Between time spent working on the computer, using smartphones, streaming the latest television flick phenomenon and relishing the latest best-selling e-book, we spend a lot of time staring at screens; in fact, 60% of American adults spend at least six hours per day on a digital device. All that screen time is taking a toll on our health; namely, on our eyesight.
Digital eye strain is defined by adverse physical symptoms that occur when regularly using digital devices such as computers, smartphones, e-readers and even watching television or playing video games. Such symptoms can include blurred vision, squinting, dry eyes, increased rigidity in the shoulders, neck and back, and headaches.
But 70% of adults who regularly use their devices and have encountered digital eye strain don’t even know what is causing their symptoms, so they don’t do anything about it.
If you suspect you’re experiencing digital eye strain, here are 10 things you can do.
Whether you’re at work or on your home computer, be sure to assemble a healthy work area. Your face should be close enough to the screen (about two feet away) so that you can see clearly. Make sure your chair offers proper support for good posture to help ease any back, shoulder or neck pain.
Don’t position your screen off to the side; look at it head on and make sure your computer screen sits slightly below eye level. Prop your monitor or laptop up with a book or other item if needed.
Use indirect lighting; Overhead lighting challenges screen light and forces your eyes to concentrate harder to see. Turn off the overhead light in your office and invest in a nice little side table lamp. The lighting will offer calmer ambiance as well as assisting with your eyesight.
Play with the settings on your device. Increase the text size in your text messages. Adapt the brightness on your phone or computer to the level that is most comfortable for you and your individual eyesight needs and to the level where you can see the best and your eyes are the most comfortable. The color temperature settings can also cut down on blue light emissions. Your friends might poke fun at you for your massive text message font, but you won’t be complaining about blurriness.
A common symptom of digital eye strain is eye dryness, which is caused in part by the fact that we blink one half to one third less when using a digital device. Therefore, be mindful of blinking and be sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. If you find your eyes getting too dry, use artificial tears.
Look away once in a while! Adopt a 20-20-20 habit. Every twenty minutes, look away from the screen at something about 20 feet away. This will help refocus your eyes and give them a break from the blue light emissions.
Get an annual eye exam and be honest with your doctor about how much time you spend in front of digital devices. Your doctor is a professional who can assess your symptoms and recommend lenses or habit changes that can help mitigate symptoms and help prevent future damage. Use them as a resource! Stop into your local LensCrafters, where AAA members get 30% off at participating locations.
Get blue light blocking glasses to help reduce the amount of blue light reaching your retinas and the resulting headaches. Blue light occurs naturally and helps to control our sleep cycles as well as elevating attentiveness and general state of mind; however, artificial blue light – the kind that is emitted when digital devices refresh their monitors – can have a negative impact on eyes, especially in large quantities. According to a Harvard study, High Energy Visible blue light can have troubling effects on the retina and can lead to eye problems such as macular degeneration, glaucoma and retinal degenerative diseases. Lenscrafters recommends Featherwates® BlueIQ lenses which can scale down reflections up to 90% and help reduce digital eye strain symptoms.
Avoid using digital devices for at least an hour before bed, as the blue light will affect your sleep. Read an old-fashioned paper book, chat with a loved one or enjoy some time listening to music.
Partake in a digital detox. Over half of American smartphone users claim to have attempted to curb their screen time, according to the 2018 Global Mobile Consumer Survey by Deliotte. Indeed, taking a break from screen time for a few hours or days can have health benefits for your eyes and even help improve your personal relationships with friends and family.
Ready to look into a pair of blue light blocking glasses or make an appointment to talk with an eye doctor? Head to LensCrafters where you’ll find helpful, knowledge doctors, a variety of new exam technologies and just the right lens to fit your lifestyle. Show your AAA card for exclusive savings on lenses, eye exams and more.
Going up? Since the dawn of electricity, buildings have only gotten taller and taller. As cities grow vertically, rooftops have become a desirable and trendy hangout spot. They’ve also provided the real estate for more city gardens and green spaces – even though those green spaces are 20 stories up. Such gardens work to try and alleviate the urban heat island effect, and sometimes they even provide locally-grown food for nearby restaurants. The best rooftops, though, are the ones that combine the garden and the hangout. The next time you’re looking for a place to stay, try one of these hotels with the best rooftop gardens ever.
McKittrick Hotel – Gallow Green
You can’t check in to the McKittrick Hotel in New York City – all of its rooms are occupied by the smash-hit “Sleep No More,” an interactive reimagining of “Macbeth.” But I would be remiss to leave Gallow Green out of a list of the best rooftop gardens. McKittrick Hotel’s Gallow Green is a bar situated in the middle of an overgrown garden. The greenery encroaches on the picnic tables and wooden walkways as if it’s planning on taking over. With flowers, trellises and string lights, it looks like a secret forest hideaway. In winter, Gallow Green transforms into The Lodge, a rooftop cabin surrounded by evergreen trees. Like everything else at the McKittrick Hotel, it feels almost like a secret that you weren’t supposed to stumble into. You do not have to purchase a ticket to “Sleep No More” to enjoy Gallow Green.
Petite Ermitage – The Private Rooftop
At the top of the Petite Ermitage in West Hollywood sits a garden oasis called The Private Rooftop. Their lush garden is home to so many hummingbirds and butterflies that it’s actually recognized by the National Wildlife Federation. That’s not all, though. You can sip some drinks and relax on the fire deck, which is complete with a sunken outdoor fireplace. In the morning, the Private Rooftop hosts yoga classes for hotel guests. If you get too hot, you can jump into the pool, which provides 360 degree views of the Hollywood Hills.
The Andaz Singapore – Mr. Stork
Mr. Stork is an apt name for this bar and garden, since it’s sky-high atop the Andaz hotel in Singapore. This rooftop garden is filled with trees, grass and winding pathways. Grab a drink from the bar and take a seat in one of their conical conversation tents, complete with mats and pillows. The tents are clustered around firepits, making the entire scene cozy. Other than the lush tropical landscaping, Mr. Stork offers a bird’s-eye view of Singapore and the nearby Marina Bay.
Kyoto Garden at Doubletree Los Angeles Downtown. (Photo: The West End / CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)
Doubletree Los Angeles Downtown – Kyoto Garden
Another one of the best rooftop gardens can also be found in LA, atop the Doubletree Los Angeles Downtown hotel. Kyoto Garden is a replica of an ancient garden in Tokyo, built for samurai lord Kiyomasa Kato in the 1500s. This half-acre garden surrounded by nearby skyscrapers feels almost otherworldly, with trees, ponds and even a waterfall. Kyoto Garden is a great venue for events, its picturesque atmosphere providing the perfect backdrop to weddings, receptions and more. Stroll along the smooth stone walkways and discover the many hidden treasures of this secret garden.
Fairmont Hotel – Rooftop Garden
The plush Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco is home to a stunning rooftop garden. Fairmont’s Rooftop Garden features huge palm trees, olive trees, a manicured lawn and blossoming flowers. In the center of the garden is a bubbling fountain, spraying a fine mist around the nearby walkways. From the Rooftop Garden, you can even spot the terrace of the penthouse suite, one of the most expensive hotel rooms in the city.
Hotel Raphael – La Terrasse
Head on up to La Terrasse at the top of Hotel Raphael for a picturesque view of Paris. From this champagne bar and restaurant, you can see the Arc de Triomphe, the Champs-Élyseés and the Eiffel Tower. From the champagne bar, you can relax and have a drink in their sumptuous red-and-white seating. At the restaurant, you can treat yourself to French dining in the open air. La Terrasse is overflowing with greenery, and the flowers, trellises and architectural finishes give it the feel of a sophisticated European garden. It’s almost like a maze at times, with little dining tables and lounges surrounded by manicured hedges. La Terrasse’s idyllic setting makes it a perfect backdrop for your next favorite vacation photo.
Up, up and away! Book your next getaway with AAA Travel.
Do you want the next hotel you visit to have a rooftop garden? Let us know in the comments below!
For many families – or in our case, a group of eight – flying from New York to Orlando, Fla., is simply unaffordable. Most families have to visit when school is out, and a roundtrip ticket during the Easter vacation costs a minimum of $500 per person, plus tax. We were looking at $4,000 in expenses before the hotel, meals, park tickets and mouse ear headbands!
Our Honda Odyssey easily fits eight travelers and plenty of luggage, so the decision to take a road trip via Interstate 95 was a no-brainer. We decided on one layover and two drivers to share the work. Once we set our dates, we made hotel reservations for both the out- and inbound trips.
For the outbound trip, we stayed at the Fairfield Inn & Suites Savannah I-95 South. The hotel offers free full breakfast, Wi-Fi, and parking; the indoor pool is definitively a bonus. On the way home, we booked the Hampton Inn in Petersburg, Va., which offers the same amenities. Both offer deals for AAA members.
Getting Ready for the Big Adventure
AAA’s Car Doctor, John Paul, recommends taking your car to a repair shop for a quick checkup before the trip. If your vehicle is new, he suggests checking on all the vital fluids – like oil, transmission, power steering and brake fluid, windshield wiper fluid and coolant – before you leave. If you’re not sure how to add them, take a look at the owners manual to learn the basics.
The day before leaving, make sure all your luggage is packed, including a few overnight bags with sets of fresh clothes, sleepwear and toiletries. Don’t forget your meds, glasses and contact lens solution. Pack the overnight bags so they’re within easy reach when you arrive at the hotel for your overnight stay.
Put together a selection of books, movies, audiobooks and playing cards, and pack them in the seat pockets of the car. Don’t forget earphones! For young children, I love the little Lego suitcase that holds the plastic bricks; magnetic travel games; and coloring books with “magic” pens that show color on the drawings in the book and not on clothing or car seats. The magnetic doodles are always fun, and what child doesn’t love activity and sticker books?
Fuel up the car, and visit the bank for cash and a roll of quarters for the toll booths in the Sunshine State; many places in Florida don’t use the E-ZPass system you may have. Pack the car in the evening, leaving space for a small cooler. Prepare sandwiches, snacks, fruits and drinks for the road; put them in the cooler the next morning when you’re ready to leave. Go to bed early.
Ready to roll! (Photo: Sandra Ortiz)
On the Road: Day One
Plan to hit the road at 5 a.m., and don’t forget the cooler! Plan to do this first day in four driving segments, covering a bit over 200 miles per section, which will have you in Savannah, Ga., by 6 p.m. for a nice dinner and a good night’s sleep.
For the first several hours on the road, most of your passengers will be sleeping. Take a breakfast stop early. Don’t sit down for a meal, but eat what you prepared in a nice rest area that has fuel and restrooms. Even if you are not out of gas, top off the tank. Keep stops to a 30-minute max. This is no time for souvenir shopping.
During the next few hours, all non-drivers can enjoy books, games or music. then, it’s lunch time. Unless you also brought lunch along, purchase takeout or sandwiches at a rest station. Use the stop to stretch and use the restroom. This is also a good time to switch drivers.
AAA recommends stopping every two hours or 100 miles, even if it’s just to stretch your legs. And if you find yourself getting tired, the only answer is sleep, said Paul.
