Huntington 3 16 by AAA East Central

SEE PAGE 3

Vol.2163No. Vol. No. 2 1

OHIO/WEST VIRGINIA WESTERN • HUNTINGTON/PARKERSBURG PENNSYLVANIA REGION

MARCH/APRIL MARCH 2016 2016

Get Mobile with the AAA Mobile App

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

AAA IS YOUR ONESTOP INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL SHOP

AAA Mobile is beautifully responsive and optimized to look and work great on your IOS or Android device. Use it to access Roadside Assistance, as well as your favorite time and money saving AAA services — all from one integrated app. With Passbook (IOS version only) you can use your digital membership card at AAA discount locations, or when requesting location-based roadside assistance without even opening your wallet. AAA Mobile also offers instant access to AAA TripTik® Guides, member discounts, maps, gas prices, driving directions, and more. Key features include: • Convenient trip planning with interactive maps and turn-by-turn directions; • Exclusive member discounts at over 164,000 locations; • Mobile battery quotes and instant replacement; (where available) • Locate the AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities, and AAA branches nearest you no matter where you are; • Research and book AAA Diamond Rated hotels; • Find gas stations and receive the latest price information; • Find electric vehicle (EV) charging stations; • Travel planning tools including Drive Trips and Travel Guides. AAA Mobile delivers the total mobile member experience. For more information or to download the AAA Mobile app, visit the AAA Mobile Solutions page at AAA.com/Mobile.

Modern Luxury, BOGO air and more... Experience the Caribbean on Celebrity! SM

xperiences are at the heart of the very best vacations; more than what you saw, it’s what you did — and the style in which you did it — that’s often most enjoyed and most remembered. Experiences done in style? That’s where Celebrity Cruises distinguishes itself from the competition. As the world’s leading premium cruise line dedicated to the proposition that “Modern Luxury Lives Here,” Celebrity aims to make your cruise experience one you’ll never forget. Elegant accommodations, globally inspired menus crafted by a James Beard–featured chef, amenities and activities to keep you busy (if you like) from morning to night and a level of service that is unsurpassed. A sense that every thing that matters to you also matters to Celebrity sets it apart; that’s modern luxury. And, because Celebrity sails to more than 30 Caribbean destinations, your options for memorable experiences — both on and off the ship — are virtually limitless. And now, only from March 1 to 31, members can couple a Caribbean Celebrity Cruises experience with exclusive

perks from AAA Travel when booking an ocean-view (or

higher) stateroom on select sailings (see page 20). continued on page 20

Extras: always in style at AAA! • BUY 1 AIR, GET 1 FREE!

Roundtrip from Columbus to Ft Lauderdale or Miami

• UP TO $100.00 ONBOARD SPENDING MONEY!

Use toward spa treatments, beverages, gift shops, etc. Per person, double occupancy.

• CHOOSE 1 OF 4 AMENITIES: Ask how to get ALL 4!

Classic Beverage Package for 2: All fountain & canned soda, all bottled juices, fresh juices, premium coffees and teas, bottled water, beers up to $6; spirits, liqueurs, cocktails, frozen drinks up to $8; any wine by the glass up to $9. Plus, a 15% discount on all wines by the bottle purchased on board, even the prized Reserve Wine list and Rare Wine list. Unlimited Internet for 2: Yes, you’re miles out at sea, but that doesn’t mean you need to lose touch with friends and family on land. Celebrity ships feature wireless Internet access so you can check your social feeds, upload photos, chat online and access your email. Most ships offer Wi-Fi connectivity throughout. Wireless Internet access is available all hours of the day until the morning of debarkation. Prepaid Gratuities for 2: Relax, knowing that the gratuities for your room steward, maître d’, restaurant servers and others are already taken care of. A value of up to $32.90 per day ($16.45 per person)! An Additional $150.00 Onboard Spending Money: Use this generous credit toward the purchase of gifts or other items from onboard shops and boutiques, personal services (such as spa treatments, hair salons, etc), beverages and more. Per person, double occupancy.

• PRIORITY CHECK-IN & 24 / 7 MEMBER CARE! Extras available on select cruises. Some restrictions apply.

Myrtle Beach Condo Hotel Vacations from AAA Travel You can’t beat the savings and convenience of staying in a Myrtle Beach Condo Hotel. Most have room for 2 to 5 bedroom, making it a great choice for families, or anyone who needs some extra room. Enjoy well-equipped kitchens, multiple baths, and all the amenities of a luxury resort. See page 2 for more information, and our ad on page 16, for some remarkable Myrtle Beach Condo Hotel vacation deals from AAA Travel.

AAA news delivered right to your inbox Learn about the latest AAA specials and get the most value from your membership when you sign up for the monthly AAA e-Update newsletter. Each newsletter includes information about your AAA member benefits, along with savings offers, automotive tips, travel ideas and more. After your first newsletter, you decide which additional e-newsletters you’d like to receive. Interested in learning about Travel specials? Get the Travel e-News, with exclusive getaway packages and offers. Or get the Insurance Insight, with information to help you protect your valued possessions. There’s no cost to you, and you can discontinue your AAA e-newsletter subscription at any time. Visit AAA.com/enews to sign up today.

Free Junior Associates — Priceless Protection for Teens If your teen has reached driving age, don’t let them go it alone. AAA members can extend their AAA coverage for dependents age 16 to 18, with a free Junior Associate membership. They’ll carry their very own AAA card, and are entitled to AAA benefits and services including 24/7 roadside assistance. 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).

EXPLORE IRISH HERITAGE WITH AAA TRAVEL The Emerald Isle is like a fine piece of music. Cobblestone lanes, whitewashed cottages and luminous green valleys all seem plucked from the strings of an Irish harp. Discover it for yourself aboard AAA Travel’s October 2-10 “Irish Heritage & Dromoland Castle” escorted tour, featuring Dublin, the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, Killarney, Waterford and much more. Book and deposit by March 31, 2016, and enjoy member savings of $270 per room, double occupancy. SEE PAGE 9.

PAGE 2

AAA MOTORIST

A great vacation — Myrtle Beach in a Condo Hotel Your home away from home offers the best of both worlds

ith sixty miles of beaches, ocean breezes and an endless variety of activities, Myrtle Beach is one of America’s fastest-growing family vacation destinations and it is easy to see why. On the other hand, condo hotels are one of the best-kept secrets in travel and you may not be familiar with them. Condo Hotels combine the spaciousness of condominiums and the amenities of hotels. That means you enjoy the best of both worlds. They are located in high-rise buildings with lobby checkin similar to hotels. Amenities such as maid service, Wi-Fi, 24/7 security, maintenance located on the premises to quickly respond to a guest’s needs provide guests with a hotel environment. They contain two-, three-, four-, and five-bedrooms, multiple bathrooms, full kitchens, washers and dryers, dining areas, common living areas, balconies and numerous TVs. This enables Guests to enjoy the flexibility to have full meals or snacks at anytime and watch a variety of TV shows by different family members in different rooms. You don’t live in one room at home. Why live that way on vacation? That is why we are offering the perfect combination of Condo Hotels in Myrtle Beach. We have selected four beachfront properties. They are perfect for families, multi-generational families (kids, parents and grandparents), friends and neighbors vacationing together.

MARCH 2016

AAA DIRECTORY INTERNET WEB SITE: www.AAA.com AAA MEMBER SERVICES

triptiks, tourbooks, maps, license, address change

412-363-5100 or 1-800-441-5008 APPROVED AUTO REPAIR 412-365-7411 or 1-800-233-9733 EMERGENCY ROAD SERVICE 412-362-1900 or 1-800-222-4357

EXPRESS TRAVEL RESERVATIONS

airline tickets, tours, cruises, rental cars

412-363-7283 or 1-800-354-8761 INSURANCE SERVICES: PA/WV: 1-800-207-7947 OH: 1-800-589-8308.

MEDIA RELATIONS: 412-365-7157 PUBLIC AFFAIRS: 216-606-6701 SAFETY: 412-365-7211 DRIVER EDUCATION 800-329-2415 TDD for the hearing-impaired: 412-363-7144

ALL THE AMENITIES — The Towers at North Beach Plantation is a AAA Four Diamond Award property.

AAA BRANCH OFFICE LOCATIONS

And here is the best part. AAA offers the best available rates for the “best of both worlds” vacationing when you make your reservations with us. Located about five miles from Myrtle Beach Airport, the Caribbean Resort, features multiple pools, a water park, and a 200-foot lazy river. Amenities include an on-site Starbucks and Ben & Jerry’s, and direct access to Myrtle Beach’s most prestigious golf courses. The Breakers Resort features one-, twoand three-bedroom condos and suites.

ATHENS, OH 130 E. State St. ...................740-593-6677

Kitchens come equipped with a stove, compact refrigerator, microwave, basic cookware and utensils. An oceanfront pool deck stretches across one of the area’s longest spans of sandy beach. A family favorite, Compass Cove Oceanfront Resort is conveniently located near the heart of Myrtle Beach. Over 530 well-appointed units include one-, two- and three-bedroom condominiums overlooking 720 feet of oceanfront. Compass Cove offers a wide array of amenities including wireless Internet, 6 indoor and outdoor pools, and 3 indoor and outdoor lazy rivers. Located on a 7.5 acre island between the Atlantic Ocean and White Point Swash, The Towers at North Beach Plantation feature an unprecedented array of pools, a swim-up pool bar and private cabanas. The AAA Four Diamond Awardwinning property provides a luxurious setting for any vacation with accommodations ranging from one-, two-, and three-bedroom units in the oceanfront Twin Towers, to the nearby North Beach Cottages’ selection of condos, homes and beach houses. Of course, family vacations always involve great food, and the on-site 21 Main Steakhouse and Sushi Bar is one of the premier fine dining establishments on the Grand Strand.

WHEN YOU GO

AAA Travel offers a selection of Three and Four Diamond Award-winning condo hotels in Myrtle Beach. The Caribbean Resort, the Breakers Resort, Compass Cove Oceanfront Resort and The Towers at North Beach Plantation are perfect for couples, families, and friends vacationing together. AAA also offers the best available rates when you make your reservations through AAA Travel. FOR MORE INFORMATION

Please see this issue’s Departures Guide or log on to AAA.com for special values on and vacation ideas from AAA Travel.

