Jamestown by AAA East Central

SEE PAGE 3

Vol. 62 No. 4

MEMBERS SAVE! Premier .......... $600 Plus .................. $500 Basic ................$450

New bookings with deposit April 1-30, 2015. Savings are per room, double occupancy.

JAMESTOWN REGION

SPECTACULAR

SOUTH AFRICA

Bucket-list tour has 2 photo safaris, Victoria Falls, Cape Town and more!

AFARI is Swahili for “journey.” This sin& diamond center and South Africa’s largest gle word readily conjures up endless city. A visit to informal settlements in Soweto images of exotic animals, peoples and (South West Township) includes lunch with places. And, on AAA’s Spectacular South locals at a shebeen (house tavern). Ponder the Africa escorted adventure (April 14-30, 2016), nation’s divisive past at Liliesleaf — Nelson you won’t be disappointed! Mandela’s arrest site and the liberation moveAnd to make it easier to bring these images ment’s former center and place of refuge. to life, AAA has conjured up member-only disTravel through the spectacular Drakensburg counts of as much as $600 when you book & Mountains and the wondrous red sandstone deposit through 4/30/15. The specific discount of Blyde River Canyon on the way to South you’ll enjoy is tied to your AAA membership level Africa’s largest game reserve, Kruger National and is per room (double occupancy). AAA PrePark. A local expert leads you on a full-day mier members save $600, AAA Plus members search for the Big 5 — elephant, buffalo, lion, save $500 and Basic AAA members save $450. leopard and rhino. Watch carefully from your Explore wild and wonderful locales comfortopen-air safari vehicle; you may also see impaably and confidently as a group with your fella, zebra and giraffe. Relax with a picnic lunch, low AAA travelers and an experienced guide surrounded by the beauty of Kruger National from AAA Member Choice Vacations® from Park. the moment you arrive in South Africa. Fly from Jo’burg to George and, at FeatherThis 15-night tour is jam-packed with great bed Nature Reserve, cruise on a lagoon to the opportunities to view — and in some cases, Heads — sandstone cliffs near Knysna, the cumeet — wildlife “up close and personal.” Sidle linary capital of oysters and other delectable up to penguins braying like donkeys, enjoy saseafood. Board a 4x4 vehicle and travel deep faris (from an open-air vehicle and from atop into the forest for lunch among ancient milkan elephant’s back!) and “capture” lions, leopwood trees. Then travel on to the national osards, rhinos and more with your camera! trich capital; continued on page 6 From Johannesburg to Soweto to Cape Town to Victoria Falls, you’ll meet local people (children at a township school, adults in a Zimbabwean village) THIS and gain a better unCOULD !BE derstanding of southern YOU Africa’s diverse cultures, social challenges and unique ways of life. We took the South Africa trip through AAA: “Magnificent” is how we And the places you’ll describe it to everyone! Breathtaking...and so professionally organized/ visit! In the wealthiest led. Though we’ve since traveled to the Amazon, Germany and China, province, cosmopolitan Ed & Carlene Behanna we’d return to Africa with AAA in a heartbeat! Jo’burg bustles as a gold

APRIL 2015 Glasses.com Joins AAA Discounts & Rewards

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

WHEN MOBILITY TURNS TO MAYHEM ON THE ROAD

Glasses.com is an online retailer of prescription and non-prescription glasses and sunglasses, carrying a wide-range of styles and brands such as Oakley, Ray-Ban, Burberry, Maui Jim, and more. They make finding and getting your perfect pair of glasses easier than ever, with proprietary 3D virtual try-on technology and making custom lenses in their in-house lab. They offer quick turnaround on prescription lenses and incredible savings compared to other retail stores. As part of the Luxottica brand they have a commitment to providing world-class customer service, backed by customer-friendly guarantees and return policies. AAA members will receive 25% off the total order and free basic lenses or 25% off lens upgrades on orders of $200 or more, exclusive of tax. On orders below $200, AAA members will receive 15 % off the total order and free basic lenses or 15% off lens upgrades. Visit them online at AAA.com/glasses.

Adidas Outlet Store Newest AAA Discounts & Rewards Partner Adidas Outlet Store is one of the newest AAA Discounts & Rewards partners. Members will receive 20% off their entire purchase at 102 locations nationwide. The Adidas Outlet Store offers a wide selection of premium performance and lifestyle apparel, footwear and accessories, at great prices for the entire family. Products range from athletic shoes, to apparel and other sports gear designed for comfort, flexibility and style. An industry leader for almost 80 years, their trademark three stripes have become an insignia of quality and innovation.

Auto Pay Saves You Time & Money With AAA East Central’s Auto Pay annual renewal option, you’ll never need to worry about your membership lapsing and being stranded without a valid AAA card. Sign up, and your membership renewal will automatically be charged to your credit card or debit card each year. We’ll even send you a reminder before billing your card. And for a limited time, save $10 on next year’s membership renewal when you enroll in Auto Pay at AAA.com/renew, or at any AAA East Central branch office. Auto Pay automatic renewal can be added to your membership at any time, regardless of your membership expiration/renewal date. You’ll rest easy knowing your AAA membership is always there providing uninterrupted service. And, you always have the option of canceling at any time. For more information, visit or call your local AAA East Central office, or call the AAA Member Services Center at 1.800.441.5008.

New Drive Trips Added to TripTik Travel Planner Several new itineraries recently were added to integrated Drive Trips selections in the desktop and app versions of TripTik Travel Planner bringing the total number to 71. New additions include southern parts of Arizona, Florida, Illinois and Texas; several new sections of Route 66; Green Bay and Door County, Wis.; Illinois and Indiana state capitals; and Vancouver, Victoria and Coastal Vancouver Island in British Columbia. Each trip provides photos and descriptive information, detailed maps, segmented driving directions and recommended stops at AAA-listed attractions. Additional routes are planned.

Hot Destinations & Cool Deals Ready for an all-inclusive vacation to one of Mexico’s sunny beach resorts? Pleasant Holidays has been making destinations like Cancun, Riviera Maya, and Cozumel more memorable for over 50 years. Book and deposit your all-inclusive tropical getaway from Pleasant Holidays before April 30, 2015, and take advantage of $100 savings per room, (double occupancy) from AAA Travel. SEE PAGE 7.

