Stretching across New Hampshire and into Maine, White Mountain National Forest’s 800,000 acres of wilderness are like Valhalla to an avid nature lover. The slopes and trails in the park’s mountains and forests draw skiers, hikers, campers and virtually anyone who is eager to revel in scenic views and explore historic sites.

Whether you’re ready to venture out on foot or on skis, it all starts with a road trip through White Mountain National Park. Check out the best places to schuss, slalom and experience nature with a bit of history.

Hiking

If you like hiking, then expect to find bliss on the 1,200 miles of hiking trails — including a section of the legendary Appalachian Trail — with layover towns like Gorham, New Hampshire, at the foot of the mountains. The Tuckerman Ravine Trail, which begins in Pinkham Notch, is a popular — although challenging — way for experienced hikers to reach the 6,288-foot summit of Mount Washington for some excellent views.

The Mount Lafayette and Franconia Ridge Trail Loop is also regarded as a difficult hike, while the Sabbaday Falls Trail is easier and leads to one of the state’s most popular waterfalls. Moderate trails include Champney Brook Trail and Boulder Loop Trail, both off Kancamagus Highway. Three Ponds Trail is a combination of easy and moderate hikes and leads to a scenic pond. Moose, black bears, beavers, minks, bobcats and coyotes are among the wildlife you might spot on one of these hikes.

Skiing

If you love winter sports like skiing, snowmobiling and snowboarding, you certainly won’t be disappointed by the options in White Mountain National Park. It’s home to six ski touring areas, four alpine ski areas and 400 glorious miles of snowmobile trails. If you prefer to enjoy the winter wonderland scenery at a slower pace, opt for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing through the forest.

Popular skiing and snowboarding areas include Hermit Lake Shelters, Wildcat Mountain Ski Resort, Loon Mountain Ski Resort, Waterville Valley Ski Area, Attitash Ski Area, Black Mountain Ski Trailhead and Double Head Trailhead. At Loon Mountain, you can take to the slopes on three peaks rising up to 2,100 vertical feet. In Mount Washington Valley, the Attitash Ski Area’s two mountains, Attitash and Bear Peak, are consistently rated top ski resorts. Wildcat Mountain in Pinkham Notch offers long trails and spectacular views of Mount Washington. During the spring, Tuckerman Ravine is popular with skiers who enjoy testing themselves, an experience made even more challenging by the lack of ski lifts and need to carry your own equipment.

Top snowshoeing trails include Echo Lake Trail and Peaked Mountain Trail near Conway and Arethusa Falls Trail in Crawford Notch. Greeley Ponds Trail is ideal for backcountry cross-country skiing, and Bretton Woods Nordic Center boasts a 62-mile trail network, complete with a cabin and a yurt where skiers can stop and warm up.

Snowmobilers can rev up with self-guided snowmobile rentals and make tracks on the Meadow Brook Snowmobile and Biking Trailhead on Bear Notch Road. The Sawyer River Road Snowmobile Trailhead connects to Meadowbrook Trail and Bear Notch Road to create a loop of 25 to 30 miles.

Kancamagus Scenic Byway

Your time on the road means colorful scenery, especially during fall leaf-peeping season. Take in the view from the comfort of your car along the Kancamagus Scenic Byway, also known as New Hampshire’s Route 112. As the northeast’s highest roadway — and one of the best places to view the area’s spectacular fall foliage — the 34.5-mile drive weaves through the forest before reaching an altitude of 2,900 feet on Mount Kancamagus. The byway takes you by quaint covered bridges, stunning scenic overlooks, rivers, dramatic gorges and mountains, and cascading waterfalls.

Historic Sites

On the historical side, you can explore remnants of stone walls, mills and logging camps throughout White Mountain National Forest. On the Kancamagus Highway in Albany, New Hampshire, one historic structure, Russell-Colbath Homestead, still stands and is open to the public. The 19th-century farmhouse gives you a chance to view historic artifacts and learn about the region’s history.

Near Bretton Woods, the Fabyan Guard Station, built in 1923 for $75 on Old Cherry Mountain Road near the Fabyan train station, is one of the eastern U.S.’s oldest remaining guard stations. Guards were posted in the one-room, 16-by-20-foot, red spruce log cabin to protect the forest.

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

Originally published on Hertz.com.

Fall makes its presence known with a few definite signs and portents. Leaves change color from green to red and yellow, pumpkin spice lattes flow wherever coffee is sold, and temporary storefronts pop up to sell a colorful array of Halloween decor and costumes. 

Now considered part and parcel of Halloween, the act of dressing up in costume dates back to the earliest records of the holiday. Long before Christianity spread throughout northern Europe, the pagan Celts of the British Isles and surrounding regions dressed in animal skins to disguise themselves from the spirits of the restless dead, who were believed to wander the Earth on Samhain (pronounced sow-in, meaning “summer’s end”). To appease the spirits, the Celts burned pyres and left sacrificial offerings to the dead, lest they remain to haunt their homes. 

With the arrival of Catholicism to the British Isles, Samhain was rechristened All Hallows’ Eve (later shortened to Hallow-e’en), followed by All Saints’ Day on Nov. 1 and All Souls’ Day on Nov. 2. During this time, the poor went “souling” at the doors of more affluent neighbors, offering songs and prayers for the dead who awaited judgement in purgatory. These souls were represented by lanterns carved from turnips, each with a single candle lit inside it – an early precursor to the modern jack-o-lantern.  

Halloween as we know it didn’t take hold in America until the mid to late 1800s, when Irish and Scottish immigrants introduced customs such as jack-o-lantern carving and “guising,” in which children dressed in masks to visit shops and neighbors, offering rhymes and songs in exchange for nuts and candies.   

While these customs derived from the older Catholic tradition of souling, Halloween had grown increasingly secular by the time it reached American soil. By 1939, guising evolved into its modern incarnation, “trick-or-treating,” in part through efforts by civic and religious organizations to mitigate the more anarchic elements of the holiday. In the original premise, the treats were offered so that costumed children would refrain from playing tricks upon stingy adults. 

Early Halloween costumes were often homemade. Popular women’s magazines in the late 1800s printed instructions for costume-making, while children later gathered old clothes from attics and closets and blackened their faces with burnt cork or soot.  

Commercial costume companies started to appear around 1910. The garments were made from cotton or linen, with masks most often made of waxed and painted buckram – a stiff cotton-based fabric typically used for gauze and bookbinding – and sometimes cardboard.  

The Dennison Manufacturing Company in Massachusetts produced simple paper costumes, while Collegeville Costumes in Pennsylvania made clown and jester outfits using scraps of fabric left over from making flags. The Ben Cooper Company, based out of Brooklyn, N.Y., took off making costumes and sets for theatrical productions before going into the Halloween business, and later joined with another New York-based company, A.S. Fishbach, which held rights for Disney characters such as Donald Duck and Mickey Mouse.  

With the commercialization of Halloween costumes, a variety of characters from the popular culture of the time, such as Little Orphan Annie, appeared alongside the traditional witches and ghosts. Starting in the 1950s, vacuum-formed plastic masks and rayon fabric costumes replaced the rougher materials of the previous era, giving Halloween a neon bright and kitschy aesthetic which can still be seen today. 

Although classic goblins, ghosts, and witches inspired some of the earliest Halloween costumes, it was not until the 1970s and 1980s that the holiday’s association with cinematic horror became truly established.   

In 1988, the most popularly purchased Halloween costume character was Freddy Krueger, the dream-stalking slasher villain of the “Nightmare on Elm Street” movies, followed by Jason Voorhees of “Friday the 13th” fame, and television horror hostess, Elvira. Less frightening costume choices (depending on your point of view) included commercial mascots such as Spuds MacKenzie and the California Raisins, wisecracking sitcom puppet Alf, and even televangelists Jim and Tammy Bakker. 

Halloween is seeing a renaissance of popularity among adults today, especially millennials who grew up with fond memories of trick-or-treating in the ’80s and ’90s. For many, Halloween costumes provide a sense of deep nostalgia and of liberation from the daily normal, so that wearing them may be as ritually sacred now as it was for the ancient Celts. 

Leave a comment below telling us about your favorite Halloween costume memory. 

Take a moment to think about the numerous ways that you use the internet. Chances are that some of the items on that list include banking, shopping, conducting business, listening to music, keeping up with current events and communicating with friends and family.

While growing connectivity serves to make many aspects of our daily lives easier, it also exposes us to the risk of theft, fraud and abuse. It’s more important than ever to learn how to stay safe online.

Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in America, according to the Federal Trade Commission, with almost 10 million incidents occurring each year. And while there is no surefire way to prevent it from happening, there are certain precautions we can all take to lower our risk of falling victim to identity thieves.

It’s vital that Americans stay aware about the latest cyber threats and on top of ways to stay safe online. AAA offers the following tips:

1. Use secure passwords.

When creating a password, use a combination of letters, numbers and symbols. Avoid using words in the dictionary or personal information, such as your Social Security number or birthday. Be sure to never share your passwords with anyone. And don’t reuse them – while it may seem like a good idea to recycle passwords, using the same or similar ones for different accounts makes it easier for hackers to gain access.