BRIDGEPORT, WV 138 Barnett Run Rd............304-842-2221 CHILLICOTHE, OH 141 W. Main St. ..................740-702-3838 COLUMBIANA, OH 118 South Main Street.......330-482-3836 EAST LIVERPOOL, OH 516 Broadway ....................330-385-2020 GALLIPOLIS, OH 360 Second Ave. .................740-446-0699 HILLSBORO, OH 125 W. Main St. ..................937-393-3489 HUNTINGTON, WV 1126 Sixth Ave. ..................304-523-6423 IRONTON, OH 624 S. Fourth St..................740-532-3242 JACKSON, OH 126 E. Gay St. .....................740-286-5077 LOGAN, OH 82 W. Main St. ....................740-385-8595 MARTINSBURG, WV 284 Retail Commons Parkway. .............................304-263-4619 MORGANTOWN, WV 482 Suncrest Towne Centre Drive ...... 304-598-7470 PORTSMOUTH, OH 1414 Twelfth St. ................740-354-5614 VIENNA, WV 1100 Ninth St., Unit D........304-295-7101 WASHINGTON COURT HOUSE, OH 334 E. Court St. ..................740-335-3950 WAVERLY, OH 217 W. Emmitt Ave. ...........740-947-7775 WEIRTON, WV 3126 West St. .....................304-748-1616 WHEELING, WV 846 National Rd. . ..............304-233-1810

MARCH 2016

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 3

State Department urges travelers to renew passports early AAA is your one-stop international travel shop Ohio/West Virginia Huntington/Parkersburg Edition Official publication of AAA East Central Published bi-monthly by AAA East Central 1414 Twelfth Street Portsmouth, OH 45662-5614 USPS 0016-186 ISSN 1074-097X Periodicals Postage Paid at Portsmouth, OH and additional mailing office Postmaster: Send address changes to AAA Motorist South Central Ohio 1414 Twelfth St., Portsmouth OH 45662-0371 Subscription Rate: $1 included in Primary Membership dues. All others: $2/year.

Publisher.....................................James E. Lehman Managing Editor ............................Doug O’Neil Ohio Editor ............................. Babbette L. Bays Editorial Offices 1414 Twelfth Street Portsmouth, OH 45662-4235 5900 Baum Blvd, Pittsburgh PA 15206-3854

e-mail: motorist@aaaec.com

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

Huntington Regional Board of Directors William H. Blenko, Noel P. Copen, Earl W. Heiner Jr., Samuel Kapourales, Charles Lanham, Robert M. Levy, James H. Morgan, William D. Stark, Maurice G. Taylor Jr. Marion County Regional Board of Directors Robert H. Martin Northern West Virginia Regional Board of Directors Carol Asam, Christian Asam, Forest Bowman, Nikki Bowman, James B. Bruhn, Wayne J. Northey, Sharon Sakacsi, Harold J. Shamberger, Thomas Shamberger, Thomas H. Van Landingham, Monte Williams Parkersburg Regional Board of Directors Charles O. Casto, Joe C. Hushion

Copyright ©2015 by AAA East Central. Publication of an advertisement in the AAA Motorist does not constitute an endorsement of the product or service by the AAA Motorist or by AAA East Central, except in the case of products and services which are being offered by AAA East Central.

By Richard Hamilton Chairman, AAA East Central he U.S. Department of State is urging travelers who hold passports expiring in 2016 to renew their passports early. Passport renewals typically take four to six weeks; however with the flood of renewals anticipated for 2016, a processing backlog could result so travelers are advised to allow extra time in order to secure the necessary travel documents. This is a result of the number of passports issued in 2006 and 2007 when the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) was adopted — requiring passports for Americans returning by air from Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean and Bermuda. A surge of passport renewals is expected in 2016 as these passports are now beginning to expire. All air travel passengers 18 years of age or older must show a valid identification card for domestic air travel. While a driver’s license is the most common identification used for traveling, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will accept other documentation, which includes: a U.S. passport or passport card, U.S. military ID, trusted traveler cards and Canadian provincial driver’s license. If you are planning an international trip this year, AAA recommends that you visit your local AAA branch office. Passport applications and passport-sized photos are available at most branch offices for a nominal fee. Call ahead for availability and member pricing. AAA Premier members receive one free photo

Richard Hamilton session per member. It’s a good idea to consult with a AAA travel advisor to make sure you have all of the necessary travel documents. Processing routine applications typically takes 4 to 6 weeks from the time of application, so make sure you apply far enough in advance. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is another recognizable form of identification that can help you get on your way more quickly. Valid in over 150 countries, the passport-sized permit contains your name, photo and driver information translated into ten languages. AAA offers IDPs to all holders of a U.S. driver’s license who are least 18 years of age. The cost is $15 plus photos and they are valid for one year. Applications can be downloaded at AAA.com.

If you are a frequent traveler, AAA also recommends that to expedite your travel, you should enroll in trusted traveler programs such as TSA PreCheck and Global Entry. In 2005 Congress also passed the REAL ID Act, which sets the standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as a driver’s license. The implementation of REAL ID identification requirements may prompt an additional demand for first-time passport applications this year. TSA recently announced that it will continue to accept driver licenses issued by all states until January 2018 for boarding domestic commercial air flights, but beginning on January 22, 2018, passengers with a driver’s license issued by a state that is still not compliant with the REAL ID Act (and has not been granted an extension) will need to show an alternative form of acceptable identification for domestic air travel to board their flight. Within AAA East Central’s territory Ohio and West Virginia are currently compliant with the REAL ID Act. New York, Kentucky and Pennsylvania have received an extension from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) until October 10, 2016. A full list of compliant states, or states that have been granted an extension by the DHS is available on the DHS web site. It is important to note that REAL ID is not a national identification card but simply a more secure identification document. The law does not allow the federal government to issue or access a state’s driver license data.

membersonly

here would you go with a Free Week? Hertz is running a special Gold Plus Rewards promotion can help all new and current Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Members, earn up to a free weekly rental. To be eligible, Gold Plus Rewards Members must register at www.HertzFreeWeek.com. Plus, earn 25 bonus points just for registering! Members just need to indicate that their rental awards go to their Gold Plus Rewards account, rather than another rewards account such as airline miles, etc. in their Gold profile. This promotion is open to all Hertz Gold Plus Rewards members and while not exclusive to AAA, it is an easy way for AAA members who are also Gold Plus Rewards members to earn points! Here are the details of the bonus offer: • Complete the following number of rentals to get Gold Plus Rewards bonus points: • 2 rentals = 550 points/Free Weekend Day • 3 rentals = 1,100 points/Two Free

Weekend Days 5 rentals or more = 2,750 points/One Free Weekly Rental • Valid on qualifying rentals occurring 1/14/16 – 3/23/16, at any Gold Plus Rewards point earning country/location Hertz could not have made this process any simpler. Gold Plus Rewards points need to be requested when you place your rental order; however, no promotion code is required, any car class qualifies, and only a minimum of a 2-day rental is required to start earning points! A total of 2,775 Gold Plus Rewards points — the equivalent of a weekly rental — is the maximum number of points awarded during this promotion. Whether you’re a frequent traveler for business or a casual road trip companion, Hertz Gold Plus Rewards saves you time, money and frustration. There’s no waiting at the counter for your rental. Simply present your driver’s license, pick up the keys and go at more than 1,000 locations worldwide, Before you even arrive Mobile Gold •

Alerts will notify you on your cell phone, where your rental car is parked for your convenience. It also allows you to select an upgrade before you reach the rental location. Gold Plus Rewards also gives you the freedom to change your mind. Your reserved rental is guaranteed, but if you decide you would like a different model, use Hertz Gold Choice® to choose one you like better right on the spot. As AAA’s exclusive car rental partner, Hertz offers AAA members a wide variety of money-saving discounts and special offers. Exclusive AAA discounts include free Hertz Gold Plus Rewards membership; no charge for additional drivers who are also AAA members and meet standard rental qualifications; free use of one child, infant or booster seat; free unlimited mileage on most rentals; discounts off SiriusXM® Satellite Radio rental; and more. AAA members can access exclusive discounts and make reservations at www.AAA.com/Hertz or via the AAA Mobile app.

PAGE 4

AAA MOTORIST

MARCH 2016

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 5

PAGE 6

AAA MOTORIST

MARCH 2016

It doesn’t pay to commit auto insurance fraud Just don’t do it — It isn’t a victimless crime, because everyone pays By Robin Jones oe is backing up out of a parking space when he hears the sickening crunch of his fender buckling against a pole he didn’t see. His heart sinking, he starts to calculate the costs: not only the deductible he may have to pay when he takes the car in for repairs, but also the surcharge the insurance company may place on his policy because he’s at fault, and the possible increase in his premium. He starts to wonder whether he could get away with reporting it as a hit-and-run to avoid the surcharge and premium increase. He could just tell his insurance agent that someone hit the car while it was parked at the office or in front of his house. It’s a victimless crime, right? Not exactly. Fraud raises rates for everybody. By some industry estimates, between 10 and 15 percent of all claims dollars spent involve suspected fraudulent claims. And statistics indicate auto insurance fraud is on the rise. “We take an aggressive approach when it comes to suspect claims as it affects the premium costs for everyone who has auto insurance,” says Mike Buck, who works in claims with the special investigations unit at AAA. “With forensic tools, we are able to detect and investigate a wide array of fraudulent activity.” Here are two more reasons why no

RESIST THE TEMPTATION — No one should skirt the truth when making an auto insurance claim. one should skirt the truth when making an auto insurance claim: There’s a good chance you’ll get caught. Many insurers will automatically investigate any claim in which the insured says the car was parked or unattended when the damage occurred—and they have numerous ways to verify or disprove the claim. For one, they can use an analysis of the physical damage to the car, such as the presence, or lack, of paint transfers to determine whether

the car was hit by another vehicle or collided with a stationary object. In addition, many auto body shops communicate with the insurance company if there are signs that the driver’s story doesn’t match the damage they see on the vehicle. It can cost you—a lot. Sure, the surcharge for an at-fault accident can be high, but the costs are much higher if your auto insurance company determines that you’ve committed fraud.