“A quick 20-minute nap can really help,” he said, “at least for a short time.”
The next stretch is perfect for all to listen to a good audiobook or for small kids to watch a movie, and then hopefully take a nap.
The final hours usually pass quickly, as everybody is ready for a nice dinner or even a jump in the pool. Before exiting the highway, make sure to refuel so you are ready to continue to Orlando the next morning. Check into your hotel and take your overnight bags and valuables into your room.
If your group isn’t too tired, take a stroll through Savannah’s Historic District. There are many great restaurants in Savannah, if you want to splurge a little; after all, you were on the road all day. Check out the delectable Southern menu at Alligator Soul. Families with young children should skip the sightseeing and opt for an eatery nearby, such as Cracker Barrel or Applebee’s. Lights out by 11 p.m.!
Almost There: Day Two
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, pick up some fruits or pastries from the buffet and try to be on the road by 8 a.m. After putting in two hours, make a short bathroom stop and refuel. You should reach Orlando in time for lunch. If you don’t have park tickets for arrival day, I suggest exploring Disney Springs and eating lunch there.
The Drive Back
Refuel your car the night before and be packed and ready to go after grabbing breakfast at any fast food restaurant before leaving Disney at the latest by 7 a.m.
Try to put in a long day of driving, so you reach Petersburg, Va. (about 730 miles) in the evening. Stop every two hours for bathroom breaks, swapping drivers, snacks, lunch – you know the drill. Consider a sit-down dinner around 5 p.m., followed by a short drive of two more hours till you reach your hotel. There are plenty of restaurants just off Interstate 95, such as Ruby Tuesday and Cracker Barrel. Try to reach your hotel by 9 p.m., refuel the car, and get a good night’s rest.
Enjoy breakfast by 7 a.m., and try to get on the road by 8. You should hit the D.C. beltway after morning traffic. Stop and refuel, preferably at the first or second service area after the beltway. Grab some lunch for the road, switch drivers, and go for the homestretch. New York is only five hours away.
What do you think about driving to Disney World? Have you ever done it? Would you ever do it? Tell us in the comments!
You don’t need to be a golfing professional to shoot your way across the putting green. An afternoon or summer night of playtime at the miniature golf course is fun for all ages. The Northeast has a variety of exciting courses with different themes and activities.
Be prepared for some fiery fun at this award-winning family entertainment center. Sporting an island theme, Mulligan’s Island is home to two 18-hole miniature golf courses that wind around a massive fire-spouting volcano. The courses feature views of a winding stream, waterfall, treehouse, shipwreck, tiki statues and plenty of tropical foliage.
After a round of mini golf, take a swing at the batting cages and enjoy cold drinks and tasty frozen treats. Also housing a pitch and putt, driving range and Spargo Golf store for custom clubs, Mulligan’s Island’s has something for golfers of every skill level. If you’re looking for your next tropical adventure, look no further than this recreational oasis.
Making a name for itself as a dairy barn in 1908 and an ice cream parlor in 1939, Kimball Farm is known in Massachusetts for its wide array of outdoor family activities. Cascading waterfalls and natural greenery frame two 18-hole miniature golf courses tailored to adventurers of all ages, exploring the Forbidden Mine or tackling the Waterfall Run.
Afterwards, practice your backswing at the driving range and pitch and putt. Cool off with a bumper boat float along Bumper Boat Pond or take the Spin Zone bumper cars for a ride. For a break from all the excitement, take a stroll through the country store, try some delicious surf and turf or sip a coffee drink in the cafe. A trip to Kimball Farm isn’t complete without tasting one of the more than 50 delicious homemade ice cream flavors.
Whisk yourself away to Switzerland with a visit to this themed mini golf course. Your 18-hole tour of the country is not only fun, but educational. Learn about cheese, Swiss chocolate, the Matterhorn and more as the sounds of distant yodeling accompany your journey. The local family of brightly decorated fiberglass goats observe your golfing skills. Watching your golf ball roll down snowy hills, past national landmarks and across the vibrant putting green is fun for the whole family. Cool off with Swiss swirl ice cream as an end to your traveling adventure. Matterhorn Mini Golf also hosts regular mini golf tournaments and golfing leagues.
Lions, gorillas and elephants – oh my! Pack your binoculars and get ready for a safari adventure. The 19-hole course’s wild theme makes it one of the best mini golf courses in New Jersey. Play your way through a tour of Africa, encountering smiling crocodiles in the river, camels trotting through the desert landscape, a hippo popping his head out of the putting green and other model animals. Safari sounds set the mood for your animal adventure.
If you’re looking to continue your wild animal safari, the Turtle Back Zoo is conveniently located nearby, where you can view some real-life animals in action, zip around the Tree Top Adventure Course, tour the South Mountain Reservation aboard the zoo train and more.
Your best mateys won’t want to miss out on this one-of-a-kind mini golf course. Shipwrecked Miniature Golf’s 18 holes are accompanied by coin-operated animatronics, video, lighting, sound and special effects. As you putt your way around the course, you’ll encounter clues to help you solve the mystery of a pirate captain marooned on an island and a missing treasure.
The pirate adventures continue after the 18th hole with the facility’s three escape rooms with haunted house, abandoned spacecraft and temple escape themes that can be solved as separate mini escapes or one epic adventure. Test your luck in the arcade with classic games from the 1980s, claw machines and a photo booth. Afterwards, wind down at the Tiki Terrace with a cold drink and a board game.
Best known as Special Agent Dale Cooper in the hit show “Twin Peaks,” actor Kyle MacLachlan remembers his first car, a Jeep he had to sell just to get to Los Angeles.
Best known as Special Agent Dale Cooper in the hit show “Twin Peaks,” actor Kyle MacLachlan has carved out an impressive 35-year career. In addition to appearing in the original and rebooted version of “Twin Peaks,” MacLachlan has held notable roles in “Dune,” “Sex and the City,” and “Desperate Housewives,” amongst a long list of films and television shows. This fall he stars on the new CBS sitcom “Carol’s Second Act.”
But before he made it in Hollywood, he had to give up his precious Jeep just to get to Los Angeles.
What was your first car?
A 1984, gunmetal gray, CJ-7 Jeep.
How did you acquire it?
I bought it new in Seattle with money I made from my first film, Dune. It was my first major purchase as a young adult. It cost $10,500 new.
What did you love most about the car?
The more banged up it got, the better it looked! It was awesome to drive with the top off. I used to ride motorcycles and the jeep was as close as I could get to that feeling with four wheels and no helmet.
Was there anything you didn’t like about it?
I loved everything about it.
What is your favorite memory of the car?
It had a 5-speed manual transmission. I love a clutch. I added a roll cage, side mounts and re-bored the engine. Not the best idea!
What happened to it?
Because I’d beefed up the engine, it couldn’t pass the smog rating in LA! It sat for a long time, sadly, but I finally sold it recently to someone who restored it to its former glory. I have first rights if he ever sells. I secretly hope to own it again.
Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection will be unveiling four new Super Ships in 2020.
Easily identified by the “S.S.” preceding their names, Uniworld’s Super Ships are typically larger – up to 443 feet in length – with opulent design elements to make guests feel like royalty. Think crystal chandeliers, Italian marble and hand-painted wall murals.
These ships will set sail in a variety of locations, including Egypt (S.S. Sphinx), Portugal (S.S. São Gabriel), Cambodia and Vietnam (S.S. Mekong Jewel). All are sure to provide guests with extravagant travel experiences.
An especially notable aspect of Uniworld’s plans for next year is the complete transformation of a preexisting ship into a new one. Specifically, the River Countess in Italy will be revamped to become the S.S. La Venezia.
Italian Super Ship
Making its debut in March, 2020, the new and improved S.S. La Venezia will have a lot to offer its guests. Between two grand suites, six appointed suites, french balcony and deluxe suites, nearly every room has a view of the water. There will also be three dining venues to choose from, including an Italian kitchen on the upper deck, a spa, library, lounge and bar. Essentially, whatever you’re in the mood for – whether it be a relaxing massage, a good book or a tasty cocktail – the S.S. La Venezia will accommodate you.
With four new Super Ships and one brand-new itinerary in 2020, Uniworld River Cruises is elevating luxury river cruising to an entirely new level. See what makes Uniworld the best and most awarded river cruise line!
The redesign of the S.S. La Venezia, inspired by the beauty of Venice, features specially-commissioned artwork, Italian marble-lined bathrooms and gourmet Italian cuisine with locally sourced ingredients. It has three decks – the Marco Polo, Casanova and Tintoretto – and can comfortably house an average of 130 guests.
Uniword’s cruise ships are rich in character and truly one-of-a-kind, each with its own unique theme and color palette, original artwork, old-world craftsmanship and fine furnishings and antiques.
“From the moment you step onboard, the company’s signature style of fabulous elegance is presented in full force,” said Louise Goldsbury, Cruise Critic Australia Managing Editor.
The European ships are inspired by the beauty, colors and intricate details of the destinations guests visit on their voyage, such as the S.S. Maria Theresa, which some have described as a floating baroque Viennese palace, or the S.S. Joie de Vivre, inspired by 20th-century Parisian design.
Infinity pool on Uniworld’s S.S. Bon Voyage. The Super Ship, which made its debut in 2019, sails the river of Bordeaux.
S.S. La Venezia Itinerary and Experience
A trip to Italy is perfect for anyone who can appreciate amazing architecture, art, culture, food and wine. Aboard the S.S. La Venezia, guests can see so much of what Venice and Northern Italy have to offer.
Over the course of 10 days, guests will experience numerous locations across Northern Italy. Beginning with a two-day land stay in Milan, the cruise continues via the Po River with stops in Bologna, Ferrara, Verona, Padua and Chioggia, and ends with two days in Venice. Over the course of the journey, cruisers can do everything from sampling authentic Italian cuisine to viewing works of art and architecture alike, from Leonardo Da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” to the balcony in Verona made famous by William Shakespeare’s play, Romeo and Juliet.
According to Uniworld, the ship will be adding “an overnight docking in the Venetian island of Burano which will be an industry first.”
Additionally, a stay onboard the S.S. La Venezia – like all of Uniworld’s cruises – is all-inclusive. Dining comes with unlimited beverages aboard the ship, including fine wine, beer, spirits, soft drinks, mineral water, specialty coffee and tea. And when it comes to accommodations, guests can sleep easy on European duvets with 100% Egyptian cotton sheets and can choose from a menu of pillow options. For a list of additional inclusions, see here. Uniworld also has the highest staff-to-guest ratio in the river cruise industry, ensuring that all their guests are well cared for.
Over their 40 plus years of operation, Uniworld has voyaged through a total of 23 rivers in 24 countries around the world, and their expertise clearly shows. For more information, check out AAA’s River Cruise Spotlight or visit Uniworld’s website.
Pack your bags and get ready for the Big Apple! On the AAA Member Choice Vacations Spotlight on New York City tour you’ll explore some of the most iconic city sights and neighborhoods that Gotham is known for, from the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building to Greenwich Village and Central Park. Don’t worry, you’ll still have plenty of free time to check anything off your must-see and do list, whether it’s shopping and snagging a famous “I Love NY” T-shirt or eating an iconic pastrami sandwich. Check out all of the fascinating activities and highlights this trip has to offer.
