Most Americans searching for European vacation ideas dream about winding cobblestone alleys, sidewalk cafes and ancient town squares, and then automatically think of the continent’s big five: London, Paris, Rome, Amsterdam and Barcelona (or Madrid). All are world-class cities that should be on your bucket list. However, once you’ve crossed them off of your list, it opens up an unlimited number of possibilities for your next destination. To help narrow things down, we turned to the travel pros to find out the best European vacations that need to be on your agenda for “someday” (hopefully, soon). Here’s what they said.

Exploring the History of Italy

Hundreds of years before the ancient Romans came to dominate the Western world, the Etruscans and the Greeks shared the Italian peninsula. And for hundreds of years after the empire’s decline, successive societies rose and fell again. From the Stone Age to the Renaissance, each left an indelible mark that is still apparent up and down the boot.

Besides the eternal allure of Rome, an abundance of signs pointing to former glory linger in Florence, Milan and Venice, which all experienced a measure of dominance at some point throughout the centuries. All of the cities are easily reached by train, but it’s just as enjoyable to wind through the hilly countryside in a car.

Get your international driving permit at a AAA branch near you. 

Along the way, you’ll be captivated by the delectable food, engaging people and sense of living history, said Laurence Norah, founder of the travel site FindingTheUniverse.com. “I remember when I went with my wife, she kept saying, ‘What’s that and what’s that?’” Norah said. “It took forever to get anywhere because everything is so old and beautiful.”

Driving Through Mysterious Iceland

A relative newcomer to the tourist trail, remote Iceland has surged in popularity in the last decade, partly because its national airline offers free multiday stopovers in the capital of Reykjavik on the way to another destination. What’s been hiding in plain sight in the land of fire and ice is some of the most beautiful scenery in all of Europe, says Krista Canfield McNish, founder of FoodWaterShoes.com.

“You’ll encounter stunning landscapes and waterfalls like those in places like New Zealand, Norway and Switzerland,” McNish said. “What makes Iceland special are all the nooks and crannies you can get into.”

On the Ring Road that circles the island, travelers will find hot springs, volcanoes and dramatic mountain backdrops under spectacular displays of the northern lights. McNish said the highlights of her two-week trip included descending 400 feet into a dormant volcano, climbing onto a glacier and swimming in the vivid Blue Lagoon. Perhaps not surprisingly, the ice cream scene in Iceland is special, with unique flavors like birch, dandelion and multiple varieties of licorice.

Cruising Along the Danube River

Another of history’s great empires, the Austro-Hungarian, lived and died along the storied Danube River, which flows through some of central Europe’s most photogenic cities. The architecture in the biggest among them, Vienna and Budapest, exudes all the pomp and circumstance of the Hapsburgs. The same sense of history can be found in the quirky smaller cities that you might never thought to have visited, like Nuremberg, Bratislava and Belgrade.

And thanks to competition from several luxury river cruise lines, it’s a great way to experience some of the best European vacations in comfort with high-thread-count sheets and premium dining options to go along with the beautiful views.

Walking the Camino de Santiago in Spain

The famed pilgrims’ trail runs from the French border in the Pyrenees Mountains for more than 300 miles through northern Spain to the city of Santiago de Compostela, where legend says the bones of St. James are buried. Along the way, you pass through medieval villages and breathtaking landscapes, a journey that has inspired hundreds of books, including tomes by actors Shirley MacLaine and Andrew McCarthy.

Gabriel Schirm, author of “Sunrises to Santiago: Searching for Purpose on the Camino de Santiago,” says you don’t have to trek the whole trail to get the complete experience. Most people start in the city of Sarria, which is about a five-day walk from the end. Regardless of where you begin, it’s an indescribable experience.

“Once you arrive at the Praza do Obradoiro, or the golden square of Santiago, it is common to see fellow pilgrims weeping, jumping up and down for joy or hugging people who were just a few days earlier complete strangers,” Schrim said.

Eating Your Way Through the French Countryside

Paris eternally tops every traveler’s wish list, for good reason, but the undeniable romanticism of the French way of life might be more easily found in the countryside than in the bustling city. From tiny neighborhood boîtes to palatial chateaus, the savory tradition of long, paced meals lives on in restaurants where the wine flows as freely as the friendly smiles.

Besides having charming bed and breakfasts near the beach, the idyllic town of Lion-sur-Mer is one of the best European vacations you never knew you wanted to visit, providing a good home base for World War II buffs interested in learning how the D-Day invasion led to the liberation of Europe.

What are some memories of your favorite trips to Europe? Tell us in the comments below.

AAA members can save on travel bags, luggage and accessories at Samsonite. You can also save on stylish, long-lasting bags with a European flair at Hedgren.

When you are ready, AAA travel advisors are available to help you plan for your future dream trips.

Many of us spend more time in our cars than in our beds. And while you may do everything you can to keep your home clean, do you sanitize your car?

Your vehicle can be filled with all kinds of nasty stuff, in addition to the old french fry or lost banana peel that fell between the seats. And what about the germs spread by coughing and sneezing?

Here’s a guide to making sure your vehicle is clean, inside and out.

Washing Your Car

Let’s start with the basics – get out the vacuum and clean the carpets, seats and even the roof. Since you have the vacuum out, clean out the trunk and toss out unused stuff that just seems to accumulate.

Once all the dirt is gone, it is time for a good interior wash. Mix up some mild dish soap and water and use a soft brush and use more of the suds than the actual liquid and brush away, getting into all the nooks and crannies. Wipe off surfaces with a microfiber cloth. There are also specialized interior cleaning products, although soap and water usually does the trick.

Sanitizing Your Car

Now that the car is clean let’s get to those germs. Disinfectant wipes that both clean and disinfect for all the surfaces that you touch, work well. If disinfectant wipes aren’t available use 70 percent isopropyl alcohol.

Wipe down all surfaces and finish up with a microfiber cloth. In addition to the steering wheel and shifter, other areas you should attack include switches, interior and exterior door handles, armrests, console covers, even the sun visors. A light touch is all you need, don’t flood any surface with cleaner.

