Connecticut may be one of the smallest states in the U.S., but it sure is mighty. From outdoor activities to an impressive food scene, there’s plenty of reasons to visit – and keep returning. If you need an escape from your everyday stresses (and who doesn’t these days?), book a quick getaway to a Connecticut spa, resort or inn for some rest and relaxation.

Old Saybrook, Conn.  

Located on the marina in Old Saybrook, the AAA Four Diamond Saybrook Point Inn, Marina & Spa is a charming escape that exudes the culture and character of coastal New England. This Connecticut spa has welcomed guests for over 130 years and is equipped with Swiss showers, a hot tub, sauna, steam room, a massive pool and a long list of indulgent spa treatments that will relax, soothe and pamper your every whim.

Take a break from spa-ing and enjoy a lobster roll poolside or enjoy waterfront dining at Fresh Salt, where the fresh waters of the Connecticut River meet the salt of Long Island Sound.

While you can easily spend a full weekend at the inn without ever having to leave, those interested in venturing out can grab one of the complimentary bikes and head to downtown Saybrook’s historic Main Street for local art galleries, antique shops, stylish boutiques and eclectic eateries.

New Canaan, Conn.

New Canaan draws in visitors with lush parks, antiquing, clothing shops and chic restaurants, and keeps them there with gorgeous lodging and relaxing Connecticut spas.

Dating back to the 1700s, the Roger Sherman Inn is an enchanting bed and breakfast with historic charm. Expect to enjoy live music, delicious food, the tranquil gardens on the grounds and a sunset on the wraparound porch.

Plan a half-day of pampering at the Ciel Eau Day Spa and indulge in a luxurious massage, facial or nail services from the extensive spa menu. You want to be sure to leave some time for discovering downtown New Canaan and perusing the many swanky boutiques and shops that line the streets.

After working up an appetite from a day of total relaxation and retail therapy, hit up Elm restaurant, where chef Luke Venner is the brains behind seasonal and locally inspired dishes like squash blossom pizza and lobster salad with corn, avocado and manchego.

Mystic, Conn.

You can’t miss the Mystic Seaport when visiting Connecticut, a popular ocean and riverfront village known for its Colonial-period buildings, shopping on Main Street and fresh seafood. (Check out our list of fun things to do in Mystic, Conn.)

The town is scattered with some of the most relaxing Connecticut spas including Le Spa and Mystic Massage and Wellness, ready to help detox your mind and body with massage, facials, reiki (a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation) and more.

For relaxation on the water, enjoy the famous Mystic view from a sailboat with Argia Mystic Cruises, which offers day sails and sunset cruises from May to October.

When you get hungry you can’t miss the Oyster Club, a popular spot in Mystic where the menu changes daily with delicious dock-to-table delights. Weather permitting, head directly above the restaurant to the open-air treehouse for a more casual dining experience.

Rest for the night at The Whaler’s Inn, which has been a site of hospitality in downtown Mystic for over 125 years. The inn retains many historical touches, while the decor pays homage to the area’s nautical heritage.

Morris, Conn.

Tucked away in the Litchfield Hills of northwest Connecticut, Winvian Farm has long been an extraordinary getaway for rejuvenation for travelers from far and nearby.

The AAA Five Diamond Hotel is set on a 113-acre private estate and features the Winvian Spa, a 5,000-square-foot structure with a 40-foot swimming pool.

This Connecticut spa offers a wide range of innovative spa treatments like chromo therapy tub treatment, a hydrotherapy experience or a salt glow body treatment.

The cottages that surround the property each provide a unique experience. Guests can book a night in the treehouse, the log cabin, the greenhouse or the library cottage. The hotel’s amenities include the AAA Five Diamond Designated Restaurant at Winvian Farm, organic gardens, fitness classes and activities like skiing, horseback riding and hiking.

Go to www.ctvisit.com to find more fun things to do in Connecticut.

Plan and book your next trip with AAA Travel. 

How do you like to relax in Connecticut? Tell us in the comments.

Preparing for a trip is exciting, but it can also be stressful. From figuring out your mode of transportation to booking accommodations and mapping out attractions, there’s an added level of considerations to be made if your child, significant other or family member has an autism spectrum disorder.

The prevalence of autism in the U.S. has risen from 1 in 125 children in 2004 to 1 in 44 in 2021, according to the Autism Society, making traveling with autism a situation more and more families have to think about.

Traveling with someone with autism requires some extra preparation and patience. Here are our tips for planning for a trip with adults or children on the spectrum.

Recognizing the Challenges

Learning how to travel with an autistic child or family member with special needs may pose some specific challenges. Changing a routine, navigating unfamiliar environments and the potential for significant sensory stimulation (loud noises, bright lights, etc.) can all cause your loved one discomfort and/or stress.

Only 13% of parents with a child on the spectrum said they take family vacations, according to a survey by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards. An even smaller 11% of these parents said they are “satisfied with current travel options for families with autism,” but 93% said they would be “more inclined to travel if autism certified options were available.”

Pre-Travel Prep

“While a lot of research shows that travel is one of the most intellectually stimulating events for individuals with autism, there are very few travel options that are trained and prepared to meet the needs of those on the spectrum,” according to the Autism Society.

When planning your trip, consider talking to a travel advisor who went through a Certified Autism Travel Certificate program – also referred to as Certified Autism Travel Professional.

“I highly recommend using our AAA travel advisors with a SmartDepart Certification and an Autism Travel Certification,” said Stacey Crowley, AAA Travel Business Operations Manager. “They have all the information you need to navigate through all the pieces of your trip with ease!”

You can also find certified destinations via AutismTravel.com, a resource created by the IBCCES. Destinations with certified autism centers will have resources like quiet rooms and at least 80% of their staff is trained in the field of autism.

Other Resources

If you’ll be traveling by plane, the TSA Cares helpline offers travelers with disabilities, medical conditions and other special circumstances extra assistance during security screenings. Call 72 hours before traveling with your questions about the security screening process. Call 855-787-2227 or email TSA Cares.

You can also request a passenger support specialist, fill out a TSA Disability Notification Card or apply for TSA PreCheck.

“If a passenger with a medical device, medical condition or a disability is approved to use TSA PreCheck, he or she does not need to remove shoes, laptops, 3-1-1 liquids, belts or light jackets during the screening process,” according to the TSA. “However, everyone is required to undergo screening at the checkpoint by technology or a pat-down.”

For more information on what to expect at the airport, see this document from the TSA and/or these PreCheck and screening tips from the IBCCES.

TSA PreCheck enrollment is now available at select AAA branches. Learn more.

When it comes to hotels, parks and other attractions, see if the location is a Certified Autism Center and consider getting a IBCCES Accessibility Card, a free resource to help individuals with cognitive disorders or physical impairments identify helpful accommodations when visiting certified attractions.

Working Together

There are several steps you and your loved one can take to make your next trip less stressful. Consider marking your trip on the calendar.

“It is important to determine how much preparation a specific person may need,” according to the Autism Society. “For example, if your son or daughter has a tendency to become anxious when anticipating an event that is to occur in the future, you may want to adjust how many days in advance you prepare him or her.”

To help prepare your family member for your travels, another option is making a social story or going through a detailed schedule of your trip.

“Let them help in the planning, come to your local branch and pick up some maps or tour books, watch YouTube videos of the rides at Disney you want to go on,” said Crowley. “Getting them invested in the trip will help add excitement and lets them feel like they are in the driver’s seat.”

As your departure approaches, do everything you can to help your child or relative feel as comfortable as possible. This means prepacking their favorite snacks, following your normal nightly/morning routines prior to your trip and bringing a comfort item. Consider a back-up comfort item as well.

