Tesla Motors CEO Elon Musk said the second-generation Tesla Roadster supercar was designed to give a “hardcore smack-down” to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. Musk said the $200,000-plus Roadster is the fastest production car ever made. The electric automaker claims it can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 1.9 seconds, leaving the Dodge Challenger SRT Demon’s current record of 2.3 seconds in its dust. The new Roadster is the first Tesla to mature into a second generation. Expected in 2020, Musk said it will have a 620-mile electric range and a 250-mph top speed.

Still looking to bounce back from the emissions scandal that cost the company billions, Volkswagen has kicked off a new electrification campaign with a $40 billion investment over the next five years. Most of the money will be used to develop electrified and hybrid variants of the vehicles in its lineup, the company said. The rest would be used to build self-driving car technologies. The German automaker has promised 80 electric vehicles by 2025 and hybrid or electric versions of all 300 of its vehicles by 2030.

Volvo Cars has agreed to sell Uber thousands of self-driving sport-utility vehicles that will become the ride-sharing company’s first fleet of robo-taxis. The automaker has agreed to a nonexclusive three-year deal to supply Uber with 24,000 XC90s from 2019 to 2021. The crossovers will be loaded with self-driving technologies, safety features and redundant systems that kick in if a mechanism fails.

Are you more interested in electric cars than you were five years ago? Share your thoughts on this subject in the comments section.

Four-wheel drive. All-wheel drive. What does it all mean? Is either one worth the money?

Here’s a brief explanation of what each type of drivetrain can do with a good set of tires.

Front-Wheel Drive

Most sedans have front-wheel drive because it’s cheaper to design and build. In this system, engine power is transferred to the front wheels, which then steer and propel. This usually results in better traction than rear-wheel vehicles – especially in rain and snow – but worse handling. Front-wheel drive is lighter, too, which improves fuel economy.

Rear-Wheel Drive

Traditionalists will tell you real sports cars are rear-wheel drive, said AAA’s Car Doctor John Paul. The rear wheels push these vehicles. This helps with acceleration and cornering capabilities. The downside is rear-wheel drive adds cost, plus the driveshaft often requires a hump in the cabin floor of passenger cars.

All-Wheel Drive

Like four-wheel drive, all-wheel drive sends power to both front and rear wheels. The difference is the axles in all-wheel-drive systems can spin at different speeds. There are full-time all-wheel systems and automatic systems that conserve fuel by kicking in when extra traction is needed. The benefits include faster acceleration and better grip in the snow (but not invincibility!).

Four-Wheel Drive

Mainly found in pickups and off-road vehicles, four-wheel drive splits power evenly between the wheels, which helps in mud and snow and with towing. Most four-wheel drives can be turned off to save fuel, and have a low setting for even more power. Like all-wheel drive, these drivetrains add weight and cost to the car. Keep in mind automakers sometimes abuse the terms all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive for marketing purposes, Paul said, so do your research before you buy.

Are you shopping for a vehicle? Click here to learn how you can save thousands on a new vehicle or get used car discounts, too. 

Feel like your home could use a makeover? Color is the perfect way to add more character to any space. Ever better, a crisp paint job can give your home a fresh feel without breaking the bank or taking up too much time. So before you go gutting the place or buying new furniture, check out our list of fun DIY paint decorating ideas.

Sponge it up

For those of you who love the colors already on your walls, sponge painting is a great way to spice up the interior without getting rid of your already awesome color scheme. Use a paint roller and lay down your favorite color as the base. Then, use a natural sea sponge for the accent color. To keep the room bright and airy, be sure to use the lighter color on top.

The textured, cloud-like finish is both bold and beautiful. You can sponge paint the entire room, or pick a single wall and make it the focal point. Check out these DIY Tips for a Beautifully Sponge Painted Room or visit Home Depot’s guide to sponge painting.

Feeling inspired? Take your sponge paint decorating ideas to the next level and try an ombre finish.

Get interactive

While it’s not the brightest, chalkboard paint is a lot of fun for everyone – and useful too! Paint some in your child’s bedroom, add a small bucket of colored chalk, and watch his or her imagination take shape across the walls. Or use chalkboard paint in rooms like the kitchen, mudroom and office to have a space for memos and reminders.

You can coat an entire wall or use masking tape to section off small squares. Either way, chalkboard paint takes writing on the walls to a whole new level. This wall painting project is simple to do and the results are so rewarding.

Click here for steps and chalkboard DIY paint decorating ideas and inspiration.

It’s mathematical

If you have a knack for precision and a bit of patience, adding unique shapes and angles to your walls might be easier than you think. To create a geometric feature wall, you’ll need some FrogTape or masking tape, a ruler, a paintbrush, a paint roller and some creativity!

From triangles to hexagons, which will create an awesome honeycomb look, your geometric wall can feature any shapes you want, any size you want them. Just pick a color scheme. And before putting a brush to your walls, be sure to sketch a layout on paper. The finished product is bold, colorful and a great focal point for any room.

For geometric feature wall basics, check out B&Q’s instructional video. But don’t be afraid to try out more intricate designs! DIY paint decorating ideas can be a little daunting, but this one is well worth the effort.

 Simple lines

Less involved than the geometric feature wall, stripes are an easier paint decorating idea that will bring a pop of color into your space. But you’ll still want a ruler, precision and patience to set up the lines for this DIY wall painting project.

First, think about whether you want the stripes to be horizontal or vertical. Then, use a ruler to set up the width of each stripe. Be sure to leave an even amount of space in between. Use FrogTape or masking tape to mark off your sections. Go for a classic black and white look, or use bright colors, like sky blue and mint green – whatever matches your home and style best! Multiple stripes of varying sizes are an engaging style. And a tri-color wall with three large blocks can be an interesting center point as well. Either way, this design can help highlight the tones in any room.

