Vacations can sometimes seem like a tug-of-war between those who want to get out and explore, and those who just want to chill out. In Costa Rica, there’s no need for competition, because everyone wins.

“Wherever you are in Costa Rica you can have a different experience,” said Jodi Abata, a AAA travel advisor based in Wayne, N.J. “It’s not just a beach destination. There are rainforests, an active volcano and exotic plants and animals. It’s an amazing place for families with ziplines, horseback riding, thermal baths and more.”

Costa Rica’s location explains its best-of-all-worlds reputation: This Central American nation has Pacific and Caribbean coastlines separated by a mountainous interior. The latter is covered in dense jungle and rainforests alive with four species of monkeys, tree sloths, toucans and more.

The phrase “pura vida” can be seen and heard throughout Costa Rica. Though it directly translates to “pure life,” its meaning goes much deeper. Used as both a greeting and a farewell, it encompasses the positive spirit of Costa Rican culture. It represents enjoying the simply things, connecting with and respecting nature and being grateful for every day. Come experience it!

Your Costa Rica vacation is just a click away. Book now.

Where to Stay in Costa Rica

Both coasts of Costa Rica have beautiful beaches but offer distinctive experiences.

While all-inclusive resorts are strongly associated with the Caribbean, in Costa Rica, the big resorts are located on the Pacific Coast in Guanacaste and Puntarenas provinces.

Costa Rica’s shorter Caribbean shoreline, entirely contained within Limon province, is far less developed and home mostly to villas and boutique hotels.

In Guanacaste, for example, you can vacation at the family-friendly, AAA Four Diamond designated Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, an all-inclusive Marriott Autograph Collection property. Or splurge on a couples escape to the Four Seasons Resort Papagayo, the adults-only, all-inclusive Secrets Papagayo or the Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo.

Things to Do in Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s excellent road system allows visitors to move freely around the country, and many travelers choose to mix a relaxing beach stay with adventurous explorations in the country’s interior, said Abata.

Arenal Volcano National Park and the spectacular La Fortuna Waterfall, two of Costa Rica’s most popular backcountry destinations, are under three hours’ drive from Limon and under four hours by road from Guanacaste.

The park and surrounding Arenal Conservation Area are home to their namesake active stratovolcano – lava has been flowing here regularly since the 1960s! Hiking trails trace the path of the major eruption of Arenal volcano in 1968 as well as crossing a series of hanging bridges suspended in the rainforest canopy. Here, the dormant Chato volcano is also protected, with its crater lagoon, Lake Arenal.

Nearby lodging like the Springs Resort and Spa and Nayara Springs let you immerse in volcano-heated hot springs after a day of hiking and exploring.

More Costa Rica Activities and National Parks

While Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast is best known for low-key relaxation, there’s no shortage of activities when you want to get off the beach. Tortuguero National Park, named for the leatherback sea turtles that nest there, is full of rivers, canals and lagoons; it’s about two hours north of Limon by road.

Cahuita National Park is about half the distance away from Limon and preserves many of Costa Rica’s diverse charms in one place: Pristine beaches, coral reefs teeming with fish and rainforests where hikers may encounter tree sloths and raccoon-like coatis. To immerse yourself in local culture, head to the town of Puerto Limon, known for its rich Afro-Caribbean heritage.

Corcovado National Park, one of the most biodiverse places on the planet, is located on the isolated Osa Peninsula on Costa Rica’s southwest Pacific coast. Six native wild cats including oncillas, margays, pumas, jaguars, jaguarundis and ocelots mostly inhabit this remote area. It’s a long drive from anywhere, but a flight from the capital of San Jose to Drake Bay, about an hour from the park, takes 40-50 minutes.

Hiking is required to see some of Costa Rica’s most singular sites, but it’s not all hard work. The country abounds in ziplines and canopy tours. Zoom over tropical dry forests toward the Guanacaste coast on Diamante Eco Park’s Superman Canopy Zipline or hang like a spider monkey over a Pacific coast jungle with the Rainforest Adventures Aerial Tram in Jaco. The Arenal reserve offers thrilling ziplines and easygoing canopy tours, as well.

Exploring on horseback is another less strenuous way to enjoy Costa Rica’s natural beauty, with guided rides available along the beaches and into the rainforest.

Environmentally conscious and unspoiled, Costa Rica is a welcoming destination for Americans where English is widely spoken and the U.S. dollar is always accepted.

“It’s a beautiful country, with very nice people and a very safe place,” Abata said. “Costa Rica is its own little world.”

Did you know your AAA membership grants you access to your own travel team? Plan your Costa Rica vacation with the help of a trusted AAA travel advisor and customize your trip from start to finish. Call 866-423-5585 to speak with an advisor today!

Have you been to Costa Rica? Tell us what you love about it in the comments below.

If you’re shopping around for a used vehicle, there’s a good chance you are going to come across a flood-damaged car, whether you realize it or not.

Insurance companies often declare flood-damaged vehicles as total losses, and those cars are then sold to salvage companies. However, rather than being dismantled for parts, some of these vehicles are purchased by individuals who restore them to some degree of working order. AAA warns car buyers that water-damaged vehicles can be transported anywhere for resale.

Thousands of flooded cars make their way back to the used car market each year and that number often increases following hurricane season and major floods.

Signs of a Flood-Damaged Car

So, how do you know if you’re on the verge of buying a flood car? Start with the vehicle’s description. It may be referred to as “storm-damage” and could have a new title indicating it was an insurance total. Car history reports can help, but only if the car was put through a claim process.

Here are some other ways to check for water damage:

• Inspect the car thoroughly for rust stains inside the car, especially around seat brackets.
• Use all your senses. Does the car smell like mold/mildew? Conversely, does it smell like someone is trying to cover something up?
• Check for carpet or upholstery that has been replaced or recently shampooed. Pull back the carpet at different areas and look for mud, dirt, rust or water stains.
• Look in the trunk and under the spare tire. On a SUV, lower the spare tire and look for mud and debris. If the spare tire looks like it was just steam-cleaned, be suspicious. A spare tire that has been under a vehicle for a few years should be dusty, not caked with mud or spotlessly clean.
• Is there mud and dirt on the underside of the dashboard? This area is hard to clean.
• Look for water in the headlights and taillights.
• Rust on the underside of the vehicle. Corrosion is uncommon in newer vehicles and those that are owned and operated in warmer climates.
• Open the hood and look for water stains, mud and dirt in nooks and crannies (the alternator, cooling fan and other surfaces).
• Check the fuse boxes for signs of corrosion.
• Are the electrical components, such as lighting, heating/AC fan and window motors, not functioning properly?
• Look for rust, mud, dirt or discoloration in body seams and small out-of-the-way crevices on the doors, under the hood and inside the trunk. Rust on unpainted screws indicates moisture.
• Check all the fluids. If they are a milky color this could indicate water contamination.
• If all of the windows have condensation on a warm day, it could indicate the interior was flooded.
• A technician or even a do-it-your-selfer can check for engine fault codes. If the fault codes were recently cleared, this could indicate someone trying to hide something.
• Some states do a better job of identifying cars with reconstructed titles. If you are looking at a local car and it has a recent out-of-state title, be wary and ask lots of questions.
• Finally, if the price looks too good to be true, it probably is.

What Happens if Your Car Was Caught in a Flood?

If you are caught in a few inches of water, your car will most likely be fine. If the water leaked into the vehicle’s interior, however, there may be real trouble.

Here are some tips and steps to take if your car becomes flooded.

• Call your insurance company to check on coverage.
• Take plenty of photos to document the damage.
• Don’t start the car. Have it towed home or to a repair shop to be evaluated.
• If the water was fresh (not brackish or salty) and the engine was off, you may be OK.
• Driving into deep water could cause the engine to hydro-lock and cause extensive damage. When the engine sucks in water, that water can’t be compressed and will damage internal engine components.
• Don’t start the car until it has fully dried out. Even though cars today have lots of computers, allowing the car to fully dry out may save all the expensive electronics. Think of a wet cellphone – sometimes if it is allowed to dry out, it will be OK – and so may your car.
• The interior should be thoroughly cleaned and the carpets removed to fully dry out. This will help eliminate any mold or mildew.
• Change all the vital fluids. They may be contaminated by water.
• When in doubt have the vehicle evaluated by a reputable repair shop.

Have a question about flood-damaged cars? Leave them in the comments below.

Get a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic. Locate a AAA Approved Auto Repair facility near you.

---

IN THIS EPISODE

This episode is your ultimate guide to moving out for the first time. Whether you’re renting or buying, it’s all yours to do as you please.

You get to decide how to decorate, when you’ll do the dishes and if you’ll eat on the couch or at the dining room table. But, with great power comes great responsibility, so you might have to move your own stuff as well. No need to stress, we’ve got everything you need, from a moving out checklist to additional tips to ensure a smooth transition.

Our guests Rob Shetler, Vice President at Shetler Moving & Storage, and Jami Supsic, Home and Style Director at HGTV Magazine, join us to share their professional insights. They cover how to make the most of your new space, whether the couch will fit through the door, and the essential things to buy for your first home.

---

KEY TAKEAWAYS

[5:38] – How to make sure your furniture fits your new space
[7:19] – Key things to consider when using a moving company
[13:21] – How to make the most of a small space
[16:38] – How to find affordable furniture

---

TRANSCRIPT

[00:00:02]
Amanda Greene: Hey, how are you? What are you doing?

[00:00:04]
Friend: Good. Not much. What are you doing?

[00:00:05]
Amanda Greene: I just sent my niece some money. She’s moving out for the first time. Can you even believe that?

[00:00:10]
Friend: Oh my gosh. Wow. I can’t believe she’s old enough to be out on her own.

READ MORE

[00:00:14]
Amanda Greene: I know. Do you remember our first place?

[00:00:16]
Friend: I do. We had so many paper plates and I brought the weirdest stuff from my college dorm room like that floor lamp that has all the different color arms coming off of it.

[00:00:28]
Amanda Greene: With different color light bulbs. Do you remember that?

[00:00:31]
Friend: I like to think we’ve developed better taste since then. And I wonder what your niece will end up doing.

[00:00:36]
Amanda Greene: She’s probably going to end up fighting with her roommate about whose turn it is to do the dishes or why there’s clumps of toothpaste in the sink, and they’ll probably end up eating way too much takeout like pizza every night.

[00:00:48]
Friend: I mean, some things never change. I still order pizza on the daily.

[00:00:55]
Amanda Greene: Welcome to Merging Into Life where we navigate life’s milestones one episode at a time. Brought to you by AAA Northeast. I’m your host, Amanda Greene.

Today, we’re going to talk about moving out for the first time. It’s funny, moving into my college dorm was one thing, but my first place was totally different. Me and my roommate were exclusively responsible for everything. All of a sudden we had to cook, clean, decorate and pay our own bills. It was a huge learning curve, but it was also exciting and was an important step on the way to being a fully formed adult. Learn by doing, right? And there was so much freedom. But as we all know, with the freedom of adulthood comes the massive responsibilities.

So let’s go over how to do it right, how to pack up and make the move, and how to make the place our own once we move in. We’ll be speaking with Rob Shetler, a veteran in the moving business
But first…

[00:01:53]
Jami Supsic: So I’m Jami Supsic, the home and style director at HGTV Magazine. And that means I really find the house tours that we feature in every issue and produce the photoshoots and styling for those house tours. And then I also practice interior decorating.

[00:02:08]
Amanda Greene: Beautiful. Well then you sound like the perfect person to talk to about moving out for the first time and curating your own personal style. But first, do you remember your first apartment? What that like?

[00:02:19]
Jami Supsic: My first post-college apartment will always have a special place in my heart. I moved out to LA from the East Coast with two of my best girlfriends from college, and we rented this two bedroom apartment that we converted to a four bedroom with plywood. And I look back when I was thinking about this interview, I’m like, “Wow, we just nailed plywood to the wall to separate rooms, and we never asked the landlord.” I would never recommend that now, but it was a great space and it was a really fun time. But even then we did take care to decorate it.

[00:02:53]
Amanda Greene: Just to be on the safe side, I want to add that at no point should you do anything to your rental without checking with your landlord first, painting, drilling holes, anything that might be an issue should be approved. And if you’re thinking of nailing plywood up to act as walls, just don’t. But back to decorations.

When thinking about planning your space, the space that you’re going to live in, and you finally have this freedom and independence and you’re moving out, how can people start planning how they want to set up their space?

[00:03:29]
Jami Supsic: I think that when you’re thinking about this first space that you’re moving into, your first adult place, you kind of want to think about what is your style. What I find is a really good trick for people to get inspired and to see what they like is to do fun stuff like browsing through magazines or online and just start pulling things that you react to and don’t think anything other than that. Just pull a bunch of stuff that inspires you. And then once you’ve kind of got a good stack of that, go through and see what the common theme is. And there will be a common theme.

You might be like, “Wow, every single bedroom I pinned is pink.” And then you’ll start to realize, “Oh, maybe I really like these pink bedrooms.” Or you’ll start to see, “Everything I’ve pulled has a sectional in it. Maybe I want to make sure that wherever I’m moving has room for a sectional.”

But then also you should think about how you want to live, right? This is very exciting. This is your first place. Do you picture having friends over for gaming night? Do you want to have a Halloween party every year? Thinking about how you want to live there and then what that means in terms of execution. If you want to have dinner parties all the time, how are you going to fit a dining table in this space that you’re getting?

[00:04:38]
Amanda Greene: Speaking of fitting things, I don’t know if it’s my imagination or what, but doesn’t it seem like things like couches and just furniture in general are bigger than doorway space is providing these days? Is that a thing?

[00:04:52]
Jami Supsic: Yes. Oh gosh, especially living in New York City, this is a nightmare scenario. You have to measure and measure twice because you have to think about, “Is this going to fit through your doorway?” If you’re moving into an apartment, is it going to fit in the elevator? And if you don’t have an elevator, is it going to fit in the stairwell? And that’s really tricky. I mean, even for me, and I’ve been doing this for a long time, there have been things that don’t fit. So you do want to take that time to measure and make sure whatever you’re bringing with you fits through the door. In New York City, we have companies that specialize in cutting your sofa, but that’s not cheap and I don’t recommend that.

