Electric vehicles are getting more popular by the day. BY some estimates, roughly half of all new cars sales by 2035 could be electric vehicles. And, by a wide margin, no other manufacturer has sold more EVs than Tesla.

While that alone might be enough to convince some buyers, there are some particularities about the cars that prospective owners should be aware of.

Here is everything you should know before buying a Tesla.

Tesla Models

There are currently four Tesla models available for purchase today: S, 3, X and Y. The former two are sedans while the latter pair are SUVs. All models come in a Performance trim level and a less-expensive Long Range model.

Tesla Model S

The Model S was introduced in 2012 and has been a market leader ever since. As of 2019, it has an EPA range of 375 miles, one of the longest of any electric vehicle. It features all-wheel drive and the ability to reach 0-60 mph in just 3.1 seconds. Tesla claims it is the quickest four-door sedan ever built.

Inside has seating for five adults and 28 cubic feet of storage. (Remember: without an engine, the front trunk becomes a cargo space). The interior also features a 17-inch center touchscreen that integrates media, navigation, communications, cabin control and vehicle data. Many functions are voice-activated to focus the driver’s attention on the road.

Tesla Model 3

Tesla began producing this car in 2017. The sedan is similar to the Model S, except slightly smaller. It also has a shorter range (a maximum of 334 miles), smaller touchscreen and less of the Model S’s bells and whistles.

The most notable difference for potential consumers however, will be the price tag. At a starting retail price below $40,000, it is Tesla’s most affordable vehicle in its lineup. (The S can easily cost more than double). Due in part to its price, the Model 3 has been one of the top-selling electric vehicles in recent years.

Tesla Model X

The first SUV in Tesla’s lineup has some distinguishing features other than its larger size. Most notable are the rear Falcon Wing doors. These doors are hinged at the roof instead of the side. This allows for much easier entry and exit to the second — and third — row of seats inside the vehicle. It also has a windshield that stretches up and over the two front seats, providing riders a panoramic view of their surroundings.

The SUV has a top range of 330-mile range and 5,000-pound towing capacity. But with a starting price in the six-figures, it is Tesla’s most expensive vehicle.

Tesla Model Y

To give its customers a more reasonably priced SUV option, Tesla unveiled the Model X in 2020. With a starting price of $69,990, it’s roughly half the cost of the Model Y, while still boasting an impressive 318-mile range.

The Model Y comes equipped with 76 cubic feet of storage room and an optional third row of seats, creating room for up to seven passengers. Inside, there’s a 15-inch touchscreen and expansive all-glass roof.

Charging a Tesla

A Tesla vehicle can be charged anywhere there is an outlet. The cars come standard with a mobile connector (with adapters available for purchase) in order to use any electrical sources available.

Owners can use the mobile connector at home. However, this method is rather slow. Using a traditional household outlet, only two or three miles of range will be added per hour. Tesla recommends installing a wall connector for at-home use. These devices can deliver up to 44 miles of range per hour. An electrician or Tesla installation service is needed to install the wall connector. If traveling, drivers can charge the car’s battery at one of hundreds of private locations, such as hotels and restaurants, that have Tesla charging stations available.

The final charging option is unique to Tesla: Supercharging. Designed and built by Tesla, Superchargers are substantially more powerful than any other charging method. They are capable of replenishing half of a battery’s charge in roughly 30 minutes. There are more than 35,000 stations around the world, strategically placed along well-traveled routes.

Regardless of your charging method, the Tesla App allows you to monitor your charging status and receive charging-complete notifications.

Safety

All three Tesla models have received five-star safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. New vehicles come standard with active safety features. These include automatic emergency braking, collision warning, side collision warning, blind spot monitoring and lane departure avoidance.

Additionally, as with all electric vehicles, Teslas have their batteries located on the floor of the vehicle. This creates a low center of gravity that improves stability and reduces the chance of a rollover.

Autopilot

Some safety concerns have come up regarding Tesla’s Autopilot system. This automated technology uses cameras and radar to create a suite of features to help in driving, such as cruise control and automatic steering. It is classified as a Level 2 automated system, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation. Vehicles reach this level, also known as partial automation, when they have combined automated functions, such as steering and acceleration.

When used properly, this technology can add an additional layer of safety. However, like all autonomous vehicle technology, Autopilot is not a self-driving system. A driver still must always be behind the wheel, remain engaged and be prepared to take over at any time.

Convinced on buying a Tesla? Make sure to finance your new car purchase with AAA.

Visit AAA’s Electric Vehicle platform for more information on these cars of the future.

While the sight and name of crossovers may be ubiquitous, their defining characteristics may be a little more difficult to ascertain.

Crossover, Crossover SUV, CUV, Compact SUV. Whatever you want to call it, this class of vehicles is taking over U.S. roadways. Some studies show crossovers account for nearly 40% of the cars on the road. Furthermore, nearly half of all new cars produced by major manufactures fall into the crossover designation.

In the spectrum between sedans and SUVs, crossovers appear to be closer to the latter, larger in size and boasting a higher ground clearance. But at what point does a crossover become a SUV? Car manufacturers have further muddled the distinction between the two vehicle classes by using these terms liberally.

So, what is the difference between a crossover and a SUV?

Construction

The most definable difference between a crossover and a SUV is in their bones. Crossovers are based on a car’s platform and boast a unibody construction. This means the body and frame are one structure. This type of construction is more cost-efficient and produces a lighter and more spacious vehicle. Unibody cars also tend to be safer due to their built-in crumple zones.

SUVs are based on a truck’s platform and built through body-on-frame construction. This method is how all cars were built back in the day. It involves mounting a separate bodywork unit to a vehicle’s frame. Body-on-frame construction produces qualities useful in heavy-duty and off-road vehicles, including greater torsional flexing and a more rigid platform that allows for increased hauling and towing.

Drivetrain

Almost all SUVs can be equipped with full and/or part-time four-wheel drive, as opposed to the two-wheel drive found in crossovers. In a four-wheel drive system, the front and rear driveshafts are locked together, causing them to spin at the same speed. This creates more traction, allowing SUVs to overcome challenging terrain and difficult conditions.

Four-wheel drive systems commonly have low and high ranges that can be selected by the driver. The former provides more traction on off-road conditions like mud, sand and steep hills, while the latter helps traverse slippery road conditions like ice and snow.

Engine

Another definable difference between a crossover and a SUV can be found under the hood. The former will have a four-cylinder engine. Most SUVs, however, come with a V6 (or six-cylinder) engine. Some may even have a V8. These larger engines provide the power SUVs need.

Towing and Hauling

SUVs generally have a higher towing capacity than crossovers. Some can even tow similar weights to that of pickup trucks. The increased superior capability is the product of engines that produce more torque, which is needed to get the car in motion.

Greater torque also means SUVs are able to haul more weight. This is also aided by the vehicles’ larger size and stronger body.

Fuel Efficiency

The larger engine found in an SUV provides more power, but generating that power requires more energy. As such, SUV use more fuel and are less fuel efficient than crossovers. Crossovers are also smaller and lighter, which helps improve their fuel efficiency.

Visit AAA.com to learn more about all things cars and trucks.

In the market for a new vehicle? Start by downloading our free Car Buying Guide, which includes tips on navigating every step of the process.

There’s a place where music moves mountains.

Within the towns that line the mountains and foothills of North Carolina, visitors are invited to hear the traditional sounds of music handed down from families and communities, as well as new musicians that have flocked to the region. This is the land of the Blue Ridge Music Trails of North Carolina.

Here they’ve made it easy to find the music, curating events and day trips that will encourage you to dance, listen, watch and most certainly join in. These are just some of the highlights you can expect to find along the way.

Black Mountain

Nicknamed “The Little Town that Rocks,” charming Black Mountain is 15 minutes east of Asheville and surrounded by its namesake mountain range. It boasts unique shops and art galleries and a creative vibe.

A can’t miss stop on the Blue Ridge Music Trails, the White Horse Black Mountain is a renovated 1940s car dealership that is now an arts venue serving beer, wine and snacks. All types of artists can be heard here beyond the local flavor, even traditional Irish musicians. Tuesdays are especially fun as it is open mic night.