“Having familiar items readily available can help to calm stressful situations,” according to the Autism Society.

Other tips include looking at pictures/videos from a previous trip. This helps remind them how fun traveling can be and remind them that they’ve done it before. If you’re going to be traveling for an extended period of time, whether it be via car or plane, consider exercising or playing beforehand to help them burn some energy.

Traveling by Plane

At the airport, consider doing a practice run or role-playing what will happen during the different stages of boarding the plane. Also, consider bringing noise-cancelling headphones if your relative or child is sensitive to this type of stressor.

On the plane, help combat the discomfort of ear popping due to air pressure changes with a piece of candy or gum, or a chewing toy or pacifier for toddlers and infants.

Once you’re safely in the air, keep everyone entertained by watching a movie, listening to music or playing a game on a device. For younger kids, coloring books, toys and putty are good options, too.

If your child or family member is especially anxious about the plane ride, consider setting up a countdown timer. This way they’ll know exactly how much longer the flight will last.

Stay Positive

Be prepared, keep an open mind and have confidence in recognizing your child, spouse or family member’s comfort level.

“Know how much noise and other sensory input they can tolerate. Know their level of anxiety and the amount of preparation it may take,” according to Autism Society. “If you detect that a situation may be becoming overwhelming, help them find a quiet area in which to regroup. And there may be some situations that you simply avoid (e.g., crowded shopping malls the day after Thanksgiving). Know their fears and those things that will make the season more enjoyable for them.”

When planning your next trip, trust your gut and utilize as many resources as you can. Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance.

“I just want families to know that it is possible to travel and have those vacation memories everyone dreams of,” said Crowley. “There are a ton of great resources out there to help guide you through vacation planning, and AAA is one of them that you definitely want to use. We are always here for you, so let us do the heavy lifting so you can relax and enjoy. There is such a great big beautiful world out there and everyone deserves a chance to explore it!”

Get more information about accessible travel. 

A Visual Time Capsule

Shuttered restaurants. Empty streets. Abandoned storefronts. Most of us remember the shutdown scenes from the first few months of the pandemic. A new book from teNeues preserves the early 2020 phenomenon into a visual time capsule.

“Cities of Silence: Extraordinary View of a Shutdown World” features photos from 60 cities throughout the world, eerily bare and shrouded in silence. From an empty Parisian cafe to a deserted Brooklyn Bridge, the book gives a glimpse into a rare moment of history when the world’s doors closed and residents were stuck at home.

Passport to Convenience

You may soon be able to renew your passport online, thanks to an executive order issued by President Joe Biden in December. Currently, passports are renewed in person at a passport agency or via mail, with an average processing time of eight to 11 weeks.

The order could also improve the screening experience at airports: It instructs the Secretary of Homeland Security to test new technologies to reduce passenger wait times at security checkpoints. (Yay!) No timetable has been set for the orders.

Learn about AAA passport services. 

We all know about the must-sees in New York City: Times Square, the Empire State Building, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty and other well-visited landmarks. But do you know about the magical, overlooked places tucked away from the crowds? The undiscovered curiosities that are often just as delightful – and much less frenetic – than the blockbuster attractions?

A Papal Sanctuary

The lobby of the TWA Hotel is an homage to midcentury modern style: There’s even a giant Twister room inside the new hotel at the JFK Airport. But the true secrets lie in the Ambassadors Club, where popes could rest privately between their TWA flights in a gilded room far from the crowds.

Cryptic Carvings

It’s easy to miss the elaborate scenes carved into the pillars of Bethesda Terrace in Central Park. But take a closer look and you’ll be rewarded with intricate portraits of fauna, flora and whimsical details of the four seasons. Kids will especially love searching for a rooster, an owl and a witch flying atop her broom.

Majestic Mascots

They’re not exactly “secret,” per se, but the two marble lions standing sentry outside the New York Public Library’s flagship Manhattan branch have names. They are Patience and Fortitude, given their nicknames by Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia during the Great Depression.

Hidden History

You can see remnants of some of the city’s oldest buildings on Broad Street in the Financial District. An archaeological dig in the late 1970s unearthed the foundation of the circa-1670 Lovelace Tavern, which is displayed under glass.

A Grand Mystery

In the midst of one of the city’s busiest spots, you can stand near an archway, whisper into it, and someone listening 30 feet away at the other end can hear it. You’ll find the Whispering Gallery in the lower level of Grand Central Terminal, right outside the Grand Central Oyster Bar restaurant.

Plan your next trip to New York City with a AAA Travel advisor or with the AAA Mobile App. 

And don’t forget you can save on Broadway shows and more with AAA Tickets. 

You may experience an extreme case of sticker shock the next time you visit the car dealership. The average new car price in December 2021 was more than $47,000, up 14% (or nearly $6,000) from the same period just one year prior.

The price rise is the result of dueling extremes in automobile supply and demand. The latter has been historically high for months. It has been fueled by factors including more workers returning to the office and needing cars to get there and people having more cash on hand to purchase vehicles because of the reduction in activities like vacations and dining out. Plus, auto loan interest rates remain low.

But as demand for vehicles has surged, supply has dwindled. Auto manufacturers around the world have been suffering from a global computer chip shortage and drastic supply chain issues.

The result is record-low inventory numbers. There were fewer than 900,000 new cars available for sale to American consumers last fall, according to Cox Automotive. That’s down from nearly 2.5 million in 2020 and 3.5 million in 2019.

The outlook doesn’t look much more promising, as the current war in Ukraine has already showed signs of disrupting supply chains even further.

All of this turmoil is ultimately paid for by the consumer. In February, Edmunds reported that more than 80% of new car buyers are paying above sticker price. The effects of the volatile new-car market has now trickled down to used cars.

With less new model year vehicles available, shoppers have been turning to used cars, making them hot commodities. In turn, the average listing price for a used car has risen to a record-high $28,000.

Don’t let high prices scare you off from purchasing a new vehicle – and don’t spend more than you need to. As always, AAA is here to help. AAA’s Auto Buying Program allows you to compare vehicle reviews and lock in savings before visiting the dealership. Members save an average of more than $3,400 on new vehicles.

Have you ever wanted to spend a night in a tepee, get cozy in a lushna or stargaze from a safari-style tent?

You’re in luck. These whimsical lodgings are part of a travel trend called “glamorous camping,” commonly known as “glamping.”

These digs come with a variety of modern features such as air conditioning, indoor bathrooms, solar-powered lights, Wi-Fi and king-size beds with luxe linens. Not to mention many glamp-sites have perks like saunas, hot tubs and fire pits, on top of insane vistas that look out to the desert or onto the mountains.

Windham, N.Y.

Nature lovers rejoice! Eastwind Hotel & Bar in the Catskill Mountains is equal parts wilderness and glam with hiking trails within walking distance and a hotel lounge with a bar and a sauna nearby. The hotel offers lushnas, miniature A-frame huts with a mesmerizing view of Windham’s ski slopes. Cabins are available year-round for about $250 a night and are equipped with a cozy queen bed and gorgeous heated bathrooms just a few steps away.

Valle, Ariz.

Under Canvas offers glampers canvas safari tent accommodations 20 minutes outside Grand Canyon National Park. The two-person Stargazer tent has its own viewing window above the king bed to peruse the starscape, an en-suite bathroom and a wood stove to keep you toasty. This tent is available from April-October and starts at $189. It includes all meals with the option of booking separate adventures, because hiking though the Grand Canyon on this trip is a must.

River Ranch, Fla.

