SEE PAGE 3
KENTUCKY
Vol. 35 No. 5
MAY 2014
LensCrafters Helps Keep You Safe Behind the Wheel
KICK OFF SUMMER...
with great GETAWAYS &
GREAT GIFTS valued at up to $120.00 SEE BOX BELOW.
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fter a seemingly endless (and very BRRR-utal) winter, summer can’t get here fast enough! Everyone from kids to parents to grandparents has eagerly (desperately) anticipated its arrival. As a reward for surviving the “Winter That Wouldn’t Quit,” AAA Travel presents a Sizzling Summer Kick-off featuring an array of unique gifts perfect for summertime enjoyment! Book & make a nonrefundable deposit on a new 7-night-or-longer 2014 air-inclusive vacation and you can choose 1 of 5 sensational summertime gifts valued at up to $120.00 (see box below) based on the length of your vacation. But you’ve got to hurry: This special offer ends 5/17/14! Just ask your AAA travel agent to arrange your vacation with one of these AAA travel partners — AAA Member Choice Vacations®, Insight Vacations®, Pleasant Holidays or Trafalgar. Once it’s booked, AAA will make sure you receive your gift in plenty of time for all your summer activities.
SIZZLING SUMMER
BOOK BY 5/17/14
AAA’s travel partners go where you want to go — whether that’s America’s cities, beaches or national parks...or the islands of Hawaii and the Caribbean. Canada, Mexico, Europe, Asia, Africa? You name it; our partners have got hundreds, if not thousands, of options. There’s also a range of vacation options to suit every budget and travel style — whether you’re watching your pennies or you’ve got an “urge to splurge.” Do you want a fully prepared package that includes a professional tour manager, preselected hotel accommodations and a scheduled touring itinerary? Or are you an independent traveler who prefers to select your own accommodations and sightseeing tours? Either way, you’re covered by our Summer Kick-off travel partners. And each partner offers exclusive AAA Member Benefits, from additional savings to vouchers valid toward the purchase of optional tours and excursions; see the chart on page 7. Let’s take a closer look at each partner: AAA Member Choice Vacations® Offering destinations all over the world, AAA Member Choice Vacations® combines the flexibility of independent travel with the con-
Travel | Insurance/Financial | Automotive | Member Savings | AAA.com
PUTTING EYES IN THE BACK OF YOUR HEAD
Sunglasses not only lend a “cool” vibe to your summer fashion, they also provide a functional benefit by fighting eye strain and fatigue. But don’t wear just any old shades! Did you know that by wearing polarized sunglasses, you can improve your reaction time when driving? That’s right — you’re reaction time is up to 20% quicker compared to driving without any sunglasses, and up to 40% quicker than ordinary sunglasses. Faster reaction time can help prevent auto accidents and improve driving safety. Reducing glare and improving clarity is crucial when behind the wheel. Polarized lenses work by filtering light waves and absorbing some of the reflected glare, while letting other light waves pass through the lenses. LensCrafters wants to introduce AAA members to the benefits of polarized lenses. For a limited time — simply show your AAA card and save 40% off prescription sunglasses, plus AAA members receive and extra $5 off. To find a participating location near you, visit www.AAA.com/visionsavings.
AAA Discounts Now on Pinterest Members have a new way of keeping up with the latest AAA discounts and savings – the AAA Discounts board on Pinterest. Learn more about everyday and limited-time offers from partners including Hertz, Tanger Outlets, New York & Company, and more. The board is updated regularly to reflect the newest discounts and partners. Visit www.pinterest.com/AAA to see all of AAA’s boards on the social media site — featuring everything from travel photos to safety tips to AAA Diamond listings.
AAA Mobile Releases Version 3.0 Featuring a next-generation user interface AAA Mobile 3.0 is designed to improve access to AAA services and travel-planning tools. Released in April through the Apple App Store, the updated app allows users to develop multiday itineraries, and locate AAA Approved and Diamond Rated hotels and restaurants. AAA Mobile was recently named a top10 app by AutoGuide.com, which called it a “must-have for AAA members”. The website also highlighted the app’s ability to “point out nearby gas stations with up-todate fuel prices and public charging stations for electric car owners.
continued on page 7
Pick a gift based on your vacation’s length!
NIGHTS 7-11 12+
GIFT
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EXTRA-WIDE ZERO-GRAVITY LOUNGER OUTDOOR CHAIR CUISINART PETIT GOURMET TABLETOP GAS GRILL FITBIT® FLEX™ WIRELESS ACTIVITY & SLEEP WRISTBAND OUTDOOR WIRELESS SPEAKER & VERSATILE DOCK GRILL ALERT TALKING REMOTE MEAT THERMOMETER AAA reserves the right to substitute a gift of equal or greater value.
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Travel To Germany’s Christmas Wunderland Germany’s colorful Christmas markets are truly unique. Shop for traditional handcrafted Christmas merchandise and gifts in historic and charming cities dressed in their holiday best. AAA Travel’s December 2-10 escorted tour features visits to Nuremberg, Rothenburg, Bamberg, Bayreuth, Regensburg, Munich, and Fussen, plus a half-day stop at Neuschwanstein, Bavaria’s fairytale castle. Earn special member level discounts when you book and deposit by May 31, 2014. SEE PAGE 9
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AAA TRAVELER
MAY 2014
Get ready to go with AAA TourBook® guides Digital or print they’re packed with great information
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ith so many handy resources for travelers — from websites and apps to printed guidebooks — why do members request AAA TourBook guides by the millions, year after year? The answer is simple: They’re free, easy and packed with great information. Updated annually AAA TourBooks have evolved by expanding geographical regions, enriching content and supporting social and technological shifts such as WiFi service, pet acceptance and sustainability issues. Easy to read, easy to carry, they’re free for the asking as part of your AAA membership. Love to plan? Kick back and pore through the fascinating destination overviews, followed by pages of hotel, restaurant and attraction listings. Get a fix on the big picture with history and visitor information and references like the Annual Events, GEM Attraction Index and Points of Interest. Or, when time is short, leave the legwork to AAA’s travel experts. Turn to trip planning shortcuts like the Must Do: AAA Editor’s Picks, 1-Day Itineraries and Top Picks for Kids, available for many destination cities. We’ll help you make the most of your time with inspiring photos and informative content you can trust. Save yourself the effort of checking multiple resources to get the lay
Save $10 on a New Primary AAA Gift Membership through May 31st
AAA eTourBooks
GOING BY THE BOOK — The 2014 AAA TourBooks are available in both print and electronic media. of the land or find your way. Use the hotel, restaurant and attraction location maps throughout the guides for a bird’s-eye view of the places you plan to stay, dine and play in relation to landmarks and one another. Plus, to help you navigate the roadways we’ve added overview and detail maps from the AAA Road Atlas series for easy route planning — all in one guide. Use the overview map to get your bearings, then use the individual maps to plan your route. TourBook guides are like traveling
The
Perfect Gift!
with a friend who is from the area and knows it like the back of their hand! They are loaded with firsthand expertise from our professional travel editors and inspectors. Our 1-Day Itineraries and Must Do: AAA Editor’s Picks enhance the destination city sections, while AAA Inspector Notes are highlighted in the restaurant listings. Before your next trip, stop by your local AAA office or visit us on AAA. com to request your 2014 edition TourBook guides — available free, and exclusively for members.
AAA members have relied on the printed TourBook guides for nearly a century. Now they can pack a wealth of AAA travel information on the portable wireless devices they already carry. AAA’s trusted travel information is now available for your portable device for on-the-go use. AAA offers over 100 free eTourBook guides, in file formats designed for today’s digital democracy. eTourBook guides provide detailed trip-planning information for top travel destinations and locations across North America, including national parks. Each one is packed with detailed destination information. There are Editor’s Picks for essential experiences including events and attractions, recommended oneand three-day itineraries, and top picks just for kids. Some titles even provide maps displaying key local areas and highway networks. Sync files to your tablet, or download them directly to your iPad or smartphone to put everything you need for your next trip in the palm of your hand. Content is refreshed daily to ensure you receive the most up-to-date travel information. They’re available free, exclusively for AAA members at AAA.com/ebooks. If you do not already have a user name and password, you can register on the login page. Then prepare to enjoy your easiest, more enjoyable travel planning
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.
Graduations, Father’s Day, Birthdays, Weddings … Whatever the occasion, it’s the perfect time to give a AAA Gift Membership. With roadside assistance, vacation planning, maps, free identity theft protection, travel guides, exclusive savings, and much more, you can trust AAA membership to be a perfect fit.
To purchase a AAA Gift Membership, call or visit your local AAA Office or AAA.com.
1-800-441-5008
* 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 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.
MAY 2014
AAA TRAVELER
PAGE 3
Putting eyes in the back of your head 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 Assistant Treasurer: ........................................ Edith W. Martel Secretary: ................................................ Robert H. Compton GOVERNING BOARD OF DIRECTORS 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, Richard S. Hamilton, James H. Kanicki, Mary Lynn Laughlin, Richard D. Linderman**, 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 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.