Live music and local, hand-crafted, certified organic beer can be enjoyed at Pisgah Brewing Company. Its free Sunday Jam Hosted by Spiro and Friends welcomes all ages for an outdoor evening of music in which bringing your own instrument is encouraged.

Other free and ticketed events offer a range of musical styles. If you’re visiting in the summer, Park Rhythms at Veterans Park is a free live concert series with a variety of musical genres that takes place Thursday evenings, June through August.

In May and October, the weekend-long LEAF Festival (formerly the Lake Eden Arts Festival) celebrates art, music and culture at the site of historic Black Mountain College. This year on October 20-23, the LEAF Festival is celebrating its 50^th anniversary with multiple performance stages and artists, a family adventure village, art and culinary vendors and more.

Book a hotel in Black Mountain.

Sparta

Just south of the Blue Ridge Parkway, Sparta is another small town worthy of a road trip for music lovers.

The Allegany Jubilee, set in a former historic movie theater, invites you to “clog, square dance or just tap your foot to old time mountain music” on its dance floor on Tuesday nights for a Hillbilly Hoedown with the Rise and Shine Band, and on Saturday nights with bands that change weekly.

Look for live music events on Main Street through the Alleghany Arts Council. May through December, Saturdays in ‘SpARTa’ offers music, art and more. Other spots to listen to live music include Muddy Creek Café & Music Hall and Laconia Ale Works.

As you explore the Blue Ridge Music trails, combine your visit to Sparta with a stop at the Blue Ridge Music Center, 30 minutes along the Blue Ridge Parkway near the North Carolina/Virginia state line. Open May through October, it offers daily free “Midday Mountain Music” from noon to 4 p.m. featuring local and regional musicians, as well as ticketed Saturday night concerts. The music continues year-round regionally with the Center’s “On the Road” series.

Discover more about the region’s musical heritage and get a chance to mix your own mountain music on-site at the Blue Ridge Music Center’s Roots of American Music Museum exhibition. The Center’s two hiking trails (one easy, one moderate) can get you singing on your own while discovering the area’s natural beauty.

Book a hotel in Sparta.

Waynesville

For more musical adventures, drive about 40 minutes west of Asheville to Waynesville, one of the largest towns in Western North Carolina.

First, explore the shops, restaurants and art galleries of downtown and Main Street. Schedule your visit to be a part of a mountain hoedown tradition that has been going strong for almost a century during the Waynesville Street Dance. Main Street transforms for this event, which takes place four times from June through August and features bluegrass musicians, bands and clogging teams. The most fun of the event is when you join in to dance with the locals.

For live music from spring to fall, Frog Level Brewing in downtown offers an outdoor beer garden and music venue set on a scenic creek.

The 16^th Annual Music at the Mill is slated for Sept. 10, 2022, at the Francis Grist Mill, which dates to 1887 and is on the National Register of Historic Places. The annual event celebrates Western North Carolina bluegrass and barbecue. Bring a lawn chair to relax and enjoy the regional sounds. There will also be crafts and a milling demonstration.

Not too far from Waynesville, the Stompin’ Ground in Maggie Valley is one big dance party on Saturday nights from May through October. Participate or simply watch the high-energy line dancing, square dancing, clogging and two-step dancers and listen to the lively mountain and country music.

Book a hotel in Waynesville.

Does a trip to the Blue Ridge Music Trails of North Carolina sound like your kind of road trip? Tell us in the comments.

Plan your next vacation with AAA Travel.

Featured image: Aerial view of the town of Black Mountain. (Credit: Visit NC)

Long known as a bastion of revolutionaries and free-thinkers, Burlington, Vt., proudly flaunts its independent bearings and live-and-let-live attitude. Visitors will find plenty of cultural attractions and outdoor fun in the state’s most populous city that also serves as a hip, laid-back college town ringed by Lake Champlain and mountains.

Eat

Shake off the sleepies with a nitro cold brew and breakfast sandwich at Kru Coffee. For a light lunch, try the freshly squeezed juices, bowls and salads at Thorn & Roots. Dinnertime
is best savored at Juniper in Hotel Vermont, which serves veggie-forward fare. Sample the local cider at Citizen Cider, with small bites like burgers and mac ’n’ cheese.

Bike

Cyclists will find no shortage of routes to explore. Many hotels offer bikes to their guests for touring the city. Head to the Burlington Greenway for 7-plus miles of paved trail winding its way along Lake Champlain. (Go early for fewer crowds.) Shops like Outdoor Gear Exchange, North Star Sports and Local Motion all offer rentals.

Hike

For amazing views of the Adirondacks and surrounding valley, venture south to Mount Philo State Park in nearby Charlotte. Climb 968 feet to the peak for amazing
views; the nearly 1-mile route up is doable for most. There’s plenty of seating at the summit, including Adirondack chairs, for taking in the gorgeous scenery.

Sail

Cool off on the lake with a narrated cruise on the Spirit of Ethan Allen, where you’ll hear tales of Champ the lake monster, the region’s history, shipwrecks and more. The
ship offers food service and a full bar. There are three sailings daily through October, as well as sunset, brunch and dinner cruises.

Shop

Take a stroll through the pedestrian Church Street Marketplace for all your shopping pleasures. The beautifully manicured pedestrian mall is lined with historic buildings and bustling shops and eateries. Don’t leave without visiting Lake Champlain Chocolates to indulge in locally made confections and ice cream.

Plan a trip to Burlington with a AAA travel advisor.

During the height of the pandemic, many of us truly learned the unspoken value of our furry companions. With just a pet, or a nuzzle, or a soft, warm purr, they soothed our souls and helped us experience the bliss of unconditional love in a world filled with chaos.

Luckily for us pet lovers, there’s an entire world of animals in their natural habitats just waiting to be explored. Whether you love critters soft and
diminutive, scaly and towering, or winged and clawed, you’re bound to find some vacation-worthy destinations on our list of some of the world’s top places to see animals.

Galapagos Islands

Home to penguins, giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, sea lions, exotic birds and myriad forms of sea life, these islands 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador were first made famous by Charles Darwin. He used the islands as a natural lab during his 1835 visit, which culminated in his theory of natural selection detailed in “On the Origin of Species.” And oh, the species you can see. The islands, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are famous for biodiversity, the sheer number of animals, and for their protected landscapes.

Costa Rica

The topography of this Central American country is just one reason for its rich mix of flora and fauna. Here, volcanoes flirt with the Pacific and Caribbean oceans, jungles and rainforests. There’s no shortage of howler monkeys, sloths, macaws and various species of birds in the country’s many conserved areas. More than 25% of Costa Rica is protected from development, with 28 national parks and 58 wildlife refuges. Manuel Antonio and Corcovado national parks are two of the most popular. And bonus: You may spot an elusive jaguar at Corcovado.

Africa

Check out Nairobi, Kenya, if you want to see the “big five” safari animals: lions, leopards, black rhinos, African bush elephants and African buffaloes. Kenya’s capital is the self-declared safari capital of the world, and the country itself is home to more than 50 national parks and reserves. For a once-in- a-lifetime experience, take a gorilla trek through Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The muddy journey is arduous, wet and challenging, but the chance to see a mountain gorilla in its natural setting will be a sight you’ll never forget.

Australia

Australia is home to some of the world’s most adorable – and terrifying – creatures. Here, koalas, kangaroos and echidnas abound, though so do many deadly snakes, huntsman spiders (Google it if you dare) and the box jellyfish. Head to Maria Island, a wildlife sanctuary in Tasmania, if you want the chance to see wombats wandering at dusk or a Tasmanian devil in the wild. You’ll find plenty of koalas at Tucki Tucki nature preserve in New South Wales, and Murramarang National Park and the neighboring areas are popular hangouts for the country’s most well-known critter.

U.S. National Parks

Of course, you don’t have to travel the globe to see spectacular animals; just head to one of our many national parks to catch a glimpse of nature’s majesty. Visit Yellowstone National Park to see where the bison, elk and grizzly bears roam, along with coyotes, gray wolves, bald eagles and wolverines. If you like the life aquatic, Alaska’s Glacier Bay National Park is a superb site to go whale-watching and glimpse sea otters, harbor seals and puffins. You’ll find the “big five” – caribou, moose, Dall sheep, wolves, and grizzly bears – at Alaska’s Denali National Park, while exotic creatures like alligators, crocodiles, manatees, Florida panthers, flamingoes and bobcats all inhabit Everglades National Park in Florida. (They may be beautiful, but please remember to give these majestic animals their space.)

