Are you looking forward to retirement, but wondering what in the world you’re going to do with all that free time? Finding a hobby you love is one way to feel fulfilled after your working years. Hobbies can help you stay physically active, keep your mind sharp and connect you to new friends.

There are so many possibilities to choose from. You can finally get into the hobby you’ve been itching to do for years but never had time for, or check out an exciting activity that’s totally new to you.

Not sure where to start? Get your wheels turning with these eight hobbies to do in retirement.

Writing

Have you always dreamed of writing a book? There are tons of how-to guides that can help you finally get started on that novel, memoir, cookbook or children’s book idea you’ve been procrastinating on for years. You could even try blogging about interests or experiences.

And one of the great things about writing is that it’s portable. From the comfort of a cozy chair, your favorite coffee shop, your neighborhood park or even a hammock at the beach, you can take your hobby with you wherever you go and gather inspiration from your surroundings.

Gardening

Whether growing fresh veggies, transforming your backyard into a tranquil Zen garden or vying for a blue ribbon with your gorgeous roses, gardening is one of the hobbies to do in retirement that ticks a lot of boxes. It’s creative and inexpensive, promotes relaxation, physical exercise and connection with nature, and you can do it alone or with others. Plus, your friends will be more than happy to share your summertime bounty of tomatoes and zucchini.

The internet is full of resources and kits for first-time gardeners, like mini herb gardens, beginner tool kits, unique vegetable kits and bonsai starters.

Fitness or Sports

When deciding on hobbies to do in retirement that could help your overall wellness, the answer could lie in your morning workout or favorite sport.

If you love golf, basketball, softball or tennis, you could join a club or community league to make friends and have fun playing your favorite sport.

When it comes to staying physically active, there’s so much to choose from, from yoga to tai chi, to swimming or Zumba. Just remember to always ease into any new physical activity and consult with your physician to reduce the risk of injury.

Crafting

There’s something so satisfying – and therapeutic – about making things with your hands, especially after a career that involves sitting at a desk.

Whether you’re interested in woodworking, pottery, knitting, scrapbooking, water colors or jewelry making, there are endless ways to get in touch with your creative side and make items that are useful, beautiful or both. Design tiles for your new garden, knit scarves for your grandkids, sew blankets for people in need or build the perfect dining table.

You can also try learning something new with a kit that comes with instructions and all the materials you need, like this crochet kit.

Learn To Play an Instrument

Maybe you played piano when you were young but had to give it up, or you’ve always wanted to learn the guitar but never had time.

It’s never too late to learn a new instrument, and studies have found the process can improve your memory, boost concentration and reduce stress.

Sign up for one-on-one lessons, tune in to instructors on YouTube or check out a how-to guide for your instrument of choice. For a fun way to practice, make music with friends at a weekly jam session or join a community orchestra.

Dancing

Dancing is a wonderful way to meet new friends and stay active in your retirement. You can try swing dancing, waltz, contra, salsa or country line dancing; there are so many styles to choose from, you’re sure to find one that matches your physical ability and musical taste.

Look for free community dance lessons offered by your local civic association or recreation center, or build your confidence with formal lessons at a dance studio (spangly costumes not required!).

Travel

Whether you’re planning the ultimate cross-country road trip in an RV or want to sip wine at a Parisian cafe, with your newly flexible schedule, retirement is the perfect time to travel.

Let a AAA travel agent help you plan your next trip.

Photography

If you’ve always dreamed of getting into photography, there are plenty of affordable, entry-level digital cameras to start with. Try an online tutorial or enroll in a photography class to learn about all those funky manual camera settings and hone your craft.

Through taking photos, you can explore your city, engage with nature, document your travels and capture moments with your family. You’ll gain technical skills, develop your artistic side and create something special to share with others.

What are your favorite hobbies to do in retirement? Tell us in the comments below!

Kim Dolan has been active her whole life. Running, swimming, biking – she competed in a few triathlons, even an Ironman.

She jokes that it was to counter her occupational hazard as a pastry chef instructor at Johnson and Wales University in Providence, R.I.

The longtime AAA member also participates in the Southern New England Heart Walk, not for the exercise of the 3-mile route but to support the American Heart Association. If not for its groundbreaking research, she’s not sure she’d be here today.

So, she will volunteer for any project she can, and will tell her story to anyone to raise awareness about heart disease and the great work of the Heart Association.

‘I Couldn’t Catch My Breath’

Late in 2016, Dolan was struggling to catch her breath while exercising. She couldn’t finish a lap at her regular swim session or on her weekly 2-mile neighborhood jog with her husband.

She was just tired, she reasoned. It was the holiday season, and she was busy with work, shopping and preparing for the traditional Christmas meal with her son, Maddison, and daughter, Maggie, coming in from out of state. Or maybe she was depressed – she had lost her father and her mother-in-law that year.

“I didn’t think anything of it until my husband and I were walking across the street and I couldn’t get across without stopping. I couldn’t catch my breath,” she said, “It’s hard to convince yourself you’re sick when you’re healthy in every other way. But there can be underlying things. You really have to listen to your body.”

Her husband, Mark, was so concerned he wouldn’t let her go on an after-Christmas family ski trip to New Hampshire until she had a medical checkup. Plus, he had witnessed her struggling to breathe during the night in a strange – and scary – interrupted sleep.

She drove herself to Miriam Hospital in Providence, R.I., that morning. But she didn’t make it on the ski trip.

“My heart rate was 170. They put me in triage and a doctor came in right away. She did an ultrasound and found I had fluid around my heart,” Dolan said.

‘You’ve Got the Wrong Patient’

They called in a specialist from Rhode Island Hospital who ran more tests, then told her she was in heart failure and would likely need a transplant to survive.

“My whole family was there, and they were all like ‘what are you even talking about? You’ve got the wrong patient. You’ve got the wrong chart,’” she recalled.

She was transferred to Tufts Heart Failure and Cardiac Transplant Center in Boston where they confirmed the diagnosis, a rare genetic condition called non-compaction cardiomyopathy. It was a fairly new medical discovery, researched for only about 20 years.

They also determined she needed a new heart.

She was placed on the transplant list in February 2017 and sent home with a catheter in her arm to deliver medicine from a machine she wore in a purse over her shoulder. And she felt good enough to get on a treadmill and spin on a bike at the gym, until three months later, when she began feeling tired and weak again.

“So we went back to Tufts, and sure enough, my heart wasn’t doing well,” she said.

Because she was failing, she moved up on the transplant list. She was in the hospital for five weeks awaiting a heart donation, but no matches became available.

“My heart basically gave out. I had to have an emergency LVAD, which is a left ventricular assisted device. It keeps the blood flowing and pumping. That was a 10-hour surgery, and when I woke up, it was really hard,” Dolan said.

She went home again with tubes coming out of her abdomen and a battery pack the size of a laptop to keep the machine running.

‘We Have a Heart’

In late August 2017, at 2:30 a.m., she got a call from the hospital telling her a heart was available.

“So, my husband and I got in the car, and we were excited. We talked all the way to Boston – which took about 40 minutes – about all the things we were going to do, all the vacations we were going to go on, because I hadn’t been able to leave home. I had to be available within three hours if there was a heart.”

She was prepped for surgery and given anesthesia, but when she woke up, she was still attached to the LVAD. The doctor had determined that the heart was not good enough to be transplanted. After the bad news was delivered, she had to spend another five days at the hospital.

“And that was the hardest five days of the whole ordeal. I was so sad and disappointed,” she said.

In late October, she developed an infection and was back at Tufts for three days of antibiotics, then given intravenous antibiotics for home.

“All of a sudden by cardiologist walks in and says, ‘we have a heart for you,’” Dolan said.

She was also told she had the right to refuse it, because the donor had died from a drug overdose. Although the body had tested negative for HIV and hepatitis C, there was a 0.01 % chance that those diseases could be in incubation.

“He said about 35% of organ donations are coming from overdose victims because the opioid crisis is so terrible, but the organs are still viable, and those diseases can be controlled with medication,” Dolan said. “My husband asked ‘what would you do if it was someone in your family?’ And my cardiologist said ‘I’d take the heart in a second.’”

The surgery lasted 12 hours. And when she woke up, there was no LVAD. “There was just one little IV attached to me. I was able to sit up that same morning, and I was only in ICU for two days. I felt so good,” she said.

Now, she’s back on an exercise regime.

“They had me go to cardiac rehab, but I lasted just one day. I said ‘I can do better than this.’ So, I just started walking everywhere and all the time. Then I started adding things to it,” she said.

She returned to yoga and began doing Lagree, strength exercises that she prefers over cardio these days. Running isn’t appealing anymore. She’s also back to biking hard core and competed in the Transplant Games of America last summer.

And she’s thankful every day – for the heart she received from a 45-year-old woman and her family who upheld her wishes to be an organ donor. She met them two years after her transplant, and they stay in touch through Facebook.

‘What If’

Dolan now wonders about her family’s genetic history. Her father died of congestive heart failure, and his own father and mother, her grandparents, died of heart attacks.

“Did they have something similar to what I had? Maybe, if there had been more research, they wouldn’t have died at such a young age,” Dolan said.

She also wonders if she would have survived had this happened to her in college, before non-compaction cardiomyopathy was a known disease.

Her children have been tested. Her daughter carries the gene, and her son does not.