Rearview cameras can prevent driveway tragedies By Richard Hamilton Chairman, AAA East Central ackover accidents are a particularly tragic type of crash, frequently claiming the lives of young children in the driveways of their own homes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there are 210 fatalities and 15,000 injuries each year caused by backover crashes. These disproportionately impact the elderly and the very young. The agency found that children under 5 years old account for 31 percent of backover fatalities, while adults over 70 comprise 26 percent of victims. It’s a problem that’s exacerbated by the popularity of larger, taller vehicles like SUVs, pickups, and minivans, which have larger blind zones than passenger cars. New research by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) found SUVs and pickup trucks typically have the biggest blind zones, preventing drivers from seeing objects behind the rear bumper, especially objects that are low to the ground. The IIHS study found rear cameras dramatically improve driver vision, reducing the blind zone by about 90 percent on average. They were much more effective than parking sensors, which use ultrasonic sound waves or radar to detect objects around the vehicle, at helping drivers avoid objects while traveling in reverse. In contrast, drivers with no technology hit a stationary child-sized cutout 100
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Richard Hamilton percent of the time in IIHS testing. NHTSA says the technology significantly reduces the risk of fatalities and serious injuries. In March they issued a final rule requiring backup cameras in most new vehicles by May 1, 2018. It will be implemented in stages over a three-year period beginning in 2016. The ruling calls for all vehicles under 10,000 pounds, including buses and trucks, to be equipped with technology that expands the rear field of view to include a 10-foot by 20-foot zone directly behind the vehicle. NHTSA estimates up to 69 lives will be saved annually once the nation’s entire fleet is equipped with rear visibility systems.
According to the Auto Alliance, an association of 12 vehicle manufacturers, automakers already provide rearview cameras as a standard or optional feature on two-thirds of the nation’s 50 top-selling vehicles. The Alliance is also petitioning NHTSA to allow carmakers to use cameras as an alternative to conventional side-view and rearview mirrors. AAA endorses the NHTSA decision as a step in the right direction. Rearview cameras will help prevent needless injury and death among our nation’s most vulnerable populations. They can be very useful in detecting people and objects behind a vehicle, but as with any technology there are limitations, particularly in bad weather or under poor lighting conditions. In the IIHS study for example, even drivers using rearview cameras hit a stationary foam cutout of a small child 56 percent of the time. Caregivers should never forget that children may not have the cognitive maturity to judge the speed, weight, and power of a vehicle. They are particularly vulnerable because they are harder for motorists to see and their actions can be unpredictable. Children also tend to think that if they see a driver, the driver also sees them. AAA cautions motorists to use this technology to supplement, not replace traditional safe driving practices. You still need to turn and check blind zones — both rear and lateral — while backing up in order to ensure safety.
membersonly Protect your summer adventures with travel insurance Make sure your coverage goes along for the ride
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emorial Day signals the start of the unofficial summer travel season. Don’t let the unexpected put a damper on this summer’s vacation plans. Protect your investment with travel insurance.
Trip Cancellation Insurance
Trip cancellation insurance is one of the most popular types of travel insurance. It reimburses your travel expenses if your trip is delayed or cancelled for a covered reason, such as a major injury or other unforeseen circumstances. Other reasons often covered by trip cancellation policies include: death of an immediate family member, jury duty, and bankruptcy of the travel vendor. If your trip cancellation policy does not cover a specific reason that may apply to your situation — such as military deployment or pregnancy — talk with your agent to see if that coverage can be added on. Additional options may include reimbursement for delayed or lost luggage and missed connection coverage.
A A A also offers C a n c e l Anytime, a cancell a t i o n insurance option that reimburses you no matter why your plans change. With the Cancel Anytime package, travelers receive 100 percent cash back if they cancel their trip for a covered reason like those previously mentioned. They receive 80 percent cash back if they cancel their trip due to almost any other reason. Cancel Anytime coverage offers travelers a lot 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.
Emergency Medical Coverage
Emergency medical coverage is another important aspect of travel
insurance. If traveling internationally, most people are not covered by their health insurance. Even if you are staying within the United States, your health insurance may not cover outof-network care. Many travel insurance plans include options to cover expenses and medical evacuation, if needed. There may be exclusions such as preexisting condition, so review the coverage and ask your agent about what options are best for your situation. There are several factors affecting the cost of a travel insurance policy, including the age of the travelers, the length of the trip, and the distance they are traveling. In most instances, a travel insurance policy costs approximately 10 to 20 percent of the total trip cost. Before deciding on any travel insurance plan, be sure you understand what you’re buying and what each policy does and does not cover. Protect your next getaway — whether you purchased your trip through AAA Travel or not — and visit AAA.com/travelinsurance.
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AAA TRAVELER
MAY 2014
MAY 2014
AAA TRAVELER
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AAA TRAVELER
MAY 2014
Car Rental Reimbursement
If you found yourself car-less after a collision, what would you do? By Robin Jones hen Maggie Kent first got the news that her husband, Jack, had been in a collision that totaled his Jeep, she didn’t even think about the car—just about her husband, who fortunately sustained only minor injuries. “I was just grateful that he was okay,” she says. But later that day, the challenges of having only one car started to sink in. “Our jobs are in different directions, so we couldn’t really share a car,” Maggie says. “We figured we’d be buying a new car within a couple of weeks. But in the meantime, we knew we’d have to get a rental car for Jack.” Unfortunately, the Kents didn’t have rental reimbursement coverage on their auto policy. Maggie had waived it about a month before the incident to save money. “I really wish I’d kept it,” she says. “It would have made things so much easier.” Indeed, rental reimbursement coverage can be a lifesaver if you suddenly find yourself without a car after an accident. If you’re wondering whether you should add it to your policy, here are some things to consider. Q: What does rental reimbursement cover? A: Generally, it covers the cost of a rental car, up to certain limits, while your insured car is being repaired fol-
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A CAR IN NEED — Consider rental reimbursement coverage on your policy. lowing a covered loss (such as a crash, vandalism, or fire) or for a specified amount of time set by your policy if your car is deemed not repairable. Q: How does it work? A: Typically in one of two ways: You can get a car from a rental agency that’s been approved by your insurance company, in which case the agency will bill your insurance carrier directly. Or you can rent a car yourself and submit the receipts to your insurance company for reimbursement. Either way, the limits on the coverage are usually for a certain time period with per-day and
per-accident limits— for example, $30 per day and $900 per accident. That means you’ll pay for any costs over $30 a day, and you won’t be reimbursed for more than $900, even if the total costs are more. Q: Is there anything rental reimbursement doesn’t cover? A: You can’t use it to cover the cost of a rental while your car is in the shop for scheduled maintenance. It also usually doesn’t cover the cost of fuel or any optional insurance you might decide to purchase from the rental agency. Q: How much does it cost?
A: The cost of rental reimbursement varies depending on your car and your insurance company, but the average cost per vehicle could be around $40 per year. Compare that to the average amount policyholders without coverage would have to pay after a loss: $364—based on a rental car cost of $28 per day and about 13 days in the shop. Q: Are there people who might not need the coverage? A: If you don’t need your car to handle daily activities—you work from home, for example, or you can walk or take public transit to all the places you need to go—you may not need rental reimbursement. Same goes if you have an extra car or know that you can borrow a car from a friend or relative. But if you don’t fall into one of those categories, it’s probably a good idea to add rental reimbursement to your policy.
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 800.727.2552, or visit AAA.com/insurance for more information or to schedule a comprehensive Insurance review. AAA – your trusted insurance advisor.
MAY 2014
AAA TRAVELER
AAA Travel’s Sizzling Summer Kick-off venience of an escorted tour. Itineraries designed by experts maximize your time. Accommodations and transportation are pre-booked with upscale vendors; you need not do any research before your trip or deal with unexpected hassles along the way. Accommodations are chosen to enhance your experience; most feature abundant amenities and are near attractions so that you may spend your leisure time relaxing in the comfort of your hotel or exploring the destination at your own pace. Each AAA MCV package includes a knowledgeable tour manager and unique activities that give you an authentic glimpse into local culture. Insight Vacations® For more than 30 years, Insight (The Art of Touring in Style™) has provided premium escorted road, rail and cruise tours in Britain & Europe, the Eastern Mediterranean and Morocco. Enjoy more intimate groups (40 passengers max), an experienced tour director and the assurance of staying in centrally located premium & luxury hotels. Travel in comfort on luxury reconfigured coaches (fewer seats, more legroom), so the journey is just as enjoyable as the destination. Choose from these touring styles: • Gold Luxury: Boutique and 5-star hotels, epicurean delights and more. • Easy Pace: Leisurely guided vacations with at least 3 nights in almost every destination. Lots of free time.
