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
Save
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
Save
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.
Turkey is notorious for making people tired. How can you make sure you’ll make it through the after-dinner clean up and, even better, dessert?
A lot of people blame the post-Thanksgiving lethargy or “food coma” on tryptophan, an amino acid in turkey meat. When we eat turkey, our bodies turn the tryptophan into serotonin, which can make us feel calm, restful and even sleepy. But, according to doctors, that’s not really the case.
Tryptophan can make you drowsy, but only if it’s consumed on its own, without any other amino acids. Eating a turkey dinner shouldn’t knock you out. Besides, a lot of other foods like chicken, dairy, seafood, nuts and legumes contain tryptophan and don’t have the same reputation for making people sleepy.
So, why does Thanksgiving make you sleepy? Are your family members just trying to get out of chores? Probably not. It’s more likely that eating any sort of big meal will make you feel tired, as your body increases blood flow to your stomach to help digest the meal. This leaves your brain with a little less blood flow than before, which can cause you to feel sleepy. It could also be that eating a lot of carbohydrates and sugar can temporarily spike your insulin levels, leading to a spike in serotonin and melatonin.
Combine those factors with the work of preparing the meal, the excitement of a family get-together and even a few adult beverages and you have a surefire recipe for drooping eyelids.
How to Handle a Food Coma
If you don’t have time to deal with the routine Thanksgiving food coma (there are Black Friday deals to get to, after all!), there are a couple of things you can try before and after your meal to put some extra pep in your step.
Stay hydrated. It’s always good to hydrate, and a glass of water or a cup of tea can help relieve any bloated feelings that can come with a food coma after a big meal.
Eat a balanced breakfast beforehand. Some people skip breakfast on Thanksgiving Day to save up room for the big meal. That’s a mistake. In order to fight the food coma, have a breakfast of healthy fats, lean proteins and whole grain carbs. It sounds like there’s avocado toast in your future.
Load up on colorful, fibrous foods. Your Thanksgiving table shouldn’t be all one color! Make sure there’s variety and fiber in the side dishes. Carbs and sugar shouldn’t be verboten, but they shouldn’t be the only things on the table either. Add some salad, roasted vegetables or nuts to your spread.
Take an after-dinner walk. After the turkey, take some of your family members out for a stroll around the neighborhood. The crisp fall air and activity will have you feeling awake in no time. Plus, it will aid in digestion.
Are you looking for ways to mix it up in the kitchen on Thanksgiving and beyond? HelloFresh is a subscription service that delivers the ingredients and recipes necessary for delicious weekly meals. With fresh, pre-portioned ingredients, seasonal recipes and over 30 fresh meals to choose from every week, it makes dinner exciting. Try recipes like cranberry thyme chicken, one-pot Italian vegetable soup, homestyle turkey and biscuit pot pie and more. AAA members cansave on their HelloFresh subscription.
What do you do after Thanksgiving dinner? Do you take a walk, clean up in the kitchen or go straight for dessert? Let us know in the comments below!
The celebration, the pageantry, the fanfare – it all makes for an eye-catching event that has spectators lining the streets time and again. While marching bands, balloons and other components certainly have their draw, what would a parade be without floats?
In one way or another, parade floats have existed for thousands of years. Only in the last century or so, however, have they become the intricately decorated showcases we know today.
Many of today’s parade floats are fully computerized animatronic structures. While this evolution has ratcheted up the spectacle factor, it’s also created some logistical hurdles. Most notably in moving the float along.
So, how exactly do parade floats operate? Let’s start at the beginning.
Pasadena Board of Trade float by Isabella Coleman, Tournament of Roses, about 1913.
When Did Parade Floats Begin?
The origins of parade floats can be traced back to ancient Greece when statues of gods were pulled on carts. They became increasingly common in the Middle Ages, often used in plays or to celebrate kings and rulers.
Parade floats first appeared in the United States in the early 1800s. They became mainstays by the mid-century when, in 1857, New Orleans held its inaugural Mardi Gras parade. This marked the first time floats were used to celebrate the annual holiday.
A major development in parade-float history occurred in California before the end of the century. In February 1890, members of Pasadena’s Valley Hunt Club organized an athletics competition to help promote their city. Many members had previously lived on the East Coast and invited their former neighbors to the event. To showcase the region’s balmy winter weather to its guests, the club held a parade prior to the event.
“In New York, people are buried in snow,” club member Charles F. Holder said at the time. “Here our flowers are blooming and our oranges are about to bear. Let’s hold a festival to tell the world about our paradise.” Parade entrants decorated carriages with hundreds of flowers. The spectacle led organizers to rename the celebration The Rose Parade.
Floats made a prominent appearance on the East Coast in 1924. That’s when Macy’s, which had just expanded its flagship Herald Square store to cover an entire city block, put on a Thanksgiving Day Parade to get locals in the shopping spirit. To complement its nursery rhyme-themed window displays, Macy’s created floats featuring The Old Woman Who Lived in a Shoe, Little Miss Muffet and Little Red Riding Hood.
Santa Claus float by Tony Sarg, Macy’s Christmas Parade, 1924, New York Times.
How Are Parade Floats Made?
Parade floats have gone from decorated carriages to works of design and technological marvel. Today’s floats feature computer-operated animatronics and intricate decorations. Some can take up to a year to construct.
