True to its heritage, the Tuscan food of today is still derived from its peasant roots to create simple hearty meals. You’ll find much of the fresh ingredients that enhance each meal are local and seasonal.

“In Tuscany, it’s all about simple and fresh and not necessarily a million spices or 10 different components,” said Anne Lischwe, AAA Northeast travel sales manager for New York and New Jersey, who has lived in Tuscany and other parts of Italy. “Everything the locals have is super fresh. They don’t buy it and freeze. They buy it from someone who grew it next door and then picked it and they eat it the next day. Everything tastes different. You are not eating anything processed.”

Food is an important part of the Tuscan culture, said Lischwe.

“In Tuscany, in most cases, people you meet are from there and their parents and grandparents are from there,” she said. “As part of that, they are proud of where they are from and that shows in the way they cook and eat. There is a lot of pride in the food they make and that it is grown or from their own region.”

Here are some highlights of a traditional Tuscan menu. Mangia!

Appetizers

Start your meal off with a family-style appetizer of antipasto toscano, a selection of meats and cheeses from the Tuscany region. Included among the choices could be locally made pecorino cheese (made from sheep milk) with a drop of honey, and such meats as salame toscano and finocchiona (fennel-flavored salami.) You may also find lardo di Colonnata, a cured pork lard from its namesake town. Served as part of an antipasto platter or on its own, crostini toscani – thinly sliced toasted bread topped with chopped chicken liver pate –is another popular appetizer.

First Course

Soups are often offered as a first course in the Tuscan meal. Beans are a big part of the Tuscan diet, and ribollita soup pairs them with thick stale Tuscan bread and vegetables to create a hearty comfort-style food in the winter. Pappa al pomodoro soup also uses stale Tuscan bread to create a thick soup with tomatoes. Panzanella is a cold, chopped bread salad that typically combines the main ingredients of stale bread, tomatoes and basil.

Pasta can be another choice for the first course. Wide egg noodles (pappardelle) could make a tasty base for a wild boar sauce. You can also pair the noodles with other meat sauces, mushrooms and other options. Or try Tuscany’s black and white truffles on top of pasta. Unlike in the U.S., Italians typically only use a small amount of sauce on pasta.

Main Course

Carnivores will fall in love with the bistecca alla fiorentina, the impressive Florentine T-bone steak. This is one dish to be shared, as it typically weighs in at 3 to 4 pounds and is cooked simply with olive oil and salt. It’s also served very rare: Even if you ask for it well-done, the wait staff will in most cases serve it red, as is custom.

If seafood is more to your liking, cacciucco is a fish stew from the coastal city of Livorno that can include multiple varieties of fish and shellfish. Though the original traditional recipe uses 13 types of seafood, today’s version of the dish can still have about six to eight.

Desserts

After the main course, diners can relax at the table with an espresso, ordered as “un caffe.” There may be little room for dessert after the filling meal, but the traditional castagnaccio cake made with chestnut flour might make you change your mind. Don’t let its thin appearance fool you; the cake is quite dense. Recipes vary by restaurant, but castagnaccio can also include raisins and pine nuts and can either be served warm or cold. Another classic dessert is cantucci, Tuscany’s twice-baked biscotti. The hard almond cookies are usually served with Vin Santo, a sweet dessert wine ideal for dunking.

Some say gelato has its origins in Florence. Whether that’s true or not, you don’t need a reason to eat gelato while in Tuscany – or anywhere in Italy, for that matter. You can see what the restaurant has to offer or walk off some of the meal in search of a gelateria that can delight you with multiple choices and fresh flavors.

Wines

Tuscany is wine country, and its own wines make the best pairings for your Tuscan meals. Many local wineries welcome visitors to discover their vineyards and enjoy tastings. The magnificent views of the rolling hills are a bonus along the way. Chianti and Chianti Classico, from vineyards between Florence and Siena, are perhaps Tuscany’s most well-known red wine choices, but other red options include Vino Nobile Montepulciano and Brunello di Montalcino. For those who prefer white wine, try the Vernaccia from San Gimignano.

Don’t Forget the Olive Oil

The region is also known for its olive oil, which will surely be used in the meals you enjoy during a stay in Tuscany. The olives are generally picked by hand from trees located in various locations throughout the region, including near Siena.

Italian Dining Do’s and Don’ts

There are some basic dining rules while in Italy that differ from those you may be used to in the U.S. Dinner in Italy starts late, with most restaurants not even opening until 7:30 or 8 p.m. Don’t expect butter for that thick Tuscan peasant bread because it simply is not served with it. Also, a per-person fee for the bread and a service charge may be added to the bill.

Taste your way through the region with the Spotlight on Tuscany itinerary from AAA Member Choice Vacations.

Garden pests can be a huge nuisance for any home gardener, but thankfully there are tried and true methods that get rid of these pesky bugs. Although sprays and other chemicals can work, most gardeners would prefer to use natural methods for garden pest control. Resorting to chemical-free methods is often your best bet, because pesticides and insecticides will kill off the beneficial bugs as well, and you might just end up with a lot of immune garden pests! Try out these seven all-natural methods for easy garden pest control.

1. Release beneficial insects to eat garden pests

Beneficial insects are a great asset for protecting your garden. These are predator insects who are not interested in eating your plants, but the bugs who make your plants home. Do your best to find out what kind of garden pest is causing the issue, and then choose predators that prey on that bug.

For instance, the Trichogramma wasp is a good choice to reduce the number of caterpillars in your garden. This species prevents the caterpillar from emerging early in the growing season, so it’s a good preventative measure. Ladybugs are great for getting rid of aphids and whiteflies while praying mantises eat most garden pests. You can plant flowers that attract these beneficial species, but for fast results, it’s usually better to purchase the insects and release them yourself.

And remember—spiders are your friend! Although we might think to kill a spider the moment we see one in the house, these arachnids are actually a great form of free garden pest control. Their webs trap a lot of flying pests like flies, and having them in your garden is always a good thing. So next time you see a spider in the house, put it in your garden instead of swatting it!

2. Attract birds, frogs

Birds are also a wonderful asset for eliminating caterpillars and other unfavorable insects. Set up a few bird feeders and a water supply in your garden to encourage them to spend time there and hunt for any insects. After all, who doesn’t love birds showing up in their garden? Frogs and toads are also extremely useful. You don’t even need a pond to attract them; just put out a pile of rocks or logs or leafy ground cover, and frogs and toads will come to eat your slugs, flies and other garden pests.

3. Use diatomaceous earth

Spread a light layer of diatomaceous earth around the edge of your garden beds; this substance will actually damage insects and slugs and reduce the pest population. It doesn’t work in the same way that a chemical does to keep out pests, so the bugs can’t become immune to it.

4. Japanese beetles? Use milky spore.

Milky spore is a safe, non-toxic bacteria that feeds on immature Japanese beetles. Apply milky spore to the soil and the grub population in your garden will likely decrease. Fortunately, this substance only affects Japanese beetle grubs and doesn’t poison any of the beneficial insects you want in your garden.

5. Keep your garden healthy and clean

Getting rid of sick or weak plants actually helps to keep garden pests out. Also, be sure to do a thorough job of removing weeds, and spreading clean mulch on the soil. Keep your garden tidy and fresh and your pest problem will be less of an issue. Remember, your best defense in avoiding pest damage is maintaining strong and healthy plants, so do your best to provide your plants with the highest quality nutrients and fertilizer.

6. Snail bait

Snails and slugs are notorious pests that love to leave holes in garden plants. One of the most effective ways to get rid of these garden pests is to leave out small platters of beer. Slugs will be attracted to the alcohol and drown. If this doesn’t work, you can wait until dusk when snails and slugs come out to feed and dispose of them by hand. Really any slow, large insect can be picked off by hand, so if you’re not squeamish touching bugs, this is always a good strategy.

7. Invest in chickens

Laws for keeping chickens vary, but usually this requires a permit. If you’re able to take care of chickens, they’ll provide you with a number of benefits: eggs, companionship, and of course, pest control! Chickens do a great job of eliminating annoying garden pests like grasshoppers, flies and June bugs. But watch out—chickens can also do damage to your veggies and plants if you’re not careful, so be sure to keep an eye on them and don’t give them free rein of your whole garden.

Do you have your own tried and true garden pest control method? Share below!

If you’re itching for New England charm, look no further than Concord, New Hampshire. Its roots are deep in its history, food destinations and shops, with an arts and culture scene that’s second to none. And of course, the natural landscape is breathtaking no matter the season.

Here are 10 things to do in Concord, New Hampshire, for your next New England road trip.

1. Tour the New Hampshire State House

Calling all history buffs! If you’re looking to dive deep into the state’s rich history, a tour of the State House is the best place to start. Book a guided tour with expert staff members or  explore at your own pace on a self-guided tour. There are permanent and rotating exhibits in the visitors’ center, and if you’re lucky, you may even meet the governor or members of the state legislature.

2. Explore Carter Hill Orchard

The family-owned Carter Hill Orchard has been in business since the mid-1700s. Naturally, fall is the perfect season to stop by for some fresh, crisp apples, but it also offers a variety of fruits ripe for picking, including blueberries and peaches in summer and raspberries in the fall. You can also get your hands on some orchard-fresh pears, watermelon, corn, potatoes, pumpkins and much more. Don’t forget to check out the bakery for pies, cookies and their famous whoopie pies.

3. Enjoy a winter wonderland in White Park

Head to White Park for some good old-fashioned winter fun. When the White Park pond freezes over, it’s time to lace up those skates and glide around the ice on the outdoor skating rink. The park also houses a hockey rink, a sledding hill and plenty of walking trails, perfect for a winter stroll in the chilly air.

4. Dine at Granite Restaurant & Bar

Eat like the locals at this AAA Three Diamond Rated restaurant. Granite Restaurant & Bar’s perfect balance of ambiance and delicious cuisine has earned the Concord establishment numerous awards of excellence. The restaurant’s new American cuisine melds Mediterranean, French and Asian influences for a menu full of international flavor. If you’re looking for a culinary world trip, head to this local eatery.

5. See a show at the Capital Center for the Arts

If you’re looking for things to do in Concord, New Hampshire, the thriving arts scene can’t be missed. The Capital Center for the Arts is the largest performing arts center in the state. From Broadway to comedy and everything in between, there’s a performance to suit everyone’s fancy. So sit back, relax and enjoy the show.

6. Reach for the stars at the McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center

Explore the wonders of the universe at the McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center. Named for New Hampshire natives Sharon Christa McAuliffe, the first teacher in space who died in the Challenger explosion, and Alan Bartlett Shepard, the first American in space, the museum’s two floors house interactive exhibits on astronomy, aviation, space history and more. The planetarium presents a live show of the night sky, updated for every season.

7. Chow down at The Common Man

If you’re looking to sink your teeth into some New England fare, look no further than The Common Man. This AAA Two Diamond Rated restaurant does classic comfort food right, complete with a cozy atmosphere to match. The next time you’re around, grab a seat near the crackling fireplace and order a local favorite, like country meatloaf or the famous prime rib. It won’t disappoint.

