 80-foot-long waterslide that beckons the young-at-heart, and a beautiful apple orchard promises a crisp and sweet snack.

Hanoi, Vietnam

While this next location might be growing in popularity, Hanoi is still not on the radar for most. But for food-lovers, it should be! Street food is one of the main attractions here. There are plenty of street vendor tours, and most will end with a chance to taste a cup of famous egg coffee – a signature drink in Vietnam. Be sure to try some pho while you’re at it. The noodle soup won’t be like anything you’ve had in the U.S.

When you’re not eating, spend time viewing centuries-old architecture Visit a few of the temples and walk the Old Quarter, where narrow and chaotic streets are lined with merchandise. Then, venture to the city’s heart and soul – the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake. Up for a day trip? Take a cruise to Ha Long Bay, where thousands of limestone karsts and hidden caves promise an unforgettable sailing adventure.

Transylvania, Romania

When people think safari, Africa is usually the first place that comes to mind. But there are plenty of places around the world that offer an immersive look into wildlife. Some of them are right in your own backyard, like Yellowstone National Park. But others, like Transylvania, are just a plane ride away.

The name probably suggests images of vampires and ghouls, but Romania is quickly becoming one of Europe’s top safari destinations. Piatra Craiului National Park is home to chamois, wild boar, pine martens, red squirrels and more. Beyond the stunning wildlife and scenery, travelers will have a chance to see ancient towns like Brasov, with its towering Gothic-style Black Church, as well as scenic Alpine-style villages with wooden farmhouses and horse-drawn carts.

Big Major Cay, Bahamas

We’ve all heard of swimming with dolphins, but what about wild pigs? While there are plenty of popular beaches and resorts in the Bahamas, a trip to Big Major Cay is a perfect bucket list destination. Located in The Exumas, a district of over 365 islands, Big Major Cay (unofficially Pig Beach) boasts uninhabited lands, white sandy beaches, beautiful blue waters and the main attraction – a colony of wild but very friendly – and adorable – pigs!

Pig Beach is a short boat ride from Nassau and George Town. Experienced sailors can opt to rent their own vessel, but less seafaring friends should take a tour, which are often available through hotels and resorts.

Cumberland Island, Georgia

Off of Georgia’s southeast coast, Cumberland Island is an unexpectedly beautiful destination. On top of 18 miles of unspoiled beach, where you’ll see plenty of birds and loggerhead turtles, there are various landscapes that include vegetated dunes, meadows, forests, flowing creeks and salt marshes. These diverse landscapes are home to many species, including alligators and beautiful feral horses (best viewed from afar).

History buffs will want to head north towards the remote end of the island, where the First African Baptist Church and The Settlement still stand. At this location, African-American residents could purchase their first deeded property in the late 1800s. Adding to the island’s rich history are the rustic Dungeness Ruins, which are remains of the largest mansion built on the island for the Carnegie family. This mix of nature and history makes Cumberland Island one for your bucket list destinations.

There is so much waiting to be discovered. Get out there and find it!

What are some of your bucket list destinations? Let us know in the comments below!

 Book your next vacation with AAA travel.   

The best of the best – That’s what you can expect from AAA’s Four and Five Diamond hotels and restaurants. Having inspected restaurants and hotels for decades, AAA knows a thing or two about luxury and comfort. Four Diamond hotels and restaurants represent just 3.9 percent of nearly 59,000 AAA Approved and Diamond Rated establishments.

The highest ranked properties (AAA Five Diamond hotels and restaurants) take things to the next level, offering guests pure luxury and sophistication, countless amenities and restaurants that serve leading-edge cuisine in extraordinary surroundings. Only 183 establishments (120 hotels and 63 restaurants) have earned their place on the 2017 Five Diamond Award list. That’s just 0.3 percent of Approved properties.

Explore four standout Diamond Rated properties in the Northeast below, including one of AAA’s Five Diamond hotels.

All manor of treasures in West Orange, New Jersey

The Manor, in West Orange, NJ, has maintained its Four Diamond Rating annually since 1988. It’s the longest streak statewide and among the longest of any Four Diamond restaurant in the U.S., Canada, Mexico or the Caribbean.

The Manor is surrounded by 20 acres of manicured gardens and enjoys the tranquility of an adjacent 400-acre reserve. Guests can enjoy a la carte and buffet dining, and traditions like Sunday brunch and a Manor buffet offering lobster on select evenings.

Jewels of top quality found in Rhode Island

“Newport.”

For a long time, that was the answer you’d get if you asked Rhode Islanders to name their state’s most opulent tourist spot.

In recent years, however, Watch Hill – a village in southern Westerly – has become an increasingly well-known luxury destination. It’s a summer retreat for pop star Taylor Swift and home to Ocean House, the only property in Rhode Island to earn the prestigious AAA Five Diamond rating.

The community’s reputation keeps getting better, too. The Watch Hill Inn, managed by the same company that owns Ocean House, received the AAA Four Diamond Rating for the first time this year.

Originally opened as Narragansett House in 1845, the inn was renovated in 2014. It’s designed for younger families, couples and those seeking contemporary accommodations. Each suite (there are 21 in all) features a full kitchen and access to washing machines and dryers, making it a good bet for longer stays. Watch Hill Inn guests also enjoy use of a putting green and private beach at Ocean House, among other perks.

Where else but a castle for exquisite jewels on Long Island

You don’t need to visit Europe to spend a night in a castle. You don’t even need an airline ticket.

Although Long Island is an unusual place to see a castle, that’s exactly what you can find in Huntington, NY. Oheka Castle Hotel and Estate is the second largest private home in America and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Like all AAA Four Diamond properties, guests can expect a refined and stylish hotel with upscale physical attributes, extensive amenities and high degrees of hospitality, service and attention to detail. Oheka Castle Hotel and Estate cost the equivalent of $158 million in today’s currency when it was built about 100 years ago as the summer home of wealthy financier Otto Hermann Kahn.

