A lot of Americans are going on family vacations in 2018. According to AAA, the go-to expert on family travel, a whopping 88 million Americans plan to take family vacations this year. After tracking family travel plans and preferences with a series of comprehensive surveys, AAA found that road trips remain the most popular option, making up around 65 percent of all family trips.

While family getaways are usually intergenerational, it seems that millennials are taking a bit of a lead. Forty-four percent of millennials are planning family getaways this year, compared to 39 percent of Gen Xers and 32 percent of baby boomers.

“No matter their age,” says Bill Sutherland, AAA senior vice president of travel and publishing, “families are going on not just one, but multiple vacations throughout the year to revisit favorite destinations and experience new places.”

To help young families prep for their next vacation, AAA’s Inspectors have identified some of their favorite family-friendly hotels and restaurants for 2018. Here are some of the highlights.

Hotels

Ludlow’s Island Resort, Minnesota (AAA Three Diamond Rated)

This resort is really a series of charming cottages and cabins, dotted across the minuscule paradise of Ludlow’s Island. Located right in the middle of scenic Lake Vermilion, Ludlow’s Island Resort is an outdoor paradise, filled with activities the kids will love. Go fishing on the lake, have a family cookout at your cabin or get behind the wheel of one of Ludlow Island’s amphibian cars. There are also daily children’s activities for the kids who can’t get enough of island life. Book with AAA.

Castle in the Sand Hotel, Maryland (AAA Two Diamond Rated)

This family-run resort looks almost like a towering sand castle – an appropriate theme for Ocean City. Castle in the Sand Hotel is right on the water, making the commute from your hotel room to the beach about a minute long. You can enjoy the swimming pool and tiki bar in the courtyard. Younger guests of the Castle in the Sand Hotel can enjoy the series of summertime activities exclusively for kids. Book with AAA.

Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, Arizona (AAA Five Diamond Rated)

It’s no surprise that adults love the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. With five AAA Diamonds to its name, this luxury resort is a first-class experience. But while the adults are golfing or lounging at the spa, the kids are off on their own adventure. The Trailblazers Family Adventure Center is filled with interactive games and activities for kids. Trailblazers kids can go on nature walks, pan for real gold, catch fish in the lagoon and go swimming in the six different pools – including Sonoran Splash, a pool with two 200-foot waterslides. After dark, they become techno waterslides, with disco lights, fog and pumping music. There’s no better time to take the plunge. Book with AAA.

Rocking Horse Ranch, New York (AAA Three Diamond Rated)

I have personally dreamed of going to Rocking Horse Ranch ever since I was a small horse girl. This upstate New York treasure features over 100 horses. That’s right. Rocking Horse Ranch is an equine paradise, with year-round trail rides, carriage rides, ponies and horseback riding demonstrations. Sick of horsing around? Don’t worry! There’s also mountain tubing, bungee jumping, rock climbing and water sports. Afterward, you and your little cowpokes can head to the Silverado Saloon, where there’s live nightly entertainment. There’s also indoor activities for all ages. The kids will love the arcade, while the parents might appreciate the spa a little bit more.

Weekapaug Inn, Rhode Island (AAA Four Diamond Rated)

Located on the banks of Quonochontaug Pond in Westerly, the Weekapaug Inn has been around since 1899. Take advantage of the staff naturalist, who is in charge of daily nature activities like star gazing, bird-watching and hiking trips. Go on a boat or kayak tour around the pond, which is so calm that you’ll see some guests doing yoga on paddleboards. Enjoy nightly s’mores around the fire before collapsing in one of the luxurious rooms. It’s the perfect place to unplug and unwind.

Restaurants

Zaharakos Ice Cream Parlor, Indiana (AAA Two Diamond Rated)

Step back in time at Zaharakos Ice Cream Parlor in Columbus. This city landmark has been serving sweet treats for nearly 120 years. With marble countertops, antique soda fountains and mahogany fixtures, it still looks just like it did back then. The whole family will love the colorful sodas and ice creams, but you can also enjoy a full meal.

Babe’s Chicken Dinner House, Texas (AAA Two Diamond Rated)

This small restaurant chain, with several locations around the Dallas-Fort Worth area, is a great place to bring the whole family. The servers treat guests like family, serving up heaping plates of homestyle comfort food. Kids of all ages will love dancing the hokeypokey with the waitstaff and singing along with the music.

The Boat House Restaurant, Pennsylvania (AAA Two Diamond Rated)

This Hawley restaurant is located right on the edge of Lake Wallenpaupack. In fact, guests can (and often do) arrive by boat, mooring at the dock in the back of the restaurant. The Boat House Restaurant is appropriately nautical-themed, but its surf n’ turf menu will please even the pickiest of eaters. With live entertainment and a retinue of different events, there’s always something new to try.

Where does your family love to eat or stay? Let us know in the comments below!

For more information on family fun, visit AAA.com/TravelTips.

River cruises are popular vacations abroad, but what about floating a little closer to home? U.S. river cruises might be the best kept secret in American travel. Rivers used to be the lifeblood of American trade and travel, and the cities that have cropped up along the banks of these rivers are filled with rich history and culture. Floating at a steady pace, you’ll be able to take in the grand, sweeping sights of trees and fields and mountains. And by stopping throughout these ports of call, you’ll be able to experience a delightful cross-section of life across America.

Most U.S. river cruises sail along the Mississippi River, the Hudson River and the Columbia and Snake rivers. River cruise boats are small, and they usually carry around 200 passengers. Many of these vessels are styled after historic paddle wheel boats in a nod to the American river-faring traditions of the past. Riverboats can dock closer to more populated downtown areas than cruise ships can, plopping you right in the center of the action no matter what city you land in.

Sometimes, U.S. river cruises can have more upfront expenses than other vacations, scaring off would-be travelers. However, most river cruise tickets include room, board, gratuities, city tours, entertainment and beverages, so the price winds up being pretty cost-effective.

UnCruise Adventures

Fjords of Alaska Cruise – Ultimate Expedition

UnCruise Adventures bills its small-boat cruises as the ultimate adventure travel trips, with unique experiences and wild destinations. It delivers on its promises with the Fjords of Alaska cruise, which goes along Alaska’s Inside Passage. On this 15-day cruise, you can see glaciers, rainforests, fjords and waterfalls. Take to a skiff or kayak to get up-close and personal with nature, like playful otters and cliffside mountain goats. Aboard the boat, you’ll see humpback whales and pods of orcas.

The American Queen Steamboat Company

The American Queen Steamboat Company has three stylish paddleboats: The American Duchess, the American Empress and the American Queen, the largest riverboat ever built. AAA members can get up to $70 per-person onboard spending credit on the American Queen Steamboat fleet, plus $100 per booking savings.

American Music Cruise

Celebrate the South’s musical heritage on this nine-day cruise. Starting in Memphis, the “birthplace of rock ’n’ roll,” and tracing down the Mississippi to the jazz haven of New Orleans, this river cruise is a tour through American music history. The onboard entertainment and music lecturers change style with every region that you travel through. Try some premium excursions, like a tour of Graceland or a visit to the hometown of B.B. King.

The Beauty and Bounty of Nature

Follow in the footsteps of Sacajawea, Lewis and Clark on this cruise through the Pacific Northwest, from Clarkston to Vancouver, Wash. From dense forests to sweeping mountain vistas, the Columbia and Snake rivers offer some of the most beautiful sights in the country. On your shore excursions, you can visit Sacajawea State Park, the Columbia River Maritime Museum, the Nez Perce National Historical Park and more.

Mark Twain’s Mississippi

Discover the Big River at the center of Mark Twain’s stories on this nine-day cruise from Alton to Red Wing. Spend a day in Twain’s hometown of Hannibal, Mo., and see the inspiration for the home of characters like Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer.

Blount Small Ship Adventures

Locks, Legends and Canals of the Northeast

Blount boats are tiny by design: their small stature means that they can slip under bridges and through canals with ease. These luxurious, yet cozy, vessels accept no more than 83 guests at a time. One of Blount’s most unique excursions is its Locks, Legends and Canals of the Northeast cruise. It isn’t merely a Hudson River cruise: Blount boats are the only river cruise vessels that can sail through the Erie Canal. You’ll get the best of two countries as you cruise from New York City to Quebec City, then land in Montreal. From the castles of the Thousand Islands to the wide expanse of Lake Ontario, you’ll see it all.

American Cruise Lines

Great Rivers of Florida Cruise

American Cruise Lines has a fleet of small ships and riverboats for touring America’s rivers and surrounding waters. Its most interesting cruise, however, is their Great Rivers of Florida Cruise, which tours the St. John’s River, Lake George and the Tolomato River. In the Ocala National Forest, you can meet alligators and bald eagles. In Green Cove Springs, you can go on a Victorian-inspired horse-drawn carriage tour. You and your fellow cruisers can find the fountain of youth in St. Augustine, one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in America.

Have you ever been on a U.S. river cruise? Tell us about it in the comments below!

Get a deal on an American Queen Steamboat Company cruise and explore river cruises around the world at AAA.

I’ve always longed to live in the Mediterranean metropolis of Barcelona. One of Europe’s most stylish cities, it’s an architecture lover’s paradise where Gothic spires share space with the otherworldly designs of Antoni Gaudi.

