Ky june 2014 by AAA East Central

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KENTUCKY

Vol. 35 No. 6

JUNE 2014

Ring in 2015 at California’s Tournament of Roses festival MEMBERS SAVE S MUCH A A $200! S PER ROOM

AAA Member Rewards Visa Cards offer more security AAA partner Bank of America has begun a gradual rollout of chip-enabled cards to AAA Member Rewards Visa account holders. The cards use an embedded microprocessor to encrypt and store account information. They provide more security and are more difficult to counterfeit than those using strip technology alone. The new-style cards are being issued to customers who have requested them or travel abroad regularly. Chip-enabled cards are also the default offering for cardholders whose cards expire or are reissued for any other reason. Users whose accounts are not up for reissue will begin receiving the new cards early next year. The card also includes the traditional magnetic stripe, used by many U.S. merchants. To apply for the AAA Member Rewards Visa credit card, visit your local AAA office.

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

YOU’RE IN THE DRIVER’S SEAT WITH HERTZ

AAA’s automatic renewal option saves time and money

SEE THIS FAMOUS PARADE IN PERSON — FROM RESERVED SEATS!

ACH NEW YEAR’S DAY, America focuses on Pasadena CA, home of the Tournament of Roses celebration. More than a century old, it’s a much-loved festival of flowers, music and sports unequaled anywhere in the world. But it’s more than just a parade and a football game: It’s America’s New Year Celebration. And now, through AAA, you can partake in this joyous and spectacularly beautiful occasion, which is just one feature of a Dec 29–Jan 4 “California New Year’s Getaway” vacation. AAA members who book & make a deposit by June 30, 2014, can save as much as $200 per room, based on level of membership. Basic members save $100, Plus members save $150 and Premier members save the most — $200 per room!

A LITTLE HISTORY... The first Tournament was staged in 1890 by Pasadena’s Valley Hunt Club; former residents of the East and Midwest were eager to showcase their new home’s mild winter weather. “In New York, people are buried in snow,” announced Prof. Charles Holder at a Club meeting. “Here our flowers are blooming, and our oranges are about to bear. Let’s hold a festival to tell the world about our paradise.” During the next few years, the festival parade expanded to include marching bands and motorized floats. Games at Tournament Park included ostrich races, bronco busting and a race between a camel and an elephant. In 1902, the Tournament enhanced the festivities by adding football – the first postseason college game ever. Stanford took on the University of Michigan but was flattened

49-0. The lopsided score resulted in replacing football with Roman-style chariot races. In 1916 football returned to stay, and the crowds soon outgrew Tournament Park. In 1923 a new stadium hosted its first New Year’s game and earned its “Rose Bowl” nickname. I LOVE A PARADE... The parade has come a long way since its early days. Each year, this event is the result of 80,000 hours of manpower supplied by 935 volunteers. Today’s elaborate floats feature high-tech computerized animation and exotic natural materials from around the world. Although a few floats are still built exclusively by volunteers from their sponsoring communities, most are built by professional float building companies and take nearly a year to construct. The effort pays off on New Year’s Day

Make sure you never get stuck without your AAA membership with AAA’s automatic renewal option. Each year, your membership renewal will be charged automatically to your credit or debit card. AAA will even send you a reminder. This June, AAA East Central is offering members two deals on automatic renewals. Members who sign up for automatic renewal at any AAA East Central branch office will receive a $15 credit toward their membership renewal. Members who apply for a new AAA Member Rewards Visa credit card and use their new card to sign up for automatic renewal will receive an additional $25 renewal credit, for a total of $40 in credit. (Offers only apply for new automatic renewal enrollments made in AAA East Central branch office locations in June.) Automatic renewal can be added to your membership at anytime, regardless of your membership expiration/renewal date. You’ll rest easy knowing your AAA membership is always there providing uninterrupted service. And, you always have the option of canceling at any time. For more information on automatic renewal, just visit or call your local AAA East Central Branch office, or call our 24-hour service center at 1.800.441.5008 (412.363.5100 in Pittsburgh).

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More than a parade! Los Angeles: Beverly Hills, Hollywood Warner Brothers Studio Tour Reagan Library & Museum Pacific Coast Highway: Malibu to Santa Monica New Year’s Eve party on Queen Mary San Diego: Balboa Park, Old Town, La Jolla, San Diego Zoo, Midway Museum, Harbor Cruise Winery Visit & Tasting Lawrence Welk Resort Dinner Show

Falling for Europe with AAA Travel Autumn is a perfect time to see Europe, especially if you hate crowds and high prices. Experience Europe the way Europeans do, when the tourists are gone and summer’s endless lines are reduced to a memory. Shops and restaurants are less crowded, the weather more comfortable. It’s also a great time to save. AAA members who book and deposit a European 7-night or longer air-inclusive fall 2014 vacation with one of AAA’s participating partners between June 1-30, 2014, receive a $100.00 discount per room off the regular rate. (Restrictions may apply.) SEE PAGE 7

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Summer discounts help teens learn safe driving skills Save up to $200 at Kentucky Driver Training Center

o help teens get a safe start on the road, AAA Kentucky Driver Training Center is offering members limitedtime discounts of up to $200 off classroom and behind-the-wheel lessons for teen drivers. AAA Kentucky Driver Training Center offers several programs to fit any family’s schedule and budget. The 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. Classroom and behind-the-wheel training only programs are also available separately. Classroom training reviews the fundamentals of driving. All videos and textbooks used in the classroom training have been recommended by AAA’s National Traffic Safety Program. Topics covered include: traffic laws, road signs and signals, best practices for maneuvering a vehicle in different conditions, and the dangers of distracted and impaired driving. Additionally, the curriculum covers common mistakes new drivers may make, and how they can be avoided. Individual behind-the-wheel instruction is an important component of

AAA Kentucky Driver Training Center offers beginning drivers the confidence and the experience they need to drive safely. AAA driver training. Unlike some other driving schools, all of AAA’s behindthe-wheel lessons are conducted oneon-one with the licensed and instructor and one student. Through this personalized format, the instructor can best evaluate the student’s strengths and weaknesses. AAA Kentucky Driver Training Center’s behind-the-wheel instruction is scheduled as four 90-minute sessions (for a total of six hours). Additional behind-the-wheel sessions are also

available for purchase. “Many teens assume they’ll be naturals at driving because they’ve been around cars for 16-plus years,” said Jeff Gardner, Manager, AAA Kentucky Driver Training Center. “When a teen is behind the wheel of a car and suddenly needs the hand-eye coordination and the critical thinking that come with driving, however, they realize it’s far different from being in the passenger seat.” Summer can be a dangerous time

behind the wheel for teens. A study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found a 26-percent increase in fatal teen crashes during the summer months compared with the rest of the year. “Summer – and the free time that comes with it – brings its own unique challenges to young drivers,” Gardner added. “The instructors at AAA Kentucky Driver Training Center understand this. They spend time discussing unsafe situations teens may face while driving – such as excess passengers, breaking curfew, texting, drinking and speeding.” For more information, or to enroll your teen in AAA Kentucky Driver Training, call (502) 779-3611 or visit any AAA East Central office in the greater Louisville area. You can also visit AAA.com/community for details.

AAA KY DRIVER TRAINING SUMMER SALE RATES

Behind-the-wheel & classroom package: was $549, now $349 Classroom only: was $149, now $69 Behind-the-wheel only: was $425, now $309 Classes must be booked by August 31 and completed by December 31 to qualify for discounted rate.

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Let Hertz put you in the driver’s seat 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

Travel with safety and confidence this summer By Richard Hamilton Chairman, AAA East Central hoosing a rental car may look easy, but locking in the right deal can be tricky. Rental car companies use something called yield-management technology, which constantly adjusts pricing depending on how many cars are available. You also need to factor in things like vehicle type, fuel costs and any additional fees, taxes and insurance that add to your bottom line. It’s usually a good idea to book well in advance to ensure your choice of vehicles, or avoid being blocked out during peak travel periods. Check with your AAA travel agent, or reserve early at AAA.com. One of the benefits of AAA membership is the special package of savings available when you rent from Hertz. Exclusive AAA member benefits include: • Discounts up to 20% on daily, weekend, weekly and monthly rentals. • FREE Hertz Gold Plus Rewards membership and a FREE rental day. • FREE use of a child, infant or booster seat, a savings of $11.99 per day. • Reduced fee on Hertz NeverLost GPS rental of $6.99 per day, a savings of $6 per day. • Additional qualified AAA drivers are FREE, a savings of $13 per day per driver. In addition, Hertz frequently offers AAA members special single and double upgrades and dollars off coupons. These are available from AAA travel offices, in your club publication and at AAA.com.

