Railbiking is popping up everywhere. This four-wheeled open-air activity on abandoned railroad tracks or tracks set aside for heritage rail service is gaining steam (pun intended). This pedal-powered activity is one that most anyone can do and that rewards fun-loving riders with sensational views across glistening lakes, verdant forests, rolling pastures and sandy shorelines.
Railbikes have a side-by-side recumbent style design with foot pedals and a handbrake. Some even have eco-friendly electric pedal-assist capabilities. There’s no need to think about steering or balancing with a railbike. All you need to do is pedal. This way you can be hands-free and able to take all the photos you like of picturesque landscapes as you glide across the railway tracks.
Railbiking is a low-impact exercise. It’s also just right for children and adults, as well as those of different fitness levels. An average railbike ride may cover 3 to 10 miles. Some rides are longer, up to 25 miles, and may tack on extras, like pumpkin picking or river tubing.
Ready to ride the rails on a railbike? Here are our favorite railbiking spots in the Northeast.
It’s hard to beat the stunning foliage and natural beauty of New York’s Adirondacks when you’re set to book a railbiking journey. Get ready to pedal 6 or 7 miles round-trip across historic railroad tracks, even along the Raquette River for departures from the train depot in the quaint town of Tupper Lake. Excursions that originate at the station in Thendara enjoy picturesque views across the Moose River. In October, look for haunted railbike excursions.
You’ll feel a rush as you pedal along the historic Northern Central Railway of York. A 7-mile guided railbiking excursion allows for views across historic towns, scenic pastures and lush farmland. The tour’s highlight is the 275-foot-long Howard Tunnel, the second oldest railroad tunnel in the United States, which opened to train traffic in 1838. Choose a two-seat or four-seat railbike and get ready to take in breathtaking landscapes with each pedal of the railbike.
Rail Bike Adventures wows pedal-loving riders with 5-mile railbike tours on a railroad line that dates to 1848. Whether you opt to pedal during the day or roll out as the sun sets in summer, the views across New Hampshire’s fourth largest lake, Lake Winnisquam, will prove spectacular. Railbike excursions for two or four people begin at the historic train depot in Laconia and run to Belmont, a rail town that was incorporated nearly 300 years ago.
Guests pedal four-person railbikes alongside scenic landscapes with Rail Explorers USA in Portsmouth, Rhode Island. (Courtesy of Rail Explorers USA)
Rail Explorers USA offers guided tours on pedal-assist railbikes in six locations, including Milford and Phoenicia, N.Y.; and Portsmouth, R.I. Tours range from 4 to 12 miles, and of course, the landscape depends on the location. The 6-mile Portsmouth tours boast spectacular views across Narragansett Bay, while the Milford excursions have a baseball theme thanks to a location just south of Cooperstown. You’ll even pedal past Cooperstown Dreams Park. Railbike tours that start in Phoenicia are all about the wondrous beauty of New York’s Catskill Mountains.
Soak up the scenery across the majestic Pocono Mountains as you ride on a custom pedal-assist railbike with Pennsylvania Rail Bike. Guided railbike excursions run 10 to 20 miles and incorporate a mix of history, nature and picturesque views as you gently pedal along the Lackawaxen River. The signature Feel the Power tour leads guests to a hydroelectric power station in Brookfield. Seasonal railbiking tours win over guests with ice cream in summer at the historic train depot and pumpkin picking in fall at an area pumpkin patch.
In fall, guests pedal across a 90-foot-tall trestle bridge with Revolution Rail Co. near Lake George, N.Y. (Courtesy of Revolution Rail Co.)
Various Northeast locations in N.Y., N.J. and Maine
Revolution Rail Co. offers railbiking across the Northeast, as well as in Colorado. Pedal-powered excursions range from 3.5 to 14 miles, and feature scenic mountain views, stunning foliage, wildflower meadows and historic bridges. Seasonal tours pair a railbike adventure with river tubing or pumpkin picking. Revolution Rail Co. even books after-dark excursions, like a full moon ride, so bring a headlamp or flashlight and get ready for a one-of-a-kind experience.
For pedal-powered fun in New Hampshire’s state capital, there’s Scenic Railriders, which offers guided railbike excursions on the historic Northern Railroad in two-seat and four-seat railbikes. Pedal across wooded forests and scenic farmlands, as well as the flowing Merrimack River. For those who have more than four riders, two railbikes can be linked together so the whole group can share in the fun on this 6.2-mile round trip.
It’s up to each one of us to step up and act boldly to help protect the planet in the face of the worsening climate crisis and the many environmental challenges unfolding worldwide, and that includes our travel decisions.
When planning trips, do so through the lens of environmental and community stewardship and giving back to the places you’re visiting. This can include choosing destinations that are championing the transition to sustainable living and selecting accommodations that implement environmentally friendly business practices. It can even involve spending some vacation time learning from or volunteering with local community and nonprofit organizations that give back to the planet and its people.
Sustainable and mindful travel can take on many forms. Here are five family vacation ideas that allow you to give back to the planet while traveling.
Hudson Valley, N.Y.
About 150 miles north of New York City, the Hudson Valley is a designated National Heritage Area. The 10-county region is overflowing with history, nature, farm-to-table food offerings, agritourism, arts and outdoor recreation. Highlights here include President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s home and the Mohonk Preserve with its 70 miles of carriage roads and trails. Of course, you don’t want to miss taking a scenic cruise along the Hudson River.
Communities throughout the Hudson Valley are focused on sustainable progress, with several receiving Climate Smart certifications from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. Communities that earned the certification have made important strides on such fronts as shifting to renewable energy and innovative land use.
Visit
The Wolf Conservation Center, in the Hudson Valley’s Westchester County, offers an opportunity to learn about wildlife and support wolf preservation. The nonprofit center is dedicated to helping ensure the survival of wolves, most of which are considered endangered species. There are two ambassador wolves that can be viewed by the public, as well as about 21 Mexican gray wolves and 10 red wolves that reside off the exhibit. Education programs at the center allow visitors to learn about the mythology, biology and ecology of wolves, said Mark Ode, the center’s deputy director.
More adventurous visitors can spend a night sleeping with wolves – a program that attracts visitors from around the world. “The popular nocturnal adventure experience gives guests a chance to camp out overnight with the 30-plus wolves that call the WCC home,” Ode said.
Another local nonprofit, the Hilltop Hanover Farm and Environmental Center offers opportunities to learn about everything from organic composting to starting a backyard garden and the importance of harvesting rainwater. The 400-year-old working farm and environmental center is dedicated to advancing sustainable agriculture. Visitors can meet the farmers, explore forest trails on the property and interact with the farm’s chickens and goats.
Stay
The Mohonk Mountain House is a stunning and legendary resort with a long history of environmental stewardship. Opened by the Smiley Family in the 19th century, the hotel is a Victorian castle located amid 40,000 acres of forest. The hotel offers naturalist-led nature programs for guests of all ages. Newer buildings on the property have incorporated geothermal heating and cooling systems, and its spa building has a green roof garden terrace that helps insulate the building. The hotel also supports many local farms by incorporating the produce into its menus.
Nashville, Tenn.
Nashville is a destination that hardly needs an introduction. Renowned for its music scene, there’s plenty here to entertain even the youngest visitors. Options include trolley tours of the city, visiting the Grand Ole Opry and exploring the unique cars on display at the Lane Motor Museum. There’s also the National Museum of African American Music, which uses interactive technology to educate visitors about more than 50 genres of music.
Equally important, Nashville has been acknowledged as one of the most sustainable cities in the southern United States. Local efforts range from government initiatives that encourage and recognize sustainable practices in the workplace to a Go Green Nashville energy efficiency program.
Visit
The nonprofit organization Friends of Warner Parks is dedicated to preserving and protecting Nashville’s Percy and Edwin Warner Parks. The two popular Nashville parks cover 3,195 acres and host more than 1.5 million visitors annually, said Molly Elkins, director of marketing for Friends of Warner Parks.
The nonprofit’s efforts include trail maintenance and restoration, educational programming and wildlife research. There are also volunteer opportunities that can help support park preservation. Volunteer events vary by season and range from tree planting and invasive plant removal in the fall and winter, to trail maintenance and stream cleanups in the spring and summer.
“If there isn’t a public volunteer opportunity while a family is visiting Nashville, we welcome them to bring a trash bag to the parks and clean up litter and plastics while exploring our trails,” says Elkins. “Any visitor who goes out of their way to clean up the park will have a huge impact on our efforts to maintain and steward this landscape.”
Stay
Located in the heart of the city, AAA Four Diamond Designated 1 Hotel Nashville is a mission-driven property. Its sustainability measures encompass a state-of-the-art recycling program and a relentless focus on minimizing and reducing waste. The property focuses on working with sustainable, like-minded partners in all its operations. There’s even an electric house car available for guest use. The property’s facade is covered by 56,000 plants, has been designed with eco-consciousness in mind – the wall captures CO2 and releases fresh oxygen.
San Juan Islands, Wash.
The San Juan Islands, which are reached via ferry from mainland Washington, showcase Earth’s beauty at its finest. These islands feature rural landscapes, striking shorelines and an abundance of wildlife. One of the primary islands here, Orcas Island, is the location of Moran State Park and its old-growth forest. Visitors can also kayak, hike and indulge in farm-to-table dining throughout the islands.
