Your smile is unique to you and in many ways defines you. But a healthy mouth is about more than a self-confident smile – it also has an impact on your overall wellness.
That’s why preventive care, including good oral hygiene and seeing your dentist regularly for cleanings, X-rays and exams, is so important. Yet, according to research from the American Dental Association, 59% of adults said they avoid dental care because of cost. You can maximize your chances of minimizing your costs when you stay on top of going to the dentist for routine cleanings and exams.
According to the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry, preventive dental care practices, including early and routine treatment at the dentist, can save families money in the long run, with $8 to $50 saved in restorative and emergency treatments for every dollar spent on preventive dental care. Research has tied oral disease to costly and chronic health conditions like diabetes, stroke, heart disease and oral cancer. Often, your dentist can spot early indicators of these health conditions.
Fortunately, there are new options for making dental care more affordable, increasing the chances you’ll get the preventive care you need. The Chewsi app is simple to use and helps you save at the dentist. Download the free Chewsi app and register with the AAANE member referral code. Then, search for a Chewsi dentist near you and make that appointment!
Prevention and Beyond
It’s important for everyone to get routine cleanings every six months to help promote good oral health. That schedule gives your dentist time to detect early signs of tooth decay in the hard-to-reach spots that even a brushing perfectionist can miss.
But while scheduled checkups help prevent cavities, gum disease and other dental health complications, there may be times when you need care that reaches beyond prevention. Restoring a decayed tooth with a filling or replacing a missing tooth with an implant can also play a role in the overall health of your teeth and gums. Regardless of what dental services you need – from cleanings, crowns and braces to dentures, implants and more, the free Chewsi app can help you save.
Caring for Your Teeth at Home
While seeing your dentist regularly is important, how you take care of your teeth each day matters, too.
We all make excuses for avoiding an underrated, yet essential part of our daily dental health routine – flossing. By removing plaque from between the teeth and under the gum lines where a toothbrush can’t reach, daily flossing helps prevent tooth decay and gingivitis. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, flossing is the single most important weapon against plaque.
Brushing is also a critical step. While finding a high-quality toothbrush is essential, learning how to brush your teeth correctly is just as important. As research and technology advances, many toothbrushes now feature modes for whitening and for sensitive teeth.
The American Dental Association recommends choosing any toothbrush with soft bristles, as hard bristles may cause gum tissue to pull back from teeth, exposing the tooth root and leading to increased sensitivity. Consult your dentist for guidance.
Finally, what you eat and drink matters as well. There’s no question that sugar in foods like sticky candies and sweets can cause problems in our mouths. Harmful bacteria interacts with food left on teeth to produce acids, causing plaque buildup and cavities down the road. Watching what you eat can mean a less painful visit to the dentist. Here are some quick tips:
Skip sweets.
Moderately consume acidic foods.
Say no to starchy carbohydrates.
Select drinks without added sugar.
Pick fruits and vegetables rich in fiber.
Choose calcium-rich dairy products.
Opt for sugarless gum.
Above all, don’t smoke. In addition to being good for your health, quitting smoking means no more nicotine-stained teeth. And, you’ll be doing your gums a favor. Though smoking is known for its connection to cancer and heart disease, most people are unaware of its effect on oral health, causing problems such as periodontitis. Smoking harms healthy gums, causing them to recede.
Add Some Sparkle and Shine
While teeth whitening won’t necessarily improve your health, its results can instantly boost your confidence. There are a variety of whitening products available today, such as gel pens, rinses, toothpastes, strips, over-the-counter trays, custom trays and laser whitening.
Before you decide, it’s best to talk to your dentist to learn more about the risks and benefits of teeth whitening. Though teeth whitening can be a pricier cosmetic procedure not covered by most dental insurance plans, there are new ways to save on whitening services, such as the new Chewsi app.
Chewsi can also help you save on orthodontic treatment for children and adults. Some of the top techniques to straighten your smile include traditional braces and clear teeth aligners. Talk to your dentist about the benefits of orthodontic treatment and the options available to you.
From implants, crowns and braces to cleanings, dentures and more, Chewsi helps you save. The free app connects you directly to dentists affordable for your budget. Download and register.
The Northeast has fewer sunny days than other parts of the country, but the region is a solar leader. In fact, one out of every eight solar homes in the country is located in the Northeast, according to data from the US Energy Information Administration. For a number of reasons, the solar industry is booming in the Northeast.
Solar by State
According to data from the Solar Energy Industries Association, as of the summer of 2019, two Northeast states reached the top 10 nationwide for all-time solar installations: Massachusetts and New York. Not only do these two states lead the region in the amount of solar installed, they also lead the region in the number of solar-powered homes.
More than a quarter million homeowners have installed solar in the Northeast, with about 45% of those homes in New York and nearly 35% in Massachusetts. Given that the US recently surpassed 2 million homes with solar, Northeast states account for more than 12% of all solar installations in the US. Based on solar pricing data from EnergySage, homeowners in the Northeast have invested over $5 billion in residential solar alone.
State
Total solar installed (megawatts)
National
State Rank
% of electricity from solar
(July 2019)
# of homes with solar
(2018)
CT
606
20
2%
34,500
MA
2,567
8
16%
83,400
ME
60
42
1%
4,000
NH
95
38
1%
7,600
NY
1,775
9
2%
107,000
RI
175
31
3%
2,600
VT
304
25
18%
7,700
Sources: US EIA Form 861 data, US EIA Electric Power Monthly, SEIA state data explorer
Another way to compare the success of solar state-by-state is to look at the percentage of a state’s electricity that is generated by solar. For instance, while New York reaches the top 10 for most solar installed nationwide, Rhode Island has far less solar installed but meets a higher percentage of the state’s electricity needs with solar.
Solar Incentives and Rebates in the Northeast
At present, the best solar incentive available anywhere in the country is the federal investment tax credit. The robust incentive, which has contributed significantly to the growth of the solar industry nationwide, saves the average solar shopper between $5,000 and $10,000 when they invest in solar. If you install solar in 2020, you’ll receive a credit on your taxes equal to 26% of your solar investment.
Beyond this nationwide solar incentive, many Northeast states provide their own additional solar incentives and rebates. For one, every state in the Northeast currently allows for net metering, which allows you to sell your solar electricity to the grid when you’re not using it and to purchase electricity from the grid when you need it and your panels aren’t producing. Importantly, net metering may not last forever in the Northeast: Connecticut’s net metering program may only last another two years, while Maine has already nixed, and then brought back, their net metering policy.
State
Does the state allow net metering?
Any upfront rebates or tax credits for solar?
Any additional payments for the solar produced by your panels?
Any additional incentives for solar + storage systems?
CT
Yes
$0.463/W rebate
–
–
MA
Yes
Up to $1,000 tax credit
SMART Program
Utility-specific + SMART Program
ME
Yes
–
–
–
NH
Yes
Up to $1,000 rebate
–
Utility-specific
NY
Yes
Up to $0.35/W rebate
Up to $5,000 tax credit
–
State-run
RI
Yes
Up to $0.90/W rebate
OR $.28/kWh incentive
Utility-specific
VT
Yes
–
–
Utility-specific
Individual states also offer an up-front rebate or a tax credit based upon the price of a solar installation. A rebate, like New Hampshire’s, will reduce the upfront cost of installing solar, similar to a rebate on any other home appliance. Alternatively, with a tax credit, like Massachusetts’, you will receive a credit on your taxes the following year. New York is the only Northeast state to offer both, significantly improving the finances of going solar in the state.
Additionally, a couple of states offer solar performance incentives, like the SMART program in Massachusetts or the optional Renewable Energy Growth program in Rhode Island. These solar programs pay for every unit of energy produced by your solar panels.
Finally, most states in the Northeast now also offer rebates or incentives for adding energy storage to a solar installation. Adding a battery to a solar panel system is becoming increasingly popular, as it allows you to continue to power your home with clean energy in the event of a power outage. These innovative policies and programs, including Green Mountain Power’s highly successful programs in Vermont, are making it more financially feasible to add storage to a solar installation.
The Future of Solar in the Northeast
Many states and utilities throughout the country have recently introduced 100% renewable energy targets, and Northeast states are no different. From 100% commitments from New York, Maine and Green Mountain Power, to a recent Connecticut announcement to study and pursue a clean energy future, the Northeast will need to continue to invest in the solar industry for decades to come.
In fact, two recent analyses describe just how much growth can be expected for solar in the region: Vote Solar found that increasing solar adoption to meet just Massachusetts’s energy goals would result in adding 8,000-9,000 local jobs, while the Brattle Group found that the Northeast could increase solar from 6 gigawatts (million kilowatts) currently to 107 gigawatts by 2050, in order to meet state climate goals.
And with solar energy systems paying for themselves very quickly in most Northeastern states, it’s no wonder why solar has taken off in the region. If you’re interested in learning about how much solar can save you, there are a number of free, online tools and resources to use, such as EnergySage’s Solar Calculator.
People like advice columns because they feel like gossip – that’s why I like them, at least. But I’ve learned a lot from them too.
Advice columns have dedicated readers with their own lingo (“the missing stair,” “evil bees,” “not my monkeys“) and an overall insistence that everyone deserves understanding and respect.
These advice podcasts bring the joy and schadenfreude of the advice column to life, while baking in some genuinely good advice. It’s the spoonful of sugar that helps the medicine go down. Here are some of my favorite advice podcasts.
It’s hard to beat Slate’s long-running “Dear Prudence” column at the advice-giving game. The current Prudence is Daniel Mallory Ortberg, who has been giving out advice as Prudie since 2015. In 2016, Slate and Ortberg launched a podcast based on the column called (what else?) “Dear Prudence.” On “Dear Prudence,” Ortberg fields questions about things like relationships, work, family, life and so much more. Ortberg is always accompanied by a guest who is at least as sharp and witty as him, and it’s great to hear them gasp over the unbelievable details of the letters people send to Prudie. The questions range from the serious to the completely absurd, and Ortberg is able to handle all of them.
As the former chief of staff of a successful nonprofit, Alison Green knows everything about work – specifically office politics. Do you have coworkers who overshare? A mystery sandwich thief? Disastrous holiday parties? Clueless bosses? An office with no rules? An office with too many rules? Green is here to help. “Ask A Manager” is perfect for office newbies and workplace veterans alike, and Green’s sensible advice will often leave you wondering, “Why didn’t I think of that?” I mostly listen to “Ask A Manager” for the truly insane office stories (like the boss who asked his employees for an organ donation, the office with mandatory group-therapy sessions and the interns who petitioned for the right to wear sweatpants to work). Even if you don’t have a question, “Ask A Manager” has the answer.