8. Visit President Franklin Pierce’s home

Want to visit a president’s house? Head to The Pierce Manse, home of Franklin Pierce, the 14th president of the United States. Walk in his footsteps through hands-on objects and primary documents and step back in time to the mid-19th century. Guided tours are available and be sure to stop by every month for the Brigade Lecture Series.

9. Catch a flick at Red River Theatres

This 3-screen theater offers movie showings in a variety of genres, including classics, foreign films, cult favorites, independent films and more, with lots of discussion and conversation. Don’t forget the snacks! In addition to the traditional popcorn and soda, the concession stand, The Indie Cafe offers chips and salsa, locally made chocolates, coffee and much more. Take a peek at the art gallery that showcases the work of local artists each month.

10. Satisfy your sweet tooth at the Granite State Candy Shoppe

The Granite State Candy Shoppe has been rolling out classic confections since 1927. Today, its familiar candies, nuts and chocolates are made fresh daily and cooked the old-fashioned way, using original recipes. The treats can be found in-house and online.

What are your must-do destinations in Concord, N.H.? Share in the comments!

FIND & BOOK A HOTEL WITH AAA NEAR CONCORD, N.H. 

It’s impossible to frown while eating an ice cream cone. There’s something undeniably jovial about taking the family down to the local ice cream shop or farm for a good old fashioned ice cream tasting. Having everyone pick out their favorite flavor and then just sitting together in silence enjoying the sugary goodness, chocolate and strawberry coated smiles abounding.

Granite State Dairy Promotion, a division of the New Hampshire Department of Agriculture, Markets & Food, understands the magical powers of everyone’s favorite frozen dessert, and came up with a genius idea to help visitors discover the best ice cream in New Hampshire: the New Hampshire Ice Cream Trail.

“We like to have a mix of shops that make their own [ice cream], use 100 percent dairy product or are a dairy farm themselves,” said Amy Hall, director of Granite State Dairy Production.

Those interested in conquering the trail can download the map off the website. At each stop, ice cream lovers will receive a passport sticker, and those who earn all 44 stickers can mail in their passport to be entered for a prize.

Check out information about some of the trail’s stops below, including our tasting tips that will lead you to the best ice cream in New Hampshire.

Ava Marie Handmade Chocolates & Ice Cream
Peterborough

What’s better than an ice cream shop? An ice cream shop that also serves chocolate. This family-owned business makes truffles, turtles and artisan chocolates by hand, which are sold alongside pastries, ice cream and ice cream cakes in the retail store. Summertime visitors can select from 40 flavors of ice cream.

Ice cream tasting tip: The award-winning chocolate pecan turtles – as a topping!

Beech Hill Farm & Ice Cream Barn
Hopkinton

A family-owned business in its ninth generation, Beech Hill Farm is a great destination for a day of family fun on the farm, perfectly capped off by a visit to the property’s ice cream barn. Selections include yogurts, sherbets, sorbet and sugar-free ice creams, as well as 75 flavors of traditional ice cream manufactured by Blake’s Creamery in Manchester, and Gifford’s Ice Cream. Ice cream aficionados will love the make-your-own sundae bar, where there are over 20 toppings to choose from.

Ice Cream tasting tip: Jazzberry java & summertime blues

Bishop’s Homemade Ice Cream
Littleton

Set in a building reminiscent of a farmhouse, this shop attracts diners who love to enjoy their daily, made-from-scratch ice creams in the indoor cafe, on the lawn’s picnic tables or while lounging on the back porch. Flavors rotate, but favorites include signature ones such as chocolate chip and strawberry, while more adventurous tasters can try banana cream pie or ruby red grapefruit sorbet.

Ice cream tasting tip: Hot fudge sundae. What better to top some of the best ice cream in New Hampshire with than “Best Hot Fudge in the World!”

Blake’s Restaurant & Ice Cream
Manchester

Blake’s has been family-owned and making ice cream since 1900. Today, the company not only operates two restaurants in Manchester, but also sells their product wholesale to ice cream shops throughout New England. Its recipe for success includes sourcing premium ingredients and making its 14 percent butterfat premium ice cream in small batches.

Ice cream tasting tip: Try hopscotch, a butter-toffee ice cream with ribbons of butterscotch and butterscotch chips.

Big 1 Ice Cream Stand
Nashua

The Big 1 Ice Cream Stand has been serving Nashua residents and visitors since the 1950s. The shop carries 48 traditional flavors as well as sherbet, soft serve and frozen yogurt options, all made by Richardson’s Ice Cream in nearby Middleton, MA. Menu items include Gary’s homemade vanilla sandwiches on Oreos (named for the shop’s owner) and fudgenut bars – vanilla soft serve with peanuts and fudge and dipped in chocolate.

Ice Cream tasting tip:  The nor’easter is creamy soft serve blended with your choice of toppings.

Devriendt Farm Products
Goffstown

Also serving Blake’s ice cream, the ice cream stand at Devriendt Farm offers hungry visitors a cooling and relaxing respite from browsing the flowers and vegetables in the property’s 12 greenhouses. Building on Blake’s fantastic flavors, the menu includes hand-painted waffle cones, sundaes, parfaits and razzles: soft serve ice cream with candies mixed in.

Ice cream tasting tip: Ask for a cookiewich, an ice cream sandwich made with your choice of ice cream sandwiched between two homemade chocolate chip cookies.

Dewey’s Ice Cream Parlor & Cafe
Center Harbor

Dewey’s is a classic-style ice cream parlor set inside a former pharmacy with a soda fountain and views of Lake Winnipesaukee. The over two dozen flavors of ice cream on the menu can be made into hot fudge, butterscotch, marshmallow and brownie sundaes.

Ice cream tasting tip: Maine black bear consists of red raspberry ice cream, chocolate chips and raspberry truffles.

Gould Hill Farm
Contoocook

Primarily an apple orchard, Gould Hill Farm also has an early-19^th century barn, which houses the property’s gift store and bakery, selling wares made by local artisans, homemade honey, freshly baked apple pies and the farm’s signature apple cider donuts. Also served in the barn is ice cream made from Contoocook Creamery milk, located less than a mile away.

Ice cream tasting tip: Get a scoop of vanilla and plop it on top of the farm’s hot apple crisp.

Granite State Candy Shoppe & Ice Cream
Concord

The Granite State Candy Shoppe has been owned and operated by the Bart family for three generations, founded by a Greek immigrant who worked his way up from candy shop employee to owning his own business. The store still makes and serves homemade candies and chocolates, but also features a selection of ice cream served in cones, cups, as sundaes, or ice cream beverages, including malted frappes and root beer floats.

Ice cream tasting tip: Try the Burgundy chocolate chip: vanilla ice cream with chocolate chips made from homemade Burgundy dark chocolate.

Hayward’s Homemade Ice Cream
Nashua

Like many great New Hampshire ice cream companies, Hayward’s has been a family operation for several generations. Every flavor of hard ice cream, soft serve, frozen yogurt, sorbet and no-sugar ice cream is handcrafted on site.

Ice cream tasting tip: Chocolate tsunami: chocolate ice cream with brownie pieces, chocolate chunks and a fudge swirl.

Lone Oak Ice Cream 
Rochester

The staff at Lone Oak Ice Cream makes ice cream from scratch, using the finest ingredients to create flavors like cappuccino slam, Kahlua fudge brownie and muddy sneakers. Choose from a sundae or hand-dipped cone – splurge for the wicked big waffle cone – or order a pint, quart or half-gallon to take home and savor the sweetness later.

Ice cream tasting tip: You can’t go wrong with the polar Joe – ice cream blended with coffee and topped with whipped cream.

Memories Ice Cream
Kingston

Memories Ice Cream strives to serve quality ice cream and help customers create long-lasting memories. Based in a giant yellow farmhouse with a wraparound porch lined with rocking chairs, taking a trip to Memories is also akin to taking a trip back to a quieter time. Ice cream is made only 5 gallons at a time, with homemade and local ingredients when available.

Ice cream tasting tip: Honey lavender ice cream.

Moose Scoops Ice Cream
Warren

Serving out of an old barn in a tiny town at the foot of Mount Moosilauke, Moose Scoops welcomes ice cream lovers and their four-legged friends for soft serve from Hatchland Farms and hard ice cream from Gifford’s of Maine.

Ice cream tasting tip: Moose tracks: peanut butter cups mixed throughout vanilla ice cream swirled with famous moose tracks fudge.

Richardson’s Farm
Boscawen

The folks at Richardson’s Farm produce their super premium ice cream on-site, making only 10 gallons at a time. They use the finest quality ingredients available, including cream from local dairy farms. Toppings include classics like hot fudge and butterscotch, as well as fresh raspberry and rhubarb when in season. And if you love your flavor selection, grab one of their pre-packaged half-gallons to take home.

Ice cream tasting tip: Homemade hot apple crisp with ice cream on top.

Sub Zero Ice Cream & Yogurt
Nashua

Owner Jerry Hancock reinvented the way ice cream is made by chemically engineering a method of freezing cream using only liquid nitrogen. The Nashua location is just one of many worldwide and offers “mix-ins” like Andes mints, cheesecake bites and mangoes to go with dozens of creative flavors.

Ice cream tasting tip: Soda-inspired flavors like Pepsi, Mountain Dew, root beer and Dr. Pepper.

What do you think is the best ice cream in New Hampshire? What’s you all-time favorite ice cream flavor? Tell us in the comments. 

FIND AND BOOK A HOTEL WITH AAA IN NEW HAMPSHIRE

The Northeast is full of wonderful places to visit, from the busy streets of New York City and Boston to the ski slopes of Maine, Vermont and New Hampshire. However, sometimes the best places to visit in the Northeast are spots that are just off the beaten path – secret treasures that sometimes the locals don’t even know about. Whether you’re a Northeast transplant or a born-and-bred Yankee, you’ll love these best places to visit in the Northeast that you’ve never even heard of!

New York: Stairway Ridge Trail on Whiteface Mountain

Set on one of the high peaks of the Adirondacks, the Stairway Ridge Trail was built into Whiteface Mountain in the 1930s. It features both man-made and natural staircase steps. You can reach this otherworldly staircase by driving up Whiteface Veterans’ Memorial Highway. The trail is only 1/5 of a mile, making it an achievable climb even for folks who might be a little out of practice. At the summit waits Whiteface Castle, along with a cafe and gift shop. From there, you can see amazing views of Lake Placid, Vermont and even Montreal. The Stairway Ridge Trail can usually only be reached during the warmer months, since the highway closes down for winter.

New Jersey: Batsto Village Ghost Town

In the pine barrens of Wharton State Forest, you’ll stumble across one of the country’s best-preserved ghost towns: Batsto Village. Originally, Batsto Village was a company town, populated by the employees of the Batsto Iron Works, built on the shores of a nearby river in 1766. With the decline of the iron works came the slow decline of the town, and the very last residents moved out in 1989. However, the Episcopal church and the post office remain open to this day. When you visit Batsto Village, you can take a walking tour of the grounds, various homes and buildings, the sprawling mansion and the museum.