2. Enroll in an identity theft monitoring service.

Identity theft monitoring services can alert you to aberrant activity in your various accounts. AAA members can enroll in ProtectMyID for free.

3. Update your software.

Be sure to keep your operating system, web browser, anti-virus, anti-spyware and other essential software up to date. Most major software companies provide free updates and patches for their users to download.

4. Know who you’re dealing with.

If someone claiming to be a representative of a company asks you to provide personal information via email, contact the company directly to verify.

5. Pay attention to URLs.

This is one of the easiest ways to stay safe online. Always double check that the URL of the website you are visiting is correct. Malicious websites sometimes use a variation in spelling or a different domain to deceive computer users.

6. Don’t open unsolicited email attachments.

Attachments can sometimes contain hidden viruses or bits of code that can access your personal information and send it to a specific individual without your knowledge. Turn off the setting to automatically download email attachments. It’s also smart to save and scan attachments with anti-virus software before opening them.

7. Be careful what you post.

Being conscious of how to stay safe online is especially important on social sites. Limit what personal information you post on social media sites and forums and be sure to never post your address, schedule or any other information that could leave you vulnerable.

8. Configure your security settings.

Use your social media site’s privacy settings to change who can view your information. Many websites allow you to share information only with certain people instead of the general public.

9. Only use secure networks when web browsing.

When accessing the Internet on a mobile device, be sure you are using a network that you know and trust. Using an unsecured network allows anyone else on that network to pull your information at will.

10. Don’t trust unknown links.

Do not click on strange links or answer suspicious questions sent through email or text message if the sender is unfamiliar.

11. Only download trusted apps.

When downloading applications for your computer or mobile device, be sure to get them from reputable marketplaces, such as the Apple App Store or Google Play.

12. Keep track of who is storing your information.

Create a list or spreadsheet to keep track of websites with which you have created accounts, particularly ones that are storing your credit card information. Delete account profiles from websites that you no longer use. The less places your information is being stored, the easier it is to identify the source of a breach.

13. Don’t share your Wi-Fi.

While sharing your Wi-Fi connection with neighbors may seem generous, it can slow down your Internet speed and allow other users to see everything on your computer.

14. Use shared computers with caution.

Never input confidential information into a public or shared computer as any user after you will have access to it. Also, be sure to check for any flash drives or disks that may have been left in by a previous user. These devices could be used to monitor your activity and store any information you do decide to input.

15. Secure your mobile devices.

Anti-virus and anti-spyware software isn’t just for your computer. Download security software onto your smartphone to protect it from malware.

Keep these tips in mind as you go about your daily internet use and stay safe online.

How many of these tips do you use to stay safe online? Let us know in the comments below!

Tailored for AAA members by Experian, ProtectMyID lets you detect and resolve identity threats with dark web surveillance, alerts, day or night fraud resolution support, and more. Stay safe online and take control of your identity. 

We’re wild about your wildlife photos! Flip through the slideshow below to see the creatures and critters that members photographed. Just like the bird Photo Session, this one did not disappoint.

Check our social media channels, where we will be sharing some of our favorites. Select photos may also be featured in an upcoming issue of Your AAA magazine.

Thank You for Participating!

Tips for Photographing Wildlife

Photographing wildlife is one of the most rewarding types of photography. There is nothing more exciting than capturing an animal in its element. But it could also be a challenge, requiring both skill and patience. Here are some of my top wildlife photography tips.

Pick the Perfect Lens

Animals are easily spooked by human presence and may run or act defensively. Because of this, you will want to have a telephoto zoom lens to capture wildlife safely from a distance. I recommend purchasing a lens that can zoom up to at least 200mm. If you want to be able to really zoom in, look for one that can go up to 400mm or 600mm.

Vary Your Focal Length

When I am photographing wildlife, I like to vary my focal length. I like to get some close intimate shots of details like teeth, paws, eyes, etc. Then, I take a wide shot that shows the wildlife in its environment.

Think Fast

Wildlife can be unpredictable, so it is best to be ready to click that shutter button at any moment. This means having a fast shutter speed. I recommend being over 1/1000th of a second for slow moving wildlife and 1/2000th of a second for fast moving wildlife. An easy way to ensure that your shutter speed is fast enough is to set your camera to shoot in shutter priority mode; this setting allows you to pick the shutter speed you want, and the camera adjusts itself accordingly.

Focus

It can be tricky to nail focus on a moving subject, but there are camera settings that can help you. I recommend setting your camera to continuous focus mode. Using this mode, simply focus on your subject and hold down the shutter button halfway; the camera should track the subject for you. Then, press the button down all the way when you are ready to take the picture. Some cameras have built-in animal autofocus that finds the animals eyes and locks focus.

Rapid Fire

When photographing a moving subject, I recommend having your drive mode set to shoot more than a single image at a time. You can set it up to rapid fire many shots at a time when you press the button. Luckily for us, we don’t have to process film anymore! But keep extra memory cards handy just in case.

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

What is some of the most amazing wildlife you’ve had the opportunity to capture? Tell us in the comments. 

Beth Mancuso is a professional landscape and travel photographer.

This season, chase the colors of autumn in Wyoming and Orleans Counties. In the Greater Niagara Region of New York, festive, fall-themed activities are plentiful, including hiking, cycling, paddling and world-class fishing. Local farms are offering a variety of autumn-inspired events, including apple picking, barn trails, farmers markets and more.

Discover things to do, where to stay and what to eat during your fall visit.

Wyoming County 

Begin your fall foliage-filled adventure in Wyoming County, home to Letchworth State Park (aka the “Grand Canyon of the East”).

Things To Do 

U-Pick Apples

Located in Castile, N.Y., Pankow Farms is open every day, September through October, from 8 a.m. to dusk. Pankow U-Pick Orchards are home to several varieties of apples, touting Cortlands, Empire, Ida Red, MacIntosh, Northern Spy and Red Delicious, to name a few.

Barn Quilt Trail

Discover over 80 unique barn quilts as you follow Wyoming County’s Barn Quilt Trail. Find the brochure online, request a print version from the Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce & Tourism or by filling out this online form.

Where To Stay

The Microtel Inn & Suites in Warsaw is pet-friendly with free breakfast, Wi-Fi and parking. For a more upscale feel, there’s the intimate boutique hotel, River Spring Lodge. Play mini or regular golf at Byrncliff Golf Resort & Banquets. For a rustic (but still comfortable) stay, there are cabins, tree tents and lakefront cottages at Silverlaken Glamping Resort. Browse places to stay in Wyoming County.

Where To Eat

Glen Iris Inn serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, along with picnics to-go. Grateful Grill has burgers, fries and drink specials. Lumberyard Restaurant offers prime rib and seafood, and it’s located minutes from Letchworth State Park. For wine, beer and spirits paired with meats, cheeses, desserts and more, there’s Ration Wine Bar.

Orleans County 

In Orleans County, where you’ll find the Erie Canal, Lake Ontario and its tributaries, you have a little extra time to enjoy the fall colors. The foliage peak is weeks behind the rest of the state due to Lake Ontario moderating the temperatures.

Farm Festivities

It’s U-pick apple season at Hurd Orchards (where you’ll also find themed luncheons) and LynOaken Farms. For more farm-fresh goodness, head to the Canal Village Farmers Market in Medina on Saturdays or the first Annual Farmer’s Market in Downtown Albion on Sundays. Don’t miss the Niagara Wine Trail Harvest Festival and scarecrow festivals!

Country Barn Quilt Trail

Enjoy a scenic drive along quaint, rustic country roads following the Country Barn Quilt Trail of Western New York. Maps to the full trail are available at Partyka Farms in Kendall, N.Y. Try their oven-roasted pumpkin seeds while you’re there.

Where to Stay

You’ll find unique rooms at The Boutique Hotel at Bent’s Opera House, a newly restored 19th-century opera house. For a historic feel, there’s the Hart House Hotel (on the Haunted History Trail) and The Fair Haven Inn. The boutique hotel at Bald Eagle Marina on Lake Ontario and a variety of rental cottages and cabins offer spectacular views of sunsets over the water. Search lodging in Orleans County.

Where to Eat

Head to Harvest Restaurant at Bent’s Opera House for an exquisite farm-to-table experience. For great views, Zambistro has a rooftop dining area overlooking the Erie Canal, while Black North Inn is on Lake Ontario. Holley Falls Bar & Grill serves up seafood, burgers and more while being near the picturesque Holley Falls.

Plan your trip to the Greater Niagara Region. 

® I LOVE NEW YORK is a registered trademark and service mark of the New York State Department of Economic Development, used with permission. 

Isabel Stewart y Monica Ramirez tienen un deseo natural de ayudar a los hispanos a navegar por la sociedad mundial que hablan inglés. Se han desempeñado como intérpretes informales en sus comunidades y en sus carreras. Ahora, representarán a AAA Northeast como portavoces de los medios de comunicación bilingüe.

