Instagram has single-handedly changed the way Americans share their food. With hashtags like #eatingfortheinsta and #foodie, the social media platform has millions of food posts to explore. While many Instagrammable foods have earned their status by being regional classics or totally unique creations, some restaurants are creating visually appealing and over-the-top dishes with the intent to get more snap-happy customers in the door – and their name out in the world.
If you like to take pictures of your food, these dishes are guaranteed to get you likes. That is, if you can hold off on eating them until you get the perfect shot (and are sometimes willing to wait on line).
Let us start this off by saying North River Lobster Company serves a 28-inch lobster roll on a boat. If that combo doesn’t check all your Instagrammable food goals, what will? So, hop on board New York City’s only floating lobster shack to snap a pic and devour the Shelley lobster roll. Equivalent to six individual lobster rolls, we’d recommend sharing this colossal sandwich with a group. Instagrammers can also pair the roll with a signature 64-ounce fishbowl to complete their Insta-worthy post. Open seasonally, starting in April.
Not only does Voodoo Doughnut have everyday Instagrammable donuts, like the signature jelly-filled voodoo dolls, it also takes pre-orders for any customizable doughnut you can imagine. Think characters from your favorite show (hello, “Game of Thrones”) and celebrities galore (oh hey, Oprah). These epic video game controllers in doughnut form gained 7,000 likes on Instagram! Voodoo’s social empire has grown a following of over 250K, waiting for the next Insta-craze to ogle over. Although it’s roots are in Portland, Oregon, the shop has become so popular it’s expanded to fourteen locations in four states.
What started in Hawaii as a small family-owned shave ice company has now expanded to Oregon and California. The treats at Wailau Shave Ice melt in your mouth, and they are the prettiest ice creations we’ve ever seen. Pictured is ube flavor (purple yam), a sweet and salty flavor with toasted coconut on top. They have specials every month, keeping consumers coming back for more Instagrammable delights. But act quickly – these masterpieces melt fast!
In Japanese culture, the fish known as Tai or sea bream is a symbol of good luck, prosperity and happiness – the last of which is sure to happen as soon as you get your hands on one of these fish-shaped waffle cones at one of Taiyaki NYC’s locations in New York, Boston or Miami. Filled with sweet red bean paste, swirled with soft-serve ice cream and topped with your choice or rainbow mochi, sprinkles and more, it’s hard to resist taking a photo.
Whether you’re visiting Disney World or Disneyland, snacks are part of the experience – specifically, Mickey Mouse-shaped snacks. From waffles to ice cream bars to the much raved-about Mickey beignets, many foods found throughout the parks sport the unmistakable three-circle formation, making them all extremely photogenic. Perhaps the most Instagrammable is the latte art at Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company in Disney Springs, which can be customized with your chosen print of Mickey or any of your other favorite characters. They even offer the option to print a selfie!
Move over, mouth-watering pastry and gooey dripping cheese dishes, cocktails are having a moment too. Minneapolis’ Hell’s Kitchen offers a DIY meal-in-a-drink, called the Jacked Up Bloody Mary Bar, where you can topple specialty olives, cheeses, bacon, chicken wings, peppers, dozens of other garnishes and your choice of 242 types of hot sauce on top of your drink. Available on weekends, this hot spot even has Insta-friendly backdrops for some #foodintheair action.
The burger is a popular Instagammable food, partly because it’s an American favorite but also because you can stack it as high as possible with just about anything in between. Case in point: The Mission Impossible Burger at Safehouse, an espionage-themed bar and restaurant in Chicago’s River North neighborhood. Composed of 15 burger patties layered with cheddar, American and pepper jack cheeses, who wouldn’t want to show it off?
Who knew that frosé (frozen rosé) with candy could make for such a gorgeous still life? The view at NYC’s Skylark’s rooftop doesn’t hurt the shot, either. Rosé lovers can customize their favorite drink with unique toppings like gummy bears, edible flowers and miniature marshmallows. Photos of these pink creations get thousands of likes. Available seasonally.
It would be a crime not share this life-size Marie Antoniette-inspired cotton candy dessert on Instagram. Barton G. is known for its extravagant presentations. This 4-foot cotton candy pompadour atop a mannequin head is just one example of the impressive creations found at their Los Angeles and Miami Beach locations.
Do you share your food on social media? Tell us which instagrammable foods have gotten you the most likes in the comments below.
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The Northeast doesn’t go into hibernation in winter; it thrives in every season. If it’s not in your plans (or your budget) to fly off to a warmer destination this year, why not embrace the cold months with a winter road trip?
Whether it’s fun on the slopes or small town New England charm you’re looking for, the region is full of wintery things to do, with ample outdoor activities and year-round attractions.
You can live out all your your snow-covered, hot chocolate-fueled, après-ski vacation fantasies at these five winter road trip destinations.
The Green Mountains
It’s difficult to find a scene anywhere in Vermont that doesn’t look like it was lifted straight from a postcard. But if we had to pick one area to visit during the winter, it would be the Green Mountains.
The Green Mountains span the length of Vermont, running along its eastern edge. There are plenty of routes to travel but we highly recommend taking the Scenic Route 100 Byway. Not only does it provide picturesque views, it’s the main thoroughfare to many of Vermont’s best-known resort towns, including Killington and Stowe. If you choose to travel the length of the byway, you’ll likely want to stop over at some of these destinations. Route 100 is nearly 150 miles long, after all. Here, you’ll find great food and drink, handmade arts and furniture and some of the best skiing in the country.
And if you make it all the way to Waterbury, make sure to schedule a trip to the Ben and Jerry’s factory.
Check out these hotels near all the skiing and snowboarding action.
Lake Placid
This small village nestled among the Adirondack Mountains in northern New York is, of course, most famous for being the host city of the 1980 winter Olympics. If you’re a history buff, sports fan or just an outdoor enthusiast, a winter road trip to this town is a must.
Many of the sites that hosted events four decades ago are open to the public. You can ice skate at the same arena that hosted the “Miracle On Ice” game, ski down Whiteface Mountain and, if you’re brave enough, even take a trip down the state-of-the-art combined skeleton and bobsled track.
But Lake Placid is more than just a one-trick pony. The town is also well known for its restaurants featuring locally sourced ingredients and its host of outlets selling unique arts, crafts and keepsakes.
Technically, the Hudson Valley is just north of Manhattan. Yet, once you’re there, you’ll feel 1,000 miles away from the hustle and bustle of New York City. This 150-mile valley along the Hudson River has been designated a National Heritage Area. It perfectly combines history, culture and recreation.
Some highlights include the Dia: Beacon art museum, as well as a visit to the town of Sleepy Hollow and author Washington Irving’s estate Sunnyside. Farther north, in the town of Poughkeepsie, is Walkway Over the Hudson. This pedestrian bridge offers walkers, hikers and bicyclists unparalleled views of the river. At 1.28 miles long, it is the longest such elevated bridge in the world. For those who simply want to kick back and enjoy their trip, the area is dotted with numerous wineries, distilleries, cideries and breweries.
The mountain chain known as the Green Mountains goes by a different name when it crosses the Massachusetts state line: the Berkshires.
The drive alone is worth the trip to the Berkshires. Crisscrossing the forest-lined rolling hills is a sightseer’s dream. While an autumn trip through the region is a feast for the eyes, the Berkshires may be at its best during the winter. Outdoor enthusiasts flock to the rolling hills for ample opportunities at skiing and snowmobiling. Popular hiking locations include Mount Greylock, the highest point in the state, and along the Appalachian Trail.
But those who want to get out of the cold are just as likely to enjoy western Massachusetts, as the Berkshires are one of the Northeast’s great cultural hubs. The area is home to several art museums, including the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art and the Norman Rockwell Museum.
These hotels are close to all of the Berkshires’ wonderful cultural attractions.
Cape Cod
While it’s a common thought to head to “winter” destinations during the cold months, visiting an area during its off-season allows you to fully enjoy everything it has to offer minus the crowds and exorbitant price tags. Cape Cod is known as a summer hotspot, but the miles of beaches and New England charm that define the area are still there after the temperatures drop. There’s something different, but equally enjoyable about a walk along a snow-covered beach.
Since you’ll likely find discounted hotel rates, you can even upgrade your accommodations. Find an ocean cottage, warm up next to the fireside and enjoy everything that is winter in the Northeast.
Take advantage of off-season rates at these Cape Cod hotels.
For some, “it’s the most wonderful time of the year” for reasons worth singing about. For others, winter in the Northeast hits a sour note. Snow, ice and freezing temperatures are more than just uncomfortable, they come with responsibilities like shoveling, salting, and in some cases, snowplowing.
Home and small business owners are responsible for keeping their property well-maintained after a snowstorm or risk liabilities such as slips, falls and other damages. And operating a snowplow can be a risk in and of itself.
So, whether you operate a snowplow as a part-time winter gig or are simply a bystander watching the plow rumble by from the warmth of your home or office, it’s helpful to know about snowplowing risks and how your insurance can protect you.
Snowplows are huge, heavy pieces of equipment that have the ability to wreck anything in their path – that includes your mailbox, curbs, car, lawn and sprinkler heads.
To prevent anything other than snow from getting plowed on your property, pull your car as far into your driveway as possible and off the apron and put tall, brightly colored stakes to indicate where sprinkler heads, curbs and other buried items are located.
Are You Covered?
In most cases your homeowners policy will cover damage caused by a plow. But if your insurance agent reviews your claim and determines that it could have easily been prevented – like if your car was parked in the street at a time when it shouldn’t have been, or your mailbox was less than the U.S. Postal Service-recommended 6”-8” from the curb – you’re on your own.
Depending on what was a damaged, you may also want to reach out to your city or town, which sometimes have insurance policies to protect property they may own, like sidewalks and curbs.
Snowplowing Risks for Small Businesses
For small businesses, snowplowing risks vary as each state, municipality and carrier handles snow removal slightly differently.
