If you are looking to impress your special someone, you could always opt for the traditional flowers and chocolate, or you could whisk yourselves away to a destination with just the right touch of romance. There’s a getaway for everyone’s needs, whether it be closer to home, cross-country or around the world. Here are some of the most romantic places to travel, near and far.

Romantic Places to Travel in the Northeast

Newport, RI.

This charming water-side Rhode Island town exudes New England romance. Go for a stroll along the Newport Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile trail with up-close views of the famous mansions and beautiful seaside scenery. Speaking of the Newport Mansions, take a guided or audio tour of these extravagant architectural feats and see how Newport’s wealthiest residents lived in the 19th century. Learn every step behind the winemaking process with a tour of the Newport Vineyards, followed by a wine tasting. And, of course, many Newport restaurants serve up freshly caught seafood daily with romantic ocean views.

The Berkshires, MA.

If you’re seeking culture, the Berkshires are one of the most romantic places to travel in the Northeast. Explore the galleries at the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art and The Clark Art Institute for a deep dive into the world of art. Take in a theater production by renowned theater organizations like Shakespeare & Company. For the music lover in your life, a concert at the Tanglewood Music Center is a must. Visit some artisanal shops in the area for a romantic picnic under the stars set to beautiful symphonic tunes.

Pocono Mountains, PA.

The Pocono Mountains contain some of the most romantic places to travel in the United States. Known for it’s couples-only resorts, you’re never too far from a heart-shaped Jacuzzi. Embrace the mountain surroundings with a peaceful ride through the woods and fields on horseback. Bushkill Falls – known as “The Niagara of Pennsylvania” – covers 300 acres with eight waterfalls and plenty of trails and bridges. For the ultimate romantic nature getaway, the Poconos are the place to be. If you like small town charm, you can stay in one of three historic buildings at The Inn at Jim Thorpe, located in charming downtown Jim Thorpe, just steps from parks, shops, galleries and more. Set some time aside for the spa, where all services are offered as side-by-side couples treatments.

More Romantic American Destinations

Savannah, GA.

For a taste of Southern hospitality look no further than Savannah. A riverboat cruise is a great opportunity for some sweet romance. Savannah Riverboat Cruises offers a variety of cruises on two luxury riverboats, like dinner, lunch and brunch cruises, as well as gospel, moonlight and sightseeing trips. Tybee Island is perfect for some quality time with your special someone. Take a kayak excursion on the coast, head out on a tour to watch frolicking bottlenose dolphins or go for a romantic stroll on the beach at sunset.

Napa Valley, CA.

No matter the occasion, a trip to Napa Valley is never complete without exploring the famous vineyards. Like something out of a fairytale, the Chateau Montelena Winery is a stone castle carved into a hillside with picturesque natural views, with tours and wine tastings offered daily. Traverse the California skies in a group hot air balloon ride or book a private flight for two for a romantic splurge. For some much-needed rest and relaxation, Roman Spa Hot Springs Resort offers private mudrooms for two, the epitome of a romantic retreat.

The Most Romantic Places to Visit in the World

Santorini, Greece

Santorini has a reputation for its romance. This group of islands has stunning coastal views from every angle, especially at sunset. Head to the coastal town of Oia for stunning, romantic views of the sun sinking into the Aegean sea in the evening, a must-do for any traveler. Explore the medieval stone fortress of Skaros, once lived in by Venetian nobles and long damaged by volcanic eruptions. For the more adventurous duo, there are many opportunities to go scuba diving and traverse the world under the sea. Santorini offers a variety of cooking classes for an authentic culinary experience with a side of romance.

Paris, France

The City of Love is often considered the most romantic place to travel, and for good reason. Paris is filled with romantic experiences and attractions. Take a stroll over to the Jehan Rictus garden square and gaze at Le Mur Des Je t’aime – the Wall of Love – covered with the words “I love you” in over 250 languages and dialects. Book a romantic cruise on the Seine for an intimate setting and close look at some of the city’s famous monuments. See the beautiful, ornate halls of the Palace de Versailles or have a romantic sunset dinner of infamous Parisian cuisine. The possibilities for romance are endless.

Happy living the single life? Check out our list of the top 10 places to travel alone. 

What are your favorite romantic destinations? Share in the comments!

Book your next romantic getaway with AAA Travel.

An Oscar party isn’t just for the stars. Bring Hollywood’s biggest night to your home with your own celebration. We have a list of party ideas, food and games to get you started. Who knows? Maybe you’ll take home an award for best party.

Oscar Party Ideas

A fancy night deserves some fancy invitations. Print out these snazzy invites from the DIY blog Hey Let’s Make Stuff, and tell your friends that you’re having a party.

Suggest a fun dress code if you’d like, even if it’s simply “dress to impress.” The beauty of an Oscar party is that you have nearly 90 years of red carpet fashion inspiration to choose from. Have guests channel the Golden Age of Hollywood in old-school glam looks from the ’30s and ’40s , or host an ’80s-themed bash when dresses with poofy sleeves and big hair were some of the hottest trends. If you want to think outside of the box, ask your friends to recreate unique Oscar looks like Bjork’s swan dress from 2001 or dress like their favorite movie character. Don’t forget to take pictures for the paparazzi!

Need music? Play these Best Original Song winners. From Broadway ballads to Disney to more modern pop, it’s an award-winning playlist.

No matter what, don’t let your guests go home empty-handed. The nominees get gift bags, and your guests deserve them, too. Put all that swag in a DIY gold star tote bag, like this one from Kristi Murphy.

Oscar Party Food

Fancy food is always an award winner. Finger foods and dressed-up snacks will give your party an air of sophistication. But don’t count out popcorn – a dressed-up batch of kernels is a great way to pay tribute to a classic movie food.

It also helps to have a drink in hand to toast to the winners. And since winning is sweet, don’t forget to give your guests some sweet desserts. Happy snacking!

Dressed-Up Snacks 

Tuxedo cheese wedges (Cute Food for Kids)

Hot dogs in suits (Better Homes & Gardens)

Popcorn 

10 pretty popcorn recipes (Cosmopolitan)

Edible white chocolate popcorn bowl (Hungry Happenings)

For Toasting to the Winners

DIY glitter Champagne bottles (Evite)

24 carat Champagne (Brit + Co)

Sparkling pomegranate punch (Food & Wine)

The golden night cocktail (Salt & Wind)

Rose sangria (Sweet & Savory by Shinee)

Sweets

Oscar statue-shaped sugar cookies (People)

Film reel ice cream sandwiches (Hungry Happenings)

Oscar Party Decorations

Roll out the red carpet! Gold, glitter and stars transform any space into a Hollywood movie set. And any homemade Oscar party needs homemade Oscar statues.

Twig & Thistle has a simple template for your own paper Oscar. Or if you want something more three-dimensional, give your friends their own Academy Awards. With these instructions from DIY Candy, all you need is gold spray paint and Ken dolls.

