April 2016 Traveler by AAA East Central

APRIL 2016 TRAVEL | INSURANCE/FINANCIAL | AUTOMOTIVE | MEMBER SERVICES | AAA.com

EUROPE & AMERICA your way!

Did You Know Mark Your Calendar!

AAA Quakertown is celebrating their one-year Anniversary May 12-14. Look for an event announcement in the May/June issue of the AAA Traveler. Free Battery Safety Checks in Quakertown on April 22. See page 21 for details.

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

AAA Membership Auto Pay

Whatever your travel style, Trafalgar handles all of the planning for you 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 8

Free Junior Associates

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.)

We Get You ...

Limited-time offer exclusively from AAA East Central

Receive $100.00 off any 7-night-or-longer 2016 Trafalgar vacation!

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-

Never miss a minute of your valuable AAA membership benefits! To enroll in AAA’s Auto Pay Program call 1-800-441-5008 or visit your local AAA branch office. You can also log into your membership account at AAA.com to sign up for Auto Pay.

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.

Where you want to go, what you want to know and help along the way.

AAA.com/mobile Our apps keep you mobile. Download today.

Distractions Can Be Deadly for Motorists and Pedestrians

Digital distractions are placing walkers and drivers at risk by Llyena Boylan, Chairman, AAA East Central, East Penn Region

Walking 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 to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety’s newly released Traffic Safety Culture Index, nearly 87 percent 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, 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. These disturbing results come on the news that nearly 33,000 Americans died in car crashes in 2014.

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 handheld 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 the 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 while they walk. It could save their life. Together we can make significant strides in improving pedestrian safety without sacrificing mobility. It may just be matter of standing on our own two feet.

AAA TRAVELER GENERAL INFORMATION Affiliations: AAA, Pennsylvania AAA Federation. A not-for-profit organization. Issue #1075-668X USPS | #0309-620 Vol. 94, No. 4 | APRIL 2016 AAA Traveler (USPS 309-620) is published 8X annually (Jan., Feb., Mar., Apr., May, July, Sept. and Nov.) at 1020 W. Hamilton St., P.O. Box 1910, Allentown, PA 18105-1910 Publisher: James E. Lehman | Editor: Theresa E. Deutsch | Associate Editor: Lori McLaughlin PERIODICAL POSTAGE PAID: At Allentown, PA 18101 and additional mailing offices. Subscription: $1 per year to PRIMARY members, paid through dues; non-members $1 per copy. POSTMASTER: Send address corrections to: AAA Traveler, P.O. Box 1910, Allentown, PA 18105-1910.

Advertisements in this publication, except for AAA club services and products, do not constitute an endorsement of the automobile club or the publisher. Liability of the publisher for errors and omissions in advertising or editorial copy is limited to printing a correction in the next issue of the publication after the publisher has been notified of the error or omission.

April 2016 | AAA Traveler

ADMINISTRATION OFFICE

1020 W. Hamilton Street, P.O. Box 1910 Allentown, PA 18105-1910

AAA EAST CENTRAL

Chairman: Vice Chairman: Vice Chairman: Vice Chairman: Vice Chairman:

Richard S. Hamilton James E. Broome, Jr. Gregory E. Grim Mary Lynn Laughlin Martha Hartle Munsch

OFFICERS:

President: James E. Lehman Executive Vice President: Thomas J. Ashley Vice President of Operations: Allen J. Ruch 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*

AAA EAST PENN REGION BOARD

Llyena F. Boylan, Chairman, Carol Dean Henn, 1st Vice Chairman, Barnet H. Fraenkel, 2nd Vice Chairman/Secretary, Richard A. Adams**, Glenn B. Bachman, Ralph A. Clemmer**, G. Patrick Frank**, Pamela C. Fritz, Gregory E. Grim, James W. Harper**, Robert M. Johnson**, Charles J. Kelly**, Joseph Kovatch**, Frederick E. Kutteroff, John P. Lavelle**, Richard D. Linderman**, Franklin Mann 3rd**, Robert E. McNabb, Charles M. Meredith III**, Terrence L. Walton *Emeritus Directors **Honorary members

AAA EAST PENN REGIONAL STORE HOURS

Allentown Bethlehem & Lansdale Store Hours: Mon., Tues., Wed. & Fri. : 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Thurs. : 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Sat. : 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Quakertown & Royersford Store Hours: Mon., Tues., Wed. & Fri. : 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Thurs. : 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Sat. : 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. ALLENTOWN 2072 Downyflake Ln. 610-434-5141 BETHLEHEM 1520 Stefko Blvd. 610-867-7502 LANSDALE 1250 N. Broad St. 215-855-8600 QUAKERTOWN 632 N. West End Blvd. 215-538-5150 ROYERSFORD 70 Buckwalter Rd. 610-323-6300 TDDs 610-435-0226 • Visit us online: www.AAA.com AAA Member Services: 1-800-472-9367

Putting the Bite on Your Homeowners Insurance Bone up on reducing your risk of a pet liability claim by Robin Jones

First, the good news: The number

of homeowners insurance claims nationwide arising from dog bites decreased 4.7 percent between 2013 and 2014, according to the Insurance Information Institute. Now, the bad news: The cost per claim increased from $27,862 to $32,027, up 14.9 percent, likely due to increased medical costs and higher settlements, judgments, and jury awards. And that’s not all: Claims related to dog bites and other dog-related injuries made up onethird of all homeowners liability claims in the U.S. in 2014. The total cost: $530 million. That means many insurers are more cautious when providing policies for households with dogs. But that doesn’t mean you have to find Fido a new home to get homeowners (or renters or condo) coverage. If you have a dog, you can take these steps to reduce your risk. Do make sure you’re informed. Insurance policies vary when it comes to dogs. So be certain you know how much liability coverage you have (it’s typically between $100,000 to $500,000, but you may want to consider higher limits); whether the insurer has a “onebite” policy (in other words, may cancel your policy after a second bite); and that your policy covers damages for which you may be legally liable (usually medical bills, time off work, pain and suffering, and property damage for anyone your dog injures). In some states, insurers might cap liability related to dog bites; some may exclude coverage for certain

