Dedication to protecting the planet shouldn’t take a vacation just because we do. Being a sustainable traveler or eco-tourist can seem daunting – you have to consider where and how to travel, along with what to bring, do, take back and use – but it can be done.

Planning is already an essential step in preparing to travel. So take time to consider how Earth-friendly you’re being and incorporate a few of these sustainable travel guidelines into your travel practices.

Plan for the Planet

One of the best ways to travel sustainably is to visit places making genuine efforts to be green. They conserve water and electricity, eliminate or reduce use of plastics and preserve and respect the local people, environment and wildlife.

Be aware of “greenwashing.” This is when companies attempt to deceive potential consumers by making their activities, policies and/or products appear more environmentally-friendly than they actually are. You want to make sure they’ve been evaluated by a third party like the Global Sustainable Tourism Council.

Explore local transportation options. Choose a locale where you can walk, bike or use fuel-efficient/electric buses or trains. Try to stay in the general location you’re visiting. It’s the best way to make the most of your trip and keep your travel emissions to a minimum.

Pack responsibly. This means packing lightly and purposefully. The actual weight of your belongings matters when it comes to traveling sustainably, especially if you’re flying to your destination.

Avoid single-use plastics by bringing your own alternatives. Some basics include reusable bags, reusable bottles (BPA-free plastic, ceramic, glass and metal), collapsible containers, reusable straws (glass, silicone or stainless steel) utensils (bamboo, metal, wood) and multi-use items.

Ready, Set, Travel

Transportation accounts for nearly 30% of total U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.

High-occupancy buses or trains are sustainable travel options. Trains can carry thousands of passengers quickly and efficiently. In 2017, rail travel accounted for only 2% of greenhouse gas emissions, according to the EPA.

Or you could take a road trip with family or friends, similar to carpooling. To be greener, drive (or rent) an electric car, hybrid, renewable-fuels vehicle or alternative green vehicles.

If you’re flying, look for daytime or nonstop flights. When it comes to planes and their effect on global warming and climate change, “night flights have the strongest warming impact, because during the daytime contrails actually reflect some sunlight away from the earth,” according to the David Suzuki Foundation. Additionally, planes are more fuel efficient during longer flights due to high-altitude flying, while takeoffs and landings create more emissions. Research carriers and support those with sustainable travel options. Look for the most fuel-efficient airline, sit in economy over first class and consider carbon offset programs.

Practice Sustainability

When you finally reach your destination, you can have amazing experiences while still acting sustainably.

Consider taking pictures instead of taking things home. They’re weightless and capture memorable moments perfectly. If you really want a souvenir, either for yourself or a loved one, purchase something that will benefit the local economy. Go for handmade trinkets, buy from resident artisans and steer clear of anything imported. Also avoid wildlife products like coral, fur, ivory, leather, turtle shells etc. for both moral and legal reasons.

It can be tough to ethically and sustainably navigate animal attractions. It’s best to see undisturbed wildlife in their natural habitats via nature hikes, safaris or tours. Avoid activities promising hands-on experiences or close encounters and never feed the animals. This could throw off their natural behaviors or possibly make them sick.

If you’re hiking or traveling on foot, stay on designated paths to avoid harming local flora and refrain from picking. Transporting flowers or plants could introduce potentially invasive species to other locations. If you’re doing anything in or near an ocean, be especially mindful not to disturb habitats.

One way to be an ethical traveler is to leave a place better than you found it. This could be as simple as picking up any trash you see and recycling or disposing of it properly. Try acting like a local, respecting their customs and trying local cuisine. When sampling native food, try to finish it if you can or share with others to avoid food waste.

Finally, practice the same energy-saving actions you do at home. Turn off or unplug air conditioners, chargers, electronics, fans and lights when you go out. Watch your water consumption by taking short showers (not baths). Avoid hotel laundry by reusing towels. When leaving, return any printed tourist materials so they can be reused. Take any leftover toiletries with you; they might be thrown away otherwise. “The hospitality industry throws away billions of bars of gently used soap into landfills every single year,” according to Sundara, an organization that turns old soap bars into new ones and distributes them to communities in need. You can reuse, recycle or donate hotel toiletries and their containers to reduce waste and be more sustainable.

As consumers, our choices make an impact. Deciding to visit a sustainable destination is supporting efforts to save the planet. Being a sustainable traveler might sound difficult, but trying is a good start. It’s all about planning and choice; things already associated with traveling.

Be mindful of your carbon footprint and respect the environment, locals and wildlife. You’ll be able to relax that much easier knowing you’re on vacation and being sustainable.

For additional peace of mind, look into AAA travel insurance.

What sustainable destination would you like to visit? How do you travel responsibly?

I was a kid when the allure of cruising swept me away like a tidal wave. A watery, porthole view of the sea seemed so spectacular, and a Robinson Crusoe-style bash on a private swath of sand – with little more than beach towels and burgers – was enough island luxury to blow my mind. Boy, times have changed! Every year new ships set sail, their decks stacked with awesome amenities. Today, private balconies abound, and tricked-out cruise line private islands top the polls of the most popular ports of call in the Caribbean.

Why wouldn’t they get rave reviews? On these exclusive islands you’ll find everything from beach cabanas with butler service to record-breaking amusement rides. Trendy water sports toys adorn sugar-white shores. Tasty barbecue bites abound. Plus, for purists, every isle features hammocks strung between swaying palm trees just steps away from crystal-clear waters.

Norwegian Cruise Line got the beach ball rolling, pioneering the private island concept in the late 1970s. The move spurred a land-grab among other lines before the turn of the century, and it continues with the introduction of new destinations as well as further development of existing islands. In step with the ships that bring passengers to their shores, these cruise line private islands are increasingly well-appointed.

Royal Caribbean just spent $250 million enhancing its 125-acre island, CocoCay, located in the Bahamas. The outpost officially reopened this May and was re-named Perfect Day at CocoCay, becoming the first property in the cruise line’s Perfect Day Island Collection, which promises more destinations in the Caribbean, Asia and Australia. Norwegian recently added a second, entirely new private island, Harvest Caye, situated off the coast of southern Belize.

Newcomer Virgin Voyages, which launches in 2020, plans to bring passengers to its exclusive Beach Club at Bimini. Although not technically an island, the only way to visit is via one of Virgin’s ships. These private beach destinations are part of the expanding trend, too.

The goal is to give passengers a special experience that can’t be replicated anywhere else, and maybe lure in a few neophytes who might not have considered cruising before, but are enticed by these exclusive enclaves. At their core, cruise line private islands provide a carefree extension of the shipboard experience. Each one has its own vibe. Here’s how some are making a splash, so you can set a course for the perfect island paradise.

Cruise Lines’ Private Islands

Great Stirrup Cay

NCL’s venerable 250-acre Bahamian island charms passengers with its sun-baked character and casual atmosphere that’s been refined a bit with the addition of an oceanside boardwalk, a live music stage and a family recreation area. Plus, a remote cove dubbed Lagoon Retreat now hosts an ultra-luxe escape, with air-conditioned villas, spa services and gourmet bites. Sip margaritas at the Patron Bar, mojitos at the Bacardi Bar and nosh on fresh fish tacos at the new build-your-own taco bar. It ranks as one of the best islands to grab a snorkel and marvel over reefs percolating with colorful marine life. You’ll also find a new underwater sculpture garden. Want more?  How about swimming pigs? The famous hogs reside 10 minutes away on tiny Treasure Island, where visitors can frolic in the surf while feeding them apple kebabs and rubbing their big bellies.

Harvest Caye

NCL’s latest private island opened in Belize at the end of 2016. Boasting a manicured beach and a free-form pool with a swim-up bar, the 75-acre isle unfolds a lot like a modern resort. But this isle exudes an eco-conscious flair, too. Navigate an innovative pedalboard alongside wild mangroves on a manatee safari, and explore the Nature Center, complete with a resident boa constrictor, a butterfly house and an aviary that shelters rainbow-billed toucans (Belize’s native bird). Or, soar like a bird yourself at Flighthouse, an aerial activity center with a head-first “Superman-style” zip line. A marketplace curates local treasures and food carts hawk Belizean treats (think grilled seafood skewers and rich ice cream). The latter come in handy, because unlike other private islands Harvest Caye lacks free dining options. Belize’s mainland also rests a mile away, allowing access to Mayan ruins.

Perfect Day at CocoCay

An ambitious island-meets-theme park melange, Royal Caribbean’s private island delivers bucket-list ways to “chill and thrill.” Plunge down the tallest waterslide in North America (135-foot Daredevil’s Peak, one of 13 slides at a new waterpark) and splash around the Caribbean’s biggest wave pool. Or, simply laze in the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean, complete with multiple coves and islets, a zero-entry section, submerged seating, underwater music and more. Beach-hop among several distinct swaths of sand, including a sports-centric enclave, and when it comes time to fuel-up kick back with a frosty Coco Loco and savor Captain Jack’s signature crispy wings with island-inspired sauces such as mango-habanero and Caribbean jerk. Plus, don’t miss eying CocoCay from Up, Up and Away, a tethered balloon that provides the highest (450 feet) viewpoint in the Bahamas. What’s missing? Well, debuting in December, the ultra-chic Coco Beach Club promises the Bahamas’ first overwater cabanas. Each touts a private slide to the sea.

Half Moon Cay

Holland America’s private island in the Bahamas enchants passengers with a classic, crescent-shaped beach that stretches for more than 2 miles. Add calm, offshore waters in unnamed shades of blue and you’ll begin to understand why one haunt is dubbed the “I Wish I Could Stay Here Forever Bar.” Less than 3% of 2,400 acres is developed. The rest serves as a nature preserve. You can hike, bike and board myriad watercraft to explore the environment, but Half Moon Cay also stands out as the only island with stables. Horseback ride up to the highest point and down into the surf. For a memorable bite, try lobster with rum-jerk butter glaze and Caribbean coconut rice at the new Lobster Shack. Or, stake out some white-sand real estate – everything from clamshells to two-story villas await – and simply spend time counting your blessings for having landed in such an idyllic spot. Feeling romantic? There’s a wedding chapel, too.