Sanitizing Different Materials

If your car has a touch screen, be careful with cleaners. Alcohol-based cleaner can damage touch screens. Some professional cleaning crews will use a 50/50 mixture of vinegar and distilled water sprayed on one microfiber cloth and then wiped down with a clean/dry microfiber cloth. Don’t use paper towels on display screens or gauge clusters, they can scratch these surfaces. Finish up with a quick spray of antibacterial antiseptic spray in the vents and under the seats.

With leather seats, use specialized leather cleaner. Cloth and vinyl seats can be cleaned with interior cleaner or a mild soap and water mix. The same mixture can be used on the carpets and floor mats. Don’t use too much cleaner, flooding the carpets could lead to mold and mildew buildup. Let the carpets dry thoroughly before putting the floor mats back in and don’t forget to secure them in place.

Cleaning your car on a regular basis will minimize germs and help maintain its value. Click here for more tips on how to properly clean your vehicle. 

It’s easy to think of windshields as simply providing drivers a view of the road and protecting them from wind, debris and adverse weather conditions. But they do much more than that.

Believe it or not, vehicle glass connects to many modern advanced safety features. If your windshield is damaged, replaced incorrectly or if the forward-facing camera attached to the windshield is not properly recalibrated, it can seriously affect your car’s safety. Here’s how to prevent that from happening.

Advanced Safety Features

There are advanced safety features in modern cars that do everything from keeping a car in its proper lane to slowing down in order to prevent a crash.

Several of these features directly connect to the vehicle glass. Forward-facing cameras and sensors located on or near the windshield constantly monitor the vehicle’s surroundings and interact with other vehicle safety systems and sensors to alert drivers when there’s trouble.

Here are some of the common advanced safety features related to vehicle glass.

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Forward Collision Warning

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, rear-end collisions are by far the most common type of automobile crash in the U.S. Forward collision warning helps prevent this problem. This feature scans the road ahead and alerts the driver if a crash is imminent using cameras and sensors.

Automatic Emergency Braking

Forward collision warnings can alert you of an imminent crash, but it alone can’t prevent one. That’s why the system pairs with automatic brakes. If a driver ignores forward collision warning, the automatic braking system will take over and apply the brakes to slow or stop the vehicle to prevent or reduce the severity of a crash.

Lane Keep Assist

This safety feature is just what its name implies. Using cameras and sensors, it can detect road markings, and, using those for reference, determine if the vehicle is moving out of its lane without a turn signal. When this happens, the driver is alerted with a mix of alarms, lights and vibration. Advanced safety systems can even take over driving controls and steer the car back into the correct lane.

Rain Sensor

A rain sensor may seem like more of a luxury than a safety feature. But according to the Federal Highway Administration, 10% of all vehicle crashes occur during the rain, which accounts for nearly half of all weather-related crashes. Keeping your windshield and visibility clear is of the utmost importance concerning safety.

Rain sensors are usually located directly behind the rearview mirror. The sensor can measure how many raindrops are on the windshield. The more rain, the faster the windshield wipers will work, and vice versa.

Recalibration

A damaged windshield, or the faulty replacement of one, can affect advanced safety features and leave them prone to malfunction. This is why proper advanced safety systems recalibration is a necessity when replacing a windshield.

Depending on the vehicle’s manufacturer, your car will require either static or dynamic recalibration, although some vehicles require both.

Get more car safety tips. 

AAA members can save 10% on Safelite AutoGlass® replacement or repair. 

Spring is here and that means that April showers will soon bring May flowers. While most people head inside when it rains there are many reasons you should head outside to capture the beauty.

Make the most of the next cloudy day with the photography tips below. Look through the photos submitted by members during our rain-themed AAA Photo Session for inspiration.

Thank You for Participating!

From ominous dark clouds to vibrant rainbows, your photos showcased the art in nature’s dreariest days. Browse through all of the rain photos we received in the slideshow above, and don’t forget to check our social media channels, where we will be sharing some of our favorites. Some photos may also be featured in an upcoming issue of Your AAA magazine.

Tips for Photographing Rain

Wear A Rain Jacket

No, not you! Although you may want to keep yourself dry with one, too. There are rain jackets made for cameras called “rain covers.” For under $20,  it allows you to take rain photos without worrying about water damage to your camera.

Watch the Weather

I always check the forecast every morning. If I see that rain is in the forecast, I make note of when it is predicted to start and end. Often before the heavy rain sets in the sky will fill with dark moody clouds that make for excellent dramatic pictures. As the rain slows down and the sun starts to emerge, look for rainbows in the sky.

Capture the Aftermath

I love heading out after a fresh rainfall to search for puddles. If the light is right you can capture a great reflection. Also note the little water droplets left behind on plants and windows.

Use Props

Break out your umbrellas and rain galoshes! I think they help add to the storytelling aspect of an image. You can even head out in the rain with a subject if you have your rain cover on your camera.

Know Your Settings

To freeze the motion of the rain falling you will want to use a fast shutter speed. If you are somewhat of a beginner photographer I recommend using Shutter Priority Mode. In this mode you are just choosing the shutter speed of your exposure. You will want to set the speed to 1/500th of a second or faster.  Learn more about camera settings with our cheat sheet. 

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

Beth Mancuso is a professional landscape and travel photographer.

April is National Donate Life Month, a time when the power of organ, eye and tissue donation is recognized and celebrated. This topic is deeply personal for the nearly 10,000 New Yorkers currently waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant, but they are not the only ones affected by this issue. Additionally, there are thousands of families across the greater New York area whose loved ones gave the gift of life. Each of these donors is a hero and their legacy lives on in the lives they saved through organ donation.

Meet Kingston, a 7-Year-Old Hero

Kingston was a curious and happy boy who touched all who knew him. He was born with Down syndrome, but that didn’t stop him from living life to the fullest. A Bronx resident, he was the joy of his parents’ lives and a friend to his siblings and classmates.

Be a Lifesaving Organ Donor

Kingston was an organ donor and his legacy lives on through the lives he saved.