Check out Sherwin-William’s instructional video for tips on painting stripes. Feeling inspired? Take stripes to the next level and zig-zag your way to a chevron pattern.

Freestyle

There’s nothing like seeing an original piece of art in your home. For those of you lucky enough to be artistic, buy some paint, various paintbrush sizes, and let the blank wall be your canvas. Of course, you’ll still want to do the basics, like fill in cracks and put down primer. But for this paint decorating idea, the rest is up to you! Create a one-of-kind, freestyle pattern. Paint the mountains, the forest or a sunset. Get inspired by a whim or sketch beforehand. The finished mural will bring a unique sense of you to the home.

From furniture and decorations, to wall art and color schemes, a home’s interior says a lot about the owner. What do your home paint decorating ideas say about you?

Let us know about your DIY paint decorating ideas and projects in the comments below!

Millennials are infamously known as the instant gratification generation. Could that be why Polaroid-type cameras have made a resurgence?

In November 2012, Fujifilm released the Fujifilm Instax Mini 8, a funky, chunky camera with a vintage selling point: It prints photos instantly, much like a classic Polaroid camera. And, just as instantly, it was on every teenager’s Christmas list.

The camera’s cute shape and fun pastel colors – a far cry from the sleek, minimalistic design of digital cameras – made it mainly an aesthetic choice. But while its hipster vibe made it popular with young people, it was the instant-print feature that stuck.

In 2016, Polaroid released the Polaroid Snap Touch Instant Digital Camera, a hybrid of vintage Polaroid and modern digital camera. It instantly prints photos using ZINK, or Zero Ink, technology. Its other features include an LCD touchscreen, Bluetooth capability and a “selfie mirror,” whatever that is.

HP used the same ZINK technology to create the HP Sprocket, a printer that connects to your smartphone through Bluetooth to print photos from your camera roll or social media accounts. The printer doesn’t require an ink cartridge – only special ZINK paper you can find wherever HP Sprockets are sold.

The printer is so small, it fits in the palm of your hand. It prints 2-by-3 snapshots with a sticky back, so there are a number of ways you can use them. You can place them in a scrapbook or journal, hang them with clothespins from a string of lights or pass them out to friends to share your favorite memories.

Coming soon from HP is a Sprocket Plus, which will print bigger photos, and a Sprocket 2-in-1, which doubles as a camera and printer much like the Polaroid Snap Touch.

What do these products have in common?

They allow you to remember a time when cameras could instantly print photos without extra time or hassle; a time when you could literally hold on to your memories. They’ve just updated the technology (and design) for the modern social scene.

Or, you could always buy a refurbished vintage Polaroid from Urban Outfitters for about the same price as an HP Sprocket. Maybe that will next be on your teenager’s wish list.

Find more examples of old trends in the new age here.

Picture this: You’re at the gym, getting some cardio done on a treadmill, when you happen to glance over at someone pumping iron ahead of you. He’s in great shape and shows no signs of stopping, which makes sense once you notice how focused he is. Then, you see his headphones. It makes you wonder – what kind of music is he playing?

Whether you’re a member of your local gym or like to work out at home, chances are good that you listen to music while you exercise. Most people use it as a motivator, and for good reason – music has been scientifically proven to positively influence your performance. If you like to put on music while you’re cleaning the house, you’ll understand why.

With all of the various genres and artists out there, there must be some secret to choosing the best workout music. Should we match music the right beats-per-minute to our activity? Is there a genre that never fails to get the body moving?

According to Kellie Roman, a National Academy of Sports Medicine master instructor, trainer and educator, it’s much simpler than that.

“The bottom line is, choose the music that makes you happy,” she said.

Roman taught fitness classes in New York City for over 20 years that included kickboxing, step aerobics and high-intensity interval training. For large classes or sessions with small groups, her go-to is pop music. Think Top 40, mainstream – anything from Taylor Swift to Jay Z.

But now that Roman works as a personal trainer, the music she plays during a session is tailored to the client’s taste.
The reason?

“Music that makes us happy is often tied to good memories,” Roman said. “Listening to it changes us from the inside out.”

We all have a genre or artist that makes us feel good, whether it be classic rock or heavy metal, old-school Eminem or new-school Florida Georgia Line. If we like what we’re listening to, our desire to move increases. At home, that might translate to dancing, but in a workout session, that translates to working harder. Plus, the distraction from fatigue helps.

So if you’re looking to make a workout playlist, start with the music that makes you feel good and go from there. If you still need some help picking music, Roman says that anything with a strong bass line always gets her clients moving.

And, if all else fails, try Michael Jackson or Justin Timberlake.

Any new exercise routine should be approached with caution. Consider your physical limitations and always consult your doctors.

Ready to get started on that New Year’s resolution to be fit? Find more advice on exercise and well-being here.

Maybe a West African restaurant just opened up nearby, and you’re interested but hesitant to stop in. Maybe your new Ghanaian friend has been trying to get you to sample her traditional cuisine. Or maybe you’re just looking for some recipes to help you re-create Mom’s best dishes at home.

Whether you’re looking to expand your palate or revisit a family favorite, this collection of recipes from the continent of Africa is sure to make your mouth water. (Just a note: Some ingredients may seem unfamiliar to Western cooks, but you can find what you need at a well-stocked African store or online.)

A Snack Fala-ful of Flavor

Tamiya, or Sudanese falafel, is made out of ground chickpeas and flavored with savory herbs like dill and chili powder. This recipe from recipe website www.tasteofsouthsudan.com calls for ground chickpeas, onions, garlic, dill and chili powder, which you form into 2-inch patties and deep fry on medium heat. The result is a yummy appetizer or healthy snack.

Spice Up Your Life

Doro wat, the national dish of Ethiopia, isn’t for everyone – the spicy chicken stew is traditionally made with berbere, a hot spice blend that this recipe from cooking website www.daringgourmet.com uses to make a flavorful sauce. Combine the berbere with minced onion, garlic and ginger, add diced chicken to the sauce and then add chicken stock, white wine and honey. Boil eggs to pop into the stew and – to make the experience more authentic – eat it with injera, an Ethiopian flatbread.