And it is Gaudi – and the food – that brings me here. Fascinated by architecture and well-versed in the world’s cities where it reigns supreme (like Stockholm, St. Petersburg, and Tallinn, Estonia), I cannot help but be drawn to the capital of Spain’s Catalonia region and its beautiful ironwork balconies, colorful facades and Gothic towers.

But ultimately, I come to see Gaudi, the Modernist architect whose Sagrada Familia remains under construction in Barcelona nearly a century after his death. Designed with God’s creation in mind, the cathedral’s towering columns emulate trees, with leafy bowers skimming the ceiling and bolstering the nave.

Finding Gaudi

Gaudi is so revered here that some have lobbied for his beatification. And it’s no wonder: The Sagrada Familia’s cloud-reaching spires can be seen from all over the city, and touring its interior is an exercise in looking up for hours. “God’s Architect,” as he was sometimes known, designed seven structures that have been named UNESCO World Heritage sites, many of them in Barcelona.

Be sure to take a ramble along Passeig de Gracia. The boulevard is lined with extravagant mansions, including Gaudi’s Casa Calvet and the aptly named House of Spikes, Casa de les Punxes. You’ll find it in L’Eixample, a 19th-century neighborhood built as an extension to the old city.

Gaudi’s most significant patron was industrial tycoon Eusebi Guell, for whom he designed Palau Guell. The mansion features a signature parabolic entrance gate and central hallway with tiny windows in the ceiling that resemble a starlit sky.

Another Gaudi creation – the curved apartment building christened La Pedrera (“open quarry”) – is famous in large part because of its ruled surface design, which results in a structure with no apparent straight lines. The highlight of the building is the rooftop with its undulating surface and 26 chimneys that resemble nothing if not, perhaps, the surface of Mars.

Finally there is Gaudi’s Park Guell, which, like Sagrada Familia, has become synonymous with Barcelona. Storybook-like and whimsical, the park features entrance pavilions with ice cream-emulating rooftops, a tiled-bedecked dragon, and a famous undulating mosaic-covered bench designed by Josep Jujol.

A Foodie’s Delight

Barcelona’s food culture mirrors the diversity and playfulness of its architecture. Here you’ll find restaurants and tapas bars clustered around intimate squares and along cobblestone streets, where even the tiniest cafes serve up palate-pleasing delights.

Be sure to eat like a native and order pa amb tomaquet, which is essentially bread rubbed with tomatoes, garlic and olive oil. And don’t forget the wine. Lunch or dinner, it’s a staple of the meal.

Continue your Gaudi-themed exploration of Barcelona by dining at Casa Calvet on Carrer de Casp. Gaudi designed the building, which features Modernista stained glass. It’s also a perfect spot for trying traditional Catalan dishes like albondigas con sepia y gambas –meatballs with squid and prawns.

Be mindful of traditional siesta time. Most shops open mid-morning, then close in the early afternoon for lunch, reopening at 4 or 5 p.m. And Spaniards dine late. In fact, many restaurants don’t open for dinner until 8 p.m.

Beauty Reborn

While you can certainly spend the night in one of Barcelona’s many luxurious hotels, consider a lodging experience that allows you to live like a native, perhaps in El Born, which borders both the Gothic Quarter and Port Vell. Here you can rent a walk-up with your own private balcony overlooking the narrow streets below, and sample small plates and Catalan wines within the quarter’s many tapas bars come nighttime. Santa Maria del Mar, a fine example of Catalan Gothic architecture that regularly hosts concerts, is also located in the trendy neighborhood. Try the tiny tapas bar across the street – La Vinya del Senyor.

Barcelona’s best-loved park, Parc de la Ciutadella, is located on the eastern edge of El Born. Its treasures include a wild fountain, designed by Gaudi and Josep Fontsere, as well as a beautiful boating lake and the city’s zoo. A stroll through this fanciful landscape is a perfect way to close the day in Barcelona, the city to which Gaudi sought to bring so much of the forms and symmetry of nature via the medium of design. As an elderly man, the architect wrote, “I captured the purest and most pleasant images of nature, that nature that is ever our Mistress.”

Atlanta is a destination city. The cosmopolitan capital of Georgia offers a variety of attractions for all sorts of travelers, from restaurants and shops to sprawling parks to historical homes and museums, all with Southern hospitality. Whether you’re on a budget or enjoying the ATL in style, here’s where to stay in Atlanta, including AAA Diamond rated hotels.

Where to stay in Atlanta: Budget

Country Inn & Suites Atlanta Northwest

Just off of I-75, the Country Inn & Suites is perfect for the budget-minded traveler. Located northwest of Atlanta, guests get free breakfast, parking and WiFi. Amenities also include a 24-hour fitness center, an indoor pool, and freshly baked cookies in the lobby, as well as a free shuttle to businesses within a three-mile radius. The hotel also has a 24-hour business center with T1 internet access and free printing.

Shop at the nearby Cumberland Mall, or go to a convention at the Cobb Galleria Centre – both places are less than two miles from the Country Inn & Suites. Baseball fans are especially welcome, as the hotel is down the road from SunTrust Park, the new home of the Atlanta Braves.

Springhill Suites Atlanta Buckhead 

Located in the affluent Buckhead district of uptown Atlanta, this Marriott hotel offers many amenities, including free breakfast,Wi-Fi and an indoor pool. This hotel is conveniently located right next to major roadways, and is a short drive away from family-friendly attractions such as the Atlanta History Center, and the Legoland Discovery Center. Not to mention quick access to a public transit MARTA station, and shopping at nearby malls Phipps Plaza and Lenox Square.

Where to stay in Atlanta: Mid-range

The Hyatt Regency Atlanta 

Right in the center of downtown Atlanta, this newly renovated hotel offers plush beds, a heated outdoor pool, and a direct connection to the city’s MARTA public transit. Eating options include Polaris, a rotating restaurant 22 stories up with a panoramic view of the Atlanta skyline, and Sway, a southern-style kitchen that Thrillist.com named “One of the Nine Places that Define Atlanta Fried Chicken.”

Shop around at the Peachtree Center Mall and AmericasMart Atlanta, both only a block away. The Georgia Aquarium and the Center for Civil and Human Rights are within a half a mile of the Hyatt Regency.

Sheraton Atlanta Hotel 

This eco-friendly hotel is right in the heart of downtown Atlanta, with many amenities for all sorts of travelers. The Sheraton Atlanta Hotel has 90,000 square feet of recently renovated event space. Both the full-service business lounge and fitness center are open 24 hours. Especially unique is the Garden Courtyard Pool, which is heated year-round and covered by a retractable glass roof.

Fandangles Restaurant & Bar offers southern-inspired and locally grown food, as well as gluten-free and vegetarian menus. In addition, the hotel has a casual breakfast and lunch restaurant, and an in-house deli that is open all day.

The Sheraton Atlanta Hotel is also just two blocks from the Atlanta Convention Center.

Where to stay in Atlanta: Top-rated and luxury

Omni Atlanta Hotel at CNN Center 

A modern complex right in the middle of CNN world headquarters, the Omni Atlanta Hotel occupies a 15-story high-rise and a 24-story tower. Children get a backpack filled with fun activities upon check-in, and milk and cookies delivered to their room on the first night of their stay. Restaurant Prime Meridian serves sophisticated new American fare alongside fantastic views of Atlanta and the famous Centennial Olympic Park. Begin your day with gourmet coffee and a quick snack at Morsel’s, and cap it off with a cocktail and appetizer at Latitudes Bistro and Lounge.

Amenities include free WiFi in public areas, a soothing spa, a year-round outdoor heated pool and a 24-hour fitness center. For sports lovers, the Georgia Dome — home of the Atlanta Falcons — and the State Farm Arena — home of the Atlanta Hawks — are down the road, while the College Football Hall of Fame is next door.

The Georgian Terrace Hotel 

Built in 1911, this gorgeous hotel has seen a lot of history, including the 1939 premiere gala of “Gone with the Wind.” The Georgian Terrace still has that glamour, as it often hosts top events in the area in its impressive boardroom and three ballrooms. Guests also praise the rooftop swimming pool and sun deck for its great views of Atlanta.

The common rooms are decked out with chandeliers, polka-dot carpets and stylish, modern furnishings, while each room has marble floors, iPod docking stations and free WiFi. Suites have impressive views of the city and a full kitchen.

Dine at the Livingston Restaurant & Bar, a modern-meets-Southern kitchen surrounded by grand architecture. Drink barrel-aged cocktails at the rustic Edgar’s Proof and Provision, or grab a fresh breakfast and coffee at Buffalo Bayou.

The Georgian Terrace Hotel is close to a number of midtown attractions, including the famous Fox Theatre next door.

Stonehurst Place 

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this bed and breakfast was built in 1896 as a mansion for the wealthy Hinman family. These days, travelers come to enjoy the luxurious six rooms and suites at this restored midtown Atlanta inn. Each has been updated with modern amenities while still retaining its turn-of-the-century charm. Relax in the landscaped gardens and enjoy the daily gourmet breakfast. Special diets can be accommodated with advance notice.

Only a 10-minute walk away is Piedmont Park, a sprawling, picturesque 189 acres with history going back to the 19^th century and a farmer’s market every Saturday from March to December.

Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta 

Located on the first 19 floors of a 50-story tower, the Four Seasons offers a world of luxury in midtown Atlanta. Pets are allowed, so you can bring your four-legged friends along as well. See a 360-view of Atlanta from the 50^th floor event spaces. Relax at the spa with a massage and treatments for the face, body, hands and feet, or try a seasonal special. Each treatment room is soundproofed for a secluded retreat.