Assembling a float begins with constructing a self-propelled chassis that will support and move the structure. The float’s metal framework is built and welded to the chassis. Once the bones are in place, the entire structure is covered with aluminum wire screen and then sprayed with a plastic liquid that forms a hard skin when it dries. Any characters or props are usually made of Styrofoam and papier-mâché.
When it comes to decoration, float makers employ a wide variety of materials, including paper, wood and flowers. The Rose Parade, home to the most spectacularly decorated parade floats, requires every inch of every float be covered in a natural material.
While the emphasis is on flowers, participants often get creative. Crushed walnut shells and cornmeal, for example, can be used to replicate skin tones. Palm fibers and dried oatmeal can replicate animal fur.
How Do You Drive a Parade Float?
We’re often too mesmerized by the pageantry of a parade float to stop and think, “Wait, who is driving that thing? And how do they drive it?”
Some floats, like those appearing in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade, are pulled along by pickup trucks. Others, like those in the Rose Parade, are self-moving, controlled by a driver stationed within the bowels of the float.
Operating a float in this latter scenario is no easy job. Just getting inside is a tricky task that usually requires crawling through a hatch. Once in position, the fun begins.
There are no windshields on these vehicles. In fact, there aren’t any windows or direct views of the outside at all. Instead, cameras installed around the float feed images of the road to a screen located in front of the driver’s seat. The operator is also equipped with a headset, through which they can get instructions from spotters on the outside. These spotters walk alongside the float for the entirety of the parade.
But driving is just one aspect of operating a float. There are often a whole host of buttons, gears and switches that control different aspects of the mobile structure. The good news for the driver is that operating these is usually the responsibility of other crew members. The bad news is that as many as five people may need to squeeze into the cozy confines of the float’s chassis to get the job done.
Parade Float Factoids
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade’s character balloons were inspired by the Balloonatics float that appeared in the 1926 parade.
Macy’s floats are built and stored in New Jersey. They must be broken down to travel through the Lincoln Tunnel to get to Manhattan.
When filled with performers and guests, Macy’s Parade floats can weigh up to 8 tons.
The longest and heaviest single-chassis parade float in the U.S. appeared at the 2017 Rose Parade. The Lucy Pet Products’ Gnarly Crankin’ K9 Wave Maker weighed more than 137,000 pounds and was over 125 feet long. It featured a 5,000-gallon water tank onboard. Eight dogs surfed in the pool as the float traveled along the route.
Each year, it takes roughly 900 volunteer members 80,000 combined hours to construct the Rose Parade floats.
A large Rose Parade float could contain as many as 60,000 roses.
Floats typically travel approximately 2.5 mph.
The iconic parade scene in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off in which Matthew Broderick sings on top of a float was shot during an actual parade.
For news, notes and backstories on all things four-wheeled, visit our Auto History page.
You probably know by now that your AAA Northeast membership entitles you to discounts and rewards on everyday purchases, theme park tickets, movie nights, restaurant outings and more. But there are some activities you may not have even thought of. Whether they’re close to home or far away, these are some of the most unique experiences that you can have with AAA discounts.
Unique Experiences in the Northeast
Salem Ghosts
We all know Salem, Massachusetts, as the site of the historic (and horrific) Salem Witch Trials, and its memory still lingers. On Salem Ghosts, you can tour the town’s most haunted locations, hear chilling ghost stories and maybe even spot a ghost yourself! This tour mixes frightening ghost stories with real historic tales, so there’s a little something for everyone.
Urban Adventure Quest offers a variety of fun and engaging scavenger hunts in cities across America, including New York City and Boston. All you need is your smartphone, some friends and a sense of adventure. Your phone will lead you on a walking tour of the city, while you have to solve clues and complete challenges to get points and move forward in your quest.
Have you ever wanted to step back in time? At Medieval Times, you can dine on a four-course meal while watching a joust and cheering on your favorite knight. You’ll see jousting, sword fights, hand-to-hand combat and falconry as the knights battle to see who is worthy enough to protect the Queen.
Take a multisensory journey through planet Earth at Arcadia Earth in New York City. Arcadia Earth is a fully immersive experience that combines augmented reality, virtual reality, interactive environments and projection mapping. As you wander through the beautiful underwater worlds and immersive art installations, you’ll also learn about the beauty of our planet and the importance of keeping it safe.
You and your friends are locked in a room for an hour, and the only way out is to solve a series of puzzles and clues. The time is ticking! Will you beat the game? The Escape Game New York offers a variety of different games with themes like pulling off an art heist, escaping from prison, striking rich during the Gold Rush and more. Don’t live near New York City? No worries, there’s also a virtual option.
If you have a kid that loves construction trucks, Diggerland is the place to be. Diggerland in West Berlin, New Jersey, is the only construction theme park in the country. Kids and grownups alike can ride construction themed rides in the theme park and water park, and you can even drive, ride and operate real machinery.
Experience the sensation of jumping out of a plane without actually jumping out of a plane. iFLY is an indoor skydiving experience that uses the power of wind to simulate free-fall conditions that will make you feel like you’re flying. Available in a variety of cities, including San Diego, Orlando, Chicago and more.
Ever wanted to meet a dinosaur? This traveling attraction for the young and young-at-heart includes life-size dinosaur animatronics, walk-around puppets, ridable dinos, a fossil-digging experience, crafts, museum-quality exhibits and more.