Castaway Cay

Passengers adore Disney Cruise Line’s private getaway so much that some itineraries spend two days calling on the 1,000-acre island. You’ll find a liquid playground outfitted for all ages, with both a high-energy family beach and a secluded adult beach. Lots of supervised activities for kids and teens are part of the deal, too. Swim out to Pelican Plunge, a 2,400-foot floating platform with waterslides, dump buckets and spray cannons; explore a snorkeling lagoon with sunken Disney memorabilia; and feed velvety stingrays. Ashore, join the Castaway Cay 5K and bike along an old air strip that leads to a lookout tower. Cool off at Spring-a-Leak, a structure with dramatic plumbing problems that serves up freshwater fun or opt for an Olaf-inspired “Frozen” mocktail. There’s even an In Da Shade Game Pavilion. Plus, expect to meet Mickey and friends all decked out in their most stylish beachwear.

Labadee

Royal Caribbean offers another private retreat where activities abound, but the sea stops short at just three sides. Nestled on a remote peninsula along the unbridled coast of northern Haiti, Labadee boasts lush hills and pocket beaches to explore. Survey the wild landscape while soaring above the sea at 50 mph on the longest (2,633 feet) overwater zip line in the Caribbean. The ride practically funnels you into the open mouth of Dragon’s Breath Rock, a landmark that “breathes” when waves burst through a blowhole. An alpine coaster delivers more adventure mixed with wild views. Plus, this is the best place to hop astride a personal watercraft and eye spectacular tropical topography. For a cool drink, wade out to the floating bar off Adrenaline Beach. And, if you’re looking for pure relaxation, roost in a hillside cabana.

Princess Cays

This 40-acre private resort exclusively for Princess’ passengers sits on the southern tip of Eleuthera. So, despite its name, this retreat isn’t technically an island even though the experience feels that way. Structures painted in sherbet hues and plenty of indigenous blooms create a colorful setting. Climb the lookout tower for a panoramic view; shop for local handcrafts at the marketplace; and sample enviable water sports equipment, including a fleet of new glass-bottom kayaks. You can even surf the net and stream videos thanks to new Wi-Fi ashore, a rarity at most retreats. Princess also has exported its popular, adults-only “Sanctuary” concept from ship to shore, expressed here in a secluded cluster of bungalows boasting things like air-conditioning, water misters and indoor/outdoor showers.

Beach Club at Bimini

Virgin Voyages’ island won’t welcome passengers till next year, but some details regarding this adults-only private retreat have trickled out. Expect moments of “retox and detox” amid an atmosphere of “barefoot luxury,” where a day likely unwinds with yoga and meditation in the morning, celebrity DJ-led pool parties in the afternoon and beach bonfires with acoustic tunes in the evening. Anticipate a lagoon-style pool, hammock groves, six bars and multiple dining spots that serve locally inspired fare, such as conch and mango salad, banana leaf-wrapped queen snapper and Bahamian rum cake.

For some amazing photos of these beautiful beach destinations, check out the slideshow below.  

Which of these private islands do you hope to cruise to?

Start planning your next cruise vacation with AAA. 

There’s something undeniable about the ooey, gooey golden goodness of cheese that draws people in, makes them relish in its deliciousness and leaves them smiling, yet always wanting for more. Vermont, with its plethora of dairy farms, is a hub for cheese production, and – praise to the cheese gods – the Vermont Cheese Council has put together a Vermont Cheese Trail that offers visitors a look into the inner workings of dairy farms, cheese production and, of course, tips on where to taste and purchase some of the best locally-made cheeses.

While there are many stops on the Vermont Cheese Trail, we’ve focused here on farms and cheese-making centers that are open most days, yet often seasonally. When planning a trip to these and other stops on the Vermont Cheese Trail, be sure to call ahead to confirm operation hours.

Learn more about the Vermont Cheese Trail.

Billings Farm & Museum 
Woodstock

Billings Farm welcomes the public to step into a working Vermont farm to learn about day-to-day farm happenings, from milking the Jersey cows to handling the horses and oxen to monitoring the calf nursery. The 1890s restored farmhouse on the property, which serves as the museum, is host to a variety of interactive exhibits and activities that teach visitors about life and values of turn-of-the-century farm families. The farm also produces delicious cheddar cheeses, each aged for at least 60 days, from the milk from their Jersey cows. Top flavors include Woodstock reserve cheddar, savory with a touch of sharpness, sweet cheddar, sweet with a creamy texture, and butter cheddar, creamy and delicate with a dash of saltiness.

Blue Ledge Farm
Salisbury

The cheese making process at Blue Ledge Farm centers around a commitment to respecting and protecting the goats whose milk makes the cheese as well as the land they graze on. The result is some truly spectacular cheeses, including Lake’s Edge, which was listed as one of the 100 greatest cheeses in the world by Wine Spectator magazine in 2008. Solar panels provide almost half of the farm’s electricity, making a cozy home for their Alpine and Lamancha dairy goats who produce eight varieties of cheese such as maple chevre, laced with Vermont maple syrup; La Luna, a raw-milk cheese similar to a gouda or havarti; and Camembrie, a creative camembert and brie hybrid.

Boston Post Dairy
Enosburg Falls

This stop on the Vermont Cheese Trail is set against the stunning landscape of Jay Peak and the Missisquoi River, and home to 180 dairy goats and 95 dairy cows. A variety of cheeses are made and sold on site, including aged goat cheeses, aged goat/cow blends and fresh cow’s cheeses. One of the most popular is the award-winning Eleven Brothers. In addition to cheese, visitors can also purchase goat milk soaps, maple syrup and bakery items in the on-site store, all made on the premises.

Boucher Family Farm
Highgate Center

While the Boucher Family Farm has been in the family for 14 generations, it wasn’t until the current owner’s wife decided she needed a new farm project that they began making cheese. Dawn Boucher now makes 300 pounds of raw-milk cheeses by hand at the farm’s dairy every week, many of which are named lovingly for friends and family. Favorites include Tomme Collins, a sharp, aged grating cheese and Boucher Blue, a sweet, creamy, crumbly blue.

Bridport Creamery 
Bridport

Bridport Creamery is located in western Vermont, right up against Lake Champlain, owned by a husband and wife team who both grew up on family farms. While the mister tends to the hundreds of dairy cows, wife Nicole puts her master cheesemaker certificate from the University of Vermont’s Vermont Institute of Artisanal Cheese to good use making cheeses from the farm’s Swiss herds. Products include cheese curds and the signature Swisserella, available in a variety of flavors.

Cabot Creamery Cooperative
Waterbury Center & Quechee

A cooperative of 1,200 family dairy farms located throughout New York and New England, Cabot Creamery produces cheese found in stores in both areas, including two flagship stores in Vermont, both listed as stops on the Vermont Cheese Trail.

The Waterbury Center store is close to other popular area attractions including the Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory. Visitors can sample and purchase Cabot’s cheeses and other Vermont specialty foods on site, including a selection of Vermont microbrews and hard ciders.

The Cabot Quechee Store is located in the popular Quechee Gorge Village, a hot destination for tourists, shopping and antiquing.

Cabot produces dozens of cheeses, mostly cheddars, and in a variety of flavors, including “seriously” sharp, chipotle, tomato basil and Hot Buffalo Wing.

Consider Bardwell Farm
West Pawlet

Founded in 1864 by Consider Bardwell himself, the Consider Bardwell Farm sits on 300 acres, allowing plenty of room for its cows and goats to graze on organic pastures, resulting in raw milk cheeses that are antibiotic- and hormone-free. In addition to selling its cheeses, the farm offers tours, cheese making workshops and farm dinners. Cheese selections include Danby, an extra-aged goat cheese similar to a piave or asiago; Manchester, a nutty, raw goat tomme; and Slyboro, a raw goat cheese washed in hard cider for a sharp apple flavor.

Grafton Village Cheese Company
Brattleboro & Grafton

The Grafton Village Cheese Company has been operating as a cooperative since 1892 and currently produces a line of premium cheddar cheeses with milk from its local member farms. The retail stores in both Brattleboro and Grafton feature cheese making workshops with windows allowing the public to watch the operation. Featured flavors include truffle cheddar, smoked chili cheddar, with habanero, jalapeno and pasilla peppers, and Grafton Village maple smoked cheddar, a 100-day aged cheese smoked over maplewood chips. The cooperative also produces a cave-aged line of cheeses, made from cow’s and sheep’s milk and aged in local Grafton caves, making it a must-hit stop on the Vermont Cheese Trail.

Neighborly Farms of Vermont
Randolph Center

Like many other Vermont farms, Neighborly Farms is family-owned and has history dating back many generations. In fact, the farm still has its original farmhouse, built in the 1880s. Spanning over 150 acres, the farm is home to almost 200 Holstein cows and practices 100 percent organic practices, meaning the farm is devoid of antibiotics, hormones or commercial fertilizers. Eleven cheeses are produced at the farm including a raw-milk cheddar, a colby and a feta. Those who visit can also taste homemade Vermont maple syrup made in the on-site sugar house.

Plymouth Artisan Cheese
Plymouth

Plymouth Artisan Cheese claims to be the second oldest cheese factory in the United States, making cheese for the past 125 years, and over time, not much has changed. The farm’s cheese making process honors and holds true to the historic, traditional methods and each wheel is crafted, cut and waxed by hand. This farm on the Vermont Cheese Trail was originally built by Col. John Coolidge, father of President Calvin Coolidge, and the production is now run by a graduate of the Vermont Institute of Artisanal Cheese and his team, whose efforts can be watched through viewing windows at the Plymouth Cheese Factory. Selections in the hand-waxed line include smoked, garlic, peppercorn, hot pepper and sage and herbs.

Shelburne Farms
Shelburne

Shelburne Farms produces raw cow’s milk cheeses from their herd of grass-fed Brown Swiss cows, making 170,000 pounds of cheese each year.  In addition to delicious cheeses, visitors to Shelburne Farms will also find a variety of fun farm activities including scenic walking trails, a children’s farmyard and historic barn, as well as educational programs and classes for all ages. Featured cheeses to try include ones from their Farmstead cheddar line, including two-year, three-year, smoked and clothbound.

Vermont Shepherd
Putney

Vermont Shepherd creates sheep’s and cow’s milk cheeses on their 250-acre farm, each in small, 10-30 wheel batches. The cheeses are produced in two varieties, according to and named in honor of the seasons. Verano (meaning summer), is aged 3-5 months, ripening in August with a sweet flavor with hints of thyme. Invierno (translating to winter) is aged five to nine months months, producing a strong flavor with a hint of spice. Visitors to the farm can also purchase wool and soaps made from sheep’s milk on site.