It’s No Rice-A-Roni

Jollof rice is a staple of West African cuisine. This recipe for the Ghanaian style of making jollof rice from the website www.africanfoodmap.com calls for long grain rice, your choice of beef, chicken or lamb, and a sauce made of onions, garlic, chili peppers and tomatoes. Fry the meat until it’s browned, then add the meat and your choice of vegetable to the rice to finish.

Put a Pudding on Your List

End your delicious African meal with a South African treat courtesy of www.africanbites.com: malva pudding. Though it is said to be of Dutch origin, South Africans have made it their own using apricot jam. After putting together your typical cake or pudding mixture – eggs, flour, milk and the like – you bake and then cover it in a butter-drenched sauce. Then, satisfy your sweet tooth by serving hot with custard or ice cream.

Find more recipes in our Food for All department.

What’s your New Year’s resolution? Is it to learn how to get the most out of your tax returns?

Okay, perhaps that’s not your New Year’s resolution. But the 2018 tax season is upon us, and while the deadline to file isn’t until April, it’s never too early to start thinking about how you can save money.

Still not convinced?

According to TurboTax, there are a number of tax deductions that many people don’t know exist or overlook in their haste to file on time. Here are three to keep in mind and help motivate you this tax season.

Tuition

Most people know that tuition is deductible for full-time students, but did you know that you could be eligible even if you aren’t working toward a degree? A lifetime learning credit of 20 percent of up to $10,000 of tuition and fees might be available to you.

Mileage

Whether you’re self-employed or an employee, you can deduct your mileage if you use your vehicle for business purposes. Mileage used when driving between more than one job is also deductible.

Bad Debts

It’s a rough day when you loan your friend $10,000 and he or she disappears without a trace. Not all is lost; up to $3,000 of that is deductible as a short-term capital loss in the year the debt becomes uncollectible.

AAA members can save on TurboTax federal products. Learn more here.

The Tesla Model X and Cadillac Escalade have tied as the most unreliable cars on the market, according to a new study by Consumer Reports. The 2017 reliability report found that Model X owners experienced a large number of issues with body paint, hardware and climate control systems. Escalade owners noted issues with power equipment, the transmission and climate controls. The report included complaints from owners of more than 640,000 vehicles. The Volvo XC90, Ford Focus and Ford Fiesta rounded out the top five.

Many drivers feel a special connection to their cars, but Toyota wants to take it to the next level. The automaker recently unveiled a concept car at the Tokyo Auto Show that uses cameras and artificial intelligence to detect when drivers are tired or stressed. Toyota executives said the technology could adjust the seats to calm an anxious driver or spray a scent to revitalize tired drivers, among other capabilities. The company said the technology could eventually learn what the driver likes and start conversations with them during drives.

Volvo’s new XC40 is coming out of the gates in style. The Swedish automaker’s first compact sport-utility vehicle will feature a black honeycomb grille and Volvo’s sleek “Thor’s Hammer” running lights. It will be available in dozens of exterior and interior color combinations (lava orange carpets, anyone?), and the cabin will feature wireless cellphone charging and unique storage compartments under the seats and doors, where speakers are traditionally located. The T5 Momentum all-wheel-drive trim starts at $35,200.

You need your car stuck in the snow like you need to listen to “Macarena” over and over again for three straight days.

But if you do find your vehicle caught in a snowy trap, don’t freak out. Here’s what to do.

Don’t Get Mad – Get Digging

It’s frustrating to find your car buried in snow, but anger won’t help you get out any faster. If you have a shovel, dig out the drive wheels first. These are the front wheels in front-wheel-drive cars and the rear wheels in rear-wheel, all-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive vehicles. Make sure the tailpipe is not stuffed with snow. A clogged exhaust can fill a vehicle cabin with deadly carbon monoxide.

Spin Stops Here

Pedal to the metal is not the right philosophy. Flooring the accelerator could dig the vehicle deeper into the snow and cause unnecessary wear and tear on important parts. Instead, slowly press the accelerator and ease up if the wheels start to spin. Turn off traction control and turn on the low-gear snow mode if your car has it.

Let’s Rock, Carefully

You could also try the rocking technique. Put the car in drive and then inch up as far as the car will go. When the car stops, brake and then put it in reverse. Gently accelerate, and when it stops again switch back to drive. Repeat this rocking process until the car crushes enough snow for you to power through it. But be careful. While this method works, you could damage your transmission if you shift before you come to a complete stop, said AAA’s Car Doctor John Paul.

“Make sure the rpm come all the way down before you switch gears,” he added.

Get Creative

If you’re still stuck, you could try to get traction by placing your floor mats under the drive wheels. But this will likely ruin the mats. Instead, pour sand or kitty litter under the tires to get traction. Just be safe, even if you’re in a hurry, Paul said. Never stand in front or behind a running vehicle, either, he added.

It’s prom night, and you’re wrapped in taffeta, hearing the squeaking soles of dancing shoes all across the room. The band is live, and they’re playing your favorite song. You haven’t heard that one in years. You and your date dance the night away together. People all around are wearing bobby socks and poodle skirts. But this isn’t your old high school gymnasium; this is the Rockin’ the Caribbean® cruise.

The Rockin’ the Caribbean® cruise and Rocky’s Rockin’ Cruises are the brainchild of Gerry “Rocky” Seader, the founder of rock ‘n’ roll band Rocky and the Rollers. Rocky has been enmeshed in the rock ‘n’ roll world since the age of 18, when he started playing the drums in the band Danny & the Juniors (“Rock ‘N’ Roll is Here to Stay”).