If you’re in Florida, you should see some gators, preferably in a safe space. Gatorland in Orlando, Florida, is the place to come face-to-face with some of the most fearsome alligators, crocodiles and critters around. And there are so many ways to see them! Gatorland offers ziplines, off-road tours, wildlife shows and even some close encounters. It’s a wild time.
Thanksgiving is a contemplative time for many of us, often filled with thoughts of appreciation and how to give back to our loved ones and communities. Along with those important considerations, there’s never been a better time to embrace sustainable traditions.
There are many ways you can have a more environmentally friendly Thanksgiving, beginning with mindful choices about travel and food. Engaging in thoughtful and meaningful acts to celebrate in a sustainable manner can be as joyful as the holiday meal itself.
Sustainable Travel Choices
Thanksgiving is historically one of the busiest times of the year for airports and airlines. And along with all those flights comes a tremendous amount of carbon impact on the planet. The airline industry is responsible for almost one billion metric tons of CO2 emissions annually from burning jet fuel.
Avoiding airline travel for your Thanksgiving holiday, when possible, can be one of the most significant ways to embrace sustainability and minimize your carbon footprint.
“Perhaps the biggest thing you can do as a traveler to contribute to a more sustainable Thanksgiving celebration is to choose to travel by train or bus instead of a plane or a car,” says Sebastian Modak, editor-at-large for Lonely Planet and a well-known sustainable travel advocate.
If you need to travel by car, consider renting an electric vehicle if it’s an option, or carpooling.
“Finding friends or family to carpool with is not only more environmentally responsible, but it can also contribute to less congestion and might even make the hours pass more quickly,” adds Modak. “If you need a reminder of how much fuel we burn unnecessarily, next time you’re in traffic, take a look around and see how many cars are filled with exactly one person.”
Offset Your Flights
When flying can’t be avoided, consider some of the ways you might lessen your impact as you take to the skies.
There’s been much debate about whether carbon offsets – a financial contribution to specific projects or organizations that work to lower or sequester CO2 emissions – are truly useful. While not a complete solution, taking this step can be helpful.
“By buying offsets from a reputable organization, you can contribute something, however small, to counteract the large carbon footprint of flying,” says Modak, who recommends Green-e as one resource where travelers can vet and learn about reputable carbon offset programs.
While you’re at it, you might also reconsider the type of route you choose when flying, to help further decrease your impact, says Modak. “Taking off and landing burn the most fuel, so a nonstop flight, without any stopovers, is going to be more environmentally friendly than one with layovers,” he explains. “Similarly, according to some studies, a business class seat equates to about three times the carbon emissions of an economy class one.”
Sustainable Food Selection
Gathering with loved ones to enjoy a meal is the very heart of the Thanksgiving tradition and history. And here too, it’s possible to celebrate the holiday with sustainability in mind.
There are many steps in the food process where this can be accomplished, beginning with shopping for organically grown food to create your feast. Organic farming has less of an impact on the planet because it involves less pollution and does not use pesticides, which can be harmful to birds, animals and even people living around farms.
Sourcing your food locally is another important choice, one that decreases the carbon emissions involved in food transportation.
“Sourcing close to home supports your local farmer, keeps your money within your own community and ensures that your Thanksgiving food wasn’t sitting on a diesel-burning truck for thousands of miles. As a bonus, your food will likely be more fresh and tastier,” adds Seferian.
When it comes time for clean-up and disposal of waste, composting food is far more eco-friendly then putting it in the trash. Food scraps such as fruits and vegetables can easily be composted. You might also invite your guests to bring take-home containers for leftovers, to further eliminate waste.
Plant-Based Options
Indulging in turkey is a long-cherished part of the American Thanksgiving tradition from coast to coast. But research has shown that animal-based food production generates an enormous amount of greenhouse gas emissions and contributes to land change degradation and water scarcity. Opting for a plant-based meal can lessen these impacts.
“The most eco-friendly action hosts can take this Thanksgiving is to forego the turkey,” says Seferian. “Eating an animal-based diet has countless deleterious effects on the planet and so any steps we can make toward a plant-based lifestyle is profoundly sustainable.”
Thanksgiving tables often have plenty of sides which, together, make a filling meal, Seferian suggests transforming some of your Thanksgiving favorites into plant-friendly options. For instance, mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes can be prepared with vegan butter or nut-based milk and carrots can be glazed with honey instead of butter.
Giving Back to Your Community
Amid all the hustle and bustle of traveling and celebrating time with loved ones, it’s important to remember the spirit and history behind the Thanksgiving holiday. It’s about helping others. And for many, the holiday continues to be a time to engage in thoughtful acts and deeds.
Some of the ways you might consider doing this include donating money, food or clothing to a local charity or church, or giving your own time volunteering at a food bank, shelter or soup kitchen. These are especially wonderful traditions to begin with children and pass down to future generations.
And perhaps, closest to the theme of Thanksgiving of all, you might consider inviting those who will not be celebrating with friends or family to join your gathering.
AAA’s sustainable travel series is written in partnership with Kind Traveler, a women-and-veteran-owned sustainable travel platform empowering travelers to make a positive impact in local communities, and contributing writer, Mia Taylor.
The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, which became a federal law in August, addresses topics such as clean energy and taxes on large corporations. But it also contains changes that could benefit individual taxpayers. So how can the Inflation Reduction Act impact you? We looked to the experts at TaxAct to find out.