[00:05:30]
Amanda Greene: Wow. Okay. So really important. Before you even move into your space, you need to plan for it. So we need to measure two or three times and then check those measurements too.

[00:05:40]
Jami Supsic: Grab some graph paper and draw a floor plan. And it’s kind of fun. Something that I still do to this day even with floor plans, I’ll actually outline things on the floor to see how they’ll fit. Get your tape measure, get your painter’s tape and just tape the floor and see how it fits in the room. If you have dreams of a king bed, don’t buy the king bed without making sure it’s going to fit in your bedroom. And the same thing goes for a sofa. You don’t want a living room that just has a giant sofa and nothing else in it.

[00:06:10]
Amanda Greene: Jami is great at helping us decide how to make our first place nice and we’re going to come back to her, but let’s not get too ahead of ourselves first. We have to get there. Moving is notoriously stressful. Packing up and transporting everything you own in a short period of time is not easy, but it can and is done all the time by Rob Shetler of Shetler Moving & Storage.

[00:06:38]
Rob Shetler: My family, we’ve been in the moving business for 125 years. We’re one of the founding agents of Atlas Van Lines, and I run our operation in Cincinnati, Ohio.

[00:06:48]
Amanda Greene: What’s the most interesting thing you’ve ever moved?

[00:06:52]
Rob Shetler: The needle on top of the Empire State Building. We moved all that up to New York.

[00:06:57]
Amanda Greene: Claim to fame.

[00:06:59]
Rob Shetler: I mean, it’s not just household goods. We move anything and everything.

[00:07:03]
Amanda Greene: I feel like this is next-level adulting, the act of moving without bribing your friends with pizza to help you. Like, actually hiring a company to help you do it. But regardless, moving is stressful. And if you hire a company, how do you choose who to go with?

[00:07:19]
Rob Shetler: Well, if they’re worried about choosing a mover, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is a good place for a person to start to make sure that the company they’re talking to is a licensed company. They have a Department of Transportation number, they actually have an address. One of the things that Van Lines fights all the time are rogue movers. Small moving companies can be licensed properly insured, and they do a fantastic job. It’s the guys that are out there that don’t have a license, don’t have DOT numbers, just fly-by-night companies.

[00:07:48]
Amanda Greene: What’s the worst thing that could happen?

[00:07:52]
Rob Shetler: Worst case scenario, they never see their household goods again. It’s always good to get three estimates. If you get three estimates and they’re all fairly close, then all of a sudden one of them’s half the price, it’s something to reconsider there I think.

[00:08:04]
Amanda Greene: Something to keep in mind is that what movers will cost you has a lot to do with weight. And there are other factors like is there elevator access or stair access? Can a large truck park outside your house or is it limited access? And a small truck has to shuttle your stuff out of the neighborhood. Then there is distance and the cost of gas. All in, Rob says a small one bedroom move could be as little as about a thousand dollars, but an entire house could cost easily $15, 000 to move. So decluttering is important and economical, but don’t wait to do it until the last minute. I remember the last time that I moved, I actually watched videos to get an idea of the better way to pack our stuff because I’m wrapping things in towels and I mean, it was just kind of crazy. Do you find that people underestimate how much stuff they have or how much time they should give themselves?

[00:09:01]
Rob Shetler: We run into it on a daily basis where customers say they’re going to pack themselves and the driver gets out there and half the house is not packed up. They get to a point where they’re just overwhelmed and they’re exhausted and then we have to come in and finish the packing. Packing takes time. For a moving company to pack, we’re a lot faster at it, so we’re going into a closet or anything. We’re packing everything up into wardrobe boxes, whatever it may be. If a customer’s packing themselves, they’re slowly going through and everything, which I think is a good idea to pare things down, but it takes a lot longer for them to pack than it does for us to pack.

[00:09:33]
Amanda Greene: There’s more emotion attached to the stuff.

[00:09:35]
Rob Shetler: Absolutely. It’ll start reminiscing and they say, “Oh, look at this.” So it happens almost every move.

[00:09:41]
Amanda Greene: Talking packing, are there any items that you would suggest someone take themselves and move personally, even if they’re using a moving company? Any specific items that you might say you might want to hang onto that and move that yourself?

[00:09:54]
Rob Shetler: Yeah. We give customers a moving checklist that helps them prepare for the move, but also lists out things that we want them to take. We want customers to take documents they need to get their hands onto: birth certificates, passports, insurance, stocks. They’re heading to the closing of a house. They need to have all their closing documents. If it’s inside the truck, it’s not going to be an easy thing to find. Medicines, jewelry, money, high-value items like that we want them to take. If they have small children and there’s a blanket or toy or whatever, they better set that aside. So we always direct people to set certain things aside, designate a closet or portion of the house where they can put everything that they’re going to take with them in the car or on flight, and then that’s off limits to us, and then we come in and pack everything else up.

[00:10:38]
Amanda Greene: We found books were the biggest pain point during the moving process. Do you have any hot tips on how to move books, how to store them? They’re so heavy.

[00:10:49]
Rob Shetler: Well, we don’t want books packed in a box any larger than a one and a half cubic foot box or in an office, you see the box for paper.

[00:10:57]
Amanda Greene: Yeah.

[00:10:58]
Rob Shetler: We don’t want books in a box any larger than that because to your point, they’re heavy. You put them in a box, that’s too heavy. It takes two people to carry a box and the box can’t hold that kind of weight. People get connected to their books and they don’t want to get rid of them. And I understand that. At the same time, when we move somebody, on an interstate move, it’s all based on weight. So if you have a lot of books, your weight jumps up considerably.

[00:11:18]
Amanda Greene: Ooh, that’s a really good tip. You might save money by taking your books yourself or paring down the books before you even begin packing. That’s a really good tip. I’m so glad that you’re here and I can ask you this question because it’s something that’s come up a number of times for myself, for friends. Gratuities and tipping. Let’s say you had an amazing experience and you’re feeling really grateful for the service you had provided, and the movers are there and they’re getting ready to leave. Are we tipping? Is it a certain amount?

[00:11:46]
Rob Shetler: It is not unusual for our drivers and our crews to get tips. $ 50, $ 20, $100. It just depends on the size and distance. Some of our customers, they buy them lunch every day. They’re in their homes for two to three days packing and loading, and then they get to destinations. So they spend several days with the crew, so they almost become friends with them. And I would say anywhere from $20 to $100 generally per person.

[00:12:11]
Amanda Greene: So if you want to leave a tip, that’s a great guideline. Thanks so much for the information, Rob. Okay. We need to pack books in small boxes. Get organized well before you need to because it’s going to take you longer than you think. And always use a reputable company. All great advice.

So let’s just say your old place is packed up and empty. Everything is on its way. How do you prep your new home? Let’s check back in with Jami. What are some things that you should buy before you move in and maybe some other things that you should wait to buy until you’re more settled in and you are more familiar with your space?

[00:12:50]
Jami Supsic: I think a great thing to buy before you move in are rugs because you don’t want all of your furniture to come in and then have to move it all out and put the rug down. And I know that maybe rugs sound fancy, but there’s so many great affordable options out there. They really make a space cozy. They really hide ugly floors and they block noise and help with your downstairs neighbors from complaining if you’re coming home at 1:00 a.m. in heels or having friends over. So that’s definitely something to think about.

[00:13:20]
Amanda Greene: Okay, so a lot of apartments, as we mentioned, especially your first apartment, can be on the smaller side. Mine was a studio apartment in New York and it was tiny, literally one room. I mean, truly a true studio.

[00:13:34]
Jami Supsic: There’s lots of hacks you can do to maximize smaller apartments. I think sofas with single cushions are much more practical than sofas with multiple cushions because you can pile more people on there or if you have an overnight guest, it’s much more comfortable for someone to sleep on a sofa that just has one cushion versus multiple. So look, you have an instant guest room right there. If you can’t fit a dining table, I suggest maximizing your coffee table, kind of getting the largest one that you can that will make sense in there. Getting something that you can have your dinner on every night, have game night, have friends over. I think beds with under storage are awesome, ones that come with drawers, those hold so much stuff. And then even just getting storage bins for under your bed. But if you can get a bed that has under storage, those are amazing in studio spaces or smaller spaces.

[00:14:25]
Amanda Greene: Let’s talk color palettes because I want to say over maybe the last five years or so, gray has been everywhere and people are starting to want to incorporate more color back into their homes to reflect their personal style, their preferences. How do you decide on a color palette?

[00:14:42]
Jami Supsic: Gray was everywhere. Gray and stark white were really the thing for a long time. People are embracing warmer tones like brown and beige again. I never thought we would see beige paint on walls, but a lot of paint brands have pre-existing palettes, so they’ll have multiple options if you go to a paint store and they’ll have five different curated palettes where you with five different colors that you could use throughout your space. Most of these paint companies have these amazing apps where you can upload an image of your room and then try out different colors, or you could say, “Oh, I have a blue rug and a yellow lamp.” And then they’ll suggest other colors that would go with that. So those resources are amazing. I highly suggest using them. And then when it comes to painting, if this is a rental, you do want to check with your landlord to make sure if that’s okay, and you’re probably going to have to paint it back when you leave.

[00:15:35]
Amanda Greene: What’s another essential interior design consideration that you think every space needs?

[00:15:42]
Jami Supsic: I think every space needs a mirror. You want a really big mirror if you can. You need great lighting. You can’t only rely on overhead lighting. You need lamps, especially in your bedroom, at least one lamp in the living room. It’s just cozier and nicer and you need good light bulbs. Under no circumstance should anybody ever buy cool white light bulbs.

[00:16:04]
Amanda Greene: Okay.

[00:16:05]
Jami Supsic: They’re so harsh and they’re not going to make you look better. They’re not going to make this space look better. Always when you’re buying light bulbs, look for the ones that are the warm or soft in the description or amber.

[00:16:15]
Amanda Greene: Okay, so you feel strongly about a warm light?

[00:16:19]
Jami Supsic: Yes. And then I think, yeah, just personalize your space. Add some cute throw pillows. If you love plants, have some plants in there.

[00:16:27]
Amanda Greene: Furnishing a new apartment can be very expensive. So do you have any tips on how people can save money on things like furniture?

[00:16:35]
Jami Supsic: Yeah, I think that there are so many used furniture sites now. Even in my first apartment, back in the day I was finding things online. Buying from your neighbors or from estate sales or yard sales is really a great option. So I suggest scouring these marketplace sites that have secondhand furniture. And don’t be afraid to bargain. Don’t be afraid to ask the origin, ask questions, but that’s a great option. And one tip I will say that I’ve noticed is if you buy something that is a name brand and then say years later you go to sell, it holds its value. It’s going to go more quickly on these resale sites. What I do is I screenshot everything I buy so that later if I have to sell it, I can say, “Look, here this is from this website. I spent $ 800 on it and now I’m selling it to you for five.”

[00:17:27]
Amanda Greene: What about in the kitchen? There’s really not a ton you can do in the kitchen. Do you have any ideas about how to make the kitchen feel a little bit more like you?

[00:17:34]
Jami Supsic: Well, I think there is actually a ton you can do in the kitchen. There’s actually amazing peel and stick floor tiles. I mean, they’re unbelievably good and beautiful, and you can replace a bad linoleum floor with something patterned and colorful. There’s also peel and stick backsplash tile. I know that sounds crazy, but it really does look good and it really is practical and wipeable. I just bought these round wood knobs. They were less than $2 each. I painted them a color and I put them on my cabinets and it’s really fun. And then certain things like a kitchen runner, like a 2 x 6 rug can disguise a floor, or little potted herbs, colorful canisters. The overhead lighting in your kitchen may be really bad.

[00:18:16]
Amanda Greene: Your job sounds like a lot of fun. Thank you so much, Jami. This has been really good.

[00:18:20]
Jami Supsic: Thank you. Thank you so much. I appreciate it.

[00:18:24]
Amanda Greene: Hey.

[00:18:25]
Friend: Hey.

[00:18:26]
Amanda Greene: Guess whose turn it is to be the contestant today, my former roommate?

[00:18:30]
Friend: Oh, no. Okay.

[00:18:33]
Amanda Greene: Okay. So number one, which season is considered moving season?

[00:18:39]
Friend: A part of me wants to say the fall because there are so many students moving, but I think I’m going to go with summer.

[00:18:46]
Amanda Greene: That was good thinking and smart. And it is summer, it’s peak season, and if you move over the summer, you need to keep in mind that moving companies might have higher prices, limited availability and much less flexibility probably for the exact reason you noted, which was school starting.

Number two, according to Steinway Moving & Storage, how many times does the average American move in their life?

[00:19:09]
Friend: Ooh, I could be way off, but I’m going to say eight times.

[00:19:15]
Amanda Greene: That sounds like what I would’ve guessed also, but it’s almost 12 – 11.7 times in their life. Between the ages of 18 and 45, the average American will move five or six times, and then once you reach the age of 45, you’re likely to move only two or three more times.

[00:19:32]
Friend: I’m tired just thinking about that.

[00:19:34]
Amanda Greene: How many moves are you up to?

[00:19:35]
Friend: Five, I guess.

[00:19:37]
Amanda Greene: So you’re pretty average.

[00:19:38]
Friend: Nice.

[00:19:40]
Amanda Greene: In that way only.

[00:19:42]
Friend: Thank you. Thank you.

[00:19:44]
Amanda Greene: Okay, number three. What do you think the top three reasons for moving are?

[00:19:47]
Friend: Ooh. Anytime there’s a big life change so like new job or maybe if your parents and your kids move somewhere and you want to be closer to them, or a breakup, any kind of big life adjustment.

[00:20:01]
Amanda Greene: The top reasons are a new job, a better neighborhood, a change in family size. And another fun fact, moving is considered one of the top three stressful things a person can do. I agree.

[00:20:15]
Friend: Yeah, I would too.

[00:20:16]
Amanda Greene: And how many bedrooms are you allowed to create yourself in a rental using plywood and nails? Trick question.