Get your countryside vibe and stay in a tepee year-round at a dude ranch in the Sunshine State. Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo is a glamp-ground located on some of Florida’s last untouched land along the Kissimmee River. The lavish tepees come fully furnished with a fireplace and a porcelain bathtub. The tepee lodgings start at around $555 per night and can accommodate four people. River Ranch also offers all-inclusive activities, such as horseback riding and airboat rides.

Plan and book your next getaway with AAA Travel. 

Motor oil plays a critical role in keeping your car running smoothly. Its fundamental purpose is to lubricate the moving parts of the engine to prevent friction and overheating, which can cause major damage. But today’s motor oils do much more, such as keep the engine clean and protect it from wear and corrosion.

The improvement of motor oil is thanks in large part to the evolution of synthetic oil. Once used primarily in aircraft engines and high-performance vehicles, it’s now common for everyday car owners to opt for synthetic oil instead of its conventional counterpart.

But is it necessary to make the switch? What are the advantages and drawbacks? Here are the answers to all your synthetic vs. conventional oil questions.

What’s the Difference Between Synthetic and Conventional Oil?

Although they may appear the same to the naked eye, synthetic and conventional oil are significantly different when you get down to the molecular level. The latter is derived from refined crude oil. Synthetic, on the other hand, is an engineered product made from high-quality base oils. It comes in fully synthetic and synthetic blend varieties.

Both synthetic and conventional oils are mixed with additives to give them the optimal physical properties for lubricating a car’s engine.

Is Synthetic Oil Better For Your Engine Than Conventional Oil?

Yes. Conventional oil is less chemically stable, causing it to break down and lose its protective qualities faster. Because synthetic oil is made from high-quality oil (opposed to the crude oil found in conventional), it is more chemically stable, allowing it to better retain the physical properties needed to properly lubricate a car engine.

Synthetic oil’s high quality keeps your car engine cleaner and more protected. It also resists damage from high temperatures and flows better than conventional oil in cold temperatures.

Does Synthetic Oil Last Longer Than Conventional Oil?

In general, using synthetic oil will allow for longer intervals between oil changes. However, this is highly dependent on the brand of synthetic oil you use. Brand recommendations can range anywhere from 3,000 to 20,000 miles. Other factors, such as such as driving style and conditions, will also affect how often you need to change your oil.

No matter what kind of oil you use, always follow the oil change frequency recommendations in the vehicle owner’s manual.

Which is Cheaper?

Up until this point, synthetic oil seems like the clear winner. But the battle of synthetic vs. conventional oil isn’t over until you factor in the all-important price tag – and that’s when things start to shift. Synthetic oil is significantly more expensive than its conventional counterpart, sometimes up to twice as much. One AAA study found switching from a conventional oil to a synthetic oil will cost drivers on average $64 more per year, or an extra $5.33 per month.

This leads to the next question: Is synthetic oil worth the extra money? According to AAA Car Doctor John Paul, the answer is yes. “In my own cars, I have found by switching to synthetic oil I have had easier cold weather starts, quieter operation and a slight reduction in engine oil temperature,” Paul said. While conventional oil is capable of getting the job done, synthetic oil better protects your engine. This can more than make up the cost difference in the long run. The same AAA study found synthetic oil outperformed conventional oil by an average of nearly 50%.

In conclusion, switching to synthetic oil could be worth the money, especially if you tow heavy loads or operate in extreme hot or cold conditions.

Common Motor Oil Myths

If you switch to synthetic oil, you can never switch back to conventional because it will damage the car’s engine.

False: In most cases, synthetic oil uses conventional oil as a base stock, so switching back and forth will cause no harm.

Synthetic oil will cause my engine to leak oil.

False: Synthetic oil is an excellent detergent cleaner and can wash away oil sludge, which may uncover a previous leak that was being blocked by the sludge. Synthetic oil will not cause any leaks if your car is reasonably well-maintained.

All synthetic oil blends are the same.

False: There are no standards when it comes to the ratio of synthetic and conventional oil that comprises synthetic blends. The blend could contain 50% synthetic oil or 5% and there is no way of knowing. 

Learn more about proper automotive care. Still have questions? Leave them in the comments below.

Experience the sights, sounds and flavors at the crossroads of Southern Texas and Mexico in San Antonio.

Things to Do

River Walk

The River Walk is unquestionably the city’s most recognizable attraction. The 15-mile stretch of the San Antonio River flows through the heart of the city, flanked by tranquil parks, lively cafés and shops. Take a boat tour with GO RIO Cruises for an overview of the waterway and enjoy the people watching.

Shop for artisan crafts or stop for a bite at La Villita or Market Square, billed as one of the largest Mexican marketplace outside of Mexico.

Remember the Alamo

Visit the site of the historic 1836 Battle of the Alamo where Texas won independence from Mexico and became a self-governing republic.

Before it was a fort, the Alamo was the first of five missions along the San Antonio River established by the Spanish in the early 1700’s to educate Native Americans converted to Christianity. Follow the signs to each of the missions on a scenic drive, walk or bike ride through San Antonio Missions National Historical Park.

Hit the Road With Wyndham Hotels & Resorts

With more than 6,500 hotels in North America, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has a wide range of hotels and resorts to accommodate your travel needs.

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Tex-Mex Dining

Don’t miss some of the best tacos, enchiladas and guacamole this side of the Río Grande in downtown San Antonio. Some restaurants are open 24 hours – just in case partying along the River Walk leads to a late-night tamale craving.

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San Antonio is also home to renowned museums, golf courses and gardens. If you have kids, don’t miss the San Antonio Zoo, SeaWold San Antonio or Six Flags Fiesta Texas.

Places to Stay

Wyndham Garden San Antonio Riverwalk/Museum Reach

A modern AAA Three Diamond hotel overlooking the Museum Reach section of the River Walk. Foodies will love that it’s only a short walk to the Pearl District, a vibrant culinary destination.

La Quinta Inn and Suites San Antonio Downtown

Another affordable AAA Three Diamond retreat centrally located in the heart of the action. The wide variety of contemporary room styles includes suites, expanded kings and double bedrooms.

Super 8 by Wyndham San Antonio Downtown NE

It’s all about convenience and comfort at this affordable hotel, just 11 miles from San Antonio International Airport and near the city’s top museums, galleries, shops, golf and attractions. Enjoy the free Wi-Fi, breakfast and outdoor pool.

Book a Wyndham hotel for your San Antonio stay.

It may not have garnered front-page headlines, but a major milestone in automotive history was reached last fall. It took place in the otherwise quiet, ironically named town of Normal, Illinois. There and then, electric vehicle startup Rivian rolled its first consumer-ready vehicle off the assembly line, instantly becoming the first electric pickup truck brought to market.

Pickup trucks represent the final frontier in electric vehicles, which have quickly evolved from tiny sedans to SUVs. The market for the emission-free trucks is expected to grow significantly over the next several years. In other words, the Rivian R1T‘s time in the spotlight alone is coming to a close. It will soon be sharing the stage with a host of competitors. In fact, a number of new electric pickup truck models are right around the corner. Some are already in production, others won’t be available until 2023 (hopefully). Either way, expect to see these vehicles driving on a street near you in the not-so-distant future.

GMC Hummer

The aughts were full of trends we can safely say the world is better off without. Chief among them was the popularity of the gas-guzzling Hummer. But in true 2020s fashion, the truck has been rebooted with a new owner (GMC) and a new way of moving.

While it was once antithetical to use the terms “Hummer” and “environmentally friendly” in the same sentence, this new, fully electric version is entirely emission free. It’s compatible with the fastest available chargers, enabling owners to gain nearly 100 miles of range in just 10 minutes of charging. The Hummer EV can travel more than 320 miles on a full charge.

