Apr jamestown 2016 by AAA East Central

SEE PAGE 3

JAMESTOWN REGION

Vol. 63 No. 4

EUROPE & AMERICA your way!

Allianz Global Assistance Wins Prestigious Award

Whatever your travel style, Trafalgar handles all of the planning for you

AAA anywhere, anytime with AAA Mobile App

With our free AAA Mobile app, members can enjoy your favorite time- and money-saving AAA services, such as Roadside Assistance, member discounts, maps, gas prices, driving directions, and more right from the palm of your hand. Book hotel rooms, rental cars, and flights right from your mobile device. Plus, the app’s TripTik® Travel Planner provides interactive maps, turn-byturn navigation, and guides to points of interests, campgrounds, and more Save time and money with the Cheapest Gas feature. Gas station details include updated prices for all available grades of gasoline, and you can sort stations alphabetically or by distance. New functionality now enables Apple Watch owners to quickly and easily find the nearest gas station or the cheapest fuel with AAA App. The app updates prices seven times a day and provides turn-by-turn navigation to the nearest or cheapest station through Apple Maps. Get the free AAA Mobile App now to get access to these and other great features. AAA Mobile delivers the total mobile member experience. For more information or to download the AAA Mobile app, visit the AAA Mobile Solutions page at AAA.com/Mobile or Text APP15 to 99000 and you’ll receive a link to download the app.

Wherever your vacation dreams reside, Trafalgar & AAA Travel can take you there!

perfectly designed vacation is one on which you’ll never have to think way too much or be overstressed. Easier said than done? No, easy as can be! — when you trust AAA Travel and its preferred travel partner Trafalgar to do the legwork for you. Experience Paris’ joie de vivre or Vegas’s exciting latenight vibe all the while knowing your coming week’s activities are already awaiting you. Fully enjoy yourself, knowing that a professional guide and your fellow travelers will be ready tomorrow with prearranged sightseeing or other activities, freeing you from in-the-moment researching or reserving landmarks, lodging or transportation. Behind the scenes, Trafalgar takes care of everything: With concierge-style service, you don’t need to read a map, pick the right hotel, book restaurants or carry your own luggage. Trafalgar even takes care of check-in, porterage and all local taxes, ensuring a seamless, stress-free vacation. Every Trafalgar trip is meticulously planned by a team of experts who, with their indepth knowledge and experience, passionately create un-

APRIL 2016

Travel | Insurance/Financial | Automotive | Member Savings | AAA.com

TEXTING AND WALKING CAN SPELL TROUBLE

forgettable vacations. Traveling with a knowledgeable professional escort who provides valuable context for the landmarks and scenery you’re seeing as you see it; who provides assistance in navigating the transportation, sightseeing and lodging arrangements while on tour; and who makes personal the cultures and customs of the places you’re visiting is an invaluable element of a Trafal-

gar guided vacation. And now, only between April 1 & April 30, members save $100.00 on any 7-nightor-longer 2016 Trafalgar European or American vacation (restrictions apply). Choose from Trafalgar’s 7 distinctly different trip styles: Country Explorers: Explore one country in detail, for a deeper appreciation of the destination’s people and culture. continued on page 19

Limited-time offer exclusively from AAA East Central

Receive $100.00 off any 7-night-or-longer 2016 Trafalgar vacation! New bookings with deposit April 1-30, 2016. Savings per room, double occupancy.

Year-round exclusive AAA Member Benefit from Trafalgar

Book a Trafalgar vacation with AAA & receive a $40.00 credit toward Optional Experiences while on vacation. See a AAA Travel Agent for details. Benefit is valid per guest. Not applicable on all itineraries; conditions apply. For details, call or visit a AAA Travel office.

AAA’s preferred travel insurance provider, Allianz Global Assistance, was named best travel insurance provider overall at the recent 2016 Travvy Awards. Based on votes from more than 39,000 travel agents, the Travvys are known as the “Academy Awards” of the industry and recognize the highest standards of service excellence. “Most trips go off without a hitch,” said Jim Lehman, president AAA East Central, “but if something happens, you want to be prepared. AAA members are in great hands with TripAssist travel insurance products and 24/7 Member Care assistance for AAA Vacations handled by Allianz.”

Free Junior Associates — Priceless Protection for Teens If your teen has reached driving age, don’t let them go it alone. AAA members can extend their AAA coverage for dependents age 16 to 18, with a free Junior Associate membership. They’ll carry their very own AAA card, and are entitled to AAA benefits and services including 24/7 roadside assistance, exclusive savings at AAA Discounts & Rewards, AAA Mobile solutions and more. Members can add Junior Associates by calling or visiting their local AAA office or, by clicking on aaa.com/JuniorAssociate. (All Associate Members must reside at the Primary Member’s address, and proof of age may be required).

Forget the Stamp with AutoPay With AutoPay, you can avoid late payments and a lapse in your AAA membership. You’ll still receive a paper bill, and you can update your membership prior to making a payment. The credit or debit card you leave on file will be charged the amount of the bill. Any payments from your card will be debited 10 to 15 days before your renewal date. Simply logon to your account at AAA.com and select “Enroll” under Billing Information, or call the Member Service phone number on the back of your membership card to sign up.

Follow Us on Facebook Frequently posted topics include: AAA.com website features, travel specials, online discounts, gas price information, safety tips, car care advice and upcoming events. Visit Facebook.com/AAAEastCentral to start following AAA East Central today.

PLEASANT HOLIDAYS’ TROPICAL TEMPTATIONS

Dreaming of an exotic beach vacation to Hawaii, Punta Cana, Cancun or Florida? Pleasant Holidays makes tropical dreams come true with affordable beach vacations that fit your budget. Find your place in the sun with Pleasant Holidays and AAA Travel. Book and deposit between April 1-30, 2016 and AAA members can save $100 per room on 7-night packages and $50 per room on 4 to 6-night packages. SEE PAGE 7.

PAGE 2

AAA MOTORIST

Trust AAA Approved Auto Repair Know a quality repair facility when you see one

pril is Spring Car Care Month and now is the time to get your vehicle in shape before things really start to heat up for the summer driving season. People are keeping their cars longer and it’s more important than ever for drivers to develop a trusted relationship with a professional auto repair facility. The best time to look for a repair facility is before you need one. AAA has identified a network of Approved Auto Repair (AAR) facilities that include new car dealerships, franchise operations and national chains, and independent garages. These shops all meet AAA’s strict quality standards and display the AAA logo. AAA created the AAR program more than 40 years ago to help motorists find highquality automotive service. Today, there are approximately 8,000 AAR facilities across North America. When you see the AAA Approved Auto Repair sign, you’ll find highly trained technicians, a wide range of professional repair services and guaranteed workmanship. And while hundreds of repair facilities apply for the AAR rating each year, fewer than half are able to meet AAA’s rigid criteria. The AAR approval process is tough. AAA ensures each facility has the right tools and equipment to provide a wide range of repairs. They must also adopt staff training qualifications and insurance guidelines. Finally, AAA surveys

APRIL 2016

AAA DIRECTORY INTERNET WEB SITE: www.AAA.com AAA MEMBER SERVICES • ADDRESS CHANGE triptiks, tourbooks, maps, license 412-363-5100 or 1-800-441-5008 APPROVED AUTO REPAIR 412-365-7411 or 1-800-233-9733 EMERGENCY ROAD SERVICE 412-362-1900 or 1-800-222-4357 EXPRESS TRAVEL RESERVATIONS

airline tickets, tours, cruises, rental cars

412-363-7283 or 1-800-354-8761

INSURANCE SERVICES: 1-800-207-7947 MEDIA RELATIONS: 412-365-7274 SAFETY: 412-365-7211 TDD for the hearing-impaired: 412-363-7144

AAA BRANCH OFFICE LOCATIONS

SIGN OF QUALITY — There are approximately 8,000 Approved Auto Repair facilities across North America. customers about their satisfaction with the facility. Once approved, AAR shops are visited quarterly, re-inspected annually and monitored for customer satisfaction to ensure compliance with AAA standards. AAA Service Specialists, who all have an Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification, along with an extensive industry background, conduct stringent reviews of each facility.

Facilities that display the AAA Approved Auto Repair sign can be counted on to do a good job. In addition to the added peace of mind that comes with AAA approval, AAA members receive the following benefits at AAR shops: • All repairs, parts, labor, and components are guaranteed for 24 months or 24,000 miles under normal operating conditions. • Get priority service with Roadside Assistance to a AAA Approved Auto Repair facility with prompt vehicle evaluation within 60 minutes of AAA tow arrival and assistance in obtaining alternate transportation. • Enjoy a 10% discount (up to $50) upon member request on regularlypriced parts and labor through the AAA Discount and Rewards® discount program. • Written Estimate – You will be provided a written estimate of the cost of all work to be performed on your vehicle. The final cost may not exceed the estimate by more than 10 percent unless authorized by you in advance. • The return of replaced parts if requested. • Free Maintenance Inspection – On request, when having paid repair work done by an AAR facility, your vehicle will be inspected at no charge for those items that most frequently contribute to roadside breakdowns. • If a AAA member is unsatisfied with the service or repairs received at a AAA Approved Auto Repair facility, the facility has agreed to accept the decision instructed by AAA in order to correct the member’s concern.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Visit AAA.com/repair to learn more about AAA’s Approved Auto Repair (AAR) program and locate a facility near you.