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from page 1 _______________________________________________________________________________________________________
• Country Roads: Get off the beaten track; usually features a sought-after chateau or manor house. • Regional Experiences: Focus indepth on a specific region for your full appreciation. • Discovery Journeys: Multi-country journeys are the perfect introduction to Europe; experience the full diversity of the continent in 1 tour. Pleasant Holidays Hawaii, Mexico, the Caribbean, Costa Rica, Europe, the South Pacific. Hotels, condos, villas, all-inclusive resorts, rental cars, in-city tours & activities. Pleasant Holidays makes it easy for you to select the elements and destinations you desire. Choose from a selection of accommodations for families, couples and singles. Take advantage of “Skip the Line” tours in 3 of Europe’s most popular cities; enjoy priority admission to famous — and often crowded — attractions like the Colosseum in Rome, the Louvre in Paris and the Accademia Gallery in Florence. Trafalgar For more than 50 years Trafalgar has created exciting vacations to sought-after destinations all over the world, while ensuring unrivaled standards of quality, value and reliability. Each itinerary is designed by travel experts, skilled in forming experiences that explore the true beauty, history and culture of
a destination. Tour styles include... • Discoveries: Multi-country vacations give an overview of a continent. • Regionals: In-depth experiences of 1 or a few countries. • Family Experiences: Trips made for sharing time together. • At Leisure: Later starts and longer
stays for a more relaxed pace. • Special Interest: A focus on interests, from food to history. • City Breaks: Single and multi-city unescorted vacations, with all the essentials organized. Summer’s coming fast; plan your vacation and get your free gift now!
AAA Member Benefits
FREE GIFTS fo
AAA Member Choice Vacations®
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$25-$100 savings based on purchase price
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$40 voucher per person ($25 for AAA Vacations®–branded packages) toward the purchase of select optional tours on escorted motorcoach tours (with exceptions)
Insight Vacations
r booking by 5/17/14!
®
SEE PAGE 1.
Pleasant Holidays
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$50 certificate per booking toward the purchase of an optional sightseeing or activity for Hawaii, Mexico, Costa Rica or Caribbean packages (does not apply to air-&-car–only packages) $40 savings per person off price of Tahiti, Fiji or Cook Islands packages $50 savings per booking off price of Australia/New Zealand or Europe packages $25 savings per booking off price of US city packages (not valid on Fly/Drive packages) “Bounce Back Offer”: Book within 12 months of your original holiday, no travel expiration date (does not apply to Air by Pleasant or Mainland USA) — $50 savings per booking off price of a Hawaii, Mexico, Caribbean or Costa Rica package — $100 savings per booking off price of a Tahiti, South Pacific, Australia/New Zealand or Europe package
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Trafalgar
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$40 credit voucher per person ($25 for AAA Vacations®–branded packages) toward the purchase of an optional excursion (details at AAA.com/Trafalgar)
Fee-free, 24/7 reservations online with AAA.com/travel Enhanced site offers convenient services & exclusive discounts
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AA.com/travel is a one-stop web destination for members looking to research, plan and book the perfect air, land or sea getaway. The AAA.com/travel homepage features a scrolling banner with the latest cruise and tour packages, member promotions and travel destinations. The slideshow is regularly updated, so check often — you never know what you’ll find! On the left hand side of the homepage, you’ll find a blue drop down menu with some of the most popular AAA Travel features online. Here, you can search for available hotels, flights or rental cars (or any combination of the three). You can also find the perfect cruise by date, destination or cruise line. You can also access the “bookings” menu, which allows you to view all of your reservations and upcoming trips made through AAA.com/travel. When you make your reservations online through AAA.com/travel, you can feel confident knowing you are getting a great rate. There are no transaction fees, and AAA member rates are clearly marked, so you know exactly what you are paying and how much you are saving. To the right of the drop down menu, you will see four red banners,
GOES WHERE YOU GO — AAA.com/travel offers user-friendly navigation which is both simple and intuitive. each identifying another section of AAA.com/travel. AAA Featured Vacations is on top, and this link takes visitors to a showcase of trips and itineraries created or selected by AAA Travel for out-of-theordinary value, amenities or inclusions. The Research & Planning banner offers members a wide range of travel resources. Learn about everything from
international travel document requirements to purchasing travel insurance. Also in this section is a link to the online versions of the always-popular AAA TourBook Guides. Prefer hard copies of your travel materials? You can also order TripTik Travel Planners, TourBook Guides and maps under the Research & Planning tab.
As the name suggests, the Top Destinations banner includes perennial favorite member destinations in one central location. Select the location you have your eye on (including Las Vegas, Universal Orlando, Caribbean, Mexico, Disney or USA) and you will be taken to the AAA Travel Planner page, where you can follow the easy-to-use prompts to book your perfect getaway. The final banner links visitors to Travel Discounts, where members can take advantage of special offers like luggage discounts, last-minute travel packages, and rental car offers through Hertz. The “more savings” link takes you to AAA Discounts & Rewards platform, an online shopping destination where members can save even more from more than 31,000 popular online retailers. This is the perfect place to stock up on all the little “extras” for your trip — like attraction tickets, or a new pair of sunglasses. Visit AAA.com/travel to plan, book and save on your next getaway today.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Planning your next trip? Please see this issue’s Departures Guide or visit AAA.com/travel for great vacation values from AAA Travel.
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AAA TRAVELER
MAY 2014
Let Hertz put you in the driver’s seat With exclusive members-only discounts and benefits
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ummer vacation season is nearly here, and travelers will soon be shopping for rental cars for their travel destinations. One of the benefits of AAA membership is the special package of savings available when you rent from Hertz. Members receive up to a 20 percent discount on car rentals, free Hertz Gold Plus Rewards membership, plus an array of money-saving opportunities, including special upgrades, dollarsoff coupons, and more. Their Member Satisfaction Guarantee is your assurance that the rate and car class, or a higher car class, will be available as reserved. The key to these exclusive Hertz savings and benefits is the CDP number. Your Hertz CDP number is 215, the same as your club code, which appears on the front of your membership card. It’s your gateway to savings and value. The Hertz system will automatically assign the best rate available within the chosen channel of distribution at the time of reservation. Exclusive AAA member benefits include free unlimited mileage on most rentals. Families receive free use of one child, infant or booster seat, and there’s no charge for an additional driver if they are a AAA member with a credit card in their own name. Hertz frequently offers AAA members special single and double upgrade coupons in addition to dollars off coupons.
Rental Days, after their first Gold rental! Plus, your Hertz Discount Code (CDP#) is automatically included in your reservations. Join at AAA.com/ HertzPremier. Hertz’ premier frequent renter program entitles you to membership privileges at more than 40 major airports and 1,000 locations around the world. Just get in, show your driver’s license at the exit gate and drive away. There’s no waiting in line, nothing to sign. Your car will be waiting in a weatherprotected #1 Club Gold area. AAA demands the best for its members. That’s why Hertz is the only car-rental company endorsed by AAA. The next time you need a rental car let Hertz put you in the driver’s seat.
GOOD AS GOLD — AAA members receive free Hertz Gold Plus Rewards membership. These coupon or coupon-less offers are available from AAA travel offices, in your club publication and on AAA.com. While most leisure and/or promotional weekly rates require that a car be rented over Saturday night, AAA members don’t have to worry. They qualify for low weekly rates without having to keep the vehicle over a Saturday night. And when you return, a Hertz agent will give you an Instant Return receipt
before you even leave the vehicle. AAA Basic & Plus Members receive free Hertz Gold Plus Rewards membership, plus 675 Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Bonus points — enough for One Free Rental Day, after their first Gold rental! Join at AAA.com/HertzGold. In addition to Hertz Gold Plus Rewards, AAA Premier Members get 1,100 Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Bonus points — enough for Two Free Weekend
FOR MORE INFORMATION
May is Hertz Month at AAA and bigger summer savings start now. During May and June, AAA members will save 20% more on already discounted weekly rates at the airport for vehicle pickup through July 31, 2014 when Promotional Code 196700 is included in the reservation. Hertz always saves you more with exclusive benefits for AAA members including free use of a child seat and discounted Hertz Neverlost GPS rental for just $6.99 per day. Visit AAA.com/hertz for further details.
MAY 2014
PAGE 9
AAA TRAVELER
Member Benefits • Exclusive Offers
y nd! b ck ema a B rd ula p po MEMBERS SAVE BIG!
1-800-354-8761 • AAA.com/travel
Step into a fairy-tale world...
German Christmas Markets
Premier ...$200.00 Plus.........$150.00 Basic .......$100.00 PER ROOM...NEW BOOKINGS ONLY
Book & deposit by 5/31/14
Visit markets in • Nuremberg • Rothenburg • Bamberg • Bayreuth • Regensburg • Munich • Füssen
PLUS... NEUSCHWANSTEIN
Ludwig II built his fairy-tale castle in order to withdraw from public life. After Bavaria’s “shy king” died in 1886, spectacular Neuschwanstein opened to the public; ironically, 1.3 million people now visit here every year. A half-day excursion to this fascinating architectural marvel is included in AAA’s tour.
