Puerto Rico is the the perfect destination to get back in touch with nature – and yourself. Besides soaking up the sun on the island’s beautiful beaches and dipping in the tranquil Caribbean Sea, Puerto Rico offers a wealth of wellness opportunities to clear your mind, restore your body and reenergize your spirit.
Spas
Decadence and natural beauty are what set Puerto Rico’s spas apart. The Well & Being Spa at Fairmont El San Juan Hotel offers personalized wellness and nutrition programs and the Copamarina’s Ni Spa’s atmosphere reflects the Caribbean Sea’s tranquility and indigenous Taíno culture. An 80-minute massage on the spa’s floating gazebo is bliss.
While you can easily relax on one of its idyllic beaches, Puerto Rico also boasts a multitude of wellness experiences, with resorts offering yoga flows, fitness classes, morning meditations, massage treatments inspired by ancient healing rituals, rooftop workouts, nature tours and more.
What could be more invigorating than yoga in the great outdoors? Whether it’s on a beach, floating on a paddleboard or surrounded by a tropical forest, Puerto Rico has plenty of opportunities for that, not to mention modern gyms.
Vegans and organic food afficionados will have no trouble finding mouth-watering meals. The farm-to-table movement has taken hold in Puerto Rico, and numerous restaurants and bars feature local fruits and vegetables and meatless versions of popular native dishes. For those who abstain from alcohol, mocktails are plentiful, offering tasty sips minus the alcohol.
Explore organic and healthful food and drink options.
Outdoor Experiences
For some people, just spending time in nature is a prescription for wellness. Visit El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S., where you can dive into clear pools, admire the native greenery or go hiking.
There are a lot of misconceptions about oral health that can wind up hurting your teeth – and your wallet.
But one thing is for sure: Routine checkups are essential for your oral and overall health. You can get the care you need without having to worry about expense with Altus Dental through AAA Northeast, an affordable, accessible way to get dental coverage in Massachusetts.
Here are eight common dental myths and the truths behind them, so you can maintain your great smile and live a healthier life.
Myth 1: The harder you brush, the better.
When your teeth feel dirty, it can be tempting to put some elbow grease into it and brush harder. Or when you’re shopping for a toothbrush, you might think that harder bristles will clean better than soft ones. But more pressure doesn’t always mean a better clean.
If you brush your teeth too hard, it can actually cause some negative effects, like eroding tooth enamel and making your teeth more sensitive. It can also cause other issues, like receding gum lines, which can increase the risk of tooth loss.
Want to make sure your teeth are clean without over-brushing? Choose a toothbrush with soft bristles, apply less pressure and brush for two minutes, twice a day. You may also want to try brushing with your less dominant hand to lighten up on the pressure.
Myth 2: You don’t really need to floss every day.
You probably learned to floss every day when you were a child, but did you stick with it? Despite their dentists’ recommendations, some people have a hard time establishing a regular flossing routine or may neglect flossing altogether.
Flossing is important for your overall oral health, delivering results your twice daily brushing regimen can’t do on its own. Flossing works hand in hand with brushing to help remove food and plaque from the hard-to-reach areas between your teeth, which can lead to cavities, gum disease, bad breath and more.
If you struggle with flossing or find it uncomfortable, floss picks or dental tape floss (flatter and smoother than traditional floss) may help. The more you floss, the easier it becomes. So, don’t toss your floss – your mouth needs it.
Myth 3: The whiter your teeth, the healthier they are.
There’s an entire industry dedicated to teeth whitening products and treatments, but whiter teeth don’t necessarily mean healthier teeth. Overuse of most teeth whitening products may weaken your tooth enamel and could make your teeth and gums more sensitive. If you still want to whiten your teeth, you absolutely can. Just remember to use these products sparingly and talk to your dentist before trying them.
Myth 4: You only need to see the dentist if something hurts.
Ouch! Don’t wait until your teeth are sensitive or in pain to see your dentist. Dentists don’t just repair your teeth – they help keep them in fighting (and biting) shape! Your dentist will also be able to see if you have any oral health issues that you might not be able to see or feel yet. Regular dentist visits and teeth cleanings are an important part of your oral – and overall – health.
Most dentists recommend visiting for a routine exam and cleaning every six months, but you should talk to your dentist and see which schedule is right for you.
Myth 5: You can’t afford to see the dentist.
If you don’t have dental insurance through your employer, going to the dentist can seem like a big expense. But there’s another way to get insured and get yourself in that dentist’s chair – individual dental insurance.
AAA Northeast has partnered with Altus Dental for exclusive access to affordable dental insurance for AAA members in Massachusetts. Insurance usually covers the cost of preventive care like cleanings, exams and X-rays. Plus, if you ever need one of the more expensive procedures like root canals, crowns and dental implants, you’ll pay much less out-of-pocket than you would without insurance. The savings can add up quickly.
Here’s a checklist to help you choose the right dental insurance company:
Is the company a leader in their industry? Do their members give them positive reviews?
Do they have a large network with the right dentist for you? Are they convenient for you? Do they offer a Find a Dentist tool to make it easy to choose a provider?
Do they have the types of plans and coverage that is best for your needs?
How is their customer service? Chat with a company representative and see what kind of experience you have.
Do they offer self-service or digital tools to make insurance easy for you, like an online cost estimator and a mobile app for subscribers?
Don’t delay in getting dental insurance and seeing your dentist. Routine dentist visits can help keep your oral health in shape and prevent costly difficulties down the road. And if you do wind up having an unexpected dental issue, it helps to already be insured.
Myth 6: Babies don’t need to go to the dentist.
Children will eventually lose their baby teeth, but they still have to brush. Learning good dental hygiene at an early age will build good habits that a child will have their whole life. But it’s also important from a health standpoint. Baby teeth hold space for later adult teeth to come in, and they are important for chewing and speaking. Plus, early childhood tooth decay, which affects children up to four years old, can be extremely painful for a child.
If you have a child who’s too young to brush on their own, you can use a clean washcloth or soft toothbrush to clean their teeth at least once a day. Children should start seeing a dentist when their first tooth appears, or when they reach 12 months of age. Fortunately, Altus Dental offers AAA members in Massachusetts great discounts for family dental insurance plans.
Myth 7: Tooth decay is unavoidable with age.
Are you destined for dentures? Maybe not. It’s true that when you’re older, your teeth have been through a lot. Your mouth will change as you age, and certain prescription medications can give you conditions such as dry mouth, but tooth decay and tooth loss are not inevitable. As long as you maintain your healthy habits, your teeth can last long and stay strong.
Myth 8: Your oral health doesn’t impact the rest of your body.
Your teeth and gums are a part of your body, and taking care of your oral health is an important part of taking care of your overall health. Medical conditions that have been linked to oral health include diabetes, heart disease, stroke and premature birth.
Good oral hygiene, like brushing, flossing and regular dentist visits, can help maintain the appropriate level of bacteria in your mouth and your digestive system as a whole. Your mouth is the gateway to your digestive system, and high levels of bacteria and germs can make you sick.
The best way to maintain your oral health is to regularly see a dentist. With Altus Dental, AAA members in Massachusetts can get quality dental care and coverage at exclusive AAA member rates. Check your rate today.
It’s never too early to start planning your next road trip. With so many options, though, how can you decide? Perhaps you should look to the stars. People consult their horoscopes when making all kinds of choices, so why not travel?
Different sun signs have different wants and needs when it comes to traveling. Check your horoscope for 2024 road trip recommendations, and the best car rentals to get you there.
Aries: March 21–April 20
Your destination: Let’s start our travel horoscope with the sign that considers themselves first in the bunch. This fire sign is courageous, energetic and somewhat impulsive at times. Aries will need an adventure to feel like they’re really having a good vacation. An environment like a national park will fulfill their adventurous spirit. For hikes with stunning views and camping out under the stars, consider Acadia National Park in Maine.
Your vehicle: A spirited sign like Aries needs a vehicle that makes driving fun, so a Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco are just the ticket.