In 1981, Danny & the Juniors landed a gig playing a series of supposed rock ‘n’ roll cruises. “In my opinion,” Rocky says, chuckling slightly, “They were not.” Out of seven cruise days, the band was only slated to play two shows. The cruise guests were dissatisfied; they thought there would be more music. But Rocky had an idea. “I talked to the cruise director who said it was up to the promoter, but I came up with the idea for us to play a sock hop dance.” The impromptu dance was a huge hit.

A few years later, Rocky formed his own band: Rocky and the Rollers. With bandmates Al Layton, Bruce Nardi, Jimmy Miller, Al Morse, Bruce Wallace, Rick Abbott and Steve Falkner, Rocky hoped to keep the spirit of 50’s, 60’s and 70’s rock ‘n’ roll music alive and thriving. Rocky was also able to bring his dream cruise to life.

On Rocky’s Rockin’ Cruises, guests are able to get to know the performers because they spend the whole week with them on the ship, no matter how famous they are. “I’m picky about the acts I bring on the ship,” Rocky says, “Some other acts will just want to perform and get out of there, but that’s not what we’re about.”

The schedule is packed with performances by artists from the 1950’s, 1960’s and 1970’s. On the upcoming Rockin’ the Caribbean® cruise, you can meet artists such as Jon “Bowzer” Bauman (“Born to Hand Jive”), Gary Lewis and The Playboys (“This Diamond Ring”), The Flamingoes (“Only Have Eyes For You”), Freddy Cannon (“Palisades Park”), The Dixie Cups (“Going to the Chapel”), Jay Siegel & The Tokens (“The Lion Sleeps Tonight”) and many, many more. Of course, Rocky and the Rollers perform throughout the cruise themselves, bolstering the crowd and encouraging everybody to get up and dance.

“The best part is just watching people have fun,” Rocky says, “Taking people back forty, fifty, maybe sixty years … It’s the beginning of rock ‘n’ roll, good-time rock ‘n’ roll. It’s not offensive, and it’s fun to dance to.”

There are dance parties almost every night on Rocky’s Rockin’ Cruises. The Let’s Get Ready to Rock Dance Party welcomes guests to the ship and encourages them to get to know each other while dancing to amazing live music. DJ Al Brady’s High School Reunion dance recalls hits from cruisers’ school days. At the Sock Hop Dance, cruisers are encouraged to come in costume as they might have dressed in the 50’s and 60’s. You’ll see bobby socks, saddle shoes, lettermen’s jackets and cat-eye glasses. Cruisers dress more formally for Prom Night, in suits and party dresses. They even crown a prom king and queen! The final dance is the Good Night SweetHeart Dance, in which cruisers can look back fondly on all the fun they’ve had throughout the week and get a few more surprises from the acts on stage.

Other than the dances, you can attend live performances at one of the cruise’s private concerts, like the 60’s Pop Icon Show, the Hitmakers Show, Doo Wop ‘N’ Rock and Bowzer’s Rock ‘N’ Roll Party. Bowzer’s Rock ‘N’ Roll Party is hosted by Jon “Bowzer” Bauman, former lead singer of Sha Na Na. Rocky and the Rollers have served as the touring band for Bowzer’s Rock ‘N’ Roll Party for many years.

Bowzer himself is a huge fan of the cruise, calling it “the most fun youse will ever have on a cruise ship!”

Although all of the artists will be milling around the cruise for the whole week, you can also attend their meet and greet, where you can get some autographs. If you still have questions that need to be answered, head on over to one of the Q & A sessions, where all of the performers answer questions from the crowd.

Included with your ticket price are the services of a AAA Tour Manager, which will come in handy when you want to explore one of the cruise’s ports of call. There are three cruises coming up: Eastern Caribbean, Western Caribbean and Alaska.

On the Western Caribbean cruise, Rockin’ the Caribbean® Vol. 17, you can lounge at Royal Caribbean’s private beach resort in Labadee, Haiti, float on bamboo gondolas in Falmouth, Jamaica and get up close and personal with Mayan history in Cozumel, Mexico. You can visit the same Labadee beach resort on the Eastern Caribbean cruise, Rockin’ the Caribbean® Vol. 18, as well as a few other exciting ports of call. On both Caribbean cruises, you can take advantage of the ship’s many activities, such as rock climbing, zip lining, and surfing. Melt away your stress with a massage or catch some rays while lounging by the pool.

On the Alaskan cruise, Rockin’ the Glaciers® Vol. 2, you can experience the beauty of the Alaska Inside Passage, framed by glaciers, fjords and soaring mountains. Explore the city of Juneau, soar over rivers of ice in Skagway and experience the old world charm of Victoria, British Columbia. On the ship you can take advantage of a luxurious spa with treatments such as heated stone massages. You can also ice skate, rock climb and even go mini golfing on deck.

Whether you’re cruising the glaciers or the Caribbean, there are always exciting activities waiting at every stop along the way.

“It’s a great cruise experience,” Rocky says, “It’s good for veteran cruisers and good for people who haven’t cruised before. It’s a lot of fun.”

The cruise creates an atmosphere of celebration, enveloping the performers and cruisers alike in the wild and carefree music of the era. It’s clear that on Rocky’s Rockin’ Cruises, rock ‘n’ roll is here to stay.

To book your own vacation with Rocky’s Rockin’ Cruises, head to the Rockin’ the Caribbean West, Rockin’ the Caribbean East or Rockin’ the Glaciers pages on AAA.com.

If Walt Disney had set his sights on creating an ideal beach vacation playground instead of a theme park, it might have resembled something like Punta Cana, the Dominican Republic’s go-to beach destination.

It’s situated on the east coast of the island, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Caribbean Sea. The area, which escaped severe damage from recent hurricanes, offers 21 miles of gorgeous white-sand beaches, crystal-clear water, nearly a dozen golf courses and water sports galore. It has numerous resorts and hotels, plenty of restaurants and bars, and an incredibly efficient private airport that aims to get guests to their hotels – and the beach – as quickly as possible.

