SEE PAGE 3
Vol. 35 No. 8
KENTUCKY
Discover Spain’s Classics
& Portugal!
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014
Head back to class in style with AAA Discounts & Rewards
Travel | Insurance/Financial | Automotive | Member Savings | AAA.com
A SAFE DRIVING PRESCRIPTION FOR SENIORS
Stock up on back-to-school essentials and save with AAA Discounts & Rewards, an online shopping portal exclusively for AAA members. This innovative shopping experience on AAA. com offers deep discounts and daily deals from approximately 30,000 participating online merchants nationwide, including Macy’s, Sears and Best Buy. To begin using AAA Discounts & Rewards today, register online at AAA.com/discounts. Registration is completely free — a valid AAA membership and email address are all you need. Then shop, save and earn on national and local brands, tickets, travel, restaurants and retailers.
This is Life Insurance Month; Protect Your Family & Future with AAA
GRANADA’S ALHAMBRA MEDIEVAL-FLAVORED TOLEDO
2-week tour captures very best of Iberian Peninsula PORTUGUESE POTTERY
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alleys aboard a similarly narrow streetcar to AGNÍFICO! Even if you know find neighborhood taverns where traditional no other Spanish or Portuguese, fado vocalists reveal the soulful depths of the this single word sums up all of the Portuguese personality. sights, culture, foods and experiA guided tour of Lisbon features the Moorences you’ll encounter & enjoy on AAA’s ish Alfama Quarter, Jerónimo’s Monastery (a 14-night “Spain’s Classics & Portugal” tour Unesco World Heritage site), the Monument that departs on March 11, 2015. to the Discoveries and the Tower of Belém. To make it even more magnífico, AAA Escape to the Silver Coast; visit the pilgrimoffers members a discount of as much as age town of Fátima, a testament to Portugal’s $700 when they book and make a deposit Roman Catholic heritage. View Batalha Monby Aug 29, 2014. Basic AAA members will astery (UWH) and visit quaint towns, includsave $650, Plus members $675 and Premier ing Obidos and its medievalmembers $700 (per room). era walls. Spain & Portugal occupy Exclusive AAA Excursion southwestern Europe’s im(included): Portugal’s sophismense peninsula called Ibeticated “Riviera” is the “playria, a name derived from the ground of kings.” Visit the Ebro, Spain’s largest river by fairy-tale palaces of Sintra volume. Both nations played (UWH). See the westernmost pivotal roles in the “discovpoint in continental Europe, ery” of the New World. And the rugged coastline, wind now, more than 5 centuries surfers and Estoril, known for later, Americans in increasluxurious homes & gardens. ing numbers are discovering the pleasures of these lands SPAIN blessed with abundant sunLISBON’S TOWER OF BELÉM Once a global empire and shine and a wealth of historicolonial power, Spain ruled cal, cultural, gastronomical AAA MEMBERS many parts of the world and recreational riches. SAVE MUCHO! throughout history. Today, it’s country with an unhurried, PORTUGAL Premier....$700 arelaxed atmosphere — and a Step off the plane in Lisbon; Plus .........$675 place welcoming to travelers its charms and style make it one of Europe’s last “unBasic .......$650 from all over the world. You’ll sense its former glory and its discovered” capitals, and it Book & deposit present hospitality on your invariably surprises and deby 8/29/14 tour of Madrid, the vibrant lights visitors. Wind your PER ROOM, DOUBLE OCCUPANCY way among its hilly, narrow continued on page 8
September is Life Insurance Awareness Month, and it is the perfect time to evaluate your coverage options. Whether you are looking to update your current plan, or you want to start saving for retirement, AAA’s knowledgeable agents and comprehensive online tools can help you find the best fit for your family’s needs. To learn more about AAA Insurance products and to receive your free quote, call 1-800-207-7947 or visit www.AAA.com/insurance.
Hertz Launches Certified Clean & Safe Program Hertz is adding a personal touch and an added sense of security for customers with Hertz Certified Clean & Safe, which is being rolled out to all Hertz airport and suburban locations in the U.S. This includes completing a thorough 35-point checklist before it’s rented. Once the vehicle is cleaned and inspected a card verifying that it is certified clean and safe is placed on the steering column. AAA members receive up to a 20 percent discount on Hertz car rentals, free Hertz Gold Plus Rewards membership, plus an array of upgrades, special offers, and more.
Updated AAA Mobile App Now Easier Than Ever The AAA Mobile app has been updated with an array of new enhancements including a more intuitive interface with easier access to features. An updated iPad version features a number of new functions: • A streamlined card layout design that provides easy access to member services; • AAA’s newly enhanced TripTik Travel Planner product for mapping and route planning, allowing members to build, access and share trips across the mobile and online platforms; • Expanded membership features, including displaying your current member status and providing the ability to easily renew your membership. The updated mobile app also features traffic and construction information and maps that display gas station locations and updated fuel prices. The free download is available on iTunes or Google Play.
Mastering the Fine Art of Travel Whether it’s sailing into New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park, or learning about truffles in Dordogne, Journese embodies the promise of fine travel made seamless. Pleasant Holidays’ luxury brand offers a remarkable portfolio of four and five star resorts, private villas, exotic train journeys, and ocean voyages. AAA Members receive an added perk — a free 1-level membership upgrade when you book & deposit a Journese vacation by 8/29/14. SEE PAGE 9
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AAA TRAVELER
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014
Parents and students can start school year off safely Back-to-school brings new challenges for drivers, pedestrians
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s students begin a new school year, AAA East Central reminds motorists to be aware of increased child pedestrian activity, school bus presence and traffic congestion in and around neighborhoods and school zones. Launched in 1946, AAA’s “School’s Open – Drive Carefully” awareness campaign was created to help reduce child pedestrian fatalities and injuries. AAA offers the following advice for motorists during the school year: Follow the speed limit — School zone speed limits are purposefully set low. A pedestrian struck by a vehicle traveling at 25 mph is nearly two-thirds less likely to be killed compared to a pedestrian struck by a vehicle traveling just 10 mph faster. Look for children crossing the street — Children are unpredictable and may have difficulty gauging the distance and speed of an approaching car. They may not be paying attention to traffic, and may cross the street mid-block or between parked cars. Be aware of buses — Learn the flashing signal light system school bus drivers use to alert motorists of pending actions. Yellow flashing lights indicate that the bus is preparing to stop to load or unload children. Motorists should slow down and prepare to stop. Red flashing lights and extended stop arms indicate that the bus has stopped, and that children are getting on or off.
STAY ALERT — Motorists need to be vigilant around bicycles and pedestrians. Motorists must stop and wait until the red lights stop flashing, the extended stop sign is withdrawn, and the bus begins moving before driving again. For your state’s specific laws, refer to the AAA Digest of Motor Laws, available for free at drivinglaws.AAA.com. Come to a complete stop at intersections with stop signs — Research shows that more than one third of drivers roll through stop signs in school zones or neighborhoods. Always come to a complete stop, checking carefully for children on sidewalks and in crosswalks
before proceeding. Reverse responsibly — Every vehicle has blind spots. Check for children on the sidewalk, in the driveway and around your vehicle before slowly backing up. Watch for bicycles — Children on bikes are often inexperienced, unsteady and unpredictable. Slow down and allow at least four feet of passing distance between your vehicle and any bicyclist. Keep your eyes on the road at all times — Remove any distractions that
may draw your attention away from driving, such as cell phones or in-car entertainment and navigation systems. Research shows that taking your eyes off the road for just two seconds doubles your chances of crashing. If your children are walking to school, review the following guidelines with them before the first day of class: Stay on the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic, in single file, as far away from the road as possible. Cross streets only at the corner or a crosswalk — Never cross between parked cars or mid-block. The National Highway Traffic Safety Association reports more than 80 percent of child pedestrian deaths occur at non-intersection locations. Look both ways before crossing — Look left, right and left again before crossing the street. Wait until approaching cars come to a complete stop before stepping into the roadway. Listen to traffic helpers — Safety patrollers and crossing guards are there to help. Put down the devices — Teach children and teens to look up and pay attention to their surroundings, not their cell phones, when walking. If they need to text or take a call, they should stop walking and find a safe area to use their phone. For more on traffic and pedestrian safety, visit AAA.com/community.
Know a good mechanic? We do. BODY SHOPS Conns Body Shop 2247 Bardstown Road, Louisville (502) 458-7360 Conns Body Shop II 9903 Taylorsville Road, Louisville (502) 267-8680 Kavanaughs Paint and Body 1376 Belmar Drive, Louisville (502) 459-7302 SMI Collision 11400 Westport Road, Louisville (502) 426-0226 SMI Collision 4164 Westport Road, Louisville (502) 896-3340 Fred Meador Body Shop 7100 Russellville Road, Bowling Green (270) 781-2563 Lambright’s Body Shop 9070 Highway 44 East, Mt. Washington (502) 955-8990 Facilities in red are Show Your Card & Save Partners. * These facilities are pre-purchase inspection sites. SERVICE CENTERS Atwood Automotive* 10710 Bluegrass Parkway, Louisville (502) 493-8989 Dents, Dings & Color 185 Arnold Drive, Shepherdsville (502) 957-5111 Bill Etscorn & Sons Auto Service 3935 Bardstown Road, Louisville (502) 499-8245 Harlan Automotive 408 North 4th Street, Murray (270) 767-0101 John Overley Automotive 3800 Fern Valley Rd., Louisville (502) 964-8459
You know how valuable your AAA card is. Now give this gift of security, value, and peace of mind.
Give AAA! To purchase a AAA Gift Membership, call or visit your local AAA Office or AAA.com.
1-800-441-5008
Medley’s Auto Care 4601 Shelbyville Road, Louisville (502) 893-7293 Medley’s Auto & Truck Alignment Service 3913 Shepherdsville Rd., Louisville (502) 459-5740 Shuffitts Automotive* 2313 S. Preston Street, Louisville (502) 636-3076 Harrods Creek Auto Service 9705 LaGrange Rd., Louisville (502) 425-2717 S&S Transmission 4163 Bardstown Rd., Louisville (502) 499-0830 Barr Automotive, Inc. 3340 Bypass Rd., Brandenburg (270) 422-7442 K&G Oil and Tire Center 4306 W. Hwy. 146, Buckner (502) 222-2683 Gillie Hyde Auto Mall 610 Happy Valley Road, Glasgow (270) 651-2125 Lee Myles Transmission & Auto Care 945 US 31W Bypass, Bowling Green (270) 781-9339 McCarty Auto 927 Crabtree Avenue, Owensboro (270) 683-1118 Probilt Automotive 4106 Preston Highway, Louisville (502)363-2327 AAA’s Approved Auto Repair Program takes the guess work out of finding quality auto repair. AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities meet AAA’s standards for customer service and provide a12-month/12,000 mile repair warranty.