Unlike most of the other podcast listed here, “Where Should We Begin?” doesn’t field questions from listeners. “Where Should We Begin?” is actually a series of recorded therapy sessions, presided over by psychotherapist and New York Times bestselling author Esther Perel. Perel focuses on couples and romantic relationships with gentle, yet probing questions delivered in a captivating European accent (French? German? Who can say?) “Where Should We Begin?” is so intimate that it feels like eavesdropping, like nobody knows this is being recorded – even though everyone does. Perel’s anonymous clients are so open, raw and honest that it will leave you stunned. It’s a must-listen for anyone who loves podcasts or is interested in relationships.
“Mom and Dad are Fighting,” like “Dear Prudence,” is an advice podcast produced by Slate. But this one is specifically about the world of parenting. It is a wild world, filled with questions that demand answering (and not just “where do babies come from?”). “Mom and Dad Are Fighting” is hosted by Gabriel Roth, Rebecca Lavoie, and Carvell Wallace, who are parents and therefore have some experience in the subject of parenting. I don’t have kids, but I do like to judge people, and there’s no better avenue for judgement than an advice column about raising children. Feels good up here on my high horse!
Writers Cheryl Strayed and Steve Almond host this advice podcast, which answers listener questions with “radical empathy.” Strayed and Almond never hesitate to place themselves in the shoes of the question-asker, teasing out the details and pain that make each conundrum heartbreakingly human. They are so kind and understanding that it feels like listening to a warm embrace. They truly care about these total strangers.
And now for something entirely different. “My Brother, My Brother and Me,” fondly referred to as MBMBAM (pronounced “mah-bim-bam”) is a podcast starring three brothers: Justin, Travis and Griffin McElroy. Though it’s billed as “an advice show for the modern era,” the McElroy brothers are less interested in advice than they are in jokes. They take questions from listeners and punt them – hard – onto the altar of goofs. Some of their most-loved goofs are Glass Shark, Amelie, Cromslor and A Case of the Mondays.
Can a three- to four-hour bus ride full of strangers be fun? Can fellow shipmates become some of your closest friends? For Odette and Gerry Griffin, the answers are a resounding yes.
The Griffins, of Cranston, wanted to take a memorable trip for their anniversary. After hearing suggestions from friends and family and visiting an information night at their local AAA branch, they booked an eight-day Viking River Cruises excursion along the Danube River with a three-day Prague pre-trip with AAA travel agent Melissa Murphy.
The Griffins had been looking forward to the vacation, but it still exceeded all expectations. Even the long bus ride from their Prague hotel to the ship in Passau, Germany, surprised them.
“The bus ride was something we were dreading, having been told that it was three to four hours,” Odette said. “But we were pleasantly surprised at how beautiful the scenery was. There were a lot of rolling hills and valleys reminiscent of the Shenandoah Valley. A tour guide even narrated, making the time go by.”
That was only the beginning of a grand cruising adventure spent enjoying the gorgeous scenery and ports of call in big cities and small towns.
They sampled many regional delicacies, such as Austrian apple strudel, beet chips in Bratislava and Wiener schnitzel in the Czech Republic and Austria. The Griffins also dined at outdoor cafes, since the weather was pleasantly warm for October.
“Our favorite food by far was two very different versions of cabbage soup, equally good, in Cesky Krumlov, the Czech Republic, and in Bratislava, Slovakia,” said Griffin.
Gerry particularly enjoyed the food, since it reminded him of the Polish foods his grandmother used to make.
Fellow travelers helped make the trip even more enjoyable.
“We made some wonderful friends and arranged to sit with them at meals. We have even kept in touch with some of them since returning home,” Odette said.
The Griffins’ river cruise experience was so amazing that they wanted to do it all again. And they will: They’ve booked another river cruise – this time on the Rhine – for May 2020.
Fifty miles off the coast of Miami, Resorts World Bimini awaits guests with a 750-acre luxury beachfront resort designed to both stimulate your sense of adventure and instill a sense of deep relaxation.
Running half the entire length of the island of Bimini, Bahamas, this destination provides the kind of vacation experience that guests dream about. From scuba diving with hammerhead sharks, which migrate through the waters each fall, to sport-fishing in the expansive marina complex, you’ll never run out of things to do in this exotic locale.
Take a moment to explore some of the highlights.
Luxurious Guest Rooms
Resorts World Bimini is more than equipped to accommodate your every need. Designed with a sleek elegance that captures the region’s Caribbean flourishes, all 305 luxury rooms feature either a balcony or terrace that allows you to take in the lush environment from the perfect vantage point.
All guest rooms and suites also offer floor-to-ceiling windows, expansive bathrooms and either a single king or double queen-sized beds. With all there is to do throughout the resort, you might not be lounging in your room too much, but no vacation experience is complete without the opportunity to indulge in a good night’s rest.
Resorts World Bimini is 750 acres of pristine Bahamas beachfront and turquoise waters. Easily accessible from Miami and Fort Lauderdale, it is the perfect midweek getaway.
If you want to venture out of the hotel and resort, you don’t have to go far before you reach Fisherman’s Village and Marina. Designed with boaters in mind, this area is home not only to an expansive docking space but also a wide variety of amenities, including a retail marketplace, restaurants and a fitness center. Shop to your heart’s content at the boutiques, grab a pizza or panini at Amicci’s or just take in some fresh air.
Feeling a bit more adventurous? Wander over to Bimini Undersea, the water sports center located right next to Fisherman’s Village and Marina. Zip around on an exhilarating jet ski ride, glide on a glass-bottom kayak or rent a paddleboat for a more leisurely tour of the area.
Pools and Beaches
What would a world-class resort be without easy beach access? Of course, Resorts World Bimini provides all the brilliant white sand and shimmering water you could possibly want. Go for a refreshing swim or leisurely stroll along the coastline or rent a golf cart and venture out to one of the island’s more secluded beaches. Just like the seashells scattered about, every time you hit the Bimini beach promises to be a unique but equally exciting experience.
If you’d prefer a poolside visit, the lagoon-style pool is an undeniable ground-floor highlight, providing the perfect place to take a quick dip. For larger groups and families, Sabor’s neighboring pool and Jacuzzi are spacious enough to accommodate everyone in your group. If you’re in the mood for ultra-relaxation, try the adults-only rooftop infinity pool, the perfect way to take in the breathtaking horizon.
Serenity Spa and Salon
Indulge in a wide variety of customizable treatments, such as body massages and wraps, hair styling, makeup and nail services at Serenity Spa and Salon. What makes a visit to Serenity Spa and Salon so unforgettable is the context in which it takes place; the various onsite treatments are all performed amid a jaw-dropping view of the Caribbean Sea.
Taking the time to pamper yourself with a hard-earned full body or facial treatment unlocks the true potential of an island getaway to the gorgeous island of Bimini. No visit to Resorts World Bimini is complete without it.
Premier Dining Options
With 10 onsite restaurants, cafes and bars, the resort has something for everyone once the time comes to enjoy some refreshments. Each establishment emphasizes fresh quality ingredients and the loving craftsmanship that is the hallmark of top-notch cuisine.
If you’re in the mood for fine dining, don’t miss the island-inspired menu or the daily breakfast buffet at The Tides. In the mood for something with an Asian flair? The Sushi Bar’s head chef (and Top Chef winner) Hung Huynh can satisfy your craving with ease. Then, at the end of the night, you can grab some handcrafted cocktails at the Lobby Bar.
Whether you’re lounging poolside or heading on your next adventure, Resorts World Bimini has plenty of places to grab a quick bite, another round or a jolt of caffeine.
A World-Class Casino
For guests willing to test their luck, the Resorts World Bimini casino offers 10,000 square feet of gaming paradise. Try your hand at poker, baccarat, blackjack, craps and roulette in the world’s first casino with panoramic water views.
You don’t have to be ready for the high-limit gaming salon to have a blast at the casino. All skill levels are welcome, and you could win jackpots as high as $50,000 at one of our more than 160 slot machines. With new events and tournaments happening year-round, the casino truly is a hotbed of activity regardless of when you stop by.
Learn more about Resorts World Bimini and start planning your trip today.
One-quarter of Americans plan to take an international vacation over the next 18 months, according to a recent AAA Travel survey. AAA’s advance travel booking data suggests that many travelers will head to popular European destinations like Rome, London, Dublin and Paris. And warm-weather locales in Mexico and the Caribbean, including Cancun, Montego Bay and Punta Cana, with most travelers in search of unique experiences.
“More and more travelers are looking for experiential travel opportunities and seeking ways to intimately engage with their destination, whether at home or abroad,” said Paula Twidale, vice president of AAA Travel.
Road Trips Go Overseas
The great American road trip remains a beloved vacation option; for many, AAA has also found that road trips are increasingly appealing to U.S. travelers while overseas. In fact, AAA’s survey revealed that nearly 77 million adults have rented or used a personal vehicle while on vacation outside the U.S.
An international driving vacation comes with additional planning considerations and paperwork for which travelers need to be prepared. An International Driving Permit (or IDP) is a legal document that translates U.S. driver’s license information into 10 foreign languages. The nominal $20 fee is a small price to pay for peace of mind while traveling overseas.
More than 150 countries accept IDPs, however, many countries do not recognize U.S. driver’s licenses without an accompanying IDP. It is illegal to drive without a valid license and insurance in most places. AAA is one of only two entities authorized by the U.S. Department of State to issue IDPs. Members and non-members alike can easily apply for an International Driving Permit with an application accessible online or in person at AAA.
Tips for International Travel
Planning an international vacation can be a daunting task, but travelers don’t have to go it alone. AAA recommends these tips to prepare for a trip overseas:
Book early for next year’s trip. Many travel suppliers offer early payment incentives to travelers who book and pay for their trips before the end of the year. Travelers who lock in their plans now can take advantage of great cost savings.
Seek the expertise of a knowledgeable travel agent; they can make recommendations and help navigate the myriad options available for international travel, saving time, money and the hassle of planning solo.
