Driving through the Valley of Fire State Park, I felt like I was being transported to Mars. Named for red sandstone formations that rise like huge castles in the air, the gargantuan rocks date to prehistoric times.

As an East Coaster, visiting this desert region in Nevada gave me a new appreciation for this part of the U.S. and its unique terrain.

My trip happened on a whim. I was in Utah for business with my sister, getting ready to head to the Las Vegas airport for the trip home to New York City. Never ones to shy away from an adventure, we wanted to make the most of the time we had available. Glancing at the map, we chose Valley of Fire because, well, it’s called Valley of Fire, and because it was only an hour northeast of Las Vegas.

Welcome to Mars

Visitors to the park have the option to enter through two different entrances on the east or west sides.  We drove though Overton, Nev., to the east entrance. Overton has a population of about 4,000 with a small downtown area and a main street. As we wound around the town and followed the signs for Valley of Fire, the road started to become more and more desolate and the terrain more desert-like. As we approached the outskirts of the park, the huge red rock formation began to appear and surround us. We were on Mars.

We were in the information center when a woman began calling to her husband. Just outside the door we saw a small heard of Desert bighorn sheep grazing on the side of the mountain, maybe just 100 feet away. While it may be surprising, life continues to bloom and thrive in the Valley of Fire.

A Long History

A complex geologic process of shifting sand dunes, wind and erosion forged the Valley of Fire more than 150 million years ago. It’s hard to imagine the desolate area was once inhabited. Archeologists estimate that people started living there around 300 B.C., with Anasazi Pueblo farmers living there until about 1150 A.D. You can still see evidence of the ancient people in their artistic petroglyphs right up close in the park today.

The area was “rediscovered” in 1912 when prospectors created the Arrowhead Trail, which ran from Salt Lake City to L.A. and ran right through the Valley of Fire. One popular story from the 1920s claims that the park got its name from a AAA official who was traveling though at sunset. Looking around in awe, he said that the entire rocky vista looked like it was on fire. The name stuck, and today the park is comprised of 42,000 protected acres.

Apparently, we’re not the only ones struck by the park’s unique setting. It’s a popular location for car commercials and movies. It was used in the Mars scenes in “Total Recall” and in “Star Trek Generations.” And, of course, today’s Instagram audience has taken to posting Insta-shots of the paved roads weaving through acres of the red rock formations.

Exploring Another World

Scenic roads throughout the park connect to the visitor center and several trails and picnic areas. We traveled in March when the weather was temperate, just warm enough to wear shorts and with just enough people to make us feel like we weren’t really lost in another world. During the summer months be sure to plan your exploration accordingly (bring water!) as the average temperature is about 100 degrees and can climb even higher.

We started at the trail around Mouse’s Tank, also known as Petroglyph Canyon. The tank is a naturally formed basin that collects water after the rare periods of rainfall. It’s named after Little Mouse, a Southern Paiute Indian accused of murdering two prospectors in the 1890s. We were surprised to see many distinctly etched petroglyphs (the kind we previously only saw in textbooks) right at eye level. Living in New York City for too long, I initially thought someone had just spray-painted them on the rocks; but they are indeed from prehistoric times.

Next, we drove to the Rainbow Vista trail, which has postcard-perfect panoramic views of multicolored sandstone. After this trail and a lot of photos we decided to drive around the White Domes area. This road weaves around 5.5 miles of the most incredible views of sandstone formations. During the 20-minute drive there were three separate parking areas to pull off and take in the view.

If you go, make sure to bring a GoPro for the dashboard – the combination of weaving roads and rainbow rocks is truly time-lapse worthy.

Check out some of Katie’s favorite travel gadgets.

Have you ever been to Valley of Fire State Park? Would you like to visit after reading this post? Tell us in the comments! 

— Katie Linendoll is a journalist and TV host who specializes in reporting on technology and gadgets.

Book your next trip with AAA Travel.

