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.
The first of many decisions that you will have to make when planning a theme park vacation is choosing where to go. With so many incredible parks and resorts along the East Coast and just a short plane ride away in Orlando, some might say it is the hardest part. And that’s just the beginning.
Then there’s picking a place to stay, making sure you get reservations at the restaurants you want to visit and more. We know there is a ton to think about, but it’s nothing you can’t handle with a bit of thoughtful organization. It will all be worth it when you’re off having the time of your life.
Picking the Right Theme Park
Your first step will be to choose the perfect theme park for your family. Your decision will be based on a number of factors, including distance, cost, and the ages and interests of your kids.
Distance: The theme park you choose may depend largely on where you live and how much time you have to travel. We all know that Florida and California have the most variety, but almost every state in America has a theme park or two. You have plenty of options, no matter where you live, but remember that the farther your destination, the more time and money you’ll spend to get there.
Cost: Ticket prices vary from park to park, but you should be prepared to spend anywhere from $35 to $100 per person for a one-day ticket. If you’re a AAA member, you can save on admission to many parks when you buy tickets in advance at any AAA branch or at AAA.com. Be aware of extra costs like parking, concessions and access to special attractions. The cost of your flights, car rental, gas, lodging and food all add up. Be sure to do your research and create a budget long before your trip. And make sure to use your AAA discounts on hotels, resorts, airfare and rental cars, too.
Ages and interests of your kids. A large part of deciding which theme park to visit will depend on your kids. Are they old enough to enjoy a theme park vacation? What are their interests? Many of the largest and most famous theme parks focus on the characters your kids have seen on TV and in movies, but there are also parks based on wild animals, popular toys and distant lands.
You can take a successful theme park vacation with kids of all ages, but perhaps the best time to bring them is when they are between ages 4 and 12. A 4-year-old will be able to walk by himself for part of the day and 12-year-olds still believe in the magic and excitement that a theme park provides.
Choosing a Place to Stay
Once you’ve selected a theme park or two, you can start hashing out the other details. Most parks provide a wealth of lodging options, from budget hotels to upscale resorts. On-site lodging will help you save on transportation costs, spend more time in the park and possibly even skip ahead in lines. While this option is often more expensive, the added perks can make them worth the splurge.
Most standard-size hotel rooms are suitable for four people. Larger families will need to look for a larger suite of rooms. Suites come equipped with separate sleeping quarters and a kitchen, so guests can make their own meals. If you don’t reserve a room with a kitchen, be sure to find a resort or hotel that has an on-site restaurant. And remember, you can call AAA Travel or stop in at any AAA branch to meet with a AAA travel agent. These industry experts can help you plan and book nearly every aspect of your trip at a discounted price.
Planning Your Meals
Theme park restaurants can be a circus of long lines, tired children and crowded tables. The last thing you want from your vacation is a meltdown at every meal, so it’s important to prepare well in advance. Here are some tips to take the stress out of mealtimes.
Eat a healthy breakfast at your hotel. Breakfast may just be your most sane meal of the day, so make it count. If you’ve got a kitchen in your room, prepare breakfast yourself and take this time to relax a bit before heading out. Otherwise, take advantage of your hotel’s on-site restaurant to fill yourself and your kiddos up with a nourishing meal before heading to the park.
Pack snacks and water. Most theme parks won’t allow you to bring in full meals or coolers, but snacks are usually allowed, and they can be a lifesaver if your kids become grouchy while you’re standing in line. Stash granola bars, fresh fruit and trail mix in your backpack for emergencies.
Make reservations well ahead of time: Did you know that many theme park restaurants allow you to make reservations months in advance? It’s true, and if you build the rest of your day around meals, you can minimize meltdowns from tired, hungry kids. Make your reservations during off-hours to avoid crowds. If you can do lunch at 11 a.m. and dinner at 4 p.m., you will have more time to relax and even a little peace and quiet when you sit down to eat.
Follow these tips to make sure your theme park vacation is one your family will remember for all the right reasons. Take a little time to do some research and plan ahead and you will see nothing but smiles (hopefully!) when vacation time rolls around.
If you’re just passing through, Watkins Glen, N.Y., might seem like a blink-and-you-miss-it place. The village in the Finger Lakes region is only 2 square miles with a year-round population of about 2,000. Its downtown area, just a few blocks around Franklin Street (NY Route 14), is quaint, yet nondescript, with two-story brick buildings circa 1840-1940. Today, they house small retail shops and eateries.