Want to plan your very own animal adventure? Turn to a trusted AAA travel advisor with all your questions. AAA.com/TravelAgents.

Diamond Designation: Three Diamond (Trendy food skillfully presented in a remarkable setting. Learn more about AAA Diamonds.)

Location: Multiple locations.

Serving an extensive list of tapas, paellas and other Spanish staples in a lively and colorful atmosphere, Jaleo brings a taste of Spain to some of the country’s most popular cities and vacation destinations. The first of chef José Andrés restaurants, Jaleo opened in Washington, D.C., in 1993, and has expanded to Las Vegas, Disney Springs and most recently, Chicago.

Andrés is credited with helping to launch the popularity of small plates restaurants in America with Jaleo and has since spearheaded a restaurant group of over 30 restaurants spanning cuisines and price points, from food trucks to signature sit-downs. In recent years, he has become just as recognized for his humanitarian work, providing fresh meals to communities around the world affected by disaster through his charity World Central Kitchen.

Jaleo’s menu is composed of refined and creative spins on dishes inspired by Andrés’ childhood in Spain, like the signature Tortilla Española, a simple potato and egg omelet, which Andrés has called “the most important dish in Spanish cooking.” Try it at one of Jaleo’s four locations or make it at home with this recipe provided by the restaurant.

Tortilla Española

Serves four

• 2 cups, plus 2 tablespoons Spanish extra virgin olive oil
• 1 pound russet potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
• 6 large eggs
• Sea salt, to taste

Start by frying the potatoes: Heat 2 cups of the olive oil in a medium pot over medium-low heat until it reaches 250° F on a candy thermometer. Slowly fry the potatoes until golden brown, about 20 minutes. Drain the potatoes on paper towels.

Using an electric mixer or whisk, vigorously beat the eggs in a large bowl with 1 teaspoon of salt until they’re foamy. Add the cooked potatoes to the beaten eggs and let sit for 1 minute.

Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a 6-inch sauté pan over high heat. Once the pan begins to smoke slightly, remove from the heat and pour in the egg-potato mixture. Return the sauté pan to the stove top and reduce the heat to low. The tortilla should puff up like a soufflé. Once it begins to set and the edges turn golden brown, place a plate over the pan and flip the pan and plate together so the tortilla ends up on the plate, uncooked side down. Slide the tortilla back into the pan, uncooked side down.

Make a small hole in the center of the tortilla to allow the egg in the center to cook. Once the tortilla sets, carefully flip the tortilla back over and allow the center hole to close.

Transfer the tortilla to a platter, season with salt and cut into wedges to serve.

Check out more recipes from your favorite local restaurants! AAA.com/DiamondDish.

Diamond Designation: Three Diamond (Trendy food skillfully presented in a remarkable setting. Learn more about AAA Diamonds.)

Location: New York, N.Y.

Red Rooster Harlem blends food, art and music to capture the spirit of its neighborhood. The menu features American comforts like shrimp and grits over tomato-okra stew, steak frites with chimichurri and barbecue bearnaise and a lobster roll. The star, however, is the fried yardbird. Classic chicken shake or hot honey-style, it can be ordered by the piece, or as a 20-piece “chicken tower” with cornbread and three sides ($120).

“Sometimes you put a dish on the menu to try it out, and it takes over. You find out when you take it off the menu and there’s a chorus of disappointed voices, that dish
has become a classic,” said chef and owner Marcus Samuelsson.

Samuelsson, who is known for his television appearances as well as restaurants across the country and abroad, is also a Harlem resident and advocate for the community. This is evident in everything from the local art displayed on Red Rooster’s walls to the live music that plays during brunch and at Ginny’s Supper Club,
the 1920’s-style speakeasy in the basement.

Fried Yardbird With Chicken Shake

Serves four

Chicken Shake
• ¼ cup berbere spice
• ¼ cup hot smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons ground cumin
• 2 tablespoons freshly ground white pepper
• 2 tablespoons celery salt
• 1 ½ teaspoons granulated garlic
• 1 ½ teaspoons coarse kosher salt

Yardbird
• 8 cups water
• 1 cup coarse kosher salt
• 4 chicken thighs
• 4 chicken drumsticks
• 2 cups buttermilk
• ¾ cup coconut milk
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon chicken shake, plus additional for serving
• Peanut oil for frying
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup semolina flour
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon freshly ground white pepper

To make the chicken shake:

Whisk together all ingredients. Store in a jar, out of the light. Recipe makes about 1 cup and will keep for 6 months.

To make the yardbird:

Put 2 cups of water and salt in a saucepan over high heat and bring to a simmer, stirring to dissolve the salt. Pour into a large container. Add remaining 6 cups of water and cool to room temperature. Add chicken, cover and refrigerate for 1 hour. Drain.

Whisk buttermilk, coconut milk, garlic and chicken shake together in a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Submerge chicken in the marinade, cover
and refrigerate overnight.

Fill a large saucepan 1/3 of the way up with peanut oil. Heat to 360°F. While oil heats, coat the chicken. Put flour, semolina, cornstarch and white pepper into a bowl and whisk to combine. Let excess marinade drip off chicken, then roll it in flour coating. Place on a rack set over a baking sheet. If coating looks damp, roll in flour again.

In batches, fry the chicken until it’s a rich brown with an internal temp of 165°F (10 minutes per batch). Keep oil 350° to 375°F. Drain on rack over a baking sheet. Season with a sprinkle of chicken shake.

Get more recipes. AAA.com/DiamondDish.

Diamond Designation: Three Diamond (Trendy food skillfully presented in a remarkable setting. Learn more about AAA Diamonds.)

Location: New York, N.Y.

In business for over 15 years, Porter House Bar and Grill is a tried-and-true New York City steakhouse. The seasonally inspired menu of Prime dry-aged cuts and American Wagyu is accented by butter-poached lobster, Colorado lamb T-bones and veal and pork chops, with exciting cocktails and an acclaimed wine program to boot.

Located in The Shops at Columbus Circle, the views are sophisticated both inside and out. “This beautiful leather and wood dining room is often sprinkled with an elite crowd enjoying views of Central Park South from its fourth-floor perch,” describes a AAA Inspector.

Chef and owner Michael Lomonaco shares his recipe for an upgraded burger with sweet and tangy red wine onion jam, buttery brioche buns and cheddar cheese. “These charred burgers are the perfect way to satisfy a hungry crowd,” said Lomonaco.

“Cooked to medium-rare perfection and paired with a bottle of dry red wine, consider these burgers part of your new weekly dinner roster.”

Skillet-Charred Burgers With Red Onion Jam

Makes four burgers

• ¼ cup olive oil, divided
• 2 thinly sliced red onions
• ½ cup sugar
• ¼ cup red wine vinegar
• ½ cup dry red wine, preferably syrah or zinfandel
• 2 pounds ground sirloin and chuck
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Brioche burger buns
• Cheddar cheese
• 2 sliced beefsteak tomatoes

Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a saucepan over low heat and sauté the onions for about eight minutes. Mix in sugar. A minute later, add vinegar and wine and bring to a simmer, cooking until the liquid has evaporated and the onions are caramelized (around three minutes). Set aside.

Form the meat into four burger patties, making them tight, but not overly crushed together. Season each burger with salt and pepper.

Set a grill pan or wide sauté pan over medium-high heat and add remaining oil. Once hot, add the burgers to the pan and char on both sides, approximately four minutes per side for medium-rare.

Top burgers with cheese, allow to melt and serve on buns with sliced tomato and red onion jam.

Get more recipes. AAA.com/DiamondDish.

A thoughtful approach to agriculture is trending upwards. New York City-based Bowery Farming, the largest indoor vertical farm in the country, is leading the way.

The planet’s population is growing quickly – it’s expected that by 2050 there will be two billion more mouths to feed, according to National Geographic – and traditional farms will be stressed to meet the demand. With climate change, fewer resources and less farmable land, our food system is facing a dilemma. Companies like Bowery Farming are making
innovations to prove that vertical farming could be part of a more sustainable solution.

