Walt Disney World is one of the hottest vacation spots in the world. That means it can get busy – and expensive. But if you have some insider tips, you can make sure your vacation is the most magical experience ever. Check out these Walt Disney World hacks that you and your family can use to make the most of your trip.

Plan, book and save on your next Disney vacation with AAA. 

For more tips on planning your first Disney trip, listen to Episode 2 of our podcast, Merging Into Life: Theme Park Secrets.

Don’t: Wait in line for character meet-and-greets

Character meet-and-greets come with wait times. And that’s valuable time you and your family could be spending enjoying the rest of the attractions at the parks, like the rides, parades and shows. Waiting in lines for character after character can start to add up – and while the photo-ops are nice, they’re nothing like riding Space Mountain. It’s a huge drain on your theme park time.

Do: Visit one of the many character dining options

Character dining is one of the best ways to meet your favorite Disney personalities. Walt Disney World is full of options where you and your family can meet characters while you eat. There’s no waiting in lines, no wasted time, fantastic photo-ops and amazing interactions. Some options include meeting princesses at Epcot’s Akershus Royal Banquet Hall, Mickey and friends at Chef Mickey’s, Cinderella and friends at 1900 Park Fare and more. Check with the restaurant in advance and make sure that your favorites will be there when you make a reservation.

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Don’t: Weigh yourself down with a huge backpack

If you don’t need to bring something like a diaper bag, special food items or important medicine with you, it’s best to leave the backpack at home. It’s a huge pain to walk around with a bulky bag all day, and it can be hard to squeeze it onto the rides with you if you don’t have anyone to hold your stuff.

Do: Travel light

A small purse, bag or even a fanny pack will do. If you’re nervous about going to the parks without a water bottle, don’t fret! A lesser-known Disney hack is that you can get a free glass of ice water at any food service location in the park. It’s a lot more refreshing than carrying around a sweaty water bottle all day.

Don’t: Assume things haven’t changed

If you show up at the parks looking for free FastPasses, you’re going to be disappointed. FastPass+ used to be the law of the land in Walt Disney World, but the system has been replaced with pay-to-play Lightning Lanes.

Do: Adapt to new systems early

Get ahead of the game by doing your research beforehand. If you learn the rules of services like Disney Lightning Lane quickly, you’ll be able to use it to your advantage.

Disney is always introducing new and exciting changes, but it could start to feel overwhelming. To help you navigate, AAA has travel advisors who specialize in Disney vacations; it’s their job to stay on top of all the latest happenings and help you plan.

Don’t: Follow the crowd

Many people entering theme parks will automatically go to the right, meaning that those parts of the park – like Tomorrowland in the Magic Kingdom – will get more crowded earlier in the day.

Do: Forge your own path

If you go to the left in the Magic Kingdom, toward Adventureland, you’ll be able to hit a lot more rides in your first couple of hours in the park. Most theme park guests try to get to the most popular rides early in the day, but the long lines can waste time. (If you get to the park as soon as it opens, you’ll want to check out these rope drop tips.) If there’s a popular ride you want to go on, try getting in line a couple of minutes before closing at the end of the night. There are several benefits to this option. First, if you’re in line before the park closes, cast members must let you ride the ride. Second, this means you’re not missing anything, no matter how long you wait. Third, posted wait times at the end of the day are usually inflated to discourage guests from getting in line, so the actual wait time might be way faster than the posted wait time. And finally, you’ll miss the huge crowd of people all leaving the park at the same time.

Don’t: Use Lightning Lane access on shows and parades

Everybody is going to get to see the show at the same time, so there’s really no reason to use one of your Lightning Lane choices on something like that. You might get slightly better seats, but it’s not really worth it.

Do: Schedule your Lightning Lane choices early in the day

If you use up your choices earlier in the day, you have more time to keep picking more and getting more Lightning Lane rides throughout the day.

For extra savings on your Walt Disney World vacation, check out AAA Tickets.

Do you have any Disney World hacks? Share them in the comments below.

This article has been updated and republished from a previous version. 

Summer travel is soaring this Memorial Day weekend: AAA projects 43.8 million travelers will head 50 miles or more from home over the Memorial Day holiday travel period of May 23-27. This year’s total number of travelers constitutes a 4% increase over last year and exceeds pre-pandemic levels for the first time.

“We’re expecting to see plenty of traffic on the roads and in the skies this Memorial Day weekend,” said Mark Schieldrop, Senior Spokesperson for AAA Northeast. “We’re projecting an additional 1 million travelers this holiday weekend compared to 2019, which not only means that we’re moving beyond pandemic-era lulls but also signals a very busy summer travel season ahead.”

Modes of Travel

Road trips are expected to set a record this year. AAA projects 38.4 million people will travel by car over Memorial Day weekend, the highest number for the holiday since AAA began tracking in 2000. The number of drivers this year is up 4% compared to last year and 1.9% higher than in 2019.

Airports are also bracing for a spike in travelers: AAA expects 3.51 million air travelers this holiday weekend, an increase of 4.8% over last year and a 9% jump compared to 2019.

Nearly 2 million people are expected to travel by other modes of transportation, including buses, trains and cruises. AAA projects 1.9 million people will take these other modes of transportation, an increase of 5.6% over last year.

Best and Worst Times to Drive

Drivers leaving Thursday or Friday should expect the heaviest traffic during the afternoon, when travelers mix with commuters, according to data from transportation analytics company INRIX. Travelers going back home on Sunday or Monday should avoid the afternoon hours when return trips will likely peak.

Top Destinations

AAA booking data for Memorial Day weekend shows travelers are seeking theme parks and entertainment venues in Orlando, Fla.; New York City; Las Vegas; and Southern California. Seattle; Anchorage, Alaska; and Vancouver, British Columbia, rank high for visitors due to the popularity of Alaska cruises this time of year. Florida beaches and cruise ports will also be packed.

AAA car rental partner Hertz reports that cities boasting the highest rental demand this Memorial Day weekend are Orlando, Denver, Atlanta, Boston and Las Vegas.

On the international front, European cities dominate in popularity this Memorial Day weekend. The top 10 domestic and international destinations below are based on AAA booking data.

Best Times to Book Summer Travel

If travelers want their choice of options for summer travel, now is the best time to book. With this year’s near record high demand, waiting too long to book can result in limited inventory and sold-out cruises, tours or direct flights.

For travelers who may be more flexible in their destinations, flight routes or trip timing, booking closer to departure can sometimes yield last-minute deals. However, given higher demand this year, AAA travel advisors suggest booking summer vacations with plenty of time to ensure travelers have the most options to choose from.

Start making your summer travel plans with a AAA travel advisor.

Where are you headed Memorial Day weekend? Tell us in the comments.

Moving into a new house or apartment can seem like a daunting task. You’ve probably accumulated a lot of stuff over the years, and the idea of packing everything up can be enough to overwhelm anyone.

Make your next move a little easier with these tips.

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Moving out of your parents' house and into your first place? Check out Episode 9 of our podcast, Merging Into Life: Moving Out for the First Time.

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Timing Is Everything

In real estate, you might not always have control over your timeline. But if you have any choice when it comes to your move, you should choose to move in the spring. The days are longer and the temperature is warmer, but it’s also not as hot as a summer move.

Moving to a new house in the summer can be a sweaty chore, especially if you don’t have air conditioning installed yet. And moving in the winter can be dangerous – with a layer of ice coating the ground and a limited amount of daylight to work with. Try to plan for a moving date with a forecast of sunny skies.

Pack for Success

Half of the moving struggle is packing. Before things get moving, you need to make sure all your items are packed up and ready to go.

Pack by room. The smartest way to pack is to tackle one room at a time. It’s a natural way to organize your belongings, and it will help keep everything together when you unpack later. Once you organize by room, then you can organize by item. Pack all your dishes together, or all your linens together. Don’t spread the same types of items across multiple boxes if you can help it.

Use labels. Remember to label your boxes clearly. When your boxes are all labeled with the room in which they belong and the items that they contain, unpacking will be so much easier.

Handle with care. Make sure that your fragile items are properly protected for the move. Wrap your delicate items with bubble wrap or unprinted paper – newspaper is convenient, but the newsprint can leave stains behind. It’s also a good idea to put towels or other soft materials on the bottom of boxes containing delicate items.

Get the right box. Boxes and containers designed specifically for moving can make the whole process easier. Wardrobe boxes can help you easily transport hanging clothing, and mirror boxes can help protect your mirrors. Boxes with handles are the best for moving – giving the movers something to hold onto.

Get the Right Vehicle for the Job

If you have a car, it probably can’t fit everything you own. It probably can’t even fit your couch. When you move, you will most likely need a bigger vehicle to help you do it. Luckily, AAA members can save on truck rentals from Penske.

Penske offers truck rentals from cargo vans all the way up to 26-foot trucks. So which is right for you?

If you’re moving from a small apartment or a studio, try a high roof cargo van, which has the capacity of about one room, or a 12-foot truck, which has the capacity of two.

If you’re moving from a bigger apartment or a standard-sized house, opt for a 16-foot truck, which has the capacity of two to three rooms, or a 22-foot truck, which has the capacity of three to five.

Are you making an extra big move with even more cargo? The mammoth 26-foot truck has the capacity of five to seven rooms.

Don’t forget – when renting a truck from Penske, AAA members receive exclusive savings of 12% or more.

Do you have a tip that helped with your last move? Let us know in the comments below.

Though some areas are more susceptible than others, heavy rains and flash floods should be a concern for those living in the Northeast. After all, we are on the coast and so many of us live near water. Are your home and belongings protected with flood insurance?

Brush up on your knowledge of flood insurance with the answers to these frequently asked questions.

Do I need flood insurance if I have homeowners or renters insurance?

Short answer: Yes. Homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage.

Longer answer: In the 1960s, after a series of flooding along the Mississippi River, flooding was viewed as an uninsurable risk, and many private homeowners insurance companies pulled out of offering coverage for flood damage. Thus, the National Flood Insurance Program was born. The program provides federally backed flood insurance to certain communities participating in the program. If your community doesn’t participate in the program, you can’t buy a policy through the NFIP, but you may be able to buy a policy through a private insurance company.

Check the NFIP Community Book to see if your town or city participates in the program.

Do I need flood insurance if I don’t live near water?