Review the AAA Travel Guides, recently enhanced with additional international destination information, for tips on where to go, how to get around, what to do and see, and what not to miss on vacation.
Consider purchasing travel insurance to protect your vacation investment and ensure a smooth vacation experience.
Be aware of your surroundings and remain vigilant while traveling internationally. Refer to the U.S. Department of State for detailed recommendations and country-specific information. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, which makes it easier for the nearest embassy or consulate to contact U.S. citizens in case of an emergency.
For these and more details, call a AAA Travel agent at 800-222-7448 or visit AAA.com/Travel.
The year 2017 was a turning point for Tiffany Haddish. After working for years as a comedian and actress, Haddish became a household name when she starred in the 2017 hit film “Girls Trip.” For that role, she was nominated for a host of awards and walked away with trophies from the NAACP Image Awards and the New York Film Critics Circle Awards.
Later that year, she released her memoir “The Last Black Unicorn,” which quickly became a New York Times bestseller. Since her breakthrough, Haddish has appeared in a host of films and television shows including “The Lego Movie 2,” “Night School,” and “The Secret Life of Pets 2.” Beginning in October, you can watch Haddish as she hosts “Kids Say the Darndest Things” on ABC.
But before all this, Haddish was driving around in an “ugly” Geo Metro.
What was your first car?
A 1995 Geo Metro.
How did you acquire it?
I bought it from a car dealership with a very high interest rate. I got it with a loan from Ugly Duckling.
What did you love most about the car?
I loved that it never gave up on the road. It always drove.
Was there anything you didn’t like about it?
It was ugly.
What is your favorite memory of the car?
My favorite memory of the car was when I got a radio installed in it. For me, it sounded really loud.
What happened to it?
The electrical went out on it, so it’s just sitting.
Beginning Nov. 1, all children under age 2 in New York must be restrained in a rear-facing safety seat. AAA strongly believes this will increase the safety of the youngest motor vehicle passengers.
According to AAA analysis, a 1-year-old child was injured in a traffic crash in New York once per day on average from 2011-2015 – an equivalent of 1,896 injuries over the course of a five-year span.
During the same time, child safety seats saved the lives 1,329 children ages 4 and younger, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Yet most 1-year-olds are “prematurely graduated” to forward-facing seats.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends infants and toddlers ride in rear-facing seats until age 2, or until they reach the height or weight maximum. A rear-facing seat distributes crash forces over the entire body and provides better head support. One-year-olds are five times more likely to be seriously injured in a crash if they ride forward-facing rather than rear-facing.
Australia might be one of the best places in the world to take a vacation – it has everything! From lush wine regions to the world’s largest coral reef system, Australia is filled with a rich diversity of landscapes, cities and outdoor adventures. You can learn about indigenous cultures, take in a performance at the world’s most iconic opera house, explore the Outback and so much more.
If you’re headed Down Under, make sure to check out this list of can’t-miss wonders.
Barossa Valley Wine Region: Tastings and Vineyard Tours
With more than 65 wine regions including the famed Barossa Valley, Australia is home to many award-winning wineries that produce some of the world’s finest Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. As you explore the country’s restaurants, you’ll have a chance to taste many of these, but nothing compares to a scenic dinner overlooking the vineyards. At picturesque Hutton Vale Farm, caretakers will guide you through the 19th-century buildings before you tour the vineyards and enjoy a crisp riesling. Delve even further into the history of the region with a trip to Seppeltsfield, where you can sample a diverse selection including earthy pinot noir.
"Someday," you said; someday you’ll go and see Australia, that special place you’ve been imagining all these years. This trip is the one you’ve spoken about, dreamed about and think about all the time. You’ve waited for a sign to tell you when to go. Well, your "someday" is here!
Alice Springs: An Outback Adventure
Located in the Red Centre of the Australian Outback, Alice Springs is surrounded by natural wonders. The Red Centre is Australia’s interior desert region, home to some of Australia’s most iconic vistas. You can learn about the history and culture of the local Walpiri Aboriginal people on the “Dreamtime Tour.” On the tour, a specialist guide will teach you all about the Walpiri way of life while sharing Aboriginal creation stories. Visit the Old Telegraph Station and Anzac Hill to catch some amazing panoramic views of Alice Springs.
If you’re looking for hiking, explore the idyllic MacDonnell Ranges, a series of red rock ranges dotted with camping sites, swimming holes and hiking tracks. Or you could head back to Alice Springs to take a walk along the Larapinta Trail, which actually begins in the city center. But if you do visit Alice Springs, definitely don’t miss Uluru.
Uluru: A Massive Natural Landmark
Rising from flat earth in the Northern Territory of central Australia is a massive, richly hued sandstone formation that may be the most awe-inspiring sight on your trip. Also known as Ayers Rock, this structure is sacred to the Aboriginal Anangu tribe, who still hold ceremonies at the site. Vacation packages often combine a visit to the 1,142-foot-tall landmark with a visit to the nearby Alice Springs.
Uluru has a mysterious allure, in part due to the changing colors that can be observed at sunrise or sunset. Watch as the rusty orange surface becomes a blazingly bright red.
The Great Barrier Reef: A Natural Wonder of the World
Located off Australia’s Queensland coast, the Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef in the world. Featuring more than 2,800 individual reefs and cays, the massive structure is visible from space and is considered one of the top natural wonders on the planet, making it a must-see destination on a trip to the Australian continent. This UNESCO World Heritage Site provides a habitat for 1,500 species of fish and 4,000 types of mollusks, some of which you will spot while snorkeling, diving or looking down through a glass-bottom boat. Some species living there are endangered, and the reef itself faces environmental threats, so take the time to appreciate this impressive system in its current state.
Sydney: Not Just an Opera House
Sydney is Australia’s largest city, and it’s also where the English colonists first settled. There is so much to do in Sydney – from exploring the National Opal Collection to strolling along Sydney Harbour to visiting the iconic Sydney Opera House.
Recognizable by the sail-shaped structures that form its roof, the Sydney Opera House ranks among the world’s top architectural masterpieces. In 1957, Jørn Utzon won the international competition to design the space. His winning entry has since defined the Sydney Harbour as much as the city itself, making the opera house one of Australia’s must-see attractions. Whether you enjoy a performance or take a guided tour of the opera house, you can relax afterward by the harbor and enjoy a cocktail or meal at one of the on-site restaurants. With a Sydney cruise pass you can travel by high-speed boat to a variety of spots on Sydney Harbour, like the famous beach resorts of Manly and Watson’s Bay, historic Fort Denison or Taronga Zoo. Hop off to explore places that interest you… or stay on for a while and enjoy the narrated cruise.
Make sure to check out the Sydney Harbour Bridge, one of the most iconic sights in the city. You could also stop by the Royal Botanic Garden or the Australian Museum – the oldest museum in Australia. To the west of Sydney, you can see the majestic Blue Mountains.
The Blue Mountains: Nature’s Majesty
Just a hop, skip and a jump away from Sydney lies the Blue Mountains of New South Wales. You can journey to Blue Mountains National Park to encounter its countless geological wonders, such as the Three Sisters sandstone rock formations. As you travel through the mountains, you’ll see sandstone plateaus, rich valleys, river gorges and endless pristine wilderness. Want to see the wonders from above? Try taking a trip on the Katoomba Scenic Railway, the steepest railway in the world. The Blue Mountains are also some of the easiest places to spot kangaroos in the wild – no visit to Australia is complete without them!
It may be tempting to hold on to unfinished prescriptions with the intention of using in case of an emergency, but starting a collection in your medicine cabinet can be dangerous in a number of ways.
You wouldn’t eat food well past its expiration date. The same principle should apply to your medications. Not only can drugs lose their potency or have different effects than originally intended when past their prime, but expired drops, sprays or other liquid medicines can grow bacteria. Furthermore – and most important to consider – some medications can be harmful or deadly if they end up in the wrong hands.
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, approximately 60,000 emergency department visits and 450,000 calls to poison centers are made after children under 6 years of age find and ingest medication without caregiver oversight.
To protect children, pets and others from accidental or illegal consumption, not to mention helping the environment, use this guide to learn how to get rid of expired medications the correct way.
Don’t Flush or Toss
Review all of your prescriptions and note the ones that have passed their expiration dates. Once identified, first look into drug take-back sites or redistribution sites near you.
If bringing your prescriptions to a take-back site is not possible, then check to see if they are one of the 14 FDA-approved drugs that can be flushed. These drugs can be flushed due to their potential to be fatal if accidentally consumed or misused by children, pets, or other individuals who are not prescribed the medication.
Check the documentation that was provided with your medication; it may tell you how to properly dispose of that particular drug. Otherwise, follow these steps to dispose of drugs you cannot flush or bring to a return or redistribution site.
Do not hold onto outdated or leftover medications. Take a regular inventory of your medications, check their expiration dates and make sure medicines that are still good are being stored properly. Do you have leftover medications because you forgot to take them? These reminder tips could help.
Do not take apart capsules or crush pills or tablets. Instead, remove them from their original packaging and mix them whole with an unappealing substance. Examples include cat litter, used coffee grounds, dirt/soil or sawdust. The point is to make sure animals or people won’t be tempted to eat or take the medication. Then, put the mix in a sealable can, container or plastic bag and throw it away.
Packaging for prescriptions often has your personal data (your name, address, phone number, the order number, etc.) so be sure to remove, cross out or scratch off any labels. Then, simply recycle or throw away the bottles, boxes or other packaging.
Flushing medications should be a last resort for disposing of medications. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, traces of medications can leach out of septic tanks into the groundwater, as well as from wastewater treatment plants, which are not equipped to filter out drugs. The FDA is “aware of reports of very low, but measurable levels of medicines in surface waters such as rivers and streams, and to a lesser extent in drinking water.”
Take-Back Sites
If your medications didn’t come with specific disposal instructions, leftover medications can be brought to drug take-back sites, as well any U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration-authorized collectors. To find a permanent collection location near you, simply search keywords such as “drug disposal near me” or “medication disposal near me.”
You can also participate in the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, commonly held in October and April, or ask your pharmacy about possible mail-back programs.
Donate or Recycle
Medications are expensive. Rather than letting them go to waste, drugs that have not expired could be recycled or donated to help someone in need.
Since the fall of 2018, 38 states have passed laws establishing drug redistribution programs, where “participating pharmacies, charitable clinics and/or hospitals collect and redistribute donated drugs to eligible patients,” according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.
