SEE PAGE 3
NORTHEAST OHIO REGION
Vol. 108 No. 6
JUNE 2016
Step in for great rates on 2016 cruises... step out with value-added extras, ® including a Fitbit fitness tracker!
Test Drive CARFAX on AAA.com
June 1-30
GUARANTEEBDLE BEST AVAILA CRUISE PRICES or you get a
CARD $100 VISA GIFT
© michaeljung /Fotolia.com
from l* AAA East Centra
Sail away with MORE than just the best price during June Cruise Days!
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owadays you can buy a cruise from lots of places: So how do you get the best value for your dollar? Go with AAA Travel! Book a select 2016 sailing from a AAA cruise partner this month and sail with the peace of mind of knowing you got the best price AND greatest value (great rate PLUS member benefits & amenities!). Cruise confidently, backed by AAA’s longstanding reputation of member trust, financial stability and personal service. Between June 1 & 30, visit or call AAA Travel to book AAA Vacations®–branded cruises of 7 nights or longer and get...
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the best cruise-only rates in the travel industry exclusive value-added AAA Vacations® amenities that can include VIP Priority Check-in...24/7 Member Care throughout your cruise...up to $475.00 onboard spending credit per stateroom (good toward the purchase of goods & services such as spa treatments, premium beverages, etc)... up to $100.00 savings per person ...and others
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exclusive member benefits that can include up to $300.00 savings per person ...up to $300.00 onboard spending credit per stateroom (good toward the purchase of goods & services such as spa treatments, premium beverages, etc)... 1 spa treatment per stateroom...an Onboard Value Booklet ($325.00 value)... and others a free gift (1 per stateroom) exclusively from AAA East Central: Fitbit® Flex™ activity & sleep wristband (retail value $99.95) for oceanview staterooms Fitbit® Charge HR™ heart rate & fitness wristband (retail value $149.95) for balcony staterooms Fitbit® Blaze™ smart fitness watch (retail value $199.95) for suites June’s free gifts are perfect for today’s more healthconsicous cruisers who take advantage of onboard walking & running tracks, fitness centers, swimming pools, basketball courts, climbing walls and other activity zones.
Long gone are the days when most of us had ample free time and money to run around town or to spend hours sifting through hundreds of websites (which ones are trustworthy?) to find the lowest price for a cruise. Now there are just so many travel operators, so many choices. That — and the fact that AAA travel agents are cruise experts — is why AAA membership is worth its weight in gold. AAA, with its longstanding relationships with all of the popular cruise lines, does the research for you — and we guarantee our price (and, most important, our value) is the best you can find. Dollar for dollar, you won’t find a better value than at AAA. You get so much more from AAA Travel than just a low rate — valuable perks and benefits and gifts that just aren’t available anywhere else from any other cruise provider. Step in to AAA Travel in June and take advantage of the comprehensive cruise values that include a free Fitbit® fitness tracker; choose from hundreds of 2016 AAA Vacations® departures (see the sample listing on page 13).
*PUTTING OUR MONEY WHERE OUR MOUTH IS: See the exact same cruise-only itinerary on the same cruise line at a lower rate elsewhere? AAA will match or beat it; if not, you get a $100.00 Visa gift card. Restrictions apply; consult an agent for details.
Travel | Insurance/Financial | Automotive | Member Savings | AAA.com
HISTORY OF FALLS INCREASES CRASH RISK FOR OLDER DRIVERS
Experts say one out of every nine used cars has a hidden past — ranging from salvage history and flood damage to odometer fraud — rolling back or otherwise altering a vehicle’s odometer. Using the 17-character Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), CARFAX can alert consumers to odometer fraud and other problems that can affect safety, performance, and resale value. CARFAX uses a comprehensive computerized database of over 2-billion unique vehicle history records to provide detailed history reports on virtually every registered used car and light truck since 1981. AAA Classic and AAA Plus® members save 20% off the retail price when they purchase CARFAX vehicle history reports — ordered online at AAA.com/CARFAX. AAA Premier® members are entitled to one FREE vehicle history report per member per membership year. To request a free report, Premier members must call AAA Premier Member Services at 1-866-511-7736. Subsequent reports are available at 40% off the retail price and can be ordered online.
Save More on Walt Disney World® Tickets! Extend your magical visit at Walt Disney World® Resort this summer with a AAA member exclusive ticket offer June 1st through July 31st 2016. Purchase any 4-day Magic Your Way ticket at your local AAA Branch office and receive a 5th Day Free! Check with your local AAA branch for further details.
Free Junior Associates — Priceless Protection for Teens 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).
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.
Free Car Seat Round Up June 24 at AAA Avon Children deserve the best protection we can give them so remember to check the expiration dates on your child safety seats. Wear and tear, exposure to sun, cold, and heat, degrade the plastic and foam in the seats, so they begin to lose their effectiveness. Many car seats in storage have also exceeded their ‘life span’ and should be collected and destroyed. AAA is hosting a free Car Seat Roundup on Friday, June 24, from noon to 3 p.m. at the AAA Avon Office. Every seat collected is a potential life saved. The Avon Branch is located at 35676 Detroit Rd. Avon. Phone: 440-695-1795.
Nature Knows No Boundaries in Costa Rica
A tiny green emerald on the Central American isthmus Costa Rica shelters an extraordinary variety of flora and fauna, and natural attractions. And there are as many ways to experience this peaceful green oasis, as there are adventures. See it your way with your choice of a carefree guided tour through AAA Vacations, or Member Choice Vacations. Or go it alone via a customized independent getaway from Pleasant Holidays. Either way you’ll save with AAA member benefits. SEE PAGE 7.
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AAA MOTORIST
Plan your next move with the TripTik® Travel Planner Make a fresh start on your next road trip
AAA MEMBER SERVICES
Y
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
Familiar features
Creating routes Map your destinations with ease. Simply begin typing in your start and end points and, after just a few keystrokes, TTP’s predictive search will display possible matching choices. Even if you don’t know the address, you can quickly create routes to airports, attrac-
AAA DIRECTORY TripTiks, Tourbooks, Maps, Address Change, AAA Plus
our TripTik® may look a little different from the TripTik® of old, but you can rest assured it still has the same valuable information. It also uses the latest map technology and extensive digital travel information resources available, so you can prepare customized routing packages using the TripTik® Travel Planner (TTP) right from your home computer or your smart phone when you download the AAA Mobile App. With enhanced functionality and added features, TTP is more versatile than ever with information available only through AAA. Data is updated in real time so TTP is consistently working with the most up-to-date mapping information available.
Your custom route includes all the indicators and details you would expect from your traditional TripTik®— color highlighting showing route, scenic byways and construction areas; rest areas, exit numbers and gas, food and lodging indicators; direction arrows; trip time and distance; and step-by-step directions.
JUNE 2016
TRAFFIC SAFETY PROGRAMS: 1-800-845-0375 TRAVEL AGENCY: 800-354-8761 www.AAA.com
tions, restaurants and more just by entering the name. • One-click access to key functionality: Generate routes, create trip itineraries and access AAA travel information directly from the user interface. • Simpler route point entry: Auto complete fills in addresses, cities, hotels, attractions and other locations after a few keystrokes. • Enter locations without needing an address: Just enter an airport code or name, such as Empire State Building.
Good to know details When applicable, your custom route will include travel advisories — so you know when and where to expect traffic delays — bridge and ferry information, construction zone details and strict speed enforcement area alerts. When a route includes or is in the vicinity of a scenic byway, a camera icon displays on related maps. You’ll find descriptive narrative about what you can expect along the drive on the last page of your TripTik®. • Turn on map layers to display traffic and construction information, and to show highway interchanges with gas, food and lodging options. • Rest areas: Shows the location of rest areas and service plazas. The design of each icon indicates the type of facilities at the rest area. • Professional reviews: AAA property inspectors share first-hand details about AAA Approved hotels and restaurants along the way. • AAA travel information: Access the AAA Travel Guides and AAA Drive Trips directly from the TTP interface. AAA’s content-rich Travel Guides and custom Drive Trips guide you through some of the most attraction-rich roadways across North America, complete with descriptive text, photos and maps detailing each leg of the drive, including must-see and must-do recommendations from AAA travel editors. • Sending routes: With TTP you can share routes with your family and friends via email or social media. Or access and use your saved trips on the go with the AAA Mobile app. MAP YOUR WAY
Technology has allowed us to continue making the AAA products and services even better and more focused on individual needs. Although your TripTik® may look different, the care and personal service behind each custom route remains the same. Get everything you need to plan your next trip at AAA.com/ttp.
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
JUNE 2016
AAA MOTORIST
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History of falling increases crash risk for older drivers New study finds preventing falls may make roads safer 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, Christian Asam, Jack A. Barkley, William E. Bierer**, Ellsworth T. Bowser**, Peter Burton, Michael A. Cochran, Daniel J. Collins Jr.**, Robert S. Collins, Robert H. Compton, Debra A. Dinnocenzo, James J. Dodaro, 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 Audrey T. Cole, Chairman, Keith C. Boales, Vice Chairman, Thomas G. Brick**, Steve D. Bullock**, Edward C. Coaxum, Jr., Gary S. Cowling**, Jon E. Denney**, Richard S. Hamilton, John B. Hexter, Joseph K. Juster , James H. Kanicki, Mary Lynn Laughlin, John D. Leech**, Randell McShepard, Peter C. Ohlheiser **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.