Treat yourself to a wunderbar escorted tour full of history, scenery & traditional crafts & foods. Granted, Christmas may not be on your mind at this very moment...but it should be! Especially considering everything that AAA’s bigger-and-better Dec 2-10 German Christmas Markets tour offers! For AAA members, one element is a Christmas gift of sorts — a limited-time, many-dollars-off discount based on your membership level. Premier members booking & depositing by 5/31/14 get $200 off the regular rate per room, based on double occupancy. AAA Plus members save $150.00, and Basic members save $100.00. Experience the Old World tradition of welcoming the Christmas season at public marketplaces large and small, where walkways lined with rustic stalls hum with holiday strollers and shoppers young & old. Local artisans exhibit traditional handmade decorations, art and craft items; purveyors of aromatic seasonal culinary delights tempt passersby with gingerbread cookies and spice-mulled wine; and musicians and performers add a festive note to the ambience. Some markets even sport carnival-type rides and amusements. Most German cities of any significant size present at least 1 Christkindlmarkt; on this get-in-the-spirit tour in the southeastern state of Bavaria, you get to visit at least 7 (yes, 7!), each unique in size and style — from some of the most famous and popular to some of the most intimate and charming. And, be-
cause they’re usually in the heart of the community, they’re ideal bases from which to explore surrounding landmarks like cathedrals and castles, as well as year-round brick-andmortar shops and restaurants. This unique tour operates on the same principles of convenience and efficiency. Spend 4 nights in Nuremberg and 3 in Munich; you’ll be able to comfortably “settle in” in those cities, taking short rides each day to the markets and landmarks surrounding them. Forget traipsing from a hotel in one town one day to another hotel the next day to yet another hotel the following day, and so on. Best of all, forget about packing and unpacking each time! With only 2 base hotels, you’ll have more time to see and do (or rest and relax) — whatever your travel style may be. All in all, it makes for a much more pleasant, satisfying experience...and it maximizes your valuable time and energy. And all the while, you and your fellow travelers will enjoy the company and insider knowledge of your professional English-speaking native European guide. From start to finish, you’ll have peace of mind knowing an experienced expert is at your side and at your service to provide practical information and interesting background about all you see and tour. He’ll even be able to offer suggestions about what to do during free time after touring. continued on next page
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AAA TRAVELER
1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
Bavarian markets are the
MAY 2014
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
of this popular holiday tour
When you’re on your own, you can medieval, Advent and arts & crafts. A “Route of Nativity Scenes” links explore cobblestone streets lined with festively decorated boutiques and 40 churches, museums, public buildings and other places via a series of German charming squares brimming with high-quality crafts and gifts (toys, diverse Christmas creches. Also visit the nearby market in Bayreuth. wood carvings, jewelry, nutcrackers and delicate ornaments, among Regensburg, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Germany’s Christmas others). Discover Christmas goods that aren’t mass-produced — nativbest preserved medieval cities, has markets sparkling with decoraMarkets ity figurines, puppets, beeswax candles and lambskin shoes. It’s an tions, nativity scenes, toys and other presents; the creative people ideal opportunity to make a dent in your gift shopping list! who fashion the objects happily explain their techniques. Other MEMBERS Few items may be as difficult to resist as the baked apples and booths invite you to sample gingerbread and Christmas cookies. SAVE BIG! Glühwein (“glow-wine,” from hot irons once used to mull this red Dating to the 14th century, Munich’s Marienplatz market ofwine spiced with cinnamon, vanilla, cloves, star anise, citrus and fers live Alpine holiday music from Town Hall’s balcony. While Premier ........ $200.00 sugar). Enjoy them all beneath twinkling lights, evergreen garin town, savor an included traditional dinner featuring Spätzle Plus ............. $150.00 lands and other holiday decorations. (dense egg noodles; the name means “little sparrow”) and Strudel Basic............ $100.00 Nuremberg’s Old Quarter market, the world’s most famous, (“whirlpool” — layered pastry filled with fruit or sweet cheese). PER ROOM...NEW BOOKINGS ONLY is opened each year by a youngster playing the Christ Then, escape on a fun morning excursion to Mad LudBook & deposit by 5/31/14 Child. Kids of all ages love the Kinderweihnacht (chilwig’s Alpine castle, Neuschwanstein. Spectacularly dren’s Christmas area) and its carousel featuring an uplocated, the shy king’s palace appears prominently in per tier, reindeer and Santa’s sleigh. Nuremberg’s also many movies and inspired Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauknown for its honey and its thin brown sausages. ty Castle. Then it’s on to Füssen, which holds its marRothenburg ob der Tauber (“Red Fortress above the ket in the festively illuminated monastery courtyard of Tauber River”) on the Romantic Road offers, fittingly, St Mang in the heart of the town’s historic cobblestone one of the most romantic markets. An ancient walled streets. On the way back to Munich, enjoy a short tour in town largely untouched for centuries, it Oberammergau to see its world-famous boasts some of Europe’s most impressive wood carvings, including a Holy Family Dec 2-10 • AAA Member Rate: $3,305 medieval architecture. The Schneebälle so small they fit in a nutshell! Before-discount rate includes roundtrip flights (Louisville(“snowballs” of deep-fried dough dustIf these markets/treats whet your Frankfurt, Munich-Louisville), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, ed with sugar) are a local specialty. wanderlust/appetite, visit AAA.com/ accommodations, motorcoach transportation, hotel taxes/service Four markets in the UNESCO World GoEurope for more information! charges, hotel baggage handling, 13 meals, Neuschwanstein tour, services But hurry: Book & deposit by Heritage town of Bamberg come in difof a AAA tour manager (if participation goal is met) and in-Germany escort. 5/31/14 to save up to $200.00 per room! ferent shapes and sizes — traditional,
continued from previous page
MAY 2014
AAA TRAVELER
PAGE 11
1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
AAA Featured Vacations
KICK OFF SUMMER...
are specific cruise, motorcoach or air tour vacations created or selected by AAA Travel for their value, amenities and/or inclusions.
with great GETAWAYS &
GREAT GIFTS valued at up to $120.00 SEE BOX BELOW.
Look for the AAA Featured Vacations logo to identify out-of-the-ordinary offerings.
BOOK BY 5/17/14
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 ____________________________________________________________
SIZZLING SUMMER KICK-OFF!
• •
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.
Tap into the magic of your Disney 8GB BUILT-IN vacation MEMORY with AAA BLUETOOTH
DUAL FRONT & REAR CAMERA
Y POWERED 4B.2 ID O R AND
Book & make a nonrefundable deposit on a new 7-night-orPick a gift based on your vacation’s length. longer 2014 air-inclusive vacaNIGHTS tion & choose 1 of 5 summery GIFT 7-11 12+ gifts (value up to $120) based on your vacation length. Ask a AAA EXTRA-WIDE ZERO-GRAVITY LOUNGER OUTDOOR CHAIR travel agent to arrange your CUISINART PETIT GOURMET TABLETOP GAS GRILL vacation with 1 of these AAA partners — AAA Member Choice ® Vacations®, Insight Vacations®, FITBIT FLEX™ WIRELESS ACTIVITY & SLEEP WRISTBAND Pleasant Holidays or Trafalgar; once it’s booked, AAA will make OUTDOOR WIRELESS SPEAKER & VERSATILE DOCK sure you receive your gift in time GRILL ALERT TALKING REMOTE MEAT THERMOMETER for all your summer activities.
• • • • • •
AAA East Central reserves the right to substitute a product of equal value if item becomes unavailable.
HURRY — BOOK BY MAY 31
Get a FREE 7" TABLET when you book select Disney vacations at AAA in May!
Valid on new AAA Vacations® Magic Your Way® packages that include...
• 7 nights (or more) at these Walt Disney World® Resort hotels: Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Disney’s Beach Club Resort or Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge • 7-night (or longer) Disney Deluxe Dining Plan — 3 meals and 2 snacks per person per night plus 1 refillable mug per person • 8-day Park Hopper® tickets • Roundtrip shuttle — Orlando International Airport • Allianz travel protection insurance plan
AAA Member Benefits
• Exclusive AAA Vacations® Diamond Savings Card. Enjoy discounts of up to 20% at restaurants, shops, recreational venues and tours throughout the Walt Disney World® Resort.
GRAND FLORIDIAN
• Exclusive AAA Diamond Parking. Take advantage of convenient preferred parking spaces at all 4 Walt Disney World® Resort Theme Parks.
• AAA Magic Moments® Savings. Save up to 25% on the room portion of your AAA Vacations® package (subject to availability).
©Disney
Offer valid for new AAA Vacations® Walt Disney World® Resort Magic Your Way® plus Deluxe Dining Plan package bookings of 7 nights or longer at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Disney’s Beach Club Resort or Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. One tablet per room/booking. 2014 booking must be made 5/1–5/31 for travel by 12/31/14. Tablet will be mailed after final payment; allow 4-6 weeks for delivery. AAA East Central reserves the right to substitute a product of equal value if item becomes unavailable. Offer has no cash or store credit value if returned. Offer is not combinable with other AAA East Central promotional offers. See a AAA associate for details. AAA Member Benefits are for 2014 arrivals. One Diamond Savings Card per package; nontransferable and void if sold. AAA Diamond Parking is subject to availability; voucher with guest name required; block-out dates apply; nontransferable; void if sold. AAA member savings of 10%, 15%, 20% or 25% is on the nondiscounted rate of room portion of select AAA Vacations® packages and is subject to availability.