Guests can stay in one of 32 luxurious rooms or suites, many of which offer scenic views of the 23-acre estate, which has been featured on screen in movies like “Citizen Kane” and on television including the CBS series “Madam Secretary.”

There’s treasure in the Connecticut hills

If you need a respite from the hustle and bustle of New York City, the Litchfield Hills of northwestern Connecticut are calling. Just a three-hour drive from Manhattan or Boston, the rural, scenic area is a perfect place to unwind.

And, if you’d like to do so in luxury, you’ll find a property unlike any other. Winvian Farm, in Morris, is the only AAA Five Diamond hotel in Connecticut. It’s also home to the state’s only Five Diamond restaurant.

Guests stay in one of 18 individually designed cottages spread among the 113-acre resort. How individual? Accommodations range from a fully restored 1968 helicopter to a treehouse 35 feet in the air. Other options include a golf cottage with carpets that form fairways and putting greens, a music cottage with a patio screened by a giant marimba, and an artist cottage with easels, canvas and paint.

Guests can enjoy farm-to-table menus in the fire-lit, 18th century dining room at the Restaurant at Winvian Farm.

Have you ever stayed in a Four or Five Diamond hotel or dined at a Four or Five Diamond restaurant? Tell us about your experience in the comments below!

For a complete list of Diamond Rated properties throughout the U.S., Canada and the Caribbean, visit AAA.com/Diamonds.

Plan and book your next vacation with AAA.

English is spoken so widely in so many countries that you may never need to utter a foreign word or phrase on your travels abroad. And even in those areas where English is not widely spoken, you can always play it safe and stick close to your tour guide.

But if you don’t speak the language in the country you’re visiting—and you’re not part of an organized tour—knowing a few key foreign phrases can go a long way towards making your trip easier and more enjoyable.

The trick, according to blogger Jason Lengstorf, is to know just enough to get by. “For a short trip—for instance, five days in Milan—there’s very little chance I’ll really learn the language,” writes Lengstorf, an American who’s freelanced in more than a dozen countries abroad. “Instead, I choose to focus on the words and phrases that meet the minimum requirements for functioning in that country.”

Foreign phrases 101: the essentials

As a stranger in a strange land, you’ll be relying on the kindness of others. All of the polite first words you were taught as a toddler (“Say ‘please’!” “Say ‘thank you’!”) are the ones you’ll need to know—especially since, in addition to asking for actual information or directions, what you are also hoping for is patience and goodwill.

Along with hello, please, and thank you, apologetic words and phrases will also prove the most helpful. These include I’m sorry, Excuse me, and I’m sorry, I don’t speak (insert foreign language here).

Also essential, when stringing together a foreign phrase with the words “please” and “thank you,” are Yes, No, Help and Call the police/American consulate. (More on this last one later.)

Asking for things

You’ll want to know how to say I would like/May I have and Where is, in addition to some of the things you know you’ll want or need, such as: the check/bill, Wi-Fi password, coffee (the way you like it), water, the museum you’ve come to see, the rest room, the bill, and so on.

Keep in mind that you can memorize a whole list of things you may need directions to, but in many cases a better question than “Where is…” is Can you point me to/Can you point me in the direction of…. Because unless you preface your question with, “I’m sorry, I don’t speak (your language),” what you’ll likely get is a set of directions that will make no sense at all to you.

Emergencies, cheat sheets & apps

Many articles on useful foreign phrases for travelers will include terms for an emergency, such as Help! Call a doctor! and Where is the hospital? Again, these may or not prove helpful when concerned locals try to help you. And, even if they don’t quite qualify as emergencies, you may have needs, desires and requests that may require a little explaining, such as your nut allergy or preference for organic foods.

When miming and pointing to things doesn’t work and attempts at foreign phrases fail, it’s good to have a back-up plan—high tech, low tech or no tech. Before you leave on your trip, type up a list of phrases you think you’ll need—from “My wallet was stolen at the museum” to “If the doctor says I need medical evacuation, here is my travel insurance information.”

You can also whip out your English/foreign language dictionary, check Google translate on your phone, or use an app such as iTranslate Voice, Microsoft Translator, or Translate Pro. (The experts at Trip Savvy believe the latter is worth its price: “Languages are automatically detected and a conversation can be held without pressing any buttons.” Con: It requires an internet connection.)

Foreign phrases 102: personal strategies

Here are a few top tips from travel experts and clever bloggers:

•  “My strategy to ensure I’ll always be able to find something to eat is to figure out how to translate “ham and cheese” and then pick items off the menu that feature those words.” — Jason Lengstorf
• “’My (name of language) is not good, but…’ followed my attempt to communicate. This will cause the locals to tune in to you, knowing that they might have to put their thinking caps on. Or, they will start talking with you in English if they know how.” —Roamingwrangler.com
• “’No thank you, I’m just looking for now.’ Especially in fancier (French) shops, salespeople are seen as experts. They want to help you find what you need. If you’re just browsing, the above sentence can come in handy.” —Fluentu.com

Tell us, s’il vous plaît, what foreign phrases have you found to be most useful in your travels abroad? Share your tips and best insights in the comments section below.

For all things travel-related, go to AAA.com/Travel. 

There are pools, and then there are pools.

You know, swanky affairs where the water is turquoise, the atmosphere is pumping and the drinks are frosty and tropical. Where the poolside nibbles are eminently Instagram-worthy and mingling from inside your luxe cabana is the order of the day.

We’ve found a few swanky pools at AAA Diamond Rated hotels in the Northeast where you can let go after a particularly stressful week. Or not! No judging here … just good vibes, cool tunes and plenty of chill.