Richard Hamilton The key to these exclusive Hertz savings and benefits is “215,” your Hertz CDP number and the same number as the club code on your AAA membership card. The Hertz system will automatically assign the best rate available at the time of your reservation. Most leisure and/or promotional weekly rates require that a car be rented over Saturday night, but AAA members are entitled to these low weekly rates with no Saturday night requirement. Gas prices are on the rise, and rental car fuel economy is an important consideration. More than 75 percent of the Hertz fleet averages 28 plus mpg. Their Green Traveler Collection offers a variety of alternate fuel vehicles, including electric vehicles, clean diesels, compressed

*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.

natural gas vehicles and hybrids. Gold Plus Rewards — Hertz’ premier frequent renter program — lets you skip the counter and get right on the road. Plus AAA members enjoy the benefits of Hertz Gold Service for free! • With Gold Service, there is no stopping at the counter at over 40 of the world’s busiest airports. • At over 1,000 locations worldwide, simply show your driver’s license; pick up your keys and go! • Choose a car you like better on the spot with Hertz Gold Choice. • Enjoy expedited drop-off with eReturn. • Receive notification of exact car location through Mobile Gold Alerts. • Receive vehicle updates or select an upgrade right from your phone with Mobile Gold Alerts. • Earn free rentals with points that don’t expire. When you enroll, AAA members receive 675 Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Bonus points, after their first Gold rental, enough for One Free Rental Day! AAA Premier members receive 1,100 Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Bonus points, after their first Gold rental, enough for Two Free Weekend Rental Days! AAA demands the very best for its members. That’s why Hertz is the only car-rental company endorsed by AAA. Their Member Satisfaction Guarantee is your assurance that the rate and car class, or a higher car class, will be available as reserved. The next time you need a rental car, let Hertz put you in the driver’s seat.

membersonly

Members save on gifts for dads & grads Get more for your money with AAA Discounts & Rewards

ather’s Day and graduation season are here. Save on the best gifts for the dads and grads in your life with AAA Discounts & Rewards, an online shopping portal exclusively for AAA members. This innovative shopping experience on AAA.com offers deep discounts and daily deals from approximately 30,000 participating online merchants nationwide. Imagine the gifting possibilities! You can save on electronics from Best Buy, apparel from Brooks Brothers and sporting gear from Nike. This June, members also enjoy limited-time offers from Game Stop and Kenneth Cole. You can now access AAA Travel offers through AAA Discounts & Rewards, as well. You can even purchase discounted restaurant certificates, so you can treat your loved ones to a celebration dinner or tickets to the big game. AAA Discounts & Rewards makes

it easy to start saving right away, thanks to the site’s intuitive, easyto-navigate interface. View the latest specials and currently trending offers on the Discounts & Rewards home page. Search for a retailer by name, or browse by category to find the perfect present. You can even sort and filter results by type of offer, such as limited-time discount or free shipping.

Earn while you save

Wouldn’t it be nice if you could be rewarded for your purchases – even when shopping for others? That’s where WOWPoints come in! When you shop through AAA Discounts & Rewards, you earn one hundred WOWPoints for every dollar you spend. You can redeem your WOWPoints at any time, using them just like cash at participating retailers on the AAA Discounts & Rewards site. Best of all, your WOWPoints will never expire as long as you are a AAA member. Save

them all for a special purchase, or use them a little at a time – it’s up to you. Look for special offers that earn you 3X, 6X, or even 10X the WOWPoints. Earn 5,000 WOWPoints in one calendar year and receive 5 STAR Status. You’ll earn 50 percent more WOWPoints on each purchase — even when you’re redeeming WOWPoints.

Start stacking up the savings

To begin using AAA Discounts & Rewards today, register online at AAA. com/discounts. Registration is completely free — a valid AAA membership and email address are all you need. Then shop, save and earn on national and local brands, tickets, travel, restaurants and retailers. Soon your AAA membership will have paid for itself, thanks to the savings. For more information on AAA Discounts & Rewards, visit AAA.com/ Discounts.

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Insurance Tune Up — Whenever you experience a significant life change, it’s time to review your polices By Robin Jones ost of us review our insurance policies only when we buy a new car or move into a new home. But there are plenty of other reasons to take a look at your auto, life, and homeowners policies—and spend a little extra time with your insurance agent to update them. Here are some questions to consider. Q: Do you have the right coverage? A: Often, when you experience a significant change in your life—such as marriage, a new baby, or the purchase of a new home—your insurance coverage also needs to change. But some changes might not come to mind right away. For example, when you move into a new home, you know you have to change your homeowners or renters insurance. But did you know that your new location may also affect the cost of your auto insurance? The number of miles you drive each year affects your premiums, so if you now have a shorter or longer commute to work, let your agent know. Another example: If you do an upgrade to your home, you might need to update your limits so you have enough coverage to properly repair or replace it if it were damaged or destroyed. In addition, if your finances or asset holdings change (e.g., you acquire or are gifted a house, stock, investments, or other significant assets),

think about switching to a company that better serves your needs. Q: Are you entitled to additional discounts? A: Say you’re adding a new driver to your policy. Your premiums are likely to go up, but you can mitigate the increase by taking advantage of all available discounts. For young drivers, many insurance companies offer discounts for maintaining good grades and for taking a driver-training course. Also, senior drivers might be able to get a discount by taking a refresher driving course. And most providers offer a discount when you add another car to your policy or when you insure both your home and your cars with the same company. When the opportunity arises to review your policy with your agent, take it. You might be surprised at what you learn.

CHANGING TIMES — When circumstances change, call your agent to discuss adjusting your policies. consider reviewing the liability limits of your policies. Make sure your liability limits match your particular needs and circumstances, including the level of assets and investments you need to protect. In short, anytime you find yourself at a crossroads in your life, call your insurance agent to discuss whether your policies need to be adjusted. Q: Does your policy offer all the ser-

vices you need? A: Do you have access to a car if yours has to stay in the shop for a week or more? If not, you may need rental car coverage on your auto policy. Do you like to pay your bills online? Make sure your insurance company accepts online payments. In other words, consider your needs, then compare your list with what your insurance provider offers. If you discover gaps in coverage,

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.

Royal Caribbean makes a quantum leap in dining at sea Dynamic Dining debuts aboard new Quantum-class ships

oyal Caribbean recently revealed its next vision of dining at sea, which will debut onboard the much anticipated Quantum-class ships. “Dynamic Dining” is a completely new culinary experience that gives guests a moveable feast of 18 restaurant concepts, as vast and varied as those in the world’s most cosmopolitan cities. This new take on the main dining room means guests can choose from five complimentary, full service restaurants. Diners will also be in full control of their own epicurean journey via a smart new reservations system that empowers them to decide when, where, with whom to dine, and how to dress each evening. Each offers its own distinctive cuisine and each is helmed by its own Chef de Cuisine. New restaurants exclusive to Royal Caribbean include: American Icon Grill — A new take on the classic American road trip, pulling together best-loved regional favorites into one comfort-style menu. Chic — The height of contemporary cuisine with fresh ingredients, proteins that pack a punch and sauces made from scratch, all evolved for the modern palate. Silk — A vibrant and exotic destination where the spices of the Far East

Wonderland — An elaborate feast for the senses in a setting where Royal Caribbean chefs twist their culinary kaleidoscopes to invent a dreamscape of never-before-seen fare. Jamie’s Italian — Rustic Italian favorites, using seasonal ingredients and Jamie’s tried-and-tested crowd pleasers. Michael’s Genuine Pub — The first American gastropub at sea from James Beard Award-winning chef Michael Schwartz. Simply-prepared food and drinks made with quality ingredients from the best artisanal producers Devinly Decadence at Solarium Bistro — Royal Caribbean’s fittest dining destination, serving the foods you love all under 500 calories. Designed by New York Times bestselling author Devin Alexander, chef of the highly-rated television show, “The Biggest Loser.”