Days One and Two
After checking into your hotel – located in Midtown near Times Square, the home of Broadway and the biggest New Year’s Eve celebration in the world – try to get a good night’s rest. You have a big day ahead!
On day two, you will take a local-guided tour of the city’s many momentous landmarks and neighborhoods. Wear comfortable walking shoes because the tour hits a lot of hot spots for a full day of exploring. Greenwich Village is a favorite stop on the tour, packed with historic buildings, off-Broadway theaters, comedy clubs and New York University’s campus. Washington Square Park is at the heart of the Village, where you will see beautiful well-kept greenery, the iconic Washington Square Arch, a dog park and plenty of benches for some of the best people-watching in the city.
Take in the colorful streets of Chinatown while enjoying souvenir shops, dim sum restaurants and Chinese markets. Then, head just south to the Wall Street district, home to skyscrapers galore, the South Street Seaport and the 9/11 Memorial and Museum.
Next, discover Central Park. Located between the Upper West Side and Upper East Side, the park’s 843 acres are scattered with art and statues. Some attractions include the Central Park Carousel, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, Wollman Rink and Delacorte Theater, which houses Shakespeare in the Park in the summertime. After this exciting fun-filled day you can chose your dinner location from a list of the city’s popular dining options near Times Square. Because guest what’s next? The trip’s first Broadway show!
See the Big Apple sparkle with holiday cheer! America’s most exciting city is absolutely dazzling at Christmastime. The romance of a large metropolis mixes perfectly with the spirit of the holidays to create wonderful shopping in festively decorated shops, iconic must-see attractions and world-class entertainment experiences that are absolutely bursting with good cheer on this single hotel stay, culturally immersive tour.
Start with an epic breakfast at Ellen’s Stardust Diner, a 50s-themed eatery with singing servers and a menu of classic American diner food like the New Yorker omelet with smoked salmon and onions. Enjoy performances from Frank Sinatra’s “New York, New York” to legendary Broadway tracks. Post-breakfast, hop on a ferry for a relaxing voyage around New York Harbor, taking in impressive views of New York City and beyond. Stop at the Statue of Liberty, where you’ll get up-close to one of the most-visited sights of the Big Apple.
The next stop on the harbor excursion is Ellis Island, the hub where 12 million immigrants came through on their passage to America. Take a self-guided tour of the museum, and who knows, maybe you’ll find the name of a relative who came through on their way to bigger dreams in America.
The rest of the day you are free to explore Gotham at leisure. The tour manager can suggest areas to visit depending on your interests and help you navigate your way there by taxi or subway. Maybe you’ll want to head back up to Central Park to rent a canoe and have a picnic on one of the lawns. You can also shop until you drop on Fifth Avenue, discovering famous stores like Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman and Tiffany & Co. Or walk above the city on The High Line (a raised walkway and park designed along old railroad tracks) and make a stop at Chelsea Market for a snack and more shopping. You can’t leave New York City without having a slice of pizza – Artichoke Basille’s Pizza is just one block away from Chelsea Market, serving up big, delicious New York slices. After your leisure time, there is a voluntary walking tour of Greenwich Village that includes a tasty local dinner.
Days Four and Five
The morning time is open to discover the city at your own pace. If you’re tired and need a bit of respite, book a massage at Haven Spa, just north of Houston Street, or a relaxing sauna session at Clean Market in Midtown. This would also be the perfect time to visit one of New York City’s remarkable museums, like the American Museum of Natural History, Museum of Modern Art, the Guggenheim (get $3 off admission with your AAA card!) and The Metropolitan Museum of Art. After your morning, it’s time for the second Broadway show of the trip, where you’ll have your pick of some of the biggest musicals. After the performance, enjoy dinner at a local eatery near your hotel. The next morning you’ll bid farewell to the city that never sleeps and hopefully catch up on your own sleep!
Holiday Tour Option
This bustling metropolis comes alive even more during the holidays, with sparkling decorations and a feeling of holiday cheer that radiates from the streets for tourists and locals alike. Based on the main New York City tour above, it also features special holiday-themed highlights, including the amazing “Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes.” The magic continues with a visit to the ornate holiday window displays on Fifth Avenue. And it just wouldn’t be the holidays in New York City without a stop to snap photos in front of the gigantic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree; grab some hot chocolate and watch the ice skaters twirl below! You’ll also have plenty of free time for holiday shopping or whatever you fancy. There are holiday markets throughout the Big Apple to help you with your holiday shopping list.
Can you bring medicine on a plane? Of course. But – as with most things related to air travel – there are a few rules you should be aware of first.
From understanding regulations for solid versus liquid medications to knowing how much you can carry on you and how it should be packed, here’s what you need to take into consideration before bringing medicine on a plane.
Do Pre-Travel Research
While becoming ill or getting hurt while away from home is not something you want to think about when planning a vacation, it’s better to err on the side of caution, especially if you rely on medication in your everyday life.
Look up doctors and hospitals near your destination; countries all around the world can be found on the U.S. embassy and consulate websites.
In the event that you do need medical attention abroad, check if you’ll be covered by your insurance. “Many foreign medical facilities and providers require cash payment upfront and do not accept U.S. insurance plans,” according to Travel.State.Gov. Those with health coverage through Medicare likely won’t be covered while traveling outside of the U.S. either. Contact your insurance company and/or speak with a travel agent to discuss foreign medical care coverage or travel medical insurance.
Look into the laws of your travel destination. Check with the foreign embassy of the country you are visiting or use a source like The World Factbook to make sure the medications you are bringing aren’t illegal there. Though the Transportation Security Administration does not currently require medications to be in prescription packaging, it might be different elsewhere. Other countries may also ask for a doctor’s letter.
Visit Your Doctor
Before you leave, visit your doctor to make sure you are fit to travel. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends going at least four to six weeks before your trip.
Talk to your physician about where you’ll be going, for how long, what your living situation will be and the activities you plan to do.
Make sure you have enough of any prescription medications you may need to cover you during the duration of your trip, but also for a few days after in the case of delays. You can request refills if you know you’ll be close to a pharmacy, or ask your doctor for a longer-term option like a 90-day supply.
It may not be safe to travel — for yourself or others — if you are ill or recently had a specific injury or surgery. The CDC has a list of situations when you generally shouldn’t travel. Discuss with your doctor to be sure.
Use sources like CDC Travel Health Notices and Travel Advisories to learn about what potential health-related issues (disease outbreaks, natural disasters, etc.) are going on in other countries. Then, ask your doctor about what you may need in terms of possible vaccinations or allergy medications.
Like everything that goes on an airplane, your medications will need to be screened.
The TSA currently allows travelers to pack pills and other solid medications outside of their original packaging, such as in a pill case, but be aware that other countries could have different rules. It’s also recommended that medicines be clearly labeled to facilitate the screening process. You can travel with solid medications in either your carry-on or checked baggage, but carry-on is the recommended option because it allows easier access and checked baggage could get lost.
Inform the TSA officer of any liquid medications you plan on taking on the plane, as well as any accessories associated with it, such as freezer packs, IV bags, pumps and syringes, and separate them from your other belongings before screening begins. Normally, all carry-on liquids need to follow the 3-1-1 rule, which states that you can bring liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes in your bag and through the checkpoint, as long as they are 3.4 ounces or less, and are contained in one clear, sealable 1-quart bag per traveler. There are exceptions to this rule, so bring your needs to the attention of a TSA officer for help.
The TSA is routinely making updates to its procedures. Make sure to check their security screening guidelines before a trip.
Atlantic City is back. Whether you haven’t been in a while or you just never got around to visiting, there’s no time like the present to take advantage of the hustle and bustle of the revitalized city. In fact, there’s so much to do, you could make an Atlantic City weekend getaway out of your visit.
From the newly refurbished Ocean Resort Casino and Hard Rock Atlantic City hotels to the many attractions, Atlantic City has plenty to keep you busy. Read our recommendations for a fun-filled and unforgettable weekend getaway in America’s Playground.
Where to stay
Ocean Resort Casino
Ocean Resort Casino offers high-class dining, amenities and entertainment. The former Revel Casino Hotel reopened in June 2018 after extensive renovations.
When it comes to eating, this hotel has all you need to get fueled up for your Atlantic City weekend getaway adventure. Want a sweet start to your day? Try Cereal Town; here they have all kinds of cereals, fruits and desserts on the menu, including specialties such as Unicorn Trax, made with all your favorite sugary cereals, and the #adulting, a more sensible Greek yogurt parfait.
Looking for something a bit more upscale for breakfast or brunch? At Harper’s, a view of the skyline and gardens come paired with delicious delicacies such as lemon ricotta pancakes and sticky buns overload, a cinnamon bun topped with bacon, pecans and sugar glaze. For lunch, head over to Rocco’s Italian Kitchen & Market and take home a few Italian pastries and cakes to enjoy later.
If you’re an avid golf player, you can play a few holes of golf at the resort’s – and the world’s – largest indoor Topgolf Swing Suite, which offers an interactive entertainment experience filled with simulations and TVs to watch your favorite games. If you need to relax and unwind after being out and about in Atlantic City, stop into Exhale, the in-house spa center.
Also reopened in June 2018, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino – the former Trump Taj Mahal – will make you feel like the rock star of your Atlantic City weekend getaway the moment you walk in the lobby. If you love music, you’ll want to take advantage of the Sound of Your Stay program, a selection of unique packages that allow you to create and listen to playlists, schedule jam sessions and more. There’s even an option to get a Fender guitar and amplifier delivered right to your room.
For your food cravings, try the on-site restaurants such as the Japanese restaurant Kuro, Sugar Factory (also known as one of “The Most Instagrammed Restaurants in the United States”) and, of course, the namesake Hard Rock Cafe.
When it’s time to wind down, kick back at the Rock Spa & Salon, where you can choose from both single service and full-day experiences.
And what would a rock star be without a nice, shiny car and a full tank of gas to head back on the road again? Rocktane Gas & Wash is a convenience store, gas station and car wash all rolled into one, located just outside the hotel’s parking garage.
What to do
Now that you’ve set up shop at the hotel, you’ll need things to do for the weekend. We’ve got a few suggestions.
No visit to the Atlantic City area would be complete without seeing Lucy the Elephant, a six-story-high landmark that’s so impressive, it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places and one of the most beloved fixtures in Atlantic City. Visit Josephine Harron Park and hear the story behind the inspiration and the construction of it. Even the little ones will enjoy playing in the park and going through this massive sculpture.
Lucy the Elephant (Photo: Jim the Photographer / CC BY 2.0)
Looking to explore Atlantic City though the air? Book a flight with Red Baron Tours. These airborne tours include Atlantic City, as well as nearby cities like Ocean City and Cape May.