On the surface, Watkins Glen might seem like an ordinary, unhurried, somewhat-rural community. In truth, it is a pacesetter.
Note: Due to the ever-changing nature of the COVID-19 crisis, please see official websites before visiting to check for restrictions or closures.
Watkins Glen Racing
A car takes a run around Watkins Glen International in the off-season. (Photo: Floyd Shulze)
For racing fans, Watkins Glen International is high-revvin’ heaven. In fact, the history of car racing in these parts predates the raceway. Organized street racing started in Watkins Glen in 1948. The first track was a route through and around the village on twisting, turning, hilly roads – some paved, some not.
Today, visitors can still drive the original 6.6-mile grand prix race course used from 1948 to 1952. Maps are available at many locations including the racetrack, the visitors center downtown and the chamber of commerce website. I got mine from the front desk of the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel, along with insight from the knowledgeable staff. Commemorative signs mark the road route, but so do speed-limit signs, mostly in the 25-mph range.
“Drive the Glen” at Watkins Glen International might be more your speed. On various occasions during the race season, April through October, visitors can experience the thrill of maneuvering the 3.4-mile road track for a couple of laps in their own vehicles. I was there in the off-season, so I didn’t have the opportunity, which was especially disappointing because I happened to be driving a rented Dodge Charger for my road trip. Anyway, the rules say you can’t push it beyond 55 mph or pass other vehicles, “especially the pace car.” I watched some racers taking impressive practice runs over the hills and curves of the track.
The view from the outdoor tasting room at Lakewood Vineyards in Watkins Glen, N.Y. (Photo: Aimée Carrier)
Car racing isn’t the only circuit in town. There’s another loop through Watkins Glen, N.Y., for wine enthusiasts. Watkins Glen has been dubbed “the Gateway to the Finger Lakes,” the largest wine-producing area in New York state. More than 100 vineyards operate in the region that encompasses 9,000 square miles. Most are in the vicinity of Cayuga, Keuka and Seneca lakes.
Situated on the south shore of Seneca Lake, Watkins Glen is on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, which includes about 30 participating vineyards and wineries. Many of the wineries offer tastings and tours. Some world-class wines have been produced in the area. The slopes surrounding Seneca Lake are said to be particularly good for growing grapes. They also make for an attractive setting for sipping and gazing across the neat rows of vines toward the lake.
Needless to say, wine tastings and driving are a dangerous pairing, so it’s important to have a designated sober driver. Another option is to hire a transportation company. At Lakewood Vineyards, I met some women from Long Island on a group tour of the wine trail. They were traveling without worry on motorcoach. Their biggest dilemma was getting the wine they had purchased home. They had cases of their favorites that could only be bought in the area.
Just one of the spectacular sites at Watkins Glen State Park’s Gorge Trail. (Photo: Floyd Shulze)
You’ll find tranquility in abundance at Watkins Glen State Park. The Gorge Trail is a must for any able-bodied visitor. It follows Glen Creek alongside – and sometimes under – its 19 waterfalls, past swirling pools and around and through water-sculpted rocks. Behind each turn in the path, beyond each water-carved tunnel, above every uphill climb is another brilliant view from every perspective – even if you are surrounded by crowds at this popular natural attraction.
I was lucky to avoid crowds on my visit to the gorge. We enjoyed a guided tour in the rain armed with ponchos and umbrellas provided by the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel. The soft but soaking showers enhanced the beautiful surroundings. The creek ran a little higher and faster through its turning, dropping passageway and the vegetation along the banks released large drops from its shiny water-drenched foliage into the water below.
Speaking of foliage: In mid-fall, when summer crowds subside, the hills surrounding Watkins Glen turn to vibrant shades of red, yellow and orange. The colors encircle the village and highlight picture-perfect scenes of farmhouses, croplands, barns and animals in the distance.
Please note that the Gorge Trail closes at the first sign of frost in fall and will stay closed until it is deemed completely safe from ice.
