During the Gilded Age, Long Island was a vast playground for the ultra-rich. As the wealthy flooded onto the North Shore of Long Island from New York City, they began establishing sprawling “country houses” – aka mega mansions. These gold coast mansions were enormous, and some of them were so big that they were called “castles.” Very few of the mansions remain private homes today, since the middle class grew and opulent castles started seeming a little gauche.

In their new lives, these mansions have transformed into arboretums, museums, hotels and more. Here are some of our favorite gold coast mansions of Long Island.

Old Westbury Gardens

Old Westbury Gardens is one of the best-preserved gold coast mansions on Long Island. Built in 1906, Old Westbury Gardens is the former estate of John Shaffer Phipps, a U.S. Steel heir. The Charles II-style mansion is surrounded by 200 acres of gardens, walkways, woods and even a hedge maze. Old Westbury Gardens hosts guided tours of the mansion, as well as a series of seasonal events throughout the year, including the annual Scottish Festival and Highland Games in August and dog-friendly weekends in the fall.

The estate is a popular location for filming. Notable films and TV shows that Old Westbury Gardens has appeared in include “North by Northwest,” “Cruel Intentions,” “Pushing Daisies” and “Gossip Girl.” It even served as the inspiration for the design of the Buchanan estate in the 2013 film “The Great Gatsby.”

Sands Point Park and Preserve

Sands Point (otherwise known as the Guggenheim Estate) consists of not one, but three different mansions; Castle Gould is based on Kilkenny Castle in Ireland, Falaise looks like a medieval fortress and Hempstead House is a 40-room Tudor style manor house. Construction was started by financier Howard Gould, then finished after Daniel Guggenheim purchased the property in 1912.

Sands Point Park and Preserve is filled with woodland hiking trails, and even has a beach on the Long Island Sound. Falaise houses a museum featuring antiques, architectural pieces, fine art and visiting exhibitions.

Oheka Castle

Oheka Castle is named after its original owner, financier Otto Hermann Kahn. It might sound cheesy, but Kahn came up with the name himself, and used it on a number of properties (and a yacht) afterward. Built in 1917, Oheka Castle is styled after a French chateau. At the time Kahn lived there, it was the second-largest private home in America. Since then, Oheka has had an interesting (and sometimes rocky) history. In the 1940s, it transformed into a military academy, but after 30 years it was abandoned and fell into disrepair. The property was purchased by developer Gary Melius in 1984, then fell into and out of his hands for the next couple of decades until he finally reacquired it and finished the renovations.

Today, Oheka Castle is an opulent hotel and event venue, with 22 acres of finely manicured gardens to boot. Oheka claims to have been the inspiration for Gatsby’s estate in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby,” but most other gold coast mansions have made that claim as well. Its real claim to fame is that its exterior was used to portray Charles Foster Kane’s home, Xanadu, in one of the greatest films of all time, “Citizen Kane.”

Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park

Tucked away in Upper Brookville is Planting Fields Arboretum, a 409-acre park filled with rolling fields, intricate gardens and dense woodlands. In the center of Planting Fields sits Coe Hall, a huge Tudor Revival mansion built in 1915. Coe Hall and its surrounding land is the former estate of insurance magnate William Robertson Coe and Standard Oil heiress Mai Rogers Coe. The Coes (especially Mai) were enamored with nature and filled their estate with an enormous variety of trees, plants and flowers. Two giant beech trees were even transplanted there from Mai’s childhood home in Connecticut.

Today, Planting Fields is a state park with grounds that are free to explore. Planting Fields is filled with little surprises and breathtaking landscapes. Apart from the vast Coe Hall, which is available for tours, you can explore two greenhouses (one which exclusively houses camellias), two charming cottages, a carriage house, several reflecting pools and ponds, gothic gazebos and more. If you go at the right time of year, you can travel through a pathway draped with roses on all sides.

Vanderbilt Museum

The Vanderbilt estate spans 43 acres, purchased in 1910 by William K. Vanderbilt II. Vanderbilt shortly began construction on a sprawling, 24-room mansion in the Spanish Revival style. When it was complete, Vanderbilt christened the mansion “Eagle’s Nest,” due to its position on a hill.

Today, the estate is the Vanderbilt Museum. The museum is a mix of living history in fully-restored rooms of the house and specimens of marine, bird and insect life collected by Vanderbilt himself. In 1971, a planetarium was added to the grounds of the museum. It even has a rooftop observatory, which is open every Friday night.

Nassau County Museum of Art

The Georgian Revival mansion at the center of this 145-acre estate was built in the 1890s and purchased in 1919 by U.S. Steel co-founder Henry Clay Frick (on behalf of his son, the unimaginatively-named “Childs”). Frick hired architect Sir Charles Carrick Allom to do a massive redesign of the mansion. In 1925, Childs’s wife, Frances Frick, commissioned famous landscape architect Marion Cruger Coffin to design a series of intricate formal gardens on the property. The estate was purchased by the county in 1969 and transformed into the Nassau County Museum of Art.

NCMA has a collection of over 600 pieces of fine art and rotates them through periodic museum exhibitions. They also occasionally feature visiting exhibitions, like collections from a specific artist or time period. NCMA also features an expansive sculpture garden, which is free for the public to explore and enjoy.

The museums and beautiful grounds of most of these Long Island gold coast mansions have landed them on our list of the best things to do on Long Island in the summer. Check it out. 

Have you ever visited any gold coast mansions? What were they like? Let us know in the comments below!

Check out AAA member exclusive discounts to local attractions, restaurants and more.

On any given day, there’s a treasure trove of amazing things to do in New York City – from special events and tours to Broadway shows and concerts and so much more. The city is a mecca of creative entrepreneurs hustling to bring New Yorkers and tourists some of the coolest adventures you can imagine. Here are some of the most unique and different things to do in NYC – good luck choosing just one!

Camping

At Camp Rockaway at Riis Park in Queens, you can sleep in a furnished safari-style tent within earshot of the ocean’s mesmerizing waves. Do I have your attention yet? Open from May to October, Camp Rockaway offers a glamp-ground experience that includes comfy queen size beds with Brooklinen sheets, lights powered by solar energy, a picnic area with free coffee in the morning, hammocks for lounging and a communal fire pit for late night chats.

Hudson Yards

The Hudson Yards redevelopment project in Manhattan has completely changed the west side of the borough. The new neighborhood has drawn millions to see its public art, shops, restaurants and – of course – the Vessel, a massive structure of spiral staircases inspired by Indian stepwells. If you prefer a more leisurely experience, you can also view the landmark while enjoying brunch at Queensyard. Or pop into the BLVD Beauty Salon at Neiman Marcus, which offers the best beauty services from around the city in one salon. For a true New York experience, book a nail art manicure by Valley Nails.

Get Smart

There are a massive amount of different things to do in NYC and unique classes to take, from trapeze lessons and laughter yoga to basket weaving. Try your hand at the ceramics wheel at Artshack Brooklyn, a nonprofit ceramics and art studio that also offers sewing, felting and screen printing. Or learn how to make Vietnamese street food at The Brooklyn Kitchen.

Take a Tour

Choosing which tour to take in New York may take you longer than the actual tour, because there are literally thousands of them. But the New York Harlem Jazz Tour sounds pretty epic. It dives into the area’s rich music history and visits several jazz venues. You can even get up and join the bands if you’re brave enough! Over in Greenwich Village, take the NY Times-inspired Old, New and Delicious tour. Or enjoy an off-hours tour of the Comedy Cellar, where some of the greatest comedians have performed, and then make your own cannoli at a pasticceria.

Hop on a Personal Watercraft

Take a personal watercraft tour and see all of the sights NYC has to offer from a different perspective. If you’re looking for a fun adventure, this experience is for you. New York Harbor Jet Ski offers tours that ride up and down the Hudson, around Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. Wear a bathing suit or athletic wear – you’ll definitely get wet! If that’s not your speed, you can kayak (for free) at several piers, like Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse and Kayak Staten Island.

Wellness

New York never sleeps, so find some time to relax at one of the countless spas and wellness centers, like Floating Lotus. There you can book a float session, a sensory deprivation healing treatment that feels like you’re floating in outer space. Float in a private tub filled with warm water, hundreds of pounds of Epsom salt, and total silence. Talk about a unique experience. Manhattan is home to the world’s first cool temperature fitness studio, called Brrrn. Battle ropes and weights don’t burn quite as much when the room is only 50 degrees.

Movie Theaters

Take in a movie with food and beverage service and you’ll never go back to the days of having to get up to refill your popcorn supply in the middle of the movie. NiteHawk Cinema in Brooklyn and the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema (opening soon in lower Manhattan) both offer full service, which means craft cocktails and truffle butter popcorn coming right to your seat. Both theaters even offer vegan and gluten-free options.