Just look for the sign.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014
AAA TRAVELER
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Roadwise Rx — A safe driving “prescription” for seniors AAA offers solutions for mature drivers and their families Kentucky Official publication of AAA East Central Published monthly (except bimonthly Aug./Sept., Nov./Dec.) by AAA East Central 321 Whittington Parkway, Louisville, Kentucky 40222 USPS 891-900 ISSN 1941-3696 Periodicals Postage Paid at Louisville, Kentucky Postmaster: Send address changes to AAA, Traveler, Kentucky c/o AAA, 321 Whittington Parkway Louisville, KY 40222 Subscription Rate: $1 included in Primary Membership dues. All others: $2/year. Publisher .................................James E. Lehman Managing Editor ...........................Douglas O’Neil Editorial Office 321 Whittington Parkway, Louisville, KY 40222 (502) 582-3311 e-mail: ky-aaatraveler@aaaec.com
AAA EAST CENTRAL Chairman: ................................................Richard S. Hamilton Vice Chairman:....................................... James E. Broome, Jr. Vice Chairman:....................................... Douglas W. Caldwell 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**, Douglas W. Caldwell, 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, Mary Lynn Laughlin, William Duff McCrady, James M. McDonnell, Thomas V. McKernan Jr., Martha Hartle Munsch, Gary K. Munsie** KENTUCKY REGION BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chairman .............................................Dan Ray Clagett Vice-Chairman .......................................Gary K. Munsie Robert S. Allison**, Kurt Broecker**, James E. Broome, Carolle Jones Clay, Bart Doerhoefer, Elizabeth Hughes, James M. McDonnell, Dennis Newberry**, Bruce J. Roth**, Robert Royer**, Tuck Tinsley, III *ex officio **emeritus directors
By Richard Hamilton Chairman, AAA East Central very day more than 10,000 Americans turn 65, a trend that’s set to continue for the next two decades. By 2020, the United States will have more than 40 million licensed drivers 65 and older, about one in four drivers on the road. According to a new report from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, older Americans are extending their time behind the wheel. Eighty-four percent of Americans 65 and older held a driver’s license in 2010 compared to barely half in the early 1970s. Most older drivers also take medications, which can impair driving ability at any age but can be especially problematic for seniors. The foundation report: Understanding Older Drivers: An Examination of Medical Conditions, Medication Use and Travel Behaviors, revealed that 90 percent of older drivers use prescription medications with two-thirds taking multiple medications. The majority of seniors are safe drivers — more likely to self regulate by reducing daily travel, avoiding driving at night, or driving fewer days per week. At the same time work-related commutes for drivers 65 and older have more than doubled in the past two decades and 68 percent drivers age 85 or older report driving five or more days per week. We all know just how dangerous drinking and driving can be, but a previous AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety study found only about one in four motorists is aware of the deadly consequences medications can have on their driving.
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Richard Hamilton Although it might seem easy and natural, driving is a very complex skill. It involves processing information about traffic, road conditions, signals, markings, and vehicle behavior; making decisions based on that information, and then acting all in rapid-fire succession. A typical driver makes 20 decisions per mile, with usually less than half a second to react to avoid a potential crash. AAA’s Roadwise Rx is an online tool that details common side effects of prescription and over-the-counter medications. It generates personalized feedback on how medications, herbal supplements and foods, and their interactions with each other, can impact driving safety. Drivers are encouraged to discuss the confidential results with their doctor or pharmacist to learn how to mitigate any possible crash risks.
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MAIN OFFICE Hurstbourne 321 Whittington Parkway ......................................502-425-7885 BRANCH OFFICES Downtown 445 East Market Street .........................................502-581-0665 Shively 1805 Rockford Lane............................................. 502-449-2529 Fern Valley 3614 Fern Valley Road ......................................... 502-964-3787 Elizabethtown 2914 Ring Road................................................... 270-765-4109 800-813-7284 Owensboro 1600 Frederica Street ...........................................270-683-8034 800-974-1872 Paducah 2909 James Sanders Boulevard ............................270-443-6478 866-764-4666 Bowling Green 1770 Scottsville Road ..........................................270-781-7235 877-506-0057 Emergency Road Service ONLY (Louisville area): 423-8222 Auto Travel Information (Louisville area): 582-2326 Membership Information (Louisville area): 423-5733 Insurance information: 582-3311 or 800-727-2552 Travel Agency information: 800-727-2552 In Kentucky, where no club office is available, call 800-727-2552 or visit AAA.com. For advertising information, contact: Leah Koch • Regional Sales Manager H&A Media Group 402- 592-5000, ext 472 Lkoch@hamediagroup.com Copyright ©2014 by AAA East Central. Publication of an advertisement in the AAA Traveler does not constitute an endorsement of the product or service by the AAA Traveler or by AAA East Central, except in the case of products and services which are being offered by AAA East Central.
Seniors often visit multiple primary and specialty health care providers so it is critical each one knows about all medications being used. That’s important because certain medications are known to be associated with an increased risk of vehicle collision. In the AAA Foundation survey, just 18 percent of participants ages 56 to 93 reported receiving a warning from a health-care professional about potential driver-impairing (PDI) medications such as ACE inhibitors, sedatives and beta-blockers. And just because a medication is over the counter doesn’t mean there are no side effects. These are real medicines with real benefits when used according to directions and real risks when misused. The active ingredients in many over-the-counter cold and allergy medications for example, can have the same effect on driving as being over the legal limit for blood alcohol concentration. As a leading road safety advocate for over a century, AAA is committed to helping mature motorists remain mobile for as long as safely possible. Roadwise Rx is the only tool of its kind that looks at medications and associated driving hazards. AAA provides convenient and confidential online access to a wealth of interactive resources including Roadwise Rx, at no cost to seniors and their families. You’ll find a variety of tools and resources at SeniorDriving. AAA.com, ranging from driver improvement courses, to skill assessment tools and free community-based programs. All of them are designed to help ensure a lifetime of safe mobility for you and those you care about.
AAA Member Rewards Visa offers rewards at the pump and on the road Earn points on gas, Hertz rentals, groceries and more
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he average American spends nearly 5% of their annual paycheck on gas and motor oil.* These weekly fill ups can take a big bite out of any budget. That’s why new AAA Member Rewards Visa® credit cardholders have a good reason to “Get Pumped.” Now through August 31, AAA members who open a new Member Rewards credit card account and make at least $100 in purchases within the first 90 days will receive a $50 gas card. (Students are not eligible to receive this gas card offer.) With the AAA Member Rewards Visa credit card, cardholders can earn points on all their purchases. Get triple points on qualifying AAA and travel purchases, including AAA memberships, travel packages, hotel and flight bookings, luggage, attraction tickets and Hertz car rentals. Earn double points on gas, grocery and drug store purchases, and one point per dollar on all other purchases.
Earning rewards is simple – just use your card everywhere you shop. There’s no special enrollment process, spending tiers or limit on the number of points you can earn or redeem. With an easy redemption process, you can redeem points for cash back, AAA vouchers, gift cards and statement credits. The AAA Member Rewards Visa card is perfect for people on the go, as it offers cardholders several travelrelated benefits: • Low foreign transaction fees • Auto rental collision damage waiver • Lost luggage reimbursement • Travel accident insurance To apply for the AAA Member Rewards Visa credit card with the $50 gas card offer, stop by any AAA branch or visit AAA.com/creditcard. For information about rates, fees, other costs and benefits associated with the use of this credit card, or to apply, visit any AAA branch or the website above and refer to the disclo-
sures accompanying the online credit application. Earn 1 point per dollar of new net retail purchase transactions (qualifying purchases less credits, returns and adjustments) charged to the card each billing cycle. Earn 2 points per dollar for purchases made with the card at any eligible gas, grocery or pharmacy retail merchant categories as designated by us. Earn 3 points per dollar for purchases made with the card through any participating AAA Club when AAA is the merchant of record, or at eligible retail travel merchant categories as designated by us. Additional restrictions apply. Details accompany new account materials. *Reported by the U.S. Energy Administration in 2012. This credit card program is issued and administered by FIA Card Services, N.A. Visa and Visa Signature are registered trademarks of Visa International Service Association and are used by the issuer pursuant to license from Visa U.S.A., Inc. ©2014 Bank of America Corporation.