Are You Covered?
Landscapers, contractors, property managers, retail business owners, building lessors and dining establishments are some of the types of businesses that need to think about snowplowing coverage.
What if you attach a plow to your personal truck to clear snow for yourself and neighbors? Whether or not you charge for the service, you do not necessarily need a business auto liability policy. Your personal auto policy will likely still cover you. If you are using a private car less than 10 thousand pounds to plow for other businesses, your agent may recommend adding an endorsement to your auto policy for a small premium that would specify that the vehicle is used for business part-time.
If you plow for a town or business that requires additional insurance, then you will need a business auto liability policy. But not to worry, your premium should not increase by much if at all, as insurance companies recognize that snowplowing is a limited-time operation.
A business auto policy should provide physical damage coverage for the plow itself as long as the vehicle it is attached to also has physical damage coverage. However, it will not cover any slips, falls or other injuries that happen after you have finished plowing. You would need separate general liability coverage for that.
For any questions about snowplowing risks and small business insurance, schedule an appointment with the AAA Insurance commercial team.
Do you plow for neighbors or as a side business in the winter? Tell us in the comments.
A smaller resort doesn’t mean a lesser experience at these intimate hotels. For vacationers who prefer a more secluded scene for their next adventure, here are seven boutique properties in seven top-tier destinations. Although the guest roster may be small, the list of perks is anything but.
Zoëtry Villa Rolandi Isla Mujeres Cancun
Mexico
Pick up the art of life at this holistic retreat just a 25-minute boat ride from Cancun. Your first lesson: checking in to a private suite overlooking the ocean. Make a study of the natural beauty of Isla Mujeres as you try out Bvlgari bath amenities in the hot tub or savor a cup of coffee in your sitting area. Look for more luxury at the spa … like a complimentary 20-minute thalassotherapy (sea water therapy). Classes in meditation and cooking, free green fees at the Greg Norman-designed Playa Mujeres Golf Club and gourmet dining cinch your mastery in fine living.
Live Aqua Private Residences Los Cabos
Mexico
Experience a new take on the Live Aqua brand from Los Cabos’ largest accommodations. Starting at a spacious 953 feet, the one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom residences each come outfitted with a washer and dryer, a terrace facing the sea, desert or The Ocean Golf Course, and full kitchen. Send a grocery list to the concierge to have the pantry pre-stocked for your arrival and consider booking a chef to transform your favorite ingredients. For true “wine therapy,” however, opt for a treatment at SOMMA Wine Spa, Mexico’s only spa to incorporate wine.
An adults-only resort set on the beach inside the exclusive Cap Cana community, this 2021 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice represents the best of Palladium Hotels & Resorts. Every suite offers Infinite Indulgence benefits like 24-hour butler and room services and your choice of pool, marina or ocean views. Find the latter in spades at the Ibiza-inspired beach club, but don’t miss out on exploring Cap Cana. Punta Espada Golf Club, designed by Jack Nicklaus, was rated the top course in the Caribbean and Mexico by Golfweek, and Scape Park is one of the destination’s best adventure centers.
Zoëtry Montego Bay Jamaica
Jamaica
Imbibing Zoëtry’s trademark approach to wellness with Jamaican touches, here guests can fully appreciate the lush beauty of the Rose Hall neighborhood. Suites offer floor-to-ceiling glass doors leading to private terraces overlooking tropical gardens or the Caribbean Sea. Health-conscious dishes highlight locally grown ingredients at three restaurants. Beachfront Jerky Jo’s provides an authentic jerk experience. Included kayaking, paddleboarding and guided snorkeling liven up mornings, while traditional afternoon tea makes for an elegant break before a bracelet-making or cooking lesson.
Regency on Beachwalk Waikiki by Outrigger
Hawaii
A quick walk from the beach, restaurants and shopping – including the International Market Place – it’s the location that sets this condominium resort apart. Combining Outrigger’s laid-back Hawaiian style with the conveniences of home, families, friends and travelers on a budget can have the flexibility to dine in or out, thanks to the full kitchen. Hang out on the lanai to enjoy the AC and some downtime while waiting for the laundry to dry. Before heading out to the Beach Walk, try the award-winning pork cutlets at Tonkatsu Ginza Bairin on the ground floor, the chain’s only outlet outside of East Asia.
Named by CNN Travel as one of the seven hotels in the world with the best views, The Springs sits 1,000 feet above Arenal Valley, tucked away among the hot springs and flowering trees. Outdoor pursuits are as robust as the panoramas, with hiking trails, tubing, horseback rides and rock climbing via the Club Rio Adventure Center, plus a water slide, mini golf course and animal sanctuary to round out the options. Strike a more leisurely chord at the Sanctuary Spa, where invigorating treatments incorporate volcanic clay harvested from the property’s springs. Afterward, sample fusion cuisine that elevates local flavors at award-winning chef José Rojas’s Las Ventanas restaurant (reservation required).
Mystique St. Lucia by Royalton
St. Lucia
Ideal for travelers who need an extra-big dose of R&R, this venture from Royalton Resorts knows the value of quiet time, keeping its focus on the natural glamour of Rodney Bay. Unwinding by the waves is guests’ favorite pastime; Serenity Spa helps maintain the tranquil vibes. For a change of pace, set out to discover nearby Gros Islet. Let loose during the weekly street party, or join the Carnival-esque fish fry in Anse La Raye. Those who prefer to take advantage of the property’s all-inclusive plan can enjoy their own version sans cost; an on-site fish and chips stand serves up local eats right on the beach.
Winter is the harshest of seasons, at least when it comes to the weather. And that excess strain extends to our cars. Frigid temperatures, snow, ice and freezing rain can take quite a toll on vehicles. One of the most prominent effects cold weather has on cars is a drop in fuel economy. Simply put, a drop in temperature goes hand-in-hand with a drop in miles-per-gallon.
There’s a host of reasons why fuel economy is worse in winter, as well as a number of steps drivers can take to help mitigate this annual problem.
Why Fuel Economy Is Lower in Winter
Mechanical Factors
As temperature decreases, density increases. This means the air in your car tires contracts in cold weather, leaving you with less tire pressure. Under-inflated tires have increased rolling resistance.
Internal combustion engines operate most efficiently at high temperatures. During the winter, it takes longer for an engine to reach its ideal temperature. This drop in efficiency is most prevalent on shorter trips, since the car spends a greater percentage of driving time in sub-optimal temperature.
In the winter, drivers often turn their engines on prior to driving to warm up their cars. While idling like this, a vehicle gets 0 miles-per-gallon.
Motor oil and other driveline fluids become thicker in cold weather, resulting in increased friction. This causes the engine to work harder and use more fuel.
Just like engines, car batteries are less efficient in colder temperatures. They are also taxed more from the increased energy usage of heaters, defrosters, etc. As a result, the alternator must work harder during the winter to keep the battery charged. To meet this demand, it takes more energy from the engine.
The batteries in electric vehicles are also negatively impacted by cold weather, resulting in decreased driving range. One study done by AAA found a 12% decrease in range when the outside temperature reached 20°F. When the heating system was in use, however, driving range suffered a 41% drop.
As part of the Clean Air Act, oil refineries are required to make summer and winter blends of gas. Gasoline needs to be able to evaporate for the engine to work, a much taller task in the winter. To help fuel evaporate in freezing temperature, additives such as butane are added to winter blends. Butane and other additives found in winter blends have marginally less energy than those found in summer blends. A study by the EPA found Environmental Protection Agency found that winter gasoline contains 1.7% less energy.
Using four-wheel drive, a popular option when driving on rough terrain, uses more fuel, thus dropping fuel efficiency.
Exterior Factors
The air outside the vehicle has a negative effect on its efficiency. Because the cold air is denser, cars traveling in the winter are subjected to an increase in aerodynamic drag, particularly at elevated speeds.
Tires traveling over icy and snowy roads will have less of a grip on the road, resulting in wasted energy wasting energy.
All of these factors combined can result is a 10-15 percent drop in miles per gallon compared to warmer weather.
How to Improve Fuel Economy in the Winter
When you’re surrounded by cold weather for months at a time, it’s impossible to completely ward of its effect on fuel efficiency. However, there are a number of simple steps that, when combined, could add a notable boost to your miles per gallon.
Park your car in a warmer place: Preventing the vehicle from getting too cold will go a long way in improving fuel efficiency.
Combine trips: An engine is least efficient when it’s cold. During short trips, it never has time to reach optimal temperature.
Don’t idle: A car engine will warm up faster when the vehicle is moving. The engine will warm up faster being driven, which will allow the heat to turn on sooner, decreasing fuel costs, and reducing emissions.
Be prudent with warming features: Seat warmers, steering wheel warmers, and other heating devices use up energy. Only use them when necessary.
Check tire pressure: If you follow every other fuel economy tip but have under-inflated tires, you’ll never reach optimal efficiency.
Use the correct type of motor oil: Check your owner’s manual for the recommended winter oil.
Remove exterior car accessories: Roof racks, cargo carriers, even flags increase wind resistance and slow you down.
Don’t spend much time warming up your vehicle: Cars don’t need to be warmed up on very cold days. Getting seated, fastening your seat belt fasten, and setting the climate control and radio is about all the warm up your car needs. It’s best to drive nice and easy until the car comes up to temperature. This speeds the warming process but also helps minimize wear on the entire vehicle.
Find the average price of gas in your neck of the woods. Then,learn about more gas-saving tips here.
Sandwiched between Italy, France, Germany, Austria and Liechtenstein, Switzerland often ranks on the top of sustainable living indexes, with high volumes of recycling, organic produce and incredibly clean air. And the country is on its way to become net-zero by 2050.
Switzerland even has its own philosophy about traveling green – “Swisstainable.” This ethos is all about relaxing in nature, experiencing authentic local culture, eating regional ingredients and staying longer and delving deeper.