If you prefer to explore the city with both feet on the ground, stroll through the iconic Steel Pier. Located on the world-famous Atlantic City Boardwalk, this pier is full of little shops and eateries with typical boardwalk fare. And don’t forget about the rides! Take a spin in The Wheel and see breathtaking views of the city or ride around in the Beach Buggies. Kids will also have a blast with Dodgem Kiddie Bumper Cars. For shopping, Tanger Outlets never disappoints for great deals. Plus, AAA members get a free coupon book.
Getting hungry doing all that walking and flying around, but can’t wait to get back to the hotel? Check out Margaritaville Restaurant or Rainforest Cafe. AAA Members with a valid AAA card save 10 percent at Margaritaville and also get a 10 percent discount on food and nonalcoholic beverages at the Rainforest Cafe.
Share your Atlantic City weekend getaway tips in the comments!
Are you looking for a one-of-a-kind touch to your vacation? Every hotel offers special amenities and services to pamper guests, but some just have that extra touch of creativity. Check out these unique hotel services for some out-of-the-ordinary experiences when you need some rest and relaxation.
You may just get the best sleep of your life staying at The Benjamin for the night. Led by sleep medicine expert Rebecca Robbins, the Rest & Renew program is specially designed to put guests in a sleepy mood. The program includes a pillow menu based on sleep positions, in-room spa treatments, bedtime snacks and meditation sessions available on demand on guest room phones. If you have difficulty sleeping in an unfamiliar environment, the Rest & Renew program also provides sleep masks, blackout curtains, ear plugs, noise machines and even a music library filled with lullabies. For restless little ones, The Benjamin provides child-sized pillows, bathrobes and a fully stocked library of books perfect for bedtime.
Be completely immersed in Bostonian culture with the signature suites at Hotel Commonwealth. The hotel’s luxury suites are themed with an eye for local flair and intense detail. The Fenway Park Suite is perfect for Red Sox fans, complete with a walk-out balcony with original Fenway Park seats, a coffee table signed by Red Sox players and an unrivaled view of Fenway Park itself. The Terrier Suite emulates Boston University, with touches of the institution’s signature colors, university photos and images of the four-legged mascot sprinkled throughout the room. The Reading Suite is a book-lover’s paradise with a reading nook, literature-inspired details and more than 50 novels signed by authors who have stayed at the hotel.
There may be nothing better than cozying up to a blazing fireplace, but first you need to get the fire started. Luckily, Edson Hill can take care of everything with its fireplace concierge service. Kick up your feet and relax while the concierge lights a toasty fire for you. Enjoy a dip in a soaking tub while taking in the sounds of a crackling fire and enjoying breathtaking views of Vermont’s snow-covered landscape. This hotel perk is the perfect way to wind down after a long day of sightseeing and exploring.
We love our furry friends, but we can’t always take them everywhere (although we’d like to). At Delano Las Vegas at Mandalay Bay, there’s no need to worry about your dog while you’re on vacation. The hotel offers a variety of dog-friendly suites and accommodations for your pup. Welcome packages are provided upon check-in with dog treats and waste bags. The doggie butler service will check on your pet during the day, provide daily walks on the hotel’s beach area and keep them company while you’re out of the room. Text updates and photos will be sent directly to your phone to keep you worry-free. Your dog can even get a taste of room service with healthy recipes that they’ll love, made with fresh vegetables and proteins.
If you ain’t afraid of no ghosts, you can dive deep into the realm of the paranormal at The Stanley Hotel. Serving as the inspiration for the Overlook Hotel in Stephen King’s novel, “The Shining,” you very well may run into your share of specters on your vacation. Night tours are available to learn about the hotel’s history and noteworthy guests over the past century, with a view of the Rocky Mountains as a backdrop. For those seeking a spooky night’s sleep, the hotel offers a variety of guest rooms with high paranormal activity, including Stephen King’s famous Room 217 and Room 401, a favorite of TV’s “Ghost Hunters.”
Looking for a fun way to unwind? How about a pillow fight? Hotel Derek provides the perfect pillow fight package for you to unleash your inner child. Your room will be stocked with extra soft pillows for your nighttime brawl. When you’ve finished your workout and a winner is crowned, relax and wind down with some warm chocolate chip cookies and chilled milk. This unique hotel service will bring back some fond childhood memories, guaranteed.
Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, Thailand
This resort will give you an up-close-and-personal encounter with the resident elephants, rescued from illegal logging camps, Thailand’s streets and elephant shows. Join the pachyderms on their daily walk as they munch on leaves, cool off in the river and socialize with each other. Learn about elephant biology and behavior, as well as the conservation efforts of the elephant camp from a local expert. Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort also offers peaceful yoga sessions and relaxing gourmet picnics with your new gentle giant friends in the fields nearby.
Want a blast from the past? Or, more aptly, a leap into the future? At the Henn na Hotel, you’ll find yourself face-to-face with dinosaurs. Well, dinosaur robots anyway. The hotel was awarded with the title of the world’s first robot hotel by the Guinness Book of World Records. The multilingual robot velociraptors – looking dapper in their bellhop hats and bow ties – will tend to your check-in and checkout needs, while a robotic arm stores your luggage. Guest rooms are equipped with Chu-ri-chan, a smaller robot that resides on bedside tables. It controls the lights and provides weather forecasts and wake-up calls. If you find the all the robotics a bit unsettling, human hotel staff is available 24 hours a day.
Have you taken advantage of any unique hotel services during your travels? Share in the comments!
If you’re tired of the usual outings and dates, you’re in luck: There are lots of ideas for new adventures to have with your significant other. Between outdoor adventures, luxuriating relaxation and exciting nightlife options, there are options for everyone. Read on for lots of fun day trips for couples in the Northeast.
Fun day trips for couples: Wethersfield, Conn.
Located just south of Hartford, this so-called “Ye Most Ancient Towne in Connecticut” is perfect for couples who love history but want to stay close to a city. The Old Wethersfield historic district has more than 1,200 buildings, including nearly 100 from Colonial times.
Wethersfield has a special connection to the American Revolution – George Washington and French commander Comte de Rochambeau planned the war-ending siege on Yorktown at the Joseph Webb House. Nowadays, that building – the home of America’s first diplomat Silas Deane – a barn and two other historical homes make up the Webb-Deane-Stevens Museum. This living history museum is open every day excluding every Tuesday from May 1 to Oct. 31 and weekends in April and November. Special tours are available January through March by appointment.
Visit the park at Wethersfield Cove for a walk around the Connecticut River, or ice skate at Mill Woods Park. If you’d rather take part in an artistic pursuit, stop by the Wethersfield Academy for the Arts for a one-day sketch workshop.
For a healthy snack, come to the Heirloom Market at Comstock Ferre, a cozy cafe that prides itself on “seed-to-plate dining” and fresh food – not to mention the many seeds for sale. Or chow down on sushi at Edo Ichi, where rolls come to your table on wooden boats.
Fun day trips for couples: White Mountains, N.H.
This rugged mountain range has attracted visitors for centuries. Nineteenth-century artists flocked to the region to paint the dramatic mountain peaks and landscapes. Today, tourists can get an eyeful of natural beauty just by driving through roads within the White Mountains. The romantic views alone make this mountain excursion a good day trip for couples. We especially recommend Kancamagus Highway to see multicolored fall foliage and quaint covered bridges, and Mount Washington Auto Road in the summer to climb 4,600 feet up Mount Washington – the highest peak in the Northeast. Guided tours and winter snowcoaches are available for those who don’t want to risk driving up a twisty-turny road without guardrails.
A majority of the region lies in the protected White Mountain National Forest, as well as several smaller state parks – with plenty of areas for camping, hiking and more. Franconia Notch State Park in particular has the Cannon Mountain Ski Area where the famous Old Man of the Mountain lived until collapsing in 2003. This state park also contains the New England Ski Museum and from May to October breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains on the aerial tramway. You can also walk up stairs and through the famous red bridge at the Flume Gorge.
In 1969, Bethel hosted a little music festival called Woodstock. Maybe you’ve heard of it. These days, Bethel upholds that legacy with a marker at the original site, as well as at the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts. This concert venue has an outdoor amphitheater and a big sloping lawn, making it a great place to put down a blanket and catch a show under the stars. The center is celebrating the 50th anniversary of Woodstock with a yearlong Season of Song and Celebration.
History lovers should definitely tour the Museum at Bethel Woods. This museum, which opened in 2008, focuses on the impact of Woodstock and the peace and love revolution of the ’60s.
Outdoorsy types should visit Lake Superior State Park, where you can rent a paddleboat, picnic on the beach, go fishing or just take in the beautiful scenery.
And if you want to stay overnight, Bethel is surrounded by campgrounds, beds and breakfasts and hotels. Just 20 minutes away is the Villa Roma Resort and Conference Center, which boasts an 18-hole golf course and two ski slopes.
Fun day trips for couples: Montauk, N.Y.
The End can be just the beginning of your romantic day trip. The easternmost point of Long Island is home to beautiful beaches, six state parks and a bustling hamlet by the sea.
A must visit is the Montauk Point Lighthouse, which has been an icon since it opened in 1796. Walk all the way up to the top and see the beautiful Atlantic Ocean. Don’t forget to visit the Montauk Lighthouse Museum in the old keeper’s house and learn about the whaling and nautical history of the area. Both the lighthouse and museum are open from March 23 through Thanksgiving weekend.
Montauk wouldn’t be Montauk without seafood, so stop by the Lobster Roll (which opens in May for the season) for an outdoor lobster roll lunch. This iconic roadside restaurant has been around since 1965 and even has a starring role in the Showtime series “The Affair.”
Giddy up and take a horse ride at Deep Hollow Ranch. The self-styled oldest cattle ranch in the U.S.A. offers beaches and riding trails for riders of all abilities and ages.
Afterwards, stop by Gurney’s Seawater Spa to relax in the sauna, sweat it out in the steam room or swim in a seawater pool with panoramic views of the Atlantic.
For dinner, try Harvest on Fort Pond, which offers family-style Italian cuisine inspired by Montauk seafood and its on-site garden. Add to the ambiance and watch the sunset over Fort Pond.
Fun day trips for couples: Provincetown, Mass.
This thriving seaside town at the very end of Cape Cod is just a ferry ride away from Boston Harbor and known for embracing the gay and lesbian communities. P-town wears its many rainbow flags with pride.
Party people and social butterflies should find themselves at home with the many bars, clubs and restaurants. Not to mention the many special occasions throughout the year – such as the Provincetown International Film Festival in June and Carnival Week in August.
The Provincetown Art Association and Museum promotes the work of local artists through exhibitions, workshops and cultural events year-round. Plus there are several art galleries scattered alongside Commercial Street.
Towering above Provincetown is the Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum. The 252-foot tall monument commemorates where the Mayflower Pilgrims first landed before sailing on to Plymouth. The associated museum documents local and American history.
Need a place to rest after all that activity? Stay at the Crowne Pointe Historic Inn and Spa. This AAA Four Diamond adults-only inn offers a full-service spa alongside fine dining at the on-site restaurant and wine bar.
Fun day trips for couples: Block Island, R.I.
The Nature Conservancy has called this tiny island off the coast of Rhode Island one of the last great places in the Western Hemisphere. With its abundant wildlife, 17 miles of beaches and small-town charm, it is easy to see why Block Island has earned that title.