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Kingston tragically passed away in late 2019 at the age of 7 after falling from the window of his apartment building. On the darkest day of their lives, his parents, Rozzy and Steve, were asked if they would donate the young boy’s organs so that others may live on. Without hesitation they said yes, and Kingston went on to save five lives.

“If you believe in God then it’s OK to think about others, even in your worst moment,” Rozzy said. “Because that is the godly thing to do. There are people out there who don’t get the chance to see their kids reach even a month or a year. We had at least seven. Our son would have wanted to help others, so why not help?”

Late last year on the one-year anniversary of Kingston’s passing, his family hosted a memorial celebration for the young boy in the street outside of their home. Hundreds of people showed up to share memories and participate in a balloon release in his honor.

“I want to keep my son’s legacy alive,” Rozzy said at the ceremony. “And I want to share how important it is for everyone to think about signing up to donate their organs.”

This Donate Life Month we remember Kingston and his incredible gift. April is a chance to raise awareness about the heroes of organ donation who gave the ultimate gift. It’s an opportunity to have important conversations and share your wishes with loved ones and encourage others to do the same. One person can save up to eight lives and leave a lasting legacy through those who live on because of their generosity. This April, consider being a hero like Kingston.

In honor of those who have donated, please take a few moments to learn more about organ donation and to consider registering as a donor.

Please visit LiveOnNY.org to learn more.

Once the staple of every carmaker’s lineup, relatively inexpensive small sedans have become few and far between. To remind yourself why they were once so popular, look no further than the Nissan Versa.

The third generation of this subcompact four-door has gotten longer, lower and wider than the version it replaces. Its new styling is also noteworthy, as it gives the Versa a sporty feel.

The same 1.6-liter four cylinder now puts out 122 horsepower, but it’s still the car’s weakest link. While I found this super-fuel-efficient powertrain was fine for around town, you’re going to want to give yourself plenty of room for open-road passing maneuvers.

Versa used to be America’s least expensive car, but the new version’s modest price increase gets you a nicer interior. Better still, you’ll find it filled with a list of desirable new standard equipment, including keyless entry with push-button starting, power windows/locks and several important advanced safety features.

While four-door models have been dropped from automakers’ lineups left and right, there’s still a place for a good old-school midsize sedan. At least that’s what the folks behind the all-new Kia K5 are betting.

Of all its improvements over the Optima sedan it replaces, the K5’s most noticeable upgrade is its athletic good looks, with longer and lower proportions than the outgoing model.

Most versions, including the upscale EX I drove, get a 180-horsepower, turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that provides decent acceleration. If that leaves you wanting more, the 290-horsepower, 2. 5-liter turbocharged I4 under the hood of the performance-oriented GT trim level should prove plenty gutsy enough. All-wheel drive is also available for the first time, something to keep in mind if you have to motor through your share of bad weather.

Driving the K5 is a distinctly pleasant experience with confident handling and a comfortable ride quality.

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

After weeks of earthquakes, Iceland’s Fagradalsfjall Volcano erupted March 19, drawing millions of pandemic-weary viewers to computer screens worldwide and thousands of visitors to the site.

You can watch a live feed of the event courtesy of RUV, the Icelandic National Broadcasting Service.

It’s the first time in more than 6,000 years that the volcano, located on the southwestern coast of the country in the Reykjanes peninsula, has erupted. The eruption can also be seen from space.

You can also fly over the site, courtesy of Instagram user Bjorn Steinbekk’s stunning drone footage.

 

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A post shared by Bjorn Steinbekk (@bsteinbekk)

Have you been keeping up with the Fagradalsfjall Volcano coverage? Tell us in the comments. 

One late evening nearly 25 years ago, Shane Snowden was driving home on a rural California highway she had traveled hundreds of times before. She wasn’t under the influence. She wasn’t speeding or on her phone. Snowden was just driving along as her regular self. Everything was fine, until it wasn’t. As she rounded a curve, Snowden heard a thud unlike any other she had heard in her life. Before she knew it, she saw a young man sprawled across the hood of her car before rolling over the windshield and over her car.

The teenage bicyclist died instantly. Snowden was found not at fault, but for more than two decades, the experience has remained engrained in her heart and mind. It’s why she has worked tirelessly to ensure her story does not become someone else’s. In recent years Snowden has begun speaking publicly about the experience. To help spread the word about the importance of safe driving, Snowden founded The Crash Project, an organization that aims to encourage mindful driving and support for safety initiatives.

“There are a lot of loved ones telling their stories and they do a lot of good,” Snowden says. “My thought was, what if people thought about car crashes not only around how it feels to have a loved one die? What if we talked about another piece of that – how it feels to kill somebody as the driver? That’s something a lot of people have not had the chance to think about. They haven’t heard from drivers who’ve killed. That’s why I try to tell my story and speak out about road safety.”

While traffic fatalities have dropped over the last few years, pedestrian deaths are on the rise. In 2019, more than 6,500 pedestrians were killed in the U.S., the most since 1988. The pandemic has only further emphasized the need for a change in driver behavior and attitude. The number of traffic fatalities in the U.S. increased last year despite a significant drop in number of miles driven by residents. The National Safety Council estimates that more than 42,000 people died in car crashes in 2020, an 8% increase over the previous year and the most since 2007.

Snowden is still hopeful that change on the roadways will come despite the sobering statistics. She points to the widespread acceptance of safety measures such as seat belts, child restraints and designated drivers, all of which were not commonly used just a few decades ago. “I do believe people can change. I believe drivers can change. One driver at a time, driving differently, day by day, drive by drive.”

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

If you’re looking for a nearby escape, have you considered New Jersey? Whether you prefer a relaxing day on the beach, the heart-pumping fun of an amusement park or exploring art, culture and history, the Garden State has a little bit of everything. Take a trip and enjoy one of the following weekend getaways in N.J.

Note: Due to the ever-changing nature of the COVID-19 crisis, please see official websites before visiting to check for restrictions or closures.

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Cape May

Once summer hits, Cape May is the place to be.

The oldest seaside resort community in the country, laid-back Cape May is home to beautiful beaches and year-round attractions. Find Southern hospitality during your weekend getaway in N.J. at the AAA Four Diamond Rated bed and breakfast, The Southern Mansion, built in 1860, like much of Cape May’s historic buildings. Attractions including the Cape May Winery, Washington Street Mall, Cape May County Park and Zoo all provide options for a fun family weekend exploring South Jersey.

