Car rentals are supposed to be about convenience, a way to give you control and ease while you travel. But one of the most confusing things about renting a car is the fuel that goes in it.

When you borrow a car from a friend, it’s polite to refuel it upon return. Is it the same when you rent a car from a rental service? Will you be charged extra if you forget to fill up the tank again? It depends on which car rental company you choose, and which options they offer.

All car rental companies have different rules for how rental car refueling works – and about just how much should be in your tank upon return.

Decisions, Decisions

Let’s get this out of the way – fuel isn’t free. There’s no way to get out of paying for it. But there are ways to control just how much you pay.

Sometimes, less reputable car rental companies will charge exorbitant fees to refill tanks on returned cars, and you might not even notice that it happened until you look at your credit card statement later.

Hertz. We’re Here to Get You There.

Complimentary use of one child safety seat with every rental for AAA members.

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Most car rental companies have different refueling tiers, based on when you want to pay and how much you want to pay. Hertz, for example, has a few different rental car refueling options, so the decision is up to you.

At Hertz, you can choose between prepaying for the fuel, refueling the car yourself or having Hertz refuel.

Prepaying the Fuel

When you prepay for fuel, there’s no need to refuel the vehicle before you return. You purchase the gas in the tank at the time of the car rental at local prices, and you can return it at any level you like.

With this option drivers don’t have to worry about getting a receipt to show that they filled their tank, and they don’t need to think about or factor in extra time to get gas on the way back to the airport. This will also help to avoid fuel fees when the rental is returned.

Best of all, AAA members get 10% off prepaid fuel with Hertz.

Hertz Refuels

If you choose this option, Hertz will refuel the rental car for you. You can return the car with the gas at any level you like. You pay for the fuel, as well as a refueling service fee.

You Refuel

This is the most common refueling option across car rental companies. In this case, you refuel the tank of the rental car prior to your return. Make sure your fuel upon return is the same level the fuel was at when you rented the car, or you’ll be charged for the difference. As long as you maintain the fuel level in the tank, this is the most cost-effective option. You pay for the fuel you use, and nothing more.

Basically, it’s a cost-benefit analysis between saving money, or having some convenience. By prepaying for fuel or having Hertz refuel, you don’t have to worry about finding a gas station or taking the time to refuel the car before returning it.

Protecting Your Wallet

Not all car rental companies play fair when it comes to the market pump price of fuel. Some services impose draconian punishments upon renters who don’t return with a full tank. Some car rental companies will charge up to $10 per gallon of fuel that they had to replace.

To avoid getting hit with these wild costs, take some precautionary steps.

• Take a picture of the rental car’s gas gauge before you even drive off the lot. That way, you know exactly how much gas was in the tank, and you have proof.
• Fill up your tank within a 10-mile radius of the car rental service (or even closer). Some car rental services will hit you with extra fees if you don’t fill your tank up close enough to the building.
• After you refuel, keep your receipt. This will not only prove that you have refueled, it will also show the address of the gas station that you have refueled at.

Learn more about the exclusive benefits AAA members receive on Hertz services.

If you’re selling your home, your real estate agent may have shared some home decor staging tips. Don’t balk – staging can have a real effect on how well your home does on the market. In a 2015 study, the National Association of Realtors found that 96 percent of buyers are affected in some way by home staging, with 81 percent of buyers saying it makes it easier to see the property as a future home.

Quick DIY tips for irresistible home decor

1. Get rid of the family photos. You want potential buyers to imagine themselves living there, but it’s hard to do that if they’re surrounded by pictures of Johnny, Sue, Aunt Selma and Fido. Zillow.com advises packing up the pics and putting generic, yet tasteful, wall art in their place.

2. Create a homey atmosphere. Fresh-cut flowers can add simple sophistication to a room, and a bowl of fruit creates a lived-in feel. Complete the home decor with a comfy throw neatly folded on a sofa and a book on a nearby end table, says Realtor.com.

3. Freshen it up. The paint, that is! Consider painting over drab walls with a new coat. Keep colors neutral, though. You may dig lime green, but a potential buyer might run screaming from any home decor colors that aren’t beige or ecru.

4. Clear the clutter. You may not realize it, but stuff tends to accumulate after years of living in a home. Shelves, counters and basements are some of the worst offenders, according to Bankrate.com. So box up what you don’t need – c’mon, your baseball card collection and 90s-era CD collection will be OK without you for a few months – and see if a friend or family member has any extra storage space.

5. Go for easy luxury. Transform your bedroom from drab to fab with a simple bed-in-a-bag set, which you can easily get for under $100 at department stores. Rich colors and details will draw the eyes of prospective buyers.

6. Spruce up your entryway. A little curb appeal goes a long way when it comes to potential buyers, says the National Association of Realtors. Consider what they’ll see as they pull up to your house. Will they wince at the sight of long-neglected bushes or a garage door that’s seen better days? Investing in a few inexpensive fixes will pay off when it comes time to sell.

7. Light it up. Lots of natural and overhead lighting will show off your home’s best assets. No one will be inspired walking through a dingy, dark-lit home. So clean and open your windows, turn on as many lights as you can and consider adding a few tasteful lamps in crevices that need some brightening.

8. Group furniture together. Create conversation nooks with your furniture, says HGTV.com, instead of putting the sofas against the wall to make the room look larger. Grouping a sofa and two chairs around a coffee table will create a cozy spot that will appeal to buyers.

9. Don’t forget the dining room! This surface is often overlooked when it comes to staging a home. Try three small vases of lilacs in the spring, or autumn leaves in vintage bottles in the fall. Just avoid a huge floral centerpiece; they look too stiff and formal.

10. Add some polish. Even if your bathroom looks like it’s straight from the Brady Bunch era, some coordinating home décor accessories, rolled up towels and candles can make viewers feel like they’ve just entered a spa.

11. Clear out your closets. Potential buyers love homes with plenty of storage space. Show your closets’ potentials by clearing out the clutter and letting only a few strategic pieces remain. Think five pairs of shoes neatly lined up, rather than 20 packed into every available space.

12. Think cozy. Spread comfort throughout your home with thick, colorful throws and coordinating pillows on the sofas, chairs and beds. Small investment, big rewards.

13. Scatter your art. Hanging photos and art high on the walls make them nearly invisible. Delight potential buyers by scattering prints and knickknacks in staggered patterns and lower groupings, advises HGTV.com. It will catch the eye and really make your artwork pop.

14. Banish pet odors. We all love our fur babies, but not everyone appreciates their, um, scents. Steam clean your carpets, wash the walls thoroughly, and make sure all the catnip toys and rawhide chew toys are securely put away when potential buyers come to visit. Spread baking soda on cushions, sofas, beds and wherever your pets hang out. Let it soak in for a few hours, then vacuum completely.

15. Add charm in the kitchen. You might not be able to remodel your kitchen, but a few strategic DIY touches will turn it into an inviting space. Clear clutter from the countertops, put out a beautiful bowl (or two or three) of fruit and clean, clean, clean! Buy puck lighting units that attach to the bottom of cabinets to really brighten up the countertop area.

Learn more about AAA’s homeowner’s insurance options.

A moment ago, the sky was filled with birds, but now my vantage from Parque del Amor (Park of Love) in Lima, Peru, is of a trio of paragliders hanging between the clouds above and the Pacific Ocean below.

Everyone in the park has stopped taking photos of a giant statue of lovers embracing to watch the parachutes fill with the thermal winds rising off the oceanside cliffs. In the hush of awe brought on by these flying men, I can hear the wind whistling through the lines tethering them to their parachutes.

Earlier this week I was on the Amazon River, zipping along in a swift river skiff in search of birds on a pond filled with lily pads the size of dinner tables. We rounded a bend to find what looked like a thousand cormorants flying our way. With their wingtips just inches from the river, lines of them flapped toward us, parting to make room for our boat. As on the cliff in Lima’s Miraflores district, a hush fell over our boat. The only sound was the subtle beat of wings amplified exponentially to make a sound like wet snow falling on wet snow.

Peru is a feast for the senses. From the massive and metropolitan capital of Lima to the jungles of the Amazon, I was awed by the variety and intensity of the country.

On the Amazon, the crew of the Delfin III led jungle hikes and took us piranha fishing. Birds – red crested and yellow bellied and boasting flashes of teal and jade feathers – called to our boat from the trees while monkeys lazed in the branches. When a pink river dolphin surfaced, my guide said, “It’s OK to swim here. The dolphin, he keeps the bad fish away.” I jumped into the black water.

Lima provides a stark urban contrast to the nature and wonder of the Amazon. It’s full of Spanish architecture and colonial churches, shopping districts catering to wealthy Limenos and simple markets filled with produce and fish. I find myself at one such market in San Isidro on my first morning in the city, eating fresh cebiche (the citrus-cooked fish dish we call ceviche; Peru claims it’s the birthplace of the dish). That evening I find myself eating more cebiche, along with cuy – guinea pig – accompanied by inventive revisions of the pisco sour at Astrid y Gabor, a ritzy restaurant named one of the 50 best in the world.