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Back to School — Extra insurance coverage may be in order for college students living away from home By Robin Jones hen Kathy Hall, a junior in college, moved into her own off-campus apartment, she brought along things most students own: clothes, books, jewelry, a laptop computer, and a smartphone. She also had her car, which was still on her parents’ auto insurance policy. One thing she didn’t have? Confidence that insurance would cover all of her belongings if they were stolen or damaged. Often, parents think their child’s possessions are covered under their own homeowners policies or they figure their child doesn’t have enough valuable items to justify separate coverage. That’s not always the case. If your child is going away to school, whether in state or out, now’s a good time to assess his or her insurance needs. My child lives in a dorm. Do we need to get renters insurance? If you’re still claiming your child as a dependent, most homeowners policies will cover him or her for personal liability and may cover some of your child’s personal property in a dorm. How can I make sure my child’s electronics and other valuables are properly insured? Most homeowners policies cover computers and electronic equipment, but it’s common for policies to limit the amount of coverage—and limit it
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even further when the property is away from the primary residence. If your child’s electronic devices would cost more than $1,000 to replace, you might want to add an endorsement to your policy allowing you to increase your coverage of certain items. When do I need to consider buying a separate renters policy for my college student? Consider it when your child moves into his or her own rental unit. If your child stays in a rental unit for an extended time, the unit may not
be considered “temporary,” at which point it might be a good idea to get him or her a separate policy. Typically, the landlord’s policy will cover only the building, not your child’s property. Renters insurance may be better able to pay to replace your child’s belongings in the event of a covered loss, such as theft or fire. It may also provide coverage for alternative housing if the apartment becomes uninhabitable. Also, many renters insurance policies include liability coverage, which may be helpful if somebody gets injured in your student’s apartment. Should I keep my daughter on my auto policy if she’s away at school and doesn’t have a car? Some parents exclude their child from their auto policy when he or she is away at school to reduce their premium. Before doing so, consider these things. Your daughter might borrow a friend’s car or catch a ride in the car of an irresponsible friend. If she’s excluded from your auto policy, she
may not have coverage if she’s liable for injury or damage to another, or she may be left uncompensated for her own injuries. Moreover, your daughter will probably want to use your car while she’s home on breaks, and if she’s specifically excluded on your policy, any loss that occurs while she’s driving your car won’t be covered. It’s probably a good idea to contact your agent to discuss potential risks and the rules of your auto policy. My son took his car to college. Do I need to change his auto insurance coverage? Take a fresh look at your auto policy to make sure your son’s insurance coverage is appropriate for the school environment. Consider factors such as: Who owns the vehicle? How often will it be used? Also, consider getting physical damage coverage in case the car is vandalized or stolen. FOR MORE INFORMATION
Trust AAA to steer you right on all your current and future Auto, Home and Life insurance needs. Combining your coverage with one insurance company could make a significant difference in your premium. Call 800.207.7947, or visit AAA.com/insurance for more information or to schedule a comprehensive Insurance review. AAA – your trusted insurance advisor.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014
AAA TRAVELER
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AAA MOTORIST
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014
Protect your family travels for less with TripAssist Family Care Travel insurance plan includes free coverage for children, enhanced benefits
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raveling with kids is always unpredictable. Luckily, AAA’s newest travel insurance package, TripAssist Family Care, covers more of the unexpected for less. With TripAssist Family Care, there is no additional charge for children up to age 17 when traveling with parents or grandparents. “TripAssist Family Care makes travel insurance premiums more affordable for families with young children,” said Ruth Nagy, AAA East Central Managing Director of Travel Services. “Families receive greater coverage for a lower cost.” TripAssist Family Care includes expanded trip cancellation and interruption coverage. It protects your travel investment if your trip is delayed or cancelled for a covered reason, such as a major injury, jury duty or other unforeseen circumstances. New features to this package include reimbursement of Frequent Flyer miles and associated airline fees, and vehicle return coverage if your road trip should be interrupted. The plan also includes increased baggage protection, should your luggage not arrive when and where you do. Baggage loss and damage coverage is $1,000 — double that of comparable insurance packages. Baggage delay coverage is increased to $300, a 50 percent
BETTER SAFE — TripAssist Family Care covers more of the unexpected for less. increase from previous plans. As any parent or grandparent knows, children often get sick or injured at the worst possible moment. If you should need medical treatment on your vacation, whether domestic or overseas, you will most likely have to pay expensive out-of-pocket fees. TripAssist Family Care includes
Spain’s Classics & Portugal capital, especially at its lively and historic center (the Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor). After a fascinating tour of the Royal Palace’s lavish halls, banquet rooms, throne room, armory and courtyard, travel south to Toledo, a UWH site and Spain’s glorious medieval capital. Marvel at its Gothic cathedral, a 13th-century synagogue and Santo Tomé (church home of El Greco’s The Burial of Count Orgaz). Exclusive AAA Excursion (included): Madrid never sleeps...and nights are a crucial part of the capital’s lifestyle. Enjoy Old World ambience and traditional Castilian tapas in the city’s heart. Then view and visit its many attractive sites illuminated at night, including the Cibeles Fountain and the Gran Via thoroughfare. Continue on to the extraordinary Moorish-flavored city of Córdoba. Tour the Mezquita (UWH), an architectural marvel built by the Moors in the 8th century as a magnificent mosque, which then became the city’s cathedral in the 16th century. See also its well-preserved Jewish Quarter. In Seville, Spain’s “cultural capital,” see Columbus’ tomb, the ornate cathedral (UWH) and Giralda Bell Tower. Enjoy a walking tour of quaint old Santa Cruz Quarter with its bright
$25,000 in primary medical coverage for emergency medical costs that occur during your trip. There’s no need to file claims with your regular health insurer first. If you should need emergency medical evacuation, you’ll also be reimbursed for transportation costs to the medical facility and back home, up to $500,000.
There are several add-ons available to enhance TripAssist Family Care coverage. TripAssist Family Care Trip+ offers double the limits for select benefits, including missed connection coverage, travel delay, emergency medical coverage and transportation, and baggage loss/damage or delay. For just $34 per adult, the Required to Work option provides trip cancellation and interruption coverage when your travel plans change due to workrelated issues. Travelers can also add Cancel Anytime coverage to their TripAssist Family Care plan. As its name suggests, the Cancel Anytime add-on reimburses you no matter why your plans change, up to an hour before your scheduled departure. This option offers more flexibility than a traditional trip cancellation policy. It’s a great option for anyone whose travel plans may change for a variety of reasons not covered by most trip cancellation plans.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
There are several factors affecting the cost of any travel insurance policy. Before deciding on a plan, be sure you understand what you’re buying and what each policy does and does not cover. For more information, visit AAA.com/travelinsurance.
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BARCELONA’S PARC GÜELL
SEVILLE’S PLAZA DE ESPAÑA
VALENCIA’S “CITY OF ARTS & SCIENCES”
Spain’s Classics & Portugal •
March 11-24 •
FÁTIMA
flowers, white-washed buildings and winding streets. Visit Plaza de España and María Luisa Park, one of Europe’s loveliest. Top it off with regional cuisine and an unforgettable flamenco performance by Seville’s top dancers. Another UWH site awaits at Granada’s immense hilltop palace; Alhambra is a marvel of geometric patterns, tilework, fountains and gardens. In Valencia, a treasure trove of Roman and Arabic architecture surrounded by citrus groves, visit Lladro and learn about the history and making of its world-famous porcelain figurines. A “paella experience” reveals where this Valencia rice & seafood dish originated and how it’s made — and includes a tasty paella lunch! Last but not least, Barcelona buzzes with life! See the city’s sights, including Antonio Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia (UWH), Parc Güell, Casa Batlló and the unconventional Casa Milà. Exclusive AAA Excursion (included): Tantalize your tastebuds at Moncho’s, a popular waterfront restaurant in Barcelona famous for its fine seafood and Catalan regional cuisine. After dinner, enjoy a panoramic evening tour of this unique city. By tour’s end, you’ll agree that Spain & Portugal are indeed magnífico!
AAA Member Rate: $4,519
Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Louisville-Lisbon, BarcelonaLouisville), accommodations, motorcoach sightseeing/admissions, 19 meals, tour director (in Portugal & Spain), government taxes/fees. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details. Visit AAA.com/travel for more information. Call 1-800-354-8761 to make reservations.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014
AAA TRAVELER
Member Benefits • Exclusive Offers
PAGE 9
1-800-354-8761 • AAA.com/travel
When you require the very finest in travel! Receive a free one-level membership upgrade when you book & deposit a Journese vacation by 8/29/14 or a free one-year renewal of your current Premier membership.
Sample Accommodations * Grand Cayman Beach Suites
This is the island’s finest all-suites beach & golf hotel resort. Its 800-square-foot suites have spectacular views of the Caribbean, Seven Mile Beach and uniquely designed pools. It offers exclusive on-site facilities — a 24–7 fitness center, a deluxe European boutique spa, water sports facilities, an on-site dive center, catamaran trips and a Jack Nicklaus–designed golf course.
Terranea Resort: Southern California
Dramatically poised at the edge of the Pacific on Palos Verdes Peninsula, Terraneaʼs 102 acres are infused with the elegance of a classic Mediterranean estate, the casual energy of coastal Southern California. Just south of LA, it includes 582 guest rooms, suites, bungalows, casitas and villas and a host of world-class amenities, including spectacular dining venues, a spa, a stunning 9-hole golf course and family-friendly activities.
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit: Mexico
A tropical all-inclusive getaway, Grand Velas All Suites & Spa Resort is a 5 Diamond property on magnificent Banderas Bay along the Mexican Riviera and offers luxurious, all-ocean view accommodations.
Castello di Casole: Tuscany, Italy
Castello di Casole offers a rare opportunity to enjoy the rich amenities of an Italian castle on a country estate. Cypress-lined lanes ascend to this 41-suite boutique hotel. Dotting its 4,200-acre estate are restored Farmhouse Villas, each with dramatic glass-tiled private pools. The castle dates to the 10th century; restoration in 2005 used traditional construction methods and authentic materials, while spaces were updated with modern conveniences and luxuries.
*For these and other Journese
luxury accommodations, call AAA!
JOURNESESM — the luxury brand of Pleasant Holidays, one of AAA Travel‛s most popular partners — embodies the promise of an exquisite journey, with fine travel made seamless and effortless through experienced Destination Specialists. Travel experts personally visit and hand-select the world’s finest accommodations, establishing trusted supplier relationships to ensure the finest VIP treatment at premier resorts, villas & homes and on cruises. Serving discerning travelers since 1977, Journese offers customized vacations to Australia, the Caribbean, Cook Islands, Costa Rica, England, Fiji, France, Italy, Mexico, New Zealand, Tahiti, Hawaii and the rest of the USA. Each Journese vacation is backed by world-class concierge service and can be enhanced even further with upscale amenities, first-class air and exquisite experiences ranging from helicopter excursions to romantic dinner cruises, from invigorating water adventures to spa rejuvenation. Enjoy a completely immersive experience. Revel in cultural entertainment, discover a town’s past with a private guide or explore nature with captivating water sports. For example, you may choose to soar over North Kohala’s rugged cliffs on an invigorating helicopter ride, followed by an exclusive hike to a refreshing mountain pool. Your Destination Specialist will tailor every aspect of your vacation to meet your
needs and ensure your experience is seamless and memorable. This personalized concierge service accompanies you from the initial planning stages to the conclusion of your inspiring journey. Whether you desire exhilarating adventure or tranquil replenishment, your specialist can transform your vision into reality. In addition to 4- and 5-star resorts, Journese offers an all-encompassing portfolio of private villas and other residences, luxury train journeys, chartered yacht voyages and premier ocean journeys. Innovative choices like these let you discover a new perspective on the world from a different angle. Fine travel: If you can dream it, Journese can very likely bring it to life!
PAGE 10
AAA TRAVELER
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014
1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
EXPERIENCE SNOWMOBILING & SNOWCOACHING
Jackson Hole Snowmobile Adventure Package
The only thing that can beat the exhilaration of snowmobiling is snowmobiling through the splendor of America’s mountain West at Jackson Hole WY! Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned snowmobiler, this package is for lovers of adventure and natural beauty. Start in the Gros Ventre Mountain Range — a great opportunity to view wildlife. Follow trails framing Jackson Hole Valley and enjoy incredible views of the Tetons. Along the way, sightings of elk, deer, moose, coyote and bighorn sheep are common. Travel through Grand Teton National Park on your way to a full day of snowcoach touring in Yellowstone National Park. Enjoy all that Jackson Hole has to offer on your own for a day. Then head into the Wyoming Range for unforgettable scenery and exciting rides. Bring a swimsuit, because you’re in for a treat — a full-day snowmobile adventure with Granite Hot Springs as your destination. After an easy 11-mile groomed Forest Service trail, soak in the 106-degree natural hot spring waters and enjoying a poolside BBQ, all the while surrounded by snow-covered mountains. It’s an experience to remember!
Feb 7-13 or Feb 14-20 •
AAA Member Rate: $1,875
Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability and includes roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, 10 meals, entrance fees (national parks/attractions/ activities), 3 days of guided snowmobile touring with instruction, all necessary equipment (helmet, gloves, snowsuit, boots, etc), 1-day guided snowcoach tour of Yellowstone National Park, tips for bellmen & included meals. Minimum age to operate a snowmobile in the National Forest is 14; must be accompanied by a parent. Ask about available add-on airfare. Visit AAA.com/travel for more information.
Enjoy a amid winter’s off-peak solitude!