types of dogs; or might exclude dog bite coverage altogether. Also, your insurer may view other dog-related losses, such as knocking someone to the ground, in the same way. Don’t hide from your insurer the fact that you have a dog. You could be at risk if there are policy contract exclusions related to dog liability and you are unaware because you didn’t reveal you had a pet. Along the same lines, don’t forget to update your insurance if you get a new or an additional dog—issues could arise if your policy isn’t current. Some insurers even exclude and/or limit liability coverage on all domestic pets, including dogs or certain breeds of dog. Do enroll your dog in an obedience course. Some insurers require this. But even if they don’t, it’s a good idea. Think of it as preventive care: If your dog is well behaved and obeys your commands, it’ll be less likely to bite or jump on people. Try to provide your dog with opportunities to socialize with people and other dogs; this will help it learn to be friendly, rather than aggressive, with strangers who approach. Don’t let your dog interact with people unsupervised. You know your dog best. As long as you’re present, you can tell a friend or stranger to stop doing that thing that annoys your dog before your dog reacts. You can also wrangle your dog and help it settle down if it’s getting too aggressive. Also, if your dog spends part of the day unsupervised in your yard, secure your fence so that it can’t escape.

BAD DOGGY — Dog bites account for one-third of all homeowners liability claims.

Do keep a medical file on your dogs. In the event that your dog bites someone, producing current vaccination records is essential. FOR MORE INFORMATION Trust AAA to steer you right on all your current and future Auto, Home and Life insurance needs. Combining your coverage with one insurance company could make a significant difference in your premium. Call 800.207.7947, or visit AAA.com/insurance for more information or to schedule a comprehensive Insurance review. AAA – your trusted insurance advisor.

SAVE on Auto Insurance Premiums.

AAA’s Safe Driving for Mature Operators Course

Class size is limited.

JULY 20 & 21

BETHLEHEM: MAY 10 & 11 LANSDALE: APRIL 26 & 27 ROYERSFORD: MAY 31 & JUNE 1 JULY 14 & 20

LEHIGH VALLEY ACTIVE LIFE, 1633 W. ELM STREET WED/THURS 9:15 A.M. – 1520 STEFKO BLVD. TUES/WED 9:15 A.M. – 1250 N. BROAD STREET TUES/WED 5:00 P.M. – 70 BUCKWALTER ROAD TUES/WED 12:30 P.M. – TUES/WED 9:15 A.M. –

1:15 P.M. 1:15 P.M. 9:00 P.M. 4:30 P.M. 1:15 P.M.

4-HOUR COURSE

8-HOUR COURSE

ALLENTOWN:

To qualify for the four-hour refresher course, participants must be 55 years of age or older and have taken AAA’s eight-hour or four-hour Safe Driving for Mature Operators course within the past three years.

ALLENTOWN: APRIL 25 MAY 4 JUNE 8

BETHLEHEM: MAY 18 LANSDALE: MAY 4 ROYERSFORD: MAY 11 JUNE 8

AAA MEMBER: $15

AAA Member & Spouse: $20 per couple (both must be AAA members)

Non-Member: $25

Choose one from the following 8-hour or 4-hour courses. AAA’s four-hour and eight-hour programs have been approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation for an insurance reduction. To qualify for the insurance reduction, all named insureds on the policy must be 55 years of age or older and successfully complete a AAA driver improvement course which meets PennDOT standards.

8-HOUR COURSES

LEHIGH VALLEY ACTIVE LIFE, 1633 W. ELM STREET MONDAY 12:30 P.M. – 4:30 P.M. WEDNESDAY 9:15 A.M. – 1:15 P.M. WEDNESDAY 9:15 A.M. – 1:15 P.M. 1520 STEFKO BLVD. WEDNESDAY 9:15 A.M. – 1:15 P.M. 1250 N. BROAD STREET WEDNESDAY 9:15 A.M. – 1:15 P.M. 70 BUCKWALTER ROAD WEDNESDAY 9:15 A.M. – 1:15 P.M. WEDNESDAY 5:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M.

4-HOUR COURSES

AAA MEMBER: $10

AAA Member & Spouse: $15 per couple (both must be AAA members)

Non-Member: $20

To register for a course in Allentown or Bethlehem, call 610.778.3301; Royersford or Lansdale, call 800.564.0300. AAA Traveler | APRIL 2016

AAA Members Save on Gifts for Moms & Grads

Protect Yourself and Your Pet: Be A.W.A.R.E.

Savings that could pay for the cost Save on pet prescriptions with AAA of your membership Prescription Savings Mother’s Day and graduation the free AAA Mobile app on your If you’ve ever 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 prices. 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 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

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. Start up 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.

All workshops will be held from 6:00-7:30 p.m THURSDAY, APRIL 14 at AAA ROYERSFORD THURSDAY, MAY 19 at AAA LANSDALE

Advance Registration is required. Call 610.778.3301. April 2016 | AAA Traveler

searched online for prescription pet medicines, you’ve likely seen attentiongrabbing 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 a pet’s 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, 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 pharmacies’ 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 onsite 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 1-240-4027002. An informed consumer is an empowered consumer.

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 1.866.222.7283.

AAA Members Save up to 40% on CARFAX Reports Trust AAA to put you in the driver’s seat with All Things Automotive CARFAX is the leading source of • Number of owners

vehicle history information for buyers and sellers of used cars, with the most comprehensive vehicle history database available in North America. In fact, millions of consumers trust CARFAX to provide them with vehicle history information every year. CARFAX receives information from more than 91,000 data sources including every U.S. and Canadian provincial motor vehicle agency plus many auto auctions, fire and police departments, collision repair facilities, fleet management and rental agencies, and more. CARFAX Vehicle History Reports™ are available on all used cars and light trucks, model year 1981 or later, using the unique 17-character vehicle identification number (VIN). Every CARFAX Report contains information that can impact a consumer's decision about a used vehicle. 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

• Accident indicators, such as airbag

deployments • State emissions inspection results • Service records • Vehicle use (taxi, rental, lease, etc.) Although CARFAX doesn’t promise to have every repair or accident record available on every vehicle — or doesn't 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 “Buyers Beware!” and strongly suggests having any used car you are considering purchasing checked out by a certified mechanic like those employed at AAA’s Approved Auto Repair facilities to verify the vehicle is in good mechanical condition. So if you are shopping for a used car, don’t waste time looking at vehicles with a less than desirable history. Start your search at AAA.com/CarfaxReport and filter your results by one-owner cars, accident history, cars with service records, and more. Find the right used car, at the right price, with the help of CARFAX and AAA!