By Richard Hamilton Chairman, AAA East Central afe mobility is essential to healthy aging and most of us want to hang onto the car keys for as long as we can. But whether we like it or not, time catches up with us all. Now an eye-opening new report from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety finds elderly adults with a history of falling are 40 percent more likely to be involved in a crash than their peers. Falls limit an older driver’s ability to function behind the wheel and can make driving risky for themselves and others on the road. These findings are important since a record 12 million older drivers will experience a fall this year. Drivers age 60 and older are involved in more than 400,000 crashes annually, and it’s vitally important that we find ways to keep them and others secure on the road. Although seniors are among our safest drivers — more likely to wear seatbelts, and practice good driving habits — they are much more likely to die when a crash does occur. This research is critical because it indicates that we may now be able to use a history of falls to identify whether an older driver is at greater risk for a crash. The report, “Associations Between Falls and Driving Outcomes in Older Adults,” is the latest research released by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety’s $12 million Longitudinal Research on Aging Drivers (LongROAD) proj-
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Richard Hamilton ect. Researchers from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, along with the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, found that falls increase crash risk in two ways: • Falls can result in a loss of functional ability (i.e. wrist fractures or a broken leg), which can make it difficult for older drivers to steer or brake to avoid a crash. • Falls can increase an individual’s fear of falling, which can lead to a decrease in physical activity that weakens driving skills. The research suggests that seniors and their families should view falls as a possible precursor of declining physical fitness. Addressing the health issues
that originally led to the fall such as lower body weakness, poor balance, slow reaction time, certain medications, dizziness, or vision problems, can help older drivers strengthen their functional ability and lower their risk for crashing or experiencing another fall in the future. Understanding the causes and consequences of falls is essential for older drivers to keep themselves and others safe on the road. Those concerned about a parent or other senior driver should help them monitor risk factors that address health concerns or household dangers. Older drivers would be wise to look for activities that enhance balance, strengthen muscles and promote flexibility. Even a low impact fitness training program or driver improvement course can help safely extend a mature driver’s years on the road. AAA recommends a series of exercises and stretches to improve neck, shoulder, trunk, back and overall body flexibility, which can help a driver who has suffered from a recent fall. SeniorDriving. AAA.com has a variety of resources for senior drivers on strength and flexibility exercises at AAA.com/fitness. As a leading advocate for senior driver safety, AAA offers a variety of programs and resources to help older drivers improve their driving performance and avoid crashes. SeniorDriving.AAA. com is designed to help mature drivers stay on the road for as long as safely possible and mobile thereafter.
membersonly
What are the limits on AAA Roadside Assistance?
A
AA Roadside Assistance is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is designed to assist you in an emergency when the vehicle you are either driving or riding in becomes disabled. Helping motorists stay mobile, safe and protected has been the cornerstone of AAA’s member commitment for over 100 years. AAA responds to over 30 million requests for emergency road service each year, and it’s important to remember there are some nonemergency limitations designed to prevent abuse while maintaining and improving our service quality. These help us to respond to your calls swiftly and intelligently and avoid excessive delays that can negatively impact service provider arrival times for all members. Emergency road service will be limited to that which can be provided with equipment ordinarily used by the independent service provider serving the area. Service will not be provided when the disabled vehicle cannot be safely reached or serviced
without damage to the vehicle or servicing equipment. Towing service is only provided for a covered vehicle disablement. Service may not be used as a substitute for regular maintenance necessary to keep a vehicle in good operating condition. AAA cannot render service repeatedly to a vehicle in need of repair. An individual’s AAA membership may not be used by a business or organization to provide roadside assistance service for its customers, employees or vehicles. The following policies apply to the membership benefit: • Towing to or from auto dismantlers, salvage yards, repair facility to repair facility or from one storage location to another. • Towing for the purpose of transporting vehicles due to a purchase, sale, auction transaction, car show exhibition, charitable donation, relocation or any other similar situation. • Service to a vehicle that is loaded, altered or constructed in such a
way as to cause damage or create a hazard while being serviced. • Charges related to impound or stolen vehicle recovery, towing or storage. • Service in situations where appropriate photo identification in addition to the membership card is requested and not provided to the service driver. • Use of two or more roadside assistance service calls to extend the member tow mileage benefit for the same breakdown. • If specific towing equipment is requested, but not required to safely transport the vehicle, the associated cost will be at your expense. • AAA Plus, AAA Premier, AAA Plus RV and AAA Premier RV emergency road service options become effective 7 calendar days after receipt of your dues. Discover the many ways AAA can help you save time and money, and provide you with confidence and security on the road. For a complete Guide to AAA Member Services, please visit AAA.com.
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AAA MOTORIST
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Preventing the perils of parking lots Follow these simple rules to avoid common mishaps By Robin Jones on Salamanca, a driving school instructor for eight years, says parking lots can be hazardous for motorists. In one of his lessons, Salamanca explains how to handle parking lot dangers, from view-obstructing walls and hedges to distracted pedestrians and speeding drivers. As Salamanca tells his students: “Many parking lot accidents occur because drivers get too relaxed when doing errands they’ve done a million times before.” But you can avoid the most common types of crashes, if you follow a few simple rules. Here are Salamanca’s top five tips for safely navigating parking lots: Check your surroundings before you get in your car. Salamanca instructs his students to survey the area as they return to their parked vehicle. “Look for anyone in the driver’s seat of a nearby car, or anyone who’s getting ready to get into a nearby car,” he says. “Then, when you back out, you’ll know where everyone is, and you’ll be aware of other drivers who might also be getting ready to pull out.” Look every which way when you’re backing out of or pulling into a parking space. Many drivers rely solely on their rearview mirrors or backup camera when they’re reversing, Salamanca says, and that’s risky. In addition to using the mirror and camera, be sure to “look over your right shoulder first, through the
What’s more, it’s usually easier for the car that’s backing out to make an emergency stop, because vehicles in the aisle are generally going faster. That’s why it’s always smart to inch out as slowly as possible, with your foot over the brake. Watch for distracted pedestrians. Many people are not as aware as they should be. They’re carrying groceries, trying to wrangle kids while pushing a full shopping cart, or texting while they’re walking. So don’t expect them to see you. Instead, keep your eyes peeled, and remember that people sometimes weave through parked vehicles, making them hard to see. “Look for shadows passing under or near cars,” Salamanca says. It’s sometimes the only indication that a person is there. Slow down. Speed limits vary in parking lots, so look for posted signs. And as you drive around the parking lot, keep an eye out for other cars that are backing out of their spaces.
R
NOT A SAFE SPACE — Parking lot collisions are among the most common types of crashes. back passenger window, because that’s the closest path of travel for another car,” he says. Then, repeat the process over your left shoulder, and finally, look through the back window for brake lights or reverse lights on cars behind you. If pedestrians or vehicles are not close enough to pose a hazard, you can start backing out.
As you’re pulling into a spot, check to make sure that drivers or passengers of cars in adjacent spots are not opening their doors to exit their vehicles. Keep your foot off the gas pedal as you’re backing up. Cars in the aisle have the right-of-way, so it’s up to the driver who’s pulling out of a parking space to stop if there’s potential for a collision.
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.
Paula found reliability and savings with auto insurance through AAA. Competitive rates and several premium discounts are helping Ohioans save up to 35%* on auto insurance through AAA.
CALL US FOR A FAST, NO-OBLIGATION QUOTE TODAY. Alliance ..........................330-726-9083 Massillon ....................... 330-833-1084 Ashtabula .......................440-997-5586 Norwalk..........................419-668-1622 Avon ...............................440-695-1795 Portage County ..............330-296-3406 Columbiana ....................330-726-9083 Solon .............................440-248-9000 East Liverpool ................330-726-9083 Strongsville ....................440-783-3395 Independence ................ 216-606-6300
Trumbull County.............330-652-6466
Lake County...................440-974-0990
Tuscarawas County .......330-343-4481
Lyndhurst .......................440-473-0700
Westlake ........................440-788-3102
Mahoning County. .......... 330-726-9083
...or call 888-222-9677
Insurance underwritten by MemberSelect Insurance Company. *Savings may vary and are based on discounts applied to the non-discounted base rate. 15-IA-1748_NEOH.
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JUNE 2016
Member Benefits • Exclusive Offers
1-800-354-8761 • AAA.com/travel
Enjoy Costa Rica YOUR way with AAA Almost everyone who’s ever visited there can attest that tiny Costa Rica has more natural delights per square mile than nearly anywhere on earth. The allure of this tiny Central American nation is its abundance of lush tropical forests, unique & exotic creatures, spectacular uncrowded beaches, genuinely hospitable people and endless outdoor activities. It’s a magical place almost guaranteed to transform your mood from good...to better...to great!
STRUCTURED
UNSTRUCTURED
Carefree guided vacation
Customized independent getaway
If arranging your own vacation transportation, lodging and sightseeing falls under your definition of “work,” the fully planned and professionally guided “Tropical Costa Rica” vacation package — a perennially popular escorted getaway from AAA Member Choice Vacations® — is for you! All you have to do is pick an available departure (there are many throughout the year) and pack your bags! Begin in San Jose, the colorful capital, and travel through verdant Central Valley to the Doka Coffee Estate and learn about this lifeblood of Costa Rica's economy. Sip samples before heading to Tamarindo Beach in Guanacaste, a Pacific-side region known for breathtaking scenery and beaches; rest and relax amid tropical greenery for 2 nights. An optional cruise along Guanacaste’s coastline (glimpsing dolphins, turtles, flying fish and maybe even a whale) is available; stop at a charming bay for snorkeling, kayaking, swimming, sunbathing or beachcombing. Ascend into the Monteverde Cloud Forest, with trees as high as 100 feet and the largest number of orchids in the world. It’s also a stop for many migratory birds; look for the elusive jeweltoned quetzal in season.
The size of Vermont and New Hampshire, Costa Rica boasts an immense variety of landscapes, climate zones and life-forms; it’s estimated that as much as 6% of the world’s species flourish here — from enormous ficus trees to 1,500 different orchids, from elusive margays to showy macaws. Monkeys, sloths, wild cats and other fascinating creatures co-exist with an amazing assortment of birds (800+ species), both migratory and resident. Seeing that flora and fauna — as well as the nation’s gorgeous beaches and its volcano-and-rainforest-dotted interior — is what a Costa Rica getaway is about. AAA and Pleasant Holidays have any number of ways for you to enjoy all that natural beauty, including the 3 resorts showcased here. The all-inclusive and adults-only Secrets Papagayo Resort on stunning Papagayo Peninsula in Guanacaste is a short drive from Liberia International Airport but seems a million miles away. Set on a serene beachfront and surrounded by lush tropical gardens, it offers Unlimited-Luxury® — limitless access to gourmet à la carte dining options (no reservations required); unlimited international & domestic top-shelf spirits; unlimited juices & soft drinks; 24-hour room & concierge services; pool & beach wait service; mini-bar Secrets Papagayo (all-inclusive) Secrets Papagayo (all-inclusive) (refreshed daily); daily maid service; daytime activities and live nightly entertainment; theme parties, oceanfront bars & entertainTabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort ment venues; no wristbands; taxes/ gratuities included; free Wi-Fi and calls to the US. Tabacón Grand The Westin Golf Resort & Spa, The Westin Golf Resort & Spa, Spa Thermal RePlaya Conchal (all-inclusive) Playa Conchal (all-inclusive) sort is a carbonneutral resort set at the base of Arenal Volcano and is a
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For new “Tropical Costa Rica” bookings made by June 30, 2016: AAA East Central Offer for all 2016 departures
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$50.00 savings per person
AAA Vacations® Member Benefits for all 2016 & 2017 departures $25.00 savings per person • $75.00 credit per person toward an optional tour ($100.00 credit per person for 2 or more tours)
AAA Member Choice Vacations® Offer for select 2017 departures $100.00 savings per person on...