If you are looking for different things to do in NYC that are even more offbeat, see our list of weird things to do in NYC. 

Find AAA Discounts on New York City tours, activities, entertainment and more. 

Spring is springing and flower festivals are in bloom around the country. Here are six that we love.

The New York Botanical Garden Orchid Show

Bronx, N.Y.

February 15-April 19

Known as the country’s premiere exhibition of one of the world’s most exotic flowers, NYBG’s historic Enid A. Haupt Conservatory comes to life in bursts of color from almost every variety of orchid. This year’s 18^th Annual Orchid Show highlights the masterful creations of famed floral designer Jeff Leatham. Each gallery provides a different experience of orchids against backdrops of sculpture, overhead arches, dramatic lighting and color – like walking through a living kaleidoscope. On weekends, visitors can participate in orchid Q&As or watch orchid care demos.

A Million Daffodils at the New York Botanical Garden

March through May

At the beginning of spring, Daffodil Hill at NYBG comes to life with hundreds of thousands of yellow and white daffodils. A commemorative project for NYBG’s 125^th anniversary in 2016, the mission of Daffodil Hill has been to naturalize one million heirloom varieties, including cultivars dating back to the original 1920s plantings on this very site. Keep up to date with NYBG’s Daffodil Tracker.

Save on NYBG garden passes with AAA member discount.

National Cherry Blossom Festival

Washington, D.C.

March 20-April 12

Taking a stroll under the blooming cherry trees in our nation’s capital feels like a dream. Spanning three different National Park locations, around the Tidal Basin in West Potomac Park, East Potomac Park (Hains Point) and the Washington Monument Grounds, you’ll be captivated by the stunning pink and white canopies of blossoms of more than ten species of cherry trees. The festival commemorates the gift of 3,000 cherry trees to the nation’s capital by Japan in 1912. Festival events include the National Cherry Blossom Parade, a kite festival and the Pink Tie Party to welcome spring.

BOOK A NEARBY HOTEL.

Muskogee Azalea Festival

Muskogee, Okla.

April 1-30

With fire bursts of vibrant pinks and reds everywhere you look, this is perhaps one of the most beautiful displays of flowering shrubs in the world. Some 30,000 azaleas (with over 600 varieties) bloom each spring, adorning Honor Heights Park in over 40 acres of manicured gardens, high on a hill overlooking the town of Muskogee. This month-long festival features numerous events throughout town, including arts and crafts, live entertainment, a film festival and a wine and food tasting. In addition to amazing azaleas, the stunning, 132-acre Honor Heights Park boasts five lakes, picturesque ponds, a butterfly sanctuary and an arboretum.

BOOK A NEARBY HOTEL

Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival

Orlando, Fla. 

March 4-June 1

Perhaps the most beloved attractions at Epcot’s famed flower festival are the larger-than-life topiaries of favorite Disney characters: Mickey and Minnie, Anna and Elsa – they are all here, in full, colorful bloom. During the flower festival, visitors will see rainbows of flora carpeting the landscape around Future World and World Showcase. Mini gardens decorate the east and west lakes and selfie opportunities abound with dozens of Disney-crafted flower towers. As always in Epcot, great food from around the world and music accompany the impressive floral displays.

Plan your next Disney vacation with AAA.

Skagit Valley Tulip Festival

Mount Vernon, Wash.

April 1-30

Tiptoe through a million tulips in Washington’s Skagit Valley. The county-wide spring flower festival features events and attractions including children’s activities, arts and crafts and a photography bus tour. Two principal farms share the spotlight for this festival. The gardens at Roozengaarde boast more than 1,000 acres of tulip and daffodil fields, with over 90 varieties of tulips, interspersed with bursting colors of daffodils, hyacinths, crocus and other spring favorites. Take the short drive over to Tuliptown for more family fun, and when you tire of tiptoeing, hop on board a trolley for a ride through the tulips.

BOOK A NEARBY HOTEL.

What’s your favorite flower? Tell us in the comments.

In the wake of COVID-19, please check event websites for the latest information. 

Need another hint? Check out these five tips to get the most out of Your AAA crosswords.

They say that the best camera is the one you have with you. More often than not, that means the phone in your pocket. Today’s phones are equipped with highly sophisticated cameras that are capable of taking beautiful images. Take your travel images to the next level with these smartphone photography tips. 

*All images shot with an iPhone X. 

Know Your Modes

On an iPhone, you have six modes: slow-mo, video, time lapse, square, photo, portrait and panorama. The three most widely used modes for taking pictures are photo, portrait and panorama. 

Photo Mode

In photo mode you have the option of shooting your image in portrait (vertical) or landscape (horizontal) orientation, depending on how you hold your phone. When you take a picture, all of your image will be in focus. You can zoom in or out, by using your two fingers or by holding down the 1x button and sliding it to the right to pick your magnification.

Tip: In photo mode, when you zoom really far in, the resolution of your image will become pixelated. Only use the zoom when your feet can’t get you any closer to what you are trying to photograph. Never put yourself – or your environment – in danger for a shot. 

When to use it: Almost always when you are taking pictures. This mode has the most versatility for image captures.

Portrait Mode

In portrait mode, your camera is zoomed in more and the background of your images will be blurry. Only what you set your focus on will be in focus. 

Tip: Only use this mode in well-lit situations. When faced with low light this mode struggles to find focus. 

When to use it: Portrait mode is wonderful for capturing close-ups of food, flowers and people.

Panorama Mode

In panorama mode, you hold your camera vertically and move it from left to right. Your goal here is to keep the arrow that shows up on your screen on the line as the camera snaps consecutively. 

Tip: You can stop the image before it reaches the end of the line. 

When to use it: When your regular photo mode can’t capture the entire scene in front of you.

Setting Focus and Exposure

One of the easiest and smartest tips for photography with mobile phones is to adjust the focus and exposure before snapping a picture. To focus, simply tap your finger on the screen where you want the focal point to be. To set the exposure, slide your finger up or down to make the image brighter or darker. Once you have your focus and exposure set, lock in both. To do this, hold down the focal point until it flashes. 

Tip: To make sure you don’t blow out or over-expose the sky in your image, set your focus on the sky until it is properly exposed. Sometimes this means other parts of your image will be dark, but you can almost always bring the shadows up in your image later through editing. 

Camera Settings for Smartphone Photography 

Turn on the Grid

To achieve optimal results with smartphone photography, try turning on the grid to help compose shots; the lines will help you to level your horizon. Your horizon line should always be straight in your images.

The grid also helps you compose your images using the rule of thirds. The rule of thirds is a composition technique that states you should have the subject or focus of your image fall near or on the points of intersection. 

You will find the option to turn on the grid in you camera setting. While you are there, you can also turn on “auto HDR” and select “most compatible” from the format options. This will save your images at a higher quality (note: they will take up more storage space).

Must-Have Travel Shot List

Food – Grab a meal at a local hot spot and take pictures of the food and the restaurant while there. 

People – Photograph the locals when traveling to a different country. Make sure to always ask permission before taking an image. 

Architecture – Head to the city and snap images of the architecture. Look for churches, government buildings, colleges and museums. 

Landscape – National parks and state parks are wonderful places to photograph the landscape. See our tips for photographing national parks. 

Art/Culture – Look for festivals, fairs and art museums while on your trip.

Adventure – Make sure to document any hikes, water sports, skiing, etc., that you take part in.

Wildlife – While you will most likely encounter wildlife while visiting the parks, also look for animal sanctuaries, refuges and zoos in the area. 

Creative Techniques

Vary your angles – When faced with a photo opportunity don’t just take the image head-on. Walk around your subject and snap images from various viewpoints. Remember to look up and down as well. 

Vary your height – Instead of taking all of your images standing, try crouching and even laying down to take an image. Alternately, get high by climbing steps or using a step stool.

Take it underwater – For an added element of fun, try taking your phone underwater. While some of the newer phones claim to be waterproof, it’s usually only to certain depths. For safer smartphone photography, I recommend getting a waterproof bag.

Shoot through things – Try shooting through leaves, flowers, even people to add depth to your images.

Photography is a wonderful hobby and creative outlet. Remember to enjoy your travels, too! It is easy to get caught up in getting the perfect images, but sometimes it’s best to just put down your phone and be present in the moment.

Beth Mancuso is a professional photographer. All photos are hers. 

In a city with as rich a food scene as Providence, it’s easy to get a great cocktail. But if there’s a little bit of a scavenger hunt to find it? Even better.

