Neo february by AAA East Central

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Vol. 108 No. 2

NORTHEAST OHIO REGION

FEBRUARY 2016 Free Junior Associates — Priceless Protection for Teens

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

TAKE YOUR MEMBERSHIP TO THE NEXT LEVEL WITH AAA PREMIER

If your teen has reached driving age, don’t let them go it alone. AAA members can extend their AAA coverage for dependents age 16 to 18, with a free Junior Associate membership. They’ll carry their very own AAA card, and are entitled to AAA benefits and services including 24/7 roadside assistance, exclusive savings at AAA Discounts & Rewards, AAA Mobile solutions and more. Members can add Junior Associates by calling or visiting their local AAA office or, by clicking on aaa.com/ JuniorAssociate. (All Associate Members must reside at the Primary Member’s address, and proof of age may be required).

AAA news delivered right to your inbox

Look to AAA Vacations® tours and cruises for the most member value

ot every AAA getaway is a AAA Vacations® vacation, but those that are feature exciting itineraries, engaging experiences and exclusive values — more now than ever before! As a AAA member, enjoy the 24/7 Member Care, memberonly benefits and Best Price Guarantee that come with every AAA Vacations® package. During February, save up to $100 on AAA Vacations® tours (guided or independent) or get up to $100 in onboard spending money on cruises carrying the AAA Vacations® brand. AAA Vacations® land itineraries are packed with exceptional built-in value, including experiences and complimentary inclusions considered “extras” on similar vacations (if offered at all!). Oncein-a-lifetime experiences — such as tickets to a hit musical in London’s West End Theatre District, hands-on pizza making sessions in Florence or a zipline adventure through Costa Rica’s rainforest canopy — may be included in your package. In February, save $50 (7-9 nights) or $100 (10+ nights) per new tour booking with deposit, based on double occupancy.

AAA Vacations® cruises have built-in values, which may include priority check-in, included shore excursions, AAAonly events, onboard spending credit, specialty dining, precruise hotel stays and more. These exclusive values can make your vacation experience a lot more enjoyable. Get $50 per stateroom onboard spending money on cruises of 7-9 nights ($100 for 10+ nights). AAA Vacations® tours and cruises are all about confi-

dence, trust and peace of mind. With many years of experience, AAA is here to look after your traveling needs with a personal touch. We’ve built our reputation by serving millions of vacationers. Our 24/7 Member Care (via Allianz Global Assistance, AAA’s preferred travel insurance provider) offers options to protect your vacation investment and provide even more peace of mind. continued on page 20

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

Forget the Stamp with AutoPay With AutoPay, you can avoid late payments and a lapse in your AAA membership. You’ll still receive a paper bill, and you can update your membership prior to making a payment. The credit or debit card you leave on file will be charged the amount of the bill. Any payments from your card will be debited 10 to 15 days before your renewal date. Simply logon to your account at AAA.com and select “Enroll” under Billing Information, or call the Member Service phone number on the back of your membership card to sign up.

PPG Paints is Newest AAA Discounts & Rewards Partner Providing quality paints and stains for homeowners and professionals alike for well over 100 years, PPG Paints is committed to providing homeowners with the highest quality products and services for all of your painting needs. They feature a broad product line, individualized customer service, including state-of-the-art color matching. PPG Paints now offers AAA members 25 percent savings on retail paint and 15 percent on sundries at 630 PPG Paints stores throughout the U.S.

Follow us on Facebook! Frequently posted topics include: AAA.com website features, travel specials, online discounts, gas price information, safety tips, car care advice and upcoming events. Visit Facebook.com/AAAEastCentral to start following AAA East Central today.

See Norway, Denmark & Sweden with AAA Travel

Check out the 2016-17 AAA Vacations® Catalog Get all the details — from pricing and day-to-day details — of your next dream vacation right at your fingertips — at home! This year’s catalog includes even more destinations, more departures, more inclusions and more value for you. Our expanded collection of vacations includes cruises, guided tours and independent vacations that offer everything from the traditional to the exotic. Visit AAA.com/AAAVacations to download and view the catalog.

Awe-inspiring fjords, timeless towns, and the northern lights dancing above a pristine wilderness — Scandinavia evokes many images. Sometimes called the Venice of the North, Stockholm is made up of 14 islands threaded by canals. In the fairytale city of Copenhagen it’s the life-size things that count. Norway’s elaborate lacework of bays and fjords is framed by picturesque medieval towns. Experience it all this summer with AAA Travel’s August 5-18 Spectacular Scandinavia tour. Book and deposit by Feb. 29, 2016 and enjoy member-level savings of up to $675 per booking. SEE PAGE 7.

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AAA MOTORIST

Top five ways to protect your identity while on vacation Safeguard your personal information with ProtectMyID®

dentity thieves don’t take a vacation when you do. As a matter of fact, traveling creates unique opportunities for identity thieves. According to a 2014 survey conducted by Edelman Berland on behalf of Experian’s ProtectMyID,®1 30 percent of Americans have either been the victims of identity theft while traveling, or know someone who has. That’s why it’s important to protect your identity as you prepare for your trip, and also while you’re traveling. Here are five steps you should take to help safeguard your identity: Travel light — The more you take with you, the more you have to lose. Carry only the essentials, such as your driver’s license, passport if you’re traveling outside the U.S., a credit card and your health insurance card (in case of emergency). Leave everything else securely stored at home, including your Social Security card, extra credit cards and other forms of identification. Backup important documents — Before you leave home, make copies of your driver’s license, passport, credit cards and any other vital documents, and carry them with you. When you leave your hotel room, lock the copies in the hotel safe. If your wallet or purse is lost or stolen, you’ll have the backups safely stored at the hotel. Plan your trip carefully — It would be nice to think you can wander around and explore freely wherever you go, but that’s not always the case. Carefully plan

FEBRUARY 2016

AAA DIRECTORY AAA MEMBER SERVICES

TripTiks, Tourbooks, Maps, Address Change, AAA Plus

800-441-5008 membersvccntr@aaaec.com APPROVED AUTO REPAIR: 216-606-6332 aar@aaaec.com

AUTO BUYING SERVICE: 800-446-7433 DRIVER IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMS: 216-606-6121 EMERGENCY ROAD SERVICE: Cuyahoga County: 216-606-6000, ers@aaaec.com Ashland, Ashtabula, Geauga, Huron, Lake, Lorain, Portage, Mahoning, Stark, Trumbull, and Tuscarawas: 800-AAA-HELP

INSURANCE AGENCY: 216-606-6194, 800-343-4851 insuranceservices@aaaec.com

MOTORIST, Northeast Ohio Region: 216-606-6700 motorist@aaaec.com

PUBLIC AFFAIRS: 216-606-6702 PUBLIC RELATIONS: 216-606-6712 TRAFFIC SAFETY PROGRAMS: 1-800-845-0375

TRAVELERS A TARGET — Everyone enjoys a vacation, but don’t let your guard down. where you’ll go and the sights you’ll see. Investigate the companies you’ll be traveling with and learn the names of reputable taxi companies and transportation providers at your destination. Prep your home — Criminals who break into your home can now do worse than simply take your belongings. They can also steal your identity if they find documents or electronic items that contain sensitive information. Take steps ensure it looks like you’re still at home. Put lights on a timer so they switch on automatically when it gets dark.

Put a hold on all mail and newspaper delivery. Ask a trusted friend to water outside plants or bring trash cans off the street so your home looks lived in. Secure important documents in a lockbox inside the house. Finally, turn off your home Wi-Fi network so no one can access your home systems while you’re away. Stay alert — Of course you want to have fun and relax — you’re on vacation! But you still need to maintain some degree of vigilance. Be aware of your surroundings as you sightsee or pass through airports or other busy areas; thieves can physically pick your pocket and then use the information they reap to commit identity theft. Stay alert to scams, too — the “taxi” driver in an unmarked car who promises entry to a popular attraction at half the price or without a wait, or a hotel clerk who wants to keep your credit card for the duration of your stay. If you suspect your identity may have been compromised while traveling, or you’ve been the victim of a scam, check your credit report for signs such as new credit accounts you didn’t open. When you return home, you should also review all of your credit card and financial accounts to determine if there are any unauthorized transactions. Contact your bank or credit card company immediately if you see any activity you don’t recognize. With a few simple steps you’ll be on your way to enjoying peace of mind during your next vacation. Safe travels! 1. http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/vacation-report-travelers-need-more-thansunscreen-to-protect-themselves-this-summer-263615841.html.

PROTECT YOURSELF

For an added sense of security, AAA offers identity monitoring to members with enrollment in ProtectMyID®, a fullservice provider of identity theft detection, protection and fraud resolution. To learn more, visit AAA.com/protectmyid or call 1-877-440-6943.