How does a trip along the Vermont Cheese Trail sound to you? Or tell us your favorite kind of cheese. Do you get cheery for Vermont cheddar or feel blue without your gorgonzola? Share with us in the comments, and make it cheesy!

Plan a trip to Vermont with AAA Travel. 

The 14-acre Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Walt Disney World and Disneyland is the largest single-themed land in Disney Parks’ history. Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opened first at Disneyland in May 2019, with an identical land welcoming travelers to a galaxy (not so) far, far away, at Walt Disney World soon after.

On Dec. 5, 2019, on Batuu’s sister planet on the East Coast, “Star Wars” fans celebrated the much-anticipated opening of Rise of the Resistance. The innovative ride integrates four different ride experiences – including a walk-through, a ride in a trackless vehicle, a motion simulator and an elevator drop – making it Disney’s longest attraction ever.

Rise of the Resistance

Tucked into a scrubland forest on Batuu is the entrance to Disney’s most epic indoor dark ride. Upon entering the Resistance, military outpost “guests” are recruited by an animatronic BB-8 and a Rey hologram for a strike against the First Order. After exiting the briefing rooms, guests board a shuttlecraft and all goes well until a Star Destroyer tracks the shuttle. There is no escape, and next thing you know the doors of your shuttle open to 50 animatronic stormtroopers, TIE fighters and First Order officers. The scene is set in front of a 100-foot-wide window looking into outer space. There’s not much time to contemplate your fate: First Order officers quickly herd their prisoners into a prison cell to meet Kylo Ren for interrogation.

The prisoners eventually escape their cell in a troop transport driven by an animatronic droid. The eight-passenger escape vehicle travels without a fixed track. Along the ride you’ll meet Kylo Ren and towering AT-ATs, all while dodging capture and laser fire from more stormtroopers than you ever cared to meet.

After meeting Kylo Ren one more time, the ride ends with your vehicle leaving the Star Destroyer via an escape pod. You’ll survive, but not without crashing, ever not so gently, back on Batuu. Enhanced by digital projections, the multistory plunge is not for the faint of heart.

The ride is epic and will be busy from bright suns to rising moons. Plan for long wait times.

The Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run

Who hasn’t dreamt of getting into the cockpit of the fastest hunk of junk in the galaxy? To board the Millennium Falcon through the same starboard airlock used by Han Solo and Chewbacca in “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” and to sit around the Dejarik table in the main hold of the ship – these are now dreams come true for many “Star Wars” fans. After going through an elaborate queue, riders settle into the cockpit of the ship in groups of six (two pilots, two gunners and two engineers); soon it’s time to jump into hyperspace.

You and your crew are partially in control of the ship. Therefore, full attention is required. Now is not the time to share your glory on social media, as how you execute your mission will have consequences that will be on record throughout your stay. Trust me, you don’t want an unhappy Wookiee to know who wrecked his ship.

Star Wars Datapad Adds Fun to the Galactic Experience

Learn more about Galaxy’s Edge by downloading the Play Disney Parks app to your phone. Bring up the Star Wars Datapad to interact with the land’s control panels and droids, and even translate galactic languages. The question is, who will you support? Will you pledge alliance to the Resistance or the First Order, or are you a scoundrel looking out only for yourself? The choice is yours!

Flavors From a Galaxy Far, Far Away

Oga’s Cantina is the land’s main watering hole. Here guests enjoy exotic beverages such as bubbling and smoking Carbon Freeze ($7.50), the herbal Dagobah Slug Slinger ($15) and the tropical rum-based Yub Nub served in a collectible mug ($42, mug included). Music is provided by DJ R-3X, otherwise known as Rex, the former Starspeeder 3000 pilot droid from the original Star Tours.

Oga’s Cantina is a super-headliner, though; long lines form as soon as visitors arrive. Make a reservation for a visit to the popular watering hole 180 days in advance via the app or online. Please check at the location for same-day availability. A no-show fee of $10 per person will be charged to your credit card if you decide not to go or use the reservation solely to obtain a guaranteed entry into Galaxy’s Edge.

You’ll find the main eatery, Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo, docked on top of a large hangar. Here guests enjoy culinary specialties prepared by chef Strono “Cookie” Tuggs. The menu is extensive, but the Kaadu ribs are an absolute must. (Yes, you read that right, they’re named after the creature Jar Jar Binks rode in “Episode I.”) For dessert go for the Batuu-bon, a chocolate cake with white chocolate mousse and coffee custard.

For a quick bite I recommend the Ronto Wrap at Ronto Roasters. I promise it tastes just like roasted pork and grilled sausages.

One stop at the Milk Stand and you’ll finally know what the famous blue milk tastes like. Also available is green milk. Both are a frozen blend of exotic tastes and fruity accents. A word of caution, though: The drinks are an acquired taste. I suggest buying one for your entire party and sharing to see if you like it.

Last but not least, fret not: Popcorn is available on Batuu. Colorful kettle-cooked popcorn with sweet, spicy and savory seasoning is for sale at Kat Saka’s Kettle.

You Reached the Outer Rim, So Now What?

Terrestrial visitors coming to Batuu in search of adventures won’t be disappointed. The land offers plenty of shopping, food, beverages and interactive games.

Savi’s Workshop is home of the custom-made lightsabers at $199 plus tax, while at Droid Depot guests can create astromech droids for $99 plus tax. Mysterious items from different eras of the “Star Wars” galaxy are available at Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities. Just bring lots of terrestrial plastic with you, and don’t gamble it away at Oga’s Cantina!

With limited capacity Disney implemented a reservation system for Savi’s Workshop and Droid Depot, which includes guaranteed entry into Galaxy’s Edge. But be warned that a credit card will be required to make a reservation and you’ll be charged a cancellation fee ($200 for the lightsaber, $100 for a droid) if you are a no-show. Reservations can be made up to 60 days before your visit via the app or online. Some same-day reservations will be available at 7 a.m. on the morning of your visit.

At the vibrant marketplace check out the Black Spire Outfitters for robes and tunics inspired by those worn by famous Jedi. At the Toydarian Toymaker, a small stall filled with plush characters and fun games, stock up on Chance Cubes, Cards of Sabacc and (my favorite) the Dejarik game. Creatures and critters from across the galaxy can be found at the Creature Stall. If you want to pledge alliance to the Resistance, check out the Resistance Supply stall for caps and pins. If, on the other hand, you are pulled to the Dark Side, the First Order cargo stall is right for you. First Order-branded merchandise will make sure everybody knows which side you are on! At Jewels of Bith guests can purchase T-shirts and other items to commemorate their visit to Batuu.

May the Force Be with You (or How to Secure Access to Galaxy’s Edge)

For starters, make sure you download the official Walt Disney World or Disneyland app to your smartphone before your visit and link the theme park tickets of your entire party in the app. If guest demand for entry into Galaxy’s Edge or the new Rise of the Resistance ride is high – and it will be so for quite some time – Disney may, as needed, use a virtual queuing system. Find out how it works here.

Once you visit the park check the app to see if you can access the land right away or if you need to join a boarding group for later access. You must be signed on to the app and inside the park to join a boarding group; there are no advance reservations for access to the land. You’ll then receive a confirmation with a boarding group number, which you can check on the app or at digital signage in the park at any time. You’ll also get a smartphone notification when it’s time for you to enter the land. Once you get your notification you have two hours to enter Galaxy’s Edge.

If you don’t want to use the app, you can visit a Guest Experience Team kiosk to obtain access to the land.

How excited are you for the Rise of the Resistance? Will you be heading to Walt Disney World to check it out or will you wait for the crowds to die down? (Will they ever?) 

Plan your Disney vacation with AAA and save. 

The news coming out of Australia is staggering: As of this writing, 28 people have been killed, more than 2,000 homes destroyed and up to 1 billion animals are at risk due to the country’s raging bushfires, the worst seen in a decade.

In all, 15 million acres have been consumed by the Australia fires since fire season started in July, according to Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s office, with 100 fires still raging in the states of New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia

“It’s heartbreaking to see the devastation caused by the catastrophic bushfires in Australia. The vast land is home to a diverse and resilient people. But right now, Australia needs our support,” said Cyndi Zesk, vice president of travel services at AAA Northeast who’s visited Australia several times. “We want our many travelers, travel partners, colleagues and friends in Australia to know that we are here to help in any way we can.”

 

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The famous sails of the Sydney Opera House have been lit up in a special tribute tonight. While there have been many people, agencies and groups involved in the firefighting and community effort, there is special recognition for NSW RFS volunteers who have worked so hard to protect communities. #nswrfs #nswfires #bushfires #australia @sydney @sydneyoperahouse

A post shared by NSW Rural Fire Service (@nswrfs) on Jan 11, 2020 at 2:06am PST

How You Can Help

Several organizations have stepped in to raise funds for the people and animals affected by the fires, including the following.

• The Intrepid Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Intrepid Group, a AAA Northeast partner, is matching up to $200,000 Australian dollars (approximately $139,000 U.S. dollars) in funds for the Australian Red Cross.

Traveling to Australia

If you’re visiting Australia soon, you may be able to keep your travel plans – for the most part, the bushfires are contained to the southeastern and southern parts of the country.

“Another great way to support Australia is to keep visiting there – the large majority of the country is unaffected,” Zesk said. “Many spectacular sites – like Victoria’s Great Ocean Road and Queensland’s Great Barrier Reef, as well as most cruise destinations – are free of the fires. And most international airports remain open.”

The U.S. State Department has raised the travel advisory for areas affected by the Australian bushfires to Level 2, warning Americans to “exercise increased caution.” Areas not affected by the fires are at Level 1, which urges travelers to “exercise normal precautions.”

Travelers can also visit Tourism Australia, which shows the country’s most popular tourist destinations and if they are affected by the bushfires.

If any AAA travelers have questions about Australia, whether how to donate or how to visit, please call your agent, AAA Travel at 800-222-7448 or visit AAA.com/Travel.

AAA Northeast honored Rebecca Bowman White and Cathy Andreozzi as Rhode Island Traffic Safety Heroes of the year in 2019 for their work advocating against the dangers of impaired driving.