Princeton

College towns like Princeton, home of Princeton University, aren’t just for students – the arts and culture scene makes for a great getaway at any time of the year.

When you’re not strolling through one of Princeton’s museums and gardens, or touring the university’s campus, you could be trying artisan ice cream at The Bent Spoon. History buffs can also enjoy Princeton, the location of the first sessions of the Continental Congress, and its many historical sites and buildings, like the Princeton Battlefield State Park or Rockingham, where George Washington stayed during the Revolutionary War.

Skylands

The “garden of the Garden State,” the New Jersey State Botanical Garden at Skylands in Ringwood, is perfect for a romantic weekend getaway, and among one of the best day trips in N.J.

In addition to the lovely gardens and 1,000 acres of woodlands for you to wander, there’s also the Skylands Manor, a beautiful granite Tudor revival mansion. Staying in the manor will make you feel as if you’re living in a European castle, and the pampering you’ll receive by the staff will make you feel like royalty. Couples will enjoy the chance to live in the lap of luxury for the weekend, while day trippers can tour the manor and gardens or take a family hike.

Whitesbog Village

The first blueberry was cultivated in Whitesbog Village, a historic town in Brown Mills, where families looking for a relaxing weekend getaway in N.J. can escape in nature.

Explore the village, from the Whitesbog General Store to the Agricultural Museum, and the surrounding cranberry bogs, blueberry fields, reservoirs, sugar sand roads and forests of the Pine Barrens. Take advantage of the guided tours of the village’s museums and gardens to learn about the historic area. City slickers in Whitesbog will feel like they’ve stepped into a time capsule. It’s the perfect spot for anyone yearning for the tranquility of a simpler life.

Ocean City

This costal spot – home to one of New Jersey’s favorite beaches – has something for everyone.

Those seeking some adventure can try watersports like windsurfing, kitesurfing, sailing, parasailing and surfing. On land, you can spend a day at the beach and/or explore the two and a half miles of boardwalk lined with shops, eateries and amusement parks. Music-lovers will enjoy live performances at the Music Pier while sightseers and exercise enthusiasts will like cycling on bike paths around the city. Go solo or or use a surrey (multiple-person bike). Rentals are widely available.

Asbury Park

Get a taste of the Jersey Shore at Asbury Park, a historic town with a thriving nightlife and a musical mecca or two.

Swim and lounge in the sun on Asbury Park Beach, then head to the Asbury Park Boardwalk to shop, grab a bite to eat at one of the diverse restaurants and check out the artsy murals along the oceanfront. Catch a show at The Stone Pony, one of the world’s most famous music venues, hosting performers like Bruce Springsteen and Jon Bon Jovi. Convention Hall is another staple of Asbury Park, having hosted the likes of the Rolling Stones and Elton John. Stop in the Grand Arcade to see what events are going on and shop at its unique stores. A fun-filled weekend isn’t far away at Asbury Park.

Kittatinny Mountain Range

Kittatinny Mountain runs through northwestern New Jersey and provides the perfect backdrop for a weekend in the mountains, no matter the season.

The AAA Four Diamond Rated Grand Cascades Lodge at Crystal Springs Resort in Hamburg has all the amenities you need for a weekend getaway. Swim at the Biosphere Pool Complex, get a massage at the Reflections Spa, take a wine cellar tour, participate in various family and kids’ activities or try outdoor activities like skiing, archery and zip lining. Outside of the resort are plenty of opportunities for shopping and entertainment.

Atlantic City

No list of day trips or weekend getaways in N.J. can be complete without Atlantic City, the casino capital of the Northeast.

Being on the coast, Atlantic City has beautiful stretches of sand, but what sets it apart from the rest of the region are its casinos. Roll the dice, take your chances and play away at one of the city’s casino resorts, like Harrah’s Atlantic City or Caesars at Atlantic City. When hunger or thirst strikes, choose from any of the Italian and seafood restaurants, bar and grills, and steakhouses in the area.

What are your favorite weekend getaways in N.J.? Tell us in the comments below!

Book your trip with AAA Travel today.

Many people are working from home these days, and it’s a new situation for a lot of folks. While you’re not adding the wear and tear of a daily commute or paying as much for gas, you can’t completely forget about your car while it sits in your driveway.

Depending on how long your car is idle, issues like dead batteries, stale fuel, rusty brakes or issues with rodents and other critters should be addressed. Here are a few tips to keep your car running properly during a hiatus from driving:

• Fill your vehicle’s fuel tank and add a gasoline stabilizer. This will extend the life of fuel and prevent condensation from building up in the fuel tank.

• Inflate the tires to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendation; the correct pressure is usually found on a placard on the driver-side door jamb.

• Drive your vehicle at least once a week for 30 minutes. Not only will it get you out of the house, it will exercise all the moving parts of the engine and help maintain the battery. Don’t just let the car sit idle; drive it around to get the maximum benefit for all the fluids and tires.

• When you do drive the vehicle, don’t be surprised if you hear a slight grinding noise from the brakes. This is nothing more than a little surface rust wearing off the brake surfaces. Rust can accumulate from being parked for a period of time and isn’t something to be too concerned with.

• Take a few minutes to lubricate door locks (if accessible), hinges, the hood release and even the gas door release. Use a light oil or silicone spray, not a penetrating oil. Penetrating oil is great for dealing with rusty nuts and bolts but tends to wash away lubricants.

• Don’t ignore needed maintenance. Many service recommendations are based on time and not just mileage. For example: your car requires an oil change every six months, or 7,000 miles. You still need to have the oil replaced and the vital fluids checked, regardless of whether you drive 7,000 miles or not.

• Depending where you park, there may be mice or other critters that want to call your vehicle home. These rodents can chew on wires and cause thousands of dollars of damage, make nests in your filters and cause other messes. I’ve even had one set up shop in my glove compartment! There are a variety of sprays and granules on the market to deter these animals. Some have the scent of a predator and others smell like mint — a scent rodents don’t like.

