Europe’s historic cities are home to incredible architecture, grand churches and ancient ruins. Here are the top ten landmarks in Europe that everyone should see at least once in their lifetime. Add them to your bucket list of travel destinations.

Stonehenge – Wiltshire, England

Located in southern England, Stonehenge is one of the most famous landmarks in Europe and draws nearly one million visitors to the site every year. The monument is comprised of colossal rocks in a circular pattern, leaving historians puzzled by what this site was meant to represent when it was built thousands of years ago. Today there are various theories that suggest the grounds were used for rituals and burials, but the true reason for its creation we may never know.

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The London Tower – London, England

No European jaunt would be complete without seeing the historic Tower of London on the north bank of the River Thames. Its roots go all the way back to William the Conqueror and it has served as a fortress, prison, palace and even a way station for the Crown Jewels at various points in English history. Now a world famous tourist attraction, the Tower is a World Heritage Site that hosts millions of visitors per year. Now, you can’t book this in advance, but it is worth it to try to get on a tour with a Yeoman Warder, the iconic guards at the Tower, and hear their stories.

 Eiffel Tower – Paris, France

The Eiffel Tower has easily become a recognizable cultural icon of France since being unveiled in 1889 as the tallest man-made structure in the world. The iron-lattice tower symbolizes romance, charm and the Parisian joie de vivre that the city is so well known for. This destination is at the top of many travel bucket lists, making it the most visited paid European landmark. If you take a trip up the tower, make a stop on the first level where a glass floor was opened in 2014.

The Kinderdijk Windmills – Netherlands

Windmills are the epitome of Holland. The windmills of Kinderdijk were originally built in the 17^th century to prevent flooding and turned into a tourist destination in the 1950’s. Travelers began showing up with cameras to watch the windmills at Kinderdijk and the site has since become one of the most photographed places in Holland. The landmark contains a cluster of nineteen pristine windmills, forming an iconic and unforgettable Dutch scene.

Acropolis – Athens, Greece

The Acropolis of Athens is a landmark rich with history that contains the remains of several ancient buildings including the Parthenon, making it the most significant site in Greece. Its monuments and sanctuaries are built from white marble and sit above the city, a magical site to see when you arrive to the metropolis no matter what time of day it is. Needless to say this architectural masterpiece will not disappoint.

Colosseum – Rome, Italy

The Colosseum is a jaw-dropping landmark in Rome that was commissioned as a gift to the Roman people by Emperor Vespasian of the Flavian dynasty. The massive golden structure served as an arena for gladiators and wild animal battles that entertained the 50,000 people that were seated in the audience. Two-thirds of the original Colosseum was destroyed over time, but the site still attracts millions of tourists. Today you can visit the underground passageways to view the area where gladiators and animals awaited their fate, which was opened in 2010.

Hagia Sophia – Istanbul, Turkey

The Hagia Sophia, roughly translated as “Holy Wisdom” is a must-see landmark in Europe and considered one of the most important in Istanbul. The domed monument was built as a cathedral, turned into a mosque and now serves the city as a museum. Tourists flock to the monument for its religious and historical significance; it survived earthquakes and fires throughout the years, emperors were crowned in the monument and sultans were laid to rest outside of the building in lavish tombs. Today you can expect to see spectacular domes and exquisitely colorful mosaics.

La Sagrada Familia – Barcelona, Spain

La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona is a must-visit destination for any tourist passing through the city. Antoni Gaudi´s masterpiece is the largest unfinished Roman Catholic Church on earth and has been under construction for 130 years. The church is an extraordinary interpretation of Gothic architecture; the exterior inspires awe by its sheer size and brilliance, while the interior has an unexpected delicate beauty from the massive amount of stained glass and art. Take a half-day to explore this dazzling landmark in Europe.

