Pa_ by AAA East Central

SEE PAGE 3

Vol. 62 No. 4

WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA

MEMBERS SAVE! Premier .......... $600 Plus .................. $500 Basic ................$450

SPECTACULAR

New bookings with deposit April 1-30, 2015. Savings are per room, double occupancy.

SOUTH AFRICA

Bucket-list tour has 2 photo safaris, Victoria Falls, Cape Town and more!

AFARI is Swahili for “journey.” This sin& diamond center and South Africa’s largest gle word readily conjures up endless city. A visit to informal settlements in Soweto images of exotic animals, peoples and (South West Township) includes lunch with places. And, on AAA’s Spectacular South locals at a shebeen (house tavern). Ponder the Africa escorted adventure (April 14-30, 2016), nation’s divisive past at Liliesleaf — Nelson you won’t be disappointed! Mandela’s arrest site and the liberation moveAnd to make it easier to bring these images ment’s former center and place of refuge. to life, AAA has conjured up member-only disTravel through the spectacular Drakensburg counts of as much as $600 when you book & Mountains and the wondrous red sandstone deposit through 4/30/15. The specific discount of Blyde River Canyon on the way to South you’ll enjoy is tied to your AAA membership level Africa’s largest game reserve, Kruger National and is per room (double occupancy). AAA PrePark. A local expert leads you on a full-day mier members save $600, AAA Plus members search for the Big 5 — elephant, buffalo, lion, save $500 and Basic AAA members save $450. leopard and rhino. Watch carefully from your Explore wild and wonderful locales comfortopen-air safari vehicle; you may also see impaably and confidently as a group with your fella, zebra and giraffe. Relax with a picnic lunch, low AAA travelers and an experienced guide surrounded by the beauty of Kruger National from AAA Member Choice Vacations® from Park. the moment you arrive in South Africa. Fly from Jo’burg to George and, at FeatherThis 15-night tour is jam-packed with great bed Nature Reserve, cruise on a lagoon to the opportunities to view — and in some cases, Heads — sandstone cliffs near Knysna, the cumeet — wildlife “up close and personal.” Sidle linary capital of oysters and other delectable up to penguins braying like donkeys, enjoy saseafood. Board a 4x4 vehicle and travel deep faris (from an open-air vehicle and from atop into the forest for lunch among ancient milkan elephant’s back!) and “capture” lions, leopwood trees. Then travel on to the national osards, rhinos and more with your camera! trich capital; continued on page 16 From Johannesburg to Soweto to Cape Town to Victoria Falls, you’ll meet local people (children at a township school, adults in a Zimbabwean village) THIS and gain a better unCOULD !BE derstanding of southern YOU Africa’s diverse cultures, social challenges and unique ways of life. We took the South Africa trip through AAA: “Magnificent” is how we And the places you’ll describe it to everyone! Breathtaking...and so professionally organized/ visit! In the wealthiest led. Though we’ve since traveled to the Amazon, Germany and China, province, cosmopolitan Ed & Carlene Behanna we’d return to Africa with AAA in a heartbeat! Jo’burg bustles as a gold

APRIL 2015 Glasses.com Joins AAA Discounts & Rewards

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

WHEN MOBILITY TURNS TO MAYHEM ON THE ROAD

Glasses.com is an online retailer of prescription and non-prescription glasses and sunglasses, carrying a widerange of styles and brands such as Oakley, Ray-Ban, Burberry, Maui Jim, and more. They make finding and getting your perfect pair of glasses easier than ever, with proprietary 3D virtual try-on technology and making custom lenses in their in-house lab. They offer quick turnaround on prescription lenses and incredible savings compared to other retail stores. As part of the Luxottica brand they have a commitment to providing world-class customer service, backed by customer-friendly guarantees and return policies. AAA members will receive 25% off the total order and free basic lenses or 25% off lens upgrades on orders of $200 or more, exclusive of tax. On orders below $200, AAA members will receive 15 % off the total order and free basic lenses or 15% off lens upgrades. Visit them online at AAA.com/glasses.

AAA Members Can Save Money & the Planet AAA East Central, in partnership with the Pennsylvania Resources Council, is sponsoring a household chemical disposal event on Saturday, May 2nd at Pittsburgh’s North Park Swimming Pool Lot, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Items accepted include paint, paint products, automotive fluids, lawn and garden chemicals, cleaners, solvents, aerosol cans, among many others. The disposal fee is $3/gallon but AAA members who display their membership cards will receive a $5 discount (some restrictions apply). For more information call (412) 488-7452 or visit www.prc.org.

Playoff Savings at PensGear Team Stores Show your Pittsburgh Penguins® pride and save on the latest clothing and merchandise at select PensGear stores. AAA members receive an exclusive 10% discount at the CONSOL Energy Center and SouthSide Works PensGear locations when they show their AAA card at time of purchase. Stop in and check out the new Third Jersey and Pittsburgh Gold Collection gear, or pick up the newest addition to the Iceburgh bobble head of the month series. The Penguins team store inside the CONSOL Energy Center is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday (hours vary on event nights). The SouthSide Works Store is located at 442 South 27th Street, and is open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Saturday; and 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday. AAA member discount excludes Penguins Foundation items and game used equipment.

Hot Destinations & Cool Deals Ready for an all-inclusive vacation to one of Mexico’s sunny beach resorts? Pleasant Holidays has been making destinations like Cancun, Riviera Maya, and Cozumel more memorable for over 50 years. Book and deposit your all-inclusive tropical getaway from Pleasant Holidays before April 30, 2015, and take advantage of $100 savings per room, (double occupancy) from AAA Travel. SEE PAGE 7.

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AAA MOTORIST

ChildSecure™ helps monitor your children’s identity ProtectMyID® Deluxe — Identity protection for the entire family

ou may think identity theft could never happen to you, but each year millions of Americans become victims. What’s worse is that a growing number of identity theft victims are children. Thieves can use a child’s Social Security number to open bank and credit card accounts, apply for a loan or government benefits, rent an apartment, or set up utility service. Children can have their identity stolen by family members or family acquaintances, but identity thieves are often perfect strangers who specifically target children knowing it can take a long time before the crime is discovered. Fortunately, parents who are AAA members and sign up for the ProtectMyID® Deluxe identity theft monitoring program can enroll their children, as well. The program is a new benefit for members. Enrolling in ProtectMyID® Deluxe is critical step to help protect the identity of you and your minor children. ProtectMyID® Deluxe, a comprehensive Identity Theft Monitoring product by Experian®, is just $8.95 a month—a 56 percent savings for AAA members and associates. The ChildSecure™ feature of the ProtectMyID® Deluxe product helps detect identity theft of your children by searching for an Experian credit report, monitoring the report, and alerting you if someone applies for credit or opens

APRIL 2015

AAA DIRECTORY INTERNET WEB SITE: www.AAA.com AAA MEMBER SERVICES • ADDRESS CHANGE triptiks, tourbooks, maps, license 412-363-5100 or 1-800-441-5008 APPROVED AUTO REPAIR 412-365-7411 or 1-800-233-9733 EMERGENCY ROAD SERVICE 412-362-1900 or 1-800-222-4357 EXPRESS TRAVEL RESERVATIONS

airline tickets, tours, cruises, rental cars

412-363-7283 or 1-800-354-8761

INSURANCE SERVICES: 1-800-207-7947 MEDIA RELATIONS: 412-365-7274 SAFETY: 412-365-7211 TDD for the hearing-impaired: 412-363-7144

AAA BRANCH OFFICE LOCATIONS

YOUNGEST VICTIMS — Children and adolescents have become a fast growing segment of identity fraud victims. credit accounts using your children’s personal information. How could a child have a credit report? Most commonly it is because his or her parents added them to their credit card accounts as an authorized user. When you enroll your children in ProtectMyID® Deluxe, their information

is used to monitor for the presence of an Experian credit report. Parents must provide the following information for each child: first and last name, date of birth and Social Security number. Your children’s information is used only to verify their identities and to begin monitoring new credit information. Once a child is enrolled, their privacy and security are of the utmost importance. For that reason, parents are not allowed to view any of their children’s personal information—such as Credit Reports—until their own identity can be verified. Because there is no definite way online for parents to prove that they are the parent or guardian, parents are required to fax documentation as proof. Once this information is received and verified, parents can obtain a hard copy of the child’s information in the mail. This process assures that no one else can access this sensitive information.

SIGNS YOUR CHILD IS A VICTIM

· Telemarketers or collection agencies call for your child; · Your child receives bills, Social Security statements or pre-approved credit card offers; · Your child is denied the request to open their first bank account; · Your child can’t open a mobile phone account, qualify for college loans, or can’t get a driver’s license. FOR MORE INFORMATION

ProtectMyID® Deluxe is another way AAA offers its members peace of mind. For more information about the Identity Theft Monitoring member benefit, visit AAA. com/ProtectMyID or call 1-877-440-6943. ProtectMyID Essential and Deluxe is provided by ConsumerInfo.com, an Experian company.