If you don’t live in a Special Flood Hazard Area, defined by FEMA has having a 1% or greater chance or flooding in any given year, you’re not federally required to have flood insurance. However, your mortgage lender may still require you to have it. And, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, more than 40% of flood claims come from properties outside high-risk flood zones. So, though you may not technically need to have flood insurance, it’s still recommended as floods can happen anywhere.

What exactly does flood insurance cover?

In general, flood insurance protects your home from damage done by rising waters, inundation (what happens when water covers normally dry land) and mudflows (when floodwater mixes with mud). It covers the cleanup, debris removal and repairs necessary after a flood.

You can insure your house for up to $250,000 with building property coverage and your belongings for up to $100,000 with personal property coverage, which must be purchased separately through the National Flood Insurance Program. You may be able to purchase additional coverage through a private flood insurance program.

What doesn’t flood insurance cover?

Knowing what isn’t covered is as important to understanding flood insurance as knowing what is covered.

Flood insurance doesn’t cover damage that affects property and belongings outside the home, including trees, walkways, pools, decks and patios, fences, septic systems and the like. In furnished areas below ground level, insurance coverage doesn’t include paneling, bookcases, window treatments, carpeting and other floor coverings, drywall for walls and ceilings, and personal property such as clothing, electronic equipment, kitchen supplies and furniture.

Coverage for basement and crawlspace damage is pretty limited.

Policyholders should also be aware of the “earth movement” or “long-term differential movement” clause. Loss of property caused by earth movement, even if due to a flood, isn’t covered. That means your policy may exclude damage caused by landslides, sinkholes or movement of land due to water accumulation or gradual erosion.

What should I do before a flood?

If you have flood insurance, take pictures or video of your property to document the condition of your home before any damage is done. Photograph the house, the foundation, the interior and exterior walls and each room inside to avoid a dispute over whether the damage was pre-existing. FEMA recommends that you keep a file of these photos along with a copy of your insurance policies, plus serial numbers and receipts for major appliances and electronics.

If you don’t have flood insurance, first ensure that your community participates in the NFIP, then talk to an insurance agent about your options. Keep in mind that there is a 30-day waiting period to purchase flood insurance, so you can’t wait until just before a storm (home closings where it is required by the lender are an exception.)

Contact an experienced AAA Insurance agent today.

What should I do after a flood?

First, call your insurance agent or insurance company. Make a list of damaged or lost items and include receipts if possible. Take pictures of the damage after the flood, before any cleanup or debris removal.

Learn more about what to do before, during and after a flood.

Do you have flood insurance that has come in handy? Tell us how it has helped you in the comments below.

This article has been updated and republished from a previous version. 

Summer in the Ocean State means three things: Del’s lemonade, near-tropical levels of humidity and checking out the best beaches in Rhode Island. (Beach traffic, too, but that’s a topic we’ll save for another day.)

It is the Ocean State, after all. For hundreds of years, folks have flocked to the Rhode Island coastline to escape the sweltering summer temperatures. (Newport mansions, anyone?) If you’re of a similar mind, we’ve rounded up our five favorite beaches for you to explore this summer.

Stay cool, my friends! And grab a Del’s if you can ­– it’s the perfect beverage to pair with the beach.

Goosewing Beach Preserve

Little Compton

It takes a little walking to get here, but you’ll be rewarded with fewer crowds than other Rhode Island beaches – even in the peak of summer – and nature galore. The parcel is owned by The Nature Conservancy, with the town managing the beach in the summer months. If you want to commune with nature and avoid the typical beach scene, this is the place for you. It’s decidedly rustic, with portable toilets and a few private food vendors. Park at South Shore Beach and walk to the end to get to Goosewing. On your way home, make sure to stop by Gray’s Ice Cream in neighboring Tiverton. The homemade ice cream and frozen yogurt is said to be some of the best in the state.

Beach parking costs $20 on weekdays, $25 on weekends/holidays.

Scarborough State Beach

Narragansett

Poor Scarborough. For years this beautiful, tidy beach has been trying to shed its past image as the Ocean State’s Muscle Beach – a place where boomboxes jammed, hairspray-teased hairdos ruled and gold chains shimmered in the sun.

Yes, you’ll still find avid sun-worshippers and more than a fair amount of college students, but it’s also a place where families and friends gather to enjoy the sandy, wide swatch of coastline and the gentle, rolling surf. It’s not too gentle, though – you can bring a boogie board and catch a fair amount of waves. It’s perfect for seashell-picking and walking too. You can explore the mysterious ruins of an old building – the good folks at Rhode Island Monthly sleuthed out that it was the 21-room mansion Windswept – while you spy Point Judith Lighthouse in the distance, standing sentinel over the steely Atlantic. As for amenities, Scarborough is stacked: concessions, picnic tables, hot and cold showers, and shady gazebos from which to watch the scene. It’s all here.

A visit to Brickley’s Ice Cream on the way home would be 1) welcome after a scorching day at the beach and 2) highly recommended. TripAdvisor.com named the Narragansett icon one of the top 10 places in the U.S. for homemade ice cream.

Rhode Island resident parking is $6 on weekdays and $7 on weekends/holidays; non-resident parking is $12 on weekdays and $14 on weekends/holidays.

Narragansett Town Beach

Narragansett

If you’re looking for waves, whether for surfing or boogie boarding, you can’t beat Narragansett Town Beach. Yes, you pay for both parking and admission, but what you get in return is a mile-long beach that’s spotless and sandy, with the added bonus of getting to watch surfers plying the waves. Just across the street you’ll find tons of eateries – everything from crepes to classic seafood fare – as well as shopping and ice cream spots. The wall ringing the beach is a popular spot to sit and indulge in some serious people-watching, especially with an ice-cold cone of gelato in your hand.

It’s open daily from June 1 through Labor Day. Admission is $12 for adults. Children age 11 and under are free. Parking is $10 on weekdays and $15 on weekends and holidays.

Second Beach

Middletown

Its official name is Sachuest Beach, but Rhode Islanders know this strip of shore as Second Beach. (Easton’s Beach in Newport is known as First Beach, and a beach near Third Beach Harbor is – you guessed it – Third Beach.) Like Scarborough, this is another of those quintessential Ocean State beaches; the one everyone’s family went to when they were little. The amenities are plentiful: a concession stand, restrooms, showers, picnic tables and grills dot the sandy expanse. The beach is perched between two natural wonders: Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge at one end, filled with walking trails that snowy owls love to visit every few winters; and Purgatory Chasm, a natural ravine sluiced away by seawater, at the other. It’s a rocky scramble to get there, though, so bring sneakers or hiking boots.

It’s open daily Memorial Day through Labor Day. Parking is $25 on weekdays and $35 on weekends/holidays.

Spring Lake Beach

Burrillville

OK, so it’s technically not a beach, per se: it’s a freshwater pond. But what Spring Lake lacks in saltwater spray and seashells it makes up for in family-friendliness, small-town charm and picturesque views. Little touches like slides set up in the water and a floating dock just perfect for jumping into the lake will appeal to young and old alike. A little swim store likely carries anything you may have forgotten, and the facility also has restrooms, outdoor showers, shady picnic tables and kayak rentals. But the best part just may be the penny arcade. It’s been lovingly maintained throughout the years and has some of the oldest games in the country. Some even take pennies, nickels and dimes. It’s a great place to escape the blistering sun for a little bit and feel like a kid again.

Daily admission is $5 for Burrillville residents and $8 for non-residents.

What are your picks for the best beaches in Rhode Island? Tell us in the comments. 

Find top beaches throughout the Northeast at AAA.com/BeachGuide.

This article has been updated and republished from a previous version.

As the heat turns up, so does the risk of heatstroke.

Warmer than usual temperatures are to be expected in the Northeast during the summer months, although as a result of climate change, the frequency, duration and intensity of heat waves that we experience every year is only projected to increase, according to the World Health Organization.

When the mercury starts to rise into the 90s and push up into the 100s, it can become dangerous to our health, homes, cars and pets. However, it’s important to start thinking about hot car and extreme heat safety, even if there isn’t a heat wave in the forecast, as even a mild, sunny day, can make the inside of a car lethally hot. Here’s how you can guard against the risks.

Health

Soaring temperatures cause your body to strain to maintain normal conditions, which can quickly lead to organ failure and even death in some cases. Excessive heat is the leading weather-related killer in the United States, according to the National Weather Service.

It is often a combination of high heat and humidity that can lead to illnesses like heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Learn the warning signs of each, and if you experience the symptoms or notice them happening to someone else, act right away. Most importantly, stay cool and stay hydrated.

Populations most prone to heat-induced sickness include the elderly, overweight individuals, infants, children and pregnant women. Outdoor and manual workers are also at higher risk. If you are a business owner with employees that often works in these conditions, such as a contractor, you want to make sure you have the right insurance coverage in place. Schedule a call to speak with a AAA commercial insurance specialist.

Pets, particularly dogs and cats with thick coats and short snouts, can quickly fall victim to heatstroke, as well. Signs include panting or difficulty breathing, drooling, weakness, increased heart rate, lethargy and collapsing. Make sure your pets stay cool and well hydrated, don’t over-exercise them when it’s hot and keep them out of the direct sun.

Protecting Children and Pets From Hot Cars

Heatstroke is the most common non-crash, vehicle-related cause of death in children under the age of 15. Over 20% of deaths result when a caregiver knowingly leaves a child in a car, typically to run a quick errand or let the child finish a nap, according to NoHeatStroke.org.

On a typical 80-degree summer day, the interior temperature of a vehicle increases by 20 degrees in only 10 minutes and reaches a deadly 109 degrees in 20 minutes. On hotter days, the interior temperature can easily reach 120-140 degrees, and cracking the windows has little effect.

And it doesn’t have to be scorching hot outside to get dangerously hot inside a car. Although most hot car deaths occur when temperatures are over 80 degrees, a child has succumbed to vehicular heatstroke in 70-80-degree weather in each of the past ten years.

To prevent hot car deaths, AAA Northeast recommends caregivers practice the following:

• Stop and look at the backseat before exiting a parked vehicle. Make it a habit to check the entire vehicle before locking the doors and walking away. Place personal items, like a purse or briefcase, in the back seat as another reminder to look before you lock. Ask childcare providers to immediately call if your child doesn’t show up for care as expected.
• Lock your vehicle to prevent unsupervised access and a child getting trapped inside. Keep car keys away from children and teach them that the inside of a car should never be used as a play area.