For starters, stand over Mohegan Bluffs – 150-foot-tall clay cliffs – and look into the Atlantic Ocean. Then climb down the wooden staircase to the secluded beach. The still-operational red brick Southeast Lighthouse sits nearby with an attached keeper’s house and small museum. At the other end of the island is the older North Light. It’s only accessible via hiking, but it is worth it for the view and surrounding trails through the Block Island Wildlife Refuge. Bicycles and mopeds are also a popular way to get around. Rentals are available.
Back at Old Harbor the south end, the Koru Eco Spa offers couples package with adjacent massages and pedicures, as well as facials, body treatments and hair styling – all while using organic products. The famous restaurant at Ballard’s offers fresh seafood in the oceanside dining area. There’s also live music and entertainment every night during the summer season as well as drinks at the beach tiki bar.
The best way to get to Block Island is via ferry, which comes from Point Judith, R.I., year-round. During the warmer months, ferries run from Newport, R.I.; New London, Conn.; Fall River, Mass.; and Montauk, N.Y., as well. Flights from local airports are also available.
Atlantic City Steel Pier
Fun day trips for couples: Atlantic City, N.J.
It may not be the first place you think of for a fun day trip for couples, but visitors might want to take a gamble on Atlantic City. Speaking of which, the area is well known for its many casinos, with the Borgata being the biggest. In addition to the casino, the AAA Four Diamond hotel has an outdoor pool, a spa, a salon, a barbershop, two concert venues, a comedy club and five fine dining restaurants.
While you’re in Atlantic City, you must take a stroll down the famous shoreside boardwalk. See if you can find the streets from Monopoly – the ever-popular board game took names from city spots and streets. Don’t forget to stop and take a ride at the iconic Steel Pier – an amusement park that extends into the ocean.
In addition to nightlife, the area is also home to wildlife. Meet the local marine mammals on a dolphin cruise through Atlantic City Cruises in a two-hour cruise or see the skyline on a one-hour happy hour cruise. Dolphin cruises start in May, while all other cruises open in June.
Love the nautical life, but want to stay on land? Walk up the steps of the Absecon Lighthouse – New Jersey’s tallest lighthouse and a popular wedding venue. In addition, dogs on leashes are allowed on the adjacent lawn and lighthouse museum.
For an extravagant meal for two, dine on fresh pasta, seafood and drinks at Capriccio inside Resorts Casino & Hotel. This gourmet Italian restaurant overlooking the Atlantic Ocean is a popular spot for both late nights at the bar and Sunday brunch.
Know any other fun day trips for couples? Where have you been with your sweetheart in the Northeast? Let us know in the comments!
Just like in fashion, there are food trends. In the fall, you pick up a pumpkin spice latte at your local coffee shop, but when December rolls around, it’s peppermint season. Healthy, organic and sustainable foods are “in,” while people are snubbing artificial ingredients and trans fats. All trends change with the times, and food is no different. Let’s take a walk down memory lane and explore the food fads of yesteryear.
1920s: Fruit Cocktail
There’s some speculation as to how the fruit cocktail was christened with its boozy title, but the name is more apt than you’d think. At the turn of the century, the sweet concoction was a mix of fruit, sugar and alcohol, usually a sweet wine or liqueur. When Prohibition hit in 1920, it became harder to add booze to the mix. Fruit cocktail was served at dinner parties or before a meal, sprinkled with powdered sugar or topped with marshmallows, a precursor to the fruit cocktail of the present.
1930s: Jell-O Salad
The Jell-O salad has stood the test of time, with pieces of floating food defying gravity in a fluorescent gelatin ring. When the Great Depression struck, it was vital for the American family not to waste leftovers from meals. When gelatin (a cheap form of protein) was prepared in a Jell-O mold with leftover vegetables, fruits, chicken and hard-boiled eggs – or anything else available – you had a new spin on a meal. The flavor combinations were endless, leading to some creative concoctions. Cottage cheese lime-pineapple salad anyone?
1940s: Spam
The popularity of spiced ham – or Spam – soared during World War II. The canned pork product was a filling source of protein to feed hungry soldiers and didn’t require refrigeration. According to the Smithsonian Institution, more than 150 million pounds of Spam were used during the war; soldiers even used its grease for lubricating their guns and waterproofing their boots. Housewives embraced the new product for its low cost, ease in the kitchen and versatility in recipes.
1950s: Outdoor Cookouts
The American cookout is just as popular today as it was in the 1950s. Families who had been rationing during the war emerged into a world of prosperity and craved relaxation … and meat. The iconic dome-shaped Weber grill made its debut in 1952, changing the game of cooking outdoors forever. Barbecue parties quickly became a familiar sight in suburban backyards. Gender roles shifted a little as grilling quickly became the specialty of the man of the house. Women still ruled over the kitchen, tending to salads, side dishes and desserts.
1960s: Instant Foods
In the 1960s, the key to the food world was convenience. Frozen foods and TV dinners quickly became all the rage for their timesaving capabilities. Boxed instant mashed potatoes, orange-flavored Tang and freeze-dried coffee were extremely popular for both their ease and the Space Age’s influence on pop culture. However, the age of cooking was not lost on the American family. Julia Child inspired housewives nationwide to try their hand at French cuisine at dinnertime, making an otherwise gourmet meal simple to replicate from the comfort of their kitchens.
1970s: Fondue
The melty pot of cheese that we’ve come to love may have a deep and hazy history, but it didn’t gain popularity in this country until the 1970s. At the 1964 New York World’s Fair, fondue was featured at the Swiss Pavilion’s Alpine restaurant. The Swiss Cheese Union created ad campaigns spotlighting Swiss men and women entertaining themselves over a hot pot of cheese fondue, and soon other advertisers followed suit. This food fad quickly caught on.
1980s: Nouvelle Cuisine
This trend acted as a revolution to the heavy and rigid cooking styles that French restaurant cuisine had embodied in the past. Nouvelle cuisine emphasized light tastes, fresh ingredients and clear flavors. When combined with an eye-pleasing presentation, it became an art form. This new cooking style spurred a worldwide social movement and inspired global changes in international cuisine. This food trend, still present and evolving today, eventually led to the fusion of cooking across cultures.
1990s: Fat-Free
With all the calorie-rich processed foods being marketed through the decades and the lower physical demand of daily jobs, Americans quickly realized that a change needed to be made to their daily eating habits. Studies were published urging people to improve their diets by cutting out fat, hence the fat-free food craze. While fat-free foods were often seen as healthy, they were often higher in sugar content and carbohydrates. The food trend was counterintuitive in reality, actually causing weight gain.
2000s: Cupcakes
Thanks to a scene featuring New York City’s Magnolia Bakery in the television comedy hit “Sex and the City,” a cupcake craze quickly swept the nation and specialty cupcake shops popped up in cities everywhere. Gourmet flavors were introduced to diversify the market, from sweet to savory. Food Network even aired a baking competition – “Cupcake Wars” – focused solely on cupcakes. Eventually, the cupcake’s reign came to an end, as it was dethroned by another food fad, the croissant-doughnut hybrid known as the cronut.
2010s: Bacon, Bacon and More Bacon
Those salty, crunchy pork strips that have dominated the breakfast table have quickly taken over pretty much every meal. Bacon can be wrapped around anything, going far beyond the cocktail party staple of bacon-wrapped scallops. This savory treat found its way into desserts after going through the candying process. It’s become a pop culture icon on T-shirts, bottled as a scent and even comes as a toothpaste flavor. Discover clothesline bacon.
Up-and-Coming Trends
America has seen plenty of food fads come and go. Remember the ramen burger? None of these food fads left us because they were bad, per se; they just reflected the times. Looking forward, it’s likely we’ll see eco-friendly improvements to packaging and the downfall of plastic straws. Meat grown in laboratories could gain a place as a more sustainable substitute for the traditional methods. Healthy eating will probably continue to dominate dinner tables. It’s hard to predict where we’re headed down the culinary road, but the greener hues on the horizon are clear, whether they’re garden-grown or planet-saving.
What was your favorite food fad? Does this list spark any memories? Share in the comments!
Hungry for more food stories? Your AAA has reviews, recipes and more to satisfy your cravings.
For years, the top menu of the Apple Podcasts app has been called “New and Noteworthy.” The New and Noteworthy section is supposed to detail the newest and most interesting podcasts, but that’s seldom the case. Some podcasts that show up there are in their fourth season already (cough Revisionist History cough). The best way to find new podcasts is to ask other people who are listening to podcasts, since everyone is always looking for their next fix.
Forget about the algorithm-assembled new podcast section on your podcatcher. Here are the new podcasts that I’m the most excited about this year.
Adam Conover, of TruTV’s “Adam Ruins Everything,” is on a mission to find the truth. On his new podcast, “Factually,” Conover interviews experts on frequently misunderstood subjects, like the tech industry, sleep, climate change and even the Civil War. Conover’s thirst for the truth is contagious, and the podcasting format allows for a deep dive into these subjects.
This past June marked the 25th anniversary of the night Nicole Brown and Ron Goldman were brutally murdered. “Confronting: OJ Simpson” is hosted by Ron Goldman’s sister, Kim. Throughout the series, Kim Goldman sits down with people connected to the trial of the century, from prosecutors, investigators and witnesses to reporters, jurors and hangers-on. Kim Goldman’s interviews are emotional and understanding, yet subtly challenging and confrontational. One episode consists entirely of a tense phone call between the podcast’s producer, Nancy Glass, and OJ Simpson’s lawyer, Malcolm LaVergne. The title of the show implies that there will be other “confronting” seasons about different topics, but I can’t imagine any story more compelling than this one.
“Scoring Magic” is a podcast documentary about making a podcast. Podcast journalist Wil Williams wants to produce her first audio drama, but she knows that she’s in for a long journey. With her friends and collaborators Anne Baird and Katie Youmans, Williams sets out to figure out how to make impossible scenarios sound realistic. This is a podcast about the process of creating something, from the excitement of the first idea to the frustrating second-guessing that can go into even the smallest decisions. But in “Scoring Magic,” it’s all worth it. As Williams says in the first episode, “Create is… feels good.”
I inhaled this series. “Running from COPS” is actually the third season of “Headlong,” an investigative podcast hosted by Dan Taberski. In the first season he explored the life of Richard Simmons, and in the second season he investigated the hysteria of Y2K. In this season, Taberski looks at one of the oldest reality shows on television: “COPS.” “COPS” is like a microcosm of problems that we all struggle with in modern life – from reality-bending reality TV to increased awareness of police brutality. How does the presence of a camera crew change how police act? What happens to the people who appear on the show, and why did many of them give permission for “COPS” to show their faces? And what about the cities that “COPS” embeds in? Does it change them?
Sometimes there’s a dark side to the American dream. “Gangster Capitalism” is about white-collar crime and corruption in a society where money and status is everything. The first season of “Gangster Capitalism” focuses on the recent college admissions scandal, which saw wealthy parents paying scammers and professional test-takers to get their underperforming kids into elite schools. The most shocking parts of the podcast are the transcripts of conversations between the parents and the head scammer, Rick Singer. Singer sold his scheme as a “side door” to elite colleges – for parents who were wealthy enough to afford him, but not wealthy enough to “donate” millions to their school of choice. What does this scandal say about the current state of college admissions in America? “Gangster Capitalism” hopes to find out.