THE NAKED CHEF — Jamie’s Italian is the first-at-sea outpost of the hugely popular Jamie Oliver. bring new flavor to adventurous palates through a Pan-Asian menu. The Grande — A luxuriant nod to a bygone era of classic European ocean liners, when dining was a time honored ritual, featuring timeless dishes, and where every night is formal night. Coastal Kitchen — A concept created exclusively for suite guests, fusing Mediterranean influences with the

unmatched bounty of California’s farmlands. Quantum-class ships will also surprise savvy gourmets with specialty restaurants, including the first-at-sea Jamie’s Italian, the hugely popular restaurant from Jamie Oliver, Britain’s most famous chef/activist. Next-level dining options on Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas include:

IF YOU GO

Quantum of the Seas will sail out of the New York Harbor from her homeport of Cape Liberty on 7- to 12-night itineraries during the winter 2014/15 season. FOR MORE INFORMATION

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

JUNE 2014

Member Benefits • Exclusive Offers

1-800-354-8761 • AAA.com/travel

FALL... is a great time to visit Europe

f you’re thinking about visiting Europe, think about visiting it in the fall. But think fast — because now is the absolute best time to lock in the best availabilities in transportation and accommodations. Rates for transatlantic airfares to Europe and hotel accommodations there historically tend to "fall" in autumn, as does the number of tourists. Fall's also the ideal time to rake in further savings with special limited-time offers from AAA’s travel partners and enjoy the Old World and all of its charms for lots less while getting more pleasure out of the experience. Plus, there are value-added AAA Member Benefits! Fewer Americans "cross the pond" in fall; that (as well as fewer tourists from other areas of the world) means you're less likely to stand in long lines for highly popular landmark attractions such as the Eiffel Tower in Paris, St Peter’s Basilica in Rome or the Tower of London. And, frankly, who cares if it’s raining when you can spend your day at the Louvre? You’ll also find that making reservations for popular restaurants and securing seats for many arts performances — London’s West End theaters, for instance — are much more easily accomplished in fall than in summer. If you enjoy symphonies or opera, Europe’s cultural calendar comes to life after summer. (Sure, in summer you may be able to hear short chamber music in Vienna structured for a tourist's attention span, but you’ll have to wait until the real symphony and opera seasons begin in the fall to hear the best European orchestras playing serious music for hours on end.) Another benefit of fall European travel is weather. Fine weather over most of the continent extends into late October and practically guarantees that you won’t encounter uncomfortable heat or humidity. Mediterranean countries see the start of their rainier season but, over the ages, many cities devised ways to deal with the inconvenience; Bologna in Italy features

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a huge network of arcaded streets that allow you to walk from one side of town to the other without getting wet. Medieval European houses with overhangs in the older parts of a city were designed in part to protect strollers from the elements. The Old Town sections of many European cities offer seductive cafes; in the event of a shower, pop in and nurse a coffee, soda or snifter of brandy while waiting for clear skies...or use a railpass to take a scenic train ride.) Contrary to summer, you may even enjoy a more “authentic” sense of daily life among the locals, who seem to relax a bit after the summer crowds dwindle. The mad rush to sell mellows into a slower paced style of commerce. Admittedly, daylight in late fall does gradually diminish, but you’ll still have plenty of time to sightsee; with fewer fellow tourists to contend with, you may be able to see and do even more than you would in the high season of summer. Besides, if you find moonlight strolls more seductive than daylight ones, fall’s for you; exploring “downtown” in a European city after dark isn’t the same as in the US; European city centers are safer than most American ones at these hours because the culture favors convivial meetings in public places along with moderate alcohol consumption. (Filling streets with fun-loving sober people is probably the all-time best defense against street crime.) Calculate just how much daylight you’ll have at eurometeo. com/english/ephem. Pick your destination and the date, and you’ll see the hours of daylight to expect. There are all sorts of reasons for traveling in fall, as opposed to summer. Even food. For instance, you may not fancy eating the traditional tourist favorites of Germany, Switzerland or Austria in summer; their cuisines can be a bit “heavy” for the heat. But after a crisp fall day walking the Black Forest or cruising the Rhine, steaming mounds of sausages and spaetzle and a glass of homemade Riesling can hit the spot!

& a great time to save!

AAA Members booking & depositing on a fall 2014 European 7-night or longer air-inclusive vacation with one of AAA’s participating partners (on next page, with their AAA Member Benefits) receive a $100.00 DISCOUNT per room off the regular rate. New bookings only June 1-30, 2014. Not combinable with any other offer. Restrictions may apply.

If you like meeting folks on their own turf, have a hankering for high culture or just like to lounge around a roaring fire listening to a foreign language and dreaming of learning it — traveling to Europe in fall is something you should try.

AAA SPOTLIGHT VACATION

Country Roads of Bavaria, Switzerland & Austria

— an intimate journey of discovery along vine-clad shores, through fortified towns and flower-filled meadows amid stunning Alpine panoramas.

· Ascend to the fairy-tale Neuschwanstein by horse & carriage. · Cruise along the Wachau Valley, a charming stretch of the Danube. · Enjoy a private, guided tour of Vienna’s Schönbrunn Palace. · Journey through the Swiss Alps on the Glacier Express. · Ascend a mountain by rail or cable car for panoramic views. · Savor Vienna’s vibrant restaurants on a Dine-Around evening. · Dinner at a mountaintop restaurant near Lucerne. · Special AAA Vacations® inclusion: Hitler’s notorious Eagles Nest Other highlights include... · Munich: Marienplatz, Town Hall, Glockenspiel · Bavarian Alps: Oberammergau Passion Play Theatre, Wieskirche · Salzburg: Mirabell Gardens, Mozart’s birthplace, Cathedral · The church featured in The Sound of Music · Wachau Valley: Medieval Dürnstein & its castle · Vienna: Ring Road, City Hall, Parliament · Kindberg: colorful maypole · Friesach: mysterious moated town · St Viet an der Glan: Plague Column, Rathaus · Dolomites: Cortina d’Ampezzo · Innsbruck: Golden Roof, Imperial Palace · St Moritz: the spa quarter, sgraffito façade on the museum house · Lucerne: Lion Monument, Jesuit Church, Chapel Bridge · Scenic drives: BavarianAlps, GermanAlpine Road, Semmering Pass, the Dolomites, Engadine Valley, Grisons Alps

Several departure dates • from $3,965

AAA Member Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes accommodations, in-Europe tour director, motorcoach sightseeing, admissions per itinerary, 16 meals (including Welcome Dinner), Welcome Reception with drinks, hotel & restaurant tips and more. Ask about available add-on airfare.

This is just one sample of the hundreds of other European vacations available at AAA. Log on to AAA.com/travel, visit your local AAA Travel Agency or call 1-800-354-8761.

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

JUNE 2014

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

Fall in love... with Europe this fall

BE SURE TO SEE THE PREVIOUS PAGE!

AAA Members booking & depositing on a fall 2014 European 7-night or longer air-inclusive vacation with one of the AAA partners below receive a $100.00 discount per room off the regular rate.

New bookings only June 1-30, 2014. Not combinable with any other offer. Restrictions may apply.

Participating Travel Partners & their AAA Member Benefits

AAA Vacations®: $25 voucher per person toward payment of selected optional tours/excursions on escorted motorcoach tours operated by Insight Vacations® or Trafalgar AAA Member Choice Vacations®: $25-$100 savings based on purchase price

Celebrity Cruises: During selected booking periods on selected sailings, benefits may include: Oceanview & veranda stateroom amenities • Value-added gifts

General Tours: $55 per person savings on published “Freestyle Travel” packages of 5 nights or more • $115 per person savings on all Small Group Escorted Tours, Small Ship Cruising, River Cruising and published Private Tours Insight Vacations®: $40 voucher per person toward the payment of selected optional tours on escorted motorcoach tours (with exceptions) Pleasant Holidays: $50 per booking savings off package price

Trafalgar: $40 credit voucher per person toward an optional excursion Uniworld Boutique River Cruises Collection: $125 per person savings on cruises of 3-13 days • $250 per person savings on cruises of 14 days or more

Viking River Cruises: $125 per person savings on cruises of 8-13 days • $200 per person savings on cruises of 14 days or more