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 5 Report package Unlimited reports

$39.99 $49.99 $54.99

$31.99 $39.99 $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 and select option four. Subsequent reports are available at 40% off the retail price and can be ordered online.

AAA Premier Benefits after FREE — Save 40%

Retail Price

Classic/Plus Member Price

1 CarFax report 2nd CarFax report 5 Report package Unlimited reports

$39.99 $39.99 $49.99 $54.99

Free (1 per year) $23.99 $29.99 $32.99

ONLINE MESSENGER SERVICE IS NOW AVAILABLE AT ALL AAA EAST CENTRAL OFFICES!

AAA Traveler | APRIL 2016

AAA Discounts & Rewards Savings Save an Average of $600 on State-to-State Moves Save an average of $600 on state-to-state moves with Atlas, with $100,000 of Full Value Protection at no additional charge. Visit AAA.com/atlasvanlines or call 1-800-621-6547.

Plan Early for Mother’s Day with Special Savings From April 25 through May 8, 2016, save 25% off Mother’s Day flowers and gifts. Let Mom know how much she means to you. Send her a beautiful bouquet of her favorite flowers, something to satisfy her sweet tooth or a personalized gift she’ll treasure always. Visit AAA.com/1800flowers. Use promo code AAAFD4.

Thanks to AAA Discounts & Rewards, members enjoy real savings on the things you buy every day and just about everywhere. The more you use it, the more savings add up. When you’re ready to buy, think AAA first. It’s the membership that pays for itself.

Go to AAA.com/discounts and start saving today.

Save 10% on Airport Parking Members save 10% every day on airport parking. Free shuttle service every 5-7 minutes. Visit aaa.com/theparkingspot for FREE reservations (a $4.95 value).

Save up to 20% Off with Coupon Book Enjoy fabulous finds and warmer weather fashions at your favorite stores. Members save up to 20% off with a Member-exclusive coupon book. Present your AAA membership card at Shopper Services to receive booklet. Until April 17, 2016 receive a coupon sheet with 20% off a single item, redeemable at several stores.

Fresh Savings of 25% for Members! Papa John’s has teamed up with AAA to offer a pizza deal for members. Members save 25% off regular menu prices. To start saving today, visit papajohns.com or download the Papa John’s app. Enter promo code 25AAA.

Enter our Sweepstakes for a chance to win $2,500 toward a dream vacation

Spring Savings on Hertz Rentals

Now through May 31, 2016, enter our “Find Yourself” Sweepstakes for a chance to win $2,500 toward your dream vacation! For more information and to enter our sweepstakes, visit AAA.com/Glasses.com. No purchase necessary to enter or win. Members receive 25% off total orders of $200 or more at aaa.com/glasses.

Now through May 31, 2016, members save on Compact+ car class rentals. (Dream Cars excluded). Save $5 per day up to $35 total savings on weekend or weekly rentals by using code 105033. Visit AAA.com/Hertz or call 800-654-3080.

Members Save 30% AAA members save 30% off of comprehensive eye exams and complete pairs of eyeglasses and sunglasses when purchasing lenses with frame. Present your AAA membership card to receive savings. If a member’s total eyeglass purchase using the AAA offer is not the lowest advertised or promotional price available to the public, the member will receive an additional $5.00 off the lowest price. To find a participating location near you visit AAA.com/visionsavings.

April 2016 | AAA Traveler

Members Save an Additional 10% Now until April 29, 2016, AAA members save an additional 10% off on Dell PCs, tablets, electronics and accessories. Get 5% back with Dell Advantage rewards, plus free second business day shipping. Join for free at checkout. Shop at AAA. com/dell or call 800-274-4635. Use coupon code exclusive10% to receive the extra savings. Restrictions apply.

Save every day with your AAA membership card Lodging Discounts

Double Discount Now through May 15, 2016 members receive an additional 10% for a total of 20% when you travel between April 22 and June 12, 2016. Book a trip for the entire family! Up to 2 kids can ride for half the adult fare. Visit AAA.com/ Amtrak. Use promo code H255.

AAA.com/BestWestern

Save 10% or more Save 10% or more at Best Western International, Best Western, Best Western Plus, and Best Western Premier. Enjoy all the benefits of Best Western Rewards® – Membership is FREE.

Celebrate & Save

AAA.com/Hilton

Help us celebrate the 25th anniversary of Universal Orlando® Resort. There’s allnew excitement on the horizon that guarantees epic family fun vacations. Visit AAA.com/ Universal to see a universe of savings offers for members.

Save up to 10% Conrad Hotels & Resorts, DoubleTree, Embassy Suites, Hampton, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Hilton Garden Inn, Hilton Grand Vacations, Home2 Suites, Homewood Suites, and Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts. Earn points and airline miles with Hilton HHonors.™

AAA.com/Starwood

Save up to 15% Aloft, Element, Four Points, Le Meridien, Sheraton, St. Regis, Westin, W Hotels, and The Luxury Collection. Join the Starwood Preferred Guest® program for amazing redemption options.

AAA.com/Marriott

Ticket Savings Whether it’s concerts, sports, theatre, comedy or family events, members can get Ticketmaster deals on select 4-packs and 2-for-1 tickets. With Ticketmaster Verified Tickets the seat you buy is the seat you get, guaranteed. Visit AAA.com/ticketmaster.

Save 5% or more The Ritz-Carlton, Gaylord Hotels, JW Marriott Hotels, EDITION, Autograph Collection Hotels, Renaissance Hotels, AC Hotels, Marriott Hotels & Resorts, Courtyard, SpringHill Suites, Fairfield Inn & Suites, Residence Inn, and TownePlace Suites. Become a Marriott Rewards® member to earn points or airline miles.