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AAA MOTORIST

ChildSecure™ helps monitor your children’s identity ProtectMyID® Deluxe — Identity protection for the entire family

ou may think identity theft could never happen to you, but each year millions of Americans become victims. What’s worse is that a growing number of identity theft victims are children. Thieves can use a child’s Social Security number to open bank and credit card accounts, apply for a loan or government benefits, rent an apartment, or set up utility service. Children can have their identity stolen by family members or family acquaintances, but identity thieves are often perfect strangers who specifically target children knowing it can take a long time before the crime is discovered. Fortunately, parents who are AAA members and sign up for the ProtectMyID® Deluxe identity theft monitoring program can enroll their children, as well. The program is a new benefit for members. Enrolling in ProtectMyID® Deluxe is critical step to help protect the identity of you and your minor children. ProtectMyID® Deluxe, a comprehensive Identity Theft Monitoring product by Experian®, is just $8.95 a month—a 56 percent savings for AAA members and associates. The ChildSecure™ feature of the ProtectMyID® Deluxe product helps detect identity theft of your children by searching for an Experian credit report, monitoring the report, and alerting you if someone applies for credit or opens

APRIL 2015

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

airline tickets, tours, cruises, rental cars

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

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

AAA BRANCH OFFICE LOCATIONS

YOUNGEST VICTIMS — Children and adolescents have become a fast growing segment of identity fraud victims. credit accounts using your children’s personal information. How could a child have a credit report? Most commonly it is because his or her parents added them to their credit card accounts as an authorized user. When you enroll your children in ProtectMyID® Deluxe, their information

is used to monitor for the presence of an Experian credit report. Parents must provide the following information for each child: first and last name, date of birth and Social Security number. Your children’s information is used only to verify their identities and to begin monitoring new credit information. Once a child is enrolled, their privacy and security are of the utmost importance. For that reason, parents are not allowed to view any of their children’s personal information—such as Credit Reports—until their own identity can be verified. Because there is no definite way online for parents to prove that they are the parent or guardian, parents are required to fax documentation as proof. Once this information is received and verified, parents can obtain a hard copy of the child’s information in the mail. This process assures that no one else can access this sensitive information.

SIGNS YOUR CHILD IS A VICTIM

· Telemarketers or collection agencies call for your child; · Your child receives bills, Social Security statements or pre-approved credit card offers; · Your child is denied the request to open their first bank account; · Your child can’t open a mobile phone account, qualify for college loans, or can’t get a driver’s license. FOR MORE INFORMATION

ProtectMyID® Deluxe is another way AAA offers its members peace of mind. For more information about the Identity Theft Monitoring member benefit, visit AAA. com/ProtectMyID or call 1-877-440-6943. ProtectMyID Essential and Deluxe is provided by ConsumerInfo.com, an Experian company.

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

APRIL 2015

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 3

Forget It; Drive On — Anger management for motorists When mobility turns to mayhem on the road Jamestown Region Official publication of AAA East Central Published monthly (except bimonthly Aug./Sept., Nov./Dec.) by AAA East Central 111 West Fifth St., Jamestown NY 14701-5035 USPS 002-112 ISSN 0898-4158 Periodicals Postage Paid at Jamestown NY Postmaster: Send address changes to AAA Motorist Jamestown Region c/o AAA, 111 W. Fifth St., Jamestown NY 14701-5035 Subscription Rate: $1 included in Primary Membership dues. All others: $2/year.

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

AAA EAST CENTRAL Chairman ................................................ Richard S. Hamilton Vice Chairman.........................................James E. Broome, Jr. Vice Chairman............................................... Gregory E. Grim Vice Chairman..........................................Mary Lynn Laughlin Vice Chairman..................................... Martha Hartle Munsch OFFICERS: President ....................................................James E. Lehman Executive Vice President ............................... Thomas J. Ashley Secretary .................................................. Robert H. Compton Treasurer .......................................................Robert S. Collins GOVERNING BOARD OF DIRECTORS 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, Pamela C. Fritz, Gregory E. Grim, Richard S. Hamilton, James H. Kanicki, Charles J. Kelly** , Mary Lynn Laughlin, William Duff McCrady, James M. McDonnell, Thomas V. McKernan Jr., Martha Hartle Munsch, Gary K. Munsie** 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

By Richard Hamilton Chairman, AAA East Central ggressive driving — intentional, dangerous behavior that jeopardizes the safety of everyone — is a serious problem on America’s roads. According to data from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety it’s a factor in up to 56 percent of fatal crashes. Less common — but far more frightening — is road rage, deliberate, uncontrolled anger that can lead to violence and even death. What aggressive driving and road rage have in common is that they’re both unpredictable, can ignite instantly, and can occur at any time. The AAA Foundation study found that events precipitating violent outbursts are often remarkably trivial. The traffic episode that turns ugly is rarely the result of a single incident, but rather the cumulative effect of a variety of stress factors. A poll by the Washington Post found the number of drivers who admitted to feeling “uncontrollable anger toward another driver” doubled between 2005 and 2013. So, how do we avoid road rage in others, and in ourselves? When you merge into traffic, make sure you have plenty of room to enter traffic without cutting someone off. If someone cuts you off, take the high road and give them plenty of room. When someone wants to pass, be courteous—move over and let them by. Never pass another driver, and then slow down to teach them a lesson.

Richard Hamilton Always allow adequate room between you and the car in front of you. Never tap your brakes or lose your temper if you’re being tailgated. Illuminate your turn signal, pull over and allow them to pass. Nothing provokes another driver more than rude or obscene gestures. Keep your hands on the wheel and avoid making any gestures that might provoke other drivers. Never honk your horn at someone who’s driving slower than you want them to, or who doesn’t move quickly enough through a traffic signal. It can set off an altercation or potentially cause a collision. Even when it’s unintentional a traffic

mishap can cause a driver to “snap” and the situation becomes dangerous. What should you do if your personal safety is at risk from a hostile motorist? Steer clear — Stay calm and never respond to drivers who cut you off, tailgate, or try to intimidate you. Give angry or aggressive drivers plenty of room. Do not, under any circumstances, pull off to the side of the road and try to “settle things”. Avoid eye contact — Looking or staring at another driver can turn an impersonal encounter between two vehicles into a blood feud. And once it gets personal, things can get out-of-hand fast. Forget about winning. No one wins in a crash. Get help — Never underestimate an irrational driver’s capacity for mayhem. If you think someone is following you or trying to provoke a confrontation, call the police on your cell phone. Drive to a safe public place such as a busy retail plaza, police or fire station. This will often discourage a would-be assailant from following you. Do not go home until you’re certain the aggressor is gone and it’s safe. Robert Ingersoll, the noted 19th century orator once said, “Anger blows out the lamp of the mind.” Remember, someone else’s driving has nothing to do with you personally. Concentrate instead on the safety of you, your passengers and your vehicle. Stay cool, get out of the way and let other drivers deal with their own issues. Make FIDO your mantra: Forget It; Drive On.

membersonly

Going the extra 100-miles for members AAA Premier offers 200-miles free towing & more

Regional Board of Directors Susan V. Abdella, Gordon W. Black, Hans P.B. Christensen, Alison Churchill, Charles Heinz, Bradley E. Long, Dennis H. Lundberg, Samuel P. Price Jr., Philip E. Ruslink, John L. Sellstrom, Beverly Ungerer

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

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

Copyright ©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.