TRAVEL AGENCY: 800-354-8761 www.AAA.com

Northeast Ohio AAA Offices ALLIANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/823-9820 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/821-2323 2322 South Union Ave., 44601 ASHLAND . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419/289-8133 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419/289-2222 1074 Commerce Parkway, 44805 ASHTABULA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/997-5586 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/998-1008 2835 North Ridge Rd. East 44004 AVON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/695-1795 35676 Detroit Rd. 44011 INDEPENDENCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216/606-6300 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216/606-6080 5700 Brecksville Rd. 44131 LAKE COUNTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/974-0990 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/205-9090 6980 Heisley Rd., Mentor 44060 LYNDHURST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/473-0700 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/473-0747 5356 Mayfield Rd. 44124 MAHONING COUNTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/726-9083 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/726-0622 1275 Boardman-Canfield Rd., Boardman 44512 MASSILLON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/833-1084 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/833-1084 1972 Wales Rd, 44646 NORWALK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419/668-1622 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419/668-1622 275 Benedict Ave. Norwalk 44857 PORTAGE COUNTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/296-3406 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/296-3406 2641 Rte. 59, Ravenna 44266 SOLON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/248-9000 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/248-1808 34050 Solon Rd. 44139 STRONGSVILLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/783-3395 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/783-3396 17220 Royalton Rd. 44136, The Great Escape Plaza TRUMBULL COUNTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/652-6466 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/652-6466 937 Youngstown-Warren Rd., Niles 44446 TUSCARAWAS COUNTY TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/343-4481 1112 Fourth St., New Philadelphia 44663 . . . . . . . 330/343-4481 WESTLAKE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/788-3102 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/788-3103 149 Market St., Crocker Park, Westlake 44145

FEBRUARY 2016

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Going the extra 100 miles for members Northeast Ohio Region Official publication of AAA East Central Published monthly (except bimonthly Aug./Sept., Nov./Dec.) by AAA East Central 5700 Brecksville Road, Independence, OH 44131 216/606-6225 ISSN 0030-0985 Periodicals Postage Paid at Cleveland, OH and additional post offices Postmaster: Send address changes to AAA Motorist Northeast Ohio Region P.O. Box 6150 Cleveland, OH 44101 Subscription Rate: $1 included in Primary Membership dues. All others: $2/year. Publisher ................................James E. Lehman Managing Editor ....................... Douglas O’Neil Business Manager ............... Sherry A. Madison Editorial Office/Advertising Inquiries 5700 Brecksville Road, Independence, OH 44131 216/606-6704 e-mail: motorist@aaaec.com

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

OHIO MOTORISTS REGION BOARD OF TRUSTEES James H. Kanicki, Chairman, Audrey T. Cole, Vice Chairman, Keith Boales, Thomas G. Brick**, Steve D. Bullock, Edward C. Coaxum, Jr., Gary S. Cowling**, Jon E. Denney, Richard S. Hamilton, John B. Hexter, James H. Kanicki, Mary Lynn Laughlin, John D. Leech**, Marvin E. Montgomery, Peter C. Ohlheiser, Sara E. Stashower **emeritus directors Copyright ©2016 by AAA East Central. Publication of an advertisement in the AAA Motorist does not constitute an endorsement of the product or service by the AAA Motorist or by AAA East Central, except in the case of products and services which are being offered by AAA East Central.

AAA Premier offers 200 miles free towing & more By Richard Hamilton Chairman, AAA East Central veryone’s needs are different; that’s why AAA offers several levels of membership. Just as AAA Plus expands AAA Classic coverage, AAA Premier is an enhancement to AAA Plus. Your benefits will only increase with each level, giving you the freedom to choose the membership option that best fits your budget and your lifestyle. AAA Premier takes the traditional advantages of AAA membership and supersizes them with a multitude of advanced benefits and services. Roadside assistance needs for example, tend to evolve in tandem with your driving habits, and everyone’s circumstances are unique. Members who need to go the distance will find that AAA Premier can deliver one tow of up to 200 miles per household, in addition to up to 100 miles on remaining tows per membership year. Lockouts remain one of the most common reasons for roadside assistance calls. If your vehicle key is lost, broken, or the service provider cannot gain entry, AAA will provide Premier members with locksmith service or reimbursement of commercial locksmith service up to $150. AAA Premier even protects you at home with up to a $100 reimbursement for Home Lockout Service at your primary residence. Should your vehicle need to be towed, and you’re stranded without transportation AAA Premier steps up by arranging a standard class rental car for one day at no charge. Premier members

Richard Hamilton are also entitled to a free Hertz Gold Plus Rewards membership with enough Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Bonus Points for two free weekend rental days after your first Gold rental. AAA Premier Membership is much more than extended towing. It also entitles you to a specialized package of perks and personalized travel services. Suppose your trip is delayed or interrupted due to a collision, mechanical failure, vehicle theft, illness, injury or even severe weather. You’re more than 100-miles from home, and what do you do? AAA Premier members are eligible for up to $1,500 Trip Interruption benefits toward the cost of transportation, accommodations, meals or related expenses. Premier is so generous it even pays up to $500 to return your vehicle

to your home if these issues result in the use of substitute transportation. Rest easy the next time you’re on a domestic or international vacation. AAA Premier members have exclusive access to Global Travel Emergency Assistance 24 hours a day. One call is all it takes to arrange medical provider referrals, prescription replacement, lost ticket and document replacement and emergency translation services. Traveling on a domestic or international vacation of at least 100 driving miles from home? AAA Premier’s 24-hour Concierge Service can help make your stay more memorable and carefree with assistance in securing tickets to events, restaurant reservations, tee times, flowers and more. Premier members also save at AAA offices, with free passport photos and notary service on personal documents; waiving AAA Travel Agency flight and rail ticket reservation fees; and up to $300,000 Travel Accident Insurance when travel arrangements are made through AAA. AAA Premier will go as far as life can take you and it’s available at an annual fee of just $35 per household, in addition to the members’ Classic and AAA Plus membership dues. AAA Premier can be added at any time to an existing membership (benefits subject to 7-day waiting period). To upgrade to AAA Premier, call or stop by your local AAA branch office, or contact the Club’s Member Service Call Center at 800.441.5008. Visit AAA. com/premier to review a comparison of AAA Classic, Plus and Premier benefits.

membersonly Hertz named Best Car Rental Company by Travel Weekly AAA car rental partner finishes 2015 with more than 25 awards

AA preferred partner Hertz recently made a clean sweep at Travel Weekly’s 13th Annual Readers’ Choice Awards. Hertz won Best Domestic Car Rental Company for the 13th consecutive time, the only winner in the history of the category, and Best International Car Rental Company for the 12th time. These widely recognized and coveted awards are presented annually to the industry’s suppliers who led the way in product and service during the past year. The open-ballot phase of the voting was conducted during the summer. Readers were invited to write in the names of any company they believed best exemplified that particular category. In addition to the Travel Weekly awards, Recommend magazine recently named Hertz as “Best Travel Agent Support Car Rental Company” in their 19th Annual Readers’ Choice Awards, and readers of Premier Traveler magazine recognized Hertz as the “Best Rental Car Company” in its Best of 2015 survey.

These latest awards complement the vast array of honors achieved by Hertz during 2015, including being named as the “Best Car Rental Company” by TTG Asia; awarded the 2015 Travelers’ Choice for Car Rental in Italy, Spain and the U.K. by the TripAdvisor community; and receiving the GlobeRunner Award for “Best Car Rental Chain in the World” by Frequent Business Traveler. Hertz’s Gold Plus Rewards program was named “Best Rewards Program of the Drive” category across the Americas, Europe/Africa and Middle East/Asia/Oceania at the 2015 FlyerTalk Awards, and the U.K.-based readers of Business Traveller magazine named Hertz the “Best Car Rental Company.” Additionally, Hertz was named to Newsweek’s 2015 Green Rankings, one of the world’s most recognized assessments of corporate environmental performance and was chosen as a recipient of the 2015 Airports Going Green Award from the Chicago Department of Aviation. Hertz is one of the most recognized

brands in the world, signifying leadership in quality rental services and products. This past year, Hertz has been honored with more than 25 bestin-class travel industry awards, both in the U.S. and internationally. Hertz understands customers want speed and convenience at every touchpoint of the rental experience, from pick up to drop off. Hertz is dedicated to maintaining superior quality and customer service in car rental through a variety of innovative service offerings, such as Hertz Gold Plus Rewards, a free loyalty rewards program entitling AAA members to a number of exclusive benefits and exclusive vehicle collections. NeverLost® GPS, the award-winning in-vehicle navigation system is available to rent along with a Hertz vehicle and offers hands-free calls, access to weather and flight information, live concierge operators and more. Carfimations, Hertz’s mobile email SMS text service, confirms a Gold customer’s reservation and advises them of their car location; and many others.

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A crash course in automobile insurance Tailor your coverage to meet your personal needs by Robin Jones f you’re overwhelmed with all the coverage options on your auto insurance, you’re not alone. In fact, you might even be tempted to just buy the minimum insurance required by law and call it a day. But unless you own little more than the clothes on your back, that may be a bad idea. Why? Because the legal minimum liability limits may not be enough to cover injuries or damage to other people and property due to an accident. And if the costs of a crash you cause exceed your policy limits, the other driver can sue you for anything of value you own. An insurance policy has two main purposes: 1) to cover the damages you cause to other persons and property (liability coverage), and 2) to protect you and your insured vehicle (other optional coverages). What you need depends on your financial situation, your risk tolerance level, and other factors. To help you make informed decisions, we explain three types of coverage that most often confuse people. If you have questions about coverage limits or other types of coverage, such as collision and comprehensive or umbrella policies, talk to your insurance agent. You may also want to consult a certified financial planner, attorney, and/or estate planner to help you decide how much insurance is right for you.

your passengers against bodily injury or property damage related to the accident, up to the limits available. Uninsured motorist coverage is not required in Pennsylvania, Ohio and Kentucky and many other states, but without that coverage, your options are not appealing: trying to collect from the other driver for damages, and, if unsuccessful, possibly filing a lawsuit for compensation.

Rental Reimbursement

UNDERSTAND YOUR OPTIONS — Drivers are often unfamiliar with all the coverage options available on their auto insurance. Liability Coverage Liability insurance is required by law to cover bodily injury and property damage that you cause to other people and property while driving your insured vehicle. This coverage is usually stated as three numbers that indicate, in order, 1) the amount your policy will pay for bodily injuries you are liable for per person if you are at fault, 2) the total amount it will pay for injuries you are liable for per accident, and 3) the total amount it will pay for property

damage that you cause while driving. For example, a 100/300/100 policy will pay each person injured in a crash that you cause while driving up to $100,000, with a maximum limit of $300,000 for the accident, and up to $100,000 to repair damage to the other person’s vehicle and/or property.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage

If someone who has inadequate or no insurance hits your car and is at fault, this coverage protects you and

If you’re involved in a crash and your car needs extensive repairs, this coverage will pay for the rental car while your vehicle is in the shop, up to the rental limits on your policy. It will also pay for a rental vehicle for a specified period if your vehicle is totaled and you need transportation while you’re shopping for a new car. If you can’t easily borrow a car, it can be a smart investment, since rental car costs can add up quickly. FOR MORE INFORMATION

Trust AAA to steer you right on all your current and future Auto, Home and Life insurance needs. Combining your coverage with one insurance company could make a significant difference in your premium. Call 866.802.8210, or visit AAA.com/insurance for more information or to schedule a comprehensive Insurance review. AAA – your trusted insurance advisor.