Statistics about pets dying in hot cars are not tracked as closely, but the American Veterinary Medical Association reports that every year, hundreds of pets die of heatstroke in parked vehicles. In most Northeast states, it is illegal to leave a pet unattended in a parked car.

If you see a child or animal confined in a hot car, act fast and do whatever is necessary to get them to safety as quickly as possible. Immediately notify a nearby business so they can make an announcement to find the potential caregiver, call 911 and wait until help arrives.

Cars

AAA stays busy in the summertime, as breakdowns tend to spike on hot days.

Extreme heat can take a toll on cars and can be especially stressful on engines. Check the coolant and make sure that it is periodically flushed and replaced as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer to prevent long-term engine damage and overheating.

Car batteries also hate the heat. Battery fluid evaporates faster in the summer, leading to corrosion. If a car’s battery is more than three years old, it’s a good idea to have it tested by a trained technician. AAA members can request Mobile Battery Service or take their car to any AAA Approved Auto Repair facility to be tested. And while you’re there, have them make sure your tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s specification and the AC is operating at full capacity.

If all precautions fail, you know who to call.

Check out more summer driving safety tips from AAA.

Home

When it gets to be too hot outside, you want your home to be a place of refuge where you can cool down – not a hotbox. To keep the hot air out, Ready.gov recommends weather-stripping windows and doors, installing window air conditioners with insulation, covering windows with drapes or shades, using attic fans and setting up window reflectors such as aluminum foil-covered cardboard to deflect heat outside.

Preparing your home for extreme heat should be part of seasonal maintenance. Aside from making sure your house is as cool and energy-efficient as possible, without proper upkeep, heat can eventually start to take its toll on the structure. In the Northeast, this might include roof damage. Over time, roofing can expand and contract during extreme hikes and dips in temperature, making it susceptible to splits and leaks.

How do you stay cool in extreme heat? Tell us in the comments.

Protect you car, home, small business, pets and more with AAA Insurance.

Plan your next adventure with a AAA travel advisor.

No ocean? No problem! The rivers, lakes and parks of upstate New York prove you don’t need access to the Atlantic to have a great time at the beach. From swimming holes to the shores of Lake Erie, these upstate New York beaches are the perfect places to beat the heat this summer.

Adirondack Region

Veterans Memorial Park Beach, Bolton Landing 

Fees: Parking is $5.

Hours: Beach is open daily from 7 a.m.-11 p.m.; lifeguards on duty 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Veterans Memorial Park is a less crowded and more peaceful alternative than some of the larger and more popular beaches in the Lake George area. The views of the lake are spectacular here, but that isn’t the only attraction. There is also a basketball court, playground, kayak launch and public docks. There are no food facilities but there is a picnic area, and many restaurants are just a short drive or walk away on Lake Shore Drive.

Lake Placid Public Beach, Lake Placid 

Fees: Free

Hours: Lifeguards on duty daily during beach season.

Located on the on the southern shore of Mirror Lake, Lake Placid Public Beach provides great fishing access. The lake is known for being a rainbow trout, lake trout and smallmouth bass fishing hotspot, so anglers should be sure to bring their rods. The facility also has a canoe and kayak access site for paddlers, but motorboats are prohibited on the lake. Not far from the shore, a playground, tennis court and 2.7-mile walking trail provide opportunities for the whole family to get some exercise after a relaxing morning of lounging in the sand. Added bonus – this is a dog-friendly beach, so bring along your best furry friend!

Catskills Region

Oquaga Creek State Park, Bainbridge

Fees: Free

Hours: Park is open year-round from dawn to dusk.

Just a three-hour drive from New York City and New Jersey, Oquaga Creek State Park is one of the best upstate New York beaches to escape to this summer. Visitors can spend the day tanning in the sand or swimming in the cool, calm waters of Arctic Lake. Bring your fishing poles, as the lake is home to an abundance of black bass, bullheads and rainbow trout. After a long morning by the water, guests can get some exercise hiking or biking along the park’s 6 miles of nature trails. If you’re looking to spend more than just a day, there are 90 campsites available for visitor use, which are ideal for RV and tent camping.

Hudson Valley Region

Croton Point Park Beach, Croton-on-Hudson

Fees: Parking is $5 for residents and $10 for non-residents. Daily beach admission fee is $4 for adults, $3 for children ages 5-11.

Hours: Open 11 a.m.-6:30 p.m. on weekends only through June 14 and Wednesday through Sunday from June 23 through Sept. 4.

Croton Point Park is comprised of 508 acres of land, including a stretch of beach along the Hudson River. It offers a boat launch, lifeguard-protected swimming, kayaking, canoeing, fishing and a pool for Westchester County residents. The park allows RV camping and contains playgrounds, hiking trails, pavilions and even a nature center. Dogs are allowed in the park, but they must be leashed. Order something from one of the food stands or bring some hot dogs and hamburgers to put on the grill in the picnic area. 

Thousand Islands-Seaway Region

Cedar Point State Park, Clayton (pictured above)

Fees: $6 per car during off-peak times, $7 per car during peak times. Free with a New York State pass.

Hours: Park is open from early May through Columbus Day. Swimming season is from June 24 through Labor Day, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Beach-goers can swim in the lifeguard-protected waters, fish along the pier, play a game of beach volleyball or rent and launch powerboats. The nearby marina allows visitors to dock their boats both during the day and overnight for a small fee. Other amenities include a baseball field, playground and campground for both tent and trailer camping. Dogs are allowed in the park so long as they are kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet; however, they are not permitted in the picnic or bathing areas.

Central New York Region

Glimmerglass State Park, Cooperstown

Fees: Vehicle entrance is $7 per car from May 27 through Labor Day. Free with a New York State pass.

Hours: Park is open year-round from dawn to dusk. Swimming hours are 11 a.m. through 7 p.m., weekends only Memorial Day through June 18, and daily from June 19 through Labor Day.

Glimmerglass State Park got its name from James Fenimore Cooper’s reference to Otsego Lake as “Glimmerglass” in his book “The Leatherstocking Tales.” This calm, peaceful upstate New York beach is a great place to go swimming, boating or fishing. The lake contains an abundance of panfish, pickerel, smallmouth and largemouth bass. Within the park, visitors can hike or bike along miles of nature trails, have a meal in the shaded picnic area, play with their children on the playgrounds or even set up camp overnight.

Finger Lakes Region

Hamlin Beach State Park, Hamlin

Fees: Vehicle entrance is $9. Free with a New York State pass.

Hours: Park is open year-round from dawn to dusk. Vehicle entrance fees collected 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., weekends from mid-May until June 24, daily from June 24 through Labor Day.

Among upstate New York beaches, this is a favorite for Monroe County and surrounding area residents, bringing in thousands of visitors each year. Its sandy lakefront beach offers lifeguard-supervised swimming, car-top boat launching and some of the best salmon and trout fishing in the area.

The park itself contains more than 10 miles of trails suitable for hiking, biking and jogging, as well as a mile-long self-guided nature walk. With a diverse range of animal species, including marsh-nesting birds, amphibians, turtles and beavers, this park is ideal for nature lovers; it has even been named an Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society.

A spacious campground is also located on the premises, featuring 264 sites for both tent and trailer camping along with amenities such as showers, restrooms and dumping stations.

Niagara Region

Bennet Beach, Angola

Fees: Free

Hours: Beach hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m. (Swimming opens at 11 a.m. and is only permitted when lifeguards are on duty.)

According to the county’s website, Bennet is “considered by many to be the most beautiful beach in Erie County.” Its family-friendly atmosphere, clean sand and clear water attract visitors from all over the Buffalo area each year. Popular ways to spend time at Bennett Beach include swimming, fishing and wind surfing. A variety of wildlife call this area home, making it a great location for both birdwatchers and nature lovers alike. Other amenities include a small playground area and restrooms.

Chautauqua-Allegany Region

Allegany State Park, Salamanca

Fees: $7 vehicle fee. Free with a New York State pass.

Hours: Park is open year-round. Vehicle fees are collected on weekends and holidays only through June 18, daily from June 24 through Labor Day. Swimming season is June 24 through Labor Day, every day from 11 a.m.- 7:00 p.m.

The Quaker Area of Allegany State Park is known for its lakes and camping. The lakes offer sandy beaches, fishing piers and non-motorized boating. The park’s hiking trails are popular and bring visitors through many kinds of wilderness, including caves and deep woods. If you’re looking to be active, the park has baseball fields as well as basketball, volleyball and tennis courts. A unique attraction is an old Quaker store, which has been restored into a museum about the park and the Quaker people. The area is also home to two campgrounds that have a combined 189 campsites and 230 cabins available for rent.

The Red House Area, located on Red House Lake, is suited for more active visitors. With 5 miles of paved bike paths, a softball field, a horseshoe pit and volleyball and tennis courts, this area has something for every sportsperson to love. For those who prefer water sports, the facility features a lifeguard-protected beach, which allows for swimming, fishing and boating. The Red House Area also contains a campground with a total of 130 campsites and 144 cabins.

Capital-Saratoga Region

Moreau Lake State Park, Gansevoort

Fees: $8 per vehicle daily from May 28 through Sept. 5 / $6 per vehicle on weekends and holidays through May 27. Free with a New York State pass.

Hours: Park is open year-round from dusk to dawn. The beach is open daily for swimming, Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Moreau Lake State Park consists of 4,600 acres of land beside the Hudson River. The park’s lake beach is a popular summer vacation destination. There, beach-goers can tan, swim, fish, kayak and rent and launch small boats. The park itself contains more than 20 miles of multi-use trails, where visitors can walk, bike, jog and observe the wildlife. Moreau Lake State Park also contains a bird conservation area, where birds such as bald eagles, Cooper’s hawks, red-shouldered hawks, pied-billed grebes and northern harriers nest. Camping within the park is permitted and there are more than 100 campsites for both RV and tent camping.

What are your favorite upstate New York beaches? Tell us in the comments.

Find top beaches throughout the Northeast at AAA.com/BeachGuide.

This article has been updated and republished from a previous version.

Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30 and usually hits its stride around mid-August through October. During this time of year, severe weather becomes top of mind as each named storm brings questions of when and where the next one will hit.

Colorado State University’s Tropical Weather and Climate Research predicts an “extremely active” hurricane season for 2024, calling for 23 named storms, 11 of which could become hurricanes and five that could become major hurricanes.