Guests can swim in the indoor saline pool, which has a hot tub and sunny terrace. Exercise with weights, treadmills and bikes at the 4,500-square-foot fitness center, and sweat it out in the steam rooms and saunas. Enjoy a red velvet pancake breakfast at restaurant Park 75 and end the day with dinner and a drink at Bar Margot.

Take a stroll in the nearby Atlanta Botanical Garden, or walk half a mile to the High Museum of Art. “Gone with the Wind” fans must go to the nearby Margaret Mitchell House, where the Pulitzer-Prize winning novel was written.

FIND & BOOK MORE HOTELS IN ATLANTA

Have you decided where to stay in Atlanta? Let us know in the comments below!

Plan and book your next vacation with AAA.

For many, meeting theme park characters are the highlight of their family vacation. There is nothing like the excitement on a child’s face when meeting a beloved character in person for the first time. (And plenty of adults will admit to feeling the same way, too!)

Characters are the celebrities of theme parks. A Mickey Mouse sighting in the Magic Kingdom kind of feels like spotting George Clooney in Beverly Hills, except Mickey has way more fans, is always ready with a smile and doesn’t mind if you go in for a hug.

Theme park characters are actually more like old friends. They are open, approachable and friendly; it’s their job to make you smile, establish connections, however brief, and create lasting memories. Every encounter is special (might we say, magical?) and should be treated as such.

Coming face to face with a favorite character is exciting and it can be easy to get caught up in the moment, but maintaining courtesy towards them, the supporting staff and fellow guests, guarantees that the experience is fun for all. Here are a few pointers to keep in mind when meeting theme park characters.

• Have your autograph books and camera ready. For meet-and-greets and character dining experiences, make sure to have everything prepared before they get to you. The less time you spend fumbling for a pen or flipping through pages in your autograph book, the more time you will have to spend with the character.

• Respect the character attendants. A character will always have a staff member or two around to assist them. These attendants also help guests, maintain the flow of traffic, take photos and enhance interaction with characters (which is especially useful with characters that can’t talk.) Waiting for over an hour in 90-degree heat and 100% humidity can bring out the worst in anyone. Try not to take it out on the staff.

• Wait your turn. You can always expect a line at a theme park; it comes with the territory. When waiting for a character, don’t push or yell and most importantly, don’t interfere with someone else’s time. Let everyone have their moment and you will get yours. Your kids may get antsy, but it will hopefully be a rewarding lesson in patience.

• Watch where you stand. Fur characters have limited vision and can easily knock little people over or hurt them without knowing. Always try to stand in front of fur characters and let them know when a kid is around so that they are aware.

• Talk to the characters…Characters love it when you talk to them, so don’t be afraid to spark up a conversation! Even if they can’t talk they will find a way to communicate through gestures and the help of their attendants. Not sure where to start? If you are familiar with their story, discuss what you know about them. You can ask Rapunzel how long it takes to brush her hair or where Ariel keeps her thingamabobs. You might be surprised at their answers.

• …But respect character integrity. Character integrity is basically a rule for sustaining the magic and authenticity felt within theme parks like Disney and Universal Studios. For example, if someone were to ask a cast member how many Donald Ducks there are in the Disney parks, they will kindly respond that there is only one Donald Duck. There are many questions that you can and should ask the characters, but do not challenge them or try to get them to break character.

• Treat characters how you would like to be treated. Treat a princess like a princess and all other characters like a friend. That means no grabbing, play fighting or inappropriate language. And guys, please don’t try to slip Cinderella your number. Prince Charming will not like that!

Character sightings and meetings are one of the most exciting parts of a theme park trip. Have you had a memorable interaction with a theme park character? Tell us in the comments!

Save on theme park vacations with AAA.

Pets spend a lot of time inside, even in the warmer months. Imagine asking your dog how you could improve things for him, and him saying, “Well, actually, I’ve got a few ideas…”

Since we don’t (yet) have the technology to understand animals, why not try the following tips to make your home into a healthier, happier environment for your pets?

Try out one of these DIY pet beds while you’re at it.

Plant Responsibly

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals warns that lilies, tulip bulbs, azalea, English ivy, chrysanthemums, poinsettias and other common house plants, if ingested by pets, can result in vomiting, diarrhea, depression of the central nervous system, abdominal pain and more. In extreme cases, the toxins can be fatal.

You can satisfy your kitties by planting cat grass. A mix of oat, rye, barley and wheat grasses, cat grass is a safe snack for cats to munch on. When planted in a big enough container, it can also serve as a natural bed.

Mix Food and Play

Dogs and cats alike can benefit from more exercise, especially when their owners are often away from home. But that’s not always true.

“You may think that since your pet has access to toys or a yard while you’re away, he may be thoroughly entertained without you,” said Dr. Amy Farcas, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist who writes for VetStreet.com. “However, most pets don’t engage in much play on their own.”

Food-dispensing toys keep pets entertained, active and mentally stimulated when you can’t be around. They also slow your pet’s food intake. Swap your pet’s food bowls for a feeding station that includes puzzles he must solve in order to get his food.

Baby-Proof Your Home

Pet owners must act as if there’s a baby in the house until their pets are trained to not chew on everything in sight. Try to hide wires and cords, which are serious hazards to any pet that might be roaming freely around the house.

How do you make sure your home is a healthy haven for your pet? Tell us in the comments below!

Keep your pet in good health with pet insurance.

Every day, AAA Northeast’s expert roadside technicians demonstrate a dedication to helping and serving people.

Some days, their efforts are downright heroic.

May 30 was one of those days. That’s when Norman Strom helped save an elderly couple from a fire in their Grafton, Mass., home.

Strom was passing their house on his way to a Roadside Assistance request when he noticed smoke billowing from the garage. Strom, a volunteer firefighter of 15 years, stopped to knock on the door of the house and notify anyone inside. The couple had no idea of their plight.

Strom helped them out of the house and to a safe place. Then, as the first flames emerged, he returned inside to rescue a cat and some of the couple’s personal items.

Not 10 minutes later, a propane tank in the garage exploded, setting the entire house ablaze.
“He saved our lives,” Norman Daigle told a Boston-based TV station. Daigle and his wife lived at the house with his daughter and his son-in-law.

Multiple media outlets reported the story as did the Your AAA website and the AAA Northeast Facebook page. AAA members commended Strom for his actions. Daigle’s daughter, Debra Rixham, was among them. She wrote:

“Thank you do [sic] much Norman. I do not have the words to express how grateful we are. This was my house and it was my parents that you saved along with my cat Kevin. We will meet in the near future so that we can thank you properly.”

Soft-spoken and humble, Strom said he was simply doing his job on that fateful Wednesday afternoon.

“I would do it again,” he said. “If everybody helped one another, we’d live in a better world.”
But Strom’s actions went far beyond his AAA duties, and club leaders felt he should be celebrated for it.

“At AAA Northeast, we help and serve as a way of life. Norman took that to the next level,” John Nardolillo, senior vice president of member services, said. “He was driving by that house for a reason. If he didn’t stop, if he didn’t go inside, I don’t believe those folks would have made it.”

Strom wasn’t interested in formal recognition, though. He asked that the club instead do something to help the victims. So, a donation in Strom’s name was made to a GoFundMe page set up for the family.

Strom’s wishes regarding a recognition event went unheeded. The club held a small celebration for him in early June.

Other AAA Heroes

Strom is not the only AAA hero.

On June 11, Nellie Hutchinson and Kitt Sewer-Small, employees at the AAA Wayne, N.J., office, helped prevent a possible suicide on a bridge in Paterson, N.J.

In December 2016, roadside technician Bobby McCollough pulled a man from a burning building in Providence, R.I.

Belle was sprawled on the bed, pawing through Four Legs & a Tail magazine, after a long day enjoying the pleasures of Vermont’s great outdoors. Her sister, Sadie, was already under the covers, snoring, when there was a knock at the door.

Belle and Sadie made it to the door before I could stand up and were ecstatic when it opened up-on two women in hotel uniforms, brandishing covered plates.

“Which of you gets the chicken potpie?” asked one server, removing a cover, releasing chicken aromas into the hotel room. “Who gets the steak and vegetables?” asked the other.

Belle was getting pushy. Sadie was circling. The servers remained calm, raising their voices over the excitement. “Where should we put these?” the chicken potpie woman asked.

“The floor?” I blurted. And there was a just a beat, a split second of OMG in each dog’s eyes as plates were placed before them, and they realized that every morsel was theirs.

Room service is just one of the amenities at the AAA Three Diamond Rated Essex Resort and Spa in Essex Junction, Vt., where canines are welcomed with bowls, Frisbees and snacks. And the Essex is just one of many places in Vermont where the welcome mat is rolled out for your dog – or cat. Here, pet-friendliness is not just a buzzword, but a heartfelt part of the hospitality. You’ll find that families with four-footed members are welcome at accommodations, attractions and, of course, in the great outdoors.

Stay at the Essex Resort and Spa.

Seasonal Splendor

Vermont is especially great in fall, when the state’s fall foliage turns it into leaf-peeping mecca.

Belle and I stayed at three different inns over the course of a six-day trip – my husband Paul came up with Sadie, our one-eyed Jack Russell mix, halfway through, meeting us at the Essex. All our accommodations were at well-known, well-heeled places that are prime bases for a fall getaway.