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FEBRUARY 2016

Member Benefits • Exclusive Offers

1-800-354-8761 • AAA.com/travel

Spectacular

SCANDINAVIA!

MEMBERS SAVE! $675 Premier • $650 Plus • $625 Classic NEW BOOKINGS WITH DEPOSIT • FEB 1-29, 2016 • PER ROOM, DOUBLE OCCUPANCY

Slip away this summer to... NORWAY, DENMARK & SWEDEN!

harborfront, another World Heritage–protected site. Fly to Copenhagen, Denmark’s capital; amble along its maze of cobbled lanes, including Europe’s longest pedestrianized shopping street. A city tour includes Amalienborg Palace, the Royal Theater and the much cherished Little Mermaid statue. Savor dinner in this Scandinavian culinary capital, where a “New Nordic Cuisine Movement” currently holds reign. Enjoy a full day on your own to explore the city’s many delights. Cross Øresund Bridge, Europe’s longest combined road-and-rail bridge, into Sweden. In Malmö, enjoy a fika (traditional coffee break, often with kanelbullar, sweet cinnamon rolls) and overnight in a family-run manor house. Then head to the cosmopolitan capital, Stockholm, to visit City Hall, stroll through Old Town, see the Royal Palace and step back in time at the Vasa Museum, where a perfectly preserved 17th-century warship offers a rare glimpse into that era. Take in more sights of this attractive city built upon 14 islands during a full day on your own. Afterward, enjoy a farewell dinner ATURE at Fem Sma Hus, a stunning Old CA O Town restaurant TI comprised of 5 timber-framed houses from the 17th century that capture the flavors of a bygone era. VA

Despite the large size of some of them, Scandinavia’s countries seem to draw little attention to themselves, especially compared to some others on the Continent. It’s likely many Americans know the many reasons to visit Italy or France, but fewer are privy to the relative secrets being quietly kept by Norway, Denmark and Sweden. That’s why AAA’s ”Spectacular Scandinavia“ escorted tour will almost certainly surprise and delight you with this trio’s abundant natural beauty, pleasantly warm summers, fascinating history and unique cultures. And, with included AAA Member Choice Vacations Experiences, it will reveal the unforgettable charms of lands and peoples. Oslo — Norway’s capital and largest city — is both ancient and modern. Gorgeously set between harbor and forested mountains, most of its main sights (National Gallery, Royal Palace, City Hall & Akershus fortress) are just steps from the city center. An architecturally stunning opera house (2008), built partly into the harbor it abuts, shines like an iceberg in the sun; visitors climb its popular ramp-like roof for its views...and for the fun of it! Marvel at 3 ancient vessels at the fascinating Viking Ship Museum and visit a park where an intriguing collection of statues comprises sculptor Gustav Vigeland’s life’s work. Travel to Norway’s breathtaking fjord region and see Borgund’s wooden stave church (1180). Ascend 3,000 feet on the Flam Railway past mighty waterfalls, towering mountains and steep-walled valleys. See Briksdal Glacier and cruise into Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and see Seven Sisters, Bridal Veil and Suitor waterfalls. Experience Old World charm at Bergen’s picturesque

AUG 5-18. AAA MEMBER RATE: $6,799. Rate is per person, double occupancy, is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Cleveland-Oslo, Stockholm-Cleveland), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, 20 meals, hotel luggage handling (1 bag per person), sightseeing per itinerary and taxes/gratuities for included features. Visit AAA.com/travel for more information. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details. Passport required.

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Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

1 BOOK PER ROOM, DOUBLE OCCUPANCY

S N

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

AMERICAN MAJESTY: Aug 27–Sept 3 • $3,239 (includes flights!)

Celebrate the American West during the 100th year of the National Park Service by roaming the home of the buffalo and discovering America's wide-open spaces and iconic landmarks. Start in Salt Lake City, with an opportunity to witness the weekly spectacle of a Mormon Tabernacle Choir broadcast performance (choir schedule permitting). Travel past Great Salt Lake, through Logan Canyon and beside Bear Lake. At Grand Teton National Park, take a scenic float trip on the Snake River. Next, visit Old Faithful, Mammoth Hot Springs and other sites in Yellowstone National Park. Enjoy historic Cody, the Buffalo Bill Center and a chuckwagon-style dinner. Marvel at Devil’s Tower, feel the Old West at Deadwood and enter the scenic Black Hills on the way to Mt Rushmore and Crazy Horse Monument. After a Wildlife Jeep® Safari at Custer State Park to see buffalo (and more), end at the inspirational Mt Rushmore Evening Lighting Ceremony. 13 meals.

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

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

the 2,000-foot-high stone towers of Zion National Park. 16 meals.

BRIGHT LIGHTS/BIG CANYONS: May 22-30 • from $3,085 (includes flights!)

Fly to Las Vegas and settle into your centrally located casino hotel. An evening Pink Jeep® tour lets you experience the dazzling excitement of the Strip in a unique way. Enjoy a full day to explore everything Vegas has to offer. Travel on to Lake Powell and your lakeside hotel; enjoy a dinner cruise. Appreciate the spiritual aspect of Navajo territory and the photographic beauty of Antelope Canyon on a guided off-road tour. Enjoy 2 nights in a lodge at the Grand Canyon. Ride the Grand Canyon Railway to Williams. At Sedona, take a Pink Jeep® tour to see majestic red rock formations. 12 meals.

YELLOWSTONE EXPERIENCE: June 20-26 • $1,859 Our first national park’s first explorers were called liars when they described its otherworldly geysers & bubbling mudpots and its free-ranging bison, elk, moose, bears & wolves. Begin at Salt Lake City and travel through scenic Idaho to Yellowstone. Enjoy Old Faithful & many other natural landmarks, as well as the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center. A Wildlife Safari includes a picnic dinner. Also enjoy Grand Teton National Park, the cowboy town of Jackson, a Jenny Lake cruise, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir (schedule permitting) and more! 12 meals.

GLACIER NP DISCOVERY: June 21-27 • from $3,039 (includes flights!)

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

SAVE $25 on popular FEATURED VACATIONS to US West destinations! COLORADO TRAIN ADVENTURE July 9-16 • $2,145

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This Centennial State tour features rides on the Pike’s Peak Cog Railway, the Royal Gorge Route RR, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic RR and the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge RR. Tour the US Air Force Academy and marvel at the rock formations of the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. Ride the country’s steepest incline and walk on the world’s highest suspension bridge at Royal Gorge. Visit Great Sand Dunes and Mesa Verde national parks. See the monoliths of Colorado National Monument. Visit the CO Railroad Museum in Golden. 15 meals.

Maps, facts & photos

Full color 272 pages

NEW BOOKINGS FEB 1-29

$22.95 value Published by National Geographic

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ENJOY THE BEAUTY OF THE AMERICAN WEST! Get this guidebook to celebrate 100 years of the National Park Service

BEST OF NORTHERN CALIFORNIA July 21-29 • $4,379 (includes flights!)

So many delights in 1 tour — from the endless charms of San Francisco to the natural splendor of the redwoods at Muir Woods to the opulence of Hearst Castle. Cross Golden Gate Bridge, enjoy the Mediterranean ambiance of Sausalito, sample wines at Napa Valley vineyards, savor lunch aboard the Napa Wine Train. Ride Amtrak’s scenic California Zephyr to Lake Tahoe. Visit the ghost town of Virginia City NV. Dine & dance on a riverboat paddlewheeler. Marvel at Yosemite’s wonders. Explore coastal Carmel, Big Sur and Monterey. 14 meals.

SAVINGS PER ROOM, DOUBLE OCCUPANCY; NEW BOOKINGS FEB 1-29

CALIFORNIA WINE COUNTRY Aug 28–Sept 2 • $3,399 (includes flights!)

Here’s a tasty tour starting in scenic San Francisco; see the City by the Bay's Twin Peaks, Haight Ashbury District, Embarcadero, Chinatown, Pacific Heights. Cross Golden Gate Bridge to Vista Point and on to Napa Valley. Tour & sip samples at wineries; enjoy a chef-prepared picnic at one and a “Blend Your Own Merlot” session at another. Savor an elegant dinner aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train. Visit Mediterranean-flavored Sausalito and ferry over to Fisherman’s Wharf. Back in Napa, visit 2 more wineries and dine at the Culinary Institute of America. 8 meals.

Before-discount AAA MEMBER RATES are per person, double occupancy, are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip flights from Cleveland (except COLORADO TRAIN ADVENTURE, which is a land-only package), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, meals as noted, hotel luggage handling (1 bag per person), sightseeing per itinerary and taxes/gratuities for included features. Visit AAA.com/USA for more information. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.

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FEATURED VACATIONS

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

Look for the FEATURED VACATIONS logo to identify out-of-the-ordinary offerings... and be sure to visit AAA.com/FeaturedVacations to see the latest offerings.

ALLIANCE ........................ 330-821-2323 ASHLAND ........................ 419-289-2222 ASHTABULA ..................... 440-998-1008 AVON .............................. 440-695-1795 BOARDMAN ..................... 330-726-0622 INDEPENDENCE ............... 216-606-6080 LYNDHURST ..................... 440-473-0747 MASSILLON ..................... 330-833-1084

MENTOR .......................... 440-205-9090 NEW PHILADELPHIA......... 330-343-4481 NILES .............................. 330-652-6466 NORWALK........................ 419-668-1622 RAVENNA ........................ 330-296-3406 SOLON ............................ 440-248-1808 STRONGSVILLE ................ 440-783-3396 WESTLAKE ....................... 440-788-3103

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

July 7-16 •

AAA Member Rate: from $5,955

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

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

FEBRUARY 2016

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

AAA MEMBER RATE: $3,409

JULY 7-13

Canadian Rockies AND THE

Calgary Stampede © Sascha Burkard / Fotolia.com

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

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Avoid potential airport hassles: Motorcoach to & from your cruise! Park for free, then relax on AAA’s convenient “Cruise Express” motorcoach right to your ship!