Taurus: April 21 –May 20
Your destination: Taurus, the bull, is patient, warm-hearted and stubborn. This earth sign is grounded, but they also feel the need to relax every now and then. Try venturing up towards the mountains to a secluded spa destination, where a Taurus can let down their stubborn guard and take a soothing mud bath. Glamping in the Catskills, anyone?
Your vehicle: Tauruses are type A planners, which means they know just what to bring on a trip and don’t need lots of room for the unnecessary. That’s why a compact electric vehicle like the Hyundai Ioniq is ideal for them.
Gemini: May 21 – June 20
Your destination: Gemini is adaptable, lively and extremely versatile. There are two sides to every Gemini: social and intellectual. Geminis will be happiest in a bustling city where they can take part in night life – but also enjoy the local culture. They want to try new cuisines at restaurants, go to the theater and experience all that the local museums have to offer. Try a city like New York or Chicago.
Your vehicle: Geminis are known for their twin personalities, so why not drive a car that has the same vibe? A hybrid vehicle like a Toyota Prius has the best of both worlds, just like a Gemini.
Your destination: Cancer, the crab, is emotional, intuitive, protective and has a vast imagination. Cancer is called to the sea – time for a beach vacation! This imaginative, yet cautious water sign would love a small New England town with a beautiful shoreline (and lots of crabs).
Your vehicle: The environment is important to Cancers, so something fuel-efficient like a Ford Focus would be a great fit.
Leo: July 23 – Aug. 22
Your destination: Leo is generous, enthusiastic and creative. This lion sign wants to be pampered, to feel like a king for a little while. Their enthusiastic and open-minded energy will thrive in a fun-loving city like Las Vegas where they can take a load off on the flight there, but rent a car and explore on their own once in the city.
Your vehicle: An electric vehicle may seem like an unexpected choice for a Leo, but with their low emissions and cutting edge technology, it’s a car Leos will surprise themselves by actually enjoying. Go ahead, go for the Tesla.
Virgo: Aug. 23 – Sept. 22
Your destination: Virgo is meticulous, reliable, diligent and practical, making their travel horoscope a bit of a puzzle. Virgo is a hard worker, so how can they take a vacation? When traveling, Virgo still wants to be busy. Go to a bustling city with a lot of sights to see, like Seattle or Los Angeles. A Virgo will make it their job to soak up as many experiences as possible.
Your vehicle: In order to make sure they see everything the destination has to offer, a reliable sedan like a Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla will make sure they don’t miss a thing.
Libra: Sept. 23 – Oct. 22
Your destination: Libra is a diplomat and a peacekeeper. They like cities where people are easygoing, and the everyday hustle and bustle is running smoothly. They are also ruled by Venus, making them hopeless romantics. Try a city known for its romantic beauty, like Quebec.
Your vehicle: A little sporty and a little showy, a Libra will want an electric SUV, like the BMW iX, for their road trip.
Scorpio: Oct. 23 – Nov. 22
Your destination: Scorpio is determined, passionate, emotional, excitable, magnetic and intuitive. Scorpio’s passionate nature is perfect for a trip to a beach paradise like Naples, Fla. In the daytime, this sign can pursue adventurous, exciting activities like diving, waterskiing and parasailing. At night, their magnetic personality will be the life of the party.
Your vehicle: A luxury sedan like Mercedes or BMW is a dream for the bold and confident Scorpio.
Sagittarius: Nov. 23 – Dec. 21
Your destination: Sagittarius, the archer, wants to launch themselves into new experiences. Our travel horoscope realizes that this sign needs nonstop adventure to quench their restless nature. A road trip to the Great Smoky Mountains or Orcas Island, Washington, can satisfy their love of freedom and their pursuit of the unknown.
Your vehicle: Such an adventurer will need a vehicle like the Toyota 4Runner that can handle varied terrain and is plenty spacious.
Capricorn: Dec. 22 – Jan. 19
Your destination: Capricorn is good-humored, disciplined, ambitious and careful. The Capricorn, represented by a mythological sea goat, usually has pretty strong knees – perfect for climbing and hiking. A long hiking journey in New Hampshire’s White Mountain National Forest will satisfy this disciplined, ambitious and patient sign.
Your vehicle: Capricorns are plenty stylish, too. They’d do well to travel in a high-end vehicle like Mercedes or Volvo.
Aquarius: Jan. 20 – Feb. 19
Your destination: Aquarius is friendly, loyal and independent. Aquarians are the most humanitarian signs, and they will enjoy following in the footsteps of the progressive thinkers that came before them. Try the Civil Rights Trail to explore the past, present and future of social justice.
Your vehicle: A hybrid will suit the social and environmentally-conscious Aquarius as they travel to and from their destination.
Pisces: Feb. 20 – March 20
Your destination: Pisces is imaginative, escapist, compassionate and intuitive. A place like Watch Hill, Rhode Island, can fulfill this water sign’s desires, while one of these artsy destinations will fuel their creative side.
Your vehicle: Artists at heart, Pisces will want a car that gets them from A to B but still has some flair. Picture something like a Mazda Miata or Audi sedan.
It’s well known that having dental insurance is important for oral health, but making informed decisions about your coverage can be tricky at the outset. Understanding the nuances of your dental plan and choosing an in-network dentist are key to maximizing your coverage.
Fortunately for AAA Northeast members living in Rhode Island, Delta Dental makes it easier than ever to find an affordable coverage plan that offers a range of benefits and is widely accepted by dentists throughout the state.
Take Stock of Your Needs
Healthcare needs differ considerably from person to person, so it’s important to find a plan that works best for you and your family. For example, a single adult with excellent oral health would need different coverage compared to a family where one or all the children need braces. Understanding these distinct needs is necessary, as you wouldn’t want to be stuck paying for coverage that you’ll never use, or vice versa.
Creating a thorough list of past, current and anticipated dental needs and expenses is a helpful process for evaluating and estimating overall costs when considering insurance policies.
Depending on your location, you’ll have the choice of either PPO (Preferred Provider Organizations), DHMO (Dental Health Maintenance Organization), a discount plan or Managed Fee-for-Service Plan. PPO plans, like Delta Dental’s plan for AAA members living in Rhode Island, offer reduced fees through in-network dentists. DHMO focuses on prevention with lower costs, smaller networks and potential savings. Discount plans provide direct fee payment, and a Managed Fee-for-Service Plan offers larger networks and uses coinsurance for coverage.
In-Network vs. Out-of-Network
Most insurance plans offer two cost structures – in-network and out-of-network. While still excellent care providers, out-of-network dentists often have higher costs due to the absence of pre-negotiated fees, which leads to increased out-of-pocket expenses for patients.
In addition to lower costs, in-network dentists simplify the administrative processes related to insurance claims. Since they are part of the insurance network, paperwork and claims become streamlined, making it more convenient for patients to navigate their insurance benefits.
Delta Dental has the largest network of dentists nationwide, so it’s easy to find and receive coverage from a dentist near you.
Getting the Most Out of Your Plan
Once you’ve picked the dental plan that’s right for you, there are still many ways to make sure you’re using all the resources available to get the most value.
Maintain a Thorough Understanding of Your Plan
It’s important to comprehensively understand the ins and outs of your dental insurance plan, which includes staying up to date on all changes, reviewing (and perhaps reevaluating) your benefits on a yearly basis and utilizing online directories or apps that make finding information and scheduling a whole lot easier.
If you have any questions or need more information on your plan and benefits, you can always reach out to your dental plan’s customer service professionals. With a 92% customer satisfaction rate, Delta Dental of Rhode Island provides service you can rely on.
Get Recommendations and Verify Services
Gather recommendations from friends, family or online reviews to find an in-network dentist. Before scheduling an appointment, verify the services covered by your insurance plan to avoid unexpected costs and ensure the best coverage.
Don’t Forget That Annual Check-Up!
Take advantage of your insurance benefits by scheduling regular check-ups and preventive care services with your in-network dentist. Many insurance plans prioritize preventive care, often covering these services with minimal or no out-of-pocket expenses.