That afternoon, I walked through Miraflores, visiting churches and shops, picking up spices in an open-air market, and finding my way to Parque del Oliver where nearly 1,700 olive trees stand in neat rows and hold prominent places in the yards and gardens nearby. The park and grove date back to 1560 and tie Lima’s past to the present. In a way, the light here and the scent of the blossoms mirror two very different sides of the country: Lima’s cathedrals with their stained glass and smoldering incense, and the Amazon River, where soccer-ball-size flowers on the lily pads perfume the air with a heady scent.

Find and book a hotel in Lima, Peru.

If you’re interested in coastal Connecticut getaways the whole family can enjoy, look no further than Mystic. Not only does this charming New England village have deep maritime roots, which you can explore at the thoroughly engaging Mystic Seaport, but it has plenty of seafood restaurants, shopping opportunities and wineries nearby. If you’re in the mood for gaming, nightlife and world-class dining, the area’s two casinos – Foxwoods Resort Casino and Mohegan Sun – have got you covered.

Connecticut getaways on a budget

Stay: Just a few minutes from attractions such as the Mystic Aquarium, the Hilton Mystic offers well-equipped, modern rooms (and free Wi-Fi), along with an indoor pool, a fitness center and, in season, a courtyard with comfy couches and fire pits. A free shuttle takes guests to spots within a 5-mile radius of the hotel. The Irons, its casual eatery, serves up burgers – including a veggie option – locally sourced seafood (think East Coast dayboat halibut with sweet corn succotash and whipped carrots), fun dishes like lobster poutine and craft beer.

Do: Mystic Seaport is a must for any visitor (AAA members save $3 per ticket). Highlights of the 40-acre complex include a re-created 19th century village with various businesses, a planetarium, and the Charles W. Morgan, the oldest surviving wooden whaleship in America. You can also see craftspeople repair historical vessels in the shipyard and check out the seaport’s collection of antique wooden figureheads.

Dine: You’ve no doubt heard of Mystic Pizza, the famous pizzeria which inspired the movie of the same name starring a young Julia Roberts. Well, you can’t leave town without trying a slice. Order the classic pie or one of the specialties, such as the seafood delight, topped with shrimp, clams and scallops, or the chicken teriyaki with chicken, peppers and pineapples. End dinner on a sweet note with an order of Greek rice pudding or a slice of apple pie.

Mid-range options

Stay: Amenities at the 57-room Inn at Mystic include an outdoor swimming pool, tennis court, walking trails and complimentary continental breakfast on weekday mornings. Standouts at the on-site restaurant, Harbour House, include Cajun-style fish tacos, lobster crepes and crabmeat-stuffed sole. Tuck into a weekend brunch, where specialties like chocolate chip bacon pancakes and lobster Benedict tempt hungry diners.

Do: One of the best Connecticut day trips you can take involves the Mystic Aquarium, which features an array of nautical creatures like beluga whales, stingrays, African penguins, jellyfish and sea lions. Brave visitors can pet a gentle shark and learn how to hold a crab, while the more demure can enjoy a sea lion show or take in a movie at the 4-D theater. Adults will enjoy adjoining Olde Mistick Village, a shopping and dining complex that resembles an 18th century New England community.

Dine: A great spot for lunch is the waterfront S&P Oyster Company – start with oysters, followed by shrimp scampi or blue crab ravioli. Another seafood spot is Red 36, with delicious lobster rolls, creative cocktails and exotic dishes like Thai peanut calamari and five-spice duck wings. Enjoy clam chowder and a burger in the Colonial-era Captain Daniel Packer Inne, which is said to be haunted.

Luxury experiences

Stay: Spicer Mansion, housed in a former sea captain’s home built in 1853, has been transformed into an exclusive inn with just eight rooms, each individually decorated. Have a cup of tea by the fireplace in the parlor, tuck into a six-course tasting menu in the restaurant, or take a stroll in the manicured gardens with a picnic lunch packed in a charming wicker basket.

Do: Winery tours and tastings make great Connecticut day trips. Stonington Vineyards produces rose, chardonnay and cabernet franc, among others, while Jonathan Edwards Winery has a selection of merlots, pinot gris and cabernet sauvignon. Or sip on a sauvignon blanc or cabernet rose while taking in the beauty of the nature preserve setting at  Saltwater Farm Vineyard. Nearby are Foxwoods Resort Casino and Mohegan Sun, both AAA Four Diamond Rated resorts, with casinos, restaurants, entertainment and spas.

Dine: Savor locally sourced seafood at the Oyster Club, which has creative New American dishes on the menu including pan-roasted fluke with black beluga lentils. Enjoy your meal on the upstairs deck in warm weather. Craving a steak? Head to David Burke Prime at Foxwoods, which features a Himalayan pink salt-brick aging room. Feeling indulgent? Try the Grade A wagyu filet mignon, or dig into the Prime Tower raw bar appetizer, which features a 1-pound lobster, mussels, Alaskan king crab legs, oysters, scallops and jumbo shrimp.

For more great Connecticut day trip ideas and to book a trip for a weekend, click here. 

Summer is finally here in the Northeast, and many of us will be jumping in the car and taking road trips near and far. During this time, you’re bound to experience more drivers on the road than any other time of year. If you’re like me, you’re also noticing the increasing number of drivers who just aren’t paying enough attention to the road.

We see it every day: someone talking on the phone, texting or finding their favorite song on the music app in their car. Yet we know this is risky behavior.

The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety produces the annual Traffic Safety Culture Index, a nationwide survey of U.S. motorists that measures the degree to which traffic safety is valued and pursued by drivers. The 2017 index found that although most drivers desire a greater level of security behind the wheel, their actual behaviors often contradict their attitudes.

Unsafe driving behaviors – such as running red lights, texting while driving and driving while impaired – are perceived as posing serious threats to personal safety. However, despite these strongly held concerns many individuals admit to engaging in unsafe driving practices. Most drivers (89 percent) reported engaging in at least one of the risky behaviors examined in the survey within a 30-day period.

We can do better. To stay safe on the road this summer, avoid distractions that take your eyes or attention off the road, including using cellphones, infotainment systems or navigation systems. Preprogram your GPS and properly secure children and pets before you hit the road. Avoid eating messy foods and set your phone to “do not disturb” mode to help keep your focus on what’s happening on the road.

AAA urges drivers to avoid distractions and act responsibly when behind the wheel. Lives depend on it.

Visit AAA.com/DistractedDriving to learn more.

In today’s digital world, the most valuable currency is information. It’s easier than ever for identity thieves to hack, phish and social-engineer their way into your private accounts, right from the comfort of home. All they need is a crack in the system, a gap in a profile, a proverbial blank check to cash. A blank check is dangerous precisely because of the lack of information written on it. It lets thieves fill in the blanks with whatever they want. The same goes for hackers and would-be identity thieves: they are looking for the Swiss cheese holes in your accounts that they can exploit.

To some, it might seem counter-intuitive to combat identity thieves and social engineers with more information, but that is exactly what it takes to stop them in their tracks. If AAA already has your information, it makes it harder for social engineers to impersonate you and access your Membership. In maintaining and protecting your information, AAA can also protect your safety, security and peace of mind. AAA does this with our Member Identity Security Protocol, which gathers, verifies and protects your data, such as email, date of birth and phone number. AAA protects your private information by confirming your identity with each call, transaction or branch visit. With each of these transactions, AAA Counselors will always ask for your email, date of birth and phone number to both confirm and protect your identity. This in turn protects your Membership from misuse, such as theft and unauthorized use of tows.

The most effective way to be proactive in keeping your Membership safe is by providing your information when you join AAA, when you have a transaction with a AAA Counselor, or by registering your account on AAA.com. This will allow Counselors to confirm your identity during future transactions.

Cyber-crime damage costs are projected to hit $6 trillion by 2021. To protect our members’ data, we utilize strong controls such as password protection, anti-virus protection, limited remote access, encryption and tokenized credit card data. Our staff network security engineers monitor our systems closely, safeguarding your private information, and AAA will never provide your information to third parties. Just as you trust us to protect you on the road; you can trust AAA to protect you on the information super-highway.

To find out more about how your information is being used to bring you better service and keep your account secure, visit AAA.com/Membership. 

To learn about how to protect yourself from identity theft, click here.

Thanks to AAA inspectors, you don’t need to wonder where to eat this weekend … or any weekend.

Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a fine-dining experience, inspectors have it covered. They visit hundreds of restaurants across the country each year to judge the food, service and decor, among other things. They approve only those that meet AAA quality standards.