YELLOWSTONE IN WINTER Begin this unique and awesome off-season adventure in SALT LAKE CITY UT; see Temple Square and witness the awesome power of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir (schedule permitting). Travel to WEST YELLOWSTONE MT, gateway to Yellowstone National Park. Ride private vintage snowcoaches (heated!) to see Firehole Falls, Old Faithful and wildlife. Drive through majestic Grand Teton National Park to JACKSON HOLE WY, where you may choose to ride a sleigh through the National Elk Refuge and visit the National Museum of Wildlife Art or, for an additional fee, opt for a Granite Hot Springs snowmobile tour (bring a swimsuit!). Drive through Snake River Canyon and visit Utah Olympic Park before heading home.
Jan 31–Feb 5 •
AAA Member Rate: $2,089
Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Louisville–Salt Lake City), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, luggage handling (1 bag per person), accommodations, motorcoach sightseeing & admissions (as indicated), 9 meals, services of a AAA Tour Manager (if minimumparticipation goal is met), taxes, gratuities for guide & driver. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details. Visit AAA.com/travel for more information.
ULTIMATE ALASKA: Winter Wonderland Tour See the “real” Alaska summer visitors never see! An extraordinary chance to witness the Northern Lights, the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race and Alaska’s winter wildlife & wilderness! Feb 26–March 8 AAA Member Rate: $2,995
EXPERIENCE ALL THIS...AND MORE! Fairbanks • Aurora Borealis Viewings Thompson Cultural Center • Trans-Alaska Pipeline Alaska Railroad • Talkeetna • Seward Highway Alaska Wildlife Conservation & Sealife Centers Alyeska Resort • Alyeska Tram • Anchorage Alaska Native Heritage Center • Alaska Zoo Mushers Banquet • Happy Trails Kennel Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race Headquarters Additional Optional Adventures Available!
Meet mushers...
& their dogs!
Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, hotel luggage handling, sightseeing transportation/admissions, 14 meals, in-Alaska guide, hand warmers and services of a AAA Tour Manager (if minimum-participation goal is met). Visit AAA.com/GoAlaska for more information. Ask about available add-on airfare.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014
AAA TRAVELER
1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
Don’t own a home in Florida? No reason you can’t be a “snowbird” and live the leisurely (and warm!) life-style of the Sunshine State for up 28 nights in early 2015. And AAA has just what you need: 2-week Saturday-to-Saturday rentals of a roomy furnished vacation home in peaceful Port Charlotte! Image representative of available homes. On the southwest Gulf Coast just No 2 homes are identical, but styles & amenities are similar. 100 miles south of Tampa and 65 miles north of Naples, Port Charlotte is a premier ecotourism destination that’s off the beaten path and free of crowds, yet offers sailing, boating, fishing, birding, shopping, dining, arts & more. Choose from a selection of attractively landscaped homes, and use yours as a base from which to explore the local area’s uncrowded beaches and/or the many attractions within comfortable driving distance. Or just settle in, take advantage of the screened-in swimming pool and laugh at winter back home! These 3-bedroom/2-bathroom (some with 2.5) homes can comfortably sleep 6 (bedding/linens provided). They feature fully equipped kitchens (dishwasher, stove/oven, refrigerator/freezer, microwave) and dining areas for everyone to gather in...screened-in heated pools for swimming, lounging and loafing! Living rooms feature entertainment centers (with cable). Optional weekly cleaning/linen service is available for an additional fee. With AAA’s help, you can look forward to winter; contact a AAA travel agent now! HOME
PAGE 11
2015 RENTAL PERIOD
AAA MEMBER RATE
18106 Lake Worth Blvd ......................... 1/31–2/14 (2 weeks) ..............SOLD OUT! 18130 Lake Worth Blvd ......................... 1/31–2/14 (2 weeks) ..............SOLD OUT! 18239 Temple Ave .................................. 1/31–2/28 (4 weeks) ..............SOLD OUT! 22491 Cezane ......................................... 2/28–3/14 (2 weeks) ..................... $2,980 18106 Lake Worth Blvd .......................... 3/7–3/21 (2 weeks) ...................... $3,100 3495 Larue St.......................................... 3/28–4/11 (2 weeks) ..................... $2,515 Rates vary by home selected, are subject to availability at time of booking and include accommodations, taxes & fees and pool heating fee. Visit AAA.com/HomeRentals.
PAGE 12
AAA TRAVELER
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014
1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
and see more of the Hawaiian Islands when you cruise with NCL! AAA’s special 9-night Hawaiian vacation features a 2-night pre-cruise stay in Honolulu, a tour of the USS Arizona Memorial and a 7-night Pride of America cruise featuring 4 islands (Oahu, Maui, Hawaii & Kauai). Jan 15-24: from $2,246 Feb 26–March 7: from $2,350 March 19-28: from $2,350 April 9-18: from $2,300 May 14-23: from $2,175 AAA MEMBER RATES are per person (double occupancy), are subject to availability at time of booking and include airport/hotel transfers (for flights purchased through NCL), 2 pre-cruise nights at the Marriott Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa, USS Arizona Memorial/Pearl Harbor excursion, hotel/pier transfers, 7-night NCL Pride of America cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals, government taxes/fees, port charges and pier/airport transfers (for flights purchased through NCL). Ship’s registry: USA. Ask about available add-on airfare.
SOUTHERN CHARM Jan 31–Feb 5 •
AAA Member Rate: $1,999
Here’s a unique escorted tour of 3 distinct destinations embodying the South’s fascinating history, genteel culture and coastal comforts. Rub shoulders with generations of Charleston gentry, soak up Savannah’s seductively languid ambiance and luxuriate in the exclusive nature and natural assets of Jekyll Island. Experience true Southern charm and hospitality at historic hotels in Charleston and on Jekyll Island.
SAVANNAH GA
DINNER CRUISE ON A YACHT MAGNOLIA PLANTATION STORYTELLER DINNER OLD CITY MARKET CITY TOUR
CHARLESTON SC
TOUR OF HISTORIC SAVANNAH GEORGIA SEA TURTLE CENTER RIVER STREET SHOPPING LUNCH AT PAULA DEEN’S “LADY & SONS”
TRAM TOUR OF HISTORIC DISTRICT ST SIMON’S ISLAND TOUR INCLUDING LIGHTHOUSE & FT FREDERICA NATURALIST-LED BEACH STROLL
JEKYLL ISLAND GA
Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Louisville-Charlotte NC), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, motorcoach transportation, guided sightseeing, 9 meals, local guides, services of a AAA Tour Manager (if minimum-participation goal is met) and more. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details. Visit AAA.com/travel for more information.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014
AAA TRAVELER
PAGE 13
1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
BOWLING GREEN . . . . . . . . . . . . 270-781-7235 • 1-877-506-0057 DOWNTOWN (Louisville). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .502-581-0665 ELIZABETHTOWN. . . . . . . . . . . . . 270-765-4109 • 1-800-813-7284 FERN VALLEY (Louisville) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .502-964-3787 HURSTBOURNE (Louisville) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .502-425-7885 OWENSBORO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 270-683-8034 • 1-800-974-1872 PADUCAH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 270-443-6478 • 1-866-764-4666 SHIVELY (Louisville) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .502-449-2529 ____________________________________________________________ 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. AAA 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.
Irish Pubs
&Folklore
ESCORTED TOUR OPERATED BY CIE TOURS INTERNATIONAL
May 12-21 AAA Member Rate: $1,899
Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, motorcoach sightseeing, itinerary attraction admissions, local taxes, hotel service charges & baggage handling (1 bag per person), walking-tour audio headsets, 15 meals (including Kate Kearney’s Cottage Irish Night, “Food, Folk & Fairies” dinner show at Brazen Head Pub and 3 table d’hote dinners) and in-Ireland professional guide & driver. Ask about available add-on airfare.
Car-free, carefree adventures
Rates are per person, are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip motorcoach transportation from the Louisville 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!
A Derby Dinner Matinee & Schimpff’s Candy Sept 17 OR Dec 9 •
AAA Member Rate: $90
Tour Schimpff’s Confectionery for a facinating behind-the-scenes look at candy making. Founded in 1891, Schimpff’s has long been hailed for its quality, service and oh-so-delicious treats. Then it’s on to Derby Dinner Playhouse for a buffet lunch and a live performance — “A Mighty Fortress Is Our Basement” by the Church Basement Ladies on Sept 17 OR “It’s a Wonderful Life” on Dec 9. 1 meal.
A Fall Day in Brown County IN Oct 26 •
AAA Member Rate: $65
Nashville IN, in the heart of Brown County, is known as the “Artist Colony of the Midwest.” Fall is the perfect time to visit the many quaint craft and antique shops that abound. There’s plenty of time for shopping and maybe stopping by the Nashville General Store to browse and have lunch on your own. The colorful trees make a lovely backdrop for a truly enjoyable day.
AAA.com
Linking you & your next vacation! FLIGHTS • RENTAL CARS HOTEL/MOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS Research & book travel arrangements from the comfort of your home – 24/7. TRAVEL WITH SOMEONE YOU TRUST.®
AAA Featured Vacations are specific cruise, motorcoach or air tour vacations created or selected by AAA Travel for their value, amenities and/or inclusions.
Look for the AAA Featured Vacations logo to identify out-of-the-ordinary offerings.
Christmas in the Valley
Nov 29. Start the holidays off with a heartwarming down-home show that’s sure to please everyone! The Renfro Valley “Christmas in the Valley” show is an original stage production featuring the entire Renfro Valley cast of entertainers. It combines Christmas music and lighthearted comedy. A delicious boarding house meal is included. The day is guaranteed to fill you with the holiday spirit! 1 meal. AAA Member Rate: $95.
Rosemary Clooney Holiday Tour
Dec 4-5. “Come on-a Rosie’s House” with AAA for a holiday visit to the hometowns of legendary singer and screen actress Rosemary Clooney. Visit her holiday-festooned 1840-era Augusta KY home; see the world’s largest collection of “White Christmas” memorabilia. After a tour of the town, journey to her nearby childhood hometown of Maysville KY for an overnight, a tour and dinner in the Russell Theatre. Visit nearby Old Washington, festively decorated for the holidays. 4 meals. AAA Member Rate: $295.
Jingle Rails & Winter Mart at Eiteljorg Museum: Indianapolis IN
Dec 6. This tour’s for the young and young at heart. An absolutely fascinating display that features 7 ultra-sized model trains and nearly 1,200 feet of track. A must see! After an included lunch, visit the annual Winter Market featuring more than 30 artists displaying beautiful regional handmade items. A phenomenal exhibit that will definitely put you in the holiday spirit! 1 meal. AAA Member Rate: $95. Rates are per person, are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip motorcoach transportation from the Louisville 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.