And Here Are a Few More DIY Decorations…

Cardboard film reels (MLive)

Star garlands (Green Wedding Shoes)

Oscar Party Games 

The night may drag on, but these games should keep you and your guests interested.

Up the stakes and set up an Oscar pool. Or just vote for your favorites and see how it stacks up against the winners. Print out the list of nominees.

What year had the oldest and youngest actresses ever nominated? 2012. What was the first color film to win best picture? “Gone With the Wind.” Test your friends and see how well you know your Oscar trivia. Diva Girl Parties and Stuff has a list of trivia questions to get you started.

And if you want a reason to pay better attention to the acceptance speeches, play Oscar bingo with these print out cards from HGTV. Hand them out to your friends and see who gets five when someone gets cut off mid-speech. You can send the winner home with a gift, just like the actors!

Still need to see the Oscar-nominated films? AAA members get discounted movie tickets. 

What do you like to see (and eat) at an Oscar party? Let us know in the comments!

Charles Richard Patterson may not be a household name in transportation history, but he and his son Frederick successfully carved out an important place for themselves at the dawn of the automobile age. We take a look at how these automotive pioneers left their mark on both American and black history.

C.R. Patterson was born a slave in Virginia in 1833. Years later, according to the African American Registry, he escaped, traveling over the Allegheny Mountains, through West Virginia and across the Ohio River. He settled in Greenfield, Ohio, a town with strong abolitionist sympathies and a station on the Underground Railroad.

Once in Ohio, Patterson learned blacksmithing skills and went to work for a carriage-making business. In 1873, he formed a business partnership with another local carriage manufacturer named J.P. Lowe. For the next 20 years, the duo ran a successful business making expertly crafted horse-drawn carriages.

In 1893, Patterson bought out Lowe and became the sole proprietor of the newly renamed C.R. Patterson & Sons. When he died in 1910, Patterson passed the flourishing business to his son Frederick. The younger Patterson was already a pioneer, becoming the first African American to play football for Ohio State University.

The change of hands occurred just has the transportation business was being revolutionized. Frederick began noticing more and more “horseless carriages” on the roads and knew that automobiles were the future. C.R. Patterson & Sons produced its first car in 1915. Known as the Patterson-Greenfield automobile, it sold for $850.

More orders came in and Patterson & Sons established itself as legitimate auto manufacturer. According to the Historic Vehicle Association, the Patterson-Greenfield model was comparable in quality and workmanship to the Ford Model T. However, the Ohio company couldn’t match Ford’s manufacturing capability. In the 1920s, after producing approximately 150 cars, Patterson & Sons switched to the production of trucks, buses and other commercial vehicle bodies, which were installed on top of chassis made by major auto manufacturers.

Hit hard by the Great Depression, coupled with Frederick’s death in 1932, the company began to spiral downward. It closed in 1939. There are no known Patterson-Greenfield automobiles in existence today, but several C.R. Patterson & Sons Company carriages have survived. The National Museum of African American History & Culture states that Patterson & Sons remains the only African American-owned automobile company in United States history.

For New Yorkers, NYC tours and tourists are usually one thing – in the way. And although it may be hard to hold back expletives when they walk too slow or stop mid-stride in the middle of the sidewalk to take pictures with their selfie sticks, we can take a cue or two from our visitor friends.

Tourists take advantage of what we sometimes take for granted. Blissfully unjaded by the daily hustle of life in the big city, they revel in the energy and take time to explore culture and history, stopping to gawk at its sheer massiveness along the way.

Whether you are from New York City or live close enough to visit all the time, don’t be too proud to take on the tourist mentality. Because no matter how much you’ve already seen or think you know, there is always something new to discover and learn (while still avoiding Time Square like the plague). Now is as good a time as ever to go on one of the many NYC tours available.

Circle Line Tours

Pier 83, West 42nd Street and 12th Avenue
212-563-3200

Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises are an icon in their own right. Cruising for over 70 years, their leisurely tours (typically 1 to 2½ hours) feature picture-perfect views of Manhattan, with experienced guides that point out the most famous sights and locations and provide fun facts and trivia along the way. Cruises operate year-round and have enclosed viewing areas to accommodate guests in any kind of weather. During the warmer months, thrill seekers can hop aboard “The Beast” – a speedboat that takes a high-speed tour through New York Harbor.

Double Decker Bus Tours

Multiple locations
212-445-0848

See all the sights from the top of a Double Decker Bus. Experience the Bronx, Brooklyn, uptown or downtown Manhattan, or all of the above. With the ability to hop on and hop off as you go, you can travel the city at your own pace and pick up a bus from anywhere, anytime, with tours up to 72 hours. Options and packages include guided walking tours and drop-offs at other sightseeing locations such as cruises, helicopters and skyscraper observation decks.

Liberty Helicopter Tours

Downtown Manhattan Heliport 6 East River Piers
212-967-6464 or 1-800-542-9933

View the New York City skyline like you never have before – from above! Choose from several tour options that will have you flying over the Hudson River, past the Statue of Liberty and by other famous landmarks.

Central Park Bike Tour 

203 W 58th St. (7^th Avenue)

A bike ride in Central Park is one of the best things to do in NYC. Pedal through the top sights and attractions such as the Onassis Reservoir, Shakespeare Garden and Strawberry Fields on a two-hour leisure bike tour or art and architecture tour. Tours are run by Bikerent.nyc, which in addition to bike rentals in Central Park, offer rentals at Brooklyn Bridge and Broadway locations for self-guided tours and city exploration.

A Slice of Brooklyn Bus Tours

212-913-9917

Learn where to find the best pizza in Brooklyn from true “Brooklynites” on A Slice of Brooklyn Bus Tours. Pass through famous neighborhoods and familiar movie locations while on your way to enjoying some of the best pizza around. Stops include Grimaldi’s under the Brooklyn Bridge and L&B Spumoni Gardens in Bensonhurst. In December, the Christmas Lights Tour of the extravagant light displays in Dyker Heights is not to be missed. All NYC tours conveniently depart from Manhattan. AAA members save 15% on A Slice of Brooklyn Bus Tours when booking online.

Museum Hack 

1-800-210-9676

“Museum tours for people who don’t like museums,” is how Museum Hack defines their service. Specializing in private, small group tours, Museum Hack tour guides take a non-traditional approach to museums, highlighting fun facts and quirky tidbits to make your museum visit anything but boring. Experience the Met or the Museum of Natural History in a new light!

Grand Central Terminal Tour 

89 East 42nd Street
212-340-2583

Grand Central Terminal is the largest train station in the world by number of tracks, but it is much more than a commuter portal. Over 100 years old, it holds a lot of history and many secrets, not to mention some of the most remarkable examples of architecture and design. Do you know about the unmarked “Whispering Gallery,” where due to the unique acoustics, one person can whisper something into the corner and another person across the way can hear them as if they were right next to them? Learn this and more on a Grand Tour, a 75 minute walking tour led by an expert. “Local” and “express” audio tours are also available; obtain headsets at specially marked “GCT Tour” windows in the main concourse or downloaded straight to your phone.