Rhode Island: The Norman Bird Sanctuary

The Norman Bird Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary and environmental education center that contains over 325 acres of different wildlife habitats. On the sanctuary’s 7 miles of hiking trails, you can see hundreds of local and migratory birds. The Norman Bird Sanctuary was established in 1949 by Mabel Norman Cero, who left the land to the preservation and protection of local birds in her will. Take advantage of one of their guided bird walks and ecotours for an insider view of this amazing sanctuary.

Massachusetts: Nantucket Pharmacy

Longing for the simple joys of yesterday? You can turn back time at Nantucket Pharmacy, which has a real soda fountain counter dating all the way back to 1929. Nantucket Pharmacy has everything – from the gleaming chrome seats to the retro chalkboard menu. They even have a real soda fountain, perfect for sodas, floats and egg creams. If that’s not enough for you, try one of their delicious ice creams or milkshakes. It’s one of the best places to visit in the Northeast if you’re looking for some old-timey charm.

Connecticut: The USS Nautilus

You don’t have to go 20,000 leagues under the sea to visit the USS Nautilus – it’s moored in Groton, Conn., at the Submarine Force Museum. The Nautilus was the world’s first nuclear-powered submarine, and the first ship ever to cross the North Pole. At the Submarine Force Museum, you can walk the decks of the Nautilus and explore the depths of the submarine. It’s one of the best places to visit in the Northeast for those who love boats and subs. You’ll be able to see everything from the torpedo room to the attack center, and even the crew’s mess area.

New Hampshire: Madame Sherri’s Castle

In the 513-acre woods of the Madame Sherri Forest, you’ll find a series of strange, crumbling ruins. These are the remains of Madame Sherri’s Castle. Madame Antoinette Sherri was a famous costume designer, active in the 1920s and 30s. After the death of her husband, she built a sprawling architectural marvel in New Hampshire – her castle. Sherri often threw lavish parties in the castle. Over the years, it fell into disrepair, then was finally destroyed by a fire in 1962. All that’s left are stones, crumbling foundations and a sweeping stone staircase that leads to nowhere. Local legend says that Madame Sherri can sometimes be seen standing atop the staircase – but be careful! She’s been known to push people off.

Vermont: Poorhouse Pies

Looking for a slice of pie? You can get your sweet fix at Poorhouse Pies in Underhill, Vt. Poorhouse Pies is run by pie mavens Jamie and Paula Eisenberg. Jamie and Paula bake the pies in the kitchen of their yellow farmhouse, then trot them out to the shed or pie box outside. Poorhouse Pies is an unstaffed shed filled with delicious pies and a lockbox marked “MONEY.” The Eisenbergs run on the honor system – leave cash or a check in the lockbox, then walk away with your pies. In winter, the pies are kept in a custom, insulated pie box to keep them warm. Yum!

Maine: Bar Island

In Acadia National Park, and just north of Bar Harbor, Maine, sits Bar Island. This uninhabited island may at first seem distant and mysterious – but at low tide a long, gravel bar emerges from the water. For about three hours, it becomes possible to travel to and from the island on foot. Follow the trail all the way onto the island for some beautiful views of the harbor and some one-on-one encounters with nature.

What are the best places to visit in the Northeast for you? Let us know in the comments below!

Plan your next vacation with AAA Travel. Need a ride? Members get exclusive savings with Hertz. 

Many cruises feature ports of call – that’s part of what makes a cruise so interesting. You get to moor the ship and be a tourist for a little while. But sometimes, the more interesting ports of call are actually under the water. Royal Caribbean is the only cruise line that offers an onboard scuba certification program. After you get your sea legs, you can dive in and explore beneath the waves.

Royal Caribbean ships offer PADI scuba certification. PADI, the Professional Association of Diving Instructors, is the largest and most trusted diver training organization in the world. With your PADI instructor, you’ll be able to master your Self-Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus in no time.

PADI offers a few different courses and tours on Royal Caribbean ships, but before you choose which one is right for you, you have to meet the requirements for learning how to scuba dive.

Prospective scuba divers must:

• Be at least 12 years old.
• Complete a scuba medical questionnaire.
• Demonstrate basic swimming skills (swim for 200 meters, float and tread water for 10 minutes).

Got that covered? Check out the following courses.

PADI Discover Scuba Diving

This program is for beginners and first-time divers alike. You’ll learn how to maneuver in shallow waters first, then head out on a guided tour. It’s like an introductory scuba class, but it doesn’t come with certification.

PADI Open Water Diver Course

The open water diver course offers scuba diving certification, and it comes with at-home prep for you to complete before you board the ship. You’ll execute a two-tank dive through some of the most beautiful underwater seascapes and walk away with independent diving qualification.

PADI Reactivate

This program is for those who are already certified divers, and just want another chance to tour the ocean deep. If you’re qualified for PADI Reactivate, you can also try one of Royal Caribbean’s private dives.

Try Dive

Try Dive is for those who just want to get their feet wet (no pun intended) and see what it would be like to enter the diving world. This is just a brief 30-minute course that takes place in a shallow onboard pool. After you try diving here, you might want to go back and experience one of the programs listed above!

Once you know what you’re doing in the water, it’s time to explore the world’s best underwater seascapes. Here are some of our favorite destinations that Royal Caribbean offers dives to.

King’s Wharf, Bermuda

At King’s Wharf, you can see one of Bermuda’s 350+ shipwrecks at depths of 30 to 60 feet below the surface. Then you’ll tour the world’s northernmost coral reef system, featuring colorful reefs with plentiful subtropical fish.

Tortola, British Virgin Islands

You can also explore a shipwreck in the waters of Tortola. This dive is situated around the ruins of the RMS Rhone, a massive British steamer that sank in 1867. Explore the ship from stern to bow, from shallow to deep waters. You’ll also encounter the resident turtles, eels and nurse sharks.

Willemstad, Curacao

In Willemstad, you can explore the Curacao Sea Aquarium’s sparking blue lagoon. On this 3-and-a-half-hour dive, you can swim with and feel stingrays, giant turtles, tarpon and lemon sharks. Pose for underwater pictures while you’re at it!

Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico

Puerto Costa Maya features a super-involved 4-hour dive in which you can experience the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System. This reef system is the largest of its kind in the Northern Hemisphere and the second-largest barrier reef in the world. This hidden gem features 65 species of stony coral, 350 species of mollusk and 500 different species of fish.

Bonaire National Park, Bonaire

Bonaire National Park is one of the Caribbean’s top scuba diving destinations, and it’s not hard to see why. The park has been a protected reef since 1976, and it has a massive diversity of underwater wildlife like tropical fish, coral, eagle rays, turtles and more. The warm, pristine waters of Bonaire are a perfect setting for this underwater kaleidoscope of color.

St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands

Rivaling Bonaire National Park as one of the best dive destinations in the Caribbean, St. Croix offers a varied dive experience. At St. Croix, you can scuba down to three different shipwrecks: a fishing trawler, a barge and a tugboat. After exploring the ruins, you’ll head to a colorful, biodiverse reef that sits at the comfortable dive depth of 45 feet. These pleasant and gentle waters make for a stress-free scuba experience.

No matter where you go scuba diving, it’s one of the coolest things to do on your vacation. And if you get certified, the fun doesn’t have to stop when you go home. Your scuba adventure doesn’t have to be a one-off, it could be the start of a whole new underwater hobby. You might even grow gills.

Save on a Royal Caribbean cruise when you book today. 

Sun, sand, surf and serenity. Bimini has it all. It’s located 50 miles from Florida’s coastline, making Bimini the closest Bahamian island neighbor to the U.S. The island promises to satisfy every taste with miles of pristine beaches, plenty of fun in the sun and utter tranquility. And you can count on Resorts World Bimini Bahamas to show you everything the island has to offer. Here are the top 10 things to do on the island of Bimini.

1. Catch Up on Local History

Bimini’s peaceful atmosphere is laced with history. Author Ernest Hemingway found repose in the island. He called the island his home from 1935-1937 and was inspired to write both “The Old Man and the Sea” and “Islands in the Stream” from his experience there. He spent his days boating, fishing and interacting with the locals. You can follow in his footsteps by traversing the open ocean between Bimini and Miami on a fishing excursion.

Martin Luther King Jr. also sought out the serenity of the oceanfront for inspiration while writing his Nobel Peace Prize acceptance speech and Sanitation Workers speech. He found solace in the mangrove trees and meditated on his vision of the world. Boat builder Ansil Saunders took him into the mangroves on his personal boat. Today, Ansil continues to bring visitors around Bimini on his boat. You can reserve a private mangrove tour and hear his many interesting stories, as Dr. King did.

2. Enjoy the Ocean

As an island paradise, it’s only natural that Bimini would have a wide variety of waters ports to try. Resorts World Bimini will meet all your needs for vacation fun and recreation. The resort offers traditional jet ski, kayak and paddle boat rentals.

Want to try something new? Rent a glass bottom kayak, giving you a window to Bimini’s underwater world. Banana boat rides are fun for the whole family. Hold on tight as you’re pulled along the waters surface for a high-speed ocean ride. For a more relaxing way to spend the day, Resorts World Bimini’s ocean water hammocks freely float on the water’s surface, giving you time to take in the peaceful Caribbean atmosphere.

3. Bum it at the Beach

If Resorts World Bimini is your home-away-from-home for your getaway, grab a beach chair and sunglasses and find a yourself a spot on the resort’s 750-acres of pristine, white sand beach. Further, the island has multiple beaches for you to explore and soak up the sun. Take a dip in the turquoise waters or build a sand castle with your little ones. Be sure to take in a stunning sunrise and sunset during your stay.

4. Venture to the Village

Check out Bimini’s local hotspots on an exploration of the island. The local towns and villages are a great way to meet the island’s residents and chat with friendly faces. The shopping is second to none, and you can purchase locally-made clothes, jewelry, gifts and souvenirs to remember your travels. Be sure to look around for must-see attractions and sights, like the eclectic Dolphin House and the Bimini Museum.

5. Find Some Fish

Fishers of any skill level will not want to miss out on the bountiful waters of the Bahamas. Bimini’s coast is home to thousands of schools of marlin, swordfish, tuna, grouper, bonefish, barracuda and mackerel, to name a few. The island holds the coveted title of Sport Fishing Capital of the World for its year-round fishing opportunities. Bimini has several private charters operating daily fishing trips with offshore, inshore and bottom-fishing options..

6. Test Your Luck

Feeling lucky? Play the day away at the Resort World Bimini casino, with 10,000 square-feet of fun. Try your hand at classic table games like poker, baccarat, roulette and craps, or head into the VIP gaming area for a round of blackjack and mini baccarat. The casino offers more than 160 slot machines ranging from one cent to $100. And be sure to check out the casino’s year-round events and tournaments during your stay.