BEACH CLUB
ANIMAL KINGDOM LODGE
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AAA TRAVELER
MAY 2014
1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers Member-only ing discounts for book . by May 31, 2014 Premier......... $300 Plus ..............$250 Basic.............$200 PER ROOM
ERIENCES
PEAK EXP
Rocky Mountaineer Train Summit Helicopter Tour
CANADIAN ROCKIES: Seattle to Calgary Discover the pleasures of a Rocky Mountaineer journey; enjoy the highest-level GoldLeaf Service on 3 daytime train rides. Witness stunning mountainscapes...alpine lakes of hues more often associated with jewels...star-bright nights, silent but for sounds of the wild… forests redolent of evergreen and what can only be described as the smell of “clean.” This extraordinary 9-day tour includes rides from Seattle to Vancouver, Vancouver to Kamloops and Kamloops to Jasper. Even more extraordinary? They’re just 1 highlight of this tour! Visit natural wonders in 3 national parks that form the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site. And enjoy hotel stays in Seattle, Vancouver (3 nights), Kamloops, Jasper (2 nights), Lake Louise, Banff and Calgary.
Exclusive AAA MEMBER BENEFIT: Each adult receives a $100 onboard Rocky Mountaineer souvenir credit!
Sept 12-22 •
AAA Member Rate: $6,099
Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Louisville-Seattle, Calgary-Louisville), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, 10-night hotel accommodations, luggage handling (1 piece per person), 3 train rides, 5 meals and taxes on included items. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details. Visit AAA.com/travel for details. Passport required.
MAY 2014
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AAA TRAVELER
1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
LAST CHANCE!
THIS THANKSGIVING
Yellowstone Experience AUG 11-17 $2,645
Our first national park’s first explorers were called liars when they described its otherworldly geysers & bubbling mudpots and its freeranging bison, elk, moose, bears & wolves. Begin at Salt Lake City and travel through scenic Idaho to Yellowstone. Enjoy Old Faithful & many other natural landmarks, as well as the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center. A Wildlife Safari includes a picnic dinner. Also enjoy Grand Teton National Park, the cowboy town of Jackson, a Jenny Lake cruise, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir (schedule permitting) and more! 12 meals. AAA Member Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights from Louisville, roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, sightseeing admissions, taxes/gratuities for included features, baggage handling (1 bag per person) and meals as indicated. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details. Visit AAA.com/travel for itinerary details.
and save up to
$348.00
with AAA’s exclusive rates! 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). OCT 30–NOV 8 INSIDE
PUBLIC RATE $2,160 AAA RATE $1,985 YOU SAVE $175.00
OUTSIDE
BALCONY
$2,786 $2,953 $2,505 $2,605 $281.00 $348.00
Rates are per person (double occupancy), are subject to availability at time of booking and include hotel/pier transfers, 2 nights at Marriott Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa, Arizona Memorial/Pearl Harbor tour, 7-night cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals and government taxes/fees. Ship’s registry: USA. Ask about available add-on airfare.
Wouldn’t you rather “roast” in the Caribbean? Leave cooking & cleaning to someone else this year; cruise for 10 relaxing days on Celebrity Equinox. Receive these AAA MEMBER PERKS! VOUCHER FOR A BOTTLE OF WINE $75.00 ONBOARD CREDIT MARTINI TASTING
Nov 21–Dec 1 AAA Member Rate from $1,685
Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes balcony cruise accommodations/ entertainment, most onboard meals & government taxes/fees. Ship’s registry: Malta. Ask about available add-on airfare. Visit AAA.com/travel for detailed itinerary.
Receive a SPECIAL GIFT for booking & depositing by 5/31/14! $100.00 VISA GIFT CARD PER STATEROOM
GET A HEAD START ON HOLIDAY GIFT BUYING! BALCONY OR HIGHER STATEROOM. RESTRICTIONS APPLY.
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AAA TRAVELER
MAY 2014
1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers ESCORTED TOUR OPERATED BY CIE TOURS INTERNATIONAL
Irish Pubs
&Folklore
Bunratty Folk Park • Medieval banquet in a castle • Cliffs of Moher • Flying Boat Museum • Killarney National Park • Ring of Kerry • Skellig Experience • Moll’s Gap • Waterford Crystal • Dinner & song at a pub • Dublin: tour & free time ...AND MUCH, MUCH MORE!
Oct 5-12 •
AAA Member Rate: $1,459
Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, guided motorcoach sightseeing, entrance fees, 11 meals (including Bunratty Castle medieval banquet/entertainment & Merry Ploughboy pub dinner/ entertainment), in-Ireland tour director, hotel luggage handling (1 piece per person), hotel taxes & service charges. Ask about available add-on airfare. Visit AAA.com/GoIreland for itinerary and information.
ESCORTED TOUR OPERATED BY CIE TOURS INTERNATIONAL
May 12-21, 2015 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!
Andy Warhol’s “Flowers” Exhibit June 28 •
AAA Member Rate: $115
This is a great day trip to beautiful Cheekwood Botanical Gardens in Nashville TN. Best known for his vibrant pop works, Andy Warhol let his flower imagery reveal a softer, more intimate side of himself. This exhibit highlights include his audacious floral proposal for the Tacoma Dome in Washington State, as well as paintings, studio photographs and almost a dozen screen prints from his vibrant “Flowers” series. Lunch is included at the Pineapple Room on the grounds of Cheekwood. 1 meal.
“Ansel Adams” Exhibit at Eiteljorg Museum July 12 •
AAA Member Rate: $95
Eiteljorg Museum in Indianapolis IN is known as one of the best Native American and Western art collections in the world. The “Ansel Adams” exhibit has more than 80 photos, including those personally chosen by the iconic photographer to represent the best of his life’s work. The exhibition includes many of Adams’ most famous and best-loved photographs, including architectural studies, portraits and magnificent landscapes. After an included lunch, tour the museum, which houses works by T C Cannon, N C Wyeth, Georgia O’Keefe, Frederic Remington, Charles Russell and others. 1 meal.
Amish Acres Arts & Crafts Festival July 31–Aug 2 •
AAA Member Rate: $450
Travel to Nappanee IN to this wonderfully unique arts & crafts festival. Ranked as 1 of the top 100 events nationwide, the show is packed with more than 300 artists, delicious food and great entertainment.Your 2-night visit includes Linton’s Enchanted Gardens, 2 Amish dinners, a vintage-car cruise and a guided house & farm tour at Amish Acres. After dinner, thrill to a live performance in the round barn theater. We’ll also tour the surrounding area and view many of the famous quilt gardens. 5 meals.
A Derby Dinner Matinee & Schimpff’s Candy Sept 17 •
AAA Member Rate: $90
Tour Schimpff’s Confectionery for a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at candy making. Founded in 1891, Schimpff’s has long been hailed for its quality, service and ohso-delicious treats. Then it’s on to Derby Dinner Playhouse for a buffet lunch and a performance of “A Mighty Fortress Is Our Basement” by the Church Basement Ladies. It’d be a sin to miss this hilarious show. 1 meal.
MAY 2014
AAA TRAVELER
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AAA TRAVELER
MAY 2014
A safe start with AAA Kentucky Driver Training Training Center helping teens make the most of driver education
A
s the weather warms up, many teens will be enrolling in driver training. In the following Q &A, Jeff Gardner, manager of the AAA Kentucky Driver Training Center, discusses the process of preparing teens for driver training. Q: What requirements must a teenager meet to begin driver’s education? A: In Kentucky, a student must have his or her learner’s permit before taking classes or receiving behind-thewheel training. To qualify for a permit, the teen must be at least 16. Both the teen and parent/guardian must visit their local driver exam office with a Social Security card, school attendance form and state-certified copy of the teen’s birth certificate. Teens also must pass a written test and a vision test. Q: What are the different driver training options offered by AAA Kentucky Driver Training Center? A: We offer a number of different programs structured to fit any family’s budget. Our primary program includes 10 hours of classroom instruction, 20 hours of at-home workbook study (for those whose insurance company requires 30 hours of training), and four 90-minute behind-the-wheel individual lessons. This option also includes the mandatory Kentucky Graduated Licensing Program Four-Hour Safety Course. We also offer each component separately, so a teen can sign up only for the classroom portion or the
to best prepare him or her for the driving test. Q: What is one piece of advice you’d like to share with parents and new drivers? A: Driver education is a constant learning process. It’s not over once you receive the license. You need to continuously review driving materials, because every day you are out driving, that’s another test. At AAA Kentucky Driver Training Center we stress the importance of continuously striving to get better through practice. Q: How can parents enroll their teen in AAA Kentucky Driver Training? A: Parents can enroll by calling AAA Kentucky Driver Training Center at (502) 779-3611 or by visiting any AAA East Central office in the greater Louisville area. They can also visit AAA.com/community for details.
PARENT-TEEN DRIVING AGREEMENT — AAA suggests signing an agreement to help set realistic expectations and establish boundaries for teen drivers. behind-the-wheel lessons, or for extra behind-the-wheel training. Q: What are the benefits of attending AAA Kentucky Driver Training Center? A: AAA has offered driver education since 1936, and it has been a trusted leader in automotive safety for more than a century. AAA Kentucky Driver Training Center provides both the classroom and behind-the-wheel
instruction teenagers need to be safe, confident drivers. Our instructors don’t take any detail of driving knowledge for granted: they start with the simplest concepts and work up to the complicated topics. All of our behindthe-wheel lessons are conducted oneon-one with a licensed instructor and one student. Through this personalized format, the instructor can best evaluate the student’s strengths and weaknesses
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
AAA offers a wide variety of resources to guide parents through the process of their teens learning how to drive through its teen driver safety website—TeenDriving. AAA.com. The interactive site provides parents and teens with specific information based on where they live and where they are in the learning process—from preparing to drive (pre-permit) through the learner’s permit and solo driving.