Once a restaurant is approved, it receives a AAA Diamond Rating based on the style of dining it offers. Whether it’s a One Diamond (quick-service style) or a Five Diamond (leading-edge, fine dining), it’s among the best in its category.

We reached out to Diamond Rated restaurants across the spectrum for some of their favorite recipes. All should get your taste buds tingling!

Find out what each Diamond Rating means.

Five Diamond Baked Whole Red Snapper

Le Bernardin, Eric Ripert’s AAA Five Diamond Rated restaurant in New York City, shared a recipe for baked whole red snapper. The fish is seasoned with butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme and lemon and then baked inside a salt crust. Display your encrusted snapper to dinner guests before filleting and serving to make a lasting impression.

Ingredients
(Serves 2-4)

2¼ cups coarse sea salt, plus ½ cup for crust
¾ cup chopped rosemary, plus 2 branches
½ cup chopped fresh thyme (leaves and stems chopped together), plus 5 branches
4½ pounds all-purpose flour, plus more for kneading and rolling
5¼ cups egg whites (about 42 egg whites)
1½ tablespoons butter
2-3 cloves garlic, peeled
1 lemon, sliced into thin rounds
3-4 pound whole red snapper, head on, cleaned, and with scales removed
Freshly ground white pepper to taste
3 egg yolks

1. To make the dough, start by taking half the coarse salt, chopped rosemary and thyme, and pulse them in a food processor until roughly blended (about 30 seconds). Next, combine flour, the ground salt and herbs, and the remaining salt in a large mixing bowl. Gradually add the egg whites, mixing them in by hand, until the mixture forms a soft but not sticky dough. Using additional flour as needed, turn the dough out onto a work surface and knead until smooth. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let stand for at least 2 hours at room temperature or up to 1 day under refrigeration before using.
2. When ready to prepare the snapper for baking, place the butter, garlic cloves, 2 branches rosemary, 5 branches thyme and the sliced lemon inside the belly of the fish. Generously sprinkle the inside of the belly and both sides of the fish with pepper.
3. Flour a large work surface. Pull off half of the dough, then cover the rest with plastic wrap so it doesn’t dry out. Using more flour as necessary, roll the dough into a 17-by-12-inch rectangle, about 4-5 millimeters thick, with a rolling pin. Line a large baking sheet (turn it upside down to get more surface area if needed) with parchment paper and transfer the dough to the parchment paper. Roll the remaining dough into a 24-by-16-inch rectangle. Lay the fish onto the dough on the baking sheet, diagonally if necessary to make it fit. Cover the fish with the remaining large rectangle of dough.
4. Closely press the top piece of dough around the fish, sealing it well. Trim the excess from the top piece of dough, 2 inches out from the base of the fish. Don’t trim any of the bottom dough. Patch any thin spots in the dough covering the fish. It’s OK if the tail of the fish or a little extra dough is hanging over the edge of the pan; just make sure the rest of the fish is well-sealed. Whisk the egg yolks together with 3 tablespoons water and brush over the dough to coat well. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup salt over the fish and dab more of the egg wash over the salt. (The recipe can be made to this point up to 1 hour before baking – 2 hours before serving.)
5. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Bake the snapper until a digital skewer reads 175 degrees when inserted into the center of the fish (about 25 minutes). Remove the snapper from the oven and let rest for 20 minutes.
6. Slide the fish (crust still on) off the baking sheet and paper and onto a large cutting board. Trim the bottom crust evenly with the top and place on a large serving platter. Present the fish to your guests and then bring it back to the kitchen. Cut through the top crust at the bottom base of the fish and carefully lift off the domed top. Discard.
7. Fillet the snapper, running a knife under the fillet to separate it from the bone. Place each serving on a plate and season with pepper. When the top fillets have been served, lift off the fish bones and cut the bottom in the same manner.

Four Diamond Scallops

Enjoy an innovative diver scallop dish courtesy of chef Matt Voskuil, of AAA Four Diamond Rated Spiced Pear in Newport, R.I. He pairs plump scallops with a flavorful peppernade of red and yellow peppers, onion, garlic and guanciale. Then it’s drizzled with an oyster butter sauce and garnished with basil puree and prosciutto chips for some extra flair.

Ingredients
(serves 4)

For peppernade:
3 ounces extra-virgin olive oil
1 ounce guanciale, fine julienne
2 cloves garlic, fine julienne
2 red bell peppers, peeled, seeded, julienned
2 yellow bell peppers, peeled, seeded, julienned
1 yellow onion, peeled, julienned
1 sprig rosemary
1 hard-boiled egg, peeled, finely grated
1 ounce Saba
1 lemon, juiced

4 paper-thin slices prosciutto
8 ounces basil leaves

For butter sauce:
1 shallot, sliced
12 ounces chardonnay
1 tablespoon heavy cream
8 ounces unsalted butter, chilled, diced
½ teaspoon espelette pepper
8 oysters, shucked
½ teaspoon chives, finely sliced

8 large diver scallops, cleaned
2 tablespoons grapeseed oil
12 micro basil

1. To prepare the peppernade, combine olive oil and guanciale in a heavy bottomed sauce pan over low heat and cook slowly until the fat of the guanciale is nicely rendered. Add the garlic and cook for 2 minutes. Then, add the red and yellow peppers and onion. Season lightly with salt and continue to cook over low heat for 4 to 5 hours, stirring occasionally. Take care not to caramelize the mixture at all. Once most of the liquid has reduced, add the sprig of rosemary and let it steep for 1 minute. Remove the rosemary and discard it. Add the egg, Saba and lemon juice and season with salt. Set aside and keep warm, or chill and reserve for later use.
2. To prepare the prosciutto chips, arrange the prosciutto slices in a dehydrator and set to 130 degrees. Dehydrate for 6 hours. Remove and store in an airtight container for later use.
3. To prepare the basil puree, blanch basil in salted, boiling water for 90 seconds. Remove and chill in an ice bath. Drain and process in a blender for 45 seconds. Chill, season with salt, and place in a squeeze bottle until needed.
4. To begin the butter sauce, place shallot and chardonnay in a small saucepan. Cook over medium-high heat until wine is mostly reduced. Add heavy cream, then bring to a boil for 5 seconds. Reduce heat and whisk in butter, bit by bit, until emulsified. Strain through a fine mesh strainer. Season with salt and espelette pepper. Keep warm.
5. Season the scallops with salt and pepper. Heat a cast iron pan over high heat and sear the scallops in the grapeseed oil for two minutes. Turn the scallops over and continue cooking for another two minutes.
6. While the scallops are cooking, stir the oysters and chives into the butter sauce. Check seasoning.
7. Place two small mounds of peppernade and two scallops on each plate.
8. Spoon some of the oyster butter onto each plate, taking care to portion two oysters on each plate.
9. Garnish with the basil puree, micro basil and prosciutto chip.

Three Diamond Sliders

For a unique take on a party favorite, look no further than the hickory-smoked pulled duck sliders from the AAA Three Diamond Rated Twenty8 Food & Spirits at Patriot Place in Foxborough, Mass. The pulled duck is tossed in a delectable Korean-inspired barbecue sauce, placed on a brioche bun and topped with cilantro-lime slaw, shaved jalapenos and Sriracha. These sliders will spice up the menu at the next family cookout.

Ingredients
(recipe yields 3 cups of shredded duck meat)

4 duck breasts
4 duck legs
Hickory wood chips (as needed)

1. Preheat oven to 250 degrees. Smoke duck for 3 hours, adding new wood chips to the smoker every 15 minutes.

2. While the duck is still hot, pull and shred the meat using two forks.

For Korean barbecue sauce:
½ cup ketchup
½ cup of hoisin sauce
½ cup teriyaki sauce
¼ cup Coca-Cola
1 tablespoon sliced scallions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients until fully incorporated.

For cilantro-lime slaw:
1 head cabbage, thinly sliced
1 carrot, julienned
1 jalapeno pepper, julienned
¼ cup sliced scallions
¾ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Pinch ginger powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

1. In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients until fully incorporated.
2. To serve, place hickory-smoked duck onto bottom half of brioche buns. Cover with Korean barbecue sauce, cilantro-lime slaw and top bun.

Two Diamond Crabcakes

You’ll find crabcakes with whole grain mustard sauce on the menu at Fire & Oak, a AAA Two Diamond Rated restaurant at the Westin Luxury Hotel in Jersey City, N.J. The perfect summer appetizer or entree, they’re made with a mixture of jumbo lump crabmeat, red peppers, jalapenos, Dijon mustard and chives, topped with breadcrumbs and cooked until golden brown. Keep the mustard sauce on the side or give the plate an artful drizzle.