The electric pickup truck, which went into production late last year, does have one thing in common with its gas-powered ancestor: it’s a beast of a vehicle. Powered by three separate motors, the Hummer EV produces an unparalleled 1,000 horsepower and 11,500 lb.-ft. of torque. All that strength comes at a price, however. The Edition 1 model came with a price tag north of $110,000. Less expensive versions will be available beginning in the fall.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oc3sQ2UcTlg&list=PLCFM1h5Oz66glrCg2NISP1eYsfcQ6EfIb

Ford F-150 Lightning

Few automobiles have garnered as much pre-manufacturing publicity as the Ford F-150 Lightning. But, then again, few automobiles have had the potential to truly revolutionize American driving. The gas-powered F-150 has been the best-selling vehicle in the U.S. for nearly half a century. Converting owners of the traditional model to those of the Lightning could go a long way in helping EVs carve out a larger percentage of overall cars on the road.

And it appears the Lightning has already struck a chord with pickup truck drivers. In January, Ford announced it would be doubling its production 150,000 trucks per year after receiving 200,000 initial reservations. (For context, there were roughly 725,000 Ford F-150s sold in 2021).

Owners should be more than satisfied when they finally get behind the wheel of the Lightning, which is set to hit the road this spring. The emission-free pickup delivers 563 horsepower, 10,000-pound towing capacity and a F-150 record 775 lb.-ft. of torque. It also is the first vehicle ever with the extremely convenient ability to power your house.

GMC Sierra Denali EV

Not resting on its laurels, GMC is coming out with a second electric pickup truck right on the Hummer’s heels. The Sierra Denali EV’s debut will make GMC the first automaker to offer two such vehicles.

Although it’s set to be revealed later this year, not much is known about the truck yet. The car maker offered a glimpse of the vehicle’s futuristic front end but has offered few other details so far. We do know the pickup truck will be a luxurious one – “Denali” is GMC’s highest trim level.

Chevrolet Silverado

The F-150 may be America’s best-selling vehicle, but the Silverado is not far behind. Drivers purchased more than half a million units of the Chevy truck in 2021, making it the year’s third most-popular automobile. And just like its chief competitor, there will soon be an electric version.

The Silverado EV isn’t set to debut until the spring of 2023, but the payoff may be worth the wait. According to Chevrolet, the pickup truck will have up to 664 horsepower, more than 780 lb.-ft. of torque and be capable of supporting a payload of 1,300 pounds, all while getting from 0-60 mph in less than 4.5 seconds. Those concerned about driving range can sleep easy knowing the Silverado EV is expected to travel an estimated 400 miles on a full charge. Potential owners may also be lured by the opportunity to play hero to stranded motorists as the pickup truck will be capable of charging other EVs courtesy of an accessory charge cord.

Canoo Pickup

Those looking to couple their advanced technology with futuristic design can wait on bated breath for the Canoo Pickup. Slated to launch as early 2023, the vehicle is complete with an onslaught of features designed to appeal to those using it for work and fun. The Canoo’s modular bed allows it to be divided to hold and secure loads of various shapes and sizes. Speaking of cargo, the vehicle has a payload capacity of a full-size pickup, but the footprint of a mid-size. Other work-focused features include multiple fold-down tables and charge ports accessible from all sides of the vehicle.

When the weekend arrives, Canoo owners can store their gear on the optional roof rack, which is easily accessible by an integrated step ladder. The innovative pickup is also designed to accommodate camper shells.

Tesla Cybertruck

The only thing more confusing than the Cybertruck’s appearance is its production timeline. When it was originally unveiled in 2019, Tesla claimed the Cybertruck would be available by late 2021. Before that could happen, production was delayed until 2022. In January, Tesla announced it wouldn’t begin manufacturing until 2023, citing supply chain issues. This coincided with the car maker ridding its website of any references to a production schedule.

For the sake of some much-needed optimism, let’s assume the Cybertruck will indeed be available sometime next year. When that happens, consumers will be privy to a vehicle unlike any they’ve ever seen – assuming Tesla’s claims come true. The pickup’s DeLorean-style monochrome shell is nearly impenetrable. The 100-cubic-feet of exterior storage space can handle 3,500 pounds and be completely covered by a tonneau strong enough to stand on. All this in an electric pickup truck capable of accelerating from 0-60 mph in less than 3 seconds and covering 500 miles on a single charge.

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

Ready to get behind the wheel of an electric pickup truck (or any new vehicle)? Make sure to download our Free Car Buying Guide, which walks you through every step of the process.

A visit to Ireland and the United Kingdom tops many American travelers’ wish lists. These stately European islands have an almost magnetic pull. Perhaps that’s because the British Isles offer enough storied history and varied landscapes to enrich and entertain you for weeks on end.

But planning a trip across the Atlantic Ocean can be overwhelming. When it comes to international flights and layovers, visas, currency exchanges and even COVID-19 protocols, some travelers prefer the simplicity of group tours. With an expert-curated tour like AAA Member Choice Vacations, you can leave the day-to-day planning to the pros while boosting your chances of meeting new friends far from home.

Though every group tour unfolds a bit differently, each is designed to include the perfect balance of bucket-list attractions, hyper-local experiences and free time for self-guided exploration or relaxation.

Discover just a few of the exciting ways to tour Ireland and the United Kingdom.

Travel Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way

Picture yourself beginning the week with an Irish storyteller showing you around a historic Dublin home, then days later finding yourself standing tall atop basalt columns on the legendary Giant’s Causeway. Add in stops for a walking tour in Belfast and a dram of whiskey at Bushmills Distillery, and you’ve got just a hint of the many-splendored Wild Atlantic Way.

Ireland’s iconic tourism trail is brimming with jaw-dropping landscapes, culinary treasures and Celtic history. A guided tour along the Wild Atlantic Way is like getting a front-row seat to the beauty and culture of Ireland. It truly is the best of the Emerald Isle.

For most travelers, a two-week itinerary around the perimeter of Ireland and Northern Ireland is plenty of time to hit the must-see spots like Dublin, Galway, Kilkenny and Glenveagh National Park. A vacation of this length also offers free time, which you can fill with distinctly Irish activities like seaweed foraging in the Ring of Kerry and exploring the Cliffs of Moher.

Ireland, England and Scotland are Calling

Dreaming about traveling to Ireland, England and Scotland? Now is the time to go!

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Discover Scotland

The U.K. includes England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Though some travelers have time for a whirlwind tour of the entire island nation, many choose to focus on just one country. If you prefer to travel deep rather than wide, you can’t go wrong with Scotland.

Scotland is full of rugged coastlines, rich food and resplendent castles on hills. Those castles hint at the country’s long history and deep cultural traditions. For instance, at Armadale Castle and Gardens, you can learn more about the Isle of Skye and its distinct local Clan Donald history. At Inveraray Castle, on the other hand, you’ll learn about Clan Campbell.

Of course, a trip to Scotland would not be complete without also visiting Edinburgh, Loch Ness, Glasgow or St. Andrews. Along the journey, you’ll soak in the Scottish spirit – both literal and figurative! Guided tours include plenty of opportunities to visit Scotland’s famous whisky distilleries.

Spend a Week in London Town

Traversing the English countryside is lovely, but what about giving yourself a full week in one of the most iconic cities in the world? When you choose a AAA Member Choice Vacations Spotlight on London tour, you unpack once and have the entire trip to explore all the city has to offer, from hallowed Westminster Abbey to inimitable Big Ben.

Whether you’re craving high tea, an ale tasting at a classic British pub or a night or two of live theater entertainment, London offers a multitude of destinations and experiences.