“I don’t think my condition would have been so readily diagnosed had it not been for the support of the American Heart Association. And if we didn’t have that research, we wouldn’t know that one of my children carries the gene,” she said. “She already has a cardiologist at Tufts, and it may never get to the point where it got with me. She may live forever with this.”

At AAA Northeast, we recognize that Dolan is not our only member affected in some way by heart and brain issues. We encourage all of our members to come along with us to the Southern New England Heart Walk on June 10 at Bryant University in Smithfield, R.I., or in other ways support the efforts of the American Heart Association.

While there is a time and place for grand gestures of love and romance, not every date has to involve champagne and red roses. Here are 10 ideas for date night on a budget to keep you entertained, laughing and learning together, all while staying on track financially. Talk about couple’s goals!

Volunteer Together

The couple that volunteers together, stays together. Plan a charitable outing with your boo doing something you’re both passionate about. Can’t agree? Switch off with your partner on choosing these date nights once a month. Whether it’s walking adorable dogs at a shelter, playing games with the elderly at a nursing home or picking up trash on the beach, you can easily get to know someone better with this date night on a budget.

Mix it Up!

Play bartenders and recreate your favorite restaurant cocktails at home. Because let’s be honest, paying for drinks at a restaurant adds up quickly. If you’re feeling fancy, try the Le Fizz or get cozy with this Fireside cocktail. Both recipes have five or less ingredients, making them cost effective and easy to make over date night conversation. Don’t drink alcohol? Try a mocktail instead.

Get Physical

Heat up date night (literally) with a partner workout. You can motivate each other as you reach your health goals together. Plus, exercise releases those feel-good chemicals.

AAA members can choose from thousands of fitness centers and guided workout videos for just $25 a month with the Active&Fit Direct program.

Dream Together

Goal setting may not sound like the most romantic date night, but give it a chance. Simply write down your goals for the month, year or even for five years down the line. This is a great way to open up with each other and learn about your better half, whether it’s a new relationship or you’ve been married for years. Chat about your lists over a fun board game, or get outside and discuss while stargazing.

Take a Tour

What do you and your partner appreciate and want to learn more about? Think outside the box. Go on a pizza tour or movie location tour (either professional or self-guided), or take an informational walk through a nearby garden, historical house, library or farm. Some tours are completely free and many others offer discounts.

Save on tours with AAA tickets.

Food Kits

If you like learning new skills in the kitchen, consider trying your hand at cheese or pickle making. These DIY kits range from $30-$40 and will leave you and your companion hungry to try another recipe soon.

Get Crafty

By now you probably know that you can learn almost anything on YouTube, but it could also help you put together a creative date night on a budget. Set up an at-home paint and sip with a guided video tutorial. Whether it’s painting, sculpting or origami, making something together could be a great bonding experience, and craft supplies are relatively inexpensive.

Dance Class

Two words: “Dirty Dancing.” What can be more romantic than learning how to dance with your partner? Search “free dance class near me” online right now and see what pops up near you. From tango to salsa, it’s a surefire way to spice up date night!

Say “Cheese”!

Plan a fun bike riding date or hop on a free ferry and take photos with your cell phone or a Polaroid camera. There is something old-school romantic about using a Polaroid and printing your cute couple’s photos instantly. Make a scrapbook with your snaps or try one of these creative ways to display them.

Laugh a Little

Laughing together is always a good idea. Go roller skating, stop into a show at a local comedy club or pretend you’re kids for an hour at Sky Zone, an indoor trampoline park with locations throughout the Northeast. You’ll both be cracking up in no time.

Search AAA Discounts for savings on your next date night.

Share your favorite date night on a budget in the comments below!

Carol Conley is a survivor.

She fought off colon cancer 18 years ago. So, she wasn’t about to let a heart attack and stroke five years ago take away her new lease on life.

“Having cancer was a great gift. It really made me see what’s important. You have to enjoy yourself,” said Conley, a AAA member from Rhode Island. “I’ve had a wonderful life. I enjoy it too much to let it go so easily.”

Conley has a job she loves at the Rhode Island Film and Television Office and a boss she couldn’t live without – literally. Like many women, she didn’t recognize the signs of her heart attack, but he knew something wasn’t right.

They had gone out to lunch in April 2017 to celebrate his work anniversary. She wasn’t in the mood to eat – the first clue. She mentioned that she was not feeling well and would like to go home to lie down afterward instead of returning to the office – another clue. She told him she would call her primary care physician in the morning. That wasn’t soon enough for him.

Two Choices

Her boss didn’t like the way she looked and wanted her to go to the emergency room. She insisted she just wanted to go home.

“He said ‘I’ll give you two choices: I will take you to the emergency room or I will call an ambulance,’” she recalls. She chose the former to avoid the embarrassment of having an ambulance show up at the restaurant.

At the emergency room, Conley still insisted she was fine, but tests showed otherwise. She was having a heart attack, and it had caused a small stroke.

“It was kind of simultaneously. They told my boss that if he had let me go home and lie down, I might not have woken up,” Conley said.

She had seen her primary care physician just the week before and got a clean bill of health. He even did an electrocardiogram, and everything was fine.

She had none of the telltale signs of a heart attack – no chest pain, arm pain, jaw pain or shortness of breath. However, the previous night, she had a headache that wouldn’t quit and blurry vision. She also has diabetes and attributed it to that. But they were symptoms of the stroke.

“If it wasn’t for the stroke, I might not have ever gone to the hospital. I might not have ever thought that there was anything wrong,” Conley said.

At the hospital, they found a blockage. She was transferred to another hospital for a catheterization and stent placement.

Storytelling

Conley became involved with the American Heart Association in 2019 as one of its storytellers.

The organization was looking for women to share their heart attack and stroke survival stories as part of an awareness campaign. Conley was paired up with a woman who had a stroke when she was just 12 years old and another who was a heart-transplant survivor.

“These were incredible women. We just had a connection from the get-go, and we had a wonderful experience telling our stories and recording them for the Go Red for Women luncheon that year,” Conley said. “We are still fast friends.”

In telling their stories, they hope to convey the message that heart and brain illnesses can happen to anyone at any time, so pay attention to your body.

“If you don’t feel good, and you can’t put a finger on it, get it checked out,” Conley urges. “Don’t go home and lie down.”

Since then, she has done some media interviews for the Heart Association and volunteers for other projects when she can.

“The Heart Association has wonderful programs. They have a great support system. They do wonderful research, and what they’re doing can help prevent what happened to me from happening to other women. So, it’s definitely worth contributing to and getting involved.”

At AAA Northeast, we recognize that Conley is not our only member affected in some way by heart and brain issues. We encourage all of our members to come along with us to the Southern New England Heart Walk on June 10 at Bryant University in Smithfield, R.I., or in other ways support the efforts of the American Heart Association.

They say the way to someone’s heart is through their stomach, and that may very well be true. Whether homemade or in the dimly lit dining room of the ritziest restaurant in town, many people can attest to falling in love with someone over a romantic meal.

Of course, romance is subjective. While candlelight and linen tablecloths may epitomize great date night restaurants for some, eating just about anywhere could be romantic depending on who’s sitting across the table.

From the food and overall vibe to AAA Diamond Designations, these are a few of our favorite restaurants for date night in the Northeast. All that’s missing is a table for two reserved just for you and your favorite person.

New York

La Grenouille 
Manhattan

La Grenouille is a luxurious French restaurant that opened in the mid-60s. There just aren’t French restaurants like this in New York City anymore. Its old-fashioned dedication to style and class adds an air of romance to everything beyond its doors. The restaurant is filled with giant bouquets of fresh flowers, which are said to be collected and arranged by the owner himself. Waiters in ties and white suit jackets tend to your every need. For men, jackets are required to enter the dining room. But don’t worry if you’ve forgotten yours; they have jackets that you can borrow. Once you get there, make sure to order a souffle – they’re the house specialty.

One if by Land, Two if by Sea 
Manhattan

Formerly a carriage house used by Aaron Burr, One if by Land, Two if by Sea is among the all-time great date night restaurants in New York City. A nod to it’s Revolutionary past, the Greenwich Village landmark is named after a line from Henry W. Longfellow’s poem “Paul Revere’s Ride.” The setting is elegant and historic, featuring brick walls, stained glass, chandeliers, fireplaces and arched windows looking out into a lush garden. Like many other Colonial structures, it’s rumored to be haunted, which makes the space all the more captivating.

The View Restaurant at Mirror Lake Inn 
Lake Placid

Take in the beauty of Lake Placid at this romantic restaurant located within the scenic AAA Four Diamond Mirror Lake Inn. In cold weather you see the snowflakes falling just outside, while the warmer months bring gorgeous lake views. Highlights of the modern American menu include dishes such as Hudson Valley foie gras, ricotta gnocchi and prime beef filet, and the wine list has won numerous awards.

Massachusetts

80 Thoreau
Concord

Located in the historic town of Concord, 80 Thoreau is sure to leave a lasting impression. Reflected in both design and menu, the AAA Four Diamond restaurant takes on a straightforward, fresh and refined approach, pairing high-quality fine dining without pretension. The cuisine is contemporary American, using the area’s best locally sourced and regional ingredients. For a truly unforgettable experience, make a reservation for chef tasting menu dinners, offered on a limited basis.