The Creative Capital gets truly inventive when it comes to its underground drinking scene. Here are some speak-easies with hidden entrances in Providence that are worth finding.

Remember to enjoy responsibly and always designate a sober driver.

Justine’s

11 Olneyville Square

Blink and you’ll miss the lingerie store in Olneyville Square that disguises the entrance to Justine’s, a quiet lounge with swanky Parisian-inspired decor and, as the night goes on, movies that project from the mirrors behind the bar. There’s an $8 menu of Prohibition Era-cocktails like the Charlie Chaplin and the Mary Pickford, and a slightly more expensive selection of house cocktails like the Free Man in Paris, made with gin, apricot liqueur, Aperol, lime and absinthe.

Far West

55 Cromwell St.

The door to Far West isn’t hard to find – once you make it in the building, that is. This tiny 25-seat bar is inside Rooms & Works, a rehabbed factory building that’s now mixed-use business and residential space on the “far west” side of the city. Hit “075” on the keypad to get in and hope for the best to get a coveted seat inside the bar. Every month, Far West creates a new, themed menu: October was Stephen King, and December was, of course, Charles Dickens.

Courtland Club

51 Courtland St.

What started as a members-only club on Federal Hill has now become an “only if you can find it” club. Behind an unmarked door on Courtland Street, Courtland Club serves up small bites and inventive cocktails like the Japanese Julep, made with whiskey and shiso. The building has roots dating to the 1940s as a members-only club, and this bar still offers memberships, but now they’re for exclusive access to food events and private liquor lockers.

The Dean Bar

122 Fountain St.

To find The Dean Bar, you’ve got to go in through the lobby of The Dean Hotel, pass the elevators, and take a left at the heavy velvet curtains. You’ll know you’ve gone too far if you hit the Japanese-inspired private karaoke lounge in the back of this hip hotel. The cozy lounge focuses on invention and innovation, serving cocktails with hard-to-find spirits that you may not have heard of, but will be glad you did once you take a sip.

Check out more buzzworthy destinations at AAA.com/CityGuide.

AAA began inspecting the nation’s hotels and restaurants in 1937, providing detailed descriptions to members on the go.

The program proved so valuable that AAA standardized the process in 1963, adopting a formal rating system specifically for accommodations.

But it wasn’t until 1976 that the AAA Diamond Program was officially born. The program was staffed by professional travel experts who maintained anonymity to keep their ‘mystery shopper’ status.

The program expanded beyond hospitality in 1986 to include restaurants. And today, the AAA Diamond Program continues to evolve.

Earlier this year, the program’s criteria was updated to reflect today’s expectations, replacing outdated hotel criteria (such as ironing boards) in favor of factors that more directly related to guest comfort, such as storage space and shelving.

So the next time you browse a ratings website to research destinations – and wonder if the advice is trustworthy – remember AAA has advised travelers for more than 80 years, with a voice as rock-solid and enduring as any diamond.

Learn more at AAA.com/Diamonds. 

One of the nation’s largest, award-winning leisure tour operators, Travel Impressions has highlighted a new destination of the month: the picture-perfect Turks and Caicos Islands. With an average temperature of 83 degrees, crystal-clear ocean waters and beautiful sandy beaches, it’s easy to call this island destination a paradise.

Located in the Atlantic Ocean, southeast of the Bahamas, the Turks and Caicos Islands are home to numerous natural wonders, including a chain of 40 unique islands and cays, over 15 beaches spread across 230 miles, the world’s third-largest barrier reef and a vast stretch of coastline perfect for nature hikes.

The islands also host a variety of hotels and restaurants, so guests have plenty of amenities, living and dining options to help them feel relaxed and pampered. With travel dates spanning the rest of 2020, tropic-ready travelers can visit Turks and Caicos any time of year, to celebrate spring break, summer vacation, the holidays or any special occasion in-between.

Hotels and Resorts

The hotels and resorts that call the Turks and Caicos Islands home provide high-end luxury and a plethora of amenities and dining options, all set against stunning island views. Islandgoers looking for ultimate extravagance will find comfort in any of the elegant Turks and Caicos hotels, including the all-inclusive, private island escape of Ambergris Cay, the Alexandra Resort, the Blue Haven Resort and Beach House.

Ambergris Cay

The exclusivity of this private island isn’t its only draw – Ambergris Cay also has an array of activities like kayaking, snorkeling and guided nature walks, bonefishing, water sports and kitesurfing lessons. Other amenities include a daily, 30-minute complimentary spa treatment per adult and all-inclusive gourmet meals.

All-Inclusive Luxury

The newest addition to the Sun and Sand collection is the luxury-inclusive Turks & Caicos Collection.

Book Today

The Alexandra Resort

Guests can find true island luxury at the Alexandra Resort, where natural beauty meets contemporary comforts. Notable amenities include a large freshwater pool and swim-up bar and an on-site fitness center, as well as the Mango Reef restaurant, which serves a variety of international and Caribbean-inspired dishes.

Blue Haven Resort  

Thanks to its wide range of suites and guest rooms, Blue Haven Resort is perfect for couples, groups and solo-travelers alike. Between easy access to the sea via Blue Haven Marina and a private play beach – featuring volleyball, tennis, horseshoes and more – guests will have fun by land and by sea.

Beach House

The all-inclusive, adults-only resort pampers its guests with impeccable surroundings that overlook the white sands and aquamarine waters of Grace Bay Beach. Here guests will find elegant dining, pristine suites, prime beach access, premium drinks and free shuttle service and dining privileges to its sister resorts, the Alexandra Resort and Blue Haven Resort.

Island Activities

Though the Turks and Caicos Islands’ hotels and resorts are the definition of luxury, guests will want to enjoy the outdoors as well. Thankfully, the islands have a wealth of activities for vacationgoers to partake in.

Beautiful Beaches

The beaches of the Turks and Caicos Islands, including Grace Bay Beach, Long Bay Beach and many others, are beautiful and unique. Turks and Caicos vacationers can enjoy picnicking, sunbathing, swimming and relaxing at some of the world’s prettiest beaches.

Made up of broken-down shells and coral, the soft, pale sand of Turks and Caicos beaches is a step above what you will find along other waterfront properties.

Diving and Snorkeling  

The crystal-clear waters of the Turks and Caicos Islands make for amazing snorkeling and diving experiences. Home to lush sea grass and the third-largest barrier reef in the world, which stretches out across 14 miles, the area hosts countless spectacular dive sites, like the Bight Reef and Smith’s Reef.

Scuba Diving Magazine included the Turks and Caicos Islands in its 2019 “The Best Scuba Diving in the World” list. The area was also highlighted as one of the best spots to see large oceanic wildlife.

Nature-loving guests will enjoy seeing the vibrant coral, eagle rays, turtles and fish. Those looking to explore even further can participate in an exciting wreck dive. The HMS Endymion, an old frigate and remnant from the Napoleonic War, lies 20 feet under the water, waiting to be rediscovered by divers young and old.

Cave Systems

Guests looking for more natural wonders on Turks and Caicos have options. The islands house a plethora of caves, sinkholes and other hidden areas to explore.

Dry cave systems are located all over the Caicos Islands. Tourist-friendly caves include Conch Bar Cave and Indian Cave, both of which are dry systems located on Middle Caicos.

Nature Hikes

For vacationers looking to feel more at one with nature, the Turks and Caicos Islands offer coastlines perfect for a calming stroll or adventurous nature hike.

The central islands of Provo as well as the East, Middle and South Caicos are home to diverse environments. Meanwhile, nature reserves and national parks are still being developed for tourism.

Weekly Island Fish Fry

Thursday evenings at Bight Park, the Turks and Caicos Islands host more than a dozen local cultural acts, entertainers and food vendors who fill the air with a buzz of excitement and delicious aromas.

Both locals and visitors can experience some family-friendly fun while enjoying the freshest seafood – like fried fish, boiled lobster and conch salad – prepared by culinary masters.

Vacationing on the Turks and Caicos Islands is a breeze. Between all the hotels and resorts and natural wonders consisting of beautiful beaches, clear ocean waters and cave systems ready to discover, visitors can choose a vacation filled with adventure, relaxation or any combination of the two.

Book your next vacation with AAA and Travel Impressions. 

Have you ever been to the Turks and Caicos Islands? Tell us about it in the comments. 

It’s that time of year again, and there are far too many people in the city. A weekend getaway from the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple might be just what you need to recharge.  You could hit the slopes, relax in a spa, tour picturesque towns or even escape to another city entirely. With these winter getaways from NYC, the possibilities are limitless. Just don’t forget your mittens.