AAA.com/Hyatt

Save 10% Park Hyatt, Andaz, Grand Hyatt, Hyatt Regency, Hyatt, Hyatt Place, and Hyatt House. Enjoy exclusive benefits with a Hyatt Gold Passport® membership.

MOVING? Penske caters to the do-it-yourself mover. Reserve your rental truck today. • Safe and reliable trucks • Free unlimited mileage on one-way rentals

• Moving supplies and accessories

Save up to 20%

when reserving one-way rentals online

877-AAA-7924 pensketruckrental.com For safety tips before hitting the road, visit pensketruckrental.com

AAA Traveler | APRIL 2016

A $50 statement credit offer can brighten your shopping outlook

What Color is Your Shopping List? R

etail insiders know that spring can be a great season for bargain shoppers on the hunt for deals on refrigerators and mattresses (because new models come out in June), luggage (in the lull between the holidays and summer vacations) and grill accessories (but not grills). Something about spring merchandising helps lure us out of hibernation. As we emerge from darker and drearier winter days, spring colors perk up consumers ready to brighten surroundings and shift to a sunnier seasonal palette. Psychologists have found that color is a huge driver for shoppers, with more than 80 percent of participants in a recent survey reporting that color is a primary reason they choose a product. Here are a few predictions that may color your shopping decisions this spring: Color me house-proud. In spring, homeowners hit the nurseries and home improvement stores to prepare for landscaping and remodeling. Some of that sprucing up may be because

Trafalgar

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-

April 2016 | AAA Traveler

in 2016? Expect the top four car colors - white, black, grey and silver – to remain popular. However, PPG Industries, which provides paint to the automotive industry, predicts we will see more neutrals with a sparkle, metallic orange, and grey with a strong undertone of green. When it comes to appliances, stainless steel will remain the number one choice but new options will include sleek black stainless finishes, icy white and a warm gray metallic that GE calls “slate.” Member Rewards shine every season. No matter what you will be buying this spring, it is rewarding to shop with your AAA Member Rewards Visa® credit card. That is especially true now through April 30. 2016. New cardholders who make at least $250 in purchases the first 90 days their account is open get a $50 statement credit. All cardholders continue to earn points they can redeem for cash back on purchases. Earn 3 points per $1 on

qualifying AAA and travel purchases. Earn 2 points per $1 on gas, grocery store and drugstore purchases. Earn 1 point per $1 on purchases everywhere else. Categories won’t change and there is no limit on the points you can earn. Ask a AAA staff associate about the AAA Member Rewards Visa credit card or apply for your new card at AAA.com/ creditcard. For information about rates, fees, other costs and benefits associated with the use of this credit card, or to apply, visit the website above or any AAA branch and refer to the disclosures accompanying the application. ™ Pantone trademarks are the property of Pantone LLC.

Visit your local AAA Travel or call 1-800–552-6679.

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.

spring is also the most popular time to put a house on the market. Behr Paints reports that popular paint and home décor choices this year will include high-contrast brights offset with glossy ceilings, trims and accents; neutrals accented with metallic sand warm tones; and ombre shades of blue and green. Soft is the new shade. Discounts on items for your spring wardrobe are most likely mid-season, in April. The fashionforward will be stocking their closets with sunny shades such as buttercup yellow and a spectrum of softer hues, such as rose, peach, sky blue and lilac. How do we know? Because that is the color palette predicted by the Pantone Institute of Color™. For the past 15 years, this organization has announced color trends and designated a Color of the Year. When Pantone speaks, fashion, home décor, automotive and product packaging experts take notice. Big ticket paint jobs. When tax refunds hit bank accounts many people make big purchases, such as cars and appliances. Which paint jobs will pop

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 Optional Ex 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.

1-800-552-6679 • 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 on Pleasant Holidays packages from AAA! 4-6 nights: $50.00 • 7+ nights: $100.00

Member Benefits • Exclusive Offers

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: $679

June 1-8: $1,331

June 2-9: $1,026

June 1-8: $920

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 Philadelphia, roundtrip airport/hotel transfers and hotel accommodations. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.

AAA Traveler | APRIL 2016

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

Taste of Scotland & Ireland

From the

OUTBACK to the

AUSTRALIA

GLACIERS

SCOTLAND HIGHLIGHTS

IRELAND HIGHLIGHTS

• Glasgow city tour

• Titanic Belfast

• Loch Ness scenic cruise

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

• Distillery whiskey tasting • Spean Bridge Woollen Mill

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

• See dogs herd sheep

• Ferry from Scotland to Ireland

• Blarney Castle & Woollen Mills

• St Andrews: “Home of Golf”

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

• Evening of Scottish cuisine & entertainment

• Cliffs of Moher, Bunratty Castle

• Edinburgh Castle & city tour

• Galway, Clonmacnoise

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

ATURE D

AAA Traveler | April 2016

Sept 19-30 • AAA Member Rate: $2,468

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.

Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes flights (Philadelphia-Cairns, Sydney-Philadelphia, 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 deparATURE ture. Visit AAA.com/GoAustralia for complete itinerary and important pre-travel information. Additional airline fees for baggage may CA O apply; contact your travel agent for details. Passport required. TI

T IO

1-800-552-6679 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 • $3,239: 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

AAA MEMBER RATES are per person, double occupancy, are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip flights from Philadelphia (except YELLOWSTONE EXPERIENCE, which is a landonly 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 $2,895: includes flights

ATURE

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

1-800-552-6679 AAA.com/travel

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

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 • $2,739

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 Philadelphia, 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.

AAA Traveler | APRIL 2016

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

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. 12

AAA Traveler | April 2016

1-800-552-6679 AAA.com/travel

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

AMTRAK & Northern National Parks

MEMBERS SAVE! Premium...... $150 Plus.............$100 Classic............ $75 NEW BOOKINGS WITH DEPOSIT BY 4/30/16. PER ROOM, DOUBLE OCCUPANCY.

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.