[00:20:25]
Friend: : I don’t know. I’m going to go out on a limb and say, it’s a big fat zero.

[00:20:31]
Amanda Greene: Right. None. Don’t do that. No one’s going to be happy about that.

[00:20:35]
Friend: Thankfully, we never did that. We did some crazy stuff, but we never put up plywood.

[00:20:39]
Amanda Greene: I did sleep in my car once. There’s so much you can do to make your first place feel like a home, and it doesn’t have to break the bank or get you in trouble with the landlord. Start by figuring out what you like. Feel free to borrow other interior designers’ ideas. You don’t need everything on day one. Slowly build while you collect things you love, including secondhand furniture found online and in estate sales. And the most important tip of all, measure, measure, measure. Good luck watching your TV show from your gorgeous new couch that is jammed in the stairwell outside of your apartment.

You’ve been listening to Merging into Life where we navigate life’s milestones one episode at a time. Brought to you by AAA Northeast with assistance from Jar Audio. I’m your host, Amanda Greene. If you’re learning as much as I am, follow us wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review. We’d love to know what you think. Email us at podcast@aaanortheast.com. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are not necessarily the views of AAA Northeast, AAA, and or its affiliates.

---

RESOURCES

AAA Renters Insurance

AAA Home and Condo Insurance

First-Time Homebuyers Guide

Your Guide to Renters Insurance Coverage

Top Tips for a Stress-Free Move

How to Pack a Moving Truck

Shetler Moving & Storage

HGTV Magazine

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

---

Want to Learn More? Drop Us a Note

*The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are not necessarily the views of AAA Northeast, AAA and/or its affiliates.

Safety is always a consideration when buying a new car, but it’s especially important when it comes to teens and new drivers. For drivers without much experience behind the wheel, safety features are key to helping prevent and protect against crashes.

When picking the safest cars for teens, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and Consumer Reports consider a number of important factors before making their recommendations. For starters, only vehicles with a curb weight greater than 2,750 pounds are listed. Every car must pass extensive safety tests and evaluations with flying colors, and receive strong marks from Consumer Reports for braking, handling and reliability. Additionally, vehicles must have a minimum rating of four or five stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Best Choice vehicles are also equipped with standard automatic emergency braking systems.

We chose our safest cars for teens and new drivers from among the top picks. There are no subcompact vehicles, as larger, heavier cars provide a greater level of protection during a crash. No sports cars or high-horsepower vehicles are included either; such cars may encourage young drivers to speed, which contributes to roughly one-third of all traffic fatalities.

Safest Cars for Teens and New Drivers: Used

2017-2019 Toyota Corolla

Starting in 2017, the Corolla’s front-end structure was tweaked and the frame around the driver door was strengthened to improve protection in small overlap frontal crashes. Both the sedan and hatchback received high safety ratings based on advanced safety features. The 2017 Corolla received an overall safety rating of five out of five stars from the NHTSA, earning a five-star rating in the side crash test and four stars in the frontal crash and rollover tests. Starts at about $10,600.

2018 or newer Toyota Camry

The midsize four-door sedan was a top safety pick in 2018. The model features a larger cabin and improved steering and handling than earlier versions. The car comes with an assortment of safety features, including the Toyota Safety Sense, so all 2018 Camry models have traffic-adapting cruise control, automatic emergency braking to prevent a potential forward collision, lane departure warning and mitigation and auto-dimming LED headlights. Starts at about $9,600.

2017 Toyota Avalon

A large four-door sedan, the 2017 Avalon model with updated headlights was a top safety pick for 2017. This roomy, comfortable car includes Toyota’s Safety Sense package with adaptive cruise control, a lane departure warning and intervention system, forward collision warning, automatic pre-collision braking and automatic high-beam headlight control. Starts at about $14,400.

Safest Cars for Teens and New Drivers: New

2024 Subaru Impreza

A charming small four-door hatchback, like all Subarus, the Impreza comes with all-wheel drive, a big plus in winter weather. The cabin is roomy and comfortable, and the cargo area spacious. Safety features include standard lane departure warning, front crash prevention and pedestrian warnings, as well as a rearview camera and dusk-sensing headlamps. Prices start at $23,400.

2024 Subaru Outback

A mid-size, four-door wagon, the Outback combines “a station wagon’s practicality, comfort, easy-driving character and fantastic outward visibility with the ground clearance, ride compliance and all-weather sure-footedness of an SUV,” according to Edmunds. The Outback, of course, comes with all-wheel-drive and standard lane departure warning, front crash prevention and pedestrian warnings, among other features. Prices start at $28,895.

2024 Mazda CX-30

Another all-wheel-drive vehicle, this small four-door SUV comes with a six-speed automatic transmission and is a pleasure to drive. The Mazda CX-30’s well-appointed interior and leather upholstery give it a touch of luxury. Among the safety features are lane-keeping assistance with warnings for lane departures, adaptive cruise control and self-operating emergency braking. Prices start at $24,995.

Need a new car for your teen driver? Let AAA help finance the purchase with a low-interest auto loan.

AAA Northeast is not affiliated with or sponsored by the car manufacturers discussed in this article. The article reflects our own independent analysis.

Dreaming of a vacation that allows you to truly relax? Sandals® all-inclusive Caribbean resorts offer the ultimate in comfort and convenience in the most gorgeous tropical places.

From Sandals’ adults-only properties to its family-friendly Beaches resorts, you can find the stay that’s right for you, set along pristine beaches in Antigua, Barbados, the Bahamas, Curacao, Grenada, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Turks and Caicos and Saint Vincent.

Just when you thought the Caribbean couldn’t get any more carefree, you can enjoy drinks, dining, entertainment, water activities, Wi-Fi, fitness centers, free roundtrip airport transfers and more – all without having to reach for your wallet. Even gratuities are included.

You don’t even have to worry about planning; a AAA travel advisor will take care of everything.

For Adults

Sandals’ has 17 adults-only resorts on some of the Caribbean’s best beaches. Each destination is designed with couples in mind, outfitted with romantic suites and restaurants, quiet pathways, hidden grotto pools, firepits under the stars and included land and water activities for you and your partner.

There are seven Sandals resorts in Jamaica to choose from, including the original in Montego Bay, tucked along one of the longest and most secluded white sand beaches on the island. Sandals South Coast also stands out for the two miles of coast on which it rests.

Sandals Royal Bahamian in Nassau, Bahamas, is especially luxurious. With seven pools, a spa, the all-new Coconut Grove lounge area and unlimited dining at your choice of 10 exquisite restaurants (plus two new food trucks!), you may not want to leave.

For a different view, Sandals Regency La Toc in Saint Lucia makes its home in a 220-acre tropical estate, overlooking a sloping hillside that ends at a gorgeous golden beach. Sandals Royal Curacao sits on 3,000 acres on the Spanish Water Bay and Caribbean Sea, surrounded by mountains.

Sandals Saint Vincent is the newest resort. Home to a private cove, it gives guests the chance to explore a quieter island.

For the Family

For families, there’s Sandals’ sister resorts, Beaches. With two properties in Jamaica – Beaches Negril and Beaches Ocho Rios – and one in Turks & Caicos, Caribbean adventures await for everyone in your crew.

In addition to the anytime gourmet dining options and endless activity inclusions that Sandal’s is known for, Beaches resorts also has on-site water parks and kids’ programs.

Each resort has six children’s programs broken down by ages and staffed by trained nannies, allowing parents to have a dinner date or just some alone time. Featuring age-appropriate activities in separate groups for newborns up to age 17, some of the nannies have completed specialized training to care for children with autism and other special needs.

Resorts also include Caribbean Adventures with Sesame Street, giving little ones a chance to hang out with their favorite characters.

Included Activities

If you love the water, gear up for endless fun. Resorts offer snorkeling, scuba diving (for certified divers), aqua trikes, paddle boarding, wind surfing, kayaking and catamaran sailing. Some locations also have motorized activities such as water skiing, wake boarding and banana boat rides. Guests ages eight and older at Beaches Turks & Caicos resort can take an eight-hour course to learn to sail.

When you’ve had your fill of the beach, Beaches guests can wash off the sand at the resorts’ water parks, with towering waterslides as well as lazy rivers, wave pools and other attractions, or just plunge into one of the swimming pools.

Equally numerous and varied are the choices of on-land games and activities, including golf (complimentary roundtrip transfers to nearby Sandals golf resorts and green fees are waived in Jamaica and Saint Lucia), basketball, beach volleyball, soccer, tennis, pickleball, shuffleboard, bocce, horseshoes and table games. Or stop in the fitness center for a more structured workout.

Guests can also sign up for excursions and spa treatments, which cost extra.

Exquisite Dining

All that activity requires fuel, and there is no shortage of restaurants to fill up the tanks. Resorts have multiple restaurants, featuring cuisine from around the world. Sandals also tries to highlight locally grown and native foods on its menus. Each resort has at least five bars that serve premium liquor and there are stocked bars in every room. Unlimited snacking between meals is also available, for those anytime cravings, and can be delivered to your room.

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

Delve into a world of natural wonders that can only be seen when you go underground. Cave tours make for an especially cool day trip. (So cool, in fact, you might want to bring a jacket – underground temperatures can dip into the low 50s!). A visit to these awesome geological formations makes for a fun and educational adventure for all ages.

If you’re ready to head underground, here are our favorite cave tours in the Northeast.

Need a ride? Rent a car.

The Coolest Caves in New England

Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves

North Woodstock, N.H.

Lost River stuns with enchanting natural beauty both above and below ground. Follow the scenic one-mile wooden boardwalk trail and wind past tumbling waterfalls and nearly a dozen glacial boulder caves with whimsical names like Lemon Squeezer and Bear Crawl. Two-hour guided lantern tours at dusk offer unique perspectives on the hidden depths of the caves. As a bonus, tours end with s’mores and a cozy campfire. The littlest explorers can even participate in a fun scavenger hunt as part of a Junior Gorge Guide program.

Polar Caves

Rumney, N.H.

At Polar Caves Park, you can explore nine granite caves from the last ice age. Why the name Polar Caves? They say it’s because even on the hottest days, you can feel the chill of the caves’ icy cold “breath.” This is a self-guided adventure, so plan to wander in and out of caves at your own pace. Above ground, children will delight in the small animal park with European fallow deer and ducks. You can purchase animal feed, as well as souvenirs and snacks at the park’s main lodge.

New York Cave Tours

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ms Bitra | Travel | Food | Airbnb (@purplehighways)

Howe Caverns

Howes Cave, N.Y.

At Howe Caverns, you’ll be amazed by cave formations, underground streams and expansive chambers. A 90-minute guided tour traces the cave’s exhilarating discovery story. Wander through enormous rooms and under super-sized boulders on a 1.25-mile walk and 0.25-mile boat ride, all while 150 feet below the Earth’s surface. Specialty tours, including a two-hour lantern tour and a two-hour family flashlight tour, help bring to life the thrill of Lester Howe’s discovery of the caves in 1842. Uniquely, Howe Caverns hosts yoga and Zumba classes during summer months.

Secret Caverns

Howes Cave, N.Y.

Just two miles from Howe Caverns is the quirky yet captivating Secret Caverns, a roadside attraction that proudly claims to be the “Speleological Center of the Universe.” Speleology, of course, being the scientific study of caves. Bundle up since the caves maintain a refreshing 50 degrees year-round. Sign up for a guided 45- to 60-minute tour to get up close and personal with stalagmites, stalactites and flowstone. You’ll also spy a breathtaking 100-foot-tall underground waterfall. Make note, only cash is accepted here.

Pennsylvania Cave Adventures

Crystal Cave

Kutztown, Pa.

Crystal Cave offers a fascinating underground adventure. With a constant 54-degree temperature inside the cave, you’ll want a jacket or light sweater for the one-hour guided tour. Prepare to be awed by stunning stalactites, stalagmites and intricate formations with names like Totem Pole, Ear of Corn and Bacon. The tour starts with a short film on cave geology. Once back in the sunshine, pan for gems, get in a round of mini golf or treat yourself to a scoop at the on-site ice cream parlor.

Indian Echo Caverns

Hummelstown, Pa.

At Indian Echo Caverns, explorers go underground for a 45-minute adventure through awe-inspiring caverns that first opened to the public in 1929. Knowledgeable guides educate on the spectacular limestone formations, crystal-clear pools and mysterious passages within the 52-degree caverns. Above ground, the fun continues thanks to picnic areas, a playground, gem mining and a small petting zoo with goats, alpacas and chickens.

Laurel Caverns

Farmington, Pa.

Laurel Caverns boasts the largest cave system in Pennsylvania, featuring more than four miles of curious and narrow passages. Marvel at the expansive chambers and striking formations on a 30-minute guided or self-guided tour through illuminated sections of the caves. For the truly adventurous, weekend caving programs allow you to navigate tight, unlit spaces with hard hats and lights. Kids ages 4 to 9 will love The Grottos, a simulated cave experience that’s a fun and safe learning activity.

Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park

Centre Hall, Pa.

Embark on a 45-minute guided tour aboard a flat-bottom motorboat through an underground waterway called Lake Nitanee at Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park. This unique cave exploration wows with stunning views of limestone formations and chambers with names like The Statue of Liberty and Garden of the Gods. Afterward, explore the wildlife park on a 90-minute guided bus tour across 1,600 acres. Keep your eyes open for free-roaming bison, elk, bighorn sheep and red foxes.

Have you been on any of these cave tours? Tell us in the comments.

Featured image: Courtesy of Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park

When getting your first life insurance policy or renewing your plan, you are faced with a choice: term vs. whole life insurance. Each has its own benefits, but which plan is right for you? It depends on a variety of factors, from your current stage in life, to your age and finances.

We know that thinking about life insurance and how to keep your family protected when you are gone can feel like a heavy decision, but it’s an important one. Life insurance can help your loved ones take care of outstanding debt or continue to pay everyday expenses. It can also be used to pay off a mortgage, cover final expenses and pay for costs towards child care formerly provided by a stay-at-home parent. And since policy rates increase as you get older, the sooner you can get one in place the better.