Family-Friendly Farming
The big chair at Reisinger’s Apple Country has entertained generations of children. (Photo: Floyd Shulze)
For families, there are a number of opportunities for outdoor activities. At Farm Sanctuary, a 300-acre shelter, you can interact with rescued farm animals and hear their stories. At Reisinger’s Apple Country, you can have a pick-your-own adventure. You’ll get to try the latest hybrid created by Cornell University’s apple-breeding program, like the SnapDragon, a trademarked mix with a Honeycrisp and an undisclosed apple variety. Whatever the other parent is, it helps make for a wonderfully sweet and crunchy snack. The Reisingers are test growers for Cornell’s new creations, which actually take about 10 years to perfect. There are pears, peaches and seasonal vegetables, too. Kids might get a kick out of the giant Adirondack chair. It’s also a fun growth-measuring stick for generations of Reisinger’s visitors.
Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel
A sampling of Finger Lakes wine outside the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel with its extensive patio in the background. (Photo: Aimée Carrier)
Some of the most spectacular views are from the AAA Four Diamond Rated Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel. Tucked behind the village’s main strip, it sits overlooking Seneca Lake. The hotel is a central location for visitors to explore the area with ease. Step out the main entrance for a leisurely stroll through the downtown neighborhood. Head out to the Watkins Glen State Park Gorge Trail, which is about a half-mile south on Franklin Street. Book now.
Just a few miles to the north, you’ll come upon some of the most notable vineyards in Finger Lakes Wine Country. The Corning Museum of Glass is about 20 miles south.
A hub for travelers and locals alike, the large back patio at Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel is a casual, comfortable and enjoyable place to hang out whether you’re dining at the handsome umbrella-topped, wrought-iron tables, relaxing in an Adirondack chair or gathered around one of the gas-lit firepits. There’s often musical entertainment and seasonal activities, as well.
The Harbor Hotel shows pride its in community with a collection of local flavor. The restaurant pays homage to local products like melt-in-your-mouth cheeses, fresh produce and a good selection of Finger Lakes wines. The hotel decor reflects the community’s most notable characteristics: The walls are lined with photographs of orchards, vineyards, boating on Seneca Lake and spectacular images of Watkins Glen State Park and awe-inspiring vantage points of the Gorge Trail.
The Harbor Hotel staff members show genuine hospitality. They are unobtrusive and maintain a laid-back vibe while still attending to every detail of a guest’s stay. There’s an around-the-clock concierge, but you can also get local insight and insider tips from the many of the staff members who grew up in the area. After a steep winding climb up the Watkins Glen State Park Gorge Trail, I was impressed when a Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel staff member told me that she used to run the course to train for high school track.
The highlights of my stay were in the early morning and evening. In the morning, a beverage station is set up at the central elevator area of each floor. Coffee, tea, hot cocoa and more are available in whatever quantity you find necessary to start your day. Rather than fiddling with a coffee maker in my room, spilling sweetener and powdered creamer (never enough for me), I could stumble down the hall and return with a perfectly brewed, hot mug of coffee with real cream and any sweetener I preferred.
Every evening, I found a mouth-watering chocolate bar on my pillow. Even when we turned down turndown service, I was given a handful of chocolates. They sure knew how to put a smile on my face.
Have you ever been to Watkins Glen, N.Y.? Share your trip highlights in the comments.
More than 30 million Americans wear contact lenses regularly. With contacts providing more natural eyesight than eyeglasses, being safer for performance sports and physical activities and having no chance of fogging up in sudden temperature changes, it’s easy to see why they’re so popular.
But according to the U.S Food and Drug Administration, 90% of contact lens wearers do not take proper care of their lenses, which can lead to eye problems such as irritation, blurry vision or infections.
Follow this advice to make sure that your eyes and lenses continue to perform their best.
Keep in Contact With Your Eye Doctor
Your eye doctor is the key to your contact lens care and making sure they work with your lifestyle. Get your eyes checked regularly to keep your prescription accurate. (AAA members can get 30% off eye exams at participating LensCrafters locations.)
Be sure to follow all the guidelines set by your eye doctor and the contact lens manufacturer. This includes wearing times, replacement schedules and cleaning instructions.
Your contact lenses help you to see the world around you, so you want them to be as clean as possible. There are a few things to keep in mind when cleaning your lenses.
Wash and dry your hands. Wash your hands with soap and water. If you’re wondering how big of a difference this simple step can make, try this experiment: Place unwashed fingers on a piece of clear tape; whatever sticks to the tape is what you would be putting on the lens – and in your eye!