Altoona 1634 Valley View Blvd.............................. 814-946-1277 Butler 138 Clearview Circle .................................... 724-287-2713 Cranberry The Village Shoppes, 20510 Rt. 19 .......... 724-772-1122 Erie 6660 Peach St. Unit #2 .............................. 814-866-0246 Franklin 491 Allegheny Blvd, Suite 200 .................. 814-432-3960 Greensburg Eastgate Shopping Center 5142 Route 30, Suite 135 ......................... 724-834-8300 Grove City 24 Pine Grove Village Dr........................... 724-458-8930 Harborcreek 4430 Buffalo Rd. ........................................ 814-897-9508 Hermitage 1749 E. State St.......................................... 724-981-9141 Indiana 1169 Wayne Ave........................................ 724-349-4193 Jamestown (New York) 111 W. Fifth St., Jamestown, N.Y.. ........... 716-488-1981 Kittanning Franklin Village Mall. ............................... 724-543-1924 Lewisburg 530 1/2 North Derr Drive . ....................... 570-524-7455 Lower Burrell/New Kensington Area Crossroads Plaza 2503 Leechburg Rd.................................... 724-339-4440 McKean County (Bradford) 587 South Ave. .......................................... 814-368-3113 Meadville 18939 Park Avenue Plaza Unit #7 ............ 814-724-2247 New Castle 40 East St.................................................... 724-658-8551 Niagara-Orleans 7135 Rochester Rd, Lockport, NY. ............ 716-434-2865 Pittsburgh–Century III Area (Pleasant Hills) 9 Clairton Blvd. (RT 51). ........................... 412-655-6100 Pittsburgh–Downtown 538 Smithfield St. ...................................... 412-338-4300 Pittsburgh–East Liberty/Shadyside 5900 Baum Blvd. ........................................ 412-365-7196 Pittsburgh–Monroeville 2725 Mosside Blvd. .................................... 412-858-4640 Pittsburgh–North Hills Area (Ross Township) 4790 McKnight Rd. .................................... 412-367-7600 Pittsburgh–Robinson Township Robinson Town Centre 1760 Park Manor Blvd. ............................. 412-809-2800 Pittsburgh–South Hills Area (Bethel Park) 160 Ft. Couch Rd. ...................................... 412-833-5203 Rochester 300 Adams St. ............................................ 724-775-8000 St. Marys 1375 Bucktail Rd. ...................................... 814-834-7838 Somerset 110 N. Center Ave. .................................... 814-443-6526 Sunbury 1001 Market Street. .................................. 570-286-4507 Uniontown 111 W. Main St. ......................................... 724-438-8575 Warren 2285 Market St. ......................................... 814-723-6660 Washington 196 Murtland Ave. .................................... 724-222-3800 Waynesburg 184 Greene Plaza, US 21 & I-79 ................ 724-627-3434 Wexford 10548 Perry Highway ................................ 724-933-3000 White Oak/McKeesport Area Oak Park Mall, 2001 Lincoln Way ............ 412-675-3400

APRIL 2015

AAA MOTORIST

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Forget It; Drive On — Anger management for motorists When mobility turns to mayhem on the road Western Pennsylvania Official publication of AAA East Central Published monthly (except bimonthly Aug./Sept., Nov./Dec.) by AAA East Central 5900 Baum Blvd, Pittsburgh PA 15206-3854 412-363-5100/1-800-441-5008 USPS 0679-240 ISSN 1066-6869 Periodicals Postage Paid at Pittsburgh PA Postmaster: Send address changes to AAA Motorist Western Pennsylvania c/o AAA, 5900 Baum Blvd Pittsburgh PA 15206-3854 Subscription Rate: $1 included in Primary Membership dues. All others: $2/year. Publisher..................................... James E. Lehman Managing Editor ............................ Douglas O’Neil Editorial Office 5900 Baum Blvd, Pittsburgh PA 15206-3854 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 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, Pamela C. Fritz, Gregory E. Grim, Richard S. Hamilton, James H. Kanicki, Charles J. Kelly** , Mary Lynn Laughlin, William Duff McCrady, James M. McDonnell, Thomas V. McKernan Jr., Martha Hartle Munsch, Gary K. Munsie** EAST CENTRAL REGION BOARD OF DIRECTORS Neil D. Bassi, Chairman, Robert S. Collins, Vice Chairman, Carol Asam, Christian Asam, Jack A. Barkley, William E. Bierer**, Ellsworth T. Bowser**, Peter Burton, Marianne B. Campbell, Michael A. Cochran, Daniel J. Collins Jr.**, Robert S. Collins, Robert H. Compton, Debra A. Dinnocenzo, James J. Dodaro, Jack G. Ellis, Charles W. Groce, Richard S. Hamilton, Mark Henschen, Luke Howe, Richard Kallenborn, Herbert G. Koenig, Mark S. Mansour, W. Duff McCrady, Martha Hartle Munsch, W. Lee Oswalt, III, Michael Parkes, John D. Petruso, Louis Pomerico, Jacob N. Skezas, James C. Stump, Jr., James F. Ward **emeritus directors Allegheny Regional Board of Directors William C. Bradley, Jr., John Fuller, Wilfred Lippert, John D. Petruso, Adam J. Preston, B. J. Smith, John D. Whitehill Butler Regional Board of Directors Jack A. Barkley, Kenneth W. McKinney, John E. McNallen, Merril Moses, John E. Whitmer Indiana Regional Board of Directors Thomas Brice, William B. Hastings, Herman Sledzik McKean County Regional Board of Directors Elizabeth M. Costello, Thomas Frederick, Richard Kallenborn, David J. Malone, Stanley Pecora Mercer Regional Board of Directors Robert E. Davis, Merton W. Hutton, C. L. McCandless, Ralph Q. Steadman Mon Yough Advisory Board Robert W. Baum, James J. Dodaro, Jacob N. Skezas, Al Thomas, Dom Toretti Warren Regional Board of Directors H. Robert Hampson, M. Dennis Hedges Jr., Luke Howe, Gerald A. Huber, Linn Hyde, James J. Jordan, Donald E. Lewis, James F. Miller, Ralph D. Pasquino Jr., James H. Young Jr.

By Richard Hamilton Chairman, AAA East Central ggressive driving — intentional, dangerous behavior that jeopardizes the safety of everyone — is a serious problem on America’s roads. According to data from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety it’s a factor in up to 56 percent of fatal crashes. Less common — but far more frightening — is road rage, deliberate, uncontrolled anger that can lead to violence and even death. What aggressive driving and road rage have in common is that they’re both unpredictable, can ignite instantly, and can occur at any time. The AAA Foundation study found that events precipitating violent outbursts are often remarkably trivial. The traffic episode that turns ugly is rarely the result of a single incident, but rather the cumulative effect of a variety of stress factors. A poll by the Washington Post found the number of drivers who admitted to feeling “uncontrollable anger toward another driver” doubled between 2005 and 2013. So, how do we avoid road rage in others, and in ourselves? When you merge into traffic, make sure you have plenty of room to enter traffic without cutting someone off. If someone cuts you off, take the high road and give them plenty of room. When someone wants to pass, be courteous—move over and let them by. Never pass another driver, and then slow down to teach them a lesson.

Richard Hamilton Always allow adequate room between you and the car in front of you. Never tap your brakes or lose your temper if you’re being tailgated. Illuminate your turn signal, pull over and allow them to pass. Nothing provokes another driver more than rude or obscene gestures. Keep your hands on the wheel and avoid making any gestures that might provoke other drivers. Never honk your horn at someone who’s driving slower than you want them to, or who doesn’t move quickly enough through a traffic signal. It can set off an altercation or potentially cause a collision. Even when it’s unintentional a traffic

mishap can cause a driver to “snap” and the situation becomes dangerous. What should you do if your personal safety is at risk from a hostile motorist? Steer clear — Stay calm and never respond to drivers who cut you off, tailgate, or try to intimidate you. Give angry or aggressive drivers plenty of room. Do not, under any circumstances, pull off to the side of the road and try to “settle things”. Avoid eye contact — Looking or staring at another driver can turn an impersonal encounter between two vehicles into a blood feud. And once it gets personal, things can get out-of-hand fast. Forget about winning. No one wins in a crash. Get help — Never underestimate an irrational driver’s capacity for mayhem. If you think someone is following you or trying to provoke a confrontation, call the police on your cell phone. Drive to a safe public place such as a busy retail plaza, police or fire station. This will often discourage a would-be assailant from following you. Do not go home until you’re certain the aggressor is gone and it’s safe. Robert Ingersoll, the noted 19th century orator once said, “Anger blows out the lamp of the mind.” Remember, someone else’s driving has nothing to do with you personally. Concentrate instead on the safety of you, your passengers and your vehicle. Stay cool, get out of the way and let other drivers deal with their own issues. Make FIDO your mantra: Forget It; Drive On.

membersonly

Going the extra 100-miles for members AAA Premier offers 200-miles free towing & more

ith a multitude of advanced benefits and services AAA Premier takes the traditional benefits of AAA membership and supersizes them. Benefits like Roadside Assistance with up to 200-miles of free towing; Car Rental Reimbursement; and up to $100 Home Lockout services. Just as AAA Plus expands basic AAA coverage, Premier is an enhancement to AAA Plus. It’s all about having the freedom to select the membership option that works for you. And AAA Premier is AAA to the maximum. Members who want to go the distance will find that AAA Premier can deliver one tow of up to 200-miles per household, in addition to up to 100miles on remaining tows per membership year. If your vehicle needs to be towed, AAA Premier steps up by reimbursing you with up to $55 in rental car fees. Premier members are entitled to a free Hertz Gold Plus Rewards membership,

and when you rent from Hertz (in conjunction with a tow) you’ll receive the second day free on a minimum two-day emergency rental, courtesy of Hertz. Suppose your trip is delayed or interrupted due to a collision, mechanical failure, vehicle theft, illness, injury or even severe weather. You’re more than 100-miles from home, and what do you do? AAA Premier members are eligible for up to $1,500 Trip Interruption benefits toward the cost of transportation, accommodations, meals or related expenses. Premier is so generous it even pays up to $500 to return your vehicle to your home if these issues result in the use of substitute transportation. With free Global Emergency Assistance, the next time you’re on a domestic or international vacation one call is all it takes to arrange medical provider referrals, prescription replacement, lost ticket and document replacement and emergency translation services.