Stewart nació en Cuba y emigró a los Estados Unidos cuando era niña. Llegó a AAA hace cuatro años como supervisora ​​en el centro de llamadas de asistencia en carretera, donde se convirtió en mentora y defensora de los consejeros de llamadas bilingües. Ahora trabaja como coordinadora de proyectos en operaciones de sucursales, donde trabaja en proyectos que brindan mayor accesibilidad para los miembros hispanos.

“Mis padres nunca aprendieron el idioma inglés. Tan pronto como pude hablar inglés, me convertí en su defensor de todo. Y con eso, fui testigo de la discriminación con la que tenían que lidiar con demasiada frecuencia, así como de las oportunidades perdidas por no saber el idioma”, dijo Stewart.

Como representante de seguro en Providence, Ramírez usa sus habilidades bilingües para monitorear un buzón de correo en español y llamar a los clientes que solicitan servicio.

“Emigré a los Estados Unidos desde la República Dominicana cuando tenía 13 años, puedo recordar muy vívidamente el día”, dijo. “Una vez que aprendí inglés, siempre me encontré traduciendo para alguien. Si puedo usar mis habilidades bilingües para ayudar a otros, lo haré, sin dudas”.

En su comunidad, Ramirez da un paso al frente por amigos y extraños. Ella ha traducido para las personas en la farmacia cuando tenían preguntas sobre sus medicamentos y, entre otras cosas, inscribió a un amigo en la clínica de vacunación COVID-19.

Stewart y Ramirez tienen un fuerte deseo de involucrar a la comunidad de habla hispana, razón por la cual fueron seleccionados para representar al club como portavoces de los medios bilingües, dijo Mary Maguire, Directora de Asuntos Públicos y Gubernamentales.

La profundidad del compromiso que demuestran Stewart y Ramirez las hace perfectas para el papel adicional, dijo Mary Maguire, directora de asuntos públicos y gubernamentales de AAA.

“Quedé muy impresionado con Isabel y Mónica durante sus entrevistas. Están claramente dedicadas a hacer que AAA sea accesible para una comunidad más diversa. Es algo que quieren hacer, no solo porque es divertido, sino porque es una pasión “, dijo Maguire Mary.

Ellas responderán a las solicitudes de los medios de comunicación en español en todas las formas: en cámara, por teléfono o en un comunicado escrito. Es probable que los temas principales sean la seguridad del tráfico, los precios de la gasolina, los viajes y el transporte. Las solicitudes de los medios en español están aumentando, al igual que la población hispana en todo el territorio AAA del noreste, dijo Mary. En el pasado, Asuntos Públicos ha respondido a través de traductores.

“Estoy muy orgullosa de que ahora podamos ofrecer una voz que pueden comunicarse directamente con una audiencia hispana”, dijo Maguireshe. “En mi opinión, a medida que los medios de comunicación sean cada vez más conscientes, recibiremos más solicitudes y esto fortalecerá nuestras relaciones”.

Stewart y Ramirez cubrirán principalmente las solicitudes de los medios en las áreas de Rhode Island y Massachusetts y ocasionalmente también ayudarán en otras regiones. Comparten el entusiasmo por la oportunidad.

“Espero concientizar a la comunidad latina sobre los productos y servicios que ofrecemos”, dijo Ramírez.

“Estoy ansiosa por representar a AAA y demostrar que somos una organización que hace mucho y está dispuesta a hacer mucho más por su comunidad”, dijo Stewart.

Super-low airfares are making European vacations more affordable than ever, with relaxed quarantine rules and continued border openings causing a boom in travel sales. 

Airfare deals as low as $400 round-trip – even in peak periods – are available to places like Paris, Rome and Zurich, Switzerland. Prices are down over 30% from 2019, with airlines adding new flights and new routes regularly. 

“These airfares will go quickly,” said Allison Villasenor, managing director of travel products, partnerships and innovation at AAA Northeast. “Travelers are awakened by the opportunity to explore again and are all moving to buy now. We expect airfares to Europe to increase in the coming months.” 

AAA Travel partners like AMA River Cruises and Member Choice Vacations are seeing sales to Europe increase each month for travel in 2022. Destinations like the Danube River, Italy and Ireland are making a comeback in part thanks to travelers’ pent-up wanderlust. Adventures in  destinations like Croatia and Switzerland are also top of mind for AAA members considering traveling next year.  

At AAA Northeast, expert travel advisors work with members to carefully craft vacations. Their knowledge of safety protocols and great offers allow for members to travel confidently and at some of the lowest prices seen in years.  

“Our advice? Seize the opportunity to invest in travel at an incredible value,” said Villasenor. “These prices won’t be around for long.”  

AAA Northeast travel advisors can help members find hidden gems, travel tips and exclusive values with just a click, call or visit.  Meet our advisors here and set up an appointment today. 

Ready to book a European getaway? Take a peek at these special offers from AAA Northeast. 

If you’re thinking of taking your studies out of the country, you’re not alone. After over a year of being on hold due to the pandemic, study abroad programs are starting to ramp up again and students are anxious for the opportunity. While there are extra challenges to navigate like travel restrictions and warnings from the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control, studying abroad is surely making a comeback.

Europe is consistently the most popular destination for U.S. students studying abroad with 44% choosing to go to  Spain, Italy, the United Kingdom, France and Ireland, according to the most current data from the Institute of International Education’s Open Doors Report and the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics. Asia and Latin America are also top picks.

If you are looking for inspiration, here are some of the top spots to study abroad. And for those who want to explore a little closer to home, no worries. We’ve got you covered, too.

Get more travel tips.

1. London

London is a heady mix of history, culture and unforgettable sights, including the Elizabeth Tower (which houses Big Ben), Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey. In your down time, you can check out various props, costumes and sets where all eight Harry Potter movies were filmed.

2. Rome

The food. The art. The historic surroundings. What’s not to love? U.S. students adore the Eternal City, too. Students spending time here can explore the treasures of the Vatican and the Basilica of St. Peter, the Colosseum, the Roman ruins and gorgeous works inside the Galleria Borghese.

3. Madrid

Artists, foodies and history buffs will find plenty to do in Spain’s capital city. The Prado Museum is home to works by Rembrandt, Titian and Rubens, while you can see Picasso’s masterpiece “Guernica” at the Reina Sofia Museum. A visit to the city wouldn’t be complete without sampling tapas and churros con chocolate in the La Latina district.

4. Paris

Thank goodness semesters last four months. Otherwise you’d run out of time trying to explore the City of Light. English and literature majors can see the haunts of ex-pats like Gertrude Stein, Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald, while fans of impressionism will be entranced by the Musee d’Orsay. Of course, any visitor must set aside time to see the classic sites like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and Notre Dame.

5. Dublin

Spend some time in Ireland’s capital. The ancient city is home to Trinity College and the Book of Kells, while fans of James Joyce can view the sites that inspired “Ulysses” and “Dubliners.” After a visit to the Guinness Storehouse, browse the treasures inside the (free!) National Gallery of Ireland.

6. Florence

Art majors will lose their hearts in this Tuscan city. Michelangelo’s “David” is housed in the Galleria dell’Accademia, while Uffizi Gallery is full of Renaissance masterpieces, including Botticelli’s “Birth of Venus” and Titian’s “Venus of Urbino.” And for the best selfie ever, grab your phone and head west – the Leaning Tower of Pisa is just an hour’s drive away.

7. Sydney, Australia

At first glance, it’s easy to see why Australia’s largest city is a draw for U.S. students: the glorious beaches. But if you look closer, you’ll discover that it has a fascinating history, a burgeoning dining and nightlife scene and a plethora of outdoor activities to explore in your downtime, from touring the rugged coastline to exploring the wild Blue Mountains.

8. Venice

With more than 100 islands and miles of connecting canals, Venice is one of Italy’s most beautiful regions. Students here can explore the glass-making region of Murano to the city’s Grand Canal to the centrally located Piazza San Marco. Visit the Rialto market, where the locals gather to stock up on fresh fruits, vegetables and fish, to get a feel for daily life in the city.

9. Washington, D.C.

If you’d rather explore U.S. history, where better to begin than the nation’s capital. Here you can get up close with the Constitution, view the White House, U.S. Capitol and Supreme Court, and visit any number of memorials. Cash-strapped students, take heed: All of the Smithsonian’s D.C.- area museums, galleries – and even its zoo – are free.

10. Los Angeles

Inject some glamour into your studies by hitting the books in Tinseltown. You’ll never feel alone in the nation’s second-biggest city, with a population of 4 million. But L.A. is more than just Hollywood and sunny skies; you can discover the region’s natural beauty in the San Gabriel Mountains and the many beaches along the Pacific Coast.

 AAA Travel is here to help with study-abroad essentials like passport photos and international driving permits. Reach out to a AAA travel advisor to plan great side trips to expand your experience.

Did you study abroad? Tell us about it in the comments.