In navigating the landscape of dental insurance, informed decisions are fundamental. Understanding your insurance plan, selecting an in-network dentist and prioritizing preventive care are important steps to optimize your benefits.
Leveraging the advantages of in-network care also helps to maximize your coverage by reducing out-of-pocket expenses and ensuring smoother administrative procedures. This strategic approach not only saves money but also fosters a more efficient and convenient dental care experience where individuals and families alike can guarantee complete oral health care without undue financial worries.
Have you been bitten by the cleaning and organizing bug? As you dig through closets and clear out the basement, you could make extra money from your unwanted treasures.
If you know how to do it right, creating your own little business selling old items can be a pretty lucrative side hustle.
Apps like Poshmark, eBay and Mercari make it easy to sell your stuff right from your phone. Here’s what you can expect from each app.
This social-first and mobile-only app allows you to sell clothing, accessories and home goods. Users each have their own closet where they can share items and other users can like, share and comment on items. When someone likes your items, you can offer them a special price and shipping discount.
Closet items are ranked by “just shared” and users can join Poshmark Parties, which happen several times a day. Parties allow you to share based on brand, style or theme and are limited to the party restrictions. You can also reach the highly coveted Posh Ambassador status by making 15 sales, recruiting new poshers and getting high reviews.
When someone buys an item, they pay for shipping and as a user, you receive USPS Priority shipping to ship your item, flat rate. To appease your buyer, make sure to ship out in a day or two and you’ll get your money via check or direct deposit only when the buyer accepts it. The buyer also has the option to rate your item (five stars is best!) based on quality, description of the item and shipping speed.
Pros:
User-friendly.
Flat-rate shipping.
Ability for users to make and accept best offers.
No return policy (unless there’s an issue).
Cons:
You have to share to get your closet noticed.
You get paid only when the buyer accepts your item.
The nearly $7 flat rate shipping is a lot for smaller items.
eBay has been the reigning king of online resale for over twenty years. You can buy and sell just about anything on eBay, setting your auction starting bid or a Buy it Now option and accept best offers. eBay also lets you set you the shipping speed and price.
Pros:
eBay and has over 25 million active sellers from around the world.
Their protection program helps buyers and sellers if a deal goes wrong.
Once you list your item, you let the buyers come to you!
Cons:
Outside of the 9% final value fee (up to $50) going back to eBay in a monthly invoice, eBay gives the seller a lot of flexibility on the type of store they want to manage from return policy to shipping fees.
This mobile-only app is similar to Poshmark but in addition to clothes, accessories and home goods, you can also sell electronics, toys and more.
Pros:
Mercari only takes 10% of the listing price.
More flexibility on the shipping rate.
More selection means more buyers.
Cons:
The user experience of Mercari looks more yard sale than the boutique-style of Poshmark.
Mercari tends to bring more “bargain hunters” than fashionistas looking to build their closet.
You only get your sales after the buyer has accepted the item.
Selling Tips
How to sell your items faster and get the best bang for your buck.
Take great photos. A picture says a thousand words! Make sure to shoot your stuff in natural light and get all the angles. Include photos of any flaws.
Be transparent in your description. List all flaws, loose threads, measurements and anything else a buyer would be interested in. It’s important to disclose exactly what you’re selling to ensure a happy customer.
Price to sell. Pricing is tough. Consider the quality or condition of your item, comps of similar items and if it’s in high demand. If the app you are using has an “offer” function, consider setting your price a little higher to allow you to accept a lower offer.
Share on social. Share your items with your network and post your listings on your own personal social media sites to help make the sale. You could also repost in Facebook Groups in your hometown.
More Ways to Make Extra Money
Recycle
If you have unwanted metal or even a car that’s no longer in use, call your local scrap metal recycling company and ask them to come and collect it. Some metal is very valuable and in demand. You may be surprised at the amount of money you’ll get.
You can also make extra money from cans, glass bottles, electronic waste and paper. To encourage proper disposal, states offer payouts for various recyclables. Check your state beverage container laws to see how much you can get per container.
And although you won’t get paid for it, if you have an old car battery that you want to get rid of, you can drop it off at your nearest AAA Approved Auto Repair facility and they will make sure it’s recycled in an environmentally friendly way.
Donate or Giveaway
When cleaning out a space, it can be helpful to sort your things into piles of “keep,” “sell,” “donate” and “trash.” Because while there are plenty of ways to sell your stuff and make extra money off it, there are also dozens of worthy organizations that will happily accept gently worn clothing, furniture and home goods.
Check with local thrift stores like Goodwill and Savers, domestic violence shelters, homeless shelters and churches to see what they need most. Most could never have enough of items like bottled water, toilet paper and new socks and underwear.
If you’ve amassed a stockpile of pet supplies, animal shelters and rescue groups will happily take extra pet food, treats, leashes, toys, towels, cleaning supplies and bedding.
Groups like Amenity Aid accept personal hygiene products and essential toiletries to distribute to nonprofit organizations like shelters, community centers and domestic advocacy groups.
Most Big Brother Big Sister groups will come and collect your donations from your home. Schedule a pickup.
Search for “Buy Nothing” groups on Facebook where you can post your items for free and give to a neighbor in need.
So, what are you going to do with the extra cash? You can use it for a trip, deposit it safely into a savings account, go shopping – whatever you want!
Tell us how you make extra money from selling old items in the comments.
There’s nothing like curling up next to a warm, crackling fire in the middle of winter. Ambiance aside, supplementing your home’s heating with a fireplace or space heater can help you save money on electricity, gas or oil – depending on how you heat your home. As you enjoy the warmth and coziness of these common types of heat sources, stay aware and prevent potential dangers with these space heater and fireplace safety tips.
The Facts
Winter can be an especially risky time when it comes to fire hazards.
Home fires occur more between December and February than in any other season, largely due to home heating equipment like space heaters and fireplaces.
Between 2016-2020, fire departments responded to an estimated average of 44,210 fires involving heating equipment – about 13% of all reported fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association.
Space Heater Safety
While space heaters are a convenient solution for keeping warm, you want to take all necessary precautions when using them.
Space heaters are responsible for the most losses caused by home heating equipment, accounting for one-third of fires, nine out of ten deaths and four out of five injuries, the NFPA reports. Chimneys and fireplaces tend to cause larger fires but are far less common.
Never use a space heater if the cord is broken, cracked, frayed or otherwise damaged. And always plug your device directly into a wall outlet. Don’t use an extension cord or power strip or plug anything else into the same outlet while you’re using a space heater. These all pose fire hazards, according to the Electrical Safety Foundation International.
Also, make sure you place your space heater on a flat surface and in a safe location.
“Heaters must be kept at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn, including papers, clothing and rugs,” according to the ESFI. “Locate space heaters out of high traffic areas and doorways where they may pose a tripping hazard.”
Never leave a space heater unattended and always unplug the machine when it’s not in use.
Fireplace Safety
You should have your chimney and vents inspected by a professional at least once a year, preferably before winter, according to the Chimney Safety Institute of America.
Before starting a fire in your fireplace, especially the first one of the season, take a peek up the chimney to check for any blockages like debris from trees or animal nests. Check that the damper or flue is open, and clean out any ashes from previous fires. You may also want keep a window cracked for even more ventilation.
Use dry wood to make your fire. Wood that’s damp or too green will smoke more when burning. Keep the area around your fireplace clear of anything flammable, and consider investing in a safety screen or gate, especially if you have pets or young children.
Finally, never leave a fire unattended and double-check that it’s completely snuffed out when you’re done.
More Heating Risks in Winter
Not only does colder weather make people look for more ways to stay warm, the winter season also brings extreme weather conditions. Winter storms with strong winds and heavy snowfall can lead to power outages, which can force homeowners to rely on generators or candles for warmth and light. While the open flame of a candle is a more obvious fire hazard, generators pose risks as well.