Altoona 1634 Valley View Blvd. ............................. 814-946-1277 Butler 138 Clearview Circle .................................... 724-287-2713 Cranberry The Village Shoppes, 20510 Rt. 19 .......... 724-772-1122 Erie 6660 Peach St. Unit #2 .............................. 814-866-0246 Franklin 491 Allegheny Blvd, Suite 200 .................. 814-432-3960 Greensburg Eastgate Shopping Center 5142 Route 30, Suite 135 ......................... 724-834-8300 Grove City 24 Pine Grove Village Dr. .......................... 724-458-8930 Harborcreek 4430 Buffalo Rd. ........................................ 814-897-9508 Hermitage 1749 E. State St.......................................... 724-981-9141 Indiana 1169 Wayne Ave........................................ 724-349-4193 Jamestown (New York) 111 W. Fifth St., Jamestown, N.Y.. ........... 716-488-1981 Kittanning Franklin Village Mall. ............................... 724-543-1924 Lewisburg 530 1/2 North Derr Drive . ....................... 570-524-7455 Lower Burrell/New Kensington Area Crossroads Plaza 2503 Leechburg Rd.................................... 724-339-4440 McKean County (Bradford) 587 South Ave. .......................................... 814-368-3113 Meadville 18939 Park Avenue Plaza Unit #7 ............ 814-724-2247 New Castle 40 East St.................................................... 724-658-8551 Niagara-Orleans 7135 Rochester Rd, Lockport, NY. ............ 716-434-2865 Pittsburgh–Century III Area (Pleasant Hills) 9 Clairton Blvd. (RT 51). ........................... 412-655-6100 Pittsburgh–Downtown 538 Smithfield St. ...................................... 412-338-4300 Pittsburgh–East Liberty/Shadyside 5900 Baum Blvd. ........................................ 412-365-7196 Pittsburgh–Monroeville 2725 Mosside Blvd. .................................... 412-858-4640 Pittsburgh–North Hills Area (Ross Township) 4790 McKnight Rd. .................................... 412-367-7600 Pittsburgh–Robinson Township Robinson Town Centre 1760 Park Manor Blvd. ............................. 412-809-2800 Pittsburgh–South Hills Area (Bethel Park) 160 Ft. Couch Rd. ...................................... 412-833-5203 Rochester 300 Adams St. ............................................ 724-775-8000 St. Marys 1375 Bucktail Rd. ...................................... 814-834-7838 Somerset 110 N. Center Ave. .................................... 814-443-6526 Sunbury 1001 Market Street. .................................. 570-286-4507 Uniontown 111 W. Main St. ......................................... 724-438-8575 Warren 2285 Market St. ......................................... 814-723-6660 Washington 196 Murtland Ave. .................................... 724-222-3800 Waynesburg 184 Greene Plaza, US 21 & I-79 ................ 724-627-3434 Wexford-Wexford Plaza 10548 Perry Highway ................................ 724-933-3000 White Oak/McKeesport Area Oak Park Mall, 2001 Lincoln Way ............ 412-675-3400

APRIL 2016

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 3

Distractions can be deadly for motorists and pedestrians Digital distractions are placing walkers and drivers at risk

Jamestown Region Official publication of AAA East Central Published monthly (except bimonthly Aug./Sept., Nov./Dec.) by AAA East Central 111 West Fifth St., Jamestown NY 14701-5035 USPS 002-112 ISSN 0898-4158 Periodicals Postage Paid at Jamestown NY Postmaster: Send address changes to AAA Motorist Jamestown Region c/o AAA, 111 W. Fifth St., Jamestown NY 14701-5035 Subscription Rate: $1 included in Primary Membership dues. All others: $2/year.

Publisher.....................................James E. Lehman Managing Editor ....................... Doug O’Neil Editorial Office 5900 Baum Blvd, Pittsburgh PA 15206-3854 e-mail: motorist@aaaec.com

AAA EAST CENTRAL Chairman ................................................ Richard S. Hamilton Vice Chairman.........................................James E. Broome, Jr. Vice Chairman............................................... Gregory E. Grim Vice Chairman..........................................Mary Lynn Laughlin Vice Chairman..................................... Martha Hartle Munsch OFFICERS: President ....................................................James E. Lehman Executive Vice President ............................... Thomas J. Ashley Secretary .................................................. Robert H. Compton Treasurer .......................................................Robert S. Collins GOVERNING BOARD OF DIRECTORS Glenn B. Bachman, Neil D. Bassi, James E. Broome, Jr., Steve D. Bullock**, Charles O. Casto**, Edward C. Coaxum, Jr., Robert S. Collins, Robert H. Compton, Jon E. Denney, Debra A. Dinnocenzo, Gregory E. Grim, Richard S. Hamilton, James H. Kanicki, Mary Lynn Laughlin, William Duff McCrady, James M. McDonnell, Thomas V. McKernan Jr., Martha Hartle Munsch, Gary K. Munsie**, Terrence L. Walton** EAST CENTRAL REGION BOARD OF DIRECTORS Neil D. Bassi, Chairman, Robert S. Collins, Vice Chairman, Christian Asam, Jack A. Barkley, William E. Bierer**, Ellsworth T. Bowser**, Peter Burton, Michael A. Cochran, Daniel J. Collins Jr.**, Robert S. Collins, Robert H. Compton, Debra A. Dinnocenzo, James J. Dodaro, Charles W. Groce, Richard S. Hamilton, Mark Henschen, Luke Howe, Richard Kallenborn, Herbert G. Koenig, Mark S. Mansour, W. Duff McCrady, Martha Hartle Munsch, W. Lee Oswalt, III, Michael Parkes, John D. Petruso, Louis Pomerico, Jacob N. Skezas, James C. Stump, Jr., James F. Ward

By Richard Hamilton Chairman, AAA East Central alking is not just good for your health it’s also the single most overlooked component of our urban transportation system. One quarter of all trips in the United States are less than one mile so the potential for increased walking — along with reducing road congestion and greenhouse gas emissions — is enormous. Yet for many walkers the streets have become increasingly mean. According to data from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) pedestrians account for 15 percent of crash deaths with injuries and fatalities showing a steady rise in the past five years. Pedestrians are not getting hurt walking into each other. They are tripping over curbs, bumping into lampposts and colliding with motor vehicles. Victims include a disproportionate number of children, seniors, and more recently young people using smartphones, but nearly everyone is a pedestrian at some point during the day. Poor pedestrian and driver behaviors often contribute to the problem. Motorists frequently fail to yield the right-of-way at intersections, while pedestrians routinely cross mid-block, or ignore “Don’t Walk” signals. Alcohol involvement — either by the driver or the pedestrian — is a factor in nearly half of all pedestrian fatalities. According the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety’s newly released Traffic Safety Culture Index, nearly 87 percent

Richard Hamilton of drivers engaged in at least one risky behavior while behind the wheel within the past month. About 45 percent report going 10 mph over the speed limit on a residential street, and more than 2 in 3 (70 percent) report talking on a cell phone. Nearly 1 in 3 (32 percent) admit to sending a text or email, while 39 percent) admit to running a red light. Motorists are quick to blame “the other guy” for bad driving, despite practicing many of the same dangerous behaviors themselves. Over 80 percent view distracted driving as a bigger problem than three years ago. Drivers are required to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing streets in marked or unmarked crosswalks in most situations. They should

be especially vigilant around intersections when a pedestrian is in their path. Pedestrians need to focus on walking safely — without distractions — just as motorists must concentrate on the task of driving. Walkers who use cell phones have been shown to be twice as unaware as those who do not, a phenomenon known as inattentional blindness. Cell phones, hand-held devices, headphones, or anything that takes your eyes, ears, or mind off the road is a distraction. And any of these have the potential to distract you at the exact moment that you need to be alert. Pedestrians should observe the following safety tips: • Put down the phone. Smartphones and electronic devices may be ubiquitous, but they take your eyes and your attention off of the road. • Don’t wear headphones while walking. Your ears can tell you a lot about what is happening around you. • Wait until you reach your destination before calling or texting. If you have to text or make a call while walking, stop and find a safe location. • Never assume that a driver will yield right of way. Make every effort to make eye contact with the driver before entering the roadway. • Be a role model. Speak up if you see your friends and family distracted. It could save their life. Together we can make significant strides in improving pedestrian safety without sacrificing mobility. It may just be a matter of standing on our own two feet.

membersonly

**emeritus directors

CARFAX makes it easier—and safer—to buy a used car Regional Board of Directors Susan V. Abdella, Gordon W. Black, Hans P.B. Christensen, Alison Churchill, Charles Heinz, Bradley E. Long, Dennis H. Lundberg, Samuel P. Price Jr., Philip E. Ruslink, John L. Sellstrom, Beverly Ungerer

Jamestown Office: 111 W. Fifth St. Jamestown NY 14701-5035 (716) 488-1981

Notice to AAA Members regarding AAA Insurance Services: Due to Statutory restrictions, AAA East Central is prohibited from offering products and services to AAA members residing in the State of New York.

Copyright ©2016 by AAA East Central. Publication of an advertisement in the AAA Motorist does not constitute an endorsement of the product or service by the AAA Motorist or by AAA East Central, except in the case of products and services which are being offered by AAA East Central.

Members save up to 40% on CARFAX Vehicle History reports

ith the most comprehensive vehicle history database in North America, millions of consumers trust CARFAX® to provide them with vehicle history information. CARFAX has more than 91,000 data sources and billions of records, including every U.S. and Canadian provincial motor vehicle agency, as well as auto auctions, fire and police departments, collision repair facilities, fleet management and rental agencies. Using the unique 17-character vehicle identification number (VIN), CARFAX Vehicle History Reports™ are available on all used cars and light trucks, model year 1981 or later. Every CARFAX Report contains information that can impact a buyer’s decision. Some types of information that a CARFAX Report may include: • Title information, including salvaged or junked titles • Flood damage history • Total loss accident history • Odometer readings

•

Lemon history Number of owners • Accident indicators, such as airbag deployments • State emissions inspection results • Service records • Vehicle use (taxi, rental, lease, etc.) AAA Classic and AAA Plus® members save 20% off the retail price when they purchase CARFAX vehicle history reports — ordered online at AAA.com/CarfaxReport. •

Classic/AAA Plus Benefits -- Save 20%

Retail Price

Classic/Plus Member Price

1 Carfax Report

$39.99

$31.99

5 Report package

$49.99

$39.99

Unlimited reports

$54.99

$43.99

AAA Premier® members are entitled to one FREE vehicle history report per member per membership year. To request a free report, Premier members must call AAA Premier Member Services at 1-866-511-7736. Subsequent reports are available at 40% off the retail price and can be ordered online.

AAA Premeir Benefits after FREE -Save 40%

Retail Price

AAA Premier Member Price

1 Carfax Report

$39.99

Free (1 per year)

2nd Carfax Report

$39.99

$23.99

5 Report package

$49.99

$29.99

Unlimited reports

$54.99

$32.99

Although CARFAX doesn’t promise to have every repair or accident record available on every vehicle, or always know if the vehicle has been in an accident, or had its odometer rolled back; it does give great ownership information for consumers to check before deciding to purchase a used vehicle. AAA still recommends that prospective purchasers have the vehicle checked out by a reputable facility like those that participate in AAA’s Approved Auto Repair program. Don’t waste your time looking at clunkers with a hidden past. Start your search at AAA.com/CarfaxReport and filter your results by one-owner cars, accident history, service records, and more.