Grandeur of the Seas — from Baltimore

Bermuda & the Bahamas.......Aug 18-27................. from $1,203 Canada & New England.........Sept 29–Oct 8 .......... from $1,253 Southeast & the Bahamas .....Nov 12-21................. from $1,084 AAA MEMBER RATES are per person (double occupancy), are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip motorcoach transportation (Cleveland–NJ), cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals and taxes/fees/port expenses of up to $383.10 per person. Ship’s registry: Bahamas. Visit AAA.com/motorcruise for itinerary details & Cleveland area pick-up points. Passport required.

Be among the first to cruise on Anthem of the Seas! Get $50 shipboard credit! Sail roundtrip from Cape Liberty NJ to New England & Canada. Cruise includes a 1-night before-cruise hotel stay near the pier. Boston MA • Portland & Bar Harbor ME • Saint John NB • Halifax NS • Plus 3 days at sea

Sept 7-17 •

balcony staterooms from $2,250

AAA MEMBER RATE is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip motorcoach transportation (Cleveland–NJ), 1-night pre-cruise hotel stay (NJ), cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals, $50 shipboard credit per stateroom and taxes/fees/port expenses of $468.52 per person. Ship’s registry: Bahamas. Visit AAA.com/ motorcruise for itinerary details & Cleveland area pick-up points. Passport required.

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WASHINGTON DC SPRINGTIME

April 14-17 • $729

Bring your camera to capture the most memorable sights of our nation’s capital. Enjoy a full-day tour to some of DC’s most interesting, historical attractions. Includes a full-day tour of DC, a half-day tour of Arlington VA, Illuminated Monuments Tour, Flight 93 National Memorial (Shanksville PA), 5 meals and more.

SPRING IN HOLLAND MI

May 16-18 • $599

Explore this Dutch-themed town. See tulips (based upon the weather), windmills, wooden shoes and more. Visit artsy Saugatuck and take a ride along Lake Michigan’s sand dunes. Visit Fredrick Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, where magnificent artwork is displayed throughout the beautiful gardens. Includes Nelis’ Dutch Village, Windmill Island Gardens, Saugatuck Dune Rides, Fredrick Meijer Gardens tram tour, 4 meals (including a Holland Princess dinner cruise) and more.

“SAMSON” & MORE: LANCASTER PA June 3-5 • $549 See the spectacular “Samson” (a new Sight & Sound Theatre production). Meet the strongest man who ever lived — a hero not because of the strength of his hands but the faith in his heart. Enjoy Dutch Apple Dinner Theater’s “Million Dollar Quartet,” inspired by the famed recording session with musical icons Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins. In 1956 these 4 icons met for what would be one of the greatest jam sessions ever. Includes 1 ticket to each performance, Lancaster Amish region tour, Kitchen Kettle Village, 4 meals and more.

TWO-TRAINS TOUR: WV & MD

June 24-26 • $599

Enjoy 2 train rides through scenic mountain valleys, historic farms and lush mountain greenery. Also visit Patsy Cline’s hometown (Winchester VA) and learn about her life and career. Includes Potomac Eagle Railroad, Western Maryland Railroad,

AAA MEMBER RATES are per person (double occupancy for multiday tours), are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip motorcoach transportation from the Cleveland 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’s car-free, carefree adventures!

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

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Harper’s Ferry National Park, Patsy Cline Hometown tour, 5 meals and more.

FRENCH TOAST TOUR: QUÉBEC

July 17-22 • $1,549

Tour this fascinating Canadian province and experience its French culture and cuisine. Explore historic Québec City, the only walled city in North America. Visit Montréal’s awe-inspiring Notre-Dame Basilica. Includes Thousand Islands cruise, Boldt Castle, tours of Québec City & Montréal, Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Basilica, Montmorency Falls, Marie’s Bread Oven, Woodcarver’s Museum, Notre-Dame Basilica, 10 meals and more. Passport required.

HUDSON VALLEY HOLIDAY & NYC

Aug 7-12 • $1,229

Step into the opulence of the Vanderbilts and the Rockefellers at their expansive Hudson River estates. Visit the US Military Academy at West Point and take a cruise on the Hudson. Get a taste of the Big Apple with a day in NYC. Includes Vanderbilt mansion, FDR home, Kykuit (Rockefeller mansion), Locust Grove (Morse estate), US Military Academy, Hudson River cruise, ferry to Ellis Island & Statue of Liberty, Manhattan tour, 9/11 Memorial & Museum, 11 meals and more.

1-DAY FUN-DAY TOURS BELMONT TEA TOUR: Barnesville OH

June 11: $95. Victorian Mansion Museum. Tea at Mansion. D Abbey Etiquette at Cambridge Glass.

THREE RIVERS CRUISE: Pittsburgh PA

June 24: $109. Luncheon cruise with Neil Diamond tribute. 3 hours at Rivers Casino.

THREE RIVERS CRUISE: Pittsburgh PA

July 15: $109. Luncheon cruise with Elvis tribute. 3 hours at Rivers Casino.

Taste of Scotland & Ireland Sept 19-30 SCOTLAND HIGHLIGHTS

IRELAND HIGHLIGHTS

• Glasgow city tour

• Titanic Belfast • Dublin: Book of Kells at Trinity College, canal dinner cruise • Rock of Cashel photo op • See dogs herd sheep • Blarney Castle & Woollen Mills • Killarney, Ross Castle, Ring of Kerry, Skellig Experience, Sneem, Moll's Gap • Cliffs of Moher, Bunratty Castle medieval feast • Galway, Clonmacnoise Monastic Site

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

MEMBERS SAVE! Premier: $325 Plus: $300 Classic: $275 SAVINGS PER ROOM

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AAA Member Rate: $2,468 Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, 18 meals, sightseeing, hotel luggage handling (1 bag per person), professional local tour director in Scotland & Ireland. Ask about available add-on airfare. Passport required. Tour operated by CIE International.

BOOK WITH NONREFUNDABLE DEPOSIT FEB 1-29 •

FEBRUARY 2016

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Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

Celebrity Cruises

AMAZING AIR OFFER FOR AAA MEMBERS Western Mediterranean Cruise: Sept 15-24 Roundtrip from Rome on Celebrity Silhouette

Get $500 off airfare from AAA! *

first 2 passengers in stateroom

• Amalfi Coast (Salerno), Italy • Messina (Sicily), Italy • Marseille, France • Nice (Villefranche), France • Ajaccio (Corsica), Italy • La Spezia, Italy • Includes 2 full days at sea

AND CHOOSE TWO OF THESE PERKS! • PREPAID GRATUITIES FOR 2 value of up to $230 per stateroom • $300.00 ONBOARD CREDIT per stateroom, double occupancy • CLASSIC BEVERAGE PACKAGE FOR 2, beverage gratuities included, value of up to $924 per stateroom • UNLIMITED INTERNET FOR 2 value of up to $299 for 1 internet account

*To qualify, book Feb 1-29 & make a nonrefundable deposit for a Concierge Class stateroom (or above) AND pay in full for Celebrity air from Buffalo, Cleveland, Louisville, Philadelphia or Pittsburgh through AAA Travel.

Modern Luxury

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Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals and taxes of $320.21. Passport required. Ship’s registry: Malta.

AAA Member Rate: from $2,084

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Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

SPECIAL OFFER FROM AAA EAST CENTRAL — FEB 1-29 ONLY!

$50 off per room and a Universal logo/themed gift when you book 4+ nights at an on-site resort! Universal Orlando’s on-site resorts include Portofino Bay, Hard Rock, Royal Pacific, Sapphire Falls and Cabana Bay

AAA MEMBER BENEFIT — ALL YEAR LONG!

Restrictions apply. AAA membership required. See your AAA Travel Agent for details. Valid for new bookings Feb 1-29, 2016, with AAA East Central Club 215. Valid for travel anytime in 2016. Savings are per room, based on double occupancy. Gifts are per room/booking, while supplies last. Offers are combinable with AAA Member Benefits and Featured Vacations.

Book an on-site hotel and get a $50 activity credit, a coupon book (up to $150 in savings) and preferred seating at select theme park shows.

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Your AAA membership enhances &

C R U I S E S

AAA Member Benefits* • $300 discount per stateroom plus a Welcome Gift (cruises of up to 13 days) • $600 discount per stateroom plus a Welcome Gift (cruises of 14+ days) • Welcome gift of a bottle of wine & a box of chocolates (Europe cruises) • Welcome gift of $50 onboard credit per stateroom (Asia and Africa cruises)

AAA Vacations® Offers* • $200 discount per stateroom • $150 onboard credit per stateroom (7-night cruises) • $200 onboard credit per stateroom (Myanmar cruises) • $300 onboard credit per stateroom (14-night cruises) AAA Member Benefits* • $50 savings per booking

AAA Vacations® Offers* • $200 onboard credit per stateroom ($100 per person) on specific sail dates on specific ships AAA Vacations® Offers* • $25 onboard credit per stateroom (sailings of up to 5 nights) • $50 onboard credit per stateroom (sailings of 6 to 9 nights) • $100 onboard credit per stateroom (sailings of 10+ nights) • Priority check-in on day of arrival (excludes Galápagos) AAA Vacations® Offers* • $100 onboard spending credit per stateroom (Inside/Oceanview/Balcony Britannia) • $400 onboard spending credit per stateroom (Princess Grill/Queens Grill Suite) • Enhanced afternoon tea service for 2 • Dinner at Kings Court or Lido onboard alternative restaurants (first 2 guests in stateroom) AAA Member Benefits* • $25 onboard credit per person (cruises of up to 7 days) • $50 onboard credit per person (cruises of 8+ days) • $50 onboard credit per person (Alaska cruisetours)

AAA Vacations® Offers* • Exclusive Savor & Swirl onboard culinary event • Pinnacle Grill dinner (first & second guests only) • Taste of Excellence cookbook (1 per stateroom) AAA Member Benefits* • $100 per stateroom shipboard credit (select sailings)

AAA Vacations® Offers* • $200 shipboard credit per stateroom and wine tasting event AAA Vacations® Offers* • Preferred check-In (embarkation day) • $25 onboard spending credit per stateroom (cruises of up to 5 days) • $50 onboard spending credit per stateroom (cruises of 6 to 11 days) • $75 onboard spending credit per stateroom (cruises of 12+ days) • Exclusive wine tasting experience for 2 AAA Vacations® Offers* • Priority check-in on day of boarding • Up to $100 onboard credit per stateroom ($25: 3-5 nights, $50: 6-9 nights, $100: 10+ nights) • Champagne delivered to your stateroom • Specialty dinner for 2 per stateroom (Oasis of the Seas® • Harmony of the Seas® • Allure of the Seas®) AAA Member Benefits* • $125 savings per person (river cruises of 8 to 13 days) • $250 savings per person (river cruises of 14+ days)

AAA Vacations® Offers* • 1-night pre-cruise city-center hotel stay with breakfast • Airport-to-hotel and hotel-to–river ship transfers *Additional restrictions may apply. Subject to availability. See your AAA Travel Agent for full terms and conditions. Valid for select travel tour dates and cruise sailings in 2016. AAA membership required. Valid for new bookings only. Excludes AAA East Central Featured Vacations. Some AAA Member Benefits may not be combinable with AAA Vacations® Offers; ask your AAA Travel Agent for details.