Instead of a hectic vacation where you’re trying to visit five cities in a week, commit to one or two of Switzerland’s 26 cantons and discover Alpine life.
Best Times to Travel to Switzerland
While there’s no denying Switzerland’s incredible skiing and snowboarding season, which often runs from November to April, spring and summer are also incredible in the Alpine mountains.
Whether in Geneva, Zurich or Lausanne, you’ll find carpets of flowers, well-marked hiking and comfortable temperatures perfect for city exploring. Visiting in summer also means you’ll be steering clear of overtourism.
How to Get Around
You can’t go wrong traveling by rail in Switzerland. This small country is well connected in every direction with trains from across Europe and between every city and town with over 3,000 kms of tracks. It’s a reliable and cost-effective way to get around, with week and month passes for adults and families.
Switzerland offers some of the most incredible train journeys in the world, like heading up to St. Moritz in the winter on a glass-topped train.
All year-round, visitors can also make use of the country’s huge cable car network across the many mountain peaks. Don’t miss the double decker cable car at Alp Trida Sattel which takes you 2,550 meters above sea level where you can look out over France, Germany and Austria.
Ethical Activities
Despite being landlocked in the center of Europe, Switzerland is home to 1,500 lakes and 48 mountains over 4,000 meters high. With an abundance of opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, trail running, skiing and snowboarding, Switzerland is a haven for adventurous and active visitors. It boasts some of the best trails and runs in Europe (65,000 kilometers of them!)
Switzerland is also home to 19 national parks, which make up over an eighth of all the country’s land, so being outside in nature is a national obsession. But there are other unique activities on offer as well.
You can stroll a treetop path in St. Gallen, take a stand-up paddleboard tour of Zurich, or walk and taste the terraced medieval vineyards at Lavaux. Visit the non-profit Arosa Bear Sanctuary in Arosa where rescued bears are looked after (and you arrive by cable car). Or learn alongside your kids about primeval forests at Switzerland’s first UNESCO biosphere park at Entlebuch, with sensory trails, wildlife spotting and other fun family activities.
In terms of the most sustainable cities, all of Switzerland’s cities are interwoven with interesting green spaces, from parks to forests, to meadows. Stroll the park-backed Ouchy promenade in Lausanne or bike safely around the car-free center of St. Gallen, then top off the afternoon with a lake swim.
Sustainable Hotels
Whether you want to stay in an Alpine lodge or a five-star hotel, Switzerland has sustainable options for every type of vacation.
At the edge of the atmospheric Arosa forest, the Valsana Hotel Arosa is a climate neutral option with wood fires and rustic wooden balconies. Switch off completely in a traditional Alpine hut; there are 200 across the mountain slopes.
Responsible travelers will also appreciate CERVO Mountain Resort nestled in the car-free town of Zermatt. Almost 95% of CERVO’s energy is covered by geothermal energy. Additionally, all CERVO’s products, from the kitchen to the rooms, are sourced locally or from sustainable companies.
Switzerland is also home to several famous wellness hotels which mix spas, sauna, stunning grounds and healthy food. The wellness destination of Leukerbad has been attracting people to its healing waters since the Roman era.
What to Eat
Thanks to Switzerland’s enormous variety of landscapes, lakes and rivers, the tiny country packs a punch when it comes to gastronomy, with a huge emphasis on seasonal, local and organic food.
Over 16% of farmland here is organically managed. In the autumn, morels and mushrooms take center stage, while in winter it’s got to be fondue and raclette cheese.
Head to the medieval town of Gruyere to see how the famous cheese is made, tour Basel for the best street food or order the national dish, oozy-melty, potato-based tartiflette.
Author Bio: 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, Georgina Wilson-Powell.
A bagel may just be the simplest indulgence. Perhaps you take it with a cream cheese schmear or loaded with lox, capers and red onion. Either way, its chewiness on the inside and delicate crispness on the outside is pure bread heaven. These top bagel shops combine this deliciousness with a dollop of history and community, for your next feel-good meal.
The savory counterpart to another regional favorite –doughnuts– bagels reign supreme in the Northeast.
Sugar & Olives makes its signature bagels with its own rye flour-based sourdough starter that bubbles with active yeast as it rises on the counter during production. This natural leavening takes four days, creating nine fresh varieties. Pumpernickel caraway everything and cinnamon raisin are the newest flavors. Or try gluten-free with hot honey pistachio cream cheese for your morning kickstart.
Since 1994, Upper Crust has kettle boiled and hearth baked more than 18 varieties of 5-ounce “bull style” bagels fresh daily, including weekly specialty bagels like apple walnut, pesto and sun-dried tomato. No matter how you slice it, its Beach Club sandwich makes a great lunch with turkey or roast beef, or try The Vegg, featuring a veggie burger with lettuce, tomato and Bermuda onion.
Do you like your bagel savory or sweet? This bagel shop makes both. Your little one might like peanut butter and jelly or Nutella on a plain bagel, while you might try something bolder, like the jalapeno cream cheese on a caraway bagel with notes of fennel. The egg and cheese breakfast sammy will satiate every taste bud. If you like it that much, take a dozen bagels with cream cheese to go.
The turkey club is a popular choice at Beyond Bagels, a small but friendly bagel shop in North Reading. Also try the Lox Supreme with scallion bacon cream cheese. A dozen freshly-baked bagel flavors are the tastiest backdrop for hearty additions like these that satisfy the hungriest appetite for breakfast or lunch. Don’t forget an espresso or chai. Cash only.
Start with Bagels n’ Cream’s famed egg bagel and you have nowhere to go but up. Hot out of the oven, it’s the perfect blank slate for the nearly 50 custom breakfast and lunch sandwiches served at this independent bakery. Pumpernickel rye is also a crowd pleaser, or try the biali to kick up the flavor profile. Fresh roasted coffee, as well as baklava for dessert, make this a one-stop shop. If you can’t make it in person, order online for delivery.
There’s just something about the Nova Scotia lox and cream cheese at Boonton Bagels that makes use smile with anticipation. Perhaps it’s because it crafts custom bagel sandwiches with the freshest ingredients. Try the Italian egg sandwich with peppers, tomatoes and potatoes, or any of its specialty sandwiches like the Michael Jordan (corned beef and pastrami with coleslaw and Russian Dressing) or the Jennifer Lopez (roast beef, lettuce, tomato and Russian dressing).
Serving traditional sourdough bagels and lox for more than 100 years, Russ & Daughters was founded by a Polish immigrant selling herring from barrels in 1908. His three daughters helped it grow to an appetizing store, selling the best bagels and their accompaniments. Now operated by fourth generation cousins, Russ & Daughters and its Orchard Street café remain must-visit foodie destinations. Try the Yum Kippered (baked salmon and cream cheese on a bagel) or the whitefish salad for Russ family recipes, and make sure you take some to go.
Since 1949, Goldberg’s has dominated New York’s bagel heritage, from Brooklyn and Queens to Long Island. Four generations later, its 14 flavors of freshly baked bagels include sesame, pumpernickel and egg everything, as well as 13 cream cheese varieties and add-ons like hash browns, tomato and lox. Its extensive menu includes a host of specialty breakfast and lunch sandwiches, so every picky eater will find something tempting to nosh.
Founded by a chemical engineer-turned baker, Rebelle Artisan Bagels hand rolls then cold ferments every bagel. They’re bathed in brewer’s grade malted barley, dipped in poppy seeds, sesame seeds or the house-blended everything mix, then baked on soaked cedar planks in a 24-hour process that elicits crispy yet chewy perfection. Try the house-made whitefish salad or house-cured lox on a pretzel bagel with Avi’s Pickles, then take home a signature pop tart and a half-dozen everything.
Rhode Island’s newest and most secret bagel shop doesn’t have its own storefront – yet. Jamo’s Bagels are boiled and baked New York-style at Foodworks Restaurant in Portsmouth, then sold at locations across Aquidneck Island on weekends, including Sweet Berry Farm in Middletown, and The Nitro Bar in Newport, which can craft your bagel into a mouthwatering egg sandwich. Make sure to pre-order your favorite jalapeno cheddar bagel or get it delivered before it sells out.
Did we forget your favorite bagel spot? Tell us about the best bagel shops near you in the comment below.
Shop our favorite winter essentials to keep you warm and cozy all season long.
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AAA Four and Five Diamond Designated restaurants Gracie’s and COAST are AAA Diamond Award recipients once again.
During a recent ceremony held in their honor, leaders from each restaurant discussed what’s helped them to become two of Rhode Island’s top dining establishments.
To become a AAA Diamond property, rigorous inspections are conducted by trained experts for specific, objective criteria, including experience, service and cleanliness. A Four Diamond property is considered distinctive fine dining that is well-serviced amid an upscale ambiance, while a Five Diamond Designation is considered world-class luxury where the amenities are an indulgence for once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
An upscale bistro located in Downtown Providence, Gracie’s received its 11th consecutive AAA Four Diamond Award this year. It’s also the only restaurant to earn the recognition in all of Providence County. COAST, located within the Ocean House hotel in Westerly – a Five Diamond Property in its own right – has earned its Five Diamond Designation four years in a row.
After receiving their awards a the AAA-hosted event, Gracie’s owner Ellen Slattery and Scott Pinocci, director of restaurants for Ocean House, shared their wealth of industry experience and tips in an interactive question and answer session for aspiring culinary and hospitality professionals. Questions ranged from, “What was your career trajectory?” to “What kind of music do you listen to while you cook?” (Classical for Slattery and blues, hip-hop and jazz for Pinocci.)
When asked to discuss their leadership style, Pinocci remarked, “As a leader, you want to be able to see everyone for the individual that they are and really make sure you’re giving everyone the opportunities and the tools that they need to grow.” Slattery agreed, saying “when you can, individualize how you’re guiding someone based off what their strengths are, not what your strengths are.”