Miel 
Boston

For date night in Boston, try this Provence-themed French brasserie at the InterContinental Boston hotel. “Miel” is French for “honey,” and Miel delivers on that sweet promise with an organically sourced menu. Dine in their elegant yet rustic dining room or out on the terrace, which offers breathtaking views of the water. If you want to get your date off to an early start, you could drop in for the luxurious Sunday brunch. On any other day of the week, try out their Provincetown cioppino, roasted Hudson Valley duck breast, vegan ratatouille and the specialty, creme brulee.

The Old Inn on the Green
New Marlborough

Eat fireside in a dining room lit by candles in this beautiful and historic country inn. The Old Inn on the Green’s three-course, prix fixe menu is served Wednesday through Sunday for $75 per person. Decor including the iron chandeliers and wall sconces date back to the Inn’s early history and provide the perfect date night ambiance. During the summer months, dining moves outdoors so that you may enjoy your delicious dinner on the shaded garden terrace.

Rhode Island

Al Forno
Providence

In a city filled with legendary restaurants, Al Forno is perhaps one of the most well-known, gracing the banks of the Providence River since 1980. Local legend has it that grilled pizza was invented at this stalwart eatery, where you can now get one topped with crispy calamari, pea green pesto, mushrooms, pepperoni or margarita-style with pomodoro sauce, cheese, fresh herbs and olive oil. The restaurant is also known for its twist on Italian favorites like veal cutlets, short ribs, chicken and baked pasta dishes. In warmer weather, sit outside in the airy courtyard for an al fresco treat. But be forewarned: Al Forno only takes reservations for parties of six or more, so be prepared to wait if you go on a weekend night or on a special occasion.

Bouchard Inn & Restaurant
Newport

Located in the heart of Newport and just steps from the harbor and shopping, this great date night restaurant offers lighter and more modern takes on French classics such as rack of lamb, roasted squab, Dover sole in sorrel sauce and featured specials inspired by what’s fresh from the local markets or straight from docks. The intimate setting makes for a great night out. Book a room at the inn for an extended stay. 

Gracie’s
Providence

Prepare to be pampered at Gracie’s. The food, service and ambiance at this AAA Four Diamond restaurant are sublime. The farm-to-table menu changes with the seasons, with five-, seven- and nine-course tasting menus, a prix fixe menu and an a la carte menu available. There’s even a three-course dessert menu that should not be missed, as all the desserts are made in-house.

Connecticut

Millwright’s
Simsbury

This rustic-meets-romantic option is a prime choice for treating your better half. The dining room’s floor-to-ceiling windows overlook stunning views of a waterfall, setting the tone for executive chef Ashley Flagg’s menu, featuring dishes such as foie gras mousse and venison loin. Plus, you can even get Johnny cakes as a side dish. Try the chef’s tasting menu for a little bit of everything ($85 per person) or a carefully selected beverage pairing ($55 per person.)

New Jersey

Rat’s Restaurant
Hamilton

Part of the sculpture garden Grounds for Sculpture, Rat’s was designed to make guests feel as though they’re dining in Claude Monet’s beloved town of Giverny, France. Specializing in French country cuisine, Rat’s is striking both inside and out, but the patio overlooking the living recreation of Monet’s “Bridge Over a Pond of Water Lilies” is especially breathtaking. Try the burgundy-braised short ribs. And be sure to explore the gardens surrounding the restaurant after your meal – there’s art around every corner.

What’s your go-to restaurant for date night? Let us know in the comments.

Hungry for more? Find AAA-approved restaurants near you.

The future of self-driving cars is a hot topic in the automotive industry, and rightfully so. In theory, unmanned vehicles have the ability to revolutionize transportation.

A widespread use of autonomous vehicles could have dramatic societal effects including the reduction of traffic fatalities (94% of which are caused by human error, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), a dramatic improvement in traffic flow and providing mobility to the elderly and disabled.

Although the public has yet to fully embrace the idea of riding in a car without a human driver, technology companies and car manufacturers have been focused on getting these vehicles on the road. But where are we today and what does the future of autonomous vehicles hold?

Courtesy of Waymo

Levels of Autonomy

To understand where self-driving car technology stands now and where it may get to in the future, we first need to establish what exactly makes a car autonomous. As defined by the Society of Automotive Engineers and adopted by the U.S. Department of Transportation, there are six levels of driving automation ranging from 0 (fully manual) to 5 (fully autonomous).

Level 0 (No Driving Automation)

These cars are manually controlled without any automation.

Level 1 (Driver Assistance)

The lowest level of automation is defined as a vehicle that features at least one driver-assistance system. An example of this is cruise control, which keeps a safe distance between you and the car ahead of you by using radars and/or cameras. A feature like this falls under the driver assistance umbrella and not automation because it still requires a human to control other aspects of driving, such as steering.

Level 2 (Partial Driving Automation)

Level 2 consists of a vehicle that has combined automated functions, such as steering and acceleration. A common example is autopilot, which controls the speed of the car and can also detect lane markings to keep the car in the proper lane. This level still requires a driver that monitors the environment at all times.

Level 3 (Conditional Driving Automation)

The jump to level 3 is when we start to get to vehicles that are truly automated – meaning they can essentially make their own decisions. Level 3 cars have what are known as environmental detection capabilities. They take in information through a system of cameras and radars and can then perform most driving tasks. Human drivers are still required and must be ready to take control of the car.

Level 4 (High Driving Automation)

Level 4 vehicles are able to perform all driving functions but only in certain conditions. These cars are usually unable to operate autonomously in un-mapped areas or in severe weather conditions.

Level 5 (Full Driving Automation)

These vehicles will be able to perform all driving tasks under all conditions.

The Current State of Self-Driving Cars

The technology behind autonomous vehicles has come a long way in short amount of time. Level 2 and 3 autonomy are becoming widely available in cars today. Tesla’s Autopilot and Cadillac’s Super Cruise are considered two leaders of such technology.

More and more states are allowing self-driving cars on public roads. This has led to leading an increasing number of companies entering the space, including May Mobility, Optimus Ride and Argo AI. Other industries currently employing AVs include senior citizen facilities and food and package delivery companies.

The most notable players in self-driving cars, however, may be ride sharing services. Lyft has partnered with Google parent company Alphabet’s self-driving car unit Waymo to offer self-driving rides in some parts of the country. Uber has done the same.

The Future of Self-Driving Cars

Although many major manufacturers have invested heavily in autonomous vehicles, don’t expect to find self-driving cars at the dealership any time soon. According to the University of Michigan’s Center for Sustainable Systems, the majority of industry experts predict level 4 AVs to be available around 2030.

There are a host of technological, safety and legislative hurdles that still need to be cleared. Currently, there are no national standards or guidelines for self-driving cars. Additionally, new concerns have been raised recently over cyber security. It has been found that autonomous vehicles can be susceptible to malicious software. So, while self-driving technology has progressed significantly of late, it’s a very real possibility that we will never see level 5, fully automated cars.

How do you feel about self-driving cars on the road? Concerned? Excited? Let us know in the comments below.

Every year, automakers send another batch of vehicles off into the abyss. This year is no different. In total, more than a dozen models from the major manufacturers will join the growing list of discontinued cars.

From the once-cheapest new car on the market to a pair of 30-year-old sedans with a number of compact SUVs in between, here are some of the notable discontinued cars of 2023.

Buick Encore

With a turbocharged engine, upscale look and affordable price tag, the Buick Encore was a surprising success when it debuted a decade ago. But years of declining sales, including a nearly 50% drop in 2022, have led to its demise.

In a way, it’s surprising the subcompact SUV survived as long as it did. Buick unveiled the slightly larger Encore GX in 2020. It only made sense to trim its lineup of two similarly sized crossovers. The Encore GX will now serve as Buick’s entry-level vehicle.

Chevrolet Spark

Bargain hunters will grieve the demise of the Spark. The hatchback’s sub-$15,000 starting price (the last of its kind) made it the cheapest new car available in the United States until now. But alas, people simply aren’t buying small cars anymore, opting instead for small SUVs more and more. “Customers seeking comfort, function, and style at an approachable price still have strong options within Chevrolet’s family of compact SUVs,” a Chevy spokesperson said when the news dropped.

The Spark’s 10-year run officially came to an end in August. Chevrolet said that there are no plans to introduce a replacement model.

Ford EcoSport

Ford’s cheapest and smallest SUV is no more. It was a short run for the subcompact crossover, which debuted in 2017. Sales of the EcoSport, however, have been declining since 2019.

The EcoSport never truly caught on with the American public (it will still be sold in Europe). The tiny SUV had plenty of faults: woeful engine output, poor fuel efficiency and crowded interiors, to name a few. All this made its relatively high price tag unjustifiable to many consumers, who likely veered toward one of the many competitive models available on the market.

Honda Insight

The Honda Insight checked off many of the boxes the typical driver looks for in a new car: affordable, reliable, fuel efficient. That made it one of the top-selling compact hybrid vehicles in the country, with 70,000 units sold since its 2018 arrival. But ultimately, the sedan bared too many resemblances to the Honda Civic to warrant its existence.

The Insight’s departure makes way for the arrival of the Civic Hybrid, as Honda continues to hybridize its core models, including the CR-V and Accord.

Hyundai Accent

Hyundai is getting rid of a few models, including the gas-powered Ioniq and Veloster N. It’s the Accent’s demise, however, that is noteworthy due to the car’s price tag. Like the Chevrolet Spark, the subcompact sedan was one of the cheapest cars on the market. And like the Spark, the Accent is going by the wayside to make room for bigger vehicles. Hyundai stated that the sedan was, “discontinued due to an expanded SUV lineup.” The Venue, a subcompact SUV, is now the automaker’s cheapest vehicle.