All-inclusive hotels reign supreme here, with each one trying to outdo the next. The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana is a popular one. There are 13 pools, including a lazy river; nine restaurants and 23 bars and lounges; enough activities to keep anyone busy for days on end; and of course, the casino. The massive 45,000-square-foot facility features 40 tables, with a variety of games, and 450 slot machines.

Two of Hard Rock’s dining venues stand out: Zen, where chefs perform while creating Chinese and Japanese dishes right before your eyes, and Isla, which specializes in fresh Caribbean cuisine.

Once ensconced in a resort, most people stay put; properties usually have numerous restaurants, bars, pools and similarly stunning beaches. But golfing and water sports are two exceptions, since many golfers like to check out several different courses and there are many tempting ways to enjoy the water.

The Jack Nicklaus-designed 18-hole championship golf course adjacent to the Hard Rock is a big draw for golfers and has stunning backdrops. Tee times are included and there’s a free 20-minute introductory class if you’re new to the game.

Understandably, the gorgeous Caribbean Sea beckons every visitor. Luckily, there are many outfitters from which to choose. Amstar offers a variety of excursions, including boating, snorkeling, zip lining and more. The adults-only Reef Explorer trip is a great way to enjoy the water.

You’re taken by boat to a floating marine platform, where expert guides describe the marine life found here. Then you can snorkel, paddleboard or kayak, or swim with stingrays and nurse sharks. If you have an underwater camera, you’ll definitely want to bring it along. The tour even includes a massage.

When planning a visit to Punta Cana, it’s important to figure out what’s important to you since different resorts cater to different types of travelers, from families to couples. It’s likely that you’ll be spending most of your time there, so research the restaurants, the pools and the perks that you want most.

In the end, though, most people will agree that what’s just outside is what’s most important: the sun, the sand and the water, which beckon all year round.

To plan your own Punta Cana adventure, head on over to AAA.com/Travel. 

By Kim Foley MacKinnon

College is an incredible experience. You make new friends. You explore new places. You learn how to write a seven-page research paper the night before it’s due.

But on a serious note, one thing you might not learn at college is how to manage and pay back the money you borrowed to pay for your education.

First things first

Those new to the student loan game should take a good, hard look at their loans at least 60 days before the first payment is due, said Donald Kerr, senior manager of student lending at AAA Northeast. It’s a good idea to learn what the interest rates are and how long it will take you to pay back the loans.

Understand payment options

Some lenders offer income based repayment plans or pay-as-you-earn plans. If those aren’t options for you and you think you could have trouble affording your monthly payments, now could be a good time to consider loan consolidation, Kerr said. In addition to lower monthly payments, loan consolidation can help you turn multiple loan payments into one easy-to-manage monthly payment.

Explore refinancing options

A borrower can renegotiate the terms of his or her student loans through a process called refinancing. That’s how AAA member Alyssa Pacheco of East Providence, R.I., recently secured lower interest rates on her student loans.

The Providence College graduate scheduled a consultation with Kerr at the AAA Providence location, where he explained the differences between federal and private loans as well as the consolidation and refinancing processes. “When I recently met with Don to do the actual consolidation and refinancing, we reviewed the options again to make sure I was comfortable,” Pacheco said. “This is a great perk of being a AAA member.” Refinancing can also help you lower your monthly payments.

AAA Northeast Bank offers a variety of student lending options. Call 888-422-2536 to talk to a AAA student lending specialist or visit AAA.com/StudentLending.

When shopping for tires, some drivers will pick the cheapest set available. Others will choose the ones made by the brand with the best reputation. It’s less likely that a vehicle owner will spend hours on research to find the best set to suit his or her vehicle needs.

The good news is you don’t have to.

“For most people, it’s simple. If you like what’s on there, replace them with the same tires,” said AAA’s Car Doctor John Paul.

Vehicles usually roll out of the factory with a particular type of tires. Original equipment tires are designed to carry the weight of the car, help it meet fuel economy standards and more. Of course, a new set of those tires isn’t always cheap. Plus, sometimes a driver wants to change something about the way the vehicle drives. Perhaps the driver wants sportier handling or better traction in the rain.

On the sidewall of every tire is an alphanumeric code that can help shoppers identify certain tire characteristics. These codes often include ratings for tread durability, how well it brakes on wet surfaces, the temperature it can withstand and how fast it is designed to run for extended periods of time. Ask about them when shopping for new tires.

One of the most important numbers on the tire is load capacity, or how much weight the tires can support. New tires should always have at least the load capacity rating of the original set. Tires marked M + S are all-season tires that can handle mud and snow. Winter tires are marked with an alpine symbol, which looks like a three-peaked mountain with a snowflake inside it.

“Whichever tires you decide to buy, you should be prepared to put them on before you need them, not when you need them,” Paul said.

Raleigh, North Carolina’s capital city, is a delight to visit, with a compact downtown, thriving restaurant scene, exploding craft brewery industry, and several free museums and green spaces. The walkable city is bursting with energy, and it can be fun to time your visit with one of the city’s many festivals. Make sure to check out its eclectic shops and boutiques, too.

Budget

Stay: The Holiday Inn Raleigh Downtown is ideally situated in the center of town. Once you park your car, you might not need it again until you leave: Shopping, restaurants and attractions are just minutes away on foot. The hotel offers free WiFi and the panoramic views from its 20th floor Skye Tower Restaurant and Lounge are outstanding.

Do: Spend a day exploring the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, the North Carolina Museum of History and the North Carolina Museum of Art, all of which are completely free! Admission is just $5 at the excellent Marbles Kids Museum, where families can enjoy dozens of hands-on exhibits and educational programs.