On “Spectacular Failures,” host Lauren Ober recounts some of the most disastrous business failures of all time. You’ll hear stories of unsafe business practices, corporate corruption, imploding industries, bankruptcy and family feuds. Aside from the schadenfreude of watching business giants collapse, “Spectacular Failures” offers insights into all of the intricate details surrounding the failure du jour.
If you want to experience exceptional elegance and inspirational 19th century architecture close to home, pay with a visit to the mansions in Newport, Rhode Island.
The historic-house museums (once summer homes and entertainment venues for America’s free-spending millionaires) are located on 88 acres of gardens and parks on cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. You can explore these historic sites in person with the help of audio tours designed to shed light on the wealthy residents who once inhabited these breathtaking properties.
Two- and five-house tickets are available through the Preservation Society of Newport County, which cares for most of the opulent properties on and around Bellevue Avenue that showcase the stunning European-inspired architecture of the gilded age. Most are open daily during the spring and summer months; check the website for current hours. Wear comfy shoes, print out a Newport mansions map and gear up for a journey through time unlike any other.
The Breakers
The largest and most lavish of the historic Newport, Rhode Island mansions, The Breakers is the onetime summer retreat of Cornelius Vanderbilt II – grandson of family patriarch Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt, who made his fortune in the booming American railroad and shipping industries. The mansion served as a status symbol of his family’s social and financial prominence, which was estimated at $200 million 130 years ago. Rebuilt in 1893 after a fire, no expenses were spared in constructing this $7 million, 70-room Italian Renaissance-style palace with lavish furnishings, platinum wall panels and an open-air courtyard that sports a ceiling painted with a windswept sky. This half-acre, four-story mansion sits on 11 acres overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It also features a $5.5 million Welcome Center, which opened in June 2018 in a newly rehabilitated garden. There visitors can find refreshments, restrooms and places to sit for a spell.
The Elms
The summer residence of American coal magnate Edward Julius Berwind, this Bellevue Avenue estate is modeled after the mid-18th century French Chateau d’Asnieres outside Paris. Inside, its terraces feature extravagant marble and bronze sculptures, French and Venetian paintings and Oriental jades. It also has a newly restored outdoor garden with elaborate fountains, marble pavilions, gorgeous trees and a large carriage house.
Marble House
Built between 1888 and 1892, this magnificent marble marvel was a 39th birthday present from William K. Vanderbilt to his wife, Alva. Their “temple to the arts” was designed in the fashion of the Petit Trianon at the Palace of Versailles and of its $11 million price tag, $7 million was spent on 500,000 cubic feet of marble. The Vanderbilts later divorced and Alva used the property to host rallies for women’s voting rights before selling the house to Frederick H. Prince in 1932. Its centerpiece Gold Room stays true to its name, with 22-carat gold leaf wall panels and Tiffany glass accents.
Rosecliff
Rosecliff
With rooms featured in movies like “The Great Gatsby,” “True Lies” and “27 Dresses,” Rosecliff was the 1890s summer home of Nevada silver heiress Theresa Fair Oelrichs. Modeled after the Grand Trianon garden retreat at Versailles, the $2.5 million mansion was frequently used as an event space for lavish parties and once hosted a famous party with a performance from magician Harry Houdini.
Chateau-sur-Mer
Another showcase of High Victorian architecture, furniture, wallpapers and ceramics, Chateau-sur-Mer (which means castle on the sea) was known as one of the most lavish residences in the area prior to the construction of the Vanderbilt mansions in the 1890s. It was the location of a famous picnic in 1857 with more than 2,000 guests. Like a few homes on this list, owner William Shepard Wetmore (who made his fortune in the China trade and used the home in his retirement) hired architect Richard Morris Hunt to remodel and redecorate the mansion in Second Empire architectural style, and for that reason it displays many of the major design trends of the 19th century.
Green Animals Topiary Garden
The oldest and most northern topiary garden in the nation, this small country estate in Portsmouth, R.I., dates back to the 1870s, when it was purchased by Thomas E. Brayton, treasurer of the Union Cotton Manufacturing Company in Fall River, MA. Under the supervision of gardener Joseph Carreiro and his son-in-law George Mendonca, it has more than 80 plants trimmed and clipped to resemble shapes like animals, birds, and geometric figures. Roam around the garden to see cute plants shaped like bears, giraffes and more. Plus vegetable and herb gardens and, of course, the Victorian house that was home to Brayton’s daughter, Alice, until her death in 1972. Green Animals is open seasonally, so call ahead to make sure they’re open. It’s located in Portsmouth, about a half-hour ride from downtown Newport.
Public transportation to the Newport Mansions is available through the Rhode Island Public Transportation Authority (a cute trolley, No. 67 on the Yellow Line). Plus, the Breakers, Marble House, the Elms and Rosecliff are all partially wheelchair accessible. And with astonishing views inside and out, there is certainly no shortage of reasons to make the Newport Mansions the location of your next weekend getaway.
What’s your favorite Newport mansion? Tell us in the comments.
Successful travel often hinges on getting a good night’s sleep. And a good night’s sleep can hinge on what you’re sleeping on. While a hotel’s spa, gym, restaurant and other amenities can make a difference, the mattress in your room can be key.
Some hotels partner with premium mattress brands. For instance, The Langham, New York, offers the DUX luxury hotel bed. And Ritz-Carltons around the world boast the Ritz-Carlton Bed designed by Stearns & Foster.
Most hotels will tell you what mattress brand they use, according to Logan Block, founder of the sleep product review and sleep information site Sleepopolis. “I’ve talked to a few people who travel quite a bit for work who called up [a hotel] and said, ‘Hey, I just love your mattress,’” Block said. Some even end up buying the same one for their home.
You don’t always have a choice when traveling, but if you’re serious about sleeping well, you might want to consider looking into hotel mattresses before you book. To know what to look for, you’ve got to know what you like.
Some mattresses are made with steel coils, while others are made from different types of foam, from polyurethane to memory foam to latex. “They have different properties, which give them different feels, different advantages and disadvantages,” Block said. A new option is a hybrid with coils wrapped in foam, which isolates motion.
Memory foam is popular for contouring around the body, which can be better for side sleepers, but it also traps body heat. Latex is bouncier, so you don’t sink in as much, and it’s cooler, so it’s better for people who alternate between their backs and sides and people who sleep hot. And, of course, some mattresses are firmer than others.
You can visit mattress manufacturers online and find lots of information about the construction of their products. You can also find reviews of mattresses at sleepopolis.com, and search them by brand, materials, sleep position and a host of other factors. That should give you some idea of what kind of fit you’ll have at your hotel of choice.
If you find yourself with a mattress that’s too soft, Block recommends pulling off the sheets to see if there’s a mattress topper you can remove to firm things up. If you’re a side sleeper and the mattress feels too firm, bringing your own pillow (or requesting extra pillows from the hotel) should help.
And don’t discount the value of pulling the blackout curtains and keeping your phone at a distance to help you get some shut-eye.
To read more articles about travel-related health topics, visit AAA.com/LiveWell.
The Your AAA team recently got the keys to a shiny black- and blue-accented 2019 BMW i3s for a test drive.
Excited to experience BMW power and luxury, we took to the road, each of us spending a few days with the car on our daily commutes and errands. It even went on a road trip from our office in Garden City, N.Y., to AAA Northeast headquarters in Providence, R.I.
We drove the 184-horsepower BMW i3s with the optional gasoline range extender, which adds almost 50 more miles of drive time. It was the first time any of us had driven an electric vehicle and the inclusion of a gas extender helped to calm any ‘range anxiety.’
This is the perspective of our editorial team – Andrew Rosen, Jerry Ascierto, Marisa Perjatel, Sarah Hopkins, Andrew Sheldon and Matt Robertson – based on our individual experiences behind the wheel of an electric BMW for the first time. We are not car experts, just typical consumers with varying lifestyles and driving demands. Below is a transcribed version of our discussion. Click the audio player below to listen.
First Impressions
Marisa: My first impression of the BMW i3s was that it was very cute and compact. It was a smaller vehicle but I kind of liked that. It’s been a while since I’ve driven a car that size and I just feel like it’s a little more fun when a car is smaller and sportier. I was also very impressed with the inside. There’s all-natural materials and it looks very cool. The infotainment system is also really impressive and there’s a lot of options; it took me a little time to get used to toggling through and using the dial control, but after that, it was easy.
Sarah: I agree. The car looks almost smaller on the outside than it is on the inside. You have a lot of room to maneuver and I love the materials on the inside, especially on the dashboard. I plugged my phone into the entertainment system almost right away. I have a similar but much lower-tech entertainment system in my car, so it was easy to adapt to this one. I really liked it.
Andrew R.: I would echo that sentiment. The car does appear very small from the outside, but once you get inside, the amount of room that you have is surprising. I drive a Volkswagen Atlas, which is like a yacht. So it is very refreshing to drive something small, yet the inside does feel sizable, which is nice. I also love when you close the door, it has that very solid feel and that solid sound that makes you feel safe. I also noticed the amount of glass right away; from both the front and the back, the visibility is great. And with the sunroof on top, getting some sunlight into the car is a really nice touch.
Andrew S.: It’s definitely a compact car, but as someone who’s driven larger cars almost exclusively, I kind of enjoyed that. It was a fun ride. Inside, it’s very upscale and luxurious with the wood finishing. The controls were very easy to use. I liked having the dial in the center console so that you didn’t have to reach out to change anything. I also know that it has vehicle memory, so that depending on who is driving, the car automatically reverts back to their custom settings. That makes it so much easier to get the audio, temperature, mirrors and such just the way you like them instead of having to adjust them every time you get in the car.
Jerry: I’d never driven such a small car and I’ve never driven an electric car, so there was a learning curve. But I was happily surprised to find that not only did it have great pickup – I mean, it had some real giddy-up for such a small vehicle – it just handled beautifully. I’m not saying it had a zero-turn radius, but it felt as though it did at times. The breadth and depth of the infotainment system was off the charts as well. But as someone who’s never driven a car that had such a system, I found the screen a bit distracting and in fact, turned it off. So, there was a learning curve.
Matt: I am 6 feet, 6 inches tall. So my first impression was fear that I would not fit inside. I was happily surprised that with the seat all the way back, I was able to fit very well. It was almost like you could roll a soccer ball in between the two front seats; the appearance made it seem larger inside. When I drove it, I thought it had pretty decent pickup but the braking was the most challenging thing to get used to. At first, it felt like a golf cart when you would accelerate, but it slows down quickly when you let off the brake. But once it I got used to that, I really enjoyed it. I think it had all the typical luxuries from a BMW that you would expect with the moon roof and the Apple CarPlay. It also had a nice sound system, which I thoroughly tested out, and it was premium.