PAGE 14
AAA TRAVELER
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014
1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
2015 River Cruising
®
Intimate, unforgettable journeys into the heart of Europe
Exploring the World in Comfort®
2015 Early Booking Discount 2-FOR-1 cruise plus international air discounts Hurry — this offer expires soon!
AAA FEATURED VACATIONS DEPARTURES IN 2015 Rhine Getaway: April 7 & Oct 9
Portraits of Southern France: Sept 2
Castles on clifftops and villages on its banks, the Rhine dazzles visitors. Amsterdam to Basel. 8-day cruisetour with 6 tours. Netherlands: Amsterdam, Kinderdijk. Germany: Cologne, Koblenz, Rüdesheim, Heidelberg, Speyer, Breisach. France: Strasbourg. Switzerland: Basel. 20 meals. AAA Member Rate: from $2,330
Explore Burgundy and Provence and savor the enticing flavors of their regional wines and dishes. Chalon to Avignon. 8-day cruisetour with 6 tours. France: Chalon-sur-Saône, Beaune, Saône River, Lyon, Vienne, Tournon, Viviers, Rhône River, Arles, Avignon. 20 meals. AAA Member Rate: from $2,930
Tulips & Windmills: April 14
Elegant Elbe: Oct 10
Painterly landscapes of the Old Masters come to life on this Low Countries sojourn. Amsterdam to Antwerp to Amster-dam. 10day cruisetour with 8 tours. Netherlands: Amsterdam, Ijsselmeer, Hoorn, Arnhem, Kinderdijk, Walcheren, Rotterdam. Belgium: Antwerp, Ghent. 26 meals. AAA Member Rate: from $3,146
From capital to capital, discover the delights of 2 nations. Berlin to Prague. 10-day cruisetour with 8 tours. Germany: Potsdam, Dessau, Wittenberg, Torgau, Meissen, Dresden, Bad Schandau. Czech Republic: Litomĕřice. 1-night hotel stay each in Berlin and Prague. 20 meals. AAA Member Rate: from $3,274
Romantic Danube: June 4 & Oct 11
Paris & Heart of Normandy: Oct 16
Grand cities, spectacular scenery and quaint villages await your discovery along this storied waterway. Budapest to Nuremberg. 8-day cruisetour with 6 tours. Hungary: Budapest. Austria: Vienna, Melk. Germany: Passau, Regensburg, Kelheim, Nuremberg. 20 meals. AAA Member Rate: from $2,330
Revel in the pleasures of the City of Light, then embark on a voyage into pastoral Normandy, with excursions to historic DDay beaches. Paris to Rouen to Paris. 8-day cruisetour with 6 tours. France: Paris, Giverny, Vernon, Seine River, Rouen, Les Andelys, Conflans. 20 meals. AAA Member Rate: from $2,230
Rates are per person (double occupancy), are subject to availability at time of booking and include river-view stateroom, guided touring with audiosets, all onboard meals (featuring regional specialties), a Welcome Cocktail Reception, a Captain’s Farewell Dinner, wine/beer/softdrinks with onboard dinner/lunch, culture curriculum (offerings vary by cruise), port charges and wi-fi (connection speeds may vary). Ask about available add-on airfare.
AAA MEMBER BENEFIT Itineraries of 8-13 days receive a $125.00 per person shipboard credit!
®
Exploring the World in Comfort®
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014
AAA TRAVELER
PAGE 15
Why no two Caribbean cruises are the same Always something new under the sun in this tropical playground
T
he only thing that never changes in the Caribbean is the beautiful weather. The same can be said for Caribbean cruises. Although Caribbean itineraries account for over one third of all departures, no two are alike, with new ships, itineraries, ports and shipboard activities continually adding an element of surprise. Travelers will be amazed at the variety and diversity of Caribbean cruise vacations this year. New ships sailing the Caribbean this season include RCL’s much-anticipated Quantum of the Seas. Quantum makes her debut in November, with a number of 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 167,800-ton ship include SeaPlex, the industry’s largest indoor sports and entertainment complex and the first-ever bumper cars at sea. While Quantum of the Seas may seem like a destination unto itself, Royal Caribbean will be steering her to some of the most storied ports in the Caribbean. Sailing out of New York Harbor from her homeport of Cape Liberty, Quantum of the Seas will offer 7- to 12-night Bahamas, Eastern and Southern Caribbean itineraries during the winter 2014/15 season. All feature
TAKE A CRUISE BREAK — Caribbean cruises are all about choices. a stop at Labadee, Royal Caribbean’s private beach destination. Time challenged travelers looking for a quick fix will find it on a getaway cruise. These popular three- to five-night sailings are ideal for busy travelers who just don’t have the time to take longer sailings. And cruise lines are no longer using just their oldest vessels for short cruises. The newly refurbished Carnival Freedom’s sched-
ule from Fort Lauderdale encompasses two new five-day itineraries — one visiting Ocho Rios and Grand Cayman or Cozumel and the other calling at Grand Turk, Nassau and the private Bahamian island of Half Moon Cay. Celebrity Constellation will be sailing five-night Western Caribbean itineraries from Fort Lauderdale, with stops in George Town, Grand Cayman, famous for spectacular Seven
Mile Beach, and Key West, Florida. Constellation recently underwent a $50 million refurbishment that added Solstice class enhancements including 66 new cabins, the Tuscan Grille specialty restaurant, renovated staterooms and ship-wide Wi-Fi. Not so long ago cruise lines had little or no role in the development of ports. Now destinations like Carnival’s new Mahogany Bay Cruise Center in Roatan, Honduras may be the new paradigm in Caribbean cruising. The $62 million facility encompasses 20 acres of waterfront property, with a variety of water sports, attractions, themed bars, a restaurant and several shops. Historic Falmouth, developed by Royal Caribbean, is located on Jamaica’s north coast, midway between Montego Bay and Ocho Rios. It boasts an impressive collection of restored nineteenth-century Georgian architecture, with authentic shopping and dining and romantic banana boat rides on the Martha Brae River.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Please see this issue’s Departures Guide or log on to AAA.com/cruises for special values on cruise vacations.
Fire and Ice in America’s first National Park Winter in Yellowstone is two million acres of solitude
W
inter may be the best season to take in Yellowstone Park’s many natural wonders. By late fall, the hordes of summer tourists have dwindled down to a handful and with the exception of the hibernating bears, wildlife viewing is at its peak. It’s a magical landscape of frozen waterfalls, and grazing bison under an incredible canopy of stars. Clouds of steam rise from Geyser Basin, turning nearby aspens into “ghost trees” shrouded under an arctic veil of frost. The nation’s first National Park, Yellowstone spills across the borders of Wyoming, Montana and Idaho. Its 2.2-million acres straddle the Continental Divide and sit precariously atop the Yellowstone Caldera. This is where the earth’s molten core comes nearest to its surface and the relentless volcanic forces fuels the world’s largest concentration of geothermal activity, including the park’s more than 300 geysers. Old Faithful, the park’s most celebrated geyser, erupts about every 90 minutes, spewing between 3,700-8,400 gallons of boiling water in a towering plume that can reach 180-feet high. The Upper and Lower Yellowstone Falls are among the most spectacular in North America, while Firehole Falls is a 40 foot cascade that emerges from 800foot thick lava flows. Clouds of mist
winter range. Enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride among the herd, followed by a visit to the National Museum of Wildlife Art. Perched on a bluff overlooking the National Elk Refuge, the museum’s collection includes more than 2,300 works of wildlife art. Near Park City Utah, you’ll “go for the gold” at the site of the 2002 Winter Olympic Games, cradled in the cool embrace of the Wasatch Mountains. Popular attractions include the Comet bobsled run. Billed as the most intense minute of your life, it takes riders through 15 curves, at speeds up to 70 mph and is definitely not for the faint of heart.
A BOUNTY OF BISON — Wildlife viewing is at its peak during the winter. surround the hammering falls and are filled with dozens of rainbows. During the winter, most park roads are closed and visitors access the park by way of snowmobiles and motorized snowcoaches. These luxury snowcoach tours have become a popular way to tour Yellowstone, because they offer a warm and comfortable ride, commanding views, and opportunities to learn about the park from knowledgeable guides. The 42-mile Teton Park Scenic Loop links Yellowstone with Wyoming’s
Grand Teton National Park just to the south. Here, the Teton Range erupts like a row of teeth from a serene valley known as Jackson Hole. The mountains are mirrored by a series of blue moraine lakes, while the Snake River winds erratically across a valley floor. South of Jackson, the scenic Snake River Canyon is surrounded by the soaring peaks of western Wyoming. Wildlife fans will not want to miss the National Elk Refuge in Jackson Hole. The refuge consists of nearly 25,000 acres, where thousands of elk have their
IF YOU GO
Experience the solitude and splendor of this vast winter wilderness aboard AAA Travel’s Yellowstone in Winter escorted tour, Jan. 31-Feb. 5, 2015. Highlights include the world famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir (schedule permitting); a luxury snowcoach excursion into Yellowstone Park to witness Old Faithful and Firehole Falls; choice of a sleigh ride through the National Elk Refuge and the National Museum of Wildlife Art, or (extra cost) snowmobile tour to Granite Hot Springs; Snake River Canyon drive and the Utah Olympic Park. See your AAA Travel Agent for details or visit AAA.com/Travel for more information.
PAGE 16
AAA TRAVELER
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014
Cruising down to Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay Sailing to South America aboard Splendour of the Seas
W
orld Cup fever may have subsided just a little, but there are still plenty of good reasons to see Brazil. The world’s most spectacular waterfall — Iguaçu Falls — is here. So are the largest river and rainforest — the Amazon. And this winter Royal Caribbean International will be taking guests into the very heart of South America aboard Splendour of the Seas. Ports of call include Ilhabela, Brazil; Buenos Aires, Argentina; and Montevideo and Punta Del Este, Uruguay. A special eight-night sailing, departing December 27, 2014, will ring in the New Year at Rio de Janeiro to catch the world-famous fireworks show at Copacabana Beach. Seasons here are the complete opposite of North America, meaning you’ll enjoy summer weather from December through March — wintertime back home. And Royal Caribbean guests will experience the vivid landscapes and rich cultural history firsthand. Home to 17-million people São Paulo is the commercial heart of Brazil. First settled in the 16th century, São Paulo’s historic downtown blends over four centuries of history with modern elements of South America’s largest city. Just off the coast of São Paulo is Ilhabela, Portuguese for Beautiful Island. There are more than 20 miles of beach and over 400 waterfalls tumbling into
other, Punta boasts over 20 miles of flawless sand and surf. Tiny beachside parrillas serve chivito, a mouth-watering Uruguayan steak sandwich that’s bigger and tastier than a hamburger. With its strong Spanish, Portuguese, French and British influences Montevideo boasts a multicultural European charm. Uruguay’s capital city features an eclectic mix of attractions and highlights include the Old City, and the Rambla, a 13-mile long waterfront promenade. If there’s one thing Montevideanos love, it’s their beef. If you decide to visit the Mercado del Puerto for a steak, it’s best to go on an empty stomach – the portions tend to be enormous.