While traveling on a domestic or international trip of at least 100 driving miles from home AAA Premier provides “24-7” Concierge Service, for assistance in securing tickets, reservations, golf tee times, and more. Premier members also save at AAA offices, with free passport photos and notary service on personal documents; waiving the $35.00 AAA Travel Agency flight reservation fee; and up to $300,000 Travel Accident Insurance when travel arrangements are made through AAA. AAA Premier is available at an annual fee of just $35 per household, in addition to the members’ basic and AAA Plus membership dues. Premier can be added at any time to an existing membership (benefits subject to 7-day waiting period). To upgrade to AAA Premier, call or stop by your local AAA branch office, or contact the Club’s Member Service Call Center at 800.441.5008. Visit AAA.com/premier to review a comparison of AAA Basic, Plus and Premier benefits.

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AAA MOTORIST

APRIL 2015

AAA MOTORIST

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AAA MOTORIST

APRIL 2015

Water loss myths — After the flood You might be surprised at what is—and isn’t—covered By Robin Jones iven how much water modern homes require for their appliances and plumbing systems, it shouldn’t be a surprise that water damage routinely tops the list of the most common homeowners insurance claims, far outpacing fire and extreme weather damage. What can be surprising, though, is what your insurance company will and won’t cover when it comes to water damage. To help clear up some of the confusion surrounding water losses and homeowners insurance, here are some common myths and realities. Myth: If my home is flooded in a natural disaster, my homeowners policy will cover the damage. Reality: This is about as cut-anddried as it comes: Private insurance companies do not cover losses resulting from weather-related flooding. However, you can buy separate insurance through the federal government’s National Flood Insurance Program. There’s even a good chance that if you live on a flood plain, your mortgage lender will require this when you buy a house in a flood-prone area. Not sure whether your home is on a flood plain? The Federal Emergency Management Agency maintains floodhazard maps; you can look up your area on the FEMA website. Myth: My insurer will pay to repair the damage to my home if a sewer or drainpipe backs up and causes my sinks

HIGH WATER — Water damage routinely tops the list of homeowners insurance claims. and toilets to overflow. Reality: Depending on where you live and the origin of the backup, your insurer may not cover this type of loss. In some regions, for example, insurance companies will pay for repairs if the pipes that backed up are on your private property, but not if the backup is on city or county land (in which case, the municipality may be responsible for any necessary repairs to your home). In other regions, insurance companies don’t include this type of coverage in their base policies but will allow you to purchase an endorsement for the cover-

age. Talk with your insurance agent to find out what’s included in your policy. Myth: If my roof starts to leak during a rainstorm, my insurance will cover any resulting damage. Reality: Unfortunately, unless that leak comes as a result of wind or a fallen tree branch damages your roof, it may not be covered. Insurers consider a leaky roof to be maintenance-related and usually won’t cover it. Myth: My insurance won’t pay for flooding damage to my floors or walls if a pipe or appliance in my home suddenly springs a leak.

Reality: Good news—this is one of the things most insurance companies do cover. In fact, some insurers may also cover what they call “access,” or the cost of getting to the burst pipe. So if your plumber has to jackhammer through the foundation to make the repairs, your coverage might pay for that part of the claim. Insurers, however, won’t pay to repair a burst pipe or appliance. In addition, if your insurer believes that the leak resulted from a lack of upkeep—say you had a slow leak that you didn’t do anything about—it may deny your claim. Having a water damage claim is no fun. Managing emergency services, repairs, and sometimes, additional living expenses can drain your time and resources. That’s why it’s important to know what’s covered and ways to prevent damage from happening. If you do have a loss, be sure to contact your insurance company immediately. FOR MORE INFORMATION

Trust AAA to steer you right on all your current and future Auto, Home and Life insurance needs. Combining your coverage with one insurance company could make a significant difference in your premium. Call 800.207.7947, or visit AAA.com/insurance for more information or to schedule a comprehensive Insurance review. AAA – your trusted insurance advisor.

APRIL 2015

AAA MOTORIST

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Member Benefits • Exclusive Offers

1-800-354-8761 • AAA.com/travel

Savings per room (double occupancy). New bookings with deposit April 1-30, 2015, for travel in 2015: 7-night minimum stay & must include airfare.

Coastal Mexico’s all-inclusive resorts spoil you with attentive service, gourmet cuisine, state-of-the-art spas, challenging golf and exceptional vacation values. Explore the

CANCUN*

aquamarine waters of Cancun and Riviera Maya, walk along the gold-sand beaches of Los Cabos and shop and dine along the beachfront of Puerto Vallarta and Riviera

PUERTO VALLARTA

$1,550

$3,610

Nayarit. Whether you pick a Caribbean/ Atlantic or a Pacific all-inclusive resort, you can’t go wrong! Contact AAA and book your getaway with Pleasant Holidays.

COZUMEL

$2,339

HUATULCO

$1,811

The Hard Rock Hotel is a nonstop, highenergy resort near Cancun’s entertainment center. Overlooking the turquoise-blue Caribbean, this stunning hotel offers newly renovated guestrooms, each with a double Jacuzzi.® Flanked by the Caribbean Sea and Nichupte Lagoon, it’s a short stroll from Cancun’s main attractions. Family program. Steam room. Theme parties.

Ideally situated in Puerto Vallarta’s hotel zone, the all-inclusive Hilton Puerto Vallarta Resort provides easy access to modern area malls. Admire breathtaking views overlooking Banderas Bay. Each room featurs high-speed internet access, generous work surfaces and signature beds. Snorkeling. Spa services. Steam room. Activity desk. Children’s play area.

Light. Luxury. Love. The only hotel of its kind on picturesque Cozumel, Secrets Aura Cozumel offers luxurious suites featuring king-size beds (or 2 double beds), private terrace or balcony, full marble bahrooms with Jacuzzi,® complimentary mini-bar and much more. Adults only. Archeological tours. Marine National Park close by. Onsite dive center. Pier. Spa services.

Dreams Huatulco sits on Tangolunda Bay, one of the largest of 9 bays, and overlooks dazzling golden beaches and the sapphire waters of the Pacific. The resort features swimming pools, 6 gourmet restaurants, 6 bars serving unlimited premium beverages, 24-hour room service, plus endless day & evening activities for all ages, including a supervised Explorers Club for kids.

RIVIERA NAYARIT

RIVIERA MAYA*

MAZATLAN

CABO SAN LUCAS

$1,141

$3,114

Iberostar Playa Mita, standing tall on Mexico’s Pacific coast near beautiful Punta de Mita, offers a relaxing and all-inclusive atmosphere complete with mouth-watering international dishes and endless activities for guests of all ages. Plush accommodations feature 24-hour room service and a laid-back elegance perfect for relaxing with family and friends.

Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort is surrounded by large, sun-dappled swimming pools, a palm-fringed sugar-white sand beach and lush tropical gardens. All rooms and suites are spacious, elegantly furnished and filled with luxurious amenities to relax, soothe and welcome guests. Just 30 minutes from Cancun. Family program. Spanish lessons. Bike trail. Cooking lessons.

$1,753 The award-winning Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay Resort is a jewel overlooking the Pacific Ocean. With its own magnificent beach, it’s an ideal setting for relaxation, yet it’s within easy access to Mazatlan’s Golden Zone. Graceful architecture, gorgeous surroundings and beautifully decorated oceanview suites provide every comfort and convenience.

$2,117 Riu Palace brings a different kind of style to the all-inclusive vacation. Enjoy luxurious facilities, a full range of sporting and leisure options, personalized service and gourmet food at the brand-new fusion cuisine restaurant, Krystal. The resort features 642 tastefully decorated junior suites with breathtaking views. Guests enjoy exchange privileges with Riu Santa Fe.

Sample rates shown are per room (double occupancy) for a 7-night stay ( June 13-20, 2015) and do not include flights or airport/hotel transfers. *Ask about Delta Air Lines’ new nonstop Pittsburgh-Cancun flights on Saturdays in June, July and August.

For these and many other all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and elsewhere, visit AAA.com/PleasantHolidays.

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AAA MOTORIST

APRIL 2015

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

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers Get up to $100.00 in perks!

NOW’S THE TIME!

Book & make a deposit by APRIL 30 on a 2015 7-night-or-longer air-inclusive Pleasant Holidays vacation to HAWAII or the CARIBBEAN and enjoy:

$50 SAVINGS FROM AAA TRAVEL per room, based on double occupancy • new bookings April 1-30, 2015

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).