Jan 7, 16, 21, 30 •
April 3, 27
MENTION CODE 65ZMG. RESTRICTIONS APPLY; ASK A AAA TRAVEL AGENT FOR DETAILS.
For new Costa Rica resort bookings made with Pleasant Holidays by June 30, 2016, for travel by Dec 31, 2016: Pleasant Holidays Offer for all 2016 stays of 3 or more nights $50.00 savings per room, double occupancy
AAA Member Benefit for all 2016 stays $50.00 voucher per person toward the booking of select activities
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Resident mammals include marsupials, bats, primates, wild cats, wild pigs and others. Venture into a butterfly garden at Selvatura Park; a nearby gallery hosts more than 100 hummingbirds. Walk on “hanging bridges” in the cloud forest treetops. Crave more excitement? Choose an available option to fly through nature on a 3-hour Rainforest Canopy Zip Line Adventure. You’ll be safely guided to 19 platforms along 12 cables ranging from 120 to more than 2,000 feet in length and 60 to 400 feet in height. Visit a tree nursery to learn about indigenous-tree reforestation efforts. At Tierras Morenas, visit a school, meet students and learn about the educational system and life-style of a small farming community. At Arenal, cruise on a lake of the same name by a volcano of the same name. Spend 2 nights at a lodge in sight of the volcano, which has spewn lava for 30 years. Enjoy a cooking demonstration and learn how native exotic vegetables and other plants contribute to the unique local cuisine. Remote Cano Negro nature preserve boasts a large viewable selection of wildlife. Embark on a covered-canoe river excursion; stop to watch crocodiles, otters, sloths, turtles, birds and butterflies. The Arenal Volcano area is also a land of spas and hot springs, where you can opt for an available pampering — a 2-hour session at Arenal Springs Hotel’s spa. Travel to charming Zarcero’s whimsical topiary garden. At picturesque Grecia, see an unusual church made of brick-red metal panes. Visit San Jose’s colorful Plaza de Cultura and magnificent National Theater. Cap it all off with a farewell dinner with your fellow travelers and newfound amigos.
tropical paradise of nature, adventure and relaxation. Rejuvenate in thermal springs that emerge directly from the volcano (gravity only, no pumps!), cascading to form waterfalls and inviting tranquil pools. Tabacón offers the energy of the Arenal Volcano, the heat of the Tabacón Hot Springs and the purity and mystique of the surrounding rainforest. The combination of volume, temperature and mineral content at Tabacón is unique in Costa Rica and worldwide. Its thermal natural springs are 97% rain-based and 3% magma-based; rainwater enters through surface fissures, is heated by magma and then resurfaces, containing minerals found in the earth’s rocky stratus. The all-inclusive Westin Golf Resort & Spa, Playa Conchal, is set on 2,400 acres and offers everything you need to revitalize and thrive. Nestled between lush forests and the sparkling azure Pacific, the hotel offers a lagoon-style pool, gardens, tennis courts, a championship golf course, the Westin Kids Club®, fine dining, workout facilities, a spa and much more. Savor richly appointed accommodations with the signature Heavenly Bed® and Heavenly Bath®. Unwind on a luxurious Bali bed by the pool, treat yourself to world-class cuisine or indulge your adventurous side at a nearby national park. Pleasant Holidays offers at least 40 fantastic resort options in Costa Rica. Visit or contact AAA travel agents to find the resort that’s perfect for you; they can help you determine where & when to go, how long you want to stay, what to see and so much more. They can also assist you with flights, cruises, car rentals, travel insurance, etc.
“TROPICAL COSTA RICA” DEPARTURES ARE AVAILABLE THROUGHOUT 2016 & 2017; ONLY SELECT DATES (JAN 7, 16, 21, 30; APRIL 3, 27) ARE ELEGIBLE FOR THE JUNE 1-30 $100.00 OFFER.
MANY OTHER RESORTS ARE AVAILABLE. ASK A AAA TRAVEL AGENT ABOUT SPECIAL OFFERS AND PROMOTIONS THAT MAY BE AVAILABLE.
Get up to $100.00 in perks!
NOW’S THE TIME!
Book & make a deposit by JUNE 30 on a 2016 7-night-or-longer air-inclusive Pleasant Holidays vacation to HAWAII, MEXICO or the CARIBBEAN and enjoy:
$50 SAVINGS FROM AAA TRAVEL per room, based on double occupancy • new bookings June 1-30, 2016
PLUS
SIVE THIS EXCLU NEFIT! E MEMBER B
$50.00 CERTIFICATE* toward purchase of optional sightseeing or activity, per booking
*At select Caribbean destinations, a $50 discount may apply (instead of a $50 activity voucher).
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California New Year' s Getaway features the Tournament of Roses!
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come dinner at LA Prime on the 35th floor of your hotel. Day 2 features glitzy Rodeo Drive and star-studded Hollywood. See celebrity signatures at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre and Hollywood Boulevard’s Walk of Fame. At Hollywood & Highland shopping/ entertainment complex, enjoy views of the iconic Hollywood sign from the upper level. See celebrity homes in Bel Air and Beverly Hills. At Warner Brothers, get a behind-the-scenes tour; be alert for star sightings! Afterward, explore LA on your own. Attend a New Year’s Eve party in Long Beach on the Queen Mary; dine, dance and bid farewell to 2016 in grand style. On Day 3, visit LA’s historic Farmers Market, the Disney Concert Hall, the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels and LA Live. Stop at Olvera Street, original heart of the Mexican community. Drive the Pacific Coast Highway through exclusive Malibu to Santa Monica. Finish the day with time to explore more of LA. Day 4 is in Pasadena, at your reserved seat for the Tournament of Roses Parade! Then visit Universal Studios CityWalk before heading to San Diego. Explore San Diego on Day 5; see Cabrillo Monument atop Pt Loma, with sea, harbor and skyline views. Drive through Mission Bay to Old Town (CA’s birthplace) and La Jolla, a chic beachside hideaway. See Balboa Park, the country’s oldest city park and one of it largest. Tour the world-famous San Diego Zoo on a doubledecker bus. On Day 6, visit the USS Midway Museum, the longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century. Travel to a winery for a private tour & tasting, followed by a sunset dinner cruise on San Diego Bay. FE
From the Queen Mary to a Grand Marshal, from roses on noisemakers and fireworks! Watch the Roses parade from a floats to a replica of the White House Rose Garden, this extremeprime location and sitting on comfy cushions in the grandstand. ly popular trip provides a festive and historical range of venues But that’s not the end of this incredible trip: Motor to Santa Monand celebrations, with the glitz of Hollywood no less. Year after ica to stroll the pier on the way to San Diego for a 2-night stay year, passengers marvel during our adventure about the cool, with sightseeing and an evening cruise that caps off a memocasual California way to celebrate the New Year. rable holiday. This 6-night tour is an energetic anticipation leading up Here’s a rundown of this fun-packed holiday getaway: Fly to LA and start at Simi Valley’s Reagan Presito the “granddaddy of them all” parade (Tournament dential Library; see an Oval Office replica, Air of Roses), with a visit to Tinsel Town and its captivating glamour, a visit to Santa Monica, a scenic Force One and a re-created state dinner. Get drive along the coast with mile after incredible acquainted with fellow travelers at a welper room mile of blue Pacific Ocean waters and dazzling beaches, on the way to a stay in San Diego feawhen you turing even more US history — a visit to the book & deposit USS Midway aircraft carrier — and an elegant by June 30! dinner cruise through the harbor. This is a great way to escape winter weather back home...and a great opportunity to ring in the new year in a unique way. From start to finish, our travelers become great companions as they experience LA in style, with a stay at a luxurious downtown hotel and sightseeing the city, Warner Brothers Studio and homes of America’s favorite stars. A trip to the Reagan Presidential Library is exceptionally memorable, with an opportunity to board Air Force One and Marine One with a photo op. Welcome the New Year on the Queen Mary with Champagne,
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German Christmas Markets — one of our most popular tours! Experience fun and flavorful Old World holiday-season traditions! Over the next few days, set out from Nuremberg to the historic and charming Bavarian towns (and their Christmas markets, of course!) of Rothenburg ob der Tauber (with its well-preserved medieval center), Bamberg (its Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site), Bayreuth (best known for its association with composer Richard Wagner, who lived here for a time) and Regensburg (also a UNESCO World Heritage site). Journey to Munich, Bavaria’s capital; enjoy a sightseeing tour, a Christmas market and dinner at Ratskellar Restaurant. An excursion to Neuschwanstein, the palace upon which Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle is modeled, is a memorable experience. Continue on Augsburg (a university town) to explore its holiday market. Return to Munich for a brewery tour/tasting and a farewell dinner at the famous Hofbräuhaus.
AAA Member Rate: $3,675
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Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes flights (Cleveland-Frankfurt, Munich-Cleveland), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, motorcoach transportation, accommodations, 13 meals, luggage handling (1 bag/person), taxes/gratuities for included features and services of a AAA Tour Manager in Germany (if participation goal is met). Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details. Passport required.
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Germany’s many unique Christmas markets and fairs, a tradition begun in the Late Middle Ages, are popular because of their enchanting festive atmosphere. Aromas of roasting chestnuts, savory sausages and freshly baked goods fill the air. Festively decorated, boutique-lined streets and stalllined town centers brim with locally hand-made, high-quality crafts, toys, wood carvings and delicate ornaments. Enjoy this escorted tour’s convenience and efficiency by spending 4 nights in Nuremberg and 3 in Munich. You’ll comfortably “settle in,” taking short rides each day to the markets and landmarks surrounding the 2 base cities; forget about packing and unpacking each day! Start in Nuremberg, with a tour featuring views of the imperial castle (Kaiserburg) and the site of the Nuremberg Rallies. Then visit your very first Christkindlmarkt.