Looking back on her career, Slattery wished she had given herself more time. “At 27, I really had a lot of ambition, and I didn’t think that I could fail. I would say, looking back, that I wish I had developed more of a plan and taken business classes. I wish I had developed more before I put everything in. I learned the hard way!”
As far as where he sees the next wave of culinary trends going, Pinocci encourages those looking to get into the hospitality industry to not follow trends and forge their own path. “Don’t just copy and paste things that you see on Instagram. All of these cool ideas only fit a certain place. Understand your community and what works there first,” he said. “You’re the next generation of chefs and restaurateurs. You are the benchmark. You are the needle. Wherever you take this is where it goes. It’s not preset. And you have all the opportunity to do it.”
Get recipes from AAA Diamond Designated restaurants.
Are you hosting a party this holiday season? From Christmas family get-togethers to New Year’s Eve bashes, we’ve got you covered.
Choose a Theme
Theme parties are the way to go! A good theme adds a little bit of magic to any party – people love to dress up, talk about each other’s outfits (or costumes), take photos together and marvel at the themed décor. It’s also an easy way for your guests to know what they should be wearing, so no one feels too dressed up or dressed down. They don’t have to be too complicated, either. Even a simple theme can tie the whole party together.
Here are some holiday themes your guests will love:
Ugly Christmas Sweaters: Wear an ugly Christmas or holiday sweater to the party.
Holiday Character Costume Party: Dress as your favorite holiday character, from Rudolph to Krampus.
Pajama Party: Wear your best holiday pajamas.
Après-Ski: Dress like you’ve just come off the ski slopes.
Silver and Gold: A simple color theme like this is perfect for a New Year’s Eve party.
Best of the Year Party: If you have a creative group of guests for your New Year’s Eve party, ask them to dress as something that happened in the news or pop culture that year.
Holiday Sparkle: Glitter and sparkles are super easy to come by, which makes this a fast and easy theme for both costumes and decorations.
Know Your Audience
If you’re having family over for the holidays, it’s always nice to sit down to a big dinner together. But if it’s more of a friend hang, a formal, sit-down dinner in the dining room isn’t always the way to go. Try mixing things up with a buffet-style dinner and a few small tables, or serve a bunch of different small plates instead so that people can float around and mingle with different groups.
Awesome Appetizers
No matter what kind of party you’re having, you need appetizers. Nothing makes guests happier than some good food they can snack on throughout the event. You could go with beloved classics like a charcuterie board, chips and dip or pigs in the blanket, or you could use the opportunity to whip up some new apps. You could try making bacon-wrapped scallops, baked brie with almonds or even freestyle a slab pie. Yum!
Delightful Drinks
What’s a party without some delicious cocktails and mocktails?
The deep, maroon color of this pomegranate mocktail is perfect for a holiday party. With lemon juice, sugar syrup and pomegranate juice, it’s a surefire crowd pleaser.
This festive recipe for cranberry mimosas includes fresh cranberries, cranberry juice, champagne and is garnished with a sprig of fresh rosemary.
Want something warm for these cold winter nights? Try this blackberry mulled wine, which includes red wine, apple cider, brandy, blackberries, cinnamon sticks and more. Serve in a mug to make it extra cozy.
Delicious Desserts
There’s no better time for something sweet than the holiday season, so make sure you have some desserts ready for your guests. A cute, seasonal way to serve dessert is to make a chocolate bar – a station just for serving goodies from hot chocolate to chocolate mousse.
There’s also the time-honored tradition of the cookie swap, where you ask your guests to bring their own cookies and everyone gets some samples of each. If you’re planning on doing a cookie swap, make sure you provide seasonal cookie tins or boxes so your guests can take some cookies home with them.
Delegate Your Duties
If you usually get a little overwhelmed with party planning, opt for parties where you don’t have to do everything yourself. A wise host knows when to delegate some of their duties to friends and family members. Good parties happen when everyone works together.
When everyone brings a dish, a drink or a dessert, it’s a whole lot easier to get the party started. You could even ask your guests to do something like contribute songs to a holiday playlist beforehand, so you can hear everyone’s holiday favorites throughout the night.
Need some extra help with the food? HelloFresh offers delicious holiday specials for just this occasion. Try their holiday feast bundle, which includes all the ingredients for a prime rib feast, their holiday cheese and charcuterie board or their happy holidays dessert board for a sweet treat. With HelloFresh, you can get ingredients and step-by-step recipes delivered straight to your door. Plus, you can get 65% off and free shipping on your first box, plus 15% off each delivery for one year.This exclusive offer is valid through Dec. 25, 2022.
Are you hosting a party or a family get-together this holiday season? Tell us about it in the comments below!
From stylish Scandinavian hubs to the cobbled streets of Slovenia, book one of these green destinations and discover pioneering culture, food, transportation and more.
Sustainable travel comes in many forms, from choosing a lower carbon flight or carbon offsetting, to opting for a travel destination that doesn’t suffer from overtourism (when too many tourists overwhelm local infrastructure and make it difficult for residents to live a normal life).
For your next European vacation, you can spend your time and money in a way that can have a positive impact on the planet. Instead of going all out in Paris or Amsterdam, consider adding one of these five sustainable cities to your itinerary.
While visiting these destinations, support their efforts to be more earth friendly by using only public transport, booking locally run tours and using your dollars to do good.
For Foodies: Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen (pictured above) is famous among European capitals for good reason. It tops sustainability lists thanks to its strong work-life balance and incredible seasonal food.
For a delicious, eco-friendly trip to Copenhagen, dive into the organic New Nordic food scene, from affordable organic options at Reffen street market to Green Michelin-starred Terra.
Spend time in the city’s 12 parks and don’t miss swimming in the harbor – the water’s lovely and clean. Copenhagen is one of the world’s best cities to explore by bikes, so be brave and get on two wheels!
Eco luxury has a new home in Copenhagen at the Bali-inspired Guldsmeden Manon Les Suites, a five-star hotel with a courtyard pool surrounded by lush green walls.
For History Lovers: Ljubljana, Slovenia
Go off the beaten track to Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana. Thanks to its slow tourism approach, this charmingly compact capital is packed with history but plenty of green space, too. A former European Green Capital, Ljubljana’s cobbled city center is car free, while forests and parks like Tivoli offer visitors hiking within the city limits.
Use the city’s river and head out for a standup paddleboarding tour under its beautiful bridges, which date back centuries, or hop on an electric train for a city-wide tour. Much of Ljubljana was landscaped for people to enjoy on foot, with stunning riverbanks and pretty views woven throughout the city.
Ljubljana is a diamond in the rough for anyone who wants to explore beyond France, Spain and Germany. Book a room at B&B Hotel Ljubljana Park, a four-star hotel that maintains beehives on its roof.
For Nature Lovers: Oslo, Norway
Norway’s capital is one of the five most sustainable cities in the world – and it aims to be a world leader in carbon neutrality.
If you’re looking for a place that’s green and clean and where you can spend a lot of time outside, Oslo fits the bill. Over half the city is made up of parks and forest and it’s easy to explore via bikes, e-bikes and electric ferries. And Oslo is strung across 40 islands, meaning you’re never far from pristine water to swim, sail or just enjoy strolling beside.
Nature lovers will appreciate the easy-access hiking routes surrounding the city. Try Maridalsvannet for dense forest at the water’s edge.
Thon Hotel Terminus is an eco-friendly, colorful hotel close to the train station that serves up incredible Norwegian breakfasts. For organic and locally grown food, book the local institution Cafe Elias or Nordvegan for vegan dishes by Michelin-starred chef Reuben Waller.
For Connected Visitors: Tallinn, Estonia
Crowned the European Green Capital for 2023, Estonia’s capital Tallinn is one of the most exciting and vibrant cities for a vacation. Sandwiched between Latvia and Lithuania to the south and Finland over the water to the north, Tallinn sits on the edge of the Gulf of Finland and makes the most of its location, with surfing, swimming and sailing on offer.
While its architecture is charmingly medieval, Tallinn has a modern approach to urban living, introducing free city-wide Wi-Fi, digital nomad visas and paper-free museum and travel tickets.
Check out the Estonian Open Air Museum to learn more about how people lived in the past (aka, a more sustainable way), explore the entire seaside city on foot (because it’s that small) or head to the Telliskivi Creative City, a reclaimed factory which houses artists, shops and restaurants.
For Families: Zurich, Switzerland
Zurich often appears on the most sustainable indexes and it’s no surprise. It is far more than a financial center, it’s a shining example of what cities can be – sustainable, green and charming. Spend an afternoon by the lake; the city has lidos galore, islands to explore and cruises and kayaks to hire. Or dive down ancient streets in the Old Town, stopping for insanely good hot chocolate at Confiserie Sprüngli.
Zurich’s cuisine is not all cheese and meat either, the city is home to the world’s oldest vegetarian restaurant Haus Hiltl and The Artisan, which grows its ingredients in a community garden. Stay at the Widder Hotel for Swiss sustainable luxury.
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, Georgina Wilson-Powell.
Of all the food experiences of my life, there are perhaps no fonder memories than those of hot summer nights, eating in the backyard with my sleeves rolled up to my elbows, fingers coated in sweet and sticky barbecue sauce, my teeth picking the tender meat from a rib bone.
Finding good barbecue near you is not always easy in the Northeast, but lucky for us, plenty of Southern expats have migrated here, bringing along their regional barbecue traditions. You just need to know where to look.
These are some of the most popular barbecue styles in the country and my picks for the best local barbecue restaurants in the Northeast to try them.
Barbecue Pride and Prejudice
The roots of barbecue run deep into human history. The act of cooking meat over an open flame has existed for at least 700,000 years. Its most modern form, of which American barbecue fans are most familiar, is cooking over a pit or grill, which was adapted from the cooking methods of the indigenous Taino in the Caribbean.