Clean-Energy Tax Credits
The Inflation Reduction Act includes clean-energy tax incentives and rebates for people who make more environmentally friendly choices for their homes. This could include installing energy-efficient windows, doors, HVAC systems and even green sources of energy, like solar panels. You can check to see if your home improvement plans are covered here. Some of the new and expanded tax credits in this category include the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit, the Residential Clean Energy Credit and electric vehicle tax credits.
The electric-vehicle tax credits now include any “clean vehicle,” like electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. It also includes used electric vehicles purchased after 2022. If you’re looking for more information on electric vehicles, we have everything you need to know about EVs right here.
Increases in IRS Funding
The IRS is receiving a boost in funding of about $80 billion over the next 10 years. It’s intended for the IRS to hire more employees and modernize its old computer systems. According to TaxAct, individuals who earn less than $400,000 should now be less likely to be audited, due to system improvements.
Extension of the Affordable Care Act Subsidy Program
Part of the Inflation Reduction Act extends the Affordable Care Act subsidy program through 2025. This program offers premium tax credits to low- and middle-income households, which are federal subsidies designed to help them afford health insurance coverage. The premium tax credit is a refundable tax credit. Under this extension, you can claim the premium tax credit if your household exceeds 400% of the poverty line and you meet all other qualifications. You are also eligible if your cost of health insurance premiums exceeds 8.5% of your household taxable income.
From horseless carriages to self-driving transports, the past century-and-change has seen cars in every imaginable size, shape and form. But during that time there have been only a few vehicles that have transcended automotive history and entered into cultural history, making them iconic cars.
Status is by and large subjective, but there’s no arguing that these automobiles are as recognizable – both by name and design – and influential as any other four-wheelers that have crossed our paths.
Ford Model T
It’s impossible to formulate a list of the most iconic cars in history without starting off with the Model T. Henry Ford’s creation went beyond transforming the nascent automotive industry: It also had an indelible effect on American society.
First sold in 1908, the Model T was not the first automobile available for purchase in the U.S. It was, however, the first that most people could afford to buy. By revolutionizing mass production through assembly line manufacturing, which substantially lowered the cost to make the car, Ford was able to sell the Model T starting at $260, roughly $8,000 today. By the 1920s, more than half of the world’s registered automobiles were Fords. Closer to home, mass ownership of the vehicle helped connect rural Americans to the rest of the country and eventually led to the introduction of the numbered highway system.
The Model T was more than just the first mass-produced car. It was also revolutionary as an automobile in and of itself. It was the first to have a steering wheel on the left side (previous models had it in the center) and to offer a windshield. That’s not all. According to the Ford Motor Company, “The vehicle was also the first to have its engine block and the crankcase cast as a single unit, the first to have a removable cylinder head for easy access, and the first to make such extensive use of the lightweight but strong alloy known as vanadium steel.”
One characteristic the Model T is often thought to have lacked is color. It’s commonly believed that the vehicle was only offered in black. However, this was only true from 1914-1925. Before and after that time, it was available in several different colors including blue, red, grey, and green.
Ford last made the Model T available in 1927, replacing it the following year with the Model A. All told, more than 15 million Model T’s were sold.
Ford F-Series
If you stick to the roads of the Northeast you may be surprised to learn that the Ford F-Series is the best-selling vehicle in the country – and has been for decades. The truck is the most popular car in a majority of states, including nearly every one in the South and Midwest.
A few years after Ford debuted the Model T, customers began asking for a vehicle capable of hauling heavier loads to help them with work and deliveries. The company responded with 1917’s Model TT, which had the Model T’s cab and engine but a heavier-duty frame.
Following decades of commercial use, the first consumer F-Series debuted in 1948. “After the war, a lot of rural Americans moved to urban and suburban centers looking for work, and many took their Ford pickups with them,” said Ford historian Bob Kreipke. “Ford saw this as an opportunity, and began work on the next generation of trucks for 1948, what came to be known as F-Series Bonus Built trucks.”
Over the decades, the truck merged its utilitarian nature with improved aesthetics and creature comforts like two-tone paint, automatic transmissions, armrests, sun visors and improved heater and radio. It soon became a vehicle that fit in just as well on the farm as it did on Main Street. Today’s F-Series trucks are nearly as luxurious as any luxury car – but far more popular.
Volkswagen Beetle
There is not a more recognizable car in automotive history than the Volkswagen Beetle. Behind that famous bulbous shape is a fascinating story filled with twists and turns. Ironically, although it rose in prominence in the U.S. during the flower power days of the 1960s and ’70s, the car was first commissioned by Germany in the lead-up to World War II. The vehicle was meant to provide German citizens with transportation much like the Model T did in America, but as the war ramped up, production was put on hold.
The first Beetle exported to the U.S. arrived in 1950 and by 1968 America had become Volkswagen’s largest foreign market, accounting for 40 percent of the company’s produced cars. The Beetle’s unique shape – designed by Porsche founder Ferdinand Porsche – and bright colors attracted Americans looking to bask in the post-war glow. It remained popular when drivers began buying smaller, more compact vehicles and got a cultural boost when the car was featured prominently in Disney’s “The Love Bug.” In 1972, the Beetle passed the Model T as the bestselling car of all time.