On Location Tours

212-913-9780

New York is the most filmed city in the world. Get transported to your favorite movie and television scenes on a guided bus tour of famed locales. Drink cosmos and shop in Greenwich Village on the “Sex and the City” Hotspots Tour, take pictures in front of famous backdrops on the Turner Classic Movie Film Tour or enjoy a date night like your favorite on-screen couple on the Romantic Movie Moments Tour. If you’re into celebrity gossip, the TMZ Celebrity Tour NYC showcases over 50 of the stars’ favorite hangouts. Check out what a tour is like here.

AAA members save over 20 percent on On Location Tours in New York City when booking in advance online.

The Radio City Stage Door Tour

1260 Avenue of the Americas (6th Ave and 50th Street)
212-247-04777

Go behind the scenes of one of the most famous theaters in the world. On this guided tour, you will get the inside scoop on the design, the history, and the secrets of the stage. Plus, meet a Rockette!

Gain a new appreciation for the city on one or several of these NYC tours. If not a formal tour, take a self-guided adventure. Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, visit the Statue of Liberty or climb to the top of the Empire State Building. You may be surprised at how fun being a tourist can be!

What are your favorite NYC tours? Share them with us in the comments below!

Whether you’re a crosswords aficionado or just learning the ways of the game, we have good news for you. There are many benefits of crossword puzzles, including improving one’s mood, memory and mental health.

Better yet, you don’t have to complete a puzzle every day — though there’s also nothing holding you back from doing so. Regularly working on crosswords even just once a week, can positively impact your health in several ways.

Here are six good reasons why you should start or continue doing crossword puzzles.

Strengthens Memory

Science shows that solving crossword puzzles is good for mental health by improving a person’s memory and other intellectual skills.

A study from the University of Exeter Medical School and Kings College London found “that the more regularly participants engaged with word puzzles, the better they performed on tasks assessing attention, reasoning and memory.”

Thanks to the results from this study, researchers can safely say “that people who engage in word puzzles have brain function equivalent to ten years younger than their age, on tests of grammatical reasoning speed and short-term memory accuracy.”

In other words, the brains of people who do crossword puzzles act a whole decade younger than their actual age, which is a pretty impressive feat.

Keeps the Mind Active

Since doing crossword puzzles keeps your brain 10 years younger, it’s truly never too late to learn something new. One of the greatest benefits of crosswords are that they are constantly introducing you to new words.

Learning new things is a productive way to pass the time and helps keep your mind active. Crossword puzzles teach new vocabulary and improve spelling in people of all ages. Keeping a dictionary near you or looking up the meanings of words you don’t know online takes the learning even further.

With a wider range of words at your disposal, you’ll certainly feel and sound smarter.

Builds Social Bonds

To reap even more benefits of crossword puzzles, consider using teamwork. When done with others, like family or friends, crossword puzzles can positively affect multiple aspects of a person’s health.

Humans are social beings, and having meaningful connections can boost one’s physical and mental health, improves their quality of life and helps them live longer.

More specifically, connecting with others “helps relieve harmful levels of stress, which can adversely affect coronary arteries, gut function, insulin regulation and the immune system,” according to Harvard Health Publishing. “Another line of research suggests that caring behaviors trigger the release of stress-reducing hormones.”

Solving a crossword puzzle together as a group is a great way to connect. You’ll be making yourself healthier while having fun and helping each other figure out the answers. It’s a win-win situation.

Helps Fight Disease

Diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia are not completely preventable but doing crossword puzzles can help slow a person’s mental decline and lower their risk.

Cognitive activities, like doing crossword puzzles, “may help build cognitive reserve which allows someone to maintain normal cognition longer,” according to Cognitive Vitality, a program of the Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation. Though it should be noted that performing both physical and cognitive activities can lower risks even further.

A Positive Distraction

In a time where everything seems to be vying for our attention, it’s easy to feel sensory overload. Sometimes we just need to sit down and focus on a single task in order to help our minds defrag.

Working on crossword puzzles is a fun way to pass the time, fight boredom, distract from stresses and alleviate anxiety or depression. Additionally, trying to solve a crossword is more engaging than watching TV or scrolling through your phone. Unlike these kinds of activities, crossword puzzles actually help your concentration.

Improves Your Mood

While working on a puzzle will certainly keep your mind occupied, distracting you from boredom and stress, this task can improve your mood in other ways too.

The feeling of accomplishment you get when finishing a problem, whether it be finding something you thought was lost or solving some kind of puzzle, is remarkable. This sense of victory causes a person’s body to produce extra dopamine, the neurotransmitters responsible for boosting mood, motivation and attention.

So if you’re feeling the effects of stress or the blues, try your hand at a crossword puzzle – it might just help you feel better.

No matter the source – in a newspaper, magazine or online – there are clearly a number of great benefits of crossword puzzles that you can reap. By simply playing a game, you can expand your vocabulary, strengthen your memory, improve your mood and more.

Do you enjoy the challenge of a good crossword puzzle? Tell us in the comments. 

Try Your AAA Network’s crossword puzzles!

Planning a vacation takes a lot of Googling. First you have to search where you want to go, then you have to find hotels and flights, then you have to see what you just have to do at your destination. In that storm of online searches, however, it can be difficult to tell the difference between a legitimate company and a not-so-legitimate third-party booking site. When most travel planning is done online, how can you avoid travel booking scams? The best way is learning how to spot them.

What’s the Scam?

According to the American Hotel and Lodging Association, 23% of consumers said they were misled by third-party travel booking sites on the phone or on the web, translating to more than $5.7 billion in online booking scams. Customers are led to believe that they are booking through an official hotel or airline site, but they’re actually doing business with a third-party middleman. This can lead to lost reservations, incorrect accommodations, undisclosed fees or worse.

For example, in 2017 the Federal Trade Commission settled a lawsuit with Reservation Counter, a third-party hotel booking website based in Utah. Reservation Counter used call centers and websites to trick consumers into believing that they were interacting directly with their desired hotel. They would then charge the customer’s credit card immediately – instead of upon check-in. Now, Reservation Counter has a non-affiliation disclaimer on its website.

How Bad Can It Be?

Some travel booking scams just want to skim some extra fees off of your hotel or flight reservation. But other scammers want to steal your money, your personal information and your vacation plans. Lisa Melton, senior vice president of marketing at AAA Northeast, encountered one of these scams when she tried to change her flight plans.

“Seattle got the biggest snowstorm on record when we were supposed to be going,” Melton said. “I wanted to call Delta and see if they would just change our flights so we could go to San Diego.”

Melton Googled the phrase “Delta customer service,” and called the first phone number she saw. The man on the other end was quite helpful. “He rebooks our ticket, gets all our information, gets our flights to San Diego and sends me the confirmation,” she said.

A few days later, Melton called Delta to check on her family’s seat assignments. At first, she was told that she needed to talk to her travel agent. But Melton hadn’t used a travel agent. The Delta agent suggested Melton call her credit card company.