Bowery Farming grows 13 types of leafy greens and herbs hydroponically and pesticide-free in warehouses in New Jersey, Maryland and Pennsylvania. By growing crops on top of each other, they conserve space and get more yield per square foot. Plus, it’s a controlled environment, yielding a perennially seasonal, successful and safe product.

Bowery Farming’s greens are currently carried at 850 supermarkets across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, so they may have already landed in your salad bowl. Chef Tom Colicchio also uses them at AAA Four Diamond Designated Craft. Colicchio is among a list of the company’s notable investors, including Justin Timberlake, Natalie Portman and José Andrés.

Chef Eric Adjepong, Bowery Farming’s culinary advisor, enhances this simple appetizer recipe with fresh basil.

Basil and Ricotta Toast

• 1 cup ricotta
• 1 tablespoon basil, sliced thin, plus more for garnish
• 1/2 teaspoon, red pepper flakes, plus more to taste
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 3 teaspoons olive oil, divided
• 3 ounces sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon butter
• 1 sourdough loaf, sliced
• Chives, for garnish
• 1 teaspoon store-bought crispy onions (optional)
• Sea salt to taste

In a food processor add ricotta, basil, red pepper flakes, salt and lemon juice. Pulse until well-combined. Place in the
refrigerator until ready to use.

In a small bowl, mix sun-dried tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil until well combined, set aside.

On the stovetop, add butter to a medium hot pan, add 1 teaspoon of olive oil, and wait until it slowly starts to bubble. Toast sourdough on one side until golden brown, about 4-5
minutes.

Spread an even layer of ricotta on toast. Add sun-dried tomato mixture. Top with chives, crispy onion and torn basil. Finish with sea salt.

Get more recipes. AAA.com/DiamondDish.

Much of the talk surrounding electric vehicles centers on topics like charging and costs. These are unquestionably important issues to sort through. But we are discussing automobiles, after all. So, shouldn’t we also be asking, “What’s an EV like to drive?”

It’s an important question, not just for the curious car aficionados, but for all EV owners. The mechanical and design components of these green vehicles make for a driving experience that gas-powered car owners may not be accustomed to.

With that in mind, here are some of the most notable performance features unique to EVs.

Instant Torque

Any notion that EVs are slow cars will be quickly erased once you step on the accelerator. Their performance capabilities will be noticeable from the get-go. Generally, EVs accelerate faster than similar gas-powered cars.

Opposed to internal combustion engines, which require a progressive buildup to reach full power, electric motors produce peak torque instantaneously. The result is a quick acceleration new EV drivers might find jolting. Tesla claims its Model S, for example, goes from 0 to 60 in just 1.99 seconds, more than 2 seconds faster than the sporty, gas-powered Porsche 911. This zippiness isn’t limited to high-end cars. The Nissan Leaf is the most affordable mass-produced EV and boasts a respectable sub-7.00 second 0 to 60 rate.

Regenerative Braking

The EV performance feature that new owners may find most jarring initially is regenerative braking. The system is best explained by first looking at how conventional braking works. When a driver steps on the brake pedal, the brake discs and brake pads create friction to slow the wheel’s movement. The friction creates kinetic energy, which turns into heat and dissipates into the air. That kinetic energy isn’t wasted in regenerative braking. Instead, the system recovers some of that energy and converts it into electricity used to help recharge the battery.

Regenerative braking significantly enhances an EV’s efficiency, but it also creates a unique driving experience new owners will have to get accustomed to. In order to capture as much energy as possible, the system initially kicks in as soon as the driver releases the acceleration pedal. Instead of coasting, the system automatically begins to apply the brakes, causing the car to begin slowing down slightly even without the brake pedal engaged. This can be discerning at first and may take some getting used to.

On the other hand, drivers will likely be pressing down on the brake pedal less often, which will reduce wear and tear to the brakes themselves. Regenerative braking technology is continually improving, with newer EV models boasting more seamless braking systems.

Low Center of Gravity

Most EVs have their battery packs located at the bottom of the vehicle. This extra weight creates a low center of gravity, a feature that gives EVs several performance and safety advantages.

A low center of gravity improves the vehicle’s stability and handling. This makes it easier to navigate tight turns, for example. Having a high percentage of the car’s total weight concentrated at the bottom of the vehicle also reduces the likelihood of the vehicle rolling over.

No Engine Noise

One of the first things you’ll notice when you get your EV on the road is what’s missing: noise.

Because they do not have internal combustion engines, EVs don’t emit any engine or exhaust noise. The vehicles do make some sound, from their tires and wind drag, but overall make for a particularly quiet ride.

While a silent drive has its perks, it can also create a safety hazard. Sound is often the first thing that alerts pedestrians, bicyclists and other road users of an oncoming car. To mitigate this danger, the federal government has begun requiring EV manufacturers to outfit their vehicles with noise-making devices. The “Quiet Car” rule calls for EVs to emit noise when they are traveling at low speeds or in reverse.

Visit AAA’s Electric Vehicle platform for more information on these cars of the future.

Electric vehicles sales in the United States continue to grow year-over-year. Yet, as these eco-friendly cars become more widely adopted, one question about their performance continues to linger among potential buyers: How far can EVs travel before running out of power?

The answer is an important one, as it indicates just how practical these vehicles are for the average motorist. The reality is EVs can travel much farther on a single charge than you might think. In fact, unless you’re driving long distances on a regular basis, running out of charge shouldn’t be a major concern.

What Is the Average EV Driving Range Today?

The distance an EV can travel on a single charge varies significantly between models. The Mazda MX-30 has a driving range of just 100 miles. On the other end of the spectrum are premium vehicles such as the Mercedes EQS, Tesla Model S and Lucid Air, which boast driving ranges of at least 350 miles.

Today, you’ll find very few EVs with driving ranges below 200 miles. Most fall between 200 and 300 miles. The median EPA estimated range for all 2020 EV models was approximately 260 miles, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. That number will likely continue to increase if trends stay consistent, as the average range a decade ago was less than 75 miles.

Range Anxiety

Consumers have long cited the fear of running out of charge while driving as a primary reason for not purchasing an EV. This concern, known as range anxiety, had its merits during the early days of EV adoption. As recently as 2015, the average driving range of an EV was less than 100 miles. But improvements in battery technology and efficiency have resulted in increased driving ranges across the board. The 2022 Lucid Air, for example, boasts a 520-mile EPA range, the highest of any EV sold today.

Range anxiety is likely an effect of drivers simply overestimating their daily mileage. U.S. drivers travel an average of roughly 13,500 miles each year, according to the Department of Transportation. That equates to just 37 miles per day.

The concern of range anxiety almost always wanes once drivers get behind the wheel of an EV. A recent AAA study found that 95% of EV owners reported never running out of charge while on the road and 77% percent of those who were initially uneasy about driving range were less or no longer concerned after purchasing their electric vehicle. “Range anxiety has been synonymous with electric vehicles from the beginning,” said Greg Brannon, AAA director of Automotive Engineering and Industry Relations. “Hearing firsthand from owners that this is no longer a worry may change the mind of those who have otherwise been skeptical to the idea of owning an electric vehicle.”

Charging

Most EV owners charge their cars at home. This is obviously the most convenient option – you can charge the car when you’re sleeping and it’s ready to go in the morning. It’s also the cheapest. Single-family homes generally have low and stable electricity rates.

There are two levels of charging available to you when using your home’s electricity: level 1 and level 2. If you plug your vehicle into a standard 120-volt wall outlet, you’re using level 1. This is the simplest charging method but also the least efficient. Level 1 charging takes time, adding roughly 5 miles of range per hour. If you don’t typically drive long distances, this may be more than enough.

Some drivers, however, need to get more miles out of their vehicles on a regular basis. That’s why many EV owners opt to upgrade to level 2, which delivers 240 volts and can add approximately 25 miles of range in one hour. The typical level 2 charging station can fully charge most EVs overnight. Level 2 charging isn’t a matter of flipping a switch or purchasing a different power cord. An electrician must upgrade your electrical system and install special equipment first.

Charging an EV at home is not always possible. Sometimes you’ll need (or want) to charge your car at a public charging station. There are nearly 50,000 such locations across the United States. The vast majority of these (roughly 90%) are level 2 chargers. More than 15% of stations utilize level 3 charging, either exclusively or in addition to level 2. Level 3, also known DC fast charging, can add 100 to 200 miles of range in just 30 minutes. Tesla owners can also charge at Tesla’s own network of Superchargers (30,000 worldwide), which can add up to 200 miles in as little as 15 minutes.