Let’s delve deeper into the difference between term vs. whole life insurance and which one best fits your needs.

If you’d like to learn more about your life insurance options, schedule an appointment with a AAA insurance agent. 

The Basics of Term vs. Whole Life Insurance

Term

As the name implies, this type of plan is temporary, offering a fixed premium that provides coverage for a predetermined period of time. Typically, the longest a term plan will extend is 30 years from the issued date, and if the insured dies before the policy expires, the designated beneficiaries will receive the death benefit. Because it offers a more limited scope of protection, term life insurance policies are often more affordable than whole plans.

Whole

Whole plans tend to cost more than term plans and unlike term plans, a whole life insurance policy is a lifelong commitment. Coverage remains active for the policyholder from purchase until death, and accordingly, the benefits are available at anytime. In addition, whole plans have an intrinsic cash value, and policyholders can often borrow money against them.

What to Consider

Deciding between a term vs. whole life insurance policy depends on your situation.

A term life policy may be the best option in cases where the loss of a loved one could have a profound financial impact on family members. It basically serves as income replacement designed to protect your dependents and help them to maintain their lifestyle if you die during the policy period. Also, because term policies are more affordable, they are a good short-term fix until you are ready to upgrade to a whole plan and are easily the best option for those just starting out with life insurance.

Whole life insurance is preferable for planning your inheritance and your estate’s future. When the time comes, this type of plan will be far better suited to cover estate taxes. In addition, if you have a lifelong dependent relying on your income – a child with special needs, for example – a whole policy should be in place to provide financial support, especially if you don’t want to rely on retirement savings or other assets. If you can afford it, the more comprehensive protection offered by a whole plan is the better option to plan for your long-term finances.

Decisions, Decisions

Whether you go with a term or a whole policy, all plans take into account your age, health and financial standing (i.e., debts, expenses and assets). You should also anticipate any expenses that may arise for your beneficiaries in the coming years, such as education and housing. These are all major factors in making any policy decisions, and in the end, the most accurate way to determine which plan fits your budget and your expected needs is to compare the long-term costs of all your options.

To get the best of both worlds, you may want to consider a return of premium policy. This is a term life insurance plan – sold as a 10-, 15-, 20- 25- or 30-year policy, which offers customers the option to get their money back if they outlive the term, or keep the money in an account and have it paid into a whole life insurance policy that you never have to contribute to again as long as you live. So, you get a money-back guarantee along with the protection and advantages of a term policy such as death benefit, lower price and underwriting.

Truth be told, life insurance offers such much flexibility that you have seemingly endless ways to fit a policy into your lifestyle. Oftentimes the best approach for consumers is to start out with term and convert it to a whole policy when the time is right. But before you commit to any plan, consider reaching out to a qualified professional for assistance in assessing your options.

Did this help you to learn more about the difference between term vs. whole life insurance? Tell us in the comments. 

Get a personalized life insurance policy through AAA. 

Even the most responsible drivers run into car trouble now and then. It’s up to you to know what to do during a car breakdown, and how to keep yourself and others safe if it happens.

Here’s some car breakdown advice from AAA experts.

Why do cars break down?

A car breakdown happens when little problems are ignored long enough to turn into big problems.

There are many reasons for a car breakdown, but some of the most common reasons are an overheated engine, battery failure or a tire blowout.

A car might not start because of a bad starter or loose battery connection, but we’re going to focus on what to do when your car breaks down while you’re driving.

When a car breakdown starts to happen, you might feel the engine stumble or hear it misfire. The vehicle might jerk suddenly, or you could see steam billowing out of the front end.

As a general rule, red warning lights on the instrument cluster indicate serious issues. Think of them like red lights on a traffic signal. If you see one come on, pull over immediately to prevent what could be catastrophic damage, according to AAA’s Car Doctor John Paul.

These are considered the top three warning lights.

• Engine oil pressure: Commonly called the teakettle, this light indicates the engine has lost its supply of oil and harmful metal-on-metal contact is about to occur, followed by major engine damage within seconds.
• Coolant temperature: Often signaled by a thermometer symbol riding waves (accompanied by a temperature gauge in the red), this light indicates a coolant leak or failure of a coolant system part such as the thermostat.
• Charging system failure: This one is the battery light with the plus and minus symbols inside. It illuminates when the alternator stops supplying power to the electrical system. It likely won’t damage anything else, but your car could lose power completely in fewer than 15 minutes.

Another red light to keep an eye on is the one that indicates an issue with the hydraulic brake system. In some cars it appears as “BRAKE,” but check your owner’s manual to make sure of what it looks like in your vehicle. This light could mean your car is low on brake fluid or that you left the parking brake engaged, or it could warn of a serious brake problem that craves the help of a certified automotive technician. Yellow or amber warning lights typically indicate less serious issues, but drivers should still exercise caution and address the problem as soon as possible.

When does a car breakdown typically happen?

It depends. Paul has seen a Chevrolet Malibu running well with 425,000 miles on it. Then again, he’s seen vehicles that get the daylights driven out of them, such as police cars, or ones that have skipped important maintenance services, wear out at 50,000 to 70,000 miles. It comes down to how well the vehicle is maintained, and whether or not important parts are replaced.

• Top off car fluids or change them if they are dirty or contaminated.
• Inflate tires to the manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure.
• Inspect your tires for any visible signs of damage and that the tread is not too worn-down. Try using a quarter to check.
• Test your car battery. (Most of the roadside assistance calls AAA Northeast receives are for battery problems.) AAA Battery Service will come to you to complete this task and, if necessary, replace your battery.
• It’s never a bad idea to have your vehicle undergo a thorough inspection before traveling. An auto repair shop can spot and fix potential problems before they put a detour on your road trip plans. Find a trusted auto shop near you.

What should you do when a car breakdown happens?

If a red light comes on, or you can feel your car failing, pull over as soon as it’s safe to do so. Seconds matter in these situations. (Especially if you see smoke, which can indicate a fire. If your car is on fire, get away from it and call 911 immediately.)

It doesn’t take long for a blown head gasket to cause a blown out water pump, radiator or heating core, says Peyton Knight, owner of the AAA Approved Auto Repair station Knight’s Automotive in Ledgewood, New Jersey.

“The most important thing you can do is watch the gauges and warning lights,” Knight said. “They usually come on early enough that you won’t do major damage if you pull over and shut off the car right away.

“Yes, the car might still go, and you might be tempted to try to make it home, but you’re going to do more damage than it’s worth,” he added.

In the event that a tire blows out, slow down by lifting your foot off the accelerator (do not slam on the brakes). Signal and pull over to the shoulder on the right side of the road, completely out of the flow of traffic and on level ground if you can. Try – keyword “try” – not to freak out, avoid sudden maneuvers and don’t forget to look for other drivers if you must change lanes. When you get to safety, call AAA Roadside Assistance for help. Look for landmarks, street signs or anything else that can help AAA get to your location.

If your engine stops, or you run out of gas, you’re going to need to use your vehicle’s momentum to get out of the road. Again, coast on over to the right shoulder and do not hit the brakes until it’s necessary to stop.

If your vehicle’s engine has overheated, pull over ASAP but do not open the radiator cap (it even warns you not to do this on the cap, so no excuses!). Twisting the cap open on a hot radiator is incredibly dangerous and will only net you a face full of hot steam.

While many of these scenarios require you to pull over as soon as possible, never jeopardize your safety to make it happen. If you find yourself in an inoperable car in the middle of traffic, stay in your car, turn your emergency flashers on and call AAA for help.

What if a car breakdown happens on the highway?

At highway speeds, fast decision-making is even more important.

If your car fails or a tire blows out, decelerate by lifting your foot off the gas and signal your intent to pull over. If you can make it to a rest stop or off the nearest exit, do so. Otherwise, pull off to the left or right shoulder, park and call for help. Do not get out of your vehicle and stay buckled. Other drivers may not see your vehicle, or you if you’re standing in front of it, especially at night or in inclement weather.

If you think your vehicle might get hit, or if you feel unsafe where it broke down, get to a safer location and tell the roadside assistance dispatcher your intentions. Make note of any nearby mile markers or exit signs. This will help your roadside assistance technician find you.

Some people use flares or orange warning triangles to mark their location after a car breakdown. Only do so if you can exit your vehicle on the side opposite the traffic and do not light flares if you smell gasoline leaking from your car. A good way to set up the triangles is to place them 100 feet, 200 feet and 300 feet from the car, Paul said.

How can you prevent a car breakdown?

Here are some steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of a car breakdown.

• Follow the manufacturer’s recommended car care schedule. Parts have a lifespan, and the manufacturer knows better than anyone what that lifespan is.
• Bring the vehicle to a reputable repair shop. AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities conduct a safety inspection during every service, even something routine like an oil change. Thinking ahead helps catch potential problems before they result in a breakdown.
• Conduct regular car maintenance. It’s your responsibility to catch fluid leaks, battery issues and tire problems in between trips to the shop. Once per month, pop the hood and make sure there’s no corrosion on the battery terminals; look for leaks (underneath the car, too) and check the tread depth and air pressure in all tires (including the spare).

How can AAA help with a car breakdown?

AAA Roadside Assistance is available 24/7. Our technicians can help you fix a flat tire, give you a battery jump or tow you to a repair shop for a more serious repair. They know exactly what to do when your car breaks down.

Members can request roadside assistance in several different ways, including by phone (1-800-222-4357), online (AAA.com/GetMoving) or using the AAA Mobile App.

Did we answer your questions about what to do when your car breaks down? Do you have any others? Leave your comments below. 

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

For 10 years, Amelia Desiata has ventured into the worst weather on the East Coast to repair flat tires, hook cars to tow trucks and replace car batteries. While women are scarce in her field, she is proud to represent AAA on the roads.

How did you get involved with this type of work?

Amelia: I was always interested in the automotive field. My uncle told me about an open house at AAA, and I thought, “why not try it?” Once I started training, I learned how every vehicle is different, whether it comes to changing a tire or changing a battery. I drive each truck the company offers, from the battery truck to a flatbed.

What do you like about your job?

Amelia: I get to go out and help others, and I like knowing I did something good for someone else.

How do you cope with the rain, snow and cold weather?

Amelia: I’d rather work in winter in the rain and snow. You can always put layers on – in the summer, it is hard to cool down. And in the winter, it’s good to go home to hot chocolate!

What would you say to other women thinking about being a roadside technician?

Amelia: You just need to go in with the right attitude. You have to be strong-willed. The guys on the job are more than helpful. They are there for me as needed and very welcoming. I also have the greatest support system; I’m married and have a 15-year-old son.

Request AAA Roadside Assistance, 24/7.

East Coasters don’t have to go out West to experience the thrills of whitewater rafting. The Northeast is home to a treasure trove of scenic rivers that offer different whitewater rafting experiences. It doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner looking for a gentle introduction or a seasoned paddler seeking a challenge; our region has it all, from the roaring rapids of the Adirondacks to the rocky valleys of New Hampshire.

However, before booking, make sure you fully understand what you’re getting yourself into. First, understand the nature of whitewater rapids, which are shallow river sections with waves and fast currents classified into six levels – from easy to extreme. Then, choose a trip that matches your skill level. Dress appropriately, wear your personal flotation device, and, most importantly, listen to your guide. With these safety tips, you can confidently embark on your rafting adventure.

Whitewater rafting season in the Northeast runs from late April to early October. Spring and early summer are especially great times to book to take advantage of the melting snow runoff.

Need a ride? Rent a car.

Androscoggin River, New Hampshire

The Androscoggin River in New Hampshire, flowing between the White Mountains and the Great North Woods region, sets the scene for a moderate trip suitable for kids as young as five. North Woods Rafting, based in the quiet town of Errol in northern New Hampshire, guides rafts through the Class II Errol Rapids, which are ideal for beginners. The trip concludes with a swim in Braggs Bay, a particularly gentle section of the river.

Concord River, Massachusetts

For a whitewater New England adventure just 30 minutes north of Boston, try rafting on the Concord River with Lowell Parks & Conservation Trust. Launching in Lowell, this urban trip is available only on weekends in April and May. Expertly guided by Zoar Outdoor, this trip, which offers dynamic Class III and IV rapids, supports conservation efforts along the Concord River. Note that this trip is suitable only for those aged 14 and older.

Deerfield River, Massachusetts

Tucked in the Berkshire Mountains, the Deerfield River offers both slow stretches and wild rapids like Zoar Gap, which features fast-moving water, large waves and technical obstacles – making it a top spot for whitewater rafting in the region. Zoar Outdoor in Charlemont runs various trips, including the 10-mile Zoar Gap Full-Day, the state’s longest commercial whitewater rafting experience. Crab Apple Whitewater, also launching trips from Charlemont, provides different challenge levels suitable for families and adventure-seekers alike.

Delaware River, New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania

Straddling the border of New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania, the Delaware River makes an excellent escape from the summer heat. Its gentle rapids are ideal for beginners and families while still providing plenty of fun. Lander’s River Trips has five launch and landing locations between Callicoon, New York, and Matamoras, Pennsylvania, organizing expeditions for all skill levels, as well as riverside camping. Silver Canoe & Whitewater Rafting runs trips starting in Pond Eddy, New York, and ending in Port Jervis, with the Pocono Mountains on one side and the Catskills on the other.

Hudson River Gorge, Upstate New York

Less than four hours from New York City, the ordinarily gentle Hudson River is practically unrecognizable as it flows through the rugged Hudson River Gorge in the Adirondacks. Spring is perfect for thrill-seekers, with snowmelt boosting these rapids. For a ride that’s a little easier but still exciting, summer and fall trips are ideal for families and beginners. This time of year also offers the chance to spot bald eagles. Several outfitters operate in the area, such as the Adirondack Rafting Company in Indian Lake and Wild Waters Outdoor Center in Warrensburg near Lake George. Both organize full-day and even overnight camping trips with experienced guides.