Turns out, the Delta customer service line that Melton had originally called had been a fake number set up by a scammer.

“I gave him all of our personal information, including my credit card number, all of our dates of birth, and our address. And we had no flight to San Diego,” she said. “He didn’t book anything, he just tried to take $2,000 of our money.”

While Melton was able to arrange a different trip at the last minute, she learned a valuable lesson.

“I will never not use a travel agent again,” she said. “This is the reason that we all need to have a travel agent on our side, so this doesn’t happen.”

How Do I Avoid Getting Scammed?

“The quantity of online travel scams is alarming,” said Cyndi Zesk, vice president of travel services at AAA Northeast. “Even the most savvy of travelers have fallen victim to such deception and misrepresentation.”

So what can you do about it? According to the Better Business Bureau, one of the best ways to protect yourself from travel and hotel room booking scams is to purchase directly from the source and double-check that you have the correct contact information. It’s also a good idea to call the hotel a few weeks before you arrive to confirm your reservation. You can also book through an organization that has a proven track record and good reputation, such as AAA.

“AAA members have access to knowledgeable travel professionals who can assist them with their travel plans, look out for their best interests, and offer discounts,” Zesk said. “AAA travel advisors know what to look for in a scam and how to avoid them. They are keenly aware of which travel vendors and travel sites are legitimate. When you book with AAA, you can rest easy knowing you’ve got a trusted source and travel professional working for you.”

Have you ever encountered a travel booking scam? What did you do? Tell us your story in the comments below. 

Brrr…it’s cold outside, especially in the Adirondacks. But fear not, the Village of Lake Placid, which has twice hosted the Winter Olympics in 1932 and 1980, has plenty of luxury hotels to hole up in. Whether you’ve spent the day skiing on Whiteface Mountain or taking in the sights of the village, you can look forward to laying your head down at one of these four luxury hotels in Lake Placid.

Lake Placid Lodge

This classic Adirondack hideaway has 30 rooms (a mix of cottages, cabins on the lake and rooms in the historic main house) with Adirondack-style furnishings, stone fireplaces and Oriental rugs. It is said that no two rooms are exactly alike.

On-site activities include ice skating on Lake Placid and cross-country ski trails. You can also treat yourself to one of the variety of in-room massages available, including the sport, Swedish, deep tissue or reflexology.

In the evening, have a hot toddy in Maggie’s Pub, which is stocked with a variety of drinks and pub fare in a casual yet gorgeous setting. Or you could settle into a fireside dinner at Artisans, which takes elegant lakeside dining to the next level with its sensational seasonal cuisine and breathtaking lake views. Its one a kind wine cellar can be booked for private events and special occasions. An interesting side note: While Artisans is known for its fine dining options, its pancakes are ranked among the 10 best in the country, according to Travel and Leisure magazine.

Other winter activities you can book through this hotel include ice fishing, toboggan rides and dog sled rides.

Whiteface Lodge

A relative newcomer, the Whiteface Lodge was founded in June 2005 by a former Olympian and developer who sought to create one of the most epic luxury hotels and properties in the Adirondacks. A mile from Lake Placid village yet surrounded by woodlands, this 94-suite, timber-and-stone lodge is the perfect place to take in the breathtaking snow-capped mountains. A short drive from the slopes at Whiteface Mountain.

At Kanu restaurant, with a granite fireplace and antler chandeliers, dine on game dishes such as grilled bison steak with roasted potatoes and save room for the nightly bonfire with make-your-own s’mores.

Other amenities on the premises include 24-hour room service, a heated indoor and outdoor swimming pool that is open year-round and outdoor hot tubs. There is a 56-seat surround sound movie theater, a family game room and Old-Fashion Ice Cream Parlor, which offers a variety of delicious sundaes, milkshakes and sodas.

The on-site spa at Whiteface Lodge has also been ranked among the top 100 spas in North America. Appointments are required, so make sure you make that a priority. Specialty massages include a four-handed massage and a pain-relieving Table Thai massage that features a unique blend of Eastern techniques.

The Point

For a truly splurge-worthy getaway, there’s the Point, a luxury hotel and Relais & Chateaux property once owned by the Rockefellers.

Just a few miles from Lake Placid, the Point has 11 rustic-chic rooms spread among timber-and-stone cabins and come with wood-burning fireplaces. Oil paintings from the 19th century hang on walls made of native pine, spruce and fir in each of the guestrooms. Its most requested guestroom, The Boathouse, has breathtaking views of the Upper Saranac Lake through its gaping windows. It has a fantastic bathroom, complete with a soaking tub for two and a rock-walled shower.

Outside the guestrooms, there’s also communal fireside dining in the Great Hall creating a festive, house-party atmosphere.  But with its tranquil woods location, there is plenty for those who prefer something quiet, including old movies, blazing fires to cozy up next to with a book and fine wines from The Point’s private cellars.

Mirror Lake Inn

You can’t get closer to the action than the family-owned Mirror Lake Inn, which sits on Mirror Lake in Lake Placid village. This AAA Four Diamond inn has everything you need for a winter getaway: alpine-style rooms with lake and mountain vistas, the award-winning View Restaurant, a luxury spa, a heated indoor pool and a private ice skating rink! While at the spa, be sure to try the Maple Sugar Body Scrub of the Healing Soles Pedicure.

Mirror Lake Inn says your journey to healing begins at the spa, but it could also begin at breakfast where the chefs at the View are serving up renowned Adirondack Flapjacks. Other food and drink options on premises include Taste Bistro & Bar and The Cottage Restaurant, found directly on Mirror Lake, complete with indoor and outdoor wood-burning fireplaces and live music at night for when you want to keep the good times going. Speaking of, the Cottage is known for its Bloody Marys so be sure to try one during your stay.

Which hotel is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!

Plan and book your next getaway with AAA. 

When creating a budget, dining out is often one of the first things to get cut. But for the busiest among us, the convenience of grabbing a meal is not always such an easy sacrifice.

Whether out of necessity or for pleasure, if you frequently enjoy dining at local restaurants, there are a few smart ways to save money on food and dining out, starting with these tips.

Happy Hour

One of the simplest ways to save money on food at a restaurant is to go early. New York City restaurateur Randi Lee explains, “Happy hour is a great opportunity to taste the flavors of the restaurant without the high price tags. It’s usually a little less crowded time of day and there are specials on food and beverages.”

Plan Ahead

Anyone that is indecisive can agree that choosing what to order while the server is standing at the table can add some pressure. “Look at the menu online before visiting the restaurant and make a plan of what you want to order, so you stick to your budget. This will keep you from ordering too much or impulse buying (hello, mac & cheese!),” Lee said.

Rewards Cards

Credit cards are another way to save money on food, you just have to look for the credit card perks that suit your lifestyle. “Shop around for a card that meets your needs – some food-focused credit cards provide higher rewards and better benefits but charge an annual fee, while others charge no annual fee and still deliver solid rewards,” said Sean Messier, credit industry analyst at Credit Card Insider.