IF YOU GO
MARVELOUS CITY — Rio is framed by Guanabara Bay. the sea. Well known for having the best shrimp in Brazil, you’ll find them almost everywhere here, served in many different ways. With its broad avenues, charming sidewalk cafés, carefully tended parks, and splendid rococo buildings, Buenos Aires has often been called the “Paris of the Southern Hemisphere.” Treelined boulevards wander past the Casa Rosada (Pink House) presidential palace
and museums near the Plaza de Mayo. Madonna performed “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina” from the palace’s left balcony in the movie version of “Evita,” the same balcony Eva Peron used to address her supporters in 1951. Once an exclusive enclave for the jetset Punta Del Este now vies with Rio as the sexiest seaside playground in South America. With the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Rio de la Plata on the
Beginning Dec. 07, 2014 through midApril 2015, Splendour of the Seas will sail 10, three, four, five, seven and eight-night round trip itineraries from Santos (São Paulo), Brazil. AAA members who book a balcony & above stateroom for any December, 2014 Splendour of the Seas South America sailing, will receive a complimentary spa treatment, a $100 value. FOR MORE INFORMATION
Please see this month’s Departures Guide or log on to AAA.com/cruises for great vacation ideas from AAA.
Fuel economy subject to law of diminishing returns Most cost savings come from upgrading least efficient vehicles
A
mericans are undergoing a dramatic shift in their car buying habits and fuel costs are a growing consideration. Your fuel cost depends on three factors — the price, the number of miles driven, and the vehicle’s fuel economy. Driving a more fuel-efficient vehicle is a good idea for a variety of reasons, but buyers may be disappointed to learn that cost savings are subject to the law of diminishing returns. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the fuel and cost savings of improving fuel economy from 12 mpg to 15 mpg are the same as increasing from 30 mpg to 60 mpg: about 200 gallons or $700 a year. Switching from a 10-mile-per-gallon (mpg) vehicle to a 15-mpg vehicle saves more fuel and results in greater fuel cost savings than switching from a 25-mpg vehicle to a 75-mpg vehicle. Much of the reduction in fuel consumption and fuel cost comes from incremental fuel economy improvement at the relatively low fuel economy levels. For a consumer who drives 12,000 miles per year and pays $3.50 per gallon for gasoline, increasing fuel economy from 10 mpg to 11 mpg saves $382 in annual fuel cost and from 30 mpg from 31 mpg saves $45. Raising fuel economy from 40 to 41 mpg saves just $26 and from 60 to 61 saves $11.
model year 2025, standard gasoline vehicles are expected to achieve compliance fuel economy levels of around 50 mpg for passenger cars and around 40 mpg for light-duty trucks. Diminishing returns in improved fuel economy will make standard gasoline vehicles a highly fuel-efficient competitor relative to other vehicle fuel types such as diesels, hybrids, and plug-in vehicles, especially in light of the relatively higher vehicle prices for these vehicles. Many experts say too much emphasis has been placed on classes of vehicles with the lowest fuel efficiency, such as large SUVs. There is much more to be gained by improving the least-efficient vehicles within each class.
CHANGE YOUR DRIVING
FUEL FOR THOUGHT — That thrifty new hybrid may not save you as much as you think. Vehicles that use fuels other than gasoline, such as diesel or electricity, will have different fuel savings and fuel costs. Diesel vehicles often have higher fuel economy than standard gasoline vehicles, but they also must use diesel fuel, which is more expensive than gasoline. Plug-in electric vehicles, which achieve high fuel efficiency and take
advantage of relatively inexpensive electricity (compared to gasoline), can accrue significant fuel cost savings, albeit at higher incremental vehicle cost. As light-duty vehicle fuel economy continues to increase because of more stringent future greenhouse gas emission and Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards through
Tests by Ford Motor Company have found that lax vehicle maintenance and inefficient driving habits such as jackrabbit starts, and aggressive driving can siphon up to 38 percent of your fuel economy. Many motorists could save upwards of $1,000 annually, just by improving their driving and maintenance habits. FOR MORE INFORMATION
Visit AAA.com for information on all things automotive including tips on buying, operating and maintaining a vehicle.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014
AAA TRAVELER
PAGE 17
LAST YEAR, IDENTITY THIEVES STOLE
$18 BILLION BE PREPARED WITH AAA.
EXCLUSIVELY FOR AAA MEMBERS
AAA helps safeguard your identity with ProtectMyID® Deluxe. As a member, you can benefit from comprehensive identity protection for just $8.95 a month. In 2013 alone, approximately 13.1 million U.S. consumers were the victims of identity fraud costing them $18 billion.1 Sign up today and enjoy the security of 24/7 monitoring of ProtectMyID® Deluxe.
BENEFIT
BEST VALUE
DELUXE
ESSENTIAL
Included with membership, must enroll
Daily Credit Monitoring
3-Bureau Credit Monitoring and Experian® PLUS Score2 at sign-up
Monitors your Experian® Credit Report
Identity Theft Insurance
$1 Million Identity theft Insurance3
$10,000 for AAA Premier Members
Internet Scans ChildSecure®
Daily Web Scans to search for online vulnerabilities Alerts if accounts are opened in your child’s name
Visit us online for the full list of all the benefits.
Enroll at AAA.com/idsafeguard or call 866.979.6943 1 2014 Identity Fraud Study, Javelin Strategy & Research, February 5, 2014. 2 Calculated on the PLUS Score model, your Experian Credit Score indicates your relative risk level for educational purposes and is not the score used by lenders. 3 Identity Theft Insurance underwritten by insurance company subsidiaries or affiliates of American International Group. Refer to the actual policies for complete terms, conditions and exclusions of coverage. ProtectMyID Deluxe is provided by ConsumerInfo.com, Inc., an Experian® company. To be eligible to enroll in ProtectMyID Deluxe, you must be 18 years of age or older and a current valid AAA Member. Products subject to change or termination at any time without notice. Certain terms, conditions and restrictions apply. Valid AAA membership required at time of enrollment. Copyright © 2014 Auto Club Enterprises. All Rights Reserved.
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AAA TRAVELER
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014
Going from medieval to modern in Barcelona Catalonian capital is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities
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eorge Orwell wrote of his euphoric days in Barcelona in Homage to Catalonia. Wedged between the Mediterranean and the spectacular Colserolla mountains, Spain’s hippest city is dominated by the architecture of Antonio Gaudí, whose polarizing, otherworldly works include the Sagrada Família cathedral. Parc Güell is a beautiful public garden filled with serpentine ceramic benches, giant decorative lizards, and twisted stone pavilions. Originally conceived as residential area, only two houses were actually completed, and Gaudí lived in one of them. It is now a museum devoted to the architect’s life and work. Casa Batlló is one of four modernist buildings on Barcelona’s famous Block of Discord. Gaudí used multicolored glazed ceramics and broken shards of stained glass to depict flowers and water lilies that play with the light like a vast impressionist painting. With its undulating forms reminiscent of the waves of the sea, Casa Milà, is known as La Pedrera — Catalan for quarry — in reference to its austere, cave-like façade. The Sagrada Família is Gaudí’s magnum opus and Barcelona’s most ubiquitous symbol. Still unfinished after more than 130 years, it has taken longer to build than the Great Pyramids. When completed, it will be the tallest church in the world.
THEATER OF NATURE — Parc Güell is one of Barcelona’s most popular attractions. Gaudí combined elements of African mud structures, Gothic, Expressionist, and curvilinear Art Nouveau in a process some have described as “meticulous insanity.” He even hoisted a donkey up the church’s façade, to see how it would look in a sculpted nativity scene. The interior is an explosion of color, with towering columns hand-
Give Yourself an Upgrade—
shaped to resemble the trunks of trees. Spanish poet Federico García Lorca once said that La Rambla was “the only street in the world which I wish would never end.” A walk along La Rambla is a walk through Barcelona’s life and history. The 7.5 mile-long tree-lined promenade was laid out in 1766, following the contours of the medieval city walls
To upgrade your membership, call or visit your local AAA office or AAA.com, or call the Member Service Center at
1-800-441-5008
IF YOU GO
Please see this issue’s Departures Guide or log on to AAA.com/TravelPlanner for special values on European vacations.
Membership for Them.
Peace of Mind for You.
to the highest level of protection available! Get more from your membership. Upgrade to AAA Premier. With expanded roadside assistance — and a host of other benefits — AAA Premier is a smart choice.
that bounded this part of Barcelona since the 13th century. You’ll see landmark buildings like the Gran Teatre del Liceu, Barcelona’s opera, the Palau de la Virreina and the Boqueria Market, selling every kind of fresh food. Where La Rambla meets the sea, you’ll find the towering Columbus Monument dedicated in 1888. Ride the elevator inside the column to the gallery and admire this unique, green artery from high above the city. If you look to the north you’ll see the Barri Gòtic or Gothic Quarter, a labyrinthine jumble of cobblestone squares, guild houses, and the bell towers of the Cathedral, Santa Maria del Mar. Commonly known as La Seu, the 13 geese in the central courtyard each represent a year in the life of the martyr Santa Eulalia, Barcelona’s patron saint. Plaça Reial is a lively 19th century square bordered by tall palms and street lamps designed by Gaudí. Home to some of the city’s best nightlife, there are a number of cafés and tapas bars, where you can taste many of the same dishes Catalans enjoyed centuries ago.
You always want the best for them. So give them the benefits of AAA membership. With roadside assistance, vacation planning, maps, travel guides, exclusive savings, and much more, they can rely on AAA almost as much as they rely on you. To add an associate to your membership, or to buy a gift membership, call or visit your local AAA office, or AAA.com.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014
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PRIVACY STATEMENT
AAA East Central •
Your privacy is important to us
AAA East Central and its affiliates are proud to have been providing top-quality AAA member services, benefits and products for more than 110 years. We greatly appreciate and value the trust that you and more than 2.6 million other AAA members, customers and consumers have placed in us. We will protect that trust by respecting the privacy of all of our members and nonmember customers/consumers.
Gathering information
In order to provide you with the services, benefits and products that you want from us, and to insure that you receive the very best services and benefits and the highest quality products, we collect the following personal information about you: • Information we receive from you, such as information you give us orally or in writing on applications (including membership applications) or other order forms; • Information about your transactions with us, our affiliates or others; and • Information we receive from an outside source, such as a consumer reporting agency. In addition, if you visit our Internet web site at www.AAA.com, the web server automatically recognizes and records information about your Internet usage, such as the referring (immediate preceding) web site, Internet workstation address, date and time of log-in/ log-out, site pages visited, time spent per page, files downloaded and search criteria used. If, during your visit to our web site, you voluntarily provide person-ally identifiable information such as an e-mail address, information to complete or submit an application or form online or other information (such as survey information or content of e-mail), we will collect such information. To better serve you, we may use a feature of your Internet browser called a “cookie” (an entry placed in a file on your computer’s hard drive or in your browser memory) to enhance your browsing experience and to permit you to request data and conduct business transactions through the web site. You should also be aware that other online retailers, partners, third-party Internet sites and third-party services accessible through our web site have separate privacy and data collection policies and practices which are independent of and may be different from our policies and practices. Please be alert for, and be sure to review, such separate policies and practices when you encounter them as you move between the links of our web site.