Saint Basil’s Cathedral – Moscow, Russia

Saint Basil’s Cathedral is a church and centerpiece of the Red Square in Moscow that now serves as a museum to the public. The dream-like building is shaped like a flame from a fire rising into the sky; this and the vibrant colors of the cathedral’s domes have made it a highly visited landmark in Europe. The church is made up of nine small chapels that are aligned to points on the compass. Saint Basil’s has been a museum and tourist attraction since 1929 and in 1990 it became part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Neuschwanstein – Bavaria, Germany

Neuschwanstein is a 19^th century castle located in the hills of Bavaria. The picturesque palace was opened to the public shortly after the king’s death in 1886 and is now one of the most visited castles in the world. On a guided tour of the ornate castle, you’ll have access to fourteen rooms including the king’s bedroom and dressing room, among others. Don’t miss Marienbrücke on your visit, the bridge that hangs over a waterfall and has one of the most amazing views of the castle. It’s rumored that Walt Disney actually modeled the castle in the movie Cinderella after it!

Hungarian Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary

The Hungarian Parliament is the tallest building in Budapest and a breathtaking sight to see as it faces the River Danube, which is one of the reasons why it has become such a popular tourist destination. The parliament is symmetrical and has two identical halls on each side of the building, one is used for legislation and the other is used for guided tours. When visiting the parliament you can expect to see brilliant Gothic architecture, numerous significant statues and beautiful paintings.

Which landmarks in Europe are on your travel bucket list? Tell us in the comments below.

Book your next European vacation with AAA.

Universal Studios rides immerse us in our favorite imaginative worlds, delivering excitement for movie buffs and thrill-seekers alike, not to mention those expressly seeking the chance to fly through Hogwarts. Journey with lovable heroes and fly through a Quidditch match as you explore these must-see park highlights in Universal Orlando Resort.

AAA members get discounted tickets to the park!

Skull Island: Reign of Kong

Those brave enough to journey into the ominous temple in Universal’s Islands of Adventure are in for an unforgettable, heart-pounding 3D thrill ride. Guests go on safari in a jungle of prehistoric predators, leading to an up-close encounter with the giant ape known as King Kong. If you thought he was impressive in the movies, wait until you see him in real life.

Volcano Bay

Universal’s all-new water theme park offers the perfect balance of thrills and relaxation. Rent a cabana or hang out on Waturi Beach and watch the waves roll in. The TapuTapu bracelet will virtually hold your place in the ride lines while you have fun doing other things. The centerpiece of Volcano Bay is the Krakatau water coaster, a water-soaked adventure on a canoe through the dark twists and turns of the volcano’s center that ends in a plunging waterfall finale.

Fast & Furious Supercharged

You won’t want to miss this ultra-fast chase based on the Vin Diesel movie.  When it comes to immersive experiences, this one will make you feel as if you are racing at 120 miles per hour, giving you incredible motion simulation that catapults you into the action, all without leaving your seat. Visitors to the Orlando park can experience the chase this spring. You’ll even be able to see 15 authentic cars from the movie on site.

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey

With the originality of the world created by J.K. Rowling, a theme park attraction based on her series has to take fans on an impressive journey. Beyond the attention Universal gave to recreating this magical world, it developed rides with simulated flying and plenty of surprises to keep you on the edge of your seat.  Even if you never read the books or saw the movies, take the time to experience Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, one of the most popular Universal Orlando rides. While you might only be familiar with the title character, you’ll be charmed by a magical world complete with striking visuals and plenty of twists and turns that highlight iconic locations from the series.

Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts

In the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, visitors can experience another high-speed magical adventure as they come face to face with villains and menacing creatures on their way through the grand bank at the end of Diagonal Alley.  This attraction is unmistakable.  Just look for the enormous fire-breathing dragon that guards its entrance. Once inside, you might be equally awed by the 62,000 crystals that make up the lobby’s chandeliers.  The goblin-owned establishment was crafted so impeccably that you might wonder if Universal Orlando’s designers secretly graduated from Hogwarts themselves.