“Shocks and electrocution from improper use of power or accidentally energizing other electrical systems, carbon monoxide from a generator’s exhaust [and] fires from improperly refueling a generator or inappropriately storing the fuel for a generator” are all hazards posed by generator use, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
Make sure you have all the right safety detectors, including smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, installed and working properly throughout your home, and keep a fire extinguisher near any potential fire hazards.
Insurance Considerations
Damage caused by fire and smoke is generally covered by a standard homeowners insurance policy, but having a fireplace in your home could be considered an extra risk by your insurer. Depending on the size and type of fireplace (wood-burning, gas, electric), it may be factored into your premium. If you plan on installing a fireplace, it is also a good idea to reach out to your agent to see if any changes to your policy are needed.
Proper cleaning and structural maintenance of your fireplace are key to reducing your risk.
Space heaters do not require special coverage or disclosure, unless they’re being used as primary heating sources (i.e., there’s no central heat).
When it comes to a home fire loss, depending on the severity, a coverage called “additional living expenses” on your homeowners policy may come into play depending on the severity of the claim. This is normally included on a policy but it never hurts to confirm with your agent. Essentially, this coverage pays for additional expenses incurred by the insured if they are the result of fire loss. For instance, if your residence is rendered uninhabitable for a period of time and you have to live in a hotel until your home is restored. It may also cover meals, additional mileage and laundry expenses.
Do you have a fireplace or use space heaters to warm your home in winter? Tell us in the comments.
While you’re getting into the holiday spirit with this crossword, head over to the Your AAA 2023 Holiday Movie Showdown and vote for your favorite festive flick.
Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your puzzle playing experience. Good luck!
Since our members are the root of everything we do, your feedback is important to us. Let us know if you run into any issues while playing, or share your ideas for future puzzles by emailing us.
The world is changing around us. Temperatures are rising, lakes and rivers are drying up and glaciers that have existed for millennia are disappearing. These are just some of the reasons why it’s incumbent to start planning our travels more thoughtfully.
Whether you’re going home to visit family and friends over the holidays or using the season to explore a new corner of the world, you may want to start shifting your travel mindset. Instead of simply choosing what’s quickest and easiest, consider the impact of each step of your journey, from mode of transportation to where you’re staying and even the length of time spent in a specific location.
“Thinking more critically about the act of travel and asking probing questions before leaving home can make travelers more aware of their choices, actions and behavior,” says JoAnna Haugen, founder of Rooted, a platform focused on sustainable tourism, storytelling and social impact.
Travel is part of the joy of the holiday season and exploring the world is tremendously enriching. As you’re planning holiday getaways, here are five ways to start thinking more sustainably.
Think Creatively About Transportation
While booking a flight is often the first choice that springs to mind when considering travel logistics, it’s also the mode of transportation that comes with the most significant impact on the planet in the form of carbon emissions.
“Before taking a flight, consider do you really need to fly? Can you go by other means like electric vehicle, train or bus?” suggests Matt Berna, president, North America for Intrepid Travel, a certified B Corp that has long focused on traveling with purpose. “Carpool with other family members where you can.”
For those who have young children in tow, train travel can add to the fun of the holiday journey. But even for adults, train trips can be more relaxing, eliminating the stress associated with driving, all while helping the planet. Trains “consume less energy and create less emissions on a per-passenger-mile basis than cars, trucks and planes,” according to Amtrak.
If you do plan to drive, renting an electric car is yet another option that can substantially reduce your impact. Or you might choose to rethink where you’re traveling altogether.
“If you can, stay closer to home and aim to avoid flying,” says Impact Travel Alliance’s Founder and Executive Director Kelley Louise.
If you do ultimately choose to fly during the holidays, consider an airline that operates using more eco-friendly biofuels, such as United Airlines or KLM, says Berna.
Stay and Eat Locally
There’s a growing number of hotels around the country and the world that are building sustainable operations into their business model by sourcing food from local growers, relying on renewable energy sources and implementing composting and recycling programs on premises.
“If you are planning a vacation somewhere – versus visiting a relative – do your research to make sure you are making that trip as sustainable as possible. Stay in locally owned hotels and support restaurants that put a focus on local ingredients,” suggests Sebastian Modak, editor-at-large of Lonely Planet, a noted sustainable travel advocate.
The emphasis on local foods is important because these products don’t have to travel as far to get to your plate, which means reduced carbon emissions. At the same time, you’re supporting local businesses in a meaningful way.
“Understand the impact that your spending can have on local businesses such as dining, accommodations and transport providers,” says Berma. “Support locally-owned diners and hoteliers.”
Pick One Destination and Go Deep
For those who use the holiday season to explore the world, Modak suggests identifying one destination and exploring it well, rather than jetting from one locale to the next.
“Not only will you gain a more profound appreciation for the place and its culture, but you will also minimize your carbon footprint by avoiding short flights and drives as you try and cover as much ground as possible,” explains Modak. “There’s nothing like convincing yourself you live somewhere for just a little bit, and to do that successfully, you need to slow down and spend some quality time there.”
This approach is known as slow travel and it’s an increasingly important approach to protecting the planet as we move into the future. “Take advantage of remote work options if that’s available to you and opt to stay longer in a destination,” says Louise. “This allows you to slow down and experience a destination more like a local.”
Think Outside the Box When Planning Activities
When it comes time to organize family fun, wherever you go, consider the carbon impact of your options.
“Take a long bike ride to the park instead of a short drive.Go kayaking instead of jet skiing,” says Modak. “Better yet, a nature walk, where [you not only] get exercise and engage in a carbon-neutral activity, but you can also incorporate educational moments for the kids and grandkids as you learn about the flora and fauna around you.”
Plant a Tree
For many of us, the holidays are a time of giving gifts small and large to those we love. As you plan your holiday travel consider giving a gift to the planet as well, to help offset your impact.
“Make it a rule of thumb to plant at least a single tree as you return from your trips,” suggests Will Hatton, CEO and founder of Broke Backpacker. “Even planting a single sapling does count among your good habits, creating a better place to reside.”
While you’re at it, why not consider gifting something eco-friendly like tree saplings to loved ones as well? After all, preserving nature is the best gift you can give the planet and future generations.
AAA’s sustainable travel series is written in partnership with Kind Traveler, a women-and-veteran-owned sustainable travel platform empowering travelers to make a positive impact in local communities, and contributing writer, Mia Taylor.
Modeled after owner Mohamad Hafez’s vision of a typical Syrian domicile, Pistachio Cafe has a way of making you feel right at home within its architecturally dazzling space. The scent of espresso and sweets waft through the space filled with unexpected but delightful decor – most notably, the wall of vintage radios adorning the entrance.
The laptop-free cafe encourages connection between its guests, and in doing so, offers a more grounded environment to enjoy their plethora of menu offerings. Sit down for brunch or lunch to savor everything from paninis, croissants, wraps, quiches, tartines, waffles and more. Coming with a group? Their platters have more than enough for everyone. Choose from the Syrian Home Breakfast (served with fava beans, Syrian olives, hummus, pita, rose jam and halloumi cheese to name a few) or the Mezze Platter (bread, hummus, pickles, artichoke hearts, grape leaves and more).
Ready for coffee and dessert? We are, always. And Pistachio has it all. Most famously, their baklava selection is the biggest in New Haven, but the choices don’t stop there. Feasting your eyes upon the dessert window, you’ll find multiple kinds of cake and pie, coppa (mini dessert cups), knafeh, hareeseh, Turkish Delights, macarons, cupcakes, truffles … the list goes on.
Our recommendation: The rose waffles were simply divine, and paired with a pistachio latte you’ll have the perfect flavor combination.
On “Search Engine,” audio journalist PJ Vogt tracks down the answers to the questions he always has on his mind. Should we not be drinking airline coffee? Where do you find good music? What’s it like to go blind? Fans of the now-defunct podcast “Reply All” will recognize “Search Engine” as its spiritual sequel.