The financial benefits of installing solar on your property can be significant, but the upfront cost may be keeping you from taking the next step and putting solar panels on your property. Luckily, there are a few different ways to pay for your solar panels that make it much more affordable. Here’s how to decide which makes the most sense for you.

There are four primary ways to pay for solar: cash upfront, with a loan, by renting or by leasing the solar energy system. Each method has its pros and cons, but there are three primary differences to keep in mind between each option: whether or not you’ll own your solar panels, how much you’ll pay upfront and how much you’ll pay month to month.

Upfront Purchase

The way to receive the most financial savings from investing in solar is by purchasing a solar panel system outright. For the average solar shopper, this means a purchase of around $18,000 to $27,000 upfront. Local and federal rebates and incentives can help defray this cost, with the federal investment tax credit, for instance, saving customers $5,400 to $8,100 on this investment. So the net upfront cost would be between $12,600 and 18,900.

Loan Purchase

For people interested in owning solar who would prefer not to pay for their system all at once, solar loans provide a great alternative option. Though relatively uncommon five or ten years ago, there are now a number of solar-specific loan providers who are offering very competitive options. As a result, solar loans have become very popular. If you’re interested in purchasing solar with a loan, many financiers offer $0-down options, a competitive financing rate, and a 5, 10 or 15-year term. You will still own the panels, which means that you’ll capture the electric bill savings benefits directly over time.

Leasing Solar

Not dissimilar to a solar loan, a solar lease requires no money upfront and offers a monthly payment plan. This option is primarily offered by three national solar companies – Tesla, Sunrun and Vivint. If you’ve ever leased a car, leasing solar works along similar lines: The company that installs the solar on your property maintains ownership of the solar panels, while you pay a monthly rate for the benefit of the energy produced by those panels. Leasing solar often requires a commitment to a very long payment period – generally 25 years – and you do not own the panels at the end of your contract. Financing solar this way generally delivers most of the savings benefit to the leasing company, not to you.

On the other hand, when you’re done with your loan payments, you own your solar panels outright and are essentially generating free electricity, saving against your electricity bill every month. With a solar lease, though, you continue to pay for solar electricity throughout your entire lease term and never reach a point where you generate solar electricity without a monthly payment.

Renting Solar

A unique option for solar shoppers is Tesla’s new solar renting program. The program, which was introduced in the summer of 2019, is a unique twist on the solar lease. Like a lease, the Tesla solar renting program requires no upfront cost with monthly payments instead. However, unlike a solar lease, which will lock you into a 25-year contract, the solar rental program allows you to cancel at any time, and the company will come back and remove the solar panels from your property. At present, the Tesla solar rental program is only available in six states, including Connecticut and Massachusetts in the Northeast.

Which Option Is Right for You?

There are pros and cons to each of the four primary methods of paying for a solar installation. The following table outlines how each option compares across costs, benefits and the long-term considerations of solar, such as who is responsible for any maintenance required on the solar panel system.

Here are the scenarios in which each option might make the most sense:

• Purchasing your panels upfront is the best option if you hope to maximize the financial savings from your solar panels.

• A solar loan is the best option if you want the benefits of owning solar panels, such as increasing your home’s value, but would prefer monthly payments to a one-time, lump sum payment.

• A solar lease may be the best option if you are most interested in reducing your monthly electricity bill with no upfront costs; however, be sure to read the contract terms carefully as solar leases sometimes come with an annual escalation that increases your monthly payments year-to-year.

• And renting solar may be the best option if you’re interested in going solar, but don’t anticipate spending the next 20 years in your home and want to see monthly bill savings right away.

To get an even better sense of what makes the most sense for your situation, there are a number of tools and resources available online to help you compare the cost and saving potential of various methods of purchasing solar, such as the EnergySage Solar Calculator.

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 more money management tips and services? From student and auto loans to mortgages, see what a AAA financial advisor can do for you.

At 10 a.m., a fellow cast member approached me, her face ashen beneath her Mickey-Mouse-eared Santa hat.

“They just closed the Magic Kingdom,” she whispered.

“How is EPCOT?” I replied with dread.

She shook her head. “Filling up fast.”