Follow the Pirates ON THE ROAD Roundtrip motorcoach from Pittsburgh • Hotel Reserved game seat • Touring, activities & amenities These vary by package; visit AAA.com/baseball for complete itinerary and inclusions.

Pirates vs Nationals in Washington DC $599 per person, double occupancy

Pirates vs Cubs in Chicago IL

Sept 25-27 •

$705 per person, double occupancy

Sept 5-8 •

ATURE D

Pirates vs Reds in Cincinnati OH includes 2 nights in Louisville KY

June 19-21 •

T IO

$775 per person, double occupancy

or get a HOME GAME seat & more!

• Pirates baseball cap • Autographed baseball • Outfield box seat • Behind-the-scenes PNC Park tour • Pre-game food & drink • Watch batting practice if it takes place

AAA Member Rate $79 per person per game Full payment due at time of booking.

Pirates vs Phillies

SOLD OUT! Pirates vs Indians SOLD Friday July 3 OUT! @ 7:05pm Pirates vs Dodgers SOLD Saturday Aug 8OUT! @ 4:05pm Saturday June 13 @ 4:05pm FanJam post-game concert

Pirates vs Reds

Saturday Oct 3 @ 7:05pm FanJam post-game concert

AAA: The Preferred Travel Agency of the Pittsburgh Pirates

APRIL 2015

AAA MOTORIST

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

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers Walk on the GREAT WALL!

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

• PEKING DUCK & “HOTPOT“ DINNERS • FAMILY-HOME VISIT & HOME-COOKED MEAL • KUNG FU ACADEMY VISIT & DEMONSTRATION

Escort & driver s gratuitie ! included

ATURE

Century III (Pleasant Hills) . . . . . . . . . .412-655-6105 Downtown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .412-338-4305 East Liberty/Shadyside . . . . . . . . . . . . .412-365-7272 Monroeville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .412-858-4640 North Hills (Ross Twp) . . . . . . . . . . . . .412-367-7625 Robinson Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .412-809-2803 South Hills (Bethel Park) . . . . . . . . . . .412-833-5060 Wexford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-933-3000 White Oak/McKeesport . . . . . . . . . . . .412-675-3404 Rochester PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-728-6230 St Marys PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .814-781-3003 Uniontown PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-438-8575 Warren PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .814-723-6660 Washington PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-225-3600 Waynesburg PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-627-3434 Wheeling WV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .304-233-1810 Weirton WV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .304-748-1616 PITTSBURGH PA AREA

Altoona PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .814-946-1277 Bridgeport WV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .304-842-7676 Butler PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-282-8810 Columbiana OH. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .330-482-3836 Cranberry Township PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-772-1122 East Liverpool OH. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .330-385-2020 Erie PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .814-866-0246 Greensburg PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-834-8300 Harborcreek PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .814-897-9508 Indiana PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-349-4193 Kittanning PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-543-4244 Lower Burrell/New Kensington Area PA . . .724-339-4440 Martinsburg WV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .304-263-4619 Meadville PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .814-724-3157 Morgantown WV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .304-598-7470 New Castle PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-658-8551

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.

Look for the FEATURED VACATIONS logo to identify out-of-the-ordinary offerings.

SPECIAL HIGHLIGHTS

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Explore one of the world’s most important capitals and meet BEIJINGERS at home & in school!

Enter the FORBIDDEN CITY!

ATURE

FEATURED VACATIONS

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Enjoy the comfort & security of an escorted experience — a comprehensive, informative & personal look at this rapidly growing city and an in-depth introduction to its fascinating culture. See landmarks & learn customs for nearly a week; then enjoy an entire day independently exploring & indulging your interests — art, history, cuisine, shopping, photography, parks & zoos — it’s all up to you, with suggestions, advice, directions, etc, from your expert guide! Marvel at ancient & modern, urban & rural, rich & poor, simple & sophisticated, serene & chaotic. Beijing’s unique combination of seemingly contradictory elements may well change your understanding of this city & nation...and provide moving memories that last a lifetime.

Sept 17-24 • AAA Member Rate: $3,425 Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (PittsburghBeijing), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, 12 meals, in-China guide, sightseeing/admissions, baggage handling (1 per person), driver & escort gratuities, AAA Tour Manager (if minimum-participation goal is met) & government taxes/ fees. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details. Visit AAA.com/GoAsia for itinerary. 4 UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES — THE GREAT WALL AT BADALING, THE IMPERIAL PALACE (FORBIDDEN CITY), THE SUMMER PALACE AND THE TEMPLE OF HEAVEN • TIANANMEN SQUARE • 2008 SUMMER OLYMPICS SITE • LAMA BUDDHIST TEMPLE • HUTONG MARKET VISIT, HOME VISIT & HOME-COOKED MEAL • BELL & DRUM TOWERS TEA CEREMONY JADE FACTORY • PEDICAB RIDE • KUNG FU DEMONSTRATION & STUDENT INTERACTION • TRADITIONAL PEKING DUCK & HOTPOT DINNERS • & MORE!

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Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

LEAVE YOUR CAR AT HOME!

ATURE

Car-free, carefree adventures T IO

Rates are per person, are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip motorcoach transportation from the Pittsburgh 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.

RUGGED SCENERY, RUSTIC CHARM

SCENERY,, HISTORY ART & WINE!

MAINE SEACOAST

June 15-21 •

FINGER LAKES ESCAPE

AAA Member Rate: $1,309

July 13-16 •

From Portland to Acadia National Park, experience what life along Maine’s Down East coast is really like. Enjoy exploring maritime villages like Boothbay Harbor, Bar Harbor and Freeport; a whale watching cruise; lighthouses; the Maine State Prison Store and L L Bean. Follow the Loop Road through spectacular Acadia National Park. 12 meals.

Harborfest : Norfolk VA ®

June 5-8 •

AAA Member Rate: $789

Enjoy waterfront lodging and explore Norfolk’s annual fun-filled maritime celebration of food, entertainment, water activities and tall ships. Visit the US Naval Base, the Norfolk Botanical Gardens, the interactive sea-themed Nauticus science center (home of the Battleship Wisconsin) and take a fireworks dinner cruise. 6 meals.

A Taste of Pittsburgh – 1 day

June 12 •

AAA Member Rate: $109

This culinary walking tour of historic Strip District markets features tasty samples from around the world. Meet vendors & hear their stories.

Shows & More: Lancaster PA

June 18-20 •

AAA Member Rate: $595

See Sight & Sound Theater’s “Joseph” and a production at the American Music Theatre. Tour Amish country. 5 meals.

Niagara-on-the-Lake Shaw Festival July 7-9 •

AAA Member Rate: $759

This Victorian-flavored Ontario village hosts one of the world’s best-loved theatrical festivals. Enjoy a tasting & lunch at a winery and gold-level seating at Peter & the Starcatcher and Sweet Charity. Visit Niagara Botanical Gardens, the Butterfly Conservancy & Niagara Falls. Prince of Wales Hotel. 4 meals.

The Wright Kind of Summer

July 19 •

AAA Member Rate: $149

Explore 2 of architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s works

See quaint towns, scenic Buttermilk Falls, Cornell University & Plantations, Corning Museum of Glass (enjoy a “Make Your Own Glass” workshop), 2 wineries (with tastings!), Sonnenberg Mansion & Gardens and 2 other historical homes. Lakeside accommodations. 8 meals, including a farm-to-table wine dinner and a steamboat dinner cruise.

in the Laurel Highlands (Duncan House and Fallingwater) and 2 by one of his apprentices. Dine at historic Summit Inn. 2 meals.

Amish Acres Arts & Crafts Festival Aug 5-7 •

AAA Member Rate: $479

Visit Nappanee in the heart of Indiana’s Amish country for all the fun of the 53rd annual Amish Acres Arts & Crafts Festival as well as a tour of the 80-acre farmstead on which it’s held. Also enjoy an evening of musical theater at Round Barn Theatre. 4 meals.

Girls’ Mystery Getaway

Aug 14-16 •

AAA Member Rate: $605

Can’t reveal our destination, but you and your family members and/or friends will enjoy 2 nights of B&B–style accommodations, outlet shopping, a wine-tasting dinner, a luncheon with a fashion show, a cooking demonstration, a “ladies’ night out” and more. 5 meals.

Carol Burnett in Chautauqua

Aug 21-22 •

AAA Member Rate: $455

Enjoy a relaxing retreat to western NY’s Chautauqua Institution to see comedy legend Carol Burnett in an exclusive performance. Overnight at Peek’n Peak Resort. 4 meals.

Deep Creek Art & Wine Festival

Sept 12-13 •

AAA Member Rate: $949

AAA Member Rate: $445

Stay lakeside in Deep Creek MD for the annual Art & Wine Festival, featuring hand-crafted items, live music, food, wine & more. Tasting tickets & commemorative wine glass provided. A wine-paired dinner, glass maker visit and

Swallow Falls also included. 2 meals.

Adirondack Balloon Festival

Sept 17-20 •

AAA Member Rate: $929

Stay lakeside at Lake George NY and enjoy a dinner theater experience. Visit Lake Placid Olympic Village. Watch 100 hot-air balloons rise (and “glow” later that night) at Warren County Airport. Cruise on Lake George. Tour Saratoga Springs’ raceway and mineral springs. 6 meals.