Bring Your Own Cup

More and more cafes and restaurants are offering anywhere from five cents to a quarter or more to bring your own cup when buying a beverage – and these savings add up quickly. “Restaurants and coffee shops like ours are increasingly offering discounts to people who bring in their own thermoses or containers,” says Jeremy Lyman, co-founder of Birch Coffee, which has locations throughout New York City. If you bring your cup every workday, you’ll save $65 a year. It feels good to save money and the planet at the same time!

Corkage Fee

If you are wondering how to save money on food and you like glass of wine with your meal, Jessica van Dop DeJesus of DiningTraveler.com recommends calling the restaurant ahead to see if they have a corkage fee. Some restaurants that allow you to BYOB will let you have the first bottle for free.

Restaurant Weeks

Take advantage of these local events, when participating eateries offer prix fixe lunch and dinner menus at a fraction of the usual prices. Find a Restaurant Week near you.

Go for the Bottle

If you’re dining out with a group, don’t be afraid of the wines by the bottle list. “If you are three guests or more it’s not too big of a commitment (usually one and a half glasses each) and the value is almost always much better than ordering by the glass,” said Max Katzenberg co-owner of Olmsted in Brooklyn, New York. Sounds like a win-win!

Time of Day

One simple way to save money on food is to consider the time of day that you’re visiting an establishment. “Try popular restaurants for breakfast or lunch. They’re often less crowded and meals are typically less expensive,” says Lisa Huff from SnappyGourmet.com. And if you need to go out in the evening, opt for ice cream or a nightcap (just one!) as a less expensive dining out alternative.

App Rewards

This may take a little effort, but downloading restaurant apps and signing up for rewards is one way to save money on food. “I’m in the habit of checking for apps or rewards offers before we head to a new restaurant,” said Collin Morgan, owner of Hip2Save.com. “So many times there is a completely free offer I can grab to help stretch our budget. There are also tons of free birthday offers available.” Free birthday appetizer or dessert? Sign us up!

AAA Discounts

There are loads of great AAA discounts that members can enjoy on dining out and eating in, from food tours and food delivery to gift cards and fine dining.

So instead of ditching your favorite restaurants, incorporate these ways to save money on food and dining out into your lifestyle.

Tell us how you save money on meals in the comments below.

You don’t have to be at or near retirement age to see the appeal of living in one of the least expensive cities to retire in the U.S. After all, many of the factors that make an area attractive to seniors – like safe and affordable housing – appeal to all age groups.

If you’re approaching retirement, knowing where to retire cheap could help keep your nest egg safer, longer, especially when you consider senior-specific factors like whether or not your Social Security check will be exempt from state income taxes.

Does this mean the nation’s soon-to-be seniors are looking to move somewhere more affordable? It’s hard to predict. A GOBankingRates survey found that only 22% of Americans choose to move based on the potential to save money.

But if you want to thrive in your retirement someplace new, it is essential to consider the cost of living. Here are some of the least expensive cities to retire in the U.S. to consider.

Where to Retire Cheap: How to Look and What to Look For

If you’re wondering which cities can make savings last, there’s information galore about the most and least affordable places to live. Some target pre-retirees who want to live overseas or downsize to Smalltown, USA. Others focus on just one factor about an entire state – such as housing prices or taxes.

But to get a comprehensive picture of the least expensive cities to retire in the U.S., it’s best to consider a broad range of factors under the cost of living umbrella – housing, healthcare, groceries, transportation and utilities – as well as subjective livability items, like access to parks and proximity to the nearest airport.

Where to Retire Cheap in the Northeast

If you live in one of the northeastern states, it probably comes as no surprise to you that the cost of living is cheaper…elsewhere. In fact, “If you’re looking for a cheap retirement destination, you can pretty much count out the West Coast, the Northeast, Alaska and Hawaii.” So says Kiplinger, which ranks New York, Massachusetts and Connecticut in five of the 20 “Most Expensive U.S. Cities to Live in 2019.” (Stamford is 16, Boston is 10, and Queens, Brooklyn, and Manhattan rank 9, 4, and most expensive, respectively.)

Keep looking, though, and you might find a northeastern city that works for you. TheStreet says Durham, N.H., could prove easy on your fixed income, thanks to “some of the best cost of living ranges (18% above the national average) in the otherwise pricey U.S. Northeast.” The seventh-lowest tax burden in the U.S. Buffalo, N.Y., also gets a nod: “Although taxes in New York are generally high, the state does not tax Social Security benefits or public pensions, and there are some other breaks for retirees.”

Where to Retire Cheap…Elsewhere

In one of the more comprehensive looks at the least expensive cities to retire in the U.S., GOBankingRates offers a top 50 list based on the annual retirement income required to cover basic expenses, including housing and healthcare.

Although it is the only northeastern city to make the cut, Buffalo, N.Y. is in the number three spot with $40,624 in total annual expenditures – 18% lower than the national average. Other tops spots include Fort Wayne, Ind.; Greensboro, N.C.; and two great cities in Ohio – Toledo and their number one pick, Cleveland. Cleveland snagged the top spot for the lowest cost of living, second-lowest annual amount spend on healthcare and the lowest annual amount spent on housing of all the cities listed.

North Carolina performed well, snagging four spots in total. Charlotte, Durham and Winston-Salem also made the list. (Raleigh, an anecdotal favorite favored by many N.Y.-N.J.-Conn. retirees, did not.)

Does a Move Make Sense for You?

For many Americans heading into retirement, stretching Social Security dollars and preserving wealth will be a big part of their financial planning goals – and a move to a more affordable area may well be on the table.

That said, pre-retirees should know that no single factor makes one city more affordable than another. Tax savings can be wiped out by high healthcare costs; affordable housing can be blunted by a poor transportation system.

The bottom line: lists and surveys can help get a conversation going, but ultimately, we all have to manage our individual finances in an ever-changing post-retirement landscape. Be sure to enlist experts assistance like AAA Financial Services, which can help with advice, loans and more.

Are you thinking of staying put? Or will you pack your bags for one of one of the least expensive places to retire in the U.S.? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

When traveling abroad, sometimes you want to go your own way. Going off the beaten path of public transportation or tour buses can bring some of the most memorable moments of your vacation. But wait…are you even allowed to drive abroad? It’s not like you have a driver’s license for every country you’re visiting! No worries, that’s what an International Driving Permit is for. If you’re planning on driving or renting a car outside of the country, you’ll most likely need an International Driving Permit, or IDP.

What’s an International Driving Permit?

The International Driving Permit is a document that, in tandem with a domestic driver’s license, allows you to drive legally while you are abroad. The IDP comes from agreements reached in the UN Conventions on Road Traffic in 1926, 1949 and 1968. The standardization of the IDP helps regulate drivers even when they aren’t in their home countries, and upholds road safety.