Current Progress in Extending Battery Range

Much of the focus regarding EVs centers on manufacturing batteries that are less expensive, lighter, store more energy and charge faster.

Most EV batteries on the road today are lithium-ion. Scientists and researchers have been experimenting with battery chemistry in hopes of improving performance. A cobalt-free battery, for example, could potentially produce a range above 300 miles, while reducing charge times and manufacturing costs. Nanotech Energy, meanwhile, is working with partners to develop a graphene polymer-based battery that can provide EVs a maximum range of 500 kilometers and a recharge time of fewer than five minutes. Some feel that graphene batteries remain the most promising EV battery technology.

The breakthrough in technology most are hoping for may not come from tinkering with ingredients but from altering the way batteries are constructed. Today’s EV lithium-ion batteries have a liquid electrolyte, the conductive material that allows for the flow of electricity. Solid-state batteries, however, have the potential to be far more energy-dense, allowing them to store more energy and provide greater range. They will also charge faster and be lighter and less likely to catch fire.

Automakers, including Ford, Volkswagen and GM, are investing heavily in large-scale production of solid-state batteries. The technology is still several years away from being made available, however. Toyota has said its first vehicle with a solid-state battery will go to market in 2025. Stellantis, which owns Jeep and Chrysler, among other brands, has targeted 2026. Most experts believe solid-state batteries won’t be broadly available until 2030.

Visit AAA’s Electric Vehicle platform for more information on these cars of the future.

While love can be indestructible, your jewelry may get damaged, lost or stolen. And although you could never replace the engagement ring you inherited from your great-grandma, wedding ring insurance can help cover the cost.

Some homeowners policies cover damaged or stolen jewelry for up to $1,000 – but that’s only a fraction of the price of most rings. There are two ways to cover the difference:

• Ask your insurer to raise the liability limit.

• Add a rider/floater/endorsement to your policy. A rider is an optional addition that allows you to customize your insurance policy. It costs extra, but there is typically no deductible in the event of a claim, plus it protects the jewelry from nearly all kinds of losses – even if you lose it or drop it down the kitchen sink. However, wedding ring insurance will not cover damages if your ring was already falling apart from regular wear and tear.

You probably didn’t have to think twice about getting your car, motorcycle or boat insured. But like your wedding bands, there are other valuables and investments in your home that should be protected as well.

Collectibles

Do you have old baseball cards or comic books in your house? Paintings or fine art? Priceless family heirlooms? These collectibles can be pretty valuable, but they can also be easily damaged.

Like wedding ring insurance, you can purchase a floater for your collectibles on your policy (you will need to purchase a floater for each item.) However, the insurer must know what each item is worth. To do that, an item typically needs to be appraised, or you may be able to provide a recent receipt.

Jewelry, diamonds, gold and art can change in value over time, so it’s a good rule of thumb to update your appraisals every three to five years.

Pets

Taking care of a furry friend can get expensive. Pet owners spent an average of $123.6 billion on their pets in 2021, according to the American Pet Products Association. $34.3 billion of that money went to vet costs.

Depending on the policy, pet insurance can help offset the expense of routine and emergency medical care. With most pet insurers, you select a reimbursement and deductible amount, pay your vet and then get reimbursed. When looking at pet insurance, it’s important to determine which conditions are covered, how reimbursement is calculated and if there’s a limit or cap on coverage.

Furniture

Homeowners polices typically come with a built-in percentage of personal property coverage based on the overall value of the home. This percentage is usually between 50% to 70%. While most policies typically cover the cost of replacing your property minus depreciation, some insurance companies will write you a check for what it would cost to purchase brand new versions of your belongings at the time you make your claim.

If you have renters insurance, you pick and choose which belongings to insure and pay a rate based on their value. This is beneficial, as long as you accurately estimate the price of your possessions.

Electronics

The modern home has a lot of technology: laptops, video games, cellphones, computers, tablets and more. Replacing all of these items after an emergency can get costly without insurance.

Often, insurance policies cover technology alongside personal property from damage by fire, windstorms, hail, lightning, explosions, vehicles, smoke, theft, vandalism and other unavoidable natural disasters. Say a covered peril such as a burst pipe happens in your home; while the pipe itself would not be covered and need to be repaired by a plumber, all of the damage that it caused to your belongings – including any electronics – would be.

No matter what, it helps to keep track of the electronics in your home, as well as all other valuable items. It makes claiming losses easier and gives you an idea of how much insurance you need.

When you need to make an insurance claim, a home inventory – a detailed list of your possessions and how much they are worth – can be very helpful to your insurance provider. This list can include photos and/or videos, and can be stored online or in a safe.

To learn more about how AAA provides insurance, from wedding ring insurance to pets, furniture and everything in between, contact an agent. 

Road trips have always been a special part of summer vacation memories – stopping for ice cream, checking out roadside sights and listening to your favorite tunes en route to a fun destination.

And now that The CAT is back, you can take your road trip off the road and travel between Bar Harbor, Maine and Yarmouth, Nova Scotia in just 3.5 hours.

Book a round-trip passage with a standard vehicle today and save $150*, plus receive a $50 gift card from Irving Oil*.

Sit back, relax, and check out some live East Coast entertainment – The CAT’s Music on the Gulf program features regional musical talent guaranteed to get your toes tapping. Savor a freshly-brewed hot coffee and some tasty snacks from Sip at Sea Café, enjoy a meal with a view at Scotia Market or unwind in Forchu Lounge, where an extensive list of local wines and beers pairs perfectly with fresh seafood and local fare.

Settle in for daily film screenings in the comfortable movie area, or catch up on work in the business center. Browse for the perfect souvenir or any must-have vacation purchases at the Scotia Market Gift Shop. Or simply stroll the decks and observation areas and enjoy the sweeping ocean views and fresh air.

The CAT departs Bar Harbor at 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time, docking in Yarmouth just in time to enjoy a delicious seafood dinner before exploring Nova Scotia. Here you’ll find incredible whale watching, spectacular beaches and picturesque fishing villages punctuated by postcard-perfect lighthouses. Marvel at the world’s highest tides, sample local craft brews and wines and soak up Nova Scotia’s charming East Coast vibe.

Departing Yarmouth at 9:30 a.m. Atlantic Time, you’ll be back in Bar Harbor for lunch. With check-in one hour before sailing, you’ll be well rested and ready for your crossing.

Fuel up your summer fun with The CAT and Irving Oil: a perfect partnership for making unforgettable vacation memories!

AAA members earn CAT CASH* redeemable for onboard dining, drinks and local souvenirs. Call or visit your local AAA branch or book at Ferries.ca using promo code AAA22.

*$10/pp max of $20 for one-way bookings. $10/pp max of $40 for round-trip bookings. Vouchers distributed on board.

At every age in life, drivers consider different components when looking for a new car. That is certainly the case for older drivers. Most in this demographic put a greater emphasis on factors such as visibility, safety features, easy-to-use systems and how comfortable it is to get in and out of the car. Or maybe, if they have recently retired, they decided it is time to finally splurge and get behind the wheel of their dream car. Whatever the situation, these are a few of the best cars for older drivers.

For The Practical Driver

Subaru Forester

MSRP: $25,895

MPG: 26 city / 33 highway

Crash Test: 5 stars

The Subaru Forester makes getting behind the wheel a cinch for older drivers – literally. Large doors and elevated seating allow for easy entrance and exit to and from the car. Once set to drive, the chair-like seating position coupled with big windows and thin pillars supply excellent driver visibility. The Forester’s climate and infotainment systems are straightforward and easy to use.

The Forester comes with a five-star crash test rating. Even better, Subaru has worked to significantly cut down on crashes thanks to EyeSight, the manufacturer’s driver assist technology. EyeSight works by equipping the car with dual color cameras near the rearview mirror. These cameras can monitor traffic movement, optimize cruise control and warn drivers if they sway outside the lane. EyeSight has been found to reduce rear-end crashes with injuries by up to 85%.

For The Traveler

Kia Sorento

MSRP: $29,590

MPG: 24 city / 29 highway

Crash Test: 4 stars

With your nine-to-five days behind them, retirees have much more free time – and much more free time to travel. Whether visiting the grandkids or checking off a destination on their bucket list, retirees need the right car for all their future adventures.