Fox Tower Pool
Foxwoods Resort Casino, Mashantucket, CT

Take a break from gaming, shopping or dining at North America’s largest resort casino at the pool in the Four Diamond Rated Fox Tower. Here you’ll find 5,500 square feet of summertime goodness, complete with lounge chairs, poolside eats and drinks and eight private cabanas stocked with flat-screen TVs available for rental. Or feel like a true goddess and rent a daybed with attached canopy.

If you’re in the mood for a high-energy party, head over for LiquidSundays. Complete with a DJ, themed events and celebrity guests, the 21-plus soiree is the flashiest pool party you’ll see this side of Vegas.

Verb Hotel
Boston

Come for the retro-chic vibe – each room comes complete with a typewriter, vinyl albums and working record player – stay for the outdoor saltwater pool, set in a sunny center courtyard. It’s in a funky setting, surrounded by pops of warm colors with plenty of outdoor seating and cafe tables.

After your dip, head down to Hojoko, the hotel’s Japanese tavern, where you can tuck into a bowl of ramen, roll your own sushi, or snack on some gochujang chicken wings. (The Hojoko moniker is a nod to the building’s former incarnation as a Howard Johnson hotel.)

Oh, and did we mention the AAA Two Diamond Rated hotel is right across from Fenway? You can see the famous green façade from your perch in the pool.

Aqua
Providence Marriott Downtown, Providence, RI

Aqua lays claim to having Rhode Island’s only connecting indoor-outdoor pool, complete with plenty of outdoor seating done in cool orange and sapphire blue hues. A AAA inspector calls the outdoor courtyard a “popular place to relax on modern loungers and chairs, especially at night when the multiple fire pits are roaring.”

Here you’ll find live music, handcrafted cocktails and light fare (think veggie burgers, duck wings and housemade salsa with chips). Signature drinks include a blue mojito with blueberry syrup, Blue Curacao, white rum, club soda and lime juice muddled with mint.

Need to work off some stress? Reserve a poolside massage via the Three Diamond Rated hotel’s G Salon and Spa, or reserve one of the three covered cabanas for the ultimate in luxury.

You don’t even have to be a hotel guest to take a dip. You can reserve a one-day pool pass the day of your visit, Monday through Thursday.

Gurney’s Newport Resort & Marina
Newport, RI

You’ll be pampered at Three Diamond Rated Gurney’s Newport Resort & Marina, which lays claim to having the city’s only outdoor hotel pool. The seaside views are stunning, with the Newport Pell Bridge almost close enough to touch. Row upon row of lounge chairs are available for guests, as are private cabanas with bamboo roofs and gauzy white curtains.

Feeling a bit peckish? Order a traditional lobster roll while sipping a sparkling glass of prosecco, courtesy of the poolside Pineapple Club.

The hotel even has its own pair of pygmy goats, William and Cornelius, who live on the property in a replica of Marble House and mingle with guests. After all, the resort is located on Goat Island!

The William Vale
Brooklyn, NY

Be a cool cat – literally – at The Vale Pool at the AAA Four Diamond Rated The William Vale in hip Williamsburg. Rent a daybed, cabana or pergola while sipping a rose sangria and sampling an heirloom tomato salad with local feta cheese or fresh slices of watermelon served with lime and chili sugar.

Or hang out at the adjacent Vale Terrace, an open-air space where you can play some garden games or just hang out in the shade with a book from the poolside library curated by independent bookseller McNally Jackson.

A AAA inspector raved about the hotel’s rooftop lounge, where one can spy an “amazing view” of Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens.

The pool offers day passes Monday through Thursday, pending availability, for those not staying at the hotel.

Click here for more great hotel pools. 

What’s your favorite hotel pool? Tell us in the comments! 

Book your next getaway with AAA Travel. 

You’ve decided to take to the open waters and opt for a cruise vacation. That’s great! But, now what? Cruise travel can seem overwhelming for first-timer, and your mind may be swirling with questions from simply how to book a cruise, to what you should pack to how you spend your free time.

How to book a cruise: Before you go

How to book a cruise?

You can book directly with the cruise company, or you can go through a travel professional or travel agency that can help organize everything for you, including pre- and post-cruise accommodations, airport transportation or city tours should you decide to extend your stay in your port city.

Who can come on a cruise?

Cruise travel is for everyone, from Grandma and Grandpa to little John and little Jane. Cruises have a plethora of activities that cater to any interest and all ages. Also, special accommodations can be made for those with special needs or are handicapped. Please contact your cruise line as far in advance as you can so that they can be prepared to welcome you to make your trip most enjoyable.

What information do I need to book a cruise?

When you’re ready to book a cruise, the last thing you want to do is end up scrambling for information! Booking your cruise will go much more smoothly if you have the following information readily available:
• The itinerary you want to reserve
• The number of adults and children (under 18) who will occupy each room
• The birthdates, addresses and phone numbers for each person in your travel party
• Payment information.

Do I need to bring my passport?

Because each country has its own entry requirements, depending on your country of citizenship, and each company has its own policies, you should check with your travel agent or cruise company for any specific requirements prior to showing up at port. It is recommended that you carry a valid passport, as well as a photocopy of the identification for your cruise, packed separately. If you show up without the proper and necessary documentation, you may not be permitted to board without it and, worse, you most likely won’t be eligible for a refund.

Do I need a visa?

Depending on your country of citizenship and your cruise itinerary, visas may be necessary. Contact a travel professional or your cruise line to check applicable visa requirements.

I’ve booked my cruise. What happens if I have to cancel?