New Hampshire is currently the only state in the Northeast with an operational program. While Connecticut, New Jersey and New York had enacted laws in the past, the programs are not operational at this time. To get your state’s drug redistribution program running again, contact your local government officials and voice your concerns.
When I lived in Orlando, I had a roommate from Southern California. While planning our first outing to the Disney parks, she said, “After we leave the Magic Kingdom we can just walk to EPCOT, right?”
Therein lies the key difference in the Disney World vs. Disneyland debate. My roommate was not yet familiar with the fact that the area of Walt Disney World is 43 square miles, and that EPCOT is about 4 miles away from the Magic Kingdom. We would have to swim through the Seven Seas Lagoon or even cling to the track of the monorail to go the shortest route. And even that would take over an hour.
The longest walk between parks at Disneyland, however, is about five minutes gate-to-gate. You don’t even have to swim through anything. They really have it good over there, don’t they?
Walt Disney World is, more than anything else, a second take at Disneyland. People claim that you can feel the influence of Walt Disney more at Disneyland, since “he actually walked there,” but this ignores the extent to which Walt was obsessed with the creation of his Orlando Project.
People thought that Walt was crazy when he opened Disneyland in Anaheim, California. But they thought he was even crazier when he appeared on their television sets and started to wax poetic about EPCOT, the futuristic utopia he planned to create (and rule over?) in Central Florida. The main difference between Disneyland and Disney World to Walt was that in Disney World, he had more room. He had acquired a stretch of land the size of San Francisco, and he could develop it endlessly, filling it with his wildest dreams.
Even with four theme parks, two water parks, twenty-five resorts and a sprawling shopping center, Walt Disney World still has room to expand. In contrast, Disneyland has two parks and three hotels, and they’re bursting at the seams.
Another main difference in the Disney World vs. Disneyland debate is that Disneyland is really a locals park. There are of course tourists, but also just a lot of people from southern California. Disneyland is also able to let their characters roam semi-freely around the parks, since they get mobbed far less often.
Walt Disney World is filled mostly with tourists, many of whom will only have one Disney vacation in their lives. At Disney World, most characters are not really able to walk around. They’re roped off for scheduled meet-and-greets, and there’s usually a queue to see them.
Walt Disney World pretty much runs on MagicBands. MagicBands are little bracelets which can be “loaded” with your room key, your park tickets and even your credit card.
Both parks have pretty similar Magic Kingdoms, but that’s not all either of them offer. Disneyland has California Adventure, and Disney World has EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom.
California Adventure is a park that’s sort of cobbled together by all of the things that didn’t fit in Disneyland Park. There’s an old Hollywood theme, a carnival theme, a wilderness theme and a Pixar theme all jumbled together under the banner of “things in California.”
EPCOT has deviated drastically from Walt’s original utopian vision to become a never-ending world’s fair, with the front half focused on innovation, and the back half focused on different world cultures.
Hollywood Studios, the brainchild of former CEO Michael Eisner, was at one point themed around old Hollywood. The park is in the middle of a transitional period, and it’s on its way to becoming a park dedicated to Star Wars and Pixar, mostly.
Animal Kingdom is a park focused on wildlife and conservation. The park is home to Kilimanjaro Safaris, where you can get some up-close views of elephants, giraffes, rhinoceroses and other African animals. Animal Kingdom recently opened a new land, Pandora, based on James Cameron’s Avatar.
It usually takes about a week to fully experience Walt Disney World, though you still won’t get to everything. Disneyland could be done in three days. Even two, if you plan your fast passes right.
When people talk about Disney World vs. Disneyland, they often don’t talk about the actual differences. They speak in abstractions, saying things like “I just feel like [insert park here] is more magic.” But if you’re deciding between Disney World vs. Disneyland for your vacation, you need to consider how they actually differ in reality. And then the magic can really get started.
Do you prefer Disney World or Disneyland? Tell us in the comments.
AAA founder Augustus Post led a life made for the movies.
He was an auto racer, airplane pilot, balloonist and all-around outdoor adventurer. His tales of daring include a survival trek with an injured friend through Canadian wilderness, a plummeting balloon crash through the roof of a house in Berlin and being sucked into a cyclone in Kansas City.
Post was a legend of the early 20th century, yet only now have his exploits made it to film.
“The Unforgettable Augustus Post,” a short documentary, aired at the Chelsea Film Festival in New York on Oct. 19 to rave reviews, winning the festival’s award for Best Documentary Short.
A transportation pioneer, Post bought his first car at a motorcycle rally in 1898. He was an ardent supporter of the Good Roads movement, which culminated in 1913 with the opening of the Lincoln Highway from New York to San Francisco.
In 1904, Post helped launch an auto race from New York to St. Louis, Mo., which became an annual event known as the Glidden Tours. He was the first person to drive a car in New York City, he established the city’s first parking garage, and received its first speeding ticket. (He was going 5 mph in Central Park.)
Post helped promote the formation of auto clubs across the country and oversaw the creation of the American Automobile Association and was its first chairman.
In 1908, Post became the 13th man in the United States to successfully fly a plane. As he had done with the automobile, Post advocated for air travel and founding the Aero Club of America.
Not satisfied with being a groundbreaking driver, virtuoso balloonist, daredevil pilot, and transportation visionary, Post also appeared as an actor (in 103 performances of a Broadway show called Omar the Tentmaker); wrote books, poems, and the libretto for an opera; and gained fame for his ability to imitate the sounds of aircraft and birds.
Post died of a heart attack in 1952 at the age of 78.
There’s a wet game of one-upmanship underway on the high seas, with cruise lines vying to create the most splashtastic aqua parks afloat. Wild waterslides that spiral around top decks and even jut out over the ocean are the centerpieces of these liquid playgrounds. Cruise ships with waterslides seem to wear their tangle of colorful tubes almost like crowns.
No doubt, the presence of these slides has changed the silhouette of today’s big boats. But before traditionalists get wound up tighter than the corkscrew turns on the best waterslides around, it’s worth pointing out the loading platforms for these attractions offer breathtaking views of the ocean’s enduring majesty. So, who’s the clear winner in the war of the cruise ship waterslides? Any passenger looking for a watery thrill!
Below you’ll find bucket-list worthy waterslides guaranteed to make your jaw drop and your heart rate soar. Obviously, you’ll get soaked as well, a welcome inevitability if you’re sailing during the summer months or island-hopping in the sun-baked Caribbean where cruises with waterslides are most popular.
Carnival Sunshine features a 334-foot-long Twister water slide – the longest in the fleet. (Photo: Andy Newman / Carnival Cruise Lines)
With its iconic Twister waterslides adorning every ship, Carnival deserves kudos for consistently delivering splashy onboard fun. The line’s latest boat, Carnival Horizon, boasts Dr. Seuss WaterWorks, complete with a 450-foot, red-and-white-striped Cat’s hat waterslide that flops around as much as the famous feline’s eccentric headwear. Plus, a separate Fun Things waterslide celebrates the wacky world of the blue-haired twins, Thing 1 and Thing 2, with trippy polka-dot windows cut into the sliding tube.
On Carnival Vista, grab an inflated ring and float through the mesmerizing Kaleid-O-Slide. (Think a giant neon slinky or rafting inside a rainbow!) For some competitive action, Speedway Splash awaits on the recently renovated Carnival Sunshine. It promises side-by-side racing waterslides with a scoreboard at the finish line that calculates a winner.
AquaDunk on the Disney Magic is a three-story body slide that begins with a surprise trap door launch. (Photo: Disney / Matt Stroshane)
Featuring water jets that actually propel riders uphill, AquaDuck, on Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, ranks as the first shipboard “water coaster.” This fancy flume loops around the ship and down four decks on a route that tunnels through the forward smokestack and shoots out over the ocean in a translucent tube. Passengers sit atop two-person rafts for the 765-foot romp, which also includes a stretch of bubbling rapids and a lazy river section that delivers delightful views. Nighttime lights transform the experience, making it a must-do all over again. AquaDuck takes more than a minute to ride, but AquaDunk on Disney Magic makes a splash in mere seconds when the floor riders stand on to enter the waterslide falls away like a trap door.
The Epic Plunge waterslide aboard the Norwegian Epic. (Photo: Norwegian Cruise Line)
Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway sport the largest collection of waterslides afloat, with no less than five slides on each boat. The aptly named Free Fall waterslides hold the record as the fastest at sea. On these dueling drop-slides riders experience 4Gs while plummeting several stories. Most Breakaway-plus ships, including the soon-to-debut Norwegian Encore, tout a similar waterslide dubbed Ocean Loops, which adds a figure-eight section that extends over the side of the ship. For fans of bowl slides, Norwegian Epic’s Epic Plunge beckons. It starts with an enclosed tube that spits riders out into an open saucer, where you swirl around a drain hole until getting flushed down.
The Riptide waterslide on Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas. (Photo: Royal Caribbean)
While famous for its FlowRider surfing pools, Royal Caribbean only recently began offering waterslides on cruise ships. Harmony of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas introduced The Perfect Storm trio of waterslides: Cyclone, Typhoon and Supercell, the latter a massive bowl slide similar to Epic Plunge. On Liberty of the Seas passengers encounter Tidal Wave, the first boomerang-style waterslide at sea. It doesn’t follow a traditional top-to-bottom trajectory. Instead, rafts are launched into something resembling a half-pipe structure, where you slide up one side and experience a zero-gravity moment before boomeranging down toward the other.
New waterslides also adorn the remodeled Navigator of the Seas. Riptide, the only head-first mat racer at sea has a clear swing-out section that makes it seem like you’re flying Superman-style off the side of the ship. The Blaster, meanwhile, is the longest waterslide at sea. Unwinding for 800 feet, with open and closed chutes, The Blaster also contains the longest stretch of slide ever suspended beyond the edge of a cruise ship.
Royal Caribbean earns extra credit for hosting the tallest waterslide in North America (135-foot Daredevil’s Peak) at its private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. Ultimate Abyss, a dry slide found on Harmony and Symphony, ranks as the tallest (100 feet) afloat and also demands respect.
Next time you hit the high seas, here’s to smooth sailing – and sliding!
Sports stadium food has become a category of its own. It was not long ago when every stadium across sports and across the country served pretty much the same food: hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken tenders, etc.