An International Driving Permit is a small booklet, almost like a passport. It contains your name, you photo and your driver’s license information. It’s a valid form of photo ID in over 150 countries and contains translations in 10 languages. Your information is duplicated in English, French, Spanish, Chinese, Russian, Arabic, German, Italian, Swedish and Portuguese. If you get pulled over somewhere like Italy or Spain, you can simply produce your IDP and it will speak the language for you. Many countries that do not recognize foreign driver’s licenses do recognize an International Driving Permit.

Do I Need One?

If you are planning on driving in a foreign country, it would be wise to obtain an International Driving Permit first. Many countries require an IDP to drive legally. Fines for driving without an IDP can be quite costly in some countries, so do some research on the country’s IDP policies and driving laws before you travel. If you don’t have an IDP, and are stopped by police or roadway officials in a country where the permit is required, you could get a penalty ranging from a fine to a citation for mandatory court appearance. That’s no way to spend your vacation.

If you are renting a car in a foreign country, it is common for the rental service to ask for your International Driving Permit as well as your driver’s license. Some services will not rent to foreign drivers without an IDP – while others use the opportunity to pile on a hefty surcharge instead. To save yourself time, money and hassle, it would be best to come prepared with your International Driving Permit.

Here’s what you need to know about renting a car abroad.

What If I’m Not Driving?

One of the most valuable things about an International Driving Permit is that it is a legal travel document regulated by the United Nations. Since your IDP is automatically translated into several languages, it can be a useful document in situations where there might be a language barrier.

It can also be a good idea to obtain an IDP so that you can drive in an emergency, or if your plans change while you’re abroad. It helps you to be flexible while you’re abroad.

AAA International Driving Permit Services

Getting your paperwork in order is easy with AAA International Driving Permit services.

You can get your IDP at any AAA branch location. AAA is one of only two private entities in the country that is authorized by the US Department of State to issue International Driving Permits, and the process is simple. All you have to do is bring a valid US driver’s license, $20 and passport-sized photos (2 inches by 2 inches). If you don’t have any such photos on hand, any AAA branch can take your photo for you for a nominal charge.

If you can’t make it to a AAA branch, you can also get your permit by mail. All you have to do is download the IDP application, print it and fill it out. Then you can mail your application to AAA, along with your photos, a photocopy of your driver’s license, and a check for $20.

Getting an IDP is easy, affordable, and can bring you some much-needed peace of mind while traveling.

Have you ever driven a car abroad? Did you need an International Driving Permit? Let us know in the comments below!

For more information on International Driving Permits and how you can get one, visit AAA.com/IDP.

AAA is unveiling a transformed, contemporized version of its highly acclaimed AAA Diamond Program. The program will remain backed by professionally trained inspectors using member-driven criteria to recommend only clean, comfortable, hospitable hotels and restaurants.

What’s new? Replacing ratings with designations. A Diamond designation reflects AAA’s professional inspector reviews using updated, member-centric guidelines, setting the program apart from services that leverage unverified, often biased hotel and restaurant ratings.

“We’ve transformed the AAA Diamond Program to help travelers better understand the overall quality, range of facilities and level of services offered by a property,” said Stacey Barber, executive director of AAA Travel Information & Content. “Unlike ratings from unknown users sharing their opinions, the Diamond designations are provided by experienced professionals using consistent guidelines to tell travelers what a property offers.”

Under the new system, previously One and Two Diamond hotels and restaurants will transition to the Approved designation while Three, Four and Five Diamond establishments will retain their designations. However, the 2020 inspection cycle will be the determining factor for all properties’ future designation.

The modernized AAA Diamond Program guidelines for hotels and restaurants reflect the latest in traveler expectations and industry trends. AAA has removed outdated criteria in favor of factors that more directly relate to guest comfort, design and layout. For example, AAA inspectors will now look for sufficient storage space and shelving for clothes and personal belongings in guest rooms, and not for ironing boards or printed guest information, to reflect modern guest expectations.

The AAA Diamond Program comprises nearly 60,000 properties in the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean, including nearly 27,000 hotels and more than 30,000 restaurants. To be included in the AAA Diamond Program, properties must pass an unannounced, on-site evaluation. Hotels must provide acceptable cleanliness, comfort and hospitality, and restaurants must meet requirements for cleanliness, food preparation and service.

“Only the best hotels and restaurants are included in AAA’s Diamond Program – professional inspectors eliminate substandard places from consideration as a service to our members. For more than 80 years, travelers have relied on AAA’s trusted recommendations, and these latest changes only strengthen AAA as a go-to source for relevant information and advice for all trip planning needs,” added Barber.

While AAA recommends only good options for its members and travelers, additional Diamonds indicate more elaborate surroundings and attention from service staff. Here is a breakdown of what travelers can expect at each Diamond designation.

Travelers can learn more about the new AAA Diamond Program at AAA.com/Diamonds and search the AAA Travel Guides for their next great hotel or dining experience.

More About the AAA Diamond Program

For more than 80 years, AAA’s professional inspectors have conducted in-person property evaluations. AAA is the only entity using comprehensive, on-site professional hotel and restaurant evaluations guided by member priorities. AAA’s inventory includes some 60,000 Diamond hotels and restaurants across the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean. Travelers can find AAA Diamond hotels and restaurants and inspector insight in AAA’s trip planning products: AAA Mobile app, AAA Travel Guides, TripTik Travel Planner and the AAA TourBook guides available to members at AAA offices. For more information, visit AAA.com/Diamonds.

On National Plan for Vacation Day, travel lovers across the U.S. pick up their calendars and plot out their vacation days for the year. The five-year-old holiday was launched by the U.S. Travel Association to inspire Americans to intentionally plan paid time off rather than missing out. Last year alone, 768 million vacation days were left unused!

Since Northeast residents rate “reducing stress” as the best motivation for vacation, we’ve rounded up seven relaxing trips to consider as you map out the year on National Plan for Vacation Day.

National Plan for Vacation Day 2020 from U.S. Travel on Vimeo.

Schedule a Long-Weekend Staycation

If you live in one of the Northeast’s bustling metropolises, you’re in luck. From reflecting in the Boston Public Library and Boston Opera House, to relaxing at Aire Ancient Baths in New York City, there are plenty of stress-relieving activities in your own backyard.

Those in smaller cities can cash in on even more peace and quiet during a staycation. Book a few nights at your favorite hotel, make a reservation at the best spa in town and then relax at a local romantic restaurant before ambling back to your room. The bliss of a staycation is its simplicity.

Slow Down on an Automobile-Free Island

For a slice of unpolluted paradise, consider heading to a car-less destination this year. Though two of these islands require a trip outside the Northeast, the tranquility and peace will make any extra travel worth your while.

Meander along beaches and boardwalks on Fire Island in New York.

Visit the lighthouse and maritime forest preserve on Bald Head Island, North Carolina.

Don’t miss a horse-drawn carriage ride and a taste of local taffy on Mackinac Island in Michigan.

Check out some other blissful locations recommended by a AAA travel editor!

Pull Up Anchor in Boston or New York

AAA Northeast members love cruises for so many reasons: all-inclusive amenities, diverse ports and activities, and the relaxation of being truly swept away to another place.