Are you prepared for a weather emergency or evacuation? Take advantage of the calm long before a storm to plan for your family’s safety with these hurricane readiness tips.

To speak to a AAA insurance agent about your storm coverage, schedule an appointment today. 

Sign Up for Storm Alerts 

The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s mobile app will send you National Weather Service notifications on up to five locations and locate emergency shelters. You should keep an eye on local news and weather reports as well.

Brush up on how storm categories and other extreme weather terms are defined to better understand what’s in the forecast.

Hurricane Preparedness Guide

Learn how to prevent damage to your home, how to stay safe during a storm, when to evacuate and more.

Download Now!

Pack a Bag 

If you have to leave your home on short notice, you’ll want some essentials for you and everyone in your family. FEMA recommends packing things like medications, food and water, clothing and a first-aid kit. Your bag should be easy to carry and kept where you can grab it quickly.

Learn more about how to build an emergency supply kit.

Plan for Evacuation 

State or local officials may issue evacuation notices in advance of dangerous storms. Check with your local department of transportation or emergency management office to familiarize yourself with your area’s evacuation routes.

Keep your car’s gas tank at least half-full and carry a kit of basic emergency supplies including snacks, bottled water, a first-aid kit, flashlights, flares, jumper cables, tools, a blanket and a change of clothes.

Establish a Communication Plan 

Figure out how your family will stay in touch if you’re separated or lose power. You can choose an out-of-state contact for everyone to use and designate a meetup spot.

Get Supplies 

You can build an emergency stockpile over time, but remember to replace items with a limited shelf life, like food and batteries. Your hurricane readiness supplies should include:

• One gallon of water per person per day for at least three days.
• At least a three-day supply of nonperishable food.
• Battery or hand-crank radio and extra batteries.
• Flashlight with extra batteries.
• Whistle to signal for help.
• A wrench and/or pliers.
• Dust mask to filter contaminated air.
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape.
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation.
• Can opener if your food kit contains cans.
• Local maps.
• Prescriptions and reading glasses.
• Infant formula and diapers.
• Pet food and extra water for pets.
• Important family documents, such as insurance policies and bank account records. Store these in a waterproof container.
• Sleeping bags or warm blankets.
• Cash or traveler’s checks.
• Complete change of clothing, including a long-sleeved shirt and long pants.
• A fire extinguisher.
• Matches in a waterproof container.
• Feminine and personal hygiene supplies.
• Paper cups, plates, plastic utensils and paper towels.

Staying Put

If you’re not ordered to evacuate, stay indoors, away from windows and glass doors. Never use a generator or gasoline-powered equipment indoors or in partially enclosed areas. Such equipment should be outside, 20 feet away from doors, windows and vents.

Prepare Your Home 

Powerful winds and floods are two of the greatest dangers presented by hurricanes. Ready your home by reinforcing doors, windows, walls and the roof. You should also bring loose, light objects like patio furniture and garbage cans inside and anchor objects you cannot bring inside, like grills. Trim or remove trees that are close enough to fall on buildings.

To prepare your home for heavy rains or flooding, keep gutters and drains free of debris. If possible, install a water alarm and sump pump with battery and battery backup. Stockpile plywood, plastic sheeting, sandbags and other emergency materials, too.

Remember that flood damage is not covered by standard homeowners insurance. You should talk to your insurance agent about purchasing coverage, which might have a 30-day waiting period before it takes effect.

Learn the ins and outs of hurricane deductibles.

For more information on hurricane readiness and other safety tips, visit www.ready.gov or download our free hurricane preparedness guide.

This article has been updated and republished from a previous version. 

From the rocky shores of the Long Island Sound to the plush sands of the Atlantic Ocean, nothing says summer like the beaches of Long Island. Find the best beach for you and your family with our list of the best Long Island beaches.

Suffolk County

Sunken Meadow State Park, Kings Park

Fees: $10 per car on weekends and holidays, May 27 through Sept. 10. Free with a New York State pass.

Hours: Hours vary by beach and season. Check park website for details.

Sunken Meadow State Park offers miles of beautiful beachfront along the Long Island Sound. The calm waters make it ideal for less-experienced swimmers as well as kayakers, windsurfers and stand-up paddleboarders. Visitors who wish to burn some calories can play a game of soccer or baseball on the activity fields. Other amenities include food stands, picnic areas, playgrounds and a launch site for kayaks and canoes.

Robert Moses State Park, Babylon

Fees: $10 per car from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Free with a New York State pass.

Hours: Park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset. Ocean swimming hours vary; 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. weekdays and
8 a.m. – 8 p.m. weekends and holidays.

Among the most popular Long Island beaches, Robert Moses State Park offers visitors five miles of beachfront along the Atlantic Ocean coastline. Popular water activities include swimming, surfing, fishing, stand-up paddleboarding, windsurfing and boating. For boaters, the park offers a basin capable of holding up to 40 boats during the day. Other amenities include concessions, picnic area, playgrounds, sports fields and pavilions. And whether you are a golfer or not, everyone can have fun or brush up on their game during a casual round at the Robert Moses State Park Pitch and Putt Golf Course.

Orient Beach State Park, Orient

Fees: $10 per car during beach season. Free with a New York State pass.

Hours: Lifeguards on duty daily from 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m. during beach season.

The beach at Orient Beach State Park stretches across 45,000 feet of Gardiners Bay. Here, beach-goers can swim, fish, canoe, windsurf and stand-up paddleboard. The park, which spans 360 acres, offers pavilions, athletic fields, horseshoe pits and bocce ball and shuffleboard courts. Nature enthusiasts can hike, bike or jog along the scenic trails and spot plentiful wildlife. As a designated Audubon Important Bird Area, it is a prime destination for birdwatchers. Guided tours with park rangers are also available.

Main Beach, East Hampton

Fees: Free all season for village residents with parking permit. $50 daily for non-residents or $750 for seasonal pass.

Season pass: Free for village residents, $750 for non-residents.

Hours: Beaches are open weekends and holidays only starting Memorial Day until the last Saturday in June, then daily through Labor Day. Lifeguards on duty daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. during beach season.

The village of East Hampton’s Main Beach is one of the most popular and highly acclaimed beaches in the Hamptons. Often commended for its cleanliness, facilities and high level of lifeguarding, when it comes to Long Island beaches, this one checks off all the boxes. Parking passes can be hard to get as the daily passes are limited. However, the beach is about a 20-minute walk away from East Hampton’s Main Street, where ample parking is available.

Cupsogue Beach, Westhampton

Fees: $9 daily for Suffolk County residents with Green Key cards / $18 daily for non-residents.

Hours: Parking rates apply from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Lifeguards on duty daily from 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. during beach season.

In the winter this Westhampton beach is a hotspot for seals, but come summer, the people move in for swimming, fishing and even scuba diving. Camping is also permitted along the outer beach with a permit. The Cupsogue Beach pavilion provides restrooms, changing rooms and showers for anyone who wants to wash up after a long day in the water. For a bite to eat, head down to the Beach Hut for breakfast, lunch or a quick snack. While you’re in the area, be sure to check out the Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center for plays, concerts, comedy shows and more.

Ocean Beach, Fire Island

Fees: There are no beach fees in Ocean Beach. It is only accessible by the Fire Island Ferry from Bay Shore. See ferry website for hours and prices.

Hours: This beach does not have set hours.

Ocean Beach is the largest village on Fire Island and is home to many shops and restaurants as well as over a mile of sandy ocean beachfront. The beautiful surroundings combined with an abundance of dining and nightlife options have made it Fire Island’s most popular tourist destination. Often regarded as having the best restaurant scene on Fire Island, Ocean Beach is home to more than a few popular restaurants, including the Island Mermaid for seafood and Rachel’s Bakery and Restaurant. If you have a sweet tooth, the ice cream shop Scoops is not to be missed.

Nassau County

Jones Beach State Park, Wantagh

Fees: Parking is $10 from 5/25 to 9/2. Free with a New York State pass.

Hours: Hours vary depending on the parking field and time of the year. Check park website for details.

Founded in 1929, Jones Beach State Park is one of the most famous Long Island beaches. It’s known for its four-mile-long boardwalk, six miles of sandy oceanfront beach, historic bathhouses and Memorial Day Weekend air show, which draws hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. And a summer on Long Island would not be complete without catching at least one concert at Jones Beach Theater.

The park is split into “fields” based on the closest parking lot. The boardwalk stretches from Field 2 to Field 6, along which you will find concession stands, playgrounds, a mini golf course and many tennis, basketball and shuffleboard courts. Field 10 is home to fishing piers and a full-service bait and tackle shop, and it is a launching spot for kayaks and sailboards. Ocean swimming is available at several lifeguarded locations, and for those prefer calmer waters Zach’s Bay (located near Fields 5 and 6) is also patrolled by lifeguards.

Nickerson Beach Park, Lido Beach

Fees: $15 daily for Nassau County residents / $37 daily for non-residents.

Hours: Lifeguards on duty daily from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. during beach season.

A true community beach, Nickerson Beach Park offers a ton of activities and fun ways for the family to spend the lazy days of summer. The beach stretches a half-mile along the Atlantic Ocean and is connected to a 155-acre park, which has swimming pools (extra fee required for admittance), tennis courts, soccer field, beach volleyball courts, a baseball field, a dog run and campgrounds. Cabanas and cabinettes are available to rent during the season, but they are a hot ticket, so you’ll have to be put on a waitlist to become eligible. The park also has a concession stand, playground, skate park and two basketball courts.

Ocean Beach Park, Long Beach

Fees: $12 daily for City of Long Beach residents or $85 for seasonal pass / $15 daily for non-residents or $170 for seasonal pass. See all prices.

Hours: Lifeguards on duty 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on weekdays during beach season, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. on weekends and holidays.

Ocean Beach Park is made up of four miles of sandy oceanfront beach in Long Beach. It features a 2.2-mile boardwalk, which was largely rebuilt after Hurricane Sandy. Condominiums and hotels line the landward side of the boardwalk. The LIRR station is just a short walk from the beach, making it one of the most convenient Long Island beaches, especially if you are coming from New York City.

Besides swimming, popular activities at Ocean Beach Park include volleyball, biking and inline skating on the boardwalk, and surfing. There are a number of food trucks and concessions offered along the boardwalk and a variety of restaurants just up the block on Park Avenue.