The Kia Sorento is a midsized SUV with all the prerequisites needed for older drivers: comfortable seating, simple controls and available safety technology. What makes it perfect for long trips is the large, quiet cabin, comfortable ride, ample storage space and, most importantly, above-average highway gas mileage for a SUV. Check out our list of the most fuel-efficient cars.

Also, the Sorrento’s third row of seating can be folded down if you need more storage space or up to hold passengers, in case they do happen to visit the grandchildren.

For The Frugal Consumer

Nissan Versa

MSRP: $15,380

MPG: 32 city / 40 highway

Crash Test: 5 stars

The Versa was completely redesigned for 2021 (goodbye manually operated crank windows!) The makeover gave the subcompact sedan more legroom than one would expect, up to 15 cubic space of cargo room and a 122-horsepower four-cylinder engine.

Safety is addressed with the Nissan Safety Shield® 360, a package of features including automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beams. The entry-level Versa S sedan retains Bluetooth functionality, but lacks the Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration you can find in higher trims.

But above all, what makes the Nissan Versa one of the best cars for older drivers — or any driver? The price. With a base price of under $15,000, you will be hard-pressed to find a better value.

Want to see more inexpensive cars? Here’s our list of the cheapest new cars of 2022.

For The Dreamer

Ford Mustang Convertible

MSRP: $32,705

MPG: 20 city / 28 highway

Crash Test: N/A

Those recent retirees who waited to reach social security’s full benefit age (66) most likely started their driving career in the 1960s or early 70s. This era in automotive history was marked by the rise of muscle cars and there was no such car more popular than the Ford Mustang. Assuredly, many current retirees dreamed of getting behind the wheel of a Mustang. And if they weren’t able to then, now is the time. Finding a vintage Mustang may be challenging. Fortunately, the model is still going strong. In fact, it’s nearing its 60th anniversary.

While there are several model types to choose from, you can’t go wrong with a convertible. The Mustang Convertible EcoBoost models delivers 310 horsepower and gets 20/28 miles per gallon. And the powerful car still has a five-star safety rating thanks to features such as a Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert. The Mustang also comes standard with modern amenities like LED headlamps and lighting, active noise cancelation, six-speaker sound system, and leather wrapped steering wheel.

Save up for your dream car with banking and savings options from AAA.

For more car recommendations, check out our test drives. 

AAA members get great rates and competitive terms when shopping through the AAA Auto Buying program. Learn more about our network of certified dealers and to start comparing vehicles today.

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

July is National Ice Cream month, proclaimed by President Ronald Reagan in 1984 with a little help from the International Dairy Foods Association. The group reports that’s the busiest time for ice cream producers, also noting that the average American puts away more than 20 pounds of the icy dessert each year. 

Which gives you the perfect midsummer excuse to indulge yourself – the rest of the year you’ll have to come up with other reasons. Check out these delectable ice cream itineraries to find your favorite flavor.  

Ocean State Overload 

Rhode Island’s Blackstone Valley may have birthed the Industrial Revolution, but today, momentous change occurs the day ice cream shops open for the season. Wind your way through four stops to sample mounds of glacial goodness.  

Family-run Lincoln Creamery offers 50 kinds of hard and soft ice cream plus frozen yogurt to its Front Street Faithful, as well as a rewards program. Proceed north to Josie’s in Cumberland for popular froyo flavors Southern bourbon pecan and uber creamy chocolate Nutella. Across the street from Smithfield’s Waterman Reservoir is Powder Mill Creamery, where you can sit yourself down on a shady picnic table to keep your scrumptious sweet from melting too fast.  

Round out your chilly pursuit by visiting Wright’s Dairy Farm & Bakery in North Smithfield, an honest-to-goodness working farm where milk goes from cow to bottle within 24 hours. You can watch the milking daily from 3-4:30 p.m., ooh and ahh over the cute calves, then take a cellphone tour of the farmstead. End up at the bakery and just try to resist its mouthwatering pastries, not to mention the ice cream pints, quarts, and sandwiches in the freezer. If you still have room, get a cow-to-cone creation from the seasonal Scoop Trailer, which operates out of a restored 1966 Streamline. A second trailer is located on Water Street in Warren.

 

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Empire State Extravaganza 

New York’s diverse regions give rise to a range of ice cream paths. Adirondacks, USA, has a self-guided Ice Cream Trail for the southern, eastern, northern and High Peaks districts. Some advice: Eat a good breakfast and pace yourself. Further west, Step Out Buffalo recommends a gratifying two-fer, a Candy & Ice Cream Shop Trail featuring nine locales in and around that city, several of which have that old-timey ice cream parlor feeling.  

Long Islanders can follow a 15-hour excursion from the Queens border to Southampton, plotted out by Foursquare. In Manhattan, opt for Sugartooth Tour’s Ice Cream Tour of NYC, conducted five times every Sunday from June through September. (FYI: The city’s Museum of Ice Cream is not a museum in the traditional sense. While it does give out scoops and other delicacies, and has an immersive “sprinkle pool” with around one million nonedible pieces, it’s more of an interactive play space with multisensory installations.)  

Be sure to detour to Brooklyn’s Red Hook section to drop in on the borough’s largest ice cream facility, Ample Hills Creamery, and its family-friendly interactive museum.  

Garden State Goodies 

New Jersey has about 39,000 miles of public roadways, meaning there’s lots of ground to cover in a quest for frosty treats. Begin at Van Dyk’s Homemade Ice Cream, a fixture in Ridgewood for over 40 years (be forewarned: It’s cash only), then swing over to Jersey City’s Torico for ice cream pies and slices in flavors that reflect the community’s diverse cultures (dulce de leche, anyone?). Proceed west to get your licks on Route 46 in Ledgewood at Cliff’s. The 60-plus choices include Morris County mud and holy cannoli.  

Continue south to Magnifico’s in East Brunswick for soft serve or a nondairy/gluten-free/vegan pineapple Dole Whip. Charming Lambertville, on the Delaware River across from Pennsylvania, is the place to taste Owowcow’s locally sourced cool confections, consisting of core flavors, monthly specials and seasonal selections. Finally, head down the Shore to quaint Stone Harbor, sandwiched between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean. At Springer’s, pick up an intriguing combo – an ice cream doughnut – and stroll the sand to watch the sunset. 

Mattapoisett Tour de Creme – 2019 from ORCTV on Vimeo.

Bay State Blast 

“If you can ride a bike and like ice cream, there’s a ride for you,” vow the organizers of the Massachusetts South Coast’s Tour de Creme, which will come racing back in May 2023. Cycle-and-slurp routes are 11, 19, 25 and 50 miles, depending on just how much you want to pedal – and consume, from a surprising number of creameries (the exercise negates the calories, right?). All tours begin at the Mattapoisett Town Beach and end with a party at Munro Preserve, hosted by the Mattapoisett Land Trust and Friends of the Mattapoisett Rail Trail. You must register in advance and pay a minimum fee (or raise money) to support regional hiking and biking paths. 

 

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Have you ever sampled your way through one of these ice cream trails? Share your favorite ice cream shop in the comments. 

It goes without saying that a lot has changed over the last few years, including the appetite to travel. Now more than ever, people around the world are looking at travel as an essential investment – and many Americans are hitting the road for their getaways.

As you plan your next road trip, here are Best Western® Hotels & Resorts’ top 10 travel tips to help you make the most of your well-deserved vacation.

Take advantage of AAA rates.

Savings on hotel stays is one of the top benefits consistently noted by AAA members, who can save up to 15% at Best Western® Hotels & Resorts when booking online or through a AAA Travel Advisor.

AAA members are also offered special promotions. This summer, AAA members who stay two nights with Best Western now through September 4 will receive a free night for future fall/winter travel. Advance registration is required on AAA.com/BestWestern.

Consider your travel companions.

If you’re heading out with your family, consider having shorter drive days, making frequent stops and ending your day in the late afternoon rather than in the evening. Choose hotels that will be a welcome destination at the end of the day. Consider family-friendly brands that offer pools, hot tubs or water slides. With a shorter drive day, you can arrive with time to relax and enjoy the hotel amenities.