After a great round of cardio exercise, the heart-pumping cool down is usually welcome. But do you know if it’s too much or too little?

Your heart rate is an indication.

If your heart rate is too high during exercise, you could be straining yourself, according to the American Heart Association. If it’s too low, you may not reach your fitness goals. Knowing how to calculate and monitor your target heart rate can help improve your overall fitness.

Calculating Your Target Heart Rate

First you must find your maximum heart rate. Do this by subtracting your age from 220. For example, a 20-year-old’s average maximum heart rate is 200 beats per minute. A 65-year-old’s is 155 beats per minute.

Your target heart rate should be 50 to 70% of your maximum heart rate during moderate exercise. Following the previous example, the average target heart rate of a 20-year-old would be 100 to 140 beats per minute, while a 65-year-old’s should be between 78 and 109 beats per minute.

Monitoring Your Heart Rate

Periodically check your pulse as you exercise. Place two fingers on your wrist closer to your thumb, over the blood vessels, and count your pulse for 10 seconds. Multiply that number by six to find your current heart rate.

If it’s higher than 50 to 85% of your maximum heart rate, you’re straining. If it’s lower, and the intensity of your exercise feels light, you may want to increase the intensity.

AAA members can safe on fitness equipment, clothing and more with discounts on Active&Fit Direct, LA Fitness, Fitbit and Reebok.

Why It’s Important

According to the American Heart Association, the more beats your heart has to take eventually takes a toll on its overall function. So, if you’re pushing yourself too hard as you exercise, your risk of developing cardiovascular disease increases.

Plus, if you monitor your heart rate, you’re more likely to notice a change in rate and regularity, which can be a sign of a heart condition.

Check with your doctor before beginning any new exercise routines.

What’s your cardio routine like? Tell us in the comments below.

Find more fitness-related articles on our Health and Fitness page.

For the second time in two years, AAA Northeast has helped to pass a rear seat belt law, this time in Connecticut.

Earlier this year, AAA Northeast’s Public Affairs team partnered with the Auto Club Alliance to push forward a bill that requires everyone in a vehicle to buckle up, even those in the backseat, regardless of age.

The new Connecticut seat belt law, which received bipartisan support and was signed by Governor Ned Lamont in July, goes into effect on Oct. 1, 2021. The goal behind the law is to save lives, reduce serious injuries and make the roadways in Connecticut safer for everyone.

Connecticut was one of the first states to pass a seat belt law, requiring seat belts to be worn by drivers and all front-seat passengers back in 1985. However, the state’s law only required back-seat passengers ages 16 and under to wear seat belts.

Safety belts can reduce the amount of serious traffic injuries by 50% and the number of fatalities by 60-70%, according to the Connecticut Department of Transportation.

What’s more, unbelted rear seat passengers are three times more likely to be killed and eight times more likely to be injured in a car accident compared to restrained passengers.

“Connecticut has taken a significant step to reduce serious injuries and fatalities involving unbelted rear seat passengers,” said Alec Slatky, AAA Northeast director of Public and Government Affairs. “Given the spike in roadway fatalities last year, passage of this lifesaving measure is cause for celebration.”

Discover more information about driving and transportation laws at Connecticut’s official state website, CT.gov.

Read the story about AAA Northeast’s role in New York’s new seat belt law, which took effect on Nov. 1, 2020.

Learn more about AAA-led safety initiatives in the community.

After water, tea is the second most consumed drink in the world, according to Statista. What’s more, a freshly brewed cup of tea can also pose some health benefits.

Whether you’re an avid tea drinker or just an occasional sipper, there are a wide variety of teas to explore.

Check out our guide to teas and their health benefits.

What Is Tea?

Tea comes from a subtropical, evergreen plant called Camellia sinensis, according to TeaClass by online gourmet tea retailer Adagio Teas. Camellia sinensis is native to Asia, but it is also grown in places across the globe today.

How the plant’s leaves are processed determines if it becomes black, green, oolong or white tea. Before ending up in your cup, tea leaves are generally picked and withered before being rolled. The leaves are then oxidized to varying degrees, which affects the flavor and sometimes the nutritional benefits, before finally being dried.

And though you may not need a guide to tea to tell you, it’s made into a beverage by pouring hot water over the dried buds, flowers and/or leaves of the tea plant and allowing them to steep for a specific amount of time.

The Health Benefits of Tea

“Tea contains substances linked to a lower risk for heart disease, cancer and diabetes,” according to Harvard Health Publishing. “The main health-promoting substances in tea are polyphenols, in particular catechins and epicatechins. Lab and animal studies say these molecules have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Harvard-led studies of large groups of people over time have found that tea or coffee drinkers are at lower risk for diabetes and possibly cardiovascular disease.”

Brewed tea is also low in calorie and good source of naturally occurring caffeine. Some research suggests caffeine can help prevent cognitive decline.

Guide to Tea: Varieties

You can choose your perfect cup of tea based on several factors, like flavor profile, aroma, caffeine content and more.

Darker teas typically have higher amounts of caffeine and bolder flavors compared to lighter ones. However, letting any tea steep longer will result in more flavor and caffeine to be released. Follow steeping instructions on packaging and add or subtract a minute or two to better suit your preference.

Black Tea

One if the stronger types of tea when it comes to flavor, steeped black teas can be a dark brown or reddish-brown color.

Black tea varieties include English and Irish breakfast, Earl Grey and chai. A cup of black tea typically has about 47 milligrams of caffeine – higher than a majority of other teas but generally less than a cup of coffee.

Some black teas can taste a bit astringent, which is why adding a splash of milk or a sweetener is common.

Green Tea

Fresh leaves are steamed or pan-fired in order to make green tea, according to TeaClass. Green tea is usually a pale green or yellow-green hue. Green teas can vary in flavor, tasting anything from fresh, grassy, earthy, toasty or smoky. A cup of green tea contains about 28 milligrams of caffeine.

Pro tip: You don’t want to over-steep green tea, as it can become bitter.

Matcha is a type of Japanese green tea made from powdered tea leaves. It has high levels of antioxidants and proponents claim it’s an especially healthy form of green tea.

White Tea

The least processed type of tea, white tea is also one of the most mild and delicate in flavor and aroma.

When steeped, white tea is often very pale green or yellow in color. White peony is one of the more popular types of white tea.

White tea has similar caffeine levels to green tea.

Oolong Tea

Oolong is a traditional Chinese tea. It is also one of the most time-consuming teas to create, according to TeaClass, since it requires repeated rolling and oxidization.

Somewhat of a mix between black and green tea, Oolang is known for being smooth. Notable richness and a floral or fruity taste are also common.

“A cup of brewed oolong tea contains small amounts of calcium, magnesium and potassium,” according to Healthline. “It also contains about 38 milligrams of caffeine.”

Pu-erh Tea

Another type of traditional Chinese tea, pu-erh is fermented.

“Depending on the type of pu’erh being made (either dark ‘ripe’ pu’erh or green ‘raw’ pu’erh), the aging process lasts anywhere from a few months to several years,” according to TeaClass.

Pu-erh tea usually comes as loose leaves or pressed shapes. This type of tea can have anywhere from 30 to 100 milligrams of caffeine, depending on the age.

Herbal Teas

Herbal teas are not made from the Camellia sinensis plant, but from dried herbs, flowers, fruits or spices.

Some popular herbal teas and their medicinal associations include:

Chamomile – sleep aid

Rooibos – anti-inflammatory

Echinacea – immune support

Ginger – nausea relief

Peppermint – digestion aid

Rosehip – vitamin C

Sage – brain health

Making Tea

There’s nothing like curling up with a warm mug of tea on a crisp morning, afternoon or evening. Discover your perfect cup of tea by trying different varieties and making them your own. Sweeteners like honey, sugar or agave nectar can help cut the acidity of certain brews.

Did you find this guide to tea helpful? If you are looking for more healthy beverages, you may also like our guide to nondairy milks.

Are you a tea drinker? Tell us your favorite kind of tea in the comments. 

When’s the last time you looked at your grocery store receipt? Are your utility bills set to automatic payment so you don’t even have to think about them? The truth is, common expenses often get overlooked and disregarded. But you need to have a solid understanding of your expenses if you want to stay in a good financial position.

It may seem like the cost of something as inexpensive and readily available as a gallon of milk is inconsequential. But it’s precisely because these items are so common, and purchased so often, that even small changes can swing a budget one way or another over time. (Who knows — maybe after a review of your grocery expenses, you’ll find you can afford to upgrade to a fancy almond or oat milk.)

So, how much does a gallon of milk cost? How about internet service? We dug through the numbers to find the national average price of everyday goods and services. Take our quiz to see how well you know your prices.

How did you do? Let us know your results in the comments below!

Interested in more money quizzes? Test your financial IQ. 

What do you think about when you think about your legacy? Do you want to leave something behind for your children and grandchildren? How do you want people to remember you? How can you make a change in the world after you are gone?