Toyota Avalon

The Avalon has been in Toyota’s portfolio for nearly 30 years, but became vulnerable to the chopping blocks following several down years in sales.

The sedan also faced in-house competition. The Avalon has always been a slightly larger option than the popular Toyota Camry. But the latter’s next generation model is set to be bigger in size itself, thus making the Avalon expendable. It is being replaced by the all-new, hybrid-only Toyota Crown.

Volkswagen Passat

The curtain falls on the Passat for good in 2023. The Volkswagen model was, for all intents and purposes, discontinued last year. As a swan song, the German automaker offered the Passat as a limited-edition model that included subtle nods to Chattanooga, Tennessee, where it has been manufactured for the last decade. That limited run has now come to a close.

The Passat’s departure, which comes more than 30 years after its debut, leaves Volkswagen with only two sedans in its lineup: the Jetta and Arteon.

Other notable discontinued cars of 2023: Acura ILX, Ford GT, Infiniti Q60, Lexus RX L, Mercedes-Benz A-Class, Nissan Rogue Sport.

If you’re in the market for a new car, make sure to check out our car reviews and learn how AAA can help finance your purchase.

Do you own one of these discontinued cars? Are you sad to see it go? Let us know in the comments below!

Roundabouts – some people like them, many people don’t. No matter how you feel about these roadway features, you should get used to them, as they’re increasingly becoming the modus operandi of American intersections. There are nearly 8,000 roundabouts in the U.S., including hundreds scattered across the Northeast, according to transportation engineering firm Kittelson & Associates.

Why the switch? Proponents say roundabouts have safety, environmental and financial advantages over traffic signals and stop signs. With that in mind, it’s likely that these road features will only become more common.

But navigating can be a tricky feat, especially if you’re not accustomed to them. Here’s everything you need to know about how to use a roundabout safely.

What Is a Roundabout?

A roundabout is a circular intersection in which vehicles travel counterclockwise (in the U.S.) with entering traffic yielding the right-of-way to circulating traffic.

These roadways have been popular overseas, particularly in Europe, for decades. However, they have only recently been widely adopted here in the U.S. The reluctance can likely be attributed to the negative response American drivers had with traffic circles and rotaries built in the first half of the 20th century. These features were similar to roundabouts but had design flaws. The connecting rounds entered the circle at abrupt right angles and in many cases vehicles within the central circle had to yield to those entering. These factors led to safety and traffic issues.

The Benefits of Roundabouts

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, more than half of all fatal and injury-causing car crashes occur at or near an intersection. Studies of intersections have shown that converting traffic signals or stop signs to roundabouts can reduce all crashes by nearly 50% and injury crashes by up to 80%.

Roundabouts have two significant advantages over traffic signals and stop signs: They are safer and create less traffic. There are several design elements that make roundabouts a safer option. When a vehicle approaches a roundabout, the driver is forced to slow down in order to navigate the turn of the circle. Roughly one-quarter of all traffic fatalities are speeding-related. A slower car is a safer car.

Additionally, roundabouts nearly eliminate the chance of any of the most severe types of crashes – right-angle, left-turn and head-on collisions – from occurring. Most car crashes (including a vast majority or fatal crashes) involve vehicles traveling in different directions.

On the topic of traffic direction, since cars all move in the same direction in a roundabout, the stop-and-go nature of traffic flow that occurs at traffic signals and stop signs is significantly reduced. Research has proven that traffic flow improves after roundabouts have replaced traditional intersections. As an added bonus, roundabouts create less idling, which means fewer vehicle emissions (good for the environment) and less fuel consumption (good for your wallet).

The Dangers of Roundabouts

Although roundabouts are considered the safer intersection option, they can be potentially hazardous to some drivers, particularly older drivers.

“The single greatest concern in accommodating older road users, both drivers and pedestrians, is the ability of these persons to safely maneuver through intersections,” according to the Federal Highway Administration. The FHA also states older drivers may have difficulty in situations involving complex speed-distance judgments under time constraints, and are much more likely to be involved in crashes where the drivers were either traveling too fast for the curve or were surprised by the curved alignment. This all adds up to roundabouts being a significant safety risk for older drivers.

Roundabout Rules

How to Use a Roundabout

In theory, roundabouts are simple to understand, but they can be difficult to navigate if you’re unfamiliar. Upon approaching the intersection, a vehicle yields to traffic already within the roundabout. Vehicles already in the roundabout have the right of way. When there is a safe amount of space, you can enter. Remember, a yield sign is not a stop sign – if there are no cars in the roundabout, look around for pedestrians and bicyclists and proceed in.

Once in the roundabout, circle the road until you reach your desired exit. If you want to turn right, take the first exit; straight, the second; left, the third; and a U-turn, the fourth.

When there’s only one lane, it’s fairly straightforward. Things can get confusing in a multilane roundabout. In this scenario, the vehicle should be in the right lane to turn right or go straight, and in the left lane to go straight, turn left or make a U-turn. There will usually be signs leading up to the roundabout indicating which lane to occupy. Also remember to use your turn signal.

Roundabouts can be tricky for even the most experienced drivers, let alone new ones. Learn to become a lifelong safe motorist with the AAA Defensive Driving Course.

How do you feel about roundabouts? Do you find them confusing? Let us know in the comments below.

Everyone loves new car smell, but eventually it fades and the smell you’re left with might not be so appealing. Whether it’s from dropped food, a spilled drink, a pet accident or cigarette smoke, there are some odors even the best air fresheners can’t cover. Here’s how to get rid of smells in your car so you can once again take a breath without holding your nose.

Identify the Source

The first step in getting rid of a smell in your car is to find the source of the odor.

Look on the floor, under the seats and in the seams between the seatbacks and bottom cushions. Also check the glove box, door pockets and even underneath the floormats. Don’t forget to look up; the smell can sometimes be imbedded into the roof (headliner). Give your car a thorough once over and if you find something rotten, remove it from your car.

Some sources might not be visible to the eye. Feel around for moisture, which can cause mold and mildew. Let your nose do some of the work to identify the cause of the smell.

Time to Clean

Once you locate the source of the stink and remove it, then it’s time to clean. Clean spills immediately. The longer they go untreated, the harder they are to clean.

Start by vacuuming the floors, floor mats and fabric upholstery. If you have leather seats, then seek out a leather cleaner. Even if it was just goo from the bottom of someone’s shoe on one spot on the floor, the smell may have absorbed into other surfaces. Clean everything to make sure the smell is gone and, if possible, leave the windows down for a bit to let in fresh air.

Any time you clean the surfaces inside your car it’s smart to test the cleaning solution in a less visible spot before applying it to more conspicuous areas. Even the gentlest of cleaners could cause damage, so always do a spot test first.

Get more car cleaning tips.

How to Get Rid of Cigarette Smell

This is a smell that truly gets into everything. Even hard surfaces and the air vents collect the smell. If your car smells like cigarette smoke, then you’re going to need to wash it thoroughly, including hard plastics.

Cigarettes leave behind tar, which is sticky, coats everything and adds to the stink. To get rid of the smell, you need to get rid of the tar, too. A 50/50 solution of water and vinegar works well at breaking through the tar on hard surfaces and removing the smell from fabrics. You may even want to consider renting an ozone generator (often used in hotel rooms to eliminate odors).

How to Get Rid of Gasoline Smell

Spilled gasoline can really stink up your car. Even stepping in the stuff while fueling up can end up coating your shoes so you bring it inside where the smell lingers on carpet and floor mats.

Try making a solution of baking soda, vinegar and water in equal parts. Use an old rag to gently rub the mixture over the spill to soak up the stain and eliminate the smell. Make sure to properly dispose of any rags soaked with gasoline.

How to Get Rid of Pet Smells

It’s fun to take Fido along for the ride, but that can make your car smell. The easiest way to avoid the smell is to frequently vacuum up all that pet hair. The longer it sits, the stronger the smell will be and the longer it will take for it to dissipate from fabrics.

Treat urine stains with a trusted pet stain and odor remover, a 50/50 vinegar and water mix or a paste of baking soda and water.

How to Get Rid of Mildew Smell

The smell of mildew means that, at some point, your car interior got wet and never fully dried out. If you know the source of the moisture, maybe a spilled drink or a window left open in the rain, then you just need to get rid of the smell and residual moisture.

If you have no idea why it smells like mildew, feel around to see if you notice a damp spot, especially in the foot wells. A water leak isn’t something to ignore, so seek out a mechanic if the issue is ongoing.

Once the cause of the odor is identified, use a wet/dry vacuum to remove as much of the moisture as possible if things are still wet. Next, apply baking soda and let it sit for a few hours before giving it another good vacuum to pull out the smell. In severe cases, the carpet may need to be removed and cleaned and padding under the carpet replaced.

How to Get Rid of Vomit Smell

Car sickness happens. Clean it up right away. The sooner you get the worst of it out, the better. If it goes unnoticed, which is possible when it’s a pet rather than a person, then once again go to that 50/50 water and vinegar solution to remove the smell of vomit on both upholstery and carpet. Let it soak in to loosen the stain and then clean it away. Baking soda can further help remove any lingering smell from the surface.