But the foodie revolution knows no bounds. And it has entrenched itself inside the confines of NFL stadiums across the country, including the four in the Northeast. Here we showcase some of the most mouth-watering, taste-bud-bursting NFL stadium food you can devour at four regional NFL stadiums.
MetLife Stadium (New York Giants/Jets)
East Rutherford, NJ
Korean Pulled Pork with Carrot and Cabbage Pickled Slaw on Bao Bun (Photo: Courtesy of MetLie Stadium/Delaware North )
Korean BBQ
Bahnbekyu
Bahnbekyu offers both Korean pulled pork sandwiches and bao sliders, which come with carrot and cabbage pickled slaw.
Spicy Chicken Sandwich
Fat Rooster
Fried chicken sandwiches are all the rage these days, and the one from Fat Rooster can hold its own against any competition. The chicken is prepped with a 24-hour buttermilk and hot sauce brine. It’s served with thick-sliced sweet pickles, homemade apple cider slaw and honey aioli on a King’s Hawaiian bun.
The Kitchen Sink
Liberty Sausage
As the name implies, Liberty Sausage’s sandwich has a little bit of everything. This concoction features chicken sausage, hot dog, potatoes, peppers and onions, all topped with a special creamy vinegar-based sauce on a hoagie roll.
Tinga de Pollo, Barbacoa Beef, and Pork Carnitas tacos served with Elotes Loco Spread, Cabbage Curtido, and Cotija Crema (Photo: Courtesy of MetLife Stadium/Delaware North)
Tacos
Taco’s Raqueros
Everybody loves a taco, and these certainly won’t disappoint. The Taco’s Raqueros stand offers them up in chicken, beef, pork carnitas and wild mushrooms.
Dumplings
Lucky’s
If you’re looking for even more foreign flair to your meal, head to the Lucky’s stand. You have your choice of noodles and meat skewers, but we suggest the dumplings filled with chicken lemongrass, edamame and shrimp or pork.
New Era Stadium (Buffalo Bills)
Orchard Park, NY
Beef on Weck Sidewinder Poutine
Stand 121
Buffalo honors its neighbors to the near north with its version of a Canadian staple. Shredded roast beef, Yancey’s Fancy Horseradish Cheese, au jus and scallions cover these Kimmelweck-seasoned fries.
Hot Honey Chicken & Waffles
Stand 104
Chicken and waffles is a ubiquitous menu item from coast to coast. So, if you’re going to serve it, it needs to be done right. New Era Stadium has done just that; head to stand 104 for its version, which includes fried chicken bites, waffle cone pieces, french fries, Bison dip slaw, bread and butter pickles, and Frank’s Red Hot honey sauce.
Toasted PB&J
Stadium Clubs
Those with a sweet tooth will enjoy this take on a classic. Imagine your favorite childhood sandwich with a delicious raspberry sauce and covered in powdered sugar. Found in the club seats along with the K-Gun sub.
K-Gun Sub
Stadium Clubs
You’re going to need a friend (or five) to help you with this impressive sub. The 3-foot-long sandwich includes ham, spicy capicola, hard salami, deli pepperoni, sliced mozzarella and provolone, fresh greens, tomato, olive spread, and oil and vinegar all on an Italian sub roll.
Chilled Tenderloin Sliders
Stadium Suites
Caramelized onions, fried peppers, provolone cheese and sriracha mayonnaise top these tenderloin sliders. Served in the suites.
Lincoln Financial Field (Philadelphia Eagles)
Philadelphia, PA
Speciality Pizzas
Pizzeria Vetri
In case you didn’t think football stadiums were taking their food offerings serious, know that Lincoln Financial Field recruited two award-winning chefs – James Beard winner Marc Vetri and Peter Andrews – to serve some of their signature dishes.
Vetri has brought with him three types of pizza: fresh basil, roasted fennel and sweet fennel sausage, and soppressata. Each is made with homemade sauce, fresh mozzarella, Reggiano Parmesan and extra virgin olive oil.
Brisket Sandwich
Paesano’s
Andrews brought two items from his restaurant to the stadium’s offerings. The Paesano’s Brisket Sandwich features beef brisket, horseradish mayo, roasted tomatoes, pepperoncino, sharp provolone and fried egg.
South Street Chilly Philly (Photo: Courtesy of Aramark)
Cheesesteaks
Multiple Locations
It wouldn’t be Philly without a cheesesteak and Lincoln Financial Field has two new takes on the regional staple. First is a classic South Street Chilly Philly. It features Porcini crusted shaved ribeye steak, caramelized onion jam, Cooper Sharp cheese and long hot pepper relish all on a Philly roll.
Buffalo Chicken Cheese Steak Panzarotti (Photo: Courtesy of Aramark)
The next one is more unique. The Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak Panzarotti is essentially a calzone filled with chicken cheesesteak, Cooper Sharp cheese, buffalo sauce and blue cheese dressing.
BBQ Sandwiches
Quick and Carmichael BBQ
Aramark executive chef James Hennessey created several signature sandwiches items exclusively for Lincoln Financial Field. The Quick includes 12-hour smoked black cherry wood pulled pork, while Carmichael is a maple sugar smoked pulled chicken sandwich.
Can’t decide? The Quick and Carmichael combines both pulled pork and pulled chicken.
Vegan Po’ Boy (Photo: Courtesy of Aramark)
Vegan Po’Boy
Sections 120 and 216
It’s not just a carnivore’s delight at Lincoln Financial. Vegetarians can get a sandwich of crispy marinated tofu, spicy pickles, creole Vegenaise, shredded lettuce and tomatoes served on a vegan baguette.
Gillette Stadium (New England Patriots)
Foxborough, MA
Speciality Fries
Cavendish Farms
This stand sells several different types of specialty French fries including chili cheese fries, truffle parmesan fries, pulled pork fries, and buffalo blue cheese fries.
Known for its storied past, voodoo culture and jazz funerals, The Big Easy easily lends itself to tales of those who perhaps were just not ready to leave the party. So it’s not surprising that there are a number of allegedly haunted hotels in New Orleans.
A few years ago while on vacation in New Orleans, I dined at Muriel’s Jackson Square, where they always keep a table set with bread and wine for their resident ghost. It may be a bit of a gimmick, but the property has a history of hauntings, which the bartender was happy to entertain, divulging accounts of late-night flying glasses and sparkling apparitions as she mixed Sazerac cocktails for the waiting dinner crowd.
That’s just the kind of city New Orleans is. Rather than run in the other direction, they welcome spiritual visitors, sometimes even inviting them in.
The following five establishments are not only AAA Diamond Rated, acclaimed places to stay, but they may be hosting a few guests who never fully “checked out.” While some visitors may seek these places out because they are some of the most haunted hotels in New Orleans, others may appreciate the fair warning.
We talked to a couple of the hotels and Ghost City Tours, a company that specializes in walking tours in the French Quarter for those pursuing the paranormal, to learn more about their haunted histories. Ghost City Tours does not visit all of the following hotels on their tours, but their guides are well-versed in all of the city’s spooky legends.
Set back in a residential area in the heart of the French Quarter, just minutes from Jackson Square, the historic Hotel Provincial serves as a quiet retreat from the nearby attractions of downtown New Orleans. Carefully restored, architecturally impressive buildings house comfortable guestrooms with modern amenities, while lush secluded courtyards exude old world Southern charm and elegance. For breakfast and dinner, the onsite restaurant, Angeline, is open every day serving Northern Mediterranean cuisine with Southern flair. For a drink, the Ice House Bar is adjacent to the lobby.
Before it was the residence of Hotel Provincial, 1024 Chartres Street had many former lives. Located on land that was first developed in the early 18th century, it’s been a retail store, a hair salon, the most popular ice market in the city (hence the name of the bar), a private residence and – most relevant to its alleged hauntings – a military hospital. According to media director Maria Pinheiro of Ghost City Tours, it is rumored to have been a hospital during the Civil War, where many wounded Confederate soldiers died.
The current buildings are not the same as those that existed hundreds of years ago. Like many structures in New Orleans in the 18th and 19th centuries, the original buildings were lost to fires, once in 1874 and again in 1878. It’s the land itself that is said to be haunted and despite the hotel’s many comforts, a good night’s sleep is not always guaranteed.
On many occasions guests have reported being jolted awake by the painful cries of soldiers in the middle of the night. And in Building 500 – supposedly the most haunted – bloodstains on the crisp white bedding are said to appear, only to quickly disappear soon after they are noticed.
“One poor guest had the unfortunate fate to ride in the elevator to her floor, only to reel back in fright when the elevator door popped open,” said Pinheiro. “There, before her eyes, was a grisly scene from a darker time, where a poor soldier was undergoing surgery.”
Paranormal investigations have been conducted at the hotel, one of which revealed an EVP (electronic voice phenomena) where a voice could be heard saying, “Tell Diane I have to go.”
Hotel Monteleone
Another historic New Orleans site that’s been around since the late 1800s, Hotel Monteleone has served its signature luxury and Southern hospitality to an impressive list of past patrons. Most notably literary guests such as Tennessee Williams, Ernest Hemingway and Truman Capote, who considered it their digs of choice when in the Crescent City. The hotel offers 570 elegantly decorated vintage-style rooms and modern amenities including a spa, heated rooftop pool and fitness center.
Situated on the western edge of the French Quarter, just one block from Bourbon Street and a few feet from Canal Street, it’s known as the home of the NOLA hotspot, The Carousel Bar and Lounge, which looks and revolves like a merry-go-round and features a regular schedule of live music and craft cocktails. Also on the property is Criollo restaurant, serving contemporary Louisiana cuisine.
According to the Hotel Monteleone website, guests and staff have been experiencing paranormal activity for generations, thus its place on the list of one of the most haunted hotels in New Orleans. There have been some pretty creepy stories to come out of the hotel, like one of a restaurant door that inexplicably opens and closes almost every evening, even though it is locked.
In March 2003, the International Society of Paranormal Research spent several days at the hotel and made contact with more than a dozen entities. One character that’s often seen is a friendly toddler named Maurice Begere who died in the hotel. After his passing, his distraught parents would return to the Monteleone with the hopes that he might visit them and to this day guests report seeing him near the room where he died.