Insurers in many states are required to report fraud to the state fraud bureau, and in many cases these acts of fraud are prosecuted. Auto insurance fraud is a felony, and most often the penalty carries a significant fine, although the sentence can also mean jail time. Even if the D.A. doesn’t pursue the case, your insurance company can refuse to pay for the repairs to your vehicle because you misrepresented the facts on your claim. It can also cause your insurer to cancel or not renew your policy. The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) encourages you to report any fraud you’re aware of by texting the word FRAUD and your tip to TIP411 (847411), calling the NICB’s toll-free telephone hotline at 1-800-835-6422, or going to nicb.org. NICB experts review every tip, and you can choose to make your report anonymously.

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 866.802.8210, or visit AAA.com/insurance for more information or to schedule a comprehensive Insurance review. AAA – your trusted insurance advisor.

MARCH 2016

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 7

PAGE 8

AAA MOTORIST

MARCH 2016

Top ten reasons you need travel insurance The perfect companion for your perfect vacation

xperienced travelers know that travel insurance is an important component of vacation planning. Why spend all those hours creating the perfect getaway— not to mention the money spent—only to have those plans dashed by unforeseen circumstances such as illness, bad weather and lost luggage. AAA Members can turn to Allianz Global Assistance, a world leader in travel insurance and assistance services. Allianz Global Assistance helps travelers every year through unanticipated emergencies and delays. Here are 10 reasons to choose from Allianz Global Assistance: 1. Life is unpredictable. Some trips need to be cancelled. With travel insurance, you don’t necessarily have to pay for a trip you’re unable to take. 2. Airlines mishandled over 21 million bags in 2013. Travel insurance can provide coverage to replace needed items if your bags are delayed, damaged or stolen.1 3. Credit card coverage may not provide sufficient coverage for travel. The free coverage that may or may not be included with your credit card will never be as extensive as a separate travel insurance plan.1 4. Sick happens. Nothing can ruin a vacation like getting sick. Travel insurance can provide you with peace of mind—especially when traveling out-

BE SAFE—NOT SORRY — Travel Insurance from Allianz Global Assistance helps travelers through unanticipated emergencies and delays. side the United States, where hospitals can request cash payments in the thousands before treatment can even begin. 5. Health insurance may not go the distance. Many U.S. health insurance policies (including Medicare and Medicaid) don’t cover international travel. And, those that do will likely not cover the costs of medical evacuation back to the U.S. which can cost more than $50,000.2

6. Lost or forgotten medication? Travel insurance can provide assistance to help you locate a pharmacy to purchase a new prescription. 7. Even the most stable of travel suppliers can default quickly. If a cruise line, airline or tour operator ceases operations due to financial hardship or bankruptcy, travel insurance can save you from paying for a trip you’ll never get to take.

8. In the event of an emergency, airlines are not required to refund a ticket. It’s ultimately the airline’s decision whether your situation warrants a full refund of the ticket cost. Most times however, airlines will merely offer a credit voucher (the original purchase price minus a penalty fee) towards future travel. 9. Flight delays can add up. It’s not the airline’s responsibility to cover the expenses you accrue when your flight is delayed or you miss a connection. Travel insurance can reimburse you for asscociated costs, including rebooking fees, meals and accommodations. 10. We all experience tough economic times. The loss of a job or other income might mean a trip planned in advance may have to wait. Travel insurance can put cash back into your pocket when you need it the most. Be safe—not sorry. See a AAA Travel Agent before your next trip. Insurance benefits underwritten by BCS Insurance Company or Jefferson Insurance Company, depending on the insured’s state of residence. AGA Service Company is the licensed producer and administrator of these plans. Plan(s) may not be available in all states. Non-insurance benefits/products are provided and serviced by AGA Service Company. Contact AGA Service Company at 800284-8300 or 9950 Mayland Drive, Richmond, VA 23233 or customerservice@allianzassistance.com. 1 http://www.wsj.com/articles/baggage-claim-airlines-arewinning-the-war-on-lost-luggage-1401922595 – Wall Street Journal, June 2014. 2 http://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/columnist/hobica/2014/08/19/credit-card-travel-insurance-policy/14241701/ - USA Today, September 2014.

AAA’s Mobile Battery Service is charging ahead Make sure your battery is in shape for spring and summer

inter driving conditions place a heavy burden on the systems and fluids that are vital to a vehicle’s performance. That’s why vehicles will need extra attention to make sure they are ready for the spring and summer driving season. Whether it’s the first start up in the morning or having the reserve power to run the air conditioning and other accessories, your battery is critical to driving safety. Motorists may be accustomed to no starts and battery failure in the winter, but few realize that summer weather can actually be harder on their battery. Heat accelerates the rate of corrosion on the battery terminals and even healthy batteries won’t provide enough juice through corroded or ill-fitting battery cable connections. Hot weather also evaporates battery fluids and both conditions can leave a motorist stranded without warning. Extremes of heat and cold, parasitic drains from onboard electronics and lack of proper maintenance are the main reasons for poor performance and premature battery death. Multiple computers, sound systems, telematics and displays, all place a heavy load on your car’s electrical system. Unplug your phone and charger when you don’t need them, and any other electrical device before you

CURRENT AFFAIRS — AAA’s Mobile Battery Service can accurately diagnose your battery-related problems at the roadside. shut down the engine. Even leaving the lights on for an extended period of time can reduce your battery’s life expectancy. Automotive batteries typically last between 3-5 years. Slow cranking, corroded terminals, a bulging or cracked case are all signs that a battery has been subject to harsh conditions and getting weaker. But diagnosing batteries can be tricky and they sometimes fail without

warning. If your battery is more than three years old, have it tested to ensure it can survive the summer driving season and/or replace it as a preventative measure. AAA Battery Service offers fast, accurate and convenient mobile battery testing and replacement. State-of-the art diagnostic equipment will confirm whether your battery will hold a charge,

or if the problem lies deeper in the electrical system. Best of all, the service is included with your AAA membership. If a new battery is needed, you can purchase one and have it installed right on the spot. AAA Battery Service vehicles carry batteries compatible with 90 percent of all cars, SUVs and light trucks on the road. And each AAA branded battery is covered by an unprecedented nationwide 72-month warranty, with a 36-month free replacement warranty. Our Instant Quote battery price calculator on AAA.com will give you member and non-member pricing for your vehicle’s battery reflecting your exclusive AAA discount. Over one million AAA members have already enjoyed the convenience of having a AAA Battery delivered and installed on the spot. In addition, AAA will safely dispose and recycle your old battery for free. Count on AAA to turn battery problems into solutions.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

AAA Battery Service is available from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. 7-days a week. To verify AAA Battery Service availability in your area, call our toll-free number: 1.800.222.4357.

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 9`

MARCH 2016

Member Benefits • Exclusive Offers

1-800-354-8761 • AAA.com/travel

IRISH

HERITAGE

& DROMOLAND CASTLE

MEMBERS SAVE IN MARCH! Save $270.00 when you book & deposit March 1-31

“You’ll never plough a field if you who lived on the isolated islands only turn it over in your mind”; and, and about the prolific bird life toin keeping with this Irish proverb, day. Pass through Waterville and SAVINGS PER ROOM you’ll never appreciate the actual the attractive village of Sneem and DOUBLE OCCUPANCY beauty, charm and fun of the Emstop at Moll’s Gap for great mounerald Isle if you only dream about it. tain vistas. See more spectacular Let AAA help you bring that views at a nearby sheep farm as well next hotel, an elegant Victorian mansion overlookdream to life on its “Irish Heritage as demonstrations of shearing and ing Dublin Bay and Dun Laoghaire Harbour. Dine & Dromoland Castle” escorted tour trained dogs herding sheep. Return on Irish specialties at the Merry Ploughboy Pub, fol— and, when you book and deposit to Killarney and in the evening lowed by a lively show of traditional songs and intriduring March 1-31, you’ll enjoy a head to the award-winning Killeen cate step-dancing. SPECIAL INCLUSION discount of $270 per per room (douHouse Restaurant for a warm welTake a morning guided tour of Dublin, originally DROMOLAND ble occupancy) just for members. come and superb cuisine. founded by Vikings more than 1,000 years ago. See CASTLE Your adventure starts when you Depart Killarney and drive to elegant Georgian townhouses with brightly painted meet your tour director at your LimBlarney. Visit the famous castle and doors and cross the River Liffey to view the wide Enjoy a farewell dinner at erick hotel. Depart for a short drive climb to its top to kiss the “Stone thoroughfare of O’Connell Street and the gaunt figthis elegant and luxurious around Limerick and visit the huge of Eloquence” or walk through ures at the Famine Memorial. Tour Glasnevin Mufairytale castle hotel! King John’s Castle, built in the 13th the lovely parklands and gardens. seum, Ireland’s national necropolis, a who’s who of century on the banks of the River Browse through the Blarney Woolmodern Irish history and the final resting place of Shannon to safeguard the city. Join your tour director len Mills for locally made goods. Visit Cobh, last Daniel O’Connell, Michael Collins, Charles Stewfor a welcome drink before heading to Knappogue or port of call for RMS Titanic, to tour the Heritage art Parnell, Brendan Behan and other prominent Centre to learn about travel conditions for emigrants Bunratty Castle for a medieval-style banquet. people. The afternoon is free so that you may use on early sailing ships and steam vessels. Follow the Drive through Ennis to see the Cliffs of Moher, your independent open-top bus tour voucher with a coastal route to Waterford and check in to your howhich rise almost 700 feet above the pounding Atlanvisit to Guinness Storehouse or General Post Office. tel. Take a gentle walk with a local historian who retic surf. Cross the wide River Shannon Estuary by ferLeave Dublin and drive to the Irish National veals Waterford’s Viking and medieval past. ry and travel along the river shore to Foynes. Visit the Stud to see some of Ireland’s finest horses and learn Tour the House of Waterford Crystal to learn Flying Boat Museum, which recalls the early days of about breeding techniques. Take a walk around the about glass blowing and view one-of-a-kind masterair travel, during the 1930s and early ’40s. Learn how St. Fiachra’s Gardens and miniature Japanese Garpieces being created. Drive through the delightful to make a perfect Irish coffee and sip a warming samdens. Travel to the imposing and deluxe Dromoland scenery of the Wicklow Mountains on the way to ple; this was where the drink was first created. Drive Castle Hotel. Relax in the elegant surroundings of Blessington. Take a guided tour around the stately to Killarney, a small town in one of the loveliest lothis wonderful fairytale resort. Then savor a delicious Russborough House, a Palladian mansion filled with cations in Ireland. Drive through Killarney National farewell dinner in the oak-paneled dining room – a interesting treasures as well as noted works of art and Park by traditional jaunting car to view Ross Castle, fitting way to spend the last evening of your Irish early photographic collections. Continue to your set on the shores of Lough Leane with mountains as tour. its backdrop. Check into your hotel and enjoy free time to relax or go shopping before dinner. Embark on Ireland’s most popular scenic drive, Oct 2-10 • AAA Member Rate: $1,938 the Ring of Kerry, for great views of mountains, open Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip airport/hotel ATURE transfers, accommodations, 13 meals (including medieval castle banquet/entertainment, Kileen House in Killarney, MerryPloughboy Pub Atlantic Ocean, beaches and cliffs. Enjoy plenty of dinner/entertainment, Dromoland Castle farewell dinner, 2 table d'hôte dinners and more), motorcoach sightseeing, hotel service charges breaks to admire the natural beauty and take photos. & luggage handling (1 bag per person) and professional tour director in Ireland. Ask about available add-on airfare. Passport required. CA O Cross to Valentia Island by bridge to visit the Skellig TI Tour operated by CIE International. VIsit AAA.com/GoIreland for itinerary and more information. Experience and learn about early Christian monks