Why are so many self-help books full of such bad advice? From threadbare research to bizarre philosophies, Michael Hobbes and Peter Shamshiri break down the bestsellers of pop nonfiction. These books, though mostly bunk, speak to the cultural attitudes of the times they were written, and the implicit biases of their authors. Plus, they’re also pretty funny. Hobbes and Shamshiri delight in exposing the flaws of these books and use them as a jumping-off-point to discuss issues that are still relevant today. Not interesting enough? Just wait until they get to your favorite book.
“The Retrievals” is a podcast from Serial Productions and the New York Times that tells the story of women who went to a Yale fertility clinic for egg retrievals. When the procedure is unusually, excruciatingly painful, the patients are left wondering what happened, and what was wrong with them. Eventually, it’s discovered that their fentanyl had been surreptitiously replaced with saline. But who would do such a thing? And why did it take so long for the patients to be taken seriously about their pain?
What if you bought a DNA kit and unlocked something that was supposed to stay hidden? “The Gift” is a podcast from BBC Radio 4 that follows the stories of people whose lives were changed forever after receiving unexpected news from an at-home DNA kit. Once they learn their own secrets, there’s no way to unlearn them. This podcast will keep you on the edge of your seat, waiting for each revelation.
Amanda is dying. Or is she? “Scamanda” follows the tale of Amanda C. Reilly, a wife, mother and blogger who told everyone that she had been diagnosed with cancer. Amanda built an online empire dedicated to following her cancer journey. But was it all an elaborate hoax? And if it was, who was in on it? Truth really is stranger than fiction, especially when you can’t tell the two apart.
After breaking up with her boyfriend, Bob Bierenbaum, Carole Fisher seeks community in his other ex-girlfriends. As the women bond over Bob’s many shortcomings, they start to notice that some of his stories about his ex-wife, Gail Katz, don’t make sense. This podcast, hosted by Fisher herself, tells the story of how Bierenbaum’s ex-girlfriends banded together to solve the mystery of his ex-wife’s disappearance.
For more podcast recommendations, check out the full Podcast Pulse archives.
Do you listen to podcasts? Do you have any favorite new shows? Tell us about them in the comments below.
On the checklist of car maintenance items, headlights often fall to the bottom. We don’t pay them much attention until one burns out and we’re suddenly left with only a partially lit view of the road ahead. This is not only a dangerous situation, it’s illegal. Here’s how to take care of your headlights so you can safely see.
Clean your headlights.
We clean our windshields all the time. Whether it’s dirt, mud, or nine zillion bugs during a long road trip, windshields get dirty. Since we are looking directly at that mess it’s easy to notice when the windshield needs a little cleaning. Whatever is happening to your windshield is also happening to your headlights, so give them a good cleaning, too.
Some cars have built-in headlight washers so you can press a button and give them a bath without stopping. If your car doesn’t have this feature, then clean off your headlights the next time you stop for gas. It only takes a few seconds to make sure your headlights are clean enough to do their jobs so you can see the road.
Check headlight alignment.
This is tricky because it’s something that can be hard to notice. Your headlights might seem like they’re pointing straight ahead even when they’re out of alignment. Driving over potholes, across rough pavement, and especially off-road can knock your headlights out of alignment giving you a less than perfect view.
This isn’t something you can check yourself, but the professionals at a repair shop can do the job easily. Whether they seem aligned or not, have your headlights checked the next time you’re in for an oil change or any car repair. The service person can determine if they’re aligned correctly and make the necessary adjustments if your headlights are off kilter.
Clean fogged or yellowed lenses.
Most headlight lenses are made of a material called polycarbonate plastic. It’s a durable material that resists scratches, but over time, exposure to the UV rays of the sun causes polycarbonate lenses to oxidize. This results in a yellow or cloudy lens. The bulb behind that lens may be bright, but the oxidation on the lens keeps the light from getting to the road and hampers visibility. Have you ever tried to fix this problem on your own?
You can easily clean off this oxidation to improve your view and your car’s appearance. Your local auto parts store has a variety of headlight cleaning kits designed to make old headlights look as good as new. It’s simply a matter of applying a specially formulated polish to the lens and rubbing off that outer later of oxidation. Once your headlights are again shining bright, consider applying a UV-resistant coating to the lenses to keep them from getting cloudy again.
Repair surface scratches and peeling.
Headlights become scratched over time as a part of normal wear and tear. Rather than leaving the damage on your headlights, take a few minutes to remove the scratches. Much like removing the oxidation from plastic lens, removing scratches from the surface can be done with a simple kit as a part of regular car maintenance. It involves sanding the surface smooth and then polishing it back to its original shine. The kits are inexpensive and the process is a quick one.
Peeling is more complicated and can eventually cause damage to the interior of your light, particularly the electrical system when water gets inside the headlight. If you notice the surface of a headlight peeling or flaking, then take it in for repair before it causes more expensive damage. A quick visual inspection of your headlights should be a part of regular car maintenance to ensure your car’s overall good health.
Check for condensation.
If there is condensation inside a headlight or, even worse, a pool of water, then this needs to be repaired immediately. The moisture interferes with the quality of light and it can cause corrosion over time. This isn’t car maintenance you want to tackle on your own.
Have a professional repair the problem. It may be costly, but not as costly as letting it go. Remember, your lights are run buy your electrical system and water and electricity aren’t a good combination. A small leak left unchecked can cause major electrical problems and increase your repair costs. Get any water or condensation in your headlights checked out right away.
Don’t ignore dimming headlights.
If your headlights seem dimmer than usual or if you notice them dimming and brightening when you’re driving, then you need to have them checked. Dimming headlights are caused by several different problems, none of which should be ignored.
A corroded ground wire is one of the most common causes of dimming headlights. The ground wire connects to your car’s chassis and can become dirty and corroded, which will disrupt the flow of electricity to your headlights and make them dim. Other possibilities are a bad alternator or loose alternator belt. If these parts fail you could find yourself in need of roadside assistance. If you have dimming headlights, don’t wait to have the problem diagnosed.
How often do you check your headlights? Let us know in the comments below!
In the spring, I’m a refreshing way to welcome the warmer weather. In the summer, I’m a healthy way of getting in essential exercise. In the fall, I’m a perfect opportunity to catch views of fall foliage. What am I?
The answer is — you guessed it — a hike!
Hiking preserves both our health and natural environment. With all of its national and state parks, woodsy trails and swampy lands, locals are gifted with plenty of opportunities for hikes in the Northeast.
The following list includes hikes in the area that range from easy, moderate to challenging levels of difficulty.
The second-largest park in Queens has several trails that wind through forest, and along ponds and a salt marsh. Saunter on the Tulip Tree Trail, which passes the Alley Park Giant, a tulip tree that might be New York City’s oldest organism at between 350 and 450 years old.
This conservation park on Cape Ann in Massachusetts is what’s left of a settlement from 1693, which was named Dogtown after the dogs that women kept while their husbands were fighting in the American Revolution. The park is full of dense woodland with several trails for hiking. Be sure to hike the Babson Boulder trail to see the famous boulders with words of inspiration carved into them. A notable boulder is “The Whale’s Jaw,” which it resembled before collapsing in 1989. And, yes, dogs are welcome.
More than 50 miles of the Appalachian Trail cut a scenic swath west of the Housatonic River. There are more than 10 parking sites, from Salisbury to Kent, where hikers can leave their vehicles and set out for a day hike. See sights like the Great Falls, the “Giant’s Thumb” rock formation, the Indian Rocks outlook, the Housatonic River and more. If you’re up for a challenge, climb Bear Mountain, the state’s highest peak at 2,326 feet.
This preserve is home to a few hiking trails, a couple of lookouts and a World War II memorial. After 30-40 minutes of following the World War II Memorial Trail, you’ll see the memorial honoring three Army Air Corps servicemen who lost their lives in an aircraft crash at the site. On your way back, you can stop at Mercer Lookout, where you’ll get a great view of the Providence skyline. If it’s a clear day, you might also catch Brayton Point in Somerset, Mass., upper Narragansett Bay and the Mount Hope Bridge in Bristol, R.I. The paths can be rocky and sometimes aren’t clearly marked; bring the appropriate sneakers or hiking boots.