The holiday season had begun at Walt Disney World. I loved working crowd control, but I was always grateful that I wasn’t doing it at the Magic Kingdom. Hollywood Studios is the smallest Walt Disney World park, and when I worked there it seldom got too crowded. But during the holidays, all of that went out the window. The holidays are the busiest times for Disney theme parks – especially Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve. There is no exception.

Are you planning on treating your family to a Disney Christmas? The best advice I can give you is “don’t.” Or at least celebrate Christmas a little earlier in the year. Walt Disney World starts decorating for Christmas in November – and they start hosting after-hours Christmas parties too. You’re not going to miss any tinsel if you go a little early.

But let’s say you can’t. For whatever reason, you are going to be stepping foot on Disney property sometime from 12/20 to 1/1. Here’s how to survive the most wonderful time of the year at the happiest place on Earth.

Let nothing you dismay

To survive a Disney Christmas, your most important resource is patience. You are not going to do everything you want to. You’re not going to get to ride all the rides you want. But you’re still in the happiest place on earth. Take in the scenery, get a hot chocolate and remind yourself that you are on vacation.

Face unafraid the plans that you’ve made

Planning is key to making the most out of a crowded Disney Christmas. You should make reservations for all of your table-service meals far in advance. For your quick service meals, try to eat at off-peak hours so that you don’t have to battle the crowds for your burger and fries.

If you can, take advantage of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party – a ticketed, after-hours event celebrating Christmas at the Magic Kingdom. It only runs until around December 21, but it’s a great way to enjoy the Magic Kingdom’s Christmas events without battling huge crowds.

Run, run Rudolph

Don’t let visions of sugarplums dance in your heads for too long. If you’re going to enjoy the parks, you have to get up and out early – take advantage of Extra Magic Hours if you can. Do not hop between different parks throughout the day. During the holidays, parks can fill up quickly and stop admitting guests (especially Magic Kingdom and EPCOT).

It only comes this time of year

Walt Disney World is filled with themed holiday experiences, but which ones are worth braving the crowds for?

Experiences that are worth it:

• Mickey’s Once Upon a Time Christmas Parade is a delightful parade through the Magic Kingdom – complete with toy soldiers, princesses, the fab five and Santa Claus himself.

• EPCOT’s Candlelight Processional is a reverent concert retelling of the Biblical Christmas story, narrated by a celebrity guest (let’s be honest, it’s usually Neil Patrick Harris). It made me cry – five stars!

• Celebrations Around the World Showcase on New Year’s Eve. As the clock strikes midnight around the world, different pavilions at World Showcase light up with fireworks and their own New Year’s celebrations.

• The Jingle Cruise is a holiday overlay of The Jungle Cruise and it is not to be missed.

Experiences that are not worth it:

• Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM at Hollywood Studios is always a disappointment. There aren’t enough fireworks, and it’s hosted by the characters from the holiday TV special “Prep and Landing,” of all things. I used to work this show, and I still don’t like it.

• A Frozen Holiday Wish is pretty take-it-or-leave-it. I love “Frozen,” but this show in front of the castle falls flat for me.

• Disney Springs’ Christmas Tree Trail is a deeply sad tour through a grove of Christmas trees (dying in the Florida heat) with lackluster Disney-inspired decorations. It’s not even a good photo-op.

As for the New Year’s Eve fireworks shows, there are only two to consider going to see: Fantasy in the Sky Fireworks at the Magic Kingdom or Illuminations’ New Year’s Countdown at EPCOT. I myself would not do either of them, since the crowds are so insane, but they are both beautiful, exciting shows for ringing in the new year.

If you want to get a good spot for a New Year’s Eve fireworks show, arrive a few hours (yes, I said HOURS) early to start camping out. Some people even stake their spots in the morning and stay there all day, but that doesn’t sound very fun to me.

Be good, for goodness sake

Don’t let the packed park make you irate – be polite and kind to your party, to the cast members and to the other guests. You’ll be surprised at how much this can improve a stressful day.