Our first stop was the historic Woodstock Inn and Resort, a AAA Four Diamond hotel, in central Vermont. Belle and I hadn’t really been on an adventure in a couple of years – our first was when I transported her some other rescues from West Virginia to a foster home in New Jersey. I wound up falling in love with the beagle-mix passenger with calm brown eyes, and a mouth that occasionally curled up in a smile. I knew she was a good traveler. I also knew she had a bit of separation anxiety.

So, I wasn’t entirely blindsided when, during an incredible dinner at the Red Rooster, the Woodstock Inn’s AAA Four Diamond restaurant, the maitre d’ apologized, but suggested that I have des-sert in my room. Another guest had reported that Belle was … well, maybe howling wasn’t the right word, but whining did not convey the decibel level, either. My dessert was delivered and eaten in front of an indignant Belle, who got no rewards for whine-howling.

We did spend quality time together late that night in the game room – a cozy retreat with a pool table, around which I imagined several cigar-chomping canines with cues in hand. Belle immediately became fascinated by a small can marked “rubbish.” Eventually, I coaxed her over to the fire, where we took a nap in a miasma of warmth, panting and floating dog fur.

Stay at the Woodstock Inn.

Canine Capers

The next day we visited Sugarbush Farm, 5 miles from Woodstock down a bumpy gravel road. The place is known for its cheeses and maple syrup, and dogs are allowed on the grounds – to visit the animals, walk the maple trail and visit the sugar house.

The tasting room is supposedly off-limits, but the staff, noting Belle’s excitement after gleaning her first whiff of cheese, ushered her in – with me in tow. She continued pulling as I sampled the cheddar cheese cubes near the entrance. Then I noted that the pulling had stopped.

I found Belle standing – yes, on her two back legs – with her front paws on a table heaped with crackers, syrups, cheeses and sausages. She stood watching as the samples disappeared into human mouths. I could almost see the “Drop it!” thought-balloon. She gave a longing look toward the venison container as I tugged her away, instead buying two boxes of handmade, bone-shaped dog biscuits with “Vermont” imprinted in them. I promised they would be a great treat when our trip was over.

Dogs don’t have a good grasp of time, however. After lunch the next day, we found our room festooned with bits of biscuit box; not a crumb was left.

Our second stop was the aforementioned Essex, which bills itself as Vermont’s Culinary Resort and Spa.

Waiting in our room was a collapsible bowl and rope throw toy for the dogs, and a plate with three Triscuity looking crackers for me. I was surprised at how tasteless they were, considering the Essex had such a foodie rep. Only at checkout did I learn they were dog treats.

The Essex is 10 minutes from Burlington and the notably pet-friendly Vermont Pub & Brewery. Though we had to sit outside, the server was extra-attentive to Belle and brought her a bowl of water before getting my order.

Pampered Pooches

Our final stop was at Topnotch in Stowe, where both Belle and Sadie had in-room massages. The masseuse was patient and gentle, though neither dog seemed to have an out-of-body experience. At least no blood was drawn, always the bottom line on a successful day with dogs.

Topnotch is known for its cuisine, its tennis program and its convivial (and pet-welcoming) bar. But best of all for dog families are the canine rooms – suites on the first floor with a fenced-in porch; just open the gate and off you and your dog can go – or, well, she can go. You get indoor plumbing.

Stay at the Topnotch Resort and Spa.

Speaking of outdoors. Stowe is full of options for dog walks and hikes. We all loved the Stowe Recreation Path, a trail you can pick up right from the village that leads through foliage-fringed meadows, along a creek, even past a classic white-spired church and red barn.

We got more Vermont biscuits to take home. And maple syrup. But the best souvenirs were our memories – not just of beautiful Vermont in the fall, but of our pups, having the time of their lives, with us in tow.

Where have you gone on vacation with your pets? Tell us in the comments section below and enter the AAA Pet Travel Photo Contest.

Read more about pets and pet adventures.

The Mediterranean sparkled, and the smell of cypress trees warmed by the summer sun filled the air as I cruised around the Greek island of Paros on my dual-sport motorcycle.

Find and book a hotel in Paros.

It was paradise. Until an oncoming tour bus entered my lane around a blind cliff-side turn. I avoided disaster by leaning deeper into the curve and not locking the brakes. Otherwise I would have slid right into the bus or right off the cliff, as Greek tarmac is notoriously slick for motorcycles.

Driving overseas on vacation or for work can be very liberating, but you must use common sense and have some basic preparation. Here’s some perspective I have gained that may help you on your way.

In Europe

Europe encompasses more than 40 countries, with 100-plus border crossings and 90 languages spoken. Having a firm grasp of your main destinations is essential and realizing beforehand that road signs will be written in foreign languages will help you arrive in confidence.

Tip: Studying a map and familiarizing yourself with the notion of driving on a city grid, circuitous harbor town or country landscape will help create peace of mind. Know what the names of your destinations look like when written in the native language. Studying self-made flash cards is my favorite way to prepare.

Down Under

Australia has modern amenities and conveniences, yet surprisingly underdeveloped infrastructure. While major cities are easy to navigate, don’t expect to see much outside of them on the two-lane roads that connect the dots.

Find and book a hotel in Sydney.

The lack of human footprints, however, lends itself to pristine natural environments. Brilliantly colored rainbow lorikeets and other exotic wildlife are in abundance, and you can see kangaroos freely crossing the road at any time of day. If you’re lucky, you may even get to take a nap with some, as I did. The Aussie vibe is relaxed and friendly and this island continent offers much to discover.

Tip: In countries like Australia and the UK, the basics are flipped. Our left hand passing lane is their slow lane. Manual transmission vehicles are the dominant type of drivetrain, so you’ll be steering from the right side of the car and shifting with your left hand.

South of the Border

Mexico is so close to the U.S., but recent headlines may leave travelers feeling trepidatious. Having enjoyed driving and even off-road racing there, I can attest to the overwhelming generosity offered by the locals if you lead with humility and curiosity. “Buenos dias,” “como estas” and “muchas gracias” are your passport to many unexpected opportunities while dining, shopping and beyond.

Find and book a hotel in Mexico City.

Tip: Know the uniform of federal and local police and how to drive to the nearest police station in case of emergency.

I hope this little guide helps you do like they do when in Rome, especially if that’s where you find yourself.

Have you driven abroad? What do you remember most about the experience?

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The saying goes that our pets are like our children, and we always want the best for our children, right?

Whether you want to introduce healthier snacks into your pet’s diet or give a reward for good behavior, preparing a homemade treat may do the trick.

Try one of these recipes at home and you’ll become pet owner of the year – in your pet’s eyes, at least.

Pupsicles

Need a tasty treat to cool down Rover on a hot August day? Ditch the doggie ice cream for a peanut butter and strawberry popsicle, courtesy of pastry chef Ashley Corrao of Twenty-Eight Atlantic, a AAA Four Diamond Rated restaurant in East Harwich, Mass. Dogs will enjoy licking the half-peanut butter, half-strawberry popsicle until it’s gone.

Ingredients

½ cup strawberries
1/3 cup peanut butter
1 1/2 tablespoons water

1. Blend strawberries and water in the mixer until smooth.
2. Fill ice cube tray with peanut butter, stopping halfway.
3. Fill remaining half of ice cube tray with strawberry mixture.
4. Freeze until solid.

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A Dog-gone Delightful Biscuit

Speaking of peanut butter, chef Adam Noe of the AAA Four Diamond Rated Topnotch Resort in Stowe, Vt., shared a recipe for peanut butter and pumpkin dog treats. These bone-shaped biscuits are made with nutrition-packed pumpkin puree and whole-wheat flour, so you can feel good about what you’re feeding Fido.

Ingredients

1 1/3 cups pumpkin puree
½ cup smooth peanut butter
4 large eggs
3 cups whole-wheat flour

1. Heat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Mix all wet ingredients until smooth.
3. Slowly add flour until dough is no longer sticky.
4. Roll out dough to ¼-inch thickness.
5. Cut out desired shapes (e.g. bones).
6. Place on greased sheet pan.
7. Bake 20-25 minutes until edges are golden.
8. Let cool completely.

Kitty Kisses

This recipe for kitty kisses from www.allrecipes.com uses only two ingredients: catnip and canned wet cat food. Blend together and form into “kisses” shapes to make a mouthwatering snack.

Ingredients

3-ounce can wet cat food
1 teaspoon catnip

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
3. Place the cat food and catnip in a blender. Cover and puree until smooth, or until the puree looks like frosting.
4. Spoon pureed cat food into a resealable plastic bag. Cut a small hole in the corner of the bag.
5. Squeeze ½-inch “kisses” shapes onto the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 15 minutes.
6. Let cool completely and store in an airtight container.

Ask a veterinarian before introducing new foods into your pet’s diet.

What homemade treats do you like to make for your pet? Tell us in the comments below!

Enjoy a post-snack backyard game with your four-legged friend.

My dog’s absolute favorite place to go in the summer and fall is the beach.

If you’re looking for a romp on the beach with your favorite furry pal, exploring the Northeast coastline is a must-do. Cape Cod, Long Island and Maine offer some great places to play.