PAGE 10

AAA MOTORIST

MARCH 2016

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

From the

OUTBACK to the

GLACIERS

AUSTRALIA

NEW ZEALAND

Cairns, catamaran ride

Melbourne, Opal Centre

Steamship cruise, farm life tour

Great Barrier Reef

Phillip Island Little Penguin colony

Winery tour & tasting

Glass-bottom boat ride

Christchurch

Overnight in Mt Cook National Park

Daintree Rainforest/

Tranz-Alpine Express train ride

Herding/shearing demo

Mossman Gorge, meet Aboriginals

Franz Joseph Glacier

Dine with a NZ Family

Uluru/Ayers Rock, Champagne toast

Queenstown, gondola to dinner

Sydney & Opera House

Alice Springs, Aboriginal drummers

Milford Sound cruise

Koala Park & Opal Collection

Dreamtime tour, bush dinner

“Middle Earth” touring

Sydney Harbour dinner cruise

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

Oct 17–Nov 6 •

AAA Member Rate: from $9,344

Slip away to... NORWAY, DENMARK & SWEDEN HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE... NORWAY: Oslo • Borgund • Briksdal Glacier • Geirangerjord • Bergen DENMARK: Copenhagen • Little Mermaid • Øresund Bridge SWEDEN: Malmö • Stockholm • Old Town • Vasa Museum Free time for exploring on your own too!

Aug 19–Sept 1 •

AAA Member Rate: from $6,799

Rate is per person, double occupancy, is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Columbus-Oslo, Stockholm-Columbus), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, ATURE accommodations, 20 meals, hotel luggage handling (1 bag per person), sightseeing per itinerary and taxes/gratuities for included features. Visit AAA.com/travel for more information. Additional airline fees for baggage CA O TI may apply; contact your travel agent for details. Passport required.

S N

SCANDINAVIA!

ATURE D

Spectacular

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

T IO

Fly to Calgary and drive into the spectacular Canadian Rockies to the resort town of Banff, your home for 4 nights. Ride Banff Gondola for panoramic vistas...then enjoy a gentle guided float trip on the Bow River; keep an eye out for wildlife! Cross the Continental Divide on the way to Yoho and Banff national parks. See Takakkaw Falls, Emerald Lake and Lake Louise (“Jewel of the Rockies”) and ride another gondola. Spot more wildlife along Columbia Icefields Parkway to Athabasca Glacier (ride atop the glacier in a unique Ice Explorer vehicle) and turquoise Peyto Lake. Cap off the week at Calgary’s famous Stampede (afternoon & evening admission), a 10-day celebration of cowboy life, chuckwagon races, rodeos, parades, fireworks and more. Gaze out over the city from atop the Calgary Tower, where dinner will be served at the Sky 360 restaurant.

AAA MEMBER RATE: $3,409

JULY 7-13

Canadian Rockies AND THE

Calgary Stampede © Sascha Burkard / Fotolia.com

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Columbus-Calgary), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, 12 meals, sightseeing, hotel luggage handling (1 bag per person) and services of a AAA Tour Manager (upon arrival in Calgary, if participation goal is met). Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details. Passport required.

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

AAA MOTORIST

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

PAGE 11

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.

GLACIER NP DISCOVERY: June 19-25 • from $2,939: includes flights

Tour a silver mine in Wallace ID (once “Silver Capital of the World”) and Smokejumpers Aerial Fire Depot. Visit artsy Big Fork MT and enjoy a float trip on the Middle Fork of the Flathead River. Stay at an Old World–style lodge in Glacier National Park. Cruise on 2 lakes. Travel “Going to the Sun” Road amid snowy peaks and virgin forest. Ride a vintage Red Jammer Touring Car. Cross the Continental Divide. Take America’s longest gondola. Visit Lake Coeur d’Alene. Dine on a paddle boat. 11 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

S N

T IO

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 • $3,139: 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 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.

“MIGHTY 5 & MORE” CELEBRATION: Oct 11-19 • $3,845: includes flights

Commemorate the NPS centennial on a tour of some of the USA’s most popular parks. After a night in Las Vegas (“Entertainment Capital of the World”), travel past Lake Mead and Hoover Dam, visit Kingman's Route 66 Museum and be enchanted by the Grand Canyon. Enter the Navajo Nation with a stop at a trading post. Continue to Lake Powell and photo-friendly Antelope Canyon. Enjoy a scenic cruise, then a 4WD-vehicle tour of Monument Valley, sacred to Navajos. Experience an evening of Navajo culture, food and entertainment. Time for the “Mighty 5” national parks: See many of the more than 2,000 natural arches in Arches National Park. Dine outside at a dramatically located lodge on the Colorado River. An exciting Jeep® tour of Canyonlands National Park reveals its amazing beauty. Ride a jet boat on the Colorado. See ancient ptetroglyphs at Capitol Reef National Park, the fairyland hues and shapes of Bryce Canyon National Park and the 2,000-foot-high stone towers of Zion National Park. 16 meals.

Popular FEATURED VACATIONS to other US West destinations!

COLORADO TRAIN ADVENTURE July 9-16 or Sept 10-17 • $2,145

This Centennial State tour features rides on the Pike’s Peak Cog Railway, the Royal Gorge Route RR, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic RR and the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge RR. Tour the US Air Force Academy and marvel at the rock formations of the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. Ride the country’s steepest incline and walk on the world’s

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

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

ATURE

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

MARCH 2016

highest suspension bridge at Royal Gorge. Visit Great Sand Dunes and Mesa Verde national parks. See the monoliths of Colorado National Monument. Visit the CO Railroad Museum in Golden. 15 meals.

BEST OF NORTHERN CALIFORNIA July 21-29 • $4,579: includes flights

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.

AAA MEMBER RATES are per person, double occupancy, are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip 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. “Best of Northern California” includes roundtrip flights from Columbus; additional airline fees for baggage may apply.

PAGE 12

AAA MOTORIST

MARCH 2016

ATURE

S N

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

T IO

Unforgettable experiences not found on cruises! Traditional salmon bake & a sternwheeler river cruise in Fairbanks 4-hour adventure flying over the Arctic Circle, the Trans-Alaska Pipeline and the Yukon River 7-hour Tundra Wilderness Tour in Denali National Park, looking for grizzlies, moose & more...with an overnight in the park Meet a 4-time winner of the Iditarod Sled Dog Race and his canine crew Visits to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation & Begich Boggs Visitor centers 2-hour river float trip in Kenai Fjords National Park A ride on Girdwood’s Alyeska Tram — from sea level to 2,300 feet! Special welcome & farewell dinners with your fellow travelers

July 7-16 •

AAA Member Rate: from $6,355

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes flights (Columbus-Fairbanks, Anchorage-Columbus), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, motorcoach sightseeing, accommodations (Fairbanks, Denali, Anchorage, Seward: 2 each, Girdwood: 1), 16 meals, luggage handling (1 bag per person), gratuities for included features (includes driver, escort) and in-Alaska escort. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.

AMAZING AIRFARE OFFER FOR AAA MEMBERS ONLY! Cruise Europe with AAA Travel and sail away with more in 2016! AAA MEMBER PERKS

FOR OCEAN-VIEW (OR HIGHER) STATEROOMS. 2016 BOOKINGS & DEPOSIT: MARCH 1-31, 2016

$500.00 OFF ROUNDTRIP AIRFARE when booking any of the Europe departures listed at right... Discount per person, 1st & 2nd passengers in first 25 ocean-view (or higher) staterooms. Valid gateways: Buffalo NY, Cleveland OH, Columbus OH, Louisville KY, Philadelphia PA, Pittsburgh PA

PLUS...select 1 of these 4 Celebrity Cruises GO!BIG amenities... • PREPAID GRATUITIES FOR 2 value: up to $230 per stateroom • $100 ONBOARD SPENDING MONEY per stateroom, double occupancy • CLASSIC BEVERAGE PACKAGE FOR 2 beverage gratuities included, value: up to $924 per stateroom • UNLIMITED INTERNET FOR 2 value: up to $299 for 1 internet account

Each cruise also includes these AAA Vacations® member benefits... • VIP PRIORITY CHECK-IN does not grant priority boarding • AAA VACATIONS ® BEST PRICE GUARANTEE PROGRAM • AAA VACATIONS ® 24 x 7 MEMBER CARE

Ask a AAA Travel Agent how you can get ALL of the GREEN PERKS!