• Keep your car clean. Wash your car weekly if it’s parked outside. Acid rain and bird droppings can damage the finish. And, an afternoon spent washing, vacuuming and waxing your vehicle will burn about 1,100 calories — it is also a great stress reliever!

AAA members can save on automotive replacement parts and accessories at NAPA.

Got a question about your car? Visit AAA.com or email jpaul@aaanortheast.com to get an answer from AAA’s Car Doctor John Paul.

A partnership between Bryant University and AAA Northeast gives both sides an edge in the field of data science. Students gain valuable real-world experience and make in-roads to AAA careers.

Just ask Liam Theis: He started his AAA career straight out of Bryant.

As a student in Bryant’s Information Systems & Analytics program, Theis delved into anonymous AAA data for practical learning and real problem-solving projects. Then, in 2019, he gained full access to the AAA vault as an intern in information technology.

AAA Career Prep

Liam had previous job experience at small companies but none of them were as data-rich as AAA.

“My first few work hours left me spinning with the sheer amount of information we generate, collect and think about across all our business lines,” Liam said. “Luckily, AAA also provided me with easy access to friendly and experienced professionals who helped me adjust in a short period of time.”

And the internship opened job opportunities. Now, as a full-time data analyst at AAA, he is helping business leaders realize the extent of available information.

“My primary focus is helping to expand the understanding of the club’s available and future data,” he said. “This includes prototyping new advanced analytics solutions, increasing awareness and helping business line leaders track and test the logic of their lines.”

Yet even as a student, Liam presented findings to club leaders. It’s one of the enrichment activities AAA offers Bryant students through the partnership, said Dean Patterson, vice president of information technology, and Sandeep Chadha, vice president of enterprise data technology.

Real Work

AAA Northeast has an abundance of data but limited availability of staff to scour through it. Bryant, meanwhile, equips students with the knowledge but is limited in the amount and types of real-world data it can supply, according to Chadha.

“We give them data at a velocity and volume never imagined from a variety of businesses and expose students to advanced analysis and advanced technology,” Chadha said. “Their work helps us leverage data to better understand our members and institute some of the findings.”

Several of Bryant’s upper-level data science courses include AAA projects, according to Suhong Li, professor and chair of the Information Systems and Analytics department at the Smithfield, R.I., school. Chadha and other data professionals from AAA provide guidance to students, collaborate with educators on teaching cases or publications and are guest speakers in the classroom.

“Our partnership with AAA is one of the highlights of the data science program because it gives students real-world experience,” Li said. “It gives students a competitive edge when looking for internships and jobs.”

It is not only an excellent learning opportunity for students but for AAA as well, said Thomas Dougherty, Executive in Residence for Data Science at Bryant.

“The students get to work on interesting projects with real corporate data, including all of the normal imperfections. AAA gets the benefit of the students’ work and business insight from the professors,” he said.

Job Opportunities

At the same time, the students gain greater appreciation for AAA as an organization and future employer.

“Partnering with Bryant shows AAA’s commitment to support higher education and to keep up with the latest development in analytics and data science,” Li said.

In the rapidly growing field, it’s an important reputation to have, Patterson said. It tells students that AAA is a tech-forward organization invested in the future of data science and a great place to start a career.

Theis agrees. He said the diversity of data and questions posed by business leaders have motivated him in his career and working with experts in the field has built his experience beyond what he imagined.

Looking to jump start your tech career? There may be something for you here.

A AAA Northeast member in Rhode Island received some unwelcome news. Someone was using her name to file online loan applications with several banks in the Midwest.

After asking herself how such a thing could happen, she faced the question identity theft victims know all too well: What do I do now?

Experian was there with the answer.

As a AAA member, she had the advantage of a free identity theft protection plan from Experian, simply by signing up.

Experian alerted her to the phony applications by email, and, within an hour, a fraud resolution specialist was on the phone talking her through the next steps, like contacting the police and credit bureaus.

“I was a nervous wreck,” she said. “But Experian put me at ease. All AAA members need to know about this service.”

It’s called ProtectMyID Essential. Members who sign up get identity protection services from Experian, including daily credit report monitoring, suspicious activity alerts, resolution support and more.

Programs like ProtectMyID and preventive measures like shredding old bills are good practices to keep personal information secure, said one financial crimes investigator.

“I recommend having all the protection you can,” said Detective Paul Bessette, of the Cranston, R.I., Police Department. He didn’t handle this member’s case, but he’s dealt with many like it. And they’re becoming more frequent.

Every 2 seconds there is an identity victim, according to a 2019 Identity Fraud Study by Javelin Strategy & Research.

Bessette said that paying bills online has dramatically increased opportunities for hackers to swipe debit or credit card numbers. Also, while large-scale data breaches have compromised millions of Social Security numbers and other personal information, credit card skimmers at ATMs and stolen purses and wallets remain real threats.

Has Experian helped you following identity theft? Leave a comment to let us know about your experience. 

Learn more about how ProtectMyID can help keep your identity safe. 

It was cold. Luckily the water in my portable water filter hadn’t frozen overnight. I was laying in my tent, comfortable enough in my sleeping bag, wondering whether or not to let some air out of my sleeping pad.

It was a little light; probably around 6 or 6:30 in the morning. I was dreading what was awaiting me: an ice-cold stream crossing. Well, at least the sun was coming out. Time to get a move on.

Just another day on the Appalachian Trail. On this specific day I was near the end of my journey in Maine’s Hundred Mile Wilderness, the last section of the trail. The Appalachian Trail is a 2,192-mile hiking route that winds from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine. It’s one of the most popular trails for thru-hikers, folks who complete a long trail from beginning to end within a year. In 2018 alone, over 4,000 people tried to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail, with just over 800 achieving their goal.

Why the Appalachian Trail?

Why would someone want to become a thru-hiker? That’s a good question, and one that isn’t answered easily. For me, it was a collection of reasons. Primarily, I love backpacking, and I love to challenge myself. I have a great respect and enthusiasm for the outdoors, our public lands and their conservation and preservation. However, taking a selfie in the woods to post on your Instagram is not going to get you through the trail. There are many logistics to consider. It took me more than a year of planning to make the trip happen. Leaving my job, family and friends was a real jolt. Many times I wondered if I had made the right decision.