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

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

ATURE D

ÂŠ Peter Cox / Fotolia.com

1-800-552-6679 AAA.com/travel

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 AAA Traveler | APRIL 2016

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

ATURE

& DROMOLAND CASTLE

HERITAGE

IRISH

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.

SPECIAL INCLUSION

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

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

Oct 2-10 • AAA Member Rate: $1,938 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.

AAA Traveler | April 2016

1-800-552-6679 AAA.com/travel

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

AAA.com

Linking you & your next vacation! FLIGHTS RENTAL CARS HOTELS

1-800-552-6679 AAA.com/travel

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

ALLENTOWN . . . . . . . . 610-434-5141 BETHLEHEM . . . . . . . 610-867-7502 LANSDALE . . . . . . . . . 215-855-8600 QUAKERTOWN . . . . . . . 215-538-5150 ROYERSFORD . . . . . . . 610-323-6300

____________________________________________________________

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. 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.

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! AAA Traveler | APRIL 2016

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 $4,099

Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes flights (Philadelphia-Rome, Milan-Philadelphia), roundtrip ATURE airport/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 CA O TI agent for 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

AAA Traveler | April 2016

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 (Philadelphia-San Antonio), roundtrip ATURE airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, hotel luggage handling (1 bag per person) and 6 meals. Additional airline fees CA O TI for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.

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

1-800-552-6679 AAA.com/travel

Cities of Light — Sailing from Paris to Prague Travel Europe’s original highways on Viking River Cruises When lovers dream of the City And there’s no more comfortable accommodations, all onboard 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 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 star-shaped pattern. A cluttered Montmartre is topped by the bleached-white parapets of the Sacré-Coeur.

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 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 12thcentury 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 the 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

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 BLUE HIGHWAY — with Paris, strolling around The spires of Notre Dame overlooking Wenceslas Square really does the River Seine. remind you of the ChampsElysées. Completing the illusion is a miniature version of the Eiffel Tower The 600-year-old Charles Bridge links built for the 1891 Prague Exposition that Old Town to Prague Castle and the Mala overlooks the town. Strana or Lesser Town. The 1,700-footIt’s a city meant to be walked and long stone bridge incorporates 16 arches, most of the important sights can be and a sculpture gallery with 28 statues of covered in a leisurely two-hour stroll. the saints. Across the Vltava River, Prague The famed Astronomical Clock in the Old Castle rises majestically above the red tile Town Tower with its bell-tolling skeleton, roofs and copper cupolas of St. Nicholas and twelve Apostles circling the clock Cathedral. face, was constructed in 1410. FOR MORE INFORMATION Please see your AAA Travel professional, or log on to AAA.com/cruises for more European river cruise vacations.

Shooting the Curl on Southern California’s Coast Pacific Surfliner just might be the ride of your life Connecting San Luis Obispo and Starting at the southern end of the green (depending on San Diego through Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner offers a unique vantage on the Southern California seascape. To get a closer look, you’d have to be on a surfboard, which, believe it or not, you’re welcome to bring onboard, since the Pacific Surfliner has special racks to accommodate the bikes and boards of outdoor-minded riders. Like the best coffee shops, the train includes power outlets and free basic WiFi. Unlike the best coffee shops, you'll be moving at up to 90 mph while enjoying some mind-blowing natural landscapes. The Pacific Surfliner travels 351 miles of scenic Southern California coast. Take in the breathtaking ocean vistas, golden beaches, rolling hills and sprawling canyons without the hassles of traffic, cramped spaces and no real food. Relax in the wide, comfortable seats with plenty of legroom and enjoy views that most travelers will never see. Given the year-round sunshine and endless waves, it’s hard to tell when summer ends in Southern California — and some claim it never really does.

route, you'll find an almost endless list of attractions in the sun-splashed city of San Diego. Take in a thrilling aquatic show at SeaWorld. Stroll by the many shops and restaurants of the Gaslamp Quarter. Or take a sandy step back in time at the grand old Victorian beachfront Hotel del Coronado. Heading north, the route takes you directly through Anaheim, making the Pacific Surfliner your ticket to a worry-free trip to Disneyland, whether it’s the adventure of exploring Disney’s California Adventure park or the magic and nostalgia of visiting Walt Disney’s original theme park. Of course, there's always plenty of reason to stop in the City of Angels. The home of the stars is also home to Universal Studios Hollywood, the stunning Pacific Coast Highway and the people-watching wonder that is the Venice Boardwalk. No matter what you do, just remember to grab your sunglasses and watch for your favorite stars. Located just 90 miles from Los Angeles, Santa Barbara offers 300 days of sunshine a year. Hillsides of gold or

THE SCENIC ROUTE — Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner follows the California coast.

the season) roll down to bluffs overlooking golden beaches and the Channel Islands and through the oakstudded hills of the Los Padres forest. The Pacific Surfliner completes its route in the charming old city of San Luis Obispo. Tucked between the Coast Range and the Pacific Ocean, the city boasts numerous historic inns and theaters, and even a rare commercial building designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Some twodozen wineries produce critically acclaimed vintages in the Edna Valley

and Arroyo Grande Valley. Hearst Castle and San Simeon State Historical Monument are 43 miles north of town via Highway 1.