In the 1990s, Volkswagen unveiled a sleeker, modernized version of the Beetle. This model was sold for the next 20 years until the marquee ceased production of the Beetle in 2019.
Ford Mustang
The mid-20th century was an exciting time for automobile enthusiasts. It was during this period when the idea that cars could be more than just a mode of transport – namely, they could be stylish – took hold.
Ford Motor Company took that concept to a new level when it unveiled the Mustang at the 1964 World’s Fair. The vehicle’s debut was featured on the covers of Newsweek and Time magazines. The publicity worked. With its long hood and short rear deck, the world’s first pony car had a look unlike any other, and consumers lined up. In its first year, the Mustang sold 400,000 units; in the first three years, 1.7 million. This made the Mustang Ford’s most successful vehicle since the Model A.
In case it needed more of the limelight, a green 1968 Mustang 390 GT was famously featured in the movie “Bullitt,” starring Steve McQueen. This helped launch the coupe from popular car to cultural icon.
Today, the Mustang remains as popular as ever. It has been the world’s best-selling sports car each of the past seven years.
Toyota Corolla
The Toyota Corolla is so ubiquitous on American roadways that it’s seen more as an everyday vehicle rather than an iconic car. But it’s precisely that popularity that makes the Corolla one of the most iconic cars in history.
At the time the Corolla was first produced in 1966, car ownership in Japan was still something the general public aspired to. Toyota allowed them to reach that goal by creating a car designed as not just a utilitarian form of transportation, but something owners could be proud of, while still being affordable.
“The market has demanded attractive vehicles – vehicles that don’t seem inferior when compared to others and even appear somewhat luxurious” said former Corolla development leader Tatsuo Hasegawa. As such, the car was given great attention to detail and came equipped with new technology and innovative features only seen in higher-end vehicles. These included a revolutionary engine, floor-mounted gear lever, separate bucket-type front seats, armrests, as well as a center console box, radio and heater.
The Corolla also holds an important place in American automotive history. The car was first introduced stateside in 1968 and became the first Japanese automobile to have a major footprint in the United States. Today, America imports more cars from Japan than nearly any other country, roughly $30 billion worth.
As you can observe on your daily commute, the Corolla is still around and still very popular. Through half a century and 12 model generations it has become known as the epitome of automotive efficiency and reliability. That has translated to sales of more than 50 million, making the Toyota Corolla the best-selling car of all time.
Chrysler Minivans
The minivan may not be the sexiest automobile in history, but when they were unleashed onto the public, these family mobiles were downright revolutionary. A van that could drive and handle like a consumer car was an idea that had never been broached.
In the mid-1970s, Ford Motor Company president Lee Iacocca felt the brand needed a family van model. A team of engineers developed a prototype, which Iacocca kept hidden out of fear that the project would get killed off my his boss, Henry Ford II.
A few years later, Iacocca left Ford to join rival Chrysler and was allowed to take his minivan idea with him. By 1983, the idea had finally come to fruition and the van was ready. Sold under two monikers, the Plymouth Voyager and Dodge Caravan, the vans were an immediate hit with consumers, selling 290,000 units in the first year. People loved the extra cabin room, sliding door, and car-like maneuverability. It was particularly popular with suburban families who could drive their kids around in one vehicle and still be able to fit that vehicle in their home garage. In no time at all, Chrysler had created a new segment in the auto market and other manufacturers followed suit, creating their own van models.
Toyota Prius
Electric vehicles are the wave of the future and it may not be long before they’re the only cars on the road. It may be difficult to imagine a time without clean-energy cars, but it wasn’t all that long ago – and it was the Prius at the helm of ushering in the automotive trend.
In the 1990s, Toyota set its sights on developing cars with better fuel efficiency. The result was 1997’s Prius, which first reached the U.S. in 2000. The car’s hybrid power system utilized regenerative braking that converts energy into electricity. Interestingly, the futuristic first-generation model was not a hit. Toyota’s designers went to work and came up with a completely redesigned Prius in 2003. The car got boasted an Environmental Protection Agency-estimated rating of 46 combined mpg.
The Prius exceeded expectations by selling hundreds of thousands of units internationally and quickly became one of the most talked about cars on the market. As time went on and climate change became more of a concern, the vehicle grew in popularity to the point where there was a waiting list just to buy one.
Now up to an estimated 58/53 mpg, the Prius remains one of the bestselling hybrids. Toyota has since introduced a plug-in hybrid model capable of 133 mpg equivalent.
Tesla Sedans
While Prius created the electric vehicle market, Tesla has taken it by storm. It started in the early aughts when a team of engineers formed Tesla, Inc. and set out to produce an electric vehicle that could not only meet the performance and capabilities of gas-powered cars, but surpass them, all while producing zero emissions.
Their first attempt was the Roadster sports car, which in many ways was an incredible success. It achieved 245 miles on a single charge, an unheard of range for EVs at the time, accelerated from 0 to 60 miles per hour in less than four seconds and reached a top speed of 125 mph. But with a price tag north of $100,000, the Roadster was prohibitive to most customers.
The team went back to the drawing board and in 2012 unveiled the Model S, which immediately raised the EV bar. According to Tesla, the sedan boasted “the longest range of any electric vehicle, over-the-air software updates that make it better over time, and a record 0-60 mph acceleration time of 2.28 seconds.” Just three years after its release, the Model S was already the top-selling battery electric vehicle.