Town Park, Point Lookout

Fees: $12 daily for Town of Hempstead residents or $138 for seasonal pass / $55 daily for non-residents.

Hours: Open daily from May 27 through Sept. 4. Lifeguards on duty daily from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. during beach season.

Point Lookout occupies the eastern end of the barrier island home to Lido Beach and Long Beach. Surrounded by water on three sides, the town has long been a popular summer destination for locals. The public beach, Town Park, occupies 1,800 feet of land along the Atlantic Ocean. It’s an ideal place to sit in the sun with friends and family. The beach also has picnic tables and a playground for the little ones.

When you’ve had enough sun, make sure to enjoy the quaint summer destination of Point Lookout. The town has a number of restaurants and shops worth visiting. With an area of just 0.2 square miles and a 15-mph speed limit, the town is easy to explore on foot. Catch a fresh seafood meal at one of the many waterfront restaurants or pop into a local shop for something unique to take home.

What are some of your favorite Long Island beaches? Tell us in the comments. 

Find top beaches throughout the Northeast at AAA.com/BeachGuide.

This article has been updated and republished from a previous version.

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your puzzle playing experience. Good luck!

What does summer mean to you?

For many, summer calls to mind the sweet taste of fresh blueberries, homemade ice cream or strawberry shortcake. For others, it’s long afternoons spent in nature, hiking along lush paths, slicing through peaceful pond water on a canoe or strolling through the farmers market. And some dream of summer evenings spent around the campfire or swaying to the music at an outdoor concert.

If you’re pining for a classic American summer, look no further than North Central Massachusetts.

For Long, Sunny Days

There are many ways to cool off during the dog days of summer in Massachusetts.

Grab Some Ice Cream

Beat the afternoon heat with a frosty cup or cone of ice cream at one of the region’s many ice cream establishments.

Kimball Farm in Lancaster has been serving homemade ice cream since 1939, while Cherry Hill Ice Cream dishes out the sweet stuff at stands in Townsend and Lunenburg. And don’t forget Rota Spring Farm in Sterling, where you can also pick up some farm fresh produce.

Take a Dip

With so much coastline to enjoy in Massachusetts, you might not realize there are ways to enjoy the water inland too. It’s easy to take the family to cool off at one of the area’s rivers or splash parks.

Keep it simple this year with a weekend getaway to Leominster State Forest or Otter River State Forest. Leominster offers outdoor swimming at Crow Hill Pond, a small, family-friendly beach surrounded by beautiful hiking trails. Beaman Pond at Otter River State Forest is a popular swimming spot for both day hikers and campers. The small beach area is a great picnic spot for families with young kids.

Of course, you can also check out Great Wolf New England’s sensational indoor water park, the massive water spray park at Davis’ Farmland or the free splash pad at Parkhill Park in Fitchburg, all perfect for sweltering summer afternoons.

New England Summer: Close to Home!

Explore the wonders and New England charm of North Central Massachusetts. Plan your summer getaway today!

Learn More

Chill Out With a Cold Brew

For those looking to chill out with a beverage, North Central Massachusetts has plenty of breweries to quench your thirst. In Fitchburg, you can find summer ales at Thirsty Robot Brewing. There’s also Wachusett Brewing Company in Westminster, Moonhill Brewing at the Gardner Ale House or the the Brew Barn at Red Apple Farm in Phillipston.

For a different kind of cold brew, try an iced coffee at one of the many coffee shops in the area, from Bolton Bean in Bolton to Smokestack Roasters in Lunenburg.

Opt for an Outdoor Adventure

Do you prefer to stay active all summer? Take your pick of several fishing holes, scenic trails, golf courses and more throughout North Central Massachusetts.

To get even closer to the region’s wild side, try canoeing or kayaking on the Nashoba River, go for a walk in Doyle Community Park or head to Doane’s Falls in Royalston to listen to the roar of the water.

For Warm, Starry Nights

The summer fun doesn’t have to end when the sun goes down.

Go Camping

Picture this: After a day of fun in the sun, you’re ready to wind down with supper cooked over the campfire, toasted s’mores and an evening of conversation and music under the stars. The beauty of this image is that it’s within reach this summer. Because camping isn’t just fun, it’s affordable too!

In North Central Massachusetts, state-operated and private campgrounds offer sites for backcountry camping, tent sites and even cabin rentals. So, no matter how much (or how little) you like roughing it, there’s a camping experience for you.

For a private campground with oodles of family-friendly amenities, check out Pine Acre Family Camping Resort in Oakham, The Pines Campground in Ashby or Lamb City in Phillipston.

Jam at an Outdoor Concert

If sleeping outdoors isn’t your cup of tea, this region offers plenty of other evening entertainment options, especially in summer.

Many town commons in North Central Massachusetts have outdoor evening concerts when the weather turns warm. Summer concert series take place at bandstands and town greens across the country, but the history of these events runs deep in New England. Or take in a concert at the spectacular Groton Hill Music Center.

No matter your musical preference, you’re bound to find evening entertainment you’ll enjoy this summer. Always check out the North Central Massachusetts events calendar for up-to-date happenings in the area’s towns and parks.

Ready for summer?

Start planning your next day trip or weekend getaway in North Central Massachusetts.

Imagine checking off the high-end experiences on your Luxury Gold Founder’s Collection small group journey of England and Scotland’s national treasures: London, Stonehenge, Stratford-upon-Avon, Edinburgh and of course, lunch with a British duchess on the grounds of her 11^th-century castle.

Every Luxury Gold small group journey is meticulously planned, keeping convenience, exclusivity and extravagance at the center. From exceptional dining at Michelin-rated restaurants to VIP curated experiences with afterhours access and magnificent stays at world-leading properties, every detail is elevated. Plus, guests are catered to by Luxury Gold’s 24/7 Travel Concierge, who combine local knowledge with the ultimate black book of contacts.

The Founder’s Collection, personally curated Luxury Gold’s late founder Stanley Tollman, is inspired by his life in travel and calls upon his extensive connections. With a chance to meet royalty, scholars and regional experts from different countries and behind-the-scenes access to incredible locations, your itinerary will look quite impressive.

The exclusive meet-and-greets are part of select journeys. Of course, your Travel Concierge and local experts from the region you are visiting will accompany you to answer questions and provide more information. Many itineraries also include a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER^® experience, focused on sustainable travel practices, local culture and resources.

Here are just a few of the fascinating people you could meet on a Luxury Gold small group journey featuring a Founder’s Collection experience.

Be the Guest of an Artist, Scholar in Peru

Luxury Gold’s Treasures of the Incas excursion in Peru includes a VIP visit to artist Victor Delfin’s home in Lima and a trip to the ancient Incan citadel of Machu Pichu prior to the arrival of crowds. Enjoy the beauty of a tea plantation or a visit to one of the country’s biggest orchid farms.

Peru’s Founder’s Collection experience includes a stop at the ancestral home of Peruvian politician and philanthropist, Dr. Francisco Diez-Canseco Távara, in Lima. Over Lunch, Dr. Canseco relates anecdotes of his family’s experiences, surrounded by artifacts from his country’s and family’s personal history.

Visitors also have the opportunity to learn about the history and culture of traditional Peruvian Cusqueñan textile weavers of Cusco in the heart of the Sacred Valley.

Indulge Your Passions

Save $150 per person on the finest small group journeys around the world.

Start Exploring

Gardens Fit for a Duchess

If Great Britain is more your style, consider the British Royale small group journey, a 10-day guided expedition to the national treasures of England and Scotland. You can join the Yeoman Warder for a Ceremony of the Keys at the Tower of London and enjoy other historic landmarks. Have high tea at Castle Howard, get a private guided walk of the castle and grounds, and visit the Roman baths.

The unquestionable highlight is joining Jane Percy, the Duchess of Northumberland, for a private look at Alnwick Castle Gardens. The Percy family has owned the castle since 1345, and Percy spent years restoring the gardens. Included in the flora and fauna is one of the only poison gardens in the world, filled with deadly specimens such as the strychnine tree, hemlock and the castor oil plant, whose seeds contain ricin. A private guide shows off the castle’s interior and guests enjoy a seasonal lunch.

Princess Relates Family History

Royalty and living history await on other small group journeys as well. Princess Anita von Hohenberg of Austria welcomes Founder’s Collection members to her home, Artstetten Castle in Artstetten-Pobring for private reception with drinks. The castle was built on the ruins of a 13^th century fortress and has evolved over the centuries.

Von Hohenberg is a descendant of the Habsburgs, one of the oldest sovereign families in Europe, and is the great-granddaughter of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria, who inherited the castle in 1889. His assassination in Sarajevo in 1914 triggered a series of events that led to the start of World War I. Ferdinand and his wife Sophie later were buried in a crypt under the castle. Artstetten was seized by the Nazis during World War II but returned to the family in 1949.

While guiding guests through the house and grounds, von Hohenberg emphasizes that while Artstetten is a castle, it still is a family home. She tells visitors about her family’s past and involvement with the history of her homeland.

Wining and Dining in Italy

Italy and wine go together like, well, cappuccino and cannolis. Enjoy both on a 13-day small group jounrey of Italy, loaded with must-sees, including a stroll through acres of vineyards in Tuscany and winemaking lessons from Marchese Mazzei. The Mazzei family has been producing premier wines for 25 generations at the Castello di Fonterutoli. The more than 1,600-acre estate includes 290 acres planted with vines. Enjoy lunch paired with some of the region’s best chiantis.

Also not to miss in Tuscany: An after-hours visit to the Doge’s Palace with a Luxury Gold local expert.

Other highlights include a glass-blowing demonstration in Venice, visits to Rome, the Vatican, Florence and Pompeii, and meals at exceptional restaurants. There’s something for everyone!

Contact your AAA Travel Agent and plan your next getaway today.

Featured image: Courtesy of Luxury Gold.

Nothing rejuvenates the body, mind and an adventurous spirit quite like a trip to the great outdoors. From glaciers to mountain ranges and spectacular national parks, the world’s most magnificent natural wonders are waiting to be discovered.

But where to begin? Let these guided travel tours lead the way!

Get Outdoors This Summer

June is the month of the Great Outdoors.

