Choosing a small living space is a great idea for some and it can save a lot of money. For those who don’t mind limiting their apartment décor and who aren’t claustrophobic, choosing a less spacious apartment makes a lot of sense. However, without the proper planning and design, a small living space might not be the most comfortable place to spend time in. Here are some small space living ideas for making your small apartment or home more livable and welcoming.

How to divide a small living space

One of the first things to consider is that you’ll want to divide your small living space into different “zones,” with each zone being meant for a specific activity. Think of each zone as a room in a house, but in a studio or other small living space, these “rooms” all fit into one single space. For instance, you’ll probably need one area for bedtime, one area to work, to watch TV, etc. One easy way to designate each zone is to paint the wall in a different color, or use some kind of partitioning like a curtain. These divisions will help make the space seem less cluttered and confusing, and more livable, especially if you plan on having guests over.

Being flexible with furniture

Since you’re limited with a small living space, sometimes your work desk might also have to double as your dining table. Cube seats are another great idea, as they can act as a seat, but also as a table and potentially for storage if they have an inner compartment. Furniture that transforms to fit your needs is always a good idea. Look for tables that can also fold into small sofas, etc. That way, if you have guests visiting, you can fold out the sofa just like that. Otherwise, furniture for your guests can take up a lot of space.

In the same way, if you can invest in any setup that involves furniture that folds up onto the wall, this can be a useful asset. For instance, if you have a small work desk that’s usually folded, but that you can swing out whenever you need to, this will save you a lot of elbow room. In fact, there’s even companies that produce wall units to store your bed. When you need to sleep, just fold out the bed; in the morning, the bed folds into a drawer on the wall.

How mirrors make your small living space look bigger

Any kind of transparent material or mirror is going to be a major asset for making your space look bigger than it is. Set up mirrors in your kitchen area or along the wall to help the space seem almost double its size. You can also look into transparent glass tables, bookshelves or other furniture to achieve the same kind of effect. In the bathroom, a glass door will also look great on your shower!

Designing your small living space

You’ll want to have a consistent color scheme throughout the entire space. The continuity of the same (or similar) colors will make the room look more spacious in a subtle kind of way. Go for lighter, softer colors like light peach or pastel blue to make your small living space look more expansive. And interestingly, if you want to make your room look taller, you can put wallpaper on the wall or bookshelves in high places. Anything that makes the eye look upward will make the room look more spacious, so use this optical illusion to your advantage!

Space-saving interior design ideas for apartments

Utilizing vertical space is absolutely essential in a small living area. Make sure your bookshelves, cabinets and other storage furniture reach as high up to the ceiling as possible. If you have a partner or other family members that live with you, a bunk bed arrangement is often a typical way to save on precious horizontal space. Another great small space living idea is to have extra storage units built into it different pieces of furniture, from your table to your bed.

Keep your small living space clean

Finally, one of the most important rules for any small living space is to keep it clean. It might seem obvious, but even a little clutter can make a small space seem messy and tight, so maintain a consistent cleaning schedule and limit the apartment décor to just a few items.

With these great tips, you can transform a cramped space into one that looks and feels spacious and comfortable. After you settle down in your small living space, be sure to sign up for AAA’s Renter’s Insurance, which can be a life saver if anything is damaged.

If you have any small space tips of your own, share them with us in the comments below!

Learn about homeowner and condo insurance from AAA.

No matter who you want to get away with this fall – your family, your girlfriends, the guys, the love of your life – there’s a trip that combines the season’s scenic splendor with activities that match your travel style. Enjoy reading about these fall escapes nestled throughout the Northeast.

Romantic Escape
Block Island, R.I.

This small island – reachable year-round by ferry from Point Judith in Narragansett, R.I. – enters low season in September, making it ideal for an affordable stay at a romantic inn. Visit the circa-1834 Gothic Revival-style Southeast Light atop the Mohegan Bluffs, stroll a deserted beach, spread a picnic blanket and bird -watch, and dine on fresh seafood in and around Old Harbor.

Savoring The Season
Family Get-Together
Mystic, Conn.

Family-friendly lodging, activities for kids and cool hangouts for adults – this popular Connecticut destination has it all. Mystic Aquarium features everything from African penguins to beluga whales; Mystic Seaport Museum showcases 19th-century wooden ships and buildings; and historic downtown Mystic has shops, galleries, a craft brewery and even a beer garden.

Girlfriends’ Getaway
North Fork of Long Island, N.Y.

For a relaxing midweek getaway with the girls (weekends draw crowds), head to this farm-and-vineyard region located two hours east of Manhattan to sip wine at convivial tasting rooms, dine on fresh local fare and scoop up just-picked apples, pumpkins, squash and more. From Jamesport to Greenport, the North Fork’s charming towns are ripe with autumn goodness.

Spiritual Journey
Walden Pond State Reservation
Concord, Mass.

If you’re a Henry David Thoreau fan who hasn’t yet visited the 19th century philosopher-naturalist’s neck of the woods in eastern Massachusetts, September and October are lovely. Thoreau lived here for two years, two months and two days, and a calming walk through this protected 462-acre site might inspire your own autumn awakening.

Spa Retreat
The Poconos, Pa.

Whether you’re a couple, best friends or a mother and daughter duo, The Lodge at Woodloch in the Pocono Mountains offers relaxation to the max – and its 400 soothing woodland acres are especially splendid in autumn. When you’re not hiking, biking, kayaking or being massaged at the adults-only resort, you’ll be wrapped in a cozy robe by a fireplace.

Guys’ Weekend
Burlington, Vt.

When it’s time to hang with the guys, the great outdoors kayaking and fishing and the great indoors (craft brewpubs serving seasonal ales and sports bars with TVs tuned to NFL games) merge at this Vermont city on the shores of Lake Champlain. Add juicy burgers, spicy wings and pancakes smothered in fresh maple syrup and your taste buds (and best buds) will be happy.

Foodie Road Trip
Portsmouth, N.H., to Portland, Maine

It’s a 52-mile drive and there’s plenty of satiating spots along the route. Portsmouth’s booming foodie scene offers everything from tapas-style bites and curried mussels to a traditional New England raw bar. Kennebunkport and Ogunquit are the spots for lobster rolls, fried clams and chowder. And Portland’s memorable nibbles range from gastropub burgers to sophisticated menus by James Beard Award semifinalists.

Friend-cation
Cape May, N.J.

Rent a house, invite your friends and enjoy sea-meets-seasonal splendor as you sip morning coffee on the deck, check out the city’s Victorian and Italianate architecture, cook family-style dinners and gather around a fire pit beneath the stars. Added bonus: If you have a thing for birds, the New Jersey Audubon’s annual three-day Autumn Festival happens in October.

Artsy R&R
Rockland, Maine

With two art museums, 20-plus galleries and scenic inspiration for your own artistic dabbling, Rockland is the perfect getaway for the creatively inclined. For modern immersion, visit the Center for Maine Contemporary Art, while the Farnsworth Art Museum’s collections span all genres.

Back-to-Nature Adventure
White Mountains, N.H.

Foliage peaks in mid-September in the White Mountains, and while the weather can be unpredictable, anyone up for a challenge should consider a guided hut-to-hut hiking adventure. You’ll enjoy panoramic views, small-group camaraderie and insights into the Appalachian Trail and 6,289-foot Mount Washington.

Go to AAA.com/YourAAAFoliage to read about more ways to enjoy the season.

It doesn’t matter where you’ve been or what you’ve done – if you haven’t traveled by train, you haven’t seen it all.

Train travel around the globe allows travelers to glimpse gorgeous landscapes that, in many cases, can’t be enjoyed from a car or from the sky in the kind of relaxed, scenic fashion afforded by rail.

Here is just a small snapshot of train travel experiences that deserve a spot on your travel bucket list.

The best train travel across the globe

Rocky Mountaineer, Canada

Rocky Mountaineer offers several different routes through the Canadian Rockies for those looking to travel by train, and you can’t go wrong with whatever you choose. The Journey through the Clouds includes Mount Robson, the highest point of the Canadian Rockies, Coastal Passage offers a ride along the Pacific Ocean between Seattle and Vancouver, and First Passage to the West includes a ride through the Spiral Tunnels. If it’s too hard to choose, passengers can combine a few routes into a longer journey.

The Belmond Grand Hibernian, Ireland

The Belmond Grand Hibernian is the answer to all those who’ve dreamed of taking a luxury rail journey through the Irish countryside. Up to 40 guests enjoy two-, four-, or six-night journeys, splitting time between suite-style cabins, two restaurants and an observation car. Depending on your trip, stops along the way may include everything from an opportunity to kiss the Blarney Stone to an Irish whiskey tasting.

The Ghan, Australia

Few places represent the word vast like the Australian Outback. If you’re not up for four-wheeling through the desolate terrain or enduring some kind of soul-searching walkabout, consider travel by train with the Ghan, a perfect bet for experiencing this largely undisturbed part of the planet. It takes four days and three nights to traverse the roughly 1,850-mile route, which crosses the continent north-to-south. Relax in your private cabin aboard the train between optional excursions, such as a camelback ride. Shorter trips covering portions of the route are available as well.