PAGE 4

AAA MOTORIST

APRIL 2016

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 5

PAGE 6

AAA MOTORIST

APRIL 2016

Traveling Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way The savage beauty of Ireland’s rugged west coast

owering cliffs, heavy seas, history and heritage all abound on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. The 1,550 mile route along Ireland’s Atlantic Coast, is the longest coastal driving route of its kind in the world. The Fastnet Lighthouse at Mizen Head in Cork, straddles a rock known as ‘Ireland’s Teardrop’, so-called because it gave emigrants their last glimpse of their homeland as they sailed away during the Great Famine. Rising improbably from the sea, Skellig Michael has attracted those seeking solitude for centuries. It was on this rock that 6th century monks carved hundreds of stone steps to the summit, where they established an isolated monastery. Located seven miles off Kerry’s Iveragh Peninsula, Skellig Michael and neighboring Little Skellig have played prominent roles in Irish legends and lore. More recently, they have been amazing film fans in Star Wars: The Force Awakens. The otherworldly rock formation is where the movie’s climactic final scenes were filmed. The Loop Head peninsula offers panoramic cliff views, fresh seafood, and plenty of quiet places to pause and ponder the wonders of nature. The 37 mile loop takes in County Clare attractions like Carrigaholt Castle, Kilkee Cliffs,

TOWERING VIEW — O’Brien’s Tower on the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare. and the Bridges of Ross. The Burren is an extraordinary site in northern County Clare. The Iron Age stone forts and castle ruins add a touch of medieval mystery and visitors can pause at the megalithic tombs constructed by Druids more than 4,000 years ago. West of Burren are the Cliffs of Moher. These jagged rocks tower 700feet above the Atlantic coast and on a clear day, the Aran Islands are visible in

Galway Bay. Nomadic Celts once wandered these same paths and visitors are advised to dress warmly to fend off the cool Atlantic winds. Ireland’s northwest coast is filled with mist-covered moors and windswept cliffs. “Connemara is a savage beauty,” wrote Oscar Wilde, who returned here often to visit his ancestral home in the tiny village of Cong. Sometimes known as ‘Yeats Country’ Sligo was the Nobel Prize-winning poet’s

childhood home. Huge Atlantic rollers known as ‘prowlers’ crash against the coast at Mullaghmore — its famous headland — which offers striking views of Ben Bulben Mountain. Some of Europe’s highest sea cliffs can be found at Slieve League, with expansive views of the Sligo Mountains and Donegal Bay. Walk down One Man’s Pass, which leads to the summit, or kit yourself out in Donegal tweeds, hand woven here for centuries. Donegal’s crenellated coastline is the longest in Ireland, so you’re never far from the sea. Rugged Malin Head, at the tip of the Inishowen Peninsula, is Ireland’s most northerly point. The watchtower at Banba’s Crown was named after a mythical Irish queen. Affectionately known as ‘Ireland in miniature’ the peninsula is one of the county’s top scenic drives. The region is home to Ireland’s largest Gaeltacht, or Irish-speaking population. You can hear the melodious cadences of the mother tongue and experience traditional culture in the sparsely populated towns and villages. FOR MORE INFORMATION

Please see your AAA travel professional or click on AAA.com for more European vacation ideas from AAA.

AAA members save on gifts for moms & grads Savings that could pay for the cost of your membership

other’s Day and graduation season are just around the corner and now is the best time to save on gifts for the moms and grads in your life with AAA Discounts & Rewards. This innovative shopping experience on AAA.com features deep discounts, limited-time offers and everyday savings on dining, electronics, home, apparel, entertainment, pet care and more, from participating merchants nationwide — including national chains like Kohl’s, Nordstrom, Best Buy, Crate & Barrel, Macy’s, Walmart, The Home Depot and more. Save on everything from shopping and dining, to attractions, travel and even prescription medications. Discover great deals on the names you want and the products you need — all at unbeatable values. It’s just one of the many perks of AAA membership. AAA Discounts & Rewards makes it easy to start saving right away, thanks to the site’s intuitive, easy-to-navigate interface. View the latest specials and currently trending offers right on the Discounts & Rewards home page. Search for a retailer by name, or browse by category to find the perfect present. Save online and in-store — In addition to savings at over 30,000 online retailers, AAA members can show their AAA membership card and save at over

PREPARE TO BE WOWED — Save cash and earn WOWPoints at AAA Discounts & Rewards. 100,000 participating retail locations. No clipping coupons or fumbling for lost flyers — all you need to do is show your AAA membership card! Plus, visit your local AAA branch for discounts on attraction tickets, travel and more. And remember to download the free AAA Mobile app on your smartphone or tablet for places to save, wherever you go. Earn while you save — Wouldn’t it

be great if you could be rewarded for your purchases — even when shopping for others? AAA WOWPoints are AAA’s online reward points — just like the loyalty points you get from credit cards or airlines. They are yours to keep and your WOWPoints will never expire as long as you remain a AAA member! Redeem them anytime. Check out extra special AAA WOWPoints offers where

you can earn 2X, 10X and even 20X the WOWPoints. Now that’s rewarding! Qualifying purchases must be made through the Discounts & Rewards program. Kickstart the savings — AAA East Central members can access the AAA Discounts & Rewards page from AAA.com/discounts. Feel free to browse through all the offers, however, you must register at the time of transaction. Registration is completely free — a valid AAA membership and email address are all you need. Then shop, save and earn on national and local brands, tickets, travel, restaurants and retailers. AAA Discounts & Rewards gets you more. More discounts. More rewards. More savings on the items you need from the names you know and the brands you trust. It’s your year-long shopping destination for all your family’s needs. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at just how much more your AAA membership is worth.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Your AAA card isn’t just for roadside assistance. With over 100,000 places to save, it could help pay for the cost of your membership. For more information on AAA Discounts & Rewards, visit AAA.com/Discounts.

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 7

APRIL 2016

Member Benefits • Exclusive Offers

1-800-354-8761 • AAA.com/travel

All that’s missing from a perfect beach vacation in Florida, Hawaii, Cancun or Punta Cana is...

YOU!

These hotspots are the coolest places to be this summer!

SAVE UP TO $100.00 © sellingpix / Fotolia.com

on Pleasant Holidays packages from AAA! 4-6 nights: $50.00 • 7+ nights: $100.00 SAVINGS PER ROOM, DOUBLE OCCUPANCY. NEW BOOKING WITH DEPOSIT APRIL 1-30, 2016. REDEEM COUPON ONLY AT AAA EAST CENTRAL TRAVEL AGENCY LOCATIONS. RESTRICTIONS MAY APPLY.

Enjoy an exclusive AAA Member Benefit — a $50.00 certificate* toward the purchase of optional sightseeing or activity. *Per booking. At select Caribbean destinations, a $50 discount may apply (instead of a $50 activity voucher).

Crowne Plaza Hollywood Beach Hotel

Aston AstonWaikiki WaikikiBeach BeachHotel Hotel

Grand Bahia Principe Coba

Hotel Riu Bambu

Hollywood FL

Honolulu HI

Cancun MX

Punta Cana DR

The Crowne Plaza Hollywood Beach Hotel is an upscale resort both warm and stylish in appeal. More than a resort, it's a unique place where you can hit the beach, bask in the sun and explore Fort Lauderdale. A relaxing sanctuary where contemporary comforts and an array of thoughtful services have made us one of the top-rated hotels on Hollywood Beach. This prime address puts you just steps from the sand and a stop for both the Hollywood Beach Trolley and the Water Taxi, making it easy to explore the surrounding vibrant neighborhood and nearby Fort Lauderdale. Soak up the sun at the large infinity-edge pool. Get in a workout at the fitness center. Complimentary high-speed wireless internet service throughout the hotel keeps you connected. Schedule an in-room massage from Renewal Spa, located next to the hotel, or visit the Spa to enjoy its full menu of treatments and services.

The Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel puts you at the pulse of paradise and exudes a hip Hawaiian sense of place. Hang loose in a modern resort atmosphere — from colorful surfboard-studded lobby to retro Tiki’s Grill & Bar. Most rooms open to full or partial ocean views and feature private lanais for soaking up the scenery. Take full advantage of its surf, sand and sun surroundings across from world-famous Waikiki Beach; it’s within walking distance of endless diversions — shopping, dining, entertainment, cultural activities and attractions like the Honolulu Zoo, Waikiki Aquarium and Kapiolani Park. Popular services are included under a daily amenity fee: a beach bag filled with beach accessories (valued at $90+) including sunprotection supplies, in-room high-speed WiFi, in-room PlayStation®3 (play DVD movies & games from a DVDNow kiosk in the lobby), Keurig coffee maker, daily newspaper, fitness center access and more.

The all-inclusive Grand Bahia Principe Coba is a secluded resort nestled in a coastal paradise with everything your family needs. Nearby millennia-old Mayan ruins offer a window into an ancient world, and palm-lined Caribbean beaches allow you to unwind under the sun. “All-inclusive” entitles you to all of this and more: mini-bar; organized games & activities; access to paddle surfing, tennis, snorkeling, catamarans, kayaks, bicycles; aerobics/dancing classes; unlimited local drinks, beer & soft drinks in hotel's bars; 24-hour American-food snack bar; hotel buffet; lounge chairs, umbrellas, towels; entertainment for adults & children; soccer, basketball, volleyball, boogie boards; gym; free entrance to & drinks at La Rancherita nightclub; and local taxes & tips. Family rooms have an assigned concierge to take care of you. Also enjoy many amenities at the nearby Grand Bahia Principe Tulum.

The all-inclusive beachfront Hotel Riu Bambu sits in the heart of a tropical green space with unbeatable views of turquoise waters; Punta Cana’s beaches are considered some of the world’s most beautiful. A component of a larger complex, this resort shares various facilities and amenities with Riu Palace Punta Cana, Riu Palace Macao, Hotel Riu Palace Bavaro and Hotel Riu Naiboa. If you crave relaxation, you’ll find the perfect facilities here, including 2 freshwater pools, a solarium terrace, Jacuzzis, a gym, a sauna and a wellness center (Renova Spa in Hotel Riu Palace Bavaro). Dominican cuisine’s bold flavors and colors reflect African and Spanish influences; enjoy it (and other fare) in several buffet-style and themed restaurants. Enjoy all-day entertainment programs for adults and children, or try out a wide range of activities and sports as a family or couple or with friends.

Aug 2-9: $758

June 1-8: $1,513

June 2-9: $1,034

June 1-8: $1,049

The vacation packages shown here are samples for the specific dates shown; many other destinations, hotel properties and travel dates are available. Please consult with a AAA Travel Agent. Before-discount AAA Member Rates are per person (double occupancy), are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip flights from Buffalo, roundtrip airport/hotel transfers and hotel accommodations. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.