Rebecca Bowman White

It’s a story Rebecca Bowman White has told time and time again: don’t drink and drive and always wear a seat belt. White knows a tragedy on the road could be just one decision away since she experienced firsthand the consequences of drunken driving. What was supposed to be a normal Friday evening turned out to be life-changing.

On Oct. 29, 1999, White had just celebrated her 14^th birthday and was headed to the mall with her mother and best friend when their car was struck from behind by a drunken driver. White was the sole survivor of the crash that killed her mother, Marsha Bowman, and her best friend, Katie DeCubellis. White says she was in a complete state of shock for months following the crash.

It wasn’t until she saw an episode of “The Oprah Winfrey Show” that she was able to find the strength to share her story. Seeing another victim of a drunken driving crash who had forgiven the driver inspired her to do the same, which White says was a defining moment. Since then, White has traveled to schools across New England, sharing her powerful story and guidelines for living a happier life. In 2011, she spoke about the power of forgiveness and how it’s impacted her life on the 20th anniversary special of “The Oprah Winfrey Show.”

Rebecca on Oprah as an ultimate viewer from Rebecca White on Vimeo.

For White, being able to share her story and raise awareness about the dangers of drunk driving is an opportunity to potentially save a life and prevent more crashes from happening. In her presentation, “Five Simple Guidelines,” White discusses her approach to life using five guidelines.

1. Free your heart from hatred.
2. Don’t stress.
3. Laugh so hard you pee your pants.
4. Make good choices.
5. Take time for what is really important.

“It’s a humbling feeling to be honored by AAA,” White said. “I always say that I have the best job, because I don’t consider it a job. I really feel like this is what I was meant to do, and I enjoy working with and helping the youth to prevent crashes from happening on the road.”

Cathy Andreozzi

Cathy Andreozzi remembers the day things changed forever. Back in 2003, her daughter, Tori, had a promising future in martial arts and a close group of friends. While walking home from school with her brother, Tori’s life was dramatically altered when she was struck from behind by a drunken driver who fled the scene. While Tori survived, she suffered a severe brain injury that has left her in a minimally conscious state. Since the crash, Andreozzi has been Tori’s primary caretaker and has carried on her daughter’s spirit by starting the Tori Lynn Andreozzi Foundation. The nonprofit organization aims to educate young people on the impact of drugs and alcohol as well as support victims and their families. The foundation recently teamed up with the Herren Project to inform students that drugs are just as big of a risk as alcohol.

“I’m very grateful to be recognized among an incredible group of passionate people,” Andreozzi said. “It’s our responsibility as individuals to step up and play a part in keeping each other safe.”

Andreozzi has kept her daughter’s schedule busy with activities including wheelchair ballroom dance lessons. She says a big role in Tori’s development has been her visits to the local YMCA where she exercises using a functional electrical stimulation bike. The machine is designed to improve the cardiovascular health of patients with neurological and spinal injuries.

“The FES bike does something for your circulatory system and your soul and it’s changed her life,” Andreozzi said.

To give back for all the FES bike has done for Tori, Andreozzi worked with local partners and played an instrumental role in organizing last year’s second annual Dancing Under the Stars Gala, a dance competition featuring community leaders. During the event, Tori made an appearance on the dance floor as the fundraiser received donations to help toward the purchase of a new FES bike. Andreozzi said the event was one of many ways her daughter is able to show her gratitude for everyone who has supported her before and after the crash.

“It came to me that Tori would want to pay this forward,” she said. “Before the crash, Tori always talked about getting back into dance, and I promised her we would find a way. She always loved giving back, and the fundraiser is one way she is able to do so.”

Moving Forward

Both Bowman White’s and Andreozzi’s stories have been featured in the “Ripple Effect,” a digital campaign by the Rhode Island Department of Transportation that shows the tragic consequences of drunken driving. They both believe it’s important to teach kids how to make the right choices in life, especially behind the wheel. White currently works as the program coordinator for Youth Force, a program set up by Rhode Island Department of Transportation where guest speakers meet with students about the dangers of impaired driving.

“It’s great for the families that are involved because they get to see how the youth of Rhode Island cares and are trying to make a difference when it comes to traffic safety,” White said.

Both White and Andreozzi say they will continue to spread awareness about the dangers of impaired driving in honor of their loved ones.

“The crash showed us the worst humanity has to offer, but it also showed us the best in how people can rally together around an individual in need or a common cause for the greater good,” White said. “I’ve met so many compassionate and driven people along the way. Working with young people has given me more hope that the future really is in good hands.”

While there’s nothing quite like seeing a live, musical performance, the energetic orchestral music, classically trained dancers, breathtaking costumes and innovative animated backgrounds of a Shen Yun performance are simply not-to-be-missed.

During this sensational performance, you can learn about traditional Chinese culture, dating back 5,000 years, that has nearly disappeared from modern China. Not only is the show enlightening and eye-opening it also leaves audiences feeling uplifted and inspired.

Reviving History

China was once called Shen Zhou or “The Divine Land.” Its culture was heavily influenced by spirituality and the belief that their traditions came from the heavens. People of that time followed the course of nature and aspired to harmony among heaven, Earth and humanity.

Shen Yun Performing Arts

What are the 9 characteristics that make Shen Yun unique?

Learn More

Though you won’t find Shen Yun thriving in China today, traditional Chinese culture has survived thanks to some inspirational artists.

Shen Yun Performing Arts is a nonprofit organization with the goal of reviving China’s traditional, uniquely beautiful culture – that had nearly faded from existence – and share it with the world.

Powerful Performances

Since its conception by a group of Chinese artists in 2006, Shen Yun has become an international phenomenon, with millions of people enjoying the stories, music and dances of an older time.

A live performance is impressive when the performers are disciplined and talented, but what makes a show truly amazing is the chemistry between the artists.

While the show’s artists are highly skilled, there’s also the sense of a shared journey. The artists not only perform together, they meditate and study teachings together, too. This camaraderie carries into their performances, making for even more memorable audience experiences.

Dance as an Art

The classical Chinese dance that Shen Yun performs can trace its origins back thousands of years. This type of dance features impressive flips and spins as well as gentle elegance, managing to strike a balance between serious acrobatics and graceful dance.

Equally athletic and expressive, the show’s dancers are some of the best in the world. What’s more, you cannot find this exact kind of dance anywhere else. While others have made changes or mixed this dance style with others over the years, Shen Yun is unique in its classical, purist approach.

Performances feature folk and ethnic dances from over 50 distinct groups,as well as story-based dances. These “mini-dramas” tell the tales of heroes from the past and present.

Magical Music

The Shen Yun Orchestra combines the distinct beauty and spirit of Chinese music with the grand power and refinement of Western symphony orchestras. By utilizing the best musical practices from the East and West, Shen Yun is able to produce truly original music, bringing together traditional Chinese instruments like the erhu and pipa with Western brass, percussion and strings. Along with its uniquely diverse orchestra, the show also features vocal soloists. These gifted singers perform using the “bel canto technique,” which is similar to opera.

Vibrant Visuals

To call a Shen Yun performance visually appealing is an understatement. The costumes are not only stunning in terms of color and design, but they are also true to traditional Chinese aesthetics, reflecting the styles from a variety of dynasties, regions and ethnic groups.

The effort that goes into the stagecraft is also notable. The lighting, stage and sound design of these performances mixes traditional artistic techniques with modern technology to make for thrilling, seamless storytelling.

The use of digital projections creates an even more immersive experience, quite literally setting the stage for Shen Yun’s dancers and musicians. During singers’ performances, the traditional Chinese song texts are translated and can be seen on the backdrop, ensuring that audience members won’t miss a beat.

Shen Yun 2020

Each year, the ensemble travels for about six months, performing shows in 1,510 cities across the globe. Equally impressive is the fact that the show is constantly evolving. Shen Yun premieres new performances yearly by incorporating fresh choreography, costumes, digital backdrops, music and storylines into the show.

This year, the group will be performing in various cities across the United States from January through May. Check out Shen Yun Boston or Shen Yun NYC. Other nearby performances will be in Newark, N.J., Hartford, Conn. and Providence, R.I. Get tickets.

Whether you find yourself moved by the music, entertained by the stories or awed by the dancing, a Shen Yun performance will stick with you long after you leave the theater.

Follow Shen Yun on Twitter and Facebook. 

Would you like to see a Shen Yun performance? Have you ever been to the show before? Tell us in the comments. 

AAA may be best known for helping to clear the roads. But it has an equally impressive history of creating roads.

In 1917, Stephen T. Mather was named the first director of the National Park Service. One of his first orders of business was to increase attendance at the parks. With automobiles becoming more affordable – and thus more common – it was a goal he felt could be reached. There was only one problem: there were no roads. The national parks in the western United States were in remote locations. If there were any paths leading to the park, they were mostly dirt roads, difficult for automobiles to traverse. Only wealthier individuals could afford to travel by train. In addition, there hadn’t been any reliable mapping done of the area, making travel extremely difficult.

Out of this, the idea for the National Park-to-Park Highway was born. This new route would connect what at the time were the 12 National Parks in the American West. To create the route, Mather enlisted Anton Westgard, AAA’s pathfinder.

“As AAA’s pathfinder and field representative, Westgard continued to cross the country several times and wrote extensive advice for other motorists,” said Brandon Wade, director of the documentary “Paving the Way,” which chronicles the creation of the Park-to-Park Highway. “His work on the Park-to-Park Highway of 1920 was his last contribution to AAA.”

Westgard mapped the route through 11 states, connecting all 12 parks. On Aug. 26, 1920 he led a group of motorists on a AAA-sponsored, 5,000-mile, 76-day pilgrimage along the newly designated route.

At the time, the Park-to-Park Highway was the longest motor route in the country. Coupled with the introduction of the automobile, it allowed people of all walks of life to visit these majestic locations and brought to life the National Park System’s campaign of “See America First.”

PAVING THE WAY: The National Park-to-Park Highway – HD Trailer from Unify Creative Agency on Vimeo.

Thinking about exploring the National Parks? Download our free National Parks guide for all the can’t-miss attractions.

While Northeastern winters may seem more brutal than anywhere else in the country, they’re barely the tip of the iceberg.