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“You’ll never plough a field if you only turn it over in your mind”; and, in keeping with this Irish proverb, you’ll never appreciate the actual beauty, charm and fun of the Emerald Isle if you only dream about it. Let AAA help you bring that dream to life on its “Irish Heritage & Dromoland Castle” escorted tour.
SPECIAL INCLUSION
DROMOLAND CASTLE Enjoy a farewell dinner at this elegant and luxurious fairytale castle hotel!
Limerick • Bunratty Castle: medieval banquet • Cliffs of Moher • Foynes Flying Boat Museum • Killarney National Park • Ring of Kerry • Valentia Island: Skellig Experience • Sneem • Moll’s Gap • Blarney: Castle, Woollen Mills • Cobh • Waterford • Wicklow Mountains • Dublin • Irish National Stud • Dromoland Castle
Oct 2-10 •
AAA Member Rate: $1,938
Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, 13 meals (including medieval castle banquet/entertainment, Kileen House in Killarney, Merry Ploughboy Pub dinner/entertainment, Dromoland Castle farewell dinner, 2 table d'hôte dinners and more), motorcoach sightseeing, hotel service charges & luggage handling (1 bag per person) and professional tour director in Ireland. Ask about available add-on airfare. Passport required. Tour operated by CIE International. Visit AAA.com/GoIreland for itinerary and more information.
Who doesn’t like being “carded”? Get a $50.00 Disney Gift Card (per room, double occupancy) from AAA Travel when you book & make a deposit on a 5-night or longer Walt Disney World® Resort vacation package between June 1 & 30.
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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.
SAN FRANCISCO FLEET WEEK
Oct 6-10 • $2,709
Discover the pleasures of the City by the Bay and enjoy excursions to Muir Woods, Sausalito, the Marin Headlands, Treasure Island and the vineyards of Napa Valley. Enjoy ample free time in San Francisco to explore on your own and to participate in the Fleet Week festivities — interact with sailors; tour amphibious carriers, destroyers and cruisers on the waterfront; and visit the festival center on Marina Green. Board a sternwheeler for a luncheon cruise during the Fleet Week Air Show featuring the Blue Angels! Includes services of a AAA Tour Manager (upon arrival at destination, if participation goal is met). 7 meals.
Celebrate the National Park Service’s 100-year birthday! “MIGHTY 5 & MORE” Oct 18-26 • $3,845
Tour some of the America’s best parks. From Las Vegas, travel past Lake Mead and Hoover Dam, visit the Rt 66 Museum and marvel at the Grand Canyon. Enter Navajo Nation; stop at a trading post. See Lake Powell and Antelope Canyon. Cruise on Lake Powell and tour Monument Valley by 4WD. Experience Navajo culture. Explore Utah’s “Mighty 5” See natural arches in Arches NP. Dine at a lodge on the Colorado. A Jeep® tour of Canyonlands NP reveals its beauty. Ride a jet boat on the Colorado. © pngstudio / Fotolia.com See petroglyphs at Capitol Reef NP, the fairyland hues of Bryce Canyon NP and the 2,000-foot-high stone towers of Zion NP. Includes services of a AAA Tour Manager (upon arrival at destination, if participation goal is met). 16 meals.
REFLECTIONS OF ITALY
Nov 7-16 • from $4,149
SAN ANTONIO HOLIDAY
Dec 12-16 • from $1,899
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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.
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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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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
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
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Live la dolce vita! Revel in the magic of Italy on this comprehensive 10-day tour that explores the fascinating cities of Rome, Florence, Siena, Venice, Assisi, Perugia and Milan. Travel the postcard-perfect Tuscan and Umbrian countryside, exploring medieval hill towns and visiting the birthplace of St Francis of Assisi. Discover masterpieces of the Renaissance in Florence and see hot glass transformed into exquisite art on Murano Island. Linger in Venice for 2 nights before ending your journey in Milan. Includes professional guide in Italy. 13 meals. Passport required. Ask about other departure dates. This vibrant and inviting Texas city has been called the American Venice; its lovely River Walk meanders through downtown, glowing with Christmas lights and decorations. Soak up the spirit of the season and experience the Tex-Mex take on the holidays. You’ll also visit the Alamo, Mission San Jose, Bandera (“Cowboy Capital of the World”), the LBJ Ranch, German-flavored Fredericksburg (the heart of Texas Hill Country), Sandy Oaks Olive Orchard (site of your spectacular farewell dinner with local wines) and El Mercado (Mexican-style marketplace). Enjoy a traditional cowboy barbecue at a dude ranch! 6 meals. Ask about other departure dates.
AAA MEMBER RATES are per person (double occupancy), are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip flights from Cleveland, roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, meals as noted, hotel luggage handling (1 bag per person), sightseeing per itinerary and more. Visit AAA.com/FeaturedVacations for more information. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.
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4+ nights at any of 4 top-rated luxury properties
Photo: Banff Lake Louise Tourism /Fairmont Hotels & Resorts
Tired of “typical”? Here’s a unique off-season vacation — a getaway to a stunning corner of Canada transformed into a wonderland of white-frosted evergreens and crystal-blue skies. From Edmonton to Calgary, discover the wonders of Alberta — towering snow-clad peaks of the Canadian Rockies, spectacular Maligne Canyon in Jasper National Park, Icefields Parkway, postcard-perfect Lake Louise and the alpine resort town of Banff. Partake in activities and experiences designed to enlighten and create memories — from dog-sledding to ice-walking or snowshoeing to horse-drawn-sleigh riding. Savor a native peoples– themed dinner to find out what a meal was like centuries ago. Learn about ammolite, a rare opal-like gemstone found only in southern Alberta. Marvel at the Ice Magic Festival, where artisans carve sculptures from huge blocks of ice. Stay comfortable and cozy in style and luxury, including 2 nights at Château Lake Louise and 1 at Banff Springs Resort, both originally built as Canadian Pacific Railway hotels. You’ll also enjoy a night in Edmonton and 2 nights in Jasper.
Jan 9-15 • AAA Member Rate: from $3,214 Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes flights (Cleveland-Edmonton, Calgary-Cleveland), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, hotel luggage handling (1 bag per person) and 8 meals. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details. Passport required.
a top drive destination of AAA East Central members
BEACHFRONT CONDO-HOTELS
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Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
BRAND-NEW TOUR!
Ice-walk or snowshoe at Maligne Canyon See eye-popping, jaw-dropping sculptures at the Lake Louise Ice Magic Festival Visit with a rare-gem specialist Marvel at snowy scenery along the Bow River Feel like royalty at the Fairmont Banff Springs, the iconic“Castle in the Rockies” Traverse the Icefields Parkway Stay at spectacular Château Lake Louise Enjoy the unforgettable panoramic journey from Edmonton to Jasper Savor an authentic “First Nations” dinner Sip cocoa and roast marshmallows around a blazing fire in Banff Special Inclusion: Ride in a sled drawn by Alaskan Huskies thrilled to be on the trail!
North Beach Plantation® The Caribbean Resort & Villas Compass Cove® Oceanfront Resort The Breakers Resort
AAA GUARANTEES THE BEST AVAILABLE RATES! GAS CARD OF UP TO $100 AND 2 AAA BEACH TOWELS FREE when you book & make a deposit June 1-30 on a stay of 4 nights or longer
1 card, 2 towels per booking. Based on stays between 5/21/16 — 9/10/16. Restrictions apply.
BEST OF BOTH WORLDS Condo space AND hotel amenities
You don’t live in one room at home; why live that way on vacation? Condo-hotels, among travel’s best-kept secrets, combine the spaciousness of condos and the amenities of hotels. They feature 2 to 5 bedrooms, multiple bathrooms, full kitchens, washers & dryers, dining areas, common living areas, balconies and numerous TVs. Enjoy the flexibility of eating meals or snacks at anytime and watching a variety of TV shows by different family members in different rooms. You get the 24/7 security of high-rise buildings with lobby checkin and amenities such as maid service, Wi-Fi and on-premises maintenance. Choose from 4 beachfront properties perfect for small or large families, multigenerational families (kids, parents and grandparents) and friends/neighbors vacationing together. Summer’s coming — call now!
LIMITED AVAILABILITY: Call the number below now for rates & dates.
AVAILABLE ONLY BY CALLING AAA AT 1-800-354-8761
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Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
JUNE 1-30: GET MORE THAN THE BEST PRICE ON A CRUISE...GET THE BEST VALUE (RATE, AMENITIES & A GIFT)! Between June 1 & 30, visit or call AAA Travel to book AAA Vacations®–branded cruises of 7 nights or longer and get...