Explore Now

Canadian Rockies and Glacier National Park

If glaciers are your thing, the Canadian Rockies and Glacier National Park tour is for you. This seven-night tour includes visits to Calgary, Banff, Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, Waterton Lakes National Park, Glacier National Park and more. Ride in an open-air Jammer down Going-to-the-Sun Road, which leads across the Continental Divide and offers breathtaking views of Glacier National Park. At the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, you can brave a walk across a glass bridge to see the Sunwapta Valley below. Or you can take a ride across the huge Athabasca Glacier.

National Parks of America

America is rich with beautiful natural landscapes that we can explore in our own backyard. The National Parks of America tour will take you out west to see five of our most majestic national parks. Travelers will get breathtaking sights of the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Zion and more. You can see Mt. Rushmore and the Crazy Horse monument, before learning more about the historical context of these sites from a Lakota guide. This 12-night tour is best for travelers looking for a moderate level of activity and a maximum level of natural beauty.

Alaska: America’s Last Frontier

The remote grandeur of our biggest state awaits on the Alaska: America’s Last Frontier tour. On this eight-night trip, travelers can learn the art of gold panning, get up close and personal with dog sled riding, embark on a glacier cruise, ride in a domed railcar and more. The highlight of the trip is the full-day tundra wilderness tour through the majestic Denali National Park. As you travel through Alaska, you’ll meet the locals and get an insight into their way of life and indigenous culture. Not enough Alaska for you? You can opt into a “flightseeing” tour to get a bird’s-eye view of Denali National Park. You’ll even land on a glacier.

Peaks of Europe: The Alps to the Dolomites

North America isn’t the only place with picturesque mountains! Head abroad for the 12-night Peaks of Europe: The Alps to the Dolomites tour, which winds through France, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria and Italy. This storybook tour includes visits to Mont Blanc, the Bernese Oberland, the Lauterbrunnen Valley and the frosty Jungfraujoch, also known as the “Top of Europe.” You’ll also journey into the Dolomites to visit ski towns, vineyards and lush landscapes. This tour is best for travelers who are ready to be active on their adventure. It’s also a small group tour, which makes for a more intimate and personalized experience.

The Northern Lights of Finland

Travel under the magical glow of the aurora on the seven-night Northern Lights of Finland tour, which features the best of everything Finland has to offer. You can tour Helsinki, adventure through Lapland, sleep in a glass igloo, go on a reindeer safari and even lead a dog sled team. Learn about the culture of the indigenous Sami people while taking in the natural beauty of snowy white grounds and night skies filled with the northern lights. Plus, don’t forget to hit the sauna before you head home. This small group tour is best for travelers who are open to being active and getting a little chilly.

Exploring New Zealand’s Wonders

The rolling hills and lush landscapes of New Zealand will make you feel like you’ve walked straight into a fantasy novel. The epic, 18-night Exploring New Zealand’s Wonders tour features geothermal springs, grand fjords, ice fields, giant kauri trees and more. Travelers will see Auckland, the Bay of Islands, Rotorua, Wellington, Christchurch, Mount Cook, Dunedin and Queenstown. It’s an immensely thorough tour that completely immerses travelers in the country – you can even learn about Maori culture over an authentic Hangi dinner. At the end of the tour, your small group will feel almost like a fellowship.

Are you looking for a chance to explore the great outdoors? Contact your AAA travel advisor and plan your next getaway today!

What’s the best experience you’ve had when traveling out in nature? Tell us your story in the comments below.

Featured image: Peyto Lake, Banff National Park

Small business insurance is essential for assuring the smooth and successful operation of your company. Without it, you leave your livelihood vulnerable to potentially devastating liabilities like injuries, data breaches, lawsuits and property damage. But the types of insurance necessary for business depend on the business you are in. Use this guide to get to know your options.

To learn more, reach out to an experienced AAA Insurance agent who will help you with a customized small business insurance policy that meets your needs and budget.

Shopping for Small Business Insurance

When considering insurance options, assess the risks that are unique to you and your business. A business with employees, property and a fleet of vehicles will have different coverage requirements than someone who is self-employed and works from home. Likewise, the equipment and tools that need protection vary from field to field.

Some types of small business insurance are required by law (more on that below). Once those are taken care of, you may want to select additional coverages. “As a general rule, you should insure against things you wouldn’t be able to pay for on your own,” says the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Your insurance agent will help to find you a variety of coverage options at different price points to choose from. Read through your quotes thoroughly. AAA Insurance encourages business owners to “choose coverage over cost.” One of the most common business insurance pitfalls is insufficient coverage due to choosing the cheapest policy or lowest deductible.

And as with any type of insurance, it is also a good idea to re-assess every year to maintain the right protection for any updates or changes that occur over time.

AAA Knows Insurance

At AAA, every small business is a big customer.

Learn More

Types of Small Business Insurance

General Liability

A base policy for any type of business that covers financial loss due to a variety of third-party claims (claims from outside of your company), including bodily injury, property damage, legal fees and medical expenses. It can also help cover libel and slander. It is especially important for businesses that physically interact with customers and/or work at other people’s properties.

Example: Someone falls while shopping in your store and you are found to be at fault. General liability insurance will help to pay for the medical expenses of the injured and cover legal fees if they sue you.

Business Owner Policy

Packaging general liability, commercial property coverage and business interruption into one, this policy covers what general liability doesn’t do alone, including fire, theft and natural disasters like wind and hail.

Commercial property coverage is useful for businesses with a lot of property, as it protects the location(s) of your business and other assets such as equipment and inventory. It could also be beneficial to those who operate their business out of their homes because it provides coverage beyond your homeowners policy.

Business Interruption covers revenue losses in case of a disaster, specifically, if the damage of physical assets such as machinery or vehicles are cause for a loss of revenue.    

Example: Your restaurant is inoperable due to smoke damage caused by a fire. A business owner policy will help to replace the equipment, as well as the revenue lost until you are able to get up and running again.

Professional Liability

Professional liability is for businesses that provide services to customers. It will protect the business if a client believes they suffered a financial loss due to an error or omission on your part.

Example: An employee at your accounting firm gives financial advice to a client that causes him to lose money. This coverage can help pay your legal fees if they sue you for negligence or malpractice.

Workers’ Compensation

Mandatory in many states, workers’ compensation covers employee lost wages and medical treatment in the event of a work-related injury or disease.

Example: You own a contracting business and one of your employees falls off a ladder on the job, breaking their leg. Workers’ compensation will pay for their medical expenses and their wages while they are out of work.

Cyber Liability

Small businesses are a top target for cyberattacks and data breaches. If your business digitally collects or stores personally identifiable information on customers or employees, there’s the risk that information may be breached, and your company will face significant fees. Cyber liability protects your finances in the event of an attack, whereas general liability does not.

Example: Someone hacked into your network, putting hundreds of customers’ personal information at risk. Cyber insurance will help cover the cost to notify customers and any resulting legal consequences. Good cyber insurance also gives you access to breach coaches, data specialists and legal experts that can assist you.

Read about four reasons your small business could use cyber insurance.

Commercial Auto

Whether you need to cover one vehicle or an entire fleet, and even if employees need to drive their own cars to do their job, commercial auto insurance makes sure that you are all covered from accidents.

Example: A worker using the company van hits a customer’s car while out making deliveries. This coverage will assist in paying for damages.

What defines a small business?

Generally, a small business is one that makes under $5 million in gross annual revenue, pays less than $300 thousand in annual payroll or has a fleet of less than nine vehicles.

Is small business insurance a legal requirement?

The federal government requires every business with employees to have workers’ compensation, unemployment and disability insurance, according to the SBA. Some states may also require additional insurance. Understand your legal obligations in the state(s) you operate in prior to signing any contracts or lease agreements.

If you operate in multiple states or have traveling employees, your policy can be extended to cover your liability under the workers’ compensation laws of another state.

“Businesses that have employees working in other states should carefully research state requirements of each state and enlist the help of a licensed insurance agent to avoid an uncovered claim,” said Steve Holland, manager of commercial lines for AAA Insurance.

As a small business owner, you have enough on your plate. With the right type of business insurance, you can worry less.

The AAA small business insurance team serves as a trusted advisor to thousands of small businesses in the Northeast. Schedule a call to speak with one of our commercial experts to see how they can help your business.

Looking for a small business loan? AAA has you covered there, as well.

This article has been updated and republished from a previous version. 

Let’s do brunch! Whether it’s buffet, a la carte, laid-back or special occasion-worthy, brunch is a proposition most can’t resist. Mostly reserved for the weekends, it’s a treat to cap off the week, made to be enjoyed leisurely among friends and proven to effectively postpone the Sunday scaries.

Brunch has become so popular, narrowing down a list of just 21 recommendations in our region is a challenge. When it comes to everyone’s favorite midday meal, we feel that each of these restaurants stands out for their food, atmosphere and overall experience.

Here’s where to eat brunch in the Northeast.

The Beehive

Boston

Nestled in the Boston Center for the Arts complex, The Beehive is an art space as well as an eatery. The decor is decidedly Bohemian, with exposed stone, painted murals and multicolored curtains draped everywhere.

The Beehive is a Boston hotspot for live music. Join the other bees for food and drink at the live music brunch, held every Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. While you enjoy the entertainment, try the coffee cake du jour, corned beef hash or eggs shakshuka.

Buttermilk & Bourbon

Locations in Boston and Watertown, Mass.

For comfort food (what could be better at brunch?), head over to one of Buttermilk & Bourbon’s two Massachusetts locations. The menu is based on the American South, with a focus on the food and culture of New Orleans. At brunch, which runs on Sundays from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., the menu includes buttermilk-fried chicken and cheddar-bourbon waffles, pulled pork Benedict and freshly fried beignets. For cocktails, order a round of B&B Hurricanes.

Clink.

Boston 

If you’re looking for where to eat brunch in Boston, Clink has great food and a great story. The restaurant is in the unique Liberty Hotel, which used to be a prison. You can still see bars from original jail cells and exposed brick walls in the dining room, offset by stylish lighting, an open kitchen and butcher block tables.

On Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., you and your friends can enjoy the artisan breakfast sandwich, yogurt parfait, smoked salmon platter and other favorites. The best part is Clink’s self-service bloody mary bar. So long, prison hooch!

Lincoln Tavern & Restaurant

Boston

Lincoln is a brunch spot every day of the week. Along with breakfast and lunch standards like omelets, salads and sandwiches, you’re sure to be tempted by their wood-fired pizzas, including a breakfast pizza topped with poached eggs, caramelized onions, bacon, roasted tomatoes and hash browns.