PAGE 8

AAA MOTORIST

APRIL 2016

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

Taste of Scotland & Ireland • Titanic Belfast

• Loch Ness scenic cruise

• Dublin: Book of Kells at Trinity College, canal dinner cruise

• Distillery whiskey tasting • Spean Bridge Woollen Mill

• Glasgow city tour

ATURE

IRELAND HIGHLIGHTS

& DROMOLAND CASTLE

HERITAGE

IRISH

SCOTLAND HIGHLIGHTS

T IO

“You’ll never plough a field if you only turn it over in your mind”; and, in keeping with this Irish proverb, you’ll never appreciate the actual beauty, charm and fun of the Emerald Isle if you only dream about it. Let AAA help you bring that dream to life on its “Irish Heritage & Dromoland Castle” escorted tour.

• See dogs herd sheep

• Ferry from Scotland to Ireland

• Blarney Castle & Woollen Mills

SPECIAL INCLUSION

• St Andrews: “Home of Golf”

DROMOLAND CASTLE

• Evening of Scottish cuisine & entertainment

• Killarney, Ross Castle, Ring of Kerry, Sneem, Moll’s Gap

Enjoy a farewell dinner at this elegant and luxurious fairytale castle hotel!

• Edinburgh Castle & city tour

• Cliffs of Moher, Bunratty Castle • Galway, Clonmacnoise

Limerick • Bunratty Castle: medieval banquet • Cliffs of Moher • Foynes Flying Boat Museum • Killarney National Park • Ring of Kerry • Valentia Island: Skellig Experience • Sneem • Moll’s Gap • Blarney: Castle, Woollen Mills • Cobh • Waterford • Wicklow Mountains • Dublin • Irish National Stud • Dromoland Castle

AAA Member Rate: $1,938 ATURE D

AAA Member Rate: $2,468

Sept 19-30 •

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, 18 meals, sightseeing, hotel luggage handling (1 bag per person), professional local tour director in Scotland & Ireland. Ask about available add-on airfare. Passport required. Tour operated by CIE International. Visit AAA.com/Go Ireland for itinerary & details.

Oct 2-10 •

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, 13 meals (including medieval castle banquet/entertainment, Kileen House in Killarney, MerryPloughboy Pub dinner/entertainment, Dromoland Castle farewell dinner, 2 table d'hôte dinners and more), motorcoach sightseeing, hotel service charges & luggage handling (1 bag per person) and professional tour director in Ireland. Ask about available add-on airfare. Passport required. Tour operated by CIE International. VIsit AAA.com/GoIreland for itinerary and more information.

T IO

The Wonders of China featuring the Yangtze River

Meet and learn calligraphy from a master of this ancient art. Explore Old Town Shanghai and its tranquil Yuyuan Garden. Marvel at the terracotta warriors unearthed at Xian. Discover the Shanghai Museum’s cultural treasures. Take a relaxing 4-night cruise on the Yangtze River. Walk along the legendary Great Wall of China. See a giant panda in its natural environment! Ride a high-speed (260+ mph) MagLev train! Enjoy an amazing acrobatics show. RELAXED ITINERARY! Day 1: overnight flight Days 2-4: Shanghai Days 5-8: Yangtze River cruise Days 9-10: Xian Days 11-12: Chengdu Days 13-15: Beijing NO SINGLE-NIGHT STAYS!

16 days April-November 2016 AAA Member Rate from $2,899 per person, double occupancy Ask about available add-on airfare.

Moderate physical activity (walking); a blend of longer & shorter days with leisure time

Ask about exclusive AAA member discounts at time of booking.

CULINARY HIGHLIGHTS! Enjoy a home-cooked lunch with a family in their hutong (oldstyle neighborhood) residence Savor Peking duck, noodles and dumplings. Partake in a traditional tea ceremony. 34 INCLUDED MEALS!

1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 9

1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

Fly to Las Vegas and settle into your centrally located casino hotel. An evening Pink Jeep® tour lets you experience the dazzling excitement of the Strip in a unique way. Enjoy a full day to explore everything Vegas has to offer. Travel on to Lake Powell and your lakeside hotel; enjoy a dinner cruise. Appreciate the spiritual aspect of Navajo territory and the photographic beauty of Antelope Canyon on a guided off-road tour. Enjoy 2 nights in a lodge at the Grand Canyon. Ride the Grand Canyon Railway to Williams. At Sedona, take a Pink Jeep® tour to see majestic red rock formations. 12 meals.

OUT Aug 15-21 • $1,859 YELLOWSTONE EXPERIENCE: SOLD June 20-26

Our first national park’s first explorers were called liars when they described its otherworldly geysers & bubbling mudpots and its free-ranging bison, elk, moose, bears & wolves to folks back east. Begin at Salt Lake City and travel through scenic Idaho to Yellowstone National Park. Enjoy Old Faithful & many other natural landmarks and visit the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center. A Wildlife Safari includes a picnic dinner. Also enjoy Grand Teton National Park, the cowboy town of Jackson, a Jenny Lake cruise, a Mormon Tabernacle Choir performance (choir schedule permitting) and more! 12 meals.

GRAND CANYON TOP TO BOTTOM: Aug 14-20 • from $3,109: includes flights

Enjoy 2 days in Sedona in the heart of Red Rock country. Explore the area’s unique backcountry on an exciting Pink Jeep® tour. Depart from Williams on a First Class excursion aboard Grand Canyon Railway to the Grand Canyon. Visit overlooks on a motorcoach tour along the South Rim. Spend 2 nights within the national park and only a quarter-mile from the rim! Enjoy a full day to explore the canyon on your own. Travel via off-road vehicle to the floor of the canyon and enjoy lunch along the Colorado River. End with 2 nights in Las Vegas on the Strip! 10 meals.

SOLD OUT3 Sept 3-10 • $3,339: includes flights AMERICAN MAJESTY: Aug 27–Sept

Celebrate the 100th year of the National Park Service by roaming the home of the buffalo and discovering America’s wide-open spaces and iconic landmarks. Start in Salt Lake City and witness a Mormon Tabernacle Choir broadcast performance (choir

S N

T IO

schedule permitting). Travel past Great Salt Lake, through Logan Canyon and beside Bear Lake. At Grand Teton National Park, take a scenic float trip on the Snake River. Visit Old Faithful, Mammoth Hot Springs and other Yellowstone National Park sites. Enjoy historic Cody, the Buffalo Bill Center and a chuckwagon-style dinner. Marvel at Devil’s Tower, feel the Old West at Deadwood and enjoy the scenic Black Hills, Mt Rushmore and Crazy Horse Monument. After a Wildlife Jeep® Safari at Custer State Park to see buffalo (and more), end at the inspirational Mt Rushmore Evening Lighting Ceremony. 13 meals.

Get this guidebook AND $75 to celebrate 100 years of the National Park Service “MIGHTY 5 & MORE” CELEBRATION SOLD OUT Oct 11-19 October 18-26 • $3,845: includes flights

Commemorate the centennial on a tour of some of the USA’s best parks. After a night in Las Vegas, travel past Lake Mead and Hoover Dam, visit Kingman’s Route 66 Museum and marvel at the Grand Canyon. Enter Navajo Nation; $22.95 value stop at a trading post. See Lake Powell Published and Antelope Canyon. Enjoy a scenic by National Geographic cruise, then a 4WD tour of Monument Full color Valley. Experience Navajo culture. Time 272 pages for the “Mighty 5”: See natural arches in Maps, facts Arches NP. Dine at a dramatically located & photos lodge on the Colorado River. A Jeep® tour of Canyonlands NP reveals its beauty. Ride a jet boat on the Colorado. See petroglyphs at Capitol Reef NP, the fairyland hues of Bryce Canyon NP and the 2,000-foot-high stone towers of Zion NP. 16 meals.

1 BOOK PER ROOM, DOUBLE OCCUPANCY

NEW BOOKINGS APRIL 1-30

Popular vacations to other US West destinations – flights included!

BEST OF NORTHERN CALIFORNIA July 21-29 • $4,379

So many delights in 1 tour — from the endless charms of San Francisco to the natural splendor of the redwoods at Muir Woods to the opulence of Hearst Castle. Cross Golden Gate Bridge, enjoy the Mediterranean ambiance of Sausalito, sample wines at Napa Valley vineyards, savor lunch aboard the Napa Wine Train. Ride Amtrak’s scenic California

AAA MEMBER RATES are per person, double occupancy, are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip flights from Buffalo (except YELLOWSTONE EXPERIENCE, which is a land-only package), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, meals as noted, hotel luggage handling (1 bag per person), sightseeing per itinerary, taxes/gratuities for included features, services of a AAA Tour Manager (upon arrival at destination, if participation goal is met). Visit AAA.com/USA for more information. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.

BRIGHT LIGHTS/BIG CANYONS: May 22-30 • from $3,235: includes flights

ATURE

ENJOY THE BEAUTY OF THE AMERICAN WEST! Celebrate 100 years of the National Park Service!

APRIL 2016

Zephyr to Lake Tahoe. Visit the ghost town of Virginia City NV. Dine & dance on a riverboat paddlewheeler. Marvel at Yosemite’s wonders. Explore coastal Carmel, Big Sur and Monterey. 14 meals.

SAN FRANCISCO FLEET WEEK Oct 6-10 • $2,589

Discover the many pleasures of the City by the Bay and enjoy excursions beyond to Muir Woods, Sau-

salito, the Marin Headlands, Treasure Island and the vineyards and wineries of Napa Valley. Enjoy ample free time in San Francisco to explore on your own and to participate in the Fleet Week festivities — you can choose to interact with sailors; tour amphibious carriers, destroyers and cruisers on the waterfront; and visit the festival Center on Marina Green for its Navy displays, live music and food trucks. Board a sternwheeler for a luncheon cruise during the Fleet Week Air Show featuring the Blue Angels! 7 meals.

AAA MEMBER RATES are per person, double occupancy, are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip flights from Buffalo, airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, meals as noted, hotel luggage handling (1 bag per person), sightseeing per itinerary and taxes/gratuities for included features. Visit AAA.com/USA for more information. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply.

PAGE 10

AAA MOTORIST

APRIL 2016

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

Celebrity Cruises Limited-time Special Offer TAKE YOUR PICK OF ANY 2 OF THESE PERKS: • Classic (nonalcoholic) Beverage Package for 2, beverage gratuities included (value: up to $924 per stateroom) • Unlimited internet for 2 (value: up to $299 for 1 internet account) • Free gratuities for 2 (value: up to $230 per stateroom) • $300 onboard credit per stateroom, double occupancy

Get ALL 4 PERKS when you book a suite! Get an ADDITIONAL $100 ONBOARD CREDIT for any 2016 verandah stateroom booking of 9 nights or longer during April. Book & deposit between April 1 & May 1, 2016, on any cruise sailing between June 2016 & May 2017.