Have you ever had yourself a merry little Disney Christmas? Would you brave the holiday crowds? Let us know in the comments below!

Click here for more information on Walt Disney vacations and Disney Parks discounts with AAA. 

It doesn’t take very long for pumping gas to become so routine that we practically do it on autopilot. Aside from the price, what other factors do you consider? Here are a few points to mull over.

Different Types of Fuel

Most passenger vehicles are powered by gasoline. But vehicles also run on diesel, E85 gasoline, hybrid gas/electric, natural gas and even hydrogen.

There should be a label on the fuel door that reads something along the lines of “Diesel Fuel Only” or “Unleaded Gasoline Only.” If there’s ever a doubt, call the manufacturer.

It is imperative that you use the proper fuel. Using gasoline in a diesel or diesel in a gasoline vehicle is an expensive mistake. Using high- content ethanol (E85) in an engine not designed for it can also void the manufacturer’s warranty.

Regular Versus Premium

Gasoline grades depend on the fuel’s octane level. Higher octane levels resist engine knocking and pinging. Higher-compression engines and those with turbochargers typically use higher-octane fuel.

The driver’s manual should state the correct grade needed for your vehicle. It may suggest – but not require – premium gas. If this is the case, your car should be able to run fine with lower-grade gas, and it could save you money.

Alternative Fuels

While gasoline and diesel are the most common fuels, most any vehicle can be converted to use an alternative fuel source. This can vary from something simple, like converting an old diesel engine to run on used vegetable oil, to expensive conversions like compressed natural gas and battery electric.

In the not-too-distant future, filling your vehicle’s tank could be as varied as selecting your morning coffee.

For more information about you car, visit AAA.com/Automotive.

There’s no avoiding it: winter is coming. Soon it will be time for scarves and gloves, snow shovels and ice scrapers, snow tires and school delays. Maybe you’re looking to escape the winter weather and trade it in for a warmer climate. Or maybe you’re thinking “Bring it on!” and can’t wait for the cold temps and snowy days to arrive. Either way, when you’re ready to plan your vacation, we’ve got just the destination for you.

Love waking up to a fresh coat of snow? Check out these cold weather retreats.

Canada

Montreal is a great option. Here you’ll find a plethora of awesome restaurants and museums, not to mention winter festivals like Montreal en Lumiere, a city-wide event filled with music, food and art that runs from Feb. 20 through March 1 next year. There’s also plenty of ice skating to be found.

Additionally, Quebec City, with its old-world European stylings, offers plenty of chilly charm in the winter months. Be sure not to miss the city’s famous toboggan run!

Ice Hotels

What could possibly be cooler (pun intended) than staying overnight in a hotel made completely from ice? Check out Quebec City’s Hotel de Glace, where guests can cozy up in sleeping bags in themed suites; some even have fireplaces! There’s a spa and outdoor sauna for when you’re ready to warm up after a chilly night.

Those looking for a European option should head to Icehotel in Jukkasjarvi, Sweden, where guests can book individually unique suites highlighting artist-carved ice sculptures and enjoy activities like snowmobiling and dog sled tours.

European Christmas Markets

Markets throughout Europe have perfected the magic of Christmas and there’s no better way to explore them than through a river cruise. AmaWaterways has a variety of tours, including visits to Budapest’s market, where all items are handcrafted. Or head to Vienna’s Christkindlmarkt, where shopping is supplemented by sparkling decorations and choir singers. U River Cruises also offers great options, including a “Dashing Through the Danube” tour that stops off at multiple markets along the river.

Alternatively, if you’re dying to escape the cold and snow, there are plenty of warm destinations just begging to be visited.

Caribbean Destinations

There’s no better place to soak up the sun and escape the cold than on a soft sand beach in the Caribbean islands. Cruises are a great option; check out Princess Cruises for a variety of destinations and ships, including the brand-spanking-new Sky Princess, which sets sail this winter to destinations in the eastern Caribbean including Antigua, Turks and Caicos and Puerto Rico.