Many people, when reflecting upon these questions, decide to leave a portion of their estate to charity. But how do you leave your estate to charity? Here’s our guide on how to leave a charitable bequest.

Choosing a Charity

If you decide to leave your estate to charity, you might have an idea in mind about what charity you should choose. Most people decide to leave money to charities for things that have touched their lives, or the lives of their loved ones. A cancer survivor might donate money toward cancer research, or a first-generation college student might donate money toward a scholarship fund.

Ask yourself what causes you care about, then do some research into the charities that support those causes. Consider the charity’s goals, mission statement and level of financial transparency before you make a choice.

A great resource for researching charities is the website CharityWatch, a watchdog group that determines a charity’s financial efficiency, accountability and fundraising tactics. You don’t want to leave all your money to a charity that might squander it. CharityWatch or other organizations like it can help you find an ethical and well-run charity. You can also consult your state consumer protection office or the Better Business Bureau.

Once you choose your charity, you can also name a back-up charity your bequest should go to if the original charity is no longer operating.

What to Leave Behind

If you plan to leave your entire estate to charity, that’s a very special and generous choice. However, most people will want to split their estate up between a charity and some loved ones. If you are only leaving some of your estate to charity, do not specify a specific dollar amount. It’s generally agreed upon that you should instead specify a percentage of your estate. This way, no matter how large or small your estate winds up being, your beneficiaries will still get the percentage that you planned for them.

Another option is to name a charity as the beneficiary of your life insurance plan, IRA or 401(k). A financial planner can help you update your plan’s beneficiary designation accordingly.

Remember that making a charitable bequest will also reduce the size of your estate – this leaves less money subject to estate taxes.

What assets would you like to leave to the charity? You can of course donate money, but you can also donate property (like real estate or some rare antiques) to the charity of your choice. Depending on the type of charity it is, the donation of property could be even more helpful than a monetary donation.

If you plan on donating property, make sure to contact the charity ahead of time and ask if there are any special arrangements that should be made.

Putting It in Writing

When you have decided on what you want to leave behind and to whom, the most important thing you can do is enlist the help of an estate planning attorney. They can make sure you do everything correctly, and don’t leave any unintentional loopholes behind. Your estate planning attorney will update (or create) your will or trust to include your bequest.

Make sure you get the correct name and address of the charity you plan on donating to. Many charities for similar causes have very similar names, and you don’t want a mix-up.

When making a charitable bequest, you can specify how you would like the money to be used. Donating to an aquarium? Maybe you want the money to go specifically to the jellyfish exhibit. Donating to a hospital? Maybe you want the money to find its way to the children’s wing. If you want to attach such strings to your donation, make sure you put that in writing in your will.

When Your Plans Are Made

After you have made all your plans and put them in writing, you don’t have to keep them to yourself. Contact the charity you plan on donating to and let them know! Many charities have legacy societies for people just like you, who plan to leave a charitable donation in their will.

This can also provide the opportunity to speak directly with the charity about how you want your money to be used, and even why you have chosen to donate in the first place. It’s a great way to get a glimpse at how your gift will impact the charity of your choice.

Learn more about wills and how to plan an estate. 

Are you going to leave your estate to charity? Let us know which charity or organization in the comments below.

As an organization, AAA is an advocate for road safety and preventing impaired driving – whether it be a result of alcohol, marijuana or other illicit drug use.

“Shifting Gears: The Blunt Truth About Marijuana and Driving” is a free program from AAA aimed at high school health classes. The goal is to educate young people about the effects of marijuana on driving.

According to a study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, younger drivers are more likely to say they think it is safe to drive after using marijuana.

In response to the continued legalization of recreational marijuana, AAA hopes the Shifting Gears program will deliver potentially life-saving information to teenagers and young adults.

The Start of Shifting Gears

After Shifting Gears first launched in 2019, AAA Northeast President and CEO John Galvin praised the program, citing early successes, open dialogue and largely positive reception.

“This program has far exceeded our expectations. Not only are we educating teens, but we’re also learning a lot,” said Galvin. “We’ve learned that teen attitudes around marijuana have shifted. Some students are very open about their drug use. Some believe marijuana is better for them than prescription drugs taken for anxiety or ADHD, because they consider it natural, even if the source is unknown and the dosage is uncontrolled.”

Read more from John Galvin, here.

Partnering with Local Police

This year, AAA Northeast began working closely with the Rhode Island State Police’s Community, Equity and Diversity Unit. The Unit’s leader, Captain Kenneth Jones, is a 23-year veteran of the Rhode Island State Police.

Captain Jones committed Rhode Island troopers to speak in all of this year’s Shifting Gears programs, where they explain the risks of marijuana-impaired driving to high school health classes. When the COVID-19 pandemic required a pivot to virtual learning, troopers were able to join Zoom and Google Classroom sessions along with AAA Northeast educators.

Impacts of the Program

This partnership between AAA and the state police, which has since expanded to Massachusetts, has proven to be extremely successful. During the sessions, students ask great questions and troopers share first-hand experiences as well as strong reminders about current state laws and the impact of impaired driving.

What’s more, these young people’s attitudinal shifts toward impaired driving are measurably better. Students walk away with stronger opinions that marijuana impacts the necessary abilities to drive safely, such as reaction time. Additionally, pre and post-program surveys showed a positive shift in students’ plans to designate a driver if ever faced with such a scenario.

Looking Toward the Future

AAA Northeast’s relationship with the Rhode Island State Police’s Community, Equity and Diversity Unit will expand in September, incorporating child passenger safety programs to assist families with child car seats and booster seats.

For more traffic safety information from AAA, visit AAA.com/Community.

In September of 2007, it rained 28 out of 30 days in London. I know because I was there and I counted. I counted because I wanted to quantify my misery and stupidity, states induced by the hole in my rain boot.

It was a rookie mistake, really. I was studying abroad for the semester and was permitted to bring two suitcases. Of course, like every know-it-all college student in her early twenties, I knew exactly how to pack a suitcase efficiently (yeah, right.) Rain boots, I decided, would take up too much room and were too heavy.

So there I was, combating daily downpours and forever skirmishing against a seemingly permanent state of mist with my arsenal of eight cocktail dresses, eight coordinating pairs of heels – including the essential gold glitter pair – and a giant teddy bear named in honor of my stateside boyfriend.

With a less-than-favorable exchange rate and a shoe size that didn’t quite line up with a U.K. equivalent, I bummed a pair of galoshes off another American student with a sprung hole and cursed those glitter heels with every water-soaked step.

I spent the next six months traveling Europe, mastering the “weekend-getaway-in-a-purse” and “Mediterranean-cruise-in-a-duffle-bag” packing challenges. I discovered I could fit twice as many clothes into a suitcase when I rolled them instead of folded them, how to prevent (or at least contain) toiletry explosions, and that I really only needed two or three pairs of shoes. I like to think I mastered how to pack a suitcase.

I recently returned to London, traveling with my best friend, who laughed when I showed up to the airport wearing my rain boots. They were too heavy for my suitcase and took up too much room, but there was no way I was I leaving them behind this time.

Fortunately, you have the advantage of benefiting from my mistakes and my chronically wet right pinky toe circa 2007. Whether you’re traveling abroad, to a beach destination, waterpark or theme park or are headed out on a camping or road trip, we’ve put together a fool-proof list of dos and don’ts when it comes to how to pack your suitcase.

How to Pack a Suitcase for…

A Wilderness Adventure

If you’re headed into the great outdoors for a camping or hiking trip, you’ll have to make a few tweaks to your packing list. Make sure your clothing is quick-drying or wicking, switch out the fancy attire for rain gear and be sure to pack a warm hat and gloves. If you are traveling by plane, use your backpack as your carry-on and wear your hiking boots on the flight to save space and weight in your baggage.

The Beach or a Cruise

If you’re headed for a warm, sandy locale or are counting down the moments until you’ll be sunbathing on the deck of an ocean liner, you’ll definitely need a swim suit. Gentlemen should pack two to three pairs of trunks. Ladies can double the number of suits they bring by packing solid color tops and bottoms that can be mixed and matched. Choose a floppy hat that will fold in your suitcase versus a straw one, opt for the Kindle instead of a book (don’t forget the charger!) and pack lots of island white (it goes with everything!).

A Theme Park or Water Park

Heading out into the jungle of a Florida theme park is a completely different type of adventure and requires a unique form of preparation. Being ready for the unexpected is the name of the game. Tackle long days of walking and waiting on lines in the heat by bringing your own water bottles, sunblock, cool clothing and most importantly, comfy sneakers. When it comes to water rides and unexpected thunder storms, you’ll want to be ready with a poncho and maybe even a dry change of clothes for the little ones.

A Road Trip

Ward off road trip boredom by putting together a list of road games and making themed playlists for each leg of the journey before you go. Whenever traveling by car, it’s also important to have a properly stocked emergency kit with essentials like a first aid kit, flares, snacks, flashlights and blankets. Remember to download the AAA mobile app or have your card handy in case you need to request require roadside assistance.

Don’t Forget!