The British capital is an ideal destination for tour travel because it’s so well-connected. For instance, after a walking tour near Buckingham Palace with your local guide, you can quickly hop on the Tube (London’s famous underground metro) toward Tottenham Court Road to meet fellow travelers for a pint near The British Museum. You’ll quickly learn your way around and even have time to revisit outstanding museums and restaurants when you spend a whole trip in one city.

Soak in Britain’s Best Landscapes

If you prefer a slower pace that focuses on the picturesque wonders of the U.K., consider a guided trip to Britain’s landscapes.

In Scotland, explore the rolling hills outside of Edinburgh. Take a tour of the Royal Yacht Britannia for a swan’s-eye view of the city, then head south through the Borders Region, marked by gentle slopes and rural Scottish land. From there, you’ll discover all that England has to offer: ancient walled towns and Shakespeare’s charming countryside birthplace on the banks of the River Avon. In Wales, many travelers enjoy sailing the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct for a unique vantage of one of the country’s most charming villages, Llangollen.

Don’t forget your camera if you decide to take a guided tour of the U.K.’s landscapes. From grassy hillsides and placid lakes to quaint, walled villages, you’ll want to remember the incredibly diverse beauty of the British Isles.

Dive Deep Into Celtic Culture

If you have enough time to explore two places, why not take a Celtic-focused tour of Ireland and Scotland? The ancient Celts traveled all over Europe, but warm Celtic culture is still going strong in these two U.K. countries.

Tour Scotch whiskey distilleries and nibble your way through local meats and cheeses (try haggis made from sheep offal if you dare!). Follow in the footsteps of ancient clansmen on the Giant’s Causeway and the pristine forests of Glenveagh National Park in Donegal.

In Dublin and Edinburgh, take time to discover the historic downtowns, shop for souvenirs and enjoy snacks or drinks at local pubs. Just don’t miss the tour of St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin!

During the afternoons, you can choose to quietly soak in the stories from your guide or meet up for self-guided exploration with new friends.

No matter your travel style, there’s excitement and adventure around every corner of history-rich Scotland and Ireland.

Start planning your U.K. tour today. 

Imagine being strapped into a car as it accelerates to 35 mph and collides head-on into a concrete barrier. Then you get into a second car, which is immediately T-boned by a 3,000-pound moving object. As a finale, you’re in a third car as it drives along at 55 mph before hitting a ramp and rolling over.

Welcome to the life of a crash test dummy.

By any measure, cars today are safer than they’ve ever been. That’s in no small part due to the development of crash test dummies. Anthropomorphic test devices, as they’re known in the scientific world, have evolved into highly sophisticated tools capable of closely mimicking a human’s response during a car crash. That information, in turn, is used by researchers, car designers and engineers to make automobiles as safe as possible.

It’s not an overstatement to say these dummies are life savers.

The History of Crash Testing

Before there were crash test dummies, there needed to be crash tests.

When it came to improving vehicle design during the early 20^th century, however, safety was a distant-second consideration. Automobile manufacturers instead focused on making cars more aesthetically pleasing, with streamlined bodies, oval windows and wide roof pillars.

Unfortunately, these design features typically made cars less safe. It wasn’t until auto-related fatalities continued to soar in the 1930s and ’40s that car makers began to incorporate safety improvements into their designs.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BPQdlJZvZhE

In 1934, General Motors became the first car maker to crash test its vehicles when it collided an unoccupied car into a concrete barrier. By the 1950s, universities including Cornell, UCLA and Wayne State began conducting their own crash tests, which proved the effectiveness of vehicle safety features, most notably the seat belt.

Increased safety studies, coupled with Ralph Nader’s seminal book, “Unsafe at Any Speed: The Designed-in Dangers of the American Automobile,” forced the government into action. In 1968, the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act went into effect, mandating seat belts in all new cars.

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration was established just two years later. In 1978, the government agency conducted its first crash test, a 35-mph frontal collision. The NHTSA began side impact testing nearly two decades later, and eventually added rollover resistance tests in 2000.

NHTSA is one of the two primary organizations conducting crash tests today, along with the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The independent agency funded by America’s insurance companies began its own crash test studies in the mid-1990s. Today’s IIHS tests are more extensive than its government counterpart’s. Not only does IIHS conduct six crash tests to NHTSA’s four, it also studies a vehicle’s crash avoidance and mitigation ability.

The History of Crash Test Dummies

The first crash tests were done on unoccupied vehicles. This usually involved the driver jumping out of the moving car before the collision.

Eventually, cadavers were used to allow researchers to see how crashes affected a human body. But dead bodies, of course, do not react the way living, breathing, moving bodies do. Matters were further complicated when testing progressed to include survivability, something that clearly could not be measured on a cadaver.

Researchers eventually moved on to using animal subjects, including primates and even bears. The most commonly used animal, however, was a pig due to the fact that it has the same thoracic and abdominal organs as humans. While testing on living creatures provided new insight, the significant differences between man and animal prevented researchers from gaining practical crash test data. A better solution was needed.

The history of crash test dummies began in the 1940s, when they were developed for the U.S. Air Force to use in the testing of aircraft ejection seats. The first dummy was created by Sierra Engineering Company and Alderson Research Laboratories, named after founder Sam Alderson. Their humanoid invention was aptly dubbed “Sierra Sam.”

In 1968, Alderson debuted the first crash test dummy designed specifically for automotive testing. It was known as the VIP, short for “vehicular impact personnel.” Consisting of a steel rib cage, articulated joints, flexible neck and cavities to hold instrumentation, it was designed to mimic the acceleration and weight distribution properties of an average male, according to the American Physical Society. The VIP series expanded to include crash test dummies that represented large males and averages females.

The Hybrid Dummies

Up until the early 1970s, crash test dummies were supplied by independent companies. That all changed when General Motors became dissatisfied with the options on the market and developed its own, instead.

In 1971, the auto maker created the Hybrid I dummy, which incorporated features from the VIP series, along with those from Sierra Engineering and some of GM’s own designs. It was followed the next year by Hybrid II, which more closely mimicked human anatomy and provided consistent results.

These early Hybrid were primarily designed to test the effectiveness of seat belts, according to Humanetics, one of today’s premier crash test dummy manufacturers. A more sophisticated dummy would be needed to determine the effect a crash would have on the head, neck and limbs of car occupants, including those of different genders, ages and sizes.

GM solved this before the close of the decade with the introduction of the Hybrid III. Not only was it the most humanlike crash test dummy ever made, it contained 41 channels of information. (The Hybrid II had just eight.) This allowed researchers to precisely measure injuries to susceptible parts of the body, including the head, torso and legs.

Originally developed to replicate an average male, the Hybrid III line was expanded in the 1980s to include large male and small female dummies. Child models were introduced in the 1994.

Vince and Larry

Fewer than 20% of Americans reported wearing seat belts in the early 1980s, more than a decade after the safety feature became mandated in all new cars. To spur a change in public behavior, NHTSA unveiled a new advertising campaign in 1985 aimed at getting drivers and passengers to buckle up.

And who did the agency call upon to direct the public’s attention to this life-saving issue? Crash test dummies, of course.

With the tagline, “You could learn a lot from a dummy,” the campaign consisted of television and radio commercials featuring dummies named Vince and Larry. In each ad, the dummy duo experiences the painful consequences of not wearing seat belts.

The ingenious marketing tactic worked wonders. Seat belt use in America doubled the year after Vince and Larry made their national debuts. By the time the campaign ended in 1998, roughly 70% of vehicle occupants were wearing their seat belts.