The interior of Le Pavillon Hotel. (Photo: AAA Hotels)
Le Pavillon Hotel
This charming downtown boutique hotel is near top attractions like the French Quarter, Garden District and Mercedes-Benz Superdome, but it’s away from the hustle and bustle. So after you’ve partied on Bourbon Street you can come back to relax in a quiet lobby decorated in old world opulence with antique furniture, paintings and crystal chandeliers, and a room that follows suit, with modern amenities, of course. Accommodations include themed suites, like the European Palace suite, featuring one of only two marble tubs in existence that once belonged to Napoleon Bonaparte.
Other perks at Le Pavillon are the rooftop swimming pool, French restaurant The Crystal Room and the casual Le Gallery Lounge. Plus, every night at 10pm they put out a spread of PB&J sandwiches for a bedtime snack (with the addition of hot chocolate in the winter) that’s available to both guests and visitors. You may be in need of a nighttime comfort, as things can get very spooky around here.
Founded in 1907, first as the New Denechaud Hotel, then the DeSoto Hotel, it became Le Pavillon in the 1970s. But before it was ever a hotel, it was the site of the grand German Theatre, which burned down in a fire in 1887. Theaters are said to be hot spots for ghostly activity and this one is no exception.
Le Pavillon is undoubtedly one of the most haunted hotels in New Orleans. The hotel says that guests frequently report odd occurrences like their shower heads mysteriously turning on in the middle of the night and sheets being pulled to the bottom of their beds. And unlike other said-to-be haunted hotels, they fully support the ghost theories. Staff has even attested to the lifelike appearance of their otherworldly residents, like the spirit named Anna who is often sighted in the lobby.
“Some say that the reason why Le Pavillon Hotel is so very haunted is because it sits on a portal to The Other Side,” said Pinheiro. “There’s no other reason, paranormal investigators have said, that a hotel can count nearly a hundred different entities within its walls.”
One of the scariest stories is of a man who was awakened by the feeling of weight settling on the edge of his bed. When he opened his eyes, a female figure looking as real as ever shifted towards him and slid her hand through his hair, whispering, “I’ll never let you go.” He snatched up his stuff and ran out the door, alerting the front desk on his way out that he was never coming back (who could blame him!?).
As told by Pinheiro, the hotel’s director of sales Beth Lytle has had many run-ins with ghosts; particularly with one she nicknamed “George.” One late night, Lytle booked herself a room and “when she woke up, it was only to find that every dresser drawer in the room has been yanked open, her belongings all over the floor.” A few weeks later while staying in the same room she warned George that she wasn’t in the mood for his antics, and the next morning only a single drawer had been opened.
Bourbon Orleans Hotel of the New Orleans Hotel Collection
Adjacent to St. Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square and just half a block away from the excitement of Bourbon Street, this European-style property boasts an outdoor saltwater pool and balcony suites that overlook the French Quarter. At their Bourbon Street bar, Bourbon “O,” managed by top mixologist Miss Charming, guests are greeted with a complimentary cocktail and live entertainment three nights a week. Their restaurant Roux on Orleans Creole restaurant is open for breakfast and dinner.
The Bourbon Orleans Hotel is another one of the most haunted hotels in New Orleans and has an extravagant history to back it up. “These two have had sightings by guests for hundreds of years,” said Marc Becker of the New Orleans Hotel Collection, of the Bourbon Orleans and its sister property Hotel Dauphine.
The hotel rests on the site of what was once the Orleans Theatre in the early 19th century, which was one of the first venues that helped to spread French opera through the United States. When the theater was lost to a fire, it was reincarnated into the Orleans Ballroom and hosted many lavish affairs.
One of the hotel’s most infamous ghost sightings is of a lone dancer in the current ballroom, perhaps lingering behind from that era. Pinheiro describes her as “spinning around the room, her hands lifted as though perched on a long-gone dancer’s shoulders.
After it was a ballroom, the space was converted into a convent, which may explain the mysterious cries and ghost sightings reported from Room 664, where guests have reported waking in the middle of the night to see the figure of a woman sheathed in a black habit standing in the corner of the room.
The Bourbon Orleans is sometimes a stop on Ghost City Tour’s Killer & Thrillers West Tour and is almost always a stop on their Haunted Pub Crawl.
Dauphine Orleans Hotel of the New Orleans Hotel Collection
Also under the umbrella of the New Orleans Hotel Collection, the Dauphine Orleans is a historic French Quarter boutique with buildings that date back to the early 19th century, like the Audubon breakfast room where John James Audubon painted his Birds of America Series (and where complimentary continental breakfast is served daily). It is also home of the bar, May Baily’s Place, where guests are welcomed with a beverage, and perhaps a friendly haunting.
In the late 19th century, May Baily’s operated as a bordello in the neighborhood known as “Storyville,” aka the Red-Light District of New Orleans. Of the four ghostly characters that hang out at the hotel, all of which have been researched and documented by the hotel through sightings, paranormal research and old letters, several can be traced back to this period in time.
May Baily was known for entertaining callers with fine wine, food and music, and according to ghost hunters who have visited, there’s one girl that may still be mixing cocktails behind the bar. The presence of a courtesan has been recognized by the inexplicable rearrangement of liquor bottles along the back bar and by a faint shadow that’s been seen behind a photo of May Baily. She prefers the company of men and is believed to make their drinks stronger and tastier.
Another well-known spirit is the hotel’s resident ghost bride, said to be May’s younger sister, Millie. Employed – however, unwillingly – in the family business, Millie accepted the proposal of a young soldier who would visit her often. The story goes that she spent hours hand-sewing and perfecting the details of her Irish lace wedding gown, only to learn on the way to the altar that her husband-to-be had been killed in a gambling dispute. Forever grief-stricken she took to wearing her wedding dress around the brothel and is sometimes still seen on the rear balcony of May Baily’s Place all dressed in white.
During the day, the hotel’s courtyard and saltwater pool are great places to relax, but at night you may come across a few extra visitors. Because it was the largest Confederate city and its principal port, forlorn souls of Civil War soldiers are common in the streets of New Orleans, and one high-ranking general has been known to nervously pace the Dauphine’s courtyard. A pleasant apparition of a little girl known as Jewel has also been spotted dancing around the pool.
Ghost and Spirits Vacation Packages are offered at both the Bourbon Orleans and Dauphine Hotel, and include a haunted tour for two as well as other signature NOLA perks like two Hurricane cocktails with souvenir glasses at Pat O’Brien’s and beignets and coffee for two at Café du Monde.
Click here to find and book a spooky (or not-so-spooky) hotel in New Orleans with AAA.
Everywhere you look, more and more people are installing solar panels on their homes and properties. In fact, over 2 million households have already installed solar in the U.S., including large numbers of installations in the Northeast, where high electricity prices and strong solar policies make solar a great investment.
How much you can personally save with solar depends on a number of things, but the most important factor is how much you currently pay for electricity.
How much can you save with solar?
The primary financial benefit of solar energy is that it allows you to avoid paying most or all of your monthly electricity bill. While individual monthly electricity bills may not be overwhelming, they can add up over 20 or 25 years. Consider this: If your monthly electricity bill is $150, over the next 25 years, you’ll pay almost $60,000 in electricity bills, and if your current bills are $250, that’s nearly $100,000 over the next 25 years.
Current monthly bill
$100
$150
$200
$250
10-year spending
$13,000
$20,000
$26,000
$33,000
15-year spending
$21,000
$31,000
$42,000
$52,000
20-year spending
$29,000
$44,000
$58,000
$73,000
25-year spending
$38,000
$58,000
$77,000
$96,000
Asssuming 2% annual utility rate escalation and similar annual usage.
In leading solar states, solar homeowners tend to offset 95 percent or more of their electricity needs with solar. This means that over the course of the 25 or even 30 years that your solar energy system produces electricity, you can save tens of thousands of dollars by going solar.
How much does solar cost?
How much you pay for solar depends primarily on two things: where in the country you live, and how much solar energy you’ll need to power your home. In the Northeast, solar costs are generally higher than elsewhere in the country, meaning you’re likely to pay more for every solar panel you install in New England than in the Southeast, for instance.
Solar prices are often expressed in $ per watt as a way to compare pricing trends throughout the country.
However, New Englanders use less electricity than people in other regions, meaning you may need a smaller solar energy system in the Northeast than elsewhere in the country to offset your entire electricity bill. For a 9 kilowatt (9,000 watt) solar panel system at a regional average price of $3.20 per watt, purchasing a solar energy system would cost $29,000.
But the upfront cost isn’t the whole story. Rather, if you install solar in 2020, you’re eligible to receive a tax credit equal to 26 percent of your solar investment; for the solar energy system described above, that would be a $7,500 credit off of your taxes. And other states in the region provide additional rebates and incentives, such as the $1,000 tax credit in Massachusetts, which can help reduce the upfront cost of solar even further.
How long does it take for solar to pay for itself?
The payback period for solar is a product of how much you spend on electricity, how much you spend for a solar panels system, and what rebates and incentives are available to you. Nationally, a solar panel system will pay for itself in eight years on average, according to EnergySage data. In the Northeast, homeowners in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York and Rhode Island see payback periods below this average, even down to five years or less if the circumstances are right.
State
$/W
Payback period
CT
$3.23
7.4
MA
$3.16
5.9
ME
$3.05
10.8
NH
$3.29
9.3
NY
$3.21
7.9
RI
$3.31
7
VT
$3.14
9.7
There are a number of tools that provide a window into how much you could potentially save with solar. One such resource is EnergySage’s online Solar Calculator, which uses satellite data to gauge how much sunlight your roof receives and to estimate how much solar you would need to install in order to offset your current electricity bills.
Now that you know the financial benefits of solar, would you consider converting? Have you already? Tell us in the comments.
Learn more about if solar power is right for you and your home. Before you start installing panels, talk to an insurance agent to see how you’ll be covered.
Looking for some cool things to do around the Northeast? Cultural attractions and amusement parks are among the best day trips from Boston. Here are some of our favorites.
Boston is a great place for day trips. The city is loaded with great restaurants and memorable attractions.
If you’re looking to get away from the city, however, there are also plenty of options for day trips from Boston.
A variety of amusement parks, museums and historic sites are within just a few hours of the city, offering something to pique just about anyone’s interest.
Note: Due to the ever-changing nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, please see official websites before visiting to check for restrictions or closures.