The lowest temperature in any U.S. state was recorded in Alaska, naturally, on Jan 23., 1971, when old man winter flexed to 80 below zero Fahrenheit. In the contiguous United States, the coldest recorded temperature wasn’t far behind – it reached 70 degrees below zero in Montana on Jan. 20, 1955, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

But these temperatures occurred in desolate areas where few if any people live. Up here in the Northeast, Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont have seen temperatures dip to record lows of 50 degrees below zero, once the wind-chill factor is tallied. But as a state, New York emerges as the winner of this dubious distinction, with a record 52 degrees below zero.

Dealing With a Deep Freeze

For tourists unaccustomed to extreme winter, the best way to deal with the cold is similar to dealing with record high temperatures – minimize your time outdoors, said Jonathan Erdman, senior meteorologist at Weather.com, part of IBM. But for those venturing outside, ‘layering up’ is the first step toward comfort – and no part of the body should be spared.

“In extreme cold, I can’t emphasize enough that you really have to protect every exposed area of your skin that you can,” said Erdman, who grew up near Madison, Wisc., one of the nation’s coldest cities. “Most people don’t realize that any exposed skin can experience frostbite in 15 minutes or less, especially when the winds are strong.”

Ensuring that your face is protected with a mask or scarf is a must. And one tip for travelers unaccustomed to the cold: Hand warmers and feet warmers don’t cost much but are worth their weight in gold. “Stick them inside your glove and the bottoms of the outside of your sock before you put your feet in boots,” Erdman said.

So which U.S. cities are the chilliest of the chilly on average – without the added plus (or minus) of a wind chill? The Northeast boasts two of the 10 coldest places in America, Rochester (No. 9) and Buffalo (No. 10), while Boston registers as the nation’s 20th coldest city.

The 10 Coldest Cities in the United States

1. Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minn.
   Avg. Winter Temp: 18.7 degrees
   Record Low: -41 degrees
2. Anchorage, Alaska
   Avg. Winter Temp: 18.8 degrees
   Record Low: -38 degrees
3. Madison, Wis.
   Avg. Winter Temp.: 21.6 degrees
   Record Low: -37 degrees
4. Milwaukee, Wis.
   Avg. Winter Temp.: 24.9 degrees
   Record Low: -26 degrees
5. Omaha, Neb.
   Avg. Winter Temp: 25.9 degrees
   Record Low: -32 degrees
6. Chicago, Ill.
   Avg. Winter Temp: 26.4 degrees
   Record Low: -27 degrees
7. Lincoln, Neb.
   Avg. Winter Temp: 26.8 degrees
   Record Low: -33 degrees
8. Rochester, N.Y.
   Avg. Winter Temp: 27 degrees
   Record Low: -22 degrees
9. Buffalo, N.Y.
   Avg. Winter Temp: 27.1 degrees
   Record Low: -20 degrees
10. Fort Wayne, Ind.
    Avg. Winter Temp: 27.4 degrees
    Record Low: -24 degrees

NOTE: Avg. Winter Temperature measures December through February. All temperatures in Fahrenheit, without wind-chill factored in. (Source: Weather Channel, NOAA).

Now that you’ve had your fill of the cold, check out seven of the hottest cities in the world. 

Whether you are looking to get away from the coldest cities or want to get closer to them, book your next trip with AAA Travel. 

Tax season can be stressful. After navigating through all the jargon and rules, the hope is to simply avoid owing the government money if possible and maximize your return.

Generally, the best way to owe less in taxes is to make smart financial decisions through thoughtful self-evaluation, keeping records and planning.

1. Get Rewarded for Giving

Making a charitable donation can be rewarding in multiple ways. Whether you donated money, clothes, toys, food or household items, if you gave to a good cause, deductible donations could reduce your tax bill.

“Ingredients for casseroles you regularly prepare for a qualified nonprofit organization’s soup kitchen…or the cost of stamps you buy for your school’s fundraiser count as a charitable contribution,” according to TurboTax. “If you drove your car for charity in 2019, remember to deduct 14 cents per mile.”

To make sure your donations qualify, give to legitimate charities (you can use sites like Charity Navigator or Charity Watch to check) and get a receipt.

2. Record Medical Expenses

If you visited the doctor often or received some expensive dental care this year, you could have more deductions. Generally, qualified medical expenses can be deducted if they’re more than 10% of the tax year’s adjusted gross income.

This means if a person’s AGI is $38,000, anything over the first $3,800 of their medical bills could become deductibles. Since an average hospital stay can cost $10,000, the odds of going over that 10% is likely. Again, keeping receipts is a must.

3. Invest in a 401k or FSA

Some employers offer benefits like a 401(k) or flexible spending account. Both can affect tax bills because they deal with untaxed funds.

By automatically transferring money from a paycheck, 401(k)s — which aren’t taxed until they’re withdrawn — help people save for retirement. Should their occupation change, a 401(k) can be rolled into an individual retirement account, and income taxes still won’t be due until later.

An FSA works by taking money from income as well, but these funds must be used for medical, dental or eye care during the calendar year. Everyday health items like bandages, vitamins, pregnancy test kits, breast pumps and acupuncture are also eligible.

4. Save With an IRA

An IRA can also help you save for post-work life and reduce your tax bill. When saving with a traditional IRA, contributions are pre-tax. Since your total income will be lower, you’ll owe less income taxes. The IRA contribution limit for 2019 is $6,000 ($7,000 if you’re 50 or older). However, not everyone is eligible to deduct these contributions and, like a 401(k), taxes apply later.

Regarding a Roth IRA, or if you are converting from a traditional, you’ll pay taxes now, but funds will be tax-free later. Converting in steps, over a few years, is better to avoid being bumped into a higher tax bracket.

Keep in mind that if you plan to sign up for Medicare within two years, be wary making large conversions. “You’ll have to pay extra for Medicare Part B if your [AGI] (plus tax-exempt interest income) is more than $85,000 [single] or $170,000 [married filing jointly],” according to Kiplinger.

5. Clean up Your Portfolio

Many people choose to invest in stocks to try to make and save money. If a stock isn’t doing well, you can consider selling it.

“You can deduct losses on stock sales, which can offset any taxable capital gains you might have,” according to NerdWallet. “The limit on that offset is $3,000, or $1,500 for married couples filing separately.”

Just be aware that you can’t buy the same or similar stock 30 days before or after its sale. Otherwise, the deduction isn’t allowed.

6. Meet With a Professional

If you find the terminology and abbreviations (like IRA, 401(k), FSA, etc.) confusing or experienced a change in your financial situation during the past year, you may want to consult with a professional prior to tax time.

Taxes, deductions and itemizing can be complicated, but you can talk to a tax adviser to make sure you’re not paying more than you have to and are saving as much as you can.

7. Use Credit Cards Wisely

When used responsibly, credit cards can be a tool for improving finances. Credit cards are more secure than debit cards and help build your credit — which makes big purchases easier in the future. What’s more, many credit cards allow holders to earn cash back — anywhere from 1 to 6 percent — that can go right into savings.

8. Scrutinize Your Expenses

When it comes to saving money, small changes in your everyday routine can make a big difference. Focus on your needs rather than wants. Make food and drinks at home rather than ordering out and/or cut down on entertainment. Reread your insurance policies and cell phone plans to see if they’re still worthwhile; rates are always changing, so shop around for potential deals or call your current provider to ask about savings directly.

9. Save First

Saving money isn’t always easy, but following a few self-set rules could help.

Only saving “what’s left” at the end of a paycheck isn’t conducive to building a savings account. Having a specific amount of money you save from each paycheck or every month helps. If it makes it easier, you can also choose to set up automatic transfers. Once you’ve put away your savings, pretend it doesn’t exist. The idea is simple – if you don’t have money, you won’t be tempted to spend it.

If you get a raise/bonus, start a side hustle or receive tax return, put it right into savings. Should you need to feel the fruits of your labor to avoid running out of steam, put at least half into savings and treat yourself occasionally.

How do you save at tax time? Tell us in the comments! 

More than 59,000 people have booked cruises through AAA Northeast within the past five years, mirroring industry figures that say cruising is on the rise.

About 32 million travelers are expected to take to the seas in 2020, according to Cruise Lines International Association, up from 30 million in 2019. All told, cruising is estimated to pump more than $150 billion into the global economy.

Local Cruisers Like It Hot – and Cold

Cruisers who book with AAA Northeast generally opt for warmer climes: The majority, 19,265, sailed to the Caribbean, the land of crystalline seas and soft sand beaches. The second-most popular locale, Bermuda, saw 11,754 cruising visitors, while 6,285 visited the Bahamas.

But local cruisers didn’t mind getting a little chilly: More than 4,100 people booked Alaska cruises between 2014-2019.

No matter the weather, people who book cruises with AAA Northeast have years of experience behind them, thanks to AAA Travel agents who are always looking out for the best deals.

“AAA Travel is great one-stop shopping for cruising,” said Kate McGowan, travel product manager at AAA Northeast. “AAA members have such an advantage booking with us – we will book the best deals in the cruise market and stack any applicable AAA benefits on top of those deals.”

Book, Cruise, Repeat

People who love to cruise really love to cruise. About 82% of folks who cruise are likely to book a cruise for the next vacation, according to CLIA’s 2020 State of the Cruise Industry Outlook.

Similarly, cruisers who book with AAA Northeast tend to stay with their favorite cruise provider. Some of the more popular lines at AAA Northeast include Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Holland America, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking River Cruises and Disney Cruise Line.

Even people who might not have considered cruise vacations before are hopping on board. More than 66% of millennials and Generation X have a more positive attitude about cruising than just a few years ago, CLIA found.

Cruise lines are doing more to welcome travelers of different demographics as well. To appeal to solo cruisers, many lines have done away with single supplements and have added single rooms, solo-friendly lounges and single-friendly activities.

To satisfy guests who prefer quick getaways, more and more cruise lines are offering three-to-five-day micro-cruises, with a wide range of destinations and itineraries. Look for more lines to offer pre- and post-cruise packages as well: More than 65 percent of cruise passengers spend extra days at the home or debarkation ports, according to CLIA.

Do the Wave

We’re now entering “Wave Season,” the period of January through March where travel agents typically book the most cruises. (Maybe it has something to do with folks dreaming of escaping winter’s clutches with a trip to somewhere tropical and warm?) It’s the best time to work with a AAA Travel agent to help you book a cruise and look for deals, upgrades and onboard credits.