Island residents are passionate about protecting the fragile ecosystem and every Earth Day, including this year, visitors can join locals in Great Island Cleanups sponsored by the organization Plastic Free Salish Sea. The cleanups take place on Lopez, Orcas and San Juan islands.
Visit
There’s a variety of nonprofit organizations operating throughout the San Jan Islands that are working to protect the planet. On San Juan Island, don’t miss the non-rofit Whale Museum, which promotes the stewardship of whales and the Salish Sea ecosystem through education and research. You can support the museum’s efforts by visiting its gallery and learning firsthand about the whales of the Pacific Northwest. You can adopt an orca through the museum, which provides funds to support orca education and research.
Stay
On San Juan Island’s west side, on Mitchell Bay, Snug Harbor Resort is a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts. The property features upscale cabins and suites with vaulted ceilings and views of the bay. Guests will find complimentary paddle boards, kayaks, canoes and bikes onsite for carbon emissions-free island explorations. The property also implements an extensive list of eco-friendly initiatives including using a reverse osmosis water system to supply 100% of the resort’s water, rather than draining the island’s precious groundwater resources. The resort collects groundwater to handle its landscaping needs as well, and has replaced most lighting with eco-friendly LED lights, which reduce energy consumption.
Being there for our members and making a positive impact is the driving force of AAA Northeast. Read our 2023 Environmental, Social and Governance Report to learn more about our values and ambitions, our progress to-date and what we’re doing for the road ahead.
A famed and family-friendly Southern California beach city, Santa Monica is well-known for its 3.5 miles of beach and the iconic Santa Monica Pier and amusement park (where the Ferris wheel is operated by solar power). In addition to experiencing these top attractions, family visitors can rent bikes to explore Santa Monica’s beachfront bike trail or even book surfing lessons. The open-air Third Street Promenade shopping area is full of entertainment provided by all manner of street performers.
Santa Monica has long been a leader on all things sustainable. In 1994, it became one of the first cities in the country to adopt a Sustainable City Plan that included measurable targets. The plan ensures decisions in the city are always guided by environmental stewardship and with the goal of minimizing impacts on the Earth.
Visit
The award-winning Heal the Bay Aquarium on Santa Monica Pier works to protect the animals living in the bay. The aquarium showcases more than 100 local species and offers hands-on activities, educational programming, animal feeding presentations, and wildlife observation stations. Heal the Bay hosts monthly volunteer beach cleanups that help protect the ocean from pollution.
“While visiting our iconic coastline during Earth Month – or any other time of year – join Heal the Bay to protect our incredibly unique ocean biodiversity,” says Marshlaidh Ryan, Health the Bay’s aquarium director.
Stay
A 77-room boutique hotel, The Ambrose puts sustainability front and center with a variety of green initiatives. That effort dates to at least 2005 when the AAA Three Diamond Designated property participated in Santa Monica’s Sustainable Works Green Business Certificate pilot program. The hotel later earned a Sustainable Quality Grand Prize award from the city and a Green Lodging certification from the state of California. There’s complimentary electric vehicle charging on site and the house vehicle, available to take guests to local destinations, is electric as well.
Sonoma County, Calif.
Legendary for its wineries and abundance of natural beauty, Sonoma County is also leading the way in protecting the planet. Local sustainability efforts include limiting urban development to existing urban boundaries (thus protecting nature and open spaces) and an energy independence program focused on clean energy sources.
Of course, these aren’t the only reasons for family travelers to explore and support Sonoma. Located less than an hour north of San Francisco, Sonoma is a place where visitors can enjoy hiking amid majestic redwoods, collecting seashells along the iconic Pacific coastline or taking in one of the many charming small towns throughout the county.
Visit
Don’t miss Charlie’s Acres Farm Animal Sanctuary, which rescues farm animals that were abused or destined for the food supply chain. The sanctuary was founded by Tracy Vogt, whose goal is to teach people about the beauty and intelligence of such animals. There’s a variety of volunteer and visitation options available, too.
“Volunteers can help with preparing dinners for our rescue pigs, resetting barns and sorting through our donated produce,” said Vogt.
Even if you don’t have time to volunteer, it’s still possible to spend quality time with the rescued farm animals. “Short-term visit options include general tours and private tours where visitors can rub some pig bellies, mingle with our friendly goats, and feed our cows,” said Vogt. “This option is super popular with families and tourists.”
And did we mention the goat yoga and sheep meditation tours? Participating in any of these activities helps to support the nonprofit and its beloved rescued animals.
Stay
The Stavrand is a boutique, 21-room retreat located amid the redwoods of the Russian River Valley. The property focuses heavily on minimizing its ecological footprint, while also supporting the local community. This effort ranges from composting and recycling to integrating local ingredients into its menu and making conscientious purchases. Family-friendly highlights include lawn games, bikes and kayaks, s’mores kits and a lending library with board games.
AAA Travel is now offering exclusive sustainable travel itineraries to Italy and Ireland. Reach out to a AAA travel advisor to learn more.
AAA’s sustainable travel series is written in partnership with Kind Traveler, a women-and-veteran-owned sustainable travel platform empowering travelers to make a positive impact in local communities, and contributing writer, Mia Taylor.
For many motorists, their last driving class was back when they first got their license, and that was many moons ago. The fact is, no matter how skilled or experienced you think you are behind the wheel, a refresher couldn’t hurt.
That’s where the AAA Defensive Driving Course comes in. I’ve attended the course both in-class and online and have found it to be an easy way to be a better driver and save on auto insurance.
Prefer an audio summary of this post? Click below to listen to this article.
Learn more about AAA Defensive Driving Courses and to find out if there is an opportunity to lower your auto insurance rate in your state.
About the AAA Defensive Driving Course
The nationally-recognized AAA Defensive Driving Course is designed to provide the latest safety information and tips regarding traffic laws and basic rules of the road. The six-hour course can be taken in a classroom with a certified instructor or online. Depending on the state, completion of a program may count towards an insurance discount or violation point reduction.
I took the class in New York, where a AAA Defensive Driving Course certificate of completion can be presented to your insurance company for 10% off collision, liability and no-fault premiums every year for three years for the principal vehicle operator. Drivers can also receive a reduction of up to four points from their driving record acquired within 18 months prior to the class.
For AAA Northeast members in other states, similar auto insurance benefits are also available in Rhode Island, Connecticut and New Jersey, but not in Massachusetts. Learn more about what is offered in the state that you are licensed in.
In the Classroom
For two consecutive Thursday nights after work, I went to a local hotel to take the course. I enrolled online and chose to take it over two, three-hour sessions instead of all at once. It was a full class and appeared to be a familiar practice for some, who return every three years to maintain their car insurance benefits.
My instructor was a retired police officer who said he has been teaching the AAA Driver Improvement Course for 14 years. He spoke frankly but friendly and was undeniably knowledgeable about safety and road laws. He began with the question, “What causes crashes?” And from there continued with an eight-chapter workbook and video to answer that question and offer recommendations for prevention.
Topics covered included tips and reminders on vehicle maintenance, what to do in an emergency, traffic signs and road markings, and other basic principles such as avoiding road rage, drowsy driving and impaired driving. After each chapter, there was a short quiz, which the class took and discussed together.
AAA Defensive Driving Course Online
For those who would prefer to take the class on their own time, an online version is available. You can take up to 30 days to complete the course, which is interactive, user-friendly and includes all of the same up-to-date research and safety information provided by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety that you get in the classroom.
Set aside an hour or so for a few nights and you’ll be done before you know it. A certificate will be mailed quickly upon completion, so you can get your insurance discount or point reduction as soon as possible if applicable where you live.
We all consider ourselves good drivers, but there is always something new to learn. Cars and traffic continue to evolve over the years, and so the AAA Defensive Driving Course is constantly changing too. Distracted driving and texting while driving are some of the top themes touched upon, as well as understanding new vehicle technologies such as blind spot sensors and backup cameras.
Some of the traditional road “rules” and old standbys most of us learned in driver’s ed class have also been rethought. Remember the old 10 and 2 mantra for where to put your hands on the steering wheel? 9 and 3 or 8 and 4 is now the recommended placement as it’s better suited for now-standard power steering.
Overall, the course stresses that being a good driver is not just about your own safety but the safety of others, and that awareness of your own actions is just as important as being alert to what is happening around you.
Sign Up
Whether you take it for the insurance benefit, point reduction or simply because you want to feel safer on the road, the principles taught in the AAA Defensive Driving Course are valuable for every driver. The course is especially encouraged for teen drivers and senior drivers, who are both more likely to be in a crash.
The course does not take much time, it’s not difficult and it’s useful. And the knowledge that you walk away with – both new and refreshed – will help to keep the roads a little bit safer for everyone.
In-class or online, the AAA Defensive Driving Course is open to everyone, although AAA members are charged a lower fee.
What area of driving do you think is the most important to brush up on? Tell us in the comments below!
If you’re interested in learning how to drive or want to brush up your skills, we have you covered. The AAA Adult Driver Training Program will turn you into a lifelong safe motorist.
This article has been updated and republished from a previous version.
When it comes to life insurance, you want to be sure that you have a complete understanding of the product you’ve entrusted to keep your family’s financial future secure. However, with all the various products, providers and information out there, separating truth from fiction can be difficult. In fact, a lot of consumers are likely to believe one or more myths about life insurance.