ith a multitude of advanced benefits and services AAA Premier takes the traditional benefits of AAA membership and supersizes them. Benefits like Roadside Assistance with up to 200-miles of free towing; Car Rental Reimbursement; and up to $100 Home Lockout services. Just as AAA Plus expands basic AAA coverage, Premier is an enhancement to AAA Plus. It’s all about having the freedom to select the membership option that works for you. And AAA Premier is AAA to the maximum. Members who want to go the distance will find that AAA Premier can deliver one tow of up to 200-miles per household, in addition to up to 100miles on remaining tows per membership year. If your vehicle needs to be towed, AAA Premier steps up by reimbursing you with up to $55 in rental car fees. Premier members are entitled to a free Hertz Gold Plus Rewards membership,

and when you rent from Hertz (in conjunction with a tow) you’ll receive the second day free on a minimum two-day emergency rental, courtesy of Hertz. Suppose your trip is delayed or interrupted due to a collision, mechanical failure, vehicle theft, illness, injury or even severe weather. You’re more than 100-miles from home, and what do you do? AAA Premier members are eligible for up to $1,500 Trip Interruption benefits toward the cost of transportation, accommodations, meals or related expenses. Premier is so generous it even pays up to $500 to return your vehicle to your home if these issues result in the use of substitute transportation. With free Global Emergency Assistance, the next time you’re on a domestic or international vacation one call is all it takes to arrange medical provider referrals, prescription replacement, lost ticket and document replacement and emergency translation services.

While traveling on a domestic or international trip of at least 100 driving miles from home AAA Premier provides “24-7” Concierge Service, for assistance in securing tickets, reservations, golf tee times, and more. Premier members also save at AAA offices, with free passport photos and notary service on personal documents; waiving the $35.00 AAA Travel Agency flight reservation fee; and up to $300,000 Travel Accident Insurance when travel arrangements are made through AAA. AAA Premier is available at an annual fee of just $35 per household, in addition to the members’ basic and AAA Plus membership dues. Premier can be added at any time to an existing membership (benefits subject to 7-day waiting period). To upgrade to AAA Premier, call or stop by your local AAA branch office, or contact the Club’s Member Service Call Center at 800.441.5008. Visit AAA.com/premier to review a comparison of AAA Basic, Plus and Premier benefits.

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AAA MOTORIST

APRIL 2015

AAA MOTORIST

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AAA MOTORIST

tour a working ostrich farm and, if you choose, ride one of these flightless and largest of living birds. After that, a goblet (or 2!) of great wine may be in order. Fortunately, the Cape Winelands region is next. South Africa has produced wine since 1659; at Stellenbosch, one of the region’s oldest European settlements, enjoy wine and chocolate tastings. One of the world’s most multicultural cities, Cape Town hugs a visually stunning harbor with a mountain forming a dramatic backdrop. With its plateau more than 3,300 feet high, Table Mountain is surrounded

continued from page 1

by near-vertical cliffs. Ride a thrilling cable car to its top for breathtaking views. (When a thin strip of cloud forms over the mountain, locals call it their “tablecloth.”) Explore charming towns on the Cape Peninsula, where strong winds known locally as the Cape Doctor blow away impurities and clean the air. Stop for a visit with the penguins at Boulders Beach and explore Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, home to more than 5,000 species of plants native to South Africa. Enjoy a traditional African dining experience. In the unlikely event you haven’t

been totally blown away by this point on the tour, get set! Fly to Zimbabwe for a walking tour of Victoria Falls (the indigenous name Mosi-o-Tunya means “smoke that thunders”), 1 of the world’s 7 greatest natural wonders. The full width of the Zambezi River plummets in a single vertical drop into a chasm 5,604 feet wide. The depth of the chasm, called the First Gorge, varies from 260 feet at its western end to 354 feet in the center. Stay at the Edwardian-style Victoria Falls Hotel, the “grand old lady of the falls” hotel, built in 1904. Take a leisurely cruise on the Zambezi, witnessing the majestic African sunset. In the morning, enjoy an elephant-back safari, then lunch with a local family and meet residents of their village. An included excursion to Botswana’s Chobe National Park, home to an abundance of wildlife and game, is another highlight of this vacation! Glimpse wildlife from both your river cruise boat and open-air land vehicle. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity no lover of wildlife and natural scenic beauty should miss. Log on to AAA.com/GoAfrica, visit a AAA Travel location or call 1-800-354-8761.

MEMBERS SAVE! Premier .......... $600 Plus .................. $500 Basic ................$450

SEE & PHOTOGRAPH... wild animals such as elephants, leopards, rhinos, lions, impala, buffalo, zebra, giraffe • Victoria Falls, 1 of the world’s wonders

RIDE ABOARD...

an elephant • an ostrich an open-air safari vehicle a 4x4 deep into the forest a cable car up Table Mountain

CRUISE ON...

the Zambezi River • 2 lagoons the Chobe River

EXPLORE...

Kruger National Park • Soweto an ostrich farm • wine country Featherbed Nature Reserve

INTERACT WITH...

students in a township school penguins at Boulders Beach villagers at Victoria Falls African elephants up close

AAA Member Rate: $8,279

VICTORIA FALLS

Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Buffalo-Johannesburg), in-Africa flights, roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, sightseeing per itinerary, accommoATURE dations, in-Africa guide, 28 meals and taxes & government fees. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details. Visit CA O AAA.com/GoAfrica for itinerary and important pre-travel information. TI VA

New bookings with deposit April 1-30, 2015. Savings are per room, double occupancy.

April 14-30 •

UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES!

Spectacular South Africa

APRIL 2015

PAGE 6

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

here are two really good reasons to consider a green car: to save money and to save the planet. Reducing automotive emissions and boosting fuel economy offer huge benefits for society, including improvements to the environment, public health, and energy security. According to the EPA, cars and light trucks are responsible for 17 percent of all greenhouse gas emissions. And even with lower gas prices, buying a high-MPG car is still the most effective way to spend less money on fuel. But car buyers looking for fuel efficiency, low emissions, and solid driving performance are often confronted by unfamiliar terminology and a bewildering array of choices in terms of fuels and technologies. AAA’s Green Car Guide is designed to help consumers make informed choices about hybrids and low emission vehicles. Developed by the Automobile Club of Southern California’s Automotive Research Center (ARC), it not only defines what a green car is, but explains the differences between various types of green vehicles, so potential buyers are able to determine which green car best matches their lifestyle. Filled with information on plug-in hybrids (PHEV), battery electric vehicles (EV), partial zero emission vehicles (PZEV), compressed natural gas pow-

ALL CHARGED UP — BMW’s i3 EV, features a carbon-fiber body. ered vehicles (CNG), clean diesels (TDI) and fuel economy leaders, the 140-page guide features reviews and rankings of vehicles ranging in price and size from the Tesla S to the Nissan Leaf, Audi A7 TDI and the Chevrolet Spark. For those who don’t know a ULEV from a PZEV, the guide also explains: • Differences between technologies and the advantages and disadvantages of each; • EV charging 101;