ITALY & THE GREEK ISLES Celebrity Reflection — 10 nights Roundtrip from Rome (Civitavechia) to Messina, Italy; Mykonos, Greece; Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey; Rhodes, Santorini and Athens (Piraeus), Greece; Naples, Italy May 6 • May 27 • June 17 • Aug 19 • Sept 9 • Sept 30

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN Celebrity Equinox — 7 nights From Rome (Civitavechia) to Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy; Nice (Villefranche) and Ajaccio (Corsica), France; Palma de Mallorca and Barcelona, Spain June 25 • July 23 • Aug 6 From Barcelona, Spain, to Provence (Toulon), France; Genoa, Rome (Civitavecchia) and Amalfi Coast (Salerno), Italy; Chania (Souda) and Athens (Piraeus), Greece July 2 • July 30

SCANDINAVIA & RUSSIA Celebrity Silhouette — 12 nights Roundtrip from Amsterdam, Netherlands, to Warnemunde, Germany; Muuga (Tallinn), Estonia; St Petersburg, Russia; Helsinki, Finland; Stockholm, Sweden; Copenhagen, Denmark May 14 • July 1 • July 25 • Aug 14 Ships’ registry: Malta and Ecuador

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

MARCH 2016

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

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 13

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

$ 50

Who doesn’t like being “carded”? Get a $50.00 Disney Gift Card (per room, double occupancy) from AAA Travel when you book & make a deposit on a 5-night or longer Walt Disney World® Resort vacation package between March 1 & 31.

PAGE 14

AAA MOTORIST

MARCH 2016

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

Get $100.00 off per room from AAA Travel... between March 1 & 31 on 2016 AAA Vacations Pleasant Holidays Hawaii packages of 7+ nights at 4- or 5-star* hotels...in addition to the year-round AAA Vacations Member Benefit of a $100 voucher toward the purchase of Pleasant Activities like these below); ask a AAA Travel Agent about the many other available activities. ®

OAHU MAUI Afternoon Turtle Snorkel Sail, Waikiki-Kewalo

Sail, snorkel and likely see green sea turtles. During whale season (December-April) you have a great chance to also see whales. Lunch, sail and snorkel. Choice of Hibachi Chicken Wrap, Furikake Mahi Wrap or Veggie Wrap, House Made Potato Chips, Kakaako Kitchen Macaroni Salad. Unlimited nonalcoholic beverages. 2 free bar drink tickets per adult; $1 beer/$2 mixer extras. Add scuba: certified or intro, space limited, $50 upgrade.

Ka’anapali Skyline Adventure

8-zipline adventure near Maui’s popular Kaanapali Resort area just outside historic Lahaina town and the hotel areas of Kaanapali, Kahana and Kapalua. Guests meet up in Kaanapali and are shuttled to the zipline via exciting off-road vehicles. A delicious gourmet snack is served on the edge of a 1,000-foot valley overlook at mid-tour. The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours.

ASK A AAA TRAVEL AGENT ABOUT THE WIDE VARIETY OF AVAILABLE ACTIVITIES.

KAUAI

HAWAII

Kauai ECO Adventure

Big Island – Grand Circle Island Tour (Kailua-Kona & Keauhou)

Enjoy an adventure in the state-of-the-art American Eurocopter ECO-Star, offering 23% more interior room, individual Business Class–style seats, 2-way communication with your pilot and expansive glass for sweeping views. Fly to Hanapepe Valley, then on to Mana Waiapuna (“Jurassic Park Falls”). Fly up Olokele Canyon to eye-popping Waimea Canyon, the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” The rippled Na Pali Coast gives way to the Bali Hai Cliffs and the pristine blue waters of Hanalei Bay and the Princeville Resort area. Weather permitting, visit Mt Waialeale, Earth’s wettest spot; fly into the crater’s center, with 5,000-foot walls towering above you and 3,000-foot waterfalls surrounding you.

Circumnavigate the island on this amazing 260-mile tour. • Learn about Capt Cook and Kealakekua Bay. • Sample world-famous Kona Coffee. • View the past lava flows of Mauna Loa. • Walk on Punalu’u Black Sand Beach. • Explore Volcanoes National Park on the summit of the world’s most active volcano including Jaggar Museum, Thurston Lava Tube, drive by Steam Vents, Fern Tree Jungle & Kilauea Iki Crater (weather permitting, admissions included). • Enjoy a no-host lunch. • Visit Big Island Candies. • See Rainbow Falls. • Drive through the Parker Ranch lands in Waimea. • Stop at Hamakua Macadamia Nut Farms.

*PLEASANT HOLIDAYS RATING SYSTEM

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

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 15

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

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

Car-free, carefree adventures

ATURE

S N

MARCH 2016

T IO

Rates are per person (double occupancy for multiday tours), are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip motorcoach transportation from the Portsmouth area, accommodations (for multiday tours, based on double occupancy), sightseeing/admissions, taxes/gratuities for included features, baggage handling (for multiday tours), meals as indicated and the services of a AAA Tour Manager. Visit AAA.com/USA for complete itinerary details and pick-up points.

LEAVE YOUR CAR AT HOME!

FOR MOTORCOACH TOURS, PLEASE CALL 1-800-887-1976 Michigan Potpourri

June 11-16 •

AAA Member Rate: $1,469

Travel to Bay City for a 3-course dinner aboard the Tall Ship “Appledore” as it sails the Saginaw River to Saginaw Bay; enjoy the view or help the crew set sail. Take a guided “Center Avenue Tour” in Bay City with over 200 homes on the Historic Register. Visit the Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum and tour the USS Edson, a valuable member of the US Pacific Fleet that earned a reputation as a Top Gun ship. Travel to Petroskey’s historic Gaslight District; dine at Stafford’s Bay View Inn, a charming Victorian country inn. Travel to Charlevoix for a tour of the “mushroom homes” constructed of Ice Age boulders and topped with wavy roofs. Have lunch in a majestic Renaissance castle at Castle Farms then enjoy its English gardens and cobblestone courtyards. Explore downtown Charlevoix and stop at Friske Orchards Farm Market & Country Haus, where cherry lovers from all around the world come to visit. On Mackinac Island, enjoy a carriage tour before the Grand Luncheon at the world-famous Grand Hotel. Stroll Main Street in Mackinac before taking the ferry back to Mackinaw City. Travel to Thunder Bay Resort, then ride a horse-drawn carriage into a preserve to see majestic Rocky Mountain elk. At Elk Antler Log Cabin, savor a gourmet dinner prepared on antique wood cook stoves. Sample local wines from Stoney Acres Winery in Alpena. Browse & shop in “Little Bavaria” (Frankenmuth). Next, take a guided tour of this historic city with a stop at Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland, the world’s largest Christmas store with more than 50,000 trims and gifts. Enjoy the world-famous, all-you-can-eat, family-style chicken dinner at Bavarian Inn Restaurant. Then either enjoy the glockenspiel’s music, telling the story of the Pied Piper of Hamelin, or stroll Main Street to enjoy Old World charm and hospitality. Move on to Dearborn for a self-guided Ford Rouge factory tour; visit the 80-foot-high Observation Deck and watch the Ford F-150 being assembled. 11 meals.

Mystery Tour

July 11-13 •

AAA Member Rate: $569

Depart for parts unknown to enjoy a specially prepared lunch, hear some area history and have a relaxing ride, all before check-in. Finish the first day by letting your light shine as you enjoy music & entertainment from local performers and then a unique dinner. Enjoy a blast from the past and a room with a view all before lunch. There’s free time in the afternoon to enjoy your surroundings, then have a heartwarming dinner, followed by more entertainment. Visit a couple of area attractions before departing for home to the third power. 7 meals.

favorites. Sight & Sound Theatre’s matinee of “Samson,” one of the Bible’s most captivating stories, offers colorful characters, extraordinary feats of strength and amazing special effects. Tour Kreider Farms, a working dairy farm. Visit The Hershey Story and the Museum Experience. Dedicated to celebrating the life and legacy of Milton Hershey, this state-of-the-art facility tells his inspiring journey from failure to fortune, using interactive exhibits and hands-on activities. Visit the Museum Shop offering unique Hershey merchandise, hard-to-find sweets and distinctive souvenirs and keepsakes. Head over to Hershey’s Chocolate World for a simulated factory tour with time for shopping. 6 meals.

New York City NY: The Big Apple Aug 11-14 •

AAA Member Rate: $1,019

Check into newly renovated Edison Hotel, within walking distance of many popular Manhattan attractions. Get a city overview from the comfort of a motorcoach; see sights like Rockefeller Center, the Empire State Building, Times Square and the Theater District. In Lower Manhattan’s Battery Park, enter the reserved security line for quick access to the Liberty Island Ferry and then directly to the entrance of the Statue of Liberty. Enjoy an entertaining and informative audio tour of Liberty Island and the Statue. Experience, just as millions of immigrants did a century ago, Ellis Island’s historic Baggage Room, Historic Great Hall and Railroad Ticket Office (now housing the Peopling of America® Exhibit). Visit the theater and enjoy the “Island of Hope, Island of Tears” documentary. Just outside the Great Hall is the American Immigrant Wall of Honor®; view more than 700,000 names and honor your family heritage at this National Monument. Enjoy more free time and then dinner at Langan’s. With a full day of free time, take in a sightseeing tour, see a Broadway show or use your vouchers for free admission to your choice of the American Museum of Natural History, the Museum of the City of New York, the New York Water Taxi Statue of Liberty Flex Pass, the Empire State Building Observatory, the Metropolitan Museum of Art or the Top of the Rock Observation Deck. 4 meals.