The first few days were tough. I wasn’t sure if I could complete the trail. To add insult to injury, I fell flat on my face on the first day. It takes a while for a hiker to gain hiker legs, but after a few weeks, I entered a new realm. A simpler – yet extremely demanding – one. I woke up, packed up my gear, ate, walked, drank water, walked, had a snack, walked. You get the picture.

Dinner is a hiker’s favorite time of day. Some days, it was all I thought about. My mind would play tricks on me – somedays I could smell a hot meal hours before I arrived at camp and started cooking. When I finally stopped for the day and completed most of my chores, I would cook and chow down. Sleep came shortly after: Most hikers are out cold when night comes.

A (Hot, Hungry, Cold, Buggy) Walk in the Woods

Walking in the woods is fun, but it can be monotonous and lonely at times. I was always facing down to watch my step. Uneven ground was twisted with roots and scattered with rocks. I spent all day walking up and down hills, sometimes with an occasional breathtaking vista as a reward. I listened to audiobooks, or albums I downloaded in town, and sometimes just mulled things over in my head. I took in the world around me: the trees, plants, birds and sounds of the woods.

Of course, there was also rain, and cold, and burning heat and incessant mosquitoes. I started to miss life’s simple pleasures and couldn’t wait to get into town for a shower, a bed and beer! Hostels line the Appalachian Trail, and I would see all my fellow vagabonds when I arrived at one. We ate lots of food. Calories are important when you exert as much energy as we did. I would eat my food, more food, and everyone else’s food if they didn’t finish their meals. Which is how I earned my trail name: Two Dinners.

Bedtime was always early, since I needed to hike 15 to 20 miles a day. I soon felt like a professional hiker. This was my job, my life.

The Social Network

The Appalachian Trail is a very social trail. Thru-hikers travel together daily for almost 2,200 miles. Trail families, or “tramilies,” form as certain groups of hikers become close to one another. Some grow so close that they’re inseparable. I considered myself a loner since I hiked alone most of the time. This allowed me to chat with different types of hikers. We’d meet at camp, exchange trail names, and exchange words about ourselves, our gear, and our hopes and dreams. Perhaps I’d see that cool hiker again the next night. Or maybe I’d see them hundreds of miles down the woodland corridor. The trail allows you to get to know people of all different origins, life experiences and world views, which was a great perk of my journey.

I started the trail full of expectation. The excitement and fear I felt standing on top of Springer Mountain followed me for a while. Eventually I got used to the daily grind, and then suddenly, the beginning felt so far away. The months passed by in Virginia and the Mid-Atlantic states. I briefly stopped in Vermont and visited home for a week. When I returned the end was in sight, and before I knew it, I was in Maine. One afternoon I could see Katahdin, the final mountain, looming in the distance.

There and Back Again

Now, my journey is over and I’m back in Rhode Island. I lost 40 pounds and am in the best shape of my life. The trail taught me that doing what you want matters, and that it’s important to take chances. We can get caught up in society’s expectations. We worry about what is expected of us, or about what we think is expected of us, and lose a bit of ourselves in the process.

It was important for me to experience a change. It was necessary to be the hero of my own journey and to face it and persevere. I now make decisions carefully and tailor what I want for my life. I recommend that everyone put themselves out there and take on the unknown, no matter how big or small the journey.

One way to do this is to get out there for a hike yourself. For the past six years I’ve been taking day hikes and weekend backpacking trips around New England. It’s not hard to get out there, even for just a few miles. Local trail organizations, books and trail-finding apps are full of resources.

Maybe one day, you’ll even take a chance and drive down to Georgia to start your own epic journey.

Jonathan Cipriano is a AAA Northeast member from R.I. He departed Georgia’s Springer Mountain on April 16, 2019, and reached Mount Katahdin in Maine on Oct. 5.

Let AAA Travel help you plan your next adventure. 

Hallmark has nothing on AAA Northeast.

Employees recently collected more than 2,500 personalized greeting cards to give to people living in community care facilities.

Many of the donations were hand crafted. And six of the designs were truly one-of-a-kind. Dan Arcoleo, member relations counselor in Garden City, N.Y., donated six of his original paintings.

Employees, their families and friends, as well as members contributed to the community cause.

The Somerset, Mass., branch set up a table for three days, inviting members to write messages in the premade cards. The feedback was tremendous, according to Rebekah August, assistant branch manager. The team is thinking about carrying over the Valentine’s Day-themed activity to other holidays and creating thank-you cards for veterans.

The support from across the community was heart-warming,

“The outpouring of support was truly touching,” said Karen Diehl, senior employee experience specialist for Human Resources. “Employees and their families really took care in crafting heartfelt messages to people who have been isolated and lonely, unable to connect with family or friends, throughout the pandemic.”

Diehl had a lot of help from people across the club who rallied around the effort, collected the cards and arranged for deliveries. For instance, Gerri DiSalvo, public affairs specialist in Garden City, got a local Girl Scout troop involved.

More Community Efforts

The card collection was just one of the charity activities taking place at AAA Northeast this year. In February, AAA Northeast delivered hundreds of care packages to health care workers in appreciation for their continued efforts during the pandemic.

And AAA Northeast branches will be collecting canned goods and other nonperishable foods March 20-April 3. All donations will benefit local organizations.

For more information on this initiative and others taking place in your community, visit AAA.com/AAACares.

Three immersive Van Gogh exhibits are coming to Boston and New York this year – and we’ve got all the details.  

The first, “Imagine Van Gogh,” debuts Dec. 21 at the SoWa Power Station in Boston. It will feature more than 200 of Vincent Van Gogh’s paintings projected onto soaring walls and other shapes, so viewers feel like they’re immersed in them. The exhibit focuses on art created during his time in France, specifically Arles, Saint-Remy-de-Provence and Auvers-sur-Oise, with famous works like “Cafe Terrace at Night,” “Starry Night Over the Rhone,” “The Red Vineyard” and various self-portraits represented. 