For a seasoned cruiser, wave season may be the right time to explore booking a longer itinerary, or a region that they have not yet visited. For a Caribbean cruise expert looking for a new adventure, the cost of a 14-day Mediterranean cruise, with added discounts and incentives, may be more enticing and reachable this time of year.

With a sea of opportunity, hundreds of itineraries and dozens of promotions, it may feel overwhelming. Members may be left wondering if they’ve truly found the most vacation for their dollar. Add to that the fact that 2020 will see 278 ocean cruise line ships in operation; it’s no wonder the average traveller might feel a little, well, adrift.

“With AAA Travel, members have exclusive offers across various cruise lines. There truly is no wrong time to book a cruise,” said Jeremy Miville, digital marketing manager of travel at AAA Northeast. “Wave season allows members access to even bigger promotions, often including room upgrades, deeper onboard credits, discounted add-ons, dining upgrades, spa packages and more. Visitors to our website will see available itineraries and special offers across all cruise lines, and our travel agents are here to help members find their dream vacation.”

Check out these cruising trends for 2020. 

Looking forward to joining the millions worldwide who have discovered the joy of cruising? Visit AAA.com/Cruises.

The Northeast boasts some of the lowest rates in the nation for DUI arrests, accidents and fatalities, while Southern states are among the most dangerous.

Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey and Rhode Island took four of the top seven slots as the states with the least severe drunk driving problem, according to a recent survey by BackgroundChecks.org that weighed 2018 arrest and census figures with National Highway Traffic Safety Administration stats on fatal crashes.

The South is the deadliest region for drunk driving, as seven of the 12 states with the highest DUI death rates are found below the Mason-Dixon Line, led by the Carolinas, Mississippi, Alabama, Texas, Louisiana and Arkansas. But all told, the biggest DUI problems are found in the North-Central region.

Wyoming, Montana, and the Dakotas top the overall ranking as the states with the most acute DUI crises. Wyoming, North Dakota, and South Dakota have the top three DUI arrest rates, while Montana and Wyoming have the two highest DUI death rates.

Top 10 States With the Most Severe DUI Problem

On a positive note, the Northeast ranks as the safest region in terms of DUI concentration and severity.

Massachusetts takes the top spot, boasting the third-lowest DUI arrest rate and also the third-lowest death rate. New Jersey was close behind as the fourth-safest state, while Rhode Island (No. 6) and New York (No. 7) help round out the Top 10. Connecticut just missed the cut at No. 13.

Top 10 States With the Least Severe DUI Problem

As more states pass laws regarding the recreational use of marijuana —  Illinois recently became the eleventh state to legalize the drug — the challenge of keeping our roads safe from intoxicated drivers grows steeper for law enforcement.

To that end, the AAA Northeast traffic safety education team developed a free program to educate teens about the impact of marijuana and driving. To date, “Shifting Gears: The Blunt Truth About Marijuana and Driving” has reached over 3,000 high school students through health classes in Rhode Island and will roll out to nearby states over the next year.

Winter nights are long, with twinkling lights on icicle-festooned houses beckoning us to slow down and look. And then, of course, there are the stars. Stars shine more brightly in the crisp, cold air of winter. Frigid and thin, the atmosphere gives a clear view of constellations – and sometimes the northern lights. Whether you’re stargazing for a clear view of the Milky Way or a close encounter with Venus, head to one of these starlit destinations for prime stargazing in the Northeast.

Northeast Michigan

A land of forests and lakes that straddles the Midwest and Northeast, Michigan – especially its northern half – feels like a sanctuary no matter which direction you’re coming from. Though it’s a day’s drive from most hubs for stargazing in the Northeast, Michigan’s Lake Huron shoreline lives up to its nickname, the “Sunrise Coast,” because its nature shines both day and night.

On a long weekend road trip from the crook of the Mitten State’s thumb to its uppermost tip, anyone daring enough to bundle up and step outside the car can hunt for Orion and the Big Dipper at five state-designated Dark Sky Preserves.

Spend the first night scouting constellations at the 640-acre Port Crescent State Park. The next day, cruise up US-23N toward Alpena County, where you can park-hop between Negwegon State Park, Rockport State Recreation Area and Thompsons Harbor. For visitors with time to spare, driving 90 minutes farther north will reveal the state’s world-renowned Dark Sky Place, Headlands International Dark Sky Park.

Cherry Springs State Park

When you’re craving a night of spectacular stargazing in the Northeast, set your GPS to Pennsylvania’s Cherry Springs State Park. Whether you choose to rest your head at one of the park’s 30 campsites, a cozy cabin or a cottage in nearby Coudersport, you can set your sights on Venus, the Andromeda Galaxy and more.

Cherry Springs State Park has been recognized by the International Dark Sky Association as an official International Dark Sky Park. The IDA calls it “one of the best places in the eastern U.S. for stargazing.” It’s not hard to see why – the sprawling park is surrounded by the wild and unpolluted Susquehannock State Forest. The lack of nearby towns (and light pollution) creates a thicket of darkness around the park’s Astronomy Field.

First-time stargazers should visit Cherry Springs State Park during one of the two annual astronomy parties (in June and September).

Acadia National Park

Known as the gateway to Acadia National Park, where Cadillac Mountain offers breathtaking vistas of the town and bay, Bar Harbor, Maine, makes an ideal base for stargazing in the park. While most national parks preserve the night sky enough to bare winter’s shimmering constellations, there are several ideal spots in Acadia to look up and spot dozens of celestial wonders.

• First up: Cadillac Mountain. Accessible by car and popular with both locals and visitors, Cadillac Mountain is one of Acadia National Park’s most popular stargazing destinations. The peak gets crowded, especially in summer, but it’s possible to find an evening picnic spot by wandering a little away from the fray.

• If you prefer a less crowded stargazing station, head to Sand Beach. There, you can walk quietly out onto the sandy stretch of land for mesmerizing views of the southern sky. Remember to pack a flashlight to see your path clearly along the shoreline.

• Drive to Jordan Pond House for a starlit night walk. You’ll be able to meander along the path to Jordan Pond, where you might start seeing double – the brilliant stars above often reflect on the still, frosty pond below.

Geauga Observatory Park

For a stellar getaway that will excite the whole family, head to Geauga Observatory Park in Ohio. It was officially recognized as a Dark Sky Park in 2011 by the IDA, but local astronomers – both amateurs and professionals – started working on the observatory years before that.

Don’t wait until nightfall to visit Geauga Observatory Park. Check in on the permanent astronomy exhibits, hike the .85-mile planetary education trail, stop by the life-sized cornerstones of the Great Pyramid of Giza, then head to the Nassau Astronomical Station.

Check out the Observatory’s schedule of free educational presentations to plan around the topics that most interest your family. From a talk about the Wolf Moon to meteor tracking to group stargazing, astronomers near Geauga have the night sky covered.

Maria Mitchell Association’s Loines Observatory

A 30-mile journey by ferry from Cape Cod, tiny Nantucket Island has a big history. Its stories brim with whalers and lighthouses, shipwrecks and navigation by the stars. The Loines Observatory is operated by the Maria Mitchell Association, a group founded in honor of the island’s famous native astronomer. Maria Mitchell discovered a new comet in 1857.

While you’re unlikely to spot an undiscovered meteorite or comet in the stratosphere, a visit to Loines Observatory is the perfect time to fall under the spell of the Milky Way, distant planets and constellations unseen in northeast cities like New York City, Boston or Philadelphia. Plan your visit on a clear Friday night, during one of the Maria Mitchell Association’s public stargazing events.

What is your favorite place to go stargazing in the Northeast? Let us know in the comments.

Even in the age of technology, it’s not easy to keep kids happy on long road trips. Watching movies on handheld or built-in devices passes the time, but you might want to consider some interactive options that provide mental stimulation in addition to entertainment.

The next time you hit the road, try these four activities to engage your children’s minds in the car.

Art Projects

Art projects in the car might sound like a disaster, but creativity doesn’t have to be messy on the go. Pack a spiral, hardbound sketchbook and a set of colored pencils or gel pens and ask kids to draw scenes they see outside the window. Coloring books are another popular option. For tech-loving kids, download drawing or coloring apps for tablets or smartphones.

Musical Activities

An age-old tradition, listening to music in the car never goes out of style. Modern technology makes listening to any type of music possible. If you’re up for a family sing-along, choose a CD, satellite radio station or podcast that everyone likes and play it on the car’s stereo system. Some XM Radio stations and podcasts cater specifically to children.

For a quieter ride, give each child a pair of headphones and a portable music player, tablet or smartphone. If kids want to write their own tunes, find fun music apps for little ones or full-featured tracking and composing programs for older kids.

Get In the Car, Not the Line

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Story Time

The power of a great story is undeniable, and children are especially captivated by storytelling magic. Start a story and then let each child add something to the plot. For a quieter way to pass the time, put some writing apps on their devices. Some apps even allow kids to create stories with illustrations and music.

Game Play

Many kids also love classic car games like I Spy, 20 Questions, nd the license plate game, which is also available as an app. Tablets and smartphones take games to a new level on modern road trips. Even non-driving adults love to grab their phones and get in on the fun. Here are few more fun games to play on road trips.

With the right in-car entertainment, family road trips are never boring. Many of today’s cars, SUVs, and minivans come equipped with built-in entertainment systems, satellite radio and multiple charging ports for devices.

Need a ride for your next road trip? Learn about exclusive Hertz discounts for AAA members.

Originally published on Hertz.com.

The essence of ‘la dolce vita’ is explored through the cuisine, art and landscapes of Italy, from its iconic cities and turquoise lakes to its balmy southern shores. Many of the best European tours, like this one hosted by AAA Vacations, combine nature, culture and history to make an interesting tour, but Italy is the most unforgettable. The moments that make it are moments like taking a private boat to secluded Isola Madre on Lake Maggiore, where Signor Telli takes you for a traditional meal at his restaurant – a place inspired by a young prince who used to play there. Here is a sample of what you could expect on a Best of Italy tour.

Best European tours: Italy

Day 1 – Arrive Rome

Welcome to Rome, the Eternal City! Spend the rest of your day relaxing or take a leisurely stroll around the city. Join your companions and your travel director later for a welcome reception.  Then enjoy an orientation drive to see St. Peter’s Basilica and other sights – a great introduction to the city to start the tour.