Do any research ahead of time.

Have you ever arrived at your destination after a long day of driving only to spend hours looking up restaurant and attractions? Researching these things before you hit the road will save you a great deal of time, stress and frustration. The more you know, the smoother the ride!

Be aware some things have changed.

The pandemic changed how businesses – especially those in the travel landscape – offer some of their services. While some of these changes were temporary, some look like they’re here to stay. For example, daily housekeeping services at many hotels may not be standard and may be by request only. While housekeeping staff may not be permitted to enter your room for daily standard service, think about requesting additional linens or garbage pickup when needed.

Enjoy the journey – not just the destination!

The magic in road trips is often found in the memories made along the way. Consider stopping at scenic lookouts, family-friendly attractions or a new place to eat. Sometimes it’s the smallest moments that make the biggest memories.

And don’t undervalue the importance of rest. Stop at a rest stop and give yourself time to stretch your legs, close your eyes and take any necessary breaks. It’s a good idea to stop every two or three hours when driving for an extended time.

Disconnect. Don’t text and drive.

Few things are as dangerous as texting and driving. Every day, distracted drivers kill an average of nine people and injure more than 3,000 people in the United States, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Put your phone down and consider using the “do not disturb” feature when you’re behind the wheel.

Leverage loyalty programs for added value.

Many attractions, restaurants, gas stations and hotels offer loyalty programs. Find the programs that are right for you and make sure your loyalty pays off. Consider planning hotel stays and other stops along your route with just one brand so that by the end of your trip you’ll have enough points for an excellent reward!

The AAA Preferred^SM Best Western Rewards^® program offers an upgrade to Gold member status and bonus points that never expire and can be redeemed for free nights and more.

Don’t forget the snacks and cooler … and masks and sanitizer.

Stock up on everyone’s favorite snacks and drinks for an easy way to stick to any budget and time restraints. Consider a mix of both healthy snacks – like fruits and veggies – as well as special treats and sweets – like cookies and chips. It is a vacation after all! And as you travel outside your local area, protocols may be different from what you’re accustomed to. While many businesses have lifted mask requirements, remember to bring COVID-related items in case they’re needed to keep your family safe and healthy.

Remember that a great day always starts with a great breakfast.

Did you know that breakfast is the meal people skip most? Don’t miss a good start, particularly when preparing for a day of driving with the kids. Look for hotels that offer breakfast –either complimentary continental, hot or from an on-site restaurant. If you’re planning an early departure, many hotels offer a grab-and-go option.

Bring your dog along for the ride!

With the prevalence of road trip travel this spring and summer, rest assured you can take your four-legged friend along, with many hotels offering pet-friendly rooms. Consider bringing along your pet’s bed, a favorite toy or a special blanket so they feel right at home.

Visit AAA.com/BestWestern to book your next stay.

When contemplating the most impressive natural features in the Northeast, you’ll be tempted to look up to the region’s famed mountain ranges or out along its miles upon miles of pristine coastline. But if you look inward, you’ll find a group of equally impressive features: lakes. The Northeast is home to several of the most prominent – and largest – lakes in the country.

Each of these bodies of water offer all the outdoor recreation you can fit into your schedule. Add in the cultural, historic and family-focused attractions found amongst quaint, waterfront towns and these lakes become the perfect vacation destinations.

Lake George

New York

Nestled amongst New York’s pristine Adirondack Mountains is picturesque Lake George, a popular vacation destination for nearly two centuries. Known as the “Queen of the American Lakes,” this 32-mile-long body of water boasts 109 miles of shoreline, comprised of beaches large and small. Those wanting a front-row seat to this natural wonder can book a cruise with the Lake George Steamboat Company or enjoy a self-guided exploration by renting a paddleboat, kayak or canoe. More of an adventure seeker? Try zipping around the water on a jet ski or get your heart pumping on a whitewater rafting expedition.

Off the water, Lake George provides the opportunity for a one-of-a-kind night under the stars. There are nearly 400 campsites located across the lake’s 44 state-owned islands. Speaking of dry land, history buffs will want to explore Lake George’s southern shoreline. The area is home to several historical sites that played important roles in the French and Indian War. Families with little ones, meanwhile, can spend a day at nearby attractions like Six Flags Great Escape and Hurricane Harbor, Lake George Expedition Park and the Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course.

Lake Winnipesaukee

New Hampshire

New Hampshire is home to nearly 300 bodies of water. The largest of these is Lake Winnipesaukee, located in the central portion of the state, not far from the Maine border. Covering a mammoth 72 square miles, the lake offers ample space for just about every water activity under the sun, including boating, waterskiing, pontoon boat charters and standup paddleboarding.

Nature lovers will be hard-pressed to find a better setting than New Hampshire’s Lake Region. Lake Winnipesaukee is surrounded by several Hollywood-worthy bodies of water, including Squam Lake, where the Academy Award-winning movie “On Golden Pond” was filmed. All this natural beauty sits at the foot of New Hampshire’s White Mountains, home to 6,822-foot-tall Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast.

The surrounding towns of Laconia, Meredith and Wolfeboro have long been popular tourist destinations. In fact, Wolfeboro is considered the oldest summer resort town in America, with a history that dates back to 1759. Within these local neighborhoods, visitors will find top-notch restaurants, museums and family attractions. (Parents, make sure to put Laconia’s famous Funspot arcade on your itinerary.)

Walden Pond

Massachusetts

The serenity of this famous Massachusetts pond inspired Henry David Thoreau to pen his iconic book “Walden,” an ode to the simplicity of living in nature. Travelers will still find much of that same serenity a century-and-a-half later. Walden Pond feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of modern-day life, despite being just a 30-minute drive from Boston.

Don’t let the name fool you, this “pond” is more than 60 acres in size. Guests will find all the traditional recreational activities available at their fingertips. Back on land, a walking path encircling the pond allows visitors to explore the shoreline and surrounding forest on foot.

What separates Walden Pond from other popular lake destinations is its unique place in American and literary history. Walden Pond is located in Concord, site of the first Revolutionary War conflict. Guests can learn about the town’s historical importance with stops at local museums, parks and memorial sites. Decades after the war, several notable authors called Concord home. This included Thoreau’s friend Ralph Waldo Emerson, whose house is open to the public. Just north of the pond sits Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House, where she wrote “Little Women.”

Lake Champlain

New York-Vermont

Forming a geographical border between northern New York and Vermont is scenic Lake Champlain. Stretching 120 miles long and covering 435 square miles, it is the sixth-largest lake in the country. The water, lined by Vermont’s Green Mountains, claims postcard-worthy views at every turn.

Those looking to try their hand at sailing, a popular Lake Champlain activity, can book a private instruction or rent a boat of on their own. When it comes to sporting, Lake Champlain is a fisher’s paradise. More than 90 different species of fish can be found swimming underneath the surface and the lake is considered to have some of the best bass fishing in the Northeast. Speaking of animals, bird watchers should bring their binoculars to spot the 300-plus types of birds that live on or near Lake Champlain.

Those wanting to cross the river can do so via one of three bridges (two on the south end, one on the north) or by hopping on any of the three ferry services that travel along the wider, central portions of the lake. Once on land, visitors can travel through the quaint, waterfront towns that line the lake. The most notable of which is Burlington, Vermont’s most-populous city. Here, guests will want to make sure to stop by the Church Street Marketplace, a lively, open-air mall filled with restaurants, bars, boutique retailers and live music.

What’s your favorite lake destination? Let us know what you love about it in the comments below!

Save money getting to and around these water oases with AAA. Members can receive up to 25% off on Hertz car rentals. Traveling with friends and family? Up to four additional drivers (who are AAA members) can drive for free. 

Scooped in a cup or swirled into a cone, homemade or from your favorite local shop, ice cream is the sweetest way to cool down on a hot day.

You sent us your best photos of this classic summer treat, delivering all the hot fudge, sprinkle-covered and cherry-topped goodness we’d hoped for.

Thank You for Participating! (Session Closed)

Browse through all of the photos we received during June’s ice cream-themed Photo Session in the slideshow below, and don’t forget to check our social media channels, where we will be sharing some of our favorites. Select photos may also appear in an upcoming issue of Your AAA magazine.

Check out past AAA Photo Sessions and stay tuned for the next one.