The only thing that threw the car from its throne was Tesla’s release of its Model 3. In 2018, its debut year, the smaller, less-expensive sedan moved 140,000 units – and the pace hasn’t slowed. Although it’s been around for less time than most of its competitors, the Model 3 has quickly outpaced the market and is currently the best-selling battery electric vehicle of all time with more than 1 million cars sold.
Tesla also produces two crossover models, the X and Y, but it’s the company’s sedans that remain most popular and iconic.
Have you driven any of these cars? How was the experience?
What other cars deserve a spot on this list? Let us know in the comments below!
A binge-worthy podcast is something you can really sink your teeth into – a show that you can put on for hours and get lost in. It’s an escape everyone can use now and then. Introducing, your next podcast obsessions.
“Radio Rental” is a podcast about real-life horror stories, told by those who lived them, produced by Atlanta Monster’s Payne Lindsey. Although the stories are real, the podcast is hosted by a video store clerk named Terry Carnation, played by Rainn Wilson. This framing device provides some much-needed levity when the stories get a little too close to home. “Radio Rental” is all about close calls, mysterious strangers, weird memories and last-minute twists.
What if the most widely-accepted version of the story, the story you’ve been hearing your whole life, just isn’t true? “You’re Wrong About” is a podcast about common misconceptions, the way stories get warped in the public eye. Host Sarah Marshall and her various guests take turns telling each other about things like the satanic panic, Anastasia Romanov, Koko the gorilla, Y2K and so much more. The podcast never stops surprising you.
“Rabbit Hole” is a podcast from the New York Times chronicling how the internet can change people’s minds and lives. From algorithms that point people toward more and more polarizing content to forums that stoke conspiracy theories, “Rabbit Hole” is true to its name. The podcast asks, “What is the internet doing to us?” Columnist Kevin Reese tries to find out. Whether you’re an internet expert or a newbie, “Rabbit Hole” will shock you.
On “Oh No, Ross and Carrie!,” Ross Blocher and Carrie Poppy investigate the fringes of belief – then take part in it themselves. The two embed themselves in self-help workshops, sample snake oil, attempt paranormal experiences and sit in on spiritual ceremonies. Listening to the two skeptics sharing their bizarre adventures is one of the most binge-worthy podcast experiences out there.
“You Must Remember This” by Karina Longworth is a beloved podcast all about Hollywood’s first century. This podcast boasts an incredible library of episodes all about the silver screen. Longworth’s meticulous research and soothing voice make “You Must Remember This” enthralling.
When comedian Jamie Loftus took the Mensa exam, she didn’t think she’d actually get in. But once she did, she uncovered an alt-right underbelly of this network of “geniuses.” “My Year in Mensa” recounts online harassment, the hidden world of Mensa Facebook groups and Loftus’ visit to the annual Mensa convention – after being blocked online by half of the people there. “My Year in Mensa” is as shocking as it is funny. Loftus’s creative editing techniques and storytelling skill will make you want to listen to the entire thing all at once. If you like “My Year in Mensa,” try Loftus’s other podcasts, “Ghost Church,” “Aack Cast” and “Lolita Podcast.”
Season one of “The Dream,” hosted by Jane Marie, is all about the world of multilevel marketing, or MLMs. Marie interviews a participant in the airplane game pyramid scheme of the 1980s, goes deep into multilevel marketing’s alleged ties to the White House and even has a former cosmetics marketer try (and fail) to make money selling makeup through an MLM. This show is shocking, funny and sometimes enraging. Season two explores the state of the wellness industry as Marie tries crystals, magnetic therapy, acupuncture and more. The personal connection that Marie brings to these stories, in addition to her and her team’s tireless research, make “The Dream” a must-listen.
We’re all familiar with the big news stories, the articles that change everything. But what happens to the stories that never get published? On “Killed,” Justine Harman brings dead stories back to life and tries to uncover why they were killed in the first place. The machinations behind these decisions are sometimes even more interesting than the stories themselves.
The publishing world is filled with scandal, gossip and juicy stories. On “Missing Pages,” literary critic Bethanne Patrick uncovers some of the industry’s most outrageous characters, from published plagiarists to industry scammers who built their entire careers on deceit.
What are your favorite binge-worthy podcasts to listen to? Let us know in the comments below!
Looking for even more shows to listen to? Check out all of our recommendations in Podcast Pulse.
The purpose of a life insurance plan is to provide your family with a safeguard against an uncertain future, but many people worry that the evaluation process for new policies might be too stringent and involved for them to qualify. While many factors help a provider decide whether to take on your case, one of the most influential elements is your medical standing. Let’s explore one of the industry’s greatest evaluation tools: the life insurance medical exam.
Once a life insurance company reviews your medical history, your assigned representative may decide to pursue a thorough medical examination before coming to a conclusion on your eligibility and, ultimately, deciding on your premium rate. Because it is requested by the provider, the exam is performed cost-free by a qualified medical professional. Depending on your provider and their associated examiner, this process could take place at a designated office location or even in the comfort of your own home.
The exam itself involves a fair balance of reviewing previously submitted information, such as your medical history, and a standard physical evaluation. After your vitals are taken, you’ll be asked to provide a urine sample and undergo some basic blood work to check your cholesterol, glucose and other routine health measurements. Ordinarily, the entire exam can be completed in just 30 minutes or so, but will involve additional testing for older applicants. Pending your test results and in-depth review by the provider’s representative over the subsequent few months, the insurance company will decide if it is willing to accept your application and provide the requested coverage.