7. Uncover a Mystery

Albeit a Caribbean paradise, Bimini has some mystery up its sleeve. Head into the jungle and you’ll find the mystical Fountain of Youth that Ponce de Leon searched for. Snorkel through the shipwreck of the S.S. Sapona, serving as a rum runner’s ship during Prohibition. Under the sea, just a short distance from shore, lies 1,500 feet of stones placed in a perfect row. Legend has it that these stones are part of an ancient road system leading to the lost city of Atlantis. Book your exciting exploration with Resorts World Bimini.

8. Indulge in Local Delicacies

Tasting the flavors of Bimini is essential to immersing yourself in the native culture. Head to Stuart’s Conch Stand or Joe’s Conch Shack for fresh conch salad, a local delicacy, sourced and served daily. Bakeries across the island serve Bimini bread, a sweet and buttery local favorite.

Make room in your plans to dine at some of Resort World Bimini’s dining establishments during your stay. The Tides serves up a breakfast buffet daily, as well as lunches and dinners starring fresh seafood, aged steaks and traditional Bimini flavors. The Sushi Bar offers traditional sushi rolls, nigiri, sashimi and noodle dishes created by Head Chef Hung Huynh, winner of “Top Chef.” For burgers, wings and other comfort foods, Hemingway’s is the place to be. Pair your delectable dish with a refreshing cocktail laced with Caribbean flavors.

9. Meet the Marine Life

Don your diving gear and head underwater to meet Bimini’s more wild residents. You’ll find preserved coral reefs inhabited by thousands of schools of fish and join sting rays and manta rays on their underwater travels. Bimini offers both dolphin and shark encounters, which give you the chance to swim with Atlantic spotted dolphins, nurse and Caribbean reef sharks, respectively, in their natural habitats.

10. Get Fit and Be Pampered

Resorts World Bimini understands the need to take care of your body. The resort offers a state-of-the-art fitness center equipped with the latest in hi-tech workout equipment. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer breathtaking views of the beachfront and the ocean to motivate you during your workout.

The Serenity Spa offers the ultimate in relaxation. Facials, exfoliating treatments and beauty services will have you feeling pampered and at ease. Indulge in the Total Bliss service with a custom facial and a full body massage. The Intense Nourishment service includes a nourishing mud mask, Swedish massage, an application of body butter and a relaxing scalp massage. Take part in the makeup, hair and nail services to look your best for your Instagram followers.

Make Bimini, Bahamas your next Caribbean destination. 

Take a trip around New Jersey and you’ll see why the Garden State is famous for so much more than the iconic sandwiches that spark the Taylor ham versus pork roll name debate. From established organic vegetable farms to award-winning vineyards, the state’s agriculture has long provided chefs with the raw ingredients for inspired dishes. Add to that vibrant cultural traditions from around the world, and you can see why New Jersey is a culinary hot spot. As you travel from city to shore to farm, these are the foods to put on the top of your list.

Gelato

With many New Jersey residents having Italian roots, gelato rivals ice cream as the state’s top frozen dessert. Silkier and lower in fat content than its counterpart, gelato is made with more milk and less cream, which allows its signature ingredients to shine. At gelaterias throughout the state, seasonal produce finds its way into this traditional Italian dessert for simple yet outstanding varieties like strawberry and raspberry.

Sloppy Joe Sandwich

While a sloppy Joe in other parts of the U.S. is a saucy sandwich made with ground beef, the phrase means something entirely different in New Jersey, where it’s a deli staple made with cold cuts. Order a sloppy Joe at one of the state’s famous sandwich shops for a double-decker featuring two types of thinly sliced meat with coleslaw, Russian dressing and Swiss cheese on rye bread. Corned beef and pastrami top the list of meat choices.

Apple Cider Doughnuts

Weekends in the fall are the perfect time for apple picking, cider tasting and stocking up on apple cider doughnuts. Many farms offer treats made with New Jersey cider, and cider mills are visited just as often for their doughnuts as their bottles of premium apple cider. Yeast-based and cake doughnuts are made with this standout ingredient.

Blueberry Pie

The blueberry reigns supreme at pick-your-own farms and their bakeries, which isn’t surprising considering it is the state’s official fruit. The highbush variety grown in New Jersey is sweet and plump, giving it the perfect size and juiciness to create traditional blueberry pie and its crumb-topped alternative. Classic diners and farm stand bakeries all have their versions thanks to the state’s abundant blueberry supply.

Saltwater Taffy

With 130 miles of coastline, New Jersey is famous for its beaches and barrier islands. Vacationers and day-trippers can still find the saltwater taffy that reminds so many of their summertime trips. Popular flavors of the chewy confection remain vanilla, chocolate and strawberry, and none of them actually require salt water as an ingredient. Legend has it that candy maker David Bradley coined the name after his taffy became soaked by saltwater from the Atlantic Ocean.

Paella

Whether made with shellfish, meat or both, paella is a rice-based dish with warm saffron flavor. Newark is home to some of the state’s top destinations for this staple of Spanish cuisine, but coastal restaurants also feature the dish, making delicious use of the state’s local seafood. The best spots have perfected the art of creating a crusty, crispy layer known as socarrat on the bottom of the paella pan.

Oysters

Cape May Salts, Brigantine Salts and a host of other varieties can be found on the menu at seaside oyster houses and small seafood shacks. Enjoy them on their own or with a modest amount of condiments to appreciate the flavor, which is only enhanced by a scenic view of the bay or ocean. Find a quiet waterfront spot or a buzzing oyster house and try a few varieties.

Taylor Ham

Visit any diner in the state to find Taylor ham offered on a sandwich or on a plate with eggs. It’s a breakfast staple that was invented in Trenton by John Taylor in 1856.

Pizza

From coal-fired pies to Neapolitan slices, the state is home to a plethora of pizza styles. The classic Trenton tomato pie is loaded with plenty of sauce to highlight tomato flavor, as opposed to being topped with an overwhelming amount of cheese. Fresh takes on pizza feature local ingredients including sweet honey and farm eggs. Try the AAA Two Diamond Rated Napoli’s Brick Oven Pizza in Hoboken.

With its impressive coastline and farms, New Jersey produces the raw ingredients for a host of famous foods. Tiny restaurants and sprawling farm-to-table establishments offer menus that cater to every appetite, often with updated classics that feature a good dose of fresh ingredients grown right in the Garden State.

What are your favorite New Jersey foods? Tell us in the comments! 

FIND & BOOK A HOTEL WITH AAA IN NEW JERSEY

The white sand beaches and turquoise waters of the Caribbean are like no other, but a true adventure awaits once you slip on a mask and look below the surface. Discover abandoned ships that have merged with coral reef or swim the shoreline and look for colorful marine life.  This list of the best snorkeling in the Caribbean will help you choose the ideal spot for your underwater adventure.

St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands

Protected by the U.S. National Park Service, the ecosystem at Buck Island Reef National Monument is one of the most pristine places to snorkel in the Caribbean. Home to a variety of threatened and endangered marine life, it also features some of the most dramatic and massive elkhorn coral branches.  Along the underwater snorkel trail, you’ll find colors and textures of all kinds as you swim beside blue tangs, trumpetfish, and possibly even barracudas.  Beginner snorkelers will benefit from a guided tour and the useful advice that comes with it.

Curaçao

The vivid streetscapes of Willemstad are known for their brightly colored architecture, and a snorkeling adventure on the island is just as colorful. Thanks to the clear waters that reveal coral reef, parrot fish and a host of other sea life. The stunning coral formations at Playa Kalki seem to be sprung from the imagination, earning it the nickname “Alice in Wonderland.” For an experience that is just as historic as the island’s streetscapes, visit the sunken tugboat just off the coast of Caracasbaai Peninsula.

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

Some of the best snorkeling in the Caribbean can be found around Grand Cayman. Include Stingray City on your list of sites to visit and you won’t have to search the clear water for signs of marine life.  As its name suggests, you’ll find yourself surrounded by flat-bodied rays as they glide through the water. Nearby in the North Sound, Coral Gardens offers particularly calm water, making it another popular snorkeling location. Many tour boat operators take visitors to both spots due to their proximity.

St. Lucia

Ten yards from the water’s edge, the reef at Anse Chastenet is ideal for those who prefer shoreline snorkeling. Alternate between the beach and the crystal-clear water throughout the day as you explore the reef, which is home to more than 150 species of fish. No boats are allowed in this snorkeling area, making it a particularly tranquil place, but nearby you can hop on a tour boat to venture farther into the Caribbean. At Anse des Pitons, swimming takes place between the two volcanic spires known as the Pitons.

Turks and Caicos

When your travel companions have varying levels of snorkeling experience, it can be a challenge to find a site that meets everyone’s expectations. Grace Bay Beach offers the best of both worlds. Shoreline snorkeling features plenty of colorful fish, while those who swim farther out will find even more to explore. Since the trail around Bight Reef is marked, the adventurous beginner might even be comfortable joining everyone on an adventure farther from the beach.  Another popular spot on Turks and Caicos is Smith’s Reef near Turtle Cove, where you’ll find sea fans, barracudas and all manner of colorful sea life.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines

 For an adventure far from the crowd, St. Vincent and the Grenadines is one of the best places to snorkel in the Caribbean. While the chain of 32 islands and cays offers the quintessential Caribbean experience, it’s less traveled than other tourist locations. Visit Grenada’s Underwater Sculpture Garden in Molinere Bay to observe how man made works of art have become an important habitat. Following the devastation of Hurricane Ivan in 2004, the sculptures were placed in the bay to encourage the proliferation of coral, sponges and other marine life.

Antigua

Famous for its 365 beaches, one for every day of the year, Antigua offers adventures beyond the edges of its pink and white shore. And you don’t have to swim far to find many of them.  Coral reefs can be found within a short distance of your beach towel at many locations. For a chance to see eagle rays, conchs and more marine life, take a boat tour to Cades Reef, where you might even spot a nurse shark.  A number of tour operators combine guided snorkeling with caving and other activities that give you a more comprehensive view of the island’s scenery.

Throughout the Caribbean you’ll find paradise destinations with a number of underwater adventures that reveal vibrant colors and abundant marine life. When you come back to shore, you certainly won’t be disappointed by the pink sand of Antigua or the black sand found in parts of St. Lucia and Grenada, but you’ll probably be lured back to the water in no time.

Book your next Caribbean vacation with AAA Travel.

Whether you share photos frequently on Instagram or your day is packed with teleconferences, chances are the smartphone is your most often used device. Choosing one is a highly personalized process that should consider the ways you use your phone and the features on which you won’t compromise. For instance, tech aficionados may find the most satisfaction with cutting-edge technology, while photographers and artists may require ample storage space.

News Junkie

Among your friends, you always know the latest scoop, whether it’s unfolding on the local or international scale. You prefer morning comcasts to music on your daily commute so that by the time you arrive at the office, you feel fully informed and ready to start the day. If these descriptions ring true, you need a screen that’s big enough to take in the world at large and long battery life so you don’t miss out on breaking stories.