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the best cruise-only rates in the travel industry
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exclusive member benefits that can include up to $300.00 savings per person...up to $300.00 onboard spending credit per stateroom (good toward the purchase of goods & services such as spa treatments, premium beverages, etc)...1 spa treatment per stateroom...an Onboard Value Booklet ($325.00 value)...and others
June 1-30
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exclusive value-added AAA Vacations® amenities that can include VIP Priority Check-in...24/7 Member Care throughout your cruise...up to $475.00 onboard spend ing credit per stateroom (good toward the purchase of goods & services such as spa treatments, premium beverages, etc)...up to $100.00 savings per person...and others
GUARANTEEBDLE BEST AVAILA CRUISE PRICES or you get a
CARD $100 VISA GIFT from l* AAA East Centra
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a free gift (1 per stateroom) exclusively from AAA East Central: Fitbit® Flex™ activity & sleep wristband (retail value $99.95) for oceanview staterooms Fitbit® Charge HR™ heart rate & fitness wristband (retail value $149.95) for balcony staterooms Fitbit® Blaze™ smart fitness watch (retail value $199.95) for suites
Cruises listed here represent only a sampling of the many others available. Visit a AAA office or AAA.com/cruises. SHIP
DATE
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ONBOARD CREDIT PP
OTHER AMENITIES/BENEFITS
Roundtrip from Civitavecchia Roundtrip from Cape Liberty Vancouver to Tokyo San Diego to Fort Lauderdale Roundtrip from Miami
$100 $50 $100 $100 $100
Priority check-in Priority check-in Priority check-in Priority check-in Priority check-in
Roundtrip from Civitavecchia Roundtrip from San Juan Roundtrip from Boston Roundtrip from Bayonne Roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale
$50 $50 $50 $100 $50
Priority check-in • Champagne in cabin during cruise Priority check-in • Champagne in cabin during cruise Priority check-in • Champagne in cabin during cruise Priority check-in • Champagne in cabin during cruise Priority check-in • Champagne in cabin during cruise Dinner for 2 at a specialty restaurant
Mexico Hawaiian Islands Pacific Coast Eastbound Panama Canal Eastern Caribbean
Roundtrip from San Francisco Roundtrip from Los Angeles Roundtrip from Vancouver Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale Roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale
$50 $75 $50 $75 $50
Preferred check-in on day of boarding • Preferred check-in on day of boarding • Preferred check-in on day of boarding • Preferred check-in on day of boarding • Preferred check-in on day of boarding •
Canada & New England Alaska: Glacier Discovery Northbound Mediterranean Rivieras South America Passage Southern Caribbean
Boston to Montreal Vancouver to Seward Barcelona to Civitavecchia Valparaiso to Buenos Aires Roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale
Westbound Transatlantic Europe: Ancient Treasures Caribbean Heart of the Caribbean
Barcelona to New York Roundtrip from Barcelona Roundtrip from Miami Roundtrip from Miami
$200 $200 $200 $200
Premium wine tasting event plus bottle of wine from tasting menu Premium wine tasting event plus bottle of wine from tasting menu Premium wine tasting event plus bottle of wine from tasting menu Premium wine tasting event plus bottle of wine from tasting menu
Westbound Transatlantic Eastbound Transatlantic Italy & France Caribbean Celebration
Southampton to New York New York to Southampton Roundtrip from Civitavecchia Roundtrip from New York
up to $400 up to $400 up to $400 up to $400
Enhanced afternoon tea service • Enhanced afternoon tea service • Enhanced afternoon tea service • Enhanced afternoon tea service •
Eastern Mediterranean Eastern Caribbean Eastern Caribbean
Roundtrip from Venice Miami to San Juan San Juan to Miami
$100 $100 $100
Chef’s Table dinner (6-course meal with wine pairing) Chef’s Table dinner (6-course meal with wine pairing) Chef’s Table dinner (6-course meal with wine pairing)
Europe: The Romantic Danube
Vilshofen to Budapest
$75
$100 discount per person (passengers 1 & 2) $150 exclusive member benefit per person (total $500 discount per cabin) $100 discount per person (passengers 1 & 2) $150 exclusive member benefit per person (total $500 discount per cabin) $100 discount per person (passengers 1 & 2) $150 exclusive member benefit per person (total $500 discount per cabin)
ITINERARY
CELEBRITY CRUISES Reflection 8/8 11 Eastern Mediterranean Summit 8/14 7 Bermuda Millennium 9/2 15 Westbound Transpacific Infinity 9/18 15 Eastbound Panama Canal Eclipse 12/21 12 Southern Caribbean ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL Harmony of the Seas 8/18 7 Western Mediterranean Adventure of the Seas 10/8 8 Southern Caribbean Serenade of the Seas 10/9 7 Canada & New England Anthem of the Seas 11/10 10 Eastern Caribbean Harmony of the Seas 12/24 7 Eastern Caribbean
PRINCESS CRUISES Grand 9/18 7 Crown 10/5 15 Star 10/9 10 Island 12/5 15 Royal 12/20 10 HOLLAND AMERICA LINE Veendam 9/3 7 Zaandam 9/11 7 Oosterdam 10/22 12 Zaandam 10/25 14 Koningsdam 12/4 10 OCEANIA CRUISES Sirena 10/4 14 Riviera 10/16 10 Regatta 11/5 12 Riviera 12/5 10 CUNARD LINE Queen Mary 9/1 7 Queen Mary 10/11 7 Queen Victoria 10/15 7 Queen Mary 12/22 12 AZAMARA CLUB CRUISES Journey 9/9 7 Quest 12/19 8 Quest 12/27 8 AMAWATERWAYS AmaSerena 11/20 7 12/8
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Europe: Christmas Time Cruise
Budapest to Nuremberg
$75
AmaDara
12/19
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Vietnam, Cambodia
Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City
$75
River Countess
10/28
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Maria Theresa
12/15
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Lisbon to Porto
*See the exact same cruise-only itinerary on the same cruise line at a lower rate elsewhere? AAA will match or beat it; if not, you get a $100.00 Visa gift card. Restrictions apply; consult an agent for details. Valid June 1-30, 2016.
exclusive wine tasting w sommelier exclusive wine tasting w sommelier exclusive wine tasting w sommelier exclusive wine tasting w sommelier exclusive wine tasting w sommelier
Pinnacle Grill dinner • Exclusive culinary event • HAL cookbook Pinnacle Grill dinner • Exclusive culinary event • HAL cookbook Pinnacle Grill dinner • Exclusive culinary event • HAL cookbook Pinnacle Grill & Canaletto dinners • Exclusive culinary event • HAL cookbook Pinnacle Grill dinner • exclusive culinary event • HAL cookbook
AmaViola
UNIWORLD BOUTIQUE RIVER CRUISE COLLECTION Queen Isabel 10/20 10 Portugal, Spain & Douro Valley
PUTTING OUR MONEY WHERE OUR MOUTH IS
complimentary Kings Court or Lido dining complimentary Kings Court or Lido dining complimentary Kings Court or Lido dining complimentary Kings Court or Lido dining
Airport-to-hotel & hotel-to-ship transfers Complimentary pre-night hotel including breakfast $125 exclusive member benefit per person (total $250 discount per cabin) Splendors of Italy Milan to Rome Airport-to-hotel & hotel-to-ship Complimentary pre-night hotel including breakfast $250 exclusive member benefit per person (total $500 discount per cabin) European Holiday Markets Vienna to Nuremberg Airport to hotel & hotel to ship transfers Complimentary pre-night hotel including breakfast $125 exclusive member benefit per person (total $250 discount per cabin) RESTRICTIONS APPLY. CONSULT WITH A AAA TRAVEL AGENT FOR DETAILS.
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Southeast & the Bahamas ....................Nov 12-21......................... from $1,124 Coastal USA & the Bahamas.................Jan 14-23 .......................... from $1,064 Coastal USA & the Bahamas.................Feb 4-13............................ from $1,045 AAA MEMBER RATES are per person (double occupancy), are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip motorcoach transportation (Cleveland–MD), 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.
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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.
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.
LEAVE YOUR CAR AT HOME!
FALLINGWATER FOLIAGE
© Orhan Çam / Fotolia.com
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Cruise on Anthem of the Seas & get $50 shipboard credit!
Car-free, carefree adventures
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Grandeur of the Seas from Baltimore
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COVENIENT MOTORCOACH CRUISING FROM CLEVELAND Avoid potential airport hassles: Motorcoach to & from your cruise! Park for free, then relax on AAA’s “Cruise Express” motorcoach right to your ship!
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Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
Oct 15-16 • $349
Frank Lloyd Wright’s progressive architecture is combined with the spectacular beauty of Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands on this wonderful fall weekend. Includes tours of 2 Frank Lloyd Wright homes (Fallingwater and Kentuck Knob), accommodations, 4 meals and more.
TENNESSEE SOUNDS GOOD TO ME Memphis & Nashville Oct 31–Nov 5 • $1,419 Visit 2 cities of great American music; famous for country, blues and the roots of rock n roll. In Memphis, visit Graceland, home of Elvis Presley, and Sun Studios where he, Johnny Cash, BB King and many others got their start. In Nashville, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame, see the Opryland Hotel and attend a performance of the Grand Ole Opry. Take in some of the other sights and landmarks that make these 2 cities so vibrant. Includes Paducah Quilt Museum, city tours (Memphis & Nashville), the Peabody Ducks, flatboat ride in the Opryland Hotel, Fontental Mansion, 7 meals and more.
NIAGARA FESTIVAL OF STARS WASHINGTON DC
Sept 8-11 • $699
Bring your camera to capture the most memorable sights of our nation’s capital. Enjoy a full-day tour to some of the city’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.
MACKINAC & UPPER PENINSULA Sept 26-30 • $949 Explore the beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, see the second largest waterfall east of the Mississippi and visit an island where time stands still. Includes ferry to Mackinac Island, carriage tour, Tahquamenon Falls, Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum, Soo Locks cruise, Soaring Eagle Casino, Frankenmuth, 7 meals (including lunch at the famous Grand Hotel) and much more.
MUSIC & RAILROADS OF WV Sept 30–Oct 2 • $589 Travel on the Cheat Mountain Salamander through WV’s mountains. Visit the National Radio Astronomy Observatory and one of the world’s largest telescopes. Enjoy shows at American Mountain Theater and Gandy Dancer Dinner Theatre. Includes train ride, observatory, shows, Blackwater Falls, entertainment, 5 meals and more.
Dec 4-5 • $449
Enjoy the annual holiday lighting display in Niagara Falls, Ontario, as well as 3 unique live shows — Irish singers Daniel O’Donnell & Mary Duff; American pop singer BJ Thomas; and The Caverners (a Canadian Beatles tribute band). Includes 3 shows, lights display, 2 meals and more. Passport required.
1-DAY FUN-DAY TOURS TARA & GROVE CITY OUTLETS: Western PA
July 30: $79. Lunch & tour of Tara–A Country Inn. Daffiin’s Candies. Premium Outlets.
THREE RIVERS CRUISE: Pittsburgh PA
Aug 19: $109. Luncheon cruise with Frank Sinatra tribute. 3 hours at Rivers Casino.
THREE RIVERS CRUISE: Pittsburgh PA
Sept 16: $109. Luncheon cruise with Neil Diamond tribute. 3 hours at Rivers Casino.
COVERED BRIDGES: Madison OH
Oct 1: $80. Guided tour of bridges. Grand River Cellars Winery. Robinson’s Apple Barn.
“MENNONITE GIRLS CAN COOK”: Sugarcreek OH Oct 17: $99. Play performance. Amish lunch. Winery. Cheese. Shopping.