Cape Cod

Parts of the Cape Cod National Seashore in Massachusetts allow dogs, provided they’re on a 6-foot-long leash (for specific regulations, visit click here). Some other area beaches are dog-friendly before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m. during the summer months. A long leash (not a retractable leash) is a great option to let your dog explore the water without wandering in too far. Cotton long leashes range in size from 10 to 100 feet and can be found at most pet stores.

Long Island

If you’re heading to Long Island, there are more pet-friendly beaches than even the locals know about. Many areas of the Fire Island National Seashore are dog-friendly; for details, click here. Each town has its own rules for dogs on the beach. Again, some are dog-friendly before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m., some are just for residents or require a permit. Or maybe you’ll be adventurous and find a beach along the way. In my opinion, finding a hidden gem – locally or while traveling – is the best part.

Maine

In Maine, Biddeford Pool and Hills beaches are dog-friendly before 9 a.m. and after 8 p.m., while Mackworth Island is great for hiking and exploring the beach with your pup. Other beaches in Maine have summer hours and many require dogs to be leashed. Most beaches will tell you if dogs are welcome on entrance-area signs. Some even have baggie dispensers, a telltale sign the beach is dog-friendly (but check the signs just in case).

Wherever you decide to go, you’re sure to have fun with your dog while exploring.

Nancy Hassel is the president of American Pet Professionals.

Enter the AAA Pet Travel Photo Contest.

Pets need a lot of things from their owners, like food and exercise. Food puzzles – feeding stations that require your pet to solve a puzzle in order to get food or a treat – provide a bit of both.

Pet stores often carry such enrichment toys, and some can be found online. But you can also make your own. Here are a few ideas for easy DIY food puzzles you can make with household items.

Tennis Ball Treat

This food puzzle from Instructables.com is perfect for bigger dogs. Using a knife, cut into a tennis ball along the seam, leaving a flap that can be tucked in to hide treats away. Place your dog’s favorite snack inside the ball. He’ll chew the ball until it releases the treats. To make it a bit easier, cut an X into the ball – Fido will only have to bat the ball around to release the treats. Just be sure that the ball isn’t small enough to be swallowed.

Suspended Sustenance

This idea from the Best Friends Animal Society requires only a small paper cup, wet cat food and a bit of string. Fill a small paper cup, such as a Dixie cup, with wet food. Then, make small hole in the cup in order to tie a string through it. Do this a few times, and you can hang the cups from varying heights around your house. Your dexterous kitty will enjoy the challenge.

Snack-in-a-Bottle

This food puzzle from the blog ProudDogMom.com is quick and simple. Take an empty plastic water bottle and remove the label and cap. Then cut a few small holes around the bottle with a pair of scissors. Place treats small enough to fit through the holes inside. Screw the cap back on, and let your pup play.

Always supervise your pet with a new food toy to make sure he doesn’t eat the non-ingestible parts.

Does your pet play with food puzzles? Which are his favorite? Tell us in the comments below! 

AAA members save up to 75 percent on prescriptions not covered by insurance with AAA Prescription Savings, including many pet medications! Learn how Fido is covered, too.

Maybe you’re in a car, far from the next rest stop. Perhaps you’re on a plane waiting for the drink cart to come around, or you’re marveling at the inflated price of a water bottle from your hotel mini bar. Maybe your exotic destination has the words “Don’t drink the water” ringing in your head.

Staying properly hydrated during travel isn’t always easy, but it is important. And dehydration often goes unnoticed. You might feel fatigued, headachy, cranky or like you’re coming down with something when, in reality, you may just need a glass of water.

“That’s always the first thing to try,” said Dr. Amaka Eneanya, a kidney specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital. “A lot of people don’t recognize that bad feeling that they have is really dehydration.”

Eneanya recommends bringing water on the plane and in the car, and advocates stocking up on bottled water when you reach your destination – especially if you’re traveling someplace where water quality is questionable.

“I travel quite a bit. I always buy water in areas where water may be unsafe to drink,” she said. “I have a few bottles in my hotel room. If I am out and about all day I will bring them with me.”

Nothing beats plain water when it comes to hydration.

“You’re made up of water, not coconut water, not some sports drink,” said Eneanya, who advises drinking caffeinated drinks (like coffee, tea and soda) and alcohol only in moderation.

If your travel schedule makes you forget to drink regularly, consider using a reminder app. Try the utilitarian “Daily Water,” or maybe “Plant Nanny,” which pairs reminders to drink your water with the care of a cute virtual plant. Both are free.

Eating fruits and vegetables – especially watermelon, strawberries, oranges, lettuce, cucumbers and tomatoes – will also help hydrate you. But if you have trouble with some foods – for example, spicy foods or dairy – avoid those, because diarrhea will make your body lose water.

Salty snacks, on the other hand, won’t.

“The human body is very tightly regulated in terms of salt and water balance,” Eneanya said. “So if you eat a lot of salt, you then become thirsty and drink more water.”

Carry water, drink plenty and you’re sure to feel better wherever you roam.

Keep cool during the sweltering months with our head-to-toe tips for warm-weather well-being. And if you’re really dedicated to staying in shape, check out our guide to living a healthier life.

Dinnertime at one of the U.S. National Parks evokes images of burgers and hot dogs sizzling on portable grills, families noshing from paper plates while gathered at a picnic table and kids roasting marshmallows over a campfire as day turns into night.

But what about a juicy hand-cut fillet mignon with roasted jalapeño chimichurri? Or a huckleberry elk burger with organic goat cheese? Or a five-course dinner in a 1930s-era log cabin?

You might have roughed it all day, but you can certainly find fine dining at several of the country’s national parks.

Death Valley National Park, Eastern California and Nevada

Nestled in the middle of the vast Death Valley National Park, the recently-renovated inn, The Oasis, touts itself as “in the middle of nowhere you’d rather be.” The inn’s culinary offerings transport guests from the desolate surroundings into a culinary paradise that features many flavors of the region, such as dates, cactus and various citrus fruits. Three meals a day are served either in the Southwestern-hued banquettes and tables of the dining room or in wicker dining sets on the veranda, where guests can enjoy the never-ending panorama of the Panamint Mountains and the surrounding saltpans.

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Another destination in a desert setting, Grand Canyon National Park contains numerous places to dine, but perhaps the most elegant is El Tovar in the historic El Tovar Hotel. The dining room’s atmosphere is one of history and quiet elegance, with native stone, pine décor and murals depicting scenes of the region’s Native American tribes.

The menu offers both traditional dishes such as French onion soup and Weiner schnitzel, as well as others that riff on the flavors of the Southwest, like polenta corncakes with prickly pear–pistachio butter and local beef and pork red chili tamales with adobo crema. Several celebrities have been known to visit this restaurant, including Teddy Roosevelt, Bill Clinton and Paul McCartney. Reservations for dinner are not required but are highly recommended.

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Acadia National Park, Maine

The crown jewel of the North Atlantic coast, Acadia National Park sprawls across Mount Desert Island and the Schoodic Peninsula, a network of trails, carriage roads and small towns oozing with New England charm. The largest town, Bar Harbor, offers several restaurants, from the high-end to the grab-and-go.

Located on the Park Loop Road in Seal Harbor, overlooking Jordon Pond and about a 20-minute drive from Thunder Hole, the only restaurant inside the park itself is the AAA Diamond Rated Jordan Pond House. Their all-day menu showcases the best of what Downeast Maine has to offer, from the obligatory boiled lobster and Maine-style lobster roll to desserts featuring locally grown blueberries.

What brings diners back to Jordan Pond House time and again are the light and airy, yet decadently rich, popovers served with butter and locally made strawberry jam. The restaurant has been serving these delights since the late 1890s when Thomas and Nellie McIntyre opened up shop. The recently renovated lawn, overlooking Jordan Pond, is a relaxing and scenic spot to carry on – or create – a summer tradition.

Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Jenny Lake Lodge, just north of its namesake lake, is a AAA Four Diamond resort that takes guests back to simpler times, or at least to the romantic vision of them.

The dining room, located in a log cabin built in the 1930s, serves a five-course prix fixe meal in a rustically elegant dining room. The rotating menu includes mouthwatering dishes such as elk tenderloin, rack of lamb and buffalo rib-eye with pickled blackberries and a juniper demi-glace. The chef and his team select the freshest ingredients to include in each night’s offerings from the Jackson Farmers Market and local purveyors. Reservations are highly recommended for breakfast and lunch and are required for dinner.

Glacier National Park, Montana

The more than one million acres of wilderness that make up Montana’s Glacier National Park might be several hours from a major city, but visitors to two of the park’s restaurants wouldn’t know it.

At the Ptarmigan Dining Room, housed in the Many Glacier Hotel on the shore of Swiftcurrent Lake, diners can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner against the backdrop of the park’s numerous peaks. The dinner menu features local ingredients, from the smoked trout to the bison chili to cheeses produced nearby. Even the drink menu is pure mountain West, with huckleberry margaritas, a Manhattan made with locally-distilled bourbon and bitters, and a wide selection of Montana-brewed craft beers and ciders.

About two hours southwest of the Many Glacier Hotel, the Lake McDonald Lodge hosts a fine restaurant of its own: Russell’s Fireside Dining. Like the Ptarmigan Dining Room, Russell’s Fireside Dining espouses the importance of sustainability and sourcing its ingredients as locally as possible. Diners enjoy meals in the rough-hewn log walls that reflect the lodge’s past as a hunting getaway.