The Flam Railway, Norway

A fjord is a narrow inlet or valley that twists and turns through steep, majestic cliffs. Norway is loaded with these natural wonders and the Flam Railway – also known as the Flamsbana, which is undoubtedly the coolest word you’ve read all day – is a perfect way to enjoy them. The two-hour round trip starts at sea level but rises quickly, ascending more than 2,800 feet to Myrdal. Along with beautiful fjords, the route rolls through tunnels and past waterfalls.

The Glacier Express, Switzerland

The Glacier Express moves slowly, and you wouldn’t want it any other way. The seven-hour journey from Zermatt to St. Moritz is graced with the best of Swiss scenery, including the Oberalp Pass through the Alps, 90-plus tunnels and more than 290 bridges.

The Blue Train, South Africa

The Blue Train runs a 994-mile route from Cape Town to Pretoria, South Africa. It’s a relaxed 27-hour ride. Along with sweeping scenery, the trip includes a stop at the Kimberley Mine Museum, which tells the story of area diamond mining history, and a lookout over the museum’s famous Big Hole, the largest hand-dug excavation in the world.

Grand Canyon Railway, Arizona

The Grand Canyon Railway is the trip back to the Wild West you’ve always dreamed of. Your experience starts in Williams, Ariz., on the iconic Route 66. Guests of the railway start their adventure with a Wild-West-themed show that (naturally) ends in a shootout. From there, it’s a scenic, 65 mile, two-hour-and-15 minute ride to the south rim of Grand Canyon National Park. En route, guests enjoy visits from costumed, period musicians and, perhaps, some train robbers.

Royal Canadian Pacific

Train travel with the Royal Canadian Pacific is about luxury. The line’s fleet consists of 10 vintage business cars resorted with brass fittings, circassian walnut wall paneling and imported bird’s eye maple, combined with modern amenities such as gourmet cuisine and fine wines and top-notch service. The line travels a 650-mile loop from Calgary, Alberta, wrapping through beautiful Rocky Mountains scenery populated by wildlife ranging from elk to moose to grizzly bear.

Have a favorite out of the bunch? Want to share your train travel experiences with other AAA members? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below. 

Learn more about train travel with AAA Travel. 

What’s not to love about a place where you can listen to a world-famous orchestra as you picnic, go hiking and antiquing in the same day, and visit cool museums? That place is the Berkshires, a hilly corner of western Massachusetts where the focus is on living well via active pursuits, cultural immersion and culinary indulgence. And it doesn’t hurt that the Berkshires features some of the Northeast’s most beautiful landscapes. Here is what to do in the Berkshires when you visit.

Top 10 things to do in the Berkshires, Mass.

1.

When summer arrives, the Boston Symphony Orchestra decamps to Tanglewood, a 529-acre music complex in the town of Lenox, where it performs in the Koussevitzky Music Shed from late June to early September. The 5,100-seat performance complex has been home to the orchestra since 1937.

2.

Nostalgic Americana awaits at the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, where 998 of the artist’s paintings and drawings reside. It is also home to a collection of over 100,000 other items like photographs, fan mail and more. Pair a visit with lunch at the atmospheric Red Lion Inn, established in 1773.

3.

There are plenty of places to hike in the Berkshires – even a 15-mile segment of the Appalachian Trail. Hardy trekkers can tackle its most rugged section and climb 3,491-foot Mount Greylock  for a panoramic view. And thrill-seekers can get their wet adrenaline fix at Crab Apple Whitewater, a family owned and operated whitewater rafting outpost that provides nothing but memorable experiences.

4.

Head to Lenox for dinner, where options include upscale chow at Table Six, a fine-dining restaurant with unbeatable décor and an amazing outdoor view. Or try local cuisine at the cozy and casual Nudel, where farm-fresh feasts are a fact of life. Other spots include Alta Restaurant & Wine Bar, where you can taste Mediterranean delights (and 24 wines by the glass).

5.

This region is known as Antiques Alley, and the browsing opportunities are non-stop along Route 7, where you will find specialized shops as well as the multi-dealer Great Barrington Antiques Center. Peruse the thousands of collectables, art and antiques in the 5,000-square-foot shop, which is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (they close on Wednesdays during the winter). Their inventory of oriental carpets, antique furniture and more changes daily, so you never know what you will find during your next stop.

6.

Contemporary art lovers can check the schedule at MASS MoCA in North Adams, where both temporary and long-term exhibitions ­– notably 105 wall drawings by Sol LeWitt – are on display. The converted factory building is one of the largest centers for art and performance art in the United States. Other exhibitions on display include a presentation of work by German painter and sculptor Anselm Kiefer and a project that shows the growth of six live – and inverted – trees.

7.

Whether you prefer wine, beer or distilled spirits, sampling local artisanal brews makes for a fun afternoon. Options include Balderdash Cellars, Big Elm Brewing and Berkshire Mountain Distillers. Try the Truth Serum Albariño at Balderdash for a light and crisp taste with a hint of lime. The 413 Belgian ale brewed with chamomile and orange zest at Big Elm is also a treat, as is the Greylock Gin at Berkshire Distillers.

8.

Known for its wood-fired sourdough-crust pizzas, Baba Louie’s in Great Barrington is a hotspot. The Isabella Pizzarella is a delicious pizza option with roasted sweet potatoes, roasted parsnips, shaved fennel and balsamic vinegar. So is the Pomodoro Bianco, which is topped with fresh mozzarella, roasted portabellas, goat cheese and pesto.

9.

At the Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute in Williamstown, you can browse amid work from impressionist masters like Claude Monet, Camille Pissarro and Pierre-Auguste Renoir. Established in 1955, the museum and research institution is home to Renoir’s “Self-portrait,” Monet’s “The Cliffs at Etretat and Pissarro’s “The Road: Rain Effect.” Plus, there are many other European and American paintings, sculptures, drawings and photographs from the 14th century to the 20th century.

10.

Golfing is a top activity here from May through October. There are more than a dozen courses with options that include Cranwell Golf Club in Lenox and Wahconah Country Club in Dalton. Bas Ridge Golf Course in Hinsdale and the Blandford Golf & Tennis Club in Blandford are also open to the public. But call ahead for tee times because the word is out on the Berkshires. The area offers so much more than just an amazing place for hiking and camping – although it’s perfect for that too.

Looking for a variety of great lodging options in the area? Find and book great hotels in the Berkshires. Call 1-800-873-8283 to speak to a AAA travel counselor today or click here.

Today’s savvy travelers expect more. Hotel guests are no longer satisfied with just a clean bed to sleep in and a TV with on-demand movies. Innovative hotels have taken notice of the modern traveler’s needs and are making technologies like artificial intelligence and voice recognition a mainstay of the guest experience. Here are some of the latest hotel tech trends you may encounter on your next trip.

How Hotel Tech is Changing the Way You Plan Travel

Cutting-edge hotels are using technology to augment their guests’ experience before they even book their stay.

Artificial Intelligence 

While robotic butlers and maids may one day become hotel standards, the artificial intelligence being used by hotels today is a little less sci-fi; nonetheless, it still makes the planning process a lot easier.

Innovative hotels are using information about guests and their travel preferences to create the best travel experience possible. All that stands between you and your perfect vacation are a few questions. Best Western has partnered with IBM’s AI, Watson, to make online ads that enhance their customers’ stay before they’ve even booked a room.

Let’s say it’s May and you live in Boston. If you are looking up average temperatures in San Francisco in June, you may see an ad asking you about the kinds of activities you plan on doing while you’re in San Francisco. If you select, “We’re going wine tasting,” the ad could give recommendations for the best wineries in Sonoma, and suggest Best Western’s Sonoma Valley Inn as the perfect home base for your stay. AI-powered ads take the stress out of travel planning so that you can spend more time enjoying yourself.

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Virtual Reality 

Virtual reality is no longer just for video games. Hotels are starting to embrace virtual and augmented reality to help make the hotel selection process easier for discerning travelers.

With so many hotel comparison tools out there, travelers are often left with decision fatigue after reading dozens of reviews and scrolling through seemingly endless user-submitted photos of rooms and hotel amenities. In the end, you may even be disappointed to learn that the hotel you’ve selected after hours of research feels nothing like the photos and reviews you saw online.

If you’re selective about where you stay when you travel, you will appreciate how virtual reality is being used to help guests know exactly what they’re getting when they book a room.

Best Western recently introduced a virtual reality experience that lets travelers explore all of their North American properties before booking a room. The hotel group has partnered with Google Street View to collect almost two million photos of their 2,200+ North American hotels to create Best Western Virtual Reality Experience (BWVRE). BWVRE helps you make sure you’ve picked the best Best Western hotel for your trip. Will your room’s TV be large enough to fully enjoy that playoff game? Does the business center have everything you and your colleagues need for a quick meeting before the conference? Will there be enough space for you to do your nightly yoga routine in your room?

The Best Western Virtual Reality Experience guides you through their hotels with 3D, panoramic videos that you can watch before you click “book.” The best part is that you don’t need a VR headset to partake in these immersive virtual tours. All of Best Western’s virtual hotel tours can be viewed on YouTube.

How Hotel Tech Makes Life Easier After Check-In

Here’s a look at how tech-focused hotels are using voice recognition technology and mobile apps to enhance your stay.

Mobile Engagement Platforms 

From in-room tablets that replace the need to call room service, to bypassing the front desk for check-in, hotel tech is making it easier than ever for travelers to get what they need for a comfortable stay.