Double check that you have these essential items before walking out the door: phones, chargers, wallets, IDs and passports.

Now that you know the dos and dont’s of how to pack a suitcase, find hotels and book your next trip today at AAA.com/Travel.

What was your worst packing mistake that you will never repeat? Tell us in the comments.

Although thoroughbred racing in Saratoga has come to a close for the season, there is still so much to see and do in Saratoga, New York, in the fall. With a variety of dining, shopping and outdoor recreation opportunities, not to mention prime foliage views of the Adirondacks, it’s a road trip destination the whole family can enjoy. The area also happens to be a history buff’s dream, with historically significant sites, buildings and museums to explore. Here are a few you won’t want to miss.

Saratoga National Historical Park

Saratoga National Historical Park was a significant location during the American War for Independence. In 1777, American troops battled and defeated a British invasion during the Battles of Saratoga. Here you can visit the site of the first-ever British Army surrender and the turning point of the American Revolution.

Today, the park has nature trails to walk, hike and bike. Visitors can enjoy educational programs throughout the year, along with amazing natural views, gorgeous foliage and tons of wildlife to see.

While in the park, history lovers can also stop at the home of Major General Philip Schuyler. If you are a fan of the play “Hamilton” you may recognize the name from the Schuyler sisters; Hamilton married Schuyler’s daughter Elizabeth (Eliza). The house is currently closed due to ongoing restoration but can still be admired from the outside.

Grant Cottage

Located in Saratoga County, Grant Cottage is where General Ulysses S. Grant, Civil War commanding general of the U.S. Army and eighteenth President of the U.S., completed his memoirs mere days before passing away. Grant Cottage is a National Historic Landmark. Visitors can partake in guided tours of the downstairs cottage interior and explore the site grounds and visitor center exhibits.

New York State Military Museum

The New York State Military Museum displays history dating from the Revolutionary War to the present. A substantial part of the museum’s collection contains items from the Civil War. The museum is home to a historic armory and more than 25,000 artifacts, including battlefield souvenirs, fine art, uniforms, weapons and more. There’s also the Veterans Research Center, which houses a 12,000-volume library with over 24,000 photographs, 2,500 oral histories of New York veterans and more.

National Museum of Racing

The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame honors the history of thoroughbred racing in America along with the sport’s most accomplished participants. This museum is located in Saratoga Springs, which is also home to the oldest thoroughbred racetrack in America. Museum attractions include plenty of exhibits, a horse racing simulator and interactive Steeplechase Gallery.

Yaddo Gardens

These historical gardens are part of Yaddo Mansion. Dating back to 1899, the gardens were a gift from financier Spencer Trask to his wife Katrina. The couple wished for their estate to be used as a haven for artists, but that the 10-acre property stay free and open to the public. Visitors are invited to view the rock, rose and classical Italian gardens and can also enjoy docent-led or self-guided private group tours of the grounds.

The National Bottle Museum

Located less than 10 miles southwest of Saratoga Springs, the National Bottle Museum is home to a wide variety of bottles and items related to bottle-making, including bottles from around the U.S., uranium glass and a glass paperweight collection. There’s also the JRM Artists’ Space, a gallery for artists of diverse mediums to showcase their artwork.

Discover even more activities, attractions and history in Saratoga. 

® I LOVE NEW YORK is a registered trademark and service mark of the New York State Department of Economic Development, used with permission. 

Local flavor doesn’t get any more local than this.

Many farm-to-table (also known as farm-to-fork and field-to-table) restaurants across the Northeast are enlisting the help of foragers to add diversity to their inventory of ingredients.

Foraging is the act of looking – or hunting – for fresh, in-season fruits, vegetables, greens, herbs and mushrooms from the wild. Professional foragers have the knowledge and trained eyes to identify a wide variety of plants, honing their abilities to tell the difference between delicious wild ingredients and potentially inedible lookalikes.

Incorporating fresh, local and seasonal ingredients foraged from nature – whether it be forests, mountains, valleys or anywhere in between – elevates any dining experience. And restaurants are increasingly adding wild plants to their menus for flavor as well as ethical and environmental reasons.

The Truth About Foraging

Tama Matsuoka Wong is a professional forager and cookbook author based in New Jersey. She defines foraging as “harvesting wild plants for food, although what is ‘wild’ and ‘not so wild’ is not always a hard line.”

“Being an ‘artisan’ forager does require skill, and only gets better the more experience you have. Some people call this ‘wildcrafting,'” said Wong. “The rewards are that the plants become more multifunctional and delicious, once you determine the best time and way to pick it as well as how to prepare/cook it.”

Wong has been foraging informally since she was young. She remembers picking wild mulberries for her mother as child – though she didn’t call it foraging at the time.

Today, she forages herbs, greens, vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds for the renowned Restaurant Daniel along with retailers like Fresh Direct, Farm to People and Natoora, which are looking for more local plant-based items.

Wong’s advice to the foraging-curious public is to educate yourself and practice.

“Learn about the plants around you, in your backyard or garden. Many are healthy and delicious,” said Wong. “Foraging them is a great way to become more self-sufficient as well as a convenient way to ‘grocery shop’ – you just need to stop trashing them as ‘weeds.'”

Foraging in the Northeast

If you’re interested in sustainability and fresh, delicious food, check out this list of restaurants in the Northeast that source ingredients from local and in-house foragers.

Connecticut

Miya’s Sushi – New Haven

Chef Bun Lai – whose mother opened Miya’s in 1982 – is a James Beard-nominated chef, an avid forager and sustainability activist, crafting seafood-, plant- and invasive species-based sushi and cuisine. While Miya’s Sushi brick and mortar location closed in 2020, it has “metamorphosed into an eatery in the woods where we hold intimate gatherings that foster a deeper connection between human beings and nature,” according to its website. “Additionally, Miya’s does pop-ups around the country and catering for special events.”

Harvest Wine Bar – Greenwich, New Haven, West Hartford and Westport

Harvest features modern American cuisine, including dishes with Asian, Latin and Mediterranean influences. The family-owned restaurant follows a “farm-to-fork” philosophy, supporting local and organic farms in order to serve fresh, seasonal and high-quality ingredients. Their mushrooms are sourced from a local mushroom forager located in Newtown, Conn.

Stone Row Kitchen + Bar – Willimantic

Stone Row Kitchen + Bar serves “homegrown” food. The menu showcases ingredients sourced from regional farmers, foragers and fishers. Some menu highlights include duck fat fingerling potatoes, grilled asparagus Benedict and the grass roots burger. Check out chef Tyler May’s seasonally inspired menus.

Find more farm-to-fork eateries in Connecticut. Want to try foraging? Find a class or tour in Connecticut near you.

Massachusetts

Forage – Cambridge, Mass.

This farm-to-table neighborhood bistro relies on partnerships with local farmers, fishermen and foragers to deliver modern twists on classic dishes. Fresh, seasonal ingredients make up much of the menu. Popular dishes include the fiddleheads & mushrooms, “One Local Cheese” course and lemon cake. See Forage’s dine-in menu here.

Deuxave – Boston, Mass.

Discover modern French cuisine at Deuxave, which sources quality ingredients from local farmers, fisherman and foragers. Chef/co-owner Christopher Coombs loves using seasonal, local ingredients – especially those from the Northeast. This is evident in menu items like the Rhode Island striped bass crudo, native lobster & spaetzle and spiced Long Island duck breast.

Find foraging tours and classes in Massachusetts.

New Hampshire

Black Trumpet – Portsmouth

This neighborhood bistro and bar offers dishes for a variety of diets, including gluten free, vegan and vegetarian options. Chef/owner Evan Mallett is an experienced forager who named both his restaurant and book, “Black Trumpet,” after the popular edible fungi. Mallett’s menu is inspired by ingredients from New England’s eight distinct seasons (early and late periods of each season).

Greenleaf – Milford

Greenleaf is a farm-to-table restaurant that sources its ingredients from local farms, foragers and fishmongers, including Northeast Family Fisheries, Three Rivers Farm Alliance and several farms. The menu takes inspiration from the seasons and local New England goods, with fare like the local cheese board and drinks like seasonally inspired cocktails and local craft beer.

Oak & Grain – New London

Oak & Grain’s menu features local and sustainable fish, meat and produce that are sourced from regional fishers, foragers and over 20 farms. Chef Bryan Leary is a forager himself and brings eggs from his own chickens and uses herbs from the inn’s gardens.

Discover foraging classes and tours in New Hampshire.

New Jersey

Park Place Café & Restaurant – Merchantville

Park Place is home to creative, modern dishes that highlight fresh, local and seasonal ingredients. The menu consists only of “the finest ingredients and wild foods we forage ourselves,” according to its website. Chef Phil Manganaro is a forager, and the restaurant also sources ingredients from local farmers and purveyors.

Crystal Springs Resort – Hamburg

Dinning at Crystal Springs Resort is a celebration of local fare, since a wide variety of menu items are sourced from local foragers. Foraged ingredients range from ramp bulbs, plum blossoms and wild ginger to five different types of mushrooms. See a sample menu.