Get a $50.00 Disney Gift Card (per room, double occupancy) from AAA Travel when you book and make a deposit on a Walt Disney World® Resort vacation package of 5 nights or longer by April 30, 2016.

1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 11

1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

Research & book travel arrangements from the comfort of your home – 24/7. TRAVEL WITH SOMEONE YOU TRUST.®

JAMESTOWN . . . . . . . . . . .716-488-1981 LOCKPORT . . . . . . . . . . . . .716-434-2865

to the

AUSTRALIA

GLACIERS Book & deposit April 1-22 and get

$200 off per person!

NEW ZEALAND

Cairns, catamaran ride

Melbourne, Opal Centre

Steamship cruise, farm life tour

Great Barrier Reef

Phillip Island Little Penguin colony

Winery tour & tasting

Glass-bottom boat ride

Christchurch

Overnight in Mt Cook National Park

Daintree Rainforest/

Tranz-Alpine Express train ride

Herding/shearing demo

Mossman Gorge, meet Aboriginals

Franz Joseph Glacier

Dine with a NZ Family

Uluru/Ayers Rock, Champagne toast

Queenstown, gondola to dinner

Sydney & Opera House

Alice Springs, Aboriginal drummers

Milford Sound cruise

Koala Park & Opal Collection

Dreamtime tour, bush dinner

“Middle Earth” touring

Sydney Harbour dinner cruise

Unique add-on options — including a camel ride, a jet boat ride and a night out in Sydney — are also available. Talk to your AAA Travel Agent for rates and availability.

Oct 17–Nov 6 •

AAA Member Rate: from $9,344

Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes flights (Buffalo-Cairns, Sydney-Buffalo, plus flights in Australia & New Zealand), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, hotel luggage handling (1 bag per person), taxes/gratuities/government fees for included features, 31 meals and a professional guide in Australia & New Zealand. AAA Member Choice Vacations® door-to-door transfer service is unavailable on this departure. ATURE Visit AAA.com/GoAustralia for complete itinerary and important pretravel information. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; CA O contact your travel agent for details. Passport required. TI VA

GENERAL TRAVEL DISCLAIMER: AAA Travel Agency makes every effort to provide accurate, up-to-date prices as of press time and cannot assume responsibility for typographic errors. Rates/offers are per person based on double occupancy, unless otherwise indicated, and are subject to availability and airline/operator changes. International rates/offers are subject to currency fluctuations and additional tax & security charges. Rates that include airfare include all taxes, government fees and surcharges. Additional restrictions may apply. Rates/ offers are available at all AAA East Central travel agency locations. For tour details, contact AAA or visit AAA. com/travel. FEATURED VACATIONS are specially priced, unique departures; therefore, tour operators, cruise lines and other travel providers often exclude them from additional discounts or specials they offer. AAA Featured Vacations include services provided by third-party tour destination service companies; see your AAA Travel Agent for details. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for more details or visit the air carrier’s website for baggage allowance and fee information.

OUTBACK

FLIGHTS RENTAL CARS HOTELS

From the

Linking you & your next vacation!

AAA.com

APRIL 2016

AAA MOTORIST

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

AMTRAK & Northern National Parks

MEMBERS SAVE! Premium ..... $150 Plus ............$100 Classic ........... $75

Aug 8-17 AAA Member Rate: $3,799

Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip airport/ hotel transfers, hotel accommodations, 15 meals, Amtrak train (roomette accommodations, Seattle to Glacier National Park), motorcoach sightseeing, taxes on included items and Amtrak Vacations tour escort. Ask about available add-on airfare.

Some of the USA's most beautiful national parks & a ride on Amtrak's Empire Builder!

ATURE D

NEW BOOKINGS WITH DEPOSIT BY 4/30/16. PER ROOM, DOUBLE OCCUPANCY.

AT I O Seattle WA Amtrak Empire Builder Glacier National Park C

Big Sky Circle Tour Going to the Sun Road Glacier Park Lodge

Yellowstone National Park Upper & Lower Loop Grant Village Lodge

Grand Teton National Park Jackson Hole WY Salt Lake City UT

ÂŠ Peter Cox / Fotolia.com

1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel

APRIL 2016

PAGE 12

AAA MOTORIST

1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel

PAGE 13

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

Reflections of Italy

MYRTLE BEACH

Explore a land rich in history, culture, art and romance.

BEACHFRONT CONDO-HOTELS

a top drive destination of AAA East Central members 4+ nights at any of 4 top-rated luxury properties

Rome • Colosseum • Assisi Perugia • Siena • Florence Chianti Winery • Venice Murano Island • Milan

North Beach Plantation®  The Caribbean Resort & Villas  Compass Cove® Oceanfront Resort  The Breakers Resort 

AAA GUARANTEES THE BEST AVAILABLE RATES! GAS CARD OF UP TO $100 AND 2 AAA BEACH TOWELS

MEMBERS SAVE! Premium .... $600 Plus ............$550 Classic ......... $525 NEW BOOKINGS WITH DEPOSIT BY 4/26/16. PER ROOM, DOUBLE OCCUPANCY.

Oct 26–Nov 4 or Nov 7-16 •

AAA Member Rate: from $4,149

Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes flights (Buffalo-Rome, Milan-Buffalo), roundtrip airport/ ATURE hotel transfers, accommodations, hotel luggage handling (1 bag per person), 13 meals and a professional guide in Italy. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for CA O TI details. Passport required.

ASK ABOUT OTHER DEPARTURE DATES; discount not available.

San Antonio Holiday

FREE when you book & make a deposit April 1-30 on a stay of 4 nights or longer

1 card, 2 towels per booking. Based on stays between 5/21/16 — 9/10/16. Restrictions apply.

BEST OF BOTH WORLDS Condo space AND hotel amenities

You don’t live in one room at home; why live that way on vacation? Condo-hotels, among travel’s best-kept secrets, combine the spaciousness of condos and the amenities of hotels. They feature 2 to 5 bedrooms, multiple bathrooms, full kitchens, washers & dryers, dining areas, common living areas, balconies and numerous TVs. Enjoy the flexibility of eating meals or snacks at anytime and watching a variety of TV shows by different family members in different rooms. You get the 24/7 security of high-rise buildings with lobby checkin and amenities such as maid service, Wi-Fi and on-premises maintenance. Choose from 4 beachfront properties perfect for small or large families, multigenerational families (kids, parents and grandparents) and friends/neighbors vacationing together. Summer’s coming — call now!

MEMBERS SAVE! Premium .....$350 Plus ........... $300 Classic ......... $275 NEW BOOKINGS WITH DEPOSIT BY 4/30/16. PER ROOM, DOUBLE OCCUPANCY.

LIMITED AVAILABILITY: Call the number below now for rates & dates. This vibrant and inviting Texas city has been called the American Venice; its lovely River Walk meanders through downtown, glowing with Christmas lights and decorations. Soak up the spirit of the season and experience the Tex-Mex take on the holidays. You'll also visit the Alamo, Mission San Jose, Bandera (“Cowboy Capital of the World”), the LBJ Ranch, Germanflavored Fredericksburg (the heart of Texas Hill Country), Sandy Oaks Olive Orchard (site of your spectacular farewell dinner with local wines) and El Mercado (Mexican-style marketplace). Enjoy a traditional cowboy barbecue at a dude ranch!

Dec 12-16 •

AAA Member Rate: from $1,899

ASK ABOUT OTHER DEPARTURE DATES; discount not available.

Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes flights (Buffalo-San Antonio), roundtrip airATURE port/hotel transfers, accommodations, hotel luggage handling (1 bag per person) and 6 meals. Additional airline fees for bagCA O TI gage may apply; contact your travel agent for details. FE

APRIL 2016

AVAILABLE ONLY BY CALLING AAA AT 1-800-354-8761

PAGE 14

AAA MOTORIST

APRIL 2016

Protect yourself and your pet: Be A.W.A.R.E. Save on pet prescriptions with AAA Prescription Savings

f you’ve ever searched online for prescription pet medicines, you’ve likely seen attention-grabbing promises of convenience and lower prices. Are these claims always true? Many online pet pharmacies are reputable but some are not. Illegal online pharmacies may sell medicines that are counterfeit, outdated, mislabeled, or incorrectly formulated. The medicines may not contain the actual drug or contain incorrect amounts. Some may not work as well if the product is old (expired) or has been stored in conditions that were too hot, cold, or humid. Others may not have the proper directions for use. Worse yet, you may not be able to get your money back if dissatisfied. If you want to purchase pet prescription medicines online, protect yourself by being online pharmacy A.W.A.R.E. A— Ask Your Veterinarian. Ask if an online pharmacy is appropriate for your pet and for your situation. W—Watch for Red Flags. Be careful if the pharmacy doesn’t require a vet’s prescription for a prescription medicine—they’re breaking the law and robbing you and your pet of the protection provided by a veterinary physical exam. Online questionnaires or consults are no substitute for a prescription from a veterinarian. Be leery if there’s no licensed pharmacist available to answer questions,

BEST FRIENDS FOREVER — Members save an average of 26 percent with AAA Prescription Savings. if the pharmacy website is not based in the U.S. or its physical business address, phone number or other contact information is missing. Beware if the pharmacy’s not licensed by the State Board of Pharmacy where the business is based. If it operates in the U.S. you can check their licensing on the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) website (nabp. net). If the pharmacy’s prices are dramatically lower than your veterinarian’s or

other pharmacy prices, it’s probably too good to be true. A—Always Check for Pharmacy Accreditation. Many good online pharmacies follow strict licensing laws and are also accredited by a program called Vet-VIPPS (Veterinary-Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites). It’s a voluntary accreditation program created by the NABP. Member pharmacies are licensed in the states from which they ship drugs and have successfully passed reviews, annual re-accreditation and

on-site surveys every three years. R—Report Problems and Suspicious Online Pet Pharmacies. If your pet has a problem with a medicine bought online, contact the manufacturer. You can also report problems directly to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) by calling 1-888-FDA-VETS or emailing AskCVM@fda.hhs.gov. E—Educate Yourself. The best defense against illegal online pet pharmacies is education. For more information about buying pet medicines online, visit the FDA’s website at fda. gov/AnimalVeterinary or call 1-240402-7002. With 32 million AAA members owning at least one pet, AAA Prescription Savings is designed to help reduce costs for AAA members and their family pets when prescriptions are not covered by insurance. FOR MORE INFORMATION

AAA can help with prescriptions for your pet. Just ask your vet to write a prescription that you can fill at a pharmacy that participates in the AAA Prescription Savings program and present it to your pharmacist with your AAA membership card. It’s that easy to save on prescriptions for every family member — whether they have two feet or four. For information, visit AAA.com/prescriptions or call 1-866222-7283.