Make sure you’re sitting down. I’m about to tell you something shocking.

All your life, you’ve been told to fly to Florida or the Caribbean for your summer vacation, and all your life you’ve been missing out on one of the best-kept secrets in nearby summer travel: Connecticut.

Halfway between New York City and Boston, all the outdoor fun you need is in the summer in Connecticut: great weather, beautiful scenery, charming coastal communities and some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever eat. And you don’t even need to fly there.

Start planning your trip today with our guide to summer fun in Connecticut.

All Natural

The beauty of coastal Connecticut might make you forget all about the Hamptons. It’s loaded with lighthouses and incredible coastal communities like the city of Milford, which has more shoreline than any other city in Connecticut. Rent a kayak, paddleboard, bike or scooter from Scoot & Paddle and set out on an expedition of the Milford Point area, where rare birds fly overhead and 400 acres of unspoiled marshland are waiting to be explored.

In Portland, Brownstone Adventure Sports Park is perfect for thrill-seeking nature lovers. This outdoor adventure park has rock climbing, snorkeling, cliff jumping and zip lines. It caters to all ages and groups of any size.

For a timeless, beautiful and truly unique 19^th century experience, board the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat – a two-hour journey into the heart of the Connecticut River Valley on a real steam locomotive, which includes an hour-long cruise on the Connecticut River.

If you’d rather captain your own ship, head to Mystic Boat Adventures in the family-friendly village of Mystic. Drive your own miniature power boat up the Mystic River and see historic whaling ships up close at Mystic Seaport. And if that’s not thrilling enough, you can register for adult summer camp at Kent’s Club Getaway, where the adventures never stop.

Amusement Parks, Casinos and Shopping

Connecticut has earned a reputation as one of the best getaways for families and attractions like Lake Compounce are a big reason why. This family-friendly theme park is home to Connecticut’s largest water park and the world’s top-rated wooden roller coaster. Say hello to dozens of lifelike animatronic dinosaurs in its Dino Expedition area and when you’re all worn out, stay overnight at its campground only steps away from the park.

The thrills and laughs continue at Quassy Amusement & Waterpark in Middlebury, which is also known for great summer events like 3D fireworks and beach parties featuring live music, fire pits and waterslides.

Other family friendly attractions in Connecticut include Mystic Aquarium, where you can see thousands of sea creatures – including New England’s only Beluga whales and endangered African penguins, and Beardsley Zoo in Bridgeport, which has a Siberian tiger, a red wolf and 300 animals from North and South America. Get discounts at Mystic Aquarium with AAA. 

Of course, kids can’t have all the fun. That’s where Connecticut’s world-class casinos come in.

Mohegan Sun in Uncasville has hotels restaurants, golf, spas, entertainments and more. Foxwoods Resort Casino in Ledyard has all that and primo outlet shopping, too. Shopping enthusiasts can also head to Clinton Premium Outlets and The Shops at Yale in New Haven for more than 65 boutique shops, national retailers and award-winning eateries.

Living History

History comes to life in Connecticut in the form of Revolutionary War sites and coastal communities that date back to the 1700s. Look no further than the Henry B. Dupont Preservation Shipyard at Mystic Seaport, the largest maritime museum in the United States. Here you’ll find an astounding collection of historic vessels like the 1841 whaleship Charles W. Morgan, the last remaining wooden whaleship in the world.

At Putnam Redding Memorial State Park, you can see the site of the Continental Army’s 1779 winter encampment, and at Dinosaur State Park you can stop for a picnic after seeing its Jurassic-era fossil tracks from 200 million years ago.

Recharge your batteries on the green at the nearly 320-year-old Yale University campus and walk the 26-block New London Historic District, which is loaded with art, music and more than 30 eateries (state hero Nathan Hale once walked these streets – and so did Benedict Arnold).

Coastal Dining

Eating is an adventure too, especially when it comes with views of the Atlantic Ocean. Complete your summer in Connecticut with a local favorite: the buttered lobster roll. Lobster Landing in Clinton, Abbott’s Lobster in Noank and Lenny & Joe’s Fish Tale in Madison are standouts, but you really can’t go wrong when it’s a lobster that was plucked from the ocean earlier that day.

Red 36 in downtown Mystic has a seasonal menu with an extensive raw bar and breathtaking water views. Or try the award-winning steak and seafood at Shell & Bones Oyster Bar & Grill in New Haven (don’t leave without trying the famous clam chowder). For an especially unique experience, head to The Place Restaurant in Guilford. Here you’ll sit outdoors on tree stumps while a crackling wood fire roasts clams and smoky lobsters (open May through October).

Craft Beverages

If your idea of enjoying summer in Connecticut involves a craft beverage in your hand, then Connecticut is perfect for you, provided you drink responsibly and have a designated driver. The state has a bunch of historic spaces that have been seamlessly outfitted into cool production facilities and hangouts when you need a break from the summer heat. Take Two Roads Brewing Company in Stratford, for example, which transformed a 112-year-old building into a state-of-the-art brewery and taproom.

Willimantic Brewing Company in northeastern Connecticut is stationed in a 1909 post office building and has been serving craft brews to its loyal patrons for more than 30 years. Chill out with a cold one underneath the shade of a colorful umbrella on the steps of the onetime mail center.

And it’s not just the suds that are worth the trip to Connecticut. The Connecticut Wine Trail has more than 20 vineyards and wineries, many of which overlook the stunning countryside or coast – perfect on a sunny summer day.

Summer Events

Connecticut’s summer events celebrate its New England culture and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. Every July, more than 300,000 visitors head to the New London waterfront district for Sailfest, southeastern Connecticut’s premier summertime celebration. This year’s festival will feature more than 200 food and craft vendors, amusement rides and a firework show. You can even view the festivities from a 19^th century cargo schooner with towering masts.

Other popular summer events in Connecticut include the Mystic Outdoor Art Festival and the Brooklyn Fair agricultural extravaganza in August, and the East Norwalk Oyster Festival in September.

And the best part? Connecticut is so close that you can get there easily – and quickly – by train or car. And whether you decide to stay for a couple of weeks or a weekend, you’ll find one of the best summer escapes has been right in your backyard all along.

There is so much to do in Connecticut in the summer, but it’s also a great year-round destination.

Share what you love about Connecticut in the comments. From outdoor activities to hotels and day trips, we want to hear about it.

FIND & BOOK A HOTEL WITH AAA IN CONNECTICUT 

The CAT is back!

The high-speed CAT car ferry service is now sailing for the summer. At 3.5 hours, it’s the fast and entertaining way to travel between Bar Harbor, Maine, and Yarmouth, Nova Scotia.

Spend less time driving and more time taking in the amazing sights of the Gulf of Maine, Canadian Maritimes and the Northeastern United States from the decks and venues of The CAT.

Onboard, get a taste of the East Coast with live entertainment through our Music on the Gulf program. Prefer indoor views? Search for the perfect souvenir at the Scotia Market Gift Shop. More of a foodie? We have three unique dining venues to savor. Grab a cup of joe and a variety of snacks to go at our Sip at Sea Café, enjoy the scenery with breakfast, lunch or dinner at Scotia Market, and dive into regional surf and turf at Forchu Lounge with a selection of local wines and beers, paired with fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients.

Think life can’t always be fun and games? Of course, it can! With daily film screenings in our movie area and onboard tours, The CAT is the easy – and fast – way to navigate a road trip for all ages that doesn’t include the words: “Are we there yet?”

Departing Bar Harbor at 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time, you arrive in Yarmouth just in time to enjoy supper before setting out to explore all Nova Scotia has to offer. Marvel at the world’s highest tides, legendary whale watching and strings of pretty fishing towns. Visit majestic lighthouses, spectacular dunes and extraordinary beaches.

The CAT now departs Yarmouth, Nova Scotia, at a comfortable 9:30 a.m. Atlantic Time, so even with check-in an hour before sailing, you’ll be well rested and ready for your ocean voyage.

It’s the best of both worlds – experience land and sea with The CAT.

AAA Members Earn CAT CASH* redeemable for onboard dining, drinks, and local souvenirs. Call or visit your local AAA Office or book at Ferries.ca using promo code AAA22.

*$10/pp max of $20 for one-way bookings. $10/pp max of $40 for round-trip bookings. Vouchers distributed on board.