Imagine you’ve just gotten to your hotel after a delayed red-eye flight. Your kids are cranky and you feel like a zombie. The last thing you want to do is to make small talk with the hotel’s front desk staff while they get your room key ready. Best Western’s Mobile Guest Engagement Platform lets guests use their smartphones to check-in and out of their rooms, communicate with staff and even order transportation from Uber. Hotel apps make getting what you need during your stay as painless as possible.

Voice Recognition 

If you prefer to be totally hands-off when you travel, you’ll appreciate how hotels are making voice recognition technology a part of the guest experience. With a little help from Siri, Alexa and Google, travelers are getting information about their hotels as conveniently as possible.

Want to know when the pool closes without having to rummage around your room to find the hotel guidebook? Want to request late check out without having to call the front desk? Best Western guests in select hotels can use the Amazon Echo Dot in their rooms to ask Alexa their most-pressing questions and make simple requests.

While many of us use voice-activated personal assistants in our daily lives, they can augment a hotel stay by suggesting local restaurants, giving you your wake-up call or helping you plan for the weather ahead.

From the booking process to the stay, hotel tech is enhancing the way travelers make decisions about where to stay and how they experience hotels. Artificial intelligence, virtual reality, smartphone apps and voice recognition technology are making it easier than ever for guests to maximize their travel experience.

Great new hotel tech doesn’t have to be pricey. By booking your hotel room with Best Western and AAA, you can save you up to 15% and earn 10% bonus Best Western Rewards points.

What hotel tech are you looking forward to? Let us know in the comments below!

One of the hardest parts about traveling is sticking to a nutritious diet. Between the stress of being on the go and staying in an unfamiliar place, it’s easy to falter from a healthy eating plan. Fortunately, a few tips and tricks can help get your day started right, whether you’re dining in your guest room or enjoying a hotel breakfast buffet.

Healthy Restaurant Dishes

Hotel restaurants do offer a lot of high-calorie dishes, but you don’t have to skip breakfast to be health conscious while traveling. You can get just as much satisfaction from a veggie omelet — hold the cheese — with whole-wheat toast on the side, or make your own delicious breakfast sandwich from scrambled eggs and an English muffin. If buckwheat pancakes or waffles are on the menu, get them with fresh strawberries instead of butter and syrup, or opt for dishes like avocado toast or hash browns topped with peppers, mushrooms and onions. Many hotel restaurants also offer nutritious breakfast-in-a-bowl selections like Greek yogurt and muesli.

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Nutritious Selections From the Buffet

Although a complimentary breakfast buffet might be easy on the wallet, it’s not always easy on your waistline. Happily, most buffets have at least a few healthy choices. Look for good sources of protein like eggs and yogurt, and supplement with fresh fruit. Almost all buffets serve oatmeal, and you can make it tastier with a small packet of dried fruit and nuts. Trade a muffin or a pastry for whole-grain toast and peanut butter, and top it with sliced banana if available. To get the same amount of nutrients with less concentrated sugar, always choose whole fruit over fruit juice, and stir a little cinnamon and stevia into your cup of Joe instead of flavored creamers.

Wholesome In-Room Options

If your hotel breakfast buffet serves nothing but pancakes, sausage and other high-calorie, high-fat foods, borrow a plate and utensils and whip up a healthier meal in your guest room. For cook-free, no-refrigeration-needed fare, hit the grocery store for oranges, apples and bananas. Pack a little more substance into your morning meal with granola bars, whole-grain bagels, and trail mix.

If your room offers amenities like a coffee maker, mini-fridge and microwave, then the sky is the limit for a healthy, delicious breakfast. Use your microwave to prepare turkey bacon, and cook hard-boiled eggs with your coffee maker by submerging them in brewed water and allowing them to sit for 10 to 12 minutes. For another breakfast or healthy snack option, stock your mini-fridge with single-serve containers of Greek yogurt.

Convenience Store Choices

Some hotels don’t offer breakfast, so you may have to settle for the convenience store in the lobby or around the corner. No problem. Kick start your day with string cheese. Typically under 100 calories, this protein-rich, fun-to-eat food makes a great option for breakfast. To add healthy fats and carbs to the mix, choose whole-grain cereal cups, fresh fruit if available, or single-serve packets of pistachios, almonds or cashews. To satisfy a sweet tooth, opt for fig cookies, a healthier alternative to sugary doughnuts and cinnamon rolls. When it comes to breakfast beverages, sip vegetable juice rather than orange or apple juice, and trade a fattening coffee drink for plain black coffee or green tea.

Nutritious eating isn’t impossible when you’re traveling. Follow these tips and tricks for the best hotel breakfast options to suit a healthy lifestyle.

Originally published on Hertz.com.

The numbers don’t lie — Americans love to get away. According to the U.S. State Department, more than 38 million Americans traveled abroad in 2017, a significant jump from the less than 31 million people who went overseas a decade ago.

If you’ve decided to join the crowd and visit more continents in 2019, you’re probably struggling to choose your next great destination among the world’s countless wonders. You’ve come to the right place. For 30 years, Intrepid Travel has been a leader in group adventure travel, offering more than 1,500 itineraries in 120-plus countries. We rounded up a few of the company’s most popular trip destinations for the coming year.

Whether it’s an up-and-coming tourist attraction or a less-visited paradise, a city of ancient ruins or one filled with arts and culture, these are seven great destinations to explore in 2019.

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The Falkland Islands

The Falkland Islands sit approximately 300 miles east of South America’s Patagonian coast, making it a difficult destination to reach. Until recently, there was only one weekly commercial flight to the archipelago. That will change in 2019 after the Falkland government announced that Chilean airline Latam will add an additional weekly flight to the islands.

Once you arrive, you’ll find yourself in a natural paradise teeming with wildlife. Visitors can travel by land, air and sea to spot animals such as penguins, albatrosses and petrels. The Falkland Islands also have a rich history to uncover. Book a trip that tours the battlegrounds from the war of 1982 and visit Stanley, the Falklands’ capital, home to the Historic Dockyard Museum, Christ Church Cathedral and an iconic Whalebone Arch.

Berlin, Germany

2019 marks the 30^th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin wall. Over the course of those 30 years, the capital city has blossomed into a mecca of culture, media and science, filled with world-renowned universities, museums and entertainment venues. Travelers can visit the Wall Memorial and take part in official celebrations on the day the wall fell or head to the city’s top tourist attractions such as the Reichstag building, Brandenburg Gate, the Berlin Television Tower, the Berlin Cathedral and Gendarmenmarkt square. The city also offers an extensive number of sightseeing tours both by bus and by ship. Experience the best of Germany.

Turkey

Situated directly between Europe and Asia, Turkey is in the middle of it all. It’s no wonder that Turkish Airlines has the largest flight network in the world. And with the recent opening of Istanbul’s new airport, expected to be the world’s busiest with an annual passenger capacity of 200 million, Turkey is now well equipped to handle the traffic.

But the country is not merely a stopover, it’s a destination. Visitors can explore Turkey’s rich historic legacy at locations such as Letoon Ancient City or Ephesus’ Eight Impressive Ruins. The country also has a thriving culture and art scene as well as beautiful coastlines and beaches.

Belarus

This past summer, Belarus signed bilateral agreements with 80 countries, allowing citizens of those countries to be available for visa-free entry into Belarus for up to 30 days. Once there, visitors can enjoy the country’s natural beauty, including two national parks designated as World Heritage sites by the United Nations. The country also owns a wealth of other attractions. Any trip to Belarus must include visits to its ancient cities, medieval castles, art galleries and museums. Minsk, the country’s capital and largest city, is a popular destination, as is the border town of Brest, which will be welcoming its millennial celebrations in 2019.

Argentina and Brazil

The spectacular beauty! The music! The cuisine! don’t miss out on an Latin adventure through Argentina and Brazil. Roam the sophisticated streets of Buenos Aires, often referred to as the “Paris of South America,” marvel at the mighty Iguazu Falls at the border of both countries, and samba your way through the streets of Rio.

Paraguay

As impressive as Argentina and Brazil may be, they are popular tourist destinations. For a quieter taste of South American culture, travel inward to the landlocked country of Paraguay on Intrepid’s 12-day Paraguay Expedition.

Visitors can sample local food and culture in the capital city of Asuncion, then delve into a world of charming colonial-era treasures, wetlands brimming with birdlife, remote Atlantic forest, and Jesuit and indigenous Guarani histories rich in myth and magic. Paraguay’s natural parks are bursting with wildlife and scenic landscapes of mountains, brooks and waterfalls.

The world is a big place. Beyond these amazing spots, there are tons of international spots to travel to in the coming months.

What are your bucket list destinations in 2019? Tell us in the comments below.

Each season comes with its own set of complications for your car, whether it’s extreme summer heat or frosty winter months that are accompanied by snow and ice. But that doesn’t mean you can’t engage in some preventative medicine.

What are the benefits of maintaining your vehicle throughout the course of the year? By caring for your car properly, you can increase safety, cut down on expenses, boost your car’s performance and even save yourself some time. A number of your vehicle’s features – from the engine to the tires – need a little TLC from time to time. If they don’t get it, your vehicle – and wallet – could suffer as a result.

What are the benefits of maintaining your vehicle?