Ingredients

¼ cup red peppers, diced fine
¼ cup jalapenos, diced fine
¼ cup celery, diced fine
1 tablespoon chives, chopped fine
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
1½ pounds jumbo lump crab

1. Mix all ingredients with mayonnaise, except for the crab meat.
2. Fold in crab meat, taking care not to break it up too much.
3. Divide crab mixture into 4 equal portions. Working with one portion at a time, pack tightly into ring mold set on a parchment-lined baking sheet and smooth the top. Carefully remove ring mold.
4. Repeat with remaining crab mixture.
5. Cover with plastic wrap and chill at least 1 hour. The cakes will firm slightly when chilled.
6. If you want to make these ahead of time, crabcakes can be formed 1 day ahead. Keep chilled.

For mustard sauce:
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 small shallot, finely chopped
1 tablespoon flour
½ cup chicken broth
¼ white wine
½ cup heavy cream
¼ cup whole grain mustard
2 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter

Breadcrumbs
Parsley

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
2. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium. Cook shallot, stirring often, until softened (about 5 minutes). Whisk in flour and cook, whisking often, until just beginning to smell nutty (about 3 minutes). Whisk in wine, bring to a boil, and cook until thick enough to coat a spoon (about 5 minutes). Add cream, bring to a simmer and cook, whisking occasionally, until mixture is again thick enough to coat a spoon (about 4 minutes). Whisk in mustard, then cover sauce and keep warm.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium.
4. Working with two crabcakes at a time, sprinkle 1 teaspoon breadcrumbs over each cake and carefully place, crumb side down, in skillet. Cook, occasionally swirling fat in pan around, until bottom sides of crabcakes are deep golden brown (about 5 minutes). Sprinkle 1 teaspoon breadcrumbs over top sides of each cake, then very carefully turn over (cakes will be very delicate, so you may need two spatulas). Cook until breadcrumbs are golden (about 2 minutes). Transfer to a plate.
5. Wipe out skillet and repeat with remaining crabcakes.
6. After the second batch of crab cakes is done cooking, return crabcakes on plate to skillet and transfer to oven. Cook until warmed through (about 3 minutes).
7. Serve crabcakes over mustard sauce and top with parsley.

One Diamond Squash Bloom Pancakes

Chef Claire Criscuolo, of the One Diamond Rated Claire’s Corner Copia in New Haven, Conn., was inspired by her Italian grandmother’s recipe for squash blossom pancakes. Edible squash blossoms grow on zucchini and other types of squash plants. You can often find the delectable battered treats on menus come summertime, when squash is abundant. Serve with a bit of marinara sauce on the side for added flavor.

Ingredients
(makes about 24 pancakes)

3 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
5 eggs
1 cup milk
¾ cup water
15 squash blossoms, pistil removed, rinsed and coarsely chopped
¼ cup Italian flat-leaf parsley, chopped
Sea salt and pepper
½-¾ cup grapeseed, olive or canola oil for frying

1. Measure flour and baking powder into a bowl. Whisk to combine. In a separate bowl, add eggs, milk and water; whisk to combine. Pour liquid evenly over dry ingredients and stir.
2. Add chopped blossoms and parsley, sprinkle with sea salt and pepper; stir to mix well. Place a cookie sheet alongside the stove and line it with a double layer of paper towels or a paper bag.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully drop ¼ cup of batter into heated oil, leaving space to allow for turning. Do not overcrowd the skillet or the temperature will drop and you’ll have greasy pancakes.
4. Cook for about 2 minutes, or until the underside is medium golden-brown. Turn and cook the other side for about a minute, or until the underside is medium golden-brown. Transfer the pancakes to the paper towel-lined cookie sheet.
5. Continue frying remaining batter, heating additional oil as needed. Serve hot, at room temperature or chilled.

Have you been to any of these Diamond Rated restaurants? Have you made similar recipes at home? Tell us in the comments below!

Visit AAA.com/Diamonds for more about the AAA Diamond Ratings program and to find a great place to eat based on your style.

If you’re heading out to eat at a high-end restaurant for the first time, be prepared to find some unfamiliar utensils on your table. The standard fork, knife and spoon just won’t cut it (pun intended) during multi-course meals.

Here are some utensils you may find while dining at Coast, the AAA Four Diamond Rated restaurant at Ocean House in Westerly, R.I.

Appetizer fork and knife. Made for a small appetizer or fruit plate, the appetizer fork and knife are just like the entree fork and knife, but smaller in size.

Steak knife. You may see two knives on your table – both the same size, but one sharper and with a finer point. The sharper knife is made for tougher meats, like lamb and steak.

Fish fork. These are smaller than entree forks and have three wide tines instead of four thinner ones.

Fish knife. This utensil is for serving fish. It has a dull edge and a wide, fin-shaped blade with a notch on one side, used to remove the fish skeleton from the body.

Soup spoon. Wider and more circular in shape than a regular tablespoon, soup spoons are made for scooping up more broth (versus an oval spoon that would carry meat and vegetables).

Dessert spoon. This long, thin spoon is similar to a tablespoon but made for eating puddings and other sweet dishes.

Salt spoon. Hailing from a time before salt and pepper shakers, diminutive salt spoons are perfect for transferring salt from a bowl to your plate.

Butter knife. With a wide blade, rounded point and notch on one side, a butter knife is made for spreading butter onto bread without tearing it apart.

Which fancy utensil is your favorite? What other fancy, funny-looking or practical utensils are there? Tell us in the comments below!

Click here to learn more about AAA Diamond Ratings and find a Diamond Rated hotel or restaurant near you.

We shadowed a AAA inspector to understand what it takes to be AAA Diamond Rated. Take a look behind the scenes.

All drivers must start somewhere, and sometimes that means learning from mistakes.

AAA driving instructors Paul Neubeck and Howard Garthwaite are quite familiar with some of the missteps new drivers make.

Here are a few common mistakes that new drivers make, plus tips on how parents can help their newly licensed teens avoid them.

Distracted Driving

Cellphones, conversations, radio controls, breakfast – all are distractions that can take the focus off driving and put drivers at risk of a collision. New drivers are particularly susceptible because of their inexperience.

Remind teens that driving requires their full attention, and that something as trivial as changing the radio station can be dangerous. Set rules and expectations for teen drivers and consequences for breaking them. For example, if you catch your teen texting or calling while driving, limit their cellphone use or restrict their driving privileges.

Teach Awareness

Motorists must be aware of everything going on around them. New drivers often have a laser focus on the road ahead of them, but miss what’s going on in their peripheral vision.

Teach your teens to look left and right as well as straight ahead, and to look for “red flags” like a pedestrian stepping into the street or a truck trying to merge into their lane. Potential hazards can be avoided if your teen knows how to assess the situation and act quickly.

Following Too Closely

While driving, motorists should leave two seconds of space between their vehicle and the vehicle ahead. In bad weather, that space should increase. New drivers may not understand the importance of this guideline.

Remind teens of the potential consequences of tailgating and perhaps share some statistics on rear-end collisions. But the most important thing parents can do is set a good example. You are your teen’s first role model when it comes to most things, including driving. Always keep a safe distance while driving so that your teen will learn from your example.

There’s new technology on the market that can help keep young drivers safe. Click here to learn more.

How do you facilitate conversations with your teen about safe driving habits? Tell us in the comments below.

Set your teen up for success by enrolling them in AAA Driving School.

At a AAA Five Diamond Rated resort such as Ocean House in Westerly, R.I., guests can expect luxurious, personalized service.

Take the napkin, for example. Whether you receive a black or white cloth napkin – rolled up like Thai ice cream and gently placed in front of you with a pair of tongs – depends on the color of your clothing. You wouldn’t want to get white lint on your black pants or dress, after all.

Every detail – from the French china and homemade sea salt (yes, you read that right), down to the silverware placement – comes together to make an unforgettable dining experience.

Click here to find a Diamond Rated hotel or restaurant near you.

Want to recreate a similar experience at home? Restaurant leaders and waitstaff recently shared their secrets to setting the perfect table.

• Place several drinking glasses to the right of guests’ plates: one for plain water, another for sparkling water and a third for Champagne. Ask which they’d prefer, then remove the other two glasses.
• Use different utensils based on what guests are eating. For example, fish knives may be a bit funny-looking, but they’re perfect for removing bones from cooked fish. Appetizer forks and knives are smaller than entree forks and knives. Steak knives have a sharp tip and serrated edge, made for cutting thick portions of meat. Soup spoons are more circular than dessert spoons, made to hold as much broth as possible.
• Fold cloth napkins into fun shapes. Luckily, you don’t have to be an origami master to bring art to the table. There are helpful step-by-step instructions with photos online for doing every fold there is – from a simple pyramid to an intricate lotus fold.
• Set the mood with decorations. At dinner, a candle in the center of the table will set the mood. At breakfast or lunch, a colorful flower in a small vase will brighten up the table.
• Provide several different types of salt and pepper for your guests to sprinkle on their food.
• Place utensils a fingernail length away from the edge of the table – close enough for guests to comfortably reach them, yet far enough to keep them from falling off.
• Open up a dessert box or bring out a three-tier dessert stand at the end of the meal to get one last smile out of your guests.