Two-Nation Vacation: New England & Nova Scotia Sept 10-18 •

AAA Member Rate: $2,229

Travel to Salem MA for a tour viewing landmarks such as the waterfront, the Witch Trial Memorial, the Salem Maritime National Historic Site and the Old Burying Point. In Kennebunkport take a narrated tour of the sandy beaches and rocky coastline and drive past the Bush estate at Walker’s Point; hear the history of shipbuilding towns and the legend of the Wedding Cake House. See Franciscan Monastery’s beautiful landscaping, outdoor shrines and chapel. Enjoy a photo stop at Portland Head, Maine’s most photographed lighthouse. Board the cruise ferry to Nova Scotia and enjoy onboard nightclub entertainment (your motorcoach will be on board with you!). In Nova Scotia, meet a kilted tour guide. Travel along the pristine south shore to Lunenburg, one of Canada’s prettiest towns and a World Heritage Site. Visit the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic. On the way to Halifax, the province’s capital, stop in Mahone Bay for a photo opportunity of 3 harborside churches, and at picturesque Peggy’s Cove lighthouse and its charming fishing village. Take an overview tour of Halifax, including its historic neighborhoods, tales of the Titanic recovery and the Halifax explosion and a photo stop atop Citadel Hill. Travel to Caribou to board the ferry to Prince Edward Island (PEI). Savor free time to shop & explore Charlottetown, PEI’s pristine and charming capital. Travel through PEI National Park and visit the Anne of Green Gables Heritage House, a national historic site. Cross Confederation Bridge — the world’s longest (9 miles) multi-span bridge, connecting PEI with New Brunswick. Continue sightseeing along the coastal route through Bay of Fundy National Park. Stop to see Hopewell Rocks, where high tides have carved flowerpots from the rocks; if the tide is low, walk along the ocean floor. Tour the highlights of the Loyalist City of Saint John; enjoy a photo stop at Reversing Falls. Travel back across the US/Canada border into northern Maine and on to Bangor (home to Paul Bunyan and Stephen King). Stop in Freeport, home of the L L Bean flagship store and many outlet shops. Overnight in Tewksbury MA and Lewisburg PA. 13 meals.

ADDITIONAL DEPARTURES April 7-10 ....... Springtime in Washington DC .......................................... $749

Hershey & Lancaster PA

July 11-14 •

AAA Member Rate: $889

Your first stop is Chalk Talk with Elva Hurst at the Barnyard Art Studio & Gallery. Engage your senses through music, storytelling and the amazing chalk artistry of a former Old Order Mennonite woman who offers insights into Amish culture. Visit Kitchen Kettle Village’s 40 shops with local and name-brand

Aug 21............ Reds vs LA Dodgers: Cincinnati OH ................................. $109 Sept 26-29 ..... National Quartet Convention & More: Tennessee .......... $799 Oct 6-9 ........... Chicago IL Highlights........................................................ $999 Nov 26............ Historic Lebanon OH: Christmas Shopping & Lights ....... $115

PAGE 16

AAA MOTORIST

MARCH 2016

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

Taste of Scotland & Ireland

1 reserved paddock seat with views of turns 1 & 4, pit road & Winner’s Circle 2 nights & 2 breakfasts at Embassy Suites Indianapolis–North ATURE 1 $50.00 gas card per room July 23-25 •

MEMBERS SAVE $270 — BOOK & DEPOSIT MARCH 1-31

AAA Member Rate: $375 per person, double occupancy

• Titanic Belfast • Dublin: Book of Kells at Trinity College, canal dinner cruise • See dogs herd sheep • Blarney Castle & Woollen Mills • Killarney, Ross Castle, Ring of Kerry, Sneem, Moll’s Gap • Cliffs of Moher, Bunratty Castle • Galway, Clonmacnoise

• Glasgow city tour • Loch Ness scenic cruise • Distillery whiskey tasting • Spean Bridge Woollen Mill • Ferry from Scotland to Ireland • St Andrews: “Home of Golf” • Evening of Scottish cuisine & entertainment • Edinburgh Castle & city tour

IRELAND HIGHLIGHTS

SCOTLAND HIGHLIGHTS

Since the inaugural race in 1994, this annual 400-mile NASCAR Sprint Cup points race at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway has become one of NASCAR’s most-attended events. Don’t miss it!

T IO

LIMITED AVAILABILITY! LIMITED AVAILABILITY! LIMITED AVAILABILITY!

PER ROOM, DOUBLE OCCUPANCY

ATHENS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 740-593-6677 CHILLICOTHE. . . . . . . . . . . . 740-702-3838 GALLIPOLIS . . . . . . . . . . . . . 740-446-0699 HILLSBORO . . . . . . . . . . . . . 937-393-3489 HUNTINGTON . . . . . . . . . . . 304-529-7107 IRONTON. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 740-532-3242

JACKSON. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 740-286-5077 LOGAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 740-385-8595 PARKERSBURG/VIENNA . . . 304-295-7101 PORTSMOUTH . . . . . . . . . . 740-354-5614 WASHINGTON C H . . . . . . . 740-335-3950 WAVERLY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 740-947-7775

____________________________________________________________

Condo space

Hotel amenities

ATURE

AAA Member Rate: $2,468

Sept 19-30 •

Before-discount 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.

T IO

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.

GAS CARD of up to $100

MYRTLE BEACH

Yours FREE when you book & make a deposit on a stay of 4 nights or longer!

BEACHFRONT CONDOHOTELS

MARCH 1-31 • 1 PER ROOM Offer based on stays between 5/21/16 and 9/10/16. Other restrictions apply.

AAA offers the best available rates for 4 condo-hotels — the “best of both worlds” vacationing! You don’t live in one room at home; why live that way on vacation? Especially at Myrtle Beach! 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 check-in and amenities such as maid service, Wi-Fi and on-premises maintenance. d Choose from 4 beachfront properties perfect for small or large families, multigenerational families (kids, Limitbeility: a l i D Ava parents and grandparents) and friends/neighbors vacationing together. Summer’s coming — call now! NTEE E A LABL GUAR VAI TH A BESTATES WI R AAA

Enjoy 4 nights or more at 1 of these...

Sample AAA Member Rates (7 nights: Aug 15-22)...

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

• $2,238* for a 2BR ocean-view condo at Compass Cove • $2,393* for a 3BR ocean-view townhome at North Beach Plantation

*includes damage waiver

Call for rates for many other-size units and rental lengths.

AVAILABLE ONLY AT

1-800-354-8761

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

MARCH 2016

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 17

PAGE 18

AAA MOTORIST

MARCH 2016

It’s your time to hang loose in Oahu Say Aloha to Hawaii with Pleasant Holidays

ahu is an island of endless green vistas and beaches capped by towering volcanic peaks. Known as “the gathering place,” Hawaii’s major city, Honolulu, is here. So is Waikiki the world’s best known beach. This is where East merges with West in a blend of hula and high-tech, creation myths, Shinto shrines and dance clubs. When the sun touches the mist over the Koolau Mountains, rainbows form a bridge between the earth and the high heavens. How many places offer the opportunity to surf the world’s biggest waves, golf at a dozen championship courses, or hike up a dormant volcano? The extinct caldera at Diamond Head is said to have been the home of Pele, the Fire Goddess. A hiking trail, built in 1908, runs a mile up from the crater floor. And Pleasant Holidays makes Hawaii accessible to almost anyone. They’ve been customizing Hawaiian vacations with a broad range of value-added, options since 1959. Whether you want to luxuriate in a spa, hang loose on the North Shore, or sip a Mai Tai in a Tiki bar, your Hawaiian vacation will be everything you imagined. Pleasant Holidays offers a broad range of hotels and rental condominiums to fit every budget and taste, along with airline and car rental options that offer

THE GATHERING PLACE —Oahu is famous for the beaches of Waikiki and Diamond Head. maximum comfort and convenience at the best possible price. They know which resorts cater to families, with the kinds of activities kids love, and those that offer a romantic Hawaiian getaway. You can also arrange some of Hawaii’s most popular activities and attractions before you leave. “Pleasant Activities” range from luaus to helicopter and submarine tours. Take a circle island tour,

visit a pineapple plantation, or eat poi — a traditional Hawaiian dish served Luau style. If your interest is surfing, point your board toward the North Shore. Oahu has over 125 miles of beaches including Hanauma Bay, a crescentshaped cove formed by two sunken craters. The bay is famous for its breathtaking views and coral gardens filled with

tropical fish. On clear days, you can see the islands of Molokai and Lanai and during the winter and early spring you can spot humpback whales breaching along the coast. Visitors will want to pay their respects at the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor. A gleaming white shrine straddles the sunken battleship, the final resting place of about 950 crewmen. Iolani Palace, the only royal palace on U.S. soil, had electricity 4 years before the White House. The lavish, Europeanstyle palace was built in 1882 by King David Kalakaua, the “Merry Monarch” who squandered the royal treasury. Perched a thousand feet above the jagged coastline, the Nuuanu Pali Lookout is Oahu’s scenic masterpiece. Just a 5-mile drive northeast of Downtown Honolulu, sweeping views of the lush Windward Coast, and the powerful trade winds will literally blow you away. WHEN YOU GO

AAA members also receive a $100 per booking activity voucher, valid for a variety of activities in Hawaii on select 4- & 5 star properties. (Some restrictions apply) FOR MORE INFORMATION

For sample vacation packages from Pleasant Holidays see your AAA Travel Agent or visit AAA.com.