We take a look at some of the most common life insurance myths and reveal the truth behind the misconceptions.
For real-time answers to questions about life insurance, reach out to a AAA insurance agent.
Many consumers assume that life insurance is simply something that doesn’t apply to them. Perhaps they believe that only people who already have dependents should bother investing or that you need to reach a certain age for the investment to be worthwhile. In reality, the benefits of life insurance are universal. Without at least some protection, you’ll likely be leaving behind a mountain of debt for those you leave behind when you pass away. With a bit of research and honest financial reflection, you can decide how much coverage you need rather than write off life insurance entirely.
Myth No. 2: Once you start a policy, you’re locked in.
Although whole life insurance policies are indeed permanent, many insurance companies offer the ability to convert your term life insurance plans to a whole policy when the time is right. As the years roll by, you may find your coverage needs change with the different stages of your life; take this into account when designing your plan.
Myth No. 3: Your rates are going to increase over time.
Once you get approved for a life insurance policy, the terms – including your premium rates – are locked in.
However, if you’re in your 50s and looking to start a new plan, you will encounter higher rates than a 20-something because older customers are considered more of a financial risk. Younger policyholders have access to the lowest rates, which is why it’s smart to get into a policy as young as possible.
Myth No. 4:Life insurance is too expensive.
With so many options available to choose from, there’s likely a policy that fits your budget. If you need help finding what will work best for you, an insurance agent can guide you.
Myth No. 5:Your health is too poor to qualify.
Don’t speculate that a certain medical condition will prevent you from qualifying for a life insurance plan. Many providers are open to taking on a certain percentage of high-risk special cases, and some actually specialize in policyholders who are afflicted with serious medical ailments that might complicate their ability to secure coverage elsewhere. Some policies don’t even require a medical exam.
Myth No. 6: An employer-based policy is all you need.
Just because your employer provides a life insurance policy doesn’t mean that plan offers enough coverage to meet you and your family’s needs. In many cases, this contribution is minimal, serving only as a baseline on which the policyholder can build. Moreover, you might be at risk of losing this employer-based policy entirely if you were to leave the company for any reason.
Did we just debunk any of the life insurance myths you believed? Sound off in the comments and let us know.
Learn about your life insurance options.Schedule an appointment with a life insurance agent today.
The least exciting part of a highly anticipated vacation is leaving your fluffy friends behind. Thankfully, you don’t always have to. There are plenty of pet-friendly restaurants and hotels throughout the Northeast that invite all members of the family – four-legged included!
From hip eateries to AAA-approved hotels, here are some of our favorite places to take your pet on your next day trip or vacation in the Northeast.
Please remember to call all pet-friendly establishments ahead to check for any restrictions or fees.
This health-conscious Mediterranean eatery in Montauk is attached to the Solé East Resort, which anchors the eastern corner of Long Island in the Hamptons. A cozy collection of Adirondack chairs invites you and Fido to sit and rest while listening to the faint sound of waves just a five-minute walk away.
Bring your pets to the center of New York City at Parnell’s, a traditional Irish pub with dog-friendly outdoor tables. Once you’ve had your fill, give your pooch some exercise by ambling westward to Hell’s Kitchen or north to the Upper East Side.
This elegant New York City restaurant has a menu just for dogs! Spoil your pup like never before with grilled steak, grilled chicken breast or Wilson’s burger, all served with steamed baby vegetables. For a lighter treat, order off the Spa Day menu, for mixed berries, a house made dog biscuit, slices apples and cucumbers or a popsicle.
Reviewers say this American pub has a menu for dogs, which means there’s a delicious selection for both you and your pup. Sidewalk seating means that a patch of grass or ray of sunshine is never far away.
Jealous Monk, home of Mystic’s only beer garden, allows dogs outside, and in their winter igloos. This friendly gathering spot serves up bratwurst, schnitzel and an ever-rotating variety of brews on tap. It’s the perfect place for friends and their furry companions to meet for an afternoon or evening of good conversation and good eats.
Lucky Lou’s is a pet-friendly restaurant that serves a medley of classic American and Italian dishes. The seasonal dog-welcoming patio extends the dining room, established in the historic 1787 Deming-Standish House in Old Wethersfield.
Is there anything as relaxing as basking in the sunshine and watching the waves roll in with your best friend by your side? Windjammer Surf Bar is a family- and pet-friendly establishment with live music, beach access and a full bar.
It’s not always easy to find a pet-friendly restaurant in Boston. State Street Provisions has a waterfront dog-friendly patio that’s ideal for indulging with a cheese board, raw bar offerings or a cup of classic clam chowder.
Salem’s Village Tavern serves an American menu that includes smoked wings and thick burgers. Sidewalk tables allow you and your pooch to watch the world go by (and sneak a peek at the Peabody Essex Museum across the way).
Your pet will love this lively brewpub with stunning views of the White Mountains. The beer garden fills up quickly for Sunday brunch, so arrive early to snag a table. Then sink your teeth into a fresh burger and take your pick of brews from the rotating list.
Pets stay free at the AAA Four Diamond-Designated Westin in Buffalo. The elegant hotel features a restaurant, convenience store and fitness center in the heart of downtown. Your pup will love their cozy dog beds, too. Book now.
You’re welcome to bring up to two pets during your stay at the colorful, eclectic Asbury Hotel. With a rooftop lounge, outdoor movie theater and regular live music events, you and your fur babies have plenty of opportunities to spend quality time together outside. Book now.
Another Asbury Park landmark, the Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel has a reputation as an incredibly pet-friendly hotel. Once you’ve signed the hotel’s pet policy waiver, you and your small pooch can take a quick stroll to Asbury Park Beach, where a boardwalk full of souvenir shops and fun eateries awaits. Book now.
Do you fall head over heels for artsy, design-centric lodging? Then you and your pet will love the kid-, dog- and cat-friendly Bungalow Hotel. The property even has a grassy relief area for pets. Book now.
Furry friends of Yale students will enjoy a stay at the AAA Three Diamond Designated Omni, where food and water bowls are available upon request. A nearby park offers lots of green space for relief and roaming. Book now.
An outdoor fire pit and grilling area welcomes families to the Hyatt House Hartford North. This pet-friendly hotel makes a great home base for exploring historic Windsor’s Northwest Park & Nature Center or the Oliver Ellsworth Homestead. Book now.
The Graduate Hotel group has a reputation for quirky, hyperlocal décor and pet-friendly policies. The AAA Three Diamond Designated Graduate Providence is no exception. Add in the 24-hour fitness center, complimentary bike rentals and spa services, and you’ve got yourself a relaxing stay for the whole family! Book now.
The pet-friendly Hawthorne Hotel exudes elegance and style. A member of the Historic Hotels of America, the establishment offers a VIP (Very Important Pets) package that includes dog treats and $10 toward an item on the pet-focused room service menu.
Opened in 1927 in the heart of Boston, the AAA Four Diamond Designated Boston Park Plaza is one of the most pet-friendly hotels in the Cradle of Liberty. The hotel concierge even offers dog walking services. Book now.
Anchored below Mount Washington, The Glen House acts as a home base for exploring New Hampshire’s beautiful outdoors. Only a handful of rooms are pet-friendly, so book early if you’d like the package that includes a comfy bed, bowl and treat for Spot. Book now.
Did you know that you can add your pet to your AAA membership? With the complimentary AAA Pet ID Tag Program, AAA can help safely reunite lost pets with their owners. Drop by your local AAA branch to sign up.
What are your favorite pet-friendly restaurants and hotels? Tell us in the comments below.
This article has been updated and republished from a previous version.
Spurred by the rapidly increasing number of roadside crashes that have injured and killed emergency personnel and stranded drivers in the past five years, AAA successfully lobbied for the passage of expanded Slow Down, Move Over laws in three states last year.
While the laws in New York, New Jersey and Rhode Island previously required drivers to slow down and move away from the shoulder if they saw emergency vehicles, the laws now require drivers to take the same action if they see any car stopped on the roadside.
“We wanted to expand the law to all vehicles for a few reasons,” said Alec Slatky, managing director of public and government affairs for AAA Northeast. “We help drivers who are stuck at the roadside due to some issue with the vehicle – and we know that some of those situations occur at the side of high-speed roads. We wanted to give those individuals the same protection that we give other folks in dangerous situations at the roadside.”
Between 2017 and 2021, 1,874 pedestrians across the country were killed while outside of a disabled vehicle, according to most recent data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Over that period, there were 41 such fatalities in New Jersey, 30 fatalities in New York and four fatalities in Rhode Island.
“Rather than specifying that drivers need to take extra precautions when they see certain types of cars at the side of the road – as important as those actions are – we can say that drivers need to take action to protect every vehicle at the roadside,” Slatky said. “We hope this will improve compliance with the law overall.”
Rhode Island’s revised law took effect in June 2023; New Jersey’s and New York’s expanded laws took effect in March.
The number of fatal crashes involving roadside assistance workers continues to climb at an alarming rate, according to a recent study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.
More than 120 tow truck drivers, mobile mechanics, emergency roadside technicians and safety service patrollers were killed between 2015 and 2021 while helping motorists at the roadside, according to the study. Results show an alarming increase in the frequency of fatal roadside worker crashes, with one roadside assistance provider dying every two weeks in 2021.