Curious about the AAA inspection process? Check out our behind-the-scenes look at a restaurant inspection.

What steps do you take to impress your dinner guests? Tell us in the comments below!

Book your stay at a AAA Diamond Rated hotel such as Ocean House with AAA Travel.

A father is driving with his three children in the back seat. His left hand is firmly on the steering wheel while his right hand is gripping a beer bottle.

Shocking, right? But would you be as shocked if the same man was holding a phone instead?

Distracted driving can be as devastating as driving under the influence. That’s the message of the AAA Don’t Drive Intexticated campaign. The above scenario plays out in a video made for the campaign.

Think of these statistics the next time you reach for the phone while driving, and click here for a look at how distracted driving can impact your daily commute.

Sources: AAA, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

What do you do to avoid distractions when you’re behind the wheel? Share your tips in the comments. 

For more on AAA’s campaign to curb distracted driving, visit AAA.com/DistractedDriving. 

Against the night sky, the shifting curtains of light known as the aurora borealis – the northern lights – appear in vivid shades of green, violet and even red or blue during the darkest times of the year.

It takes a bit of travel, a bit of luck and warm clothes to spot them, but these 10 places offer the best odds.

1. Kilpisjarvi, Finland

This small Sami village on the shores of Lake Kilpisjarvi, near the borders with Sweden and Norway, is a prime spot for experiencing both the culture of Lapland and the northern lights. The town’s position at the 69th parallel north puts it in the middle of the aurora band, meaning your chances of seeing the lights are quite good.

2. Tromsø, Norway

In this stunning city in northern Norway, you’ll have your choice of staying in a regular hotel or an ice hotel while you watch the lights overhead. When you’ve had your fill of the skylit specta-cle, head into town and experience a little of the city’s nightlife, including the world’s north-ernmost brewery.

3. Reykjanes Peninsula, Iceland

Western Iceland, in particular the town of Reykjanesær, experiences clear weather ideal for aurora hunting. Near Reykjanesær you’ll find brightly painted houses and churches, and a light-house standing alone at the end of the peninsula makes for quite a picturesque photo of the lights.

4. Yellowknife, Canada

Pack an extra down jacket or two, because Yellowknife can get cold (like 40 below cold), and you’ll want another layer while you’re watching the light show. Viewing is excellent around the city, and in places like Aurora Village, you’ll find heated benches from which you can comforta-bly watch the lights.

5. Fairbanks, Alaska

In Fairbanks, the Geophysical Institute and the University of Alaska issue aurora viewing fore-casts, which means you can stay indoors until you rush out to see the lights. Or you can head out of the city to the village of Manley Hot Springs where, if you’re lucky, you can watch the lights from your very own hot tub.

6. Churchill, Canada

There are dark skies and aurora activity more than 300 nights a year in the skies over Churchill, which makes this tiny town in northeastern Manitoba on the shores of the Hudson Bay an ideal spot for aurora viewing. Expect greens and blues, and occasional pink flashes, as the lights play in the sky and reflect on the bay below.

7. Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

This town is home to the country’s only international airport and some 300 clear-sky days every year, making it a destination for aurora seekers. You can see the lights in the city, but the show is even better if you head into the dark countryside. Join up with a tour group or, better yet, take a dog sled expedition to find lights near the city.

8. Moray Coast, Scotland

With its reputation for foggy, rainy weather, Scotland isn’t on the radar of many aurora hunt-ers, but it should be. Along the Moray Coast, in northeast Scotland near Aberdeen and Cairn-gorms National Park, you can spot the northern lights in coastal towns or from high spots in the park. Both locations offer exceptionally dark skies and vivid displays.

9. Kola Peninsula, Russia

Located almost entirely within the Arctic Circle, Kola Peninsula is a land laced with rivers and crystalline lakes, tundra and taiga. In winter, the northern lights add another element. Head to Murmansk, the largest city in the region, for nightly treks away from the city lights, or try a snowmobile, ski or dog sled adventure.

10. Faroe Islands, Denmark

At this rugged archipelago between Norway, Iceland and Scotland, the northern lights shine in their typical green ribbons and arcs, but frequently flash violet, adding to their mystery. You can see the lights from September to April, but thanks to the Gulf Stream, the islands only occa-sionally dip below freezing (a bonus for any winter expedition).

A trip Down Under holds a place on just about everyone’s bucket list. From pristine beaches to the unusual wildlife to the iconic sights, both natural and manmade, Australia is a country bound to delight all visitors.

Whether you’re visiting the metropolitan side of Oz in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane or Perth, or you’re seeking to get in touch with antipodean Mother Nature, check out these ideas for what to do in Australia.

Dunk Under the Water

Australia is home to one of the world’s most famous diving and snorkeling spots: The Great Barrier Reef. This natural structure parallels the Queensland shoreline for nearly 1,600 miles, offering visitors numerous sites to explore. Some of the more popular areas for spotting sea life and shipwrecks are Cairns, the Whitsunday Islands and Townsville in the north, and the Brisbane area near the southern part of the reef. Surrounding Moreton Island, about an hour from Brisbane, are the Tangalooma Wrecks – fifteen decommissioned boats that were purposely sunk in 1963 to create an artificial harbor. Marine life has taken over these rotting crafts, making this dive site a living aquarium.

Or Ride on Top

Just as the underwater world in Australia is world-renowned, so is the action on top of the waves. Surfing is synonymous with Australian culture, and surf sites such as Bondi Beach in New South Wales are known the world over. Though you can find prime conditions at many other beaches in New South Wales, the country’s other territories also offer curling waves and rolling swells, including Noosa, at Point Break in Queensland, and Bells Beach in Victoria.

Explore Australia With AAA & TravelBound

Book with your AAA Travel Agent and mention TravelBound to create the perfect itinerary to Australia.

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Take in a Show at the Sydney Opera House

Perhaps one of the best-known sites in Australia, the Sydney Opera House, with its overlapping shell-like structure, opened in October 1973. The facility actually contains several performance centers, with shows playing nearly every day. Even if spending a few hours attending a performance isn’t in your plans, tours of the building and backstage areas are offered several times a day.

Meet Some of the Natives

Australia’s wildlife is unusual, to say the least. Mammals that lay eggs. Birds with plumage of seemingly every color known to man. Hopping herds of kangaroos. Though you will likely encounter these creatures while exploring the natural side of Oz, you can ensure a 100 percent sighting – and even throw in the chance to touch some animals – at one of the countries many sanctuaries. Unlike zoos, these resident animals were either orphaned in the wild or injured to the point that they could no longer fend for themselves. So go ahead, pat a wombat, get up close with a koala, take a safari through a kangaroo sanctuary or tickle a platypus.

A Spiritual Journey at Uluru

The sandstone formation Uluru, also known as Ayer’s Rock, rises nearly 1,142 feet (348 meters) above the Northern Territory’s arid “Red Centre.” It’s no wonder that this site has been a major spiritual destination for the Pitjantjatjara Aborigines, and ownership of Uluru was rightfully returned to them in 1985. Various tour operators offer activities from camel rides to helicopter rides to ensure that visitors can view the mountain from any angle.

Australia’s Aborigines

While visiting Australia, take the time to learn about the original inhabitants, the Aborigines. Though museums and cultural centers can be found throughout the country, Arnhem Land, in the Northern Territory, contains the most concentrated population of indigenous people. This region is wild, with dramatic landscapes and endless outdoor activities. Aboriginal celebrations, such as the four-day Garma Festival in August, give visitors a chance to learn about the culture and traditions of this region. The Buku-Larrnggay Mulka Center, in Yirrkala, showcases displays of Aboriginal art – bark paintings, carvings, and other pieces – as well as the history of the Yolngu people’s participation in World War II.

Take a Walking Tour

A walkabout is a traditional rite of passage for Aboriginal boys, a passage to manhood. Though this ritual was for spiritual purposes, one of the best ways for any visitor to Australia to truly get a sense of the vast landscape is on foot. Guided walking tours are available that lead groups through landscape.

Hop on a Wine Train

Wine has surpassed the ubiquitous Foster’s oilcan as the representative beverage from Australia. The country is the eighth-largest producer in the world, with the bulk of the vineyards found in the southern part of the country where the climate is more favorable for grape growing. Vintages from the Barossa Valley are likened to those from Bordeaux, Napa and Tuscany, whereas the Clare Valley, near Adelaide, is known for its crisp Rieslings. Take a wine tour for a full day of sipping pleasure.

Take in Geographic Wonder

In addition to the Great Barrier Reef, beaches and iconic Uluru, Australia boasts numerous other natural geographic wonders. Visit the Pinnacles Dessert, where limestone spires up to 4 meters tall jut out of the sand, to feel like you are walking on another planet. The Twelve Apostles sea stacks (though now only eight) off the coast of the Great Ocean Road and the Three Sisters found in the Blue Mountains west of Sydney, are similar formations that showcase Australia’s vast and varied landscape.