Before you book your cruise, be sure to read the terms and conditions because each company’s cancellation policy is different. If you think there is a chance that you may have to cancel, check to see if your company has a cruise protection plan, which may offer more of a refund in the event of cancellation. For example, Holland America will refund up to 90% of eligible amounts paid if you purchase their Cruise Protection Plan Platinum Plan.

How do I get from the airport to the port?

Cruise travel is meant to be seamless, and cruise companies make it easy to both air and hotel accommodations and transfers all together. Even if you’d prefer to book your own air travel, you can still contact your cruise company to get you from the airport to port and back again. Norwegian, Celebrity and Royal Caribbean all have services to ensure you get to the port on time. Contact your cruise company to arrange pick-up and drop off.

How early should I get to port to board my cruise?

Luckily, most cruise lines have online check in that you can complete a few days before you’re set to sail to make embarkation go more smoothly. In any case, it’s recommended that you arrive no later than one hour prior to your scheduled embarkation time. If you haven’t completed check-in online, arrive earlier, no later than two hours before you’re set to board.

To avoid missing your boat due to unexpected travel delays, it’s best to arrive in town the day before embarkation. However, if you plan to travel into town the day your cruise leaves, try to plan to arrive in town no later than noon.

Do I need travel insurance?

Because many health insurance plans do not cover the cost of medical care at sea, in foreign countries or for air evacuation, it’s recommended that you secure travel medical insurance prior to travel in order to be reimbursed for services rendered in the event that you become ill.

I’m pregnant. Can I still cruise?

Most cruise lines do not permit passengers to sail past 24 weeks. Check with your cruise lines for specific date requirements, and note that you may need a letter from your doctor.
Time to pack: What to bring on a cruise

What do I pack?

Packing for any vacation can be stressful, but be sure to consider the climate of where you’re headed on your itinerary, and the type of activities and excursions that you have or for which you may sign up. The rule of thumb is that cruise wear is casual, whether on ship or at port, so bathing suits, sundresses, shorts, tank tops and pool wear are perfectly acceptable. However, keep in mind that some of the restaurants on board won’t permit pool or lounge wear, so smart casual is suggested for dinners. Your ship may host a gala or formal night, so packing one black tie or cocktail outfit for fancy dress may be recommended.

How much can I pack?

A good rule of thumb is that you may pack two pieces of luggage, not more than 50 pounds each. It’s a good idea to pack a carry-on to get you through the first day on the ship since your luggage may not arrive in your room until later that day. Also, remember to not pack your passport, medications, cruise documents or airline tickets in your checked luggage since you may not have access to it all the time. And finally, because staff will need to collect your luggage the night before disembarkation, you’ll use your carry-on for sleepwear and toiletries for your last night at sea.

What if I need to do laundry?

Cruise ships often have coin operated self-service launderettes.

What can I not bring aboard?

Weapons, explosives, drugs, alcohol and large sporting equipment are generally not permitted. Most beverages, with the exception of baby food/formula and special medications are also not permitted. Check with your cruise line for specifics.

Can I bring alcohol?

Cruise companies have strictly adhered to alcohol policies, but they vary across cruise lines, so be sure to check the rules of yours before you leave. Holland America allows each guest over 21 years of age is permitted to bring one bottle of wine or champagne in carry-on luggage. Disney Cruise allows two bottles per guest. Note that corkage fees may apply to bottles consumed outside your stateroom, and that can range from $18 to $25 per bottle. Beer, boxed wine, or other liquors and spirits are generally not permitted on board.

Can I bring my pet?

Unfortunately, with the exception of service animals, pets are not allowed on board.

Are gratuities included? Do I bring cash for that?

Typically, a daily service charge is automatically added to your shipboard account, which may be adjusted as you see appropriate at the end of your trip. This ranges from $13.50 to $18 per person, per day, depending on the company and your stateroom. However, it is appropriate to tip other service member such as bell staff, so you may want to bring some local currency for such an occasion or any other incidentals that you buy at port.

Cruise travel: Life on deck

What is there to eat?

Cruise dining is for everyone, even the pickiest eaters! From extensive buffets to themed specialty restaurants, poolside lounges to room service, you will not starve! If your ship has assigned dining times, you will receive your dining times and seating assignment upon arrival. Also, remember that you don’t have to dine in the main dining room every night and can take advantage of other options on board. Cruise lines have upped their dining games, and some have partnered with celebrity chefs. With Guy Fieri on Carnival, Jaime Oliver on Royal Caribbean, Jacques Pépin on Oceania and Curtis Stone on Princess you’ll be treated to truly unique dining experiences! Note that certain restaurants may require reservations or additional fees. Also, children may not be permitted in some dining rooms.

Can dietary restrictions and preferences be accommodated?

It is recommended that you submit any special meal requests prior to sailing when you book and confirm upon arrival. Meal requests made too close to your sail date may not be able to be accommodated.

What is there to do on board?

You’re only limited by your imagination! Cruises feature an extensive list of activities for all hours of the day, from fitness classes, movies under the stars, comedy shows, spas, luxury shopping and even nightclubs! Each evening, you will receive a schedule that contains the next day’s activities, weather and general ship information. And, to ensure that you get the best selection of times and services, book spa services before you board.

Do I need cash on board? How do I pay for purchases?

All shipboard expenses will be charged to your account with the method of payment you’ve designated upon arrival.

Is there internet on board?

Going on a cruise is the perfect opportunity to truly disconnect since there isn’t usually free internet on board, but cruise companies offer internet packages for purchase. If your ship uses a satellite connection, be aware that it may be impacted by inclement weather or other physical obstacles, such as glaciers if you’re sailing through Alaska. Be prepared for it to not work as well as internet does at home. Internet cafes located in common areas may be your best and cheapest bet.

Will I have cell phone service at sea?