Handling of gathered information
In the course of our normal service and business operations, we use and may share or disclose all of the information that we collect, as described above. However, since some of the information we gather and share or disclose is not publicly available, we take care to insure that your nonpublic personal information is protected from unauthorized access or use. We restrict access to nonpublic personal information about you to those employees who need to know that information in order to provide services, benefits and products to you. Where we select and use agents and service/product provider partners to deliver or offer services, benefits and products to you or to us, we restrict access to nonpublic personal information about you to such persons and firms who commit to properly use and protect your nonpublic personal information. We maintain physical, electronic and procedural safeguards that comply with applicable federal regulations to guard your nonpublic personal information. We do not share or disclose your non-public personal information in violation of any applicable law or regulation.
Sharing information among our Affiliates and Partners
In the course of our normal service and business operations, or when we think it may benefit you, we may disclose all of the information that we collect, as described above, within our family of AAA-affiliated companies and business lines. Our family of AAA-affiliated companies and business lines includes AAA East Central, AAA Ashland County, AAA Massillon Automobile Club, AAA Travel Agency, AAA East Central Insurance Agency, Inc., Ohio Motorists Insurance Agency, Inc., Ohio Motorists Holding Company, Ohio Motorists Life Insurance Company, AAA Kentucky Insurance Agency, Inc., Automobile Club Insurance Agency of Massillon, Ohio, Inc., Auto Club Driving Schools, Inc., AAA Kentucky Driver Training Center, Inc., AAA Massillon Driving School, Inc., Tri-State Foundation for Safety and Education, Inc., Ohio Motorists Safety Foundation, and Automobile Club of Southern California and its affiliates/ subsidiaries, including Interinsurance Exchange of the Automobile Club, Automobile Club of Southern California Life Insurance Company, Auto Club Casualty Company, Auto Club Indemnity Company, Automobile Club Inter-Insurance Exchange, Auto Club Family Insurance Company, ACSC Management Services, Inc., Club Exchange Corporation, Auto Club Insurance Holdings, LLC, Auto Club Insurance Company of Florida, AAA Club Services, LLC, Auto Club Enterprises, Automobile Club of Missouri, Alabama Motorists Association, Inc., AAA Northern New England, Tidewater Automobile Association of Virginia, Incorporated, AAA Texas, LLC, AAA New Mexico, LLC, AAA Hawaii, LLC, Pleasant Travel Holding Company, LLC, Pleasant Holidays, LLC, and Hawaii World, LLC. The sharing of information among affiliates is permitted by law. Some of our affiliates may receive personal health care information (such as information received from medical or health care providers) or consumer
AAA Travel Agency
credit information (such as information reported by a consumer reporting agency). Such affiliates do not share such personal health care information or credit information with our other affiliates. We may disclose all of the nonpublic personal financial information we collect (other than consumer credit information) as described above to companies that perform operational services related to your membership and/or transactional accounts with us. We may disclose all of the nonpublic personal financial information we collect (other than consumer credit information) as described above to companies that perform marketing services on our behalf or to other financial institutions with whom we have joint marketing agreements. The sharing of nonpublic personal financial information with these types of companies is permitted by law.
Sharing information with Third Parties
From time to time, we may allow nonaffiliated companies to extend offers of products and services to AAA members and nonmember customers/ consumers when we feel that such products and services might be of special value or of particular interest to you. We may disclose nonpublic personal information about you to the following types of third parties: • Financial service providers, such as banks & bank holding companies, depositary & thrift institutions, credit unions and other consumer lenders; securities broker-dealers; investment companies; financial & investment advisers; insurance companies & agents; and others that offer financial products and services to consumers; • Nonfinancial companies such as airlines, cruise lines, hotels & resorts, car rental companies and other travel vendors; retailers; direct marketers; and others that offer goods and services to consumers; and • Others, such as the American Automobile Association, Inc. and other nonprofit organizations. We may also disclose nonpublic personal information about you to nonaffiliated third parties as required or permitted by law.
Your preference/opt-out rights If you prefer not to receive future AAA special value-added offers and notifications of products, services and special savings opportunities from us or our joint marketing partners, you may direct us not to send or contact you with such offers or savings opportunities. (If you are a AAA member, you will continue to receive the AAA Motorist/Traveler publication and annual membership renewal information and billing statements.) If you prefer that we not disclose non-public personal financial information about you to nonaffiliated third parties, you may opt out of those disclosures – that is, you may direct us not to make those disclosures (other than disclosures required or permitted by law). An opt- out request by any member on a membership account, or by any party on a joint transactional account, will apply to all Primary and Associate Members on the membership account, and to all parties on the joint account, within the same household. If you wish to exercise one or both of the preference and opt-out rights described above, you must do so in writing by filing a AAA Marketing Preference/Disclosure Opt-out Form with us. To request that a copy of the AAA Marketing Preference/Disclosure Optout Form be sent to you, write to: AAA Member Records, 5900 Baum Blvd, Pittsburgh PA 15206-3854. We will continue to respect your privacy even after your AAA membership or other relationship with us ends. Please note, however, that AAA is a national association of independently chartered local AAA motor clubs and organizations. If you relocate to a AAA service territory assigned to a AAA club or organization other than AAA East Central, your AAA membership may be transferred to such other AAA club or organization. Such other AAA club or organization will have its own separate privacy and data collection policies and practices which are independent of and may be different from our policies and practices. Such separate policies and practices will govern the future handling and disclosure of your personal information. © 2014 AAA East Central ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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AAA TRAVELER
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014
August is the best month to purchase a new car Take a test drive and get a $25 gift card from TrueCar
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ummer will soon be segueing into fall, and savvy consumers will be out shopping for a great car deal. The end of summer typically signals the best time to buy a new car because of seasonality and model-year changeovers. Dealers want to clear out their aging inventory to make room for the next model year. With this volume of vehicles crossing showroom floors, dealers have a great deal of price flexibility. According to AAA Auto Buying partner TrueCar, August is the best month to get great savings with the lowest average transaction price of the year. Consumers who have been holding out for better pricing for large SUVs will see their best opportunities for savings this month, thanks to larger discounts and drops in average transaction prices in the month of August. TrueCar.com is the authority on new car pricing and trends, and their data powers the AAA Auto Buying Program. Plus, when you use the AAA Auto Buying Program and schedule a test drive you’ll get a $25 gift card to use for whatever you’d like. (Redemption information available on certificate.) AAA members can shop with confidence any time of year using the AAA Auto Buying Program. Even when
Vehicle Certificate, see how to get your gift card and visit your selected Certified Dealer. Your certificate is like a golden ticket, so bring it with you or have it ready to show on your mobile device to make sure you receive your Member Savings and enjoy a hasslefree shopping experience. Regardless of what time of year you’re shopping, the end of the month is a great time to buy a new vehicle. Consumers can also expect a lower average transaction price in the first two days of the month. Sundays are typically the best day of the week to buy a new car. The average transaction price on Sundays shows a 4.6% decrease or $1,402 savings against typical day-of-week sales averages.
CARE FREE CAR BUYING — Get upfront dealer pricing info before you step on the lot at AAA.com/AutoBuying.
SAVE ON YOUR NEXT VEHICLE
The AAA Auto Buying Program provides dealer pricing information to AAA members through AAA’s preferred supplier TrueCar. To save money and get upfront pricing information on your next new car, visit the AAA Auto Buying Program at AAA.com/AutoBuying. Mobile users can download the AAA Auto Buying Tools App at AAA.com/Mobile.
Learn what others paid for the same vehicle using national, regional and local data with free TrueCar Price Reports, so your know whether you’re really getting a great deal. Once you’re ready to purchase, be sure to print or download your Guaranteed Savings Certificate or Used
you know exactly what you want, the haggling over options and pricing can deter even the most enthusiastic shopper. But it doesn’t have to be that way. AAA.com/Auto Buying lets you easily select makes, models and options, learn about incentives, and check out crash safety ratings and reviews.
Upgrade the value of your AAA membership Select the membership level that best fits your needs
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Free Hertz Gold Plus Rewards membership with 1,000 Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Bonus Points, second day rental free on a two-day emergency rental (with tow) and discounts on Hertz rentals. * Discounts on select services available only at AAA East Central branch locations. For complete details on Premier services, review the AAA Premier Guide to Member Services
here’s no one-size-fits-all vehicle or vacation out there. Everyone’s needs are different; that’s why AAA offers several types of membership. Your benefits will only increase with each level, giving you the freedom to choose the membership option that works best for you.
Basic, Plus & Premier – Three levels of protection
AAA Basic Membership covers 24-hour roadside assistance, free printed and online maps, TourBook® and eTourBook® guides, TripTik® Travel Planner on AAA.com, plus AAA savings on hotels, Hertz car rentals, restaurants and attractions. Members save even more with AAA Discounts & Rewards online shopping portal. ProtectMyID® is the newest AAA member benefit. This identity-theft monitoring service includes credit monitoring, fraud resolution support and more. AAA Plus Membership offers all the basic AAA membership benefits, with enhancements including: • Up to 100 miles of extended distance towing • Free fuel and delivery – to get you to the nearest service station • Up to $100 in vehicle locksmith services • Extrication/winching – two trucks and two drivers, if needed • Reimbursement for pre-approved nonAAA roadside services
All in the family: Primary and associate memberships
A PERFECT FIT — Select the AAA membership that best suits your lifestyle. AAA Plus RV Membership offers all the benefits of AAA Plus, extended to cover eligible RV’s like your motor home, boat trailer, pickup truck with camper, and motorcycle. For the most comprehensive package of AAA benefits and services, choose AAA Premier Membership. Premier members enjoy a wealth of added privileges, including: • One emergency tow per household per year of up to 200 miles • Free professional concierge service • $1,500 Trip Interruption protection •
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One day free emergency rental car reimbursement, with tow 24/7 global emergency assistance Dedicated AAA Premier toll-free line Up to $500 car return protection $35 flight reservation fee waived* Member discount plus an extra 15% savings at AAA Travel Store* Free worldwide emergency medical assistance Notary fees waived on personal documents* One free passport photo session per member*
Share peace of mind with everyone in your household with a AAA membership for each family member. Primary membership means you are either the first or sole AAA member within your household. Associate memberships are for eligible individuals residing in the primary member’s household, namely the primary member’s spouse (or one adult age 18 or older) and dependent children ages 16 through 22. Associate members receive the same benefits as primary members.