An Ounce of Prevention

Once you have your car smelling fresh again, keep it clean to avoid any new unwanted smells. Consider a protective mat if you have pets or kids and use a car deodorizer. Something floral might make your car smell good, but a charcoal deodorizer eliminates bad smells rather than masking them and it helps remove any lingering odors, too.

If the cause of the odor is mechanical, you’ll need to have it fixed by a professional right away. Find the AAA Approved Auto Repair shop closest to you.

Weddings can be stressful, but honeymoons shouldn’t have to be! These top honeymoon destinations in the U.S. may not be as popular as others, but they are no-brainers. Whether you are looking for an adventure with your spouse or if you just want to kick back and relax, this list has a secret escape to please any couple.

San Juan Islands, Wash.

You can’t go wrong honeymooning on an island. Being surrounded by sand and water instantly gives you that mellow feeling, like you’re the only one in some far-off place.

Just a short seaplane or ferry ride from Seattle will land you in the San Juan Islands, where there is something new to discover around every bend – from an alpaca ranch to a lavender farm and a winery with a historic tasting room.

Friday Harbor House – a romantic AAA Three Diamond-Designated boutique hotel – is perched on the bluff above San Juan Island’s iconic marina with stunning views of the harbor, ferry landing and San Juan Channel. Sit back and relax with your sweetie. Hopefully you’ll get a glimpse of a whale!

Book now with AAA.

Kennebunkport, Maine

Start your fairytale adventure in the coastal town of Kennebunkport. The off-the-beaten-path area is a top honeymoon destination in the U.S. for beach-loving couples.

Whether you want to stare at the ocean from the miles of coastline or book a scenic stand-up paddleboard or kayak tour, Kennebunkport is the place for you.

Hidden Pond is home to a collection of eye-catching eclectic cottages and bungalows with “rustic-luxe” decor inspired by the surrounding woods and nearby beach. It also has an 800-square-foot organic farm, two pools and the farm-to-fork restaurant, Earth. Did we mention the Tree Spa? It’s not to be missed!

Indian Wells, Calif.

In the heart of Southern California’s desert, Indian Wells is a romantic oasis and the perfect place to relax and renew after the big day. Idyllic Indian Wells is home of the Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa, a AAA Four Diamond-Designated hotel located in the heart of town.

Surrounded by the spectacular Santa Rosa Mountains and located less than an hour from the entrance to Joshua Tree National Park, Miramonte is a serene escape for a nature-loving duo. The wild at heart can spend mornings hiking the weaving trails and rugged rock formations of the Mojave Desert before cooling off poolside in a private cabana. Do-not-disturb placards included!

Book now with AAA.

Sun Valley, Idaho

With sweeping views of the majestic mountains and the warmth and charm of a historic ski town, Sun Valley is an idyllic place to begin your happily ever after. This top honeymoon destination in the U.S. is a four-season resort with luxury accommodations and breathtaking scenery.

Take advantage of the hot springs in the area, couples’ spa treatments and dreamy horseback rides through the mountains. You’ll have time to bond with your new love through exciting activities and quiet moments that will make memories that will last for the rest of your lives.

Kiawah Island, S.C.

Twenty-five miles from the ever-popular town of Charleston is an off-the-radar isle called Kiawah Island. This top honeymoon destination in the U.S. offers shelling excursions by boat to an uninhabited island, 30 miles of biking and hiking trails and 10 miles of pristine beach.

Many couples tie the knot at the Kiawah Island Golf Resort and stay for a relaxing honeymoon at the AAA Five Diamond Sanctuary Hotel. For the ultimate in luxury, book the 3,000-square-foot Presidential Suite with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. Active couples can take advantage of kayaking in the tidal creeks to spot river dolphins or take a turn at a tennis or golf lesson, and then wind down in an adults-only pool overlooking the ocean.

Book now with AAA.

Finger Lakes, N.Y.

Comprised of 11 lakes bookended by Rochester and Syracuse, the Finger Lakes region offers an array of urban cultural hotspots juxtaposed with nature-filled experiences and awe-inducing vistas.

For a relaxing honeymoon, indulge in wine tasting at some of the region’s 120 wineries or beer flights along the Finger Lakes Beer Trail, luxurious spa treatments, museum tours at the Corning Museum of Glass and private cooking classes at New York Kitchen.

Active honeymooners can try boating the lakes, hot air ballooning (you must try this!), swimming under waterfalls or hiking the famous gorges in Ithaca, Watkins Glen State Park or Letchworth State Park.

Charlotte, N.C.

Watch out Asheville – Charlotte is quickly becoming another popular destination for honeymooners in North Carolina. From the thriving food scene to moving artistic performances and magnetic nightlife, the Queen City offers plenty of exciting opportunities for couples celebrating new nuptials.

The city’s neighborhoods are comprised of lush parks and greenways, cozy restaurants, world-class museums, lively breweries and quirky boutiques. Discover the beautiful boroughs for yourself and stay at a charming bed-and-breakfast or a pampering resort.

Plan your honeymoon with a AAA travel advisor.

Have you visited any of these top honeymoon destinations? Share with us in the comments.

Featured image: San Juan Islands, Washington

“Wow, that’s a lot of miles, ” said the U.S. Customs and Border Protection agent at Champlain, N.Y. I had just told him that I had come from Denver, Colo., through Canada, on my way home to Boston – a 4,000-mile road trip.

If you’ve read my other travel stories, including 48 States in 48 Days, you will know that I don’t shy away from long drives, mostly to experience the journey as much as the destination.

On this trip, in July 2022, there were as many things I wish I’d done as those I did. I had allowed only eight days because of commitments to see friends in eastern Canada and scheduled plans back in Boston. To properly do this trip, I should have taken a few more days.

I started out from home to spend two weeks in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado with my family. This was my fourth trip driving to Colorado in the last two years. Boston to Denver is about 1,800 miles, and it takes me three days. I stop outside of Toledo, Ohio, and in Lincoln, Neb. My family flew into Denver, and I timed my drive to pick them up at the airport as I rolled into town. I dropped them back at the airport on my way out of town.

I headed north through Wyoming to the first night’s stop in Billings, Mont. I regret not allowing enough time to see Beartooth Highway, called “America’s most beautiful highway,” by journalist Charles Kuralt, who has inspired some of my travels.

The highway is just outside of Red Lodge, Mont. I was able to swing through the town on my way to Billings. I saw beautiful Yellowstone National Park in the distance and evidence of recent floods that had hit the area.

Inside Canada

The next day, I drove to Edmonton, Alberta, regretfully skipping a drive through Canada’s Banff National Park, in particular Icefields Parkway between Banff and Jasper.

One of the places I did stop was Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, a World Heritage Site near Fort MacLeod. This is where ingenious people would herd buffalo into a narrow path and off a cliff. Then, they would harvest the meat and skins. The visitor center tells the stories of how the people would deceive the animals by dressing as buffalo calves and wolves.

East of Edmonton, I stopped at the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village. It turns out that Ukrainians fled to North America for a better life back in the late 1800s, and Alberta offered them free land to settle. Enough people made the journey that Alberta is now home to the largest concentration of Ukrainians outside of Ukraine.

The village depicted how Ukrainian settlers lived in the area with replica buildings and actors telling the story of their life in the area.

After my stop at the Ukrainian heritage site, all my sightseeing was landscapes due to the number of miles I was putting in each day. Saskatchewan and Manitoba were plains and farmland – the breadbasket of Canada. In Winnipeg, I walked down by the Red River, where there was a vibrant summer scene with bands and food. In Ontario, there was the beauty of Lake Superior and Toronto city views. In Ottawa, Canada’s capital, I saw downtown with the parliament building and river views.

On the Road

Like most of us, I have become dependent on my phone for everything from GPS directions to entertainment with podcasts and audio books to pass the time. As I approached the Canadian border, my GPS went out. I assumed the lack of signal was caused by my remote location and expected it would kick back on when I hit a population center. I had only programmed my directions to get me to my prearranged border crossing location.

When driving to Canada you need to download the ArriveCAN app and put in your passport before crossing the border. When I crossed the border, I headed to the next city, Medicine Hat, where I assumed my mobile coverage would come back. When my coverage did not return, I had to use the Wi-Fi at a fast-food restaurant to plot my next stop. It wasn’t until my stop for the night in Edmonton that I remembered the first trick of technology. Turn it off and turn it back on. That fixed the issue, and I had no further problems.

But if you go, it’s a good idea to bring an atlas. Now that I have been to 49 States and eight provinces, I feel qualified to contrast U.S. and Canadian highways. What I appreciate about Canada is the lack of traffic; but with that comes major highways that still have red lights and crossings at grade. There were also a lack of rest areas and long stretches of road without gas stations, coffee or a restroom. When you drive across Canada be prepared: Get coffee, gas and use the restroom before you leave town.

Close to Home

My final observation came soon after I crossed the border into the U.S. I grew up in Vermont and crossed the border at Highgate on the way to Montreal many times.

For whatever reason, my GPS directed me to cross at Champlain, N.Y. I had to drive through the town of Swanton, Vt., and cross a bridge over Lake Champlain to get to the highway that would lead me home to Boston.

I found great irony in the fact that, after driving across Canada and seeing all the new sites, on the last day I found myself in a new place in my home state. Even with all the beautiful scenery across Canada, I could still appreciate the beauty of Vermont.

Nate Williams is a AAA member from Massachusetts. We welcome member stories. Click here to submit yours.