Your phone may not have service at sea. Some cruise providers, such as Norwegian’s CellAtSea™, have special services to provide uninterrupted coverage. Check with your phone carrier to see if your phone will work, and to be aware of any international roaming charges that you may incur.

How do I book shore excursions?

You can book shore excursions when you book your cruise, or with the concierge once you’ve boarded.

How far in advance do I have to book shore excursions?

Because some excursions and tours have limited capacity and fill up quickly, you should book them early before you set sail.

Do I have to book excursions?

Certainly not! Staying on board while docked at port is the perfect opportunity to enjoy some quiet time on the ship. If you do want to get off ship, many ports of call have plenty for you to explore on your own.

What kind of shopping deals are available on board?

Now that you know how to book a cruise, while you’re on board, you should go ahead and book your next one! It’s often on board when cruise companies will offer the best deals. For example, while on board Holland America, you can receive up to $400 per person shipboard credit, good for your next

Holland America Line cruise. Celebrity gives you the option to “cruise now” with special deals that include reduced deposits, onboard credit and flexible cancellations or “cruise later” and decide the when later.

What are some of your best practices for cruise travel and tips for how to book a cruise? Tell us in the comments.

To book your next cruise vacation with AAA, visit AAA.com/Cruises. 

Identity theft myths lead people to become content about their level of protection from identity theft. And that’s not good.

You’ve probably taken some measures like updating your privacy settings, signing up for alerts via your credit card or taking extra care with what you reveal about yourself online. But these measures alone aren’t enough. You need complete monitoring that gives you total peace of mind.

Here are the 10 most common myths about identity theft and the truths behind them.

1. I don’t need monitoring. I’m protected through my credit card alerts.

Fact: This is one of the top identity theft misconceptions. While these alerts notify you of suspicious activity related to a specific card, they can’t do the same for your medical or tax return records. This type of service deals with only one type of fraud rather than all types.

2. The enrollment process takes too long.

Fact: People might think the process of protecting your identity is a long and tiring one, like waiting in the doctor’s office. Fortunately, it doesn’t take a whole lot of time. Enrollment for identity theft protection services like ProtectMyID from AAA and Experian takes less than five minutes, either through the phone or online. Even better? ProtectMyID Essential is free for all AAA members. For extra coverage, you can upgrade to the Deluxe or Platinum level.

3. I was a data breach victim years ago, but I don’t have to worry about my data being stolen now.

Fact: This identity theft myth is rooted in the belief that once thieves take data, they got what they wanted. But, fraud committed based on data that is two to six years old has increased by almost 400 percent over the past four years. Up to $3.7 billion has been stolen as of 2016, according to a 2017 Javelin strategy and research presentation.

4. I don’t know if I can trust a company to monitor my identity.

Fact: Not all identity protection services are alike. For example, Experian is a global leader in cutting-edge credit monitoring and identity security. AAA has partnered with Experian to bring the best-class monitoring product to its members.

5. Even if the service is free, it’s probably free to get you through the door. Then, you have to pay.

Fact: This is not the case with all identity theft monitoring services. ProtectMyID, including the free Essential coverage, is offered by AAA with Experian with no trial period as long as you’re a current AAA member. Plus, you won’t get spammed with a ton of emails when you sign up.

6. I’m nervous about entering my Social Security number online.

Fact: Experian’s site utilizes state of the art security to encrypt and protect your personal information. Members may also choose to enroll in ProtectMyID via telephone.

7. I have bad credit, so I’m not at risk.

Fact: Identity theft thieves these days are after more than your finances. They also commit medical identity theft and use that identity or those identities to file false insurance claims and buy drugs. It’s important to protect all aspects of your life, not just your finances.

8. I can monitor the accounts myself.

Fact: This identity theft myth is dangerous because it assumes protecting one’s identity is a one person job. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Self-monitoring is possible with your currently existing accounts. But, thieves also use information they take to create accounts in your name with different post office boxes or addresses. You could have accounts that not even you know about.

9. I’m extremely careful with my information. Identity theft will never happen to me.

Fact: As with the previous myth, this misconception about identity theft assumes that protecting one’s identity is a one-person job. But, identity theft is currently the fastest growing crime in the United States. In 2017, there were 16.7 million identity theft victims in the US. This is up 8 percent from 2016 per Javelin Strategy and Research. On top of that, this trend is projected to be even worse in the future.

10. Identity theft happens to only adults, not kids.

Fact: Children are just as vulnerable to identity theft as adults, if not more so. In fact, identity fraud impacted one million children in 2017. Child identity theft is also one of the fastest growing crime areas in relation to credit fraud, according to Javelin Strategy and Research. If you haven’t talked with your kids about identity theft, now would be a good time to do so. Click here for seven simple ways you can protect your child from identity fraud.

Identity theft and fraud can be annoying or frightening to experience. But, with the right fraud and theft protection, you can be rest assured that you’ll be kept safe.

Have you or someone you know experienced identity theft? What steps have you taken to protect your identity? Let us know in the comments!

Learn more about how Experian’s ProtectMyID Essential can give you the peace of mind you’re looking for.

Who knows what car features today’s teenagers will find nostalgic when they reminisce about their very first cars? Perhaps they’ll miss when vehicles weren’t so “smart” and didn’t drive themselves. Or maybe they’ll miss when driving actually meant wheels on the road.

Nobody knows how drastically automobiles will change in the future. But we do know how much they’ve changed since their invention and even in the past 30 years. Here are 10 car features that no longer exist in new vehicles.

Audible turn signals

Does it seem like more and more people are driving for miles with their turn signals on, apparently planning on making a left turn that never materializes? There’s a reason for that. Many modern cars are phasing out audible turn signals. While those noisy little clicks might seem annoying after a while, that’s exactly what made them useful – they reminded you to switch off your turn signals.