FOR MORE INFORMATION AAA members and their immediate family (spouses and dependents) are eligible to receive 10% off on Amtrak rail fares. Advance reservations are required a minimum of 3 days prior to travel. Call 1.800.872.7245 for reservations or visit AAA.com. AAA Traveler | APRIL 2016

Savor the Sweet Life in Italy This Year It’s love, Italian style in all its permutations Italy is a feast for the senses, and no to immortalize the stunning panoramas one is immune to its charms. No other place melds the sunny splendors of the “Bel Paese” (beautiful country) with its vast patrimony of art, architecture, culture and history. Then there’s the legendary Italian zest for living well — their unbridled passion for good food and wine. There are as many ways to experience Italy as there are coins in the Trevi Fountain. Tuscany is a region blessed equally by the genius of nature and man, and often by the combined talents of both. Olive groves and vineyards meander up rolling green slopes where hill towns glow golden in the evening sun. Florence the capital is the cradle of the Italian Renaissance. Michelangelo’s David stood for centuries in the Piazza Signoria, and is now safely ensconced in the Accademia Gallery. The Uffizi Gallery houses the treasures of the Medici and is home to masterpieces like Botticelli’s Birth of Venus and Leonardo da Vinci’s Adoration of the Magi. Italy’s famed Amalfi Coast is crowned by the city of Sorrento set atop some of the Mediterranean's most breathtaking cliffs. Bring your camera and comfortable shoes

that will unfold before you. The Path of the Gods in Salerno is a 3-hour trek along a trail overlooking the Almafi Coast, which also offers a magnificent view over Conca dei Marini. Ride the ferry across the Bay of Naples to the enchanted Isle of Capri. A celebrated retreat since Roman times, it’s famous for the Blue Grotto, a sea cave where the sunlight imparts an otherworldly blue glow to the water. The villa of the Swedish doctor Axel Munthe offers magnificent views over the Bay of Naples and Vesuvius. Positano is Amalfi’s most picturesque town. Sun-bleached houses in subtle shades of pink, peach, and ochre stack up like dominoes on winding terraced streets. With its marble palazzi, gilded mosaics and shimmering liquid streets, Venice is the Adriatic’s “Bride of the Sea.” Ride a vaporetto through the canals to the Byzantine Basilica, the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark's Square. Napoleon called the Piazza San Marco “the finest drawing room in Europe.” And all roads still lead to Rome. The Baths of Caracalla mark the beginning of the Appian Way, littered with monuments like the Circus of Maxentius. The Arch of

Around Town April 10

CHICAGO AND EARTH, WIND & FIRE

PPL Center, 701 Hamilton Street, Allentown The legendary bands, with other 200 million albums sold and 20 Grammy Award nominations between them, come together for an unforgettable and nostalgic evening of music. The finale features both bands on stage together, bringing the show up to a whole new level. Performance at 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $30.25-$116.75. For information and tickets, call 484.273.4490 or visit pplcenter.com.

April 14

IRONPIGS BASEBALL OPENING DAY

Coca-Cola Park, 1050 IronPigs Way, Allentown The ninth season in club history debuts on a Thursday evening, with the IronPigs home opener against the Pawtucket Red Sox to kick off a six-game home stand which also includes games against the Rochester Red Wings and Syracuse Chiefs. Start time: 7:05 p.m. For tickets and information, visit milb.com.

April 17

BEHIND THE SCENES DOLLHOUSE TOUR

Kemerer Museum of Decorative Arts, 427 N. New Street, Bethlehem Witness the transformation of architecture, clothing, and furniture styles spanning across a hundred years through elegantly embellished

April 2016 | AAA Traveler

dollhouses that exemplify the designs of wellknown manufacturers, including Christian Hacker and Moritiz Gottschalk. Guests will see the intricate, beautiful dollhouses in a newly renovated, state-of-the-art, environmentally controlled Collections Resource Center. Tours at 2 p.m. Tickets: $20 for regular tours and $25 for special curator tours. Tickets must be booked in advance. To RSVP, call 610-882-0450, ext. 10 or email amantle@historicbethlehem.org.

April 23 BARRAGE 8

State Theatre, 453 Northampton Street, Easton Barrage is back, with a twist. The high-octane fiddle fest has expanded their sonic palette to include the entire string instrument family (viola, cello and bass added into the mix). With music that combines contemporary world influences, layered vocal arrangements and pulsating beats, Barrage 8 incorporates its trademark style, energy and high production values into a re-imagining for the string octet. Performance at 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $40. For tickets and information, visit statetheatre.org or call 1-800-999-7828.

April 28-30

Antiques & Collectors Extravaganza

Renninger’s, 740 Noble Street, Kutztown It’s the Spring Extravaganza at Renninger’s,

Titus stands watch over the Forum and offers sweeping views of the ruins that litter Palatine Hill. Spring arrives early and by April, the parks and gardens are overflowing with flowers. Once a Cardinal’s private estate Villa Borghese is an oasis of formal gardens, lakes, and winding pathways in

PICTURE PERFECT — Florence is the cradle of the Italian Renaissance.

the middle of the city. Savor la dolce vita on the Via Veneto, or linger over cappuccino in one of Piazza Navona’s outdoor cafés. Piazza de Spagna gives way to the Spanish Steps, perhaps the most romantic rendezvous in the world.

FOR MORE INFORMATION For more information on vacationing in Italy log on to AAA.com or visit your AAA Travel Agency.

where hundreds of vendors sell antiques and collectibles indoors, outdoors and under pavilions. Rain or shine event. For information, visit renningers.com.

April 30-May 1 QUILTFEST

Charles Chrin Community Center, 4100 Green Pond Road, Palmer Township The Colonial Quilters Guild of Bethlehem will sponsor QuiltFest 2016, featuring quilts for sale, vendors, café, raffle prizes, door prizes, tricky tray, book nook and boutique. “Modern Quilting—What’s All the Hubbub” will be presented by Jessica Skultety of Quilty Habit on Saturday at 1 p.m. Admission is $8/day, with proceeds to benefit Turning Point of the Lehigh Valley. Hours: Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For information, visit colonialquilters.org.

April 30-May 22 SOTA SHOW HOUSE

Moyer-Metzger Manse, 1406 Hamilton Street, Allentown The Society of the Arts will showcase the MoyerMetzger Manse, a Shingle-style home built in 1903 on Allentown’s “Mansion Row.” Lehigh Valley natives will remember the home as the Metzger Photo Studio. It is being returned to its original purpose as a grand single-family home. Many of the original architectural features remain, including French doors, pocket doors and stained glass windows. Hours: Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday noon

to 4 p.m. Tickets: $20 in advance, $25 at door. Proceeds benefit the Allentown Art Museum educational programs, the SOTA Education Endowment and the SOTA Print Fund. For tickets and information, visit sotapa.org.