Dine: Any barbecue place that’s been around for more than 75 years, like Clyde Cooper’s BBQ, must be doing something right. The casual spot has been serving Carolina-style barbecue since 1938. Top lean pork shoulders are slow cooked until they are beyond tender and mixed with a secret barbecue sauce.

Mid-Range

Stay: The Raleigh Marriott City Center is within walking distance to entertainment, museums, attractions and dining. The 400-room hotel has comfortable guest rooms, featuring Marriott’s signature bedding, plus an indoor pool and a Starbucks. Rye Bar & Southern Kitchen offers tasty Southern cuisine.

Do: Hop aboard the Raleigh Brews Cruise, a bus tour that takes visitors to three local breweries. Guides explain the brewing process, the different styles of beer, and what makes each brewery unique. Of course, multiple samples are supplied, and – best of all – someone else does the driving.

Dine: One of Raleigh’s more creative restaurants is Bida Manda. The Laotian cuisine is a blend of Thai, Vietnamese and Chinese, with a dash of influences from the country’s French colonial past. Crispy pork belly soup with coconut curry is outstanding, as are more familiar dishes like fresh summer rolls and pad thai.

Luxury

Stay: Located about 15 minutes from downtown, the AAA Five Diamond Rated Umstead Hotel and Spa is worth the drive. The six-story hotel sits on 12 acres filled with gorgeous gardens and a lake. It has an amazing collection of art, complimentary bicycles to borrow and an outdoor pool. Guests also have use of the spa facilities, even if they don’t book a treatment.

Do: Raleigh is a real food-lover’s town, and a Taste Carolina gourmet food tour is a great way to get a feel for the area. You’ll meet chefs while enjoying their food, which usually features local ingredients. Guides also talk about the city’s history and architecture along the way. Tours might visit five to seven restaurants and shops. Tours are offered every weekend.

Dine: One of Raleigh’s go-to special occasion restaurants, the Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern, makes for a delicious night out. The seasonal menu might feature dishes like grilled Australian rack of lamb or roasted five-spice Pennsylvania duck breast. For a truly luxurious meal, book the chef’s table and eat in the kitchen with chef Daniel Schurr and his staff.

Get a taste of Raleigh by planning your stay at AAA.com/BookRaleigh.

By Kim Foley MacKinnon

AAA estimates that Americans spend an average of 17,600 minutes driving each year. That translates into more than 293 hours, or just over 12 full days of driving time. That’s a lot of work for both car and driver. What could possibly go wrong?

We know the dangers when drivers are impaired, drowsy or distracted. We discuss that a lot in our educational outreach and advocacy. We also know that well-maintained cars can last longer than ever before. We talk about that as well, and it’s appropriate to do so now, in the weeks and months before another Northeast winter arrives.

October might be the most critical month when it comes to preparing for the weather ahead and car maintenance. That’s why AAA Northeast recognizes each October as AAA Car Care Month, complete with opportunities for members to have their vehicles checked out before the cold and snow arrive.

When was the last time you changed your vehicle’s windshield wiper blades? How about making sure the summer heat didn’t drain the battery of all the power it will need for winter? When did you last change the oil or rotate the tires?

In this issue, you’ll find details of special AAA Car Care Month offers for members. They include Saturday battery and vehicle inspection checks at AAA locations, and a special discount at participating AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities. You can receive specific information about our special offers by visiting AAA.com/CarCareMonth.

Earlier this year, a AAA survey found that 64 million U.S. drivers would not be able to pay for an unexpected vehicle repair without taking on debt, suggesting that many Americans may not fully realize the costs associated with owning and operating a vehicle. In 2016, that figure was over $8,500, with an estimated $800 allotted for maintenance and repairs.

Here is where the AAA Approved Auto Repair program is one of your best member benefits. There are hundreds of local AAA Approved facilities, and thousands nationwide, that all meet our stringent standards for training, equipment and, especially, customer service and satisfaction.

Handling car maintenance issues before or as they arise – rather than waiting for them to escalate – is a good way to protect both your vehicle and your wallet.

By Mark A. Shaw

Healthy, classic or decadent – no matter how you prefer your slow cooker creations – these three delicious recipes are sure to satisfy.

Healthy

Recipes like Pinch of Yum’s quinoa chicken primavera disprove the idea that slow cookers work best with fatty meats. Made with quinoa, chicken, peas, asparagus and pesto, this casserole-like dish packs nutrients and flavor. In this two-for-one health special, you’ll have extra time to exercise while your slow cooker takes care of dinner for you.

Classic

Love lasagna but hate the hassle? Your favorite comfort food just got more comfortable. Betty Crocker’s slow-cooker lasagna recipe lets you cook this Italian classic without turning on the oven. After some prep work, drop in your ingredients and finish cooking from the couch. Lasagna never felt so lazy or tasted so good.

Decadent

Stressed” may be “desserts” spelled backward – but there’s no stress involved in this delicious dish. Use your slow cooker to take the headache out of baking. Betty Crocker’s Reese’s peanut butter cake recipe uses a slow cooker to create layers of peanut butter paradise. It may cook slowly, but it won’t take long for the gooey masterpiece to disappear.

To someone unfamiliar with the depths of Irish culture, images of shamrocks and leprechauns and pints of green beer on St. Patrick’s Day might spring to mind. At least that was my experience before visiting Ireland.

Anyone who’s traveled to the Emerald Isle knows that its centuries-old culture goes far deeper than the American collegiate celebration.

A good way to immerse yourself in Ireland is by road. The island boasts plenty of landscapes to accentuate the drive, from fantasy-inspiring mountains to dramatic coastlines and green meadows.

Dublin

A few days in Dublin are practically obligatory. Renowned Irish writers, including James Joyce, Oscar Wilde and Samuel Beckett, have passed through the city. It’s also the stage for much older writings: The Book of Kells, one of the world’s most well-known medieval texts, is on display at Trinity College.