Looking to stay in the North Atlantic for a shorter trip? Celebrity Cruises offers quick jaunts to the Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale throughout the winter.

Hawaii

Want to get as far away from the cold of the Northeast as possible, yet still stay in the U.S.? Head to Hawaii, where you can relax on sandy beaches or enjoy activities like surfing and hiking. Hit multiple islands with Norwegian Cruise Line while enjoying roomy suites with balconies.

Africa

Africa beckons with not only warmer weather, but also with promises of adventure, culture and nature. Speak to a AAA travel advisor about small group tours to many of the continent’s desired destinations. You might find yourself on safari in Kenya, learning about ancient history in Egypt or exploring spice markets and traveling via camel in Morocco.

Chart your own (temperate) course with AAA Travel.

Dream Theme

A fourth theme park is coming to Universal Orlando Resort, and it’s sure to be epic. Literally. Dubbed Universal’s Epic Universe, the 750-acre site will also host hotels, shops, restaurants, an entertainment center and more, just a few miles southeast of the current park.

It’s Universal’s newest offering since Volcano Bay opened in May 2017. Details are scarce, but Tom Williams, chairman and CEO for Universal Parks & Resorts, isn’t holding back. “It will become the most immersive and innovative theme park we have ever created,” he said.

For more #trending, visit AAA.com/Trending.

If you want to learn more about a place, try the food; to get acquainted with its soul, get cooking.

Food is a direct line to the roots of wherever you are – figuratively, through recipes, traditions and community, and literally pulled from the soil beneath your feet. While you can always go to a museum or take a walking tour, cooking is a personal way to absorb the local culture of any place you are visiting.

Discover our Northeast corner of the country in a tasty new way with a culinary vacation or daytrip at local cooking schools and hotels.

Starting With the Man in the Mirror

In the hill country of Peru, New York, chef Curtiss Hemm teaches on the grounds of his 350-acre farm at the Carriage House Cooking School and leads regular cooking demos for both hotel guests and the public at the AAA Four Diamond Rated Mirror Lake Inn in Lake Placid.

The former Dean of Culinary Arts at the New England Culinary Institute taught thousands of professional chefs in his career but has shifted his focus to a different crowd. “I want to make someone a better cook at home. That is my sole goal in doing this,” Hemm said. “The things that excite me aren’t what you find in restaurants but what you find in people’s homes and what people celebrate.”

Whether it’s showcasing homestyle Indian cuisine, steakhouse classics, artisan pizza or holiday cooking, Hemm stays true to his mantra that everything should be accessible, actionable and relevant to the home cook, while celebrating the edible landscape of the region whenever possible.

Baker’s Paradise

Inviting you into its quaint cottage with the smell of freshly baking bread, Brot Bakehouse School and Kitchen in Fairfax, Vermont, could persuade anyone into a life surrounded by croissants and pumpernickel. Luckily, baker and owner Heike Meyer is happy to share a slice of that life and lots of good bread with you.

Originally from Germany (“brot” is German for bread), Meyer traveled and baked around the world to hone her craft before landing in the Green Mountain State. Her bread and pastry classes are “tremendously” influenced by the landscape, she said, and highlight flavor through organic and local grains and natural starter cultures.

“Products we can source locally – and that make sense to source locally – are being used. I feel a much greater connection to the land that’s around us than I ever did growing up in northern Germany or living in New York City,” Meyer emphasizes.

Hotel Vermont partners with Brot Bakehouse for culinary vacations throughout the year, including a package that gets you a spot in the annual Brotfest workshop, a “sensory tasting experience” held every August that showcases sourdough and community food purveyors.

Vermont is also home to the King Arthur Flour Baking School, where Meyer picked up some of her skills and you can, too.

For Those About to Cook (We Salute You)

You don’t have to be professionally trained to play sous chef beside the culinary team at AAA Five Diamond Rated Ocean House. The Rhode Island resort’s Center for Wine & Culinary Arts has regular classes, events and activities inspired by “New England’s rich cultural history, Rhode Island’s premier seafaring history and [the resort’s] unique geographic location,” chef Timothy Meyers said.