New AAA study reveals the perils of potholes Pothole damage costing U.S. drivers $3 billion annually

t’s that time of year again when rain, ice and changing temperatures mark the arrival of pothole season. Potholes are as much a springtime ritual as dandelions and every year we get a bumper crop. Potholes are caused by cracks in the road surface that allow water to seep underneath. When the water freezes these cracks become larger and when the ice melts it creates a void. Traffic rolling over the weakened area causes the surface layer to crumble and cave in forming a pothole. AAA responds to more than four million calls for flat tire assistance a year, many the result of pothole encounters. Now a new study from AAA Automotive Engineering reveals that pothole damage has cost U.S. drivers $15 billion in vehicle repairs over the last five years, or approximately $3 billion annually. “In the last five years, 16 million drivers across the country have suffered pothole damage to their vehicles,” said John Nielsen, AAA’s managing director of Automotive Engineering and Repair. “The problems range from tire punctures and bent wheels, to more expensive suspension damage.” The severity of the damage depends on a combination of factors such as tire diameter, hole depth, length of the hole

A GOOD CROP — Hazardous potholes often seem to pop up overnight. and vehicle speed. The wrong combination can cause enormous problems. Longer potholes typically cause the most damage and pothole impacts are amplified when chassis parts are worn. “On average, American drivers report paying $300 to repair pothole-related vehicle damage,” notes Nielsen. While it may be more easily said than done, avoiding a pothole is the best way to control damage. Drivers

need to remain alert, scan the road and increase following distances behind the vehicle ahead. If hitting a pothole is inevitable, it is critical that drivers slow down, release the brakes and straighten steering before hitting the pothole. Motorists should never brake during pothole impact because a locked wheel will suffer more damage than a rolling one. To minimize vehicle damage, AAA

urges drivers to ensure tires are properly inflated and have adequate tread depth, as they are the only cushion between a pothole and the vehicle. The AAA survey revealed that twothirds of Americans are concerned about potholes on local roadways, especially older drivers and those with lower and middle incomes. AAA urges state and local governments to fully fund and prioritize road maintenance to reduce vehicle damage, repair costs and driver frustration. With over one-third of 2015 model year vehicles missing a spare tire, drivers affected by pothole damage could find themselves in a rut. The tire inflator kits have replaced the spare tire in millions of vehicles over the last 10 model years are ineffective as even a temporary fix for pothole damage. AAA has called on automakers to put consumer interests first and halt the elimination of spare tires in new models. DON’T BE LEFT FEELING FLAT

AAA responds to over 30 million requests for emergency road service each year, AAA members can request assistance at (800) AAA-HELP, by visiting AAA.com/RoadsideAssistance or via the AAA Mobile App.

APRIL 2016

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 15

Save some green with the AAA Green Car Guide It’s easy being green at AAA.com/greencar

s unprecedented levels of pollution choked our nation’s largest cities in the early 1970s, Los Angeles became the poster child for America’s air pollution problem, with over 100 Stage 1 smog alerts in just one year. Nineteen seventy also marked the first Earth Day celebration, when 20 million Americans rallied for a healthy, sustainable environment. The public outcry over dangerous smog levels led to the passage of the U.S. Clean Air Act of 1970. Since that time there has been a dramatic improvement in urban air quality despite a steady increase in the number of cars per capita and an increase in the annual miles driven. Los Angeles has not experienced a Stage 1 smog alert since 2003. April 22 will mark the 46th anniversary of Earth Day — a time for each of us to renew our commitment to earthfriendly practices even though for most of us, cars are an indespensable fact of life. There are two really good reasons to consider a green car: to save money and to save the planet. Reducing automotive emissions and boosting fuel economy offer huge benefits for society, including improvements to the environment, public health, and energy security. According to the EPA cars

ALL CHARGED UP — The 2015 Tesla Model S P85D Performance is the toprated Green Car. and light trucks are responsible for 17 percent of all greenhouse gas emissions. And even with lower gas prices, buying a high-MPG car is still the most effective way to spend less money on fuel. But car buyers looking for fuel efficiency, low emissions, and solid driving performance are often confronted by unfamiliar terminology and a bewildering array of choices in terms of fuels and technologies.

AAA’s Green Car Guide — produced annually by the Automobile Club of Southern California’s Automotive Research Center Consumers — is designed to help consumers make informed choices about hybrids and low emission vehicles. Developed by the Automobile Club of Southern California’s Automotive Research Center (ARC), it not only defines what a green car is, but explains the differ-

ences between various types so potential buyers are able to determine which green car best matches their lifestyle. “The Green Car Guide is a resource for car buyers and enthusiasts seeking information on fuel-efficient vehicles and low-emission technologies,” said ARC Manager Megan McKernan. “It provides consumer-friendly data and real-world evaluations to help car buyers make informed choices.” ARC engineers and specialists evaluated the more than 80 green vehicles in the guide in 13 categories (including emissions, mpg, acceleration, handling, interior noise, ride quality, cargo capacity and value. The guide lists vehicle specs, test scores, data and observations in a summary of the car and lists their strengths and weaknesses. The online version of AAA’s Green Car Guide has been significantly redesigned and enhanced to improve the user experience and visual appeal. The updated website features quick-search links that show top-rated vehicles by characteristic, comparisons of selected vehicles and enriched content.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

To view the Green Car Guide online or to download the PDF version visit www.AAA.com/greencar.

Don’t get soaked buying a flood-damaged vehicle Thousands end up flooding used car markets

ou may not live anywhere near a flood-affected area but AAA advises car buyers that flood-damaged vehicles may show up for sale as early as one week after a major storm. If you’re in the market for a used car, that “sweet deal” you’re considering may be a flooddamaged car offered up by a dishonest dealer or owner. A flood-damaged vehicle is one that has been completely or partially submerged in water with damage to the body, engine, transmission or other mechanical components. Typically, the owner or dealer makes cosmetic repairs, moves the vehicle out of the state for resale, and “washes” the title, effectively omitting all evidence of flood or vehicle reconstruction from the title. Flood water is a corrosive mix of water and dirt. Beyond the obvious damage it does to upholstery and carpeting, it works its way into every seam and crevice of a vehicle. Unsuspecting buyers may find themselves with difficult and expensive repairs, the cost of which may exceed the car’s value. There’s also a threat to their safety when driving. Buyers now need to know the signs of flood-damaged vehicles. Here are some tips to avoid a dangerous purchase: Before agreeing to the sale, have

AFTER THE FLOOD — Many flood-damaged vehicles will end up back on the road. the vehicle completely inspected by a reliable mechanic. This is the best protection against a purchase you could later regret. Look inside the trunk, spare tire compartment, glove compartment and dome lights for evidence of moisture, silt, rust or corrosion. Do a sniff test. A damp or musty odor in the interior or trunk is a frequent warning sign, as is new carpeting or upholstery in an older car. Check the engine for water damage

or moisture. The engine, transmission and drivetrain — along with the fuel, brake and power steering systems — are the most vulnerable to flood damage. Unless these components are completely cleaned of dirt, increased wear and premature failure will result. Examine all areas for signs of rust, including the underside of the vehicle, brake rotors/drums, door hinges and seat springs. Many parts of a car are difficult to clear and dry because they are hard to access. Door locks, window

regulators, wiring harnesses, heating and air conditioning components and other small devices are tucked away in hidden spaces. These items may work okay right after a flood, only to fail at a later date due to contamination by dirty water. Look for dried mud or dirt under the dashboard and luggage/floorboard carpet, inside the glove box or in air vents. Perform a diagnostic check of all electrical systems. Look for brittle wire casings, rust or corrosion. Engine computers, sensors, sound systems and other electronic devices are vulnerable to corrosion and oxidation problems even months after being flooded. In general, be wary of someone trying to sell a vehicle below its market value and research the vehicle’s history before making a purchase. FOR MORE INFORMATION

The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) maintains a free database (nicb. org) where consumers can check for flood damage using vehicle information numbers (VINs). The National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) allows consumers to check a vehicle’s history at vehiclehistory.gov.

PAGE 16

AAA MOTORIST

APRIL 2016

Wow! It’s good to be a AAA member With exclusive members-only savings from Hertz

arming temperatures beckon with sunshine, open roads and adventure around every turn. AAA preferred partner Hertz, makes road trips more affordable with up to 20% discounts and an array of member benefits that will save your travel budget for the things you really want to do. Plus, for a limited time, enjoy savings of additional 15% off weekly rentals when Promotional Code #106746 is included in your reservation. This offer is valid for rental pickup between April 15 and June 30, 2016. One of the benefits of AAA membership is the special package of savings available when you rent from Hertz. Exclusive AAA member benefits include free unlimited mileage on most rentals. Families receive free use of one child, infant or booster seat, a savings of $13.00 per day and there’s no charge for an additional driver, a savings of $13.50 per day if that driver is a AAA member and meets standard rental qualifications. Members can rent a NeverLost GPS for just $6.99 per day; save 50 percent off SIRUS XM radio fees; and 10 percent off the Fuel Purchase Option. Purchase a tank of gas from Hertz at local prices and eliminate the hassle of rushing around trying to find a gas station before returning your car! Hertz has over 2,700 locations off-air-

THE POWER OF GOLD — AAA members are entitled to free Hertz Gold Plus Rewards membership. port, bringing the car rental experience to your doorstep. You’ll find affordable leisure rates on quality, low-mileage vehicles with many features. Hertz also provides Convenient Customer Pickup and Return Service if you live within 15 minutes of the neighborhood location. Hertz’ free Gold Plus Rewards® loyalty program means AAA members can fast forward their car rental experience. Just show your license and pick-up your keys at the designated Gold counter at

over 4,000 locations worldwide. Choose a car you like better on the spot with Hertz Gold Choice® and enjoy expedited drop-off with eReturn. Receive vehicle updates or select an upgrade right from your phone with Mobile Gold Alerts. You’ll earn one Hertz Gold Plus Rewards® point for every qualifying U.S. dollar spent on Hertz rentals and optional services worldwide. After their first Gold rental, AAA Classic and Plus

members collect enough Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Bonus Points, for one free rental day. AAA Premier members, earn points good for two free rental days. Hertz is transforming its locations worldwide in a complete rethinking of what a car rental location and experience should be. It’s all part of their commitment to provide customers with the most technologically innovative and sustainable products and services available. The Hertz Green Traveler Collection features eco-friendly hybrid, electric and compressed natural gas vehicles that are good for the environment and easy on the wallet. It’s good to be a AAA Member, so go ahead with your vacation plans! Contact your local AAA travel office, visit AAA.com/hertz or call 800-6543080 to reserve your Hertz vehicle!