Walking Dublin’s streets, it’s mind-boggling to realize that some establishments are more than 800 years old. For example, the Brazen Head, which offers a traditional beef and Guinness stew, has served patrons since 1198. And speaking of Guinness, the Guinness Storehouse is a popular exhibition about the beer brewed since the 18th century.

The Wild Atlantic Way

Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way is made for scenic drives along the west coast. One of the more dramatic spots is the Cliffs of Moher, a 5-mile stretch of shale and sandstone standing hundreds of feet above the Atlantic Ocean.

Galway is a good base from which to explore the west coast. There’s a youthful vibe, with plenty of pubs and street performers on Quay Street. From here, you can easily reach surf spots at the beaches of Kilkee, or go rock climbing and zip lining in Westport.

County Kerry and the South

County Kerry is home to Ireland’s highest peak, Carrauntoohil. It’s also home to the Skelligs, a pair of islands made famous by the presence of Luke Skywalker in the new “Star Wars” movies.

Cork is the main city of the south, and it serves as a good base to explore the region – especially nearby Blarney Castle, home of the famed Blarney Stone.

Northern Ireland

The landscape may seem a bit familiar driving through Northern Ireland. That’s because some sites double as locations in HBO’s popular “Game of Thrones.” Castle Ward in Strangford is Winterfell, while the area around Slemish Mountain poses as the Dothraki grasslands.

Another fantastical-looking site is the very real Giant’s Causeway, comprised of about 40,000 volcanically formed rock columns. The site is a little over an hour’s drive from Belfast. When you’re in town, you can visit Titanic Belfast, an interactive exhibition about the famed Titanic, on the site where the ship was built.

You’ll never run out of awe-inspiring experiences on the Emerald Isle.

If you wish to travel to good old Ireland yourself, visit AAA.com/Travel or AAA.com/Vacations. 

by Erik R. Trinidad

Fill your diet with superfoods that address women’s health concerns with these flavorful and healthy dishes.

1. Savor the flavor

When thinking of building strong bones, a cheesy Italian meal probably doesn’t come to mind. But this spinach and ricotta cannelloni from the National Osteoporosis Foundation is loaded with nutrients such as calcium, iron and protein that give you an edge against bone disease.

2. A slice of veggie heaven

The American Cancer Society thinks you should have your pizza and eat it, too. But this pizza is loaded with cancer-fighting ingredients like eggplant, artichokes and tomatoes.

3. A fall staple

Good news: You can enjoy a yummy risotto that’s low in carbs and unhealthy fats by adding pumpkin. This side dish from the American Diabetes Association is made healthier by substituting in olive oil and yogurt for butter and cream.

4. Wrap up your meal

Look no further than the American Heart Association’s white bean hummus wrap for a heart-healthy sandwich. Choose a multigrain wrap, fill it with creamy white bean hummus, and add avocado, bell pepper, cucumber or any combination of vegetables to add a tasty crunch.

5. Sweet n’ wholesome

This light nighttime snack will satisfy your sweet tooth and your need for daily nutrients, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation. The vanilla yogurt panna cotta is notable for its toppings: Just add raspberries, or another choice of fruit, plus honey and flaxseeds for a dessert rich in calcium, protein, folate and fiber.

6. Stuff to your heart’s desire

Nothing says fall like a stuffed squash recipe, and one that protects against heart disease is even better. This couscous-stuffed acorn squash from the American Heart Association is low in cholesterol and high in healthy unsaturated fats, making it a hearty choice for your health. Stuff with spinach, couscous and walnuts, then top it off with a drizzle of maple syrup and a sprinkle of blue cheese crumbles.

Fall is far from a shoulder season in Alaska.

In fact, for those who enjoy travel without the crowds, it could be the best time to visit the Last Frontier.

From late August through October, the Alaskan sky shimmers in shades of pink, purple, yellow and blue while the red and gold foliage provides a stunning foreground for the snow-capped peaks in the distance.

Like the northern lights, which can be seen once true night skies return to The Great Land in September, it’s surely a sight you will never forget.

Plus, it’s easy to find a breathtaking foliage spot from nearly anywhere in the state.

Here are a couple of standout locales to witness Alaska’s foliage splendor.

Denali National Park

Home of the highest mountain in North America, this state park and preserve encompasses more than 6 million acres of land. Glaciers dominate the higher elevations, but the lowlands are flush with colorful foliage, and if you’re lucky you might catch a hawk or golden eagle in one of your photographs. It’s easiest to navigate the park via the shuttle service that’s provided until the second week on September. After that, private vehicles can travel 30 miles into the park until the road closes for winter.

Matanuska Glacier

While many drivers head south from Anchorage for coastal views along the Seward Highway, the Glenn Highway to the northeast is another amazing outlet. It leads drivers to the Matanuska Glacier, which at 27 miles long by 4 miles wide is the largest glacier accessible by car in the United States. Along the 100-mile journey from the city to the glacier, you’ll be inundated with the stunning colors of fall permeating from the trees that surround the 75-mile-long Matanuska River. It’s a treat for nature lovers.

Wrangell-St. Elias

At nearly 14 million acres, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve is the largest national park – both Vermont and New Hampshire could fit inside it. Nine of the 16 highest U.S. mountains are inside the park, including the second-highest peak in the U.S. and Canada, Mount St. Elias. The park is accessible by highway from Anchorage and there are some limited access roads in the park for cars. Otherwise, there is no shortage of places to hike and camp within this massive showcase of nature’s true beauty.

Ride the rails

For a convenient yet luxurious way to see the changing colors, ride the Alaska Railroad, which offers year-round service. The iconic train service offers scenic trips and excursions to many of Alaska’s most popular destinations, including Fairbanks, Denali, Hurricane Gulch, Seward and the bountiful nature in between. The Hurricane Turn train, which connects Talkeetna with Hurricane Gulch, in summer, and Anchorage with Hurricane Gulch, in winter, is especially popular for its photo ops, including a chance for snapshots as the train crosses the tremendous Hurricane Gulch Bridge.