Drivers need to exercise caution in inclement weather New AAA study finds weather a factor in over 5,000 fatalities a year

eather conditions present some formidable obstacles for drivers, especially those who are caught unprepared. According to a new study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, weather is a factor in over 20 percent of crashes and nearly 16 percent of fatalities every year. The new AAA Foundation research report — Motor Vehicle Crashes, Injuries and Deaths in Relation to Weather Conditions — analyzed bad weather and crashes throughout the year. They found that rain; snow, sleet and fog are a factor in more than 1.1 million police-reported crashes, 425,000 injuries and 5,100 traffic deaths per year. Crashes that occurred in adverse weather or on slippery roads were more likely to be single-vehicle crashes than crashes that occurred in clear weather and on dry roads. A larger proportion of crashes that occurred in adverse weather involved younger drivers. The study did uncover some surprising facts. With the major exception of crashes that occurred in fog, crashes in bad weather are generally less severe than crashes taking place in clear weather. For example, crashes that occur on snow-covered roads result in 31 percent fewer injuries per crash and 47 percent fewer fatalities per crash than on dry roads. This may be attributable

STORMY WEATHER — Drivers need to slow down and drive at a speed that suits the conditions. to drivers traveling more slowly and carefully in bad weather and on slippery roads. The greatest proportion of crashes took place in rainy conditions, followed by snow, sleet and fog. Crashes that occurred in fog resulted in significantly more fatalities than any other weather condition. Most crashes (79.3%) occurred on dry roads, 14.2% occurred on wet roads, 3.0% occurred on snow-covered roads,

and 3.5% on roads with ice, and in other conditions. Given the large number and proportion of crashes, injuries, and deaths that occur in adverse weather conditions, more effort is needed to educate motorists regarding safe driving practices in inclement weather and to develop and implement vehicle technologies to improve the safety of driving in inclement weather.

When the weather makes for poor driving conditions, motorists must be prepared to cope at a moment’s notice. The best advice is to avoid driving in bad weather conditions. If that isn’t possible, slow down and drive at a speed that suits the conditions. Accelerate and decelerate slowly. Increase your following distance. You will need extra distance to brake safely. Be predictable. Plan ahead, signal your intentions, and don’t surprise anyone. Make sure all headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals and windshield wipers are functioning properly. Whenever daytime visibility is less than perfect, turning on your lights allows you to see, and just as importantly, to be seen by others. Use this rule of thumb: wipers on, lights on. It’s also the law in many states. If you experience a loss of traction, remember to look and steer where you want to go. Avoid slamming on the brakes as this will further upset the vehicle’s balance and make it harder to control.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

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

MARCH 2016

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 19

PAGE 20

AAA MOTORIST

Experience the Caribbean in style on Celebrity!

Veranda Staterooms Experience modern luxury in Luxury Staterooms featuring the ultimate in details, from exquisite bedding that lulls you to sleep to 24-hour room service to accommodate every whim.

Veranda Staterooms Veranda Staterooms were created for the discerning traveler, and offer spacious verandas and all the comfort and convenience synonymous

with Celebrity’s modern luxury style. On select ships, you can choose an AquaClass Stateroom, where serenity meets luxury just steps from the Canyon Ranch SpaClub; they offer unlimited complimentary access to may of the SpaClub amenities. Or you can choose a Concierge Class Stateroom, which gives you even more perks and pampering. Enjoy express luggage delivery, personal concierge service, a pillow menu and preferential seating for

MARCH 2016

continued from page 1

dining...plus a complimentary departure lounge before departing the ship. You’ll find that these seemingly small details make a huge difference!

beer stocked daily, a complimentary Premium Beverage Package including wine and top-shelf spirits throughout the ship). *on select ships

Suites Enjoy exclusive luxuries, a 24/7 personal butler, a dedicated exclusive restaurant, private lounge,* and an impressive list of premium “all-in” benefits* (which include unlimited internet access, complimentary soda/water/

BEST PRICE GUARANTEE: If you make a booking for a qualifying AAA Vacations® cruise and find a valid better rate for the exact itinerary within 24 hours of our booking, AAA Vacations® will match the lower rate and send you a $50 future travel credit certificate. Certain restrictions apply. Visit AAA.com/AAAVacations for details.

7 NIGHTS roundtrip from Miami 11/5 • 12/3 • 12/17 Reflection®: Cozumel, Mexico; George Town, Cayman Islands; Falmouth, Jamaica; Labadee,® Haiti; plus 2 full days at sea 11/12 • 12/10 Reflection®: San Juan, Puerto Rico; Philipsburg, St Maarten; Basseterre, St Kitts; plus 3 full days at sea 7 NIGHTS roundtrip from Ft Lauderdale 12/4 Silhouette®: San Juan, Puerto Rico; Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas USVI; Philipsburg, St Maarten; plus 3 full days at sea 12/11 Silhouette®: CocoCay®, Bahamas; Cozumel, Mexico; George Town, Cayman Islands; Falmouth, Jamaica; 2 full days at sea 8 NIGHTS roundtrip from Ft Lauderdale Silhouette®: San Juan, Puerto Rico; Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas USVI; Philipsburg, St Maarten; Basseterre, St Kitts; 3 full days at sea 12/18

$50 onboard spending money $50 onboard spending money

Buy 1 air, get a FREE second air o n these cruise s! MARCH 1-3

$50 onboard spending money $50 onboard spending money $50 onboard spending money

10 NIGHTS roundtrip from Ft Lauderdale EquinoxSM: Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas USVI; Basseterre, St Kitts; Bridgetown, Barbados; Roseau, Dominica; Philipsburg, St Maarten; 4 full days at sea 11/18 • 12/9 10/27 Infinity®: Key West FL; Oranjestad, Aruba (2-day & overnight experience); Kralendijk, Bonaire; Willemstad, Curaçao; 4 full days at sea 10 NIGHTS roundtrip from Miami 12/11 Eclipse®: Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas USVI; Basseterre, St Kitts; Bridgetown, Barbados; Roseau, Dominica; Philipsburg, St Maarten; 4 full days at sea

$100 onboard spending money $100 onboard spending money $100 onboard spending money

11 NIGHTS roundtrip from Ft Lauderdale EquinoxSM: George Town, Cayman Islands; Cartagena, Colombia; Colón, Panamá; Puerto Limón, Costa Rica; Belize City, Belize; Cozumel, Mexico; 4 full days at sea 11/7 • 11/28

$100 onboard spending money

12 NIGHTS roundtrip from Miami Eclipse®: St John’s, Antigua; Roseau, Dominica; Castries, St Lucia; Bridgetown, Barbados; Philipsburg, St Maarten; Basseterre, St Kitts; Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas USVI; 4 full days at sea 12/21

$100 onboard spending money

14 NIGHTS roundtrip from Miami Eclipse®: Oranjestad, Aruba; Willemstad, Curaçao; St George’s, Grenada; Bridgetown, Barbados; Castries, St Lucia; St John’s, Antigua; Basseterre, St Kitts; Philipsburg, St Maarten; 5 full days at sea 11/27 11/13 Eclipse®: Oranjestad, Aruba; Kralendijk, Bonaire; Willemstad, Curaçao; Bridgetown, Barbados; Castries, St Lucia; St John’s, Antigua; Basseterre, St Kitts; Philipsburg, St Maarten; 5 full days at sea 14 NIGHTS roundtrip from Ft Lauderdale 12/19 EquinoxSM: Kralendijk, Bonaire; Oranjestad, Aruba; Willemstad, Curaçao; Bridgetown, Barbados; Castries, St Lucia; Philipsburg, St Maarten; Basseterre, St Kitts; St John’s, Antigua; 5 full days at sea

$100 onboard spending money $100 onboard spending money $100 onboard spending money

VISIT YOUR LOCAL AAA TRAVEL, CALL 1-800-354-8761 OR CLICK ON AAA.COM/CRUISES

Tips to protect your identity during tax season AAA offers enrollment assistance with identity theft monitoring

ax season is a time to be especially cautious of identity theft and fraud risks. Keep your personal documents secure, and don’t give out any information by phone, Internet, or mail unless you initiated contact with the requesting company. Here are more tips to keep you safe. File as early as possible. It is tempting to put off the tax return process, but get it over with as soon as you can. Identity thieves take advantage of tax season by filing other people’s returns and claiming the refunds. Choose your tax preparer with care. It’s critical to only work with a legitimate company and tax preparer. An improperly prepared tax return can mean trouble with the IRS. Also, if your tax preparer is not ethical and honest, they could take advantage of access to your personal information. Safeguard your personal information. Protect the many documents that are part of the tax preparation process; they contain confidential information that make it easy for identify thieves to steal your identity, both during tax season and months or even years afterward. Opt to receive tax forms electronically. If you have to mail information to your tax preparer or to the IRS, take it to the post office yourself instead of dropping it in an outgoing mailbox.

To take advantage of ProtectMyID, you’ll need three things: an active AAA membership, a valid email address, and access to the Internet.

Here’s how it works:

GUARD YOUR ASSETS — Identify thieves often target tax filers with their scams. Beware of tax scams. Be on guard if you get an email or phone call from someone claiming to represent the IRS or another federal agency. The IRS is the only federal agency involved in the tax return process and never contacts taxpayers via email, text message, or phone. AAA has always stressed the importance of safeguarding your identity, but did you know your AAA membership includes free basic identity-theft moni-

toring from ProtectMyID? ProtectMyID is a service provided by Experian, the same company that can provide you with a credit score. We’ve made it easier for you to activate the ProtectMyID service. Simply stop by a local AAA branch office and one of our agents can get you started. If you prefer, you can contact an agent in our Call Center at 1-800-441-5008 to begin enrollment.

The AAA agent will gather basic information such as your membership number, name, address, and email address. This information is recorded on Experian’s secure site and will open a new enrollment session for you. You will receive an email from Experian within 24 hours to complete the final steps for enrollment. These steps include: 1) Selecting which product you want (either AAA’s free ProtectMyID Essential product or the ProtectMyID Deluxe product for just $8.95 a month) 2) Establishing a username and password 3) Answering security questions related to your identity That’s all there is to it!

PROTECT YOURSELF

For more information about AAA’s identity-theft monitoring products, please visit a branch office, call 1-800-441-5008, or go to AAA.com/protectmyid.