Barbecue continues to feature heavily in practically every culture, from Brazil to Afghanistan to Korea. Whether it’s simply the delicious flavors of smoked and grilled meats or some primordial remembrance of humankind’s past hard-wired into our genetics, Americans are particularly crazy about barbecue. We’re also territorial about our favorite regional barbecue varieties.
In the United States, local barbecue is something to be proud of and something to argue over, like the athletic prowess of your hometown sports teams. “The Big Four” of barbecue styles are Carolina, Kansas City, Memphis and Texas. But despite the prevalence of these places in our collective knowledge of barbecue, many others have incredibly delicious variations, such as Kentucky, Alabama, California and Hawaii.
What you are unlikely to hear about is barbecue that originated in the Northeast, as barbecue has been heavily influenced by West African and Caribbean cultures that were uprooted and taken to the Southern states from the time of colonization onward.
Where to Find Good Barbecue Near You
Alabama-Style Barbecue
Alabama is not often thought of as one of the core barbecue states in the union, but it has been steadily growing among the ranks of food journalists, road-trippers and barbecue lovers.
Alabama barbecue is best-known for its white barbecue sauce, composed of mayonnaise, vinegar, salt and black pepper. The creation of white barbecue sauce is attributed to pitmaster Bob Gibson of Decatur, Ala., who smoked pork and chicken in hickory barbecue pits for hungry restaurant goers.
Where to Try It in the Northeast
Perhaps blasphemous to natives of Buffalo, N.Y., white sauce barbecue chicken wings are tangy, slightly sweet, smokey and delicious. To sample, head to Blue Smoke on the southern end of Manhattan. Executive Chef and Pitmaster Eric Lunsford moved between Georgia, Texas and Mississippi in his younger years – three states with formidable barbecue cultures – and his culinary repertoire displays a diverse knowledge of regional flavors and ingredients.
Pig Beach, with locations in Long Island City, Queens and Gowanus, Brooklyn, N.Y., offers an equally delicious rendition of Alabama wings for barbecue lovers in the outer boroughs. And for those traveling far north of New York, Bluebird Barbecue in Burlington, Vt., has slow-smoked, quick-fried chicken wings with Alabama white sauce.
Carolina-Style Barbecue
My first taste of Carolina barbecue floored me. I sat at an outdoor picnic table at Buxton Hall Bar-B-Cue in Asheville, N.C., in a blissed-out state from a whole-hog pulled-pork meal. The unique, tangy flavor of vinegar-based barbecue sauce added a flavorful kick to the meal, which came with coleslaw and hush puppies – fried balls of cornmeal that are fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside.
Nick Barr, Buxton Hall’s culinary director, explained to me that Carolina barbecue is mostly recognized by Eastern Carolina-style whole-hog barbecue. Early Carolina settlers kept pigs as a necessity and the animals have remained the backbone of Eastern Carolina ever since.
Whole hogs are cooked in block pits using only coal from hardwoods, which are shoveled from the bottom of a burn barrel loaded with oak or hickory wood. The hog is mopped with a pepper vinegar sauce while it cooks, imparting the distinct flavor that helps to characterize Eastern Carolina-style barbecue.
Where to Try It in the Northeast
You can recreate my Buxton Hall meal at Prohibition Pig in Waterbury, Vt., when you order the whole hog from the smoked meats portion of the menu. It is a half-pound of Eastern North Carolina-style smoked pork. Get it with hush puppies and you will arrive at the pearly gates of barbecue heaven.
South Carolina has its own style of barbecue sauce. While a vinegar and pepper barbecue sauce is also popular in the region, it is the mustard-based barbecue sauce that makes South Carolina barbecue stand out. For a taste, I recommend trying the Carolina mustard sauce chicken wings at Theodore’s Booze, Blues and BBQ in Springfield, Mass.
John Brown BBQ (Photo: Tim Vetter)
Kansas City-StyleBarbecue
Choice cuts for Kansas City barbecue are brisket and ribs, dry rubbed and slow cooked, usually with hickory wood chips to give its signature smoky flavor. It’s also identified by having a thicker, sweeter, tomato or molasses-based barbecue sauce.
Henry Perry is lovingly remembered as the father of Kansas City barbecue. Originally from Memphis, Tenn., Perry moved to Kansas City, Mo., creating his own blend of flavors for his barbecued meats that borrowed from the Memphis style but created something new. He began his career as a pitmaster in 1908 and became especially well-known for feeding over 1,000 city residents for free on July 3, 1920, now officially “Henry Perry Day” in Kansas City.
Where to Try It in the Northeast
For some of the best Kansas City barbecue in the Northeast, head to John Brown BBQ in Long Island City, Queens. For a true experience, order the ribs and brisket, but also seriously consider getting the smoked pastrami, which rivals some of New York’s best delicatessens. John Brown’s burnt ends are also among the best I’ve ever tasted, crispy and charred on the outside with a moist, tender center.
St. Louis-Style Barbecue
Missouri is famous for two types of barbecue, and in St. Louis it’s all about the ribs. Both the cut of meat and the flavor of the sauce are particular to St. Louis-style ribs. The ribs come from the belly of the hog after the belly has been removed; the breastbone is removed, and the ribs are stripped of cartilage and connective tissue, leaving a fattier, meatier rib than other variations.
St. Louis barbecue sauce is thinner than Kansas City’s, and it is sweet and tangy with the inclusion of vinegar. The ribs are grilled before adding sauce.
Where to Try It in the Northeast
For the good stuff, head to Zach and Lou’s Barbeque in Torrington, Conn.. They close for the winter but open their doors again in March. For those headed toward Maine, try Elsmere BBQ and Wood Grill for a full rack of St. Louis-style smoked and grilled ribs.
Memphis-StyleBarbecue
My first Memphis barbecue experience was at Central BBQ’s Poplar Avenue location in the Home of the Blues. Like a kid in a candy shop, I was insatiable as I attempted to eat everything in sight: ribs, pulled pork, greens, homemade pork rinds, slaw … nothing on the menu was safe from my hunger.
The distinctive flavor of Memphis barbecue comes from the spice rub, which can either be a dry rub that coats the meat prior to cooking or a wet rub that is brushed on the meat before, during and after cooking. Memphis rubs start with salt, pepper and brown sugar, and can include upward of 30 additional spices and flavors, depending on the pitmaster cooking the meat. Even fans of dry-rubbed ribs and pulled pork are known to keep a cup of Memphis barbecue sauce nearby. The thin, tomato and vinegar-based sauce is delicious whether you’re adding it to chicken, pork or beef.
Where to Try It in the Northeast
Often, Memphis-style barbecue is found in the form of pork ribs in the North. Smokin’ J’s Memphis BBQ is Marlboro, Vt., is your go-to for Memphis ribs, smoked slowly over hickory fire.
For the grill masters looking to try their hand at cooking Memphis barbecue at home, Memphis King in Schenectady, N.Y., sells its own dry rubs. You can try each rub by ordering their addictive dry-rubbed french fries. Don’t come just for the rub though, the pulled pork, cooked low and slow in the Memphis tradition, shouldn’t be missed. Go early, as they’re likely to sell out daily.
Texas-Style Barbecue
Restaurants offering up Texas barbecue are usually serving Central Texas fare. Central Texas barbecue features low-and-slow-cooked meats that spend many hours in the pit, with few sauce options. Beef is favored over pork, and meats are cooked over a hardwood fire.
Brisket is king in Central Texas, with many barbecue joints serving two options: leaner or fattier and more moist options. The seasoning for Central Texas brisket is surprisingly simple, often just a salt and pepper rub, with any sauces and condiments served as a side option.
Due to its massive size and blending of cultures, it should come as no surprise that Texas has different regional varieties. Eastern Texas barbecue features more sauces, pork options and side dishes, while Southern Texas barbecue has a heavy Mexican influence, with barbacoa serving as a common beef option.
Where to Try It in the Northeast
Hoodoo Brown BBQ in Ridgefield, Conn., offers both Central and Eastern Texas options. The restaurant’s owner, Cody Sperry, found inspiration on a trip to Austin, Texas, and brought his newfound barbecue knowledge back to Connecticut to the benefit of all in the Nutmeg State. Find the Holy Texas Trinity on the menu for a sampling of Texas staples: brisket, pork ribs and a variety of sausages.
Pulled Fork BBQ in Long Valley, N.J., makes its Texas-style barbecue in an outdoor smoker where the meat cooks for 10 hours. When the day’s supply runs out, that’s it, no more. Pulled Fork’s dry-rubbed, chopped beef brisket is the star here. Many of the meat options can be ordered as a sandwich, allowing customers to customize their meal with sauces and condiments.
New York City barbecue joints like Fette Sau in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, make no qualms about blending Southern barbecue flavors and techniques with local ingredients and menu items that reflect the demographics of their patrons. Self-described as one part Central Texas and one part New York Deli, Fette Sau has offered up traditional Texas smoked beef brisket, light on sauce offerings, alongside beef tongue pastrami, an item more likely to be found in an old-school New York Jewish delicatessen.
Another favorite of New Yorkers is Hometown Bar B Que located in both Red Hook and Industry City, Brooklyn. Here you’ll find a hybrid menu that features Texas-style barbecue, alongside Vietnamese hot wings and Korean barbecue ribs.
Northeast cuisine has its stars: chowders, fresh oysters, lobsters, steamed clams and a host of other seafood dishes. But when the craving strikes, you want to know where to find good barbecue near you. Fortunately, we have chefs, cooks, and grill masters who have brought their knowledge of Southern barbecue to our neighborhoods.
If you love barbecue, check out this recipe for a classic side dish from Dinosaur Bar-B-Que.
Featured image: A sampling of barbecue offerings at Fette Sau in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.
Tucked away in the sunny haven that is Southern California sits a destination so chock full of things to do, places to see and food to eat, you won’t believe your eyes, or your taste buds. And no, it’s not Disneyland (although it’s close – about 5 miles away). It’s the city of Buena Park.