Transformers: The Ride 3-D

Once the adrenaline rush subsides, you can’t help but be struck by the technology behind Universal Orlando rides. Transformers relies on a combination of high-definition 3-D effects and photo-realistic visuals to blur the lines between the real and virtual worlds seamlessly. As far as immersive experiences, this one draws you into dramatic storyline moments and ongoing action in such a convincing way that you will again be amazed by the behind-the-scenes technology. Film fans will appreciate the opportunity to experience Michael Bay’s vision in a new way, but as with the Harry Potter attractions, you don’t need to be familiar with the series to appreciate the action and stunning images.

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem

Some visitors board rides for the thrill, but fortunately there are plenty of options at Universal Orlando for children too young to appreciate the super-charged world of Transformers and The Fast and the Furious. Families can take a heartwarming adventure with Gru and his daughters followed by a Minion-inspired dance party. The highlight might just be the chance to make it through Minion training. In keeping with the features that make Universal Orlando rides so captivating, this one is a 3-D experience that puts you right in the middle of the action.

Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon

Late night television might not be the likeliest inspiration for a theme park ride, but the designers at Universal captured the quirkiness of one of Jimmy Fallon’s popular segments.  Instead of challenging guests on The Tonight Show, this time he challenges park visitors to a race through New York that includes a virtual flight above the Statue of Liberty, under the East River, and even a trip through the subway. Expect some one-liners, but forget about waiting for this ride. With Virtual Line, you can reserve a time for this ride via the free Universal Orlando Resort App.

As it pushes forward in new directions, Universal knows what it takes to turn a film phenomenon into a captivating live experience. Add these highlights to your itinerary and enjoy the downright fun of jumping into a movie scene with the whole family.

What’s your favorite ride in Universal Orlando? Tell us in the comments.

Save on a Universal Orlando vacation with AAA.

The clunky thermostat. Unsightly cords. Strangely-placed wall vent. What do all of these things have in common?

They command the eye’s attention upon entering a room, but not in way that a homeowner entertaining guests might want. Eyesores such as these can either be too costly or impossible to change or replace. The only thing left to do is conceal them like we would an ugly blemish.

Get out your tool belt and put that Pinterest-thinking cap on — we’ve got some D-I-Y solutions to hiding some of your home’s most unpleasant eyesores.

1. Dress up a wall vent

Vents aren’t exactly the ugliest of home necessities, but a vent won’t fit in on a wall that’s otherwise covered in beautiful art pieces or family pictures.

Remedy this by making an easy D-I-Y vent cover. Hang a rubber door mat over the vent, ensuring that the mat has plenty of spaces between the rubber sections to allow for maximum airflow. If you’ve got a mat at home with enough spaces, but don’t like the color, try a metallic spray paint to dress it up.

2. Disguise a thermostat or alarm system

Thermostats, alarm systems and other control panels are made to be practical, not pretty. When one is smack-dab in the center of a living room wall, it can be an eyesore.

Hide the control panel underneath a piece of canvas art. Pick something that compliments the rest of the décor in the room, then nail three hinges to the canvas and screw it into the wall. Now you can swing it open when you need to use the control panel and close it when you don’t need it.

3. Tuck away those charging cords

In this day and age, one person could have multiple electronic devices that need to be charged, and likely in the same place. Nightstands, kitchen counters and end tables often become charging stations for cell phones, tablets, laptops, gaming devices — you name it. It can look untidy.

Clear a spare drawer to make your own D-I-Y charging station. Line the bottom of the drawer with cork floor tiles to make a safe bed for your electronic devices. Then, drill a hole in the back of the drawer for a power cord strip to fit through. Next, mount a power strip on the back of the drawer with screws. Now you have a hidden place to charge your devices. Use twist ties to keep each cord separate from the others.

How do you hide your home’s eyesores? Tell us in the comments below!

Protect your home with homeowners insurance from AAA. Get a quote today.