BURTON TEA TOUR: Geauga County OH
Oct 28: $85. Quintealia’s Tea Parlor. Middlefield Cheese. End of Commons Store. Sunshine Farm.
© Peter Cox / Fotolia.com
1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
JUNE 2016
AAA MOTORIST
PAGE 15
U.S. Open returns to Oakmont Country Club The eyes of the golf world are on Western Pennsylvania
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he world’s top professional and amateur golfers will converge on the venerable Oakmont Country Club this month for a record ninth time at the 2016 U.S. Open. This year’s field is expected to include former champions Rory McIlroy, Martin Kaymer, Webb Simpson, Ernie Els, and last year’s winner Jordan Spieth. One of the signature events in professional golf will be broadcast to 170 countries and territories on six continents, including live coverage on Fox and Fox Sports 1. Practice rounds begin on Monday June 13th, with the four-day, 72-hole tournament running from Thursday, June 16th through Sunday, June 19th. Oakmont Country Club has hosted more major Championships than any other course in the country, including eight U.S. Opens, three PGA championships, five U.S. Amateurs and most recently the 2010 U.S. Women’s Open. The course has been the backdrop for some of the U.S. Open’s greatest moments. Ben Hogan defeating Sam Snead in 1953 to win the second of his three straight majors. Johnny Miller shooting a record final round 63 and winning the 1973 U.S. Open, by a stroke. Jack Nicklaus defeating Arnold Palmer in a playoff in 1962 to win the first of his 18 majors. To commemorate their legendary duel Palmer and Nicklaus have been named honorary
THE OPEN HOUSE — The historic green-and-white clubhouse at Oakmont overlooks the ninth green. (Copyright USGA/John Mummert) co-chairmen of this year’s event. Oakmont personifies the philosophy of disgruntled fictional golf course designer Ian MacCallister (as portrayed by John Cleese) that “golf is supposed to be hard.” Although nearly devoid of water hazards, and now almost treeless, thanks to a controversial clearing of some 4,000 trees in 2007, Oakmont remains one of North America’s most
formidable golf courses. Tight fairways are fringed with tall fescue and over 200 bunkers, including the infamous Church Pews — about 100 yards long with twelve grass-covered ridges — that come into play on the 3rd and 4th holes. Slick greens tilt away from the fairway at every angle, and are so notoriously difficult that Lee Trevino once
claimed every time he two-putted at Oakmont he knew he was passing somebody on the leader board. Golf Digest lists Oakmont as #6 in its most recent ranking of America’s Top 100 courses. Now a National Historic Landmark, Oakmont was founded in 1903 by Pittsburgh industrialist Henry C. Fownes. Amazingly, it was his first and only foray into golf course design. After routing the course using mule teams and an army of immigrant laborers he declared: “Let the clumsy, the spineless and alibi-makers stand aside,” words that would certainly warm Ian MacCallister’s crusty old Scottish heart. True to its reputation Oakmont exacted a heavy punishment on the field during the 2007 U.S. Open with a stroke average of 75.72, and Angel Cabrera’s winning score of five-over par. Now it’s up to new crop of young stars like Rickie Fowler, Jason Day and Jordan Spieth to prove they can do better. IF YOU GO
The 2016 U.S. Open will take place June 13-19, 2016 at Oakmont Country Club in Oakmont. The gates open daily at 6 a.m. for each day of the championship (practice rounds and championship rounds) Tickets start at $50 and can be purchased at usga.org/tickets and include complimentary offsite parking and transportation.
Falling fuel prices lower driving costs to six-year low Annual cost to own and operate a vehicle drops in 2016
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alling gas prices have driven down the annual cost to own and operate a vehicle in the U.S. to a six-year low. According to AAA’s 2016 Your Driving Costs study a driver can expect to spend 57 cents for each mile driven, or approximately $713 per month or $8,558 a year to cover the fixed and variable costs associated with owning and operating a typical sedan. “American drivers can expect to save hundreds of dollars in fuel costs in 2016,” said Jim Lehman, AAA East Central president and CEO. “Fortunately, this annual savings more than offsets the moderate increases in maintenance, insurance, finance charges and other costs associated with owning and operating a vehicle.” Compared to last year’s study, the average price of regular fuel fell more than 25 percent to $2.139 per gallon in the fourth quarter. At the same time, vehicle redesigns and improved powertrain technologies increased the average fuel economy of the sedans used in the study to 26.71 mpg. Insurance rates vary widely with driver, driving habits, issuing company, geographical area and more. While AAA’s insurance cost estimates are based on low-risk drivers with good driving records, even this group has seen rates
rise over the past few years. Lower gas prices have resulted in more miles driven, an increase in collisions and higher insurance payouts. Insurance premiums are up 9.60 percent to $1,222 per year, a $107 increase over 2015. The single largest ownership expense, depreciation, rose for 2016 due to robust new-car sales and, therefore, increasing numbers of used and off-lease vehicles entering the marketplace. This reduces retained value and
resale prices, thus increasing depreciation by $105 or 2.87 percent to $3,759 per year. Maintenance costs rose 3.33 percent to 5.28 cents per mile/$792 per year a slight increase of $25 per year. More engines are requiring expensive semior full-synthetic motor oils, along with modest increases in extended warranty pricing and shop labor rates. Along with rising vehicle prices, many states, counties and cities have
increased their fees related to vehicle purchasing, titling, registration and licensing. License/Registration/Taxes were up 3.31 percent to $687 per year in 2016. The average vehicle finance rate remained relatively unchanged in 2016. A modest 2.09 percent or $14 increase in finance charges is attributable to higher new car prices combined with increased tax, title, license and registration fees, which are typically rolled into the vehicle financing. Tire costs were essentially flat increasing by 2.04 percent .02 cent per mile, to 1 cent per mile in 2016. AAA also determined annual costs associated with both minivans and sport utility vehicles. Owners of these vehicles also benefited from lower driving costs in 2016, at $9,262 and $10,255 respectively. AAA has published the report every year since 1950, when driving cost just 9 cents per mile, and gasoline sold for 27 cents a gallon.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Download AAA’s 2016 Your Driving Costs brochure at NewsRoom.AAA.com to calculate your own vehicle costs, and for a list of vehicles and information on the underlying criteria used in the study.
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AAA MOTORIST
JUNE 2016
Find your green machine with the AAA Green Car Guide It’s easy being green at AAA.com/greencar
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ooking for the latest information on fuel-efficient vehicles and low-emission technology? Look no further then the 2016 AAA Green Car Guide. Produced by the Automobile Club of Southern California’s Automotive Research Center (ARC), the sixth annual edition reviewed over 80 battery electric vehicles, compressed natural gas-powered (CNG) vehicles, clean diesels, hybrids, partial zero emission vehicles (PZEVs), and vehicles with high fuel economy. This year’s Top AAA Green Car is the 2015 Tesla Model S 70D. “The Tesla has a 240-mile range, room for five, excellent power and steering, and fast charge capability,” said John Nielsen, AAA’s managing director of Automotive Engineering and Repair. “Add sleek styling, great acceleration and an air of sophistication that separates it from other alternative-fuel vehicles and you see why the Model S 70D was our top vehicle this year.” AAA’s top three green vehicles were all electrics, with the BMW i3 and Volkswagen e-Golf SEL Premium rounding out the top three. “The research center’s evaluators divided the vehicles into six categories, crunched the numbers, and identified winners in each category,” added Nielsen. “They also recognized winners by price,” he said. “The Tesla took three awards — Best Green Car over $50,000,
ALL CHARGED UP — The 2015 Tesla Model S 70D is AAA’s top-rated Green Car. James Lipman photo courtesy Tesla Motors. the large car category winner and the AAA Top Green Car. In other categories, the best green car under $30,000 was the Mazda 3S Grand Touring, and the best green pickup is the Ford F-150 Supercab Lariat.” “Today car shoppers can choose high-quality, zero-to-low-emission vehicles in a growing selection of body
Five tips for a smooth car rental
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unshine and warm temperatures offer the promise of the open road and adventure around every bend. As travelers prepare for their summer vacations, they should consider the following car rental/travel tips from Hertz when making their plans: • Reserve your car well in advance particularly during the high season. Booking several weeks before departure will help you secure the right vehicle and the best deals. With exclusive AAA members-only discounts and benefits the Hertz system will automatically assign the best rate available within the chosen channel of distribution at the time of reservation. • Streamline your pick-up. Spend less time at the car rental counter and more time enjoying your trip. AAA members can sign up for a free Hertz Gold Plus Rewards® membership, and avoid the paper work at the counter altogether. Just show your license and pick-up your keys at the designated Gold counters, or bypass the counter completely at many airport locations. Enjoy expedited drop-off with eReturn. Members also earn Hertz Gold Plus Rewards® Points for every qualifying U.S. dollar spent on Hertz rentals and optional services. •
•
•
Select the right car. The number of passengers, amount of luggage, the distance you intend to travel, the kind of roads you’ll be driving on, parking options and climate should all be considered. Hertz offers a broad range of vehicle options including their exclusive Fun, Green, Family, Prestige and Dream Collections. Check on policies regarding mileage and fuel. Unlimited mileage allows the greatest flexibility, and is a good idea if you drive long distances. Exclusive Hertz AAA member benefits include free unlimited mileage on most rentals. Most rental companies supply vehicles with a full tank of fuel and charge a refueling fee if cars are returned with less than a full tank. Customers can also opt to purchase a tank of gas from Hertz at local prices and eliminate the hassle of rushing around trying to find a gas station. AAA members also receive 10 percent off the Hertz Fuel Purchase Option. Consider the extras. Some of the ways Hertz makes your journey smoother include free use of one child, infant or booster seat, and no charge for an additional driver, if that driver is a AAA member and meets standard rental qualifications.
type and size and price. The AAA Green Car Guide is designed to help give consumers research-based information and tips to find the vehicle that best suits their needs and navigate the green car marketplace with confidence,” said Megan McKernan, manager of the Automotive Research Center. “AAA’s expertise along with the Automobile
Club of Southern California’s nearly half-century of automotive research with alternative-fuel vehicles continues to benefit AAA members and the public today.” A recent AAA member green vehicle survey found that green car issues are important across generations with millennials and non-millennials saying they’d consider buying a green vehicle because of fuel costs and environmental impact. The majority of respondents in the AAA survey also said they are interested in a green vehicle when shopping for a new car and 82 percent stated it was important to understand green technology. To help car buyers and enthusiasts vehicles were grouped into categories according to size, body type and three price ranges. They were scored by the Los Angeles-based Automotive Research Center in real-world evaluations (acceleration, handling, ride comfort, turning, cargo capacity, etc.). The report also contains in-depth information about green technologies, vehicle safety and advanced driver assistance systems.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
To view the Green Car Guide online or to download the .pdf version at no charge visit www.AAA.com/greencar.