Keys

On most higher-end cars, stamped metal keys are becoming a thing of the past. Instead, start/stop ignitions and electronic key fobs have become the new norm. Vehicle doors automatically unlock when the registered key fob is nearby, and once inside, you simply push the button to start. That’s a big change from the turn-key ignitions most of us are used to. Car manufacturers like Mazda and Ford have even created apps to remotely start and unlock your car using a smartphone app!

Simple controls

Texting and driving is extremely dangerous, and a complicated control system could be just as distracting. In a 2015 AAA study, results showed that mental distractions could last up to 27 seconds after using voice commands on select in-car systems. With many new cars using touch-screen controls, things could get even trickier. AAA suggests putting climate controls, radio stations, GPS and other settings in place prior to driving.

Spacious trunks

We’ve come a long way from massive hulks of solid Detroit steel we used to call cars. Now models are sleeker and more aerodynamic than ever. But that also means less room. Many of today’s car owners don’t know the meaning of a spacious trunk. And unless you’re buying a minivan, you can expect to pack some of those weekly groceries in your back seat.

Spare tires

Here’s a car feature that many of us miss. Some cars don’t come with full-size spare tires anymore because trunks are getting smaller. Other car manufacturers are trying to reduce vehicle weight. No matter what the cause, buying a new car with a full-size spare is a rare occurrence these days. In fact, spare tires have been replaced by tire inflator kits on 29 million vehicles in the last 10 model years. But if you’re lucky enough to get one, today’s tiny doughnut tires are only designed to be used for short distances and under 50 mph. Even with run flat tires, buying a new tire or getting a patch becomes pretty urgent.

Ashtrays

Equipped with electric lighters and ashtrays inside the dashboard, old cars were a smoker’s heaven. Those in-car ashtrays were even great for non-smokers as the ultimate coin compartment. However, most car manufacturers have shied away from ashtrays and opted to install more tech-focused car features, like phone charger ports.

Radio antennas

If you remember when cars had ashtrays, then you probably remember when cars used to sport whip antennas. Were they unsightly? Kind of. But most people used those long radio antennas as a chance to give their cars a little spunk. Back in the day, you could spot countless raccoon tails, smiley face balls and other neat trinkets on top of those wiry menaces. Now most cars have much shorter fixed antennas.

Vent windows

Vent or “wing” windows are another one of those car features staple to older cars. The small triangular windows were found on both the driver and passenger sides and could be rotated inward to get some fresh air. On days that weren’t too hot, you could skip opening the main window and still get some ventilation going without messing up your hair. So, what happened to all the vent windows? Two words: air conditioning.

Hand-cranked windows

Today’s teenagers probably don’t know what a hand-cranked window is. But yes, at one point in time, people had to manually roll their windows up and down. This car feature is almost impossible to find nowadays and that’s probably because most people don’t miss them. In fact, new car owners can rejoice in the power of the window lock. No children will play with the back windows on our watch!

Bench seats

Before seat belts were included in cars, bench seats allowed three people to fit comfortably in the front of most vehicles. You could even fit a fourth passenger if they were small enough. Today’s kids will never know the feeling of squeezing up front with mom, dad and their siblings, but modern cars are definitely much safer!

Can you think of some other car features that no longer exist in new vehicles? Tell us in the comments!

Learn about AAA’s automotive services. 

There’s always something happening in Brooklyn – perhaps it’s a concert at Barclays Center, a new gastropub in Greenpoint or an art show in Williamsburg. And now with so many boutique hotels popping up, you can stick around and explore all it has to offer. Here are six stylish hotels in Brooklyn to consider on your next trip to the borough.

Wythe Hotel
Williamsburg

One of the original boutique hotels in Brooklyn, the 72-room Wythe is still the epicenter of cool in Billyburg. Located in a former textile factory, it has plenty to lure tourists and out-of-towners from across the river. Amid exposed brick and locally made furniture (including custom beds made from the original ceilings) are some pretty incredible Manhattan views, as well as craft cocktails in the bar and wood-oven fired dishes in Reynard. Then, before you call it a night, check out the Ides, a patio bar where you can taste drinks like the Rare Jewel, made with ruby port, Sipsmith gin, prosecco and grenadine. Entry is free with a reservation or $10 without one.

NU Hotel
Downtown

Brooklyn’s downtown is quickly becoming a hipster zone and the NU is in the center of it all. Just minutes from Cobble Hill and Boerum Hill, this fun, contemporary hotel has mod chairs and flat-screen TVs (some with Brooklyn-themed wall murals from local artists). The owners liken the decor to that of an artist’s studio. Before setting off for an Islanders or Nets game at nearby Barclays Center, relax and mingle with a drink at Misdemeanor bar – that’s really its name. If active pursuits are more your speed, rent one of the special NU orange cruisers and ride across the Brooklyn Bridge for big thrills. And don’t forget to doodle on the chalkboard wall in the bathroom!

Aloft Brooklyn
Downtown

One of the best hotels in Brooklyn, Aloft is centrally located, which makes it easy to explore surrounding neighborhoods and their intriguing culinary scenes. Plus, it’s a quick walk to Brooklyn Bridge Park, where you can take in the stunning skyline vistas including the Freedom Tower. If you’re feeling ambitious, walk across the Brooklyn Bridge – it’s something everyone should put on his or her sightseeing to-do list. Pick up a grab and go meal at the hotel, or get your workout on at the 24/7 gym on premises. At night, stop by the W XYZ bar for cool music and cocktails and stop at the Kimoto Rooftop Beer Garden for stunning city views and live music.