Have a BBQ on the Beach

Admit it – you’ve been dying to “put a shrimp on the barbie!” Barbecuing is popular in Australia and many public beaches provide free picnic areas, some with grills, so you can partake in this seafood pleasure. When you’re shopping for ingredients, however, just remember that in Australia, shrimp are called “prawns.”

Start planning your Australian trip of a lifetime with AAA and TravelBound. 

When you’re a young professional, the financial obligations of life might be a constant irritation, but they really become a challenge when you have kids. Although health care and housing predictably take up the bulk of the spending in American households, the cost of entertainment is one area that many families neglect to take into account when laying out their budget.

The fun things you do with your family provide bonding opportunities as well as a respite from the day-to-day stresses that life sends your way. So, since research indicates a year-over-year increase in entertainment-related expenses, we’re offering a rundown of some tips you can use to offset those costs and keep enjoying what you love.

Movies and music

For many American families, watching movies and listening to music are among the most popular forms of entertainment. But even these expenses can be reduced with a bit of strategy involved.

For instance, before you head to your local theater, check for any student and/or senior discounts that might apply to your family. Most chains also offer regular deals on tickets and concession items as well as rewards programs. AAA even offers discounted tickets at some of your favorite movie theaters.

As far as how to satisfy your music needs, the solution is simple. Rather than buying music online, sign up for a free, ad-based music service. Some premium services may cost as little as 99 cents for the first three months.

Books and magazines

It might seem like obvious advice, but for families who are avid readers, look no further than your local library. In addition to physical copies of both new and classic books, libraries often have an impressive selection of periodicals, making it easy to catch up on your favorite magazine or newspaper without spending a dime.

Many major markets also offer electronic libraries through which you can borrow eBooks, audiobooks and even videos. The New York Public Library, for example, uses a system called Overdrive that uses your library credentials to set up an account. Other than libraries, you could simply opt for eBooks in general — since they’re often much cheaper (and more convenient) than hardcovers — or pay a visit to a used bookstore, where you’ll be able to find a surprisingly wide variety of titles for incredibly low prices.

Cable television

You might not be able to imagine a world without cable television. Chances are, however, that you’ll soon be joining the 13.5 million households that no longer pay for a traditional cable package. And why should they? Even for the most dedicated couch potatoes, it’s a brave new world filled with streaming services, network-specific apps and on-demand cable alternatives.

Many major networks offer free full episodes of current shows within days of the initial airing and sports deals to ensure that you never miss a game. It’s easier than ever to select the shows you want a la carte. So consider cutting the cord and embrace a more streamlined approach to the television you pay for.

Sports and other events

Whether you’re interested in attending a local sports game or some other event, you’ll likely find easy ways to save money if you know what to look for. Much like the discounts we mentioned earlier at movie theaters, many organizations offer lower prices for students, seniors and members of the military, and even if they don’t, they may feature special deals on designated dates.

Do your research before you buy tickets for anything. But if you’re really wanting to have fun on the cheap, look into what is going on in your community. From sports to the arts, many cities host events for little to no charge to boost attendance, build word of mouth or simply as a fundraising effort. Lastly, you might opt to volunteer at a nearby theater or sports venue, since you’ll be able to get involved in something you love and perhaps score some discounts or free tickets in the process.

Dining out

Going out to eat isn’t exactly an entertainment cost, but considering its prevalence as a family activity, it’s still worth mentioning here. The average American family spends a bit over $3,000 every year at restaurants, a statistic that likely also factors into the national obesity rate.

Our best advice for how to curtail your dining budget? Rather than going out to eat, try designing a weekly menu and cooking at home more often. This will ensure that you don’t buy more groceries than you need and prevent food from spoiling. You could even involve the whole family and make preparing meals a group activity. If you make extra food, you might have enough for lunch the next day, thereby preventing the temptation to buy more food during the work day. It might take a bit of planning, but making your own meals isn’t only more cost-effective but healthier too.

Every little bit helps

Now that you have some new ideas for how your family can trim entertainment costs, you might be able to direct your newfound extra funds toward building your savings. AAA can help you get there. With four high-yield savings products to choose from, you can maximize your savings account and accelerate its growth at the same time, allowing a much faster development than you’ll find elsewhere.

Earlier this year, we launched the Your AAA Network with the goal of providing you, the reader, with interesting and useful daily content in the travel, money and lifestyle space.

More than 5 million page views later, we want to say THANK YOU.

This endeavor is off to a promising start. Your comments motivate us to work harder, your social shares are genuinely appreciated, and nothing excites us more than hearing your editorial pitches.

I would also like to congratulate our amazing editorial team on recently winning the Best Product Launch/Relaunch Success award from the Specialized Information Publishers Association. Other national SIPA winners included CNBC, PRNews, HR Magazine, OPIS and more.

I am proud to work alongside such an amazing group of content creators.

If you aren’t signed up to receive emails from Your AAA, click here. And again, a sincere thank you for reading!

Some of the most treasured vacation moments happen spontaneously, like when you unexpectedly come across a beautiful sight or you look around and everyone is enjoying the day’s activities completely in sync.

Plan a Family Vacation With Trafalgar

Forget the fuss of planning a family holiday. From transportation and included meals to hand-picked accommodations and expert Travel Directors leading the way, Trafalgar's trips are designed to ensure the whole family enjoys the adventure. It’s the real thing, without worrying about a thing. Book with AAA and receive exclusive benefits!

Learn More

Behind the scenes, a well-orchestrated trip lays the groundwork for these moments. From picking the best destination to organizing a themed vacation, here are the family trip ideas that will keep your vacation moving along smoothly.

Weigh Domestic Versus International Destinations

With travel inspiration and trip ideas for families everywhere you turn, it can be difficult to narrow down the destination options. However, no matter where you decide to go, you must make sure the location is safe, fun for all ages and within your budget. Now, the decision is to choose whether to travel domestic or international as they both have their advantages and challenges.

Through an international trip, children have the opportunity to gain a more expansive view of the world, which often jump-starts a lifelong love of travel and adventure. For parents who have never traveled to a location before, the chance to share this first-time experience with their children is a major draw. The most challenging part is coordinating the logistics, particularly when you decide to embark on an extensive trip such as a multi-city tour of Europe.

It may seem overwhelming to plan a trip that takes your family to London, Amsterdam, Venice and Paris, but these are just some of the stops included in an escorted vacation package like the Trafalgar European Whirl. By placing your vacation in the hands of travel experts, you can avoid the stress of organizing transportation connections and selecting the best hotel accommodations in each city, allowing you more freedom to enjoy every leg of your European trip with your family. Parents also find it easier to relax when they have a guide who can answer questions about the local area and provide recommendations about restaurants and interesting excursions along the way.

If you’re sorting through domestic trip ideas for your family, rest assured that your children will still gain a new cultural perspective, but this time in their own country. As they see extraordinary sights within the U.S., they will learn about history, nature and the local art, opening their eyes to the varied landscapes and local cultures they encounter. The most challenging aspect of a domestic vacation is planning an itinerary that will keep everyone entertained, particularly when children of multiple ages are involved.

Organize Your Trip Around a Theme

While transportation and hotel accommodations may be less challenging to coordinate on a domestic trip, families often find it difficult to fill the days with the right activities. By organizing a trip around a theme and including multiple destinations, family members of all ages are more likely to stay engaged, and teenagers are less likely to complain of boredom.

Among the popular trips for families are those that delve into the story of American independence, including visits to historic cities like Boston, Philadelphia, Gettysburg and Washington, D.C. If American history is your primary focus, consider the Pilgrims and Patriots package offered by Trafalgar.

Teach Children About the Value and Cost of Travel

In the same way that individual travelers may have a travel bucket list of destinations they would like to visit, many have a list of places they would like to visit with their families. Topping the list of international family destinations are the Caribbean, Canada and Europe, while Florida, California and New York remain popular for domestic trips.

It’s always important to stay within the bounds of what is affordable for your family, but you might consider saving for a future trip now and letting children know what’s in the works. Once you’ve set your sights on a future destination, let everyone know so that they can become engaged in the trip from the outset. When children understand that travel is valuable to the quality of life but should also be financially within means, they learn important lessons about budgeting.

Pack the Right Gear for Every Family Member

A forgotten toy can wreak havoc on the beginning of a trip, so make sure to have comprehensive lists of what every family member will need and check them multiple times before embarking on your journey. Those lists should include everything from clothing and toiletries to your child’s chosen stuffed animal. If your trip will include water or sports activities, make sure to pack the proper outfits, gear, and sun and bug protection. When you’re on a tour like the Trafalgar Greek Island Hopper package, you’ll certainly want bathing suits for everyone to wear on the golden beaches of Mykonos. While it may be possible to purchase a forgotten item at your destination, you can’t guarantee that you’ll find just what you need.