Pumping gas is one of many acts so routine to daily life, it’s easy to switch our minds to autopilot once we stop the car. But it’s precisely that inattentiveness that is contributing to a growing problem occurring at gas stations across our region: theft.

Gas stations may not seem like breeding grounds for thieves. After all, patrons are rarely more than a few feet from their cars. When pumping gas, however, drivers are often distracted by their phones, television monitors or just the increasing numbers on the gas pump. They may also step away from their vehicles to pay for gas or goods inside the station. All this time, their car doors usually remain unlocked, providing thieves with a window to strike.

If a criminal spots a valuable item inside the vehicle, all they have to do is drive up next to the car, open the door, grab the item and quickly drive off. Thieves have also been known to jump in the driver’s seat and steal the car itself. All said, a criminal can pull off a heist in the matter of seconds.

Gas Station Safety Tips

Taking simple precautions can go a long way to minimize your risk of danger at a gas station. Here are some helpful tips.

• Whenever possible, use gas stations that are well-lit, located in busy areas and have surveillance cameras. If you’re in unfamiliar territory, begin looking for a station sooner rather than later. This will provide you with the opportunity to skip ones that look unsafe, rather than being forced to stop because you’re nearly out of gas.
• Pick a gas pump that is well-lit and closest to the building or attendant, even if this means waiting for the pump to be free.
• Always remove your car keys, lock your doors and roll up your windows before getting out to pump gas.
• Keep valuables, including handbags and wallets, on your person or out of sight.
• If you have a panic button on your key fob, keep your finger on it and press it if you feel like you’re in danger.
• If you don’t have to gas up late at night, don’t. Wait until the morning.
• Resist the urge to look at your phone and keep it tucked away.
• If you need to enter the station to buy something, fill up your gas tank first, then move your car closer to the store, park and lock the doors.
• Most importantly, always pay attention to your surroundings, even if you’re at a familiar gas station in the middle of the day.
• Credit card skimming devices are often placed on gas pumps, so be cautious when using your card for payment. Look for any signs of tampering, such as loose or misaligned card readers or broken security tape, and cover the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN. 

Find the average cost of gas in your neck of the woods. Then enjoy discounts at the pump just for being a AAA member.

Put on your hat, scarf and gloves, grab your binoculars and head to the beach. Winter is prime time to go seal watching on Long Island.

Did you know that seals swim near Long Island’s shores? I certainly didn’t – at least not anywhere that I could see them.

Yes, seal watching on Long Island is something you can do. I first became aware of our pinniped neighbors several years ago through the New York Marine Rescue Center. Naturalists from the center lead seal watch cruises from the Nautical Mile in Freeport every year from late December through April when harbor seals inhabit the island’s surrounding waters.

Despite not getting along too well with boats or the cold, I booked my spot on the boat soon after. The 15-minute drive from my house to the dock made it too close to resist.

I boarded the Captain Lou Fleet fishing boat excited and bundled up to my eyes. It was an unusually mild February afternoon the day of our cruise, but the wind was bitter out on the water. Thankfully, the heated cabin and hot chocolate provided some relief.

As we neared our destination in Hempstead Bay, it wasn’t long before the naturalists on board began to point out harbor seals. Soon after the first one poked its head up beside the boat, a few more popped up, coaxing all the sightseers from one side of the vessel to the other. At one point we came across a group that looked as if they were having their own private beach party, feeding, playing and even jumping out of the water. By the end of the day, we spotted almost 20!

Since then, I’ll occasionally bundle up and return to those same waters to visit the seals at Jones Beach and I just about always see a few.

Several species inhabit Long Island’s waters, though the most common are harbor and, occasionally, grey seals. In recent years there has been a significant increase in the population of seals that come to the area, making the chances of spotting one much greater.

When seal watching on Long Island, go to areas where they are known to hang out (see below) and look for shiny black heads bobbing in and out of the water. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch a few sunning themselves or “hauling out” on rocks. Do not go near them, do anything that will startle them or disrupt their natural behavior.

It’s incredible to view seals in their natural environment. Use the guide below to find the best spots for seal watching on Long Island and see how many you can count.

Where To Go Seal Watching on Long Island 

Jones Beach Seal Watching
516-780-3295

As seen on Google Maps, there is a designated Harbor Seal Watch Spot in Jones Beach. Park in Field 10 (no fee in winter), walk down to the beach and set your sights on the water.

Captain Lou Fleet Seal Watching Cruise
516-623-5823

Reserve your place on the two-hour tour on the Captain Lou Fleet, departing from the Nautical Mile in Freeport on select dates from late December through April. Learn about local seal populations from onboard naturalists as you cruise through Hempstead Bay. Heated cabin and hot beverages provided. Tickets are $40.

Montauk Seal Walks
631-668-5000

Montauk State Park is a popular haul out spot for harbor seals. Hike on your own or go with a naturalist. On the weekends, state park naturalists lead walks to an area where up to four species of seals can be observed. The walk is approximately 3 miles long and takes two to three hours to complete. Registration is required.

Coastal Research and Education Society of Long Island Seal Walks
631-319-6003

Join a naturalist on a seal walk at Cupsogue Beach County Park for a chance to see dozens of harbor seals swimming and hauled out. Walks are about 1 mile round trip and take about an hour or two. Contact the organization for information on schedules and fees.

Atlantic Marine Conservation Society
631-317-0030

The Atlantic Marine Conservation Society conducts seal cruises on the Shinnecock Bay to educate the public about wildlife in the area and have a good track record of seal spotting. “We have at times seen over 100 seals on those cruises,” said AMCS field biologist Erich Dietterle. Cruises leave from Stony Brook Marine Station in Southhampton. Tickets are $35 per person. Call to register.

Have you ever gone seal watching on Long Island? What’s your favorite spot? Tell us in the comments.

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.

We know because we’ve been: “Out There” is a series of inspiring travel spotlights from AAA Travel advisors and employees.

Have you thought about going on a cruise but don’t know what to expect or how to prepare? I’m here for you. I’m Tabitha, an associate marketing specialist at AAA Northeast, and I recently set sail on Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas from New Jersey to the Bahamas. My first time cruising, I was a bit nervous to venture out on the high seas, but later found it to be one of the most incredible, awe-inspiring ways to see the world.

To help others new to cruising, I’ve outlined my initial reactions and first-time cruise tips.

To learn more about cruising and start planning your next trip, reach out to a AAA travel advisor.

Easy and stress-free check-in.

Unlike checking in for a flight, I found the cruising check-in process to be simple and straightforward. There’s no need to set a 24-hour alarm on your phone the day before or stress about getting to the terminal four hours early.

In the weeks prior to embarking, I filled out all the necessary information on the Royal Caribbean website (passport #, health questions, check-in time, etc.), and when I arrived at the terminal all I had to do was show my boarding pass and walk on the ship.

Pack a sweater. Or two.

No matter your destination or the time of year, be sure to pack something warm to wear while exploring the ship decks. The wind can get powerful on certain parts of the ship, especially the upper decks, so always keep something cozy on hand.

No, that’s not a skyscraper in the distance. It’s your ship!

I’ll never forget my first encounter with the Oasis of the Seas. When I arrived at the Cape Liberty Cruise Port in Bayonne, the sheer size of one of the largest ships in the world took me by surprise. The skyscraper I thought I was looking at was actually my home for the next seven days! You’ve got to see it to believe it.

Worried about seasickness? Don’t be.

Since this was my first time cruising, I wasn’t sure if I’d get seasick. However, my worries were quickly dispelled when I climbed aboard and realized how massive the ship is. When you’re sailing on such a large vessel you can feel it move but it’s not like a scene in a pirate movie. The best way I can describe the motion is like sitting on a train moving on railway tracks – soft and subtle, but not stationary.

Cruises = fun for the whole family.

My most prominent first impression of cruising is that it’s a great trip for families. One of the hassles of traveling with family or in a larger group is the issue of deciding where to go, what to eat and how to get there. A cruise takes all the hassle out of those decisions! With the Royal Caribbean Adventure Ocean center for kids and multiple dining and entertainment options, everyone in the family can do what they want, when they want.

The views are out of this world.

On my first night at sea, I had the pleasure of experiencing one of the most amazing sunsets of my life. A sunset at sea is unlike anything I’d experienced on land, since there were no obstructions. It was just the sea and the sun. I stood at the stern of the ship and oohed and aahed at the breathtaking sight ahead of me. One of the best first-time cruise tips I can give is to go to the outer decks for jaw-dropping views. Just be sure to remember your sweater!

The Oasis of the Seas was the perfect ship for my first cruise. It introduced me to the world of cruising and gave me unforgettable travel memories. My first cruise won’t be my last!

Learn how you can save on a seven-night cruise with Royal Caribbean.

Have any other questions or looking for more first-time cruise tips? Ask us in the comments below.

For more reasons than we can count, guided tours are one of the best ways to travel. Modern guided tours give travelers a complete vacation experience by making sure you get the most out of your trip without having to worry about things like transportation, language barriers or finding the best things to do in your destination.

Here are five of the top reasons to make your next vacation a guided travel vacation.

Guided Tours Bring You Closer to the Destination

Perhaps most importantly, a guided tour brings you closer to the history, culture and people of your destination than other forms of travel. Most tour guides are passionate and experienced and are there to give you the complete story of your destination, from local history and folk tales to knowledge of the community. They can help overcome language barriers and offer recommendations such as places to eat. Serving as your personal connection, tour guides can give the level of insight that travelers crave.