Managing Expectations
Now that you have a basic understanding of how the life insurance medical exam works, you’re probably wondering what elements of your health the insurance companies are most interested in. In addition to your full medical history (including any chronic medical conditions and medications), expect many of the questions to focus on your lifestyle choices, such as smoking, drinking and exercise. The examiner will use these details to extrapolate a larger view of the risk you pose to the provider.
Because your medical exam is such a significant part of your life insurance application, it’s essential that you take any steps you can to provide the truest results possible.
Here are a few tips to consider as you prepare for your exam:
Avoid caffeine: Coffee and other caffeinated beverages can affect your heart rate, anxiety level and blood pressure. So it’s best to skip that morning cup of joe.
Don’t exercise: You might be tempted to schedule a workout the morning of your exam to convey your fitness level, but this can actually negatively skew the results. Skip a day.
Drink plenty of water: It’s important to stay hydrated prior to your exam, since this lubricates your body’s systems and provides optimal performance of your organs.
Avoid smoking and drinking: Regardless of how often you drink or smoke, indulging in either in the hours prior to your exam will only hurt your results.
Fast if necessary: They say you are what you eat, and when it comes to your medical exam, it’s somewhat true, especially since some foods can interfere with your vitals.
Get a good night’s sleep: Your body is at its best when you’re rested and therefore less anxious. Schedule your exam in the morning and get to it while you’re feeling fresh.
The Results
You’ll find out if you’ve been approved for a policy a few weeks after exam. But even if you aren’t accepted by a particular provider, it isn’t the end of the world. You could always request a copy of the exam results to determine the underlying reason behind the denial or verify that no mistakes were made. This may be a wise move if you suspect something went wrong, since these exams remain on your permanent medical record.
At the very least, a deeper dive could inform subsequent attempts to gain coverage elsewhere. If you decide not to pursue a policy at a particular insurance company, there’s no need to repeat the medical exam if you apply elsewhere in the next six months. Your results are just as applicable at other providers and can help facilitate future applications.
Life insurance plans that do not require a medical exam are available, including the Guaranteed Issue Whole Life and Rapid Issue Whole Life policies offered through AAA Life.
Schedule an appointment with a AAA insurance agent to find a life insurance policy that’s right for you.
Is it time to cut the cable cord? When you consider the choice of streaming services available on the market, cost savings and access to acclaimed streaming-only TV shows and movies, the switch is tempting.
Platforms like Disney+ and Apple TV+ are giving cable companies a run for their money.
“This really is the golden age of content,” said Seana Norvell, director of consumer public relations for Roku. “There’s an incredible amount of great content out there available to watch for free or on paid channels…you have the ability to customize your experience based on what matters to you.”
On the other hand, the bundles provided by cable companies, which consolidate TV, phone and internet to one bill, may be worth the added price for convenience.
Before you start shopping, consider the options.
Why Cut the Cable Cord?
If you’re thinking about cutting the cable cord, you’re not alone. Streaming and cord-cutting surged during the COVID-19 crisis for access to original content that couldn’t be found elsewhere and continues to increase.
But for many cable converts, the most common reason is to save money. Streaming services are available without expensive fixed-rate contracts. And as cable TV subscriptions fall, monthly costs are increasing. The average monthly cost for cable and internet in 2021 was $116 per household, according to a report by the bill payment company doxo.
Of course, as streaming services become more popular, their prices are increasing as well. “In the early days of live TV streaming … streaming [was] cheaper than cable,” says CableTV.com in their comparison. “With top services like YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV regularly raising their rates, that price gap is closing. Side-by-side, though, live TV streaming still has the edge.”
How to Cut the Cord
Keep in mind that if you want to cut the cable cord completely, you will still need to pay for internet. If you are currently paying for a cable bundle that includes TV, phone and internet, think of how much you will save just by cutting out the non-essentials.
Fast and reliable internet is key to taking your cord-cutting experience to the next level. Ask yourself if your internet connection is fast enough to stream content. If it seems slow, reevaluating your internet power and Wi-Fi set up can help you get a better sense of how much broadband you need for your household.
Then it’s time for the fun part: customizing your content. Try to mimic the things you like about cable TV, while removing the things you don’t. You’ll also discover a lot of new things to love, like original series and movies exclusive to certain streaming services. If you are new to streaming and want to explore what’s available, many services like Netflix, Hulu and YouTube Premium offer free 30-day trials.
If you don’t want to lose live TV channels, some streaming devices have free TV streaming options, such as The Roku Channel. Services like SlingTV and YouTubeTV also offer skinny bundles, a customized cable TV package that usually includes major broadcast networks like ABC, NBC, Fox and more.
If you’re looking for an easy way to compare streaming services and TV and internet plans and providers, sites like CableTV.com and Allconnect are great examples of free services that allows you to review all your options in one place and find what works best for you.
Popular Streaming Devices
Once you’ve committed to cutting the cord, assessed your internet speed and have picked picked the streaming services that you want, you’ll need a device to stream on. Streaming devices allow you to access all of your favorites in one place by simply plugging into the HDMI port of your TV. They are generally inexpensive and once you buy it, you own it – no monthly rental fee.