Slow Down, Move Over for Everyone
The primary goal of AAA’s campaign is to reduce crashes between cars and people along the roadside. “Far too many people are killed or suffer life-changing injuries because a passing driver didn’t provide a margin of safety,” Slatky said. Another priority is to help drivers understand how vulnerable people on the side of the road are and consider how they would want passing drivers to respond if their cars broke down.
Part of the reason for the major uptick in crashes is the number of operators driving at excessively high speeds. “We’ve seen a particularly concerning trend with more drivers speeding – not just at 5 to 10 mph above the limit, but at especially egregious speeds,” Slatky said. “Overall, we saw a spike in dangerous behavior behind the wheel during the COVID pandemic – and unfortunately, it hasn’t subsided, even as more cars have come back on the road.”
Spreading awareness about the new laws is essential, as is enforcing and upgrading penalties for violations.
“We know that many of the drivers involved in these crashes are impaired, speeding, distracted or some combination of the three, so increased enforcement for those offenses would be worthwhile,” Slatky said. “We’ve also done research about the usefulness of variable message signs and other countermeasures that tow truck operators can use. Proper training of tow truck drivers about how to reduce their risk is critical – but unfortunately, even the best practices are no match for a driver veering entirely off the road.”
Have you ever been stuck at the roadside waiting for assistance? Did you feel safe? Tell us your story in the comments below.
Learn more about the slow down, move over initiative.
You wouldn’t think about drinking and driving, so why would you text and drive? Looking at your phone instead of the road could have the same tragic result. Taking just five seconds to read a message is like driving the entire length of a football field blindfolded.
Dangers of Texting and Driving
Distracted driving in the U.S. cost 3,308 lives in 2022, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. These figures were released as the NHTSA launched its new Put the Phone Away or Pay campaign to increase awareness of the dangers of distracted driving and alert the public to stepped-up enforcement. Distracted driving refers to any activity that diverts drivers’ attention from the road, and the biggest culprits are texting and talking on cell phones while driving.
The dangers of texting and driving remain a growing traffic safety problem according to the most recent Traffic Safety Culture Index. The survey, conducted by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, found 93% of drivers believe typing or reading on a hand-held cellphone while driving very or extremely dangerous, but 38% admit to reading and 27% admit to sending a text or email while driving.
Just because you are stopped does not give you the green light to look at your phone. Using a hand-held device is illegal while driving and while stopped at a red light or stop sign in most states. And many drivers aren’t aware of the “hangover effect.” AAA Foundation researchers found that the brain does not reacclimate to the task of driving for up to half a minute after using smartphones or voice-to-text vehicle infotainment systems to send text messages, make phone calls or update social media. This could lead to inattention blindness, where your eyes are on the road but you’re not actually seeing what’s in front of you, which puts other drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians at risk.
How to Avoid the Dangers of Texting and Driving
AAA encourages all motorists to eliminate distracted driving by following these tips.
Put it away. Place your mobile device out of sight to prevent temptation.
Know where you’re going. If using a navigation system, program the destination before driving.
Pull over. If you must call or text while on the road, pull off the road safely and stop first.
Ask passengers for help. If riding with someone, seek their help to navigate, make a call or send a message.
Be a good passenger. Speak out if the driver of your vehicle is distracted.
Don’t be a distraction. Avoid calling or texting others when you know they are driving.
Everyone should prevent being intexticated. Just as drivers need to pay attention, so do pedestrians and bicyclists. Never call, text or play games while walking or cycling.
Activate Do Not Disturb or Driving Focus. Setting up these features on iPhone or Android device will prevent calls and texts from coming in while you’re driving.
As we get older, our bodies go through changes, making it even more important to take care of ourselves.
Some lifestyle alterations, like needing to stretch more or wear reading glasses, are expected. But there are other things that may not be as well-known, like how our nutritional needs adjust with age or how the medicines we take can affect our teeth. Having a dental plan from a top dental coverage provider like Delta Dental, exclusively for Rhode Island AAA members, can help you take care of your smile and your overall health.
Taking a little extra care with your diet can help you keep your smile bright and make you feel better. Make sure your diet includes these important vitamins and nutrients:
Protein: Incorporate lean meat, eggs, dairy (such as cottage cheese) and plant-based options like beans, peas, and lentils for ample protein intake, vital in counteracting age-related muscle loss and revitalizing gums. Protein is also an important source of phosphorous, which helps in bone production.
Calcium: Boost calcium absorption and bone and teeth strength with foods like egg yolks, salmon and tuna, rich in vitamin D.
Fiber: Combat slowed digestion and get your saliva flowing with fiber-rich fruits, veggies and whole grains, which not only aid digestion, but also lower cholesterol and regulate blood sugar.
Vitamin B12: Ensure a healthy red blood cell count and reduce gum disease risk by including vitamin B12 sources like beef, tuna, dairy and eggs in your diet.
Caring for Your Teeth and Gums
As we get older, our gums may recede, our tooth enamel can wear away, and we may be more prone to dry mouth. These changes can make us more likely to have problems like cavities, gum disease and other oral health issues. To alleviate these effects, it’s crucial to maintain regular dental check-ups and practice good oral hygiene habits, including brushing twice daily, flossing, and using mouthwash.
Managing Medication Side Effects
Getting older may mean we have more prescription medications to manage. No matter what the medicines are for, it’s important to watch out for side effects, like dry mouth, which can lead to mouth bacteria and oral health problems. If you have any concerns, it’s important to talk to your dentist or doctor.
Keeping Your Smile Healthy
To keep your smile healthy, make sure to brush your teeth twice a day, floss every day and visit a dentist regularly. Eating foods that are good for you and low in sugar will also help. If you’re worried that you’re not getting enough of the right vitamins and minerals, talk to your doctor about your diet and what you should be eating every day.
Healthy Smiles for AAA Members
By eating right, taking your medications correctly, and taking care of your teeth, you can stay healthy and enjoy your golden years. If you’re a AAA member in Rhode Island, you can get dental insurance at low rates from Delta Dental. Visit Delta Dental of Rhode Island for more information.
The idea that you have to wait a quarter century to rent a car is a myth. Drivers as young as 18 years old can rent a car with Hertz’s more inclusive age policy.
The freedom and flexibility of renting a car can be a game changer, allowing you to plan a road trip, visit family and friends, or simply make your daily commute more convenient. However, there’s a common misconception that you must be 25 years or older to rent a car.
While many rental car companies have strict age restrictions, Hertz will hand over the keys at age 20 – or even 18 in some cities.
Hertz’s Age Policy
Hertz has adopted a more lenient age policy, allowing individuals between the ages of 20 and 25 to rent a car. The company recognizes that responsible younger drivers are just as capable of safely operating a rental car as anyone 25 and older. But there are some key terms and conditions drivers should be aware of before renting a car for the first time.
Under 25 rental fee: For renters that are under the age of 25, Hertz charges a Young Renter fee of $19 per day, which is below the industry average. This fee varies depending on your location and the type of car that you’re renting. Check with your local Hertz Car Rental for specific rates. The Young Renter fee is waivedfor AAA members who book with a discount code.
Vehicle selection: While Hertz opens its doors to younger renters, certain vehicles may still be off-limits at different locations. Renters under 25 can rent from a variety of car classes, from economy to SUVs, but are excluded from renting certain high-performance cars, luxury vehicles and some specialty models might have age restrictions. Don’t worry, you won’t be stuck with a minivan.
Renters must be 20 years old to rent a vehicle at most Hertz locations in the United States and Canada. The minimum age in Michigan, New York and the province of Quebec is 18 years old. While in Alabama and Nebraska, the minimum age to rent a vehicle is 19.
Documents You’ll Need for Renting a Car Under 25
If you’re a driver looking to rent a car under the age of 25, here are some essential tips to make the process hassle-free.
Understand Insurance Options: Hertz Car Rental locations offer various insurance options, such as collision damage or liability coverage. It’s imperative to understand the coverage that you may need and the additional cost it may entail.
Valid Driver’s License: Ensure that your driver’s license is valid and in good standing for over a year. Hertz Car Rental locations will check your driving record, and a poor record could lead to denial of service.
Valid Credit or Debit Card: Some Hertz locations may require a credit card to rent a car.
Age Verification: When booking with Hertz, be prepared to provide documentation providing your age. This typically involves presenting your driver’s license and an additional form of identification, in some cases.
How to Stay on Budget
Renting a car can quickly add up to an expensive adventure, here are some budget-friendly tips to save you money.
Plan ahead: As soon as you know that you would like to rent a car, start your research. The more time you allow for research and booking, the better your chances of securing a vehicle that suits your needs and budget.
Use membership benefits: If you belong to an automobile club, such as AAA, or are a member of any loyalty programs, check for discounts or special offers. You may be surprised at how much these memberships can save you.
Rental duration: Be mindful of the length of your car rental. In some cases, renting for a full week might be more cost-effective than a shorter duration.
Returning the vehicle: Return the rental car on the agreed-upon date and time to avoid late fees. And make sure that the car is in the same condition as when you received it.
So, go on and hit the road and experience the world. Where will you be heading next? Young Renter fee is waived for Reserve your next rental with
AAA members get exclusive Hertz discounts, including up to 20% on Hertz rentals and Young Renter fee waived.