The Breakers 44 Ochre Point Ave., Newport, R.I. Time from Boston: About two hours, without traffic
Newport is one of the most popular day trips from Boston, and the Breakers is one of the city’s popular mansions offering visitors trips to the Gilded Age. The 70-room Italian-inspired structure was built in the late 19th century. While you’re in town, check out the city’s other mansions including Marble House, the Elms and Rosecliff.
Hancock Shaker Village 1843 West Housatonic St., Pittsfield, Mass. Time from Boston: About two and a half hours, without traffic
The Shakers were a religious group that flourished in the mid 19th century. The Hancock community was one of several nationwide. Today, the 750-acre village is a living history museum with 20 buildings and costumed interpreters that connect visitors with the story of the Shakers. Check out farm and garden tours, musical performances and laundry demonstrations which make this village one of the most unique day trips from Boston.
Also known as the Turner-Ingersoll Mansion, The House of the Seven Gables is the oldest wooden mansion in New England. It was built in 1668 and visitors can explore it via guided tour. You can also check out Nathaniel Hawthorne’s birthplace and a few seaside gardens overlooking Salem Harbor. Visit the Peabody Essex Museum while you’re on your day trip from Boston. It’s the country’s oldest continuously operated museum. Its collection spans American art and architecture, maritime art and Asian art, among other pieces, in addition to hands-on activities and performance spaces. This is definitely a must for day trips from Boston.
Old Sturbridge Village 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, Sturbridge, Mass. Time from Boston: About one hour and 15 minutes, without traffic
Old Sturbridge Village recreates early 19th-century life with more than 40 historic building spanning about 200 acres. See a sawmill in action, take a horse-drawn stagecoach ride and enjoy milking and musket firing demonstrations.
Plimoth Plantation 137 Warren Ave., Plymouth, Mass. Time from Boston: About 50 minutes, without traffic
Plimoth Plantation is a living history museum that tells the stories of 17th century English settlers and members of the Wampanoag tribe. See a reproduced gristmill, a Native American village and a craft center. The Mayflower II, a full-scale reproduction of the famous ship, has long been a popular exhibit at the museum; it’s currently undergoing a full restoration.
Strawbery Banke Museum 14 Hancock St., Portsmouth, N.H. Time from Boston: About an hour and five minutes, without traffic
Strawberry Banke Museum has more than three dozen historic structures and several gardens that showcase life from the mid-17th through mid-20th centuries. Costumed interpreters representing shop owners, gardeners and immigrants help visitors immerse themselves in the experience.
Six Flags New England Joker coaster (Photo: Dick Clintsman)
Amusement and water parks
Six Flags New England 1623 Main St., Agawam, Mass. Time from Boston: About one hour, 45 minutes, without traffic
The coaster capital of New England is always adding new attractions and always a good option for day trips from Boston. In 2017, the park introduced The Joker, a 4-D free fly coaster with two beyond-vertical drops. It complements some of the park’s long-popular thrill rides, like the heart-pumping Superman: The Ride or the Mind Eraser. In the summer, cool off with slides, pools and kids’ play areas at Hurricane Harbor Water Park, and, in the fall, stop by for spooktacular fun during Fright Fest. Save up to 35% on tickets.
Canobie Lake Park 85 North Policy Street, Salem, N.H. Time from Boston: 45 minutes, without traffic
Canobie Lake Park is home to more than 85 rides, attractions and live shows, making it one of the more interactive day trips from Boston. Enjoy carnival and arcade games like the ring toss, then try puzzle rooms introduced in 2017.
CoCo Key Water Park 50 Ferncroft Road, Danvers, Mass. Time from Boston: 45 minutes, without traffic
Don’t let the chance of rain ruin your day at the water park. Instead, head to CoCo Key. The indoor water park is geared toward visitors ages 2 to 12 with attractions like an adventure river and body and raft slides. Guests can choose day passes or opt for overnight packages. This unique getaway is definitely one of the ideal day trips from Boston.
Edaville USA 5 Pine Street, Carver, Mass. Time from Boston: One hour, without traffic
Edaville USA is a lot more than the fabulous holiday train ride that earned it notoriety. The park has a variety of rides for young visitors, and character visits on select dates. Its latest claim to fame is Thomas Land, an 11-and-a-half-acre area with Thomas & Friends themed attractions. Be sure to check out Dino Land as well, a walking trail with nearly two dozen life-size animatronic dinosaurs. This amusement park is definitely worth being one of your day trips from Boston.
Lake Compounce 186 Enterprise Drive, Bristol, Conn. Time from Boston: Two hours, without traffic
Lake Compounce celebrated its 172nd season in 2018. This classic day-trip amusement park combines traditional attractions like bumper cars and a carousel with roller coasters and a free fall. Crocodile Cove has several water attractions perfect for a hot day, including a wave pool, a lazy river and a play area. If you’re looking for day trips from Boston filled with typical attractions and water fun, consider Lake Compounce!
Santa’s Village 528 Presidential Highway, Jefferson, N.H. Time from Boston: About three hours, without traffic
Santa’s Village has an obvious holiday tilt, but don’t let that discourage you from making it one of your day trips from Boston in summer or fall. Enjoy family friendly rides, shows and, in the summer, the HoHoH20 Water Park with slides and a splash pad. Feed some of Santa’s reindeer and meet the big guy himself.
Story Land 850 NH-16, Glen, N.H. Time from Boston: About three hours, without traffic
Located in the scenic White Mountains, Story Land is a bucket list destination for families with young children and great for day trips from Boston. Rides geared toward kids between the ages of 2 and 12 complement fun shows, games and character visits. Cinderella, for example, celebrates every day at the park with an appearance before closing.
Museums
The Clark 225 South St., Williamstown, Mass. Time from Boston: About three hours, without traffic
Not far from Massachusetts’ borders with Vermont and New York, the Clark offers guests a look at beauty through art and nature, a unique offering among day trips from Boston. Its collection includes European and American paintings, sculptures, photographs and other items from the Renaissance to the early 20th century. Visitors can also enjoy about 140 acres of manicured lawns and nature trails highlighting the scenic Berkshires.
Discovery Museum 177 Main St. (Route 27), Acton, Mass.
Time from Boston: About 45 minutes, without traffic
Create colored shadows in the Light & Color Gallery, perform a shadow puppet show by lanternlight in the Backyard at Night exhibit, explore acres of forest and much more! This museum invites little kids, big kids and adults of all abilities to come and have fun, all while learning about STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) concepts. Plus, get $2 off admission.
Heritage Museums and Gardens combines the best of a few worlds. Guests can walk amid beautiful gardens displaying flowers, trees and shrubs, check out American folk art, ride a vintage carousel and get up close with antique American automobiles. Stop by Hidden Hollow, a play area for children, or explore the treetops with the Adventure Park at Heritage. This location definitely deserves a spot as one of the most worthwhile day trips from Boston.
You’ve never visited a place like Mass MoCA, one of the best day trips from Boston. The enormous facility, which consists of more than two dozen, 19th-century factories spread among 16 acres, houses a wide, ever-changing variety of contemporary art. In 2017, the museum celebrated completion of a renovation project that added 130,000 square feet of renovated space.
Mount Washington Observatory 2779 White Mountain Highway, North Conway, N.H. Time from Boston: About three hours, without traffic
This might be a bit one of the longest day trips from Boston, but it’s worth an overnight stay. Mount Washington is the highest peak in the Northeast, and it’s home to some of the world’s wildest weather. Learn about it at Extreme Mount Washington, an educational, hands-on exhibit in a mountaintop visitor center. You can reach the summit by foot (if you’re up for it), by car or the Mount Washington Cog Railway.
Mystic Seaport 75 Greenmanville Ave., Mystic, Conn. Time from Boston: About two hours, without traffic
Mystic Seaport is a maritime museum dedicated to highlighting America’s seafaring history. It spans 19 acres and, along with a shipyard and a recreated village, it includes the oldest commercial ship in existence, one of more than 500 historic vessels among the museum’s 2 million artifacts. Mystic Aquarium is just a short walk away, making this one of the most worthwhile day trips from Boston.Learn how you can save on aquarium tickets purchased in advance online or a AAA branch location.
New Bedford Whaling Museum 18 Johnny Cake Hill, New Bedford, Mass. Time from Boston: About one hour and 10 minutes, without traffic
“Moby Dick” may not exist were it not for Herman Melville’s time in New Bedford. The fact you can visit New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park should illustrate how integral whaling is to the city’s history. The museum is part of the park and it’s dedicated to telling the story of mankind’s interaction with whales. If you make this one of your day trips from Boston, you’ll be able to check out whale skeletons, a scrimshaw collection and much more.
RISD Museum 20 North Main St., Providence, R.I. Time from Boston: About one hour, without traffic
It’s no surprise that one of the nation’s best design schools has an awesome museum. The RISD Museum houses about 100,000 objects ranging from ancient art to textiles to decorative arts to prints, drawings and photographs. Make this one of your day trips from Boston and you’ll have an artful good time! Admission is free on Sundays and from 5 to 9 p.m. the third Thursday of every month.
In early September, Hurricane Dorian devastated portions of the Bahamas with 165- to 185-mph winds and unprecedented flooding.
And while some hard-hit areas like the Abacos Islands and Grand Bahama Island aren’t ready to host visitors, most of the country – which comprises 700 islands and cays – is open for business and greeting tourists.
Fourteen of the 16 major tourist islands were largely unaffected by the hurricane and are welcoming visitors with open arms, said Elizabeth Foxman of the Bahamas’ Ministry of Tourism and Aviation office.
“We appreciate the outpouring of support from citizens around the world,” Foxman said. “The best thing people can do for the Bahamas, now more than ever, is to visit.”
The Bahamas, Post-Dorian
Renowned for the natural beauty of its clear blue waters, sunny beaches and lush foliage, the Bahamas depends on tourism for more than half of its economy. But the area has seen a dramatic drop in tourism following Hurricane Dorian, with hotels seeing double- and triple-digit cancellations.
But not all areas were affected by Dorian. In general, northern islands were hit much harder than central and southern ones. Unaffected islands include Acklins/Crooked Island, Andros, Berry Islands, Bimini, Cat Island, Eleuthera, Exumas, Inagua, Long Island, Mayaguana, Nassau, Paradise Island and San Salvador.
Helping Through Tourism
Although traveling to the Bahama Islands after a natural disaster may feel uncouth, officials say a lack visitors would further hurt the region.