For example, you can tour Alaska and check off your list of must-see landmarks, but an Alaskan tour guide will make sure you get the most out of your time exploring The Last Frontier.

Tours like AAA Member Choice Vacation’s Iditarod and Alaska’s Northern Lights include experiences you won’t soon forget, like cheering on mushers during the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race and a visit to a wildlife conservation center. Your expert tour guide will teach you about exciting Iditarod traditions, suggest local foods to try and make sure you are well-prepared to explore the Alaskan wilderness on your own.

Skip the FOMO, Not the Fun

If you’ve always dreamed of visiting Paris, the Louvre Museum and Eiffel Tower can’t be missed. But what will you see on the rest of your trip? What is the best bistro beloved by locals? And what is the best way to get around? It can be difficult to figure out how to spend your time, especially when it’s your first time traveling to a new place.

A guided tour makes sure you’re not missing out. Your itinerary is built to be jam-packed with the best sites and sounds, both on and off the beaten path, in the best logistical way. Tour itineraries are crafted by experienced experts, often with decades of knowledge. For example, AAA Member Choice Vacations itineraries use over 100 years of experience to provide unique and compelling travel experiences around the globe.

Get Authentic Experiences, Easily

Modern tours have a variety of inclusions specifically intended to bring you face-to-face with the local community and culture. Rather than visits to tourist traps, you’ll find unique opportunities to engage with your destination that you typically can’t find elsewhere, like dining with multi-generational family owners of an Italian vineyard or overnight stays in historic Irish castles. If you want experiences like this, a guided tour is one of the easiest ways to make it happen.

The ever-popular Reflections of Italy tour from AAA Member Choice Vacations includes experiences like a chef-led cooking class and lunch in a historic castle!

Balance of Structure and Flexibility

Today’s guided tours give travelers both exciting daily events, meals, lodging and transportation, all while guaranteeing flexibility to explore as one pleases. On most days, you’ll have a few scheduled events, but also built-in free time. This means you will still have the opportunity to wander scenic backstreets, visit the restaurant you researched online or take advantage of your tour guide’s tips for other sights. Plus, with lodging and transportation are taken care of, you are free from the hassle and worry of planning how to get around on your trip.

Many tour itineraries are offered completely custom, meaning you are able to work with the tour manager and your travel agent to plan all of the stops and experiences you want with their expertise. Want to extend your tour? Many providers offer pre or post-night stays, extensions and other custom excursions. For example, many AAA Member Choice Vacations tours offer It’s Your Choice excursions, where tourgoers can pick two or more available excursions according to their tastes.

There are so many itineraries to choose from, each offering a different flavor of the destination and unique type of tour experience. You are sure to find the tour that will deliver the kind of experience you are looking for, no matter the destination. AAA Member Choice Vacations offers 175 tours for you to choose from across all seven continents and five tour styles!

Friends That Last a Lifetime

Nothing brings people together like travel. On a guided tour, you explore beautiful places, discover new favorite foods and leave your comfort zone in the dust with your fellow tour-goers. You are sure to form bonds over these unique, unforgettable and special experiences. At AAA Travel, it is far from uncommon to hear that our members become friends for a lifetime after their guided tour. It’s often cited as the best part of their travels!

Recently, AAA member Sheyna Medina went on a guided tour of the Western USA’s National Parks. She told us that at the beginning of the tour, she and her group felt like strangers, but ended the trip as friends. “These people truly felt like family that week!,” she said.

So, how does a guided tour sound for your next trip?

Find your AAA travel advisor.

Charlie Brown once said, “There are three things in life that people like to stare at: a flowing stream, a crackling fire and a Zamboni clearing the ice.”

For our money, Charlie Brown has never been more right. There is something so satisfying about watching a Zamboni ice resurfacing machine work as it washes away all the rough edges, leaving behind a shining, shimmering new surface of ice. If only erasing all of life’s rough patches was that easy.

Where did this magical creation come from? Like all great inventions, the Zamboni machine was born out of necessity – resurfacing ice was a laborious process prior to its arrival. But that is only one part of this piece of equipment’s origin story. For the rest, you’ll have to start in the unlikeliest of climates.

Frank Zamboni and the Iceland Skating Rink

The history of the Zamboni machine begins in, of all places, sunny Southern California. In 1920, mechanic Frank J. Zamboni and his brother Lawrence moved to Los Angeles and began working at their older brother George’s auto repair shop. Soon after, Frank and Lawrence decided to open an electrical service business called Zamboni Electric.

The company made refrigerator units for dairy producers and then got into the ice business, making the block ice used to transport food by rail. As refrigeration technology made this latter specialty obsolete, the brothers looked for new ways to use their ice expertise. Their solution was to build an ice rink to satisfy the growing interest in ice skating.

Iceland Skating Rink opened to guests in 1940. At 20,000 square feet, it was one of the largest rinks in the country, capable of holding up to 800 skaters. That many pairs of skates cutting, scraping and chipping the ice left the rink’s surface in rough shape. At the time, the process of resurfacing an ice rink required several people and took more than an hour. Workers shaved the ice by driving over it with a tractor equipped with a scraper, then discarded the shavings, sprayed the surface with water and washed away the dirty water.

Did you know? Inventor Frank J. Zamboni was, fittingly, born in a town called Eureka (it’s in Utah).

The Zamboni Machine Debuts

Zamboni was sure there was an easier way to accomplish this task and went to work trying to build an ice resurfacing machine. His first idea involved a sled towed by a tractor. It didn’t work. After years of tinkering, he changed course and developed a self-propelled vehicle that shaved and washed the ice, and then created a new layer of ice. In 1949, he unveiled the Model A Zamboni Ice Resurfacer and ice skating was never the same.

(Side note: Before we get any further, we should make clear that “Zamboni” is not a noun, as there are other types of ice resurfacing machines. Therefore, the vehicle is not “a Zamboni,” it is a Zamboni ice resurfacing machine.)

The machine Zamboni built in the 1940s works essentially the same way as those used today. A blade running along the bottom of the vehicle shaves the ice. The shavings are picked up by a horizontal screw and deposited into a snow tank. Water from a second tank washes away dirt and is filtered and sent back into the tank. Lastly, clean hot water is sprayed onto the surface and spread out by a towel pulled by the vehicle to create a new, level layer of fresh ice.

The Zamboni Machine’s Big League Debut

Over the next few years, Zamboni introduced models B through D, each a slight improvement over the previous iteration. But it was the next model that would make history.

On New Year’s Day 1954, the Ice Capades were taking place at the Boston Garden, followed by a hockey game between the Boston Bruins and New York Rangers. Resurfacing the ice between events would be a tall task.

Fortunately, Bob Skrak, who helped Frank Zamboni get his invention off the ground, was working for Ice Capades at the time. Skark took a Zamboni machine and smoothed the ice quickly and effectively, creating a rink that appeared as if it had never been touched.

The Bruins’ management team was so impressed they ordered their own machine. Zamboni Model E 21 arrived later that year and became the first to be used by an NHL team. Today, you can find the restored E21 on display at the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto.

Did you know? The Zamboni ice resurfacing machine made its Olympic debut at the 1960 Olympic Winter Games in Squaw Valley, Calif.

The Zamboni Company Today

The Zamboni machine has evolved to become a highly effective, increasingly efficient vehicle. The firm that produces it, however, has remained consistent. While it has expanded its operations to include factories in Canada and Sweden, the Zamboni Company also still operates out of Southern California, blocks away from the Iceland Skating Rink. In fact, it’s not uncommon to come across a Zamboni machine cruising along the neighborhood streets on its way to be tested at the rink.

In total, the Zamboni Company has produced nearly 14,000 machines since 1949, including the ones you’re likely to see at your local arena.

Learn more automotive history.

Featured image: Courtesy of Zamboni Company Archive.

Right before my last semester of college, I decided to drive the long way to campus by myself. It was about a seven-hour drive, but they were all long, calm country roads dotted with plenty of rest stops. It was supposed to flurry a little as I passed through Syracuse, but I wasn’t worried. My college campus was near Rochester, so I was used to driving in snow.

Somehow, the flurry turned into a full-on whiteout. It was the strongest blizzard I’d ever seen, turning day into night, and I was driving through it. Driving in snow can be easy when you’re going along plowed roads through a picturesque winter wonderland. It’s a completely different story when you’re going through a snow globe that’s been tossed in a blender.

The most important thing to know about driving in snow is knowing when to stop. I kept driving through horrific conditions because I was afraid to miss the first day of the semester. After I passed an 18-wheeler lying on its side in the median, I decided that I valued my life a little bit more than I valued English class. I was able to pull off the road and find a hotel where I stayed for the next two days (it was a BIG storm). Sure, I was bored. But more importantly, I was safe.

Make sure you’re safe the next time you have to drive in the snow with these tips from AAA.

Preparing to Drive in Snow

Before you head off on a long winter drive, watch the weather forecasts carefully. If you can avoid driving in snow, you should. Make sure other people know your route, your destination and your ETA.

Keep snow supplies in your car, including a collapsible shovel, an ice scraper and a window broom. Bring your phone and a charger with you, and make sure to download the AAA Mobile App. In case of emergency, keep blankets, gloves, hats, water, necessary medications and nonperishable food items on hand.

Click here for a full list of winter driving kit necessities.