McCarren Hotel & Pool
Williamsburg

Part of Chelsea Hotels with outposts in Manhattan and Montauk, this stylish Brooklyn hotel is near Williamsburg’s main drag, Bedford Avenue, so there are plenty of beer gardens, farm-to-table restaurants and wine bars within walking distance. During the warmer months, the colorful rooftop pool and lounge is the place to be (if you don’t have a friend with a Hamptons house, that is). At night, chill out with a craft cocktail at the McCarren Rooftop Bar, where the music is bumping amid incredible skyline views.

The Brooklyn
Crown Heights/Bed-Stuy

The 34-room Brooklyn is located on a busy Atlantic Avenue stretch between two up-and-coming neighborhoods, Crown Heights and Bedford-Stuyvesant. It features specially commissioned Brooklyn photographs, high ceilings and exposed brick walls. Luxury rooms offer pullout couches, modern flames electric fireplaces and even an in-room wine refrigerator. Rainfall showerheads in the bathroom are also a nice touch.

The Box House Hotel
Greenpoint

This industrial-chic hotel in Brooklyn is in the Greenpoint, an area once filled with fertile farmland followed by rope factories and lumber yards along the East River. An old warehouse has been reborn as The Box House Hotel, with 56 loft-style suites with oak hardwood floors and modern kitchenettes. Some rooms have Manhattan views, including views of the Empire State Building, that make for relaxing havens after a day of exploring Brooklyn and beyond. In total, there are 130 rooms on premises, loaded with artwork, terraces and gorgeous decor. There’s also a fitness center (if you just have to work out) and a sauna with steam showers if you’d rather relax. There is a restaurant at the hotel and other local delights, such as the Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory, are within walking distance.

Have you ever stayed at any of these hotels in Brooklyn? Tell us about your experience in the comments below!

Find and book a hotel in Brooklyn with AAA. 

Think of Carnival Cruises and you might be reminded of those Kathie Lee Gifford commercials in the late ‘80s/early ‘90s where she danced and sang aboard a Carnival ship.

Since its launch in 1972, Carnival Cruise Line has become the world’s largest cruise line and is part of a family of companies owned by Carnival Corporation, which also includes Princess Cruises, Holland America Line and Cunard Line, among others. Find out why so many travelers choose to cruise Carnival.

The ships

Carnival Cruise’s 24 ships operate 3- to 16-day voyages, departing from every coast in the U.S., as well as Canada, Puerto Rico, Europe and Barbados. Its newest ship, Carnival Vista, debuted in 2016, and the Carnival Horizon is expected to set sail in 2018.

Each ship features family-friendly staterooms; Cloud 9 Spa staterooms, which gets you priority spa reservations, free fitness classes and exclusive discounts; Family Harbor staterooms, located right near Family Harbor Lounge, which allows kids to eat free in most premium restaurants and gives parents one free evening with Night Owl babysitting; and Havana staterooms, located right near the Havana Bar & Pool.

Destinations

Carnival cruise ships sail all over the world. Destinations include Alaska, the Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada and New England, the Caribbean, Cuba, Europe, Hawaii, Mexico and Panama Canal.

In addition to the standard cruises, Carnival Journeys is a limited series of special sailings to destinations like Bermuda, Hawaii, Alaska and the Caribbean, designed to immerse passengers in a destination’s culture. Local chefs come on board to prepare meals, and entertainment is centered on the location’s history and traditions. Each Journey passengers also get an all-expenses-paid scholarship to the Academy of Fun, which offers onboard courses on topics such as historical art, science of celestial navigation, social media and photography.

Themed cruises

Carnival Cruise Line hosts a variety of themed cruises, such as a salsa dancing cruise, a FamilyLife Marriage cruise (for married couples looking to relax and renew their relationship), Ship-Hop (with music from hip-hop and R&B) and more.

Dining

There’s no shortage of delicious foods on a Carnival Cruise ships. Kids will love eating at Green Eggs and Ham, where they can enjoy their breakfast in the world of Dr. Seuss. There’s also authentic Mexican food at the Bluelguana Cantina, burgers at Guy’s Burger Joint, fresh fish at the Seafood Shack and premium cuts and seafood at the Steakhouse. And these are just a taste of the dining option available to passengers.

Things to do

Every Carnival cruise ship has gorgeous pools with fun slides, but if you get bored hanging out there be sure to check out Sky Ride, where you get to bike around the entire ship high above the deck and the ocean. Sportsquare gives you the chance to show off your skills in basketball, ping-pong, foosball and more, while the SkyCourse is a two-level rope course.

There are plenty of bars and lounges for adults to enjoy, or sit back at the Serenity Adult Only Retreat, where you can enjoy sea breezes (and a cocktail) while lying in a hammock. Parents can leave the kids with the ship’s babysitters, who will watch the little ones for a fee.

Kids’ activities

Kids will obviously love all of the adventure-seeking activities on the ship, while little ones will have a ball with Seuss at Sea, a variety of Dr. Seuss-themed activities such as interactive story time, the Seuss-a-palooza Parade and more. And don’t forget to visit the ship’s candy shop, Cherry on Top, for a sweet treat.  For older kids, Club O2 is a just-for-teens hangout, while Circle “C” is for kids 12-14.

Entertainment

Guests can catch an IMAX movie right on the ship, compete in a Lip Sync Battle or on a live version of the game show Hasbro.

Carnival LIVE brings well-known entertainers to a theater venue when your cruise stops in Nassau. Some entertainers include Nick Jonas, Chris Tucker, Rascal Flatts and more. Seating is limited so be sure to buy your ticket when you book your cruise. Prices vary, but start at $30.

Excursions

Once you get to shore, you’ll want to experience everything the destination has to offer. Whether you want to get an adrenaline rush zip lining in Puerto Rico, explore the history of Mayan ruins in Belize,  swim with dolphins in Tortola, or walk in The Godfather’s footsteps in Sicily, there is an activity for you.