Elements – Princeton

Elements features “Interpretive-American” cuisine by utilizing fresh, local ingredients. Executive chef/co-owner Scott Anderson and his team work with local farmers, foragers and butchers daily, prepping ingredients for the restaurant’s four-course tasting menu, nine-course chef’s tasting menu and a la carte options.

Find foraging tours and classes in New Jersey.

New York

Momofuku Ssam Bar – Manhattan

Home to some fantastic New York-inspired Korean food, Ssam Bar is part of the Momofuku Group, founded by chef David Chang. The menu features a mix of smaller dishes – ssam means “wrapped” – along with some larger fare and cocktails. Forager Evan Strusinski provides a variety of mushrooms, including black trumpet, maitake and yellow foot.

Foragers Table – Brooklyn and Chelsea

Foragers is a farm-to-fork style restaurant (in Chelsea), market (in DUMBO) and eatery and butcher’s counter (in Brooklyn) featuring clean, ethical food made from fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced from the Hudson Valley.

Daniel – Manhattan

This AAA Five Diamond French restaurant is based in Manhattan but sources its ingredients straight from nature. Resident forager Tama Matsuoka Wong supplies Executive Chef Eddy LeRoux with fresh, seasonal ingredients. The two also wrote “Foraged Flavor” together, a cookbook featuring wild plant recipes.

Find even more amazing farm-to-table New York restaurants. Or discover foraging tours and classes near you.

Rhode Island

Ocean House – Westerly

Hyper-local and seasonal ingredients are all part of the AAA Five Diamond experience at Ocean House, which boats its own in-house forager, Chef James McNamee.

Check out a Diamond Dish recipe from Ocean House.

Weekapaug Inn – Westerly

Farm-to-table dinning at the AAA Four Diamond Weekapaug Inn features modern interpretations of New England coastal cuisine. Menu items are created using traditional native foraging, local produce and fresh off-the-boat seafood.

Try this scallop recipe from Weekapaug Inn.

Find foraging classes and tours in Rhode Island.

Note: When in doubt, do not eat or touch mushrooms or plants you are unsure of. Do not forage on private property without permission.

What do you think about foraging? Are there any foraging-forward restaurants you’d like to visit? Tell us in the comments.

What’s in a name? According to Shakespeare, not much. But carmakers would disagree with the Bard.

Establishing a new car model name is serious business, one that involves input from every corner of the company: research and creative teams devise a list of potential options, marketing executives ensure the name has mass appeal, lawyers confirm the moniker doesn’t infringe on a trademark, etc. The end result is a vast array of car names – some that simply sound cool, others that tell much more, from a vehicle’s origin to its engine performance.

The inspiration behind many car model names is both obvious and intentional. The Greek titan Atlas held up the sky, making him the perfect namesake for Volkswagen’s first seven-passenger SUV. The Toyota Prius revolutionized electric vehicles and is aptly named after the Latin prefix meaning “to go before.” The Kia Sedona and Hyundai Santa Fe exhibit the same ruggedness defined by their eponymous Southwest cities.

While these titles may lack a creative backstory and the need for explanation, many car names do not. And though car companies have yet to agree on a uniformed naming system, a look around the current automobile market shows a few common themes.

Animals

Some of the most famous cars in history have been named after animals, none more well-known than the Volkswagen Beetle. The Beetle moniker’s origin story is unique in that it was not the car’s original name. When the vehicle first went into production, it was known as the KdF, short for Kraft-durch-Freude-Wagen, German for Strength-Through-Joy car, or more commonly, Volkswagen, meaning “people’s car.” In 1938, Germany held a ceremony marking the start of construction of the first Volkswagen. The event drew thousands of spectators and garnered international press. In its coverage, the New York Times predicted Germany’s autobahns would be inundated with “thousands of thousands of shiny little beetles.” Over time, Beetle went from a nickname to the official car model name.

On this side of the pond, the Ford Mustang is among the most legendary American car names. The title was the brainchild of one of the Mustang’s designers, John Najjar. As legend has it, Najjar had been reading about the P-51 Mustang airplanes flown during World War II and suggested the name to his boss, who promptly rejected it. Undeterred, Najjar pitched the Mustang moniker again, but this time associated it with a horse instead of a plane.

Ferruccio Lamborghini’s passion for bullfighting his astrological sign – Taurus – led to the car company’s famous bull logo. The name of its cars followed suit. The automaker’s current three-model lineup includes the Aventador and Huracán, named after famous Spanish fighting bulls, and the Urus, the name of the ancestor species of modern cattle.

Nature

Several of the world’s largest automakers have taken their naming cues from Mother Nature, few more prominently than Toyota. Corolla refers to the crowning portion of a flower and Highlander to the Scottish Highlands. The Toyota Sequoia is named after the tree of the same name, while Tacoma is derived from the Salish Native American name for Mount Rainier.

In the 1970s, Volkswagen went through a phase of naming its new vehicles after different types of winds. Jetta is German for jet stream, Golf translates to gulf, referring to the Gulf Stream, and Passat is short for passatwinde, the German word for trade wind.

Numbers and Letters

Several carmakers have eschewed creative naming strategies and use a simple numbers-and-letters nomenclature instead, though the reasoning behind this method varies greatly.

If you’ve ever perused BMW’s lineup of cars you might think you need some sort of codebreaker to decipher the meaning of the model names, which consist of various numbers and letters. But the carmaker’s Strategic Naming and Vehicle Identification system is actually one of the most straightforward, if unexciting, naming conventions around.

All BMW sedans are assigned a three-digit number. They may seem random, but they’re not. The first digit signifies the segment or model series. The larger the number, the larger the car size. The next two numbers refer to the engine performance measured in kilowatts. (They used to indicate the displacement of the engine, 30 for a 3.0-liter engine, for example). The cars then have a lowercase “i” or “e.” These stand for injection, meaning gas-powered, and electric. If the vehicle has all-wheel drive, it has “xDrive” attached to its name.

On the lowbrow end of the numbers-and-letters spectrum is Tesla. The revolutionary Silicon Valley company’s CEO Elon Musk has sometimes been accused of juvenile behavior. The naming system he devised for the car company’s vehicles won’t help that reputation. Telsa’s four vehicle models have one-letter designations: S, 3, X and Y. Why? Because Musk wanted the brand’s lineup to spell “SEXY.” Unfortunately for him, Ford already owned the Model E trademark, so the company was forced to go with the number 3.

Acronyms, Abbreviations and Amalgamations

Mercedes Benz’s G-Class SUVs derive their names from the German word Geländewagen, meaning off-road wagon. The Totoyta RAV4, meanwhile, stands for Recreational Active Vehicle with 4-wheel drive.

These may come as no surprise, but there are car model names you probably didn’t know were short for other terms. Hyundai is a fan of portmanteaus. The carmaker’s Ioniq model name is a combination of the words ion and unique, while its Veloster moniker is a mashup the words velocity and roadster. The Nissan LEAF’s name stands for Leading Environmentally Friendly Affordable Family. The Toyota Yaris is another amalgamation, this one of Greek and German origin. Charis was a symbol of beauty in Greek mythology, and ya is German for yes, a nod to Toyota’s anticipated reaction to the new car from the European market.

Made-Up Words

When all else fails, you can always just create a new word, right? At least that’s the thinking behind some car model names. The most famous example is the Camaro. When Chevrolet unveiled its debut pony car in 1966, the company claimed Camaro was a French slang term for friend. It quickly changed its story, instead stating a camaro was “a small, vicious animal that eats Mustangs.” (The Ford Mustang was the car’s chief competitor.) It was, in fact, neither, just a fictional word picked from a list of 2,000 potential names.

Did you know about the origins of any of these car model names? Did we forget any popular vehicle monikers? Let us know in the comments below!

New York is the city that never sleeps, but sometimes New Yorkers could sure use a rest. When the breakneck pace of the Big Apple has you caught up in a whirlwind, a trip out of town can be the best way to recalibrate. Fortunately, there are numerous road trip destinations that offer whatever you’re looking for. Nature, relaxation, culture – they’re all just a short drive away.

Greenport, N.Y.

The bucolic North Fork of Long Island is known as being the low-key alternative to its buzzier and busier sister Fork to the South. This is epitomized by the charming town of Greenport. Popular attractions at the seaside destination include a historic movie theater and antique carousel, as well as numerous museums, art galleries, restaurants, and, when it’s time to settle in, a host of inviting boutique hotels.

As delightful as Greenport is, the drive there is even better. You’ll be in the middle of Long Island’s wine country – acres upon acres of green dotted with one winery after another. If you plan to sample the fruits of the land on your tour, make sure to designate a driver.

Montauk, N.Y.

Should you instead opt for a trip to Long Island’s southern perch, don’t stop driving until you reach The End. While upscale hotels and restaurants have elevated Montauk from pure surfer-town to chic destination over the past several years, it is still decidedly more laid back than the rest of the Hamptons scene.