YOUR KEY TO HERTZ SAVINGS

Your Hertz CDP # is your key to exclusive Hertz savings and benefits. The CDP # 215 the same as your club code, the three digit number that appears on the front of your membership card. With exclusive members-only discounts and benefits. The Hertz system will automatically assign the best rate available within the chosen channel of distribution at the time of reservation.

School’s out: Tips for moving kids home from college Penske Truck Rental offers a course in Moving 101

illions of students shift their belongings back and forth from colleges and universities each year and students will soon begin their annual trek back home. Moving is never any fun, but there are things you can do to make it easier for everyone involved. Whether you’re a senior or a sophomore, the experts at Penske Truck Rental have a curriculum to help make you or you college-age student make the move home: Select the right truck — Most families find that a 12-foot or 16-foot truck best meets their needs. But you never know – kids these days have a lot more stuff than their parents did way back when. Are they living in a dorm room or offcampus apartment? The difference can mean a lot when it comes to finding the right-size truck. To begin your search, go online to PenskeTruckRental.com and take a look at Penske’s truck size chart. Or, let Penske’s Truck Wizard program guide you to the right size. Trucks are different — They’re taller, wider and weigh 10 times more than the average car. They require more stopping distance. There are certain bridges that are too low for Penske trucks. Watch out for low-hanging tree branches and building overhangs. Blind spots will also be completely

A MOVING EXPERIENCE — Penske Truck Rental is AAA’s preferred provider for consumer truck rentals. different. Take the opportunity to familiarize yourself with the truck’s switches and gauges and adjust the side mirrors. To protect your belongings, park in well-lit areas and padlock the rear door. If you can, try to move on a weekday — weekends are always the busiest moving days. It’s also a good idea to reserve early, to ensure availability. Most colleges end their semesters around the

same time. Keep in mind your reservations are guaranteed. Use of accessories is important — Boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap and hand trucks are key tools for the do-ityourself move. There’s no need to visit multiple websites and stores: you can find everything on the Penske website. Loading — Load the heaviest items on the truck first. When you’ve got a

sturdy base of the heaviest items, you can start stacking on top. Most Penske trucks have flat floors, allowing you to pack more things. The floors are also non-slip and wooden, preventing spills and sliding cargo. If you end up packing or unpacking after dark, the truck’s translucent roof and interior lights will let you see what you’re doing. Pack a go bag — With most belongings packed tightly away, create a travel bag for moving day to keep important paperwork, credit cards, identification, change of clothes, a GPS device, drinks and snacks close at hand. Once you hit the road, you’ll drive safely and in comfort. All of the company’s household rental trucks include either a CD player or MP3 plug-in. Trucks are also equipped with automatic transmission, antilock brakes for safer stops, air conditioning, power steering, rear roll-up door and dual-faced mirrors for better vision. FOR MORE INFORMATION

AAA members save 12% off the daily rental rate and the discount can be increased up to 20% when reservations are made online at AAA.com/penske. Reservations can be made online or by calling 877-222-7924. Additional terms and conditions may apply.

APRIL 2016

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 17

Painting a living portrait of the past The past is always present in Virginia’s Historic Triangle

irginia’s Historic Triangle takes visitors back to a time when history was warmed by love of country. The Colonial Parkway, a 23-mile scenic byway, connects Jamestown, Williamsburg and Yorktown, and all were important stops on our nation’s journey to freedom. Jamestown was the New World’s first permanent English speaking colony, and the site includes the ruins of a church tower dating back to 1639. The National Park Service Visitor Center houses a museum, and costumed craftsmen give visitors a look at one of the settlers’ earliest industries in the re-created 1608 Glasshouse. Nearby Jamestown Settlement brings early 17th-century Virginia to life. The three, tiny ships docked at the pier — Discovery, Godspeed and Susan Constant — are full-sized replicas of the ones that made the four and one-half month winter voyage from England. Visitors can explore a fort very much like the one built by the Jamestown colonists and a Powhatan Indian encampment offers a Native American perspective on the colony. From here, it’s a 15-minute drive to Colonial Williamsburg, the restored 18th-century capital of the Virginia colony. The town’s Historic Area covers 301-acres and is modeled on a 1781 map used to billet French troops during the siege of Yorktown.

SOME THINGS NEVER CHANGE — The Governor’s mansion was dubbed “the Palace” by disgruntled taxpayers. The town is bisected by the milelong Duke of Gloucester Street, which runs from the 300-year-old College of William and Mary, to the Capitol, a meticulously crafted re-construction of the colony’s legislature. Due north is the Governor’s mansion, dubbed “the Palace,” by disgruntled colonists, whose taxes financed what was then, one of the most extravagant buildings in the Western hemisphere. In the streets and shops around the capital,

artisans use period tools to fashion articles of beauty, utility and character. Art and antiques lovers will be drawn to the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Gallery housing one of North America’s finest collections of English and American antiques. Among its pieces are elaborate tapestries, antique weapons and a ten-foot tall case clock created for King William II. The Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Center is America’s most important

repository of folk art. The collection includes several of William Hick’s renderings of The Peaceable Kingdom and other objects created mostly by untrained amateurs, whose only motivation was a desire for self expression. Colonial Williamsburg’s new educational musket range, which opened in March, offers guests the opportunity to learn about and operate muzzle-loaded fowling pieces, and “Brown Bess” muskets used by both British and Colonial troops during the Revolutionary War. Yorktown, site of the last major battle of the American Revolution, is only 11 miles away. The scenic drive along the Colonial Parkway connects several icons of America’s past including the Yorktown Battlefield, and the Yorktown Victory Center, where visitors can join a cannon crew in a living-history Continental Army encampment.

TAKE A AAA DRIVE TRIP

Whether you are taking a weekend trip from home, or visiting one of North America’s major destination areas, AAA Drive Trips will lead the way. Each trip features a detailed narrative, overview map of your route, estimated driving time, a link to the online AAA TourBook and more. For more information visit AAA.com.

AAA has a solution for reducing range anxiety Use AAA mapping tools to locate EV charging stations

lectric Vehicles (EVs) are energy efficient and environmentally friendly with the added benefit of reducing fuel costs for motorists. But, just as motorists need to know how far the gas in their tank will take them, EV drivers need to be aware of how far their vehicle can travel on a single charge. “Electric motors provide smooth operation, strong acceleration, require less maintenance than internal combustion engines, and for many motorists offer a cost effective option,” said John Nielsen, managing director, AAA Automotive Engineering and Repair. “However, EV drivers need to carefully monitor driving range in hot and cold weather.” According to research conducted by the AAA Automotive Research Center in Southern California (ARC), electric vehicle range can be reduced by an average of 57 percent based on the outside temperature. The average EV battery range in AAA’s test was 105 miles at 75°F, but dropped 57 percent to 43 miles when the temperature was held steady at 20°F. Warm temperatures were less stressful on battery range, but still delivered a lower average of 69 miles per full charge at 94°. Nissan, Tesla, BMW, Chevrolet, Fiat, Ford, Honda, and Toyota, are already

ALL CHARGED UP — Access more than 7,000 electric vehicle charging stations using AAA mapping tools. making EVs or will bring them to market soon. Nissan and BMW recently joined forces to offer public fast charging at 120 locations across 19 states in an effort to promote increased adoption of electric vehicles nationwide. This partnership between two of the top EV manufacturers helps to address the growing demand for additional public fast-charging option, giving drivers the ability to easily extend the length

of their electric travels. Fast chargers are now available in New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and 16 other states. Each of these new locations will offer a dual 50 kW fast-charging station serving not only owners of both Nissan LEAF and BMW i3 electric cars, but all EV drivers in the U.S. whose vehicles are equipped with quick-charge ports. These 50 kW stations can charge EVs up to 80 percent in about 20-30 minutes.

AAA is helping to eliminate range anxiety for EV drivers by identifying charging station locations in its digital mapping tools. Using these tools, EV owners can locate more than 7,000 publicly available EV charging stations across the United States, including independent stations and those that are part of a network. Data is supplied by the U.S. Department of Energy. EV charging stations can be found using the online AAA TripTik® Travel Planner, or the AAA Mobile App, which is available for both iPhone and Android platforms. Users can also access detailed interactive maps for a single location or create complete itineraries with stopovers and driving times and a route modification tool let you fully customize the trip. Quickly and easily find points of interest, from AAA Approved and Diamondrated hotels and restaurants, to campgrounds. Searchable Travel Guides feature detailed destination, attraction, and event information.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

For more information or to download AAA Mobile App visit the AAA Mobile solutions page at AAA.com/mobile. Members can access AAA’s TripTik® Travel Planner at AAA.com.