Many people may know Buena Park for its famed Knott’s Berry Farm, California’s first theme park, but the city holds even more fun and excitement for folks of all ages. With all there is to do, you may wonder how you can make the most of your time and money when visiting, but don’t sweat it.
Here are the best ways you can enjoy Buena Park whether you’re on a budget or ready to splurge.
The aforementioned Knott’s Berry Farm is one of the most popular attractions in Buena Park, and for good reason. The 160-acre theme park boasts world-class rides and attractions dispersed among four themed areas: Ghost Town, Fiesta Village, The Boardwalk and Camp Snoopy. If you’re looking to enjoy a day here with your family, saving on everyone’s entry ticket is easy; VisitBuenaPark.com is the best place to find discounted tickets for Knott’s Berry Farm all year long.
And during the hot summer season from May to September, there’s no better way to cool off than at Soak City. As the biggest water park in Orange County, at an enormous 15 acres, Soak City is the place to be for all kinds of water fun, including a lazy river, wave pool and lots of waterslides. As with Knott’s Berry Farm, you’ll be able to get the best savings if you purchase your discounted tickets through the Visit Buena Park website.
Splurge
Spending a day (or two) at Knott’s Berry Farm is always time well spent, but if you’re looking to upgrade your visit – whether for convenience, timesaving or simply to enhance your experience – there are many ways to do so. Skip to the front of any line with Fast Lane, a ticket add-on that allows priority boarding on select rides and the ability to ride as many times as you want. Other upgrade perks include FunPix, which gives you unlimited downloads of professional photos taken in the park and a selection of food and drink add-ons.
At Soak City, you can enhance your visit with a private cabana. No matter which of the three different cabana options you select, you get a spot big enough for eight people, a patio set, umbrella and lounge chairs.
Dining
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Have you ever eaten dinner while watching a medieval-themed tournament right in front of you? Well, at the Medieval Times Dinner Tournament you can! The famed two-hour immersive experience is the most popular in North America and features everything from horse riding to swordplay. While you enjoy a four-course meal, the action plays out before you solely for your entertainment. Pirates Dinner Adventure offers a similar interactive themed dinner show experience, filled with special effects, aerial artistry, stunts and lots of swashbuckling fun.
For something more casual, grab a bite at Porto’s Bakery & Cafe or slurp down some noodles at Ramen & Tsukemen TAO, granted the Michelin Guide distinction of Bib Gourmand for its great value.
To save on dining and more, be sure to check Visit Buena Park’s discounts and deals when planning your trip.
Splurge
Looking for some top-notch cuisine? Buena Park is packed with some of the best restaurants in the state, including the highly rated Argentine steakhouse Gaucho Grill and Gangnam House, a traditional Korean barbecue restaurant.
Activities
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There are quite a few activities to enjoy in and around Buena Park that capture the imagination and won’t break the bank. At the Buena Park Historical District, you can enjoy free tours of a selection of historical homes like Whitaker-Jaynes House and the Bacon House. There’s also the Clark Interpretive Center inside Ralph B. Clark Regional Park, Knott’s Independence Hall and the Henry Boisseranc Park, all of which are completely free to the public.
Splurge
Adding on an indoor activity to your Buena Park trip, like the Big Air Trampoline Park, is great if the weather turns rainy, but also a perfect way to enjoy some family fun that’s active as well. Leap into the foam pit, play trampoline dodgeball or even test your balance on the ninja warrior courts. Jump passes at Big Air begin at 90 minutes and go all the way up to annual passes that allow for unlimited jumps and other big perks.
Stays
After your fun-filled days in the city of Buena Park, you’ll need a comfortable place to wind down and relax. There are plenty of affordable hotels in the area to choose from, with amenities like free breakfast, free parking and free shuttles to major attractions.
From music to award-winning theatrical performances, the county of Westchester, New York, boasts an exciting arts scene. There’s so much to do, in fact, that it may seem overwhelming to decide the best spots to check out.
Luckily, we’ve compiled nine of the top places to visit in Westchester to get your art on.
For those looking for history, music and beautiful architecture, you can’t miss Tarrytown Music Hall. As the oldest operating theater in Westchester County, it has seen the likes of Vanderbilts and Rockefellers in its heyday, showcasing silent films and hosting events like flower shows and even roller-skating tournaments. These days Tarrytown Music Hall offers all types of entertainment in its 843-seat auditorium, including blues, jazz, folk and classical concerts.
If the name didn’t immediately give it away, Jazz Forum Arts is the one and only club in Westchester County that’s dedicated to jazz music. Referred to as a jazz “listening room,” the Forum is a not-for-profit organization that seeks to give the gift of music to the public at little or no cost.
One of the Forum’s most popular events is the Monthly Jam Session where professionals and amateurs alike can come together in one space to play and discuss all things jazz. In addition to listening room shows every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, the Forum also hosts numerous events throughout the year. To add to the fun, there’s a full menu of delicious food at every show (including drinks and dessert) to enjoy while you watch and listen.
Sean Jones’ Dizzy Spellz featuring Brinae Ali perform in the Venetian Theater at the Caramoor Jazz Festival. (Photo: Gabe Palacio)
With its picturesque garden as a backdrop, the Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts is home to many enjoyable programs for the whole family. What began as an estate home built for Walter and Lucie Rosen in the early 1920s eventually became a hub for diverse musical performances and historical cultural significance. Some events you can enjoy at Caramoor include Christmas acapella performances, educational family sing-a-longs and even a musical afternoon tea. Don’t forget to arrive early for your event to have a picnic or simply explore the expansive grounds.
Fans of rock ‘n roll will find themselves right at home at the Capitol Theatre in Port Chester. Starting out as a hot spot for live orchestra performances and showings of popular films of the times like “Casablanca” and “Gone With The Wind,” the Capitol shifted their spotlight towards the rock genre in the 1970s. Many rock legends performed on its Port Chester stage, like Janis Joplin, the Rolling Stones and Pink Floyd, making it hallowed ground for many fans.
Nowadays, the nicknamed “Rock Palace” hosts an array of performances that include ballet, comedy and bluegrass. Need a cool space for an event of your own? The Capitol rents out its iconic auditorium from 10 to 2,000 guests.
Spend an afternoon exploring Katonah’s vibrant arts scene with numerous galleries and world-class museums. And don’t forget to pose for a picture before you head out.
The folks at ArtsWestchester refer to themselves as a cultural service organization rather than a museum or showcase. Why? Since 1965, their focus has been solely on making sure that art is not only accessible but also nurtured and respected throughout the community. From its inception until now, the organization has invested more than $35 million into Westchester’s arts and culture.
By partnering with municipalities within Westchester and private businesses, ArtsWestchester works to establish public art throughout the community that’s accessible to all and free to enjoy. You can find many of the artworks they have sponsored on public bridges, libraries, hotels and even retail spaces. Besides sponsoring a multitude of art exhibitions across the county and state, ArtsWestchester also has their own gallery that visitors can peruse. There, depending on the time of year, you’ll find diverse artist commissions for a minimal entry fee (or, free for those who decide to become members).
Sculptures, paintings, ceramics, textiles, photography – you’ll find it all at Oak & Oil Gallery. Whether you’re just visiting to take a look around or you’re on the hunt for the perfect piece to display in your home, Oak & Oil has an unmatched selection of art. As only local artisans are displayed there, the gallery prides itself on supporting the arts community and county as a whole. Both experienced and up-and-coming artists are considered for exhibitions, further making this a truly accessible gallery for local artists.
Opened in 1919, the Hudson River Museum (HRM) has been a central fixture for American art, history and interstellar science for more than 100 years. Visitors of all ages can discover a range of individual works of art and rotating exhibitions, as well as tour Glenview, the Gilded Age home that served as one of the museum’s earliest locations.
Fans of the cosmos will be delighted to take a seat within the state-of-the-art HRM Planetarium where three shows on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the year transport kids and adults to space (virtually, of course). Other permanent exhibits include the Hudson Riverama and a sculpto-pictorama installation named “The Bookstore.”
2023 will be a year of transformation for the HRM as it unveils its West Wing expansion that will include panoramic views of the Hudson River, a special exhibition gallery, a sculpture court and river terrace.
Between their self-produced theatrical productions and the lengthy list of popular performing artists that come to play on their stage, White Plains Performing Arts Center (WPPAC) has something for everyone. Notable “mainstage” (or self-produced) performances of the past include titles such as “Sister Act,” “Les Miserables” and “The Color Purple.” All of the WPPAC mainstage performances feature a live orchestra and sets and costumes you might expect from Broadway.
WPPAC is also the only theater in the region of White Plains to offer educational theatre training programs that allow the younger generation of theatrically inclined folks to learn the ropes and put on their own performances.
World-class events and family entertainment go hand-in-hand over at Emelin Theatre. Take the kids to see performances made just for them like “Click Clack Moo,” “Junie B. Jones Essential Survival Guide to School” or “The Pout-Pout Fish” while you enjoy a night of pre-release film-viewing at Film Club. If live performance is more your thing, Emelin is also host to many music, dance and comedy shows within its theatre. Best of all, if you’re looking to support the arts by donating to Emelin Theatre, ArtsWestchester will match any new donations up to $8,500.
Picture it: you’ve just finished up your holiday dinner surrounded by friends and family. The low mumble of excited chatter makes its way through the room as the pot goes on for coffee. Maybe there’s a crackling fire nearby, too, filling the house with warmth. Then you hear it – the unmistakable crinkle of unfurling cellophane. The best part of the night is here. It’s time for holiday cookies!
Which cookie do you reach for first? Are you a dedicated chocolate chip lover, or do you wait all year for a buttery snowball or spritz? We introduced a bit of friendly competition to the holiday dessert table to find out.
Chocolate chip is the winner!
After three rounds of voting, chocolate chip knocked out the competition to claim the title of greatest holiday cookie (and some may say, contender for greatest of all time).