Now through May 9 PICASSO: THE GREAT WAR, EXPERIMENTATION AND CHANGE

Barnes Foundation, 2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia Picasso: The Great War, Experimentation and Change examines the dramatic fluctuations in Picasso’s style during the period surrounding WWI. The exhibition brings together some 50 works by Picasso from major American and European museums and private collections, including paintings, drawings, watercolors, and costumes designed for an avant-garde ballet. For tickets and information, visit barnesfoundation.org.

Every Saturday DISTILLERY TOURS

Manatawny Still Works, 320 Circle of Progress Drive, Pottstown Tour the Manatawny Still Works and learn about the distillation process, bottling and labeling of spirits. Time: 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. For information, visit manatawnystillworks.com.

Travel to Where the West is Still Wild Experience the majesty of the American West The untamed spirit of the the West, Deadwood is now a national

American West lives on. Travelers can retrace the footsteps of the pioneers from South Dakota’s Black Hills all the way to Salt Lake City and Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. The Lakota Indians called them “Paha Sapa” or “hills that are black.” The Black Hills emerge out of the Great Plains and spread over a vast portion of western South Dakota and into Wyoming. The pine-clad hills are bisected by narrow valleys, mining camps, ghost towns and spectacular rock formations. Sculptor Gutzon Borglum’s vision for Mount Rushmore was no less than “the formal rendering of the philosophy of our government into granite on a mountain peak.” Borglum began drilling into the 5,725-foot mountain in 1927 and today, the four faces of Mount Rushmore loom more than a thousand feet over visitors. Not far from these heads of state a monument to one of the greatest Indian warriors is slowly emerging out of a mountain. When completed the Crazy Horse Memorial will stand over 560 feet high, 640 feet long and will be the largest sculpture in the world. Once the most lawless town in

historic landmark with carefully restored Victorian storefronts. At one time Deadwood averaged one murder a day and visitors can pay their respects at Mount Moriah Cemetery, the final resting place of Calamity Jane and Wild Bill Hickok, shot in a Deadwood saloon. Devil’s Tower National Monument looms 1,267 feet above the meandering Belle Fourche River and was declared the nation’s first national monument in 1906. Prominently featured in the 1977 film Close Encounters of the Third Kind, the origins of this nearly vertical monolith remain a mystery to this day. The 42-mile Teton Park Scenic Loop connects two of America’s last wild places, Yellowstone and Wyoming’s Grand Teton National Park. The Teton Range erupts like a jagged row of teeth over the serene valley known as Jackson Hole, while the Snake River winds erratically across a valley floor. Directly to the north is Yellowstone Park, the nation’s largest National Park. Spilling across the borders of Wyoming, Montana and Idaho, the park’s 2.2-million acres straddle the Continental Divide. Here, the relentless forces of nature fuel the world’s largest

UP JUMPED THE DEVIL — Devil’s Tower rises 1,267 feet above the meandering Belle Fourche River.

concentration of geothermal activity, including the park’s more than 300 geysers. Located-50 miles east of Yellowstone, Cody, Wyoming was named after its founder “Buffalo Bill” Cody. The Buffalo Bill Historical Center examines

and interprets the life of this legendary figure, and the times in which he lived, and seven distinct institutions under one roof including the Buffalo Bill Museum, the Cody Firearms Museum, the Plains Indian Museum, and the Whitney Gallery of Western Art.

IF YOU GO Experience some of the West’s most famous attractions during AAA’s American Majesty escorted tour, August 27-September 3, 2016. Wonder at magnificent Mt. Rushmore and Crazy Horse National Monuments. Enjoy the Wild West atmosphere of Cody, Wyoming, and Deadwood, South Dakota and a Wildlife Jeep Safari. For more information see your AAA Travel Agent or visit AAA.com.

AAA Traveler | APRIL 2016

New AAA Study Reveals Choosing the Right Tire the Perils of Potholes is as Easy as ABC Pothole damage costs U.S. drivers $3 billion annually I

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 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 that 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.

Solving the Pothole Problem

P othole run-ins can wreak havoc on your car’s tires, wheels, shocks and struts, tie rods, ball joints, control arms… and the list goes on. Though too much traffic and too little funding for repairs and maintenance mean major challenges for the nation’s pothole-ridden roadways, your city/state governments are providing pothole reporting systems that make it easier than ever for drivers like you to join in the effort to wipe out these aggravating depressions.

To report a pothole in Pennsylvania call 1-800-FIX-ROAD (1-800-349-7623) There are also a few local phone numbers you can use to report potholes in your area:

April 2016 | AAA Traveler

In Allentown: In Bethlehem: In Lansdale: In Quakertown: In Royersford:

610.437.8775 610.865.7053 215.361.8372 215.536.5001 610.970.6527

How to read the writing on the sidewall Buying new

tires can be confusing. AS EASY AS ABC — There’s a bewildering Manufacturers are required to grade their tires array of choices and under the Uniform Tire Quality Grading system unfamiliar termin(UTQG). ology. Fortunately there’s a lot of good information right where you need it — on the tires. All tires have information printed on their sidewalls indicating size, type, load, and speed ratings through a standardized set of numbers and letters like: P215/65R-15 95H. P stands for passenger tire, 215/65 is the width and aspect ratio of the tire, while R designates a radial tire. The number 15 indicates the wear rate. The higher the number, the wheel size, while 95 is the load index and longer it should take for the tread to wear down. A tire grade of 400 should wear H stands for the speed rating. The higher the load index, the twice as long as a tire grade of 200. Traction grades rate a tire’s ability to greater the load a tire can support. A 95 load index for example, means the stop on wet pavement and is graded as tire can carry approximately 1521 lbs. AA, A, B, and C from best to worst. Most The speed rating is the speed a tire was passenger car tires are rated A, while B, designed to be driven over an extended and C ratings tend to be found on light period of time. Ratings range from M-81 truck tires. Temperature grades reflect a tire’s miles per hour, to Y-186 mph although not quite in alphabetical order. An H or resistance to heat. Sustained high 130 mph rating for example is higher temperatures such as driving long than a U or 124 mph rating. Most distances in hot weather can cause a tire companies do not recommend tire to deteriorate, leading to blowouts downgrading the speed rating from your and tread separation. Tires are graded as original equipment tires. If a tire is rated A, B, or C with an A rating signifying the for safe performance in mud and snow, it coolest running tire. That does not mean will be noted on the sidewall with an M/S, C rated tires are unsafe. All tires should perform safely and reliably when driven M+S or M&S symbol. In addition, the U.S. Department at the speed limit, but higher graded tires of Transportation requires each will give you a greater margin of safety. Although this rating system can be manufacturer to grade its tires under the Uniform Tire Quality Grading very helpful when buying new tires, it is system (UTQG) and establish ratings for no guarantee. Factors such as personal tread wear, traction, and temperature driving style, type of car, road quality and tire maintenance habits all have resistance. This grading system provides a significant influence on your tire’s guidelines for making relative com- performance and longevity. parisons when purchasing new tires. Treadwear grades indicate a tire’s relative