Day 2 – Rome 

A good Europe tour package must include time for the tourist to do what a tourist does best: sightsee. Your included sightseeing tour with a local guide begins at the Vatican Museums. Experience a unique opportunity in the Vatican when you ascend the smooth and step-less spiral staircase designed by famous architect Donato Bramante. Admire Michelangelo’s magnificent frescoed ceiling in the Sistine Chapel and then visit St. Peter’s Basilica to see his famous Pietà. Your tour continues in ancient Rome. View the Forum and see the Circus Maximus, where chariot races were held. Visit the impressive Colosseum. There’s time afterwards to explore the city on your own, or simply relax and watch the world go by!

Day 3 – Pompeii

Visit the Commonwealth War Cemetery near Monte Cassino. Your local guide tells you all about the devastation caused by the eruption of Vesuvius in AD 79 during your walking tour of Pompeii. Arrive later at your hotel in Sorrento where you dine tonight.

Day 4 – Isle Of Capri

Continue your tour of Italy’s finest by visiting the Isle of Capri, the island that capri pants are named after. Witness the intricate art of inlaid woodwork, a Cultural Insight for which Sorrento is famous. Later embark on an included excursion by ferry to the Isle of Capri. Visit Capri Town and other sights during your tour with a local guide. Spend time exploring this lovely island on your own.

Day 5 – Assisi

Assisi is a mystical town perched on the slopes of Mount Subasio overlooking the peaceful Umbrian landscape. Under the protection of St. Francis this city is still enclosed by medieval ramparts.  Your local guide takes you on a walking tour, which includes a visit to the Basilica of St. Francis, famous for its frescoes depicting the life of this much-loved saint. Spend time afterwards exploring on your own and shopping for souvenirs. Dine at your hotel this evening.

Day 6 – Verona

Today enjoy the glorious countryside and historic architecture of the Emilia Romagna region. This area is also renowned for its cuisine such as tortellini, mortadella and Parmesan cheese. Travel to Verona, the home of Shakespeare’s star-crossed lovers, to admire the Roman arena and Juliet’s balcony. How many other Europe tour packages take you to a famous scene from literature? Arrive later in Venice, the Queen of the Adriatic.

Day 7 – Venice 

Your cruise by private launch to St. Mark’s Square is magical. View the Bridge of Sighs, the beautiful Doge’s Palace and the Basilica. Gain insight into the ancient art of glassblowing at a traditional workshop on Giudecca Island. Spend free time seeing the sights of your choice. You might like to cruise across the lagoon to the Island of Burano and enjoy a delicious meal.

Day 8 – Milan

Cross the plains of Lombardy to Milan for a walking tour of this fashionable city with your local guide. View the Duomo, La Scala Opera house and the famous Galleria. Dine tonight at your hotel.

Day 9 – Lake Como Excursion

Travel to the beautiful Lake Como with free time to explore or simply soak up the scenery. This evening, take a private boat to an island on Lake Maggiore for a special dinner experience.

Day 10 – Pisa

Cross the Plains of Lombardy, the forested Apennine Mountains, and pass by Genoa to Pisa. View the extraordinary Leaning Tower before arriving in Florence, birthplace of the Renaissance. Tonight, you might like to sample some local Tuscan cuisine.

Have you visited Italy? Tell us about it in the comments below.

Learn more about this exciting trip. 

Get in touch with a AAA travel counselor to learn about AAA Vacations and start planning your next getaway today. As a AAA member, you’ll save even more. Not a member? Join now!

Traveling with kids opens your eyes to the world, allows you to reconnect and reboots your family’s internal bandwidth. It can also test your patience. But if you’re prepared, you and your children will enjoy seeing the world together one glorious state and country at a time.

Remember that children have energy to burn, which doesn’t disappear when they’re strapped into a car or plane for many hours. In fact, their energy levels might actually multiply when they’re restricted. (They always want something they can’t have!) So if you tap into that excitement and engage their curiosity, you’ll all be happy when you arrive at your destination.

Here are some tips for traveling with kids to guide you through your voyages together, and ensure there will be plenty more kid-ventures to come.

Preparation and Logistics

“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Long trips on the road or in the air, this mantra can be the parents’ salvation. So I spend a little time in advance planning the journey and we’re all better off.

For long road trips or air travel with kids, I assemble special goodie bags of snacks and activities. This cool new novelty appeases my 3-year-old when we’re delayed or sitting for what seems like an eternity. Other friends of mine wrap a few things in newspaper or gift wrap, either old toys their kids haven’t seen in a while or something small and new. Let kids open one treat per hour. “It’s important not to unveil all the great games right away,” said mother of three Heather Hawes, of Cohasset, MA. “There needs to be a strategic order and timing schedule to make it last!”

Don’t forget: For families that use electronics, download movies, music or audio books in advance so they’re ready when Wi-Fi isn’t accessible. Make sure to have some of your kids’ favorites as well as special new video items. Plus, a dual car charger is a must!

For more helpful tips, check out our posts on flying with kids for the first time and how to survive a road trip with little ones. 

Packing

Less is more. Less is more. Less is more. You don’t need a week’s worth of clothes for a few days away, so stick to the basics for everyone. I do laundry at our hotel so we keep our vacation’s contents to a minimum. “After traveling with kids for many years, I discovered they always wear the same few outfits,” said Michelle Leys of Newport, R.I., whose children are 3, 5 and 7. “I got sick of carrying too much stuff they didn’t use. So I always just pack their L.L. Bean tote bag. Even for a monthlong road trip to the Grand Canyon, all they took was one small bag.”

Don’t forget: Pack a convenient extra outfit change for everyone to ensure you arrive fresh despite spilled milk or the effects of upset tummies.

Food

Easily accessible snacks are essential. I fill a cooler in the back seat with healthy treats in kid-size containers to easily grab and snack. Baby carrots and hummus, mini cucumbers, string cheese, blueberries, chunks of apple and cubed cantaloupe are low-sugar options that appease our family of three. On long car trips, we stop to stretch our legs and get a quick bite to eat, but if my son is asleep, we skip the pit stop and carry on. Sandwiches or leftovers to-go guarantee that the adults don’t starve!

Don’t forget: Save a few salty or sugary snacks for inevitable meltdowns: Goldfish crackers, fruit chews, pretzels and jelly beans are a quick cure for the traveling-with-kids blues.

Activities

What you skimp on clothing make up for in the activities department. A few new games will keep them occupied and excited about getting in the car or plane. Water-based Water Wow coloring books from Melissa & Doug were my son’s favorite while going to Turkey. Couple these with two new monster trucks, favorite books in his backpack, and he’s good to go. Meanwhile, he hardly touched the tablet.

Mothers of two boys Katie Hewett, of Middletown, R.I., and Jessica Torre of Higganum, Conn., agree that audiobooks are great for car travel. “We drove to Maine and the boys were completely mesmerized by Dr. Seuss audio books,” Torre said. Apps like OverDrive or Audible allow you to download books, or you can rent discs from your local library.

Additional tips for traveling with kids include playing interactive family games together, like the license plate or alphabet game. It diverts energy outside the car and allows them to engage with the natural environment. “My 3-year-old also likes making binoculars out of toilet paper rolls and playing I Spy – ‘find a red car” or ‘find something green,’” said Allyson Burkett of Ponte Vedra, FL.

Don’t forget: If you have multiples, get one of each thing for each child. Inexpensive digital cameras, for example, are a great tool, and at the end of your trip, you can make a digital photo album on Shutterfly. But each child must have their own to prevent disputes.

The Last Resort

If all else fails, try bribery. “I have given my two kids $10 in singles, and told them I got a dollar back every time they misbehaved,” said Christy Lafontant of West Bend, WI. “At the end, they kept what they had left. Worked like a charm for 7- and 8-year-olds.”

Don’t forget: Taking a slight detour to keep the peace is more important than maintaining your itinerary. Sway them with ice cream and hide-and-seek in the next highway rest area or layover.

Plan and book your next vacation with AAA.

When 16-year-old Sophia Falk was in middle school, she had a fantastic opportunity: the chance to play in a soccer tournament in Japan. The young goalkeeper wasn’t thinking about how to travel with food allergies. She’d been diagnosed with a peanut allergy at age 2 but had not had a serious reaction in years. Still, she came out of an early game with trouble breathing.

Just before the game, Sophia had been playing cards with teammates who were having peanuts as a snack. “Either she got something on her hands from playing cards, or it might have been on the goalie gloves,” says Sophia’s mom, Rebecca Haggerty, who was on the trip with her. Benadryl didn’t help, so they used the epinephrine auto-injector Sophia carries, then went to the hospital – fortunately, with the help of a translator the team had hired.

Giving thought to how to travel to a different country, with food allergies, can help travelers avoid allergic reactions. The right tools can also give them the chance to safely enjoy some of the local cuisine.

‘She ate ice cream for three weeks’

James Ahlberg’s daughter has nut allergies, and, as a college student, took a trip to Europe. “I picked her up at the airport, and I said to her, ‘How’d you fare with three weeks with this allergy and unable to speak the language?’ ” Ahlberg said. “And she said mainly she ate ice cream for three weeks.”

These are examples of just one of the challenges those with food allergies face when traveling to other countries: translation. His daughter’s experience led Ahlberg to create SelectWisely, customized cards that travelers can carry with them to help explain a food allergy or other medical condition in the local language.

During his company’s 15 years creating these cards, now offered in more than 60 languages, Ahlberg and his colleagues have learned of lots of idiosyncrasies travelers with allergies might face.

“For example, in the Thai language, they don’t have a word for shellfish, and a lot of people are allergic to shellfish,” Ahlberg said. Some languages don’t have a word for “nuts,” meaning each individual nut must be described. And the word for “peanuts” is different in some Spanish-speaking countries than in others.

Dining out with a food allergy

SelectWisely cards are especially helpful at restaurants.

“It’s very important in restaurant eating to really declare your allergy and to instruct the restaurant a bit,” said Dr. Scott Sicherer, director of the Jaffe Food Allergy Institute at Mount Sinai Medical Center. “You have to be really good at making it clear that it’s an allergy, not just a taste or an intolerance, making it clear that a small amount could make you sick, making it clear that you’re worried about cross-contact and hidden ingredients and giving examples of those.”

For instance, picking the nuts off of a salad doesn’t make that salad safe for someone with a nut allergy and chicken grilled next to a cheeseburger could give someone with a dairy allergy a serious reaction.