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Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

adds value to your vacation dollar! AAA Member Benefits* • $55 savings per person (Independent Freestyle Travel packages of 5+ days) • $115 savings per person (Small Group Escorted Tours, Small Ship Cruising & Published Private Tours)

AAA Vacations® Offers* • 1-night pre-tour hotel stay with breakfast (select tours) AAA Member Benefits* • $25 savings per person (Customized Independent Vacations of $1,500+ per person, land only) • $40 savings per person (Customized Vacations — including Locally Hosted, Private Chauffeur and Self-Drive Vacations of $2,000+ per person, land only) • $40 voucher per person toward purchase of optional excursion (Guided Vacations)

T O U R S

AAA Vacations® Offers* • $25 optional excursion credit per person (Guided Vacations) • Killarney pub dinner with entertainment (Guided Vacations) • $40 dining credit per person at select restaurants (Ireland Locally Hosted Rail Vacations) • Hertz NeverLost® GPS system (Ireland & Scotland Self-Drive Vacations) • $40 dining credit per person at select restaurants (Private Chauffeur Vacations) AAA Member Benefits* & AAA Vacations® Offers* • $150 Visa gift card per person (Luxury Gold tours) • $40 voucher per person toward purchase of an optional experience (Premium tours) AAA Member Benefits* • $25-$100 savings per person on AAA Member Choice Vacations® tours

AAA Vacations® Offers* • $25 discount per person on select AAA Vacations® tours • $75 excursion credit per person (up to $100 per person if 2+ excursions are pre-purchased, on applicable tours) AAA Member Benefits* • $50 activity voucher per booking (Hawaii, Mexico, Central America, select Caribbean) • $50 savings per booking (Australia, New Zealand, Europe, select Caribbean) • $80 savings per booking (Tahiti, Fiji, South Pacific) • $25 savings per booking (US, Canada)

AAA Vacations® Offers* • Double Member Benefit (select 4- & 5-star properties with a 5-night minimum stay) AAA Member Benefits* • $100 CAD onboard souvenir credit per adult (GoldLeaf Service, 7+ nights) • $50 CAD onboard souvenir credit per adult (GoldLeaf Service, 3-6 nights) • $50 CAD onboard souvenir credit per adult (SilverLeaf Service, 7+ nights) • $35 CAD onboard souvenir credit per adult (SilverLeaf Service, 3-6 nights)

AAA Vacations® Offers* • Double Member Benefit (Canadian Rockies Getaway GoldLeaf & SilverLeaf Service) • Half-day Seattle tour (Coastal Passage programs) AAA Member Benefits* • Purchase Tauck air through AAA and receive per person... • $75 off (domestic tours) • $150 off coach class (international tours) • $300 off business class (international tours)

AAA Vacations® Offers* • $300 credit per booking on purchases made at http://www.necessarygear.com (select tours) AAA Member Benefits* • $40 credit voucher per person toward optional experiences

AAA Vacations® Offers* • Pre-selected complimentary excursion (applicable tours) • $25 credit voucher per person toward additional optional experiences *Additional restrictions may apply. Subject to availability. See your AAA Travel Agent for full terms and conditions. Valid for select travel tour dates and cruise sailings in 2016. AAA membership required. Valid for new bookings only. Excludes AAA East Central Featured Vacations. Some AAA Member Benefits may not be combinable with AAA Vacations® Offers; ask your AAA Travel Agent for details.

Find even more travel partners & perks at AAA.com/travel.

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Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

ÂŠ Peter Cox / Fotolia.com

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Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

Soak up sun & savings while they’re hot!

Hawaii

The only real cold you’re likely to experience in Hawaii is an ice-filled tropical drink...a traditional rainbow-hued “shave ice” snowcone treat...or your accommodation’s air conditioning turned on full blast! In addition to an ideal year-round climate and plentiful sunshine, Hawaii offers a warm and inviting Aloha Spirit and promises you an unforgettable vacation experience. Hawaii is hiking sculpted cliffs or diving amid coral reefs in the afternoon and dining to slack-key guitar at sunset. Fresh, floral breezes energize you. Warm, tranquil waters refresh you. The breathtaking natural beauty renews you. Year-round gentle weather surrounds you on every island. With fiery volcanoes and cavorting whales, the islands are rich with natural wonders. Look around.There’s no place on earth like Hawaii. AAA Travel and Pleasant Holidays can customize the perfect Hawaii vacation for every traveler — from 5-star luxury to family-friendly value. And the folks at Pleasant Holidays are known as the Hawaii activity experts. Before leaving for the Aloha State, you can choose from hundreds of optional activities that will make your vacation even more enjoyable and more memorable. Whether you enjoy partaking in physically active pastimes or just taking in a special dinner or entertainment (or both!), you’ll find something of interest in Pleasant Hawaii’s activities “menu.”

Mexico’s exotic promise is fulfilled with swaying palms, dazzling white sands, Spanish colonial towns and broad swaths of wild hibiscus and bougainvillea. And Pleasant Holidays and AAA Travel make Mexico accessible to almost anyone. Pleasant Holidays has been customizing vacations with a range of value-added options since 1959. Whether you luxuriate in a spa, rappel through a waterfall or sip a Margarita under a thatched-roof palapa hut, your Mexican adventure begins the moment you choose your destination. Cancun has been called a beach with an island in the middle. Luxury resorts line the Hotel Zone, a seahorse-shaped oasis flanked by tranquil Nichupte Lagoon and the restless Caribbean Sea. Translucent turquoise waters are circled by 12 miles of beach with sand as fine as talcum powder. Shoppers browse for silver and folk art in the mercados, while party animals take full advantage of the legendary nightlife. About an hour’s drive south of Cancun, the slower-paced Mexican Riviera is a stunning, 70-mile stretch of blinding white beaches and romantic villages like Playa del Carmen, Playacar and Puerto Morales. Cozumel appeals to all kinds of travelers, from divers to beach bums, to seekers of the lost treasures of the Maya. Cabo San Lucas is home to gorgeous beaches and the celebrated Arches rock formations. Surrounded by the Sea of Cortez on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other, picturesque Playa del Amor (Beach of Love) is an isolated cove at the very end of the Baja Peninsula.

Mexico

Double Member Benefit from AAA Vacations

LIMITED-TIME Savings from AAA East Central

$100.00 activity voucher on select 4- & 5-star properties in Hawaii and Mexico

$50.00 off 5-9 nights $100.00 off 10+ nights Hawaii and Mexico vacations

Pleasant Holidays accommodation rating system, minimum 5-night stay

Feb 1-29, per booking, double occupancy

Visit or call AAA Travel for your Hawaii or Mexico vacation!

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FEBRUARY 2016

It’s your Golden Gate to the Golden State Six things you should not miss in San Francisco

an Francisco may be “big” in terms of attractions and amenities, but it’s geographically quite small — only 49 square miles. While it’s easy to see and do a lot in just a short period of time, you could also spend weeks here and still not experience everything. Here is a list of the six things you should not miss according to the San Francisco Travel Association. The Golden Gate Bridge spans a milewide gap between the San Francisco Bay and the ocean. Said to be one of the most photographed things on earth, the stunning, 1.7-mile span is actually painted “International Orange.” A pedestrian walkway also allows the crossing on foot, and bikes are allowed on the western side. San Francisco’s celebrated cable cars are the nation’s only moving national historic landmarks. The trolleys, which are a cross between a carnival ride and practical transportation, still run on 8.8-miles of track along three of their original hundred-year-old routes. The cars operate by gripping onto an underground cable on the ascent and releasing on the descent. The cable cars are also an engineering marvel and you can learn all about them at the Cable Car Museum at Washington and Mason streets. No trip to San Francisco is complete

CROSS THAT BRIDGE — The Marin Headlands offer spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge. without a visit to the Fisherman’s Wharf. Beginning at Pier 39 and extending west to the Maritime Museum, this is where remnants of the old fishing industry mingle with shopping, dining and entertainment options. Make sure to spend some time with the resident sea lion colony at Pier 39. The Wharf is where you can catch a boat tour out to Alcatraz Island to

visit the Rock. Audio-assisted tours in several languages recount the history of the island and its famous inmate inhabitants like Al Capone and Robert Stroud, the “Birdman of Alcatraz.” Once the most feared penitentiary in America, people now stand in line to get in. North Beach, the city’s Italian quarter, isn’t a beach at all. It’s a neighborhood of romantic European-style

sidewalk cafes, restaurants and shops centered near Washington Square along Columbus and Grant avenues. It was also the center of the beatnik subculture in the 1950s. Coit Tower perched atop Telegraph Hill offers a splendid vantage point for photos of the bridges and the bay. Floor-to-ceiling murals painted in the 1930s depict scenes of old San Francisco. Telegraph Hill is also famous for a flock of feral parrots, primarily Red-masked Parakeets, descended from escaped or released pets. The entrance to Chinatown at Grant Avenue and Bush Street is called the “Dragon’s Gate.” Inside are 24 blocks of hustle and bustle, most of it taking place along Grant Avenue, San Francisco’s oldest street. This city within a city is best explored on foot, with exotic shops, restaurants, temples and small museums comprising its boundaries. Visitors can browse the herb shops, relax and enjoy “dim sum” or learn how fortune cookies are made.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Please see the Departures Guide or visit AAA.com/TravelPlanner to learn more about San Francisco and California vacation opportunities.