Bavarian markets are the Treat yourself to a wunderbar escorted tour full of history, scenery & traditional crafts & foods. Visit markets in... Nuremberg • Rothenburg • Bamberg • Bayreuth Regensburg • Munich • Fussen

of this popular holiday tour

ing. And, because they’re usually in the heart of the community, they’re ideal bases from which to explore surrounding landmarks German like cathedrals and castles, as well as year-round brick-and-mortar Christmas shops and restaurants. This unique tour operates on the same principles of convenience Markets and efficiency. Spend 4 nights in Nuremberg and 3 in Munich; Granted, Christmas may not be on your mind at this very you’ll be able to comfortably “settle in” in those cities, taking NEUSCHWANSTEIN Bavaria’s “shy king” built this moment...but it should be! Especially considering everything short rides each day to the markets and landmarks surroundfairy-tale castle in that AAA’s Dec 2-10 German Christmas Markets tour offers! ing them. Forget traipsing from a hotel in one town one day to order to withdraw Experience the Old World tradition of welcoming the another hotel the next day to yet another hotel the following from public life. Ironically, now 1.3 Christmas season at public marketplaces large and small, day, and so on. Best of all, forget about packing and unpackmillion people visit where walkways lined with rustic stalls hum with holiday ing each time! With only 2 base hotels, you’ll have more time here every year. strollers and shoppers young & old. Local artisans exhibit to see and do (or rest and relax) — whatever your travel style This tour includes a half-day visit! traditional handmade decorations, art and craft may be. All in all, it makes for a much more pleasant, items; purveyors of aromatic seasonal culinary satisfying experience...and it maximizes your valuable delights tempt passersby with gingerbread cookies time and energy. and spice-mulled wine; and musicians and And all the while, you and your fellow travelers will performers add a festive note to the ambience. enjoy the company and insider knowledge of your Some markets even sport carnival-type rides and professional English-speaking native European guide. amusements. From start to finish, you’ll have peace of mind knowMost German cities of any signifiing an experienced expert is at your cant size present at least 1 Christkindlside and at your service to provide Dec 2-10 • AAA Member Rate: $3,305 markt; on this get-in-the-spirit tour practical information and interestin the southeastern state of Bavaria, ing background about all you see and Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Louisville-Frankfurt, Munich-Louisville), you get to visit at least 7 (yes, 7!), each tour. He’ll even be able to offer suggesroundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, motorcoach transportation, unique in size and style — from some tions about what to do during free. hotel taxes/service charges, hotel baggage handling, 13 meals, Neuschwanstein tour, of the most famous and popular to Visit AAA.com/GoEurope for more services of a AAA tour manager (if participation goal is met) and in-Germany escort. some of the most intimate and charminformation!

JUNE 2014

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

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

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 10-night 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! Also 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!

Aug 29–Sept 8 •

AAA Member Rate: $6,099

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.

THIS THANKSGIVING Wouldn’t you rather “roast” in the Caribbean? Leave cooking & cleaning to someone else this year; cruise for 10 relaxing days on Celebrity Equinox.

and save up to

$348.00

with AAA’s exclusive rates!

Receive these AAA MEMBER PERKS!

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

VOUCHER FOR A BOTTLE OF WINE $75.00 ONBOARD CREDIT MARTINI TASTING

Nov 21–Dec 1 AAA Member Rate from $1,685

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.

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes balcony cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals, services of a AAA tour manager (if minimum-participation goal is met) & government taxes/fees. Ship’s registry: Malta. Ask about available add-on airfare. Visit AAA.com/ travel for itinerary.

AAA Tour Manager at your service throughout this cruise!

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AAA TRAVELER

JUNE 2014

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

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

Irish Pubs

&Folklore

ESCORTED TOUR OPERATED BY CIE TOURS INTERNATIONAL

May 12-21 AAA Member Rate: $1,899

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, motorcoach sightseeing, itinerary attraction admissions, local taxes, hotel service charges & baggage handling (1 bag per person), walking-tour audio headsets, 15 meals (including Kate Kearney’s Cottage Irish Night, “Food, Folk & Fairies” dinner show at Brazen Head Pub and 3 table d’hote dinners) and in-Ireland professional guide & driver. Ask about available add-on airfare.

ESCORTED TOUR OPERATED BY CIE TOURS INTERNATIONAL

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.

JUNE 2014

AAA TRAVELER

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

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

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. It 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 OR Dec 9 •

AAA Member Rate: $90

Tour Schimpff’s Confectionery for a facinating behind-the-scenes look at candy making. Founded in 1891, Schimpff’s has long been hailed for its quality, service and oh-so-delicious treats. Then it’s on to Derby Dinner Playhouse for a buffet lunch and a live performance — “A Mighty Fortress Is Our Basement” by the Church Basement Ladies on Sept 17 OR “It’s a Wonderful Life” on Dec 9. 1 meal.

BOWLING GREEN . . . . . . . . . . . . 270-781-7235 • 1-877-506-0057 DOWNTOWN (Louisville). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .502-581-0665 ELIZABETHTOWN. . . . . . . . . . . . . 270-765-4109 • 1-800-813-7284 FERN VALLEY (Louisville) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .502-964-3787 HURSTBOURNE (Louisville) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .502-425-7885 OWENSBORO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 270-683-8034 • 1-800-974-1872 PADUCAH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 270-443-6478 • 1-866-764-4666 SHIVELY (Louisville) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .502-449-2529 ____________________________________________________________ GENERAL TRAVEL DISCLAIMER: AAA Travel Agency makes every effort to provide accurate, up-to-date prices as of press time and cannot assume responsibility for typographic errors. Rates/offers are per person based on double occupancy, unless otherwise indicated, and are subject to availability and airline/operator changes. International rates/offers are subject to currency fluctuations and additional tax & security charges. Rates that include airfare include all taxes, government fees and surcharges. Additional restrictions may apply. Rates/offers are available at all AAA East Central travel agency locations. For tour details, contact AAA or visit AAA.com/ travel. AAA Featured Vacations are specially priced, unique departures; therefore, tour operators, cruise lines and other travel providers often exclude them from additional discounts or specials they offer. AAA Featured Vacations include services provided by third-party tour destination service companies; see your AAA Travel Agent for details. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for more details or visit the air carrier’s website for baggage allowance and fee information.

JINGLE RAILS AT EITELJORG MUSEUM

Christmas in the Valley

Nov 29. Start the holidays off with a heartwarming down-home show that’s sure to please everyone! The Renfro Valley “Christmas in the Valley” show is an original stage production featuring the entire Renfro Valley cast of entertainers. It combines Christmas music and lighthearted comedy. A delicious boarding house meal is included. The day is guaranteed to fill you with the holiday spirit! 1 meal. AAA Member Rate: $95.

Rosemary Clooney Holiday Tour

Dec 4-5. “Come on-a Rosie’s House” with AAA for a holiday visit to the hometowns of legendary singer and screen actress Rosemary Clooney. Visit her holiday-festooned 1840-era Augusta KY home; see the world’s largest collection of “White Christmas” memorabilia. After a tour of the town, journey to her nearby childhood hometown of Maysville KY for an overnight, a tour and dinner in the Russell Theatre. Visit nearby Old Washington, festively decorated for the holidays. 4 meals. AAA Member Rate: $295.

Jingle Rails & Winter Mart at Eiteljorg Museum

Dec 6. This tour’s for the young and young at heart. An absolutely fascinating display that features 7 ultra-sized model trains and nearly 1,200 feet of track. A must see! After an included lunch, visit the annual Winter Market featuring more than 30 artists displaying beautiful regional handmade items. A phenomenal exhibit that will definitely put you in the holiday spirit! 1 meal. AAA Member Rate: $95. Rates are per person, are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip motorcoach transportation from the Louisville area, accommodations (for multiday tours, based on double occupancy), sightseeing/admissions, taxes/gratuities for included features, baggage handling (for multiday tours), meals as indicated and the services of a AAA Tour Manager. Visit AAA.com/USA for complete itinerary details and pick-up points.

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AAA Premier is the perfect summer travel companion Enhanced member benefits include 200 miles free towing

othing matches the independence and adventure of a summer road trip. If you’re hitting the open road this year, upgrade to AAA Premier membership. You’ll enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’ll be able to continue your vacation no matter what surprises you may encounter in your travels. AAA Premier offers AAA’s most comprehensive package of services and roadside benefits, providing members with the highest level of protection while away from home. AAA Premier includes one car tow of up to 200 miles per household per membership year, in addition to three remaining calls, which can be tows of up to 100 miles. Extended road service coverage allows you to have a greater selection of trusted mechanics to repair your vehicle, including the more than 8,000 AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities across North America. If your vehicle does need to be towed, you’ll also qualify for a one-day complimentary standard rental car (up to $55). If you rent from Hertz, you will receive a second day’s rental free on a minimum two-day emergency rental. There is no need to worry about incurring additional costs while waiting for your car to be repaired. AAA Premier also includes trip interruption protection. Members are eligible for up to $1,500 toward the cost of accom-

STEP UP TO AAA PREMIER — AAA Premier will go as far as life can take you. modations and transportation, should travel plans be delayed or interrupted overnight (when driving 100 miles or more from home) due to an accident, mechanical breakdown, car theft or illness. In addition, members qualify for up to $500 in vehicle return coverage if car issues result in the use of substitute transportation. You’ll soon be back on the road and en route to your summer getaway. AAA Premier benefits continue throughout your trip. Call the toll-free

phone number on the back of your AAA Premier card to receive personalized concierge services while traveling on a domestic or international trip of at least 100 driving miles from home. The concierge service can help with everything from restaurant reservations to golf tee times to shopping and more. If you lose your wallet or need medical referrals or prescription replacement while away, you’re covered thanks to 24/7 Global Emergency Assistance, also included in AAA Premier membership.