Longevity

One of the most important benefits of good car maintenance is that you’ll give it a longer life. Ideally, maintaining your car won’t require as much repair on its parts. You should regularly check the fluid levels, tire pressure, lights, brakes and battery. If you keep these parts in good shape, then they’ll likely last longer. An added bonus is that a well-maintained car will have a higher selling value, should you decide to trade it in.

Safety

Another benefit of maintaining your vehicle is that, by doing so, you increase overall safety. In most cases, safe driving is related to the condition of your car. And if your car’s ability to operate properly is impaired, there are safety risks not only for you and your passengers, but also anyone sharing the road with you. For example, if your tires are not inflated to meet your manufacturer’s recommendation, you increase the chance of getting a flat tire or a blowout.

Be sure that the pressure in your tires is at the proper level and that the tread is thick enough. And have your tires rotated during every other oil change. Doing all of these things can extend your mileage, keep you safe and help to avoid your tires from balding. Learn now to recognize tire wear patterns.

It will save you money in the long run

Naturally, maintaining your car will also save you money – and in a variety of ways. First, a well-maintained car will run better and, therefore, result in better fuel economy. If your vehicle’s engine is poorly tuned, for instance, it can cause your car to use up to 50 percent more fuel. Additionally, proper tire pressure, regular oil changes and clean filters can improve your fuel economy, so be sure to check your manufacturer’s recommended service schedule.

Maintaining your vehicle will also save you money by preventing extensive work on – or even replacement of – your car’s parts. Yes, a battery typically only lasts two to three years, but you can extend the life of other features on your vehicle by having them routinely checked, rather than waiting until they are unfixable and in need of replacement. For more information on AAA’s Battery Service, which offers battery testing year-round, click here.

But sometimes it’s not as obvious when your vehicle needs repair. Minor fender benders or speed bumps can result in wear and tear, so it’s a good idea to have a mechanic take a look at your vehicle when you drop it off for oil changes. Some of the items to keep an eye on include your car’s windshield wipers, axle, suspension, brakes, clutch, steering and transmission.

More car maintenance tips

Take a look at AAA’s car care guide for tips on how to maintain your vehicle  inside, outside and under the hood.

Determine which projects you are comfortable taking on yourself, and know when it’s better to call a professional. If you do need the help of an expert, you can trust AAA Approved Auto facilities. Find one near you.

While car maintenance takes a little time, planning and effort, it far outweighs putting the safety of yourself and others at risk, emptying your wallet to pay for replacement parts as a result of overdue repairs, or having to purchase a new vehicle sooner than you’d originally planned.

Based on your own experiences, what are the benefits of maintaining your vehicle? Do you have any other tips? Tell us in the comments. 

Learn more about AAA’s top-notch roadside assistance. 

This post was first published in 2016 and has been updated.

Americans spend an average of 17,600 minutes driving per year – that’s a lot of hours! And many of them are probably spent stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic. While it’s easy to complain about the hassles of commuting, there are ways to make the driving experience more enjoyable. Of course, jamming out to some tunes (at a reasonable volume) is always a great option, but introducing some cool car tech can be just as fun. A few strategically placed gadgets can make your vehicle’s space feel more personalized and enjoyable every time you step in.

From safety to entertainment, this list is full of fun and useful car technology.

Batman Brake Light

$11.99

We’ve all secretly (or not so secretly) wanted to be Batman at some point in our lives. And some of us still do. While we can’t promise that this little gadget will turn you into a vigilante of the night, we can promise that it will up your cool factor by a few points. The Batman brake light decal is made of quality vinyl, comes with instructions, and should fit most car makes and models. So the next time you’re stuck in stop-and-go traffic just think: the person behind you is looking at the bat signal! That’s pretty awesome.

R2D2 USB Car Charger

$29.99

Another fandom people just can’t get enough of Star Wars. Think Geek’s R2D2 USB Car Charger is the perfect gadget for the ultimate fan. The car technology features 2 USB charging ports, each with 2.1 Amps (enough juice to charge two tablets simultaneously). So, after a long day of work, when you’re stuck on the highway in standstill traffic, don’t worry. Just look down at your cup holder and complain to RD2D. Please note: If R2D2 “beep-boops” back, call someone. The traffic has you delirious.

Hudway Glass

$49.95

This car technology is as cool as it is practical. Ensuring an unobstructed view of the road, Hudway Glass allows drivers to see directions, speed and other information on an eye-level, heads-up display, on a transparent (and non-glare) multi-layered glass coating. That’s a huge step up from other navigation displays that can be clunky and distracting. The cool futuristic feel is a huge bonus too.

Brightech Jump Starter

$59.99

All business, this next gadget is solely for your safety. While jumper cables are great if you have another vehicle around to give you a little boost, not everyone lives in an area where there’s a constant stream of traffic and activity. For those who spend a lot of time in isolated areas, a self-powered jump starter is definitely a must-have. The Brightech Jump Starter can get you going again. It can also power up your phone or tablet, thanks to the included USB charging ports. If any emergencies arise while you’re on the road, having this piece of car technology on hand will ensure you’re prepared.

Handpresso

$167.98

Depending on how you feel about coffee, this gadget could be seen as a luxury or a necessity. At almost $200, you might really want to think about how bad you want that morning cup of joe. But if you’re constantly running late or you’re tired of stopping at Starbucks, even if just want to cut down on how long it takes you to get ready in the morning, the Handpresso could be worth it. Specifically designed for your car, this gadget plugs directly into you 12-volt port. It puts the phrase, “coffee to go,” on a whole new level. So, if you ever find yourself stuck in traffic, just brew a fresh cup and take a sip.

Drop Stop

$19.99

Even as the most low-tech gadget on this list, the Drop Stop is probably the most useful. If your car ever swallowed your phone, or your change, or your chapstick, then this gadget will be your new life-saver. Designed to fit snuggly between the driver seat and the center console, the Drop Stop will make sure you never lose anything in that annoying little crevice ever again! It’ll be the last time your phone mysteriously disappears for a week.

Our list of car technology and gadgets has some pretty great and unique suggestions, but there’s way more cool and useful car tech out there.

Is there a gadget or other car technology item that you can’t live without? Let us know in the comments below! 

Dubbed the entertainment capital of the world, Las Vegas is a city that never goes dark. Every night, visitors can choose from dozens of shows to see. It’s no wonder that nearly 36 million people visit the city each year. Las Vegas shows are renowned around the world. And the city offers something for everyone, with shows running the gamut from burlesque to musical revues, comedy and lounge acts, concerts, magic acts, kid-friendly shows, and more. Some of today’s hottest stars have set up residencies in Las Vegas, including Britney Spears and Jennifer Lopez. Comedians like Jerry Seinfeld, Ray Romano, Jay Leno, George Wallace, and Carrot Top keep audiences laughing while magicians like Penn and Teller keep them guessing with clever illusions.

Legendary Las Vegas performers

Las Vegas’s current reputation as an entertainment mecca owes much to the pianist and singer Liberace and later to Frank Sinatra’s Rat Pack. Liberace, known as “Mr. Showmanship,” made his Las Vegas debut in 1944. The flamboyant performer dazzled Las Vegas audiences with elaborate sets and costumes featuring feathers, mink, capes, and tons of bling. Liberace clearly helped Las Vegas shed its image as a dusty Western town.

In the 1950s, the group of entertainers known as the “Rat Pack” took Las Vegas by storm. Headed by de facto leader Frank Sinatra, the Rat Pack included Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., Peter Lawford, and Joey Bishop. The group was a constant presence on the Las Vegas Strip and often joined by some of Hollywood’s biggest stars such as Marilyn Monroe, Angie Dickinson, and Shirley MacLaine. Sinatra made his first performance at the Desert Inn in 1951. Celebrities flocked to see his show. It became one of the top rated Vegas shows and the city soon became a world class destination for entertainment.

Elvis Presley is another performer who left an indelible impression on the city. Presley’s Las Vegas shows were legendary. The King had a seven-year residency in the city, playing an astonishing 837 consecutive sold out performances. To mark the end of each show, announcer Al Dvorin would tell the audience that “Elvis has left the building.” Presley permanently left the building in 1976 when he played his last Las Vegas show. At any given moment today, you can find several Elvis imitators strolling the Strip, chatting and posing for photos with tourists.

Sin City captured on stage

Those looking for more adult entertainment will find it in abundance—Las Vegas is nicknamed Sin City, after all. Burlesque has always found a home in Las Vegas from the city’s earliest days. From 1959 to 2009, the legendary Las Vegas Folies Bergere delighted audiences with a traditional French style topless revue. The show was chock full of fantastic sets and beautiful showgirls in gorgeous costumes dancing the Can-Can, the Mambo, and more. Each month, some 40,000 people attended the show.  One of the oldest, still-running classic Vegas burlesque shows right now is Jubilee. Since 1981, this popular, top rated Vegas show featuring glamorous showgirls, elaborate sets, and a reenactment of the sinking of the Titanic has kept audiences entertained. Over the years, Las Vegas has become the go-to place for bachelor and bachelorette parties. Shows like Magic Mike Live, Chippendales, Crazy Girls, Fantasy, and Aussie Heat feature exotic dancers and are geared to an audience looking for a bit of risqué fun.