Many cookies crumbled along the way, but gingerbread held strong until the final swing, losing the bout with a final count of 43% to 57%.
Thank you for participating and Happy Holidays! Read on for recipes.
The Classics
Gingerbread
If there’s one cookie that signifies the holiday season, it’s the gingerbread man. With his little smile and adorable buttons, he’s a staple among cold-weather confections.
When it comes to the classic gingerbread man, there are two types of textures: soft-baked and crispy. Depending on how you roll out your dough (thin for crispy and thick for soft) you can customize the perfect consistency for your tastes. Plus – and this is arguably the best part – decorating gingerbread men once they’re done baking is an interactive and playful activity the whole family can enjoy. From icing to gumdrops, their final look is up to you.
Jam Thumbprints
A perfect little bite, jam thumbprint cookies feature the harmonious combination of a simple shortbread and the baker’s choice of jam or preserves. While we may think of them as a relatively modern cookie, they have a rich history originating in Sweden, where they are referred to as “hallongrotta,” meaning “raspberry cave.”
Whether you actually use your thumb to create these instantly recognizable cookies or use the bottom of a wooden spoon like Martha Stewart suggests, the result will be just as scrumptious.
Snowballs
Snowball cookies (or butterballs, in the Italian tradition) are simple but decadent little morsels made with butter, powdered sugar, flour and vanilla. You can add your choice of nuts like pecans or walnuts, but it’s not totally necessary.
Rugelach
A staple of Hanukkah, the tasty treats resemble miniature croissants, and they’re not too far off. This version of rugelach pastry from All Recipes involves flaky dough filled with a mixture of cinnamon, nuts and raisins that come together for a light and crispy rugelach perfect for dunking into a post-dinner hot coffee.
Bars
Magic Bars
There’s a reason magic bars are named as such; they are, without a doubt, magical. Why, you ask? First and foremost, they’re super easy to make, to the point where the ingredients are mixed together in one step and baked. Secondly, there’s something for everyone in a magic bar. Layers of graham crackers, coconut, chocolate chips and nuts sit atop a base layer of pure butter. Are you drooling yet?
Blondies
Blondies, the “blond” version of a brownie, have just as much star power as their chocolatey counterpart – and some may even say they’re better! While brownies are based in chocolate, a strong ingredient that doesn’t allow for much depth of flavor, blondies have a vanilla base, which lets other flavors shine like butterscotch, brown sugar and sometimes even white chocolate.
Cheesecake Bars
A whole cheesecake? That’s a lot. Teeny tiny bite size cheesecake bars, on the other hand? We’re piling up our plate! Something about the mini version of a bigger thing just makes them extra delectable, and that’s certainly the case with cheesecake bars.
Made with a graham cracker crumb crust and cream cheese-based filling just like its full-size edition, these little bars can be crafted with any flavor you’d like whether that’s blueberry, cherry, pumpkin or plain. Although the process can be a bit time consuming, the end result is always worth it.
Rainbow Cookies
The obligatory rainbow cookies (or bars) are old regulars when it comes to holiday desserts – and for good reason. Made with three layers of almond-flavored cake, the tricolor pattern comes from red and green food coloring. The yellow layer can either be colored with food coloring or left as is. Sandwiched between each cake layer is a thin coating of your choice of jam, then everything is covered with milk chocolate.
Novelty
Spritz
You may not be familiar with the name for these cookies, but you have probably seen and enjoyed them at many a holiday gathering. Usually identified by their bright colors, spritz cookies are buttery little marvels that take the shape of trees, flowers, snowflakes and leaves and taste like sugar cookies (but are so much better because, you know, they’re green and pink).
Candy Cane
If you’re not a candy cane fan now, these cookies are sure to make you one.
As opposed to a sticky candy cane with harsh peppermint flavor, these candy cane cookies take on the iconic look of the holiday candy with twisting red and white ribbons, but omit peppermint flavoring entirely; instead, the cookies are almond flavored. Of course, if peppermint is your jam, you’re more than welcome to add it in!
Melted Snowman Sugar Cookies
Cookies and marshmallows are a match made in dessert heaven, especially when it comes to melted snowman sugar cookies. While these cookies may look intricate and hard to make, they’re actually quite easy, and especially simple when using pre-made sugar cookie mix and icing like in this recipe from Betty Crocker.
Chocolate Reindeer Pretzels
The perfect mix of salty and sweet doesn’t exist — oh. We stand corrected. Chocolate reindeer pretzels are a treat after any fickle eater’s heart, as they combine the best of both worlds: the satisfying salty crunch of a pretzel with the sweet chewiness of a caramel Rolo candy. What’s better than that?
A cousin to jam thumbprint cookies, the peanut butter cup cookie has the same general idea, but instead of jam in the center, it’s an ooey-gooey peanut butter cup that sits in the center of peanut butter-flavored cookie dough.
Chocolate Peppermint Crinkles
A cakey cookie is great as it brings together the best of both worlds, the thick texture of cake with the crinkle effect that only comes with cookies. For these chocolate peppermint cookies, the two flavors harmoniously combine for the perfect holiday dessert. If you’d like to add a little pizzaz, sprinkle some roughly chopped candy cane over the top like in this recipe from Sift and Simmer.
Chocolate-Dipped Macaroons
Not to be confused with the French macaron, coconut macaroons are light, flavorful dollops of coconut dipped in melted chocolate. Simple perfection!
Tell us about your holiday baking traditions in the comments below.
With dramatic weather conditions such as snow, ice and strong winds capable of wreaking havoc on your home, having proper home insurance coverage in winter is essential.
Winter Damages Covered by Homeowners Insurance
In the Northeast, winter comes with snow, and sometimes lots of it. If your roof collapses or is damaged due to the weight of snow or ice from a storm, a standard home insurance policy may cover the damage. However, because it is the homeowner’s responsibility to regularly maintain and repair their property, insurance companies will review the condition of your roof before determining payout.
Standard homeowners insurance will also generally cover water damage or any roof damage that occurs as a result of ice dams, as well as wind damage.
Another threat to your home in the winter season are cold snaps. Water left standing in pipes when the temperature drops may expand with enough force to cause it to burst, leading to serious water damage if the issue isn’t immediately identified. Though damage caused from burst pipes is covered by most standard home insurance policies, you personally will be responsible for fixing the broken pipes and any costs associated with those repairs.
Before winter kicks in, take the right steps to safeguard your home against these types of risks.
Home insurance for storm damage is a multi-layered system, as not all types of damage done to your home will be covered by your standard home insurance.
Flash floods caused by a sudden rise in temperature during the winter months can cause significant damage to your home that will not be covered by your standard home insurance policy, but flood insurance can be purchased separately.
Most damages not covered by insurance are due to homeowner negligence. These may include damages resulting from extreme cold due to failure to maintain a reasonable temperature in your house or failure to remove threatening trees and dead branches.
More Winter Liabilities
In addition to the above risks, slips and falls on your property are always a possibility in winter. Such incidents are likely covered by the liability coverage that comes with your home insurance policy, but it’s a good idea to double check with your insurance agent. If you do experience an incident like this, help with potential legal aspects may also be included in your policy.
Is Your Home Insurance Ready?
By taking the necessary precautions and preparing your house for winter, you can avoid being tangled up in an insurance claim this winter season. Trimming threatening trees, shutting off your water and drain pipes, and cleaning your gutters are all things that can be done before it gets too cold.
If a winter disaster does strike, having the right home insurance coverage will help. Review your policy with your agent to be sure you’re ready. Talk to a AAA Insurance agent today.
The Northeast has no shortage of popular, and dare we say iconic, warm-weather vacation destinations. Between miles of pristine beaches, waterfront restaurants and hotels, and more activities than can fit in any itinerary, our coastal region effortlessly attracts visitors during the summer. But that popularity also means crowds and high prices.
That’s why you should consider visiting these favorite summer spots during the offseason. While you may not get to lounge at the beach, many of the same features and qualities that make people flock to these vacation spots come Memorial Day are still there to be enjoyed during the winter. Plus, you’ll be able to stretch your legs a little more freely and, best of all, keep some of your hard-earned money in your pocket thanks to reduced offseason rates.
Here are five Northeast destinations worth traveling to during the offseason.
Nantucket, Mass.
Who says island getaways are strictly summer destinations? Nantucket may be one of the quintessential warm-weather vacation spots in the Northeast, but visiting during the offseason will make you feel like you have the tiny island all to yourself.
Located off the coast of Cape Cod, Nantucket’s ferry services continue to run throughout the winter, albeit on an abbreviated schedule. Once on shore, you’ll be free to explore the 100-square-mile haven without the crowds. Your itinerary might include a picturesque stroll along the Sconset Bluff Walk, an educational trip to the famous Whaling Museum or icing skating at the indoor Nantucket Ice rink.
Come Memorial Day, people near and far flock to Long Island’s south fork and many don’t stop until they get to the end – and for good reason. With ample amounts of surf, sand and sun, Montauk has summer written all over it.
But much of the fun to be had at this seaside town is still available long after the crowds dissipate. If you’re keen on sightseeing, visit the Montauk Point Lighthouse, the oldest such structure in New York state, or try to get a glimpse of seals from Montauk Point State Park.
Satiate your appetite with a bite from a wide range of eateries such as Joni’s Kitchen, Scarpetta, the Shagwong Tavern, TT’s, and Harvest on Fort Pond. Then wash it all down with an offering from Montauk Brewing Company’s tap room. When it comes time to rest your head, you’ll find a number of upscale hotels rooms available for a fraction of their summer prices.
Cape May, N.J.
The seaside towns lining the Jersey shore are a magnet for summer vacationers, including the historic city of Cape May. Located on the southernmost tip of New Jersey, Cape May is one of the country’s oldest summer resort destinations. But many of its best attractions are still available when the temperature dips.