Sunny Side Up

West Springfield, Mass.

Serving all-day breakfast six days a week from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., there’s a lot to be “eggscited” about (as their menu says) at Sunny Side Up. Highlights at this small but welcoming family-owned and operated establishment include nine types of benedicts, egg sandwiches and breakfast wraps. Lunch begins at 11 a.m., when you can start ordering sandwiches, burgers, melts and a variety of Polish specialties. Try the Polish Platter for a sampling of pierogi, stuffed cabbage, sausages and more.

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Ogie’s Trailer Park

Providence, R.I.

You don’t want to miss the trailer park brunch at Ogie’s, Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. The weirdly wonderful indoor/outdoor dining establishment is decorated to look like a circle of 1950s-style aluminum trailers.

Order your meal at the window of one of the trailers and chow down on delights like breakfast tots, vegan French toast, jalapeno cheddar grits and eggs with bacon lardons and tomatillo sauce, or their version of eggs benny, served on a biscuit with barbecue pulled pork. If you’re not into bloody marys and mimosas or you’ve had your fill of brunch cocktails, bottomless coffee is also an option.

The Salted Slate

Providence, R.I.

The Salted Slate is a stylish eatery, serving up fresh, local and organic food from nearby New England farms. Though the menu changes frequently, some items you can expect to see include a smoked salmon plate, frittata and lemon ricotta pancakes. Whatever you order, the hands-down best side dish is a bag of warm doughnuts. There’s also a “no fuss, no muss” to-go brunch that includes everything you need for a group brunch at home for $20 per person.

Ocean House

Watch Hill, R.I.

Enjoy a luxurious brunch at Rhode Island’s only AAA Five Diamond Designated hotel to the sounds of jazz, blues and soul from local musician Greg Piccolo. Every Sunday from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Ocean House’s chefs prepare an a la carte menu of sharable plates of fruit, cheese and charcuterie, local shellfish and more, followed by two courses of elevated brunch fare and assorted desserts.

King Bar by David Burke

Garden City, N.Y.

The a la carte spread served every Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the AAA Four Diamond Garden City Hotel makes deciding where to eat brunch on Long Island easy. A raw bar selection, eggs cooked any way you like and chef David Burke’s take on classics such as croque madame, lobster mac and cheese and chicken and waffles are a delicious way to treat yourself for special occasions or simply celebrate the weekend.

Cowfish

Hampton Bays, N.Y.

Outside on the deck or lawn, Cowfish brunchers can relax with the view and breezes off the Shinnecock Canal (which also makes it easily accessible by boat). On the menu, you’ll find the likes of braised pork Benedict, filet tournedos – a classy take on steak and egg made with filet mignon, potato hash and bearnaise sauce, fish entrees and sandwiches. Brunch is served Saturdays and Sundays, 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Jacob’s Pickles

New York, N.Y.

Jacob’s Pickles, of course, has perfected its pickle game, so be sure to sample a few – or all – of their nine pickled items. It’s also known for its biscuits, sizeable craft beer list and laid-back atmosphere. If that doesn’t tick off every item on your brunch checklist, the breakfast and Southern biscuit sandwiches ought to do it. The Southern-inspired menu is all about comfort. Yes, please, sausage gravy-smothered fried chicken on a biscuit.

The Fulton

New York, N.Y.

Wondering where to eat brunch with a view? This Jean-Georges Vongerichten waterfront gem is located at Pier 17 in Lower Manhattan’s Seaport District, complete with outdoor dining and an unobstructed look at the Brooklyn Bridge.

A nod to the area’s history and former home of the Fulton Fish Market, the seafood-focused brunch menu is served on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and features a caviar selection, raw bar, variety of eggs Benedict, casual sandwiches and opulent mains, including Maine lobster with scrambled eggs.

Sunday in Brooklyn

Brooklyn, N.Y.

It doesn’t have to be Sunday; Sunday in Brooklyn serves brunch and dinner seven days a week. With its outdoor seating, rooftop and rustic chic décor, it’s exactly the kind of hip and trendy restaurant you would except to find in Williamsburg.

The Sunday Pancakes with hazelnut maple praline and brown butter, avocado toast, shakshuka and biscuits and gravy are among the menu standouts. Cocktails, like the Honeybear on Holiday, presented in a repurposed honey bear bottle, are a lot of fun.

 

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Elm Street Diner

Stamford, Conn.

Waffle towers, donut stacks, pancake tacos and milkshakes with every conceivable topping balanced on top – Elm Street Diner leans into their Instagram-worthiness hard. Stop in for Sunday brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and choose from the many imaginative creations, from Oreo Belgian waffles and churro French toast to chicken and waffles Benedict. And don’t forget to share @ElmStreetDiner!

Terrain Garden Café

Westport, Conn.

This dreamy indoor/outdoor greenhouse space has everything you need for a relaxing afternoon. Brunch is offered daily from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends. And afterwards, you can shop the home and garden boutique.

Both the atmosphere and the food are light and fresh, making Terrain one of the most idyllic brunch places in Connecticut. Choose a grain bowl, sandwich, salad or breakfast item from the seasonally influenced menu, all made with ingredients sourced from local farms and purveyors. Pair your meal with a specialty coffee, cocktail or non-alcoholic drink from an impressive list of concoctions.

Engine Room

Mystic, Conn.

Located in a restored Lathrop Marine Engine building, this industrial-cozy restaurant does brunch every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. When the weather is nice, patio dining is available with views of the Mystic River.

On the menu, selections include a breakfast sandwich made with Jersey pork roll, a crepe of the day and the Engine Room’s specialty hamburgers. Try the Hangover Burger topped with barbecue flourishes and a fried egg and wash it all down with one of the sixteen craft beers on tap.

Pond House Café

West Hartford, Conn.

While the locally fresh menu does not disappoint, it’s the setting that makes this brunch spot special. Part of the historic Elizabeth Park Conservancy, diners are treated to beautiful garden views. After brunch, explore the formal gardens and walking paths. Both the restaurant and grounds are open year-round, so you can enjoy the changing landscape through the seasons. Brunch is available 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Saturdays and 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Sundays.

Toast City Diner

Locations in Montclair, Red Bank and Asbury Park, N.J.

Open seven days a week, this cozy spot serves comfort food for breakfast, brunch and lunch all day, every day. The sweet offerings like carrot cake pancakes and bananas Foster French toast are not to be missed. Their mantra is “peace, love, pancakes,” after all. If you’d rather go savory, try the lobster cobb salad, smoked salmon omelette or the Brookdale cheese steak.

Robin’s Nest

Mt. Holly, N.J.

The historic and picturesque Robin’s Nest Restaurant has Sunday brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Make sure to get your hands on their French toast martini or their Pickled Mario bloody mary as you sit down to order. The brunch sampler and egg tacos can satisfy any midday muncher, and the pork roll melt is the ultimate Jersey brunch pick.

Amanda’s Restaurant

Hoboken, N.J.

Situated in a series of refurbished brownstones, this Jersey favorite provides the perfect atmosphere for a weekend-making brunch. From eggs to burgers to pasta, there’s something for everyone. Pair your meal with Amanda’s homemade focaccia and a Bellini and you’re all set. Offered Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Haven Riverfront Restaurant & Bar

Edgewater, N.J.

Catch brunch service at Haven on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Inside or out on the patio, the view of the Manhattan skyline in unbeatable. You can choose to have brunch a la carte or go with the prix fixe option, which includes your choice of brunch item and two mimosas, bloody marys or Bellinis.

Remember, if you plan on enjoying a few drinks with brunch, be sure to designate a driver.

Find more AAA Diamond Designated restaurants near you.

What’s your favorite brunch spot? Tell us in the comments below.

Learning how to grow herbs is a great practice in sustainability, as it means less reliance on store-bought products which, in turn, reduces waste. It also means you’ll have an array of fresh-smelling herbs in your home to snip from and enhance your meals whenever you need!

You can start your herb garden any time of year – especially if you have a room or window that gets good sunlight – but it’s best to begin in the spring when more herbs are in season and readily available for purchase. The kind of herbs you select are up to you and your tastes, but basil and green onion are some of the easiest to propagate and a great place to start.

Step One: Buy A Plant From The Store

Growing herbs from seeds is totally doable, but purchasing an already budding plant from the grocery store will save you lots of time.

In some supermarkets, you can find starter basil plants in the produce or flower sections. These may look healthy at the time of purchase, but often there are numerous plants crowded into one pot, which creates a competition for nutrients and eventually leads to an unhappy plant that doesn’t produce much (if any) new growth. If you choose to buy a plant, we recommend taking it out of its pot, separating the plants and propagating from there.

Buying a package of fresh basil will work, too. Look for a container with long stems and leaves that are not yet yellowing. This is a good indicator that it will propagate, or start new growth, well.

Green onions (scallions) are even simpler because they come with their roots still attached; just grab a healthy-looking bunch from the produce section.

Step Two: Snip and Start Rooting

It’s important to know exactly where to cut to ensure your cuttings will take root and grow into their own new plant.

With basil (and rosemary, mint and sage, to name a few), look for part of the stem where two smaller shoots have grown on either side. Snip the stem just above the side shoots. Make sure to use clean garden pruners for this part. Then, drop your cuttings (snipped end down) into a small container with water.

Here’s a helpful visual from gardening expert @joesgarden.official.

If your basil isn’t taking root in water, try either using a store-bought rooting powder or, in a pinch, some cinnamon from your pantry. Snip about a centimeter off the end of the stem and dip the end into the rooting powder or cinnamon before placing the cutting into a pot with soil. This will stimulate the root process and hopefully help the cutting produce roots more quickly.

Green onions are just one single shoot, so no need to look for stems or nodes. Chop or snip off the green part of the plant all the way down until the color starts to fade into white, right above the rooted ends. Use an elastic band to bunch the onions together (the same way they are when you purchase them) and place them, roots down, into a small container with water.

For any of your cuttings, you can use a short glass, Mason jar, votive or whatever you’ve got lying around. Something see-through is preferable so you can easily check the status of the root growth.

Step Three: Wait, Then Plant   

After a couple of days, the green onions will show signs of new growth. After a few weeks, they’ll be regrown and large enough to plant into soil. Select a growing pot that’s about 8-inches wide to give the roots lots of room to stretch their “legs.”