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

The Pollock Dining Room is perched at the highest elevation (3,680 feet) on the renowned Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park. Part of the Skyland Resort, this popular destination is open seasonally from late March until late November.

With a strong focus on farm-to-fork ingredients, the Pollock offers many local specialties such as locally-sourced hamburgers, a charcuterie plate with meats and cheeses produced in the region and blackberry pancakes covered with fresh berries, blackberry-infused syrup and lavender vanilla whipped cream. And the signature blackberry ice cream pie, with a graham cracker crust, meringue and blackberry compote can’t be missed (no worries – visitors can burn this off on one of the park’s many hiking trails!) The wine list features a private label made for the resort, and a taproom next door pours several regional brews.

Tour America’s national parks with AAA Member Choice Vacations.

If you’re like me, you see a trip to the beach as the perfect opportunity to crack open that book you’ve been meaning to read. There’s nothing like getting lost in a good book while the sun’s rays tickle your skin and the rhythm of the waves crashing against the shore acts as your soundtrack. I can hear the summer beach reads calling out to me from the bookshelf…“Read me! Read me!”

Check out our beach safety tips before you hit the shore.

This year’s new releases cover all genres. So whether you lean toward romance, mystery or fantasy, you’ll likely find something intriguing to pack with your beach essentials.

Which will make it onto your summer beach reading list?

This year’s best summer beach reads

My top pick

“Captive Audience: On Love and Reality TV” by Lucas Mann

Our society often deems watching reality TV as shameful or, at least, less endearing than watching scripted television. If you’ve ever found yourself engrossed in “Cops” or “Keeping Up With the Kardashians,” you’ll appreciate this love letter to reality TV. But what makes this humorous memoir so brilliant is its double-duty as a love letter to the author’s wife. Watching reality TV is one of their favorite things to do together. Criticism of reality TV and the way we view it is weaved in with scenes of his marriage, turning “Captive Audience” into a reality show of its own.

Of all of the summer beach reads on this list, “Captive Audience” has the most heart. Not only is the depiction of love and relationships honest and real, but the unique, personal approach also allows me to view reality TV from a perspective I never would have considered before. Despite what the title and subject matter may imply, you don’t have to be a fan of reality TV to enjoy this book. You’ll likely finish this in one sitting, leaving the beach with a positive attitude and hankering for an episode of “Vanderpump Rules.”

For true crime fanatics

“I’ll Be Gone in the Dark: One Woman’s Obsessive Search for the Golden State Killer” by Michelle McNamara (introduction by Gillian Flynn and afterword by Patton Oswalt)

True crime journalist Michelle McNamara, founder of TrueCrimeDiary.com, was determined to solve the case of the elusive Golden State Killer. Who was he and what was his motive? “I’ll Be Gone in the Dark” illustrates this chilling case, as well as McNamara’s search for the answers. This posthumous memoir has been credited by authorities as revamping interest in the case. Authorities charged a man with the killings in April 2018, two years after McNamara’s sudden death and two months after this book’s publication.

For romantics

“My Lady’s Choosing: An Interactive Romance Novel” by Kitty Curan and Larissa Zageris

You’ve heard of a choose-your-own-adventure book, but have you heard of a choose-your-own romance? You begin as a “plucky but penniless” heroine in 18th century London. You’re looking for love. On which path will you find it? Will you choose Sir Benedict Granville, Capt. Angus McTaggart, Lord Garraway Craven or Lady Evangeline? This fun romp into the cliches of romance novels is sure to entertain avid readers of the genre – and maybe even make them blush.

For young adults

“Children of Blood and Bone” by Tomi Adeyemi

In this New York Times best-seller, magic is in danger of being erased for good. The main character, Zelie Adebola is the last living maji in Orisha, which is ruled by a king who ordered all maji to be killed, including Zelie’s mother. Zelie is the only person who can bring magic back. With the help of a rogue princess, she must evade the king’s son and save her people. It’s an epic story informed by West African mythology – something that doesn’t get represented often in young adult fiction.

For foodies

“The Best Cook in the World: Tales from My Momma’s Table” by Rick Bragg

Both cookbook and memoir, “The Best Cook in the World” tells the stories behind the food. Margaret Bragg, the author’s mother, uses recipes passed down to her from generation to generation, many predating the Civil War. She makes traditional Southern foods like cornbread, short ribs and chicken and dressing, and she knows all the secrets to making them perfectly. You can enjoy the stories Bragg tells of his mother, her cooking and the stories that framed her cooking, then try one of her recipes once you get home. Of the summer beach reads on this list, this might be the only one that makes you hungry – be sure to bring a snack!

For horror fiends

“The Outsider” by Stephen King

The king of literary horror is back at it with “The Outsider,” a story that begins as a murder mystery and then takes a turn for the supernatural. An 11-year-old boy is found dead in Flint City, Okla., and one of the town’s most popular residents, a Little League coach, is the prime suspect. As the investigation continues, the suspense builds and more horror unfolds. The Little League coach may not be what he seems. It’s a creepy tale, but a page-turner that will have you on the edge of your seat, eager for more.

For beach bums

“The Art of the Wasted Day” by Patricia Hampl

Instead of getting lost in your own thoughts while laying out in the sun, why not read about others getting lost in thought? Patricia Hampl follows the lives of people who have turned leisure and daydreaming into art forms throughout history. Take Michel de Montaigne, a French philosopher, who retreated to a chateau tower to think and write about whatever came to mind. Hampl recounts her own life and others’, finding that leisure is the key to being human.

For anti-beachers

“Calypso” by David Sedaris

Most summer beach reads are happy-go-lucky, but maybe you’re the opposite of a beach bum. Maybe the sand, crowds and seagulls put you in a dark mood. In that case, the dark humor found in David Sedaris’ collection of short stories and essays will be your most favorite beach companion. He tackles serious topics, from his sister’s death by suicide to his own mortality, with self-deprecating and observational humor. You may get an odd look or two when you start belly laughing, but you’ll be too engrossed in Sedaris’ voice to notice.

What did you think of these summer beach reads? What other books are on your summer beach reading list? Tell us in the comments below! 

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Oui oui, July 14^th is Bastille Day, so it’s time to grab some tricolore flags and French baguettes. In all seriousness, Bastille Day is a huge holiday in France and versions of Bastille Day are celebrated all around the world. Here’s how you can celebrate liberté, égalité and fraternité no matter what country you call home.

What is Bastille Day?

In France, Bastille Day is known as la Fête nationale (the national celebration) and as le 14 juillet (the 14^th of July). Bastille Day celebrates the anniversary of the Storming of the Bastille in 1789, during the French Revolution.

The Bastille was a fortress in Paris that held political prisoners, as well as ammunition and gunpowder. The prisoners held there had been critical of the king and the Bastille came to represent the injustice of an absolute monarchy.

Shortly after the storming of the Bastille, feudalism was abolished in France and the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen was proclaimed.

While Bastille Day is on the anniversary of the Storming of the Bastille, it also celebrates the whole of French culture and history. It is comparable to the Fourth of July, when we celebrate our independence and America in general.

How is Bastille Day celebrated in France?

Much like the Fourth of July, Bastille Day is most often celebrated with fireworks and parades.

The main Bastille Day Parade is in Paris, along the Champs Élysées. It’s a military parade featuring the French president, servicemen and women from the French Army and Navy, military cadets, the French Foreign Legion, the fire brigade and military aircraft soaring overhead. The parade starts at the Arc de Triomphe and ends at Place de la Concorde. In the evening, fireworks are set off from the Eiffel Tower.

Many fire stations in France hold Bastille Day celebrations known as firemen’s balls for the public.

You can also dance the night away at the Bal du 14 juillet, a wild dance party held in the place where the Bastille once stood. This party is usually held the night before Bastille Day.

Many French citizens celebrate Bastille Day with their friends and family. They have barbecues and picnics, like the Fourth of July traditions we have in America. They might even play a little pétanque, a French lawn game similar to bocce.

How is Bastille Day celebrated in the U.S.?

There are many different kinds of Bastille Day celebrations in America, ranging from the traditional to the incredibly odd.

In New York City, you can go to Bastille Day on 60^th Street, the largest Bastille Day celebration in New York. This fête populaire celebrates France with traditional cuisine, music, dancing, art and other live entertainment. The Bastille Day on 60^th Street celebration is over 20 years old, and stretches along 60^th Street from Fifth Avenue to Lexington Avenue. The celebration is presented by the French Institute Alliance Française. The FIAF also hosts a Champagne and jazz party, and a tasting of food and wine from southern France.

Vive la France!

Do you celebrate Bastille Day? Tell us how in the comments below.

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Cape Cod, the crescent-shaped peninsula on Massachusetts’ coastline (about 1.5 hours southeast of Boston), is composed of 15 towns, which all have their own charms, from maritime history to stunning beaches. Many people pick one town to visit, but that’s a shame, since there are so many things to do in Cape Cod. Historic lighthouses, stunning national parks, extensive bike trails, unusual museums and much more make the entire region worth exploring.

10 things to do in Cape Cod

1.

Swim, sunbathe and relax at one of the six stunning beaches along the Cape Cod National Seashore, stretching 40 miles between Chatham and Provincetown. There’s history on these beaches. Coast Guard Beach is where the pilgrims first landed in the New World (before Plymouth). And Marconi Beach – named for Guglielmo Marconi – is where the radio pioneer made the first transatlantic wireless communication all the away to England in 1903.