Today, you can find the Vince and Larry dummies in the Smithsonian.

Today’s Crash Test Dummies

The Hybrid III crash test dummy holds rank as the industry standard to this day. However, it was designed specifically for use in frontal impact tests. Since many car crashes involve other impacts, new models have been developed over the past 30 years.

The Side Impact Dummy (SID) and ES-2 measure injuries during side collisions, as does the BioRID during rear impacts. Several child-sized dummies have also been created to evaluate child restraint systems. These include the Civil Aeronautical Medical Institute (CAMI) models representing infants and the Child Restraint and Airbag Interaction (CRABI) series simulating small children.

Learn more about automotive history.

As we continue to ease back into traveling, one thing we’re all likely looking for are wide-open spaces. That, of course, means the great outdoors. And there’s no better region for scenic sightseeing than the Northeast, where lush forests cover rolling hills across each state and miles upon miles of coastline are blanketed with picturesque beaches. Here are a few of the most scenic locations in the Northeast.

The White Mountains

The White Mountains cover roughly one quarter of the state of New Hampshire. The region is home to the White Mountain National Forest as well as several state parks.

The mountain range contains numerous hiking trails that can lead to waterfalls and scenic outlooks or all the way to the top. Although these are some of the most rugged mountains in the Northeast, the view from the top is worth the effort.

If instead you enjoy staying grounded, take a drive along the Kancamagus Highway. This 34-mile stretch of road carves through the mountains, running alongside several different rivers.

Letchworth State Park

Any place known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” certainly has some big shoes to fill. But Letchworth State Park, located in western New York, lives up to the billing.

Instead of the Colorado, it’s the Genesee River that carves through the gorge, traveling over three major waterfalls and reaching heights of 600 feet. The park has more than 60 miles of hiking trails, ensuring you’ll be able to find the perfect lookout spot to witness the bucolic sights.

Heublein Tower

Heublein Tower sits atop Talcott Mountain in Simsbury, Connecticut. The 165-foot structure was built in 1914 and originally served as a summer home for a prominent local family.

Today it’s known for providing some of the best views of the Nutmeg State and beyond. Perched atop the 1,000-foot tall mountain, visitors to Heublein Tower are provided with panoramic views of the Farmington River Valley, Long Island Sound and the Berkshires. You may even be able to catch a glimpse of Mount Monadnock, 80 miles away in New Hampshire.

The Aquinnah Cliffs

Beyond the gingerbread-style homes and the postcard-esque downtowns lies an even finer sight on Martha’s Vineyard: the Aquinnah Cliffs. The natural wonder, carved by glaciers millions of years ago, rises up from the beach on the island’s southwestern tip.

Visitors can walk along the beach below to get an up-close view of the clay cliffs, which are unlike any type of formation you’ll likely see on a New England Beach. Guests can also take the upper trails to catch a glimpse of the Gay Head Light and nearby Elizabeth Islands.

The Berkshires

The Berkshires, a region of mountains and forests in western Massachusetts, has long been known as one of the most scenic locations in the Northeast. It’s at its best once the temperatures drop, becoming a premier destination for fall foliage. Your best bet for picturesque views is taking a drive along the Mohawk Trail. The road, now a designated scenic tourist route, carves through the Berkshire mountains for more than 60 miles.

Cadillac Mountain

A top attraction within Acadia National Park, no list of the top scenic locations in the Northeast is complete without Cadillac Mountain – and for good reason. For several months of the year, visitors who trek to the top early enough can be the first to witness the sunrise in the United States.

Even if you miss the morning light, a trip to the top of Cadillac Mountain is a worthy sightseeing expedition. At 1,500 feet, it’s the highest peak on the Eastern Seaboard. Visitors can experience an unparalleled 360-degree view of Maine’s coast along with lush greenery and the vast Atlantic Ocean.

Lake Champlain

Vermont may be a landlocked state but one look at Lake Champlain will have you forgetting all about the ocean. With nearly 600 miles of shoreline and 71 islands, there’s more than enough territory to explore and take in the sights. There are three bridges crossing the lake, connecting Vermont to New York, creating the perfect opportunity for a picturesque drive.

The surrounding region is just as eye-catching. Endless trees cover the hillsides and the nearby Adirondacks tower to the west. There are also miles of trails perfect for a short hike. Visitors who make it to the end are gifted with spectacular vistas as far as the eye can see.

Need a ride? AAA members can save up to 20% on Hertz rentals.

Tell us your favorite scenic locations in the Northeast in the comments below. 

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

Most people know the old saying, “What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas.” This cheeky little adage isn’t exactly true. In fact, for the past few years, Visit Las Vegas has flipped the script with their motto: “What happens here, only happens here.”

The Vegas experience is something unique and one that should absolutely be shared! When AAA travel advisor Michael Collins returned from his recent trip to the strip, we connected to hear about his experiences.

What do you think draws so many to the Vegas strip?

First off, Vegas is so much more than just the strip. Yes, most people think of the giant hotels, casinos and all the neon, but the city offers many unique experiences in such close proximity. One moment you find yourself at an award-winning musical and the next day you’re flying in a helicopter over the canyons or out to the Hoover Dam.

Very true! It is located close to quite a few other destinations, correct?

It sure is, making it a perfect place to stay, start or end a trip. Las Vegas is only a six-hour drive from Arches National Park and is only a two-hour drive from the Grand Canyon West Rim. For people looking to experience the canyon, including a stay in Vegas may make the trip even more memorable. The city is under four hours from Joshua Tree National Park, so don’t overlook Las Vegas if you’re thinking of a National Park trip.

There are so many hotels and resorts, and on this recent trip you popped in at more than one property, including New York, New York. From the street, this resort looks amazing as it mimics the monuments and skylines found in NYC. Is it just as fun on the inside?

You bet it is! At one time it was labeled as the first boutique hotel in the city, and since opening in 1997, the resort has had some of the most fun activities on the strip. Home to a rollercoaster that runs indoors as well along the rooftop edge, the resort has surprises around every corner. There is a piano bar, several restaurants, and a family-friendly arcade. Las Vegas has often been associated with weddings, and New York, New York offers a bridal package where couples can take their vows on the rollercoaster. Now there is a wedding photo opportunity! I will say this, though: the rollercoaster runs until midnight, so if you have a room with a “coaster view,” be aware.

What a fun property! What other hotels did you visit?

As a travel advisor, I like to make the most of my trips so that I can take back first-hand experiences to share with my clients. After my visit to New York, New York I spent a few nights at the Park MGM Las Vegas. This resort was once the Monte Carlo, but boy has it been refreshed and updated.

The Monte Carlo was a popular stay for decades. How has MGM revitalized the location?

Architecturally, the resort has been modernized. My room was a standard king, with very comfortable bedding. The room had a casual seating area, but right away I noticed there was no desk. MGM removed all office furniture from these rooms when they renovated and decided to make the Park MGM more like a “home away from home.” Even the art in each room is unique. No two pieces throughout the nearly 3,000 rooms are the same.

I think the best part of the Park MGM was the culinary scene! The resort is home to Eataly, Best Friend by Roy Choi and Bavette’s steak house. I couldn’t tell you which place was best, as I enjoyed myself at all three.

Good food and good stays! Speaking of which, are there any AAA 5 Five Diamond hotels in Vegas?

Bellagio and Aria are both Five Diamond locations! With over 4,000 guest rooms, 16 restaurants, 10 bars and nightclubs, and 150,000 square feet of gaming space, Aria has quickly become a landmark since opening in 2009 and has been featured frequently in movies and television, too!