Magic and more

Magic is big business in Las Vegas. Several famous magicians have made Las Vegas their home base, performing nightly shows to entranced crowds. From 1990 to 2003, the German duo Siegfried & Roy delighted audiences with magic tricks and trained white tigers and lions. Siegfried & Roy at the Mirage Resort and Casino was one of the most visited Las Vegas shows. Penn and Teller have been commanding the stage for decades with their comedy and magic show. The duo has a residency at the Rio where they have wowed countless visitors during their lengthy career. David Copperfield, who has been called the “greatest illusionist of our time,” performs his bag of tricks at MGM Grand. Criss Angel gives Copperfield a run for his money with his own jaw-dropping show Mindfreak. Angel’s show offers plenty of shocking stunts and magic tricks to keep audiences coming back for more.

Lounge acts

Las Vegas shows can be costly but visitors on a budget can still enjoy first rate entertainment. During the 1950s, casinos started to provide free, non-stop entertainment in the casino lounges. Guests were treated to live music, stand-up comedy, and more. Don Rickles, Buddy Hackett, Alan King, and Shecky Greene all performed in Las Vegas lounges. Today, visitors can still enjoy free Las Vegas shows for the mere price of a cocktail in the casino lounge. It’s a great way to have a fun night without breaking the bank.

What historic show in Las Vegas would you have loved to see? Let us know in the comments below!

Plan your next Vegas vacation with AAA. 

Applying for and using credit cards is often an exercise in trust. On the one hand, most credit cards are insured against fraudulent activity and theft. On the other hand, consumers give out a lot of personal information when they apply for a credit card. How do you know that credit card companies are keeping your personal information and money safe?

According to the U.S. Government Accountability Office, banks, credit card companies and other large financial institutions have adopted very stringent and sophisticated security measures to keep your data safe. They are constantly updating their security systems to guard against hackers, and to date, there has never been a significant security breach at any major U.S. credit card company.

The introduction of chip credit cards

The introduction of chip cards is the most significant protective step credit card companies have taken in the past decade. Chip cards started appearing in the United States back in 2015 as a way to prevent credit card fraud. Unlike the magnetic strip used before, the chip creates a unique transaction code each time the card is used. This makes it a lot more difficult for hackers to steal your information or clone your card.

Monitoring your account for fraud

Fraudulent activity costs credit card companies millions of dollars annually. Most credit card companies use technology to detect inconsistencies in consumer spending. If your card is ever stolen and used fraudulently, most credit card companies offer zero liability protection so that you won’t have to foot the bill. Credit card companies that don’t offer zero liability protection can only hold you accountable for $50 of the fraudulent charges. Because of the safeguards credit card companies have put in place, using a credit card is one of the safest methods of payment available.

Privacy concerns

All the benefits of using a credit card come with a trade-off. Credit card companies will know your spending habits, and they will use those habits to determine your creditworthiness. By law, your credit card company can’t share your personal information with third parties they aren’t affiliated with, but third parties have other ways of monitoring your spending.

The internet is still the Wild West when it comes to your personal privacy. Search engines like Google maintain partnerships with online merchants, and much of your information and spending history can be easily mined and shared. This information is most often used for targeting ads, but fraudulent activity isn’t uncommon. Here are some steps you can take to shop safely online.

• Make sure your data is encrypted. Before entering your credit card information on any website, be sure that the URL begins with “https.” This prefix ensures that your data is encrypted. Do not enter your credit card information if the URL begins with “http.”

• Don’t send personal information over public Wi-Fi. Public Wi-Fi networks are not secure, which makes them an easy target for hackers. If you need to make an online purchase, do it from your secure home network.

• Make sure your computer is protected against viruses and malware. Invest in good antivirus software and be sure to scan your computer regularly. This will prevent hackers from installing keyloggers or screen recorders on your computer.

• Don’t send personal information over email. Emails are not encrypted and the information can easily be shared.

• Only give out your credit card number over the phone if you initiated the call. Be sure you know exactly who you are talking to before you give out your credit card number. Your bank or credit card company will never call and ask for your personal information.

Despite the possibility of theft and fraud, using credit cards are still much safer than carrying cash. While credit cards can be stolen, they are easy to replace, and any stolen funds are protected. The downside to using credit cards is that you do give up some of your privacy when using them.

It is important to remember that the greatest risk of a security breach is not with credit card companies. It is far more likely that your computer will be hacked into or that your card will be stolen. Take precautions to protect your data whenever you use your card, and be sure to check your statements regularly for any signs of suspicious activity.

Do you worry that your personal data is at risk because you use credit cards? What steps are you taking to protect yourself from fraud, theft, and security breaches? Get in on the discussion in the comments section below.

Sliced your finger with a carving knife recently? Or maybe got stung by a bee? Most likely, your first thought is about heading to an emergency room.

That would probably be anyone’s first thought. The ER is ubiquitous in American health care and American culture as the place to go when you’re suddenly injured or sick. These medical facilities have long been a staple of TV, cable and the movies. But they may no longer be the best choice for quick, competent medical care.

Urgent care clinics have become a viable alternative for medical treatment, as they usually open in convenient locations. Hospitals, more often than not, are located in densely populated urban neighborhoods. Currently, there are nearly 7,400 urgent care clinics in the United States.

How do you choose whether to go to an urgent care clinic rather than an emergency room? It might be the case that you need immediate medical attention but not to the level available at an emergency room – a bee sting that swells your hand as opposed to one that’s making it difficult to breathe.

If you have life-threatening issues such as chest pain or difficulty breathing, you should head to a hospital emergency room immediately.

A sore wrist or scratchy throat are not good reasons to visit an emergency room. Emergency room staff have to prioritize patients, treating those with the most-serious medical conditions first and leaving people with minor injuries or symptoms to wait – often hours. Emergency rooms also are required by federal law to provide care to all patients, regardless of their ability to pay.

Hospital emergency departments provide medical care 24/7/365 – the rare instances when they close to patients are during extreme conditions such as mass-casualty incidents.

There are many medical conditions always considered emergencies because they require rapid or advanced treatments such as heart attacks or cranial surgery that may only be available at a hospital. However, emergency rooms are not intended as the place to get treatment simply because your doctor’s office is not open. That’s why emergency rooms can become clogged with people who could wait to be seen by their own doctor, or simply at home resting.

Symptoms best evaluated at an emergency room include:

• Persistent chest pain.
• Difficulty breathing.
• Any severe pain in the abdomen or halfway down the back.
• Sudden loss of balance or fainting.
• Sudden difficulty speaking or understanding speech.
• Sudden weakness or paralysis, especially on one side of the face.
• Rapid, fluttering or pounding heartbeat.
• Broken bones.
• Serious burns.
• Seizures.
• Sudden, severe headache.

Urgent care does not rise to the level of emergency care. Urgent care facilities can serve as a bridge to your primary care physician or an emergency room. About 3 percent of urgent care visitors were diverted to emergency rooms in 2016, according to the Urgent Care Association of America.

Like an emergency room, urgent care clinics do not require an appointment. But the average time it takes to see a medical professional is 30 minutes, and the average visit takes about an hour, according to the Urgent Care Association of America. These clinics can handle a variety of medical problems or diagnose symptoms. Among these are:

• Fever.
• Ear pain.
• Painful urination.
• Diarrhea.
• Sore throat.
• Vomiting.
• Minor injuries such as sprains or shallow cuts.
• Allergic reactions to insect stings or bites.
• Mild asthma.

Urgent care centers often have X-ray machines and medical labs onsite that can be used to determine the extent of an injury or diagnose a medical condition.

Whether you go to an emergency room or an urgent care clinic, it’s important to bring a list of any medications you take, including vitamins and supplements. Also, make sure to know any allergies you may have. Letting a doctor know you’re allergic to steroids can save you the discomfort that comes with a reaction – and not get in the way of treating the condition for which you are seeking help. You should also let the medical staff know about any previous medical procedures or surgeries.

When choosing whether to go to an emergency room or an urgent care clinic, ask yourself: Is this medical issue scary enough to take the time and pay the cost of visiting an emergency room?

The treatment bill may be lower at an urgent care clinic that is part of your health plan’s network than it may be at an emergency room. Urgent care bills usually cost less than $200, versus emergency room bills that can top $1,200.

In some instances, insurers will deny coverage to patients who visit the ER for a minor ailment when an urgent care clinic or walk-in clinic is a viable option.

What other questions do you have about urgent care clinics versus emergency rooms? Let us know in the comments below.

If your idea of a small Vermont town includes white-steeple churches, cozy restaurants and a backdrop of snow-covered mountains, then you might be picturing Manchester. A ski resort town in winter and a hiking mecca in warmer months, Manchester is a retreat from busy city life. Another super popular activity is fly-fishing, which you can learn to do if you’re a first-timer, practice your skills if you’re a pro, or even visit a museum dedicated to the sport. Here are our 10 favorite things to do in Manchester, Vt.

Top 10 things to do in Manchester, Vt.

1.

Start the day off right with hearty and filling fare, like sourdough blueberry pancakes or eggs Benedict and strong coffee at the country-style Up for Breakfast diner. The Little Rooster Café is another cute and homey spot that’s open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. You’ll love the chairs, which are painted with nests that are filled with eggs for customers to “keep warm” while they eat!

2.