West River, Vermont

In southern Vermont, the West River runs along the eastern edge of Green Mountain National Forest, near many of the area’s most well-known ski resorts. Rafters flock here based on scheduled releases of the Ball Mountain Dam in May and September, managed by the Army Corps of Engineers, so expect busy conditions at these times, especially on weekends. The West River’s continuous Class III rapids include particularly challenging sections with names like “Landslide” and “The Dumplings.” Crab Apple Whitewater guides trips starting from Mount Snow Ski Resort, while Zoar Outdoor launches from Jamaica, Vermont.

Have you ever been whitewater rafting? Tell us about it in the comments.

One cent is not worth much anymore, but you still can have hours of fun with a fistful of coins (even pennies) at some retro arcades in the Northeast.

Stop by the oldest penny arcade in America in Rhode Island or the nation’s largest arcade in New Hampshire. Good luck and keep a steady hand!

Need a ride? Rent a car.

Connecticut

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Deep 6 Arcade (@deep6arcade)

DEEP 6 Arcade

New Haven, other locations

The owners’ original mission here was to save pinball machines from landfills, and as they repaired more and more, their surplus grew and they decided to invite people to play. Now with more than 130 game rooms in Connecticut, Massachusetts and New York, Deep 6 hosts competitions, offers open play periods and features classic games. Machines take everything from a dime a play to a dollar coin for four plays.

The Pinshack

East Hampton

The Pinshack offers a constantly rotating collection of classic pinball games. For $15, visitors get unlimited gameplay.

Massachusetts

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Joe's Playland Family Arcade (@joesplayland)

Joe’s Playland

Salisbury

This 100-plus-year-old arcade located right on Salisbury Beach features a mix of classic and new games. Besides pinball, it offers Skee-Ball, air hockey, pool and redemption games. Players can swipe a card for electronic game play and earn e-tickets, or go the traditional route with quarters and receive paper tickets.

Versus

Boston

Get ready for a full lineup of arcade, pinball and video games as well as a wide selection of pub food. Only patrons aged 21years and older are permitted after 7 p.m.

New Hampshire

American Classic Arcade Museum 

Laconia

Established to promote and preserve the history of coin-operated arcade games, the American Classic Arcade Museum starts with the pre-electricity machines of the early 20th century, travels on to the penny arcade era and the demise of the arcade industry in the late 1980s. But this museum is not just for browsers – as the owners put it, if you have a favorite pinball game, it’s probably here, and they say they have some of the rarest games on Earth.

Upstairs from the museum is Funspot, which proclaims itself the largest arcade in the world and is home to more than 600 games. Its sci-fi-themed Pinball Outpost includes classic and contemporary games. Modern ticket games to earn prizes are available and the retro games are only a quarter to play. Funspot also hosts weekly pinball leagues.

Squiggles

Campton

Squiggles is home to more than 20 vintage arcade games, including “Back to the Future” and Dungeons & Dragons pinball machines. Located in an historic mill building dating back to 1826, an onsite store stocks toys, gifts, gadgets and more than 100 kinds of candy. Sqiggles is old school, and all games operate with quarters. Quarter and change machines are available, but there is no ATM on site. A cash for card is available from the store.

New Jersey

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Lucky Snake (@theluckysnake)

The Lucky Snake

Showboat Hotel, Atlantic City 

This huge arcade has a pinball gallery as well as go-kart racing, video games, competition games, redemption games and attraction games. Food and beverage options are nearby.

Morristown Game Vault

Morristown

Ready for a trip back in time? Located in a former bank, the Morristown Game Vault securely houses more than 110 retro arcade games and pinball machines. But not everything is retro; instead of quarters, players get wristbands and are charged based on the number of hours they play. Game Vault also keeps track of high scores on all its arcade and pinball games. Names are listed on the website and displayed on the arcade wall using a projector.

New York

Robot City Games and Arcade

Binghamton

Claiming to be the biggest arcade in New York with 125 games, including 31 pinball machines, Robot City is the place to get your retro on. Pinball games dating back to 1974 are ready for action as are classic video games. Hundreds of video games also are for sale.

Game On

Lake Gove and Riverhead

Game On calls itself an authentic arcade with an ’80s and ’90s feel. Boasting more than 100 games, players pay $15 to play all day. One adult is required to supervise every three children under age 13.

Rhode Island

Spring Lake Arcade

Burrillville

If you are driving in or near Rhode Island, don’t miss Spring Lake Arcade, America’s oldest penny arcade, just an hour from Newport. And YES, they do have machines that take pennies. Not all do, so come prepared with a pocketful of change. A blend of old and new, about half the arcade floor space has games from every decade going back to 1920 and the rest is filled with current games that are updated every year. Locals get a discount; admission is $5 for Burrillville residents and $8 for non-residents.

Electromagnetic Pinball Museum and Restoration

Pawtucket

The museum’s mission is “to foster a love and appreciation for history, science technology, engineering, arts and mathematics through interactive pinball exhibits.” Museum programs educate the public about the need to preserve pinball machines and celebrate their contributions to art, history, science and technology. But of course, playing is important as well. Visitors pay $10 for the day to play about 85 different pinball machines as well as arcade games.

Do you have a favorite retro arcade? Tell us about it in the comments below.

Nothing raises blood pressure faster, gets jaws clenched tighter and turns language bluer than traffic jams.

American drivers spend about 51 hours per year sitting in traffic, an average of almost an hour a week. This congestion not only takes a toll on tempers, but pocketbooks as well. All that sitting and fuming equates to about $869 worth of lost time, according to the 2023 Global Traffic Scorecard, produced by global analytics firm INRIX.

Artificial Intelligence, though, has brought relief to one of the nation’s most congested cities, Boston. By working with Google’s Project Green Light, the city has enacted four recommendations for changing signal timing at intersections in Fenway-Kenmore, Mission Hill and Jamaica Plain.

Since implementing the changes at the intersections of Huntington Avenue and Opera Place and at Amory and Green streets, stop-and-go traffic has declined by more than 50 percent, and greenhouse gas emissions have decreased as well.

Boston was ranked eighth in the world for highest traffic delays in 2023, according to the Global Traffic Scorecard. (New York City ranks first – no surprise.)

“One of the most frustrating parts of living in a major city is traffic, so Boston is taking every step to combat congestion and get people to where they need to go,” said Mayor Michelle Wu, in a prepared statement. “We often find that small traffic hotspots from mistimed signals or curbside issues can swell into larger congestion, so targeting these micro spots goes a long way.”

The collaboration with Project Green Light began in February 2024. Prior to making recommendations, Google analyzed traffic at hundreds of signalized intersections using AI and Google Maps driving trends to develop new traffic signalization and patterns.

“We are just starting to realize the potential of machine learning and AI in some of the city’s core operations,” said Michael Lawrence Evans, Boston’s director of emerging technology. “Our partnership with Google’s Project Green Light team demonstrates how this technology can have an immediate impact on a common experience like traffic congestion, while paving the way for continuous improvements across our traffic signal network.”

Seattle is the only other U.S. city involved with Project Green Light. The program is now operating in 14 cities on four continents.

“Through Project Green Light, we are using AI to help improve the lives of people in cities around the globe by reducing traffic and emissions,” added Matheus Vervloet, product manager at Google.

How do you avoid traffic jams? Tell us in the comments.

---

IN THIS EPISODE

Are you thinking about welcoming a puppy or kitten into your life? Or maybe you’ve dreamed of having an aquarium in your home office? Getting a new pet brings unmistakable joy, but adding a new furry, scaled or feathered family member also requires a significant commitment, impacting both lifestyle and budget.

On this episode, we explore all things first-time pet owners need to know, including choosing between a responsible breeder or a shelter and how to afford unexpected medical costs. Veterinarian Dr. Ann Hohenhaus and Abbie Harrison, Associate Editorial Director for Daily Paws and The Spruce Pets, are here to help you navigate the world of pet ownership so you can enjoy all the love and affection without worry.

And don’t forget, for peace of mind, AAA Northeast offers pet insurance for accidents, injuries and illnesses.

---

KEY TAKEAWAYS

[7:52] – Important things to consider when adopting from a breeder and from a pet rescue
[14:52] – The lowdown on pet insurance
[18:12] – How to select the right type of food

---

TRANSCRIPT

[00:00:01]
Amanda Greene: It was just a little over 10 years ago, my husband surprised me and brought home a kitten. I was about to have surgery and he was hoping that the healing power of a kitten would get me back on my feet sooner. It was a really sweet gesture, but I have to say that she is the meanest cat I have ever met in my life.

‘Hey, get down. Not my antique vase!’

I love her. She’s become part of our family, but she is something else.

My experience with this beautiful, nasty, yet somehow still lovable cat makes it easier to say no to a higher maintenance pet like a dog. But it’s getting harder all the time because the girls keep asking for a puppy, and I’m not …

[00:00:43]
Amanda’s daughter: Mom, did you just say puppy?

READ MORE

[00:00:45]
Amanda Greene: No.

[00:00:45]
Amanda’s daughter: I want a puppy so bad. It’s so fuzzy and cute, and I want one.

[00:00:50]
Amanda Greene: No one said puppy!

Welcome to Merging Into Life where we navigate life’s milestones one episode at a time. Brought to you by AAA Northeast. I’m your host, Amanda Greene. Today, we’re going to talk about getting a pet. It’s a massive decision with huge impacts, but unlike many of our topics on this show, it isn’t a necessary part of adulthood. Moving out, finding your first home, buying insurance, these are things that usually have to be faced at some point. But getting a pet is very much a personal choice, one that has to fit with your life, because once you commit, you are in it for the long haul, and it’s hard to think clearly when faced with a little fuzzy miniature bundle of love.

So, before you start wandering the halls of your local shelter, sit back and listen. We’re going to take you through all the things to think about before you find yourself saying yes to the pet, such as how to adopt a rescue dog, pet insurance and selecting the correct food for your pet.

We’ll be speaking with Abbie Harrison, a pet lover and editorial director of animal content. But first.

[00:01:58]
Ann Hohenhaus: So I’m Ann Hohenhaus. I’m a veterinarian here at the Schwarzman Animal Medical Center. My area of expertise is in oncology or cancer medicine for pet. I was born into this field. My father was a veterinarian, and so I just kept doing the same thing I’d been doing all my life, which is taking care of animals.

[00:02:18]
Amanda Greene: It’s in the family. That’s really beautiful. What was your first pet? How did that experience shape your life and your approach to veterinary care?

[00:02:28]
Ann Hohenhaus: Well, I would say that the pets were really my father’s. So the first pet I remember is a beagle dog. He loved beagles. He always had beagles, and that dog met an unfortunate end in that it was hit by a car. And I remember being in his clinic with him, and I think he knew that the dog wasn’t going to make it. And I spent much of the last moments of that pet’s life making sure that its nose was wet with little gauze sponges, because if the dog’s nose was wet, I was sure that it was going to live. And so, possibly, that dog had an impact many, many, many years later on my career.

Introducing the AAA Pet ID Tag Program. Pets are part of our families and deserve special attention if they are ever lost from home. This complimentary program is AAA’s way of assisting our members if they have a lost pet, avoiding the need to display personal information on a tag. Learn more.

[00:03:10]
Amanda Greene: Wow, that is really special. So for a family to decide they’re ready, they would like to get a pet, how do you help guide people or families in determining the type of pet that best fits their lifestyle?

[00:03:24]
Ann Hohenhaus: Well, I think that is the question they need to ask. What is your lifestyle and how can a pet fit into that? If you’re someone who likes to go away on the weekend, can you take that pet with you where you’re going on the weekend? Or if you’re someone that works from home all the time and can walk a dog whenever you need to, then a dog might be a great pet. And then let’s not just think dogs and cats, but we could also think about more non- traditional pets, which might be something in an aquarium, that needs probably less day- to- day maintenance. Although having been a fish tank owner for some time, cleaning those things can be a challenge. Or some small mammal like a gerbil or a guinea pig. Those are easy pets to take care of . And so that lifestyle question is a very important first question for the first-time pet owner to wrestle with when they’re making a decision on a pet.

[00:04:23]
Amanda Greene: Yeah. So your lifestyle, are you someone who’s even home enough for certain kinds of pets is a really big one. I hear people say that a lot. ” I’m not home enough to get a dog yet.” So what animals are best suited for different needs or environments? Let’s say you live in an apartment.

[00:04:38]
Ann Hohenhaus: I would say that there are many, many people in New York City that have 60 pound dogs. And the reason that we know that is that every time the animal medical center remodels itself, we always add more runs for big dogs, which tells us that we’ve got a lot of big dog patients. You can have a big dog because in the apartment, the dog mostly hangs out, and then that dog is going to get walked multiple times a day. Dogs with backyards, you open up that backyard and the dog goes out there and lays in the sun and the grass and then comes back. New York City dogs actually get exercise because you walk them around the block, you take them to the park that’s closest to you, and so they get a lot of exercise and are perfectly fine in not a very big apartment. So I don’t know that internal space really makes a difference.

Cats, one thing about cats is you need to have a litter box, at least one litter box for every cat. So even though cats are small, having five cats in a small apartment is a problem, because you can’t fit enough litter boxes into the apartment and could end up with territorial issues. So those are all things to think about in terms of space.

[00:05:49]
Amanda Greene: So the act of actually deciding how to get your pet, when it comes to deciding between a breeder or a rescue, what factors should a first- time pet owner consider?

[00:06:01]
Ann Hohenhaus: Well, part of it depends on what kind of pet you want. If you have your heart set on a purebred animal, you might need to go to a breeder, but you might also be able to get a purebred dog from a breed- specific rescue group. So there are Frenchie rescue groups and Golden Retriever rescue groups for people who have to relinquish their pets for a variety of reasons.

Co-op boards, those are the people that run the buildings that you live in, sometimes set a limit on the size of a dog that you can have. And they might say, “You can’t have a dog that weighs more than 30 pounds.” Well, that makes going to the pound a challenge because you don’t always know how big that pound puppy is going to turn out to be. And so you might need to go to either get an adult dog or get a dog from a breeder where you can pick the size of the dog that you’re getting because of the co- op board restrictions on pets.