•

Fuel economy tips, alternative fuels and automotive acronyms. “The Green Car Guide is a resource for car buyers and enthusiasts seeking information on fuel-efficient vehicles and low-emission technologies,” said ARC Manager Megan McKernan. “It provides consumer-friendly data and real-world evaluations to help car buyers make informed choices.” ARC engineers and specialists evaluated the more than 80 green vehicles

in the guide in 13 categories (including emissions, mpg, acceleration, handling, interior noise, ride quality, and cargo capacity). Each category is scored on a basis of 0-10 points. Scores are totaled to determine top vehicles. Then, each vehicle’s total score is divided by its as-tested price to determine its cost per point for best value. The guide lists vehicle specifications, test scores, data and observations in a summary of the car and lists their strengths and weaknesses. Launched in 2013, the online version of AAA’s Green Car Guide has been significantly redesigned and enhanced to improve the user experience and visual appeal. The updated website provides a searchable repository of green vehicles and features, with quick-search links that show top-rated vehicles by characteristic, comparisons of selected vehicles and enriched content. There is also a section on what green technologies buyers can expect to see in the near future.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

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

APRIL 2015

AAA MOTORIST

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Member Benefits • Exclusive Offers

1-800-354-8761 • AAA.com/travel

Savings per room (double occupancy). New bookings with deposit April 1-30, 2015, for travel in 2015: 7-night minimum stay & must include airfare.

Coastal Mexico’s all-inclusive resorts spoil you with attentive service, gourmet cuisine, state-of-the-art spas, challenging golf and exceptional vacation values. Explore the

CANCUN

aquamarine waters of Cancun and Riviera Maya, walk along the gold-sand beaches of Los Cabos and shop and dine along the beachfront of Puerto Vallarta and Riviera

PUERTO VALLARTA

$1,550

$3,610

Nayarit. Whether you pick a Caribbean/ Atlantic or a Pacific all-inclusive resort, you can’t go wrong! Contact AAA and book your getaway with Pleasant Holidays.

COZUMEL

$2,339

HUATULCO

$1,811

The Hard Rock Hotel is a nonstop, highenergy resort near Cancun’s entertainment center. Overlooking the turquoise-blue Caribbean, this stunning hotel offers newly renovated guestrooms, each with a double Jacuzzi.® Flanked by the Caribbean Sea and Nichupte Lagoon, it’s a short stroll from Cancun’s main attractions. Family program. Steam room. Theme parties.

Ideally situated in Puerto Vallarta’s hotel zone, the all-inclusive Hilton Puerto Vallarta Resort provides easy access to modern area malls. Admire breathtaking views overlooking Banderas Bay. Each room featurs high-speed internet access, generous work surfaces and signature beds. Snorkeling. Spa services. Steam room. Activity desk. Children’s play area.

Light. Luxury. Love. The only hotel of its kind on picturesque Cozumel, Secrets Aura Cozumel offers luxurious suites featuring king-size beds (or 2 double beds), private terrace or balcony, full marble bahrooms with Jacuzzi,® complimentary mini-bar and much more. Adults only. Archeological tours. Marine National Park close by. Onsite dive center. Pier. Spa services.

Dreams Huatulco sits on Tangolunda Bay, one of the largest of 9 bays, and overlooks dazzling golden beaches and the sapphire waters of the Pacific. The resort features swimming pools, 6 gourmet restaurants, 6 bars serving unlimited premium beverages, 24-hour room service, plus endless day & evening activities for all ages, including a supervised Explorers Club for kids.

RIVIERA NAYARIT

RIVIERA MAYA

MAZATLAN

CABO SAN LUCAS

$1,141

$3,114

Iberostar Playa Mita, standing tall on Mexico’s Pacific coast near beautiful Punta de Mita, offers a relaxing and all-inclusive atmosphere complete with mouth-watering international dishes and endless activities for guests of all ages. Plush accommodations feature 24-hour room service and a laid-back elegance perfect for relaxing with family and friends.

Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort is surrounded by large, sun-dappled swimming pools, a palm-fringed sugar-white sand beach and lush tropical gardens. All rooms and suites are spacious, elegantly furnished and filled with luxurious amenities to relax, soothe and welcome guests. Just 30 minutes from Cancun. Family program. Spanish lessons. Bike trail. Cooking lessons.

$1,753 The award-winning Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay Resort is a jewel overlooking the Pacific Ocean. With its own magnificent beach, it’s an ideal setting for relaxation, yet it’s within easy access to Mazatlan’s Golden Zone. Graceful architecture, gorgeous surroundings and beautifully decorated oceanview suites provide every comfort and convenience.

$2,117 Riu Palace brings a different kind of style to the all-inclusive vacation. Enjoy luxurious facilities, a full range of sporting and leisure options, personalized service and gourmet food at the brand-new fusion cuisine restaurant, Krystal. The resort features 642 tastefully decorated junior suites with breathtaking views. Guests enjoy exchange privileges with Riu Santa Fe.

Sample rates shown are per room (double occupancy) for a 7-night stay ( June 13-20, 2015) and do not include flights or airport/hotel transfers.

For these and many other all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and elsewhere, visit AAA.com/PleasantHolidays.

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AAA MOTORIST

APRIL 2015

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

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

Get up to $100.00 in perks!

NOW’S THE TIME!

Book & make a deposit by APRIL 30 on a 2015 7-night-or-longer air-inclusive Pleasant Holidays vacation to HAWAII or the CARIBBEAN and enjoy:

$50 SAVINGS FROM AAA TRAVEL per room, based on double occupancy • new bookings April 1-30, 2015

PLUS

SIVE THIS EXCLU NEFIT! E MEMBER B

$50.00 CERTIFICATE* toward purchase of optional sightseeing or activity, per booking

*At select Caribbean destinations, a $50 discount may apply (instead of a $50 activity voucher).

Glacier Discovery

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An entertaining music-themed journey to 3 of America’s most fascinating tune towns that features an Amtrak train ride from Memphis to New Orleans!

GLACIER NP

Nashville — Music City USA

GLACIER NP SEATTLE

Stay at Gaylord Opryland Resort, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and see a live performance at the Grand Ole Opry.

Memphis — Birthplace of Rock n Roll

Tour Sun Studios and visit the Staxx Museum, the Rock n Soul Museum and Elvis Presley’s Graceland estate.

New Orleans — Birthplace of American Jazz

Walk through the French Quarter and the Garden District and visit Bourbon Street and Jackson Square.

Glacier National Park Discovery Aug 1-10 •

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Musical Heartland of America’s South

Retrace portions of the Lewis & Clark Trail on Amtrak’s Empire Builder from the “Windy City” to the “Emerald City” and explore the “Crown of the Continent” in between! Begin in Chicago; take a city tour before boarding Empire Builder at magnificent Union Station. Start your rail journey with Mississippi River views and glimpses of the Twin Cities skyline. Enjoy breakfast and lunch onboard as you cross into Montana to Glacier National Park. Tour in a 1930s “jammer” with a canvas roll-top; rebuilt in 2001, these vehicles climb Going-to-the-Sun Road. Cross into Canada to visit Waterton Lakes National Park, part of the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, a World Heritage Site. Enjoy 2 nights at Glacier Park Lodge. Your other in-park home for 2 nights is the Swiss-themed Many Glacier Hotel on Swiftcurrent Lake. Reboard the Empire Builder for Seattle. See the city’s many gems, including lively Pike Place Market. Cap it all off with an ascent of the iconic Space Needle for breathtaking views!