Meet Jack Hanna & The Wilds

Sept 18-19 •

AAA Member Rate: $325

Animal lovers will enjoy meeting zookeeper Jack Hanna at a private breakfast at Ohio’s Columbus Zoo and visiting The Wilds open-range conservation facility featuring rhinos, cheetahs, giraffes and other creatures. 2 meals.

MORE UPCOMING TOURS Rail to Rail in WV & MD

Sept 29–Oct 1 • AAA Member Rate: $559

Pennsylvania Grand Canyon Oct 1-2 •

AAA Member Rate: $415

New England Rails & Trails

Oct 4-11 •

AAA Member Rate: $2,035

Gettysburg Applefest

Oct 9-11 •

AAA Member Rate: $619

Cape Cod Oyster Festival

Oct 15-20 •

AAA Member Rate: $1,085

Jack o' Lantern Spectacular

Oct 27-29 •

AAA Member Rate: $699

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Member Benefits Exclusive Offers T IO

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

Grandeur of the Seas — from Baltimore MD Bahamas ................................... July 10-17 ......................... from $1,272 Bahamas ................................... Aug 21-28 ........................... from $833 Canada/New England ............. Sept 3-11 .......................... from $1,069 Western Caribbean ................. Nov 1-11........................... from $1,194 Eastern Caribbean ................... Dec 9-19 ........................... from $1,075 AAA MEMBER RATES are per person (double occupancy), are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip motorcoach transportation, cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals and taxes, fees and port expenses of up to $382.60 per person. Ship’s registry: Bahamas. Visit AAA.com/motorcruise for details & PA pick-up points.

Be among the first to cruise on the brand-new Anthem of the Seas! Get $25 shipboard credit! These Anthem sailings include a 1-night before-cruise hotel stay near Cape Liberty NJ and a short driving tour of New York City. Jan 14-25, 2016 • from $1,885 San Juan PR • Charlotte Amelie, St Thomas USVI • Philipsburg, St Maarten Basseterre, St Kitts • Plus 5 days at sea

April 17-30, 2016 •

from $2,345

Labadee, Haiti • San Juan PR • Philipsburg, St Maarten • Fort de France, Martinique Bridgetown, Barbados • Basseterre, St Kitts • Plus 5 days at sea AAA MEMBER RATE is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip motorcoach transportation, 1-night pre-cruise hotel accommodations, cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals and $25 shipboard credit per stateroom and taxes, fees and port expenses of $524.25 per person. Ship’s registry: Bahamas. Visit AAA.com/motorcruise for details & PA pick-up points.

Wild, Wild Westerns © ANDREANITA / FOTOLIA.COM

GRAND CANYON & AZ ADVENTURE

NEW MEXICO BALLOON FIESTA

Fly to Phoenix and ride to Sedona’s beautiful Poco Diablo Resort. ExSEPT 20-27 • $2,645 plore scenic backcountry on an ex® citing off-road Pink Jeep tour. Visit the IMAX Theater at Williams, then ride the Grand Canyon Railway (first class) to the canyon’s South Rim. Spend 2 nights there in a national park lodge, then ride the vintage Verde Canyon Railroad. Explore Old Town Scottsdale, marvel at intriguing plants at the Desert Botanical Garden and Western art at the Heard Museum. Enjoy a memorable farewell steakhouse dinner — cowboystyle! 11 meals. AIR INCLUDED.

Explore Albuquerque, the Land of Enchantment’s largest city, then a OCT 4-9 • $3,265 3-night stay in charming Santa Fe. Visit historic Chimayo village. Enjoy artsy Taos and the impressive Rio Grande Gorge. Take a fun salsa-making class. Ride Sandia Peak’s Aerial Tramway. At the International Balloon Fiesta,® witness the mass ascension of hundreds of balloons. Explore Rte 66, Old Town Albuquerque, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center and Acoma Pueblo. See the Balloon Fiesta’s evening “Glowdeo” of illuminated balloons & fireworks afterward! 11 meals. AIR INCLUDED.

From Salt Lake City to Denver, take in some of America’s favorAUG 29–SEPT 6 • $3,485 ite national landmarks. Hear the Mormon Tabernacle Choir (choir schedule permitting). Visit Grand Teton and Yellowstone parks (including Old Faithful & Mammoth Hot Springs), Devil’s Tower, Deadwood, Mt Rushmore (during the day and again in the evening for its inspiring lighting ceremony), Crazy Horse Monument, Custer State Park, Ft Laramie National Historic Site, Cody’s Buffalo Bill Historic Center and Cheyenne. Take a wildlife Jeep® safari through SD’s Black Hills. 15 meals. AIR INCLUDED.

AAA Member Rates for all tours are per person (double occupancy), are subject to availability at time of booking and include accommodations, sightseeing admissions, taxes/gratuities for included features, baggage handling (1 bag per person) and meals as indicated. (Select tours also include roundtrip flights from Pittsburgh and roundtrip airport/hotel transfers. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; ATURE contact your travel agent for details.) Visit AAA.com/travel for itinerary CA O details. TI

Our first national park’s first explorers were called liars when they AUG 10-16 • $1,765 described its otherworldly geysers & bubbling mudpots and its free-ranging bison, elk, moose, bears & wolves. Begin at Salt Lake City and travel through scenic Idaho to Yellowstone. Enjoy Old Faithful & many other natural landmarks, as well as the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center. A Wildlife Safari includes a picnic dinner. Also enjoy Grand Teton National Park, the cowboy town of Jackson, a Jenny Lake cruise, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir (schedule permitting) and more! 12 meals.

So many delights in 1 tour — from the endless charms of San FranJULY 23-31 • $3,699 cisco to the natural splendor of the redwoods at Muir Woods to the opulence of Hearst Castle. Cross Golden Gate Bridge, enjoy the Mediterranean ambiance of Sausalito, sample wines at Napa Valley vineyards, savor lunch aboard the Napa Wine Train. Ride Amtrak’s scenic California Zephyr to Lake Tahoe. Visit the ghost town of Virginia City NV. Dine & dance on a riverboat paddlewheeler. Marvel at Yosemite’s wonders. Explore coastal Carmel, Big Sur and Monterey. 14 meals. AIR INCLUDED.

AMERICAN MAJESTY

YELLOWSTONE EXPERIENCE

BEST OF NORTHERN CA

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Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

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ALASKA BY LAND! See the incredible, inspirational interior of the Last Frontier on this 9-night escorted tour — unforgettable experiences not on cruises! Traditional salmon bake & a sternwheeler river cruise in Fairbanks 4-hour adventure flying over the Arctic Circle, the Trans-Alaska Pipeline and the Yukon River 7-hour Tundra Wilderness Tour in Denali National Park, looking for grizzlies, moose & more...with an overnight in the park Meet a 4-time winner of the Iditarod Sled Dog Race and his canine crew Visits to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation & Begich Boggs Visitor centers 2-hour river float trip in Kenai Fjords National Park A ride on Girdwood’s Alyeska Tram — from sea level to 2,300 feet! Special welcome & farewell dinners with your fellow travelers

July 8-17 •

AAA Member Rate: $5,675

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes flights (PittsburghFairbanks, Anchorage-Pittsburgh), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, motorcoach sightseeing, accommodations (Fairbanks, Denali, Anchorage, Seward: 2 each, Girdwood: 1), 17 meals, luggage handling (1 bag/person), gratuities for included features (includes driver, escort), in-Alaska escort and AAA Tour Manager (if minimum-participation goal is met). Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.

Glacier Discovery

CHICAGO

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An entertaining music-themed journey to 3 of America’s most fascinating tune towns that features an Amtrak train ride from Memphis to New Orleans!

GLACIER NP

Nashville — Music City USA

GLACIER NP SEATTLE

Stay at Gaylord Opryland Resort, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and see a live performance at the Grand Ole Opry.

Memphis — Birthplace of Rock n Roll

Tour Sun Studios and visit the Staxx Museum, the Rock n Soul Museum and Elvis Presley’s Graceland estate.

New Orleans — Birthplace of American Jazz

Walk through the French Quarter and the Garden District and visit Bourbon Street and Jackson Square.

Glacier National Park Discovery Aug 1-10 •

ATURE D

Musical Heartland of America’s South

Retrace portions of the Lewis & Clark Trail on Amtrak’s Empire Builder from the “Windy City” to the “Emerald City” and explore the “Crown of the Continent” in between! Begin in Chicago; take a city tour before boarding Empire Builder at magnificent Union Station. Start your rail journey with Mississippi River views and glimpses of the Twin Cities skyline. Enjoy breakfast and lunch onboard as you cross into Montana to Glacier National Park. Tour in a 1930s “jammer” with a canvas roll-top; rebuilt in 2001, these vehicles climb Going-to-the-Sun Road. Cross into Canada to visit Waterton Lakes National Park, part of the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, a World Heritage Site. Enjoy 2 nights at Glacier Park Lodge. Your other in-park home for 2 nights is the Swiss-themed Many Glacier Hotel on Swiftcurrent Lake. Reboard the Empire Builder for Seattle. See the city’s many gems, including lively Pike Place Market. Cap it all off with an ascent of the iconic Space Needle for breathtaking views!