Many medications that we take, including prescribed and over-the-counter supplements, can have a range of side effects that elicit changes to our health, from headaches to drowsiness and many others in between. The side effects we experience can change as we age, as well, and may even cause unexpected impacts to our oral health.
Obtaining quality dental insurance, prioritizing preventive care and relaying all current medications you take to your dentist are important for staying up to date with your oral health. In addition, staying informed about the possible side effects of different medications can aid in knowing what to expect.
The best way to maintain your oral health is to regularly see a dentist. With Altus Dental, AAA members in Massachusetts can get quality dental care and coverage at exclusive AAA member rates.
Depending on the medicine you take, these are some of the side effects you could experience when it comes to your dental health.
Cavities
A side effect that is present in more than 500 medications to treat conditions such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol is a symptom called dry mouth. Producing less saliva due to medication causes you to experience a cotton-like dryness in your mouth. The lack of saliva present increases your risk of tooth decay, as saliva helps to stop food from collecting around your teeth and neutralizes acids found in plaque. This tooth decay, in turn, increases the likelihood of the formation of cavities.
Fortunately, dry mouth symptoms can be improved. Drinking more water, using a humidifier and avoiding certain irritating drinks that may worsen your condition like coffee, alcohol, soda or acidic fruit juices will all help in maintaining a healthy oral environment. Consulting with your dentist for their recommendations for oral moisturizers like mouthwash or fluoride gel is also encouraged.
You can get the preventive care you need without having to worry about expense with Altus Dental through AAA Northeast, an affordable, accessible way to get dental coverage in Massachusetts.
Chemotherapy and radiation are intended to eradicate cancer within the body but can cause oral complications in the process. Because both treatments either slow or halt the production of new cells altogether, the oral tissue is unable to repair itself after damage as it usually would.
Radiation on its own may damage oral tissue, salivary glands and even bone. Treatments for cancer also disturb the healthy balance of bacteria that’s present in the mouth. As a result, cancer patients may experience mouth sores, an increase in infections and tooth decay. Cancer treatment that includes bone-strengthening drugs can lead to uncommon but serious jaw issues, as well.
Before treatment begins, it’s imperative to inform your dentist about your diagnosis so that they are able to assess your current treatment plan accordingly.
Bleeding Problems
Because they are meant to reduce blood clots, anticoagulants like aspirin, heparin or warfarin are beneficial for preventing heart issues such as stroke or heart disease. Unfortunately, that also means they increase the likelihood of bleeding issues during oral treatment. Let your dentist know if you’re taking these types of medications before scheduling any surgery or dental care that could involve bleeding.
Affecting Your Taste
Your taste buds can be affected by some medications, too. Anti-inflammatory drugs, cardiovascular agents, respiratory inhalants and smoking-cessation products can all cause food or drinks to taste bitter or metallic. Some may even affect the ability to taste altogether.
Changes in Gum Tissue
Of course, as there are side effects for teeth, there are also some medication-induced side effects for the gums, as well.
Oral sores or ulcers, discoloration and inflammation have been noted in the soft tissues of the mouth after use of medications prescribed for blood pressure, oral contraceptives and immunosuppressive agents. An overgrowth of the gum tissue — known as gingival overgrowth — can sometimes be associated with anti-seizure medications and calcium blockers.
Making your dentist aware of the medications you’re taking and the side effects you’re experiencing from them is vital in keeping your oral health in tip top shape.
Regular visits to a trusted dentist will help you stay on top of issues that may arise. AAA members living in Massachusetts can get quality care and coverage in more than 10,000 locations locally with Altus Dental.
This time of year, families are busy tallying up their receipts for tax season and clearing out their homes to prepare for the months ahead. However, even dedicated advocates of spring cleaning often overlook one of the most critical elements of such forward-thinking – a thorough review of their insurance policies.
People tend to approach insurance with a set it and forget it mindset, but you should review your policies often and make changes as needed. Spring is a great reminder to reset and refresh.
While it may not clear out any physical space, taking a look at your policies can trim expenses and ensure that you and your loved ones are protected regardless of what the future holds. After all, life can be unpredictable, and regular updates to your coverage can prevent financial stress and provide you with some much-needed peace of mind.
For many policyholders, insurance is something that rarely comes to mind. Once you have settled on a plan, you tend to forget it’s even there, going on with your life assuming that you will be covered if something goes wrong. And therein lies the fallacy.
Insurance is never intended to be a one-time consideration. It’s a living, breathing contract that should ebb and flow over the course of your life, providing protection for worst-case scenarios that – in the best of circumstances – you never need to face at all. This is not an instance in which customers should be holding out for the lowest prices either, since such a position often curtails coverage in favor of keeping costs down.
Rather than limiting the amount of insurance coverage you have, shift your perspective to that of someone preparing for any potential outcome. As you develop a sharper understanding of your policy details, you will discover any lingering disparity between what your insurance plan already has built into it and the changes necessary to best fit your lifestyle.
Taking a deep dive into your policies before you even reach out to an insurance agent will streamline the entire process and, in essence, provide you with the ability to make more informed decisions about your coverage. Planning ahead is the entire premise behind your policy, and it’s up to you to be proactive and take accountability for your family’s financial health.
Checking Your Coverage
As you begin to evaluate your coverage levels, it’s important to account for any changes that may have occurred in the last year. In many cases, even what may seem like small factors can impact your policies. So be sure to carefully reflect on life events, expenses and other adjustments that have come to pass since the last time you assessed your coverage levels. Here are some key examples that may influence each of your policies.
Auto insurance
If you’ve purchased a new vehicle or made any significant enhancements to your car, you should update your coverage. Other factors such as your driving record, state of residence and even your age can greatly affect your insurance. Depending on your state and carrier, you may qualify for an auto insurance discount when you take the AAA Defensive Driving Course. So keep a close eye on your policy before you decide that no changes need to be made.
Home insurance
Of course, if you’ve moved, you need to give your home insurance coverage a comprehensive review. However, any upgrades you’ve made to your home – such as adding a room, remodeling the kitchen or replacing the roof – will play into the amount of coverage you should have on file.
Generally speaking, any change in your assets or major life events like a new job, marriage or childbirth are definite signs that your insurance coverage deserves some attention. To consolidate your policies, you may even wish to explore bundled insurance packages to ensure you have adequate protection going forward.
Spring Into Action
Since insurance isn’t traditionally considered an integral part of spring cleaning, it requires a bit of a change in mindset. Start to see this season of regrowth an as easy opportunity to develop your coverage and make sure what you have is properly protected.
Gardening is one of the most satisfying pastimes. You dig around in the dirt a little bit, apply water and then – voila! – you have vegetables, greenery and flowers. Whether it’s spring, summer or fall, flowers can brighten up your garden or landscaping. But when is the best time to plant flowers? Our Northeast flower chart can help.
One of the first things you need to know when planting flowers is your planting zone. For the uninitiated, a planting zone is a way of measuring climate differences. The zones are based on the average annual minimum temperature in that area. You can find your zone here. There are around 11 planting zones in the US. Northeast planting zones range from 3 (cold) to 7 (mild), though most of the Northeast sits comfortably between zones 5 and 6. Only the very upper regions of New York, New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine get into the 3-4 range.
Sourced from the Old Farmer’s Almanac, our flower chart marks the zones in which certain flowers flourish, and it also notes if they’re annuals or perennials. Annual flowers, like impatiens, go through their entire life cycle in one planting period. If you want impatiens every spring, you have to plant them every spring. Perennial flowers, like peonies, have a longer life cycle. With proper care, they can return and flower year after year.
An important thing to note when consulting our flower chart is that most flowers do not do well in extremes. As you look over the flower chart, you’ll notice that almost all of the flowers thrive best when planted in either spring or fall. These mild, in-between seasons are perfect for growing strong and healthy flowering plants. Everyone knows you can’t usually plant flowers in winter, but the dog days of summer can be just as bad.
Sunflowers
Sunflowers are annual flowers that flourish in zones 2-11. (Although there are some smaller perennial varieties.) It is best to plant them after the last spring frost. Sunflowers look almost like huge daisies – some of them can grow over 16 feet in height! They are hardy plants that are easy to maintain. Sunflowers bloom in summer and early fall.
Zinnias
These annual plants grow best in zones 3-10. Like sunflowers, make sure to plant them after the last spring frost, and no sooner. Zinnias are great flowers for new gardeners, since they’re easy to plant as seeds and they grow very quickly. They bloom in summer and are beloved by butterflies.
Coneflowers
Coneflowers are perennials that grow in zones 3-9. These spindly purple flowers are best when planted in spring. Coneflowers bloom from June to October, adding a vibrant pop of color to your garden for many months. Like zinnias, they also attract butterflies.
Jacob’s Ladder
This perennial plant can grow in zones 3-8, and can be planted in either spring or fall. The vibrant purple flowers can bloom from late spring to early summer, and last up to four weeks.
Shasta Daisies
Shasta daisies are perennial flowers that can grow in zones 5-8. Like Jacob’s ladder, they can be planted in spring or fall. These flowers are classics of the garden, with white petals and yellow florets. Shasta daisies bloom in spring or early summer, and sometimes even flower through fall.
Lavender
This fragrant perennial grows in zones 5-9, and should be planted in late spring. Expect the signature fragrance to hit its peak when they bloom in late spring and early summer.