I think also it matters who is in the household. So getting a pet from the shelter, you don’t know as much about their background and you don’t know as much about their health. And if you have immunocompromised family members, then that shelter pet is more at risk of bringing home an illness that could be translated to a family member. So in that case, a pet that comes from a private home where you know everything about that pet’s background might be better for your particular family.

[00:07:31]
Amanda Greene: This is all very interesting. We’re going to come back to Dr. Hohenhaus and how soon, but first I want to dive a little deeper into how to get your first pet.

[00:07:40]
Abbie Harrison: Hi, I’m Abbie Harrison. I am the Associate Editorial director of the Sprucepets.com and Dailypaws. com. I have two dogs myself. They are two rescues. One is named Millie and the other is Finn.

[00:07:53]
Amanda Greene: Amazing. So could you describe how you would caution someone considering adopting a dog from a breeder? What should they look out for and what kind of questions should they ask?

[00:08:05]
Abbie Harrison: You really want to do your research before you decide to go the breeder route. There’s a lot of backyard breeders and puppy mills that you want to stay away from. So with a responsible breeder, they should be registered with their breed club. So like the Golden Retriever Club of America or something like that. You can go to that breed club website and they should list out all of their affiliated breeders. They should allow you to come visit the facility and meet the dogs, the parent dogs, any of the puppies that they have currently. And that way you can also evaluate the facility and make sure that it’s a clean facility and see where the dogs are kept and just to make sure it’s a good environment. They should provide you with health certificates and screenings. Hip and elbow and eye screenings are just some of the things you can look at. They’ll probably also give you information about the dog’s line because these responsible breeders work very hard to make sure that they’re producing dogs that are healthy and have a good temperament.

[00:09:01]
Amanda Greene: I imagine as you are visiting their facility and you are evaluating what they’ve done, they should also be sort of making sure that you are a fit home also.

[00:09:11]
Abbie Harrison: Definitely. Yeah. They will want you to submit an application, and you’ll probably have to end up on a waitlist. Because a responsible breeder won’t have just all kinds of puppies available at all times, they will have a schedule of when they are going to expect litters to be born. So you should expect to be on a wait list for a year, maybe even two, depending on the breed of dog that you’re looking for, and that breeder’s program.

[00:09:37]
Amanda Greene: What else should you look for in a breeder?

[00:09:40]
Abbie Harrison: I think another thing is they should never offer to ship a dog to you. You should have to go to the facility and pick up the dog. That is a common sign of puppy mills and backyard breeders is they will ship their dogs out or a scam where you put up deposit online and then nothing ever comes of it.

[00:09:58]
Amanda Greene: Okay. So what about from a rescue? What considerations are important there when adopting a rescue dog?

[00:10:04]
Abbie Harrison: When you go to a rescue, you want to work with the staff and tell them about your lifestyle and ask them if they can give you some information on the dogs that they have currently and help you find the right fit. If you are a first- time dog owner, you don’t want to end up with a dog who might have a lot of behavioral issues, maybe has come from a bad situation, unless you are fully prepared and able to take on that challenge. And so the rescue staff should be willing to work with you to find the right fit for you so that way you don’t bring the dog back in two weeks when things aren’t working out.

[00:10:38]
Amanda Greene: Something to keep in mind is that getting your pet from a shelter comes with the satisfaction of doing a good thing, but it also comes with fees sometimes as high as $600 and $700. That cost is one more thing to factor into a very big decision. In a perfect world, when you get a pet, it’s for life. And if you can’t make that commitment, Abbie points out that there are other ways for animal lovers to get their fix. Shelters are often looking for volunteers to help out. And then there’s the ever important role of fostering. According to Dr. Hohenhaus, not only does it free up a place for another animal in the shelter, it also gives young animals exposure to real households and invaluable experience for when it finds its new home.

[00:11:23]
Ann Hohenhaus: If you’re fostered in a home, you get to meet the evil Mr. Vacuum Cleaner, and you hear the dishwasher turning on and you hear what the shower sounds like and doors closing and the TV on, and all those noises that happen every single day in a home, but do not happen in a shelter because it’s a completely different environment. If you’re bringing a puppy or kitten home for children, you don’t want the first children that puppy or kitten sees to be your children. You want them to have been exposed early on to little unpredictable beings that make funny, loud noises because that can be very upsetting to a puppy or kitten that’s never met a child before. Children behave much differently than bigger adults.

[00:12:11]
Amanda Greene: Those are some really good points. Another big consideration are your personal finances and being financially ready is really important when bringing home a new pet. So how do you recommend people gauge if they’re financially ready for the responsibility?

[00:12:27]
Ann Hohenhaus: Well, I think that what everyone wants to do is take their credit card and rush to the local Pet Emporium and get the cute bowls and five beds and a couple sweaters for the new dog and the biggest climbing tree for the cat that you can find. And that is probably all the least important things. Your pet could be perfectly happy eating food out of an empty, clean Chinese food container and will sleep on any pillow, pile of dirty clothes or what you have on the bedroom floor.

What you need to think about is the cost of medical care, the cost of food. Pet owners in the United States spend most of their pet budget on food. They spend more on food than on medical care for their pets. Also, think about grooming. So you want that fluffy Persian cat that your grandma had, and well, then now someone needs to comb those mats out of that cat and make sure that its skin and hair are kept healthy.

And if you get a poodle, those things grow hair like you can’t believe. And trust me, I know some poodles whose haircuts cost more than mine do.

[00:13:34]
Amanda Greene: Wow.

[00:13:34]
Ann Hohenhaus: So those are things to think about. The grooming, medical care, food, and then who’s going to babysit that pet when you go on vacation? You’ve got to either engage the neighbor or pay the kennel, but that’s an added cost. And then you have to think about the added cost of housing, because is your landlord going to want a bigger security deposit on the apartment? Does your landlord actually allow pets? Are you going to try and sneak this one in? And if you do and get caught, is there a financial penalty associated with it? So there’s a lot of money things to think about in getting a pet.

[00:14:15]
Amanda Greene: Most of these expenses you can plan for, but I suppose medical care can really balloon out of control depending on the health of your pet. How do you plan for that?

[00:14:25]
Ann Hohenhaus: Yes, and one of the important decisions that a pet owner needs to make is, am I going to purchase insurance for this pet? And if I am, what is that insurance going to do? So some people want catastrophic crisis medical care coverage, meaning they figure they can budget and pay for shots, blood tests and the routine care that the pet needs, because that’s more predictable and they can work that into their budget. But if the pet has a big crisis, then that’s the kind of insurance that they want.

Other people say, if there’s a crisis, I’ll figure it out. But I want to know that my routine care is covered, and I can predict that my coverage is going to cover shots and blood tests that the pet needs every year and flea and tick medication and heartworm medicine. So that’s one way to think about it.

The other way is to create a pet slush fund, and instead of putting the money into the insurance company, put the money in the bank. But a lot of people are not good savers. And so the minute they see that they have $5, 000 in the bank, they’re like, ” Woohoo!”

[00:15:33]
Amanda Greene: Shopping.

[00:15:34]
Ann Hohenhaus: Let’s go to Cancun.

[00:15:34]
Amanda Greene: Yeah.

[00:15:35]
Ann Hohenhaus: Yeah, let’s take a cruise. But that money really has to sit there so that if the pet has an emergency, you can draw down on that emergency catastrophe fund, not use it to fund a vacation.

[00:15:48]
Amanda Greene: Have you seen any examples within your own clients? Any stories to share?

[00:15:53]
Ann Hohenhaus: Well, I’ve seen that within my own family. My brother got some cats, and it was a time in his life when he had a lot of children and less income. And so I gave them a catastrophic cat insurance policy as a Christmas gift. And lo and behold, the cats developed a catastrophe. And my sister- in- law said to me, ‘Oh, this is great, because I don’t know how we would’ve paid for it in our situation.’

[00:16:16]
Amanda Greene: Wow. Being able to make choices, not just because of the finances, but for the care of the pet. That is really powerful. And for added peace of mind, AAA Northeast offers pet insurance for accidents, injuries and illnesses.

What types of things should you buy ahead of time to pet proof where you live?

[00:16:37]
Ann Hohenhaus: I’m not sure you need to buy. I think you need to get rid of. Pets are looking for cords to chomp on. Medications, that’s the number one reason for calls to animal poison control is the pet gets into their own medications or the family’s medications and ends up in the animal ER. So putting medications away and out of reach. We’ve had some pets where it’s a tag team. The cat gets on the counter and goes, boop, boop, boop, boop, crash. And when the medication falls to the ground, the dog eats it all.

[00:17:12]
Amanda Greene: Oh, my.

[00:17:13]
Ann Hohenhaus: Remember that there are flowers and plants that are potentially lethal to your pets because we have pets in all the time that have eaten a plant that’s making them sick. I think you need to be sure that doors latch so no one escapes. And then this is the one thing you should probably buy is the appropriate number of baby gates, pet gates. There’s so many gates on the internet. Find the one you like. Be sure it’s tall enough, and be sure the bars are close enough together because you can’t believe how they can squish through those little skinny bars.

[00:17:51]
Amanda Greene: That’s such good advice.

And part of keeping your pet safe is making sure it can’t get its paws on human food that can make it sick. The list is long and includes chocolate, grapes, raisins, and pits from certain fruits. The days of passing your table scraps onto your pet are long gone and for good reason.

How should pet owners go about selecting the right type of food for their fur baby?

[00:18:19]
Ann Hohenhaus: People will often ask me, what is the best pet food? And there is no best pet food. So here are my guidelines to help you. One is that the label needs to say AAFCO certified. A-A-F-C-O, which stands for the American Association of Feed Control Officials. They’re the people in the United States that are tasked with determining if pet food meets the nutrient standard for dogs. So it’s going to be species specific, the AAFCO regulation, and it’s also going to be life stage specific, meaning approved for puppies, approved for adults, approved for all life stages. And so you need to pick the one that’s right for your pet.

[00:19:02]
Amanda Greene: Well, at the pet store, are all of the dog foods on the shelf not certified with this?

[00:19:07]
Ann Hohenhaus: Correct. They are not all certified.

[00:19:09]
Amanda Greene: Wow.

[00:19:09]
Ann Hohenhaus: Because they don’t meet the definition of complete and balanced. So that’s why that’s my rule. I want my patients to eat complete and balanced foods. It needs to say AAFCO on that label. The print is really small, but it’ll be there if it is AAFCO certified.

Second thing is that the pet needs to like the food. So even though you perceive that this food is going to be great for your pet, if it won’t eat it, it doesn’t do your pet any good.

[00:19:36]
Amanda Greene: And so when it comes to meal prepping for your dog at home, I feel like I’m hearing you say you’re not a big fan of that.

[00:19:42]
Ann Hohenhaus: I’m not a fan of it unless that diet has been formulated by a board certified veterinary nutritionist. Studies have been done looking at the nutritional adequacy of home- cooked diets with recipes made by the owners, and they are in general deficient in calcium and phosphorus. And I had a patient whose owner heart was in the right place, the dog had terrible allergies, and they were making a home-cooked diet for the dog. And that dog became so low in calcium that it was walking funny, and we thought it had an orthopedic problem. And then we did some blood tests on it, and its calcium was dangerously low. And that’s because the diet was low in calcium. And so now his diet is essentially the same with the right vitamins and minerals added by the board certified veterinary nutritionist. And it’s taken us a while, but we got him back on track.

[00:20:40]
Amanda Greene: When do you bring your puppy or your kitten in for their first exam? Is it like when you have a baby, you have to go right away?

[00:20:47]
Ann Hohenhaus: Pretty much. So if you are purchasing from a breeder, a puppy or a kitten, then you will need to look at that breeder contract because usually that breeder contract has a clause in it that that puppy or kitten needs to be seen within X days and determined to be healthy. And if not, you can return it. Although after a few days, you’re in love and you’re not going to return it. But there’s a clause in there that says needs to be visited.

And then puppies and kittens need vaccinations roughly every three to four weeks before they’re probably five, six months old. And so you need to know from who you get the puppy or kitten from, when was it vaccinated and when’s the next vaccine due? But usually quite soon after you get the puppy or kitten, you should have it checked out. Since we’re talking about planning for your first pet, you need to probably identify that veterinarian upfront. Maybe make an appointment for shortly after you get that pet, even though you don’t have it yet, so that you can get an appointment at the right time for that pet and find out more about that veterinary hospital.

[00:21:56]
Amanda Greene: Is there any other advice you would offer to someone considering this, considering getting their very first pet?

[00:22:02]
Ann Hohenhaus: Oh, it’s going to be so much fun. There’s nothing like having a pet around. They’re infinitely entertaining. They are completely devoted to you, and they’re unconditional in their love. So I love having animals around and I can just sit in the evening and watch my kittens play. It’s better than TV. I did not watch the news last night. Instead, I watched the kittens play.

[00:22:29]
Amanda Greene: Beautiful. That’s a lot of love. That’s really special. Okay, so before I let you go, I have some rapid fire questions. When should you start brushing your new pet’s teeth?

[00:22:41]
Ann Hohenhaus: Now.

[00:22:42]
Amanda Greene: Immediately?

[00:22:42]
Ann Hohenhaus: Yeah, immediately. So kittens and puppies are very pliable, and if you train them early, you can get them to do a lot of different things. If you wait until they’re four years old, no go on the tooth brushing.

[00:22:55]
Amanda Greene: Should all pets be microchipped?

[00:22:57]
Ann Hohenhaus: Yes.

[00:22:58]
Amanda Greene: How often should you bring your pet in for a checkup?

[00:23:01]
Ann Hohenhaus: At least once a year for a routine checkup and whenever they’re ill.

[00:23:05]
Amanda Greene: And what’s a normal amount of sleep for dogs and cats to get per day?

[00:23:10]
Ann Hohenhaus: Cats sleep about 90% of the time. Dogs, probably somewhat less, but still a lot.

[00:23:15]
Amanda Greene: Wow. 90% of the day. It does seem like they’re always resting, so that makes a lot of sense.

[00:23:21]
Ann Hohenhaus: Oh, yeah.