Call the same toll-free number on the back of your card, and you’ll be connected to a local contact who can help you figure out the next steps to take to solve your problem. AAA Premier membership benefits last all year, and extend to all AAA members in your household. Most will pay for themselves in just one use. Even if you may not have summer plans, or aren’t a frequent traveler, chances are someone in your family will use Premier benefits at least once this year. Additional AAA Premier benefits can be found at your local AAA branch office. Premier members can receive passport photos or personal notary service at no charge. In addition, the $35 per person airline reservation fee is waived for AAA Premier members who book flights at their AAA Travel Agency. AAA Premier is available for an annual fee of just $35 per household, in addition to the members’ basic and Plus membership dues. Premier can be added at any time to an existing membership (benefits subject to 7-day waiting period).

TAKE AAA TO THE NEXT LEVEL

Call or stop by your local AAA branch office, to upgrade to AAA Premier, or contact the Club’s Member Service Call Center at 800.441.5008. Visit AAA.com/Premier for details.

NHRA National Hot Rod Reunion presented by AAA Insurance Hot cars, cool customers highlight annual event at Beech Bend Raceway

adies and gentlemen start your engines. The NHRA Motorsports Museum’s 12th annual Holley National Hot Rod Reunion presented by AAA Insurance, is a turbocharged trip down memory lane. This wheelstanding weekend takes place June 12-14, Father’s Day weekend, at historic Beech Bend Raceway in Bowling Green, Kentucky. See vintage 2,500 plus horsepower front-engine dragsters known as “diggers” or “slingshots,” power through the traps at up to 250 mph, punctuated by the white puff of a parachute. Named one of 10 Premier U.S. Events by Painless Performance & Street Rodder Magazine, the show offers three-days filled with the kings of the quarter mile. Thousands of gleaming street rods, bracket racers, gassers and Funny Cars will all be on display. Then, of course, there’s the racing with the Hot Heads Eliminator Nostalgia Drag Racing running all weekend on the track. On opening day the street rods gather on the grassy hillsides of Beech Bend Raceway in a polychromatic panorama of pinstripes, bright chrome and old school metal flake paint jobs. Stroll through the vendor midway,

FIRING ON ALL CYLINDERS — The NHRA Hot Rod Reunion is Hot Rod Heaven for car buffs and motorsports fans. Photo credit: Jim Baker. check out the product demonstrations, or pick up an official event t-shirt or vintage Museum apparel. Forage for some hard-to-find parts for your ride at the giant swap meet located around the backside of the oval track. The Show ‘N Shine event is where

hot rods, street rods, customs, rat rods, and muscle cars older than 1972 compete for the prestigious SoffSeal Award and a chance to display at this year’s NHRA U.S. Nationals in Indianapolis. All weekend long the racing is virtually non-stop. From time trials and

qualifying, to Hot Heads Eliminations, until the final rounds, the competition is fast and furious. Spectators can take in all the action from under the protective shade of covered wooden grandstands. Saturday’s racing schedule features the Hot Heads Top Fuel & Funny Car eliminations and the Reunion’s spectacular Cacklefest. It’s an over the top sensory overload of roaring engines, burnt rubber and flames shooting from the headers. Some of the sport’s most iconic nitro methane powered “fuelies” are push started one at a time, then “cackle” together just like they did in the ’50s and ’60s. Drivers are perched behind the rear axle to maximize traction from the enormous racing slicks. The Grand Finale crowns the 2014 Reunion Champions, plus some amazing jet car exhibition runs and the Show ‘n Shine Winner’s Parade & Awards.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Go to www.nhra.com and click on the 2014 Hot Rod Reunions button under Schedules. Tickets can be purchased online with special AAA Members Savings available.

JUNE 2014

AAA TRAVELER

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AAA TRAVELER

JUNE 2014

Louisville celebrates Centennial Festival of Riverboats Louisville Belle has been rolling on the river for 100 years

teamboats ruled America’s rivers for over a century. They carried settlers to a new life west of the Alleghenies, and delivered raw materials and finished goods up and down inland waterways. Glittering showboats brought music and culture to the rough and tumble river towns where tales of brawling keelboat men, daring river pilots and wily gamblers gathered like driftwood along the levees. “The steamboats were finer than anything on shore,” Mark Twain wrote in Life on the Mississippi. “Compared with superior dwelling houses and first-class hotels in the valley, they were indubitably magnificent, they were palaces.” Celebrate riverside America’s rich heritage with a cruise on the mighty Ohio River this fall, during Louisville’s Centennial Festival of Riverboats. From October 14 to 19, historic riverboats will provide a timeless backdrop as Louisville plays host to a six-day festival of food, music and art at the acclaimed Waterfront Park. Enjoy live music, sample Kentucky’s finest spirits and experience history first-hand on a variety of riverboat cruises, along with all that life on the river has to offer. The steam whistle blows, the calliope plays, the big wheel keeps on turning in a thrilling blend of Americana, regional cuisine, and showboat-style entertainment. The signature event of this year’s

bilia, tools, ship models and the original paddlewheel from The Delta Queen. A party like this will only happen once and events leading up to Belle’s big day include a riverboat parade, live concerts, artist markets and the Bourbon pavilion. On Friday evening, marvel at the luminescent shimmer of hot air balloons during Belle’s Balloon Glow, then get ready for the fiery spectacle of the grand fireworks finale on Saturday night. A number of riverboats from across the country will be joining the Belle of Louisville to help celebrate her 100th year on the river. These include the Spirit of Jefferson, Anson Northrup, Belle of Cincinnati, The Spirit of Peoria, The River Queen, and The American Queen, the largest steamboat ever built.

FLOATING MUSEUM — The Belle of Louisville is a National Historic Landmark. festival will be Belle’s Big Birthday Bash, marking the 100th birthday of the Belle of Louisville. The oldest operating Mississippi River-style steamboat in the world was constructed in Pittsburgh in 1914, for the West Memphis Packet Company. Hauling passengers and cargos of cotton, lumber and grain on virtually every navigable inland waterway she earned the distinction of being the most widely traveled river steamboat in the nation. The Belle was named a

National Historic Landmark in 1989. Visitors can experience more steamboat history in the Howard Steamboat Museum, located in Jeffersonville, Indiana, directly across the Ohio River from Louisville. The museum is housed in a 22-room Romanesque-revival mansion, where generations of the Howard family operated the largest inland shipyard in the nation. In addition to period furnishings, the museum’s collection includes steamboat artifacts, memora-

TAKE A AAA DRIVE TRIP

Longing for the freedom of the open road? AAA Drive Trips feature more than 100 flexible, two- to five-day driving itineraries for popular U.S. and Canadian destinations. Just click on AAA.com/drivetrips.

JUNE 2014

AAA TRAVELER

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Smart technology is helping bridges inspect themselves High-tech sensors can help solve problems before they occur

ust as patients communicate their symptoms to doctors, smart technology is allowing infrastructure to tell highway engineers when something is wrong. Sensors installed on bridges, in roadways, and on maintenance vehicles are communicating realtime performance and weather data. Across the county more than 65,000 bridges are rated as “structurally deficient” by the American Society of Civil Engineers. That does not necessarily mean they’re unsafe, only that they require significant maintenance and repair to remain in service. Pennsylvania owns the dubious distinction of leading the nation with one in four of its nearly 32,000 bridges classified as “structurally deficient.” Now a new generation of micro sensors is allowing bridges to report their own structural defects. Hundreds of sensors are implanted throughout the new I-35W Bridge in Minneapolis. In 2007, the old I-35 or St. Anthony Falls Bridge collapsed plunging more than 100 cars into the Mississippi River. The collapse is believed to have been caused by a design flaw in the bridge’s gusset plates with additional weight a contributing factor. The sensors in the new $234-million bridge provide data on vibration and corrosion and they can activate anti-icing systems, alert authorities to security breaches and detect bridge strikes by anything rang-

WHERE DOES IT HURT? — Implanted sensors are allowing bridges to report their own structural defects. ing from a barge to a natural disaster. The Nevada Department of Transportation teamed up with the University of Nevada, Reno, to make the Galena Creek Bridge in Pleasant Valley, a smart bridge. One of the largest “Cathedral Arch” bridges in the world, the 1,700 foot long structure has twin arches spanning 690 feet, supporting a bridge deck 295 feet above Galena