Carnival cruise pricing

The average price of a Carnival cruise is anywhere from $100 to $1800 per person, depending on the length of the cruise and where you’re going. Of course, many on-shore excursions are extra, as is some of the dining. Alcohol is not included, unless you take out an all-inclusive package, which usually costs around $1200 per person. A seven-night cruise from NYC to Bermuda, for example, starts at $689 per person.

Carnival cruise deals

The best way to find the latest Carnival cruise deals is to find a reputable travel agent. Plan and book your next cruise vacation with AAA.

Have you ever been on a Carnival cruise? Share your experience with us in the comments. 

The beautiful island nation of Sri Lanka is becoming an increasingly popular destination for travelers who want to tour Asia off the beaten path.

Formerly known as Ceylon, Sri Lanka’s dominance in tea production made it a target for colonization. Because of its Portuguese, Dutch and British colonial history and its location near India, Sri Lanka is a cultural crossroads. You can experience millennia of history and culture at Sri Lanka’s top 10 sights.

Tour Asia: The Top 10 in Sri Lanka

1. Sigiriya

In the 400s King Kasyapa selected this 660-foot tall rock for the site of his capital. He built his palace atop the massive natural formation and adorned it with frescoes, many of which have since disappeared. Visitors can still see the larger-than-life-sized lion paws that guard the palace’s entrance from which Sigiriya gets its name, meaning “lion rock.” From the top of the palace you’ll be able to see some of the oldest landscaped gardens in the world and the backdrop for Duran Duran’s video for “Save A Prayer.”

2. Galle

The seaside city of Galle is known for its historic fort and melange of cultures. Remainders of the Portuguese colonial influence can be seen in the architecture throughout Galle’s 16th-century fortress, while the Dutch influence remains in the street names that have remained unchanged since the late 18th century. While you’re in Galle you can watch brave souls cliff dive from the citadel’s Flag Rock, learn about local history at the Marine Archeological Museum and witness cultures cross at the Dutch Reformed Church.

3. Yala National Park

Yala National Park’s wildlife is unlike that of other Asia destinations. In addition to having one of the highest population densities of leopards in the world, Yala National Park is home to 215 bird species and 44 mammal species including elephants and bears. The park is also the site of the Sithulpahuwa and Magul Vihara ancient Buddhist monasteries.

4. Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa became Sri Lanka’s second royal capital in the late 10th century after the first, Anuradhapura, was pillaged. What remains of the medieval capital is a compact complex of well-preserved ruins that are easy to explore by bike. Highlights include the Royal Palace ruins, the Quadrangle (the epicenter of Polonnaruwa’s archaeological sites) and Gal Vihara, an iconic collection of larger-than-life-sized Buddha carvings.

5. Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada)

Adam’s Peak is a holy site of pilgrimage for Buddhists, Hindus, Christians and Muslims. The Sri Pada (sacred footprint) rock formation atop this formidable mountain is said to be Buddha’s footprint by Buddhists, Shiva’s footprint by Hindus, and Adam’s footprint by Christians and Muslims. Visitors of all faith traditions, however, will agree that catching a sunrise from Adam’s Peak is worth the trek up 5,000 steps and will be a memory you will never forget long after you tour Asia.

6. Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa)

Pilgrims and tourists alike come to the Temple of the Tooth (also known as Sri Dalada Maligawa) to visit the relic of Buddha’s tooth, from which this temple gets its name. When Sri Lanka was a kingdom, it was said that whoever was in possession of this tooth was in control of the kingdom. Although Buddha’s tooth is tucked away safely inside a series of nesting caskets, a visit to the temple is worthwhile for its spectacular architecture. While you’re already on the palace grounds of the ancient Kingdom of Kandy, visit the palace and its museums.

7. Colombo

Although Sri Lanka is full of ancient wonders, a visit to this island nation would be  incomplete without experiencing modern Sri Lanka. While neighboring suburban Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte is Sri Lanka’s legislative capital, Colombo is Sri Lanka’s largest city and commercial capital.

There is much to be enjoyed and explored in Colombo. Hedonists can soak up the sun at the city’s beaches and stroll along Galle Face Green, a seaside park where locals fly kites and watch life go by. Culture lovers can learn about Sri Lanka’s colonial history at the Colombo National Museum and Dutch Museum. Whatever your travel style, Colombo will have something for you.

8. Dambulla Cave Temple

The Dambulla Cave Temple has been a Buddhist pilgrimage site for the last 22 centuries. The temple’s collection of 150 Buddha statues, vibrant murals and statues of Sri Lankan royalty has been a work in progress for much of that time as kings have been contributing artwork to the caves from the 1st century BC until the 20th century CE. Today visitors can enjoy the magnificent collection in the largest and best-preserved cave temple in Sri Lanka.

9. Pinnawala elephant orphanage

No Asia vacation is complete without encountering the incredible indigenous wildlife. The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is the place to do just that in Sri Lanka. The orphanage opened in 1975 after modern development created habitat loss for Sri Lanka’s elephant population. Because elephant calves rely on their mothers for food for the first five years of their lives, the orphaned elephants that come to Pinnawala are hand-reared. Visitors can watch these majestic animals’ daily care routines like milk and fruit feedings and bath time in the river.

10. Tea plantations

During colonial times Sri Lanka was known as Ceylon, which is now synonymous with some of the world’s finest teas. Today Sri Lanka is the world’s fourth largest producer of teas, and tea production is a great source of employment for the country. While Sri Lanka’s Sabaragamuwa province is best known for its tea production, tea plantations can be found all over the country. Find a tea plantation to tour to discover the authentic flavor of Ceylon tea.

Have you been to Sri Lanka? Let us know what sites you recommend in the comments below.

Book your Sri Lanka getaway with a AAA travel advisor.