The Moto G7Power gives you plenty of battery life, with some people making it up to three days on a single charge, plus fast-charging capability when you need it. With its 6.2” HD display, you’ll have plenty of viewing space when you’re streaming the news, and it’s 19:9 aspect ratio gives you a big screen viewing experience.

Tech Aficionado

Those who need cutting-edge technology will always be on the hunt for the latest features and the ability to customize their devices. Superior high-definition displays, and the most powerful processors may lure you to a phone, particularly one that has an artificial intelligence chip.  Devices with AI hardware process more efficiently, speeding up functions like facial recognition by handling them on the device rather than sending your biometric data to the cloud. This also makes the processes more secure.

Since many tech aficionados prefer custom firmware, Android is the preferable operating system to iOS. Those who know how to program can change the open-source base system on an Android phone, and they can also look behind the scenes to explore apps.

The newest Samsung Galaxy models run on Android and sport the latest features, making them a good choice for those who want to do a bit of programming while also enjoying the user experience. Also consider the Google Pixel3, which can be used with Google’s Pixel Buds and Translate app for real-time language translation, facilitating conversation during travel.

Artist

Whether you’re a graphic designer, illustrator or someone who enjoys dabbling in the arts, your smartphone is a key tool for creative expression. A stellar camera and editing capabilities are important, but storage may be one of your top concerns, making Android the preferred operating system for many artists. With the ability to add and expand storage, you’ll have plenty of space for your projects.

Certainly, you’ll also want to take advantage of the numerous apps that make creating those projects even easier, such as Adobe Illustrator Draw, which allows you to draw freehand and work in layers. Plenty of user-friendly apps for iOS and Android are available across art forms to support the work of animators, photographers and other artists.

Among the phones with expandable storage, consider the LG v40 ThinQ, which has a 6.4” display and plenty of video controls.  The Samsung Galaxy Note is another option to explore, as it comes with the S Pen, a stylus known for its responsiveness and control.  With precise strokes, drawing projects will come to life on your device.

Social Media Shutterbug

If you’re the type to always post photos of your latest meal on Instagram or share action shots live from a football game, social media is likely among you’re most frequently-used apps.

Shutterbugs need a camera that automatically adjusts for dimly-lit rooms and other suboptimal conditions.  Despite your best efforts to maintain a good photo stance, you might wind up with blurry photos, so make sure the camera also has stabilization features that compensate for slight movement.

For an exceptional camera, consider the super-steady Samsung Galaxy S10+, which comes with five lenses including telephoto, selfie and ultra-wide.  Choose whether to zoom in or pan out as you capture moments throughout the day.  And when you’re ready to take a selfie, the camera focuses quickly.

With a large display and user-friendly editing features, the iPhone XS Max is another good option.  Plus, you can rely on it for accurate color display, so you know exactly which colors you captured before sharing them.

Music Enthusiast

When crystal clear sound tops the list of your smartphone concerns, you need incredible speakers. You also need a way to access all your stored music and play it across devices. This is where the music enthusiast has a key choice to make, Android or iOS.

For those who already prefer Apple devices and would like to move seamlessly between them, an iPhone X model may be the best option, particularly if you often purchase tracks from iTunes. The latest models also feature a longer battery life, ensuring that you have enough power when you’re traveling between home, work and the gym.

If you use Google Play Music or another music library, you may prefer an Android such as the LG G8 ThinQ, whose entire screen is the speaker.  With clarity and impressive bass tones, it delivers a rich sound experience.

What’s your smartphone style profile? Tell us in the comments.

To put it simply, life is better on a bike.

Bike season is in full effect here in the Northeast region, which means there are plenty of epic bike tours to choose from. Whether you’re a biking novice or a fit cyclist, there’s a bike tour for you, with options ranging from a few hours to week-long adventures.

Grab your bike and check out the following tours.

5 Lighthouse Bike Tour

Portland, Maine

Daily from May-Oct. 31, 2019

This is the perfect warm weather bike tour for the whole family. Explore Casco Bay and Portland, Maine, and enjoy the wind in your face as you journey along the breathtaking coastline. You’ll pedal past charming communities and five different lighthouses during the 12-mile ride, which includes a bike, tour guide with a Portland history lesson and a fabulous lobster roll for lunch overlooking the ocean.

Great Freedom Adventures Rhode Island Vacation Bike Tour

Newport, R.I.

2019: May 28-31 | June 23-26 | August 25-28

Riders may not want to leave Rhode Island after this impressive bike tour of the Ocean State. This four-night, three-day bike tour takes riders across Block Island, Narragansett, Jamestown and Newport. It’s the perfect way to learn more about Rhode Island’s gilded age history while taking in scenic ocean views. Tours run in May, June and August, with riders traveling 8-36 miles each day. Cyclists can expect to peruse fishing villages, Colonial windmills and the “summer cottages” of 19th century millionaires as they bike Rhode Island’s inlets and isles. The tour also includes a sunset sail, a guided kayak escapade and a stroll along the famous Cliff Walk.

If you’re looking for a truly unique experience in Rhode Island, Rail Explorers Rhode Island Tour may be a fit for you. The pedal-powered vehicle rides on historic railroad tracks through picturesque Narragansett Bay.

Bike Tour of Cape Cod/Martha’s Vineyard

2019: June 23-28 | Sept. 29-Oct. 4 | Oct. 6-11

If you live in Massachusetts, consider checking out this six-day bike tour on which bicyclists ride down quiet beach roads and quaint New England towns.

Tour de Farm New Jersey

Sussex County: Sept. 1
Warren County: Sept. 21

If it’s your first time participating in a bike tour, the Tour de Farm New Jersey may be the right one for you. Help support New Jersey farmers in a culinary excursion where you’ll be farm hopping by bike and enjoying delicious food in the beautiful countryside.

With two different dates at separate starting points, the tour has three different routes ranging from 20-48 miles depending on your skill level. The day begins with a farm-fresh locally sourced breakfast for bike fuel and then you can choose to stop at up to 10 farms along the way. The farmers will provide samples of what their farm has to offer – think honey, flowers, wine, cheese, fruit and more. Local farm items will be for sale, so don’t forget your saddlebags!

Cycle for the Cause

Boston to New York City

Sept. 20-22, 2019

Three days, four states, memories forever. That basically sums up the Cycle for the Cause Boston bike tour to New York City that raises funds for the fight against AIDS. Each rider pays a ticket fee of $95 and then raises a fundraising minimum that covers lodging and meals; the rest is donated to the cause.

Starting in Boston, the 275-mile bike ride is fully supported, which means that riders are completely taken care of along the way, including meals, route planning, rest stops, hotel accommodations, medical services, bike techs and massage crews. Participators stay in hotels along the route, eat meals and ride together, passing through 20 cities along the way.

You can expect to see the beauty in each state you ride through from the classic New England villages and the horse farms in Massachusetts, to the Mystic Seaport in Connecticut and the orchards of Long Island in New York.

TD Five Boro Bike Tour

New York City

May 3, 2020

Forty miles of car-free New York City streets? This only happens once a year during the TD Five Boro Bike Tour. The exciting one-day event, billed as America’s largest bike ride, takes place on the first Sunday in May (This year’s was held May 5; next year’s event is slated for May 3, 2020). The ride starts in lower Manhattan, traverses part of the south Bronx, loops through Queens, enters Brooklyn and finally ends in Staten Island. You’ll ride over five bridges, including the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, which is normally closed to bike traffic. If that’s not enough to entice you, maybe this will: There are 41 pizza places along the tour’s route where you can stop for a break and a bite. After a festival at the finish line, cyclists are welcome to take the Staten Island ferry back to Manhattan – for free!

Did you know? AAA Northeast offers 24-hour roadside assistance for your bike too! The free service is available to all members. Learn more.

Everyone wants to have the perfect lawn, and knowing how to remove weeds is essential to this goal. Weeds can also pose a problem in the garden, where they can take up space and hurt your favorite flowers or veggies. There are a number of methods you can start to implement today to eliminate these pesky weeds and have your lawn looking fresh and healthy.

Keeping your grass healthy

The first thing to remember when learning how to remove weeds is that the grass is best kept at a certain height. If you cut your grass too low, weeds will often overpower them and have a greater opportunity to grow. It’s actually a good idea to keep your grass a little longer than you would expect; essentially, the shade provided by the taller grass prevents lawn weeds from sprouting and growing. Of course, you don’t want to overdo it and keep your grass high, but rather find a middle ground. Continue to mow your grass periodically throughout the season, which can be anywhere from 2-5 times a month depending on the weather.

How to limit lawn weeds

Fertilizer can be a huge help for setting the right conditions for healthy soil and grass. Generally, you’ll want to apply fertilizer twice a year, once in the fall and spring. This will ensure that your grass grows up tall and healthy. But don’t overdo it with fertilizer application, unless you want to encourage weed growth too. You want just enough so that your grass is strong enough to defeat the weeds on their own, so be sure to read the container for proper application instructions. It’s also important to apply just the right amount of water to encourage lawn growth rather than weed growth. Your best bet is to water your lawn more occasionally, but with much more water.

The three types of lawn weeds

When learning how to remove weeds, it’s best to know the characteristics of each kind. Annual grassy weeds die each season and the seeds grow again next spring. Look out for crabgrass, which has blue-green blades and branching stems.

Broadleaf weeds are plants like dandelions and clovers that have leaves. Dandelions can grow to about a foot tall and are easily recognized by their bright yellow flowers, while white clovers have leaves with three lobes and white flowers.

Perennial grassy weeds stay dormant in winter and spread through the roots; these are usually the toughest to remove. Examples include ground ivy, which you can identify by its round bright leaves and creeping stem. Quackgrass is another common perennial with flat green leaves and strong underground stems, and it can grow up to three feet tall.

How to remove weeds with herbicides

One common way to limit lawn weed growth is through the use of herbicides. When dealing with broadleaf weeds, it’s usually not necessary to spray your entire yard; instead, focus on the small patches where strong weeds have popped up. However, remember to do some research on what brand you choose, as some herbicides can be considered toxic for children and pets who like the play in the grass, especially if you decide to spray the entire lawn. If the broadleaf weeds are still young, it should be relatively easy to pull them out manually. You can also use a daisy grubber on weeds like dandelion; this little tool is great for digging them out by their roots.

How to remove weeds manually

If you have a crabgrass infestation, you can also usually pull up most of the clumps by hand. Crabgrass isn’t a perennial weed so the root system won’t be too extensive, which makes it easier to remove. If you’d rather take preventative measures, you can apply crab grass preventer in the early spring in areas where the weed popped up last year.

For those tough perennial lawn weeds, a systematic and selective herbicide is best as it only targets the weed you want to kill and generally won’t harm other plants. If you decide to remove these weeds manually like you might with an annual or broadleaf weed, it’s a good idea to dig deep with a fork and pull them up by the roots. A winged weeder works by pushing the blade down parallel to the stem, then angling the tool downwards to pull out the entire plant by the root.