PAGE 18

AAA MOTORIST

APRIL 2016

Cities of Light — Sailing from Paris to Prague Travel Europe’s original highways on Viking River Cruises

hen lovers dream of the City of Light, Johnny Mercer’s classic “April in Paris” reminds them that spring can be the perfect time to explore the city’s fabled sights. Paris is a city so ingrained in our romantic imaginations that any visit becomes an excursion into “la vie sentimentale”. The story of Paris begins with its birthplace on the Île de la Cité. The small island in the River Seine is where you’ll find the flower market, and the gothic spires of Notre Dame. The river divides the Paris into its two constituent parts and the Pont Neuf — the city’s oldest bridge — has seen the entire history of Paris flow by. The Left Bank is older and home to Musée d’Orsay, Saint-Germain-desPrés and the gold-ribbed dome of Les Invalides. The Eiffel Tower was erected for the 1889 Universal Exposition and still attracts over 6 million visitors year. Across the river L’Arc de Triomphe straddles the Champs Elysées, where the streets converge in a massive starshaped pattern. A cluttered Mountmarte is topped by the bleached white parapets of the Sacré-Coeur. And there’s no more comfortable way to explore Paris than aboard a Viking River Cruise. Viking’s “Cities of Light” is a glorious 12-day journey that includes two nights each in two of Europe’s most fabled cities, Paris and

BLUE HIGHWAY — The spires of Notre Dame overlooking the River Seine. Prague, plus a scenic river cruise along the Moselle, Rhine and Main Rivers. Discover the romance of Paris, and drink in the vineyard-clad hillsides of Germany’s Middle Rhine. Ponder the ruins of 12th century Heidelberg Castle and fall in love with the graceful spires of Prague. Taking their names from Norse mythology, Viking’s Longships are marked by a sophisticated design and state of the art amenities. They feature 190 staterooms with more full-

size rooms and full-size verandas than other European river cruise vessels. Viking’s chefs are schooled in the finest European culinary traditions and menus are seasoned with local specialties. Then there’s practical side — the ease of traveling aboard a “floating hotel,” unpacking and packing just once. Travelers will also appreciate the value. Most are priced in dollars and all-inclusive pricing typically includes accommodations, all onboard meals, daily, guided shore excursions and more. Sail

into the very heart of destinations like Paris then walk right off the ship into the center of town. A magical city of bridges, cathedrals and gold-pleated domes, Prague’s timeless silhouette is mirrored in the Vltava River. Often compared with Paris, strolling around Wenceslas Square really does remind you of the Champs Elysées. Completing the illusion is a miniature version of the Eiffel Tower built for the 1891 Prague Exposition that overlooks the town. It’s a city meant to be walked and most of the important sights can be covered in a leisurely two-hour stroll. The famed Astronomical Clock in the Old Town Tower with its bell tolling skeleton, and 12 apostles circling the clock face, was constructed in 1410. The 600-year-old Charles Bridge links Old Town to Prague Castle and the Mala Strana or Lesser Town. The 1,700foot long stone bridge incorporates 16 arches, and a sculpture gallery with 28 statues of the saints. Across the Vltava River, Prague Castle rises majestically above the red tile roofs and copper cupolas of St. Nicholas Cathedral.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Please see your AAA Travel professional, or log on to AAA.com/cruises for more European river cruise vacations

aroundtown WORLD TRAVEL SERIES: THE MIDDLE EAST — (April 9) The Middle East is a region of paradoxes. It is a land where people go out of their way to make a stranger feel at home. At the same time, it is a land where unspeakable acts of brutality are carried out between enemy tribes and clans. Take a personal journey through Israel, Jordan, Lebanon and Turkey with veteran filmmaker Rick Ray. See wonders such as Petra, Jerusalem, the Cedars of Lebanon and Cappadocia and the breathtaking scenery of a beautiful land. Time: 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $8 (adult); one child (12 and under) admitted free with each paying adult. For tickets and information, call 716-673-3501 or visit fredonia. edu/tickets. Location: Rockefeller Arts Center, King Concert Hall, 280 Central Avenue, Fredonia. CIRQUE MECHANICS: PEDAL PUNK — (April 10) Enter the world of Pedal Punk, a Steampunk-inspired place where cycling is the way to escape the technology-obsessed society. In Pedal Punk one experiences the excitement, artistry and thrills that occur when a wacky bike shop mechanic interacts with cyclists and bikes, and repairs more than broken pieces. He creates wondrous machines and inspires the cyclist

in all of us to become a Pedal Punk. Time: 7 p.m. For tickets and information, visit reglenna.com or call 716-484-7070. Location: Reg Lenna Center for the Arts, 116 East 3rd Street, Jamestown. NANA’S NAUGHTY KNICKERS — (April 15-17, 22-24) Bridget and her grandmother are about to become roommates. However, what Bridget saw as a unique opportunity to stay with her favorite Nana in New York for the summer quickly turns into an experience she’ll never forget. It seems her sweet grandma is running an illegal boutique from her apartment, selling handmade naughty knickers to every senior citizen in the five-borough area. Time: 7:30 p.m. For schedule and tickets, visit lucilleballlittletheatre.org or call 716-483-1095. Location: Lucille Ball Little Theatre of Jamestown, 18 E. Second Street, Jamestown. THE YEAR WITHOUT A SUMMER — (April 16) This year marks the 200th anniversary of The Year Without a Summer, a worldwide event caused by the 1815 eruption of Mount Tambora. The eruption caused a significant decrease in average global temperatures in both Europe and the northeastern United States. The Chautauqua County Historical

Society has invited SUNY Fredonia geosciences professor Dr. John Berkley to present details on how a volcanic eruption half a world away created problems for farmers in this region and stagnant population growth. Time: 1 p.m. Free. For information, call 716-326-2977 or email cchs@mcclurgmuseum. org. Location: Westfield United Methodist Church, 101 E. Main Street, Westfield. JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH — (April 22-24, 28-30) An orphan with terrible aunts for guardians, befriends human-like bugs who live inside a giant peach, and take the boy on a journey to New York City. All performances at 7:30 p.m., except April 24 at 2 p.m. tickets: $18 (school aged students/child), $20 (general public). For tickets and information, call 716-673-3501 or visit fredonia.edu/tickets. Location: Bartlett Theatre, 280 Central Avenue, Fredonia. CHINESE DULCIMER — (April 29) Chinese-born musician Wenzhuo Zhang performs on the Yang Qin, or Chinese dulcimer in a free performance open to the public. Miss Zhang has won numerous awards in China and the United States, where she currently resides. She earned her master’s degree in music

education at SUNY Fredonia and a doctorate at Boston University. Time: 7 p.m. For information, call 716-338-1301 or visit sunyjcc.edu. Location: Scharmann Theatre, Jamestown Community College, 525 Falconer Street, Jamestown. SPRING FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS — (May 2) Looking for a wonderful way to brighten up your home for spring? Take a class where participants will make a striking spring centerpiece or wreath. Use flowers such as hyacinths, tulips, daffodils and crocuses or greenery such as forsythia to make a oneof-a-kind creation. Bring 3 yards of 2-inch wide ribbon to class. Course #6916. Cost: $39. Time: 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. For registration, call 716-338-1005 or visit sunyjcc.edu/ continuing-education. Location: Jamestown Community College, 525 Falconer Street, Jamestown. RUN FOR LITERACY — (May 7) Support the James Prendergast Library Literacy Program and participate in a day of running, walking and fun. Race registration at 8 a.m. Race at 9 p.m. Walk at 9:05 a.m. Registration fee is $20. To register, call 716484-7135 x236 or visit prendergastlibrary.org. Location: Jamestown Prendergast Library, 509 Cherry Street, Jamestown.

APRIL 2016

Trafalgar

AAA MOTORIST

Visit your local AAA Travel or call 1-800-354-8761.

continued from page 1

Sample tour: 10-day Best of Hawaii: from $3,006 (June 17, with early-payment discount). Dramatic scenery is just one of the highlights on this trip that takes in the best of vibrant Waikiki, exotic Kailua-Kona and the stunning Kaanapali Beach. Honolulu, Pearl Harbor, Kona, Keauhou Bay, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hilo, Maui. Regional Explorers: Explore a region in 2 or more countries. Whether it’s the Alps or the Mediterranean, your journey of discovery is sure to be as in-depth as it is enjoyable. Sample tour: 16-day Spain, Morocco & Portugal: from $3,775 (Nov 27). The Moorish influence on the culture of Spain, Portugal and Morocco is clear throughout this journey, but the differences that make each country so distinctive also stand out. Madrid, Granada, Costa del Sol, Fez, Marrakesh, Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier, Seville, Lisbon, Fátima, Salamanca. At Leisure: Stay for 2 to 6 nights in each destination and rarely depart earlier than 9am, ensuring you have free time to relax. Sample tour: 10-day Greek Island Hopper: from $2,495. Mykonos & Santorini are the islands of choice, with 3 nights on each to soak up the laid-back island life-style of 2 of Greece’s favorite hot spots. Athens, Mykonos, Santorini. Family Experiences: Designed so all the family can explore Europe to-

PAGE 19

gether, you’ll enjoy a mix of discovery and fun. Trafalgar makes it seamless and easy for you, so everyone is happy. Sample tour: 10-day Castles & Kilts: from $3,050 (June 16). Castles, crown jewels and Harry Potter — this classic family experience introduces the history, mystery and magic of England, Wales and Scotland. London, Oxford, Bristol, Bath, Llangollen, Ruthin Castle, Liverpool, Chester, Tatton Park, Lancaster, Hadrian’s Wall, Edinburgh. Cruise, Rail & Combinations: Sometimes different ways of travel suit a destination and reveal it in unique and inspiring ways. Whether that’s a cruise of the Greek Islands or a journey on the Bernina Express, these trips give you a different perspective. Sample tour: 15-day Contrasts of Canada: from $6,864 (July 11, with early-payment discount). An epic exploration, east meets west on this grand trip across Canada, taking you coast to coast on VIA Rail’s renowned train, The Canadian. Vancouver, Victoria, Chemainus, Squamish, Whistler, Sun Peaks, Rocky Mountain National Park, Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper, Toronto, Niagara Peninsula. Hidden Journeys: Enjoy less-visited places, such as Rocamadour, a medieval French town clinging to a cliff, in smaller groups up to 26 guests. Sample tour: 10-day Secrets of Rockies & Glacier National Park: from $3,605 (May 19, with early-booking

AAA Member Benefit: d ar $40.00 credit tow es nc rie pe Ex l na tio Op while on vacation. See a AAA travel agent for details.

discount). The glaciers, national parks and laid-back cities of western Canada are just some of the highlights on this adventure. Calgary, Fort McLeod, Waterton Lakes National Park, Glacier National Park, Lake Louise, Athabasca Glacier, Jasper, Icefields Parkway, Banff. Special Interest: Vacations that focus on a particular theme or interest, from Celtic filmscapes to gastronomic delights. Sample tour: 10-day Flavors of Italy: from $2,803 (with early-booking discount). Chianti in Tuscany, prosciutto in Parma, Bolognese in Bologna, this “foodie” trip explores the traditions of cuisine and wine at their origin, providing an in-depth taste of a nation. Rome, Chianti Wine Region, San Gimignano, Florence, Tuscan Life-style Experience, Pisa, Parma, Bologna, Venice (canal cruise, secret walking tour).

Discoveries — Another Option: Perfectly planned, these vacations move effortlessly from one country and iconic sight to the next. Featuring different inclusions, they are the ideal way to explore the diversity of Europe on one trip. Ranging from 9 to 31 days, they offer you a different style of travel. Sample tour: 9-day Delights of London & Paris: from $3,035 (with earlybooking discount). From Big Ben to the Eiffel Tower, with Shakespeare’s Stratford-upon-Avon and Stonehenge in between – this trip gives you the delights of London and the south of England, along with the top sights in Paris. London, Windsor, Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon, Bath, Stonehenge, Paris, Versailles. All AAA Member Rates are land-only, per person, based on double occupancy. Ask a AAA Travel Agent for details.

PAGE 20

AAA MOTORIST

APRIL 2016