Running hot and cold with Electric Vehicles AAA finds temperature affects EV driving range
E
lectric Vehicles (EVs) are energy efficient and environmentally-friendly with the added benefit of reducing fuel costs for motorists. But, just as motorists need to know how far the gas in their tank will take them, EV drivers need to be aware of how far their vehicle can travel on a single charge. According to new AAA research conducted by the AAA Automotive Research Center in Southern California, electric vehicle range can be reduced by an average
of 57 percent based on the outside temperature. “Electric motors provide smooth operation, strong acceleration, require less maintenance than internal combustion engines, and for many motorists offer a cost effective option,” said John Nielsen, managing director, AAA Automotive Engineering and Repair. “However, EV drivers need to carefully monitor driving range in hot and cold weather.” To better understand the impact of
climate on electric vehicle batteries, AAA conducted a simulation to measure the driving range of three fullyelectric vehicles in cold, moderate and hot weather. Temperature made a big difference in driving range for all three EVs. Vehicles were tested for city driving to mimic stop-and-go traffic, and to better compare with EPA ratings listed on the window sticker. The average EV battery range in AAA’s test was 105 miles at 75°F, but that dropped 57 percent to 43 miles when the temperature was held steady at 20°F. Warm temperatures were less stressful on battery range, but still delivered a lower average of 69 miles per full charge at 95°F. AAA performed the testing between December 2013 and January 2014 on three fully-electric vehicles — a 2013 Nissan Leaf, a 2012 Mitsubishi iMIEV and a 2014 Ford Focus EV. They were selected because they are the most widely available electric cars in the country. Each vehicle completed a driving cycle for moderate, hot and cold climates following standard EPA-DOE test procedures. The vehicles were fully charged and then “driven” on a dynamometer in a climate-controlled room until the battery was fully exhausted.
According to a 2012 survey by conducted by AAA, eight out of ten U.S. adults are unsure about or unlikely to buy an electric vehicle (EV) and 30 percent of them say it is due to mileage limitations and availability of charging stations locations. Even the reduced range of the test vehicles was still more than enough for the average driver’s daily commute which the U.S. Department of Transportation says is around 16 miles one way AAA has initiated several projects including mobile recharging units and EV charging stations to support members who drive electric vehicles. EVs provide owners with many benefits, but every motorist needs to be aware of conditions that can impact vehicle driving range. EV drivers need to plan carefully in hot and cold weather. Mapping tools such as the AAA TripTik® Travel Planner pinpoint charging stations to keep motorists on the go.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Visit AAA.com for information on all things automotive including tips on buying, operating and maintaining a vehicle.
MAY 2014
AAA TRAVELER
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AAA TRAVELER
MAY 2014
Carnival cruises from the Crescent City Let the good times roll aboard Carnival Dream
N
ew Orleans is as gaudy and appealing as a string of Mardi Gras beads. Here legends seem to collect like driftwood along the levees. Visitors can revel amid the Old World charm of the French Quarter, or explore the leafy Garden District on a streetcar named Desire. Bourbon Street is where the spirit of Mardi Gras permeates the raucous clubs and bars 365 days a year. Just one block over, Royal Street is more sedate, housing many of the city’s upscale restaurants and boutiques. New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz and the best spots for live music are on Frenchmen Street in the Faubourg Marigny neighborhood, just below the lower edge of the Quarter. The “Big Easy” has added another new moniker: cruise destination. The Port of New Orleans not only offers a convenient and affordable departure point, it’s also a great place for a pre- or post cruise vacation. Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) an industry trade group, ranks New Orleans as the sixth largest cruise port in the U.S. In April, Carnival Cruises launched year-round seven-day service from New Orleans aboard Carnival Dream. New Orleans’ largest year-round cruise ship, the 3,646-passenger Carnival Dream, offers a host of on-board innovations, including a water park featuring the
THE BIG EASY — A carriage ride in New Orleans’ French Quarter. 303-foot-long Twister water slide. Carnival WaterWorks also features twin, double-lane, 80-foot-long racing slides and various water spray apparatus with squirting fountains, splash zones, “dump buckets” and more. Open-deck activities include a halfmile wrap around promenade and whirlpools that extend over the ship’s sides.
Reach for the sky with AAA Plus ®
Upgrade your membership to AAA Plus® and experience a higher level of benefits! Extend your benefits for even more driving security Benefit
Basic Membership
AAA Plus® Membership
Towing
Back to the AAA station that comes to your rescue or Anywhere up to 100 miles. up to 3 miles to a destination of your choice.
Emergency Road Service When Out of Gas
Free delivery of emergency gas. Member will be charged for fuel at current pump price.
Free delivery of emergency gas. Fuel is free.
One service vehicle and one driver.
Two service vehicles and two drivers (if needed) at no extra charge.
Off-Road Rescue Service Lock & Key Service
Free service call (to gain entry) and up to $60 for Free service call (to gain entry) and up to $100 for locksmith charge. Towing benefit applies if necessary. locksmith charge. AAA Plus towing benefits applies if necessary.
When AAA Emergency Road Service is not Available
Reimbursement according to published limits
Get more out of your membership! Visit your local AAA office, AAA.com, or call the Member Service Center at 1-800-441-5008
Full amount reimbursed for covered AAA services (as long as costs are based on commercial rates.)
DEC 14
Carnival Dream’s family friendly features even extend to the ship’s accommodations, which include spacious deluxe ocean view staterooms with a unique configuration featuring two bathrooms. Carnival Dream sails three distinctly different itineraries — Western Caribbean cruises visiting Montego Bay, Cozumel, and Grand Cayman;
or Mahogany Bay (Isla Roatan), Belize and Cozumel; and a Bahamas/Florida route calling at Key West, Freeport and Nassau. It joins Carnival Elation, which sails year-round four- and five-day cruises from New Orleans to Mexico. Roatan is the largest of the eight Bay Islands that lie some 40-miles off the Caribbean coast of the Honduras. Carnival’s $62 million Mahogany Bay Cruise Center features the “Magical Flying Beach Chair,” a unique chair lift system that takes guests from the welcome center to beautiful Mahogany Beach. The six-minute ride across nearly 1,200 feet of suspended cables, not only provides convenient beach access, but expansive views of this lush tropical paradise. Located about twelve miles off the coast of Cancun, Cozumel is known as the Aquarium of the Modern World, famous for its spectacular coral formations and extraordinary water clarity. The temperate seas, and silky sand beaches appear to be unchanged since the time of the Mayan empire more than 1,000 years ago.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Please see this issue’s Departures Guide or log on to AAA.com/cruises for special values on New Orleans and Carnival Cruise vacations.
AAA Vacations® is your connection to the world Hand-crafted itineraries and exclusive member values
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AA Vacations® travels the globe to bring you the world’s most remarkable journeys. These cruise and land-based vacations are hand-selected by AAA with carefully crafted itineraries that seamlessly mingle the “must sees” with intimate glimpses of other cultures. And they are only available through AAA Travel. AAA Vacations® are an exceptional value because AAA has negotiated great members-only savings and benefits. Every vacation includes the AAA Vacations® Best Price Guarantee and AAA Vacations® 24/7 Member Care. You can also rely on the expertise of your AAA Travel Agent in selecting the right vacation package for you.
Do it your way
AAA’s land vacation program features dozens of guided and locally hosted programs to the world’s most sought after locales. All are designed to reveal the very heart and soul of the places you’ll see, touch and taste. Travel independently or share the experience with a host and other likeminded nomads. No matter how you go you’ll travel in confidence. AAA Vacations® 24/7 Member Care delivers peace of mind should you need assistance on you journey. Looking to chill out on a beach or plunge under a waterfall in a tropical
lagoon? Choose from more than 100 resorts across the Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii and the South Pacific. Enjoy premium amenities like complimentary room upgrades, early check in and late check out, resort credits and optional excursion certificates. And nobody does Disney like AAA Vacations®. Let your AAA travel professional create a package to Walt Disney World® Resort or Disneyland® Resort that will make magical memories. You’ll also receive exclusive AAA Vacations® benefits, plus AAA member benefits on select AAA Vacations® packages.
Choose your cruise
AAA has partnered with some of the industry’s best cruise lines and with more than 400 departures, you won’t have to wait for your ship to come in. Plus, AAA Vacations® offers exclusive bonus amenities like priority check-in on day of boarding, champagne on arrival, onboard spending credits and specialty dining experience, just to a name a few. Look for the AAA located next to the cruise listed on AAA.com/ aaavacations, then click on the link that says “Special Offer” to see the added amenities for that particular departure. Pick up your 2014 AAA Vacations® catalog today at any AAA Travel Agency location, or download the new 2014 AAA Vacations® eBrochure at AAA.com/ aaavacations.