CHICAGO to SEATTLE

Amtrak Music Cities of America

AAA Member Rate: $3,935

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip hotel/train transfers, 2-night train roomette accommodations (Chicago-Seattle), 7-night hotel accommodaATURE tions, 17 meals, meal gratuities (except on train), welcome reception, 4 tours & 1 cruise in Glacier National Park, sightseeing per itinerary, hotel baggage handling (1 per person), hotel taxes and services of an Amtrak Vacations® tour escort (Chicago-Seattle). Visit AAA.com/travel for complete CA O TI itinerary. Ask about available add-on airfare.

Sept 17-24 •

AAA Member Rate: $2,299

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, Amtrak coach service (Memphis–New Orleans), 10 meals, local guide, motorcoach sightseeing, baggage handling (1 per person) and gratuities for restaurant servers & hotel bellmen. Ask about available add-on airfare.

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Member Benefits Exclusive Offers Walk on the GREAT WALL! Enter the FORBIDDEN CITY! Explore one of the world’s most important capitals and meet BEIJINGERS at home & in school!

SPECIAL HIGHLIGHTS

• PEKING DUCK & “HOTPOT“ DINNERS • FAMILY-HOME VISIT & HOME-COOKED MEAL • KUNG FU ACADEMY VISIT & DEMONSTRATION

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Escort & driver s gratuitie ! included

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Enjoy the comfort & security of an escorted experience — a comprehensive, informative & personal look at this rapidly growing city and an in-depth introduction to its fascinating culture. See landmarks & learn customs for nearly a week; then enjoy an entire day independently exploring & indulging your interests — art, history, cuisine, shopping, photography, parks & zoos — it’s all up to you, with suggestions, advice, directions, etc, from your expert guide! Marvel at ancient & modern, urban & rural, rich & poor, simple & sophisticated, serene & chaotic. Beijing’s unique combination of seemingly contradictory elements may well change your understanding of this city & nation...and provide moving memories that last a lifetime.

Sept 17-24 • AAA Member Rate: $3,425 Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (BuffaloBeijing), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, 12 meals, in-China guide, sightseeing/admissions, baggage handling (1 per person), driver & escort gratuities, AAA Tour Manager (if minimum-participation goal is met) & government taxes/ fees. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details. Visit AAA.com/GoAsia for itinerary. 4 UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES — THE GREAT WALL AT BADALING, THE IMPERIAL PALACE (FORBIDDEN CITY), THE SUMMER PALACE AND THE TEMPLE OF HEAVEN • TIANANMEN SQUARE • 2008 SUMMER OLYMPICS SITE • LAMA BUDDHIST TEMPLE • HUTONG MARKET VISIT, HOME VISIT & HOME-COOKED MEAL • BELL & DRUM TOWERS TEA CEREMONY JADE FACTORY • PEDICAB RIDE • KUNG FU DEMONSTRATION & STUDENT INTERACTION • TRADITIONAL PEKING DUCK & HOTPOT DINNERS • & MORE!

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ALASKA BY LAND! See the incredible, inspirational interior of the Last Frontier on this 9-night escorted tour — unforgettable experiences not 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 8-17 •

AAA Member Rate: $5,875

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes flights (BuffaloFairbanks, Anchorage-Buffalo), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, motorcoach sightseeing, accommodations (Fairbanks, Denali, Anchorage, Seward: 2 each, Girdwood: 1), 17 meals, luggage handling (1 bag/person), gratuities for included features (includes driver, escort), in-Alaska escort and AAA Tour Manager (if minimum-participation goal is met). Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.

APRIL 2015

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Member Benefits Exclusive Offers Meet these Celtic ‘Cousins’

Get swept away... by Ireland’s SOUTH

Dublin tour with a local guide Farmhouse tea & scones Sheepdog skills demonstration Horse-drawn “jaunting car” ride in Killarney Storytelling session in Newmarket-on-Fergus Walking tour of Trinity College Book of Kells Irish National Stud & Japanese Gardens Open-top bus tour of Dublin Blarney Castle’s “Stone of Eloquence” Blarney Woolen Mills Dingle Brewing Company Walking tour of Galway King John’s Castle Cliffs of Moher

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CLIFFS OF MOHER

Best of Ireland South: Oct 21-29 •

AAA Member Rate: $1,475

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes hotel accommodations, guided motorcoach sightseeing, entrance fees, 12 meals and in–country tour director. Visit AAA.com/GoIreland for complete itinerary and more information. Ask about available add-on airfare. Passport required. Escorted tour operated by CIE Tours International.

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Spellbinding scenery Rollicking entertainment Fascinating history Comprehensive sightseeing

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Highlights • Dublin Canal Cruise Dinner • Bunratty Castle Medieval Dinner • Loch Ness Scenic Cruise • Cliffs of Moher • Killarney Jaunting Car • Whisky Distillery Tasting/ Tour • Sheepdog Demonstration • Book of Kells • Blarney Stone • St Andrews • Ring of Kerry • Edinburgh Castle

BLARNEY CASTLE, IRELAND

Sept 19-30 AAA Member Rate: $2,468 Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes hotel accommodations, guided motorcoach sightseeing, entrance fees, 17 meals and in–country tour director. Visit AAA.com/GoIreland for complete itinerary and more information. Ask about available add-on airfare. Passport required. Escorted tour operated by CIE Tours International.

Wild, Wild Westerns © ANDREANITA / FOTOLIA.COM

GRAND CANYON & AZ ADVENTURE

NEW MEXICO BALLOON FIESTA

Fly to Phoenix and ride to Sedona’s beautiful Poco Diablo Resort. ExSEPT 20-27 • $2,695 plore scenic backcountry on an ex® citing off-road Pink Jeep tour. Visit the IMAX Theater at Williams, then ride the Grand Canyon Railway (first class) to the canyon’s South Rim. Spend 2 nights there in a national park lodge, then ride the vintage Verde Canyon Railroad. Explore Old Town Scottsdale, marvel at intriguing plants at the Desert Botanical Garden and Western art at the Heard Museum. Enjoy a memorable farewell steakhouse dinner — cowboystyle! 11 meals. AIR INCLUDED.

Explore Albuquerque, the Land of Enchantment’s largest city, then a OCT 4-9 • $3,265 3-night stay in charming Santa Fe. Visit historic Chimayo village. Enjoy artsy Taos and the impressive Rio Grande Gorge. Take a fun salsa-making class. Ride Sandia Peak’s Aerial Tramway. At the International Balloon Fiesta,® witness the mass ascension of hundreds of balloons. Explore Rte 66, Old Town Albuquerque, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center and Acoma Pueblo. See the Balloon Fiesta’s evening “Glowdeo” of illuminated balloons & fireworks afterward! 11 meals. AIR INCLUDED.