New Hope, Pa. and Lambertville, N.J. (1½ hour drive)

Straddling the Delaware River (and the state lines) are the sister cities of New Hope, Pa., and Lambertville, N.J. These two adorable towns are bonded by a shared love of culture … and a toll bridge. The bridge, which is short enough to be easily walkable, transforms the two towns into one fun little city on the river. Both sides of the river are devoted to art; there are studios and galleries no matter where you look. Lambertville, rife with beautiful Victorian architecture, has a decided bend toward antiquing. Every January, the two towns get together to throw an enormous winter festival, featuring ice sculptures, concerts, karaoke, dance parties and more.

Montauk, N.Y. (2½ hour drive)

Of all the winter getaways from NYC, this one is perhaps the best-kept secret. Montauk is a summer town at the tip of Long Island, with boozy beaches, weathered motels and infrastructure that is vastly insufficient for the amount of visiting tourists. During the winter months, however, the crowds disappear. The romance of Montauk in winter comes mostly from the quiet. Situated beyond the Hamptons and over two hours away from the city, it really is an isolated town. There are deep price cuts in terms of hotel rooms, making luxury places like Montauk Manor and Gurney’s far more accessible. Bars and restaurants that were previously impossible to squeeze into suddenly start welcoming walk-in customers. I also recommend a visit to the Montauk Point Lighthouse. While you’re there, take a tour to see the harbor seals, who appear on the rocks near the lighthouse during winter.

Saratoga Springs, N.Y. (3 hour drive)

What better place to relax than the Spa City itself? Once a wellness retreat for wealthy Northeasterners, Saratoga Springs is one of the most unique winter getaways from NYC. The race track is closed in winter months, but you can still visit the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame. Saratoga Springs offers ample room for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. For those who prefer downhill skiing, there are the nearby Gore and West mountains. One of the most unique things to do in Saratoga Springs is to go on a tasting tour of the 21 naturally carbonated mineral water springs. At the Roosevelt Bath House, you can take a relaxing private bath in the natural mineral waters. You can also get a nightcap at a bar made completely of ice.

Mystic, Conn. (3 hour drive)

From the picture-perfect shorefront to the iconic Mystic Pizza, Mystic is one of the most charming winter getaways from NYC. The Mystic Seaport is lovely to visit in the winter, as snow and frost covers the 19^th century village and preservation shipyard. Visit the Mystic Aquarium to see what goes on just below the waves. The seals who live there will be especially happy to see you during the colder weather. Both downtown Mystic and the Olde Mistick Village shopping district are easily walkable, with charming storefronts and fresh seafood eateries. Before you head back home, make sure to stop by B.F. Clyde’s Cider Mill to get some apple cider and authentic maple syrup to tide you over until next time.

Lake Placid, N.Y. (5 hour drive)

Lake Placid, two-time host of the Winter Olympics, has found a second life for its Olympic complex by opening it up for all to enjoy. There is something for everyone at Lake Placid, from skiing and snowboarding down Whiteface Mountain, to ice skating on Mirror Lake, to an epic toboggan chute. The braver among you can go ice climbing on icy cliff faces and frozen waterfalls. You can tour the Lake Placid Olympic Museum to learn more about the winter games of the past and the history of this snowy playground. At the end of the day, kick up your feet at a cozy Lake Placid ski lodge, like Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa, Whiteface Lodge or the Crowne Plaza Resort.

Stowe, Vt. (5 ½ hour drive)

The hills of Stowe, Vt., are alive with the sound of ski slopes. This picturesque Vermont town is a hot spot for skiers young and old, featuring both Mount Mansfield and Smuggler’s Notch State Park. Stowe is an idyllic winter playground, with skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, tubing and much more. For a cozy place to rest your head, you can stay in the Trapp Family Lodge, owned and operated by the actual Von Trapp family. It’s sure to be one of your favorite things in no time. Stowe is one of the farther winter getaways from NYC, but its ski slopes, beautiful landscapes and small-town charm are well worth the drive.

Do you have a favorite place to visit during the colder months? Let us know in the comments below!

Are you headed on a winter weekend getaway from NYC? Book your hotel with the help of AAA!

This post was originally published in 2017 and has been updated.

Travel is an essential part of many of today’s jobs. While traveling for work can have its perks, like being able to escape from the office and experience different locations, business travel is still a task that comes with a few challenges.

Whether you’re a frequent business traveler, or only have to travel for your job a few times per year, these tips can help to make your planning and time away a little easier so you can focus on your work.

Plan Ahead

For business travel and as a general travel rule, try to book as soon as possible. It’s best to book eight to 10 months in advance for major airlines like American, United, Delta, Lufthansa, etc., and six to eight months for smaller carriers like JetBlue and Southwest, advises Stefan Kusznier, a AAA travel agent.

“Think of it as a first come first serve basis,” Kusznier said. “Just like rooms at a hotel, once that “category” of room sells out, the next room becomes available at a higher price. The longer you wait, the more expensive it gets.”

If you know you’ll be flying for work, set up price alerts for flights and/or hotels to compare prices and find the best deals. This can be as easy as signing up for emails/subscribing to travel websites or downloading an app.

If you’re going somewhere you’ve never been, or simply to a location with complicated geography or directions, download a map ahead of time.

You don’t want to lose service or run out of data when you don’t know where you’re going and have someplace to be, but it happens. Through sites like Google Maps, you can use a map while you’re mobile and offline by typing in “OK map” and hitting the download button — just make sure you have enough room on your phone. Or, there’s the tried-and-true method of an “old-school” paper map.

Also, don’t forget to scan or take photos of your important documents and print or email them to yourself. This is especially important for those traveling by plane and/or going abroad.

Pack Smart

Packing smart means being organized and making the most out of limited space. One of the best ways to do this is by folding your clothes efficiently. Two popular methods are either rolling your clothes or using the Marie Kondo fold. Kusznier currently prefers the latter.

“It folds everything into little triangles which helps you see everything,” he says. “Then just grab and go instead of rummaging through your stuff.”

Here’s a pro tip: Add dryer sheets to your luggage to keep things smelling fresh. Later, these same sheets can be used to reduce static cling.

Store smaller items that could get lost in compartmentalized vessels, such as contact lens containers or pill cases. Pack cords — like headphones and phone chargers — in eyeglass cases to avoid tangles. Put toiletries in small, reusable bottles and make sure they’re 3.4 ounces or less if they’re in an airport carry-on. Finally, store secret cash by rolling it up and putting it in an empty lip balm tube. Check out our do’s and don’ts of how to pack a suitcase.

Use a travel checklist to keep you on track and review it before you leave.

Enjoy Getting There

Dealing with the time getting from point A to point B can be tedious. To make getting to where you’re going a little more bearable, try listening to a music playlist, podcast or audiobook. If you’re not driving, you can use the time to catch up on your favorite show or catch some Z’s. Stay busy with a good book or make the most of your business travel time by getting ahead on work.

If you’re not a fan of flying, but find yourself on a plane for work, there may be ways to ease your discomfort.

“Its little things that can make the difference,” says Kusznier. For light claustrophobia or anxiety from lack of control, “sit near the window so you have the visual escape from tight space and the control over what your seat mates get to see.” If your anxiety is more severe, visit your doctor before a trip to discuss your options.

Make the Space Yours

If you’re going to be staying at a location for more than two nights, try making the space feel more like home.

“I utilize the storage in the hotel room,” says Kusznier. “I want to feel like [I’m at] home and not living out of a suitcase.”

This means putting clothes away in drawers, setting up your toiletries in the bathroom and bringing a pair of slippers or slides. Essentially, unpack everything and make the space yours.

Another way to feel more at home is to bring your laptop and an HDMI cable, Amazon Firestick or Chromecast to watch your shows away from home. Sync up with your significant other, roommate or a family member so you can enjoy the show together.

You should also consider bringing a surge protector with multiple outlets in case you need more than your hotel room offers. Also, though many U.S. hotels offer free Wi-Fi, this many not always be the case. If you have to travel internationally, consider making a hotspot or bringing your own router.

Hotel Hacks to Save on Food

Room service can be expensive, but there are certain hotel hacks that can help you save.

Consider your options. Breakfast and lunch are usually cheaper, so opt to eat out for those meals and try to be a little more thrifty at dinnertime. Supplement meals with food you can make right in your room. Hotel rooms often come with a coffee maker, but it doesn’t have to be just for coffee or tea. You can use the hot water to make a variety of instant foods, including noodles, oatmeal, mac and cheese, rice or soup.

Choose pick-up instead of delivery to avoid some room service fees by walking down to the hotel restaurant and picking up food yourself. You could also order food from a local eatery or use a food delivery app.