Get the lay of the land on Mount Equinox Skyline Drive, which leads up to panoramic views of the Green, White, Adirondack, Berkshire and Taconic mountain ranges at 3,848 feet above sea level. There are plenty of scenic drives and outlooks in Manchester, Vt., like the Shires of Vermont Byway and the Stone Valley Scenic Byway, both of which pass through miles of fantastic mountain views and charming towns.

3.

During your Vermont travel adventure, be sure to visit Hildene, the former summer home of Robert Todd Lincoln, son of Abraham Lincoln. The 400-acre estate/museum features formal gardens, walking trails, a farm and President Lincoln’s stovepipe hat. Pack a picnic and stop for a relaxing lunch on the grounds surrounding the Welcome Center.

4.

At the Southern Vermont Arts Center, you can visit studios and exhibits running the gamut from painting to photography and wander through Vermont’s largest sculpture garden. If you like to make art just as much as you like to look at it, visit Manchester Arts, where they offer a variety of art classes and workshops for both kids and adults, including pottery, sewing and Sip n’ Create painting parties.

5.

You don’t have to be a guest to dine, play a round of golf or try pursuits such as falconry at the AAA Four Diamond Rated Equinox Golf Resort & Spa, an anchor in the area since it was built in 1769. There are five on-site restaurants to choose from, like the elegant Colonnade overlooking Mount Equinox. And on a nice night, you don’t want to miss out on relaxing beside the open-air fire pit with a glass of wine while sampling cheese and chocolate truffles at Falcon Bar.

6.

Northshire Bookstore is a delightful independent shop that is certainly one of the most charming things to do in Manchester, Vt. The staff will happily spend time helping you choose a book or leave you alone to discover one on your own. They have a number of author presentations and events throughout the week to enjoy as well.

7.

Vermont is known for its delicious cheeses. Sample local cheese to your heart’s content. Vermont is also famous for its maple syrup, so don’t forget to stock up and bring a few bottles home as souvenirs.

8.

Sign up for classes with expert guides at the Orvis Fly-Fishing School, based out of its enormous flagship store. Don’t miss the indoor/outdoor trout pond. The school is right near the Batten Kill River, so once you’ve mastered your fly-fishing skills, you can test them out there.

9.

Pick up some upscale bargains at the Manchester Designer Outlets, where big names like Armani, Coach, Kate Spade and dozens of others sell their high-end goods for great prices.

10.

Learn about the fine art and history of fly-fishing at the American Museum of Fly Fishing, home to the biggest collection of angling art and objects in the world. Anglers will love getting an up-close look at the evolution of the sport; some items date back to the sixteenth century.

Which of these things to do in Manchester, Vt. would you like to experience? Have you ever been? Tell us in the comments.

Looking for a variety of great lodging options in the area? Find and book great hotels in Manchester, Vt. Call 1-800-873-8283 to speak to a AAA travel counselor today or click here.

No one wants to pay big bucks for auto repairs, especially when they’re an unwelcome surprise and not in the budget. Sometimes there’s no avoiding an expensive repair, but there are ways you can reduce the costs of keeping your car on the road. Even when a large repair needs to be done there are still ways to save money. These tips will help you save money on auto repairs and avoid expensive repair bills.

Maintenance, maintenance, maintenance

It’s location, location, location in real estate, but when it comes to saving on auto repairs, the key is good maintenance. It seems a little counter intuitive to spend money to save money. If you’re on a tight budget, then why spend money on your car unless something must be fixed in order to keep it on the road?

Regular maintenance does two things to reduce the cost of auto repairs. First, it helps extend the life of key components in your car. An oil change doesn’t cost much and it keeps your engine running smoothly. Rotating you tires helps keep them from wearing unevenly and needing replacing sooner than usual. Cleaning your wiper blades helps keep debris from damaging the rubber and scratching your windshield. Take care of your car and you will reduce the frequency of many repairs.

The second way regular maintenance helps is by identifying problems when they’re minor rather than when they’re major issues. If you find a nail in your tire when you inspect it, then it may be fixable with a patch instead of waiting for a blowout and needing to replace the whole tire. Proper brake maintenance could be the difference between simply replacing the brake pads or needing to replace the far more expensive discs. Changing your oil keeps your engine from overheating and causing all kinds of expensive damage.

Take the time to maintain your car and you’ll reduce the time and money you need to spend on repairs.

Do it yourself auto repairs

Yes, it might seem a little scary when you look under the hood, but you can do many auto repairs yourself without needing to pay a professional. That owner’s manual hiding beneath your seat and covered with dust was written so you can understand how your car works and perform basic repairs and maintenance.

Changing a flat tire, replacing wiper blades, adding oil, and even changing an air filter are not difficult things to do even if you have zero experience. Changing a fuse is also something a car repair novice can manage. Just pull out the manual and it will tell you what you need to know. Chips and scratches are easy to take care of, too. Matching paints can be ordered from the manufacturing in little bottles with small applicators that make touch-ups easy.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you have friends or family who are car repair enthusiasts. They’ll likely be happy to share their knowledge with you so you know how to do the job next time and can avoid a repair bill.

Find a reputable repair shop

The wrong time to find a repair shop is when your car is down for the count. Search out a reputable shop in your area and use them for regular maintenance. This is a great way to establish a relationship with a business and it sets your mind at ease when you must trust them to tell you what car repairs you need.

Ask around and see who your friends use and who they avoid. Good repair shops develop a loyal following of people who are happy to share how wonderful their mechanics are and why they’re the perfect shop for you. If you’re new to an area or don’t know who to ask for guidance, then utilize AAA services like Approved Auto Repair. They can help find a reputable shop in your area that can do the auto repairs you need.

Ask questions and get it in writing

You’re not an expert. If the auto body shop is talking over your head, then ask them to explain. You should feel comfortable with the work being done and the price a shop is charging. They should be able to provide you a written quote so there are no surprises when the work is done.

A written quote lets you see if something you didn’t approve ends up on the final bill. An auto body shop should not be doing repairs you never authorized and any reputable shop will be happy to write down the details for you so you can be sure.

This also lets you do a little comparison shopping. Ask other auto repair shops how much they would charge for similar car repairs. Often, you’ll find a wide variety of pricing with some coming in very low and others very high. Shoot for the middle and you’ll be getting the repair you need at a reasonable price.

What tips do you have for saving money on car repairs? Share them with us in the comments below!

For discounts on repairs from certified technicians in your area, check out the AAA Approved Auto Repair facility locator.

I have been to Las Vegas six or seven times. I’ve played a slot machine…once, maybe. Gambling is of no interest to me.  But the phenomenon of Las Vegas, the stories and the mashup and the contrasts and the bigness, that’s what keeps me coming back. Visitors come here for all sorts of reasons – a record 42.9 million of them last year. Increasingly, a casino weekend visit is less about gambling and more about enjoying the other aspects of entertainment and diversion that this town offers.

I have been a travel writer long enough to know everyone’s definition of “the best” experience is different. So, my list of must-sees in Vegas might be different from a foodie’s, or a poker player’s, or a shopaholic’s.

So, I’ll deal out the popular “musts,” and along with my own. You can take it from there.

And because I want you to have a seamless good time, I’ll also provide some helpful tips for the perfect casino weekend.

The must-take selfie

• Make sure you get a picture in front of the famous “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign.

The must-do attractions on the strip

• The fountains show at the Bellagio — 1,214 water jets pulsating 460-feet into the air, every hour on the hour. The fountains are the most Instagrammed attraction in the city, (while you’re there, step inside and look up at the huge Chihuly glass flowers sculpture that covers the ceiling, then proceed to the beautiful, light-filled conservatory, with plants and flowers themed to different seasons.

• A gondola ride at the Venetian.

• The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace with its giant animatronic statues.

• The views from atop the Jetsons-retro Stratosphere. Doing the Skyjump Las Vegas, a controlled jump from atop the 104-foot tower, is optional.

My must-do attractions on the strip

• The Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art, which really does present some great and accessible exhibits (Monet Picasso, Faberge, Warhol).

• MGM’s recent addition, The Park, is an outdoor space right off the strip near the MGM Grand. A selection of reasonably priced restaurants and pubs is adjacent to the park. Get some snacks to go.

The must-do attractions off the strip

• • The Fremont Street Experience,  a 24-hour pedestrian mall with a massive LED canopy and endless people-watching fun. Some of those people are 40 feet up in the air, on a zip line ride from two-story slot machine, Slotzilla.
  • The Mob Museum, a five-minute walk from Fremont. It’s big, Informative, macabre (bullet-riddled wall fragments from the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre are on display) and entertaining. Only in Las Vegas…
  • Promise you’ll go to the Neon Museum, where huge old Las Vegas signs go to be restored and put on display. Guided tours of the signs give you a whole new understanding of early Las Vegas history. Take a night tour. It’s more expensive ($22, versus $12 for a daytime tour) but seeing that neon glow is worth every penny. Advance reservations are a must.
  • Nighttime is also the best time to ride the High Roller – an only-in-Vegas version of a Ferris wheel, complete with booze and snacks.

Day trips

• • Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is just a few miles west of Las Vegas; you can take a 13 mile drive through this 196,000-acre swathe of Mojave Desert.  Make sure to see the petroglyphs!
  •  Hoover Dam, about 30 miles southeast of Vegas.  It really is a wonder to behold.