I think one of the most fun parts of Aria is the main lobby. Aria features installations by artists from all over the world. The installations change frequently and add to the unique luxury atmosphere of the property. When I visited, there was this very cute display of brightly colored polar bears by multimedia artist Paola Pivi.

And let’s not forget the Aria sky suites. These suites include transportation to and from McCarron International Airport. Guests get a private check-in area with key-controlled access from the valet area and main Aria lobby.

The Bellagio fountain is one of the most famous attractions on the strip. Did you view the water show?

Yes I did, and if you want a great view of the fountain, visit the Paris Hotel and Casino across the street and make a reservation for the patio seats overlooking Las Vegas Blvd at Beer Park and you can get a great picture.

I also recommend heading inside the resort. Bellagio boasts some very unique features in addition to its famous fountain. Fiori di Como is an art installation by Dale Chihuly. It is comprised of over 2,000 pieces of hand-blown glass. Art critics from around the world have attempted to appraise the piece and have determined it to be priceless. Bellagio is home to the world’s largest chocolate fountain, too. There is also a botanical garden that changes five times a year for each season and for the Lunar New Year celebrated by East Asian cultures throughout the world.

There seems to be an art scene in Vegas!

Not only is there this new approach to art, but also wellness. Resorts are taking a healthy approach to stays, with features like the Stay Well rooms at MGM Resorts. These rooms include air purification, aromatherapy, specialized lighting, and enhanced cleaning protocols.

Another trend is touchless experiences. All MGM Resorts in Las Vegas offer free mobile check-in. This is also your digital key in most resorts. Simply open the app and touch your smartphone to your key panel and operate the elevator. This option is completely contactless and is super convenient. I checked in the night before I left home and when I opened the app at the airport the next morning I had my room assigned. I walked into the resort and went straight to my room.

From the lights and sights to the food and art, what happens in Vegas should definitely be shared!

Start planning your next trip with AAA Travel.

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

Location: 100 S Water St, New Haven, Conn.

Located on the waterfront in the historic City Point area of New Haven, Shell & Bones is acclaimed for both its setting and food. While fresh fish and oysters are the stars, prime cuts of meats also shine.

Executive Chef Arturo Franco-Camacho incorporates fresh and sustainable ingredients to present new takes on classic dishes, like this award-winning New England clam chowder.

Restaurant Recipe Guide

Featuring more than 40 recipes and tips from top chefs and kitchens in the Northeast. Download the Restaurant Recipe Guide and get cooking!

Download Now!

Clam Chowder

• 1½ cups water
• ½ cup dry white wine
• 50 littleneck clams
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon bacon fat
• ½ cup diced bacon
• 1 large Spanish onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups diced celery
• 3 sprigs thyme, chopped
• 2 bay leaves
• 1½ pounds (about 2 cups) Yukon gold potatoes, peeled, cut into ¼-inch dice
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped

PRO TIP: The soup is better the next day. Letting it sit in the refrigerator overnight gives the bacon extra time to infuse its smoky flavor into the cream.

Pour the water and wine into a large pot. Bring to a boil at high heat. Add clams, cover and cook until they open, about 5 minutes. Remove clams to a bowl. Strain liquid and reserve. When they have cooled, set aside 6 clams in the shell. Remove remainder from their shells and cut into small pieces.

Melt butter and bacon fat in a pan over medium heat. Add bacon and cook until crisp, 4-6 minutes. Add onion, garlic, celery, thyme and bay leaves. Sauté until onions are translucent, about 4 minutes. Add potatoes, clam juice and heavy cream. Simmer until potatoes are tender, 8-10 minutes. Discard bay leaves. Add chopped clams and parsley, stir and serve.

Place a reserved clam in the shell on top of each bowl. Sprinkle crispy bacon on top if desired. Serve with crackers or potato chips.

Serves 6.

Take a nostalgic walk through a decade of big change and even bigger hair in our ’80s-themed word search.

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.

With nighttime photos, the fun is in the challenge. At night, you can play with light and shadows to produce moody scenes and capture magical panoramas of the moon and stars.

Thank You for Participating! (Session Closed) 

Browse through all of the photos we received during February’s night-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.

Night Photography Tips 

Understanding and using your camera settings is especially handy when shooting at night. Relying on the auto feature will not do your images much justice in the dark, although smartphones are getting better at it. Learn how to use night mode on some of the latest phone models with these tips from CNET.

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

Your car engine, with its mighty roar, may get all the glory, but without the silent understated work of the vehicle’s battery, your vehicle isn’t going anywhere.

We will concede the car battery is not the sexiest component of an automobile. Not only is it not seen or heard, it doesn’t come equipped with showboating descriptors like “276-horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6” that car engines do. But don’t be confused – car batteries are vital. Not only would vehicles not be able to operate electrical systems like lights, heated seats and air conditioning without them, but vehicles themselves wouldn’t be able to start without the humble lead-acid battery found in most cars today.

But the history of car batteries begins well before we had any cars.

The History of Batteries

Evidence suggests that the first batteries were created as far back as 200 B.C. in what is now Iraq. The word “battery,” however, wasn’t coined until the 18^th century by none other than Benjamin Franklin, who used it to describe a device he invented capable of holding an electrical charge. The machine consisted of numerous Leyden jars grouped together; thus, Franklin adapted the military term for multiple pieces of artillery working together.

Alessandro Volta invented the world’s first true electric battery not long after. In 1800, the Italian physicist unveiled a device consisting of alternating zinc and silver disks separated by brine-soaked cloth. When a wire was connected to each end, a continuous electric current flowed through the pile. Unlike Franklin’s Leyden jars, this device didn’t need to be charged.

Volta’s discovery led to widespread research into new practical uses of electricity, and by the mid-1800s, the history of car batteries was well underway.

The Lead-Acid Battery

Gaston Planté may not be a household name, but he played an indispensable role in the history of the automobile. In the 1850s, the French physicist was experimenting with a battery that could store a useable amount of electrical energy. The best battery at the time produced just 1.1 volts, according to the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory.

Planté successfully created such a battery before the close of the decade. By utilizing lead and sulfuric acid, he was able to create a battery capable of delivering more power than any before it. The most significant evolutionary component in Planté’s design, however, was that the chemical reaction was reversible, meaning the battery could be recharged.

Just like that, the lead-acid battery was born.

The Electric Car Starter

It would take a few decades after Planté’s invention before lead-acid batteries found their way into automobiles. After all, early cars didn’t require electricity: They didn’t have lights, engines used manual power, and bells or air horns were operated manually. Take a look back at auto history.

This all changed in the early 1900s when Charles F. Kettering invented the electric starter. This new device allowed motorists to start a car’s engine from the driver’s seat instead of hand-cranking the engine from the front of the vehicle. The starter, which required a battery, also powered a vehicle’s lights, another feature Kettering developed. The first electric starter appeared in Cadillacs in 1912. Not long after, Kettering’s Dayton Engineering Laboratories Company was purchased by General Motors. The engineer was hired as the automaker’s head of new research division, where he developed numerous instrumental technologies, including spark plugs, leaded gasoline, automatic transmission and four-wheel brakes.

More and more new cars came equipped with electric starters as the 1910s progressed, according to Wired. One of the last holdouts, however, was the Ford Model T. The prominent, widely owned car finally made the switch in 1919, at which point batteries could be found in just about every American automobile.

Modern Car Batteries

For the first half of the 20^th century, cars were equipped with 6-volt batteries. That changed in the ’50s when vehicle electric systems transitioned to 12 volts, thanks to evolving car designs and features that required more power. To this day, most vehicles use 12-volt batteries.