FOR MORE INFORMATION Visit AAA.com for information on all things automotive including tips on buying, operating and maintaining a vehicle.

Trust AAA Approved Auto Repair

Know a quality repair facility when you see one April is Spring Car Care Month Once approved, AAR shops are • All repairs, parts, 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 high-quality 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 customers about their satisfaction with the facility.

visited quarterly, re-inspected annually and monitored for customer satisfaction to ensure ongoing compliance with AAA standards. AAA Service Specialists, who all have an Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification, along with an extensive industry background, perform 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:

labor, and components are guaranteed for 24 months or 24,000 miles under normal operating conditions. • Get priority service with Roadside Assistance tow 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.

Mark Your Calendar

FREE Battery Wellness Clinics at AAA

AAA Mobile Battery Service is hosting Free Battery Safety Checks. State-of-theart diagnostic equipment will confirm whether your battery will hold a charge or if the problem lies deeper in the electrical system. If a replacement is needed, it can be purchased and installed on the spot at a special AAA Member price.

Battery checks will be available at the following AAA branch office location, no appointment necessary.

AAA Quakertown — April 22 632 N. West End Blvd. 215.538.5150 10:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M.

Why Idling Gets You Nowhere Fast

Don’t keep the motor running — Test your idling IQ Americans know the value of a at the same time. But first, take a few to warm up your vehicle, even in cold good day’s work. But we’re also a nation of idlers — addicted to unnecessary vehicle idling. It’s a habit that’s costing us billions of dollars a year in wasted fuel and produces harmful emissions. It’s been estimated that American drivers unnecessarily consume over two billion gallons of fuel each year while idling. We’ve all experienced the negative effects of idling, whether we’re walking past a row of trucks or buses on a busy street, or trying to avoid inhaling exhaust fumes at drive-through windows. It’s not good for you and contrary to popular belief, it’s not good for your vehicle’s engine. Putting a stop to excessive idling is a great way to save energy, save the environment and save money — all

moments to test your idling IQ. 1. Idling is good for your vehicle because it warms up the engine. FALSE: Idling can actually be hard on an engine because fuel doesn’t undergo complete combustion. As a result, the unburned fuel leaves residues on cylinder walls that can contaminate engine oil and spark plugs. 2. Idling wastes fuel and money and is hard on the environment. TRUE: Idling wastes an enormous amount of money because it burns fuel but doesn’t get you anywhere. It’s also hard on the environment because it produces needless exhaust emissions. 3. Idling is necessary in cold weather to ensure the vehicle parts are warm. FALSE: Idling is not an effective way

weather. The best way to do this is to drive the vehicle. With today’s modern engines, you need no more than 30 seconds of idling on cold days before starting to drive. Many components of the vehicle — including the wheel bearings, tires and suspension system — will warm up only when a vehicle is moving. Thirty seconds of idling is enough get the oil circulating through the engine. 4. The best way to warm up a vehicle is to drive it. TRUE: Driving your vehicle ensures that all parts get warmed up, and it doesn’t waste fuel. It’s a good idea to avoid high speeds and rapid acceleration until the engine temperature begins to rise. 5. Shut off the engine when your

vehicle is going to be stopped for more than 10 seconds. TRUE: More than 10 seconds of idling can use more fuel than turning off the engine and restarting it. 6. Turn off your engine if you’re caught in stop-and-go traffic or at a long stoplight. FALSE: The 10-second rule is a good one, but remember, you can’t avoid some idling. Turning off your vehicle in these situations could be dangerous and disrupt traffic. 7. Restarting my car many times, rather than letting it idle, is hard on some parts. FALSE: Studies show that restarting the engine many times has little impact on components such as the battery and the starter motor. AAA Traveler | APRIL 2016

School’s Out: Tips for Moving Kids Home from College T

his spring, you might be renting a truck from Penske, AAA’s exclusive truck rental partner, to move your son or daughter back home from college. The experts at Penske Truck Rental have a few tips to make everything go smoothly.

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 off-campus apartment? The difference can mean a lot when it comes to finding the right-size truck. To start 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. All of the company’s household rental trucks include either a CD player or MP3 plug-in. 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-

it-yourself move. There’s no need to visit multiple websites and stores: you can find everything on the Penske website.

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 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.

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. In the 72 hours before the move, Penske advises the creation a moving-

day kit, which can include a GPS device, drinks and snacks. Once you hit the road, you’ll drive safely and in comfort. Trucks are equipped with automatic transmission, antilock brakes for safer stops, air conditioning, power steering, rear roll-

AAA MEMBERS SAVE 12% OFF

the daily rental rate and the discount can be increased up to 20% when reservations are made online at PenskeTruckRentals.com/ Discounts. Reservations can be made online or by calling 877.222.7924. Additional terms and conditions may apply.

WOW! It’s Good to Be a AAA Member

With exclusive members-only savings from Hertz Warming temperatures beckon Hertz’ free Gold Plus Rewards® loyalty

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. 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; receive 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-airport, bringing the car rental experience to your doorstep. April 2016 | AAA Traveler

up door and dual-faced mirrors for better vision.

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 dropoff 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 receive enough Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Bonus Points, for one free rental day. AAA Premier members, receive 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. 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 800654-3080 to reserve your Hertz vehicle!

AAA Traveler | APRIL 2016