Remove weeds as early as possible

If you know these tips on how to remove weeds, you should be able to rid your lawn of any weed problem. Remember, it’s best to eliminate weeds when they’re young, regardless of the species. After all, it’s much easier to get rid of a young weed than a perennial that’s been deeply rooted for years.

Have any good weed removal tips of your own? Share them with us in the comments!

Before you make any financial decisions, it’s always a good idea to first re-evaluate your net worth. This figure can help guide your decision-making and give you an idea of where you fall within a national context.

If you’re curious about how to calculate your net worth, allow us to help you get the answers you need to make better-informed choices about money.

What Is Your Net Worth?

At its most basic, net worth is defined as the amount by which your assets exceed your liabilities.

If you were to total all your available resources and subtract the amount of debt and other financial burdens you may bear, the resulting total is your net worth.

A cursory online search will turn up tons of net worth calculators designed to make it easy to decipher your lifestyle and arrive at your net worth. But, in the end, it boils down to how your assets compare to your liabilities.

While net worth is often applied to the business world, its role is no less important for your household. Knowing how much you — individually and collectively — are worth can be an eye-opening revelation that plays into your financial decisions and affects the amount of coverage you should have on your insurance policies.

Tracking this number over time can especially give you a good indication of your family’s financial status, as your net worth presents an objective, uncompromised look at your budget.

Assess Your Assets

While you may not give them much thought, chances are you have more assets to your name than you may realize. Perhaps the first assets you’ll think about are liquid assets — cash or an equivalent that can be converted to cash, as these can quickly be leveraged in the event of a financial emergency.

Any assets you have in checking or savings accounts, certificates of deposit, money market funds, etc. — would qualify. Stocks, bonds, retirement accounts and the like are also considered liquid assets for the same reason, though many consumers forget to include these because of the set-it-and-forget-it mindset often adopted with regard to this type of account.

When it comes to other non-liquid assets, things get a little more complicated. Although you can get funds from these resources, it takes more time to obtain their full value. Non-liquid assets include your primary residence and any other real estate properties you may own (typically, at their respective market values) as well as automobiles and other vehicles.

However, don’t forget to account for other high-value items, such as furniture, jewelry and collectibles, which can often contribute greatly to your accumulated assets. Because the value of non-liquid assets can shift dramatically, be sure to regularly take stock of your assets to ensure an accurate calculation of your net worth.

Looking at Liabilities

Now time to consider your liabilities. These factors are the ones you should be placing an effort on minimizing, since they directly limit the potential for you to boost your net worth year over year.

Statistically, what holds U.S. households back most is consumer debt. This encompasses non-mortgage debt such as credit cards, auto loans, personal loans and student loans, but still demonstrates a troubling trend.

The fact that consumers are falling so deep into debt is by far the top reason that net worth is so hard to build up, but of course, liabilities aren’t all bad. Strategic debt such as having a mortgage can often be a great way of building your credit and boosting your overall financial standing for the future.

Speaking of which, you’ll need to include any mortgages or other outstanding loans and debt into your net worth calculations. Real estate itself can be a strong investment, but take care not to overindulge in this regard, or you could be doing real damage to your net worth.

Once you know how to calculate your net worth, you can make wiser, more measured decisions about your finances. By knowing precisely where you stand, you get one step closer to a brighter future.

Need help managing your money? Learn about AAA loan and banking services. 

New York is famous for its pizza, and for good reason. The worst slice of pizza in New York City is better than the best slice of pizza anywhere else.

But as someone who has eaten reheated Buffalo-chicken pizza in Penn Station at midnight, I can assure you that the quality of New York City pizza does vary. Significantly. But how are you supposed to find the best places in the city when every restaurant claims to have it? Take a look at our list of the best pizza places in NYC to find the perfect match of cheese, sauce and dough for you.

John’s of Times Square

This weird and wonderful pizza place is situated right in midtown. You can dine on classic thin-crust pizza amidst the beautiful architecture of this former church. John’s is a family business through and through. Opened in 1997 by matriarch Madeline Castelloti, John’s of Times Square offers made-to-order pizza from its coal-fired brick ovens.

Lombardi’s

Lombardi’s claims to be America’s very first pizzeria, and they might be right. This Nolita restaurant is over 100 years old, having opened in 1905. Pizza has to be ordered by the pie, not by the slice, and it is made-to-order in the coal-fired ovens. Don’t bring plastic – Lombardi’s is cash-only.

Roberta’s

This Brooklyn staple is a hipster’s delight, with a rooftop garden, a bread bakery and an apiary on-site. This former warehouse is now one of the best pizza places in the world, let alone New York City. Although they serve other types of food, the pizza pies are where it’s at. Try the BeeSting pizza, complete with chili, honey, mozzarella, sopressata and tomato. Or you could get the Beastmaster pizza, which is loaded with tomato, mozzarella, gorgonzola, pork sausage, onion, capers and jalapenos.

Best Pizza

Also located in Brooklyn is Best Pizza, which seems designed to be the first result when one Googles “best pizza in NYC.” Fortunately, it lives up to its name. Founded by Roberta’s alum Fank Pinello, Best Pizza offers pies made in a 100-year-old wood-burning oven. Don’t forget to try the doughy, sinful garlic knots.

John’s of Bleecker Street

Not to be confused with John’s of Times Square, John’s of Bleecker Street has been serving up slices for almost 90 years. Located in Greenwich Village, John’s offers fresh garlic toppings on its coal-fired, crispy pizzas.

Totonno’s

You can stop by this old-school pizza place during a long day at Coney Island. Totonno’s has been open since 1924, and it’s still family-owned and -operated, all these years later. Come and taste the handmade mozzarella, along with ingredients imported from Italy.

Joe’s Pizza

Joe’s Pizza in Greenwich Village is over 40 years old, and it’s been operating since 1975. At $3 a slice, Joe’s offers classic New York street pizza. As a native New Yorker, there’s no better taste. It’s a light slice of pizza served over a counter in a cramped storefront. Toppings are available, but they aren’t necessary.

Patsy’s Pizzeria

Another casual and classic pizza place in New York City is Patsy’s Pizzeria, in East Harlem. Patsy’s offers by-the-slice goodness from the coal-fired oven. Established in 1933, Patsy’s Pizzeria claims to be the original home of the New York style thin-crust pizza.

Keste

Keste Pizza and Vino serves Neapolitan pizza in Greenwich Village. Keste’s wood-fired oven was crafted by Neapolitan artisans for the express purpose of making the perfect pizza – and to the exacting standards of chef and owner Roberto Caporuscio.

Can’t get enough pizza? Neither can we! Find more of the best pizza places in New York with a Slice of Brooklyn pizza tours. AAA members save 15% when booking online. 

For more delicious local eats, check out our Northeast food guide.

What do you think is the best place for pizza in NYC? Tell us in the comments! 

Ah, summertime. When the living is easy, the air is warm, and – if we’re not careful – our fragile skin can take a pummeling from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.

So that means sunscreen. And lots of it. One way to determine which type of sunscreen you should use is by checking a product’s SPF. But what does SPF mean?

What does SPF mean?

Sunlight contains two types or rays – UVA and UVB – that can cause sunburn and skin cancer, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. UVB rays are the primary cause of sunburn, but both UVA and UVB rays can cause skin cancer. Approximately 1 in 5 people will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. In 2013, approximately 72,000 Americans were diagnosed with melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The sun can also prematurely age and damage skin, leading to wrinkles and sunspots.

SPF (sunburn protection factor) ratings measure how much UV radiation can produce a sunburn on protected skin (i.e. with sunscreen) versus the amount required to produce a sunburn on unprotected skin. The higher the SPF number, the more protection it offers. It doesn’t reflect the amount of time you can spend in the sun before getting burned – a popular misconception, according to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration.

So just what does SPF mean? Basically, it’s is a measure of how much sunburn protection a sunscreen offers. An SPF 30 sunscreen will provide more sunburn protection than an SPF 8 sunscreen.

Sunscreen basics

So, if you’re planning on spending some time outdoors or at the beach this summer, don’t forget to bring sunscreen and apply it liberally to everyone over 6 months old. (Consult your child’s pediatrician for children under 6 months old.) You should reapply every two hours or after swimming, toweling off and sweating, and even on cloudy days.

What SPF to use? The FDA recommends using a broad-spectrum SPF 15 sunscreen for protection, but the American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. (Broad-spectrum sunscreens protect the skin from both UVA and UVB rays.)

And don’t skimp. The average adult and child needs 1 ounce of sunscreen – the amount in a shot glass – to cover the body.

Just two more things to keep in mind: No sunscreens are waterproof, and no sunscreen completely blocks UV rays, says the FDA.

What is the highest sunscreen SPF?

Sunscreens can have an SPF rating of anywhere between 2 and 50 +. In 2011, the FDA limited the maximum SPF value to 50 + because there wasn’t sufficient data to say that sunscreens with SPF values over 50 protected any better than those with SPFs of 50.

Under the FDA’s new sunscreen rules:

• Sunscreens can be labeled “broad-spectrum” if they protect against both UVA and UVB rays.
• Broad-spectrum sunscreens with SPFs of 2-14 must warn that the product hasn’t been shown to prevent sun damage or skin cancer.
• Only broad-spectrum sunscreens with SPF 15 or higher can say they protect against skin cancer if used with other sun-protection methods.
• Sunscreens cannot use the terms “waterproof,” “sunblock” and “sweatproof.”

More ways to protect yourself from the sun

More than 85 percent of melanomas are caused by the sun’s UV rays, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. There are other steps you can take, in addition to applying sunscreen daily, to safeguard your skin. The foundation recommends the following.

• Wear wide-brimmed hats. The majority of skin cancers are found on the head, ears and neck.
• Choose your clothing wisely. Long-sleeve T-shirts and pants cover more skin than a tank top, short-sleeve T-shirt and shorts.
• Wear sunglasses. Even your peepers aren’t immune from sun damage: It can cause vision loss and other damage, as well as eyelid cancers. The foundation recommends wearing sunglasses year-round whenever the sun is out. Look for a pair that blocks out 99 to 100 percent of UV rays.
• Seek out good shade. You can sit under a tree but still receive a fair amount of skin damage because of scattered UV rays. Only deep shade – where you can’t see the sky – offers the best protection. Trees with dense foliage are best, and be wary of umbrellas – the shade they offer can vary wildly in SPF protection.
• Protect your skin, even in the car. Glass only blocks UVB rays. And a study in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that 53 percent of skin cancers in the U.S. are found on the left side – the driver’s side – of the body. The foundation recommends affixing special UV-blocking window film to your windows. And try to keep that left arm inside the car, not propped up on your open window.

So have fun this summer! Go to the beach, hit those cookouts and spend some time by the pool. And apply sunscreen liberally and often to keep you – and your loved ones – safe from summer’s harsh rays.

Headed to the beach or on a sun-drenched road trip? Make sure you have the right amount of coverage at AAA.com/Membership.