Some tips for your casino weekend

• Traffic along the Strip can be insane, day or night.  And getting a cab is no piece of cake, either. If you’re going anywhere  by car, factor in extra time to get there.

• Getting cash from an ATM?  Pay attention to the fee you’ll be charged for the transaction – in casinos, it can run as high as $8. Find a bank/ATM on the street when you need cash.

• Find a convenience store or a Walgreens on the street for sodas, Band-Aids, snacks and other necessities. You’ll pay two or three times more for them in at  your hotel.

• If you’re a novice gamer, your best bet is to play some of the electronic table games for blackjack, baccarat, craps and roulette. They have a lower minimum bet, and a lower intimidation factor than a live game.

What’s your favorite way to spend a casino weekend in Las Vegas? Let us know in the comments below!

Plan and book a casino weekend with AAA. 

Is the park open year-round?

Yes, Glacier National Park is open all year. Most of the park’s facilities are open from late May until early September, but the Park Headquarters and the Apgar Visitor Center are open year-round.

Where is the park located?

Glacier National Park is in the northwest corner of Montana and crosses the Continental Divide.

How big is the park?

The park covers more than one million acres.

How do I get around in the park?

Some visitors drive their cars through the park, but many take advantage of the park’s free shuttle from outlying towns to the visitor center as well as shuttles to various places in the park, such as Logan Pass and Going-to-the-Sun Road.

What activities are available?

Some of the popular activities for vacation packages to Glacier National Park include:

• Backpacking and hiking: The park contains over 700 miles of trails winding through its wilderness. Whether visitors are seeking a short walk, a day hike, or a multiday trek to take advantages of the sixty-five designated backcountry campsites, Glacier National Park offers a wide variety of backpacking and hiking experiences. Permits are required for overnight hikes.

• Bicycling: All of the roads in Glacier National Park are open to cyclists. Though bicycles are not permitted on most trails, the three that are open to biking are the paved path from the park headquarters to Apgar Village, the Fishcreek Bike Path, and the Flathead Ranger Station Trail. Every spring, before the Going-to-the-Sun Road is open to cars, bicyclists can enjoy this iconic ride when the park opens the road for bicyclists and hikers.

• Cross-country skiing: When summertime crowds vanish and the snow starts to fly, that is the best time for a Glacier National Park vacation for cross-country skiers. Those who venture into the park for winter fun are strongly advised to keep track of the weather and avalanche reports, as well as take appropriate precautions around the park’s wildlife. One of the more popular areas for skiing is Upper Lake MacDonald, with its gently rolling terrain and easy access.

• Nature photography: Many visitors come to Glacier National Park to photograph the awesome landscapes, the abundant wildlife, and the natural features of the park. Some of the areas that offer the most photogenic scenes include sunrises on the east side of the park, the wildflowers in many of the mountain passes, sunset from the west side of the park, the aurora borealis, and, for those up for a bit of a hike, the vanishing glaciers that give the park it name.

• Guided tours: Some guests prefer guided tours of the park, allowing the experts to share their knowledge. Whether by bus, boat, on foot, or on horseback, guided tours can show visitors the best parts of Glacier National Park.

Are pets allowed?

Pets are permitted only in the developed areas of Glacier National Park: frontcountry campgrounds, boat launches, paved roads, and so on. They are not allowed in the backcountry or on trails.

Are the trails accessible?

The park does have some accessible trails, such as the Apgar Bike Path and the Lake McDonald Trail. Most of the campgrounds have accessible bathrooms as well.

What accommodations are available?

Lodging in Glacier National Park ranges from grand lodge-style hotels to comfortable motor inns to numerous campgrounds and rustic backcountry chalets. As with most national parks, reservations are strongly recommended for all types of accommodations, particularly for the peak times of July and August.

Are there restaurants in the park?

Dining options in the park include fine dining at Russell’s Fireside Dining Room at the Lake McDonald Lodge or the Ptarmigan Dining Room at the Many Glacier Hotel. Visitors can also grab a casual meal at several cafes and grills at the lodges and hotels in the park. Five camp stores located throughout the park offer groceries for visitors who wish to make their own meals.

What are the most popular areas of the park?

• Going-to-the-Sun Road: This fifty-mile drive is perhaps the most popular destination in the park. To traverse the entire road takes approximately two hours, not accounting for photo stops. Though some of the Going-to-the-Sun Road is open year-round, the alpine portion is closed in the wintertime, and opens sometime in late spring when the snow has been removed. There are vehicle-size restrictions for this road; visitors are encouraged to check the park’s website for information.

• Lake McDonald Valley: Located on the west side of the park, the Lake McDonald Valley, named after the park’s largest lake, offers hiking, boating, and other sightseeing.

• Logan Pass: At 6,646 feet, this pass is the highest paved elevation in the park. It is well-known for its blanket of wildflowers that bloom each spring and summer.

• Many Glacier: This area is considered the heart of the park. Wildlife viewing, hiking, and glacier viewing are the main activities here.

Which national park would you like to visit most? Is Glacier National Park on your list? Tell us in the comments.

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To some jaded people, the idea of a guided tour through Europe conjures images of a whirlwind sprint on a crowded bus to mediocre hotels and restaurants in a different city every day. But nowadays, travelers are so discerning that tour companies have to step up their game. That means comfortable travel to unique destinations, where expert guides lead small groups on unforgettable experiences.

It’s important to keep in mind that there is no one-size-fits-all tour, and you have to decide what kind of European vacation you want. The best part is that now there are more specialized tour companies than ever before, offering vacations that cater to every kind of traveler — foodies, cyclists, train lovers, urbanites, volunteers, horseback riders and so much more.

The tough part is narrowing it all down from thousands of options. So, here’s a look at how find the best European guided trips that are right for you:

Start with a budget

One of the biggest benefits of booking a package tour is that if you pick right, you get incredible bang for your buck. Reputable tour companies score deals with hotels and restaurants that can save hundreds of dollars over booking the same experiences. Of course, how many of those bucks you have to begin with makes a big difference.

For a price, luxury operators like Tauck, will put you up in the finest hotels in the best locations, providing white glove service along the way. Budget options will get you there and do the planning for you, but the groups will be bigger and you’ll have less flexibility.
Regardless of the budget, you’ll be able to find something you can enjoy. “It’s generally quite a relaxing way to see the world and everything go by and not have to worry about what side of the road I’m supposed to drive on,” said Laurence Noah, who blogs at FindingtheUniverse.com.

Do your research

Once you’re shopping around, make sure to consider not only price, but also value. The lowest price listed on a tour company’s website might not include admission fees to attractions or hotel taxes once you check in.

More importantly, it might be worth spending a few extra bucks to get exactly the kind of vacation you like, says Matt Kepnes, who runs the website NomadicMatt.com.
That includes knowing where you’re going as well as whom you’re going with.

“Most tour companies list their guest demographics on their ‘About’ page, and you can usually see from the photos of their tours who go on it,” said Kepnes. “You can also tell the audience based on accommodation. If it’s hostels or guesthouses, it’s usually for backpackers and budget travelers. If it’s fancy digs, it’s for older travelers and families.”

Pay attention to the itinerary

Think back and consider your favorite vacations over the years. Did you get a rush out of seeing the most sights you can pack into a day, or are you more of a lingerer who likes to soak up all you can of just a few? The answer to that question should dictate what kind of itinerary you should go for.

But even if you like to pack it in, be careful. Some tour companies will promise too much than is comfortable, and that often results in spending a lot of time on the bus. Seek out tours that let you stay for more than one night in each location, because otherwise you’ll spend almost as much time packing as sightseeing.

“Make sure you get a schedule of all the activities and pick a tour that is balanced,” said Kepnes. “Running around will leave you wishing you had a holiday from your holiday, but you don’t want to be sitting around all day, either.”

Check out specialty operators

Don’t forget that every vacation is made up of much more than just sightseeing, lodging and transportation. So ask yourself, what interests you most when you’re at home? Chances are, there’s a tour company that offers your hobby in your next exotic destination.

We have our own favorites, like AAA Exclusive Vacations, of course, and we partner with Pleasant Holidays and Trafalgar to offer a variety of guided tours through Europe that will knock your socks off.

Have you been on a guided tour through Europe? Share your advice in the comments below!

Solar panels have been installed in US homes since the ‘80s, but they’ve only become popular as an energy source in recent years. Although they used to be expensive and clunky, solar panels are becoming cheaper and more efficient every year. Is solar energy a wise investment for your home? We’ll go over the basics of solar panel installation and maintenance so you can decide if it’s a good choice for you.

The price of solar panels

Although solar panel installation can be a little pricy initially, your costs will be offset by your electricity savings down the line. Of course, this is all depends on how much roof space or available ground space you have to power your home. If you have enough space for your energy needs, your electricity bill will go down to almost nothing.

Ideally, you want your panels to face south to harness the most direct sunlight. However, if you live in a city with little sunlight, like Buffalo, NY, you might want to talk to a specialist to see if installing solar panels will pay off. And even if your town receives a lot of sunlight, make sure there are no trees covering your roof with shade in certain parts, as this will cut down on the amount of energy you can harness.

Financing your solar panels

Since the cost of solar panels seems to be falling every year, it might seem like a good idea to postpone installing solar panels indefinitely until the price is more reasonable. However, this might not actually be the best approach if you want to save money. Basically, the longer you delay the installation, the more savings you miss out on in terms of your electricity bill.