MAY 2014
AAA TRAVELER
PAGE 19
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AAA TRAVELER
MAY 2014
Your golden ticket to a great new car deal Take a test drive and be rewarded for your feedback!
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f you’re shopping for a new or used car this spring, the AAA Auto Buying Program is the easiest way to save both time and money. AAA members cut down the average amount of time spent at the dealership with Guaranteed Savings and upfront dealer pricing information* before ever walking on the lot. Using the Auto Buying Program online tools, AAA members have saved an average of $3,078 off MSRP**, receive additional used car discounts, and enjoy a hassle-free experience with pre-screened Certified Dealers. AAA Auto Buying Program Certified Dealers are committed to providing a simple and painless purchase process and want shoppers’ feedback about their service. For a limited time, take a test drive with a Certified Dealer, complete a quick survey about your experience and you’ll get a $25 gift card in the mail. (Details provided with your certificate.) Take your first step on the AAA Auto Buying Program site at AAA.com/autobuying where you can research new and used cars. Learn about any regional incentives and special cash-back offers available from the manufacturer or estimate the trade-in value of your used car and your potential monthly payment. The AAA Auto Buying Program lets you know when you’re getting a good deal and gives you unlimited access to
CARE FREE CAR BUYING — Get upfront dealer pricing info before you step on the lot at AAA.com/autobuying. free TrueCar Price Reports which show what others paid in your area for cars with the same features as the one you have chosen. You’ll also find reviews, photos, and specifications for a variety of vehicles and safety and crash test results allowing shoppers to compare
various vehicles at one time. Once you’re ready to purchase, be sure to print your Guaranteed Savings Certificate or Used 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 AAA member savings and enjoy a hassle-free shopping experience. If you end up picking a different car on the lot than what’s on your certificate, our Certified Dealers will give you the member savings for the car you choose on the spot. And unlike some other programs, there’s no additional charge to access this service — you have unlimited access as part of your AAA membership! So if you’re ready to buy a car, or want to find out how much you could save, go to AAA.com/autobuying and request upfront dealer pricing information for the car you want. You can also reach one of our representatives by calling 800-446-7433. Our Certified Dealers are waiting to take you on that test drive! *Guaranteed Savings and upfront dealer pricing information not available in all states. **See AAA.com/autobuying for details.
IT’S A GIFT
Take your first step on the AAA Auto Buying Program site at AAA.com/autobuying. And for a limited time, take a test drive with a Certified Dealer, complete a quick survey about your experience and you’ll receive a $25 gift card in the mail.
Give Yourself an Upgrade—
SEE CLEARLY AND COMFORTABLY IN THE SUN.
to the highest level of protection available! Get more from your membership.
40% OFF SUNGLASSES MADE WITH YOUR PRESCRIPTION*
AAA members get a bonus $5
**
** Additional $5 off of complete pair of eyeglasses or sunglasses made with your prescription (frame and lenses). Valid AAA membership required. May be combined with vision and insurance plans and other offers. No cash value. Some brands excluded, including Maui Jim and Oakley lenses or Cartier frames. Limit one AAA discount per customer. Discount Code: 678946. * Valid on multiple pairs. Both frame and lenses purchase required. Cannot be combined with any vision or insurance benefits, any store or other offer, discount or sale, previous purchases, readers or non-prescription sunglasses. Savings applied to lenses. Valid prescription required. Discounts are off tag price. Some brands excluded including Totallens, Varilux lenses, Maui Jim and Oakley sun frames and Authentics lenses, or Cartier frames. See store for details. Purchase a Cartier frame at tag price and get 40% off the quoted list price of the lenses. If Varilux lenses are selected, get 20% off the complete pair purchase (frame and lenses). Savings applied to the lenses. Offer expires 07/02/2014.
Upgrade to AAA Premier. With expanded roadside assistance — and a host of other benefits — AAA Premier is a smart choice. 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
MAY 2014
AAA TRAVELER
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Cruising into the Pearl of the Adriatic Fact meets fiction in Dubrovnik’s Old Town
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living museum on the southern tip of Croatia, Lord Byron called Dubrovnik “the pearl of the Adriatic.” Gleaming marble streets are lined with baroque buildings, punctuated by finely sculpted Renaissance fountains and facades, and polished by the footsteps of history. One of Europe’s most spectacular ports of call, cruise lines calling here include Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Holland America, Oceania, Princess and Azamara. Ships typically dock at the port located about two miles northwest of the walled Old Town. George Bernard Shaw once said “those who seek paradise on Earth should come to Dubrovnik and find it.” Only a few faint scars remain from the 1991 bombardment by Yugoslav forces during the Croatian War of Independence. More recently, Dubrovnik’s Old Town has become familiar as the real-world locale for King’s Landing in the HBO TV series Game of Thrones. Old Town’s labyrinth of streets is completely encircled by walls and fortresses. Constructed between the 12th and 17th centuries, these massive walls are among the best preserved in Europe and the city’s premier attraction. Towering up to 80 feet high, the
KING’S LANDING — Old Town and Lovrijenac Fortress from Minceta Tower. Photo by Dennis Jarvis.
limestone walls are over 20 feet thick in places. The Pile Gate — Old Town’s principal gateway — is defended by the circular-shaped Fort Bokar, with a wooden drawbridge spanning what is now a dry moat. The best way to explore the Old City is by walking the 1.5-mile circumference of the ramparts. There are dozens of stairs to climb and it’s best to go
early before the sun gets too hot. Minceta Tower, the highest point on the walls, offers a breathtaking panorama of the city with its jumble of red tile roofs providing a perfect counterpoint to the Adriatic’s dazzling blue shimmer. The Maritime Museum is located inside St. John’s Fortress in the battlements’ southeast corner. The museum is full of artifacts like scale models
of ships, surprisingly accurate ancient maps, and antique treasures from Dubrovnik’s nautical past. During the Middle Ages the former Republic of Ragusa rivaled Venice for influence and power. The 15thcentury Rectors’ Palace was once the city-state’s seat of government. Today, the palace is a museum with furnished rooms, Baroque paintings, and historical exhibits. The 1673 Cathedral is home to an impressive patrimony of art including Titian’s The Assumption. Right beyond the walls, forbidding Lovrijenac Fortress perches on a rocky promontory. Often called “Dubrovnik’s Gibraltar” Game of Thrones fans will recognize it as the Red Keep — home to the legendary Iron Throne. Outside of Old Town, a cable car makes the 3-minute transit to the top of Mount Srdj, crowned by the Naopleonic era Fort Imperial. From the summit visitors have a bird’s eye view of the town, the sea and the quiet islands scattered like stepping stones, along the Dalmatian coast. FOR MORE INFORMATION
Please see your AAA Departures Guide or log on to AAA.com/cruises for special values on European cruise vacations.
Some electrifying developments in the automotive industry Car batteries no longer being taken for granted
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otorists typically don’t think much about their battery until their car doesn’t start. This humble workhorse of your daily commute not only provides the power for ignition, but a growing number of automotive electronics are drawing more power from your battery than ever before. Invented in 1859 by French physicist Gaston Planté, the lead–acid battery’s ability to provide the high current required by automobile starter motors, along with its relatively low cost, have made it a mainstay for starting, lighting and ignition (SLI) functions for the past 50 years. Most hybrid electric vehicles including the Ford Fusion, and the Chevrolet Volt depend on lead-acid batteries for the SLI functions, as do those equipped with “start-stop” technologies. Lead-acid batteries have undergone their own remarkable evolution to keep pace with the demand for more power and reliability. First, the sealed valve regulated lead-acid battery (VRLA) or maintenance free battery was developed, which meant motorists no longer needed to check or top off the electrolyte levels. In fact, forcing or prying these caps open may destroy or permanently damage your battery. VRLA batteries are designed in two ways — gel electrolyte and absorbed glass mat (AGM). Gel batteries, introduced in the 1960s, use electrolyte in
surement and is the amount of current a battery can deliver at 0°F for 30 seconds. Where and how you use your vehicle and the electronic load that your battery supports should also be considered. Winter may be over but few people realize that hot weather can be even harder on your car’s battery. Heat causes battery fluid to evaporate, and also accelerates the rate of corrosion on your battery terminals. Both conditions can lead to insufficient electrical power being available, and leave a motorist stranded without warning.
AAA BATTERY SERVICE
POWER CENTER — AAA’s Mobile Battery Service can accurately diagnose your battery-related problems at the roadside. gel form for greater stability. The AGM battery, which came to market in the 1980s, uses porous glass mats to absorb and hold the electrolyte. AGM batteries are usually found in hybrid and other high performance vehicles. AAA’s Mobile Battery Service now carries an AGM hybrid battery that meets OEM requirements for 17 Toyota hybrid models, including Prius generations I-V, and three Lexus models, covering nearly a million vehicles in North America. Right now, intensive technical devel-
opment work is underway in the industry to adapt the lithium-ion technology used in cell phones and laptops to the far more robust requirements of automobile batteries. Cars have to work in huge temperature extremes, stand up to more shocks and vibrations and have a much higher energy throughput than consumer electronics goods. When selecting a battery, the right size and cold cranking amps (CCA) are the most important considerations. CCA is the most widely used cranking mea-
• Fully mobile service; • Free battery testing using advanced technology; • All batteries meet or exceed original manufacturers specs; • Fast, professional installation; • Environmentally friendly disposal and recycling; • Battery freshness guarantee; • 36-month nationwide replacement warranty; • Exclusive AAA-member pricing. FOR MORE INFORMATION
AAA Battery Service is available from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. 7-days a week. To verify AAA Battery Service availability in your area, call our toll-free number: 1.800.222.4357.