Pets are susceptible to a number of everyday health problems that can range anywhere from hairballs to an infestation of fleas. Thankfully, there are some home remedies – for both cats and dogs – that could prevent frequent visits to the vet. Although, you should always check with your pet’s doctor before treating maladies at home.

Hairballs: While there isn’t a magical solution to stop your cat from coughing up hairballs, there is one to help your cat pass them more easily. PetMD suggests you feed your cat half a teaspoon of butter once a day for a few days.

Bladder maintenance: If your cat is having problems doing his business, it could indicate a serious problem that requires immediate medical attention. For urinary maintenance, PetMD recommends trying unsweetened cranberry juice, which can increase urine acidity and help prevent problems. You can add cranberry powder to your cat’s food or cranberry juice to his water.

Hot spots: When dogs feel something irritating their skin, their instinct is to scratch — and lick and scratch some more. Eventually, the area becomes inflamed. First, the Pet Poison Helpline suggests that you remove the fur or hair around the hot spot with grooming clippers, and then gently clean the area with a damp cloth or gauze pad. Then, two or three times a day, apply a half-and-half mixture of water and apple cider vinegar. Unfortunately for Fido, he’ll need an Elizabethan collar until the hot spot heals.

Fleas: Repel fleas from your dog’s fur or hair and relieve them of their itchiness using lemon water. PetMD recommends that you put lemons in a pot, pour boiling water over them and let them steep overnight. Then, apply the solution to your dog’s skin with a spray bottle.

If these or any problems worsen or don’t improve, contact your veterinarian right away.

Which pet home remedies do you swear by? Tell us in the comments below!

Find out how the AAA Prescription Savings program can help you save money on your pet’s medications.

When’s the last time you saw a Nirvana T-shirt? Was it at the height of the band’s fame in the 1990s? How about AC/DC, Guns N’ Roses, Slayer or Pink Floyd?

Vintage band tees have come back into style. But they’re not mementos from concerts attended in yesteryear. They’re stocked on the racks at chain retail stores like Target and teen-favorite H&M.

In Target, you can find a gray, made-to-look-vintage tee for Metallica or another featuring the Rolling Stones famous logo.

So why would a teen want to wear a Pink Floyd “Dark Side of the Moon” tee if he or she has never even heard a song by the band?

It’s simple. Bands, their logos and their album art are associated with a particular brand, and clothing companies are capitalizing on it. The concert tee isn’t just a symbol of fandom anymore – it’s a fashion choice. A teen might feel that the Pink Floyd brand is a good fit for his or her personal style.

Of course, there are still plenty of genuine fans of these legendary bands who buy the tees. Streaming services, iTunes and YouTube have made it possible for young people to hear the music and see the concerts from their parents’ and grandparents’ generations. So, a teen walking down the street wearing a Nirvana tee may be paying homage to a band he or she really loves.

Or, maybe I’m just defending them because I bought a Prince “Purple Rain” T-shirt at Target. Much like rock ’n’ roll, this seems to be a trend that will never die.

What old concert tee is still hanging out in your closet? Share your favorite concert memories in the comments below!

It’s February, which means Valentine’s Day is approaching fast. How are you celebrating with your significant other this year?

If food is in the equation, make this year special by whipping up a romantic recipe at home instead of going out. The names of the following recipes alone will make you and your partner say, “Aww!”

A Cutesy Breakfast in Bed

Wake your loved one with a smile – and the bacon egg-in-a-heart recipe from www.delish.com, perfect for a surprise breakfast in bed. First, shape a strip of bacon into a heart and bake until crispy. Place the bacon heart over the center of a slice of bread and cut out the shape of the heart. In a skillet, toast the bread, place the bacon heart over the cut-out shape and crack an egg in the center. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, and cook until the egg whites are set. Keep the small heart-shaped piece of bread for dipping into the yolk, or as an accessory to an already adorable meal.