CHICAGO to SEATTLE

Amtrak Music Cities of America

AAA Member Rate: $3,935

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip hotel/train transfers, 2-night train roomette accommodations (Chicago-Seattle), 7-night hotel accommodaATURE tions, 17 meals, meal gratuities (except on train), welcome reception, 4 tours & 1 cruise in Glacier National Park, sightseeing per itinerary, hotel baggage handling (1 per person), hotel taxes and services of an Amtrak Vacations® tour escort (Chicago-Seattle). Visit AAA.com/travel for complete CA O TI itinerary. Ask about available add-on airfare.

Sept 17-24 •

AAA Member Rate: $2,299

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, Amtrak coach service (Memphis–New Orleans), 10 meals, local guide, motorcoach sightseeing, baggage handling (1 per person) and gratuities for restaurant servers & hotel bellmen. Ask about available add-on airfare.

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Member Benefits Exclusive Offers Meet these Celtic ‘Cousins’

Get swept away... by Ireland’s SOUTH

Dublin tour with a local guide Farmhouse tea & scones Sheepdog skills demonstration Horse-drawn “jaunting car” ride in Killarney Storytelling session in Newmarket-on-Fergus Walking tour of Trinity College Book of Kells Irish National Stud & Japanese Gardens Open-top bus tour of Dublin Blarney Castle’s “Stone of Eloquence” Blarney Woolen Mills Dingle Brewing Company Walking tour of Galway King John’s Castle Cliffs of Moher

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Best of Ireland South: Oct 21-29 •

CLIFFS OF MOHER

AAA Member Rate: $1,475

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes hotel accommodations, guided motorcoach sightseeing, entrance fees, 12 meals and in–country tour director. Visit AAA.com/GoIreland for complete itinerary and more information. Ask about available add-on airfare. Passport required. Escorted tour operated by CIE Tours International.

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Spellbinding scenery Rollicking entertainment Fascinating history Comprehensive sightseeing

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EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND

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Highlights • Dublin Canal Cruise Dinner • Bunratty Castle Medieval Dinner • Loch Ness Scenic Cruise • Cliffs of Moher • Killarney Jaunting Car • Whisky Distillery Tasting/ Tour • Sheepdog Demonstration • Book of Kells • Blarney Stone • St Andrews • Ring of Kerry • Edinburgh Castle

BLARNEY CASTLE, IRELAND

Sept 19-30 AAA Member Rate: $2,468 Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes hotel accommodations, guided motorcoach sightseeing, entrance fees, 17 meals and in–country tour director. Visit AAA.com/GoIreland for complete itinerary and more information. Ask about available add-on airfare. Passport required. Escorted tour operated by CIE Tours International.

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Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

Explore Down Under

PLUS

from the Outback to the Glaciers!

SteelersVikings game!

AUSTRALIA

Melbourne, Opal Centre

Great Barrier Reef

Phillip Island Little Penguin colony

Winery tour & tasting

Glass-bottom boat ride

Christchurch

Overnight in Mt Cook National Park

Daintree Rainforest/

Tranz-Alpine Express train ride Franz Joseph Glacier Queenstown, gondola to dinner Milford Sound cruise “Middle Earth” touring

Herding/shearing demo

Uluru/Ayers Rock, Champagne toast Alice Springs, Aboriginal drummers Dreamtime tour, bush dinner

Dine with a NZ Family Sydney & Opera House Koala Park & Opal Collection Sydney Harbour dinner cruise

ATURE

AAA Member Rate: from $10,524

AAA Member Rate: $659

Oct 15–Nov 4 •

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes flights (PittsburghCairns, Sydney-Pittsburgh plus flights in Australia & New Zealand), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, hotel luggage handling (1 bag per person), taxes/gratuities/government fees for included features, 31 meals, professional guide in Australia & New Zealand and the services of a AAA Tour Manager (if minimum-participation goal is met). AAA Member Choice Vacations® door-to-door transfer serATURE vice is unavailable on this departure. Visit AAA.com/GoAustralia for complete itinerary and important pre-travel information. Additional airline CA O fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details. TI VA

Aug 8-10 •

Steamship cruise, farm life tour

Unique add-on options — including a camel ride, a jet boat ride and a night out in Sydney — are also available. Talk to your AAA Travel Agent for rates and availability.

Join other Steelers fans for Jerome Bettis’ big day. Start with lunch at Jerome Bettis’ Grille 36 on Pittsburgh’s North Shore. Travel to Canton OH for a welcome reception at your hotel. Don your Steelers garb, attend a private tailgate party and then enjoy reserved Field Level seating at the Enshrinement Ceremony; see the 2015 inductees as well as past greats. Get a VIP “Swag Bag,” a Hall of Fame yearbook, a set of trading cards and a comemmorative lanyard. Visit the Hall of Fame; see Jerome’s bust. Then, from reserved Green Zone seating, watch the NFL’s kick-off game — Steelers vs the Vikings in a high-school–size stadium!

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip motorcoach transportation (Pittsburgh-Canton), hotel, reserved Field Level seating for Enshrinement Ceremony, reserved Green Zone seating for NFL/Hall of Fame Game, 5 meals, admissions per itinerary, baggage handling (1 per person), taxes/gratuities for included items and services of a AAA Tour Manager. Visit AAA.com/USA for complete itinerary and Western PA pick-up points.

NEW ZEALAND

Cairns, catamaran ride

Mossman Gorge, meet Aboriginals

The Pro Football Hall of Fame Induction of JEROME BETTIS

LA CHANCST BOOK T E TO TOUR!HIS

Board our bus and see Jerome Bettis make history!

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PHOTOS: CINDY STAYCHEFF

ATURE

AAA.com T IO

This 11-night vacation has everything you’ve always wanted in a trip to Italy. Enjoy multiple-night stays in Rome, Florence, Venice, the Amalfi Coast and Stresa in the Lakes District. Discover the treasures of Classical and Christian Rome. Walk in the footsteps of ancient Romans in Pompeii. See gems of the Renaissance in Florence’s Academy Gallery, including Michelangelo’s “David.” Visit Locarno, Switzerland, and cruise to Isola dei Pescatori, one of the Borromean Islands. A guided walking tour of Venice illustrates how this city gained its wealth and power. Enjoy the magic of the Italian Lakes District in the captivating resort of Stresa. Stop at a winery & farm in the heart of Tuscany to sample local wines and specialities for an included lunch. Sail to enchanting Capri and explore this island paradise.

Special inclusions: “Rome by Night” tour...Vatican museums & St Peter’s... a family-style Tuscan feast...and a serenaded gondola cruise in Venice! Experience Whisper headsets, designed for better communication between you and your guides throughout your tour. Enjoy regional wines with every dinner.

Oct 19-31 •

AAA Member Rate: $5,679

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Pittsburgh-Rome, Milan-Pittsburgh), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, hotel accommodations, guided motorcoach sightseeing, entrance fees, 20 meals, in-Italy tour director and air & hotel taxes (subject to change). Visit AAA.com/Italy for itinerary and more information. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.

Linking you & your next vacation! FLIGHTS RENTAL CARS HOTELS Research & book travel arrangements from the comfort of your home – 24/7. TRAVEL WITH SOMEONE YOU TRUST.®

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Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

Ultimate Caribbean Cruise

with Pittsburgh personality Bill Cardille

Jan 22–Feb 1 Celebrity Equinox

ST THOMAS: Visit renowned Magens Bay, experience the lively atmosphere of Charlotte Amalie and prepare for some of the best sailing, scuba diving and duty-free shopping in the Caribbean. ST KITTS: What’s a town square fashioned after London’s Piccadilly Circus doing in the middle of the Caribbean? It’s just one of many surprises St Kitts has in store. BARBADOS: The turquoise sea surrounding this island is a great backdrop for golfing and perfect for snorkeling, scuba diving and fishing. DOMINICA: Home to one of the world’s last untouched rainforests, Dominica boasts more than a thousand species of flora, a boiling lake and 300+ rivers — with almost as many waterfalls. ST MAARTEN (pictured): The Dutch and French left their marks on this heavenly slice of tropical delight. Its beaches are some of the most breathtaking in the Caribbean region.

Roundtrip from Ft Lauderdale AAA Member Rates from $1,675

ALSO INCLUDES ONBOARD COCKTAIL PARTY $50 SHIPBOARD CREDIT PER STATEROOM

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes cruise accommodations/ entertainment, most onboard meals and government taxes/fees. Ship’s registry: Malta. Ask about available add-on airfare.

PLUS 4 FULL DAYS OF CRUISING AT SEA!

ITINERARY

Equinox Silhouette Eclipse Silhouette Reflection Silhouette Eclipse Equinox Eclipse Silhouette Reflection Silhouette Reflection Solstice Eclipse Silhouette

Italy & Greek Isles: Barcelona to Piraeus British Isles: Roundtrip from Amsterdam Scandinavia & Russia: Roundtrip from Southampton Scandinavia & Russia: Roundtrip from Amsterdam Eastern Mediterranean: Roundtrip from Civitavecchia British Isles: Roundtrip from Amsterdam Scandinavia & Russia: Roundtrip from Southampton Italy & Greek Isles: Roundtrip from Barcelona Scandinavia & Russia: Roundtrip from Southampton British Isles: Roundtrip from Amsterdam Eastern Mediterranean: Roundtrip from Civitavecchia Scandinavia & Russia: Roundtrip from Amsterdam Eastern Mediterranean: Roundtrip from Civitavecchia Alaska: Seattle to Vancouver Canaries & Azores: Roundtrip from Southampton Western Mediterranean: Roundtrip from Civitavecchia

Offers available only on AAA Vacations® departures. Combinable with AAA Member Benefits; ask a AAA Travel Agent or visit AAA.com/travel for details/restrictions.