Discover the value of research at AAA.com/AutoBuying It just might change the way you shop for your next vehicle

from independent experts who road test vehicles professionally. These reviews provide a critical analysis of a vehicle’s strengths and weaknesses, performance, reliability, fuel economy and options.

ith an average price of $27,000, a car is typically the second-most expensive purchase we make, after our homes. Seeking out unbiased information before you buy can help you spend your money wisely and get exactly what you want.

Owner feedback

Vehicle basics Consumer websites and publications provide key information such as gas mileage, passenger seating, safety features, available options and more. You’ll want to know these details because they can affect what you pay at the dealer and over time. One other consideration: knowing if the car you want is being redesigned or discontinued in the near future. For example, Toyota Camry buyers enjoyed deep discounts on 2014 models just ahead of the fall release of a redesigned 2015 edition, so it pays to keep an eye on industry trends.

Actual costs Whether you’re buying a new or used vehicle, have an idea of a reasonable price to pay before visiting the dealer’s lot. AAA members have unlimited access that information through the AAA Car Buying Service at AAA. com. From research to purchase, the program’s free research tools you need are in one place so you can save time and money.

STICKER SHOCK — A car is typically the second-most expensive purchase most people make. If you’re buying a new car, research can reveal the invoice price of the car (what the dealer paid the distributor for it). Use that as the starting point for negotiation, not the sticker price (what the dealer wants you to pay). You also can uncover what others have paid for the same model locally, manufacturer rebates available and future resale value. Likewise, if you’re looking at a

used vehicle, these services can help you discover recent resale prices for that car model in your area, as well as the repair history of a specific vehicle.

Professional reviews Always consider the sources of your information. Glossy sales brochures are designed to show a vehicle in the best possible light. Much better: objective reviews available online or in print,

See what average people have to say about the car you’re considering. An online search for the car’s make and model, plus the words “user” and “forum,” will find websites where people share their experiences with their cars. This is especially helpful if you’re thinking about a used car— owners can tell you what it’s like to drive it over time. New or used, it’s important to drive a car yourself to draw your own conclusions before you buy. Arrange to take a thorough test drive that replicates your daily routine. With information in hand, you can confidently buy a vehicle. In an upcoming issue, you’ll find advice on purchasing and financing a vehicle.

HASSLE-FREE CAR BUYING

Take advantage of the easy-to-use, nohassle AAA Car Buying Service. With our helpful research tools, you can be confident you are getting a great deal from a Certified Dealer on your next vehicle purchase. Visit AAA.com/AutoBuying to learn more.

FEBRUARY 2016

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February is Universal Month at AAA Travel More wizards, more minions and more family fun

here are countless ways to enjoy an Orlando vacation, but only one place where a vacation becomes an adventure. Universal Studios Florida takes you beyond the silver screen to experience an incredible array of rides, shows and sets from your favorite movies. Islands of Adventure — Orlando’s next generation theme park — features five spectacularly themed islands with innovative attractions, shows, and rides. Enter the world of the Simpsons; movies like Spider-Man and the off kilter creations of Dr. Seuss. For nighttime excitement, there’s nothing like Universal CityWalk, a 30-acre entertainment complex located at the entrance to the two parks. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is Universal Orlando’s incomparable mega attraction. This revolutionary, multi-sensory melding of live-action, advanced robotic technology and innovative filmmaking has become the most talked about theme park experience on the planet. Diagon Alley and London expands Harry Potter’s world across both Universal Orlando parks. Guests can travel between London and Hogsmeade aboard an actual Hogwarts Express — just like in the films. Instead of windows passengers will be looking at virtual screens that make it seem as if they’re traveling through the English countryside.

MINION MISCHIEF — Despicable Me Minion Mayhem is the first CGI animated film to become a theme park attraction. The king lives in the groundbreaking attraction, “Skull Island: Reign of Kong.” Opening this summer at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, this intense, all-new attraction is brought to life in a dramatically themed environment. Guests will be pulled into a powerfully told story where they become part of the Kong legend. Transported deep into a mysterious world, their mission is to discover new

creatures — but soon they are fighting for their own survival. The journey takes them through a perilous jungle ruled by prehistoric creatures, a foreboding underworld of caves concealing unspeakable terrors — and finally faceto-face with Kong himself. The hometown of The Simpsons, Springfield is anchored by The Simpsons Ride, designed to duplicate the Simpsons home-viewing experience, only at high

speed and with lots of screaming. Kang & Kodos’ Twirl ‘n’ Hurl, takes “foolish humans” on an intergalactic spin designed to send them into orbit. Join Gru, his daughters, and the mischievous Minions at Despicable Me Minion Mayhem. First, the world’s greatest super-villain transforms guests into an army of mischievous, scene-stealing minions. And that kicks off an unforgettable ride experience that creates a hysterical mix of chaos and family fun. The attraction uses a state-of-the-art, Infitec 3-D projection system designed to make the experience sharper, clearer and more “real” than ever before. Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort is Universal Orlando’s fourth and largest on-site hotel. Inspired by retro resorts of the 1950s and 60s, the brand new 1800-room property features moderately priced family suites and value-priced guest rooms. Guests can unwind in a 10-lane bowling alley, or cool off in two massive pools with sand beaches, a lazy river, and a waterslide.

IF YOU GO

February is Universal Month at AAA Travel and that means big savings on a vacation to Universal Orlando Resort. Please see your Departures Guide or log on to AAA.com/Universal for more information about Universal Orlando vacations.

Getting rid of your spare tire may cause problems Tire inflator kits a high-cost alternative for consumers

t’s that time of year when many of us are looking to lose our spare tires by jumping on treadmills, or cutting back on calories. But savvy car buyers should also be on the lookout for a spare tire — there may not be one. You might be surprised to learn that spare tires are not required by federal regulators because they are not considered an essential safety item. Automakers are facing increasinglystringent fuel economy standards and the spare tire has become a casualty in an effort to reduce weight and boost fuel efficiency. In the last 10 model years, vehicles without spare tires have steadily increased from five percent of 2006 model year vehicles to 36 percent in the 2015 model year. Today, more than 29 million vehicles on the road do not have a conventional spare tire. Vehicles designed without spares are usually equipped with some type of backup, and it is a good idea to be familiar with these devices before you encounter a flat. Solutions include runflat tires that allow the car to be driven to a safe location, or an emergency sealant or inflator kit to temporarily seal a punctured tire. AAA recently conducted an evaluation of tire inflator kits to determine how effectively they work and the impact on the motorist’s wallet. AAA tested the most common tire

NOTHING TO SPARE — Over one-third of new car models now come without a spare tire. inflator kits in today’s vehicles and found that the units worked well in some scenarios, but they are not a substitute for a spare tire. Tire inflator kits can only be used when a puncture occurs on the center tire tread and the foreign object remains in the tire. The kit cannot be used when sidewall,

blowout, pothole or curb-related damage occurs. While each four-pound kit eliminates approximately 30 pounds of vehicle weight, resulting in minimal savings in fuel consumption, the replacement cost is high. With some kits costing up to $300 per use, a tire inflator kit can

cost consumers up to 10 times more than a simple tire repair. Costs can include repairing the tire and replacing both the tire-pressure monitoring sensor (TPMS) and the inflator kit. The kit must also be replaced at its expiration date, which varies by manufacturer from four to eight years. Consumers may mistakenly believe that inflator kits are a one-size-fits-all alternative, but the reality is these kits can only accommodate specific types of tire damage. AAA is calling on automakers to put consumers first, and save the spare. Having the option to install a spare tire can save stranded drivers time and money. Despite tire and technology improvements, including tire pressure monitoring systems, AAA found there has been no decline in flat tire related calls in the last five years. And keep your AAA card handy — AAA responds to more than 4 million flat-tire service requests each year.

YOUR SPARE CHANGER

When faced with a flat tire or other roadside emergency, AAA members can request assistance at (800) AAA-HELP, by visiting AAA.com/RoadsideAssistance or via the AAA Mobile app.

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Look to AAA Vacations® for Maximum Value!

AAA Vacations® will take you to some of the most remarkable places in the world. Your AAA Travel Agent will work with you to find the right vacation, from visits to US landmarks and natural wonders to explorations around the world. Choose from river or ocean cruises, escorted tours, locally hosted experiences, independent packages and self-drive itineraries. Here are a few unforgettable experiences available from AAA Vacations®: Eat exotically. Sample traditional Cape Town specialties and wines with a culinary guide in South Africa. Live like a czar. Enter the Kremlin to behold the dazzling collection of Imperial treasure, including bejeweled Faberge eggs in the Amory Museum. Think beyond Europe. You may

have seen the Eiffel Tower light up at night, but have you watched the sun rise over the ancient stones of Machu Picchu in Peru? Or taken a nature walk around the crater of Nicaragua’s Mombacho Volcano? Make your US vacation a familyfriendly adventure. Choose a tour of 5 of America’s best-loved national parks, or a heritage tour that takes you to history-defining spots in New York, Pennsylvania and Virginia. Want to go westward-ho? Take the family on an 8-day guided tour of cowboy country. Put something spectacular in your viewfinder. Book an 8-day tour of Iceland and capture glaciers, sand deserts and the magical Blue Lagoon, a natural hot pool known to have therapeutic powers.