Finally, bring a reusable bottle and never pay for water. You can bring it through an airport empty and fill it after. The same goes for while you’re at your hotel. You’ll surely find water fountains and/or bottle refills, especially near the gym.

Traveling for work can be stressful, but by planning ahead, packing efficiently and hacking your hotel stay, it could be a little easier.

To assure your lodging will be perfect for your specific needs, stay at a AAA Inspected & Approved and Diamond Rated hotel. Whether you’re looking for something budget-friendly or more refined, there are nearly 59,000 hotels to choose from. Learn more about AAA Diamond Ratings.

What are your favorite business travel tips? Share them with us in the comments.

When Leonard Miller was in college, his mother forced him to sell his hot rod because he was spending more time working on the car than working on his studies. Little did she know that it would be her son’s automotive expertise that would power him to a pioneering career.

Miller grew up outside of Philadelphia where his mother worked as a housekeeper. It was this occupation, in fact, that indirectly introduced young Leonard to cars. “Living on those estates when I was real young, they talked about race cars and race horses,” Miller told Smithsonian Magazine. “All of these rich, white families had all these rare cars that were beautiful and sounded good. So, I said that was for me. And that’s what started me off to a lifetime of races.”

Miller would go on to pave the way for African American team owners, crews, mechanics, and drivers in the primarily white world of auto racing. It began when he formed Miller Brothers Racing with his brother Dexter. The team won dozens of races throughout the Northeast from 1969–1971.

In the early 1970s his career took a significant leap forward. Miller had co-founded Vanguard Racing Inc. and became the first African American owner to enter a car in the Indianapolis 500 when the team earned a spot in the 1972 race. Vanguard would turn into Black American Racers Inc. the following year. It would go on to become the first black professional race team to have a national sponsorship and to enter an African American driver in competition in England. During the mid-1970s the team was ranked among the top 60 in the world.

During this time Miller also created the Black American Racers Association with, amongst others, Wendell Scott, the first black driver to compete in NASCAR. The group promoted driver development and honored African American drivers, mechanics and others in auto racing. At its height, the association included 5,000 members from 20 different states and across stock car, open-wheel, and drag racing.

(Photos courtesy of the National Museum of American History, Smithsonian institution)

With the help of his son, Leonard T. Miller, the automotive pioneer later founded Miller Racing Group to compete in NASCAR racing. The team won many races through the 1990s and early aughts. In fact, the father-son duo became the first African-American team owners to win a track championship in NASCAR history when they won the stock car title at Old Dominion Speedway in Manassas, Virginia, in 2005. However, gaining sponsorships was a difficult task from the start. When funding started to fade, the team folded in 2006.

Leonard Miller was inducted into the Black Athletes Hall of Fame in 1973. Many of his awards, trophies and other Black American Racers memorabilia are currently housed at the Smithsonian Institute.

For more stories about African American automotive pioneers, read about the work of C.R. Patterson, Charlie Wiggins and Garrett Morgan.

Can’t make it to the legendary Mardi Gras celebration in New Orleans this year? No need to fret – there are countless events, festivals and celebrations throughout the Northeast for you to get your jambalaya fix on or around Fat Tuesday (Feb. 25).

Here are five celebrations that will have you on your dancing feet, catching beads and partying the night away, just like you would on Bourbon Street!

Bethlehem, Pa.

Attending a party at a historic hotel seems like the perfect way to celebrate Mardi Gras, and you can do just that at the Historic Hotel Bethlehem in Pennsylvania. The hotel is said to have many ghosts living there – a common theme in New Orleans, as well. Don’t worry – they’re said to be friendly!

The Mardi Gras celebration takes place Feb. 21 with a New Orleans-inspired feast featuring crawfish etouffee, chicken and shrimp gumbo, beignets, shrimp and grits and so many more notable Southern dishes. And bring your dancing shoes to dance the night away with live Louisiana dance music from local band Zydeco-a-Go-Go.

Book now.

Boston

The South Street Diner brings Bourbon Street to Boston with its all-day Mardi Gras celebration on Fat Tuesday. From 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., you can expect that authentic New Orleans feel at the diner with an all-you-can-eat jambalaya feast, along with a full Louisiana-style Mardi Gras menu. Think crawfish boil, alligator sausage and shrimp po’boys. Our advice? Bring your appetite! Authentic king cake straight from the source – Gambino’s Bakery in New Orleans – will also be served.

The atmosphere will make you feel like you’re right on Bourbon Street! Employees, dressed head-to-toe in traditional Mardi Gras garb, will hand out beads to patrons. New Orleans’ zydeco music will be playing on the jukebox all night, so this is definitely the way to celebrate Mardi Gras if you’re Boston-based.

Massapequa, N.Y.

Big Daddy’s, aka the home of Southern food, knows how to celebrate Mardi Gras. A father-and-son duo run the Long Island restaurant that specializes in foods from New Orleans. So you can expect to get some authentic gumbo and an oversized Hurricane (they import the drink mix from the original, Pat O’Brien’s, in New Orleans).

The restaurant will celebrate Mardi Gras Madness Week Feb. 19-25, with nightly specials and live music. The Mardi Gras celebration kicks off with a crawfish boil, 2-for-2 oysters and live music. The biggest night will be on Fat Tuesday, with a traditional buffet, live music and party favors. Don’t forget your beads!

Philadelphia, Pa.

Celebrate Mardi Gras Philly-style with an epic party featuring 16 Philadelphia Mummers String Bands. The Mummers are dressed in elaborate costumes from head to toe and put on two lively performances at Xfinity Live!, a massive venue in South Philly on Feb. 23. You can expect to be a part of a lot of merriment and dancing!

This family-friendly event has booths with activities to fill the day: You can try on a costume and snag a photo with a Mummer in the open-air photo booth for a souvenir. Or try your hand at the “Build an Umbrella” station to make a bejeweled Mummers umbrella with sequins and feathers. There’s even a “bull-riding” contest to raise money for the bands. And of course, no Mardi Gras celebration is complete without some delicious food and drinks. This venue does not disappoint, with a laundry list of restaurants and vendors throughout the location.

Washington, D.C.

In recent years, The Wharf, a popular waterfront neighborhood in Washington, D.C., has become a hot spot for events and celebrations. On Feb. 22, it will host an extravaganza featuring an animated parade, dance party with live music and a spectacular fireworks finale for the biggest Mardi Gras celebration in the city. The parade features custom-designed floats from local businesses with bead-tossing galore, all with a gorgeous view overlooking the water.

The best part? The event is totally free (po’boys not included, but they’re worth the extra buck!). Neighborhood restaurants will serve up New Orleans-style specials and there will be a multitude of activities and craft for kids, including delicious s’mores-making at the Capitals Campfire at Camp Wharf.

How do you celebrate Mardi Gras? Tell us in the comments. 

If you couldn’t make it to NOLA this year, you can still start planning for next year! Book your trip with AAA Travel. 

Procrastination reigns on college campuses, but don’t put off thinking about saving money until you graduate and begin your career. The cost of books, tuition and housing are on the rise. Your future after college will be brighter if you wisely budget your expenses and limit your debt while you’re still in school.

It may seem impossible to juggle classes, a social life, and perhaps also a job, on top of paying for college. Don’t stress. Research shows that college students are becoming savvier shoppers, and consequently spending less on their course materials.

Take a look at these money saving tips for college students to see what you need to do to reduce your college expenses.

Free or Low-Cost Housing

College has never been more expensive than it is now, meaning it’s as important as ever to look at money saving tips for college students. From 1988 to 2018 the price of college tuition increased 213% at public universities.

While students can’t haggle with the campus cashier’s office for a bargain on tuition, they can opt for cheaper housing options. The average price of on-campus room and board for a public four-year college is $101,510, according to the College Board. How can you get a bargain on your housing situation? Explore your options and be honest about what you can afford. Your financial aid office can assist you in creating a student budget to see how much aid you need. The bad news is that colleges sometimes don’t give out enough financial aid to pay for room and board, so you must find cheaper options.

Dorm life is a seminal college experience, but you don’t need a private bathroom and room to have that same experience. Instead pick a shared dorm to save cash. When you’re a junior or senior, consider becoming a resident adviser for free room and board. There’s also the option to being a live-in nanny throughout the school year or during the summer months. Your last and probably cheapest option: live with relatives. College is a time to celebrate freedom from your parents for the first time, but having financial freedom when you graduate is even more important.

Smarter Book Deals

More students are making smart money choices when it comes to buying their course materials. Students spent $579 on average for course materials during the 2016-17 school year, according to the National Association of College Stores. That’s a $23 drop from the 2015-16 academic year.