PRIORITY CHECK-IN*

ONBOARD CREDIT**

YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES

$100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00

*does not grant priority boarding **per stateroom

Balcony rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip airport/pier transfers, 10-night cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals, government taxes/fees ($356.62) and $50 shipboard credit per stateroom. Ship’s registry: Malta. Ask about discounted add-on airfare (roundtrip from Buffalo, Cleveland, Columbus, Louisville, Philadelphia or Pittsburgh) available for a limited time. Visit AAA.com/travel for complete itinerary and important pre-travel information. ATURE

11 12 13 12 10 12 14 13 14 14 10 12 10 11 14 10

SHIP

6-2-15 6-9-15 6-14-15 7-3-15 7-10-15 7-15-15 7-25-15 8-1-15 8-8-15 8-8-15 8-21-15 8-22-15 9-11-15 9-11-15 9-13-15 9-14-15

NIGHTS

Nov 20-30 AAA Member Rate: from $1,745

AAA VACATIONS® AMENITIES DATE

10-night cruise accommodations on Celebrity Equinox roundtrip from Ft Lauderdale to St Thomas, St Kitts, Barbados, Dominica and St Maarten Add-on roundtrip airfare from Pittsburgh while seats last: $199 per person (limited to 2 passengers per stateroom; other restrictions may apply) $50 per stateroom shipboard credit • In-stateroom bottle of wine Onboard martini tasting

The AAA Vacations® Celebrity Cruises sailings below entitle you to priority check-in and $100 shipboard credit per stateroom. All AAA Vacations® cruises feature AAA’s 24 / 7 Member Care Assistance Service and 24-hour Best-Price Guarantee. Be sure to ask a AAA Travel Agent about all available offers and promotions when you choose a AAA Vacations® Celebrity Cruises departure.

“Ultimate Caribbean” cruise... Add roundtrip airfare for just $199!

$100 onboard credit on these ® AAA Vacations sailings!

T IO

Upgrade from a balcony to a Concierge Class stateroom for $100 per person! Personalized concierge service • in-room sparkling wine on arrival • in-room flowers & fruit & evening hors d’oeuvres delivered daily • luxury bedding • pillow menu • personalized stationery • tote bag • umbrella for onboard use • private bar (custom-stocked for a fee) • massage showerhead • plush robes • oversize towels • salon-quality hairdryer • a selection of shampoos/lotions/soaps • express luggage delivery • early embarkation/disembarkation • priority seating in main dining room & specialty restaurants • make-up/turndown service • expanded room service menu (24 hours) • shoeshine valet Balcony enhancements include a table for 2, cushioned chairs and high-power binoculars for onboard use.

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AAA MOTORIST

Spectacular South Africa

by near-vertical cliffs. Ride a thrilling cable car to its top for breathtaking views. (When a thin strip of cloud forms over the mountain, locals call it their “tablecloth.”) Explore charming towns on the Cape Peninsula, where strong winds known locally as the Cape Doctor blow away impurities and clean the air. Stop for a visit with the penguins at Boulders Beach and explore Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, home to more than 5,000 species of plants native to South Africa. Enjoy a traditional African dining experience. In the unlikely event you haven’t

Log on to AAA.com/GoAfrica, visit a AAA Travel location or call 1-800-354-8761.

MEMBERS SAVE! Premier .......... $600 Plus .................. $500 Basic ................$450

April 14-30 •

UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES! SEE & PHOTOGRAPH... wild animals such as elephants, leopards, rhinos, lions, impala, buffalo, zebra, giraffe • Victoria Falls, 1 of the world’s wonders

RIDE ABOARD...

an elephant • an ostrich an open-air safari vehicle a 4x4 deep into the forest a cable car up Table Mountain

CRUISE ON...

the Zambezi River • 2 lagoons the Chobe River

EXPLORE...

Kruger National Park • Soweto an ostrich farm • wine country Featherbed Nature Reserve

INTERACT WITH...

students in a township school penguins at Boulders Beach villagers at Victoria Falls African elephants up close

AAA Member Rate: $8,279

VICTORIA FALLS

Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Pittsburgh-Johannesburg), in-Africa flights, roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, sightseeing per itinerary, accommoATURE dations, in-Africa guide, 28 meals and taxes & government fees. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details. Visit CA O AAA.com/GoAfrica for itinerary and important pre-travel information. TI VA

New bookings with deposit April 1-30, 2015. Savings are per room, double occupancy.

been totally blown away by this point on the tour, get set! Fly to Zimbabwe for a walking tour of Victoria Falls (the indigenous name Mosi-o-Tunya means “smoke that thunders”), 1 of the world’s 7 greatest natural wonders. The full width of the Zambezi River plummets in a single vertical drop into a chasm 5,604 feet wide. The depth of the chasm, called the First Gorge, varies from 260 feet at its western end to 354 feet in the center. Stay at the Edwardian-style Victoria Falls Hotel, the “grand old lady of the falls” hotel, built in 1904. Take a leisurely cruise on the Zambezi, witnessing the majestic African sunset. In the morning, enjoy an elephant-back safari, then lunch with a local family and meet residents of their village. An included excursion to Botswana’s Chobe National Park, home to an abundance of wildlife and game, is another highlight of this vacation! Glimpse wildlife from both your river cruise boat and open-air land vehicle. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity no lover of wildlife and natural scenic beauty should miss.

tour a working ostrich farm and, if you choose, ride one of these flightless and largest of living birds. After that, a goblet (or 2!) of great wine may be in order. Fortunately, the Cape Winelands region is next. South Africa has produced wine since 1659; at Stellenbosch, one of the region’s oldest European settlements, enjoy wine and chocolate tastings. One of the world’s most multicultural cities, Cape Town hugs a visually stunning harbor with a mountain forming a dramatic backdrop. With its plateau more than 3,300 feet high, Table Mountain is surrounded

continued from page 1

APRIL 2015

Save some green with the AAA Green Car Guide It’s easy being green at AAA.com/greencar

here are two really good reasons to consider a green car: to save money and to save the planet. Reducing automotive emissions and boosting fuel economy offer huge benefits for society, including improvements to the environment, public health, and energy security. According to the EPA, cars and light trucks are responsible for 17 percent of all greenhouse gas emissions. And even with lower gas prices, buying a high-MPG car is still the most effective way to spend less money on fuel. But car buyers looking for fuel efficiency, low emissions, and solid driving performance are often confronted by unfamiliar terminology and a bewildering array of choices in terms of fuels and technologies. AAA’s Green Car Guide is designed to help consumers make informed choices about hybrids and low emission vehicles. Developed by the Automobile Club of Southern California’s Automotive Research Center (ARC), it not only defines what a green car is, but explains the differences between various types of green vehicles, so potential buyers are able to determine which green car best matches their lifestyle. Filled with information on plug-in hybrids (PHEV), battery electric vehicles (EV), partial zero emission vehicles (PZEV), compressed natural gas pow-

ered vehicles (CNG), clean diesels (TDI) and fuel economy leaders, the 140-page guide features reviews and rankings of vehicles ranging in price and size from the Tesla S to the Nissan Leaf, Audi A7 TDI and the Chevrolet Spark. For those who don’t know a ULEV from a PZEV, the guide also explains: • Differences between technologies and the advantages and disadvantages of each; • EV charging 101; • Fuel economy tips, alternative fuels and automotive acronyms. “The Green Car Guide is a resource for car buyers and enthusiasts seeking information on fuel-efficient vehicles and low-emission technologies,” said ARC Manager Megan McKernan. “It provides consumer-friendly data and real-world evaluations to help car buyers make informed choices.” ARC engineers and specialists evaluated the more than 80 green vehicles in the guide in 13 categories (including emissions, mpg, acceleration, handling, interior noise, ride quality, and cargo capacity). Each category is scored on a basis of 0-10 points. Scores are totaled to determine top vehicles. Then, each vehicle’s total score is divided by its as-tested price to determine its cost per point for best value. The guide lists vehicle specifications, test scores, data and observations in a summary of the

car and lists their strengths and weaknesses. Launched in 2013, the online version of AAA’s Green Car Guide has been significantly redesigned and enhanced to improve the user experience and visual appeal. The updated website provides a searchable repository of green vehicles and features, with quick-search links that show top-rated vehicles by characteristic, comparisons of selected vehicles and enriched content. There is also a section on what green technologies buyers can expect to see in the near future.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

To view the Green Car Guide online or to download the .pdf version visit www.AAA.com/greencar.

Breathtaking! This isNiagara Falls! Two nights from $154* CAN PP/DB including meals... 2 full breakfasts, dinner at

Coco’s Steakhouse, and superb dinner high atop Skylon’s Revolving Dining Room overlooking the Falls. Ask about our Niagara Attractions Package... From $124* CAN PP/DB.