For a truly Northeast-friendly vacation, consider departing from Boston or even Manhattan. Plan for Vacation Day is the perfect time to check your calendar against your favorite cruise lines’ schedules.

Go Camping at One of These State Parks

If unplugging in nature sounds like your idea of heaven, request some PTO for a weekend at a state park this year. The Northeast is rife with lush forests, rolling hills and wave-pummeled coastlines guarded by historic lighthouses. Find inspiration at the following state parks.

Mount Greylock State Reservation was Massachusetts’ first state park. Don’t forget to clamber up to the highest point in the state, where you can see 90 miles away on a clear day.

Burlingame State Park in Rhode Island offers more than 3,000 acres of hiking, canoeing and the sort of rustic camping that will spark memories of childhood summers past.

Letchworth State Park is one of New York’s most gloriously rugged state parks. Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” the park is nearly 17 miles long.

For a soothing waterfront campsite, look no further than Connecticut’s Hammonasset Beach State Park. It’s one of the state’s most popular parks, so don’t forget to reserve your campsite on National Plan for Vacation Day!

At High Point State Park in New Jersey, you’ll enjoy stunning wide views of farms and forests, hills and valleys in three states.

Pawtuckaway State Park isn’t the biggest or boldest of New Hampshire’s parks, but that’s what makes it so peaceful. Take a hike in the woods, then head out for a sunset kayak paddle before the stars come out.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

Beach bums are officially out! Have you caught some rays at your favorite #southcountyri beach yet? . . ???? credit to @davesarazen for this shot! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . #finditandliveit #instatravel#oceanviews #roamtheplanet#beachbums #getoutthere #travelstoke#flashesofdelight #drone #thehappynow #pursuepretty#letsgosomewhere #onthebeach#dslooking#helicoptershot #hello_worldpics #ig_worldshots #droneshot #helicopter #instagood #imatraveler#beautifuldestinations #exploretocreate #coast #viewfromabove #thursday #beach #westerly #beachlove

A post shared by South County Tourism Council (@southcountyri) on Jun 27, 2019 at 12:56pm PDT

Escape to the Beach for the Summer

A year in the Northeast wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the beach. Whether you prefer to plant yourself in the sand for a few days or meander along the Atlantic Coast in a classic car or camper van, this is the perfect getaway to wash all your cares away and welcome summertime with open arms.

Just remember: Put in your request for PTO before everyone else in the office takes those same summer days.

Plan a Blissful Week at a Wellness Spa

Nothing says stress relief like massages, steam rooms and the gentle scent of herbs in the air. On this National Plan for Vacation Day, book a stay at one of these Northeast spa resorts.

In Massachusetts, don’t miss Canyon Ranch in the Berkshires.

In Rhode Island, luxuriate with in-room spa amenities at The Chanler at Cliff Walk.

In New York, soak in the understated glamour of Whiteface Lodge on Lake Placid.

In Connecticut, you’ll dream of making one of the cottages at Winvian Farm your permanent address.

In New Jersey, unwind at Reflections Spa at Crystal Springs Resort before a relaxed round of golf.

In New Hampshire, you won’t regret the Omni Mount Washington Resort for its spectacular views and classic elegance.

Fill up Your Senses at a Northeast National Park

Whether you’re a fan of camping, parking the RV, or checking into a charming boutique hotel, there are plenty of accommodations and dining options around the Northeast’s national parks.

From the Cape Cod National Seashore to Acadia National Park, you can settle into one stress-free destination or map a route that includes stops at several.

Start planning by requesting a vacation day on April 18, when you’ll get free admission for the first day of National Park Week.

Book your next vacation with AAA Travel.

Skiing is a tough sport, especially for beginners. Let’s be real – you’re learning how to free fall down an icy mountain while standing on two thin planks. Add on all the skiing terms you’ll have to pick up along the way and the task becomes even harder.

Skiing slang terms may be complicated but learning a few key phrases can help you understand instructors – and possibly avoid collisions! If you’re a beginner brave enough to accept this mountainous challenge, start by studying up on the lingo before hitting the slopes. Memorize these terms and you might even trick some ski bums into thinking you’re in the know!

Aerials 

A part of freestyle skiing that involves big jumps, twists and flips.

Alpine skiing

The sport of downhill racing.

Apres-ski

A fancy French term meaning “after skiing,” usually referring to some well-deserved drinks following a long day of mountain wipeouts. 

Balaclava        

A mask that protects everything from your nose down to your neck from the winter cold. May also make you look like a burglar.

Binding

Connects your boot to the ski. Unlike a snowboard binding, a ski binding is made to eject from your foot when you fall.

Black diamond

A ski trail rating symbol meaning difficult.

Blue square

A ski trail rating symbol meaning moderate.

Bombing

When someone is speeding down the mountain.

Bunny slopes

A small section of the mountain where beginners practice.

Carving

Weaving back-and-forth down the mountain by turning on the edges of your skis. Necessary for avoiding incoming traffic.

Chair lift

The bench seat attached to cables that bring you up the mountain. This is what you pay for when you buy a lift ticket.

Cross-country skiing

Skiing on gentle hills and flat tracks, usually using poles so as not to get stuck on level ground.

Crud

When the snow is worn down by wind and traffic, leaving behind hard, lumpy ice. Look out for these darker patches and steer clear.

Dump

Not to be confused with previous term! It actually means the opposite, indicating a huge snowfall.

First tracks

That wonderful feeling of breaking in fresh powder.

Four-man

A chair lift that seats up to four people. Lifts also come as two-, three- and even six-man.

French fries

A skiing technique where your skis are parallel in order to head straight and gain speed. Used in conjunction with the pizza technique.

Glades

The terrain in between trees. Not the air freshener; the evergreen scent here is the real deal.

Green circle

A ski trail rating symbol meaning easy.

Grooming

Unfortunately, a sign that says “grooming in progress” doesn’t mean puppies getting their haircut. It means that large machines are smoothing out the snow trails.

Half-pipe

A long half-cylinder snow structure used to get air and do tricks. Beginners be warned.

Kicker

A small jump usually constructed by skiers out of snow deposits. A good place for beginners to start if you ever want to hit the half-pipe.

Liftie

 A ski lift operator.

Lift ticket

Your pass to the chair lift.

Magic carpet

A conveyor belt that takes you to the top of the bunny slope. Note: It does not fly.

Moguls

A stretch of groomed bumps that provide an extra challenge for more advanced skiers.

“On your left!”

A pretty straight-forward phrase someone may shout to let you know which side they’re coming from (can also be “on your right!”)

Pistes

Another term for ski trails. Off-piste refers to going off the trail.

Pizza

A skiing technique use to slow down where you touch the tips of your skis together to make a pizza shape. Also a trick parents can use to get their kids back down from the mountain.

Planks

Another term for skis.

Poaching

When someone goes beyond the roped off trail in search of fresh snow, often on the glades.