Endless Rewards & Unlimited Cash Back
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verywhere you go, anywhere you make purchases, you could be earning cash back with the AAA Member Rewards Visa® credit card. Created exclusively for AAA members, this card lets you earn more points and gives you more reward options than any other credit card offer you’ve received from AAA. The AAA Member Rewards card rewards you for every purchase and lets you earn multiple points per dollar on the purchases you make most often.** • 3X points on qualifying AAA and travel purchases; • 2X points on gas, grocery store and drugstore purchases; • 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases. Paying $50 these days to fill up your tank? That’s 100 points. Charge $1,000 in qualifying airfare, and that’s 3,000 points. You can redeem for rewards including unlimited cash back, gift cards, statement credit, air travel with no blackout dates, car rentals and hotel stays in the U.S. The rewards don’t stop there. You can also redeem for exclusive AAA vouchers good toward AAA purchases like travel bookings, membership and theme park tickets, just to name a few. Apply today by visiting any AAA branch or online at AAA.com/creditcard. Carry the card that gets you there. Total Points
Cash Back
Travel Voucher
AAR Voucher
5,000
$50
$60
$55
7,500
$75
$60
$55
10,000
$100
$120
$110
20,000
$200
$250
$220
For information about rates, fees, other costs and benefits associated with the use of this credit card, or to apply, visit AAA.com/ creditcard or any AAA branch and refer to the disclosures accompanying the application. ** Earn 1 point per dollar of new net retail purchase transactions (qualifying purchases less credits, returns, and adjustments) charged to the card each billing cycle. Earn 2 points per dollar for purchases made with the card at any eligible gas, grocery store or pharmacy retail merchant categories as designated by Bank of America. Earn 3 points per dollar for purchases made with the card through any participating AAA Club when AAA is the merchant of record, or at eligible retail travel merchant categories as designated by Bank of America. Points expire five (5) years after the month they were earned. Additional restrictions apply. Please refer to disclosures accompanying application for more details. This credit card program is issued and administered by Bank of America, N.A. Visa and Visa Signature are registered trademarks of Visa International Service Association and are used by the issuer pursuant to license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. ©2016 Bank of America Corporation ©2016 AAA
JUNE 2016
AAA MOTORIST
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Harmony of the Seas is the next big thing World’s largest cruise ship makes her debut
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oyal Caribbean International’s just launched Harmony of the Seas is an unprecedented floating adventure that will surprise and delight guests at every turn. The 16-deck, 227,000-ton colossus features 2,747 staterooms, an onboard ice rink and more boroughs than the Big Apple. Travelers can expect a bold and unexpected lineup of thrilling experiences, imaginative dining, unparalleled entertainment and the latest technology, including VOOM, the fastest Internet at sea. Harmony combines the iconic seven neighborhood concept pioneered by sister ships Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas with some groundbreaking new offerings. British seaside towns like Brighton and New York’s Coney Island inspired the nostalgic Boardwalk. Central Park is filled with serene pathways, seasonal flower gardens and canopy trees. The park’s piazza is the ship’s “town square,” and in the evening becomes a gathering place for alfresco dining and entertainment. The 5,479-passenger ship is also amping up the adventure with Splashaway Bay an interactive aqua park for kids and the Perfect Storm trio of water slides. Perhaps the most anticipated new onboard feature is the Ultimate Abyss. The tallest slide at sea hurtles riders down ten decks in a heart pounding 100-foot plunge.
A SLIPPERY SLOPE — The Ultimate Abyss in the aft of the ship is the tallest waterslide at sea. Royal Caribbean photo. Ever wonder what it feels like to free fall from 10,000 feet without jumping out of an airplane? RipCord by iFly is the only skydiving experience at sea. Before you can say “Geronimo” you’ll be floating on a column of air inside a 23-foot tall transparent glass flight chamber on the top deck. Patrons can follow the romantic twists and turns of Sandy and Danny
IT PAYS TO BE A MEMBER. Get a FREE 32” Samsung TV* (a $319.99 value) when you purchase a $699.99+ PC. Shop a special selection of PCs for AAA members.
XPS 13 + Free TV The world’s smallest 13” laptop with the world’s first virtually borderless InfinityEdge display—amazing both inside and out.
Free Samsung TV
With 6th Gen Intel® Core™ i5 processor
Shop your AAA member store today at:
AAA.com/dell or call 800-274-4635 Member ID: GS75971913 Offer valid from 5/1/16-9/29/16.
ALL ORDERS ARE SUBJECT TO APPROVAL AND ACCEPTANCE BY DELL. Offers subject to change, not combinable with all other offers. Taxes, shipping, handling and other fees apply. Valid for U.S. Dell Member Purchase Program new purchases only. Dell reserves right to cancel orders arising from pricing or other errors. *Free TV offer: Eligible product ships separately from TV. Dell only accepts returns of the entire bundle. *Rewards are in the form of a promotional code that arrives separately from purchase via email 10-20 days after ship date; code expires in 90 days (except where prohibited by law). Up to 10% rewards only on Dell Preferred Account purchases. 5% reward on all other purchases. Bose products only eligible for 5% rewards. Refurbished and/or used purchases do not qualify for Rewards. Second Business Day Shipping not available on TVs 40" or larger and 55" Dell Branded Monitors. See dell.com/rewardterms. Trademarks: XPS is a trademark of Dell, Inc. Ultrabook, Celeron, Celeron Inside, Core Inside, Intel, Intel Logo, Intel Atom, Intel Atom Inside, Intel Core, Intel Inside, Intel Inside Logo, Intel vPro, Itanium, Itanium Inside, Pentium, Pentium Inside, vPro Inside, Xeon, Xeon Phi, and Xeon Inside are trademarks of Intel Corporation in the U.S. and/or other countries.
as they navigate the tricky social waters of Rydell High School in the Broadway hit musical Grease. This all-new, stage production features original choreography, lavish costumes and stunning aerial elements set to an unforgettable soundtrack. Columbus, The Musical! is an original production created in the spirit of “Spamalot”. The story recounts the
imagined history of Marvin Columbus, Christopher’s fictional, down on his luck, distant cousin hoping to claim his own place in history. The high-diving, hair-raising aerobatics of AquaTheater are reaching new heights with two 10-meter high platforms and the largest and deepest freshwater pool at sea. A talented cast of champion divers and gymnasts perform adrenalin-pumping feats, while elaborate fountain shows are choreographed to music and lights. Sophisticated dining in venues ranging from Jamie’s Italian by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver, to Royal Caribbean’s whimsical Wonderland, a culinary adventure for the senses. Harmony of the Seas will spend her inaugural summer season showcasing Europe’s most popular cruise destinations on seven-night Western Mediterranean itineraries calling on Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, Spain; Provence, France; Florence/Pisa, Rome and Naples, Italy. In November, Harmony will transition to her homeport of Port Everglades in Ft. Lauderdale, for seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean sailings. FOR MORE INFORMATION
Please see this month’s Departures Guide or visit your AAA Travel Agent or AAA.com for special member values on cruise vacations.
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AAA MOTORIST
JUNE 2016
Motorists and cyclists can share the road safely Bicycles share same rules and the same rights
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illions of Americans ride bicycles for exercise and to get where they need to go. Today’s high-tech twowheelers are not only perfect for fitness and recreation; they reduce road congestion and greenhouse gas emissions. Cycling can also be hazardous. Bicycles are associated with more childhood injuries than any other form of transportation except the automobile. During the summer, child bicycling deaths increase 45 percent above the monthly average. That’s not to say that bicycle safety is strictly a children’s issue. Statistically, cyclists ages 45–54 suffer the highest fatality rates. Head injuries are the leading cause of death in bicycle crashes and wearing a properly fitted bicycle helmet has been shown to reduce the risk by up to 85 percent, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Motorists bear a special responsibility to share the road safely with bicyclists, pedestrians, and other legal forms of transportation. Many don’t realize that in most states the law treats bicycles like any other vehicle and they should be given the same consideration. AAA recommends that motorists double check before changing lanes or making a turn — once for cars and trucks, and once for bicycles and motor-
ver. A cyclist might swerve suddenly to avoid road hazards like potholes or road debris. Children on bicycles are often unpredictable, so expect the unexpected.
Rules for cyclists
NOT JUST CHILD’S PLAY — Statistically, cyclists ages 45–54 suffer the highest fatality rates. Photo courtesy Kia. cycles. Cutting into the path of a bicyclist while making a right turn is one of the leading causes of car-bike accidents. Drivers should never tailgate a bicycle. Following too closely may cause a rider’s attention to be distracted from the road and traffic ahead. Don’t honk your horn. Honking near or behind a bicyclist could startle the rider and cause them to serve or lose control.
Be careful when opening your vehicle door. Road widths often force bicyclists to ride close to parked vehicles where they may be injured by an opening door. Maintain at least four feet of clearance when passing and when in doubt, yield to the bicyclist. Reduce your speed before passing so you have better chances of avoiding a sudden maneu-
Because of the hazards inherent in sharing the road with motor vehicles, bicyclists need to ride cautiously and observe the following safety tips: • Ride on the roadway or shared pathways, rather than on sidewalks; • Follow the same rules of the road as other roadway users, including riding in the same direction as traffic and following all the same traffic signs and signals; • Signal all turns; • Wear an approved bicycle helmet every time and on every ride; • Be visible by wearing bright colors during the day, reflective gear in low light conditions, and use head and tail lights at night. Remember that respect is a two way street. Show motorists the same courtesy that you expect from them.