MARCH 2016

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 21

Hi-tech hits the high seas onboard Ovation of the Seas Royal Caribbean’s newest ship is a technological marvel at sea

ou’ve heard of smart phones and smart cars. Now get ready for the world’s first smart ships. From ultrafast Wi-Fi and RFID technology, to virtual views from an inside stateroom and robots that can mix up a mean cocktail, Royal Caribbean’s Quantum class ships are packed with a bold lineup of technological innovations that will impress even the most tech-savvy modern traveler. Ovation of the Seas makes a muchanticipated debut this April, with gamechanging technology, multidimensional entertainment and flexible dining. The 167,800-ton behemoth spans 18 decks, and carries 4,180 passengers. Royal Caribbean’s newest and third Quantum class ship is a dramatic leap forward, with game-changing “firsts” including a skydiving simulator and an observation capsule that lifts guests more than 300 feet in the air. Transformative venues on the massive ships include the industry’s largest indoor sports and entertainment complex and the cruise line’s largest and most advanced staterooms with upscale customizable layouts and larger, more intuitive storage solutions. And every one of the 2,090 staterooms will have a view thanks to “virtual balconies.” Inside cabins will become outside cabins with 80-inch LED projection screen mounted on the wall that stream live images from cameras

HITTING NEW HEIGHTS — North Star will take guests on a journey 300 feet above the ocean. mounted on the sides of the ship. Ever wonder what it feels like to freefall from 10,000 feet without jumping out of an airplane? RipCord by iFly will be the first skydiving experience at sea. Everyone from first-time flyers to seasoned skydivers can enjoy the adrenaline rush of skydiving risk-free inside a 23-foot tall transparent glass

AAA Emergency Road Service limitations

elping motorists stay mobile, safe and protected has been the cornerstone of AAA’s member commitment for over 100 years. AAA responds to over 30 million requests for emergency road service each year, and it’s important to remember there are some non-emergency limitations designed to prevent abuse and maintain and improve our quality standards. These help us to respond to your calls swiftly and intelligently and avoid excessive delays that can negatively impact service provider arrival times for all members. Emergency road service will be limited to that which can be provided with equipment ordinarily used by the independent service provider serving the area. Service will not be provided when the disabled vehicle cannot be safely reached or serviced without damage to the vehicle or servicing equipment. Towing service is only provided for a covered vehicle disablement. Service may not be used as a substitute for regular maintenance necessary to keep a vehicle in good operating condition. AAA cannot render service repeatedly to a vehicle in need of repair. An individual’s AAA membership may not be used by a business or organization to provide roadside assistance service for its customers, employees or vehicles. The following policies apply to the membership benefit:

•

Towing to or from auto dismantlers, salvage yards, repair facility to repair facility or from one storage location to another. • Towing for the purpose of transporting vehicles due to a purchase, sale, auction transaction, car show exhibition, charitable donation, relocation or any other similar situation. • Service to a vehicle that is loaded, altered or constructed in such a way as to cause damage or create a hazard while being serviced. • Charges related to impound or stolen vehicle recovery, towing or storage. • Service in situations where appropriate photo identification in addition to the membership card is requested and not provided to the service driver. • Use of two or more roadside assistance service calls to extend the member tow mileage benefit for the same breakdown. • If specific towing equipment is requested, but not required to safely transport the vehicle, the associated cost will be at your expense. • AAA Plus, AAA Premier, AAA Plus RV and AAA Premier RV emergency road service options become effective 7 calendar days after receipt of your dues. For a complete Guide to AAA Member Services, please visit AAA.com.

flight chamber on the top deck. A marvel of maritime engineering North Star will take guests to new heights — literally. The jewel-shaped, glass capsule will transport you on a spectacular 15 minute journey more than 300 feet above the ocean. The view alone is worth the trip with unobstructed views of sunrises, sunsets, ports

of call and the boundless ocean. SeaPlex is a flexible sports and entertainment venue that will inspire guests of all ages to cut loose and connect with their playful sides. Fly through the air on the circus school’s flying trapeze, or shoot some hoops on a full-size regulation court. By night, the first-ever bumper cars at sea deliver midway style fun and excitement. The Bionic Bar powered by Makr Shakr, features two robotic bartenders that muddle, stir, shake and strain up to 1,000 libations a day. Guests place orders via tablets and then watch the bots hard at work crafting the perfect cocktail. Ovation of the Seas vessel will sail two maiden voyages from Southampton, England in May, before embarking on a 53-day repositioning cruise to its homeport in Tianjin, China, near Beijing. The new ship will also feature art and artifacts on loan from the Palace Museum in Beijing’s Forbidden City. After its inaugural China season it will be the fifth ship in Royal Caribbean’s Australian fleet for winter 2016-17.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Please see this issue’s Departures Guide or log on to AAA.com/cruises for special values on Royal Caribbean cruise vacations.

PAGE 22

AAA MOTORIST

MARCH 2016

AAA’s “How to Drive Online” teaches elements of safe driving Teens and parents can now navigate driver education together

he biggest threat to your teen’s safety is sitting in right in your driveway, but many parents fail to appreciate the risk. A recent National Safety Council survey found 76 percent of parents are unaware that car crashes are the biggest threat to their teens’ safety. Three quarters of parents said they believe drugs and alcohol, bullying or the Internet are teens’ most significant safety threats. Parents may be unaware of the scope of the problem, but many understand why teens crash. Seventy-two percent of parents correctly pointed to lack of experience or poor decision making as leading crash factors. However, far fewer parents said they enforce rules that help reduce crash risks, and 44 percent said they do not supervise their teens’ driving for the recommended amount of time during the restricted licensing stage. As teens set out on their journey of independence, they need a solid foundation of knowledge, skills, and plans to reduce their risk behind the wheel. Making sure teenage drivers have the most experience and knowledge available before hitting the road is key to ensuring their safety. AAA can play a key role in preparing

RISKY BUSINESS — The first year of driving is a dangerous time for teens. teens for this journey with AAA’s How to Drive Online, a supplemental training program. Utilizing the latest traffic safety-based research and technology, the program delivers the rules and essential elements of safe driving. The program is delivered in an interactive and innovative way, testing students’ knowledge throughout. Exclusive “crash cam” video footage of teens involved in collisions is a safety

good idea to have a game plan. That’s why AAA has developed an online course for parents of teens who are — or soon will be — learning to drive. The StartSmart Online Parent Session draws on AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety research to prepare you to navigate your teen’s learning-to-drive experience. This two-hour webinar explains the licensing process and parents’ role. It demonstrates how to reinforce what your teen is learning in driver education and how to maximize the practice driving that you’ll do with your teen. Parents can partner with their teens to reinforce How to Drive Online’s proven strategies and techniques. Teaching essential elements of safe driving in an interactive and innovative way, this online program aims to ensure that safe driving habits are developed and maintained for life.

highlight of the course. Teens can work through the 25-hour course at their own pace and the course concludes with a test to determine your teen’s preparedness for subsequent training. It’s no secret that parents play a critical role in the learning-to-drive process, from checking into state licensing processes to supervising practice driving. With all the details involved in getting your teen safely behind the wheel, it’s a

FOR MORE INFORMATION

The AAA member price for the teen How to Drive Online supplemental training course is $19.95. The course is also available to non-members. The StartSmart Online Parent Session can be added for an additional $15. For further information, go to AAA.com/driveonline.

Bavarian Inn a double AAA Four Diamond Award winner West Virginia landmark earns awards for dining & lodging

ong a favored destination for those seeking beautiful scenery, historic charm, premier accommodations and exquisite cuisine, the Bavarian Inn has earned the prestigious AAA Four Diamond Award every single year since 1983. The Shepherdstown, West Virginia landmark is one of just two West Virginia lodging properties to earn the Four Diamond distinction in 2016. Nestled on 12 secluded acres overlooking the Potomac River Bend, the elegant, Alpine-themed property has been owned and operated by the Asam family for over three decades. Guests can retire to the serenity of Bavarian Inn’s elegantly appointed chalets, constructed in the authentic Alpine tradition. Rooms are graced with polished antiques and classical furnishings, gas fireplaces and whirlpool baths. The edge of the pool at the Infinity 101 Pool & Bar, hovers exactly 101 feet above the Potomac River banks. River View rooms are located in one of four chalets situated on a bluff overlooking the Potomac. All have a private balcony, sitting area, and are filled with luxurious furnishings and amenities. The Garden View rooms located in the Schwarzwald Haus, all feature private balconies and views of the Greystone Mansion and the immaculately manicured grounds. The newly remodeled “Center Style” rooms offer Queen beds with fine linens, and sitting area.

FOUR DIAMOND WINNER — The historic Greystone Mansion is the focal point of the Bavarian Inn. The Suites of the Bavarian Inn are a truly Royal and Presidential experience, combining old world elegance and charm with new age comforts by blending antique furnishings with flat screen televisions and gas fireplaces. Let the romance begin with complimentary champagne, panoramic river views, and double sized Jacuzzi tubs. Located minutes from Harpers Ferry, and Antietam Battlefield, guests can cycle along the scenic Potomac River, C & O Canal Towpath, or relive history in Harpers Ferry. Good white water raft-

ing, and fly-fishing are close by, and golfers can challenge the renowned Cress Creek Country Club, located just a quarter mile from the hotel. The Locust Hills Golf Course, rated #5 in West Virginia by Golfweek Magazine, is a 20 minute drive from the Inn. The Hollywood Casino, at Charlestown Races, is less than 15 minutes away. The Bavarian Inn Restaurant is the only dining establishment in West Virginia to capture a Four Diamond Award — it’s 16th consecutive honor. An extensive menu of German and

American fare lovingly prepared by master chefs is the hallmark of the Bavarian Inn experience. Executive Chef Wolfgang Vomend has updated and modernized traditional European cuisine with a variety North African flavors and influences. Housed in the historic 1903 Greystone Mansion, the Inn’s restaurant features three unique dining rooms. Memorable views of the gardens are a signature of the Potomac Room. The Hunt Room is modeled after an authentic Bavarian hunting lodge with huge stone fireplaces and stag antler chandeliers. The wood paneled Rathskeller is an Old World-style pub with weekend entertainment. Casual dining is also available seasonally on the outdoor patio and Infinity 101 Pool and Pool Bar. Patrons can sample selections from the Inn’s Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence wine list and the area’s largest selection of German beers.

DIAMOND WORTHY

Four Diamond Awards are given to establishments that create a truly memorable experience for the guests with a high level of service amid luxurious surroundings. Just 5.7 percent of the 28,000 AAA Diamond Rated lodging facilities and 2.3 percent of the over 30,000 restaurants were awarded AAA Four Diamond designation in 2016.

MARCH 2016

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 23

PAGE 24

AAA MOTORIST

MARCH 2016