2.

Follow in the footsteps of the Kennedys on the 1.6-mile self-guided Legacy Trail in Hyannis, which features 10 sites significant to the powerful political family, starting at the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum. Other stops include where JFK gave his acceptance speech when he was elected president, and Hyannis Port, where the Kennedy’s kept their sailboats.

3.

Indoor and outdoor attractions await visitors at the Heritage Museums & Gardens in Sandwich, which has 100 acres of gardens, an adventure park and a museum with folk art. At the adventure park there are five trails which offer safe and challenging climbing courses and zip lines.

4.

Take a deep breath and inhale the fragrant scent of lavender at the Cape Cod Lavender Farm in Harwich. Lavender fields, formal gardens and wooded walking trails beckon visitors to explore. The lavender farm is typically in bloom late June-early July. Be sure to go for a walk in the Enchanted Garden, where you’ll find fairy houses and doorways, and even a miniature medieval castle.

5.

Bike the 22-mile paved Cape Cod Rail Trail, which passes through Dennis, Harwich, Brewster, Orleans, Eastham and Wellfleet. The trailhead is a half-mile from the Salt Pond Visitor Center in Eastham and provides many opportunities to stop at a beach. If you don’t have your own bike, bike rentals are also available at designated bike concessions throughout the trail.

6.

Take a peek into the world of quirky author and illustrator Edward Gorey at his home-turned-museum in Yarmouth Port, where exhibits showcase his many talents. A treasure of Cape Cod, Mass., the museum is open from mid-April through the end of December.

7.

Enjoy wines or liquors at Truro Vineyards and South Hollow Spirits, a joint family-owned business, where you can kick back on the lawn with a chardonnay or a gin cocktail. $10 tastings are available, which buys a souvenir glass and a sample of several wines or spirits.

8.

The Wellfleet Drive-In Theatre is a throwback to a simpler time, but no worries – the theater shows first-run double features on a 100-by-44-foot screen with a Dolby Digital sound system. Open from late May through mid-September, there is also a vintage mini golf course, ice cream, snack bar and playground on the property for a full night of good times with the family. On select days they also host the Wellfleet Flea Market.

9.

Stop for a scoop at Four Seas, an iconic and award-winning ice cream parlor in Centerville, which has been serving up delicious flavors, like fresh peach and chip chocolate, since 1934. In the mood for an authentic Cape Cod, Mass., lobster roll? The AAA Diamond Rated Arnold’s Lobster and Clam Bar in Eastham is always busy, and for good reason. The classic establishment is known for both hot and cold lobster rolls, made with fresh native lobster that is caught fresh daily. They also offer lobsters steamed or in a clam bake, served informally in the old Cape Cod tradition with paper plates and plastic utensils.

10.

Browse the many galleries, studios and shops in Provincetown, home to one of the oldest art colonies in the U.S. The sea, the dunes and the gorgeous light have inspired artists for decades. The Pilgrim Monument is a tower that commemorates the historic landing of the Mayflower in Provincetown in 1620; climb to the top for sweeping views of Cape Cod and the ocean.

What are some of your favorite things to do in Cape Cod? Tell us in the comments.

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

When you think about the best Asian countries to visit, you probably want one where you know you will feel safe.

Travelers who feel wary about an Asian vacation in Hong Kong must have seen too many movies where the international Chinese city is portrayed as a cesspool of Triad gangsters. The reality is that Hong Kong and Singapore—another southeast Asian metropolis about 1,600 miles southwest—are among the safest places to travel in the Far East, boasting very low crime rates. That’s a good thing because without having to worry, you can concentrate on really enjoying what two of the best Asian destinations have to offer.

Singapore

Once a British colony that later became a part of the Federation of Malaysia, Singapore is now its own city-state—an independent country that is comprised of just one city. There are actually 63 islands that comprise Singapore, but the main one is Pulau Ujong, which holds most of the urban landscape. However, “urban” here is far from gritty. Singaporeans call their home the “Garden City,” and it’s green, strikingly clean, and well-organized. Laws maintain order and discipline –there are strict rules against littering, public smoking, and even chewing gum. Collectively, it’s so harmless and crime-free that locals jokingly call it “Singabore.”

Jokes aside, boredom isn’t common for a visitor to this Southeast Asian destination. There’s plenty to see when you stroll through its streets—and its gardens. Gardens by the Bay is the most striking of them all, a solar-powered botanical garden with indoor waterfalls and iconic “supertrees”—futuristic-looking towers holding a variety of flora.

Walking around to experience Singapore’s diverse neighborhoods is easy, from the oldest Chinese temple, Thian Hock Keng, in Chinatown, to the colorful Sri Veeramakaliamman temple in Little India. High-end fashion shops line Orchard Road, while hip boutiques and cafés are found during a stroll through the Tiong Bahru neighborhood. At night it’s still safe to be out; the only creatures that come out are literal animals in Singapore’s popular Night Safari, which you observe from the safety of a tram car. And speaking of cars, getting around to all these Singapore sights is straightforward, especially with Uber and taxis. Drivers are so considerate and harmless that some locals put their young children in random taxis by themselves to go places, simply because they know they can trust the driver.

If you ever start getting hungry from all the touring, there’s more than enough places to eat. Singapore is famous for its hawker centers, urban food courts serving the vast gamut of Malaysian and Singaporean fare, from entry-level Hainanese chicken rice, to more daring dishes like pig organs soup—all prepared sanitarily with government cleanliness standards.

Hong Kong

Like Singapore, Hong Kong is a former British colony that served as a major international trading port for centuries. The United Kingdom’s 99-year-long lease on the Chinese territory expired in 1997, when it was returned back to the Chinese government. However, Hong Kong evolved so independently of its original parent country that when it was reunited, it was designated a special administrative region so that it could retain its international policies for its huge immigrant and ex-pat communities and global businesses. That being said, Americans don’t need a Chinese visa to visit Hong Kong for up to 90 days, which is one less thing to worry about—making it one of the best Asian destinations you can go on a whim, in one of the best Asian countries to visit.

Hong Kongers lead a generally worry-free life when getting around town, and a tourist should feel no different. There’s plenty to do in this Asian region, spread out over three regions: the New Territories, the northern mountainous terrain and outlying islands; the Kowloon Peninsula, the developed southern tip of the mainland; and Hong Kong Island, the urban city center, known for its towering skyscrapers, which most people are familiar with.

Above the urban center of Hong Kong Island is Victoria Peak, which offers great views and an opportunity to look down at the tall buildings. The safest and easiest way up is with the vintage Peak Tram, but if you have the 45 minutes and the urge to leisurely stretch out your legs, the peaceful and shaded Morning Trail gets you there along a paved pathway.

At the top, you can look around and get your bearing: at the bottom is Central, the business district that is more than just iconic office buildings like the IFC (International Finance Centre), Bank of China Tower, and the HSBC Main Building. There are plenty of world-class stores and restaurants between them, with indoor promenades linking them together for convenience and above all, air-conditioning to shield you from all the heat generated from urban life and the tropical climate. And speaking of heat, the Hong Kong Police are everywhere. They are the main reason why crime rates are so low—although you should always take the usual precautions as you would in any major city, not just on an Asian vacation.

Between Central and Victoria Peak are the Mid-Levels district, a less-congested residential area halfway up the hill that encompasses scenic parks and the Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens. To go up and down the hill in this part of town, you can safely ride the Central-Mid-Levels Escalator, a free attraction in its own right, dubbed the “world’s longest outdoor escalator system.”

The Star Ferry gets you across Victoria Harbour to the Kowloon side on the mainland, which has its own parks, temples, and historic sights like the Hong Kong Clock Tower, and more recently, the tribute statue of Bruce Lee. Above all, the must see in Kowloon is to look southward towards the island for the classic view of the Hong Kong skyline. And if you’ve had your fill of buildings, you can easily head to the island of Lantau by rail or bus, to see one of China’s largest religious statues, the 112-foot bronze Tian Tan Buddha, surrounded by mountains.

Getting around to all these places is fairly straightforward and safe. The MTR metro train system has maps and signage everywhere so you know where you’re going. When you’re on foot and you aren’t used to the British-influenced sides of the road, there’s almost always a reminder to “look left” or “look right” at each crosswalk. And if you ever get lost, you can always ask for directions; conveniently enough, in both Hong Kong and Singapore, English is ubiquitous—making them two places that are amongst the best Asian vacation destinations.

Have you already been to Hong Kong or Singapore? Have suggestions for other cities or the best Asian countries to visit? Share your experience with us below!

To learn about travel to Asia with AAA Vacations, click here. 

When you’re on vacation, your hotel room is your home base. It’s where you can slip away for a little downtime, store all your belongings and where every adventure-filled day starts and ends.

By organizing your hotel room – and all the clothes and toys in it – it’s possible to ensure each day of your trip gets off to a no-hassle start.

Battling Bathroom Clutter

Bathroom clutter, especially when there’s more than one person staying in your room, is the primary culprit for chaos.

The simplest way to declutter your hotel bathroom is to bring along a clear plastic over-the-door shoe rack. This isn’t for shoes – the clear pockets allow you to see everything you need at a glance and keep it all up and out of the way.

You can use your shoe rack to store toiletries, as well as sunscreen and bug spray. Nobody wants to sift through clothes and sheets trying to find sunscreen when there are only so many hours you’ll get to spend on the beach.