A good restaurant strategy for those with food allergies is to order simple ingredients prepared simply, Sicherer said, staying away from sauces and dishes with multiple ingredients.

“If you know you’re not allergic to rice and you’re getting plain rice, you can see that they didn’t put sauce on it,” he said. Or if you want a baked potato, get a plain baked potato to save yourself from having to worry about other questionable ingredients.

So, when is it safe to travel with food allergies? Any time, as long as you are cautious and prepared.

Here are some additional tips on how to travel to a different country with food allergies.

• Review your action plan with your allergist beforehand. Do you need extra EpiPens or other medications? Do you know when to use those medications? “When traveling, you might be more liberal in giving medication to yourself rather than waiting,” Sicherer said.

• Think about where you’ll be staying. Does the hotel staff speak English? Should you bring some prepackaged foods with you? Will your room have a kitchenette where you could prepare allergy-safe food if needed? If you’re taking a cruise, where you’ll be dependent on on-board meals, can the kitchen assure you’ll be safe? Buffets are rife with cross-contact, Sicherer said, so those with food allergies should avoid them.

• Make sure to let others know about your food allergy. Options include medical identification jewelry, though this might not be in the local language. There are also phone apps that will allow others to access essential medical information about you if you are unconscious or otherwise unable to communicate (such as Medical ID in the iPhone Health app or similar downloadable apps for Android devices.) And there are medical translation cards such as SelectWisely. Ahlberg says the company has even had travelers request cards in English because of the sense of authenticity. “They say that presenting that is better than just saying, ‘I can’t eat these foods,’ ” he said.

As with so many aspects of travel, the key to how to travel to a different country with food allergies is in planning ahead. Your allergy does not need to keep you at home, and you don’t have to spend your trip on a single-food diet. Talk with your allergist, gather some tools, and away you go.

Do you have food allergies and does it impact the way you travel? Share your tips for how to travel with food allergies in the comments. 

Each year, more than 30 million calls for help come from AAA members like you. AAA Roadside Assistance technicians respond to every call, in many cases working on busy roads with shoulders no wider than 4 feet. Sadly, an average of two roadside service providers are killed each month while tending to disabled vehicles along America’s roadways. Many more are injured by a motorist who is impaired, distracted, unaware or unwilling to slow down and move over.

Since 2007 AAA has worked to pass “Slow Down, Move Over” laws, which require drivers to reduce their speed and switch lanes to give roadside responders safe clearance. The laws – versions of which exist in all 50 states – are simple. Whenever approaching an incident where police, firefighters, emergency medical service crews or tow operators are working, drivers should exercise caution, slow down and move over.

AAA has worked on educational and advocacy initiatives, creating public service announcements and reaching out to state legislative officials. But there is more work to be done. We are committed to raising awareness of the “Slow Down, Move Over” law and the dangers associated with working at the roadside.

To protect roadside workers, AAA offers these tips:

• Stay alert. Avoid distractions and focus on the task of driving.
• Watch for emergency or utility service vehicles, tow trucks or disabled vehicles stopped on the side of the road.
• Slow down when approaching emergency vehicles with flashing lights stopped on the side of a two-lane roadway, unless otherwise directed by an emergency worker.
• On multi-lane roadways, slow down when you see the flashing lights of an emergency vehicle at the roadside and, if possible, move over into an adjacent lane. If you are unable to switch lanes, slow down to a speed that is safe and reasonable.

Everyone deserves to get home safely. When you see flashing lights, slow down and move over.

For more information, visit AAA.com/SlowDown.

“I think I realized what Marrakech reminds me of.”

“What’s that?”

“The fragrance section of a department store, but as an entire city.”

I uttered this to my traveling companion, my girlfriend Sheila, as we walked through Marrakech’s Jemaa El-Fna square. Like many travelers, we had been drawn to Morocco after seeing pictures on social media that evoked the exotic image of Lawrence of Arabia.

Our itinerary included stops in Marrakech, the leather tanneries of Fez, a night under the stars in the Sahara, strolling through the cerulean buildings of Chefchaouen, and – of course – storied Casablanca.

The Medina Maze

It was our first visit to Morocco, and we decided to make Marrakech our first stop. We planned to stay in traditional riad accommodations during our travels. Riads, traditional homes with many rooms and a central courtyard, are typically located in a medina, or old town. Although medinas evoke a feeling of history and authenticity, they’re extremely confusing to navigate. Lack of posted street signs or numbers – as well as twists and turns and numerous dead ends – makes it almost certain that visitors will lose their bearings at some point.

The payoff for all this directional hassle is an accommodation experience unlike any you’ve ever experienced. We were greeted in Marrakech by our host Zuhair, who, after ushering us in, presented us with a platter of olives, bread, nuts and the ever-present elixir of mint tea.

Riad hosts can be some of the best resources during a stay in Morocco, helping you find authentic activities and experiences, hiring trustworthy drivers to shuttle you around the sites, and finding a safe place for you to park a rental car overnight. In Fez, our host actually walked us to the tanneries and got us inside to one of the best viewing platforms, which we likely wouldn’t have been able to do without him.

The trade-off to the medina’s authentic experience is the abundance of people trying to separate you from your money in less-than-legitimate methods. Luckily, we were prepared, and by the end of our trip, they were more of an annoyance than anything else.

Ports, Camels and Wine

After the colorful Marrakech, we ventured out of the big cities looking for activities that would give us a glimpse into Moroccans’ daily lives. Our adventures included a day trip to the quiet port city of Essaouira, a cooking class where we prepared a traditional tagine, and discussing Berber culture over a fire after a Saharan camel ride.

We also ventured to Domaine De La Zouina, one of the few wineries in Morocco. In addition to enjoying a tasting and learning about wine production with our host, we discussed the challenges of working in the wine industry in a predominantly Muslim country. We also learned about topics ranging from politics to health care, which gave us so much insight about the inner workings of Morocco society.

Morocco is a destination that demands patience and an awareness of your surroundings from the first-time visitor. But it also offers some of the richest experiences and the most welcoming people if you’re willing to go out and find them.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to make myself some mint tea.

Contact a AAA travel agent to start planning your Morocco trip.

Massachusetts-based travel writer Chris Caswell and girlfriend Sheila travel the world and share their adventures on their blog. 

Nothing incites vacation excitement more than two words: road trip! Whether you’re darting away for a quick weekend or planning a week-long cross-country trek, there are a few important things to consider – what to see along the way, where to sleep at the end of the day and what road trip snacks to pack. You don’t want to find yourself  on a seemingly endless stretch of highway with nothing but stale chips to alleviate your hanger.

It’s easy to fall into the drive-thru rut, but with just a little planning, the right snacks will have you feeling your best when you arrive at your destination.

The Best Road Trip Snacks Are Filling, Healthy and Portable

Gas stations and rest stops provide a plethora of treats that would make anyone feel like a kid in a candy store. The truth is, they basically are candy stores. Chips, candy bars, sugary sodas and energy drinks may be tempting after hours in the car, but they are not the best fuel in the long run to ensure that you remain focused on the road.  When choosing your road trip snacks, consider the foods that will give you sustained energy (fruit, protein bars) and avoid those that will lead to the inevitable crash in a few hours (sugar and caffeine).

Think Charcuterie

If you’re a pro at putting together a charcuterie board for a party, use those skills to build a portable one for the road.  Sliced meats, cheese and smoked seafoods are great road trip snacks because they are high in protein and will help keep you fuller, longer. Adding in some olives, nuts and whole grain crackers will provide healthy fats and a little crunch, and leave you feeling satisfied. Make sure to have a cooler with plenty of ice to keep everything fresh.

Limit the Salt

It’s so tempting to grab a bag of chips or succumb to the lure of fast food french fries, but eating salt-laden snacks will leave you feeling sluggish, bloated and a little greasy around the edges. If you crave crunch, opt for something like baked pita chips, air popped popcorn or banana chips. Paired with hummus or peanut butter, you’ll have a tasty and filling snack that will leave you feeling fuller faster and less likely to mindlessly plow through a whole bag.

Eat the Rainbow

Cut up veggies such as carrots, celery, peppers and cucumbers make for the best road trip snacks. Not only are they healthy, but they also store extremely well in the cooler. Think vegetables are boring? Pack along a yogurt dip like tzatziki or salad dressing to give them a little more oomph.

If you’re looking for a bit of sweet to keep your mind on the road, reach for some fruit. Options like bananas, apples and oranges are great snacks for the road because they don’t require refrigeration, and they are a little sturdier to withstand the bumps and bruises and shuffling that accompany any car ride. Berries, cherries and grapes, while requiring a bit of chilling, are also good choices since they require no prep or peeling, are easy to eat and are perfect for the littlest passengers aboard.

Go for the Good Stuff

If you just can’t live without a little bit of something sweet or salty, don’t fret! Trail mix is a great road trip snack. The combination of nuts, dried fruit and a little bit of chocolate, will give you the sweet and salty combo you crave, with added protein and fat for sustainable energy. Be sure to opt for dark chocolate, which has proven health benefits. However, be careful with portion sizes when eating trail mix – it can be easy to get carried away.

Hydrate

At the end of the day, water is always the best option to keep you hydrated, which is especially important if you’re sitting for long hours. Many times, if you’re looking for some mindless munching, you might just be thirsty!  Want bubbles in your beverage? Seltzer water is an excellent sugar and caffeine free alternative.

Packaged and Portable

Don’t have the room or inclination to pack a cooler? That’s no problem! There are plenty of good-for-you, pre-packaged options that are satisfying enough to keep you away from the candy aisle. Luna and Bobo snack bars, beef, turkey or mushroom jerky or Justin’s single serving nut butters are all healthy options that are easy to grab and go.

Fast Food Friendly

Not all fast food is created equal, and sometimes a quick serve stop is necessary when a snack attack strikes. Stay away from heavier fried foods that will promptly induce a food coma, and instead opt for fresh salads or sandwiches, available at many fast food outlets along your route.

Road trip snacks often get a bad rap, but there are plenty of healthy, filling, portable options to fuel your hunger and keep you from running on empty. Take at look at these healthiest fast food options based on calories.

Head to AAA.com to find member savings on groceries and dining and to help you plan the perfect road trip.                                                               

What are some of your favorite road trip snacks? Share them with us in the comments.