Don’t clean your lenses with water. You might be tempted to throw the lenses under the faucet but tap water may contain microorganisms that can seep onto the lens and cause an eye infection. To clean your lenses, use disinfecting solution and rub the lenses with your clean fingers to get rid of any residue and surface build-up. If you have reusable lenses, you should use the solution to clean your lens case as well. And while we’re talking about water, take your lenses out before swimming in a pool or hot tub or taking a shower. Even though contact lenses do not fog up like eyeglasses do, the exposure to water can do more harm to the lenses than good.
Your lenses aren’t lollipops. If your contacts are feeling a little dry, avoid the temptation to dab them with saliva. Your mouth is full of bacteria, so doing this is not a safe idea.
Keep them fresh. The solution you use to soak your contact lens in should always be completely fresh. Make sure that you do not mix older solution with new as the mixture will lose the amount of disinfectant it needs to kill off organisms.
Change it up. If you keep using the same case for your contact lenses, dirt and other irritants will linger and build up and stick to them, causing all sorts of eye problems. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend changing your case about once every three months.
Put them in, then look good. Be sure you put the lenses in before putting on makeup. Not only will your mascara and eye liner look more even, but doing so will reduce the risk of makeup-based irritants sticking to the lenses.
Contact Lens First-Aid Tips
Contact lenses are a more comfortable option than glasses for many, but there are also risks. Should you run into these situations, here’s what you should do.
Contact lens stuck in your eye? First and foremost, wash your hands. Then, determine the location of the contact lens. If it’s centered on the cornea, rinse the eye with saline, contact solution or eyedrops, then close the eye and massage the lid until the contact moves. Rinse and repeat as needed. Is the lens somewhere else in your eye? Move your eye in the opposite direction and gently massage the eyelid or blink to move it to the center.
Contact lens torn? Having a torn contact lens is more than just a minor inconvenience – it is a hazard to your eyes. A torn lens can scratch the cornea, which can lead to infections and other eye problems. If the lens is torn, remove immediately and get a fresh pair. Always have backup lenses or glasses handy.
Violent stinging or burning sensation? This could be a result of many factors, from allergens to dry eyes. Use lubricating eye drops or switch to a preservative-free contact lens cleanser until you can see your eye doctor.
Give Your Eyes and Contacts A Break
Lastly, when getting ready for bed, remember to take out your contacts. Per the CDC, at least half of all Americans who wear contact lenses sleep or nap with them in. Doing so, however, can lead to infection, redness and soreness of the eyes. You wouldn’t wear your eyeglasses or sunglasses while you sleep, so do the same with your contacts.
AAA members can save 10% off on contact lenses with LensCrafters.
When we’re traveling, we think about the sights we’ll see, the things we’ll do, the food we’ll eat. But we should also think about the air we’ll breathe. In some places around the U.S. and the world, pollution in the air can be harmful.
“We are talking some serious health effects,” said Janice Nolen, assistant vice president of national policy at the American Lung Association. “We’re talking about increased risk of premature death. We’re talking about heart attacks. We’re talking about asthma attacks. We’re talking about needing to go to the hospital, not being able to breathe. Even healthy adults who are exposed during a period of unhealthy air quality can be affected.”
You can find air quality forecasts for U.S. destinations online at airnow.gov, which also has links to forecasts from U.S. embassies and consulates around the world, and international air quality sites.
If you’re traveling someplace with unhealthy air quality and you have an underlying health condition such as asthma, COPD, cardiovascular disease or diabetes, visit your doctor before your trip to discuss what medications you might need to bring with you. Others at special risk from exposure to air pollution include people over age 65, pregnant women (because of risk to the baby) and children, whose lungs are still developing.
“Even healthy children need to be protected,” Nolen said.
Pollutants in the air can include particulate matter from industrial or auto exhaust, wildfire smoke and harmful gases such as carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide and ozone.
The best way to protect yourself is to stay indoors as much as possible when the air is unhealthy. Keep windows and doors closed and if you have a heating/air conditioning system, set it to recirculate.
If you must be outdoors, an N95 face mask can be helpful, but offers limited protection.
“They don’t protect against gases, so they’re not going to help you with ozone, they’re not going to help you with sulfur dioxide, they’re not going to help you with carbon monoxide,” Nolen said.
In order to work, face masks must fit snugly. Because of this, they won’t properly fit children, many women or men with beards. Because they are meant only for single use, you’ll need one for each day.
“Don’t look at them as a solution,” Nolen said. “Look at them as a temporary help in an emergency situation.”