Another important milestone in the history of car batteries occurred the following decade with the introduction of the absorbed glass mat battery. As its name implies, this iteration contains fiberglass mats that absorb the battery’s sulfuric acid, making it spill-proof and easy to ship. But what makes AGM batteries particularly well-suited for cars is that they can deliver more power, charge faster and last longer than traditional lead-acid batteries. They are also maintenance-free and resistant to vibration.

Despite all these advantages, AGM batteries weren’t commonly used in vehicles until the 1990s. By this time, cars’ electrical needs had grown substantially. The more efficient battery was needed to power features such as air conditioning and advanced computer systems.

Electric Car Batteries

If you haven’t heard, there are these new things called electric cars. Well, they aren’t really new – the first electric car appeared in the United States way back in the late 1800s.

Electric cars use a battery to start the vehicle, power electrical features and power the motor. To do this, they depend on what’s known as a lithium-ion battery, which first became commercially available in 1991. This battery type boasts a higher energy density than others. This allows it to store more energy in a smaller battery, making it perfect for devices like cellphones and laptops.

In 2008, the Tesla Roadster became the first production electric vehicle to use a lithium-ion battery. Today, they are used in nearly all electric vehicles and are capable of powering a car more than 500 miles on a single charge.

AAA is your one-stop shop for all things car batteries:

• AAA Car Battery service is available to test, service or replace your car battery. Get a quote and request service online.
• Want to learn how to keep your battery running smoothly? Your AAA is your go-to resource.
• For all your auto parts needs, AAA members can save on replacement parts and accessories at NAPA.

For more interesting backstories on car parts and beyond, visit our automotive history page.

For parties of nine or fewer, there is an opportunity to discover Ireland, Britain or Iceland your own way, at your pace, as you savor every moment with the people you know and love. With a custom private driver tour, you customize the itinerary, and with AAA Travel and our friends at CIE Tours, our planners will partner you with a local guide to lead you along your route, recommending unique stops and restaurants along the way.

CIE has curated these private tour opportunities to appeal to all — honeymooners, bucket-listers, solo travelers, families and those seeking to connect with their heritage. Private driver tours can accommodate multiple generations, from infants to great-grandparents, making this the perfect option for cross-generational explorations. Choose between over 50 pre-set itinerary and travel style options or build your own custom private driver vacation. Custom itinerary options are limitless — from luxurious 5-star adventures to family-friendly options. Each itinerary is a balance of famous icons with local haunts and immersive cultural experiences.

Throughout your journey, an expert guide provides the backstories and deep intel that simply can’t be gleaned from a book. CIE Tours drivers are dedicated experts, who know the local history and have plenty of personal connections and rich stories, and relish the opportunity to unfold the hidden beauties of their homelands, taking guests beyond the surface for a truly immersive experience. Plus, you and your group control the pace, including how much time you spend at sites and locations. Not ready to leave a site? With your own driver, you are  free to linger in places that catch your fancy — and spend less time in places that don’t. And, there’s the freedom to start your day when you want and to dine where and when you want, with plenty of great local recommendations from your driver.   

Custom private driver tours are also a wonderful choice for individuals looking to connect with their ancestry. Together with your AAA Travel advisor, you can build an itinerary that focuses on the areas, towns and perhaps even the streets and houses that your family once called home. For those of you with Irish ancestors, a visit to the Irish Emigration Museum may offer insight into your families path to America, and a day on the Dunbrody Famine Ship, an authentic replica of the vessel that helped carry Irish immigrants to the United States, offers a glimpse into the actual voyage from Ireland to America.

No matter the destination, AAA Travel Advisors are here to help you find the right vacation. Together, you can unlock the world all while ensuring you take advantage of every perk and discount available through your AAA membership. 

Share your dreams with a AAA Travel Advisor now.

Even though your childhood memories of the carnival may have taken on a rosy glow over the years, the adult reality is that these traveling funfairs can sometimes be a bit sketchy. That said, the new Kia Carnival is anything but.

In fact, the only thing about this rolling Carnival that’s liable to give you pause is its layout. This midsize crossover amounts to a likeable combination of a traditional SUV’s styling and the functional details of a minivan.

While uncommon, the design works surprisingly well. The more rugged profile dilutes any soccer mom-related stigma, while wide-opening, sliding side doors make it an ideal way to get the entire family to and from the fair.

The 7- or 8-passenger interior has adult-sized legroom throughout. There’s also a generous 40.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and 86.9 cubic feet behind the second.

Figure in excellent power and handling and a long list of standard comfort, tech and safety features and Kia Carnival becomes one of the most entertaining rides in town.

MPG (City/Highway): 19/26

2022 Infiniti QX60

Peruse the average parking lot and you’ll quickly understand our world has no shortage of luxury cars. Yet, the all-new Infiniti QX60 blows them all away in the practicality department.

This classy-looking midsize crossover nicely combines the best qualities of high-end sedans and über-useful car-based SUVs in a sleek package. The top-of-the-line Autograph model we tested offered comfortable seating for up to seven passengers in three rows, done up in quilted leather upholstery and a genuine wood-trimmed dash. The heated/ventilated front seats with massage are a particularly nice touch.

There’s also a cargo hold with a healthy 14.5 cubic feet of room behind the third row, and more than 75 cubic feet with all the rear seats folded, not counting the handy underfloor storage bin.

Under the hood is a 295-hp, 3.5-liter V6 that delivers brisk acceleration. Front-wheel drive is standard, while all-wheel drive is an option. The ride quality is luxury-car smooth and, though the handling isn’t exactly sporty, the suspension is well-tuned enough to make hustling the QX60 along a curvy stretch of road enjoyable.

MPG (City/Highway): 21/26

Looking for a new ride? Check out more car reviews at AAA.com/TestDrive.

There are just some things that are hard to find fault with. The Ford Mustang Mach E is one of them.

Now, perfection may be unattainable, but this all-electric compact crossover comes pretty close. For starters, the Mach E feels vaguely familiar, with muscular good looks, abundant acceleration and crisp handling reminiscent of the long-running coupe with which it shares its galloping pony logo.

Besides impressive performance, the Premium trim level version we tested offered several driving-style settings. The Mustang Mach E’s low center of gravity and nicely tuned suspension made it feel at home on a curvy road. Ride quality was also good, especially considering its sporty attitude.

Inside, the cabin felt comfortable and spacious. The humongous vertical touchscreen stands out for being both beautiful and easy to use. In back is an adult-friendly rear seat and as much as 59.6 cubic feet of cargo room. A front trunk under the hood adds even more storage.

Add it all up and you have a new Mustang that’s hard to nitpick.

Starting Price: $42,895

MPGe (city/highway): 105/93

Safety: N/A

Volkswagen ID.4

When it comes right down to it, an electric vehicle is successful in direct proportion to how few compromises it requires of its owner. By that measure, the Volkswagen ID.4 is a winner.

While this battery-powered compact crossover is far from ordinary, it impresses with how comfortable it feels. Acceleration may not be neck-snapping, but the AWD Pro S model we drove was far from pokey. Ride quality is slightly firm and the handling feels confident, if not exactly sporty.

The ID.4’s quiet passenger cabin is roomy enough for four adults. There’s cargo space galore — 64.2 cubic feet of it with rear seats folded. Other quirks include oddly overcomplicated power window switches and a center touchscreen that can be tricky to use, especially while underway.

Overall, the Volkswagen ID.4 does a great job of not calling attention to itself. Plug it in at night to recharge and you have an environmentally friendly crossover that makes it easy to go green.

Starting Price: $39,995

MPGe (city/highway): 107/91

Safety: 5 Stars

Looking for a new ride? Check out more car reviews at AAA.com/TestDrive.

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