Glacial meltwater carved out this natural granite playground sometime during the Ice Age. The resulting 70-foot-high cliffs and craggy valley are a blast to climb, full of cleverly named rock formations like Fat Man’s Misery – a narrow crevasse – and the Devil’s Pulpit. Be careful after rainstorms; the rocks can be slippery. Dogs are welcome, but ensure that your dog is capable of the climbing you’ll be doing.
Ausable Chasm, known as “the Grand Canyon of the East,” provides the thrills you’re looking for on the Family Adventure Trail. It takes you through the gorge while you’re in a harness attached to a steel cable, which runs along the rock. You’ll cross over the river on cable bridges, traipse across a cargo net climb and brave the edge walks, giving you the illusion of danger, but while fully protected. This is a hike in the area for families and other groups of people who aren’t afraid of an adrenaline-pumping challenge. Closed-toe shoes are required.
Of these hikes in the Northeast, this is the most challenging, as this 10-mile loop takes you through five mountains: Little Windbeam, Windbeam, Bear, Board and Harrison. The constant up and down is what makes this hike a serious workout. Though the steep mountainside makes you work for them, the views this hike allows you to see are spectacular. You can see the Wanaque and Monksville Reservoirs from the peaks of the small, but mighty mountains. Visit any time from March until October for optimal hiking.
Have you taken on any of these hikes in the Northeast? Where are some nature hikes near you that you’d recommend? Tell us in the comments.
Any new exercise routines should be approached with caution. Consider your physical limitations and always consult your doctors.
This article has been updated and republished from a previous version.
So, you decided to become a DIY-er and change your motor oil yourself. And because you followed our guide, you completed the task flawlessly. But now you have a pan filled with used oil and no idea what to do with it. Fear not. Here’s how to properly dispose of motor oil.
Collecting Used Motor Oil
After you’ve changed your motor oil, you’ll be left with the aforementioned pan full of used oil. Some pans can be sealed shut, which makes the job easier. Otherwise, you’ll have to transfer the used oil into another container. Use the same container the oil came in if you still have it around. Otherwise, you should use a container made of polyethylene or a similar type of plastic. The container should also have never been used before. Oil that has been mixed with other fluids, such as gasoline, washer fluid, antifreeze and even water, cannot be recycled.
Once your used motor oil is in a secure container with a tight-fitting lid, it is ready for disposal.
How to Properly Dispose of Motor Oil
Most often, the easiest way to properly dispose of motor oil is to bring it back to the store you purchased it from or your local auto repair shop. Many states require service and retail businesses that sell motor oil to accept used motor oil for recycling. This service is completely free for the customer.
Occasionally, these establishments may temporarily refuse to accept used oil if their tanks are filled. However, they are required to empty these tanks in a reasonable amount of time and inform customers when they can return to drop off the used motor oil.
Some towns and municipalities accept hazardous waste, including used motor oil, as part of their recycling programs. Contact your local department of sanitation to see if this service is available and, if so, follow the instructions (including packaging requirements and protocol) for the safe and timely collection of your used motor. Don’t simply place a jug of motor oil on the curb or in your recycling bin.
Improper Disposal of Motor Oil
It’s illegal to improperly dispose of hazardous waste, including motor oil. And for good reason. Even a small amount of used motor oil can contaminate drinking water supplies and wreak havoc on the local environment.
Improper disposal of used motor oil includes throwing it out in the garbage, and dumping it on the ground, in the street or down the drain. It can result in heavy fines and even jail time.
How Is Motor Oil Recycled?
So, what happens to used motor oil? When properly disposed of, it’s recycled.
When used oil is recycled, it goes through a re-refinement process that removes any impurities the oil collected while it was being used. This essentially makes the oil as good as new – restoring it to its original quality. The process is far more environmentally friendly than procuring new motor oil.
Used motor oil can also be burned for energy production. This isn’t ideal as it only allows the oil to be used once. If properly re-refined, motor oil can be recycled repeatedly.
Looking for a service shop to drop off your used motor oil? Find the nearest AAA Approved Auto Repair facility here.
Turkey always gets the spotlight at Thanksgiving and Friendsgiving dinner, but let’s be honest: It’s really all about the sides.
From macaroni and cheese to marshmallow-topped sweet potatoes, Thanksgiving sides offer up a variety of flavors that’ll satisfy any palate, but only one of them is so easy you don’t even need a recipe. Don’t believe us? Read on to see for yourself just how simple and delicious cornbread casserole can be. Plus, learn how to whip up some herbed compound butter to perfectly complement this dish (and lots of others.)
Shop
Preparing to make your cornbread casserole is almost as easy as making it – the ingredients you’ll need might already be in your cupboard. For the compound butter, pick up salted butter (you’ll need 1-2 sticks, depending on how much you’d like to make), garlic, parsley and green onion or chives.
For the casserole, you’ll need a 15.2-ounce can of corn kernels, a 14.75-ounce can of creamed corn, an 8-ounce container of sour cream, a large egg, melted butter and an 8.5-ounce box of corn muffin mix.
Start by preparing the compound butter, as this will take some time to solidify in the fridge. If you can, soften your butter on the countertop until it’s at a mixable consistency. Short on time? Use your microwave’s “Soften/Melt” setting to soften, but careful not to let it melt.
Once ready, add the butter to a medium mixing bowl with a tablespoon of each herb (parsley, garlic and green onion), along with salt and pepper to taste. Mix with a silicone spatula until combined, then transfer to a long sheet of plastic wrap. Shape the butter into a rough log, then roll it up into the plastic wrap, twisting the excess ends to secure. Transfer to the refrigerator for at least two hours for everything to firm up.
Now comes the easy part. The reason you won’t need a recipe after you make this for the first time is because it follows the rule of one:
One can of corn kernels
One can of creamed corn
One container of sour cream
One egg
One stick of butter, melted
One box of corn muffin mix
One bowl
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. In a large mixing bowl, dump both cans of corn followed by the sour cream and egg. Mix until combined. Add the melted butter and mix well. Lastly, add the full box of corn muffin mix and stir it up. Once all ingredients are evenly distributed, pour the mixture into a greased 9-inch square baking dish or casserole pan. Bake for an hour or until the top is golden brown.
Keep warm until ready to serve, then top with a pad of the herbed compound butter. Happy Thanksgiving!
Click here for more Shop and Cook recipes and videos.
What are your favorite holiday side dishes? Tell us in the comments.
Thanksgiving may be a day to show gratitude and eat great food, but it could also be pretty hectic and stressful, especially if you’re hosting. As you are cooking and preparing for guests, keep these Thanksgiving safety tips in mind.
Don’t Wing It
It’s easy to get distracted on such a busy day, but the kitchen is the last place you need your attention to wander. Home cooking fires are most likely to happen on Thanksgiving, according to the National Fire Protection Association.
To prevent kitchen accidents, don’t wear loose clothing, roll up your sleeves and keep an eye on cooking food. You also want to make sure your smoke alarms are working properly in advance, keep a fire extinguisher handy and know how to use it, and always keep an eye on children and pets.
Keep floors (and outdoor steps if it’s icy) from getting too slippery. Your homeowners policy should protect you if someone slips and falls in your home or on your property, but if you entertain often you may want to consider an umbrella policy. An umbrella policy can provide excess liability protection above your standard homeowners policy.
Bird Is the Word
Dreaming of making that perfect dinner your guests will talk about for years to come? Giving your guests food poisoning will keep them talking, but not in the way you’d like. That turkey in your freezer may be crawling with bacteria, so it’s important to take extra precautions when preparing it. The USDA recommends thawing a frozen turkey in the refrigerator for one to two days. Always read labels for expiration dates and cooking and thawing instructions.
Wash any plates or utensils the turkey touches before using them again, and never wash the turkey itself. That just spreads bacteria onto other surfaces. The only way to kill the germs is to fully cook your turkey. The USDA recommends cooking the turkey to an internal temperature of 165 degrees and using a kitchen thermometer to ensure thorough cooking.