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AAA TRAVELER
MAY 2014
Dollywood delights with summer festivals and new rollercoaster Highlights include bluegrass, barbeque & the Barnstormer
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ummer is the perfect time to take in the beauty and culture of the Great Smoky Mountains with a trip to Dollywood. Located in the foothills near Dolly Parton’s hometown of Pigeon Forge, Tenn., Dollywood spans 150 acres and features more than 40 rides and attractions. The park’s newest ride is FireChaser Express coaster, the nation’s first duallaunch, forward and backward family coaster. Perched 12 stories above the park’s Wilderness Pass area, the coaster’s 39-inch minimum height requirement invites families to ride together. Dollywood’s Barbeque & Bluegrass launches the unofficial start of summer on Memorial Day weekend with a one-two punch featuring the tastiest barbeque in the South and the biggest names in bluegrass. Free daily concerts highlight this annual tradition. Pounds of saucy pulled pork, barbeque chicken and ribs by the slab, all served fresh from the smoker, abound during this family-favorite event that is music to the ears… and the taste buds. Running from June 14 to August 4, Dollywood’s Great American Summer gives families even more time to enjoy the great fun of Dollywood after dark. Dolly’s Nights of Many Colors, a colorful nightly fireworks display synchronized to music, features Paint Your Dreams across the Sky, a musical crescendo written specifically for the occasion by
ALL ABOARD! – The Dollywood Express, one of Dolly Parton’s favorite rides at the park, takes guests on a five-mile scenic journey. Dolly Parton. GACTV and Dollywood team to present country music’s biggest hits in The Great American Country Show, a 40-minute show performed by six singers and a six-piece band, as well as a special appearance by one of country music’s popular performers. Dollywood’s classic attractions will also welcome visitors throughout the summer. In Craftsman’s Valley, talented
artisans use period tools to fashion articles of beauty, utility and character. Blacksmiths, glass blowers and candle makers preserve the trades and customs that were so vital to life in the late 1800s. The Dollywood Express allows guests to relive a bygone era on a scenic fivemile journey through the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. The train
free, family-friendly event with handmade art and crafts, hourly door prizes, food, games and face painting. Anyone who brings a donation of art supplies will receive a free gift handmade by Cedar Lake Lodge residents. All proceeds will support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The time is from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Cedar Lake Lodge, 3301 Jericho Road in LaGrange, KY. Call 502.222.7157 ext. 1151, or visit www.cedarlake.org for more information. TAKE STEPS FOR CROHN’S AND COLITIS — (May 17) Join the community in the fight against Crohn’s and Colitis with a two mile stroll. The money raised will go for crucial research while raising awareness of these painful and unpredictable digestive diseases. Festivities will begin at 5:00 p.m. and include live entertainment, refreshments, kidzone, advocacy area, and a loud and proud area for top fundraisers. Waterfront Park, 129 E. River Rd. Louisville. Phone: 502.574.3768 ABBEY ROAD ON THE RIVER — (May 22-26) Abbey Road on the River takes place over Memorial Day weekend and celebrates The Fab Four. This five-day art, music and
food festival honors and features more than 50 bands from around the world and across the United States who “come together” to perform for more than 25,000 fans on the Belvedere Festival Plaza overlooking the Ohio River in downtown Louisville. This year’s headliners include the Beach Boys and John Sebastian. Visit www.arotr. com for the full lineup. KENTUCKY REGGAE FESTIVAL — (May 23-26) Savor the flavor of the islands at the Kentucky Reggae Festival — Louisville’s hottest event on Memorial Weekend. Enjoy a Caribbean atmosphere of live reggae music, ethnic food and a Caribbean market. Hours are 2:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Admission: $10, $14 after 6:00 p.m. Kids 10 & under free plus free parking. It is the kickoff festival to the popular Water Tower Music Series. Visitwww.kentuckyreggaefestival.com for more information. WILLIE NELSON AND ALISON KRAUSS — (June 6) Join music legends and Grammy Award winning artists Willie Nelson and Alison Krauss, and Union Station, featuring Jerry Douglas for this one time concert event. Lawn chairs and blankets will be allowed, for this Waterfront
features two genuine Baldwin Steam Locomotives, both originally built for the hauling troops and lumber during World War II. Situated amid a fun barnyard theme, the Barnstormer takes riders on a thrilling ride. With each massive swing of the two pendulum arms, riders aboard the Barnstormer reach higher and higher into the sky, eventually traveling to heights of 81 feet. Chasing Rainbows, a state-of-the-art interactive museum, displays lavish costumes, artifacts, memorabilia and awards from Dolly’s storied musical and movie career. A special display houses Dolly’s many awards, including Grammy, Country Music Association and People’s Choice Awards. Just outside is Dolly’s Home-on-Wheels, an immaculate 1994 Prevost motorcoach used by the entertainment legend on her many tours. Guests can take a look inside for a brief glimpse into Dolly’s life on the road.
MEMBER SAVINGS
Members save more than $7 off the gate price (including tax) when they purchase advanced tickets through AAA! Visit AAA.com/tickets to purchase tickets online, and you’ll receive them in the mail. You can also stop into your local AAA East Central Kentucky branch office, and buy your tickets on the spot.
aroundtown GARDENERS’ FAIR AND SILENT AUCTION — (May 9-11) Purchase flowers, herbs and plants along with a variety of tools, gardening accessories, water gardens and other delightful finds. The silent auction, a fundraiser for Historic Locust Grove, has scores of offerings from antiques, quilts and other handiwork to art. General admission, which includes a tour of Historic Locust Grove, is $6, or $3 for children age 6 to 12. Located at 561 Blankenbaker Ln., Louisville. For more information, call 502.897.9845 or visit locustgrove.org. MARCH FOR BABIES — (May 10) Four million babies were born in the U.S. last year, and the March of Dimes has helped each and every one through 75 years of vaccines, research, education and breakthroughs. The March for Babies raises funds for all babies. The event includes a 3-mile walk and an entertainment and food area for families. Admission is free, donations accepted. The time is from 9:00 a.m. to noon at Waterfront Park, 129 E. River Rd., Louisville. CEDAR LAKE ARTS AND CRAFTS FAIR — (May 10) Cedar Lake’s 8th Annual Arts and Crafts Fair is a
Park event. For event information, including on sale and ticket info, please visit: www.willienelson.com or www.alisonkrauss.com. MIDWEST MUSIC FESTIVAL — (June 6-7) This year’s headliners include Chaka Khan, Toni Braxton, Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds and Avant. Tickets are available at the KFC Yum! Center box office, all Ticketmaster outlets, online at www.ticketmaster.com. For festival updates, visit www.midwestmusicfestival.com. BOURBON CITY BBQ FESTIVAL — (June 6-7) Great barbecue with competitions for Backyard Cookers, Pro Cookers and Kids. Corn Hole tournament, live music, wine tasting and open car show. Nelson County Fairground, 2391 New Haven Rd., Bardstown, KY. Visit www.bourboncitybbqfestival.com. SAINT JOSEPH HOSPITAL GOLF TOURNAMENT — (June 9) Join the Saint Joseph Hospital Foundation, part of KentuckyOne Health, for this premier tournament at the University Club of Kentucky, sponsored by Bluegrass Oxygen. The funds raised from this exciting event will be used to further the mission and outreach services. The University Club of Kentucky, 4850 Leestown Road, Lexington.
MAY 2014
AAA TRAVELER
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AAA TRAVELER
MAY 2014
YOU’LL BE GLAD YOU CHOSE ENHANCED IDENTITY THEFT PROTECTION… WHEN daily Internet scans help protect your identity for just pennies a day. WHEN you can move quickly to shut down your phony “new” address. WHEN you feel secure that your social security number is yours alone.
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Email or U.S. Mail alerts of key changes to your credit report from all 3 bureaus
Fraud Resolution Support
Dedicated Fraud Resolution Agents to help you investigate and resolve fraud
Change-of-Address Monitoring
National monitoring to alert you if criminals try to redirect your mail
Lost Wallet Assistance
One call to cancel/replace cards
Identity Theft Insurance
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Internet Scans
Daily monitoring to help protect your identity from ID theft online
ChildSecure®
Monitoring your child’s social security number 1
Another reason it pays to be a member: 60% off ProtectMyID® Deluxe. For $8.95 a month, just pennies a day, you can get ProtectMyID Deluxe. It’s comprehensive ID theft protection exclusively for AAA Members. So you can enjoy more of what AAA always brings you: peace of mind.
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Call 1.877.440.6943 to enroll today. 2
Identity Theft Insurance underwritten by insurance company subsidiaries or affiliates of American International Group, Inc. 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 East Central 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 AAA East Centrall. All Rights Reserved.
T:10.5”
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