THE CHOICE IS YOURS
Add associate members, or upgrade your existing AAA membership to a higher level at any time. For more information, contact your local AAA office, visit AAA.com, or call the Member Service Center at 1.800.441.5008.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014
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Walking on air in the Canadian Rockies New Glacier Skywalk is a high-altitude adventure
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here’s no view like the view from Canada’s rooftop. Snowcapped peaks loom over meadows carpeted with wildflowers, while glacial lakes shimmer a supernatural shade of blue. Elk bugle in the streets in the village of Banff, and when the sun drops low over the horizon, the solemn old mountains glow golden in the sunset. Visitors can experience the breathtaking panorama of the Canadian Rockies in a whole new way at the new Glacier Skywalk. It’s a perfect balance of stunning views, interpretive story-telling and adrenaline-pumping excitement. A cliff-edge walkway leads to a cantilevershaped platform where a sheet of glass is all that separates you from a 918foot drop over the spectacular Sunwapta Valley. The $20 million Skywalk, which opened in May, has already been named one of the “World’s Coolest New Tourist Attractions” by Travel+Leisure magazine. The Glacier Discovery Centre is located on the Icefields Parkway about one hour from Jasper and 2.5 hours from Banff. One of the most scenic drives in the world, the parkway has been called “20 Switzerlands in one.” The 143-mile route offers a constantly shifting panorama of mountains, waterfalls, icefields and over one hundred visible glaciers. Travelers heading north from Banff or Lake Louise will follow the Bow,
SKYWALKING — The Glacier Skywalk hovers over the Sunwapta Valley in Jasper National Park. Photo: Brewster Travel Canada. Mistaya and North Saskatchewan Rivers and experience such spectacular natural attractions as Lake Louise, Peyto and Crowfoot Glaciers, Mistaya Canyon and the Weeping Wall. Lake Louise, 36-miles west of Banff, is a liquid emerald framed by snow-clad domes and Victoria Glacier. The water’s mysterious blue green tint comes from
fine, glacial “rock flour” particles suspended in the water. Ten minutes from Lake Louise is Moraine Lake, whose image once graced the Canadian $20 bill. Ten lofty peaks, including the third highest mountain in the Rockies, surround this crystalline, aquamarine lake. From Jasper, the route passes
Athabasca Falls and the Sunwapta Canyon. The Sunwapta River flows through this narrow chasm forming a series of three waterfalls. It’s an unmatched habitat for elk, bighorn sheep, moose, mountain goat and grizzly bear. Jasper National Park is Canada’s largest mountain park and home to Mount Robson, the tallest peak in the Canadian Rockies. This is the backbone of the world and a full day’s sightseeing includes a thrilling ascent up Whistlers Mountain aboard the Jasper SkyTram. Visitors can also hop on board a huge Ice Explorer with five foot thick tires for a memorable trek across the Rockies’ biggest icefield and the over 1,000 foot thick Athabasca Glacier. The Skywalk’s glass walkway is curved to offer more expansive views and the thrill of seemingly going beyond the structural supports. The design features an intricate cable suspension system that reduces the appearance of the supports giving visitors the sensation of walking on thin air. IF YOU GO
Planning a trip? AAA offers cruise, motorcoach, and air vacations selected by AAA Travel for their value, amenities and/or inclusions. See your AAA Travel Agent or visit AAA.com/TravelPlanner for special offers from AAA Travel.
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AAA MOTORIST
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014
Mopar celebrates the 50th anniversary of the 426 HEMI Chrysler’s legendary Elephant is still in the room
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his year, Mopar is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the introduction of the Elephant — the iconic second generation (Gen II) 426 Race HEMI engine. While Chrysler introduced the original hemispherical combustion engine design for passenger cars in 1951, the revolutionary second generation HEMI engine, so closely associated with the muscle car era, made its formidable debut in 1964. The second generation HEMI was built specifically to win races and came in two distinct variants. One, known as the “Circuit” or “Track” engine, was introduced at the Daytona 500 in 1964. Richard Petty drove his blue, #43 Plymouth Belvedere to an easy win, and the power plant’s dominating performance included four of the top five finishers. Petty drove to nine victories that season, earning the NASCAR championship, while HEMI-powered cars racked up 26 NASCAR wins. That same year drag racer Don “Big Daddy” Garlits broke the 200-mph barrier powered by the 426 HEMI “Acceleration” or “Drag” engine. HEMI powered cars were so dominant NASCAR changed the rules mandating that all engines used for its races be available in production vehicles. This led to the HEMI’s withdrawal from NASCAR competition for the 1965 season. Chrysler engineers concentrated their efforts instead on drag racing,
YEAH, IT’S A HEMI — A 1967 Dodge Coronet display car at the Walter P. Chrysler Museum. helping to launch the popular Funny Car series using Dodge and Plymouth vehicles with altered wheelbases. To this day, a version of the Elephant still powers every single Funny Car and Top Fuel dragster, even those branded by other manufacturers. With the introduction of the 426 “Street” HEMI for production vehicles in 1966, the HEMI made a return to NASCAR racing. During the next sev-
eral years, HEMI engines won countless races, and numerous championships. With the availability of a Street HEMI, Chrysler no longer offered a special drag racing engine. Instead, racers were provided with the Street version, which they could modify at their discretion. Street HEMIs were available in a variety of vehicles including the 1966-7 Dodge Coronet, 1968 Plymouth Barracuda, 1968–1971 Dodge Super Bee, 1968–1971
Plymouth Road Runner, and the 1969 Dodge Charger made famous on The Dukes of Hazzard. The heritage of those special vehicles is celebrated each year with the HEMI Challenge that takes place at the prestigious NHRA U.S. Nationals in Indianapolis. The HEMI Challenge features a number of these vintage muscle cars, which contributed to the brand’s legendary reputation and success at the drag strip. Discontinued in production vehicles in 1971, the Gen II 426 HEMI remains a legend due to its prowess on and off the racetrack, as well as its rarity. The innovative engine’s offspring live on, not only in the highly-coveted cars of the era, but in modern day versions like the supercharged 6.2-liter, 707 horsepower HEMI Hellcat engine in the 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT, the most powerful muscle car ever built.
STAMP OF APPROVAL
The 1969 Dodge Charger Daytona, and the 1970 Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda, were featured in a series of first-class stamps called Muscle Cars (Forever). FOR MORE INFORMATION
Visit AAA.com/auto for information on all things automotive including tips on buying, operating and maintaining a vehicle.
aroundtown KENTUCKY STATE FAIR — (August 14-24) Ten days of fun, including midway, music, great food, agricultural and livestock exhibits, contests, and much more. For a complete schedule, visit kystatefair. org. Location: Kentucky Exposition Center Main Stage, 937 Phillips Lane, Louisville. LAKE CUMBERLAND BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL — (August 15-16) The 11th annual festival features two days of the best Bluegrass bands all in one location! Time: Noon to 10 p.m. Visit lcbluegrass.com. Location: 1440 Highway 1383, Indian Hills Resort KOA Campground, Russell Springs. GRAND RIVERS MARINA DAY CELEBRATION — (August 16) This year’s Marina Day includes children’s water fun and activities, live music, and a big fireworks show at dusk. For information, visit grandrivers.org. Location: Green Turtle Bay Marina, 263 Green Turtle Bay Drive, Grand Rivers. WORLD’S CHAMPIONSHIPS HORSE SHOW — (August 17-23) This prestigious event, held annually in conjunction with the Kentucky State Fair, crowns world champion Saddlebreds in different divisions each year. The show attracts people from across the country and all over
the world, including more than 2,000 horses competing for over $1 million in prizes. For information, visit kystatefair.org. Location: Kentucky State Fairgrounds, 937 Philips Lane, Louisville. SOUTH OLDHAM ROTARY BOURBON & WINE TASTING — (August 22) The south Oldham Rotary Club hosts its third annual Bourbon & Wine Tasting. Spend the evening than strolling the beautiful surroundings and enjoying a live and silent auction, live music, hors d’oeuvres and sampling some fine bourbons and wines. Proceeds benefit Apple Patch, Yew Dell Gardens and other Oldham County projects. Time: 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tickets are $60. For information, visit southoldhamrotaryevents.org. Location: Yew Dell Gardens, 6220 Old Lagrange Road, Crestwood. BREW AT THE ZOO & WINE TOO — (August 23) Enjoy delicious tastings from craft breweries, wineries and local restaurants, a silent auction, animal encounters, and live entertainment. Bring lawn chairs and blankets to sit on the lawn. Tickets are $100, $55 and $40. Proceeds benefit the Zoo. Time: 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. For information, visit louisvillezoo.org. Location: Louisville Zoo, 1100 Trevilian Way, Louisville.
HENRY COUNTY ARTS & CRAFTS GUILD SHOW — (September 13) The show features a juried art show including paintings, pottery, and more by local artisans. Live entertainment and food will be on hand. Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free. For information, visit Location: Henry County Fairgrounds, Castle Highway, New Castle. OLD KENTUCKY HOME BIKE TOUR — (September 6-7) This is the 37th annual two-day ride hosted by the Louisville Bicycle Club. It departs from E.P. Tom Sawyer Park in Louisville with three different mileage routes to historic Bardstown. Stay overnight and return to Louisville the next day. Fee: $45 early registration, $55 day of ride. For information, visit okht. org. Location: 114 N. Fifth Street, Spalding Hall Lawn, Bardstown. SEPTEMBER ART FAIR — (Sept. 6-7) This year’s Art Fair will feature 200 indoor and outdoor artist spaces, along with live entertainment, a fresh produce stand, gifted student art tents, and an expanded children’s arts and crafts area. Free admission. For information, visit mellwoodartcenter.com. Location: Mellwood Art Center, 1860 Mellwood Avenue, Louisville.
TRIMBLE COUNTY APPLE FESTIVAL — (September 13-14) The 24th annual festival is the county’s premier fall event and showcases crafts and exhibits, ranging from folk art and stained glass to antiques and candles. Festivities include pageants, auction, apple pie contest, apple cider race, quilt raffle, great food, tractor show and more. Location: Courthouse Square, Bedford. FALL ANTIQUES MARKET — (September 28) Professional antique dealers display their wares on the lawn at Locust Grove. See American Country antiques, formal furniture, jewelry and silver. Admission: $6; $3 for children 6-12. Market runs from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Call 502897-9845 or visit locustgrove.org. Location: Historic Locus Grove, 561 Blankenbaker Lane, Louisville. FAMILY HISTORY SEMINAR & BOOK FAIR — (October 18) Research your ancestors with the Louisville Genealogical Society. Four main lectures with Christine Rose are $10 each. Plus eight, free one-hour lectures, vendors, a silent auction, and box lunches. General Admission is $5:00. The time is from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Beargrass Christian Church, 4100 Shelbyville Rd., Louisville. More information at www.rootsweb.com/~ky/lgs**
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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014