AAA Mobile app updated with new features

aving time and money on the go has never been easier. The AAA Mobile app has been enhanced with an array of new features designed make the member experience even better. Clean lines and contemporary design are the key elements of AAA’s newly updated free app. It features a more intuitive, next generation interface with easier access to features that will save you time and money, and give you the peace of mind that comes with being a AAA member. Available through the Apple App Store iPad users can develop multiday itineraries, and locate AAA Approved and Diamond Rated hotels and restaurants. Highlights of the latest iPad version include: • A streamlined card layout design that provides easy access to member services; • AAA’s newly enhanced TripTik Travel Planner for mapping and route planning, allowing members to build, access and share trips across the mobile and online platforms; • Expanded membership features, including displaying your current member status and the ability to easily renew your membership. Users can locate more than 59,000 AAA Approved and Diamond Rated hotels and restaurants, and find the

more than 164,000 locations offering member discounts. The app maintains a scannable membership card (added through Passbook), so taking advantage of money-saving offers is easy and convenient. Trip planning is now easier than ever with AAA Drive Trips and AAA Travel Guides integrated into the app’s mapping feature. The app also provides access to the Top Destinations travel guides, which point users to the best things to see and do at popular vacation destinations. The updated mobile app will also help you get to your destination quickly and safely with traffic and construction information provided to help members travel without delays. In addition, finding the lowest gas prices is also simple, as maps display station locations and provide updated fuel prices. AAA Mobile was recently named a top-10 app by AutoGuide.com, which called it a “must-have for AAA members” because of its easy access and friendly features. The website also highlighted the app’s ability to “point out nearby gas stations with up-to-date fuel prices and public charging stations for electric car owners.” Whether you’re on the road or at home planning a trip, the updated AAA Mobile app will help to make travel easier.

Creek. The instrumentation system on the arches allows for “structural health monitoring” to evaluate the day-today performance of the bridge over its lifetime. Real-time data is supplied by strain gauges, accelerometers, and communication equipment installed when the bridge was constructed and is communicated via the Internet. Sensors are also being added to exist-

ing bridges to extend their lifespans and detect anomalies that can be the first sign of trouble. Engineers with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet and other emergency responders are notified automatically when sensors measure large magnitude barge impacts on two piers of the U.S. 41 North Bridge over the Ohio River. The bridge connects Henderson, Kentucky, and Evansville, Indiana In Florida, GPS sensors have been installed on a flyover bridge in Miami and the Sunshine Skyway Bridge in Tampa. Data is collected continually throughout the day on how the bridges are behaving — measuring the movement, shrinkage, and cracking of concrete. By studying variations in the data, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) can detect potential problems in the concrete or the cables that hold segments of the bridge together.

MAKING AMERICA STRONGER

AAA’s Making America Stronger campaign is about reforming, modernizing and funding our nation’s transportation network. It is resigned to help raise awareness about the crucial role a safe and well-maintained transportation system plays in our everyday lives. Visit at makingamericastronger.aaa.com.

Know a good mechanic? We do. BODY SHOPS Conns Body Shop 2247 Bardstown Road, Louisville (502) 458-7360 Conns Body Shop II 9903 Taylorsville Road, Louisville (502) 267-8680 Kavanaughs Paint and Body 1376 Belmar Drive, Louisville (502) 459-7302 SMI Collision 11400 Westport Road, Louisville (502) 426-0226 SMI Collision 4164 Westport Road, Louisville (502) 896-3340 Fred Meador Body Shop 7100 Russellville Road, Bowling Green (270) 781-2563 Lambright’s Body Shop 9070 Highway 44 East, Mt. Washington (502) 955-8990 Facilities in red are Show Your Card & Save Partners. * These facilities are pre-purchase inspection sites. SERVICE CENTERS Atwood Automotive* 10710 Bluegrass Parkway, Louisville (502) 493-8989 Dents, Dings & Color 185 Arnold Drive, Shepherdsville (502) 957-5111 Bill Etscorn & Sons Auto Service 3935 Bardstown Road, Louisville (502) 499-8245 Harlan Automotive 408 North 4th Street Murray (270) 767-0101 John Overley Automotive 3800 Fern Valley Rd., Louisville (502) 964-8459 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.

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AAA TRAVELER

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Motorists and cyclists can share the road safely Bicycles share same rules and the same rights

RIDE TO LIVE — Cycling is fun but safety should always be the top priority.

illions of Americans ride bicycles for exercise, to have fun, and get where they need to go. Today’s hightech two-wheelers are not only perfect for fitness and recreation; they reduce road congestion and greenhouse gas emissions. Cycling can also be hazardous. Bicycles are associated with more childhood injuries than any other form of transportation except the automobile. During the summer, child bicycling deaths increase 45 percent above the monthly average. That’s not to say that bicycle safety is strictly a children’s issue. Statistically, cyclists ages 45–54 suffer the highest fatality rates. Head injuries are the leading cause of death in bicycle crashes and wearing a properly fitted bicycle helmet has been shown to reduce the risk by up to 85 percent, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Motorists bear a special responsibility to share the road safely with bicyclists, pedestrians, and other legal forms of transportation. Many don’t realize that in most states the law treats bicycles like any other vehicle and they should be given the same consideration. AAA recommends that motorists double check before changing lanes or making a turn — once for cars and trucks, and once for bicycles and motorcycles. Cutting into the path of a bicyclist while making a right turn is one of the leading causes of car-bike accidents. Drivers should never tailgate a bicycle. Following too closely may cause a rider’s attention to be distracted from the road and traffic ahead. Don’t honk your horn. Honking near or behind a bicyclist could startle the rider and cause them to swerve into traffic or lose control.

Be careful when opening your vehicle door. Road widths often force bicyclists to ride close to parked vehicles where they may be injured by an opening door. Maintain at least four feet of clearance when passing and when in doubt, yield to the bicyclist. Reduce your speed before passing so you have better chances of avoiding a sudden maneuver. A cyclist might swerve suddenly to avoid road hazards like potholes. Children on bicycles are often unpredictable, so expect the unexpected.

Rules for cyclists

Because of the hazards inherent in sharing the road with motor vehicles, bicyclists need to ride cautiously and observe the following safety tips: • Ride on the roadway or shared pathways, rather than on sidewalks; • Follow the same rules of the road as other roadway users, including riding in the same direction as traffic and following all the same traffic signs and signals; • Signal all turns; • Wear a bicycle helmet every time and on every ride; • Be visible by wearing bright colors during the day, reflective gear in low light conditions, and use head and tail lights at night. Remember that respect is a two way street. Show motorists the same courtesy that you expect from them.

SHARE THE ROAD

AAA wants you to pedal with more peace of mind. We’ve organized reliable bicycle safety, riding and maintenance information in one convenient location at ShareTheRoad.AAA.com.

JUNE 2014

AAA TRAVELER

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Princess Cruises launches Regal Princess New 3,600-passenger ship treats guests like royalty

soaring atrium, a dramatic over-the-water SeaWalk, an intimate dining experience surrounded by a soft curtain of light. The all-new Regal Princess set sail in May with a host of innovations that enhance and expand on the classic Princess Cruise experience. The 3,600 passenger Regal Princess is an intoxicating mix of classic Italian ambience, gourmet dining and stellar entertainment aboard a floating resort where you can relax or revel to your heart’s content. Passengers descend a pair of marble spiral staircases to the Piazza, “the social hub of the ship.” The cavernous threedeck-high atrium is a stunning seraglio of glass and gold. Lounge lizards can congregate at Crooners, a Rat Pack-era martini bar, while foodies will want to check out Alfredo’s, a stone-oven pizzeria, or the Ocean Terrace Seafood Bar, serving sushi, ceviche and caviar. Staterooms are generous with a contemporary and inviting décor. Each one features Egyptian cotton linens, pillow-top mattress, a refrigerator and 37” flat-screen television with movies, cable and satellite programming. All outside cabins feature Princess’ trademark balcony staterooms, perfect for saluting the sunset. Regal Princess encompasses many of the hallmark features that define the Princess experience, while introduc-

a whole new era of cruise ship entertainment. The onboard TV studio features game shows, interactive cooking classes, art house films, enrichment classes, and intimate jam sessions with the ship’s musicians. Chef’s Table Lumiere is a spectacular new dining event that moves the Chef’s Table experience light years into the future. Guests will be magically surrounded by a curtain of light — providing a soft wall of privacy around a custom-made glass table in the Allegro dining room. The Horizon Bistro will offer nightly themed events and specialty dinners. Diners may find a Brazilian churrascaria, one night or a German Beer Fest, or British pub the next.