How can you save on your course materials? Don’t buy new books unless that’s your only choice. Going to the campus bookstore for your used textbooks is convenient, but remember to do price comparisons with books sold online. Does your campus have a textbook rental program? If not, check rental prices on websites like BookRenter.com. Or see if you can borrow materials from other students, purchase digital versions or check out materials from the library.

More Money Saving Tips for College Students

Getting a good grade in chemistry class takes studying, math skills, experimentation and a bit of hard work. The same goes for taking advantage of money saving tips for college students. Of course, the main problem is college students don’t typically have an income, so they rely on their parents and loans. Paying for college is expensive, but that doesn’t mean that you need to spend excessively or incur more debt than necessary.

Don’t be shy about always asking for student discounts. People understand that college students are on a tight budget. You’ll be surprised to get student discounts for everything from computers, phone service, car insurance, gym membership, museums, clothing and more! Never be afraid to ask for a discount or request work study options in exchange for freebies like yoga or Pilates classes.

College Loans for Students

Resist the urge to borrow more money than you need for your housing, tuition and fees, books and food. Before you take out another loan, try for scholarships. You may be surprised to know that some scholarships don’t have GPA or essay requirements. It’s free to apply for scholarships, so you have nothing to lose. And it’s never too early to apply. You can start winning scholarship money while you’re still in high school, which will be applied toward your college. To find all the scholarships you’re eligible for, schedule an appointment with your financial aid adviser. Also do online research to find a local grant agency and search the U.S. Department of Labor’s website.

If you do take out college loans for students, borrow only what you need. Make sure you understand the interest rates on the loan. Try to pay off the interest on need-based loans while you’re school. Even if you pay $20 a month that will help reduce the loan amount you eventually owe. That will give you a headstart when you graduate and join the workforce.

Saving money during college can be tough, but it is doable. Are you a student or former student who has developed the skills of budgeting? Share your money saving tips for college students in the comments. 

For help paying for college, visit AAA.com/StudentLoans.

Have you ever wanted to be trapped in a metal tube for half a day? Long airline flights can be difficult, mostly because they’re extremely boring. Many airlines come with entertainment systems, but watching multiple movies in a row can get exhausting. For me, podcasts have always been the way to go when I want to pass time on a long flight. A lot of the shows I listen to are goofy and casual, just a couple of friends joking around, but the best podcasts for a long flight are usually very serialized, heavily-reported stories. Why? Because it’s something that will actually sustain your attention for a long period of time.

If you’re looking for the best podcasts for a long flight, take a look at these gripping shows and limited series.

You Must Remember This

“You Must Remember This” by Karina Longworth is a beloved podcast all about Hollywood’s first century. This podcast boasts an incredible library of episodes all about the silver screen. One of the best things about “You Must Remember This” is that Longworth breaks the podcast up into series of episodes devoted to different subject. My personal favorite series are “Six Degrees of Song of the South,” “Charles Manson’s Hollywood” and “Dead Blondes.” Longworth’s meticulous research and soothing voice make “You Must Remember This” one of the most compelling podcasts out there. Before you get on the plane, make sure you’ve downloaded all the episodes in the series that you want to listen to!

“Song of the South” Runtime: ~5 hours

“Manson” Runtime: ~8 hours

“Dead Blondes” Runtime: ~9.5 hours

30 for 30

Based on the ESPN documentary series, “30 for 30” is a podcast about all the most fascinating moments in sports culture. You don’t have to be a sports fan to enjoy this podcast – I know I’m not. The stories are sure to enthrall any listener. My personal favorite seasons of “30 for 30” are “The Sterling Affairs” and “Bikram.” “The Sterling Affairs” tells the story of “the worst owner in sports history,” the complicated history of basketball in Los Angeles and the power of real estate. “Bikram” tells the story of the rise of Bikram Choudhury’s brand of hot yoga – and how he eventually began to abuse that power.

“The Sterling Affairs” Runtime: ~4 hours

“Bikram” Runtime: ~3 hours

Over My Dead Body: Joe Exotic

The story of Joe Exotic (zookeeper, traveling magician, YouTuber, presidential hopeful, local celebrity, lord of the tigers, etc.) is so bizarre that you’ll never want to stop listening. “Over My Dead Body,” a true crime podcast, dedicates an entire season to Joe Exotic’s rise and fall. And trust me, there’s a big fall.

Runtime: ~4 hours

The Dream, Season One

I have recommended “The Dream” over and over, and I’m not going to stop now. Season one of Jane Marie’s podcast, “The Dream,” is all about the world of multilevel marketing schemes, or MLMs. Marie interviews a participant in the “airplane games” of the 1980s, goes deep into multilevel marketing’s ties to the White House and even has a former cosmetics marketer try (and fail) to make money selling makeup through an MLM. This show is shocking, funny and sometimes even enraging. Season two, airing right now, is about the wellness industry, and it’s shaping up to be just as good as the first season.

Runtime: ~7 hours

StartUp: Success Academy

“StartUp” is a podcast about (you guessed it) start-ups. In the beginning, it was mostly about the birth of Gimlet Media (the podcast company) but over the years, its covered everything from the beginning of Friendster, to the meltdown of American Apparel, to the process of “planting” new churches. “Success Academy” is a series about the eponymous Success Academy, a relatively young network of charter schools in New York City. Founder and CEO Eva Moskowitz has grown Success into one of the highest-performing schools in the city, so why is the school facing so much criticism? “StartUp” investigates every facet of the issue, from the perspectives of employees, students, families and education experts. There are no easy answers in this series, which makes it an incredibly rewarding listening experience.

Runtime: ~6 hours

Dirty John

John Meehan seemed like the perfect guy – a single, attractive doctor who wanted to take Debra Newell out on a date. But Debra’s daughters were suspicious. What was John really after? Reported by Chris Goffard of the Los Angeles Times, “Dirty John” is one of the best limited series podcasts out there. Just when you think the story is winding to an end, things get even weirder. With all of its unbelievable twists and turns, it’s one of the best podcasts for a long flight.

Runtime: ~4 hours

Have you ever prepared for your flight by downloading a bunch of podcasts? Which are the best podcasts for a long flight in your opinion? Let us know in the comments below!

Looking for more? Check out my articles on the best limited series podcasts, the best road trip podcasts and the best podcasts for sleep and relaxation. 

AAA has unveiled its Five Diamond list for 2020, with a local establishment – the Boston Harbor Hotel – making the list for the first time.

Made up of just 119 hotels and 67 restaurants, this exclusive group represents the best of AAA’s transformed Diamond Program. Only 0.3% of the nearly 60,000 AAA Diamond hotels and restaurants across the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean have earned Five Diamond status.

BOOK YOUR STAY AT THE BOSTON HARBOR HOTEL WITH AAA.

To earn the coveted AAA Five Diamond designation, hotels and restaurants must pass a rigorous evaluation that includes unannounced, in-person inspections, anonymous overnight stays for hotels, and, finally, review by a panel of experts as an additional step to ensure credibility. All AAA Diamond Program hotels and restaurants are reevaluated annually to ensure they provide the best experience for travelers and diners.

These are the newest hotels and restaurants on the AAA Five Diamond list for 2020. Click the links below to learn more about these stunning places and begin planning your unforgettable getaway.

Hotels

• Boston Harbor Hotel (Boston) – Gracious hospitality is prevalent at this luxury hotel, which merges modernity and classic decor. The guest rooms offer a supremely luxurious experience with a view of marina activity and local marine life from Boston Harbor’s Rowes Wharf.
• Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North (Scottsdale, AZ) – Well-designed landscaping seamlessly blends with the desert surroundings, allowing for striking views from the territorial-style casitas, each with a fireplace and terrace.
• Hotel Bel Air (Los Angeles, CA) – This classical establishment was brought into the 21^st century with contemporary, elegant and high-quality decor. The location is the perfect backdrop in which to enjoy the meticulously manicured gardens and the lovely pond, home to graceful swans.
• Hotel Xcaret Mexico (Playa del Carmen, Mexico) – This all-inclusive resort is packed with activities, including eight theme parks, many pools, three exercise rooms and a private island. Many of the modern rooms open up to pools or the river.
• Mandarin Oriental, Canouan (Canouan, St. Vincent and the Grenadines) – This world-class property, unique for its remote location, offers just 26 large suites and 13 villas, as well as a private beach, impressive marble work throughout, and leading-edge technology enhancements.
• UNICO 20°N 87°W Hotel Riviera Maya (Akumal, Mexico) – This unique property features guest rooms with spacious balconies offering an oversize seating area and large oval-shaped hot tubs. Each guest room is assigned a local host who is tasked with ensuring that guests have a pleasurable stay to maximize their valuable vacation time.