If you’ve ever forgotten why you walked into a room or lost track of your thoughts mid-sentence, you may be in search of an activity that can strengthen your noggin. Brain training games and apps are an increasingly popular pastime, but do they really help to improve mental fitness? The brain is a complicated organ, and so is that question.

Research is still being done to fully understand the effectiveness of brain training games. The team at the Brain Game Center at the University of California in Riverside, for instance, is working extensively to develop and test science-based games that aim to improve cognitive abilities, even inviting the public to participate in studies. However, experiments yield mixed results.

While there is still no definitive conclusion on exactly how or if games can help to strengthen brain skills, these apps are all rooted in science. Studies show that regularly challenging your mind keeps it sharp, and games can certainly be part of that.

Mobile Brain Games for a Cognitive Workout

Peak (free for iOS and Android)

Peak is one of the top players when it comes to brain training apps. Rated as one of the best apps by Google, Peak keeps things interesting by focusing on short, intense “mental workouts.” The app was developed using the neuroscience and cognitive research of Yale and Cambridge’s top minds. In addition to the usual brain training areas like agility and problem solving, Peak has unique training modules for creativity, language and even emotional intelligence. The app also includes a virtual coach, which comes in handy to boost motivation!

Lumosity (free for iOS and Android)

Lumosity, one of the first brain training apps, was launched more than a decade ago. This comprehensive brain training platform is still at the top of its game and boasts tens of millions of users today. Lumosity is known for its large library of fun, visually pleasing, well-designed games, which includes a variety of scenarios to boost your brainpower.

For instance, one game has you play as a penguin trying to navigate a quickly rotating maze, which engages your spatial orientation skills. Another popular game, “Playing Koi,” tasks you with feeding identical koi fish in a pond; you must keep track of which fish you’ve already fed as they swim around the tank, which tests your ability to maintain divided attention.

Lumosity is consistently updated, and new games are added to the library frequently. Like others on this list, Lumosity works with scientists to develop their top-notch games.

Brain Apps for an IQ Boost

Mensa Brain Training (free for iOS)

Mensa Brain Training is unique because it’s developed by a membership-only, high IQ society. That being said, anyone is free to download the Mensa app and start using their exercises. Like other apps, activities are designed to improve your memory, mental agility and other cognitive aspects, but each activity is also designed to enhance your IQ.

For those looking for a more definitive and well-respected marker of intelligence, Mensa’s app is a great choice. You’ll be able to check your Mensa Brain Index (MBI) to see how your cognitive abilities improve over time and compare your stats to the global percentile. While this might seem intimidating for some, it’s a must for anyone who wants more insight into how brain training is impacting their intelligence.

HighIQPro for iOS and Android ($29.99-39.99)

Unlike many other brain training apps, HighIQPro requires a fee to get started. While it might seem like a lot, it’s a one-time fee for lifetime access, so depending on what you’re looking for, it may be more economical than making in-app or ad-free purchases on another platform.

Like Mensa’s app, HighIQPro has one main goal: to grow your IQ and provide measurable, reliable data. The app even includes in-app, standardized IQ tests. However, don’t expect the fun activities and flashy effects of other mobile brain training apps; this platform is focused simply on barebones methods to improve your working intelligence as efficiently as possible.

Unique Brain Training Apps

Elevate (free for iOS and Android)

Chosen as Apple’s “App of the Year,” Elevate is one of the most popular brain training apps, and for good reason – the app incorporates sleek, user-friendly design with a unique approach and engaging gaming. While its two big competitors, Lumosity and Peak, focus mainly on cognitive development, Elevate stakes out its own place by providing gamers with more academic-oriented learning modules. With its generous game library, Elevate users can improve their reading, math and speaking skills.

While cognitive development is something many look for in a brain training app, some gamers desire something a little more concrete and actionable. Elevate emphasizes that their platform helps users grow their earning power and productivity, which are definite boosts in today’s competitive professional world. Within a short time, users can start to see real world improvements in their skills.

Memorado (free for iOS and Android)

With over a million users, Memorado is an up-and-coming app that builds on cognitive research to help users grow their brain power. As the name suggests, it’s an especially useful app when it comes to boosting your working memory. But this app doesn’t just tackle cognitive development with gameplay; you’ll also have access to more than a hundred meditation modules to keep your mind calm and adaptable, along with resources to help you get a better night’s sleep.

While the effects of meditation and relaxation on your brain might be subtler, Memorado’s emphasis on this other side of brain training sets it apart from its competitors.

Brain Wars (free for iOS and Android)

If you’re someone with a competitive spirit, Brain Wars will likely be your favorite brain training app. While many training apps focus on building your brainpower with solitary exercises and tracking your individual stats, Brain Wars emphasizes competing with others in a test of intelligence.

As it turns out, a little healthy competition can go a long way in increasing training motivation and consistency. While the games and graphics are on the simpler side, this makes it easier for everyone to pick up quickly. You can play with your loved ones, or with anyone else around the world using the app.

Which mobile brain games would you like to play? Tell us in the comments.

One of the great things about Long Island is that nothing is ever too far away. Long Island has beaches, farms, amusement parks, shopping malls and mini-golf. It shares real estate with the greatest city in the world. There are also a lot of good bagel shops. But does Long Island have night life? Honey, “The Great Gatsby” takes place in Great Neck. If you’re looking for things to do on Long Island at night, you won’t be disappointed.

Whether you’re a local looking for something to do, or an out-of-towner who wants to know what to visit on the Island, this list of things to do on Long Island, NY at night is sure to help.

Go cruising

One of the most fun things to do on Long Island at night is taking a dinner cruise. It is an island, after all. Whether you’re floating along the Long Island Sound or the Atlantic Ocean, there are beautiful sights to be seen all across the Island. On the Lauren Kristy Dinner Cruise, you and your friends can board a turn-of-the-century riverboat, with a paddle wheel and everything! Sail the Great South Bay while enjoying a magnificently catered dinner and watch the sun go down while sipping a Long Island iced tea.

On Lady Liberty Cruises, which leave from Port Washington, you can eat dinner while sailing through New York Harbor, surrounded by the glittering lights of the city. You’ll also get close-up views of the Gilded Age Gold Coast mansions that dot the North Shore.

Get a drink

Much of the culture of Long Island is tied up in the Gilded and Jazz ages of its past. The Jazz Age is remembered particularly in the proliferation of speakeasy-style bars all across the Island. Those seeking speakeasy-themed nights out would  do well to check out Tullulah’s, a Bayshore restaurant and speakeasy bar. Featuring small plates, fresh seafood and quirky-but-cool decorations, Tullulah’s is perfect for a night on the town. Don’t forget to try their repertoire of fantastically themed speakeasy cocktails, like the Pecan Jag or the Bananahattan.

Long Island is also rife with craft breweries, where you can tour brewing facilities and taste delicious hops. The Oyster Bay Brewing Company, nestled against the shoreline, is a particular treat. It has a distinct community atmosphere, with rough-hewn tables and bins of party games. The room shakes whenever someone topples the giant Jenga tower. To sample as many beers as you can, order a flight of five or six mini-glasses.

If boozy bars, breweries or vineyards aren’t your scene, stop by the Witches Brew, a coffee shop in West Hempstead. With witchy decor, mismatched furniture and a vegetarian menu, the Witches Brew is not your average coffee pot. The shop welcomes grown-ups and goth kids alike to lounge on their couches, chairs and poufs and peruse their seven-page menu amid glowing fairy lights. Their vast collection of unique coffees and teas are to die for.

See a show

Right in New York City’s backyard, Long Island is lucky to have a never-ending supply of talented performers. Community performance spaces such as the Paramount, Suffolk Theater and the Space at Westbury often play host to the best in the business (whatever that business may be). There’s always a community production of “West Side Story” to be found, or a Billy Joel cover band, or the actual Billy Joel.

If comedy is more your speed, swing on over to the Governor’s Comedy Cabaret, a stand-up comedy venue in Levittown that serves up jokes alongside cocktails and pub fare. As the top comedy club on Long Island, the Governor’s Comedy Cabaret plays host to famous comedians as well as local talent.

Perhaps the most unique performance venue is the Stephen Talkhouse in Amagansett, which has been a Long Island landmark since the late ’80s. The Talkhouse is an intimate bar and music space featuring talented and famous musicians. Some artists who have passed through its doors include The Rolling Stones, Paul McCartney, Billy Joel, Paul Simon, The Police and more. Head on over there for some drinking, dancing and amazing live music. It is without a doubt one of the best things to do on Long Island at night.

What are your favorite things to do on Long Island at night? Let us know in the comments below!

This post was originally published in 2018 and has been updated. 

There’s no denying that shades are an integral part of summer fashion. But sunglasses aren’t just lenses that make you look incredibly cool during the warm-weather months. They can be eye savers in all seasons.

Why Wear Sunglasses?

Most people are aware that the sun’s ultraviolet rays can be harmful, though many don’t realize the negative impacts they can have on unprotected eyes. Just like your skin, UV rays can cause sunburn on the cornea of your eyes, which may lead to blurred vision, redness and irritation. If untreated, these symptoms can lead to cataracts and macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness in the United States. A quality pair of sunglasses can help defend against these potentially harmful rays.

When purchasing sunglasses, there’s a bit more to consider than what looks cool. First, make sure they provide 99 to 100% protection from UV rays, either with  a UV coating or polycarbonate lenses with built-in UV coverage. Plus, the bigger the lenses, the better. Big lenses provide extra protection by blocking the rays coming in from the side.

Types of Lenses

If you’re looking to avoid intense glare from smooth water, snow or flat roads, polarized lenses are your best option. Not only can they reduce glare, but they can also make images appear sharper and clearer, increasing visual clarity and comfort. For those with light-sensitivity, having polarized lenses can help with adjusting to outdoor lighting. Photochromic lenses or light-adaptive lenses also help with reducing UV ray impact by changing from clear to dark when exposed to any amount of UV rays.

Lens Color

While the color of the lens tint doesn’t have a huge impact on how effective sunglasses are, some can optimize the way you see, which can be particularly helpful for activities like driving or playing sports.

Gray is a popular neutral tint; it allows the eyes to see colors in their purest form by reducing brightness and glare, and is best for driving and participating in outdoor sports.

Yellow/orange lens color increases contrast in hazy, foggy or low-light conditions, making it ideal for playing around in the snow or participating in indoor ball sports.

Green lenses filter some blue light, reduce glare and offer high contrast and visual sharpness. Shades of green can also reduce bright light-induced eyestrain, which is good for precision sports like tennis, baseball and golf.

Amber/brown reduces glare and blocks blue light, which brightens vision on cloudy days. It increases contrast and depth perception, particularly against green and blue backgrounds. Perfect for sports that require distance judgment, such as baseball.

Blue/purple reduces glare, improves color perception and can help to see contours.

Rose/red increases contrast by blocking blue light. It also tends to be more soothing comfortable than other tint colors for longer wear-times.

Why Should Kids Wear Sunglasses?