A SHIP OF STATE — Regal Princess is redefining the Princess cruise experience. fountains synchronized to music and lights. The computerized fountain features 85 water jets, shooting streams of water 33 feet into the night sky. Movies Under the Stars, Princess’ signature poolside theater, features a 30 percent larger screen coupled with a high-tech visual and audio system for an unforgettable open-air movie-going experience. Passengers can enjoy movies, sporting events, and concerts complete with complimentary popcorn. Princess Live! raises the curtain on

ing a few new ones all her own. One of the ship’s most striking features is the SeaWalk, extending 28 feet over the starboard side on the top deck. Hovering 128 feet above the ocean, this dramatic glass-bottomed walkway offers unparalleled sea views. Directly adjacent to the SeaWalk passengers will find a host of lounging options, beautiful palm trees, and two freshwater pools flanking an island. At night, the top deck transforms into the Water and Light Show with dancing

IF YOU GO

Regal Princess’ maiden season will include Princess’ signature Grand Mediterranean cruises, with two itinerary choices until October, 2014, followed by 7-night Eastern Caribbean cruises from Fort Lauderdale, with port calls that include Princess Cays, St. Thomas and St. Maarten. FOR MORE INFORMATION

Please see this issue’s Departures Guide or AAA.com/cruises for special values on Princess Cruise vacations.

Identity theft never takes a vacation ProtectMyID® Deluxe helps secure your private info

hile you’re taking in the sights on your summer vacation, identity thieves may be helping themselves to your personal information. Approximately 13.1 million U.S. consumers suffered identity fraud in 2013, according to Javelin Strategy & Research’s 2014 Identity Fraud Report. Identity thieves stole a total of $18 billion from these victims. There are several ways you can protect your personal data while traveling this summer: • Before leaving for your trip, suspend newspaper and mail delivery to prevent anything from being stolen from your mailbox. • Never carry sensitive documents – such as your Social Security card, birth certificate or passport – in your purse or wallet. Other items to leave at home include your checkbook, extra credit cards, PIN, spare keys and anything with account passwords or your Social Security number. • Protect your mobile devices by requiring a password to unlock them. Require additional passwords for individual apps that contain personal information, such as banking or social media accounts. • If you need to deposit or withdraw money, visit a bank’s branch, rather than an ATM kiosk. ATMs located in

high-traffic tourist areas can put you at risk for data skimming. • Delay online banking until you can access a secured WiFi connection. Others using the same unsecured WiFi network could intercept your credit card or banking information. • Do not post “check-ins”, photos or tweets on social media while you are away. These are a clear sign you are not at home. You can share your vacation highlights online when you return. Even when taking these precautions to protect your identity, it is impossible for you to monitor your personal information 24/7. This is why it is crucial to have a professional monitoring product that can do just that. ProtectMyID Deluxe, available to AAA East Central members at just $8.95 per month (a 56% discount) includes the following advanced features: • Daily monitoring of all three credit reports (Experian, TransUnion and Equifax) for new credit cards, loans, delinquent payments and more. • Experian® credit report with score at the time of signup. • ChildSecure®: A feature that monitors minor children’s identities. • Notification if change of address has been detected. • Daily Internet scans for signs of identity fraud.

•

E-mail alerts advising of changes to credit reports, as well as monthly “all clear” notifications. • Fraud resolution support. • Lost wallet and card protection and assistance. • $1 million identity theft insurance.* A free option, ProtectMyID Essential, is also available to AAA members. Comparable to plans costing $7.95 per month, this product includes several of the same features as ProtectMyID Deluxe. For more information, and to subscribe to ProtectMyID Essential or Deluxe, simply go to

AAA.com/ProtectMyID or call 1.877.440.6943. To enroll, you must have a valid email address and be 18 or older. *Identity theft insurance underwritten by insurance company subsidiaries or affiliates of American International Group, Inc. (AIG). The description herein is a summary and intended for informational purposes only and does not include all terms, conditions and exclusions of the policies described. Please refer to the actual policies for terms, conditions and exclusions of coverage. Coverage may not be available in all jurisdictions.

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AAA TRAVELER

JUNE 2014

The 2014 Ford/AAA Auto Skills competition Butler County students take checkered flag at state finals

wo students from the Butler County Area Technology Center will head to the Motor City this June to represent Kentucky against students from all 50 states in the prestigious 2014 Ford/AAA Student Auto Skills National Finals. Matt Richmond and Logan Belcher, led by instructor Randal Collins, won the Kentucky state competition held May 8 at the Kentucky Speedway in Sparta. The pair earned a spot in the National Finals at Ford Motor Company World Headquarters in Dearborn, Mich., June 8–10. There, the duo will compete for millions in scholarships, the opportunity to earn a job shadow experience with Wood Brothers Racing, and the chance to be crowned “America’s Best Student Auto Technicians.” “Each year, the Ford/AAA Student Auto Skills competition brings together the country’s best future automotive technicians,” said J.J. Miller, AAA East Central Safety Advisor, who noted that the Butler County Area Technology Center is in the AAA East Central region of Kentucky. Advancements in automobile safety, fuel management and comfort have led to an increasing reliance on computers and electronic components that make cars operate efficiently. And as automotive technology evolves, so does our perception of automotive technicians.

THE WINNERS — Instructor Randal Collins (right) congratulates state champions Logan Belcher (left) and Matt Richmond from the Butler County Area Technology Center. Today’s auto technicians must be well-educated and continue training to stay on the cutting edge of advances in computer and electronic technology. They also must be skilled in all aspects of mechanical repair procedures and knowledgeable about service intervals and maintenance requirements. Skilled technicians today require more knowl-

edge than an automotive engineer of 15 years ago and the industry needs to attract dedicated young people to keep America’s 250-million vehicles operating safely and trouble-free. Each year, more than 10,000 students representing more than 950 automotive technology programs in all 50 states compete in this event. Last year,

Downs. Post time is 2:00 p.m. Friday through Sunday. The 5/8 mile track hosts up to 10 daily races. Race office hours are 8:00 a.m. to noon on Tuesday and Wednesday, 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Thursday and Friday during live racing season. For information call 270-444-7117 or visit caesars.com/bluegrassdowns. Location: Bluegrass Downs, 150 Downs Drive/32nd and Park Avenue on Highway 60, Paducah. OLD LOUISVILLE HIDDEN GARDEN TREASURES GARDEN TOUR — (June 21-22) The garden tour welcomes garden lovers into the private green spaces of the nation’s largest Victorian residential neighborhood. Old Louisville gardeners share the experience of their personal retreats tucked behind imposing Victorian homes and carriage houses and protected by vine-covered walls and privacy fences. The tour is designed to be walked so that the visitor can experience the scale of old Louisville residences and the peacefulness of its gardens. Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 on tour days. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For information and tickets, call 502-432-8665 or visit o l d l o u i s v i l l e g a r d e n t o u r. c o m . Location: Tour begins at the ConradCaldwell House Museum, 1402 St. James Court at Magnolia Avenue, Louisville.

MCCRACKEN COUNTY FAIR — (June 23-28) Since 1965, there’s something for everyone at Carson Park, including children’s activities, rides, talent contest and show, beauty contest and show, harness racing, car racing, horse and livestock shows, demolition derby, motorcycle races, variety show, exhibits, midway, and live entertainment. The midway opens at 5:30 p.m. Click mccrackencountyfair.com for more information. Location: Carson Park, Joe Clifton Drive and Madison, Paducah. ROMP: BLUEGRASS ROOTS & BRANCHES FESTIVAL — (June 26-28) The 11th Annual River of Music Party features three days of bluegrass music. Thursday is jamming and storytelling at the International Bluegrass Music Museum. Thursday through Saturday nights are concerts by some of the best performers in bluegrass. For more information call 270-926-7891 or visit rompfest.com. Location: Yellow Creek Park, 5710 Highway 144, Owensboro. QUAKER STATE 400 — (June 28) The NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Quaker State 400 presented by Advance Auto Parts returns for the fourth time to Kentucky Speedway. Enjoy an energetic atmosphere filled with music, food and fun while watching the world’s best stock car drivers

over $12 million in scholarships was awarded at both the state and national levels to Ford/AAA Student Auto Skills competitors. AAA’s partnership with Ford is also working to change attitudes; break down barriers and open doors that might otherwise be closed to this career path. More and more female competitors are making a run at the national title in what has been a traditionally male dominated field. “This competition is just one of the ways AAA and Ford are demonstrating their commitment to helping students and building awareness of career opportunities in the automotive service industry,” said Miller. At the National Finals, Matt and Logan will have their skills tested with a written exam and a timed competition, where they will be required to diagnose and repair intentionally installed “bugs” on a new Ford vehicle. AAA is committed to providing motorists with solutions for their automotive needs and that includes ensuring they have quality repair options both now and in the future.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

The Ford / AAA Student Auto Skills National Finals will take place June 8-10, 2014 in Dearborn, Michigan.