Roses
Roses are perennial flowers that can grow in zones 3-10. Plant your roses in late spring or early summer. There are many different types of roses, but they usually bloom on and off from spring to fall.
Black-Eyed Susans
These perennials thrive in zones 3-9. They should be planted in late spring or early summer, when the soil temperature reaches 70 degrees. Black-eyed susans brighten up any garden when they bloom throughout the summer.
Big-Leaf Hydrangeas
Big-leaf hydrangeas are perennial and they grow in zones 5-7. They can be planted in either spring or fall. Big-leaf hydrangeas are fascinating flowers that grow in an array of rich colors depending on the pH level of the soil. My hydrangeas blooms in shades of blue, purple and pink, so I truly have no idea what’s going on in my dirt. They bloom from mid-spring to early fall.
Tulips
Tulips are technically perennial, but generations of hybridization and human meddling has weakened their ability to come back year after year. Most gardeners treat them as annuals. Tulips can grow in zones 4-8. They should be planted in the fall, about 6-8 weeks before hard frost sets in. Tulips come in many varieties, but they usually bloom in spring.
Peonies
Peonies are perennial flowers that do best in zones 3-8. They are best planted from late September to early October, about six weeks before the ground freezes. These fat, fragrant blossoms flourish when planted in an area with direct sunlight. Once established, peony bushes are hardy plants with vast root systems. They bloom in late spring and early summer.
Get more tips for landscaping and gardening in the Northeast.
What are your favorite gardening flowers? Let us know in the comments below!
This article has been updated and republished from a previous version.
A recent survey showed that Europe is the top continent for family vacations, particularly in Italy, the United Kingdom, France, Greece, Ireland and Spain. However, family vacation preferences have also expanded to include South America, Thailand and the Caribbean.
When thinking of family vacations in Europe, you might imagine teenagers being unimpressed by the Mona Lisa or weary children more interested in the hotel pool than the Roman Colosseum. But when planning a multi-generational trip, Europe’s thousands of years of history, culture and art, combined with amusement parks and plenty of green spaces, beaches and other kid-friendly attractions, make it appealing for all ages. It’s the same versatility that draws families to all the top destinations.
With trips to 27 countries and 95 cities globally, including Caribbean and other warm-weather destinations, you can trust Pleasant Holidays as your expert family vacation planner, whatever your style.
Here’s a quick look at some of the most popular international family vacation spots and their highlights.
United Kingdom: While the United Kingdom is not in Europe, it’s close by, making it a central spot for country hopping. London is an especially popular destination. Who doesn’t like the Tower of London and the crown jewels? Not to mention actual castles. The British Museum has rooms full of artifacts, including suits of armor, which are crowd-pleasers. The London Eye, the giant Ferris wheel, is also popular, as well as gardens and a zoo. Outside of London, the seaside resort of Blackpool is home to an aquarium, a waterpark and other attractions, not to mention the beach.
France: Just across the English Channel, France beckons, with Paris as the main attraction. Climb the Eiffel Tower and visit the Palace of Versailles or take a cruise on the Seine. The famous art museum, the Louvre, offers special tours for children. Had enough art and history? Head to amusement parks Parc Asterix or Disneyland Paris, or visit the Paris Botanical Gardens, which includes a zoo. Outside of Paris, enjoy the French countryside, skiing in the mountains or the scenic French coast.
Cliff Side Suites. Santorini, Greece. (Photo: Courtesy of Pleasant Holidays)
Greece: The Cradle of Civilization also is full of architectural wonders to see, including the Parthenon, Temple of Zeus and the Acropolis in Athens. Kid-friendly tours are available for all the major archaeological sites in Greece. Take a break from the cities and visit some of the country’s beautiful beaches.
Ireland: Head to the Emerald Isle for your fill of ancient churches, castles, forts, museums, mansions and ghost stories. The Blarney Castle is one of Ireland’s most popular attractions with the well-known stone rumored to give all who kiss it the gift of gab. Kilkenny Castle is another of Ireland’s most visited heritage sites. For outdoor adventures, one of Ireland’s most famous sights, the Cliffs of Moher, rises 666 feet, with breathtaking views and the Irish landscape is perfect for biking and mountain climbing.
Palazzo Sant’Angelo Sul Canal Grande Hotel, Venice, Italy. (Photo: Courtesy of Pleasant Holidays)
Italy: If you plan to visit different cities in Italy, and it’s hard not to, make sure you see Michelangelo’s Statue of David in Florence and Leonardo de Vinci’s painting of The Last Supper in Milan. Take a guided tour of the Vatican Museums to get a deeper look at Italy’s extensive artistic, religious and cultural history. In Rome, history and art is everywhere, but be sure to see the colosseum, a huge, ancient amphitheater and toss coins in the Trevi Fountain. To keep the younger ones happy, enroll them in gladiator school for a day. Kids also might like visiting one or more of the many car museums in Italy or hiking up a volcano.
Spain: Get to know medieval Barcelona with a family walking tour of the city’s Gothic Quarter. For the next stop, the Prado National Museum in Madrid, which has one of the largest art collections in the world, features works by Spain’s own Velasquez, Goya and El Greco. Also in Madrid, Parque del Retiro, a park surrounding a lake, is the perfect place for a stroll or a bike ride. For the more adventurous, travel to Alhambra in Granada, Andalusia, one of the best-preserved palaces of the ancient Muslim world. For a water-drenched day of fun, visit Siam Park, Tenerife’s water kingdom, ranked the best water park in the world, with heart-pumping slides and lazy river floating.
Caribbean: The Caribbean comprises almost 7,000 islands within 26 countries and features a unique blend of food, music and art. Lounge on some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, enjoy water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving and Jet Skiing. Explore some of the nations’ colonial histories by visiting fortresses that are more than a century old. Hike along trails with waterfalls and mountains.
South America: For an outdoor adventure vacation, South America is home to towering mountains, unique wildlife and scenic beaches, as well as natural and manmade wonders. Take a train to Machu Picchu, the lost City of the Incas, in the Peruvian Andes. In Ecuador, enjoy tours highlighting native wildlife and rainforests. Experience “cowboy life” with the gauchos in Argentina and pick a spot to relax on Uruguay’s 410 miles of beaches.
Shangri-La Bangkok, Thailand. (Photo: Courtesy of Pleasant Holidays)
Thailand: Bangkok, Thailand’s capital, is the perfect place for foodies, with street foods the highlight of the culinary scene. “Floating” markets still exist, with boats full of items near the sides of canals. Make sure to take a water taxi during your exploration of the city. Among the not-to-be-missed spots are the Bangkok National Museum, Grand Palace and Chinatown. Outside of the city, enjoy pristine white beaches at Phuket and Koh Samui Chiang Rai and waterfalls and forests in mountainous northern Thailand.
Contact your AAA Travel Agent and plan your next family getaway today!
Featured image: Beaches Turks and Caicos. (Photo: Courtesy of Pleasant Holidays)
Your tax returns were filed a few weeks ago, and now ✨ shazam ✨ refunds from the state and federal governments are in your bank account. Now, what to do with your tax refund?
More than two-thirds of taxpayers are expecting refunds from the 2023 tax year, and many have already received them, noted a recent Bankrate survey. By mid-February, more than 25.5 million taxpayers filed returns, yielding average refunds of about $1,741, according to the Internal Revenue Service.
For some, tax returns are a chance to splurge, and for others, it’s extra money to save or put toward bills like car payments or student loans. Maybe you do a little bit of both. Here are a few ideas for how to spend your tax refund.
Trips To Take With Your Tax Refund
About 7% of people getting refunds plan to spend the money on vacations, Bankrate reported.
This is indeed a busy time for AAA Travel, according toChuck Nardozza, managing director of travel sales. “People tend to book trips very quickly,” he said. “We start to see people going during the first quarter of the year. They are warm weather destinations, winter getaways.”
Top-booked destinations include:
Aruba
Punta Cana
Cancun
Jamaica
Also popular are Caribbean cruises, including cruises for families, all-inclusive resorts and theme park destinations like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios.
“A vacation is a popular choice for many who are looking for a way to spend their refund wisely on memorable experiences,” Nardozza added.
If not a full-blown vacation, there are still plenty of fun experiences you can plan with your refund money. Spend a day at an amusement park or water park with the family, go to a concert, see a Broadway show or cheer on your favorite team at a game.
In need of some retail therapy? Check out these 17 Products Our Readers Love. You might find just the thing you’ve been looking for, or something you didn’t even know you needed.
Build Up That Nest Egg
Instead of wondering how to spend your tax refund, you might be thinking about how to save it. The Bankrate survey found that 28% of taxpayers planned to use the money to boost their savings, while 19% planned to pay off debt.
How do you get the most from your tax return? Tell us in the comments.
There's a lot to know when planning a Disney vacation. Thankfully, AAA travel advisors are happy to share their tips to ensure your trip is a magical one.
Walt Disney World is one of the most popular vacation spots on Earth, but there are a lot of details and planning involved in visiting. Do you need a Disney 101 course?
We spoke to AAA travel advisor and Disney expert Cady DeBlois to learn the basics for making your next trip a dream come true.