Amid planning lists for other members of your family, make sure to prioritize your essentials as well. When the adults on the trip have everything they need, they’re more relaxed and able to enjoy the travel experience. Taking care of everyone’s needs includes anticipating your own.

Plan Entertainment for the Journey

Even if your trip moves along exactly as planned, vacations involve a lot of transportation between destinations. Sometimes they even involve flight delays, traffic and other unavoidable circumstances. Whether you plan car games or bring movies that children can watch on the plane, bring the necessary technology and activities to keep everyone occupied. While young ones watch a movie or teenagers listen to their favorite music, adults enjoy the quiet time that comes from remembering to bring enough sets of headphones.

Spending vacation time together extends the love of travel throughout the family. As you weigh the options, these tips can help you orchestrate a remarkable vacation full of priceless, cherished memories.

Inspired to book a family vacation? Plan a dream trip with Trafalgar and get exclusive benefits as a AAA member! 

They can be fun, they can be educational, but can apps be fun and educational? Absolutely! This summer, don’t let your kids’ quest for knowledge stop once they leave school. In fact, all they need is their smartphones or tablet and excitement to learn.

Here are some apps that prove that learning can be as fun as swimming in a pool on a hot summer day or swinging on swings.

Fun and Educational Apps for Kids 5 – 7+

Fruity Fractions for iOS ($2.99)

Fractions can be tricky, but, with this app, they don’t have to be. Kids follow along with the main character Quip, who just wants his share of fruit, and to learn basic fractions concepts along the way. The game provides instructional support for learners so that they can learn concepts easily.

With fifty expert-designed problems and a storyline that progresses with each problem solved, kids can see that learning fractions can be enjoyable. Just make sure they don’t play this game on an empty stomach!

Drawing Pad for iOS ($1.99) and Android ($1.99)

Are your kids into art? Consider having them download Drawing Pad.

This app works much like a real-life art studio, down to the appearance of the tools that they can use. From crayons and colored pencils to markers and paintbrushes, budding artists can express themselves creatively and learn how each tool works. The pieces can be saved to a drawing pad album so that they can be worked on later.

This app does include a feature that allows kids to share their pieces on social media, so be sure to exercise caution.

Thinkrolls for iOS ($3.99) and Android ($2.99) 

With Thinkrolls, children learn about physics and build their logic and problem-solving skills. They will use advantage force, acceleration, buoyancy, heat, elasticity and gravity in order to reach the end of the maze. The puzzles strengthen observation, creative thinking, logic, problem solving, spatial cognition and memory.

Two key elements of the game is that there are unlimited tries and zero penalties, so they can learn through trial and error what works and doesn’t work. Your children can use this app without worrying about losing in-game lives or anything like that.

Learning physics with this app is as much fun as eating ice cream on a hot summer’s day and not having the ice cream drop on the sidewalk.

Fun and Educational Apps for Kids 8 – 9+

Dragon Box Elements for iOS ($4.99) and Android ($4.99) 

This game will teach your kids middle school- and high school-level geometry and the logic behind it. And, within a matter of hours, they’ll absorb concepts without realizing that they’re actually learning. Bright characters and mesmerizing puzzles will encourage them to keep playing.

There are 100+ puzzles that kids – and adults too – can complete to gain a deeper understanding of the logic behind geometry. But, the geometry is hidden to the point where kids can progress in the game with no trouble. This game offers the opportunity for everyone to learn as a family, with four individual game saves maximum.

Marble Math for iOS ($3.99) and Android ($2.99) 

This fun and educational app based on the Common Core Curriculum is a great way for your elementary school children to practice solving math problems in their head. They’ll need to be incredibly focused, however, to avoid obstacles in order to maintain a high score.

But, if they get a wrong answer, that’s not an issue: Marble Math gives the option to replay the problem or show the correct answer before moving on to the next problem.

They can also add as many customized profiles as desired, as individual game settings and progress are saved in each profile. In addition, parents and teachers can adapt the game to tailor to the students’ learning pace. While smartphones may come in with a built-in calculator, knowing how to solve math-related equations mentally can take a child a long way.

Stack the States for iOS ($2.99) and Android ($2.99) 

Learning geography can be fun. With Stack the States, your child can have a great time learning about the U.S.

This app will help your kids learn the states and capitals as well as other trivia like nicknames, flags, abbreviations and more. In addition, this app has five additional games – Map It, Pile Up, Puzzler and Capital Drop – featuring the states as player characters. This way, kids become more familiar with the states.

Other prominent features include high resolution pictures of famous U.S. landmarks and upbeat sound effects and music.

Fun an Educational Apps for Kids 10 – 12+

Cargo-Bot for iOS (free) 

Have a child who wants to become a programmer? Is he or she interested in programming concepts? Encourage them to download Cargo-Bot.

This puzzle game features a robot, and the player has to teach it how to move crates using specific codes. It also challenges the brain and helps the player learn all about programming.

This fun and educational app is the first to be created entirely on iPad using Codea.

Monster Physics for iOS ($1.99) 

Is your child curious about how things are built and how they work? Monster Physics is the app for them.

This fun and educational app lets your child explore the concepts of physics and take advantage of the “build” feature. The feature lets them make gadgets using metal, wood and plastic parts.

The app also contains 50 missions for the child to solve. The difficulty increases with each mission. By using critical thinking and problem-solving skills, your child will feel not just motivated to learn more about how physics impacts their daily lives. They will also feel empowered in their newfound knowledge and understanding.

Swift Playgrounds for iOS (free) 

This fun and educational app is perfect for kids, as well as for anyone else interested in coding. It requires no prior knowledge of coding. The user also experiments with Swift, a code used for the development of many popular mobile apps today.

This app is the first of its kind to take full advantage of the iPad and the iOS SDK, or the iOS Software Development Kit. In a world that’s becoming more and more digitized, a child can benefit from learning how to code, so downloading this app can be one of the best decisions they can make.

Have any fun and educational app suggestions? Let us know in the comments!

Searching for a hotel can be an overwhelming process. After sifting through pages and pages of deals and promotions, we’re often left more confused than when we started. We all want to stay at the very best place but depending on how you like to travel – and whom you like to travel with – “best” means different things to different people.

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Are you looking for a hotel for family vacations? Solo business trips? College reunions? To find the most ideal lodging, you need to define your priorities. Are you looking for a party atmosphere or is a kid-friendly environment more important to you? Is affordability your main incentive or are you willing to splurge on something luxe?

When booking a hotel, consider these four points first.

Price

Lodging tends to take up the largest chunk of a travel budget. If price is your priority, there are many ways to save. Most hotel websites have a special offers section. If you are a AAA member you can also check to see if there are any exclusive benefits available. AAA members can save on a number of hotels, including Best Western.

Some hotels also have a flexible date option when searching, which will show you all the prices for that month. Prices can fluctuate according to month or day of the week so if you don’t have a strict time restraint, play around with this feature.

Experts recommend booking your hotel at least two to three weeks prior, but generally, rates drop the closer you get to the check-in date. If you’re an opportunist who can handle open-ended plans, sometimes it pays to wait; however, there are some risks involved. When you wait for prices to drop, you don’t always get the cream of the crop. If you’re just looking for a place to lay your head for the night this is a great way to cut costs, but it’s recommended for groups to book in advance. You don’t want your family of five to get stuck in a room with a single bed!

If you’re in town to see an attraction or attend a conference located in a city center, look for hotels on the outskirts of town. Hotels tend to get cheaper the further they are from major areas of activity. Compare prices of hotels near your area of interest with places 15-20 minutes away but remember to factor in the cost of transportation and make sure the overall price is still worth it.

Location

Cash may be king, but travel is usually all about the location. What do you want to see while you’re traveling? You want your hotel to be in relation to those destinations. And if they’re not in walking distance, where’s the nearest public transport?

Always take the hotel’s location description with a grain of salt. Sometimes “can easily get to Empire State Building” means walking to a bus that takes you to a train which takes you to another bus. To be safe, check out potential hotels on a map and familiarize yourself with the area around your intended location. Looking at a map will also show you what other points of interest are nearby, such as dining or shopping. How far do you need to walk to get a late-night bite? This leads to other questions like is the area safe enough to walk at night? What type of neighborhood is it? Some quick background research can provide you with these crucial details.

Amenities

Even if price and location are the only things that matter to you, you should know what to expect in terms of basic amenities and, more importantly, what to watch out for. The four basic amenities are air- conditioning, parking, breakfast and Wi-Fi. These may seem like features that every hotel should offer in 2018, but they’re not. When booking your hotel, pay attention to what they say about these amenities –  especially if they don’t say anything at all.