[00:23:21]
Amanda Greene: Wouldn’t that be nice? Dr. Ann Hohenhaus, thank you so much for joining us and for sharing all of this amazing information. You have been very helpful.

[00:23:30]
Ann Hohenhaus: Oh, good. Well, I hope that everyone who’s getting a first pet has a wonderful time with it.

[00:23:35]
Amanda Greene: Thank you so much.

There’s so much to know when getting your first pet. So remember, consider your lifestyle and find something that fits with how you live. Work out your costs beforehand because food, medical care and insurance add up. Prepare your space to make it as safe as possible for your new friend. Once you commit to a pet, it’s supposed to be forever. And once you work all of that out, it’s totally worth it. Because pets bring love, companionship, and entertainment.

A huge thanks to Dr. Anne Hohenhaus, a vet and host of the podcast, Ask The Vet. You can find a link to that show in our show notes. And thanks to Abbie Harrison, Associate Editorial Director of Daily Paws and The Spruce Pets at Dotdash Meredith for coming on our show.

You’ve been listening to Merging Into Life where we navigate life’s milestones one episode at a time. Brought to you by AAA Northeast, with assistance from JAR Audio. I’m your host, Amanda Greene. If you’re learning as much as I am, follow us wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review. We’d love to know what you think. Email us at podcast@aaanortheast.com.

I love that. What are your cats’ names?

[00:24:48]
Ann Hohenhaus: Right now, I have Cashew and Acorn. Oh, this is Acorn.

[00:24:53]
Amanda Greene: Acorn.

[00:24:54]
Ann Hohenhaus: He’s a good eater. ‘Oh, I know, I know, I know. I know you think it’s lunchtime.’

[00:24:58]
Amanda Greene: Oh, so cute. But we’re still not ready for a puppy.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are not necessarily the views of AAA Northeast, AAA, and/or its affiliates.

---

RESOURCES

AAA Northeast Pet Insurance

Pet ID Tags

What to Expect During the Pet Adoption Process

Be Prepared for Pet Emergencies

Are Pets Covered by Home and Auto Insurance?

Pet-Friendly Hotels and Restaurants in the Northeast

Daily Paws

The Spruce Pets

Golden Retriever Club of America

---

Want to Learn More? Drop Us a Note

*The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are not necessarily the views of AAA Northeast, AAA and/or its affiliates.

A strong foundation is an integral part of developing any sound structure. That’s why, when it comes to having solid financial footing, envisioning your plan as a house is the perfect analogy.

Just as a good foundation supports and protects a house from potential structural problems and damage, insurance provides a safety net for unexpected life events.

Understanding how life, home and auto insurance fit into your financial strategy can help you save money, manage risks and contribute more effectively to your future.

The Foundation: Life Insurance

The stability of your financial “house” relies on a strong base, and life insurance is a key component of that foundation.

Often considered the cornerstone of financial planning, life insurance provides security for your loved ones in the event of your death. A smart decision at any age, its primary purpose is to ensure that your family can maintain their standard of living without financial strain if you are no longer around to provide for them. This sense of security forms the bedrock on which other financial plans can be built.

Things like:

• Income replacement. Life insurance can replace any lost income, allowing your family to cover essential expenses like mortgage payments, education costs and daily living expenses.
• Debt protection. Life insurance can also cover outstanding debts, such as a mortgage or car loans.
• Investment in future goals. With the peace of mind provided by life insurance, you can focus on building other aspects of your financial plan. This stability allows you to allocate more resources towards investments, retirement savings or other long-term financial goals.

The Framework: Homeowners and Auto Insurance

While life insurance provides the financial security that underpins your plan, homeowners and auto insurance create a protective framework around your everyday assets. These types of policies mitigate the financial risks associated with property damage and liability, further strengthening the foundation of your financial house.

To start, homeowners insurance covers damage to your property and its contents caused by fire, theft or natural disasters. It can also provide liability coverage in case someone is injured on your property. By protecting one of your most significant investments  – your house  – homeowners insurance prevents unexpected expenses that could otherwise derail your financial plans.

Auto insurance safeguards against financial losses from car accidents, theft and damage. In addition to covering repair costs, it can provide liability coverage if you’re responsible for damage or injuries to others. Having auto insurance protects your finances from the potentially high costs associated with accidents so you’re not forced to dip into savings or other investments.

By making sure that you’ve got yourself and your family covered with life, home and auto insurance, you’re effectively creating a safety net that can prevent financial hardship, lower your risk of debt and bring you peace of mind for years to come.

Speak to a AAA insurance agent to get a personalized life, home or auto insurance policy.

Understandably, most Caribbean getaways involve plenty of sunning, swimming and snorkeling. But some who travel to a laid-back island paradise crave a more active vacation, where they can explore the natural landscape on foot. What better way to intimately connect with the land?  

Though many Caribbean islands are sliced by trails that easily appeal to thrill seekers who don’t mind scrambling over boulders or grabbing onto exposed roots and vines along steep inclines, other people prefer a more low-key adventure. Trekking along each of the following trio of Caribbean hiking trails will wrap you in scenic treasures, offering unforgettable sights and experiences.  

Windsor Forest, St. Croix

This 700-acre forest is threaded with well-marked trails, many taking the name of songs composed by Bob Marley (i.e. “One Love” and “No Woman No Cry”). Combining a hike on two of the paths, the Upper and Lower Spur trails, offers a good introduction to the forest along a sun-drenched loop that takes about an hour. Interpretive signage provides details on local history, plants, geology and culture. For example, you’ll learn that the spiny patches of the wild pineapple can shelter grasshoppers, while the fruit of the fiddlewood can be used to make wine. Even though this is a mostly level hike, handcrafted wooden tables, benches and even an armchair are welcome spots for a peaceful respite. As you meander about, you’ll notice Blue Mountain – the island’s second highest peak – in the distance and a watering hole used by animals, including white-tailed deer, whose tracks may be apparent. 

Coco Hill Forest, Barbados

An abundance of fruit trees, medicinal plants and herbs grow in this sun-dappled, 66-acre forest, which includes a network of loop trails, many requiring climbing up and down a series of steps. Mahmood Patel, the owner and a Barbados native, desiring to create a sustainable ecosystem, preserve biodiversity, prevent soil erosion and build a food forest, planted numerous specimens that once populated this acreage before the sugar cane plantations dominated the landscape.

On your wanderings, you’ll likely spot date and coconut palms, as well as tamarind and mamey apple trees, to name just a few of the many plants. An observation area along the Agro-Forestry Trail provides stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, while tall tree ferns dating back to the pre-colonial period stand along the Green Therapy Trail. 

Lagadishi Walking Trail, Bonaire

Meandering through the expansive Washington Slagbaai National Park, this wind-swept, 2-plus-mile loop trail takes hikers through an arid, sun-drenched land peppered with prickly pear, Turk’s cap, Peruvian apple and other types of cacti. Though this route is short and flat, it can take up to two hours because of the heat and lengthy sections across uneven sharp coral rocks. (Bring walking poles, water and a hat.) Bird watchers will delight in spotting numerous species, such as yellow-shouldered parrots, bananaquits and common ground doves. Flamboyances of flamingos often gather in a salt lake rimmed by mangroves. An especially stunning section leads to a blowhole of ocean water and a powdery sand beach, backed by tall dunes, where green sea turtles nest from May to October. And, given that the word “lagadishi” translates from Papiamento to “lizard,” don’t be surprised by the array of these reptiles along the trail, including iguanas and the blue-tinged Bonaire whiptail. 

Book your Caribbean vacation with a AAA travel advisor.  

Do you like hiking on vacations? Share your favorite hikes in the comments below.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not financial advice.

As you inch closer to retirement, a pivotal decision awaits those delving into their tax-deferred accounts. Should you take your required minimum distributions (RMDs) monthly or annually?

The frequency of these withdrawals isn’t just a logistical choice – it plays a role in tax implications and the holistic management of your retirement funds.

By now you might be wondering: How do distributions work? Read on to unravel the critical considerations tied to RMDs like the applicable age, recent legal changes and the tax consequences tied to the timing of these distributions. It just might shape the way you navigate your finances in retirement.

What Are RMDs?

The IRS defines RMDs as “the minimum amounts you must withdraw from your retirement accounts each year.”

Calculating RMDs involves dividing your account balance by the IRS estimate of your life expectancy. Failure to withdraw incurs a hefty 50% penalty on the amount due. Your first RMD is generally required by April 1, the year after you reach the starting age, with subsequent RMDs due by Dec. 31 each year.

The RMD rule applies to these types of plans:

• Traditional IRAs
• SEP IRAs
• SIMPLE IRAs
• 401(k) plans
• 403(b) plans
• 457(b) plans
• Profit sharing plans
• Other defined contribution plans
• Roth IRA beneficiaries

What Is the Age for RMDs?

You must withdraw annually from tax-deferred retirement accounts once you hit the starting age for RMD of 72, or 73, if you turned 72 after Dec. 31, 2022, according to the IRS.

Notably, the SECURE 2.0 Act pushed the age for initiating RMDs from 72 to 73. According to this new required minimum distribution law, if you turned 72 in 2023, your initial RMD must be taken by April 1, 2025, applicable for the 2024 year. If you reached 73 in 2023, you were 72 in 2022 and subject to the age 72 RMD rule for that year.

For those inheriting IRA accounts, if the participant passed away after 2019, the entire balance must be distributed within 10 years. There are exceptions for a surviving spouse, a minor child, a disabled or chronically ill individual, or someone not more than 10 years younger than the employee or IRA owner.

Are RMDs Taxable?

Yes, RMDs from a tax-deferred retirement account, like a traditional IRA, typically count as ordinary income in the year you receive them.

The IRS dictates:

“The account owner is taxed at their income tax rate on the amount of the withdrawn RMD. However, to the extent the RMD is a return of basis or is a qualified distribution from a Roth IRA, it is tax free.”

However, if you contributed after-tax funds to the retirement account, a segment of the RMD might be non-taxable. To fully understand the tax implications of your RMD, consult your tax professional.

How Do Distributions Work and When Do You Take Them?

Retirees have the flexibility to receive their RMDs annually, quarterly or monthly. You’re not limited in the number of withdrawals you make throughout the year, as long as the minimum annual requirement is met. However, it’s important to note that any extra withdrawals beyond the minimum don’t carry over to cover future RMDs.

The decision on how frequently to receive RMDs is based on:

• Financial goals
• Budgeting preferences
• Tax planning

This flexibility allows retirees to tailor their distribution strategy to align with their unique financial goals and circumstances.

Taking RMDs Annually: Pros and Cons

Deciding between monthly and annual RMDs is a choice that demands consideration of personal financial goals, tax consequences and prevailing market conditions.

Taking an annual distribution, or one lump sum each year has several benefits, including:

• Immediate resolution of tax obligations.
• More reinvestment opportunities throughout the year.
• Maximizing period of tax-free growth for the remaining retirement account.

However, there are also several drawbacks, including:

• Potentially higher estimated taxes if paying quarterly.
• Potential cash flow disruption if retiree doesn’t effectively budget for expenses.
• Risk of missing the deadline to take the RMD.

Taking RMDs Monthly: Pros and Cons

Taking a series of smaller monthly withdrawals tends to be attractive for several reasons, including:

• Providing a steady and reliable source of income.
• Easily managing tax payments.

However, taking monthly withdrawals is not without trade-offs, including:

• Reduced growth opportunities within the remaining portfolio.
• Potential for miscalculation, especially if done without the help of a professional.

The Bottom Line

As you approach the age for RMDs, staying well-informed becomes paramount for wise decision-making. Whether leaning toward a consistent monthly income or a versatile annual approach, the most important thing is determining a distribution strategy that works with your individual preferences and financial objectives. Taking the time to plan should help ensure a comfortable and secure retirement.

AAA offers a variety of financial services that can help with retirement, including loans, reverse mortgages and more.

Travelers who sail around the world in search of fascinating destinations often forget that the U.S. and Canada offer their own thrilling must-sees closer to home. One region bursting with such treasures is the Great Lakes.

On our recent eight-day Niagara & the Great Lakes Viking expedition cruise, my husband and I were captivated by the breathtaking natural beauty of the charming cities and villages nestled between Milwaukee and Toronto as we plied the waters of Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Lake Erie and Lake Ontario.

Book a Viking expedition cruise with AAA.

New Viking Expedition Ships

Viking Polaris and sister ship Viking Octantis were built in 2022, each designed to cruise through icy waters.

Viking is well-known for its river and ocean cruises – and many guests on our cruise were repeat passengers of both – but these two 665-foot-long ships were built specifically for expedition cruises. They sail the Great Lakes from spring to early fall, offering multiple itinerary choices. Other destinations include Antarctica and the Arctic.

The 378-guest Viking Polaris boasts a crew of 256 who provide superior service. You’ll find no crowds or lines anywhere you go on board or while getting on and off the ship.

The numerous public areas offer an abundance of indoor and outdoor viewing opportunities to take in all the sights while sailing. One such space is the Living Room, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, intimate seating areas and a library. Here, guests can enjoy playing cards and puzzles, as well as video game tables. This is also where you can find group trivia, performances from the ship’s classic string and piano duo and a weekly dance party. Another popular spot is the Explorers’ Lounge at the front of the ship, where you can listen to listen to live music from the ship’s talented duo most nights.

When it is time to truly relax, head to the Nordic Spa. A host of treatments from massages to facials and salon services can be purchased, and entrance into the space is complimentary with or without treatments. It features an indoor heated pool (with windows, once again, out to the world beyond the ship), Nordic badestamp (wood-sided hot tub) set against a large window, snow grotto, cold bucket shower, sauna and steam room. In addition, the ship has three small outdoor pools set at different temperatures – including one that has an inside/outside pass-through – surrounded by indoor and outdoor deck lounge areas.

Spacious staterooms are designed for relaxation and taking in the Great Lakes scenery. All feature a Nordic Balcony, a floor-to-ceiling window that can be lowered with the touch of a button for an alfresco view. Stateroom amenities include binoculars for in-room use or to take with you on excursions, king-size beds (that can be converted to twin-size if requested), free Wi-Fi, 55-inch televisions, mini bars and comfortably sized bathrooms.