In addition, as solar energy becomes more popular, there will be less tax incentives and rebates. The federal tax credit for renewable energy like solar is 30 percent now, but this will definitely be reduced as more homes go solar around the country. Since solar energy has become so popular in California, their $10,000 rebates have become a thing of the past. So if you’re considering going solar, now might be the best time. There are even some solar power loans which operate with no money down, so most households should be able to find a plan that works for them.

Consulting with a solar panel installer

When trying to compare the installation costs for different solar energy companies, things can get a bit confusing. You’ll want to determine how efficient the panels are in order to determine if the price makes sense for each company you consult. For instance, if one company proposes a higher per-watt rate for a 200-watt panel, while another has a lower per-watt rate for a 320-watt panel, you’ll want to reconsider whether the former is really a smart choice. It’s also a good idea to look into some third-party resources available online, like calculators, which allow you to see an unbiased estimate of how much energy solar panels would produce at your location.

Solar panel maintenance

Solar panels are extremely hardy and are built to last through snowstorms, heavy rain and high winds. Not to mention they also protect your roof from damage! Most of the time, solar panels come with a 20-25 year warranty. Fortunately, solar panels also don’t require much in the way of maintenance, and don’t even need to be cleaned often. In the event that there is an issue, it can usually be resolved by a solar installer in one visit.

However, if your roof is relatively old or flimsy and you think it may need repairs a few years down the road, it’s best to get this taken care of before installing solar panels. It’s much more of a hassle and costlier to have to remove your newly installed solar panels because there’s an issue with your roof. Also, some cities actually restrict the use of solar panels for aesthetic reasons, so make sure you do your research ahead of time to avoid any costly complications!

Solar panels and your electricity bill

Usually, solar-powered homes stay connected to the electrical grid, as it’s difficult to power your home entirely with solar energy 24/7 at this point. However, if your solar panels produce more energy than necessary, you’ll receive a net metering credit on your electricity bill, which will help you cut costs even more. As an off-the-grid alternative, solar batteries can be used to store energy, but they’re often expensive.

Solar panels are a great sustainable energy source for your home, but make sure you do plenty of research on your location and installation company.

Have you had solar panels installed and want to offer some advice to new buyers? Be sure to share in the comments!

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My husband and I travel with our kids all the time, but when our firstborn was a baby, the thought of taking him on an airplane made me nervous.

I was worried he would miss his nap and cry the entire flight. I never thought I could fit all his things in my carry-on. I mean, the list goes on. Nowadays, as a seasoned mom of three, with nine years of nonstop travel under our belts, flying with children is much easier than you think.

Let me take you through a few of my traveling tips for children of different ages.

Infants

We didn’t have the nerve to fly when our oldest was an infant, but when our second came around, we flew with her at only 4 months old. At first, I was petrified, but this age proved to be the easiest. Whether you are nursing or bottle feeding, it helps to feed an infant during take off and landings, to keep his or her ears from popping due to changes in altitude.

We all know how expensive airlines tickets have become, so parents should be very excited to know that children under 2 years of age fly free, as long as they ride on a parent or guardian’s lap. If your child is extra fussy, you may choose to purchase an additional seat. This may be appealing to parents who want to carry on their car seat so their child has a place to sleep, giving their lap a rest.

The Toddler Stage

This, you guys, is the hardest time to fly with children. Adults get antsy in airline seats, so think of what it’s like for little ones who don’t understand they need to stay put with their seat belts fastened. In this digital age, iPads and tablets come in handy. I usually load up their devices with some new games or movies so they don’t get bored. I know some of us want to limit screen time, but try a six-hour flight with a 4-year-old and tell me what you think! Don’t forget snacks, snacks and more snacks. I pack some old reliable treats, and some unusual options, to keep it exciting. An emergency lollipop comes in handy, just in case they have ear-popping issues like the babies.

More Tips for Flying with Kids

My first trip to California with the three kids was solo, sans hubby. At the time, my children were ages 2, 4 and 7. I think I panicked for two weeks straight before the trip. In addition to our snacks and tablets, I stocked up on little dollar store trinkets for them to play with during the trip. I wrapped each item in tissue paper and each hour on the hour I busted a new one out for each of them. The idea of these rewards kept them on their best behavior. Some of the best items were Play-Doh, a deck of cards (for the older one), coloring books, pens, crayons and little games that you would find in a party goodie bag.

At the airport, I always see parents lugging half their living room through the terminal. This is mistake No. 1. Learn how to pack lightly. It’s the only way to keep your sanity with little ones in tow. Leave your $1,500 stroller at home and pick up a small umbrella-type stroller. For smaller babies, the car seat over the stroller is perfect and works best for when traveling after the flight. A baby carrier is another alternative. They come in handy at destinations like theme parks that require lots of walking.

Upon arrival at your destination, most resorts will provide a pack and play or crib. If you have particular standards for your children, be sure to ask your hotel staff what they offer prior to making arrangements. Some hotels can recommend local businesses that specialize in renting strollers, cribs and baby gear to tourists and travelers, which can usually be delivered to your location.

Once you get that first flight with your kid(s) under your belt, you’ll feel like you can accomplish anything. Now that my children are well-seasoned travelers, they know what to expect and what is expected of them. They pack their own carry-ons, understand going through security and mind their manners while sitting in their seats. Traveling has certainly become enjoyable for us and it will for you too.

Do you have more tips for flying with kids that you want to share with other parents? Write them in the comments.  

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Take a tour of the nation’s major East Coast cities! In New York, experience all the iconic landmarks seen in the movies. In Newport, R.I., get a glimpse of the lifestyle of old money’s rich and famous. Boston takes you along the Freedom Trail and Philadelphia shows you the giant Liberty Bell, while Washington, D.C., bursts with American history and politics. Tour America’s East Coast, and you’ll see America as you’ve never seen it before. Keep reading for a sample itinerary from a AAA Vacations tour of the East Coast.

Tour America’s East Coast cities

Day 1 – A Bite Of The Big Apple

Welcome to New York. On arrival at JFK, Newark or LaGuardia airports, you will be met and transferred to your luxurious AAA Five Diamond hotel, the Park Hyatt New York. Join your traveling concierge for a welcome dinner and light meal accompanied by a violinist from the renowned Juilliard School.

Day 2 – Exploring NYC

Tours of America’s East Coast cannot be complete without New York City’s famous landmarks. A local guide lays bare the city highlights and will show you the Statue of Liberty from Battery Park, the iconic Empire State and Chrysler Buildings along with a visit to some of Central Park’s gardens. Afterward, visit Grand Central Terminal with a local guide. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Day 3 – Vanderbilt’s Newport and Boston

Journey to historic Newport, R.I. Travel along Ocean Drive, lined with the Gilded Age mansions of America’s wealthiest families. You can visit The Breakers, the grandest of Newport’s summer “cottages” and a symbol of the Vanderbilt family’s preeminence in turn-of-the-century America.

Day 4 – Historic Boston

Tour America by taking a morning sightseeing tour of one of its oldest cities, nicknamed “Beantown,” and gaining a fascinating insight into its history. With several stops along Boston’s famed Freedom Trail, you’ll hear about the struggle and courage of the American colonists during revolutionary times. Discover the landmarks along Boston’s Freedom Trail. Take a student-led visit to prestigious Harvard University, founded in 1636.

Day 5 – Exploring The Streets Of Philadelphia

Set out for Philadelphia, founded by the Quakers to escape religious persecution and still known as the “City of Brotherly Love.” Explore Independence National Historic Park and its historic attractions. View Independence Hall, where America’s founding fathers signed the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, and the cracked Liberty Bell. In the evening, a dinner is served at Davio’s, a jewel in the Philadelphia restaurant world serving up Northern Italian cuisine.

Day 6 – Monumental Washington, D.C.

Embark on a foodie exploration of Philly. A local connoisseur will reveal the fascinating history behind some of Philly’s most famous cuisine at the historic Reading Terminal Market, before your afternoon arrival in Washington, D.C. The nation’s capital rounds off this east coast U.S.A. tour. See the city lit up by the night sky on an Illumination Tour onboard your motorcoach, including the Jefferson Memorial and a rooftop walk at the Kennedy Center.

Day 7 – Washington, D.C. Sightseeing

Explore Washington, D.C. with a local guide. View the famous landmarks, including the White House, Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial. Enjoy an expert-led tour of the official national library of the United States, the Library of Congress, the largest library in the world. Afterward, meet a former espionage agent and learn about fascinating untold stories of the Cold War, an era when real battles were often fought behind the scenes between the CIA and the KGB. In the evening, enjoy a finale celebration dinner at Filomena’s, one of the city’s top Italian restaurants.

Day 8 – Back To New York City

In the morning, transfer to DC’s Ronald Reagan Washington National or Dulles International Airports. Alternatively, continue on to New York City to JFK Airport or to the New York tour hotel for guests wishing to extend their stay.

Surprised by all the action, right here in your backyard of the Northeast? Share your thoughts on this tour of America’s East Coast in the comments. 

Learn more about this exciting trip. 

Get in touch with a AAA travel counselor to learn about AAA Vacations and start planning your next getaway today. As a AAA member, you’ll save even more. Not a member? Join now!