It’s even more crucial for kids to wear sunglasses. They spend more time outdoors than many adults, so they’re more exposed to UV rays. According to the World Health Organization, up to 80 percent of a person’s lifetime exposure to UV is received before the age of 18. Additionally, the lens inside a child’s eye is able to block less UV rays than an adult’s, which means more harmful radiation can find its way in. Children under the age of 10 are at the highest risk for skin and eye damage, since the skin on their eyelids and around their eyes is more delicate than an adult’s.

Recommended Frame Types

Those fun and cheap sunglasses you might get as prizes for playing games during a festival, for example? They generally don’t come close to protecting the eyes from UV rays.

The frames for kids’ sunglasses should also not have sharp edges or be easily breakable. High-quality spectacle lenses are a must.

Most importantly, involve your kids when picking out their sunglasses. Not only will they be able to tell you whether the sunglasses are too tight or uncomfortable, but they will be happier with the designs they pick and want to wear them more. As a precaution, though, you may want to consult your optician for the best frames.

Recommended Lens Type

For kids’ sunglasses, high-quality polycarbonate lenses are recommended. They automatically block 100% UV rays without needing special lens coatings, tints or treatments. In addition, all poly-type lenses are lighter than regular plastic lenses, so they are scratch-resistant. They can provide up to ten times more impact resistance for greater comfort and eye safety, especially while the wearer plays sports or any other sort of active play.

Look for features such as flexible spring hinges that allow the sunglasses to fit snugly on the head and decrease the chances of them falling off or breaking from impact.

Do you have a favorite type of sunglasses? Let us know in the comments! 

AAA members can save 30% on non-prescription sunglasses with LensCrafters.*

*Save 30% off non-prescription sunglasses with your AAA membership. Valid on multiple pairs. Valid AAA Membership required. AAA Vision Discounts are administered by EyeMed Vision Care (EyeMed). These are not insurance programs and may be discontinued at any time. Cannot be combined with other discounts or vision care, previous purchases, or readers. Some brands excluded including Cartier frames. Discounts are off tag prices. No cash value. Void where prohibited by law. Additional restrictions may apply. See store associate for details. Offer expires 12/31/2019.

See AAA.com/LensCrafters for all offers and full terms and conditions.

Splurging at the right moments when you’re on vacation can create memories that will last a lifetime. However, having the money for those moments means being smart and saving cash – leading up to your trip and during it.

When You’re Preparing for Travel

Most of your largest travel savings will likely happen well ahead of you climbing into the car or boarding a plane. This is because most of your big purchases, i.e. transportation and lodging, are going to be made ahead of time.

Logging Savings with Lodging Choices

Most people will start looking at ways to save with big-ticket items, such as on plane tickets and hotel rooms.

This isn’t a bad strategy. Search and compare the lowest rates on hotels well in advance (being a AAA member will help you in this department.)

To save even more in the grand-scheme, look for lodging with an in-room kitchen. If you’re planning on staying in the same area for more than two nights, preparing your own meals will keep some money in your wallet and save you from having to choose a different place to eat out every night.

Logical Location

Before you book any rooms through any sites, make sure to do some due diligence with regards to the location. There are plenty of places to stay that are attractive in price but are nowhere close to all the restaurants and activities you will want to be close to.

Try to book a hotel that is close to the heart of where you want to be, preferably within walking distance. The extra money that you might end up spending on the room will save you from overpaying on transportation costs in the long run.

Fill Your Pockets with Flying Savings

There are so many ways to save a little extra money when it comes to booking your flight. The biggest saver is choosing your destination based on what flight deals are available. If you have frequent flyer miles with any airline, scan their weekly deals.

Of course, if you have a predetermined destination, there are a few other things you can do to save money. Try to book at least 47 days in advance and be flexible on your departure dates (try to travel on Tuesday, Wednesday or Saturday).

Discover How to Put Cash Away

If you’re preparing for a big trip, it can make sense to do more than just put money in a separate bank account. In fact, the savviest of travelers take advantages of CDs, which can last from three months to 10 years. With a set term length when money can’t be touched, they’re an excellent way to ensure that you don’t dip into your travel funds (while also earning interest).

When You’re There

If you’ve spent months pinching pennies and cutting corners to make sure you have enough money for your vacation, it’s tempting to cut loose as soon as you arrive. However, there ways you can continue to save money without hampering any of your vacation fun.

By the Grace of the Grocery Store

Meals and alcohol costs are the third biggest piece of the pie when it comes to the costs of a vacation, right behind transportation and lodging. A big part of this is because when you’re on vacation, you end up eating out every single meal. The tabs, the tips – they add up fast.

One of the easiest ways to save serious money on your dream holiday is to hit up a local grocery store. When you’re there, grab what you need for at least one meal a day and plenty of snacks.

The easiest meal to prepare on the run is lunch – think sandwiches and salads – but if you’re into lighter fare for breakfast, consider shopping for two meals a day and splurge on dinner.

Give Up Lugging Laundry

Nowadays, you should expect baggage fees, especially if you’re flying on a budget airline. Checking an extra bag can end up costing you the same as a couple of very memorable meals or a high-end show.

Consider packing light and plan on doing laundry. If you’re lucky, your lodging will have a washer and dryer, but even if it doesn’t, an hour spent reading a good book in the laundromat is worth the money you’ll save.

Be Smart About Souvenirs

When you arrive in town, you may feel the urge to grab the first couple of knickknacks and kitsch souvenirs you spot. There is a temptation to think that this is your only chance to do so. But that’s just not true! Instead of immediately buying the painted shells or having your name carved into a piece of wood, start taking mental notes regarding how much the souvenir items you’re interested in cost.

Eventually, you’ll identify the cheapest location for a few souvenirs for yourself and friends back home. At this point, you’ll also have a good gauge for the quality of the items. It hurts to buy something hastily only to realize that you paid too much, and it isn’t as nice as similar items you encounter down the road.

The key to fulfilling your travel dreams on a budget is to focus on savings when you are purchasing big-ticket items and avoid spending money on meals and items that are more perfunctory than deeply satisfying.

Don’t wait to start saving for your next dream vacation!

Throughout 2019, Disney Parks will be celebrating 90 years of Mickey and Minnie, and California’s Disneyland Parks are no exception. After all, it is here at Disneyland, the original Disney theme park, where Walt Disney set out to have a permanent home for his iconic characters.

Today, Disneyland Resort comprises Disneyland, Disney California Adventure, three hotels, and the Downtown Disney shopping and dining district.

Oldies but goldies and what’s new at Disneyland Park in 2019

The 77-foot-tall Sleeping Beauty Castle and Disneyland Park were completed in Walt Disney’s lifetime. Unlike its counterpart at the Magic Kingdom in Florida, guests may get a glimpse inside this castle without buying a meal. So, make sure you take the Sleeping Beauty Castle walk-through.

Among the rides and attractions only available at Disneyland Park are the Matterhorn Bobsleds, Indiana Jones Adventure, Storybook Land Canal Boats, Snow White’s Scary Adventure, Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage and The Disneyland Story Presenting Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln, only to name a few.

While there is a Haunted Mansion and an It’s a Small World on both coasts, the Disneyland overlay of these attractions during the Christmas Season is only available at Disneyland Park and totally worth your visit. And make sure to ride Pirates of the Caribbean, which only resembles its counterpart in Orlando by name. End your day with Disneyland’s nighttime spectacular Fantasmic!

In January, as part of the Get Your Ears On – A Mickey and Minnie Celebration, Mickey Mouse-themed fireworks, dubbed Mickey’s Mix Magic, will debut at the park with all-new music and laser projections. Guests will be invited to join the nightly fun by dancing along while viewing the show at Main Street U.S.A., the Rivers of America and in front of the It’s a Small World attraction.

Also returning to the park is Mickey’s Soundsational Parade. Don’t miss the floats representing Disney classics such as The Princess and the Frog, Aladdin and The Little Mermaid. Mickey will lead the parade and will have a brand-new float for the occasion.

Nothing, however, can outdo the excitement over the opening, Summer 2019, of the 14-acre Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. The land is being built to the north of Frontierland, and the Black Spire Outpost will include Oga’s Cantina and two rides. In the Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run, guests will get a chance to pilot the starship on a secret cargo mission; in Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, riders are caught in a fight between the First Order and the Resistance and taken prisoner on a Star Destroyer.

Over at Disney California Adventure: Pixar Pier, Frozen and Marvel super heroes

Paradise Pier got a new face-lift, and the entire area is currently being transformed into the new Pixar Pier. The California Screamin’ roller coaster got a new theme and now soars with new music as The Incredicoaster. The Ferris wheel, re-branded, continues to offer an incredible view of the park from high up, under the name of Pixar Pal-A-Round. The super headliner Toy Story Mania! is, of course, not to be missed.

Next up, in 2019, is Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind, a spinning ride, and Jessie’s Critter Carousel, catering to the under-8-year-old crowd.

Right next door, Cars Land provides even more Pixar fun with several quick-service eateries, plenty of shopping and two major rides. Make sure to enjoy Radiator Springs Racers, Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters and Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree.

Last year, Disney closed Bug’s Land; work has begun on the Super Hero Marvel Universe, with attractions starring the Avengers and Spider Man to open in 2020.

Open for business now is the revamped Tower of Terror Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout!, the fortress of famed Collector Tanaleer Tivan. The Sci-fi-themed indoor ride is sure to thrill. While awaiting their very own land, Spider Man and other Marvel characters meet guests in Hollywood Land.

Sadly, there isn’t any parade or nighttime show currently running at Disney California Adventure. There is however, a not to be missed show: Frozen – Live at the Hyperion. The musical stage show is based on Disney’s animated hit Frozen and is filled with awe-inspiring special effects.

Where to stay

The 973-room Disneyland Hotel opened in 1955 and is a AAA Four Diamond property. The resort is a 5-minute walk from both parks and right next door to the Downtown Disney entrance. Guests can also use the monorail connection to the parks upon entering Downtown Disney. Ask the driver if you can ride with him in the front car. It is a great way to start your Disneyland adventure.

The resort and its luxurious rooms pay tribute to Disneyland’s history with vintage pictures of Walt Disney himself in the park. Three pools, one including two monorail-themed waterslides, provide fun for the entire family.

Rooms are contemporary and feature a flat-screen TV, a coffee maker and a mini-fridge. Standard rooms come with a king-size or two queen-size beds; a pullout couch accommodates an additional guest.  Kids will love the headboard with a carving of Sleeping Beauty Castle. Flick a switch, and the fiber optics in the headboard create fireworks over the castle, accompanied by a rendition of “When You Wish Upon a Star.”

Several-bedroom suites, five themed suites (Adventureland, Ambassador, Big Thunder, Fairytale, Mickey Mouse Penthouse, Pirates of the Caribbean) and club level rooms are also available. Prices for a standard room start at $418 plus tax and provide early admission to one of the theme parks.

BOOK A ROOM AT THE DISNEYLAND HOTEL WITH AAA

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