AAA’s Tips for Driving in Snow

• Do not use cruise control when driving in ice or snow – it’s important that you stay alert and are able to control your speed at all times.
• Go slow! It’s easier to control your vehicle when you’re driving at a slow pace, so accelerate and decelerate as slowly as you can to regain traction on the road and avoid skidding off-course.
• If possible, maintain eight or 10 seconds of distance between you and the car in front of you. It’s harder to stop in the ice and snow.
• The best way to stop while driving in snow is by threshold braking. It’s not just for race car drivers! Plant the heel of your braking foot on the floor, and with the ball of your foot apply firm, steady pressure to the brake.
• In heavy snow, don’t come to a complete stop if you don’t have to. Moving again from a full stop during a blizzard can be difficult and dangerous.
• Try to drive in the tracks of the car in front of you – it will make it easier to control your vehicle.
• Be patient with the other drivers on the road. This is a stressful situation for everyone, but it’s important to remain calm.

When to Stop

Sometimes, the snow is so unrelenting that you have to stop. Maybe you keep skidding or it becomes too hard to see. Maybe you’re not even sure where the road is anymore.

Stopping could mean having to shelter in your car. In this situation, do not wander away from the car – you might not be able to find it when you return (and it’s best to conserve your warmth and energy, anyway).

Attach a colorful sash, handkerchief or scarf to your antenna, side mirror or window. It will flutter in the wind and alert any emergency services to the location of your vehicle. Don’t use white fabric – it will blend in with the snow. You can also turn your car’s interior lights on if it gets dark outside. This doesn’t sap much energy from your car’s battery, and it can help emergency services find you.

You may choose to keep your car running so that you can make use of the heating system. Don’t overuse it, though. You want to save your gasoline. If you turn your engine on, make sure your exhaust pipe is kept clear. If it gets backed up with snow, you could risk carbon monoxide poisoning (and potentially death).

Insulate your body heat with anything you have on hand, from emergency blankets to crumpled-up newspapers to floor mats.

When you’re driving in snow – serious snow, like a blizzard or a snowstorm – you need to remain calm and make smart, safe decisions. By remembering these tips and preparing your car with emergency utilities, you can navigate a sudden blizzard without making snap decisions based on panic.

Winter driving is difficult for all motorists, but particularly so for new and improving drivers. Learn to become a lifelong safe driver – under all conditions – with the AAA Defensive Driving Course.

Do you have any tips for driving safe during a snowstorm? Share them with us in the comments below.

Learn more about AAA’s automotive services.

“I can’t adult today” is an expression that many millennials have heard friends say, seen as a slogan on a t-shirt or perhaps uttered themselves (maybe even multiple times in the same week).

While the sentiment strikes a chord with many, the reality of the situation is millennials now comprise the largest percentage of the country’s workforce, according to the Pew Research Center. This generation is now in the prime window for “peak adulting” – that is to say, getting married, having children and, of course, committing to 30 years of debt with a new mortgage.

But another adult decision that it’s time for millennials to put some serious consideration into is life insurance. Unlike the aforementioned weddings or additions to the family that take months of planning and adjusting to, once you know what you need, signing up for a life insurance policy is a process you can get started in a matter of minutes.

Learn about your life insurance options with AAA Insurance.

No Better Time Than Now

Millennials were ranked most in need of life insurance in 2022 by the Life Insurance Marketing and Research Association’s (LIMRA) annual Insurance Barometer Study.

Now would be the ideal time for millennials to sign up for life insurance, though, as insurance is generally cheaper for younger, healthier individuals – the right policy could result in saving significantly over the coming years.

Additionally, for those who receive life insurance through their employers, it’s important to examine if that amount would cover what you want it to cover in the event the policy is needed, meaning funeral costs, future college tuitions for your children, monthly living costs and any other outstanding debts. Most people find that the additional coverage gives them added peace of mind that they are securing their family’s future for the road ahead.

Be Kind to Your Budget

That all sounds good, but can you afford it? Another takeaway from LIMRA’s 2022 study was that millennials were the most likely generation to overestimate the cost of life insurance – by an average of $1,000 per year.

It varies based on policy, but many options would be cheaper than what the average American household spends on movie/TV streaming services ($55/month according to J.D. Power) or a typical monthly internet bill, which Nerdwallet estimates to be around $47-$69 per month.

Let Us Help You

If any of this still gives you those “I can’t adult right now” vibes, don’t worry. Our qualified agents can walk you through the process and find the best option for you.

Get a life insurance quote from AAA Insurance. 

Ice hotels have quickly become a popular trend in travel, with new locations popping up around the globe. But it hasn’t stopped there. Now venues are taking it the next level, creating everything from elaborate bars and lounges to museums and castles constructed completely out of ice. Here are some can’t-miss ice attractions at home and abroad.

Ice Hotels

The Ice Hotel
Quebec, Canada

The Ice Hotel, or Hotel de Glace, is the only hotel in North American made of ice. Open seasonally, every winter the guests rooms are carved from scratch, complete with ice furniture and beds.

If sleeping in temperatures hovering around 25 degrees is too cold for your blood, you can buy tickets to visit the hotel, which also includes an ice bar.

Guests and non-guests alike are encouraged to experience a guided tour of the structure, during which you’ll discover the processes and secrets of the construction of the hotel, visit the ice workshop, make your own ice glass and top it off with a cocktail at the ice bar.

Icehotel
Jukkasjarvi, Sweden

Beginning in 1989, Icehotel, located in the small Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi, 125 miles north of the Arctic Circle, has been reconstructed every winter using tons of ice from the nearby Torne River.

Every aspect of the building is made from ice, down to the beds in guest rooms and glasses at the hotel bar. And it’s not just a place to sleep. Icehotel doubles as an art gallery, with roughly 40 artists creating ice carvings throughout the structure each year. Even if you don’t spend the night, you can take a guided tour of the hotel.

Icehotel offers both cold rooms, which maintain a temperature of 19 to 23 degrees, and warm rooms. It is recommended to stay one night in a cold room and a couple in a warm room. The location also features an ice bar and even a church.

Starting in 2016, the destination became a yearlong attraction with the creation of Icehotel 365, a permanent ice structure open to guests 365 days a year. It’s kept cold using a refrigeration unit run by energy from solar panels. The seasonal component of Icehotel continues to be constructed annually.

Ice Bars

The Sagamore Resort in Bolton Landing, N.Y., creates its Glacier Ice Bar each winter. It takes upward of 18,000 pounds of ice build the attraction, which also includes exquisite ice carvings. Guests can sip their drinks in the sub-zero lounge before warming up next to the fireplace at Caldwell’s Lobby Bar. The 2023 Glacier Ice Bar will be open on the weekends of Jan. 20-21 and 27-28.

Also from the Opal Collection of hotels and resorts, Samoset Resort on the Ocean in Rockport, Maine, has a similar ice bar and lounge, scheduled to open in 2023 the weekends of Jan. 13-15 and Jan. 20-21.

Ice Attractions

These cool ice attractions are available to experience both near and far. All of them are held annually, so if you can’t travel to them now, you can certainly add them to your wish list for the future.

Ice Castles
Lincoln, N.H., and Lake George, N.Y.

Ice castles are no longer just the things of fairy tales and Disney movies. Created by a company aptly named Ice Castles, these majestic frozen structures are built using hundreds of thousands of icicles hand-placed by professional ice artists. The castles include breathtaking LED-lit sculptures, frozen thrones, ice-carved tunnels, slides, fountains and more. The attraction has also been known to hold special events, such as visits from certain enchanted frozen princesses and fire performances. Opening January 2023.

Aurora Ice Museum
Fairbanks, Alaska

On the grounds of Chena Hot Springs Resort sits the Aurora Ice Museum. Created from more than 1,000 tons of harvested ice and snow, the museum is the world’s largest year-round ice environment. It stays a balmy 25 degrees thanks to a patented absorption chiller, the first of its kind used for this purpose.

Inside you’ll find ice sculptures of jousting knights, a giant chess set, igloos and spheres. It’s all the work of champion ice carver Steve Brice. Adding to the otherworldly allure are ice chandeliers that illuminate the space with the colors of the aurora borealis.

Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival
Harbin, China

Harbin’s ice festival is the largest in the world. Since temperatures are below freezing for half of the year here, residents have plenty of time to perfect their ice sculpting skills. The annual events takes place from December until the ice starts to melt in late February/March. The most popular attraction is the Ice and Snow World, consisting of huge landscapes, buildings, sculptures and slides, all built out of snow and ice and colorfully lit at night.

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
London

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is a wonderland unlike any other. It has roller coasters, ice skating, comedy shows, a circus and much more. And when it comes to ice, it has you covered.

The Magical Ice Kingdom is a forest filled with redwood trees, wolves, unicorns and more all carved from more than 500 tons of ice. To get your own ice carving career started, join an ice sculpting workshop. Here, you’ll get to create your own ice masterpiece under the tutelage of one of the U.K.’s finest ice artists. And finally, stop by Bar Ice for a festive drink surrounded by beautifully carved ice sculptures.

Would you like to visit any of these icy destinations? Tell us in the comments.

Plan your next getaway with AAA Travel. 

Featured image: ICEHOTEL 365, 2017-2018. Deluxe Suite 34 meters. Design Luca Roncoroni & Dave Ruane. Photo Asaf Kliger. © ICEHOTEL.