Poles

Optional handheld stick-like equipment used to give skiers an extra push, particularly on flat trails.

Powder

Fresh, fluffy snow!

Shred

A popular term used by both skiiers and snowboarders to describe riding with style and skill. You may hear it used in the phrase “shred the gnar,” which refers to riding gnarly (aka rough or ungroomed) terrain.

Ski bums

Smart people who have decided to live and work on or near the mountain in order to immerse themselves in the lifestyle.

Wax

 Applied to the bottom of your planks to make them glide more smoothly over snow.

Whiteout

When the snowfall is so harsh that it restricts your field of vision.

Yard sale

When you crash and, much like the seasonal sales held on home lawns, all your belongings end up scattered around you.

Zigzagging

The technique of skiing back-and-forth across the width of the trail, also known as “traversing.” This is practiced before a beginner can move on to carving.

Now that your all caught up on skiing terms, check out our list of the best ski resorts in the Northeast for families and start planning your next ski trip with AAA today. 

What are your favorite skiing slang terms? Tell us in the comments. 

There’s no debating that New England’s most serious skiers head to Vermont when the temperatures drop. While there are many places in the state to challenge your skills on the slopes, there’s no place quite like Stowe, Vt. This quintessentially New England town is full of old-fashioned charm, but it’s also a place where forward-thinking people are creating some of the region’s best food and drink. Here’s how to spend a weekend in Stowe, Vt., whether you’re skiing or not.

Things to Do in Stowe, Vt. – Only-in-Winter 

There are two types of New Englanders in winter: those who book cruises while they dream of the return of beach weather, and those who bundle up and dive into the season. Stowe definitely makes it easy to enjoy the cold.

In January, the town celebrates winter with two signature events. Stowe’s Winter Carnival has been happening for 45 years, and takes place Jan. 23-26. Artists carve ice sculptures in the streets, kids have their own “carnival chaos” party, and brave souls compete in snow volleyball and snow golf tournaments. The Winter Rendezvous, Jan. 22-26, is an LGBTQ pride celebration that happens in conjunction with the carnival, and is full of dance parties, drag shows and bonfires. Feb. 23 sees the 75^th return of the Stowe Derby, a cross-country ski race that draws competitors from the U.S. Ski Team.

Stowe’s Craft Food & Drink

When you first arrive for your weekend in Stowe, Vt., any local you meet will let you in on the area’s most precious natural resource: the beers coming out of The Alchemist Brewery. The brewery specializes in fresh, unfiltered IPAs which, until recently, were only available in a small radius around Stowe and Waterbury to preserve the beer’s freshness. Now, you can get the signature Heady Topper IPA around Vermont, but the commitment to freshness is so strong that the “where to find” section on The Alchemist’s website specifies which day the beer is delivered to which place.

Stowe is also home to two more of Vermont’s 50 craft breweries: Idletyme Brewing Company and von Trapp Brewing, as well as Stowe Cider, which has 24 craft ciders on tap and has live music at the taproom on Friday and Saturday evenings. As always, remember to enjoy responsibly and designate a sober driver.

But all that tasting is going to make you hungry. Stowe has endless food options, like the mammoth burgers at Blue Donkey. Plate serves California-inspired New England fare, The Bistro at Ten Acres makes everything (even the mustard) from scratch, and Harrison’s Restaurant serves heartwarming comfort food by its fireplace. Solstice, at Spruce Peak, is AAA Four Diamond Rated for its fine dining.

But then, there’s also the food you can take home with you. The sheer volume of straight-from-the-farm food in Vermont can be overwhelming, but you can get a good sampling of what the state has to offer at Stowe Mercantile, a country store with hundreds upon hundreds of Vermont-made candy, cheese, beer, and baked goods, including its own line from Stowe Mercantile Kitchen. Stowe Kitchen offers weekend cooking classes focusing on everything from crafting a winter brunch spread to making ramen and sushi.

Where to Stay

You definitely won’t be the first person to joke that “the hills are alive” when you get to Trapp Family Lodge, but considering the hotel is where the von Trapp family (as in, “The Sound of Music” von Trapps) landed when they left Austria, you can hardly be blamed for your enthusiasm. This European-style resort has three restaurants, including the Bierhall, which serves Austrian food, and activities like baking classes, skiing lessons and snowshoe expeditions. Book now.

At Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa, there’s a lot less Alps and a lot more Green Mountains, like in the hydrotherapy spa, which has an aqua solarium overlooking the Mount Mansfield (the tallest peak in the state) with a waterfall pool modeled after Bingham Falls, and a mineral soaking pool. In season, the hotel offers hot air balloon rides over the property and golfing at the attached golf course. Book now.

More Than Skiing

If sliding down a mountain on slippery sticks isn’t your idea of fun, but you still want to get outside and be active, Stowe has many more winter activities, from Nordic skiing and snowshoeing to dog sledding and ice fishing. You can go mountain biking through the snow on a fat bike, which has wider tires to handle the snow and ice, or zip lining from snow-covered mountaintop to snow-covered mountaintop. Stowe also has an ice skating rink at the Spruce Peak Village Center, and the Trapp Family Lodge has horse-drawn sleigh rides.

Plan your next getaway with AAA Travel. 

Tell us your favorite ways to spend a weekend in Stowe, Vt., in the comments. 

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

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

Plan for the Planet

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

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

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

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

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

Ready, Set, Travel

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

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

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

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

Practice Sustainability

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cruise Lines’ Private Islands

Great Stirrup Cay

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

Harvest Caye

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

Perfect Day at CocoCay

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

Half Moon Cay

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

Castaway Cay

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

Labadee

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

Princess Cays

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

Beach Club at Bimini

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

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

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

Start planning your next cruise vacation with AAA. 

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

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

Learn more about the Vermont Cheese Trail.

Billings Farm & Museum 
Woodstock

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

Blue Ledge Farm
Salisbury

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

Boston Post Dairy
Enosburg Falls

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

Boucher Family Farm
Highgate Center

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

Bridport Creamery 
Bridport

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

Cabot Creamery Cooperative
Waterbury Center & Quechee

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

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

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

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

Consider Bardwell Farm
West Pawlet

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

Grafton Village Cheese Company
Brattleboro & Grafton

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

Neighborly Farms of Vermont
Randolph Center

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

Plymouth Artisan Cheese
Plymouth

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

Shelburne Farms
Shelburne

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

Vermont Shepherd
Putney

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

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

Plan a trip to Vermont with AAA Travel. 

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

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

Rise of the Resistance

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

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

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

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

The Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run

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

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

Star Wars Datapad Adds Fun to the Galactic Experience

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

Flavors From a Galaxy Far, Far Away

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

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

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

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

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

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

You Reached the Outer Rim, So Now What?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Plan your Disney vacation with AAA and save. 

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

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

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

 

View this post on Instagram

 

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

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

How You Can Help

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

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

Traveling to Australia

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rebecca Bowman White

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cathy Andreozzi

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

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

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

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

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

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

Moving Forward

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

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

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

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