It promises a contactless experience within 24,000 square feet of space, with timed-entry tickets and social distancing measures in place. 

Billed as the “original” immersive experience, the show is the brainchild of artistic directors Annabelle Mauger and Julien Baron and is also being shown in Vancouver and Edmonton, Canada. 

You can purchase tickets, which start at $33.99, here. The exhibit runs through Feb. 20, 2022. 

“Immersive Van Gogh,” the second show, opens June 10 at a “secret” location in New York. The popular exhibit was featured in the Netflix series “Emily in Paris,” and promises viewers an immersive experience within 300,000 cubic feet of the artist’s most famous works, including “Starry Night,” “Sunflowers” and “The Potato Eaters.”

 

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Lighthouse Immersive is producing the show, along with Visioni Eccentriche, Starvox Exhibits, ShowOne Productions and Maestro Artist Management. It will feature timed tickets, reduced capacities and temperature check for ticket holders.

It’s also traveling to Toronto, Los Angeles, Chicago and other cities. Tickets start at $39.99 and can be purchased here. The New York show runs through Sept. 6.

The third production, “Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience,” is a little more vague. It’s coming to New York July 1, at a “secret” central location where the artist’s works will be transformed into two-story projections within 20,000 square feet of space. There guests can learn more about Van Gogh’s life, his influences and approach to his art. 

A separately ticketed virtual reality experience will walk viewers through eight of his most famous paintings, including “Bedroom in Arles” and “Starry Night Over the Rhone.” 

You can find timed tickets, which start at $36, here. The virtual reality portion requires an additional ticket. The show, which runs through Sept. 26, is being organized by Exhibition Hub and Fever. It’s also coming to a secret location in Boston Oct. 6, running through Jan. 16, 2022. You can find tickets here. 

The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) gave America’s infrastructure a C- grade in its latest report card. While not an impressive mark, the C- grade is actually the highest score the country’s infrastructure has received in 20 years. Previously, it received a D+ in 2017.

The report grade, released every four years, rates every part of America’s infrastructure system including roads, bridges, energy, rail, transit and aviation. Overall, 11 of the 17 categories received a grade in the D range, including transit, which had the worst mark of D-. On the opposite end of the spectrum, rail received the highest grade with a B. Five category grades — aviation, drinking water, energy, inland waterways, and ports — went up, while just one category — bridges — went down. The grading includes several measurements in its methodology, including condition, capacity, safety, and innovation.

The ASCE estimates that the U.S. will need to invest nearly $2.6 trillion over the next decade to maintain a state of good repair and earn a grade of B. This echoes the sentiments expressed by Rhode Island Senator Jack Reed when he sat with AAA recently. “We do have to have a big infrastructure package,” Reed said. “We’ve been working at it slowly but we do need a bigger, more intense program.”

Failure to properly fund infrastructure improvements will cost the public down the road. According to the ASCE, “By 2039, America’s overdue infrastructure bill will cost the average American household $3,300 a year, or $63 a week.

The ASCE the country’s oldest national civil engineering organization, represents more than 150,000 civil engineers in private practice, government, industry, and academia.

What do you think of the infrastructure in your area? Let us know in the comments below.

Driving over rough roads can take a toll on your wheels. Make sure you’re covered with AAA’s Tire & Wheel Protection Program. 

The New York Hall of Science is the center of the universe when it comes to interactive science. Founded at the 1964-65 World’s Fair, NYSCI has grown into one of the area’s leading educational institutions. It welcomes droves of  students, teachers and families each year.

Located in Queens, the museum uses the “Design-Make-Play” method to educate visitors in the STEM subjects of science, technology, engineering and math. It has 12 permanent exhibit areas as well as several temporary exhibits hosted throughout the year. NYSCI also has a 3D movie theater and hosts a litany of public programs and events.

NYSCI is always buzzing with activity. Here are a few of the museum’s main exhibits and attractions that are a must-see during any visit.

Note: Due to the ever-changing nature of the COVID-19 crisis, please check official website before visiting to check for restrictions or closures.

Design Lab

The Design Lab is a drop-in space where visitors can explore, build and create. It has various activity spaces, where guests are challenged to find solutions to real-world problems. Explainers are stationed throughout the Design Lab should guests need any help solving a challenge. Explainers are young men and women (ages 14 to 24)  from the community who work on the museum floor, interacting with the public and helping visitors to understand the science behind the exhibits and demonstrations. Since 1986, NYSCI’s Science Career Ladder has enabled more than 4,000 students to serve as Explainers to gain work experience while being exposed to a wide array of STEM career and college pathways.

The activities at Design Lab are frequently changed based on experimentation, reflection, and feedback from guests. This makes each trip to the Design Lab – and to NYSCI – a unique one.

Science Playground

The fun is not just contained within the walls of the museum. Outside, guests will find several interactive exhibits including the Science Playground. Designed for children of all ages, it features elements such as Archimedes screw and water play area, windpipes, a climbing net, a giant lever, slides, sandboxes and metal drums.

Rocket Park Mini Golf

Also located outdoors is Rocket Park Mini Golf. This nine-hole miniature golf course is designed to teach players the science of spaceflight.  Key concepts such as propulsion, gravity, escape velocity, launch window and gravitational assist are explored along the way. There is an additional fee of $6 for adults and $5 for children and seniors to play.

Connected Worlds

Connected Worlds, held in the Great Hall, is an interactive animated world where visitors’ decisions and actions dictate how the natural world is kept in balance. The six different environments – jungle, desert, wetlands, mountain valley, reservoir and plains – are fed by a 38-foot-high projected “waterfall” that flows out across an 2,300-square-foot interactive floor.

Guests are challenged with keeping their environment flourishing by planting seeds, feeding animals and learning to share the water source among all the “worlds.” Guests learn about the concepts of sustainability science including feedback loops, equilibrium in a dynamic environment, and casual links and influences.

3D Theater

The museum has a state-of-the-art 3D movie theater, complete with a 22-foot wide screen. It plays a variety of educational videos as well as award-winning scientific movies throughout the year.