For your first visit, I always recommend dedicating one full day to each theme park and including one non-park day to enjoy the amenities at your resort or visit Disney Springs. After your first visit, you’ll find your favorite things to do and decide if there are any parks you would only like to spend a half day at using the Park Hopper option.
Do I have to arrange transportation from the airport or from my hotel to the parks?
There are a few different ways you can get from the airport to your resort that you should arrange in advance. Mears Connect is a shared shuttle service that services the Disney area resorts – this tends to be the most popular option. You can also book a private transfer service, rent a car or utilize a rideshare service upon arrival. To get from your resort to the theme parks, you do not need to make any arrangements in advance. The busses run every 15 minutes or so to all of the theme parks.
Yes! The My Disney Experience app is going to be the key to your success while visiting Walt Disney World. The app is how you will book your Genie+ selections, check wait times, view your plans such as dining reservations and more. Two of my favorite features of the app are the directions feature and the mobile food ordering feature. The directions feature tells you the most efficient way to get to a certain attraction from where you are in the parks. The mobile ordering feature will allow you to select a time slot and place an order at most quick-service restaurants, so you can skip the long lines during the lunchtime rush.
Should I stay on Disney property? What are the advantages?
I absolutely recommend staying on property. There’s nothing like fully immersing yourself in the Disney bubble. A few advantages include early park admission, extended evening hours for deluxe resort guests, complimentary transportation to the theme parks, early access to booking Individual Lightning Lane attractions and early access to dining reservations. When you stay on property and bundle your resort stay with your tickets, there are also flexible payment plans available.
Learn more about the perks of staying at a Disney hotel.
Should I get the help of a travel advisor to plan my vacation?
I definitely recommend booking with a travel advisor. We have specialists – we call them Magic Makers – who are experts in Disney destinations and theme park vacations. They are always up to date with the newest information and visit the parks often. Your travel advisor can assist you with anything from dining suggestions to itinerary planning to assisting you while you are traveling. We will also monitor your reservation for you after booking and if there are any additional discounts that become available, we will automatically apply them to your package for you.
It depends on your individual travel party – there isn’t really a one-size-fits-all for dining. If you are planning to have a table service or character dining experience each day, I think it’s worth the cost. Most of your meals would be paid for in advance and you can get the best bang for your buck. However, travelers who may not want sit-down meals might prefer to split an entree at a quick-service restaurant or order groceries to their room instead. I recommend speaking with your travel advisor to weigh out the options for you.
Which nighttime experiences and fireworks shows should I make time for?
You should make time for Fantasmic (Hollywood Studios), Happily Ever After (Magic Kingdom) and Luminous (Epcot). Disney offers dining packages for Fantasmic and Luminous, which is a great perk. The dining packages allow you to make a dining reservation at select restaurants in that park and get preferred seating for the show. For Happily Ever After, there are some dessert parties with preferred seating locations that are available to book as well. If you’re visiting during Christmas or Halloween, the exclusive fireworks at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party or Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party are a Walt Disney World must-do!
What are your favorite rides or experiences?
My favorite rides in each park are the Haunted Mansion (Magic Kingdom), Avatar: Flight of Passage (Animal Kingdom), Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind (Epcot) and Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster (Hollywood Studios). A few of my other favorite experiences include Fantasmic and the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular (Hollywood Studios), the food and drinks at Epcot’s seasonal festivals, the animal walking trails at Animal Kingdom and finishing up a long day at Magic Kingdom with a sweet treat from the Main Street Confectionary.
Spring is one of the best times to book a trip to our national parks, as is summer, fall and winter.
Every season offers extraordinary perspectives at our national parks. Although some of the best experiences happen in spring – from the budding of diverse vegetation and the mass migration of wildlife to National Park Week, celebrated annually at national parks and nationally designated sites across the country.
Spring is a relative term, however. Nature knows no calendar. It expresses the seasons in its own terms. Nevertheless, here are few national parks best seen in spring.
California's Route 190 winds through an unusual landscape.
Vegetation is sparse.
Hills are an assortment of shapes and colors.
The Furnace Creek Visitor Center welcomes guests in the east.
Badwater Basin is a popular draw 282 feet below sea level
The Borax Museum transports you to the old west.
Spring is fleeting in the parched-earth landscape of Death Valley. And it comes much earlier than in the Northeast.
If your timing is just right and weather conditions have been conducive, you might catch a “super bloom” of wildflowers over large swaths of the Mojave Desert. I wasn’t so lucky on my visit in spring 2020, but it was still an ideal time to view the bizarre and breathtaking vistas before summer’s extreme heat.
The mountains, hills and cliffs are arranged in an assortment of shapes and painted in spectacular colors. The 9-mile Artist’s Loop drive reveals shades of yellow, turquoise, pink and other hues.
Badwater Basin, a 200-square-mile salt flat, is the lowest point in North America, 282 feet below sea level. From a distance, it shimmers in the sun like an enormous frozen lake. Up-close its salt deposits resemble snow – highly unlikely where average spring temperatures are 80-90 degrees. However, you can view snow-capped peaks in the far-off distance. For some perspective, turn toward the facing cliff where a small sign high above your head marks sea level.
On this trip, my husband and I also visited Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area in Las Vegas and Zion National Park in Utah (see below), Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Hoover Dam and Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada. Staying in Las Vegas gave us a great hub for all of our activities.
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Nev.
Early-Midspring
A befitting monument welcomes park visitors.
The landscape in various gradients of color.
The landscape grows greener after every spring rain.
Wild burros easily blend into the brush.
Want to catch a show in Las Vegas? Red Rock might be the best entertainment in town. There is glitz in the way the sun sparkles on the vibrant-colored stone. There is magic and illusion in the way the rocks cast shadows across the landscape. There is aerial acrobatics as climbers scale the faces of the enormous rock faces.
Given its proximity (17 miles from the Strip), we visited Red Rock a few times on our trip in early spring 2020. We went at midday at the beginning of our trip, when vegetation was still mostly dormant. We almost missed the large pack of wild burros camouflaged among the brown brush.
We returned around sunset a couple of days later. The shadows had moved, completely transforming the environment. Then, a quick-moving, heavy rainstorm passed through, and the sun’s rays broke through the clouds spotlighting the land. The next day, the whole scene was transformed into various shades of green.
Everglades National Park, Fla.
Midspring
A boardwalk at Royal Palm carries visitors above aquatic creatures.
An alligator lurks amid the lily pads at the Royal Palm visitors area.
A turtle swims below the surface at Royal Palms.
A stork amid grasses at the water's edge.
Up before dawn.
Sunrise from Pa-hay-okee Overlook.
Black vultures are everywhere, including Pa-hay-okee Overlook at sunrise.
A wooded area on Coastal Prairie Trail.
Open land along Coastal Prairie Trail.
Everglades National Park is a waterlogged wonder – in most areas. However, some parts are dry, rugged and rocky. There is a diversity of terrains and fragile ecosystems supporting all types of wildlife from resident and migratory birds to panthers to … alligators, of course.
On our visit in early spring 2022, we spent most of our time in the southeastern section. We watched various aquatic creatures ply the shallow waters. We walked along the Coastal Prairie Trail through a wooded area of moss-laden trees that opened to fields as far as the eye could see. We experienced a shimmering sunrise over Freshwater Marl Prairie at Par-hay-okee Overlook with only birds, including vultures, in our company.
The park is still in its dry season at this time of year, before summer’s humidity. Wildlife is more easily seen around smaller communal waters. Insects, particularly mosquitoes, are relatively inactive, though dragonflies and butterflies are out and about.
We also went snorkeling and kayaking at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo. We stopped at Biscayne National Park, which is almost entirely underwater.
Zion National Park, Utah
Mid-Late Spring
Entering the park.
America the beautiful.
A magnificent spot.
Patterns in the rocks make them appear to be flowing toward Zion Mount-Carmel Highway, a scenic drive through the park.
Erosion has formed some strangely shaped rocky structures amid towering cliffs.
You may think if you’ve seen one red rock, you’ve seen them all. But depending on the lay of the land, their material makeup, the intricate shapes formed by erosion and the various hues, they all seem brand new.
At Zion, the towering cliffs are a shade closer to pink ornamented by bright white. And the experience extends for many miles outside the park borders. We approached from the southwest along Route 9, stopping several times along the Virgin River to take pictures. We had no idea how much more intense the setting would get.
We arrived at the park at a perfect time of year to avoid large crowds, but just a little too early to experience the explosion of foliage and flowers that comes later in the spring. Taking the riverside walk leading to the Narrows, we found cascading pools of turquoise waters.
We left heading east on Route 9 (Zion Mount-Carmel Highway). It is a twisting scenic drive through the center of the park, and behind every turn there was yet another fantastic sight to behold.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyo., Idaho, Mont.
Late Spring-Summer
Elk feed just inside the north gate of Yellowstone.
Elk can be found in abundance, sometimes mingling in what we may consider human habitats.
Bison roam their territory alone or gather in large herds.
Pronghorn, aka American antelope, are more solitary and elusive than elk and buffalo.
Lamar Valley offers an expansive view of wildlife.
A valley of sagebrush at Yellowstone.
If Yellowstone is your once-in-a-lifetime trip, be sure to save enough time to see it all. We were a little too rushed when we visited in summer 2021.