Consumers with smart TVs may be surprised to learn that their device already supports all streaming apps like Netflix, Hulu, Apple TV+, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video and more.
You can also watch most streaming services from your phone, tablet or computer.
Roku
Roku offers an impressive selection of streaming services and even more through the Roku Channel, while remaining an affordable alternative to cable. Their most inexpensive model, the Roku Express, is under $30. To start streaming, you can get a Roku device that connects to your current TV or opt for a Roku TV with Roku streaming services built right in.
Amazon
From the Fire TV Stick to the Fire TV Cube, Amazon’s streaming devices are the most versatile on the market, offering a range of features at an affordable price. Amazon’s streaming devices have some of the top apps for gamers and moviegoers alike, with Alexa integration via the remote – that means you can check the news, weather and sports scores using your voice. The Fire TV Stick has been one of Amazon’s bestselling products for years.
fuboTV
fuboTV is a live streaming television service that you can watch on your phone, tablet, computer or television. If the big game is on, fuboTV has a wide variety of sports channels to choose from. They also have a bevy of lifestyle entertainment channels to choose from, including the Hallmark Channel, Showtime, IFC or FX Movies. There’s also an on-demand section that you can browse.
Apple TV
Looking to bring cinematic value to everything you watch? Look no further. The Apple TV 4K delivers the best picture and sound quality today for those willing to spend a bit more. You can stream TV shows, movies and get access to Apple Originals in a clean and crisp 4K format. Plus, the Siri voice option and sleek design of the Apple TV remote offer an attractive interface. Don’t have a 4K television? Don’t worry. It’s is also compatible with HDR and Dolby Vision TVs. Available in two storage sizes.
Have you cut the cable cord? Are you still undecided? Tell us in the comments.
There’s nothing better than taking a vacation, though the anticipation leading up to one is a close second. Dreaming and planning out the details of your trip is exciting, but can feel overwhelming at times. Where should you stay? What should you eat? What attractions can you absolutely not miss? A great way to make vacation planning fun is to use Trip Canvas, AAA’s free travel planning tool. Trip Canvas lets you research, plan and book vacations all in one place. Plus, you get access to AAA’s travel expertise, savings and discounts.
How to Use Trip Canvas
Where do you want to go? Trip Canvas can help you figure that out. When you open the site, you’re greeted with the top trending destinations, tours, hotels, experiences and more. You can browse around and see what’s hot, or you can type in your desired destination in the search bar. I’ve decided to go to Japan.
When I search for “Japan,” Trip Canvas shows me a map of the country, as well as areas of interest and icons to show how many different experiences are offered here.
I can see information like how many cruises stop here, how many vacation and tour packages include Japan, how many hotels I can book through the site and how many things there are to do.
I choose a destination that I want to visit – Tokyo – and I skip the prompt that asks me when I’ll be going, because I’m not sure yet. Trip Canvas is flexible for any stage of planning, from the blue-sky daydream to the brass tacks decision-making. Next, I can choose from a series of inspiration prompts to tailor the results to me, personally.
Sounds good! I’m going to go with Adventure, Nature, Foodie and History, Art & Culture. Now, I can view all of the different experiences, tours, restaurants and hotels to inspire my trip. I can even open a map to see how close all of my different options are.
By adding a heart to one of my options, I’ve added it to my trip. Soon, I have my very own vacation planned and ready to book! And if I have any questions, I can even share my trip with a AAA travel agent through the website so they can see what I’ve planned.
When I’m done planning my trip, I can save it to my AAA account or to my email, and I can share it with my friends to entice them to come with me.
Get Inspired
Trip Canvas is built to help you dream, plan and book trips all around the world, whether they’re a couple states away or across the world. When you’re using Trip Canvas, you can rest assured that your plans all meet AAA’s high standards. Here are some Trip Canvas experiences you can find in some of the world’s most popular vacation locations.
Take a vacation down to America’s playground with Trip Canvas’s help. At the Walt Disney World Dolphin, AAA members can stay on Disney property and still save money. Or you could try the luxurious Ritz-Carlton Orlando. You could visit one (or a few) of the area’s many theme parks, take a sunset airboat ride through the Everglades or even meet a manatee. After your adventure, have dinner with a show.
If you’ve got a song in your heart, you’ll love Music City, USA. Music lovers will never run out of things to do in Nashville, from a backstage tour of the Grand Ole Opry House to the Country Music Hall of Fame. You can even take a line dancing class to really enjoy the local culture. Hungry? You’d better be. Nashville’s food is just as good as its music, with restaurants that offer farm-to-table Southern cooking and authentic seafood dishes.
So many things to do in Paris, so little time! Trip Canvas is the perfect way to make sure you don’t miss a thing in the City of Light. You can do some wine tasting, take a historic walking tour of the city center and even propose! Stay in luxury near Notre Dame or at a quiet boutique hotel. And don’t forget to eat! A great way to sample all the city has to offer is to take a food tour guided by a local foodie.
The past and present mix in Rome, also known as the Eternal City. With Trip Canvas, you can make plans to tour the city by Vespa, get access to Rome’s underground secrets and learn the ancient art of mosaic. When you’ve worked up an appetite, eat like a local! You can enjoy some of the best food in the world, from delectable street food to restaurants in historic locations.
With Trip Canvas, you can instantly become an expert in planning vacations all around the world – you have all the resources you need right at your fingertips. So what are you waiting for? Start planning now!