Restaurants

• Ha’ (Playa del Carmen, Mexico) – Guests will discover themselves surrounded by flowing water as they enter the dining room. The ever-changing, seven-course tasting menu reflects a variety of regional influences, paired with fine Mexican wines.
• Le Baccara (Gatineau, Canada) – Nestled atop Casino du Lac-Leamy, this adults-only dining room has a bank of oversize windows, which afford views of the Ottawa skyline. Custom table settings, fine crystal stemware, an impressive art collection and distinctive service make this a favorite place for special occasions.
• Providence (Los Angeles, CA) – Prepare for a thrilling culinary adventure and for an optimum experience select the multicourse chef’s tasting menu. It changes seasonally, but count on unusual and exotic choices like local Santa Barbara sea urchin, Pacific geoduck (a large saltwater clam native to the West Coast) and Australian spanner crab.
• SingleThread Farm – Restaurant – Inn (Healdsburg, CA) – Enjoy an amazing 11-course dinner that’s expertly served using ingredients from the chef and owner’s nearby farm and artisan items from around the world. Dishes may include Santa Barbara abalone, smoked trout and braised lamb, each artfully presented.
• Smyth (Chicago, IL) – This remarkable restaurant partners with an Illinois farm to supply its creative kitchen with fresh products. Choose between three prix fixe menus, each offered with a variety of wine pairings. Every dish emerges as a work of art in both its appearance and amazing flavor.

AAA Four Diamond hotels and restaurants, which represent just 4.2% of the total, are also an exclusive group. They must be refined and stylish with upscale physical attributes, extensive amenities and a high degree of hospitality, service and attention to detail. To see the complete lists of 2020 AAA Four and Five Diamond hotels and restaurants, visit AAA.com/DiamondAwards.

Earlier this year, AAA updated its highly acclaimed AAA Diamond Program, modernized to meet the needs of today’s travelers. A new Diamond designation reflecting AAA’s professional inspector reviews using updated guidelines sets the program apart from services that rely on unverified hotel and restaurant ratings.

For more information on AAA Diamond Program and the Five Diamond list, visit AAA.com/Diamonds.

College is expensive, and between classes, homework, studying and extracurricular activities, it’s also time-consuming. You might not think you have time for a job on top of all your other commitments, but there are plenty of part-time jobs and side gigs out there for college students.

In 2017, 43% of full-time undergraduates and 81% of part-time undergraduates worked while in college, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Having part-time employment improves your financial situation by offsetting some costs. You could start paying back your loans while still in school, cover your textbooks or simply start saving.

Most millennials have small or nonexistent savings accounts. In 2017, 46% of millennials (ages 18 to 24) had $0 in savings while 21% had less than $1,000, according to a survey by GOBankingRates.

It never hurts to have some extra cash in your pocket, in case you need some unexpected school supplies or have to replace something that breaks or gets lost. On the more self-helping side, having income can alleviate some stress; start a rainy-day fund or treat yourself every once and a while. You could go see a movie or local show, dine out with friends, take a day trip or refresh yourself at a salon or spa.

For college students looking to make some money, there are a variety of opportunities to fit all kinds of interests, schedules, skills and personality types. It’s prime time for side gigs thanks to all the temporary work and part-time jobs college students can discover in just a few clicks.

1. On-Campus

First, consider the kinds of services your university offers. Between the campus library, eating establishments (like a dining hall) and coffee spots — we all know how college students live on caffeine — there are plenty of places you can work within decent proximity to class. Often after your first year of residency, you can become a tour guide for possible incoming students or tutor your peers in classes you’ve already passed. If you live on campus, you could become a resident assistant (RA). Some colleges even offer additional rewards to RAs like single rooms and/or discounts on room and board. One of the biggest perks of working for your university is that your job should prioritize working around your class schedule.

2. Freelance

If you have specific skills, interests or want to potentially learn something new and get paid to do so, freelancing could be perfect for you. Creative types often opt to freelance and earn money doing something they enjoy, such as design, photography, video editing, writing and so on. Working as a freelancer offers the opportunity to work online, from the comfort of your home and at your own convenience. Additionally, any work you do can become part of your portfolio and help in your search for future employment.

3. Retail/Cashier

Think about the kinds of places that typically surround a college or university: banks, bars, bookstores, clothing stores, coffee shops, grocery stores and places to eat. These establishments offer retail positions, aka some of the easiest jobs to find and secure. These types of opportunities can be ideal for college students. For example, banks open early; you could be a teller if you have afternoon or night classes. On the other hand, bars (if you’re old enough) and restaurants are usually bustling at night, and so you could work after classes.

4. Gig Work

Another kind of opportunity found online is a temporary job or gig. These can be very short term, lasting only a day or two. Gigs are posted on apps or through sites like TaskRabbit, a mobile marketplace where you’ll get paid to do some manual labor. If you’re handy, good at cleaning, organizing, packing etc., you might have what it takes to be a gig worker. Gigs are perfect for students with extremely packed or continuously changing schedules. Also, depending on the type of job, you might be able to get in some exercise and skip the gym.

5. Paid Internship

While harder to find than an unpaid internship, paid opportunities are out there. Many internships can be found online, count toward class credit and/or align with your career goals. They can also be remote, but these are often more sought-after. Once more, your employer will know you’re in school and should try to work around your schedule. Internships are great to add to a resume, help you gain experience and — depending on the opportunity — build up your portfolio.

For some, traditional jobs are a thing of the past. If you need something that offers more flexibility, freelancing or gig work could be for you. However, any job where you don’t have to physically be there or lacks a routine requires you manage your own time efficiently, and that can be difficult.

If you’re looking to make some money while in college, find out what kind of job is right for you with a little research and trying different things. Another benefit of part-time jobs and gigs are that they don’t have to be forever.

Student loans help pay for school, but having an income can allow you to cover unforeseen expenses, textbooks, occasional indulgences — for mental health of course — and start building up a savings account. Once you’re making money, our tips on saving and money management can help you make the most of it.

Did we forget something? What are the best kinds of jobs for college students? Should college students try to work or focus on their studies?

Learn about AAA’s student lending products. 

You definitely don’t have to be a kid to enjoy the magic of Disney. It’s actually way more common than most people think for adults to go to Walt Disney World without kids in tow. During my time working for the mouse, I discovered a treasure trove of things to do at Disney World for adults. I met thousands of newly married couples on their honeymoons, retirees who treated the parks like their personal playground and groups of Disneybounding superfans in their 20s and 30s.

True to Walt’s original vision, the parks are fun for kids and kids at heart. There are plenty of things to do at Disney World for adults.

The Scariest Rides in Walt Disney World

Now that you’re a bit taller (and a bit braver) than you were at 5 years old, you’re ready to go on the big kid rides. Thrill rides at Disney don’t usually get as intense as thrill rides at other theme parks do. They only have one roller coaster that goes upside-down, and the most thrilling ride in the Magic Kingdom is filled with animatronic rabbits. But then again, Epcot’s centrifuge simulator ride, Mission: Space, is notoriously intense. You can definitely find thrills and chills if you look for them.

1. Dinosaur (Animal Kingdom).
2. Expedition Everest (Animal Kingdom).
3. Mission: Space – The Orange One (Epcot).
4. The Tower of Terror (Hollywood Studios).
5. The first five seconds of Rockin’ Roller Coaster (Hollywood Studios).
6. Space Mountain if you accidentally put your hands up (Magic Kingdom).
7. Splash Mountain (Magic Kingdom).
8. The part of “It’s a Small World” when you realize it’s a lot longer than you remember (Magic Kingdom).
9. The wait time for Peter Pan’s Flight (conveniently located across from Small World).
10. Dinosaur
11. I haven’t gotten a chance to ride the “Frozen” ride. Is it scary? (Epcot).

The best part about having no young children to supervise is that you can split up and take the single rider line, which usually has much lower wait times. Make sure you see the fireworks shows at the Magic Kingdom, Epcot and Hollywood Studios. Nobody’s too old for fireworks.

Tour of a Lifetime

One of the most interesting things to do at Disney World for adults is to take a behind-the-scenes tour. These kinds of tours might have sent 5-year-old you into floods of tears, but grown-up you will be amazed at all the hard work that cast members put in to making the magic happen. The perfect choice is the Keys to the Kingdom Tour, which goes backstage (and … below stage?) at the Magic Kingdom to reveal some of the secrets behind the fantasy. Take advantage of your kidlessness: This is a tour that only adults can take.

Bon Appetit!