BMW i3s Driving Experience
Marisa: As someone who’s never driven an electric vehicle before, it definitely took some getting used to. The car brakes for you, to conserve energy. Just getting used to that was a little bit of a learning curve, but once you’re into it, I found the driving experience to be a lot of fun. It’s definitely a solid car. It has good pickup. It rides like a BMW. It’s a BMW electric car, but it’s still a BMW.
Sarah: Yeah, I’d have to agree that it’s sort of like a hair-trigger brake once you take your foot off the gas. Gas, I guess, being a metaphorical term. It was actually really interesting how different it is than driving a gas car. It’s a really quiet car because it’s not really burning anything, which was super weird. I definitely liked it. When I got back into my actual car after I was done with it, I was like, this thing is so loud. Going back to the infotainment system, the backup camera was incredible. It was like in HD. It had a panoramic shot of my neighborhood as I was pulling out of the driveway. My own car has a backup camera, but it’s piddly and little in comparison. Just as a safety feature, I think the panoramic shot is a really important addition to any car.
Andrew R.: The driving experience for me was really enjoyable. I think again we’re all kind of hitting on the learning curve and that’s definitely there, but I think it’s very brief. I’m used to a touchscreen infotainment system, so getting used to that toggle in the middle was weird for me. One thing I did find is that the acceleration was so much more than I would have expected. I also found that I had a neighbor or two stop me and ask how I got the car … they thought it was a prototype for a car, which is fascinating because this car has been out for almost five years now, but it still looks very modern and high tech and seems to spark some conversation.
Sarah: We’re all talking about how small it is, but in the past, electric cars have been like two seats in a steel bubble, basically. For an electric car, it does look really futuristic.
Andrew R.: And I would just tack on that the maneuverability was great. I previously owned a Mini Cooper and I would say the driving was sort of akin to that. Definitely has good pickup and good braking. You feel in control and very confident that the car is very competent, which is nice.
Andrew S.: I drove the car on Friday during lunch and then drove it home that afternoon. By the time I got home I felt totally comfortable driving it. So that learning curve is pretty short. And once you do get comfortable, it’s a really fun driving experience. Like we all said, I was afraid of taking it out on the highway just cause it’s very small and I wasn’t sure how fast it would go, but it is very solidly built car and the acceleration was probably the one thing that impressed me the most about it.
Jerry: I’d echo the sentiments about the acceleration particularly. But while the acceleration was pronounced, so was the deceleration and that was a big thing to get over. Fuel injection is something that I think we’ve all grown up on, so its absence is pronounced. And I agree it was very solid. What I really liked were the different driving modes – Sport, Comfort, Eco and Eco Pro + (where it would stop you at 56 mph to conserve more energy). The different settings were very valuable; you become very aware of every decision you make and how it affects your range. It puts energy conservation at the forefront of your mind. Not only does this actually conserve energy as a product, but it forces you to think about energy conservation as well, which is very valuable.
Matt: I thought it was really cool how you could change the setting on the screen to see where the energy flow was going, whether it was gaining charge or losing it. The gas extender was great. The other thing I thought was very cool was that it had a wireless phone charger in the center console and that Apple CarPlay was Bluetooth capable. So you didn’t have to actually physically put your phone in.
Powering Up
Marisa: I charged the car with the three-prong outlet directly into my house, which is the best option if you just want to top off your car. I had a decent amount of mileage on the car already so I charged it overnight and it was perfect because it gave me just the right amount of juice to get me to work.
Sarah: I also used my house to charge the car. I thought it was really funny how the charger looked like a gas pump from a gas station. I thought that was adorable. I left it plugged in for a long time. I don’t think I plugged it in overnight, but when I got back in the car the next day I was like, yeah, this looks good. I didn’t really have a huge problem with running out of energy even though I was driving it when it was really hot and I had the air going super high. But also I didn’t drive it that far, honestly. I drove it to and from work and I drove it like around my neighborhood. I do think it’s really interesting how it actually takes time to charge the car so it forces you to think about the energy that you are using, which I think is almost like an interesting thought exercise if we’re going to get deep into this.
Andrew R.: There was a point in my life when (and I’ll out myself here) I’d roll down the windows and put on the air conditioner no matter what the temperature. So, I agree. It’s definitely an eye-opening experience and reframes the way you think about energy conservation, which is really cool. I charged at home with a waterproof extension cord. I don’t know if that’s BMW-recommended or not, but I can tell you the car did charge overnight in torrential rain without any problems. And I’m still here to tell this story. As far as looking for charging stations, it’s definitely still a work in progress. They’re out there and there’s a lot of them but I didn’t have that many super-convenient to where I live. That being said, there are plenty of apps that I downloaded that showed me where they’re available, local hotels, college campuses, etc.
Andrew S.: I went out into the wild to try to get this charged. I went to Nassau Community College, which may not have been the best place just because it’s a vast campus. And it took me a while to find them. When I did, I realized that they were in a restricted parking lot that I couldn’t get into. I did check and there were a few BMW dealerships close to me that had some; I didn’t test them but they’re there. You just have to do your homework and know where they are and just keep tabs on everything.
Jerry: Charging was interesting. I think one of the greatest features of the infotainment system was that it would let you know when you were running low on charge and it would offer to search for charging stations in the area. That was a really useful feature. I was surprised by how many chargers there were in certain areas. But a lot more education is needed for the public to understand how long it takes to charge an electric car. I underestimated the difference between a standard charge and the supercharge and the amount of time needed to get to full battery, so as I was looking for chargers, I was running out of electricity rapidly. On my trip from New York to Providence and back, I thought the gas range extender came in handy to relieve a portion of my range anxiety. Even if I didn’t find a charger or didn’t have time, there was the reassurance that I could fill it up with gas.
Overall Thoughts
Marisa: It was a lot of fun. I think that it’s more of an around-town type of car than a highway car, which is what I would use it for. It’s the type of car that I would get. It was a solid car.
Sarah: It really did feel like a luxury experience inside. I’ve never had a car so nice. I just wanted to touch the dashboard all the time and the window is huge. It was like driving in a bubble. It’s not a road trip car by any means, just because of the amount of time it takes to charge. But like Marisa said, for going around town, it’s a nice ride.
Andrew R.: Yeah, I agree. The BMW i3 is not for everybody but I think it does have quite a few use cases. Going to the supermarket and kicking down the back seats? No problem. Throwing my 7-year-old son in the back? No problem. Taking it to the park with a lot of equipment? No problem. It really comes down to your commute and your willingness to put in the time to change, to get used to something that’s different. I mean, let’s face it, we’ve all been driving the same way for a very long time. But I think if you’re able and you’re willing, it’s definitely a vehicle that can check a lot of boxes for a lot of people.
Jerry: It’s a unique car that takes some getting used to. But once you do, I thought it was great driving experience. Great trim, great safety features. I think it’s a perfect car for anyone, particularly perhaps older drivers looking for a safety features, first and foremost. Sure, there’s a learning curve in going from a gas-powered vehicle to this. But again, it forces you to become more eco-conscious. Every choice you make affects the range of the car and it almost trains you to appreciate just how much energy you’re spending and that’s incredibly valuable, all in its own right.
Matt: I think there is market for this car and as a person with a long commute each day and a person who also travels hundreds of miles throughout New England for work on a frequent basis, it was not the vehicle for me at this point in my life. Not to say that it will never be, but I thought it was a great experience to drive and to get more used to being part of the electric vehicle community. There were a lot of things that I learned from this experience that gave me insight and made me less nervous about buying an electric vehicle in general.
Does the BMW i3 sound like your type of car? Share your thoughts in the comments.
For details on specifications and a pro’s point of view, you can find the BMW i3 review and dozens more at AAA.com/TestDrive.
A Fire Island day trip can include soaking up the sun on its beaches, hiking or biking, sailing or surfing, clamming, visiting an iconic lighthouse or spending the afternoon in the park.
Located parallel to Long Island’s south shore, Fire Island is a pair of islands – split up by Superstorm Sandy in 2012 – that were devastated in the late 1930s by a hurricane and rebuilt into one of the Empire State’s most popular vacation spots in the years since.
Fire Island is known for its nightlife, bungalow-style homes, summer celebrity presence, lack of cars, roaming deer and two large LGBT communities, Cherry Grove and Fire Island Pines.
As far back as the 1920s, the Manhattan theater community frequented the island and, to this day, it’s not unusual to spot some well-known faces there. But while the island is famous for its occasionally raucous parties and nightlife scene, it’s also a great spot for vacationing with friends or family.
Here’s a list of great activities and things to do in Fire Island.
Fire Island Beaches
There are a number of great beaches from which to choose for a Fire Island day trip. One of the top destinations for visitors is Ocean Beach, which has the largest concentrations of homes, bars and restaurants. If you’re bringing the family and, especially, young ones to Fire Island, drop by Saltaire, a quiet community that offers a variety of activities, including basketball, tennis and a boardwalk promenade.
Fair Harbor is a popular locale for urbanites visiting from New York City. It includes a relaxed downtown district with restaurants (don’t miss Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s Le Dock for the view) funky shops and an upscale food market (complete the day with an ice cream cone from Unfriendly’s). Fire Island Pines is known for its boutiques and markets. And if nightlife is your reason for visiting, you can’t go wrong with Kismet, a popular location for nightclubs and house parties, with a marina that’s great for boating.
Another top spot for things to do in Fire Island is Davis Park, which has a marina, restaurants and bars. If you intend your vacation to be a relaxing one, there’s likely no better locale than the appropriately named Lonelyville, which is known for being one of the island’s quietest beaches.
Ocean Beach in full swing during peak season. (Photo: WoodysPhotos / Editorial RF / iStock Editorial / Getty Images Plus)
Fire Island Parks
If you’re looking to get away from the beach for a while, either for relaxation or exercise, there are several great parks and hiking spots on Fire Island. Robert Moses State Park has 5 miles of beach that can be used for swimming, surfing and fishing. The 875-acre park, which is the island’s largest, has an 18-hole golf course as well as volleyball courts, picnic areas, a playground, concessions and park grills.
The Sunken Forest is an ancient holly forest located just east of Point O’Woods. In 1966, the property was donated to the Fire Island National Seashore under the provision that it would always be maintained in its natural state and operated as a sanctuary. Some of the forest’s plants are considered rare.
Smith Point County Park is a popular spot for sportsmen, swimmers and surfers alike. The park has white sands, camping facilities, saltwater fishing, concession stands, a playground and special events during the summer. Smith Point is also where you can find the TWA Flight 800 International Memorial, which commemorates the 230 people killed when a Boeing 747 crashed on the site in 1996.
More Things To Do in Fire Island
During your trip to the island you should check out the Fire Island Lighthouse, which was built in 1858 and for years acted as a landmark for transatlantic ships coming into New York Harbor. For some European immigrants, it was their first sight of land upon arriving in the U.S. During a visit to the lighthouse, you can check out the keeper’s quarters and exhibit center, climb the tower’s 182 steps, take in gorgeous views of the ocean and view the Fresnel lens used in the tower between 1858 and 1933.
A great spot for hiking and spotting animals is the Otis Pike Wilderness Area, which includes pine forests, wetlands and dunes, where visitors might see herons, white-tailed deer and waterfowl.