AC is usually a given in the United States, but not in other countries. As for parking, sometimes hotels will list it as an amenity even when referring to a third-party garage off site that charges extra. Whenever a hotel lists a service like parking or Wi-Fi without a price, don’t automatically assume it’s free. The same goes for breakfast. Often one rate will include breakfast and one won’t, so choose carefully! When in doubt about any of these basic features, contact the hotel just to make sure.

If you’re going to spend most of your time at the hotel, amenities are paramount. Are you looking to lounge by the pool with drink in hand? Consider an all-inclusive resort. Want a room with a view? Check out photos of the rooms posted on the hotel’s site but, be sure to compare them with photos from guest reviewers! Pictures can be deceiving. Looking for some deep R&R? Many resorts have signature spas and offer discount packages for guests. Are you looking to get some work done while on the road? Maybe you need a hotel with room service that delivers to your door, so you can stay focused on the task at hand.

Atmosphere

What kind of ambience are you looking for? It’s best to know the personality of a place before you book, even if you won’t be spending most of your time there. Would you be comfortable on a small, intimate property where the staff knows your name? Are you with a group of friends looking to hang out with a younger crowd? Are you bringing kids along for the trip? These are all very different vibes and you should consider what kind of experience you want. You can find this information by looking at guest reviews beforehand or checking the inspector notes if the hotel is AAA Diamond Rated.

Finding a hotel is about picking your priorities and knowing what to look for. If you understand what you want in terms of price, location, amenities and atmosphere, you’re already halfway there. Self-awareness is the difference between picking the “best” hotel, and the best hotel for you.

AAA members save 5% to 15% and earn bonus Best Western Rewards^Ⓡ points when booking AAA rates! Click here to learn more about all AAA hotel deals.

Portugal is having a moment.

The westernmost country on the European continent, home to explorers who led the Age of Discovery, has been luring world travelers to its own shores of late.

I savored that thought as I took a final sip of sweet port wine on the bow of the Viking Torgil as it bobbed on the Douro River in Porto, the city named for the libation. After a week sailing through Portugal’s Douro Valley, the Torgil was providing passengers a memorable last look at the river.

Our sleek riverboat shared the waterway with rabelo boats, wooden workhorses once used to transport wine casks. Colorful quayside houses and worn cobblestone lanes rose up from one riverbank, while signature wine cellars adorned the other. Bell towers clanked. And, as the sun set, the lacy metal arch of the Dom Luis 1 Bridge filtered light on the scene, turning the Douro gold.

Cultural Riches

In Portuguese, Rio Douro means “river of gold,” but whether that references loot or looks remains unresolved. Why choose when both apply? Aside from striking riches with its historic wine trade, Portugal has yielded treasure with the recent popularity of riverboats. Viking has three boats plying the Douro, with plans to add a fourth.

Many companies, including Uniworld, charter boats to sail the region, which requires petite vessels capable of navigating narrow passageways with dramatic curves and snug locks.

The cruises deliver a unique itinerary and complimentary tours. I spent two nights in Lisbon before boarding the boat, enough time to experience a sensory showcase. I eyed Manueline landmarks such as the ornate Jeronimos Monastery (Vasco da Gama’s resting place) and Belem Tower. I marveled at soul-wrenching fado music and tasted pastel de nata, the country’s famous custard tart. The aromas of baking bread surrounded me as I fingered accessories made from local cork.

Find and book a hotel in Lisbon.

We also visited Coimbra, Portugal’s medieval capital, en route to the boat. Even Spain came into view via a tour to Salamanca, one of Europe’s oldest university towns and home to glowing sandstone architecture.

Port of Call

Still, the heart of this journey celebrated the artistry of Portugal’s port winemaking region, its hypnotic landscape and the product produced nowhere else in the world. With vineyard strolls and wine tastings, my appreciation for port grew. Landmarks emerged, from the baroque Mateus Palace (depicted on Mateus Rose labels, popular in the ’70s) to a bakery in Favaios with a traditional stove fueled by grapevines.

The boat’s window-lined public areas highlighted the stunning scenery of the Douro Valley, a rural masterpiece of steeply carved valleys lined with terraced vineyards and dotted with ancient country estates. All 53 cabins, many with balconies, faced outside, and a top deck with a pool and shady pavilion was perfect for taking in the atmosphere.

I loved spying Portugal’s blue-and-white azulejo tiles. Panels at railway stations in Porto and Pinhao depicted Douro Valley scenes. Thankfully, I found more tiles to admire in Lamego, while descending the 686 steps at the Shrine of Our Lady of Remedies. (Pilgrims ascend on their knees.)

That’s beyond my capabilities, but I wouldn’t hesitate to pray for another trip to Portugal.

Find and book a hotel near the Douro River.

Have you been to Portugal? Tell us about your trip in the comments section below.

Speak with a knowledgeable AAA travel agent about member perks on trips to Portugal, river cruise vacations and other destinations.

From backyard barbecues and patriotic parades to fireworks that shoot across the sky, the Fourth of July is a birthday bash for America that everyone’s invited to attend. Communities throughout the country celebrate Independence Day, but some go all-in with blowouts in the name of freedom.

Everybody knows pomp reigns in Washington, D.C., with its parade down Constitution Avenue and fireworks that explode above the Capitol dome as the National Symphony Orchestra plays. In New York, the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks illuminate the Manhattan skyline. Several barges on the East River send sparks soaring, with new colors and effects added every year. Spectators view the show from multiple points in the city and even some places in New Jersey. Plus, the New York and D.C. celebrations are broadcast nationally. Both are bucket-list destinations for a fantastic Fourth of July, but they’re not the only ones. Check out five more within road-trip range.

Find and book a hotel in Washington or New York.

1. Bar Harbor, Maine

Fun on the Fourth begins early in Bar Harbor, with an outdoor blueberry pancake breakfast. A lunchtime a seafood festival highlights another local treat – lobster plucked right offshore. In between are relay races around scenic Mount Desert Island, craft fairs and a traditional Independence Day parade. Expect lobster races, too. Music fills the quaint village green throughout the day, and at night, fireworks burst over Frenchman Bay. Besides going red, white and blue, Bar Harbor also goes green by using disposable utensils made from cornstarch at its seafood festival.

Find and book a hotel in Bar Harbor.

2. Boston

Revolutionary War history fuels a weeklong Harborfest celebration culminating on the Fourth of July with a reading of the Declaration of Independence from the balcony of the Old State House, a flag-raising ceremony, a parade and the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular (complete with real cannon fire). Fireworks illuminate the esplanade along the Charles River, and afterward, church bells ring citywide. Activities before Independence Day include a Chowderfest, historical re-enactments, a screening of “Yankee Doodle Dandy” in Christopher Columbus Park and special programming along the Freedom Trail. 

Related reading: 10 Signature Boston Foods and Eateries.

Find and book a hotel in Boston.

3. Bristol, R.I.

This town bolsters its reputation as America’s most patriotic town with a claim to the oldest continuously held Fourth of July celebration in the nation, an event that’s been evolving since 1785. Festivities begin on Flag Day, June 14, by proclamation of the town crier and conclude on Independence Day with a parade that travels down Hope Street, the center of which is painted in red, white and blue stripes. A visiting naval ship, nightly concerts at Independence Park, patriotic speakers, a Fourth of July Ball and a prestigious drum and bugle corps competition round out the celebration, along with brilliant fireworks over Bristol Harbor on July 3. 

Related reading: Charming Bristol, R.I., Leaves a Lasting Impression.

Find and book a hotel in Bristol.

4. Ocean City, N.J.

Fireworks give the sand and surf at Ocean City a warm glow on Independence Day. Launched from a barge just beyond the Ocean City Music Pier, which was dedicated on July 4, 1929, it’s a true beach and boardwalk bash. The day starts with a bicycle parade that honors the most patriotically adorned ride. Pie-eating, kite-flying and even hula-hooping contests follow. Plus, bands play under the covered loggia of the pier before and after the fireworks, creating a casual old-time dance party atmosphere.

Find and book a hotel in Ocean City.

5. Philadelphia

America’s birthplace celebrates the Fourth with countless free events, from open museums and movie screenings to fireworks displays, during the Wawa Welcome America Festival. A free Hoagie Day honoring our troops kicks off the celebratory week, which climaxes on the Fourth with Declaration of Independence recitations, a parade with historical characters, a Liberty Bell tapping and a fete hosted by Betsy Ross, who shares a huge flag crafted from cupcakes. Plus, a block party sprawls down Benjamin Franklin Parkway to the Museum of Art’s “Rocky” steps, where an outdoor concert (Pitbull this year) precedes a fireworks finale. 

Related reading: The Top 10 Things to Do in Philadelphia, Pa.

Find and book a hotel in Philly.

How will you celebrate the Fourth of July this year? Tell us in the comments.

Talk to an expert. A AAA travel agent will help you make the most of your road trip.