We entered Yellowstone through the south gate, at the junction with Grand Teton National Park. Our carefully planned itinerary got thrown off at the Denver airport. And, maybe we stayed just a bit too long in Jackson Hole, Wyo. Maybe we stopped too many times in Grand Teton. And maybe, as copilot, I wasn’t paying close enough attention to road signs (distracted by the amazing mountain vistas).
We were pressed for time to get to our hotel in Gardiner, Mont. So, we made the sad decision to forgo most of the major tourist attractions, including geothermic features like the multicolored Grand Prismatic Spring. We stopped at Old Faithful just to check it off our list. The next day, we got back on our original schedule, spending a good amount of time in Lamar Valley.
Living in the Northeast, it was hard to imagine such vast wilderness exists. In Lamar, bison and elk populations far outnumber humans. Coyotes, wolves and bear prowl almost in plain sight. It’s best to watch from afar with binoculars or a telephoto lens. Park rangers advise keeping a safe distance – 25 yards from most wildlife and 100 yards from predators like wolves and bears. If there are elk hanging out in your hotel parking lot, don’t assume they are tame.
Even with prolific hot springs and super volcano status, Yellowstone warms up to spring temperatures later in the year. In Yellowstone, animals large and small arrive with newborns in their midst. (Absolutely do not approach!) The landscape turns vivid greens speckled with wildflowers. For the full experience, take a deep sniff of the sweet fragrance of wild sage blanketing the ground around you.
Our trip to Yellowstone was just a segment of a whirlwind 3,000-mile loop through five states in 10 days. We also stopped at Theodore Roosevelt National Park, N.D., and Mount Rushmore National Monument, S.D., among other places.
Some of these parks have experienced unprecedented weather events in recent years. Before you go, visit the National Parks Service website for advisories about current conditions including road closures.
Contact your AAA travel agent and plan your national parks getaway today!
Closer to Home
You don’t have to travel so far to enjoy the wonders of spring at a national park. There is plenty to see and do at these parks in the Northeast.
What’s your favorite national park? Tell us in the comments.
Featured image: Grand Teton National Park
This article has been updated and republished from a previous version.
Whether you want to go on expeditions across frozen landscapes or quietly drift along one of many U.S. or international rivers to cultural and historical sites, Viking offers not just a vacation, but a rich learning adventure.
From carefully curated destinations and itineraries to engaging concerts and lectures, even onboard science labs and libraries – experience the Viking difference.
Aquavit Terrace at dawn with breakfast on the table onboard the Viking Longship Hlin in the Upper Middle Rhine Valley in Germany.
Oceans, Rivers … You Pick!
Viking offers a diverse selection of destinations and elegant river, ocean and expedition vessels that bring you closer to your destination.
You might prefer one of its dozens of river voyages, like sailing along the Seine in France, stopping to enjoy cuisine and towns along the riverbank, including Paris. Or maybe you’ll choose to meander down the Danube and Rhine rivers, passing through four countries on a single trip.
Want to stick closer to home? There are nine different Mississippi River voyages to choose from.
If you are yearning for the open sea, you can sail the ocean to the homeland of the Vikings and explore cities in Sweden, Norway and Denmark. Or, steep yourself in the origins of civilization with a trip on the Aegean Sea to Turkey and Greece.
A Viking Expedition voyage is an adventure unlike any other, with small ships designed for exploration. A team of experts will guide through once-in-a-lifetime experiences, such as snowshoeing and kayaking in the Arctic or traveling the routes of famous explorers on the way to Chilean fjords. And no, you don’t have to stuff parkas and snowshoes into your suitcase – all the gear is provided. Participate in collaborative science projects during your excursions with experiential activities or fieldwork, made simpler by landings using Zodiac, special operations boats or optional submarine journeys.
All landings and excursions are included in passengers’ fares and provide access to remote landscapes, remarkable wildlife and world UNESCO sites. A unique engine system allows ships to hover in place in areas where anchoring is difficult, making it easier for guests to disembark.
Immerse Yourself in Other Cultures
The biggest Viking difference is traveling aboard a floating cultural arts center. Enjoy musical performances representative of your destinations, from opera in Vienna to fado in Portugal; watch demonstrations of national traditions and craftsmanship, such as glass-blowing and wooden shoemaking; and see chefs make delicious local foods.
Lectures on regional art, history, politics and music are planned to help you understand your next port of call better. You can also head to the library, where you can find books on all subjects, from art to history to destination-focused reading, in specially curated collections.
Viking ships spend fewer days sailing, allowing guests more time on land in the local culture. Guests might spend a day checking out local markets with the ship’s chef, taking a backstage tour of a theater company or viewing a museum’s private collection.
The Veranda Suite on-board the Viking Longship Hlin. Pfalzgrafenstein Castle and Gutenfels Castle of the Upper Middle Rhine Valley in the background.
Onboard Elegance
The unique design of Viking ships gives them direct access to ports other vessels can’t get to, and all ships are designed for optimal views. Depending on the type of ship, guests can opt for rooms with verandas.
In addition to enjoying local foods ashore, Viking ships also have exquisite dining options. The Restaurant offers regional dishes as well as classic favorites, while the Aquavit Terrace provides outdoor dining with scenic views.
Click here for more information or to book your Viking cruise.
Lighthouses remain crucial to maritime navigation, but they also draw visitors from far and wide.
Throughout the Northeast, you’ll find plenty of lighthouses worthy of a visit. You can even climb to the top of some to take in panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
A lighthouse-themed road trip could be a fun way to explore and learn more about a place. They also make for great pitstops on your way to other destinations. Here are seven can’t-miss lighthouses in the Northeast.
Barnegat Lighthouse, N.J. (Photo courtesy of AAA Northeast member Janis Lee)
Located in Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, the Barnegat Lighthouse was constructed in 1859 on the northern tip of Long Beach Island to help maritime pilots avoid the shoals and shifting sandbars along the shoreline. Each year from Memorial Day through Labor Day, visitors can climb the 217 steps to take in the scenic views from the top of the lighthouse. At the Interpretive Center visitors can check out the lighthouse’s history and learn about the changing nature of the coastline surrounding the lighthouse. Other activities in the park include a maritime forest trail for hiking, fishing, bird watching and picnicking.
Located on the southernmost tip of Jamestown overlooking Narragansett Bay, the Beavertail Lighthouse stands at 64 feet high. Constructed in 1856, the current structure is the third to stand at the site, which was home to the third lighthouse in the colonies. While the lighthouse museum is open seasonally from May through October, the lighthouse is open for climbing on specific dates, so check the online calendar to see if dates match up with your visit. If they do, you can climb the 49-step spiral staircase and 7-foot ladder to reach the observation catwalk. At the top, you will be rewarded with gorgeous 360-degree views.
Constructed in 1840, this lighthouse stands sentry at the entrance to the harbor of Stonington. Featuring stonework, ornamental cornices and granite lintels above the doorways and windows, the lighthouse looks a bit different than many lighthouses. Visitors who can climb the 29 circular steps and ladder to reach the top will enjoy views of Long Island Sound as well as three states. Open seasonally from May through December, the site includes the lighthouse and museum, which holds artifacts not only about Stonington’s maritime and agricultural history, but also artifacts predating the lighthouse that document the city’s earliest history.
Montauk Point Lighthouse, Montauk, N.Y. (Photo courtesy of AAA Northeast member Joseph Kelly)
The first lighthouse in New York State, Montauk Point Lighthouse was built in 1796 overlooking the Block Island Sound and the Atlantic Ocean. Following an addition in 1860, the lighthouse now stands more than 110 feet tall, with 137 iron steps to the top. Today, visitors can tour the lighthouse museum to learn more about the lighthouse and the role it played in American maritime history, climb to the top for panoramic views and shop at the gift shop. The lighthouse is also home to special events throughout the year, so check the online calendar to see what’s happening when you plan to visit.
Since 1838, maritime pilots have relied on the light shining from the coast of Eastham to help them find their way around the coastline of Cape Cod. The latest lighthouse structure in Eastham, Nauset Light was constructed in 1877 using cast iron and brick lining. Painted red and white, it features two rotating aero beacons to provide guidance. Today, visitors can take a free tour of the lighthouse to learn its history, climb the 48-foot-high tower and visit the lookout room. You’ll find a calendar on the lighthouse’s website with tour dates and times so you can plan your visit.
Overlooking Oswego Harbor, the Oswego West Pierhead Lighthouse was built in 1934, replacing the existing lights. Today, visitors can reach the lighthouse by boat for a tour, which are offered by the H. Lee White Maritime Museum each year between June and September. Before or after your tour, take time to explore the museum to learn about the area’s maritime history and see the original fourth order Fresnel Lens that used to provide light in the lighthouse before its replacement with an automated lantern.
Constructed in 1869, the Rose Island Lighthouse lit up for the first time on Jan. 20, 1870, over Narragansett Bay. It operated until 1970, when it was decommissioned by the U.S. Coast Guard. In 1985, the lighthouse was deeded to the City of Newport, and, through the Rose Island Lighthouse Foundation, was restored and returned to private operation in 1993. Today, visitors can take the Jamestown Newport Ferry to the island from May through October to tour the lighthouse and the Fort Hamilton barracks. For an extended stay, you can even book overnight island accommodations each year from April 1 through Oct. 31.
What’s your favorite lighthouse in the Northeast? Tell us in the comments.