Dining Choices

Viking excels in culinary offerings, with wine included for lunch and dinner. The casual World Cafe buffet is open for all three meals and all-day snacks, featuring an expansive choice of international cuisines and an especially popular seafood and sushi station. At the Grill, you can request cook-to-order meat cuts, and there’s a nightly surf-and-turf option. Next door, Mamsen’s treats guests to Norwegian specialties.

Two other specialty restaurants are open nightly for dinner and require reservations. Manfredi’s offers Italian cuisine, including an impressive chicken parmigiana (don’t miss the tiramisu for dessert either.) The Restaurant’s fine dining atmosphere features regional cuisine. Room service is also available 24/7.

Excursions

A range of excursions in each port include at least one complimentary choice and usually free shuttle service for those who prefer to explore on their own. A favorite on the itinerary for us was Michigan’s car-free Mackinac Island with its Victorian-era feel, from the horse and carriage rides to its colorful assortment of homes. Another can’t-miss is the Grand Hotel, a National Historic Landmark that dates to 1887 and boasts one of the longest porches in the world – not to mention a famous buffet lunch.

We also visited the wonder that is Niagara Falls on the Canadian side. While at Point Pelee National Park in Ontario, we were able to try out the ship’s expedition toys, including its inflatable and special operations boats, skimming along the shoreline in search of birds and wildlife. Not an excursion, but a highlight of the cruise was the ship navigating through the Welland Canal in Ontario, which circumvents the powerful falls of the Niagara River.

Onboard Enrichment

There are many opportunities to discover more about the region through the unique perspective and expert knowledge of the ship’s own expedition team at Expedition Central.

At The Science Lab, developed in partnership with the University of Cambridge and Akvaplan-niva aquatic research and development institute, guests can learn and participate in research. A weather balloon launch took place during our voyage and guests were invited to watch the event and the incoming live data.

Lectures and films in the ship’s theater also brought the region of the lovely Great Lakes to life as Viking Polaris sailed along its mighty waters.  

Plan your next adventure with a trusted AAA travel advisor. Call 866-423-5585 to speak with an advisor today!

Have you ever been on an expedition cruise? Tell us about it in the comments.

Featured image: The Viking Octanis cruises through the Welland Canal in Ontario. (Courtesy of Viking)

The results of a recent AAA Northeast survey about electric vehicles shows many consumers throughout the region can’t shake their EV anxiety. Concerns about charging infrastructure, range and expense continue to fuel reluctance to commit to all-electric vehicles, and almost one-quarter of respondents wouldn’t be comfortable driving them.

To Go Electric, or Not to Go Electric?

It comes as no surprise that EVs can be a bit polarizing. Consumers reported either wanting an EV in the next decade or not at all.

More than half of survey respondents said they never plan to buy a fully electric vehicle, while 37% either already own one or predict they’ll buy one by 2035.

EV Anxiety

For consumers with no desire to make the switch from gas, it is often EV anxiety that keeps them from being swayed.

Fear of Driving an EV

Perhaps the most surprising revelation from the survey, which drew more than 1,700 responses, is that 24% of non-EV owners would not feel confident at all in their ability to operate an EV on the fly, and only 8% were slightly confident in the same situation. However, people who know EV owners were generally more confident (48% completely confident) than people who don’t (28%).

“It’s understandable that people might not feel comfortable hopping in an electric car and taking it for a spin if their whole driving career has been in gas-powered vehicles,” said Alec Slatky, managing director of public and government affairs for AAA Northeast. “It’s worth seeing if you can take a test drive at a dealership or at an EV community event to get a taste of what it would be like to have one.”

A Different Feel

Operational differences between EVs and gas-powered cars can account for some hesitation around EV driving.

EVs are equipped with a technology known as regenerative braking, a system that uses the kinetic energy of the car to recharge the battery and helps slow down the vehicle.

“This can take some getting used to as the vehicle doesn’t coast, but rather slows down when you take your foot off the accelerator,” said Brian Butterworth, senior manager for driver training for AAA Northeast. “Many EVs also offer one-pedal driving, going so far as to bring the vehicle to a complete stop – and hold it – without ever hitting the brake.”

Another big difference is acceleration. EV motors provide torque instantly, making acceleration feel quick at low speeds.

For those who are nervous about adjusting to these features, Butterworth suggested taking time to evaluate an EV and seek guidance. “Don’t approach an EV with the ‘get in and drive mentality,’” he said, encouraging potential EV owners to familiarize themselves with a car beforehand by watching manufacturer videos.

“Once you do start driving, start off slow – either in a parking lot or on side roads,” Butterworth said. “As you get more comfortable, try different settings to see how they impact the driving experience. EVs often have different drive modes, and you can often adjust the level of regenerative braking. Find the settings that work for you and in different scenarios.”

Public Charging: Locations, Charging Times and Safety

Survey respondents cited several of the same concerns that the public continues to express about EVs, including the lack of charging infrastructure and the amount of time needed to charge.

The majority of survey respondents who currently own an EV say that it takes at least 30 minutes for a car to charge at a public charging station. But consumers don’t want public charging to take more than filling up at the gas station. Even among those who expect to buy an EV in the future, nearly two thirds would prefer to spend the same amount of time charging as pumping gas or are willing to wait just 10 minutes longer.

While most respondents said they would prefer to charge at home, safety and convenience were among the priorities for public charging stations. Hotels and highway rest stops were cited as desirable charging locations. At the same time, people are reluctant to stop at charging stations that are not well lit or don’t feel safe.

“Public charging needs to approximate the convenience of gas stations if electric vehicle boosters want to convince interested consumers to take the plunge – to say nothing of the passionate holdouts,” said Slatky. “Though EV owners tend to do most of their charging at home if they can, buyers want to feel assured that their car can manage road trips just as easily as daily routines.”

The EV Push is On, But Will People Respond?

President Joe Biden signed an executive order in December 2021 for the U.S. government to end the purchases of gas-powered vehicles by 2035, signaling the government’s eagerness to expand EV use, although the public still has not completely embraced the shift. 

But the push continues. Nine states are expected to prohibit the sales of new gasoline cars by 2035. People still will be allowed to purchase used gasoline-powered cars or buy new ones in other states.

“Auto manufacturers hoping to boost EV sales over the next decade have reason for optimism,” noted Slatky. “But industry stakeholders seeking a complete long-term transition to electric face serious obstacles – especially from consumers who have no desire to make the switch.”

Do you have EV anxiety? Tell us in the comments.

Nearly all adults and parents say they consider oral health to be imperative to overall health and consider dental visits a priority. However, cost is a key factor in keeping people from going to the dentist and getting the proper care they need.

If you do not have dental insurance, signing up for an independent plan may sound like just another monthly bill. But securing dental coverage can actually save you money in the long run.

Dental problems can happen at any time, and without regular checkups and maintenance, they are even more likely. Furthermore, if left untreated, small issues could snowball into problems that can quickly become painful – and painfully expensive – to treat.

Fortunately, access to affordable dental insurance is easier than ever for AAA members in Rhode Island. Whether you are self-employed, retired or do not have dental insurance provided through your employer, there are options to keep your smile fresh, clean and healthy.

Here are some of the top reasons you should consider getting dental coverage.

A Shining Smile

Even folks who brush and floss daily can develop stains, tartar and cavities.

One of the main benefits of dental insurance is access to regular teeth cleanings, a deep clean that typically includes removing plaque and tarter, fluoride treatment and an assessment for gingivitis, cavities and other oral health concerns.

Whiter teeth, a healthier mouth and fresher breath are definitely reasons worth smiling about!

Affordable Dental Care

Most dental insurance plans, like the Delta Dental of Rhode Island plans offered through AAA Northeast in Rhode Island, include 100% coverage for annual cleanings, exams and X-rays, so you don’t have to pay for these critical procedures.

Having dental insurance can also curb your out-of-pocket expense for fillings, crowns, root canals and more. Those without dental insurance often have to pay the total cost of these common procedures.

It Could Prevent Costly Procedures

Because preventive care is covered, people with dental insurance are more likely to schedule appointments as regularly as they are needed. This not only helps to stop problems from arising in the first place but could ward off costly future complications.

For instance, if your dentist notices a new cavity developing during your routine check-up and X-ray, you can simply schedule a filling. If the cavity goes unnoticed for long, it could create deeper tooth decay, creating a need for more expensive treatments such as a root canal.

A Healthy Mouth = A Healthy Life 

Your oral health is a window to your overall wellness. Health conditions like heart disease and diabetes, have proven links to oral care.

Think about it: Your gums and oral tissue include a rich network of blood vessels. These blood vessels are closer to the surface than the blood vessels in your skin (hence the pink color of your gums). Too much bad bacteria in your mouth could enter your bloodstream through unhealthy gums, leading to health issues in other parts of the body.

Your dentist will also screen for oral cancers.

Regular dental visits are important, not only for maintaining a healthy mouth, but for preventing harmful diseases. It could save your life.

Insurance Makes Life Easier 

Many dental insurers offer time-saving tools to help you find a local, in-network dentist, estimate the cost of specific dental procedures and even pay your dental bills quickly through online portals or apps.

Provides Continued Care With Age

Dental coverage is particularly beneficial for aging seniors, as the risk of dry mouth, gum infection and certain types of cavities can increase with age, according to the American Dental Association.

Seniors that invest in their own dental insurance plan throughout retirement can stay on the right track with accessibility and coverage for routine dental care and procedures.

Peace of Mind  

People with dental plans appreciate the peace of mind they provide, including regular teeth cleanings and preventive oral screenings. However, unexpected costly dental procedures can still arise.

A tooth infection can rear its head despite your best hygiene efforts. And if you or a family member has ever had an unfortunate accident that resulted in chipped or broken teeth, the last thing you want to do is worry about whether you can cover the costs of cosmetic repairs.

The benefits of having dental insurance are clear. Don’t neglect your smile. With such affordable, accessible dental insurance options available, it’s a worthwhile investment.

Learn about the perks of enrolling with Delta Dental of Rhode Island, available to AAA members in Rhode Island. 

While the Federal Reserve has not changed the interest rate since August 2023, setting it at 5.5%, it did raise rates 69% between October 2022 and October 2023, representing increases of 2.35% to 5.5%.

What does this mean for the everyday consumer? It’s getting more expensive to borrow money. While the effect of an interest rate hike on a small loan may be negligible, it can add thousands of dollars to auto loans, student loans and mortgages. Therefore, it’s never been more important to comparison shop when looking to borrow.

What Is the Purpose of Comparison Shopping?

Comparison shopping is the only way to familiarize yourself with the best available interest rates, know the selling prices of similar homes and cars and ensure you pay as little as possible on your big expenditure. Let’s look at the specific benefits and importance of comparison shopping for mortgages, auto and student loans.

Mortgages

Research shows that consumers can save an average of $600 annually on their mortgage by getting just a single additional quote. Those who receive four rate quotes could save more than $1,200 annually.

Comparison shopping for a mortgage is made easier by working with a mortgage broker, who can provide more specialization, savings and products than a retail lender. A good mortgage broker will bring valuable information to the table, such as which lenders loan money in certain areas, which ones offer a specific type of mortgage and which welcome or avoid certain types of homes such as co-ops, condos or multi-family homes.

Brokers work off of a wholesale price sheet, which offers consumers large credits for positive attributes of their loan. For example, someone with excellent credit and a larger-than-normal down payment could be eligible for thousands of dollars of savings using wholesale pricing. These incentives are often considered extra profit for a retail lender but when using a broker they can be passed on to the borrower to offset closing costs.

Mortgage brokers often negotiate better terms and pricing with lenders throughout the process because they bring multiple loans to the lender’s doorstep each month. The lender does not need to expend resources on the loan origination, so these savings can be passed on to the borrower.

Working with a mortgage broker also makes for a more seamless process. Brokers collect detailed credit profiles of their clients and match that profile to a list of multiple lenders. This gives the borrower the advantage of negotiating better terms throughout the mortgage process without starting over.

If someone applied to a retail lender and there was a problem with qualifying for a particular loan, the borrower may have to start the entire process over with a different lender. In the case of a broker, all the borrower’s information is maintained in a single credit file and can be easily transferred to a new lender to save time and money.

Get expert mortgage help with AAA.

Auto Loans

Buying a car and getting financing should always be thought of as two separate transactions.

Shopping for financing ahead of time ensures you are getting the best rate and terms. If you can arm yourself with a loan before you head to the lot, you will be in a much better negotiating position – and save yourself a lot of money in the long run. You can usually apply for a bank loan even if you don’t have a specific car picked out yet. The knowledge of available auto loan rates will significantly increase your negotiating leverage when it comes time to buy your new car.

Comparison shopping for auto financing also provides the opportunity to get preapproved by a lender. Knowing how much you’re preapproved for can help avoid spending more than you planned and wasting time shopping for cars out of your budget. Some automakers’ finance companies also allow you to apply for preapproval – but you’ll be limited to buying one of the car maker’s vehicles. This isn’t the most effective strategy if you have your eye on vehicles from different brands. 

Maybe most crucially when it comes to the car-buying market, starting your financing homework early will put you in a position to act fast. The market is very competitive. When you find the car (and price) that’s right for you, you need to be prepared to strike.

Learn about AAA’s auto loan products.

Student Loans

When it comes to financing your higher education, you should always start by searching for scholarships and grants. These are ideal because it’s money you won’t have to pay back. Next, apply for federal loans, which have flat interest rates.

If more financing is needed after these steps are completed, you can begin researching private loans. The importance of comparison shopping can’t be stressed enough. It’s a simple step that will help you find the best loan for your situation. There are several factors to consider, including repayment schedule, the number of years to repay and co-signer requirements.

It’s never too early to begin the process. With interest rates rising, applying for a private loan just a month or two earlier could save you thousands of dollars over the long haul.

Find out about AAA’s student lending options.

And as always, AAA is here to help you save and answer all of your questions. Visit AAA.com to learn more about low-rate auto, home and student loans offerings.