FEBRUARY 2016

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Cruise a river. Experience grand European cities in your elegantly appointed stateroom as home base. Discover the rich history of Imperial Russia on the Volga River. Visit 2 amazing countries, Vietnam and Cambodia, on the Mekong River. Learn from locals. Join a sushi master chef to learn the art of preparing sushi in Tokyo. Listen to a Xian resident share his lifetime experiences. Mingle with residents at a Vietnamese market to learn how to choose the best spices for a hand-on cooking class. Go on a spiritual quest. Whether you are drawn to the Dead Sea or the Ganges, there is a tour sure to give you a new perspective on life. Visit the Holy Land or India, stately Vatican City or the natural majesty of Austra-

lia’s Red Centre. Create your own vacation — with help. Your AAA Travel Agent will help you choose your flights, transfers or car rentals and accommodations at more than 500 4- and 5-diamond hotels, resorts and all-inclusive properties around the world where you’ll receive special savings or activity credits. Visit AAA.com/AAAVacations and contact a local AAA Travel Agent to book your AAA Vacations® package or cruise today. BEST PRICE GUARANTEE: If you make a booking for a qualifying AAA Vacations® cruise or tour package and find a valid better rate for the exact itinerary within 24 hours of our booking, AAA Vacations® will match the lower rate and send you a $50 future travel credit certificate. Certain restrictions apply. Visit AAA.com/AAAVacations for details.

Just a sample of the many 2016 getaways with AAA Vacations® amenities! Treasures of France

11 days, 13 meals: from $2,899

Majestic Switzerland

Japan: Inland Sea to Alps

11 days, 15 meals: from $5,650

Paris • Aix-en-Provence • Avignon Zurich • St Moritz • Zermatt Nîmes • Saint-Rémy • Antibes Montreux • Lucerne Nice • Monaco Mountain Stroll (with nature guide) Scenic Rail Journey • Castle Visit Eiffel Tower Dinner • Nimes Tour Lake Lucerne Steamer Cruise Private Wine & Chocolate Tasting Vitznau Artillery Fortress Perfumerie Visit (create a fragrance) (with military guide) AAA Complimentary Inclusion: $75 credit* toward an optional excursion ($100 credit* if 2+ excursions are purchased) Member Benefit: $25 savings*

AAA Complimentary Inclusion & Member Benefit (combined): $150 Visa® gift card*

*PER PERSON **PER STATEROOM

Heritage of America

12 days, 16 meals: from $5,799

10 days, 14 meals: from $2,499

Kyoto • Hiroshima • Nara Kanazawa • Takayama Mount Fuji • Tokyo

New York City • Philadelphia Lancaster • Gettysburg Williamsburg • Washington DC

Kodai-ji Temple Geisha Dinner & Tour • Meet a Master Gardener Morning Market Visit & Sake Tasting • Tsukiji Fish Market Visit Sushi Making with a Master Chef

AAA Complimentary Inclusion: 1 night in Kyoto before the tour Member Benefit: $115 savings*

Breakfast at Ellen’s Stardust Diner Traditional Dinner with the Amish Mount Vernon Visit

AAA Complimentary Inclusion: $75 credit* toward an optional excursion ($100 credit* if 2+ excursions are purchased) Member Benefit: $25 savings*

Northern Isles Cruise

Holland America Koningsdam 14 nights: Aug 14-18 Staterooms from $4,139 Netherlands • Scotland Norway • Iceland AAA Vacations® hosts on trip

2-night pre-cruise Amsterdam package (hotel, breakfast, canal cruise dinner, City Pass and more) Onboard cocktail party • Edinburgh Military Tattoo • Savor & Swirl cooking demo • Pinnacle Grill dinner • AAA Vacations® branded gift

Visit AAA.com/AAAVacations to download and view the complete AAA Vacations® catalog...or visit your local AAA branch office.

Cunard Line® Cruises British Isles • Canada & New England • Eastern Mediterranean Greek Isles • Norwegian Fjords Panama Canal • Scandinavia & Russia • Transatlantic • Western Mediterranean • World Cruise AAA Complimentary Inclusions: Up

to $400 onboard spending credit** Enhanced tea service for 2 • Dinner for 2 in select alternative restaurants Member Benefit: Up to $300 onboard spending credit** and reduced deposit available during quarterly cruise sales

For AAA Vacations® to HAWAII or MEXICO with Pleasant Holidays, turn to page 17.

FEBRUARY 2016

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To be or not to be in Great Britain this year A Shakespearean sojourn on the 400th anniversary of his passing

illiam Shakespeare “shuffled off this mortal coil” in 1616, but the world’s pre-eminent dramatist lives on in theatre, films, literature, and popular culture. This year will mark the 400th anniversary of his passing and the quatercentennial will be a unique opportunity to celebrate his legacy in the place that he called home. Shakespeare’s birthplace in Stratfordupon-Avon is hallowed ground for lovers of literature and history alike. The half-timbered, Tudor-style cottage features period furnishings and a rare copy of the First Folio. Published seven years after his death it brought Shakespeare’s plays together in a single volume for the first time. Without it, 18 plays, including Macbeth and The Tempest, could have been lost forever. Anne Hathaway, Shakespeare’s wife, lived in an idyllic cottage a short distance away. This is where Shakespeare would have come calling when they were courting. The cottage, which is set in a memorable garden setting, still contains furniture that once belonged to the Hathaway family. Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall will open in April 2016 after an extensive restoration. Built between 1418-20, the Guildhall has been described as “one of the most atmospheric, magical and important buildings in the whole of Britain.”

COTTAGE COUNTRY — In Shakespeare’s time Anne Hathaway’s cottage was known as Newlands Farm. In 1597, Shakespeare bought New Place, the second-largest house in town. The building was demolished in 1759, but visitors can still see the footprint of the residence where Shakespeare spent the last 19 years of his life. A museum located in the property next door, features rare and important artifacts from the Tudor era.

The Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) performs the Bard’s plays in the Royal Shakespeare and Swan Theatres. A major new exhibition, The Play’s the Thing, opening in June at The Swan, will reveal the secrets and stories from 100 years of theatre making in Stratfordupon-Avon. From Page to Stage, a new discovery

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Coco’s Steakhouse, and superb dinner high atop Skylon’s Revolving Dining Room overlooking the Falls. Ask about our Niagara Attractions Package... From $129* CAN PP/DB.

Call Now! 1-800-263-9393 holidayinnniagarafalls.com Niagara Falls, Canada *Rates are per person, double occupancy. Prices valid Sun. to Thurs. Holidays, weekends higher. Tax extra. Free parking. Rates valid Oct. 12, 2015 to May12, 2016. Child add-ons, whirlpool suites, gift certificates also available. *Subject to exchange rates. Visit www.holidayinnniagarafalls.com for details.

Two nights from $154*PP Coco’s Steakhouse, and a superb din overlooking the Falls. Ask about ou

tour, will take visitors on a journey from the first day of rehearsals to opening night, with an opportunity to look inside the RSC’s store of 30,000 costumes for the very first time. Shakespeare’s life revolved around two locations: Stratford and London. Visitors can trace the 146-mile journey from the banks of the River Avon to the Globe Theatre on London’s South Bank. Patrons can see Shakespeare’s plays in a faithful restoration of his 16th-century Jacobean playhouse. The Globe Exhibition & Tour also gives visitors the opportunity to learn more about this unique building and its most famous playwright. Stratford’s Holy Trinity Church is where Shakespeare was baptized and buried. Visitors can pay their respects at the graves of Shakespeare, Anne Hathaway and other family members. The church’s memorial bust is considered one of just two authentic likenesses, as verified by people who actually knew him. His tomb is also famous for its epitaph, believed to have been penned by the Bard himself. It lays a curse on anyone who moves his bones.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Please see your AAA travel professional or click on AAA.com for more European vacation ideas from AAA.

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FEBRUARY 2016

A simulated city for automated cars opens in Michigan Mcity a test bed for connected and driverless vehicles

ichigan’s newest town has a bookstore with no books, a café with no coffee and more importantly, no people. The town’s only permanent resident is Sebastian, a mechanical pedestrian whose only job is stepping in front of oncoming traffic. A full-scale simulated real-world urban environment Mcity was specifically designed to test the potential of connected and automated vehicle technologies that will lead the way to massmarket driverless cars. The $10 million, 32-acre facility, which opened last July, is part of the University of Michigan’s Mobility Transformation Center (MTC). Autonomous research vehicles are tested over a range of surfaces — concrete, asphalt, simulated brick and dirt — and maneuvers two-, three- and four-lane roads, as well as ramps, roundabouts and tunnels. “We believe that this transformation to connected and automated mobility will be a game changer for safety, for efficiency, for energy, and for accessibility,” said Peter Sweatman, director of the U-M Mobility Transformation Center. “These technologies truly open the door to 21st century mobility.” The world’s first full-scale urban environment provides real-world road scenarios — such as running a red light — that can’t be replicated on public

SIM CITY — The Ford Fusion Hybrid Autonomous Research Vehicle drives through Mcity. roads. There are streetlights, crosswalks, lane delineators, curb cuts, bike lanes, trees, hydrants, sidewalks, traffic control devices and construction barriers. Even seemingly minor details such as road signs defaced by graffiti and faded lane markings, have been incorporated into this faux town’s streets. MTC’s industry and government partners reflect the diversity of perspectives required to meet the challenges

ahead. Private sector partners include automakers and top tier auto suppliers, as well as traffic signal and traffic sensing companies, insurance providers, telecommunications, big data, IT and more. On the public side, MTC is working with federal, state, and city governments. Ford was the first automaker to use the facility, putting its Ford Fusion Hybrid Autonomous Research Vehicle

through tits paces on a diversity of road conditions. “Every mile driven there can represent 10, 100 or 1,000 miles of on-road driving in terms of our ability to pack in the occurrences of difficult events,” said Ryan Eustice, University of Michigan associate professor and principal investigator in Ford’s research collaboration with the university. In addition to driver-assist technologies, such as front-facing cameras, radar and ultrasonic sensors, Ford added four LiDAR sensors to generate a real-time 3D map of the vehicle’s surrounding environment. “The development of MCity serves as an important step toward AAA’s shared goal of ensuring connected and autonomous vehicles are safe for all road users,” said Jill Ingrassia, AAA’s Managing Director, Government Relations and Traffic Safety. “Connected and driverless cars are poised to change the future of mobility and MCity can help to answer important questions about how this all comes together as safely and efficiently as possible.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION

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

aroundtown THE GREAT BIG HOME AND GARDEN SHOW — (February 5-14) Find innovative products, new ideas, practical advice and great deals in remodeling, home improvement and gardening with hundreds of experts all under one roof. From windows and flooring to cabinets and landscaping and much more. Special appearances by Matt Muenster from DIY Network’s “Bath Crashers” and “BATHtastic!” series from February 13-15, and Todd Wilbur, author of “Top Secret recipes” on February 13. For information and tickets, visit greatbighomeandgarden.com. Location: International Exposition Center, One IX Center Drive, Cleveland. PYRAMIDS AND SPHINXES — (February 6 – May 24) Pyramids and sphinxes, not railroads and cities, were the Western world’s vision of 19th-century Egypt. This exhibition opens with awed-filled images, including the Cleveland debut of a stunning watercolor of the portal of the Temple of Edfu by John Frederick Lewis, a great master of Victorian English watercolor and the first English artist to spend an extended period in Egypt. Such depictions served as models for the first photographers to explore Egypt, and stimulated tourism to the Middle East. For information,

visit clevelandart.org. Location: Cleveland Museum of Art, 11150 East Boulevard, Cleveland. FROZEN FEST — (February 7) An exciting afternoon of winter fun! Family activities throughout the afternoon include live ice carving, snowshoeing, snow-themed crafts, face painting, refreshments and more. Time: noon to 4 p.m. For information, call 440-286-9516 or visit geaugaparkdistrict.org. Location: West Woods Nature Center, 9465 Kinsman Road (Route 87), Russell. THE TWO GENTLEMEN OF VERONA — (February 10-20) The CWRU/CPH MFA Acting Program of 2016 takes their final bow in Shakespeare’s rollicking comedy that tackles fidelity, shifting loyalties, and love run amok. When two young men fall in love with the same woman, their lifelong friendship hangs in the balance. Along the way, you’ll meet idiosyncratic servants, a runaway woman disguised as a man, domineering fathers, outlaws, and theatre’s most famous—and disobedient—dog. For tickets and information, call 216-241-6000 or visit clevelandplayhouse.com. Location: Playhouse Square, 1407 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland. THE LITTLE MERMAID JR — (February 12-28) Journey “under the sea” with Ariel and her aquatic friends. Based

on the Hans Christian Andersen story and the 1989 Disney film, this musical adaptation tells the story of a curious mermaid who falls for a handsome human and agrees to a dangerous bargain. Performances at 7:30 p.m. Friday; Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. For information and tickets, visit fineartsassociation. org or call 440-951-7500. Location: The Fine Arts Association, 38660 Mentor Avenue, Willoughby. TREE TAPPING CEREMONY — (February 13) Celebrate the official start of the maple syrup season by learning how maple trees are tapped and then tap your own. Free hot chocolate and donuts. For information, call 440-834-4204 or visit burtonchamberofcommerce.org. Location: Burton Log Cabin & Sugar Camp, 14590 E Park Street, Burton. HIKE WITH YOUR HONEY — (February 14) Bring your date for a hike through the hills. You’ll be back in plenty of time for your dinner reservations. Don’t have a date? Come anyway, and fall in love with the beauty of nature. Moderate difficulty, with hills, 2.5 miles total. Time: 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Free. For information, call 440-526-1012 or visit clevelandmetroparks.com. Location: Brecksville Nature Center, 9000 Chippewa Creek Drive, Brecksville.

THE ELEPHANT MAN — (February 26 – March 6) Recently revived on Broadway, The Elephant Man explores the life of Joseph Merrick as he struggles to lead a normal life in the face of severe physical deformity. Set in Victorian London, The Elephant Man follows Merrick as he struggles to transition from an exploited freak show exhibit to a life of dignity. Thursday, Friday and Saturday performances at 7:30 p.m.; Sunday at 2 p.m. Enjoy a sumptuous pre-show dinner at The Steele Mansion on Saturday, February 27. Watch for details. For tickets and information, call 440428-7092 or visit rabbitrunonline. org. Location: Rabbit Run Theater, 5648 W. Chapel Road, Madison. QUILTS 2016 — (through March 23) One of Ohio’s finest quilt shows, with more than 200 quilted works on display. The show features works from internationally acclaimed visiting artists and a juried show of quilts completed by regional artists from Northeast Ohio and around the United States. Make plans to attend some of the workshops and lectures that are offered. Regular Farmpark admission applies. For information, visit lakemetroparks. com. Location: Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland.

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Springtime is a time for romance in the Emerald Isle Legendary landscapes, Celtic traditions and non-stop charm W.B. Yeats can be forgiven for writing “Romantic Ireland’s dead and gone.” The Nobel-prize winning poet’s lyrical “September 1913” ballad was not about affairs of the heart, but a stinging indictment of the Irish bourgeoisie. Yeats, who famously suffered the pangs of unrequited love, still managed to pen some of the 20th century’s most passionate lines. Springtime is a time for romance in the Emerald Isle. Lovers can seek the blessing of the rings at Whitefriars Church near Dublin’s city center. The church is the final resting place of St. Valentine himself and visitors can get a glimpse of his saintly remains. Take an evening stroll along Grafton Street to St. Stephen’s Green, or check out Oliver St. John Gogarty’s pub in Temple Bar. Dublin’s pubs are more than just places to tip a pint. They’re places to meet, mingle and listen to Celtic music. Patrons are welcomed with blazing turf fires, gaslights and plenty of good talk, which the Irish call “the craic.” One of Ireland’s most romantic drives was immortalized in the Van Morrison tune “Coney Island.” The song chronicles a couple’s dreamy, Sunday morning drive along the western shores of Northern Ireland’s Lough Neagh. Along they way they pass postcardperfect villages and waterfront towns like Downpatrick, where St. Patrick is buried.

SWINGING SINGLES — The Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge in County Antrim. Those looking for a memorable location to pop the question should consider the rope bridge at Carrick-aRede in County Antrim. Set against an incredible backdrop of sea and sky, the 66-foot-long-bridge links the mainland to a tiny island. Dangling precariously 100 feet above the rocks, it dips and sways in the breeze but the view alone is enough to buckle a nervous suitor’s knees. Ladies with a reluctant suitor should make a point to visit this year.

St. Patrick decreed that women could propose on February 29, which only happens on a leap year. County Wicklow’s monastic village of Glendalough lies hidden under a veil of mist in a valley with two serene lakes. Amorous couples often interlock their arms in a mutual embrace around St Kevin’s Cross, said to have the power to grant your heart’s desire. If words fail you, Blarney Castle is located about 5-miles from the city of

Cork. Situated high up in the battlements of the 13th century castle is the Blarney Stone, which can bestow the gift of eloquence for a kiss. Ireland’s great country houses and castles provide an unforgettable locale for a honeymoon or anniversary. Ride a traditional pony cart around Muckross House, inside spectacular Killarney National Park, or live like a lord at Bunratty Castle, which hosts a nightly medieval banquet. Those still searching for their soul mate should visit Lisdoonvarna in County Clare. The local matchmaking festival boasts a better chance of meeting your one and only than OK Cupid or eHarmony. The music, dancing and merriment goes on for the entire month of September. Connemara’s stunning coastal scenery is dotted with quiet seaside hamlets framed by mountains, heaths and woodlands. And there is no better way to end a perfect day than gliding through a glassy bay in an elegant Galway Hooker. This traditional wooden sailing boat is known for its distinctive red sails, a feature that inspired lyricist Jimmy Kennedy to write “Red Sails in the Sunset.” FOR MORE INFORMATION

Please see your AAA travel professional or click on AAA.com for more European vacation ideas from AAA.

Are you at risk of the most common causes of road service? Components susceptible to failure most often overlooked

AA comes to the aid of stranded members nearly 30 million times each year. The three most common reasons for road service calls are dead batteries, flat tires and overheating. Remarkably, more than one quarter of these experiences could be avoided through improved vehicle maintenance. Millions of members call AAA each year for assistance with their battery. It’s the number one cause of roadside breakdowns. Battery care is even more important in winter because batteries lose approximately 35 percent of their efficiency when the temperature dips below freezing and close to 60 percent when the temperature falls below zero. For routine care, clean any corrosion from the posts and cable connections, wash all surfaces with battery terminal cleaner or a solution of baking soda and water, and re-tighten all connections. Automotive batteries typically last between 3-5 years — or less in highheat areas. Even leaving the lights on for an extended period of time can reduce your battery’s life expectancy. Safeguard against a dead battery by having it tested annually once it’s three years old. AAA Battery Service offers fast, accurate and convenient mobile battery testing and replacement. State-of-the

READY TO HELP — Millions of members call AAA each year for roadside assistance. art diagnostic equipment will confirm whether your battery will hold a charge, or if the problem lies deeper in the electrical system. Best of all, the service is included with your AAA membership. If a new battery is needed, you can purchase one and have it installed right on the spot. Motorists should also increase the frequency of checking their tires dur-

ing winter months. As the temperature starts to drop, so will the pressures in your tires—typically 1 PSI for every 10 degrees Fahrenheit. The proper tire pressure levels can be found in your owner’s manual, or on a sticker located on the driver’s side doorjamb. And don’t forget to check the spare. AAA recommends replacing a tire when it reaches 4/32”, which can be

tested by placing a quarter upside down in the tread groove. If the top of Washington’s head is visible, the tire should be replaced. Coolant leaks are more common when temperatures plunge because metal engine parts contract during cold weather, and hose clamps aren’t as tight as they should be. While your coolant never loses its antifreeze capability, the additives that lubricate the water pump and protect internal engine components from rust, scale and corrosion become depleted over time. Motorists should have the cooling system flushed and filled when recommended by the manufacturer. Some newer coolant formulations can last for up to 5 years or 150,000 miles. Check the coolant level in the overflow reservoir not by opening the radiator cap. If it’s low it should be filled to the “Full Hot” indicator line with a 50/50 mixture of antifreeze and water.

TAKE CHARGE

Count on AAA to turn battery problems into solutions. AAA Battery Service is available from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. 7-days a week. To verify AAA Battery Service availability in your area, call our toll-free number:1-800-222-4357.

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AAA MOTORIST

FEBRUARY 2016