For the basil, roots will form in the water within 10 days, at which point you can separate each plant and pot them individually in good quality soil.

Set up your potted herbs either outside in a warm, sunny area or inside by a south-facing window for optimal light. Make sure to water regularly and keep up with snipping above the side shoots with basil, rosemary or mint to ensure the plants keep creating new shoots. This is how you maintain a steady harvest of herbs all year long!

Do you have an herb garden? Share your tips for how to grow herbs in the comments below.

If you haven’t heard of Portugal’s Madeira (the place, not the wine), don’t be surprised. Located off Africa’s northwest coast, it consists of four islands, only two of which are inhabited: Madeira and Porto Santo, which in 2024 was named Europe’s Leading Beach Destination by World Travel Awards. But, so far, it has been mostly off travelers’ radars.

Madeira Island offers stunning vistas, outdoor adventures, low tourist traffic, gourmet food and posh hotels. And getting there is easier than ever, so it’s a great time to plan a trip. SATA Azores Airlines is offering nonstop service from Boston’s Logan International Airport this summer and year-round nonstop service from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport. .

Travelers who have discovered Madeira enjoy a slower pace and fewer crowds than many other vacation destinations, as well as these top five attributes.

Madeira Vacation Packages With AAA

The tropical paradise of Madeira awaits with direct flights from Boston and New York.

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Nature

Five members of the AAA Northeast travel team recently went to the island of Madeira, gathering firsthand experience to help guide members interested in visiting. They all returned with rave reviews and unanimously praised the abundance of natural beauty.

“It’s a hidden gem,” said Nicole Ekholm, a travel project specialist who participated in the trip. Ekholm is of Portuguese descent and speaks Portuguese.

“I loved Madeira!” added travel advisor Jodi Abata. “I loved the diversity of things to do and the interesting topography … from the beautiful beaches and coastline to the picturesque hills filled with gardens and vineyards.”

Known for its variety of rare plants and flowers, one place not to miss is Madeira Natural Park, which was created in 1982 to preserve these natural treasures. Classified as a biogenetic reserve, the park is home to an enormous range of plant life.

Travel advisor Amy Orzechowski was amazed at the landscape. “I was not familiar with how beautiful and picturesque it really is.”

Outdoor Adventures

Formed by a volcano and known for its rocky terrain, the archipelago of Madeira is popular with hikers – especially thrill-seekers. The island’s network of 1,926 miles of levadas, which are irrigation trenches built into the mountains, attract daring hikers who follow paths adjacent to the trenches down the mountains. The levadas, some of which are 600 years old, provided water for drinking, farming, power and enabled a sugar cane industry to thrive for centuries.

Hiking in less treacherous forest locations is also popular, as is parasailing, off-roading, paragliding and swimming in natural pools. The island also has two man-made beaches and a waterfront.

Culture

For years, Madeira was known as a wellness retreat for the rich and famous. Winston Churchill was a regular visitor, as was Stephen Hawking, who went seeking rejuvenation.

Visitors can spend time in the islands’ capital city of Funchal on Madeira, cited for being accessible for people of all abilities. Tour the waterfront and continue to downtown, which besides several cathedrals, houses the Museum of Sacred Art. Plan a visit to the Madeira Wine, Embroidery and Handicrafts Institute, which preserves the island’s longtime tradition of embroidery and displays works that are more than 150 years old.

“I felt like I was in the Caribbean and Europe at the same time,” Abata said.

Wine

Don’t forget to schedule a tour of one or more vineyards to learn how delicious Madeira wine is made. Madeira is one of the few regions of the world that produces mountain wine.

Take time to sip a glass of Madeira or Poncha, the island’s favorite rum punch cocktail, while relaxing at an outdoor cafe.

Food

Not surprisingly, many of Madeira’s culinary specialties come from the sea. These include grilled limpets, a type of mollusk, and varieties of broiled fish. Steak skewers with cornmeal nuggets are another regional favorite, as are a variety of hearty soups.

Madeira is still being discovered by U.S. tourists, but that is rapidly changing, said Ekholm. “If you want a good combination of food, culture and activity, it can be a better value vacation than Hawaii or the Caribbean.”

Contact your AAA travel advisor and plan your next getaway today!

Have you been to Madeira? Would you like to go? Tell us in the comments.

Featured image: Praia do Porto Santo5. ©Henrique Seruca

There’s nothing better than a brisk bike ride. It’s fun, environmentally friendly and great exercise to boot. But, like with any mode of transportation, you need to make sure to keep safety in mind while on two wheels.

Did you know? AAA Northeast offers 24-hour roadside assistance for your bike, too! The free service is available to all members. Learn more.

Helmets

Wearing a helmet is the single most important thing you can do to protect yourself when riding a bike.

American bike fatalities reached 1,105 in 2022, according to the most recent research by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, with head injuries being the leading cause of death and serious injury.

When you put on your helmet, make sure the visor sits about 1 to 2 inches above your brow, and that the chin strap is snug, but not constricting. If you can fit no more than two fingers in between your chin and the strap, you’re good to go.

Check out these easy steps to properly fit a bike helmet.

You might not love the way you look in a helmet, but looks don’t matter when your life is on the line.

Biking while drunk

If you wouldn’t get behind the wheel of a car, you shouldn’t get behind the handlebars of a bike. The most recent stats reported by the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety show that 18% of cyclists killed in traffic crashes in 2020 were legally drunk.

Biking in the dark

Bike deaths peak from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., but why is that? Visibility is important on the road, especially when drivers and bikers are sharing the same streets. During the day, you don’t have to worry too much about seeing and being seen, especially if it’s spring or summertime. However, as the day gets duskier, it’s more difficult for drivers to spot cyclists darting across or on the side of the street. If you’re going to be biking during this time, there are tons of bike accessories that will help make you more visible, like clip-on lights and reflective tape. The most common (and perhaps easiest) method is to wear a reflective vest.

Sharing the road

Cyclists: Sharing the road with cars is dangerous, but it’s often necessary. Riding on congested sidewalks puts pedestrians in danger, and it’s actually illegal in some cities. Bike on the right side of the road (just like when you drive) and stay about 2 to 3 feet away from the curb. Be careful when you’re driving past parked cars – you never know when someone could open a door and clothesline you. Remember to stop at stop signs and red lights, just like someone in a car would.

Drivers: When you spot a cyclist, give them a wide berth. You’re driving something that weighs more than 4,000 pounds, while cyclists are balancing on a 15-pound, two-wheeled machine powered by their own legs. They don’t have the benefit of a car’s safety systems, and if there’s a crash, they’re probably going to get hurt. If there’s a bike lane in your city, don’t park in it. This forces cyclists to dart unexpectedly into traffic lanes. You also should not be driving in the bike lane, even if you’re just edging in by a foot or two. There could be cyclists in your blind spot, and even the cyclists that you can see are too close for comfort.

Click here for more tips on sharing the road.

What are some ways you stay safe while cycling? Let us know in the comments below!

This article has been updated and republished from a previous version. 

Whether high school or college, graduation marks the end of a years-long accomplishment, but it also launches students into all the financial responsibility of adulthood. This milestone is the perfect opportunity to help the graduate in your life get started on the road to successfully navigating their own finances.

“The biggest hurdle to get anybody going on their personal finances is to just get it started,” said Ted Lyons, vice president of financial services at AAA Northeast. “Once that initial step is made, then you need to help the soon-to-be graduates in your life understand that it’s up to them to continue it.”

Let’s run through some of the most practical graduation gifts to consider.

Life Insurance Policy

Contrary to what you may believe, it’s actually never too early to start thinking about life insurance. Although young people might not be worried about starting one just yet, they may find themselves missing out the benefits of having a long-term policy plan in place.

Consider the value in investing in their future family during their 20s and 30s, when health concerns are typically not much of a factor. Moreover, since they’re unlikely to look that far ahead, this is one gift they most likely wouldn’t have thought to get themselves.

Learn more about getting life insurance through AAA. 

CD or Savings Bond

These two are classic graduation gifts for a reason. A certificate of deposit (CD) or savings bond makes an ideal starting point for a young adult still trying to get their financial bearings. Both contribute positively toward your graduate’s more immediate savings goals, though a savings bond retains its value regardless of inflationary rates and – unlike a CD – remains free from taxation. In the end, either gesture gets your graduate thinking more practically about their financial future.

Online Savings Account

Many new graduates still haven’t created a savings account. Opening an online savings account is one of the most important ways in which you can aid a recent graduate, Lyons believes. “Once you learn to pay yourself first, you’ll really be able to watch your money grow,” he said.

To get the most value out of their burgeoning savings accounts, graduates should also set up an automatic payroll deduction directly into their savings. This inherently makes future saving a priority and establishes smart financial habits.

Investments

Unless your graduate is particularly precocious when it comes to the financial world, they may not realize the value in wisely investing their money. That’s where you can come in with an initial investment of your own. Stocks may be the first thing you think of, but the risk involved makes them a poor choice for a graduation gift. Instead, you might opt for a mutual fund or exchange-traded fund, which presents a crash-course in investing and plants the seeds for long-term investment plans. Over time, this seed investment provides a solid foundation upon which your grad can build.

Retirement Planning

Like a life insurance policy, retirement planning isn’t typically top of mind for recent graduates. But it certainly ought to be, at least if they’re earning an income. After all, Roth IRAs are tax-free, and a contribution to this forward-looking account – no matter how generous – can go a long way toward getting your graduate set up for his or her golden years.

Likewise, this can draw attention to their 401k plan, which is a cornerstone of retirement planning when a company match is available. Anything you can do to get your graduate to maximize their savings now is a win.

Knowledge Starter

All the above suggestions help graduates to consider how their money can flourish in the years ahead. But if you’d rather not commit to a specific graduation gift, you could always present a more general way to emphasize the importance of their personal finances.

Perhaps you could set up a consultation with a financial advisor, who can guide your graduate to establish a financial plan that works for their specific goals. Even a gift as simple as a top-rated finance book or a subscription to budgeting software is incredibly valuable in the long run.

In the end, what your graduate needs most is an education in the financial realities they’re about to confront. Whatever form that takes will inevitably put them in better shape to make informed decisions with their money, and with any luck, your graduation gift could even play an integral role in their future.

Know any other students that could use a hand financially? AAA can help with student loans and student loan refinancing.