A Timeless Tradition with a Twist

Write your loved one a romantic love letter – or try the recipe for ricotta love letters with toasted almonds from ABC’s “The Chew.” Combine ricotta, lemon zest, Parmigiano-Reggiano and nutmeg in a bowl. Then, fill wonton wrappers with a half-tablespoon of the ricotta mixture. Saute almonds and butter in a pan until lightly toasted, then add the ravioli, lemon juice and more Parmigiano-Reggiano. The best part? You can make the ravioli beforehand and freeze them, so you can spend more time with your partner on Valentine’s Day.

A Match Made in the Kitchen

Show you’re a perfect pair by making a pair of sweetheart steaks, recipe courtesy of www.tasteofhome.com. The unique part of this recipe is the sauce, which is made from a whole host of things: Catalina salad dressing, honey, apricot preserves, grape jelly, soy sauce, chives and more. Let these ingredients simmer in a saucepan for 30 minutes, then broil two steaks topped with the sauce, basting occasionally. The juicy steaks will have your hearts – and stomachs – soaring.

What’s your favorite recipe for saying “I love you?” Tell us in the comments below!

Find more creative recipes in our Food for All department.

At AAA, we focus a lot of our efforts on saving lives.

Not many organizations can say that. We’re proud of the work we do. Not only do we rescue people from the side of the road in sometimes precarious situations, but we advocate for safer roads and driver safety. We lobby for legislative changes, such as requiring the use of seat belts and most recently, requiring children age 2 and under be in rear-facing car seats. We do this because we know it saves lives.

One way we know this is through the research of the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.

Celebrating its 70th anniversary this year, the foundation’s mission is to identify traffic safety problems and foster research that seeks solutions. A leader in this field, the foundation has been cited for landmark studies on distracted driving, teen driving, senior mobility and safety, and most recently with the University of Utah on distractions being caused by infotainment systems in today’s cars.

Each year, the foundation creates a conversation on traffic safety through its culture survey. This survey gives us an idea of how important traffic safety issues are to the public. For example, drivers feel talking on a cellphone while driving is dangerous – yet a large percentage of people still do it. Overcoming this double standard will encourage safe behaviors – and save lives.

One other important piece of research coming out of the AAA Foundation focuses on older drivers. Referred to as the LongROAD study, this project is following 3,000 older drivers, their driving habits and specific risk factors over several years. The significance of this is that we’ll be developing scientific data to advocate for effective policies and programs. We expect to be able to make several recommendations that will help drivers stay safer longer.

As a valued AAA member, we want you to know about the work we’re doing on your behalf to protect you and your families on the road. We’ll be telling you more about the studies from the foundation throughout the year. We invite you to learn more about the foundation by visiting its website at AAAFoundation.org.

Knowledge is the first step in becoming a better driver. And better drivers save lives.

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.

1. The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences (look for its outdoor three-story multimedia globe), the North Carolina Museum of History and the North Carolina Museum of Art are all completely free. Admission is just $5 at the excellent Marbles Kids Museum, where families can enjoy hands-on exhibits and educational programs.

2. You can get into endless debates about what barbecue style is best, but any 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 beyond tender and mixed with a secret barbecue sauce. Order a plate with hush puppies and collard greens for a classic meal.

3. Hop aboard the Raleigh Brews Cruise, a bus tour that takes visitors on a behind-the-scenes visit 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. Coolers are provided on the bus if you decide to pick up some beer to go.

4. One of city’s more creative restaurants is Bida Manda, one of the few true Laotian restaurants in the U.S. The cuisine is a blend of Thai, Vietnamese and Chinese, with a dash of influences and techniques from its French colonial past. Crispy pork belly soup with coconut curry is outstanding, as are more familiar dishes like fresh summer rolls and pad thai. Servers will patiently walk you through the menu and following their advice is highly recommended.