Have you visited the New York Hall of Science? Tell us about your experience in the comments. 

For a century, the AAA School Safety Patrol program has served as a training ground in leadership for young volunteers, many of whom go on to become pillars of their community.

Founded in 1920, the program activates students intent on helping their classmates arrive and depart school safely each day, with the help of law enforcement, teachers and crossing guards. What began as a boys-only program in the 1920’s quickly evolved into a community resource for any student to learn about good citizenship and responsibility.

Many of the nation’s leaders, including President Bill Clinton, Vice President Joe Biden, and Supreme Court Justices Anthony Kennedy, Clarence Thomas and Stephen Breyer, got their start in public service through the program.

We recently sat down with an alumnus of the program, AAA Northeast member Karen Guilbeault, who recently retired as Captain of the Cranston, R.I., Police Department after a career of over 30 years in public service.

Guilbeault is the first female in the history of the Cranston Police Department to graduate from the FBI National Academy in Virginia – an exclusive program where law enforcement personnel study to enhance their credentials and advance in their field. She has also worked for the Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth, and Families. And she credits the program as a starting point of a remarkable career.

What made you decide to join the AAA School Safety Patrol, and how long did you serve?

My parents led by example. My mother was a teacher in the same school district, and my father was very aware of the need to give back to the community. So, this was my first opportunity to get involved in my community. I believe I served in grades 5 and 6.

My house was one of the farthest from the school, over a mile each way, and I walked to school every day. Believe it or not, we did walk uphill! So, I think part of the reason they selected me was because I had to walk to school and I was focused on safety.

What lessons did you learn from being on the Patrol? 

It instilled a sense of community service in me from a young age, as well as the responsibility to serve others. This was my first real exposure to being responsible for other peoples’ well-being and safety. I remember taking it very seriously! I also remember that the person who gave out the badges took the responsibility very seriously.

In my career as a high-ranking official, I always took my employees’ well-being very seriously – overall, not just at work. And I always tried to go the extra mile to make sure everyone was safe, particularly in domestic violence-type situations, for example.

You had a long, decorated career in law enforcement and public service. Did your time serving on the Patrol inspire you?

My personality was already formed at that age and I like to take charge of a situation when I can. I like to have a say in the outcome of a situation. And if I can use that to have a positive outcome, I’m going to do it. This was my first true exposure to responsibility. My mother always said, “Make a place better when you leave than when you found it,” and so I try to live by that every day.

I like to believe I was a catalyst for positive change in the Cranston Police Department. I was the first female to achieve the ranking of lieutenant and captain in the department, so I hope that paves the way (and sets a good example) for females looking to pursue a career in law enforcement. In addition, I was the first female from Cranston to attend the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Va., a program that less than .1% of police officers nationwide get chosen for. I hope that my experiences provide a good example to younger people, especially females, as they think about their careers.

Do you have any advice for children enrolled in the Safety Patrol program today?

It’s a serious responsibility – even more so today than when I was a child. The kids walking to school today are at a higher risk than we were. Cars are faster and quieter, and there’s the possibility of distracted drivers on their cell phones. So, the AAA School Safety Patrol is needed today more than ever before. Any time someone agrees voluntarily to be a part of something, especially a safety program, they should take it seriously. Their agreement to be responsible can positively or negatively affect someone else’s well-being.

For more about the AAA School Safety Patrol program, visit AAA.com. 

Read about another impressive former safety patroller, “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” author, Jeff Kinney. 

Here in the Northeast, we have some of the best food in the country. From New York and New Haven-style pizza and Long Island bagels to New England classics like clam chowder and lobster rolls, our culinary landscape is one worth bragging about. Of course, the home-cooked meals and family recipes coming out of our own kitchens are also photo-worthy sources of pride.

Food can be so much fun to take pictures of. It doesn’t move, you can pose it however you like and afterwards you can eat your creation.

Spice up your food photos with these five simple tips on how to photograph food.

Scroll down to see all of the delicious-looking food photos we received from this Photo Session. 

Use Natural Light

Artificial light can create unnatural colors in your food images, so using natural light is best. If it’s warm enough outside, I recommend heading outdoors to set up your shot. Look for a shaded area – filtered or overcast light is best. You want to avoid direct sunlight, it can create harsh shadows. If you’re stuck inside for the shot, arrange your food display by a window that gets a lot of natural light.

Vary Your Depth Of Field

If you want to focus on just one food item – or one part of a dish – use a shallow depth of field to draw the viewer’s eye in. Choose a large aperture anywhere between f/1.8 – f/2.8. If you’re using your phone to take the image, use portrait mode to achieve this look. Alternately, if you want to show a whole plate of food, use a smaller aperture anywhere between f/5.6-f/11. For my shot of the cookies my aperture was set to f/2.2. Learn more about camera settings with our cheat sheet. 

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Bring It to Life With Color!

Color can add wow factor to your photos. Try pairing your foods with complimentary colors. In this image I paired the red of the berries with a teal background to really make the red pop. You can add color to your photos by either introducing another colorful food into the image or by using a colored background. You can find a colored wall in your surroundings or use colored paper.

Show the Process

Food preparation often has many steps involved. Take a few shots of the different steps, and create a collage with the images. I shot this triptych with my phone and made sure to use the same angle, background and lighting for all the shots so they would match.

Tell a Story

Add a human element to your image to show the relationship between food and people. Food has many traditions and emotions tied to it. I love how excited my son was to eat this ice cream cone. I think it shows how we all feel when we get to eat such a treat!

Thank You for Participating!

These member photos look good enough to eat! Take a look at all of the food photo submissions we received from this Your AAA Photo Session in the slideshow and don’t forget to check our social media channels, where we will be featuring some of our favorites. Some photos may also be featured in an upcoming issue of Your AAA magazine.

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

Beth Mancuso is a professional landscape and travel photographer.

The Northeast is home to some of the most talented celebrities in film, music and television. Did your favorite star make it into our new crossword? Play to find out!

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your puzzle playing experience. Good luck!

Since our members are the root of everything we do, your feedback is important to us. Let us know if you run into any issues while playing, or share your ideas for future puzzles by emailing us.