Careful planning will help you breathe easier – and more safely – wherever you roam.
To read more articles about travel-related health topics, visit AAA.com/LiveWell.
Sharks are everywhere and they’ve been here forever. Sharks have been swimming in the oceans since Pangea and there are currently over 400 different species of them. But for a fish that’s been around for so long, sharks are pretty misunderstood. In the United States, more people get struck by lightning than attacked by sharks. One of the best ways to learn more about our neighbors of the deep is by visiting a local aquarium. And if you’re feeling really curious, some aquariums even offer shark diving programs. Are you ready to take a little dip?
One of the best aquarium shark diving experiences can be found at the Long Island Aquarium, in their 120,000-gallon Lost City of Atlantis Shark Exhibit. At the Long Island Aquarium shark dive, you descend into the exhibit in a cage. Here you’ll come face-to-face with four sand tiger sharks, four nurse sharks and two wobbegong sharks, as well as the fish that share their habitat.
“This experience is perfect for someone looking to get over a fear of sharks, because you are very safe,” said Darlene Puntillo, the Long Island Aquarium’s marketing director. “You’re in a steel cage with an experienced dive master and an educational tender outside the cage.”
Whether sharks scare you or not, you’re sure to learn a lot on your dive. Included in the dive is a tour of the Lost City of Atlantis habitat, as well as a Q&A with the in-house shark experts.
“Getting that close to an animal you otherwise wouldn’t helps people feel a connection to that animal,” Puntillo said. “You can’t leave this adventure without appreciating sharks and wanting to be with them or learn even more about them. They are amazing animals!”
If you can’t make it to the Long Island Aquarium, you could head to Adventure Aquarium in New Jersey. Adventure Aquarium offers educational programs with a variety of marine wildlife, including sharks. In Shark Realm, you can don a wetsuit and snorkel and get right in the water. You’ll come within inches of sand tiger sharks and sandbar sharks. You’ll also get the chance to swim with and feed the aquarium’s stingrays in the Stingray Lagoon.
Adventure Aquarium is full of great shark exhibits even for people who don’t want to get in the water with them. You can interact with little bamboo sharks at the Touch a Shark exhibit and walk through a giant Shark Tunnel (home to over 20 sharks). You can even make your way across Shark Bridge, a V-shaped rope suspension bridge that passes over a shark tank.
Do you have a younger shark fan in your house? Many nearby aquariums offer touch tank experiences, where children can interact with small rays and sharks. Mystic Aquarium and The Maritime Aquarium both offer this type of experience. The New England Aquarium’s shark and ray touch tank houses even larger marine life, like cownose rays, Atlantic rays and epaulette sharks.
If you’re willing to travel for sharks, there are a few other aquariums around the U.S. that offer shark diving programs. Most notable are the Florida Aquarium and the Georgia Aquarium.
At the Florida Aquarium, you can take a surface snorkel among stingrays, barracudas, a sea turtles, nurse sharks and sand tiger sharks. A dive master will be with you at all times to guide you through the experience.
“Part of the experience is learning about sharks and how they impact our waterways,” said Sandra Morrison, the Florida Aquarium’s director of communications. “We limit the number of guests and staff that go in the habitats to ensure we do not negatively impact the animals.”
If you’re a certified scuba diver, you can go even deeper at the Florida Aquarium. With a dive master at your side, you will plunge into the tank to get a close-up and personal look at the sharks. You don’t need to bring your own scuba gear, the aquarium will provide it for you. Just make sure you have your certification!
At the Georgia Aquarium, one of the largest aquariums in the world, you can take their Journey with Gentle Giants swim. Journey with Gentle Giants is an experience where you can snorkel or scuba dive (again, as long as you’re certified) with a variety of marine life, including manta rays and whale sharks. The swim takes place in the Ocean Voyager exhibit, which contains 6.3 million gallons of water. In addition to whale sharks and manta rays, you could see zebra sharks, sawfish, leopard whiprays, bowmouth guitarfish, humphead wrasses and many other types of fish. The Journey with Gentle Giants swim is actually the only program in the world that allows guests to swim with whale sharks, the largest-known living fish species.
If you want to get closer to our toothy ocean friends, then shark diving is definitely for you. And at these aquariums, every week is shark week.
Would you ever go shark diving? Have you done it before? Tell us in the comments!