5. Located about 15 minutes from downtown, the luxurious 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, including a steam room, sauna, whirlpool and pool, even if they don’t book a treatment.

6. Raleigh is a real food-lover’s town, and a great way to get a feel for the area is to take a Taste Carolina Gourmet Food Tour. You’ll meet chefs while enjoying their food, most of which 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, and various types of walking tours are offered every weekend.

7. It’s fun to browse the city’s eclectic shops and boutiques. You’ll find that one-of-a-kind something for yourself and all types of unique gifts in the Warehouse District, an enclave of creative entrepreneurs. Check out the Raleigh Denim Workshop, which uses local materials and artisanal methods to create an ideal pair of jeans, and the award-winning, bean-to-bar Videri Chocolate Factory, to name just two.

8. North Carolina’s state capitol is a gorgeous Greek Revival-style building that was completed in 1940. Today, it’s a National Historic Landmark that houses a museum and executive office space. Outstanding features include the domed rotunda, original 1840 furniture and a copy of Antonio Canova’s statue of George Washington depicted as a Roman general, wearing a tunic, body armor and a cape. Free guided tours are offered Saturdays at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

9. To get your blood pumping, rent a bike and head to the Art to Heart Trail, part of the city’s 104-mile Capital Area Greenway System. The route begins at the North Carolina Museum of Art, which has an outdoor art park and 3 miles of trails, then heads through Pullen Park and North Carolina State University’s campus.

10. For a spooky end to the night, take a Raleigh Haunted Footsteps Ghost Tour, a 1.5-mile stroll that combines local ghost stories, folklore and history. You’ll head to four different sites to hear about the capitol phantoms, a peg-legged ghost and the specters that haunt the area where the Yarborough House once stood.

Have you been to Raleigh? Tell us about it in the comments section below.

Get a taste of Raleigh by planning your stay with AAA Travel.

While you’re snuggling with your dog under blankets on the couch, your car is outside freezing its bumpers off.

Cold temperatures, snow and ice – plus all the chemicals used to treat slippery roads –hammer your car all winter. It’s up to you to help it bounce back. Here are eight things to fix on your vehicle once we roll past the worst of the wintry weather.

Kick the Tires

Tires lose air pressure every month and every time the temperature drops by 10 degrees, said AAA Media Relations Manager Robert Sinclair Jr. Check the air pressure as soon as you can and inspect them for bulges, cracks and bruises on the sidewall, which could lead to a blowout if ignored. You can find the recommended levels on the door jamb sticker or inside the owner’s manual.

Wash Me!

Hopefully it hasn’t gotten so bad that a neighbor left a finger drawing on the back windshield. Regardless, wash your car regularly to get rid of road salt and other chemicals that cling to the undercarriage and cause rust.

Wipe Troubles Away

Don’t be that person who hangs out the car window to see every time it rains or snows. If the rubber on your vehicle’s wiper blades leaves streaks behind, replace them.

Clean Inside

Cigarette smoke and wet floor mats can create residue on the inside of the windows that can make it hard to see. Clear them with some glass cleaner.

Vacuum Up

Snowy boots can leave behind ice melt residue and dirt on your interior carpets. When snow season is over, vacuum and shampoo the carpets.

Go With the Flow

Certain fluids require more attention than others. Take some time to get to know where the fluid reservoirs are in your car. While you’re there, fill up the washer fluid and learn how to check the level of important ones like coolant and motor oil.

Inspector Gadgets

Beyond fluids, there are important parts AAA’s Car Doctor John Paul likes to inspect at the end of winter. He gets under the car and sees if something like a mound of ice has damaged the muffler system or other major parts. If you suspect serious damage, consult a professional.

Be Cool

It might be one of the furthest things from your mind, but now is a good time to see if the air conditioning works. If not, get it fixed before it gets hot.

It’s also important to have your battery checked this time of year. Did you know AAA will come to your home to check your car battery and replace it on the spot, if necessary? Click here to learn more. 

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