“Now is the time to come together for our brothers and sisters in need, and help our country get back on its feet,” said Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister of the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism and Aviation. “We also implore travelers to continue visiting the Bahamian Islands that were not impacted by Hurricane Dorian as this will help our people tremendously.”
If you’re interested in traveling to the Bahamas, contact your AAA travel agent to handle the planning and ensure your destination and the supporting airport is open and ready for business. While some airports are closed, Nassau’s Lynden Pindling International Airport is open.
“Hotels in Nassau and Paradise Island – including Atlantis and Baha Mar – were not affected by Hurricane Dorian,” Foxman, of the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism and Aviation office, said. “Many hotels and resorts in the Out Islands regularly close during the fall months and reopen beginning in October. Hotels in Grand Bahama Island and the Abacos remain closed until further notice.”
Cruise Ships Are Returning
Popular cruise lines are returning to the islands as well.
Carnival Cruise Line has reopened most of its Bahamian ports, including Nassau and the private destinations of Half Moon Cay and Princess Cay. Princess Cruises and and the Holland America Line plan to resume Bahamas-bound sailings in October.
The ships Carnival Pride and Carnival Liberty delivered relief supplies, including chainsaws, generators, medical supplies meals and water to Freeport on Sept. 12 and 13.
Carnival Corporation has delivered more than 5 million pounds of supplies to the Bahamas, and is partnering with two organizations – Direct Relief and World Central Kitchen – to further assist impacted residents, said Vance Gulliksen, Carnival Corporation’s public relations manager. The efforts are part of a $2 million pledge by Carnival Corporation and the Micky and Madeleine Arison Family Foundation to support relief efforts.
Donation Efforts
Those wishing to donate to Hurricane Dorian relief for the Bahamas can visit The Island of the Bahamas website, which includes a list of specific items hurricane victims desperately need, as well as the Nassau Paradise Islands’ website for a list of charitable funds.
It’s never too late to expand your mind – or your vocabulary.
Having trouble finding the time to learn a new language? Whether you want to brush up on your Spanish, pick up a few basic French phrases before heading to Paris or learn Japanese as a hobby, there are heaps of language learning apps available to download that make it easier than ever to learn, wherever and whenever it’s convenient. We’ve compiled a list of some of the top-rated apps to improve your language learning skills.
Babbel(Free download + offers in-app purchases/ iOS and Android)
Founded in 2007, this German-based education platform was one of the world’s first language learning apps. Babbel has millions of active subscribers who can choose from 14 foreign languages to master. The subscription-based app allows you to try the first lesson free and offers a variety of tools and classes personalized to your experience. According to the company, 73% of users indicated that they could have a short, simple conversation in their new language within five hours of using Babbel.
Memrise (Free download + offers in-app purchases/ iOS and Android)
Ranked as one of the top free language learning apps with a community of over 40 million learners, Memrise provides tools and resources for users to focus on memorizing. Unlike most traditional methods, the free mobile and web app offers engaging methods of teaching designed for people of all ages. The user-friendly interface uses visual mnemonics to help users retain information quickly and efficiently. Stop making excuses for why you can’t learn a new language and download Memrise for free.
Duolingo(Free download + offers in-app purchases/ iOS and Android)
Downloaded by more than 300 million people worldwide, Dualingo has the largest collection of language-learning data accessible to its users. The app offers online instruction in more than 30 languages for free. Share the results of your exercises and tests on social media and challenge your friends to learn. Dualingo also encourages you to train your brain daily by using a reward system and social component.
Get a complete university’s worth of instruction at your fingertips. The award-winning app provides engaging lessons in math, science, economics, history and several other topics for people of all ages. One of the most popular features is Khan Academy Kids, a collection of educational books, song and games designed for young children. Among the over 10,000 videos and explanations are lectures available through YouTube-hosted videos that use visual aids to teach users a wide range of topics.
Busuu (Free download + offers in-app purchases/ iOS and Android)
Busuu has a unique approach to teaching as the app addresses learning each word with basic dialogues and questions, all of which include audio to help you pronounce each term correctly. The app is free but requires an upgrade to the pro version to unlock most of the features, including full courses in 12 languages.
HelloTalk (Free download + offers in-app purchases/ iOS and Android)
Rather than paying a tutor, HelloTalk connects you with people who speak the target language you intend to learn. In return, you help them learn your language. Select your entry level and start chatting with the help of various tools to improve your translation. With so many languages to choose from, you can refine your list of potential tutors by age and location. Learning a new language in the form of a friendly conversation is what sets HelloTalk apart from competitors. Make a new friend and learn a new language. What’s better than that?
Quizlet(Free download + offers in-app purchases/ iOS and Android)
This language app focuses on the approach that everyone learns in different ways. Quizlet provides customizable vocabulary features that allow users to create terms for digital flashcards, games and more. With this method, you can design the ideal language course that works best for you. Even more, you can share the content you create online with classmates, friends, and the general public to help them study.
Lingodeer (Free download + offers in-app purchases/ iOS and Android)
Similar to Duolingo’s teaching methods, Lingodeer first started with Asian languages but has since added other languages such as French, German and Portuguese. Learn each language by practicing the vocabulary with various types of exercises with each class. The app divides every lesson up by category such as family, numbers, food, or casual conversation. While some sections are more comprehensive than others, Lingodeer makes is easy for anyone to get started on their path to learning a new language.
What are your favorite language learning apps? Let us know in the comments below!
Almost half of the U.S. population takes at least one prescription drug, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. If you are part of that half, you know that prescriptions can be expensive – sometimes really expensive.
When taking medications, it is important to use them as directed, but poor medication adherence is an issue for many Americans. Cost is a possible culprit for this issue, and a serious consideration for many.
Your health shouldn’t suffer because of the price of medications. Here are some tips that could help you save money on your prescriptions.
1. Communicate With Your Doctor
To assure you’re getting the best care, build an honest relationship with your doctor or general practitioner. This way, they can make more informed assessments and recommendations about your health.
Discuss your health in-depth and reveal all medications you take, whether they be prescription, over-the-counter, dietary, herbal or nutritional supplements. Your doctor can explain possible drug interactions, side effects, if there’s anything you shouldn’t be eating or drinking, and whether you should take them with or without food.
Once you have established a good relationship with your doctor, you’ll feel more comfortable explaining your financial situation as well. They may be able to write you generic prescriptions, which are often more budget-friendly and just as effective.
It’s also important to review your medications with your doctor every six months, or at least once a year. Our bodies are always changing, so it’s important to keep your doctor up to date on your health.
At your next checkup, discuss your conditions and medications to find out whether you still need them or if you could cut back. “Frequently, patients continue taking medications long after a health issue has subsided… Providers, too, may fail to discontinue prescribing a drug to patients after it’s no longer needed,” according to U.S. News. Depending on your condition, you may be able to decrease a medication’s dosage or possibly stop taking it all together.
2. Be Informed
When it comes to purchasing prescriptions, the more you know, the better.
If you’re insured, either through a state or the federal government, your employer or yourself, get to know your plan. Understanding how your insurance works can spare you some confusion or frustration later on. Learn your plan’s “formularies,” which are lists of drugs your insurance covers.
If your doctor prescribes you a medication but your insurance won’t pay, start a dialogue with your provider. Ask questions, show you’ve done your homework and be persistent.
You can also utilize your mobile device; many insurers now have apps that you can use to stay informed on coverage for prescriptions.
3. Seek Out Savings
There are many ways to save on prescriptions through prescription savings programs, discount cards, coupons and other means of assistance.
Prescriptions savings programs and discount cards are available through a few large retail chains, nonprofit organizations, pharmaceutical companies and state governments. Many can be found online and work for both brand-name and generic medications through participating pharmacies. They often require enrollment fees or charges for use, so be cautious of hidden costs to ensure you are getting the most out of your discount.
Another option is applying for assistance. Start at the source: The pharmaceutical companies. Many have patient assistance programs for people without insurance or who are underinsured. There are also other programs through local and/or state governments, nonprofit organizations, as well as Medicare. Most will be income-based, but if you’re struggling to pay for your medications, they could be worth looking into.
4. Do the Math
Similar to how you save money by buying food and toiletries in bulk, you may find cost savings in filling a 90-day supply over a typical 30-day supply. To compare the costs, calculate exactly how much you’re spending per pill or per milligram on each medication. Filling a larger supply saves you a few trips to the pharmacy, and also fewer chances of running out of your medications when taking them as directed.
It is possible to save even more money by splitting your pills. If your medication is available in double your normal dose, you may be able to get a two-month supply for the price of one. Check first with your doctor and invest in a pill splitter. Often about $5 to purchase, pill splitters will ensure you split the dosage evenly.
Remember that it is not advised to split pills in advance. Some pills may deteriorate when exposed to air, heat or moisture, so it’s best to split one at a time and right before ingestion. Finally, there are certain drugs that should never be split, including capsules, chemotherapy drugs, birth control pills, seizure-related medications and any pill that has a coating or other controlled- or extended-release features.
5. Comparison Shop
You have options when paying for your prescriptions, and using your insurance isn’t always the most cost effective choice. It is important to check the cash price, as depending on your co-pay, it might be less expensive to waive your insurance and pay in cash.
Some online companies offer mail-order prescriptions. When making purchases online, make sure the website is a Verifed Intranet Pharmacy Practice Site or VIPPS-accredited. That means it was checked out by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy.
6. Be Proactive
It’s been said by physicians again and again; the tried-and-true way to become healthier with non-pharmaceutical alternatives is to eat better, exercise more and lose excess weight. Regular exercise can help ease the symptoms of chronic diseases, according to the Mayo Clinic.
If you take any medications just to treat symptoms, healthy lifestyle changes could allow you to stop taking them and save some money. Check out Your AAA’s free guide to living a healthier life.
7. Store Medication Properly
Letting your medication go bad or expire is a waste of both money and resources. Drugs can lose their potency when stored improperly or for too long. Ask your pharmacist how to store them correctly.
Avoid keeping medications in the bathroom as high moisture can affect your medication’s potency. Many medications should be stored in a dry, cool place and out of direct sunlight, while some need to be refrigerated. Read the documentation that comes with your prescription for directions on proper storage, or ask your pharmacist.
Before going to the pharmacy, always do your research. Speak with your doctor and/or pharmacist, compare prices and come prepared. Your wallet – and your health – will thank you.
How do you save on prescriptions? Tell us in the comments.