From Salt Lake City to Denver, take in some of America’s favorAUG 29–SEPT 6 • $3,485 ite national landmarks. Hear the Mormon Tabernacle Choir (choir schedule permitting). Visit Grand Teton and Yellowstone parks (including Old Faithful & Mammoth Hot Springs), Devil’s Tower, Deadwood, Mt Rushmore (during the day and again in the evening for its inspiring lighting ceremony), Crazy Horse Monument, Custer State Park, Ft Laramie National Historic Site, Cody’s Buffalo Bill Historic Center and Cheyenne. Take a wildlife Jeep® safari through SD’s Black Hills. 15 meals. AIR INCLUDED.

AAA Member Rates for all tours are per person (double occupancy), are subject to availability at time of booking and include accommodations, sightseeing admissions, taxes/gratuities for included features, baggage handling (1 bag per person) and meals as indicated. (Select tours also include roundtrip flights from Buffalo and roundtrip airport/hotel transfers. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; ATURE contact your travel agent for details.) Visit AAA.com/travel for itinerary CA O details. TI

Our first national park’s first explorers were called liars when they AUG 10-16 • $1,765 described its otherworldly geysers & bubbling mudpots and its free-ranging bison, elk, moose, bears & wolves. Begin at Salt Lake City and travel through scenic Idaho to Yellowstone. Enjoy Old Faithful & many other natural landmarks, as well as 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, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir (schedule permitting) and more! 12 meals.

So many delights in 1 tour — from the endless charms of San FranJULY 23-31 • $3,699 cisco 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. AIR INCLUDED.

AMERICAN MAJESTY

YELLOWSTONE EXPERIENCE

BEST OF NORTHERN CA

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

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

Equinox Silhouette Eclipse Silhouette Reflection Silhouette Eclipse Equinox Eclipse Silhouette Reflection Silhouette Reflection Solstice Eclipse Silhouette

Italy & Greek Isles: Barcelona to Piraeus British Isles: Roundtrip from Amsterdam Scandinavia & Russia: Roundtrip from Southampton Scandinavia & Russia: Roundtrip from Amsterdam Eastern Mediterranean: Roundtrip from Civitavecchia British Isles: Roundtrip from Amsterdam Scandinavia & Russia: Roundtrip from Southampton Italy & Greek Isles: Roundtrip from Barcelona Scandinavia & Russia: Roundtrip from Southampton British Isles: Roundtrip from Amsterdam Eastern Mediterranean: Roundtrip from Civitavecchia Scandinavia & Russia: Roundtrip from Amsterdam Eastern Mediterranean: Roundtrip from Civitavecchia Alaska: Seattle to Vancouver Canaries & Azores: Roundtrip from Southampton Western Mediterranean: Roundtrip from Civitavecchia

Offers available only on AAA Vacations® departures. Combinable with AAA Member Benefits; ask a AAA Travel Agent or visit AAA.com/travel for details/restrictions.

PRIORITY CHECK-IN*

ONBOARD CREDIT**

YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES

$100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00

*does not grant priority boarding **per stateroom

Balcony rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip airport/pier transfers, 10-night cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals, government taxes/fees ($356.62) and $50 shipboard credit per stateroom. Ship’s registry: Malta. Ask about discounted add-on airfare (roundtrip from Buffalo, Cleveland, Columbus, Louisville, Philadelphia or Pittsburgh) available for a limited time. Visit AAA.com/travel for complete itinerary and important pre-travel information. ATURE

11 12 13 12 10 12 14 13 14 14 10 12 10 11 14 10

ITINERARY

6-2-15 6-9-15 6-14-15 7-3-15 7-10-15 7-15-15 7-25-15 8-1-15 8-8-15 8-8-15 8-21-15 8-22-15 9-11-15 9-11-15 9-13-15 9-14-15

SHIP

Nov 20-30 AAA Member Rate: from $1,745

AAA VACATIONS® AMENITIES NIGHTS

10-night cruise accommodations on Celebrity Equinox roundtrip from Ft Lauderdale to St Thomas, St Kitts, Barbados, Dominica and St Maarten Add-on roundtrip airfare from Buffalo while seats last: $199 per person (limited to 2 passengers per stateroom; other restrictions may apply) $50 per stateroom shipboard credit • In-stateroom bottle of wine Onboard martini tasting

The AAA Vacations® Celebrity Cruises sailings below entitle you to priority check-in and $100 shipboard credit per stateroom. All AAA Vacations® cruises feature AAA’s 24 / 7 Member Care Assistance Service and 24-hour Best-Price Guarantee. Be sure to ask a AAA Travel Agent about all available offers and promotions when you choose a AAA Vacations® Celebrity Cruises departure.

“Ultimate Caribbean” cruise... Add roundtrip airfare for just $199!

$100 onboard credit on these ® AAA Vacations sailings!

DATE

APRIL 2015

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Upgrade from a balcony to a Concierge Class stateroom for $100 per person! Personalized concierge service • in-room sparkling wine on arrival • in-room flowers & fruit & evening hors d’oeuvres delivered daily • luxury bedding • pillow menu • personalized stationery • tote bag • umbrella for onboard use • private bar (custom-stocked for a fee) • massage showerhead • plush robes • oversize towels • salon-quality hairdryer • a selection of shampoos/lotions/soaps • express luggage delivery • early embarkation/disembarkation • priority seating in main dining room & specialty restaurants • make-up/turndown service • expanded room service menu (24 hours) • shoeshine valet Balcony enhancements include a table for 2, cushioned chairs and high-power binoculars for onboard use.

APRIL 2015

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

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

AAA.com

This 11-night vacation has everything you’ve always wanted in a trip to Italy. Enjoy multiple-night stays in Rome, Florence, Venice, the Amalfi Coast and Stresa in the Lakes District. Discover the treasures of Classical and Christian Rome. Walk in the footsteps of ancient Romans in Pompeii. See gems of the Renaissance in Florence’s Academy Gallery, including Michelangelo’s “David.” Visit Locarno, Switzerland, and cruise to Isola dei Pescatori, one of the Borromean Islands. A guided walking tour of Venice illustrates how this city gained its wealth and power. Enjoy the magic of the Italian Lakes District in the captivating resort of Stresa. Stop at a winery & farm in the heart of Tuscany to sample local wines and specialities for an included lunch. Sail to enchanting Capri and explore this island paradise.

Special inclusions: “Rome by Night” tour...Vatican museums & St Peter’s... a family-style Tuscan feast...and a serenaded gondola cruise in Venice! Experience Whisper headsets, designed for better communication between you and your guides throughout your tour. Enjoy regional wines with every dinner.

Oct 19-31 •

AAA Member Rate: $5,679

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Buffalo-Rome, Milan-Buffalo), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, hotel accommodations, guided motorcoach sightseeing, entrance fees, 20 meals, in-Italy tour director and air & hotel taxes (subject to change). Visit AAA.com/Italy for itinerary and more information. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.

Explore Down Under

from the Outback to the Glaciers!