Deep frying turkey has become a popular Thanksgiving cooking method, but when done improperly it is also one of the most dangerous. The National Fire Protection Association demonstrates how easily turkey frying can go wrong in the above video.
If you do decide to fry your turkey, take every precaution to do so safely. The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends purchasing a turkey no larger than 12 pounds, since smaller turkeys fry up best. Set up the fryer outdoors, more than 10 feet away from your home on flat ground. Make sure the turkey is completely thawed and dry, or excess water will cause hot oil to spill over. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby, and don’t forget to watch children and pets closely while the turkey is frying.
Celebrate Responsibly
If you’ll be serving alcohol at your feast, it’s important that your guests drink responsibly. Establish designated drivers before the party starts and don’t be afraid to cut off access to alcohol.
Lock It Up
If you’re traveling to see family this Thanksgiving, make sure to keep your home safe from break-ins. Lock all doors and windows, and turn your security system on if you have one. Keep your valuables in a secure place. Never leave keys under a doormat; leave them with a nearby family member or trusted neighbor instead.
The holiday season in Newport is a magical time. The giant Bowen’s Wharf Christmas tree is sparkling. Residents and local businesses beautify their entryways as they vie for the top prize in the annual Doorway Decorating Contest. The already ornate and distinguished mansions on Bellevue Avenue are decked to perfection. And residents and visitors alike bundle up and head out to Newport’s many holiday-themed events to enjoy this enchanting season.
Much of this magic is thanks to Christmas in Newport, a non-profit organization that helps coordinate and advertise many of the city’s holiday events, all of which are required to offer either free admission or donate the proceeds of the event to a charity. This year marks the 53rd annual Christmas in Newport celebration.
There is plenty of holiday enchantment to go around at these numerous events, spreading festive cheer throughout the city. Check out some of our favorites
Explore the glamour of the former Vanderbilt estate.
Runs Nov.17, 2023, through Dec.30, 2023, on select evenings; 4 p.m., 4:30 p.m., 5 p.m., 5:30 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Admission: $10-$40
Holiday lights enthusiasts would be remiss to miss the Sparkling Lights at The Breakers event, during which the 13-acre grounds of the property are bedazzled with thousands of bright lights captivating spectators as each garden is embellished in a festive theme. Features include a tunnel of light and brightly lit holiday staples, including reindeer, snowmen and Santa’s workshop. After touring the grounds, warm up on the back terrace with a hot beverage and s’mores, then head inside the mansion for an indoor tour.
Continuing a grand tradition of years past, several of Newport’s notable mansions including The Breakers, Marble House and The Elms will be dressed in their holiday best in a striking tribute to the glitz and glamour of Newport’s Gilded Age. At the Breakers, visitors can find the annual poinsettia tree, constructed of 150 poinsettia plants towering an impressive 15 feet overhead in the Great Room. And don’t miss the Gilded Age holiday fashion display in the music room.
Watch the classic holiday ballet performed in an imaginative venue.
Runs Nov. 22, 24, 25 and 26, and Nov. 28 through Dec. 1.
Admission: $139-$229
Join fellow guests on a walk through the ornately decorated rooms of Rosecliff and watch members of the Newport Contemporary Ballet perform scenes from the “The Nutcracker.” Featured scenes from the traditional ballet include the Waltz of the Snowflakes, and arabesques and pirouettes performed by the Sugar Plum Fairy in the Land of the Sweets in the Grand Ballroom.
Newport Harbor sparkles with nautical holiday delight.
Nov. 24, 6 p.m.
Admission: Free
See Newport in all its holiday glory as sailboats, fishing boats and powerboats light up Newport Harbor with their festive decorations as they parade through the water, much to the joy of the many spectators on land. Some of the best viewpoints include the popular Bowen’s and Bannister’s Wharfs, where you’ll also find plenty of dining and shopping opportunities.
Beautifully lit gardens, just a short drive from Newport.
Nov. 24 through Dec. 31, Thursday-Sunday.
Admission: $70 per four-person carload, $35 per two-person carload.
Christmas in Newport events span throughout Newport and Bristol counties. In the seaside town of Bristol, this nighttime holiday display on the grounds of the Blithewold Mansion estate is not to be missed. Follow the illuminated paths to discover holiday light displays, cozy fires in the Enclosed Garden, handmade bamboo lanterns and fun photo ops. You can add a s’mores kit to your ticket to make your trip even sweeter! Complete your experience inside the mansion and marvel at the big tree.
Admire the glistening shimmer of Newport’s towering evergreen.
Dec. 2. The tree is lit at 6 p.m.
Admission: Free
Bowen’s Wharf’s official holiday season commencement begins at 12:30 p.m. on Dec. 2 and will include an appearance by Santa Claus and musical entertainment, including carols the whole family can sing along with. Be sure to visit the wharf’s restaurants and take some time to do some shopping. After the tree is lit, Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus will make a grand entrance onto the wharf via boat. The event is fun for all ages.
Hang with Santa in true Newport style – on the water.
Dec.17, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Admission: Prices start at $20 for children aged 5-12, $35 for adults.
Hop aboard the Coastal Queen, a tour boat that offers themed excursions around Newport Harbor. This special holiday tour will feature a very important guest on board: Santa Claus! The boat ride will be child-centric and allow young ones to share their holiday wishes with the North Pole’s most infamous resident. Choose to stay inside the heated interior of the boat, or if you’re feeling adventurous, head out onto the open decks for a few minutes to take in the views. After meeting Santa and disembarking the boat, children will receive a cup of warm hot chocolate and a candy cane to complete the holiday experience.
If your car has ever broken down unexpectedly, you know how dangerous and unsettling it can feel to be stuck at the roadside as cars whizz past. Roadside technicians, police officers, firefighters and rescue workers, put themselves in harm’s way to help people in that situation every day.
AAA roadside technicians Ken Young and Jay Lynk might understand the risks better than anyone. Both were involved in serious crashes that could have been prevented if drivers had simply slowed down and moved over. An average of two roadside service providers are killed each month attending to disabled vehicles along America’s roadways, and many more are injured.
“If you see someone with their lights on or even their hazards on, give them 6 inches, give them a foot. Have some compassion,” Young said. “What would you do if you hit somebody that was in your family?”
Largely due to AAA advocacy, all states and Washington, D.C., have enacted Slow Down, Move Over laws. Although they vary slightly by state, they are straightforward. Whenever approaching an incident where police, firefighters, emergency medical service crews or tow operators are working, drivers should exercise caution, decrease their speed and move over. This gives first responders more room to work and helps to maintain a safer environment for everyone.
“Despite being passed in all 50 states, 71% of Americans are unaware of Move Over laws that require drivers to reduce their speed and switch lanes before they pass disabled vehicles, emergency responders, tow trucks and service vehicles stopped at the roadside,” said Mary Maguire, vice president of public and government affairs at AAA Northeast. “Our goal is to spread awareness and save lives.”
“Ensuring the safety of our team and our members is at the core of who we are and what we do. It’s why our members trust us,” said John Galvin, president and CEO of AAA Northeast. “Our roadside technicians must first ensure they are safe, and the scene is safe, before providing service to the member.”
AAA’s #MoveOverForMe campaign aims to help motorists understand that by simply slowing down and moving to an adjacent lane they can save lives.To protect roadside workers and improve highway safety, AAA offers these precautionary tips:
Always remain alert. Avoid distractions and focus on the task of driving.
Watch for situations where emergency vehicles, tow trucks, utility service vehicles or disabled vehicles are stopped on the side of the road.
When approaching an emergency vehicle with lights flashing on the side of a two-lane roadway, drivers should slow down to a speed that is safe and approach with caution unless otherwise directed by an emergency worker on the scene. Some states recommend slowing to a speed that is 10 to 20 mph less than the posted speed limit.