aroundtown W.C. HANDY BLUES & BARBECUE FESTIVAL — (June 7-14) The W.C. Handy Blues & Barbecue Festival has become one of the largest free music festivals in the nation, featuring blues and Zydeco bands from across the United States. Not to mention the mounds of barbeque, red beans and rice and other treats available from local vendors. The festival is a celebration of the life and legacy of Henderson resident and “Father of the Blues”, William Christopher Handy. Opening day is highlighted by the “Taste of Henderson Barbeque.” Enjoy live music nightly from Wednesday evening to Saturday night, plus a Mardi Gras-style Street Strut, Handy Lunch Breaks at local eateries, lectures, dance classes, and more. For information, call 270-826-3128 or visit handyblues.org. Location: Riverfront, downtown Henderson. ELVIS COSTELLO — (June 17) One of the most adventurous and lauded performers of his generation, Elvis Costello brings his astonishing breadth of material to The Louisville Palace on Tuesday, June 17th. Visit LouisvillePalace.com for concert and ticket information. LIVE HARNESS RACING AT BLUEGRASS DOWNS — (June 20-July 20) Don’t miss the thrill and excitement of live harness horse racing at Bluegrass

face one of the toughest challenges in all of racing. Single-race grandstand ticket prices: $59, $89, $109. Race begins at 7:30 p.m. Please visit kentuckyspeedway.com for more information, or race tickets, or call 859-578-2230. Location: One Speedway Drive, Sparta. FIFTH THIRD BANK WATERFRONT INDEPENDENCE FESTIVAL — (July 3-4) Two days of free concerts, fireworks, and family entertainment on the Great Lawn at Waterfront Park. July 3rd is country night, featuring headliner Thompson Square, The McClymonts, and Ode 2 the Gnu. On July 4th, headliner and legend Jimmy Cliff, Midnight Star, and Mojoflo will rock the stage. The times are from 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. at Waterfront Park, 129 E. River Rd. Louisville. KENTUCKY FLEA MARKET 4TH OF JULY SPECTACULAR — (July 3-6) One of the nation’s finest flea markets with over 600 booths. Vendors come from across the nations to sell antiques and collectibles, crafts, furniture, candles, bath and body items, jewelry, surplus, and more. Thursday noon to 6:00 p.m., Friday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Sunday 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Location: Kentucky Fair and Expo Center, 937 Phillips Lane, Louisville.

JUNE 2014

AAA TRAVELER

California New Year’s Getaway morning, when millions of viewers around the world tune in to marvel at these intricate, ingenious and incredibly beautiful creations. The 126th parade (themed “Inspriring Stories”) will feature, as always, marching bands from throughout the nation (and some from around the world!), majestic floral floats and high-stepping equestrian units. AND THERE’S SO MUCH MORE! “California New Year’s Getaway” starts in Los Angeles, touring historic Farmers Market (begun during the Depression, it now features more than 30 dining opportunities and a variety of shopping experiences). See Downtown’s Disney Concert Hall, Cathedral of Our Lady, LA Live and Olvera Street (heart of the Mexican community). Enjoy a gala welcome dinner at Parker’s Lighthouse in Long Beach, close by your elegant hotel. Day 2 takes you to star-studded Hollywood and glitzy Rodeo Drive. At the Chinese Theatre (née Grauman’s, then Mann’s), see celebrity signatures LONG BEACH

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from page 1 ___________________

immortalized in cement. Follow the bronze medallions studding Hollywood Boulevard’s Walk of Fame. At Hollywood & Highland, a shopping & entertainment complex housing the new home of Academy Awards extravaganzas, enjoy a great view of the iconic “Hollywood” sign from the upper level. In Burbank, tour Burbank’s Warner Brothers Studios for a behindthe-scenes look into making films and TV shows; be alert for star sightings! On Day 3, drive to Simi Valley’s Reagan Presidential Library & Museum, the nation’s largest and most elaborate; see a full-scale Oval Office replica, Air Force One, a re-created White House state dinner and numerous videos & displays. Drive the Pacific Coast Highway through exclusive Malibu to fun & funky Santa Monica; explore its variety of sights in your free time. Attend an exclusive New Year’s Eve party in Long Beach on the magnificent RMS Queen Mary — a luxurious setting for sophisticated dining, dancing and bidding farewell to 2014 in grand style. Usher in 2015

BEVERLY HILLS

From the parade of fashion and glamour on Rodeo Drive to the Parade of Roses in Pasadena, you’ll enjoy a wide variety of sights and experiences throughout the Los Angeles and San Diego areas on AAA Travel’s “California New Year’s Getaway.” Call 1-800-354-8761 or visit AAA.com/USA.

with a toast from the best seat in Long Beach for a gigantic fireworks display off the ship’s stern. Happy New Year! Day 4 finds you in Pasadena, at your reserved seat for the Roses Parade — flower-covered floats, marching bands, equestrians. Afterward, enjoy lunch at Universal Studios CityWalk, then drive to your all-suite hotel on San Diego’s waterfront. Explore San Diego on Day 5; see Cabrillo Monument atop Point Loma, with commanding views of the Pacific, the harbor and the skyline. Drive through Mission Bay, continue to Old

Town (California’s birthplace) and La Jolla, a chic beachside hideaway where you’ll have time to explore. Established in 1868, Balboa Park is the country’s oldest and one of its largest city parks. Take a guided tour of the San Diego Zoo on a doubledecker bus. On Day 6, visit the USS Midway, the longest serving aircraft carrier. Then cruise the harbor, viewing the skyline and Navy carriers, subs and aircraft along the way. Afterward, tour one of North San Diego’s wineries and continue to Escondido for dinner and a show at the Lawrence Welk Village.

Dec 29–Jan 4 AAA Member Rate: from $3,879

QUEEN MARY

Courtesy of Destinations Magazine

REAGAN LIBARY & MUSEUM

SAN DIEGO

Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Louisville–Los Angeles, San Diego–Louisville), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, hotel luggage handling (1 per person), 11 meals, 2 cocktail parties, reserved parade seat, taxes/gratuities on included items, local tour manager and services of a AAA Tour Manager (if participation goal is met).

One-stop cruise shopping with AAA Travel Helping members plan and save on the perfect voyage

Enjoy exclusive benefits with AAA Vacations

AA Travel is a one-stop destination for everything cruise related. Members can rely on AAA to help them through each step of the cruise-planning process whether online, over the phone or in a local branch office. In addition, members can take advantage of cruise discounts and extras only available through AAA.

Find the right fit

A variety of factors can determine what cruise is your “perfect match” – including your interests, activity level, schedule, budget and age. A family with young children booking a fourday Caribbean cruise is probably looking for a very different experience than a retired couple searching for a monthlong, relaxing European river cruise, for example. AAA travel agents work closely with cruise lines and travel partners, so they can help you to determine what cruise best fits your specific needs.

Uncover the best deals

AAA travel agents are “in the know” about the latest cruise discounts and promotions. “There is no need to stress over finding the best cruise deal on your own,” said Tracy Edwards, AAA East Central Managing Director of Travel Sales. “Your local AAA travel counselors receive daily updates on the specials available from cruise lines.”

CHOOSE YOUR CRUISE — AAA Vacations cruises deliver extraordinary values and experiences. Your AAA travel agent may know of additional ways to save, including cruise-line loyalty programs, early-booking savings, military or group discounts, or reduced rates for AAA Member Rewards Visa cardholders. Check with your agent as offers vary.

Take care of the details

Once your cruise is booked, AAA can help you with all the details of

your dream trip. Your AAA travel agent can make your flight and rental car reservations, purchase travel insurance, and arrange for pre- and post-cruise accommodations and tours. They can help you obtain any documentation you may need for international travel. You can even have your passport photo taken at your local AAA branch office. Ask your travel agent about reduced airport parking rates, as well.

AAA Vacations cruises are select sailings that go above and beyond to deliver extraordinary values and experiences. Benefits vary by cruise line, and include amenities such as priority check-in, onboard spending credits, champagne on arrival, wine tastings, specialty dining and shore excursions. For extra peace of mind, AAA Vacations cruises come with 24/7 Member Care emergency phone assistance and the Best Price Guarantee. If you find a valid better rate for the exact same cruise itinerary and inclusions within 24 hours of booking, AAA will match to the lower rate and send you a $50 AAA Vacations Future Travel Credit Certificate. With more than 400 AAA Vacations departures to choose from, there’s an itinerary perfect for you. All that’s left to do is to sit back and enjoy. Ask your AAA travel agent for details, or visit AAA.com/aaavacations.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Please see your AAA Departures Guide, visit your local AAA Travel Agency or log on to AAA.com/cruises for information on AAA cruise offerings.

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AAA TRAVELER

JUNE 2014