Cape May is home to a national wildlife refuge, supporting hundreds of bird, mammal, reptile and amphibian species. Visitors can travel along one of four hiking trails to get a closeup view of these incredible animals. More wildlife can be spotted at the Cape May Bird Observatory or Cape May County Park & Zoo. For a different type of sightseeing, simply stroll around the city on foot. Cape May is listed as a National Historic Landmark thanks to the more than 600 Victorian-era structures that line its streets.
If you want to indulge in the finer things in life, you have come to the right place. The area is teeming with restaurants, wineries and breweries, and for when you really want to treat yourself, luxurious spas.
Newport, R.I.
As enjoyable as Newport is during the warmer months, the best time to visit may just be the year’s final month. Throughout December, the coastal city holds its annual “Christmas in Newport” festival. The month is filled with all sorts of holiday events, from a holiday light display at the International Tennis Hall of Fame to a performance of the Nutcracker at the famous Rosecliff Mansion.
Even if you’re not in the holiday spirit, you can still enjoy seasonal activities. Try ice skating at Newport Harbor Island Resort, which turns its lawn into an ice skating rink every year. There are numerous walking and hiking trails if you’d like to take in some fresh air and postcard-worthy sights. When the cold becomes a bit too cold, enjoy a meal inside a pop-up igloo at the waterfront Reef restaurant or the aforementioned Harbor Island Resort.
Connecticut Coast
Connecticut’s coastline may not get as much attention as the Hamptons or Cape Cod, but you’ll be hard-pressed to find a waterfront region in the Northeast that more perfectly combines history, charm and eye-catching scenery. And all of these features are still on full display during the offseason.
The Constitution State’s nearly 300 miles of shoreline are dotted with quaint historic towns, including Mystic, Milford, Old Saybrook and Guilford, to name a few. Here, you can step back in time with visits to the Mystic Seaport Museum, General William Hart House and Henry Whitfield State Museum. Art and nature lovers can catch an exhibit at the Florence Griswold Museum in Old Lyme or simply explore the site’s garden and grounds.
When it comes time to relax, grab a seat by the fireplace at one of the area’s countless bed-and-breakfasts. For slightly more luxurious accommodations, try the Saybrook Point Resort & Marina. The boutique hotel sits between the Connecticut River and Long Island Sound, and provides private balconies to enjoy the waterfront views.
Need a ride to one of these offseason destinations?AAA members can save up to 20% on Hertz rentals.
Planning a honeymoon can be one of the most exciting moments for newlyweds, and one of the best ways to keep things simple, breezy and relaxing is to opt for an all-inclusive getaway. Several luxurious hotels do a great job at keeping sustainability at the forefront of their operations while providing conveniences that only an all-inclusive can offer.
What could be better than an enchanting honeymoon that also benefits the local community and the environment? The following resorts offer everything from farm-to-table fare, elemental eco-design, stunning nature and inspiring social impact initiatives.
Enveloped by the lush forests, beaches and vibrant culture of Costa Rica, this 85-room LEED-certified hideaway originally opened in 2014, then was relaunched as an Autograph Collection resort in 2016.
Located in Guanacaste, El Mangrove overlooks the Gulf of Papagayo, providing guests with gorgeous views of the sea and countless ways to enjoy “pura vida,” Costa Rica’s slogan, meaning “pure life.”
The hotel’s modern design was constructed using local materials, creating an airy, sumptuous experience with elements of water, wood and local flora. Each of the hotel’s two restaurants has views of the Gulf of Papagayo and sources 95% of its produce from local fishermen and farmers.
In addition to its sustainable operations and design elements, El Mangrove leads several community initiatives, from hosting summer English language camps for local children, to beach clean-up days, tree planting initiatives and donating organic waste to a nonprofit pig-feeding project in nearby Playa Panama.
If divine cuisine is one of your main desires in a conscious all-inclusive honeymoon escape, then El Dorado Royale, a Spa Resort by Karisma, located in beautiful Riviera Maya, may be just the place for you and your love.
The Fuentes-Culinary Theatre offers innovative culinary experiences, featuring a full cooking show in which the restaurant’s head chef and sommelier takes guests through “the melding of textures, flavors, colors and aromas” of ingredients harvested from their Rainforest Alliance Certified™ greenhouse farm and pair them with a premier selection of wines.
The suites at this AAA Four Diamond property, or “Havens of Luxury,” as its website calls them, are adorned in sophisticated Mexican decor with all the amenities one dreams of and more.
The hotel’s sustainable initiatives follow Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria and local and national regulations, and its “Green Team” manages water, flora, fauna, energy usage and waste to minimize the property’s environmental impact.
Nestled away on 30 acres of idyllic beachfront and indented coastlines, The Verandah Resort & Spa offers newlyweds a true nature sanctuary.
Aside from the stunning landscapes and property, the resort’s philanthropic programs are enticing enough to lure conscious travelers looking to support community-focused initiatives. There is an inspiring roster of social impact programming that includes buying locally to promote employment and economic opportunities, encouraging guests to bring specific in-kind donations to benefit the people, creating an electrical connection to the local primary school, a well-building project for the village, waste reduction and responsible management.
And as if all that is not enough, the resort also supports students working to complete a two-year tourism and hospitality certification program and participates in an international give-back literacy project in Zanzibar that promotes learning for all ages.
Sandos Caracol Eco Resort, Playa del Carmen
If exotic jungle, ancient cenotes, mangroves, natural lagoons and crystal-clear waters all sound enticing, then Sandos Caracol Eco Resort might be the perfect all-inclusive honeymoon experience you’ve been searching for.
Located on an unspoiled white sand beach in Riviera Maya, this 956-room hotel supports sustainability programs such as environmental education, organic gardening, composting and caring for endemic flora in their on-site nursery.
The resort’s Royal Elite rooms have solar-heated water and are sans plastic bottle. Drinking water is provided just as it should be, through refillable jugs. Activities include photo safaris, bike tours, romantic boat river rides, cenote explorations and planting a tree on the property.
Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort, Aruba
This AA Four Diamond resort is located on Aruba’s famous Eagle Beach, known as one of the “Dream Beaches of the World.” It’s also Aruba’s greenest hotel and the first CarbonNeutral® resort hotel in North America to have initiated the first Green Globe 21 certification of hotels in Aruba.
Sustainability is incredibly important to owner Ewald Biemans, who has been leading the charge in environmental stewardship in Aruba by investing in eco-technologies and environmentally safe products. The resort also supports an animal sanctuary and several other animal protection initiatives on the island and has reduced its carbon footprint to neutral through water and electricity reduction and sourcing products locally and sustainably.
Technically not all-inclusive, Bucuti offers other conveniences such as a grocery shopping service, a complimentary full American breakfast and a pre-pay lunch and/or dinner “Dine Around” plan.
Author Bio: 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, Maria Russo.
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.
When it comes time to say goodbye to your car, you might consider selling it. If so, there are a few steps you should take when preparing to sell your car. Even though some of these tasks may seem very simple, they will go a long way.
Here’s how to sell your car – and for a good price.
Start With Basic Car Maintenance
First thing’s first: You need to make sure your car is in good working order and there are no lingering mechanical problems hiding under the hood (or any other part of the vehicle). Start with the basics, such as topping off all the fluids and taking a few minutes to clean up the engine compartment.
If you find something that needs repairing, get it fixed regardless of how minor the damage might be. “Something as inexpensive as a headlight that is out or a torn wiper blade gives the impression that you didn’t care for the vehicle,” says AAA’s Car Doctor John Paul. If the repair is simple enough, you can probably handle it yourself without having to pay a mechanic.
Paul goes on to add that if the vehicle has a check engine, anti-lock braking system or airbag warning light on, you might want to consider repairing these items. Potential buyers will be turned-off to a vehicle with warning lights on the dash.
When it comes to more significant repairs, it is always a challenge: Do you fix things that are wrong or just let the prospective buyer know that something is going to need repair? “As a general rule, it is better to get a written estimate on the cost of the repairs than spend the money and hope to get more for your car,” Paul says. “An example is a car that will need four tires in the near future. Replacing the tires on an SUV could cost $600-$800 and chances are you won’t get $800 more for the vehicle when you sell it.”
In states with vehicle inspection, selling a car with maintenance issues that will prevent the new buyer from passing a state inspection is a problem. You could be in violation of your state’s lemon law.
In Massachusetts, for example, if the buyer discovers a defect and can prove that you knew about it but failed to disclose it, the sale can be canceled within 30 days of purchase. In such a case, you’ll have to refund the buyer.
Regardless of your state’s laws, it is important to disclose any issues. “If there are serious mechanical problems and you fail to disclose those problems even 30 days later, you could be held responsible and end up in small claim court,” Paul said.
When all is said and done, collect all of your repair and maintenance records. Potential buyers will want to see how you have been taking care of your car.
Clean It
Nobody wants to ride in a dirty car, let alone buy one. If the car smells it won’t sell.
Make sure your car is looking its best by washing and waxing it. Wash and wax the exterior, touch up any paint chips or scratches, and clean and dress the tires. Vacuum and clean the interior, shampoo the carpet and wipe down the interior trim. Clean the windows inside and out as well.
Determine the Price
Setting the right price can make or break the sale of your car. Over estimating the condition of your car and the price will limit potential buyers. Therefore, pricing the vehicle accurately is of the utmost importance. Fortunately, there are numerous resources that can provide this information. And most of them are available at just the click of a button.
Kelley Blue Book and NADA Guides are your two best bets. Both sites can give you a quick, reliable value of your vehicle after you plug in simple information such as make, model and mileage.
Get Eyeballs on It
There was a time when your only hope of getting your car noticed was to put a “For Sale” sign in the window and hope you drove past the right person. Nowadays, there are a host of outlets you can use to get your car in front of the masses. Sites such as Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, Autotrader, iSeeCars.com and CarGurus.com are just a few of the options.
Have you ever sold your car? How did it go? Let us know in the comments below.