On multi-lane roadways, slow down when you see the flashing lights of an emergency vehicle at the roadside and, if possible, move over into an adjacent lane. If you are unable to switch lanes, slow to a speed that is safe and reasonable. Some states recommend slowing to a speed that is 10-20 mph less than the posted speed limit.
Read more about the AAA Slow Down, Move Over initiative.
It’s no secret – Walt Disney World gets crowded. To beat the crowds and get on the most popular rides fast, many guests arrive as soon as the parks open, known as Disney rope drop.
We spoke to AAA travel advisor and Disney expert Cady DeBlois to get the hottest rope drop tips and strategies for your next vacation.
Disney rope drop is named after the rope that cast members occasionally use to block off sections of the park before they open. Even if no actual rope is present, rope drop just means the time the gates open. Then it’s time to make a beeline to your favorite ride.
What’s your rope drop strategy?
“My rope drop strategy varies by park and which rides I’m able to select with Genie+ or Individual Lightning Lane Selections that morning,” DeBlois said. “When you are staying on-property, definitely take advantage of the early entry opportunity. It can take some time to get to the parks when using Disney’s transportation, especially for Magic Kingdom. I recommend planning about an hour for travel time, even though it doesn’t usually take that long. The most important tip is to have a plan of what you are prioritizing and have a general idea of the layout of the parks to get where you need to be.”
Rope Drop at Magic Kingdom: “During early entry at Magic Kingdom, the only two lands that are open are Tomorrowland and Fantasyland. I always prioritize Seven Dwarves Mine Train or Space Mountain during this time and selecting a Genie+ reservation for another ride in the park.”
Rope Dropping Animal Kingdom: “Kilimanjaro Safaris is always my No. 1 for rope drop. The animals are much more active first thing in the morning, since it isn’t too hot out yet. I love grabbing a coffee during early entry and enjoying the animal walking trails before heading over to Kilimanjaro Safaris. I would also prioritize Avatar Flight of Passage first thing in the morning.”
Epcot Rope Drop: “I love to rope drop Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure and then head over to Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie, a delicious bakery in the France pavilion, for some breakfast. Then I’ll make my way around World Showcase to Frozen Ever After in Norway.”
Rope Drop at Hollywood Studios: “Slinky Dog Dash and Rise of the Resistance are two of the most popular rides at this park. If they are a must-do for you, I would head there first thing for rope drop. I personally prefer to head down Sunset Boulevard to take advantage of the short wait times for Tower of Terror and Rock n’ Rollercoaster.”
Is rope dropping really worth it? Do you recommend that people go to the parks as soon as they open?
“I definitely recommend rope dropping, and I think it’s worth it. You can get so much done in a short amount of time first thing in the morning, then head back to your resort for a midday break to take a nap or enjoy the pool. On the flip side, if your family is in the parks until they close every night, it is important to get some extra rest – which might mean sleeping in a little bit. Go through the parks at your own pace, especially when you’re with children.”
Do you go left first? Or right?
“I always go left first!”
Have more Disney questions for our travel advisors? Ask away.
Many Indigenous tribes have called the Northeast home throughout time. In fact, history suggests that 10 million people lived in what would become the United States when Europeans arrived in the 15th century. There are still 25 federally recognized Native American tribes in the region today. Visit these Native American sites, including museums and historical places, to learn more about the rich and varied Indigenous culture in the Northeast.
Formerly known as the American Indian Archaeological Institute, the Institute for American Indian Studies is located on the ancestral homelands of the Weantinock and Pootatuck people. It offers a variety of permanent, semi-permanent and temporaryexhibits, along with workshops, lectures, book discussions and more.
The Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center features 85,000 square feet of permanent, indoor exhibitions, including life-size dioramas, films and interactive computer programs. Permanent exhibits featuring Indigenous people include “Arrival of the People,” “Pequot Village” and “Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation Today.”
The Peabody Museum at Harvard University is located on the tribal homelands of the Massachusett people, according to the museum’s website. North American artifacts make up nearly half of the museum’s collections. An exhibit specific to the Northeast includes artifacts from sites in the Boston and Cambridge, Mass., areas; Neville, N.H.; Orland, Maine, and more.
The Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum is situated on Abenaki homeland. This museum sits on 12.5-acres of land, including the Medicine Woods Trail, the Betsy Janeway Arboretum and an activity area with spectacular views of the Mink Hills.
Located on Winakung Island in Waterloo Lake, this reproduction of a Lenape Tribe village features huts, longhouses, artifacts, walking trails and more.
The design of the museum itself is modeled after Iroquois longhouses, making this museum a true experience for visitors. Inside, permanent exhibits include contemporary, historical and archaeological collections.
This museum is home to several permanent exhibits dedicated to Native Americans. These include the Hall of Eastern Woodlands Indians, the Hall of Plains Indians and the Northwest Coast Hall, which opened in 1899 and was recently revitalized in partnership with Indigenous communities.
Part of the Smithsonian, the National Museum of the American Indian features roughly 700 works of Native art from throughout North, Central and South America.
Ganondagan State Historic Site is home to the Seneca Art & Culture Center. Here, visitors can view exhibits featuring artwork, traditional clothing and more. There’s also the Seneca bark longhouse – open during the warmer months – and walking trails.
The Tomaquag Museum was recognized with the National Medal for Museum and Library Service in 2016. Today, the museum’s featured exhibits include “Wunnegen Manootash (Beautiful Baskets),” “Wampum: Telling our Story” and “The Pursuit of Happiness: An Indigenous View.”
Located on 32 Custom House St. in Providence, “Still Here” is a mural by artist Gaia in collaboration with the Tomaquag Museum, mentioned above. Commissioned by The Avenue Concept in 2018, the mural portrays Narragansett Lynsea Montanari holding a photograph of the late Princess Red Wing (Narragansett/Niantic, Pokanoket).
A member of the Mashpee Wampanoag tribe, chef Sherry Pocknett shares and pays tribute to her culture through a menu of foraged, hunted and fished dishes, often including the three sisters of Indigenous American agriculture, corn, beans and squash. Pocknett won the James Beard Award for Best Chef: Northeast in 2023, becoming the first Indigenous woman to earn the prestigious designation.
Owned and ran by the Passamaquoddy Tribe, Passamaquoddy maple syrup is certified organic and sustainably harvested from the tribe’s land in Maine. Harvesting maple syrup is an ancestral tradition for the Passamaquoddy people and other tribes across the Northeast and Great Lakes regions of New York.
Which of these Native American sites would you like to visit? Tell us in the comments.
Westchester County has long been associated with farming and agriculture, with some of the farms in the area dating back hundreds of years. You can visit many of them on the Westchester Farm Trail, a 17-mile string of orchards and farms with activities for the whole family.
And be sure to visit Muscoot Farm in Katonah. This early 20th-century property was once a working dairy farm, but is now a Westchester Country park, open to the public 362 days a year. Bring the kids to meet the farm animals, hike the trails, explore the historic buildings and farm museum, and more
A popular destination for apple picking in the fall, Stuart’s Farm in Granite Springs is the oldest orchard in the county, offering 20 different varieties of apples. They also have Christmas trees.
If you’d like to cut your own Christmas tree, Wilkens Fruit and Fir Farm opens up several acres of Choose-and-Cut trees after Thanksgiving. With three farm markets, you can stock up on treats for your holiday celebrations there, too.
While you’re getting into the festive spirit, don’t miss Harvest Moon Farm and Orchard in North Salem. In addition to selling a bounty of seasonal produce, grass-fed beef and free-range quail and chicken eggs, it also hosts the Festival of Lights, a walk-through light show on nights through Dec. 31.
Tastings
Visit the historic White Oak Farm to have a maple syrup tasting and fill a shopping basket with locally made goods and products. The maple syrup here comes from over 2,400 tree’s local to Westchester County. As one of the few commercial sugarhouse’s in the region, the best time to visit is when they are in full production in February and March.
For another kind of tasting, purchase a passport for the Westchester Craft Beverage Trail – but make sure to use a designated driver or rideshare between locations to get home safe.