Vino fans love the twice-yearly Wine Camp Weekend where participants tour Jonathan Edwards Winery, meet and dine with a winemaker, and custom blend and label a case of wine to take home.

Farther up north in Maine, the Make Me a Chef! package at Meadowmere Resort is for bourgeoning gourmands who also enjoy a bit of R&R. Popular with couples and multi-generational groups of families and friends, guests enjoy an interactive dinner with the resort’s chef, a cooking class at nearby Stonewall Kitchen Cooking School and a massage at the spa. Available every weekend outside of July and August.

Go Your Own Way

Build a personalized culinary itinerary with a visit to one of the world-class cooking schools in our area. The Culinary Institute of America provides a variety of public cooking classes in New York’s Hudson Valley region. And Christopher Kimball’s Milk Street Cooking School in Boston – at the home of Milk Street magazine, TV and radio show – will have you feeling like a true test-kitchen cook.

As any food lover will tell you, to make a meal is to create a memory, and recipes are the best souvenirs. Whether you are serious about cooking or just want to try something different, a cooking class will leave you with new skills, new memories and newfound appreciation for your destination.

More Nearby Culinary Vacations and Experiences

The Essex – Cook Academy
Burlington, VT

With two on-site restaurants, cooking classes and an organic garden for fresh ingredients, good food is at the core of every stay at The Essex. At the Cook Academy, classes are kept small for personalized, hands-on instruction with the talented and supportive staff of chefs. Themes range from cooking with Vermont beer to a New Orleans-inspired feast.

Four Seasons Boston – Kid’s Cookie Making Class

Every Saturday afternoon, kids of in-house guests are invited to the pastry kitchen for a complimentary cookie making class. The cookies are delivered to the child’s guest room later in the evening for a sweet snack the whole family can share – that’s AAA Five Diamond Rated service at its best! Private cooking classes can be arranged for groups through the hotel’s events department.

White Barn Inn – Private Cooking Classes
Kennebunkport, Maine

Take a private class with the AAA Four Diamond Rated hotel’s acclaimed executive chef and kitchen brigade. A range of themed culinary activities are also available; get the full Maine lobstering experience from boat-to-table, learn how to make a proper cocktail with the hotel’s head mixologist or get your hands dirty with a cooking class preceded by a visit to nearby Finklepod Farm.

The Manor at Golden Pond – Epicurean Escapade
Holderness, NH

Spend a full weekend cooking with the pros at the Manor at Golden Pond. Included with lodging, you get breakfast, dinner, afternoon tea and cooking school for every day of your stay. Hope you’re hungry!

Have you ever taken a cooking class, been on a culinary vacation or went somewhere just for the food? Tell us about it in the comments. 

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.

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.

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.

Learn more about if solar is right for you and your home. Before you go solar, talk to an insurance agent to see how you’ll be covered. 

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.

Dear Prudence

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.

Ask a Manager

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.

Where Should We Begin?

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

“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!

Dear Sugars

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.

My Brother, My Brother, and Me

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.

One of the most famous fans of MBMBaM is Broadway superstar Lin-Manuel Miranda, who snuck some McElroy references into “Hamilton” and signals fellow MBMBaM fans whenever he’s in front of a camera.

Read our interview with Justin McElroy.

Looking for even more shows to listen to? Check out my articles about the best history podcasts, the best film podcasts and the best limited-series podcasts!

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.

Tell us your AAA travel story at AAA.com/ShareYourStory.

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.

Getaway. Hideaway. Play Away…Every Day!

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.

Getaway Now!

Fisherman’s Village and Marina

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.

For more celebrity stories, visit AAA.com/MyFirstCar

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.

For more on car seat safety, visit AAA.com.

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.

G'day, Australia!

"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!

Do you want to visit the land Down Under? You can book Australian tours with AAA Member Choice Vacations.

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.

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

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

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.

Disney Cruise Line

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.

Norwegian

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.

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!

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For a better look at these cruise lines’ waterslides, check out our slideshow.