What are your favorite things to do in Fire Island? Let us know of any other great activities or must-see spots in the comments.
Sometimes it’s hard to grasp the sheer size of the ocean and the amount of life contained within its watery boundaries. Until you have the opportunity to see whales in the wild, that is. There’s nothing quite like seeing them breach in person, leaping into the air and splashing back down with magnificent force.
Luckily, there are plenty of places in the Northeast to view whales in their natural habitat. Some whale watching tours offer guaranteed whale sightings during the peak season, which runs from May through October.
White Cap Charters offers up-close encounters with whales during five-hour private charters on a yacht that seats just six people. They operate in Cape Cod Bay, which is the richest fishing ground in the East, said owner Brad White, attracting countless humpback whales that are always coming up to breach. Passengers on White Cap Charters tours have seen rare right whales, orcas, sharks and – of course – whales.
“Being face-to-face with the whales is a truly unique experience that everyone should have in their life,” White said. “They’re just such spectacular creatures and it’s humbling to know that we share the world with something so beautiful.”
AAA members save 10% on tours and charters with White Cap Charters.
You won’t go hungry on this whale watching cruise! The boat is equipped with a full bar and plenty of food to sustain you during the four-hour trip. Cruises run from June to September.
Booking a whale watching tour with Captain John’s experienced captains, who have been in in business since 1946 and offering whale watching tours since the 1970s, will almost guarantee you’ll learn new things and have an exciting experience. Tours are offered in both Plymouth and Provincetown, MA. Whale watch guests have seen humpback, finback, pilot, minke and even endangered right whales during cruises.
AAA members get $3 off adult and children’s tickets.
Board a Frances Fleet whale watch and the chances are high (thanks to waters warmed by the Gulf Stream) that you’ll see finback whales. Guests have also spotted humpback, pilot, false killer, sei and minke whales, in addition to tuna, marlon, sharks, turtles, and dolphins. Although it can’t guarantee signings, Frances Fleet gives free vouchers for a future trip or a fishing trip voucher if no whales are seen on a cruise.
Maine has more than just lobster, it also lays claim to some of the world’s biggest mammals. You can follow along on Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co.’s website to see what guests have seen on recent outings. On July 15, guests saw eight humpback whales on a charter. The day before, guests saw a mother and calf as well as six humpback whales and a few breaches.
These whale watching tours are offered in conjunction with New England Aquarium, so you’re sure to learn a thing or two about whales from an onboard naturalist. Guests visit the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, and often see the same whales again and again during tours. (Keep an eye out for regular humpbacks Etch-a-Sketch, Sprinkles and Shuffleboard!) Guests have spotted finbacks, minke, pilot and right whales during their trips.
Have you ever gone on a whale watching tour? Tell us about your experience in the comments.
When you go searching for a hotel or restaurant, you likely have certain criteria in mind. Luckily, AAA Diamond Ratings and new AAA Inspector “Best Of”badges rate eligible hotels and restaurants to help travelers find exactly what they’re looking for.
AAA ‘Best Of’ Locations in the Northeast
AAA uses several badges for rating properties. The recently redesigned badges are diamond-shaped and can be found in AAA online listings for restaurants and hotels.
Badges show where hotels and restaurants have exceeded in their AAA inspection and denote inspector favorites in categories such as Entertainment, Family-Friendly, Pet-Friendly, Recreation, Scenic View, Value and Wow Effect.
As of 2019, AAA Northeast has 1,342 amazing hotels and restaurants with AAA Diamond Ratings. Here are some with unique features and amenities that won “Best Of” badges.
Look for Best Of badges in AAA hotel and restaurant listings.
What AAA Ratings Mean
AAA has inspected and approved roughly 59,000 Diamond Rated hotels and restaurants. Diamond Ratings evaluate the kinds of experiences different locations offer and highlight their attributes. Essentially, you can use AAA Diamond Ratings to find the best fit for your occasion and budget.
The ratings for hotels and restaurants mean slightly different things. For hotels, Five Diamonds means “Ultimate Luxury,” while a Four Diamond establishment will provide a “Refined” experience. Three Diamonds indicates the lodging is “Distinguished,” and Two Diamonds means “Enhanced.” Lastly, a One Diamond rating means the accommodation is “Budget-Oriented.” For restaurants, a Five Diamonds rating signifies an establishment is “Leading-Edge,” while a Four Diamonds location is “Distinctive.” Three Diamonds restaurants are “Trendy,” and Two Diamond restaurants are more “Casual.” Lastly, One Diamond means an eatery is “Quick-Serve.”
So if you’re looking for a high-end experience where you’ll need reservations well in advance, like for a honeymoon, vacation or other special occasion, you’ll want a location with Four or Five Diamonds. If you’re looking to have a good time on a budget, a one or two Diamond Rated establishment will likely be a better fit. Learn more.
How AAA Ratings Happen
AAA would never recommend subpar eateries or lodgings to members, and so Diamond Rated locations are carefully graded by professionally trained inspectors. They’re industry experts who put the wants, expectations and priorities of AAA members first. Reviews are completely objective to assure honest results.
According to an anonymous AAA Inspector, the Three Diamond rating is the most sought-after. “This is where most properties want to be, as it is seen as the most approachable by the American traveler. They only want Four-to-Five Diamond places for fancy vacations or special occasions.”
With so many AAA Inspected and Approved properties to choose from, it can be difficult to decide where to go. Thankfully, the Diamond Rating System is here to help you find exactly what you’re looking for based on your budget, expectations and priorities.
To learn more about AAA Diamonds, this Diamond Rating explainer breaks down the basics. For a behind-the-scenes look at how restaurant ratings are determined, check out our inspector shadow.
What do you think of the new AAA Inspector “Best Of” badges? What AAA Rated hotel or restaurant would you like to visit?
Powwows are gatherings that blend ancient and contemporary Native American customs, such as intertribal dances, foods, music and activities, into full-fledged festivals open to the public.
“Today’s powwows have evolved into a contemporary mix of dance, reconnection of family and friends, [a] supermarket of Native goods and arts, and festival,” said Yvonne Wakim Dennis, co-author of “Native American Landmarks and Festivals.” “Powwows are famous for their fanfare of colorful clothing, exhilarating drumming,singing and dance moves which have all been modified into a dazzling and exciting event enjoyed by both Native Americans and visitors. The Powwow is a major cultural activity that not only helps preserve a rich legacy, but illustrates the tenacity and strength of Native cultures that are living and dynamic.”
Powwows are open to the public, but Wakim Dennis reminds spectators to show respect.
“Spectators should enjoy themselves, but remember that for many participants, the powwow is a way of earning money,” she said. “It is also a serious time when participants, who may be marginalized from their own cultures in their daily lives, have the opportunity to connect with their friends, family and heritage.”
Here are just a few of the local powwows happening in the Northeast this summer and fall.
Narragansett Indian Tribes August Meeting Powwow
Aug. 10-11
Charlestown, RI
The Narragansett Indian reservation claims to hold the oldest recorded powwow in North America. The event features traditional Narragansett cuisine, as well as modern American food, various Native jewelry, music, artwork, books and traditional Native American dancing.
Dancers at the Mohegan Wigwam Festival.
Mohegan Wigwam Festival
Aug. 17-18
Uncasville, CT
Each August, the tribe sponsors a free powwow-style event to celebrate the annual Green Corn Festival or Thanksgiving for the corn harvest. Here, the general public is invited to view dance competitions, musical performances, art shows and other special events.
Visitors can learn more about Mohegan culture and traditions including Native American crafts, foods, dancing and drumming. The family-friendly festival is free and open to all.
Medicine River Charity Powwow
Aug. 24-25
Gilbertville, MA
Experience Native American drumming, dancing, teaching, artisanal vendors, a community feast, sunrise ceremonies, children’s activities and nightly cultural wellness meetings at the Medicine River Charity Powwow.
Saturday night includes a pot luck dinner in which guests are invited to bring side dishes, desserts or bread. Other activities include morning sunrise ceremonies, mother’s honor dance and a Saturday night talking circle.
Shinnecock Indian Powwow
Aug. 30-Sept. 2
Southampton, NY
The Shinnecock Indian Powwow is one of the largest Native American gatherings on the East Coast. Each day features competitive and ceremonial dancing, entertainment and prayers. Drum groups and dancers will compete for $50,000 in prize money.
The powwow also plays host to approximately 100 Native American arts, crafts and food vendors from across the Americas. Additionally, Native American representatives provide demonstrations and information to guests.
Sponsored by the Laconia Indian Historical Association, this powwow features two days of dancing, drumming, demonstrations, crafts, food and traders. Guests can visit the snack shack for delicious food and drinks, including fry bread stand with wojapi (a thick berry sauce) and other toppings. A mourner’s feast takes place Friday at 7 p.m. and a candlelight vigil will be held at 10 p.m.
The Sky Dancers at the Iroquois Indian Festival.
Iroquois Indian Festival
Aug. 31-Sept. 1
Howes Cave, NY
The Iroquois Indian Festival, which takes place at the Iroquois Indian Museum, includes an art market exclusively featuring Iroquois artists. Both contemporary and traditional art forms are on display. There will also be a children’s area with art and traditional crafts activities.
The event is highlighted by traditional Iroquois social dances performed by The Sky Dancers from Six Nations Reserve in Ontario. Storyteller Perry Ground of the Onondaga Nation, one of the original nations of the Iroquois, will tell tales of daring feats and astounding adventures.
A wildlife rehabilitator will discuss local wildlife conservation and show a variety of wild animals, including birds of prey. The museum’s archaeology department will give demonstrations of flintknapping and other early technologies. Delectable Native foods will be available from Haudenosaunee food vendors.
Saratoga Native American Festival
Sept. 22
Saratoga Springs, NY
This year’s Saratoga Native American Festival will be held at the historic Congress Park and will include activities in the Saratoga Arts Center and the Canfield Casino. Authentic northeastern Native American Indian drumming and dancing, storytelling, music, crafts, and traditional native foods are just some of the things visitors will find.
The festival includes Native artists and artisan vendors selling their work, including traditional arts and crafts to more modern forms such as beadwork, quillwork, wampum, tufting, silver work, carving in wood, stone, antler and bone, leatherwork, oil painting and clothing. Crafting demonstrations such as basket weaving, jewelry making and carving will take place throughout the day.
Native American vendors will offer a wide variety of foods, ranging from traditional blue corn bread, moose meat and strawberry drink to Navajo tacos and buffalo burgers.
Spending the weekend in Saratoga? Click here for more things to fill up your itinerary.
Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration
Oct. 13-14
Randall’s Island, NY
During this celebration, the Redhawk Native American Arts Council brings together a consortium of 14 indigenous organizations to bring awareness of Indigenous Peoples day, traditionally celebrated as Columbus Day. All are welcome to enjoy music, song, spoken word, artists and a guest speaker.
The Redhawk Native American Arts Council is a not-for-profit organization founded and maintained by Native American artists and educators living in the New York City area.
Have you ever been to a powwow? What was the experience like? Let us know in the comments below.