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You can also leave everything packed in the shoe rack when you move on to your next hotel if you’ll be staying in multiple cities during your vacation. For those who are uber-organized, feel free to make labels for each pocket; this way, if a pocket is empty, you know exactly what’s missing.

To Stay Packed or Not to Stay Packed, That Is the Question

You can be a live-out-of-a-suitcase sort of person or a move-right-in kind of person, either way – do it. Don’t get stuck halfway between.

A good rule of thumb is that if you’re going to be spending more than two nights at a place, go ahead and unpack. Move right in. Hotels typically offer a plethora of drawers, bedside tables and closet space. Take advantage of it.

There are coat hangers in the closet, so hang up everything you can before packing the rest away in drawer space.

Organize your drawers by people’s possessions – so your kids know where to put their belongings – or by activity. This will help you to hit the ground running each day and stay organized when everyone comes “home.”

Keep it Clean

Dirty clothes happen, and they happen fast while enjoying vacation. When you’re living out of a hotel room for several days you don’t always have easy access to a laundry room or laundry service.

So, pack a dirty laundry bag. If you have room in your luggage, you could bring a pop-up hamper. If not, any large bag will do the trick. Even a grocery bag will do in a pinch!

The idea is to keep your dirty laundry separate from your clean clothes. Not only does this stop you from having to conduct a sniff-test on shirts before going out, it also makes it easy to do the laundry when you get home.

Keys, Wallet, Phones and Power Cords

The essentials are too easy to misplace, especially in a hotel room. The easiest way to avoid losing anything is by committing to put everything in a designated place when you get back to your hotel room.

Though you can choose anywhere to keep your keys, wallet, phone and power cords, the drawer in the bedside table is without a doubt the easiest place to store everything.

As soon as you walk into the room, empty your pockets into the drawer; otherwise, you might end up having to dig through your laundry bag right when you’re trying to get out the door for your next adventure.

Fill the Fridge

There’s often snacks in the mini-fridge when you arrive at your hotel (for a price). However, if you want to make your hotel room the perfect hub for your vacation, you’ll want to stock up.

All it takes is a quick run to the local grocery store to pick up healthy snacks, such as bags of baby carrots, celery and fruit. They key is to fill your fridge with snacks that you can quickly pack but aren’t too messy.

Set up a Workspace

It’s painful to even talk about work when taking a vacation. The reality of the situation is that more and more people are needing to at least check in while they are out of the office.

Most hotels recognize this and will supply you with a desk area and a good chair. To take it to the next level, make sure you pack your office essentials and really carve out a place in your hotel room for work – this often means keeping the desk space free of clutter.

If there’s too much going on in your hotel room, most hotels also have dedicated business centers where you can get away for a bit.

Keep the Counter Clean

Counter space in a hotel room is a prime victim of clutter. And clutter is what turns your hotel room from a basecamp for adventures to a disaster zone.

By taking full advantage of drawer space – and perhaps using non-residue stickers to help you remember where everything is – you can quickly whisk items from the countertops into their proper place. If you’re traveling as a family, you can have the kids make sure everything is in its proper place.

The Perfect Vacation Hub

Fundamentally, each of these seven essential travel tips is designed to help you battle clutter. Vacations can become stressful due to thousands of tiny inconveniences in those moments when you deserve to be relaxing and enjoying yourself. By keeping your hotel room organized, you can minimize the number of stressors during your holiday and feel right at home.

Part of feeling right at home is spending less on your hotel room. 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.

Do you have a favorite tip for keeping your hotel room organized? Share it in the comment section below.

No autumn in the Northeast is complete without a trip to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of fall foliage lighting up the landscape.

And if forests of vibrant reds, yellows and oranges weren’t stunning enough, imagine the magic of those colorful forests reflected in sunlit water.

Instead of sticking to the same old highways, come explore the Northeast’s waterways and take your leaf-peeping experience to a whole new level.

Small Ship Cruising in the USA

Blount Small Ship Adventures takes curious travelers on unique cruises throughout the U.S., Canada and Central America. Built different by design, they go where the big ships cannot. Avoid long lines and crowded ports. With fewer than 84 passengers, guests enjoy a casual onboard experience, delicious chef-prepared meals and unique destinations.

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The Hudson River

Trade in the rumble of the highway for the majesty and tranquility of the Hudson River as you survey autumn’s brilliant hues from a vantage point on the water. The Hudson flows through the heartland of the Northeast, winding its way through historic towns and breathtaking countryside.

Journey up the Hudson with Blount Small Ship Adventures on their 9-day fall foliage cruise that explores both the Hudson River and the scenic coastal waterways of New England in 2019. Blount’s specially engineered boats can navigate waterways as shallow as 7 feet, allowing you to access unique ports and steer clear of crowded tourist spots. Experience a taste of American history and legend as you stroll the streets of colonial towns. This fall foliage cruise takes you to several New York destinations such as Troy and Catskill, as well as New England ports including Mystic, Conn., and Bristol and Newport, R.I.

And if a fall foliage cruise sounds incredible, be sure to book your spot on Blount’s 14-day foliage cruise from New York to Montreal and experience the Erie Canal on the only overnight cruise line able to transit this historic waterway – now discounted at 40% through August 27th.

The Original Vacation is Calling

Fall is alive with color in the Lake George Area. It brings lively celebrations of the harvest, the sky-high magic of the Adirondack Balloon Festival, peaceful morning boat rides among the foliage on untouched Lake George, pint-after-pint of local craft beers, and more. Plan your Lake George Area vacation today.

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Lake George, New York 

In New York’s Adirondack Mountains lies majestic Lake George, 44 square miles of crystal clear water with a rich history as the favorite vacation destination for the Rockefellers and Vanderbilts of the Gilded Age.

Venture out on the water and view the kaleidoscope of autumn colors from a whole new perspective. The Lake George Steamboat Company offers several daily cruises to choose from, on three different boats. Enjoy live music on The Minni-Ha-Ha, champagne brunch on the Lac du Saint Sacrement or pick a themed dinner cruise on The Mohican (tour boat since 1908).

Grab your camera and take a hike or drive up to the summit of iconic Prospect Mountain for spectacular, panoramic views. Then head down to The Sagamore Resort for some recreation, relaxation and fine dining. Built on a private island, this historic hotel and resort features a golf course, tennis courts, luxury spa and sweeping views of the surrounding lake and forested hills.

Ocean Drive – Newport, Rhode Island 

Bordered by historic mansions on one side and the rugged Atlantic on the other, Rhode Island’s famed Ocean Drive in the city of Newport is 10 miles of dramatic waterfront and gorgeous architecture peeping out among the colorful leaves.

This scenic drive has plenty of activities and opportunities to explore along the way. Ten ornate mansions are open for tours, including The Breakers (a “70 room Italian Renaissance-style palazzo”) and Marble House, both owned by notable Vanderbilts. You can also tour the beautiful Touro Synagogue which was built in 1763 and is the oldest synagogue in the U.S.

Relax in the outdoors at Brenton Point State Park where you can picnic, camp, hike, fish and even fly a kite. Then hike the 3.5-mile Cliff Walk along Newport’s rocky shoreline and enjoy fantastic views of crashing ocean waves and lovely mansions – just watch your step, some cliffs have a drop of over 70 feet.

North Conway, New Hampshire 

This charming resort town in the White Mountains of New Hampshire is home to forested mountainsides and the clear waters of the Saco River. Sit back, relax and watch the leaves turn as you float down the river.

Whether you prefer a kayak, tube or canoe, the experienced staff at Saco Bound Outdoors will help you gear up and guide you on your river adventure so all you have to do is enjoy the sights.

When you’re ready to stretch your legs take a hike over to Diana’s Baths Waterfalls which features 75-foot cascading waterfalls and refreshing pools of water that are wonderful to splash in on a warm day. Check out the Black Cap Hiking Trail, an easy trek great for kids and non-hikers with a summit that yields expansive views of the surrounding mountains.

Or sit back and watch the lovely scenery go by as you take a train ride on the Conway Scenic Railroad. By day, enjoy the panoramic vistas, and on certain special October nights board the train for an evening of Murder Mystery Dinner Theater.

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

Just a short drive from NYC and Boston, the Berkshire Mountains are famous for their spectacular autumn colors and are home to shining lakes and clear rivers.

Try your hand at boating on the peaceful Onota Lake in Pittsfield (Onota Boat Livery will get you set up with everything you need). For glimpses of local wildlife including great blue heron, red-tailed hawks, beavers, muskrats and painted turtles, take a guided canoe tour with Berkshire Scenic Treks and Canoe Tours. And if you’re thirsting for adventure, Crab Apple Whitewater leads action-packed rafting trips on the Deerfield River in Charlemont.

Unleash your inner foodie at one of the Berkshire’s incredible farmers’ markets, then get in touch with the region’s rich artistic history with a visit to the Norman Rockwell Museum and Arrowhead, the historic home where Herman Melville wrote Moby Dick.

Go for an afternoon drive and cruise among the vivid crimson and gold leaves, past verdant pastures and family farms. For views of gorgeous Lake Mahkeenac take a drive on Route 183 which runs between Lenox and Stockbridge. Or get an elevated view of the autumn landscape via Route 8, which connects North Adams to Massachusetts’ highest peak, Mount Greylock, at 3,491 feet.

What’s your favorite Northeast location for waterfront foliage views? Tell us in the comments.