Fall events in Alaska

Yes, fall is brief in Alaska, but there is no shortage of fun things to do before the season comes and goes.

Nome’s Blueberry Festival is one of them.

Held annually on a Saturday in late August or early September, this one-day celebration of all things blueberry features foods like berry salsas and jams, plus art, jewelry and even music that sticks to the blueberry theme.

Nome, a city in northwest Alaska, is also home to quirkier events like the Great Bathtub Race over Labor Day weekend. Tubs on wheels roll down Front Street, and the first one to travel 100 yards wins bragging rights and a figurine of Kermit and Miss Piggy taking a bath.

The late summer and early fall is also when the Alaska State Fair takes place in Palmer, about an hour north of Anchorage. The fair is known for its giant vegetables and scenic location at the foot of the Chugach Mountains.

Other seasons in Alaska

Of course, with its 663,000 square miles of land, 3 million lakes and 100,000 glaciers, visitors can enjoy the beauty of Alaska any time of year. Here are a couple of exciting things to do during the other seasons.

Cruising

Cruise season in Alaska runs from May to September. Glacier sightseeing and sailing through southeast Alaska’s Inside Passage are some of the highlights. Travelers can purchase a land and sea excursion, which combines the comforts of a cruise with on-foot adventures in seaport towns and state parks. Click here for more information about Alaska cruise vacations.

The Iditarod

The iconic Iditarod Dog Sled Race, which has been called the Last Great Race on Earth, is held in early March each year. Mushers and their team of 16 dogs race an estimated 1,000 miles from Anchorage to Nome. It takes most teams eight to 15 days to complete the race. The ceremonial start in Anchorage is the fun part for visitors. The 2018 race will start on the morning of March 3.

Pardon the pun, but these events are just the tip of the iceberg. There is so much more to explore in Alaska, and AAA can help you plan your dream vacation to this magnificent state.

There’s hardly a parent with a teenager contemplating college that hasn’t hit the road to visit potential schools. From simple afternoon visits to more complicated college road trips, it’s wise to book some noncollege-oriented activities to offset some of the pressure. After all, when both you and your child are deciding their future for the next four years, tensions can be quite high. Taking time for a hike, visiting a museum or simply sightseeing can be a fun and welcome reprieve.

My daughter and I roller-skated and shopped in Philadelphia, discovered many great restaurants in Vermont, and enjoyed a snowy hike in New Hampshire during college road trips to see schools.

No matter where you go, save time to relax. Here are some highlights we found in popular college towns.

Northern New England and beyond

Our college road trips took us to Burlington, Vt., a fabulous city on the banks of Lake Champlain. Its charming and walkable downtown is packed with funky shops, art galleries and independent restaurants. You can kayak or take a dinner cruise on the water, or hike, bike and ski in the Green Mountains.

Hanover, N.H., home to Dartmouth College and the Hood Museum of Art, is another popular stop for college trips.

If you’re that far north already, why not visit Montreal? It’s less than two hours away. Just don’t forget your passport! Highlights in the easily walkable city include the Old Port area, Olympic Park and the Biodome.

Eastern Massachusetts, Cape Cod and Rhode Island

There are more than 50 colleges and universities in the Boston area alone, but there’s no reason to stick to the city proper. Cape Cod and its miles of glorious beaches can be reached in a little over an hour. A 45-minute ferry ride from Falmouth can get you to Martha’s Vineyard, which can easily be explored via bike or public transportation. The more remote island of Nantucket is a bit further afield, but can get there in 45 minutes if you fly out of Boston. Newport, R.I., with its famous Cliff Walk and mansions, can be reached in about an hour-and-a-half. Providence is even closer and its museums, restaurants and shops are fun to explore.

Western and Upstate New York

Niagara Falls is a natural choice for anyone planning school visits to western or upstate New York. You can see the spectacular falls from afar or head out on the Maid of the Mist to get sprayed up-close. It can be fun to get another perspective from the Canadian side, but if you do, remember to pack your passport. Buffalo, just about a half hour south of Niagara Falls on the shores of Lake Erie, features gorgeous architecture and a fascinating history. We were intrigued to learn about Frank Lloyd Wright’s contributions to the city’s architectural scene in the early 1900s, thanks to a wonderful tour at the Martin House Complex.

Washington D.C., Baltimore and Philadelphia

Certainly, there are too many colleges to count in the D.C., Baltimore and Philadelphia areas, where any number of activities can occupy visitors for days on end. The wonderful – and free – museums of the Smithsonian Institution should be on every visitor’s agenda. Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, where you’ll find the National Aquarium, the USS Constellation and the Maryland Science Center, is also a must.

Philadelphia’s rich history is a delight to explore, from seeing the Liberty Bell to Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed. For a break you can’t beat the historical Reading Terminal Market. Located beneath the Reading Railroad’s 1891 train shed, it features more than 100 food stalls, which my daughter and I tried to sample our way through.

North Carolina and Georgia

Southern college road trips often involve visits to Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill in North Carolina. Raleigh is home to world-class museums, like the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences and the North Carolina Museum of History, both of which are free. Definitely leave time to head to the stunning beaches of the Outer Banks, less than four hours away, for a couple of days to unwind.

If you’re heading to Charlotte, put the NASCAR Hall of Fame and the U.S. National Whitewater Center (where you can raft where Olympians train) on your list.

The charming city of Savannah, along Georgia’s coast, is home to one of the country’s largest National Historic Landmark Districts, so a walking tour is a great way to get acquainted with the city and its history. A fun alternative is to take one of the many ghost tours available, since the city is said to be America’s most haunted.

Need assistance with college funding? Let AAA help. You can also visit AAA.com/Hotels to find and book a hotel near your destination. 

By Kim Foley MacKinnon