Linking you & your next vacation!

TRAVEL WITH SOMEONE YOU TRUST.®

NEW ZEALAND

Cairns, catamaran ride

Melbourne, Opal Centre

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 Franz Joseph Glacier Queenstown, gondola to dinner Milford Sound cruise “Middle Earth” touring

Herding/shearing demo

Mossman Gorge, meet Aboriginals Uluru/Ayers Rock, Champagne toast Alice Springs, Aboriginal drummers Dreamtime tour, bush dinner

Steamship cruise, farm life tour

Dine with a NZ Family Sydney & Opera House Koala Park & Opal Collection 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 15–Nov 4 •

AAA Member Rate: from $10,524

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

Research & book travel arrangements from the comfort of your home – 24/7.

PHOTOS: CINDY STAYCHEFF

FLIGHTS RENTAL CARS HOTELS

AUSTRALIA

LA CHANCST BOOK T E TO TOUR!HIS

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

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

Look for the FEATURED VACATIONS logo to identify out-of-the-ordinary offerings.

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are specific cruise, motorcoach or air tour vacations created or selected by AAA Travel for their value, amenities and/or inclusions.

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FEATURED VACATIONS

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AAA MOTORIST

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Seagoing vacations offer oceans of fun Cruises have a host of family-friendly activities

hoosing the perfect family vacation can be a challenge. For parents seeking an alternative to the traditional summer road trip, or week by the seashore, a cruise may be just the solution Cruise vacations offer an attractive, stress-free way to travel and the almostall-inclusive cruise experience appeals to families in particular. And with homeports like Baltimore and New York, families can avoid the high cost of air travel and drive right up to the pier. Virtually all lines feature extensive, supervised children’s programs where kids are placed in age-appropriate groups. If you have teens, who may be less than enthused about going on a family vacation, don’t fret. Most cruise lines are packed with opportunities for them to do their own thing. They can participate in teen-only activities like DJ lessons, head ashore on an outdoor adventure, or party it up at night without being embarrassed by your dated dance moves. Meanwhile, parents can stretch out on adults-only sundecks, relax in hot tubs, or take an enrichment class. On warm summer nights, babysitting services allow grown-ups to “paint the town,” including Broadway-style shows, dining, dancing, and moonlit walks on deck.

A FAMILY VALUE — The almost-all-inclusive cruise experience appeals to families. Private islands are a popular perk on most Caribbean cruises, and family vacationers consistently rate them as among their favorite ports of call. Half Moon Cay — with its beautiful, crescent-shaped white-sand beach and warm, blue-green waters is a staple of most Holland America Caribbean itineraries, as well as Carnival’s Eastern Caribbean departures. Lapped by calm blue water and thick with powdery sand, the 700-acre

lagoon is ideal for watersports and you can spend the day soaking up the sun or playing with the kids in the nearby Aqua Park. The Pegasus Ranch riding tour is one of the island’s most popular excursions, and the 40 or so resident horses enjoy a lifestyle that would make Trigger envious. Surrounded by the gentle, translucent waters of the Bahamas lies the secluded island of CocoCay. Reserved exclusively for Royal Caribbean and

Celebrity guests, this 140-acre tropical paradise is home to one of the largest aqua parks in the Bahamas, with inwater trampolines, floating icebergs, and water sports like reef snorkeling, parasailing and jet skis. A secluded tropical paradise, Labadee sits along the mountainous north coast of the island of Hispaniola. This semi-private island paradise is a staple of Royal Caribbean’s Western, Eastern and Southern Caribbean itineraries. Once the home of the original pirates of the Caribbean, this wooded peninsula features five spectacular beaches and a treasure chest of amenities. Columbus Cove Beach offers a variety of attractions including water slides. Nearby Splash Bash is a piratethemed water playground, featuring a “sunken” pirate ship. Adventure-hungry guests will find a fresh variety of activities including the new Dragon’s Tail Coaster, a highspeed joyride through 2,232 feet of tropical flora and rock formations.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Please see this month’s Departures Guide or log on to AAA.com/cruises for great vacation ideas from AAA.

A little R&R for the inside of your car Restoring your interior from the ravages of winter

mericans spend as much as three hours a day in their cars. Over the course of a typical week, that’s almost one entire day behind the wheel. That not only translates to lots of face time with your vehicle’s interior, but it also provides ample opportunities for dirt, grime, coffee, and food stains that can leave a car’s interior appearing haggard and worn. In addition to robbing your car’s interior of its aesthetic value, this accumulation of dirt and grease can also cause the vehicle to degrade over time. Though it’s common to associate vehicle maintenance with what’s under the hood, drivers should also make some inside maintenance a priority as well. When cleaning your car’s interior, it’s important to address each and every nook and cranny. Consoles & Cup Holders — An old toothbrush is excellent for getting dirt and grime out of those hard-to-reach spots. To remove dust and debris dirt from between seats, dashboard seams, cup holders, and air vents, high tech cleaning gels help you reach the most hidden and hard to reach areas. Carpets & Seats — After a long winter, carpets can be a major eyesore. Remove the floor mats and thoroughly vacuum any dirt buildup that might have multiplied with each winter snowstorm or spring shower. Make sure to get

CLEANING UP — The Honda Odyssey minivan is the first vehicle with a built in vacuum cleaner. under and between the seats; you’d be amazed at what you’ll find. Dashboards & Door Panels — Vacuum the door panels and dashboard too. Using a diluted solution of mild soap or a car-cleaning product, scrub the panels clean using a stiff brush and wipe dry with a towel. Use the soap solution and a rag to clean the steering column and dashboard. Rinse the rag in fresh water and wipe them again. Inspect the doorjambs and fender wells. These areas often trap leaves and debris, which can

lead to rust. And don’t forget to vacuum the trunk. Address the Upholstery — Stained upholstery is an instant turnoff for most used car buyers, so drivers should be diligent and clean their upholstery regularly, including immediately after any spills. Use a spot cleaner designed for vehicle interiors to remove tough dirt and beverage spills from your car’s carpet and seats. Apply it to the desired area and scour using a stiff-bristled scrub brush. Be careful when using water as

you don’t want any water getting into places where it can damage electrical components or create a moldy smell. Practice Preventive Care — Much like humans, a car is susceptible to UV rays. People can apply sunscreen to their skin to protect against sunburn, and drivers can apply a UV-protectant product to their vehicle’s interior to guard against problems that often result from overexposure to the sun. While you can use leather products on vinyl, you should not use vinyl products on leather. Use a conditioner that is specifically formulated for leather, and one that does not contain silicone or alcohol. Overcome the Odor — Dashboard dining and moisture can result in some very funky smells in your cabin. If tossing out any leftovers and cleaning up the interior don’t help, use an industrial strength deodorizer, or leave an open container of baking soda inside the car overnight. Remove moldy carpets and spray with a mild bleach solution to kill any mold spores and allow them to dry in the sun.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