SHARE THE ROAD
AAA wants you to pedal with peace of mind. We’ve organized some reliable bicycle safety videos and information at exchange.AAA.com.
aroundtown PARADE THE CIRCLE — (June 11) University Circle comes alive with color, music and art for all ages at this event sponsored by the Cleveland Museum of Art. International and national guest artists join Greater Cleveland artists, families, schools, and community groups in a spectacular display of bright costumes, giant puppets, stilt dancers, handmade masks and colorful floats. Circle Village 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Parade at noon. For information, call 216707-2483 or visit clevelandart.org. Location: Wade Oval, University Circle, Cleveland. WORKING DOG WEEKEND — (June 11-12) Have a howling good time and meet many breeds of dogs, talk to handlers and trainers, and find out which dog is right for you. See demonstrations by Lake County police K-9 units, Skyhoundz Disc Dogs, Hampton Hills Newfoundlands and discover the many sports and activities to enjoy with a four-legged friend. Children can try their “paws” at agility, Flyball, guiding the blind, and may bring their favorite stuffed toy dog for a parade and “vet checkup.” Due to the nature of this event and facility, please do not bring your pets. Time: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regular Farmpark admission applies. For information, visit lake-
metroparks.com. Location: Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland. PANCAKES IN THE PARK — (June 12) Enjoy a park setting while a delicious pancake breakfast is prepared and served to you by Freedom Greyhound Rescue Volunteers. All-you-can-eat pancakes. All wellbehaved dogs on leashes are welcomed. Cost: $6 adults, $4 kids, children under four eat free. Time: 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Repeat events on July 10 and August 14. For information, visit freedomgreyhoundrescue.org. Location: Kiwanis Moore Park, 35 S. Pioneer Trail, Aurora. THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA — (June 15-30) Cameron Mackintosh’s spectacular new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s phenomenal musical success, The Phantom of the Opera, will come to Cleveland as part of a brand-new North American tour. Hailed by critics as “bigger and better than ever before,” this production boasts exciting new special effects, scenic and lighting designs, staging and choreography. For tickets and information, call 216-7714444 or visit playhousesquare.com. Location: Playhouse Square, 1501 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland. STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL — (June 16-19) The 56th annual Kirtland Kiwanis Strawberry Festival features strawberry shortcakes, sundaes, fresh
strawberries, rides, Miss Kirtland contest, games, flea market, crafts, food, fun and entertainment for the whole family. Thursday and Friday 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday noon to 11 p.m., Sunday noon to 6 p.m. For information, visit kiwanisofkirtland.org. Location: Kirtland High School, 9150 Chillicothe Road, Kirtland. AVON DUCK TAPE FESTIVAL — (June 17-19) Experience all things Duck Tape® with fashion, a parade, crafts and more at the 13th annual Avon Heritage Duck Tape Festival. Duck Tape Parade starts on Saturday at 10 a.m. from Avon High School. Friday 4 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For information, visit ducktapefestival.com or call 866-818-1116. Location: Veterans Memorial Park, 3701 Veterans Memorial Parkway, Avon. FESTIVAL OF THE FISH — (June 17-19) The 50th annual Festival of the Fish features free daily entertainment, kid’s games, food and craft booths, fireworks on Friday, and a parade on Sunday. There is also a lighted boat parade, pet parade, sandcastle building contest, crazy craft race, fishing tournaments, queen’s pageant, firefighters’ water fights and more. For information, visit vermilionchamber.net. Location: Exchange Park, downtown Vermilion.
GARRETTSVILLE SUMMERFEST — (June 24-26) — One of the largest summer celebrations in northeast Ohio, Summerfest is packed with more live entertainment and music than you’ll find at most county fairs. For more information, visit garrettsvillesummerfest.com. Location: Intersection of Rtes. 88 and 82, Garrettsville. ASHLAND BALLOONFEST — (June 30-July 3) It’s been 26 years of highflying fun! Balloonfest is an outing with the entire family in mind. Entertainment, music, shows, and an assortment of food vending is all part of the nonstop activities. The Balloon Glow is always a highlight. For information, visit ashlandohioballoonfest.com. Location: Freer Field, Center Street and Morgan Avenue, Ashland. CLEVELAND ORCHESTRA SALUTE TO AMERICA — (July 4) Join thousands of your neighbors, family and friends for great music, fireworks and fun! Northeast Ohio’s favorite Independence Day tradition features a mix of patriotic Sousa marches, Broadway favorites, an Armed Forces Salute, and more – ending with the “1812 Overture” and fireworks! Time: 8 p.m. For information, visit clevelandorchestra.com. Location: Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls.
JUNE 2016
AAA MOTORIST
PAGE 19
Earn your wings at Cedar Point this summer Valravn lifts off at the world’s coaster capital
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edar Point is changing the Lake Erie skyline again with the introduction of Valravn (val-rey-vuhn), the world’s tallest, fastest and longest dive coaster. This regal king of raptors is swooping down to conquer all other dive coasters on the planet with its powerful and intense maneuvers, massive structure and immense ride vehicles. The 18th coaster at the “Roller Coaster Capital of the World“ will claim its rightful place among other record-breaking roller coasters like Millennium Force and Magnum XL-200, the world’s first hyper-coaster. Top Thrill Dragster was the first roller coaster in the world to break the 400-foot-tall milestone. It goes from zero to 120 mph in 4-seconds, over 2,800-feet of twisting track. Valravn will shatter an astonishing 10 world records. Riders are carried more than 20 stories up to the top of the coaster’s 223-foot-tall first hill. Once there, the train is held perilously over the edge of the first drop for approximately four seconds, giving anxious guests unmatched and perhaps petrifying views of the park before free-falling a record 214 feet at a totally vertical, 90-degree angle, and reaching a top speed of 75 mph! Riders are then flipped upside-down through a 165-foot-tall Immelmann, a
and attractions, Cedar Point has been voted the “Best Amusement Park in the World” for 16 consecutive years by the readers of Amusement Today. In addition to all of the heart stopping thrills, there are three kids’ areas, a variety of live entertainment, restaurants, games, and Soak City, a huge 18-acre water park overflowing with thrilling water slides and a gigantic 500,000-gallon wave pool. Race down a serpentine slide full of dips and turns on Dragster H2O, or splash down in Splash Zone, a multi-story interactive play area with more than 100 different wet and wild water gadgets. Valravn is just one of several additions to Cedar Point this summer. Visit the Glass Academy on the Frontier Trail and see glass-blowing demonstrations or create your own souvenir.
FLYING HIGH AGAIN — Valravn takes its name from a supernatural bird from Danish folklore. Photo credit: Cedar Point. fighter jet-like maneuver that takes the train into a half loop, then a half roll before traveling in the opposite direction. The train approaches another drop zone — but there’s no stopping this time as riders plunge 125 feet down at a near 90-degree angle once again, twisting and turning upside-down two more times. Once through a dive loop followed by
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a 270-degree roll before completing its epic journey over 3,415 feet of track. Much like GateKeeper, Cedar Point’s gargantuan winged coaster, Valravn simulates the sensation of flying. Riders are seated on one of three, 24-passenger floorless trains with tiered seating, and over-the-shoulder restraints. With more than 150 rides, shows
Members can save up to $18.60 off the regular Any Day gate price for Cedar Point tickets. Visit your local AAA branch to purchase your discounted Cedar Point tickets. AAA also saves you on tickets to movies, theme parks, water parks & attractions – more than 60 in all – when you buy them through AAA. Visit a AAA branch office or go to AAA.com/tickets for a comprehensive list
Lower gas prices fueling more family road trips National parks, cruises and theme parks among top choices
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amilies across the country are eagerly awaiting the end of the school year and the beginning of summer. Millions of travelers are getting ready to visit their favorite beach destinations, theme parks, or foreign countries. According to a recent AAA survey, more than one-third of Americans (35 percent) are planning to take a family vacation of 50 miles or more away from home involving two or more immediate family members in the next 12 months. Of this group, fifty-five percent of Americans say they are more likely to take a road trip this year due to lower gas prices. Road trips (69 percent), national parks (49 percent) and theme parks (42 percent) are the most popular types of vacations for families planning to travel. Vacations to international destinations (26 percent) and cruises (19 percent) round out the top five most popular vacation options for traveling families. Two-thirds of Americans say spending quality time as a family is the most important part of taking a family vacation. Whether it’s a cross-country road trip or a dream vacation to a far-off destination, travel offers busy families an excellent opportunity to share experiences and connect with each other in meaningful ways. AAA Travel experts offer tips for families planning vacations this year: • Road Trips: AAA recommends travelers map out a route in advance to
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trips to international destinations this year. The current strength of the dollar makes international travel especially affordable right now and Americans will get more for their money when visiting destinations around the world. Cruises: Cruise vacations offer a variety of activities for all ages, plus children’s programs that give parents a chance to relax and unwind. Approximately 24 million vacationers are expected to cruise the world’s waterways in 2016, one million more than last year. Experienced travel agents can help first-time cruisers identify the cruise line, ship and itinerary that best suits their family.
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IF YOU GO make the most of their road trip. Drivers should plan frequent stops, about every 100 miles or two hours, to remain alert. Tools such as AAA’s TripTik Travel Planner, in desktop and app versions, can help families find AAA Diamond Rated hotels and restaurants, gas prices and plan fun stops along the way. National Parks: The National Park Service celebrates its centennial anniversary in 2016, making it a great year for travelers to discover the parks. The most popular national parks, such as Great Smoky Mountains, Grand •
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Canyon and Yosemite, may reach capacity during peak travel times, so plan ahead. For families traveling on a budget, national parks are waiving entrance fees this year Aug. 25-28, Sept. 24 and Nov. 11. Theme Parks: Theme parks are a perennial family favorite and for those with flexible travel schedules, September is a great time to visit theme parks, when travelers can experience lighter crowds and shorter lines. International destinations: Favorable exchange rates and discounted pricing are helping many families plan
Download the free AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android before you go. Use it to map a route, find the lowest gas prices, access exclusive member discounts, find more than 58,000 AAA Approved and Diamond Rated hotels and restaurants, request AAA roadside assistance and more. For in-person travel planning, seek the expert advice of a trusted AAA travel advisor, who can provide personalized service and first hand destination knowledge to create a memorable family vacation. For more information and to begin planning a vacation, visit AAA.com/Travel.
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AAA MOTORIST
JUNE 2016