Visitors can relax at the town’s beautiful beaches and ocean fronts, go fishing, surfing and paddling, and enjoy the plethora of seafood restaurants, nature trails and festivals. Of course, a visit to the historic Montauk Point Lighthouse is always a must. And don’t avoid Montauk just because it’s the off-season. It’s a great place to visit year-round.

Newport, R.I.

Rhode Island’s popular seaside city is known for its opulent past. Visitors can tour the magnificent mansions that were once the summer retreats of the Astors and Vanderbilts. For a more modern experience, take a scenic boat ride around the harbor or a picturesque stroll along the Cliff Walk. Add in some incredible seafood and this Ocean State city becomes and ideal getaway locale.

The four-hour drive from New York City will take you along the Connecticut coast. Make a pit stop at one of the region’s many historic towns to enjoy a quintessential New England experience of picture-perfect scenery and exciting attractions.

The Catskills

Roughly three hours outside New York City, the Catskills are a verdant mountain region, ideal for any type of getaway.

The Catskills are famous for its extensive number of well-maintained hiking trails. There are 98 peaks, so you’ll have plenty of paths to choose from.

No matter the time of year, Windham Mountain Resort has something for everyone – skiing, golfing, live concerts, and relaxing spa treatments are just a few of your options. The region is also teeming with wineries and breweries in case you’re in the mood to imbibe.

Beacon, N.Y.

Just an hour north of Manhattan sits the quaint town of Beacon, smack dab in the middle of the Hudson Valley. The drive there, north along the Hudson River with picturesque views, doesn’t get much better. Once you arrive, you can choose between strolling Main Street’s mile-long drag of shops, cafes, or restaurants. Or, if you’re an outdoorsman, go for a hike or kayak down the Hudson.

One can’t-miss tourist attraction is Dia: Beacon. Opened in 2003 in a former Nabisco box printing factory, the museum presents the Dia Art Foundation’s collection of art from the 1960s to the present as well as special exhibitions and public programs. Depending on when you’re in town, you may also be able to catch a minor league baseball game.

Philadelphia, Pa.

If it’s not a change of pace you’re looking for but just a change of scenery, Philadelphia may be the little city you’re looking for. The City of Brotherly Love is unmatched in its historic pedigree. Must-see landmarks include Independence Hall, where both the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were signed, and the Liberty Bell.

The iconic “Rocky” steps beckon all to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, but don’t forget to go inside. The museum houses more than 200,000 pieces of art from Claude Monet, Georgia O’Keeffe, Andy Warhol and many others.

No trip to Philadelphia is complete without a proper cheesesteak. Head to Geno’s or Pat’s to get yours.

The Berkshires, Mass. 

Nearly 100 years ago, the Boston Symphony Orchestra was invited to play a three-concert series in the Berkshires. Ever since, the region, which encompasses Western Massachusetts, has been a cultural hotspot. Aside from the orchestra’s annual summer residency at the Tanglewood Institute, other popular cultural attractions include the Norman Rockwell Museum, the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art, the Clark Art Institute and the farmhouse where Herman Melville wrote “Moby Dick.”

But there are plenty of things to do outside the walls of museums and auditoriums. Adventure parks, water sports, fishing, horseback riding, camping, biking, and hiking – including along the Appalachian Trail – are all available.

What’s your favorite Northeast road trip destination? Tell us in the comments below.

Need a ride? Learn about exclusive Hertz discounts for AAA members.

Si bien la mayoría de los sitios de herencia hispana se encuentran en el oeste y el sur de los Estados Unidos, la región del Noreste tiene algunos tesoros que vale la pena visitar.

 En los EE. UU., existen sitios con más de 500 años de herencia hispana para explorar, pero el Mes Nacional de la Herencia Hispana recién se oficializó en 1988.

Para honrar esta larga historia y las innumerables contribuciones que han hecho los latinos e hispanos, la celebración comienza el 15 de septiembre (el día de la independencia de Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, México y Chile, o alrededor de esa fecha) y finaliza el 15 de octubre (unos días después del Día de la Raza o el Día de Colón/Día de los Pueblos Indígenas).

Estos son algunos destinos emblemáticos para visitar y realizar su propio homenaje en cualquier momento del año.

Nueva York

Sociedad Hispánica de América

Fundada en 1904 por el filántropo Archer M. Huntington, la Sociedad Hispánica de América hoy alberga la colección más grande de objetos hispanos en los Estados Unidos. Estimulado por una pasión por las diversas culturas de España, Latinoamérica, Portugal y Filipinas, Huntington comenzó exhibiendo sus numerosas posesiones privadas, una colección que sigue creciendo en la actualidad.

El museo está abierto al público y presenta exhibiciones que abarcan desde pinturas de maestros como El Greco y Goya hasta fotografías, libros, artículos de cerámica, joyas y muebles. Como si este vasto tesoro no fuera suficiente para satisfacer la curiosidad de cada amante de la historia, este hito histórico nacional es una joya arquitectónica ubicada en el legendario distrito histórico Audubon Terrace del Upper Manhattan, un lugar incluido en la lista del Registro Nacional de Lugares Históricos.

El Museo de Barrio

No muy al sur de la Sociedad Hispánica, encontramos El Museo de Barrio. Fundado en los años sesenta por una gran comunidad de representantes de la cultura puertorriqueña, hoy alberga una colección permanente de más de 8,000 objetos, que abarcan más de 800 impactantes años de historia del arte de Latinoamérica y el Caribe. Además de una amplia variedad de eventos populares durante todo el año y exhibiciones temporales, sus colecciones permanentes se enfocan en el arte moderno, el arte gráfico, las tradiciones populares, y los objetos precolombinos y de la cultura taína. No deje de consultar el sitio web antes de ir a disfrutar de los últimos eventos familiares y comunitarios.

 

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Casa Amadeo, antigua Casa Hernandez

 El Bronx también alberga una tienda de música impregnada de herencia hispana. Asimismo incluida en el Registro Nacional de Lugares Históricos, Casa Amadeo, antigua Casa Hernandez, es la tienda de música latina más antigua de la ciudad de Nueva York en funcionamiento ininterrumpido.

Inaugurada en 1941 por los hermanos Victoria y Rafael Hernandez, en 1969 pasó a manos del legendario músico y compositor Miguel Ángel “Mike” Amadeo, quien hoy, con casi 90 años, aún la posee y dirige. La encontrará en la planta baja de un hermoso edificio neorrenacentista de 1905 que ha sido administrado por la organización de viviendas comunitarias Banana Kelly desde los años setenta. Acérquese para descubrir la historia y las melodías, y recorra la zona para sentir una vibración única.

Nueva Jersey

 Centros culturales hispanos fuera de la ciudad de Nueva York

Uno de cada cinco residentes de Nueva Jersey se identifica como latino o hispano, por lo que no es una sorpresa que a tan solo un paso de la ciudad de Nueva York haya algunos destinos destacados para sumergirse en la auténtica comida, cultura y herencia del mundo hispanohablante.

Havana on the Hudson, la segunda área latina/hispana más poblada de los EE. UU., ostenta con orgullo la siempre concurrida Bergenline Avenue. Es el tramo comercial más largo del estado y atraviesa las ciudades de minorías-mayorías de North Bergen, Guttenberg, West New York y Union City.

A tan solo 30 minutos hacia el noroeste, se encuentra el vecindario de Little Lima en Paterson. Este enclave peruano, digno de visitar por derecho propio, también linda con los chispeantes vecindarios italiano, puertorriqueño, dominicano y mexicano de la ciudad.

Si está buscando algo de herencia hispana que sea un poco más antigua, visite la ciudad más grande de Nueva Jersey, Newark. El Museo de Arte de Newark alberga una imponente colección de obras de arte y objetos latinoamericanos desde la era precolombina hasta la actualidad. 

 

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Rhode Island/Massachusetts

Blackstone River Valley (Corredor del Patrimonio Nacional)

Cuna de la Revolución Industrial estadounidense a mediados del siglo XIX, Blackstone River Valley estuvo repleto de fábricas textiles famosas en todo el mundo. Sin embargo, a comienzos de la década de los sesenta, la escasez de operarios de telares capacitados impulsó a Jay Giuttari, entonces dueño de una fábrica y luego el fabricante textil más grande de Latinoamérica, a comenzar a traer tejedores expertos de Colombia.

Muchas fábricas de la zona pronto siguieron sus pasos, lo que generó una nueva ola de inmigración de Sudamérica que garantizó la supervivencia de las antiguas fábricas durante algunas décadas más. De hecho, Lyon Silk Works de Giuttari funcionó hasta el 2020. Ahora designada Corredor del Patrimonio Nacional, esta región de 48 millas junto al río Blackstone abarca desde Pawtucket, Central Falls y Providence en Rhode Island hasta Worcester, Massachusetts. Estas ciudades aún son el hogar de diversas comunidades hispanas vibrantes, muchos de cuyos residentes colaboraron con la preservación de una parte valiosa de la historia estadounidense.