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

APRIL 2015

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Southwest landscape is a symphony made of stone Go Canyoneering in America’s National Parks

illions make the trek to Arizona each year to experience the Grand Canyon. Nature’s most astonishing spectacle is both exhilarating in its grandeur, and humbling in its scale. Mornings and late afternoon are the best time to admire the Canyon’s vast dimensions and shifting palette of colors, but few realize that it’s just one of the region’s many canyons, all equally rich in color, history, beauty, and splendor. Located on Navajo tribal lands, the towering buttes of Monument Valley are familiar to movie buffs as the locale of classic John Ford Westerns like Stagecoach and The Searchers. John Ford Point marks the legendary director’s favorite camera location; the place where 500 million years of mesas, and sandstone pinnacles, provide a spectacular backdrop to what John Wayne called “where God put the West.” Perched high above the Colorado River in southern Utah, Arches National Park is punctuated with oddly eroded sandstone pinnacles, balanced rocks, and spires. The name comes from the world’s largest concentration of natural arches — more than 2,000 sandstone arches covering some 73,000 acres — along a 40-mile scenic drive with numerous overlooks. Capitol Reef National Park is characterized by slot canyons, ancient petroglyphs, and a 100-mile long bulge in the

revealing a rocky palette of rose, coral, amber and vermilion. Zion National Park follows the winding Virgin River surrounded by red and gold stone monoliths that climb more than 2,000-ft high. Located at the junction of the Colorado Plateau, Great Basin and the Mojave Desert, Utah’s oldest national park is known for its soaring temples, sculpted sandstone and spectacular views. Famous hikes include the Narrows, Subway and Angel’s Landing, which is definitely not for people with a fear of heights. The Zion Canyon Shuttle runs through the most traveled area of the park stopping at nine locations including the Temple of Sinawava and the Court of Patriarchs, three sandstone monoliths named after the Old Testament patriarchs Abraham, Issac, and Jacob.

A DELICATE BALANCE — Delicate Arch in Arches National Park. earth’s crust known as the Waterpocket Fold. Scenic Highway 12 takes travelers into some of Utah’s most mesmerizing landscapes with extraordinary views of the Capitol Reef, the Circle Cliffs, and the Henry Mountains. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument sprawls over 1.9 million acres of rose-colored Navajo sandstone, wild rivers and thousand-year-old pinyon trees. It’s a landscape so remote it was the last area in the continental United States to be mapped.

Bryce Canyon’s natural amphitheaters are etched into the side of the Paunsaugunt Plateau. The smallest of Utah’s five national parks houses thousands of oddly humanoid red rock spires known as hoodoos. The Bryce Amphitheater displays many of the parks best-known formations, including the much-photographed Thor’s Hammer, and the Queen’s Castle. Watching the sun come up at Sunrise Point is a ritual here as a fine mist climbs the canyon walls in response to the morning sun,

Zion National Park FOR MORE INFORMATION

See the Departures Guide or log on to AAA.com/USA for more vacation ideas from AAA Travel.

aroundtown HERMITAGE REVEALED — (April 10) The State Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg is one of the largest and oldest museums in the world, holding over three million treasures and more curators than any other art institution. Captured in high definition, the “Hermitage Revealed” program takes a thrilling journey through the museum’s tumultuous history — from imperial palace to state museum — and offers unprecedented access to special collections and areas that remain hidden from the public eye. Time: 7:30 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. Tickets are $15 general admission, $10 students. For information and tickets, visit fredopera. org. Location: 1891 Fredonia Opera House, 9 Church Street, Fredonia. LITTLE EXPLORERS — (April 11) Children aged 3 to 8 and their favorite grownups will enjoy a nature lesson, walk, craft, and snack. The event reoccurs the second Saturday of the month, except for July and August. The time is 10:00 a.m. to noon. Admission: $8, or $6 for Friends of the Nature Center. Registration required by the previous Thursday. For information, visit jamestownaudubon.org or call (716) 569-2345. Location: Audubon Nature Center, 1600 Riverside Road, Jamestown.

WORKING WITH SPIRIT GUIDES — (April 22) The All About “U” Series presents an introduction to spirit guides — their nature and purpose in our lives, our relationship to them, and what to expect. Participants will learn how to meet and interact with their spirit guides, practice sensing their spirit guides and receiving guidance from them, understand the ways they enrich our lives, and discover how their spirit guides are working with them on their spiritual path. The time is from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Fee: $29. For information and registration, visit sunyjcc.edu or call (716) 338-1005. Location: Jamestown Community College, 525 Falconer Street, Jamestown. WINE & ART SATURDAY — (April 25) Enjoy wine tastings amid artworks created by regional artists, with opportunities to converse with the artists as they work. The time is from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Free admission although tasting fees may apply at some wineries. For information and participating wineries, visit lakeeriewinecountry.org. Location: Regional wineries. BROADWAY’S NEXT H!T MUSICAL — (April 25) Broadway’s Next H!T Musical is the only unscripted theatrical awards show. Master impro-

visers gather made-up, hit song suggestions from the audience and create a spontaneous evening of music, humor, and laughter. The audience votes for their favorite song and watches as the cast turns it into a full blown, improvised musical, complete with memorable characters, witty dialogue, and plot twists galore. Tickets: $25-$45. For information and tickets, visit reglenna.com or call (716) 4847070. Location: Reg Lenna Center for the Arts, 116 E. Third Street, Jamestown. ROLLING HILLS RADIO #43 — (April 30) Grammy and American Music Association Award-winning musician, Jim Lauderdale, joins host Ken Hardley for a special edition of Rolling Hills Radio on the theater stage. This concert will be recorded with the live audience, then broadcast the following week on WRFALP 107.9 FM, Radio for the Arts. The time is 6:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Tickets are $25. For information and tickets, visit reglenna.com or call (716) 484-7070. Location: Reg Lenna Center for the Arts, 116 E. Third Street, Jamestown. BEMUS IS BLOOMING — (May 1-3) It’s a village-wide celebration of spring in Bemus Point. All the participating shops and restaurants will have

specials, and the petting zoo will be in full force. For information, visit shopbemus.com. Location: Village of Bemus Point. WESTFIELD BOOK & PAPER SHOW — (May 2) The show features 25 dealers of antiquarian books, photography, fine art prints, maps, children’s books, local history, sheet music, ephemera, postcards, first editions, bindings, historic documents, magazines, trade cards, Americana, illustrated books, and more. Time: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Admission: $5. For information, visit bookandpapershow.com or call (716) 3385051. Location: Eason Hall, 23 Elm Street, Westfield. BIRD BANDING AT THE AUDUBON — (May 2) Join research ornithologists as they capture, band, and release birds, recording information for science. Time: 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Actual times may vary; the protocol requires opening the nets at dawn and monitoring birds for six hours. Free; donations appreciated. No reservations required. Dress for the weather. While not necessary, bring bird guides and binoculars if you have them. For information, visit jamestownaudubon.org or call (716) 569-2345. Location: Audubon Center and Sanctuary, 1600 Riverside Road, Jamestown.

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AAA MOTORIST

APRIL 2015