Rides and tours aren’t the only things the Disney parks have to offer. World Showcase, wedged behind Epcot’s Future World, is famous for its variety of restaurants and drinks from different cultures. You can drink or eat “around the world” at any time, but the best time to go to World Showcase is during Epcot’s annual fall Food and Wine Festival. It is exactly as delicious as the name implies and it’s one of the best things for adults to do at Disney World.

Speaking of things that are both delicious and fun, make sure to stop by Trader Sam’s at the Polynesian. Trader Sam’s is a fan-favorite tiki bar that has colorful effects, even more colorful cocktails and tongue-in-cheek references to different Disney attractions in their menu and decor. Jellyrolls, a wickedly fun dueling piano bar at Disney’s BoardWalk, is also not to be missed.

If you’re looking for a more substantial meal, splurge on the Grand Floridian restaurant Victoria & Albert’s. It’s easily the best restaurant on property, with a romantic atmosphere and a AAA Five Diamond Rating. For an extra-special evening, book the chef’s table. You’ll be seated at a table in the kitchen, where the head chef will prepare your unique menu and serve it himself. It is a three-hour, 10-course dining experience you’ll never forget and definitely a must on a list of things to do at Disney World for adults.

And Finally, Some Relaxation

After all that hard work playing, eating and drinking, head on over to one of Disney’s Senses Spas. The full-service spa has a wide variety of treatments and amazing facilities, including a steam room, a hot tub and heated tile recliners. It’s one of the most peaceful things to do at Disney World for adults. Take it from me: I once fell asleep in the relaxation room for two hours.

Senses can be found on property at The Grand Floridian and Saratoga Springs. Some other hotels I would recommend to adults traveling sans younglings are Port Orleans Riverside, the Yacht and Beach Clubs, the Animal Kingdom Lodge and the villas and bungalows at the Polynesian. You can’t really go wrong with choosing a Disney resort, though. You’ll enjoy your time at any of them.

Parting thoughts: The Festival of Fantasy parade will make you believe in magic again. The Frozen sing-a-long show is hilarious, I swear. Soarin’ made me cry. If you can, ride the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train during the fireworks show. And Be Our Guest Restaurant isn’t over-hyped, it’s actually that good.

Have you gone to Disney sans kids? What’s your favorite way to do Disney World for adults?

Plan, book and save on your next Disney vacation with AAA.  

This post was published in 2017 and has been updated. 

Priya Parthasarathy is a busy mom, fitness enthusiast, avid traveler – and a podiatrist. When she travels, she walks, and says Paris is her favorite city to travel by foot.

“I was recently there with my sister in February,” said the American Podiatric Medical Association spokesperson. “We could easily walk from where we stayed in the 17th arrondissement to the Eiffel Tower. We barely used taxis.”

If you’re planning a trip where walking is front and center, Parthasarathy advises making any new shoe purchases two weeks in advance. “It takes seven to 10 days to break in the shoes and ensure they are comfortable, do not cause any blisters and fit your feet,” she said.

Consider the terrain. Paris, Florence and Edinburgh, for instance, all feature plenty of cobblestones. Weather can also play a role. If it will be rainy or cold, make sure your footwear is waterproof or water resistant, maybe with a warm lining. Parthasarathy brought the Blayre III water-resistant boot from UGG on her rainy trip to Paris to keep her feet warm, dry and well-supported.

Also think about your to-do list. If you’re planning to tour the famed Sydney Opera House or the Art Gallery of New South Wales, you’ll want a lightweight walking shoe that rises just above the ankle. Ditto if you’re planning a stroll between beer gardens in Munich, or the stunning Uffizi Gallery in Florence.

If you’re taking on Sydney’s 5K Federation Cliff Walk, or Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, you’ll want a firmer, sturdier hiking boot. “Hiking boots typically rise above the ankle to offer ankle support and reduce the risk of injury,” Parthasarathy said.

And if you’re hitting Sydney’s famed Bondi Beach, you’ll want something easy to slip off.

“The mistake that most people make is purchasing flimsy flip flops for the beach,” said Parthasarathy. “You should look for sandals with more support, ones that do not fold completely in half.” A Birkenstock sandal, she says, is a good option.

Just in case, pack moleskin, adhesive bandages and antibiotic cream for foot first-aid. For sore feet, “ice is always your best friend,” she said. Get in the habit of rolling your tootsies over a frozen water bottle at the end of each walking adventure to get your feet ready for their next steps.

Read more articles about travel-related health topics at AAA.com/LiveWell.

When you visit a place that has blue skies 300 days per year, with Native American heritage and the third most active art market in the country, you’ll be pretty happy. Throw in world-class cuisine, stunning adobe architecture and mountainous national parks, and you’ll be jumping for joy.

Santa Fe, N.M., has this understated “pinch me” appeal, like a small-town vibe with culture galore. Founded by Spanish colonists in 1610, it’s the nation’s oldest state capital. An hour northeast of Albuquerque in the high-altitude desert, it also sits at the intersection of continental and Native American legacies, and its contemporary tribal presence is a vivid reminder of that history.

There are visual reminders, too. The ubiquitous art scene is manifested at Canyon Road, where you can stroll its half-mile of 100 art galleries and restaurants offering a vibrant collision of local art, architecture and food. The Santa Fe Artists Market at the Railyard (March-December) is a smorgasbord of local artists selling handcrafted ceramics, turquoise jewelry, paintings and more, while local Native American artisans have sidewalk stalls at the Palace of the Governors, now the New Mexico History Museum. Sit in the historic downtown Plaza with a coffee and practice your price negotiation technique.

The Museum of International Folk Art, inside the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture, features hundreds of mini dioramas in the world’s largest folk art collection. Meanwhile, Meow Wolf ’s hands-on environment is a must for families, blending contemporary pop culture with sci-fi geekdom.

For further adventures, drive an hour to Bandelier National Monument to explore 13th-century pueblo cave dwellings. Only 40 miles west of the city is Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, featuring hiking trails and bird-watching amid the cone-shaped hoodoos and plateaus formed by volcanic eruptions 6 million years ago.

After all this activity, you’ll need sustenance. Since New Mexico is the chile capital of the U.S., its dishes begin and end with this pepper. Whether you order sopapilla, deep-fried dough stuffed with ground meat and cheese, or the posole stew, you must decide, “red, green or Christmas?” referring to the chile sauce you prefer. Visit La Boca for upscale tapas, La Choza for authentic enchiladas smothered in chiles, or El Farol for live flamenco dancing.

Explore new destinations at AAA.com/CityGuide.

If the 1,000-year-old capital of Norway is ranked as having the best quality of life among large European cities, imagine what it’s like to visit? Let’s just answer that right away: It’s spectacular. Though it’s not cheap, its joie de vivre more than makes up for it, plus there’s lots to do, the food is mouth-wateringly diverse, and its people are welcoming.

Sitting on the Scandinavian country’s southern coast at the head of the Oslofjord, Oslo is also growing. Urban amenities like a modern metro system and various additional access points via the Three Rings road make it easier to get around, plus it’s incredibly walkable. Height restrictions on architecture mean the city is not overwhelming in size – rather it’s delightfully approachable and undeniably charming.

Though this city is modernizing, its Viking legacy and traditions remain stalwart components of its contemporary lifestyle. The best way to learn about this history is at the Viking Ship Museum at the Museum of Cultural History, where life-size replicas of Vikings’ speedy rowing ships are on display.

Year round, visitors flock here to appreciate its striking beauty and the chance to see the northern lights, which are exceptional given darkness reigns anywhere from 14 to 18 hours a day from November through March.

This wonderland doesn’t hibernate in the winter, however. Three ski resorts within 45 minutes of the city offer an escape into the snowy mountains, where skiing is lifeblood. Snowboarding, terrain parks, snowshoeing and sledding are a few of the options at Oslo Winter Park, Oslo Ski Center and Sloreasen Ski Slope, which also have accommodations and dining.

For arts and culture, visit the Oslo Opera House, home to the Norwegian National Opera and Ballet. It appears to rise from the banks of the Oslofjord, as its roof sweeps down to the ground encouraging pedestrians to walk up it. Check out Gamla or Rockefeller Music Hall for live music.

Head to the Frogner borough on the west side for a glance at Vigeland installation at Frogner Park, a public art exhibit consisting of sculptures and larger structures created by artist Gustav Vigeland between 1924-1943. Then peruse Bogstadveien, Norway’s longest shopping street, with more than 300 exclusive shops, entertainment and restaurants.

For plant-based sweet treats and coffees that are good for you, stop by Oslo Raw, also in Frogner. Or pop into Oslo Street Food with four different bars and 16 food stands, all in the former Torggata Bad, the largest public bath in the 1920s.

Go exploring at AAA.com/CityGuide.