Call Now! 1-800-263-9393 holidayinnniagarafalls.com Niagara Falls, Canada *Rates are per person, double occupancy. Prices valid Sun to Thurs. Holidays, weekends higher. Tax extra. Free parking. Rates valid to May 14, 2015. Child add-ons, whirlpool suites, gift certificates also available. *Subject to exchange rates. Visit www.holidayinnniagarafalls.com for details.

Two

Coco’s overlo

APRIL 2015

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 17

Southwest landscape is a symphony made of stone Go Canyoneering in America’s National Parks

illions make the trek to Arizona each year to experience the Grand Canyon. Nature’s most astonishing spectacle is both exhilarating in its grandeur, and humbling in its scale. Mornings and late afternoon are the best time to admire the Canyon’s vast dimensions and shifting palette of colors, but few realize that it’s just one of the region’s many canyons, all equally rich in color, history, beauty, and splendor. Located on Navajo tribal lands, the towering buttes of Monument Valley are familiar to movie buffs as the locale of classic John Ford Westerns like Stagecoach and The Searchers. John Ford Point marks the legendary director’s favorite camera location; the place where 500 million years of mesas, and sandstone pinnacles, provide a spectacular backdrop to what John Wayne called “where God put the West.” Perched high above the Colorado River in southern Utah, Arches National Park is punctuated with oddly eroded sandstone pinnacles, balanced rocks, and spires. The name comes from the world’s largest concentration of natural arches — more than 2,000 sandstone arches covering some 73,000 acres — along a 40-mile scenic drive with numerous overlooks. Capitol Reef National Park is characterized by slot canyons, ancient petroglyphs, and a 100-mile long bulge in the

revealing a rocky palette of rose, coral, amber and vermilion. Zion National Park follows the winding Virgin River surrounded by red and gold stone monoliths that climb more than 2,000-ft high. Located at the junction of the Colorado Plateau, Great Basin and the Mojave Desert, Utah’s oldest national park is known for its soaring temples, sculpted sandstone and spectacular views. Famous hikes include the Narrows, Subway and Angel’s Landing, which is definitely not for people with a fear of heights. The Zion Canyon Shuttle runs through the most traveled area of the park stopping at nine locations including the Temple of Sinawava and the Court of Patriarchs, three sandstone monoliths named after the Old Testament patriarchs Abraham, Issac, and Jacob.

A DELICATE BALANCE — Delicate Arch in Arches National Park. earth’s crust known as the Waterpocket Fold. Scenic Highway 12 takes travelers into some of Utah’s most mesmerizing landscapes with extraordinary views of the Capitol Reef, the Circle Cliffs, and the Henry Mountains. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument sprawls over 1.9 million acres of rose-colored Navajo sandstone, wild rivers and thousand-year-old pinyon trees. It’s a landscape so remote it was the last area in the continental United States to be mapped.

Bryce Canyon’s natural amphitheaters are etched into the side of the Paunsaugunt Plateau. The smallest of Utah’s five national parks houses thousands of oddly humanoid red rock spires known as hoodoos. The Bryce Amphitheater displays many of the parks best-known formations, including the much-photographed Thor’s Hammer, and the Queen’s Castle. Watching the sun come up at Sunrise Point is a ritual here as a fine mist climbs the canyon walls in response to the morning sun,

Zion National Park FOR MORE INFORMATION

See the Departures Guide or log on to AAA.com/USA for more vacation ideas from AAA Travel.

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AAA MOTORIST

APRIL 2015

Royal Caribbean introduces Anthem of the Seas Cruise travel may never be the same again

ith game-changing “firsts” including a skydiving simulator and an observation capsule that lifts guests more than 300 feet in the air, there’s only one word to describe Anthem of the Seas: Wow! Spanning 18 decks, Royal Caribbean’s latest ship makes her debut this month sailing a schedule of European and Canary Island cruises. Transformative venues on the 4,100-passenger ship include Two70°, a multi-sensory great room with floor-to-ceiling glass walls, and the cruise line’s most advanced staterooms with upscale customizable layouts and larger, more intuitive storage solutions. And every one of the 2,090 staterooms will have a view thanks to “virtual balconies.” Inside cabins will become outside cabins with 80-inch LED projection screens mounted on the wall streaming live images from cameras mounted on the sides of the ship. Ever wonder what it feels like to freefall from 10,000 feet without jumping out of an airplane? First-time flyers and seasoned skydivers can enjoy the adrenalin rush of skydiving risk-free on RipCord by iFly, the only skydiving experience at sea. Before you can say “Geronimo” you’ll get suited up and be floating on a column of air inside a 23-foot-tall transparent glass flight chamber on the top deck.

HITTING NEW HEIGHTS — RipCord by iFly is a skydiving experience at sea. A marvel of maritime engineering, North Star is taking guests to new heights — literally. The jewel-shaped, glass capsule will transport you on a spectacular 15-minute journey more than 300 feet above the ocean. The view alone is worth the trip with unobstructed views of sunrises, sunsets, ports of call and the boundless ocean.

Anthem’s Dynamic Dining opens up a whole new menu of culinary creations. There are no set dinner times, and no required formal nights. Instead, let your appetite be the guide to 18 tantalizing possibilities. The American Icon Grill offers a new take on the classic American road trip, pulling together best-loved regional favorites into one

big road atlas of comfort foods. Silk brings the subtle flavors and spices of the Far East to adventurous palates through an exotic Pan-Asian menu. With its elegant décor, supper club ambiance and sophisticated cuisine, every night is formal night in The Grande. The SeaPlex Dog House — the first food truck at sea — serves up gourmet hot dogs inside a flexible sports and entertainment venue that lets you cut loose and connect with your playful side. Fly through the air on the circus school’s flying trapeze, or shoot some hoops on a regulation-size court. Things go “bump in the night” with the first-ever bumper cars at sea featuring all the fun and excitement of a midway. While Anthem of the Seas may seem like a destination unto itself, Royal Caribbean will be steering her to some of the world’s most storied ports. Following her inaugural European season in London (Southampton), Anthem of the Seas will homeport in Cape Liberty, New Jersey in November, for seven- to 12-night Bahamas and Caribbean sailings. FOR MORE INFORMATION

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

aroundtown NEIL DIAMOND — (April 7) The iconic Grammy Award-winning, and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member, embarks on his highly anticipated Neil Diamond World Tour 2015. Tickets are $62 to $142.75. Show time is at 8:00 p.m. For tickets and information, call (800) 745-3000 or visit consolenergycenter.com. Location: Consol Energy Center, 1001 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh. EARTH FEST — (April 11) Live entertainment, activities for children and families, educational presentations, an artists’ market, vendor booths, a computer recycling drive, and Penn State Berkey Creamery Ice Cream. The time is from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, call (724) 983-2841 or visit shenango.psu. edu. Location: Penn State Shenango Campus, Sharon – Great Hall area, 147 Shenango Avenue, Sharon. SCOTTISH FESTIVAL — (April 11) Enjoy Celtic entertainment, Scottish foods, dances and language lessons, plus free admission and free parking. The time is from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Bethel Presbyterian Church, 2999 Bethel Church Rd, Bethel Park, PA. TEKKO 2015 — (April 16-19) A convention for fans with an interest in anime, Japanese music, toku, video games, card and board games,

plus other Japanese-related popular culture. For more information, visit teamtekko.us. Location: David L. Lawrence Convention Center, 1000 Fort Duquesne Boulevard, Pittsburgh. INTO THE WOODS — (April 16-19) When the baker and his wife learn they have been cursed by the witch next door, they embark on a journey to break the spell. For tickets and information call (724) 357-2787 or visit iup.edu/ livelyarts. Performances Thursday through Saturday at 8:00 p.m., Sunday at 2:00 p.m. Location: Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Performing Arts Center, Fisher Auditorium, 403 South Eleventh Street, Indiana. PITTSBURGH CRAFT BEER WEEK — (April 17-26) A celebration of great local beer in the Steel City that brings together breweries, distributors, bottle shops, restaurants and beer lovers. Events include beer tastings, pairing craft beer with local food, and special beers brewed exclusively for PCBW. For a schedule of events, visit pittsburghcraftbeerweek.com. Location: Greater Pittsburgh area. STAMP & POSTCARD SHOW — (April 18-19) The Wilkinsburg Stamp Club is hosting “Wilpex 2015”— their 65th annual stamp show featuring

former Pittsburgh Pirates’ star Kent Tekulve Cachet and Cancellation. Browse items from over 11 stamp dealers including souvenir sheets, FDC, panels and more. A youth area will be open along with free parking & admission. The times are Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; and Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Gateway Hall, 4370 Northern Pike, Monroeville, PA. FUR BALL GALA — (April 25) Enjoy dinner and dancing while you bid on silent, Chinese, and live auction items, with special guest auctioneer. And don’t be late or you will miss a visit with the adoptable residents during Yappy Hour. Presented by the Butler County Humane Society. Black tie optional. Tickets are $100. The time is from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. For information, call (724) 789-1150 or email eventshumanebc@zoominternet. net. Location: Butler Country Club, 310 Country Club Road, Butler. STINKFEST IN BRADFORD — (May 2) This annual festival celebrates the leek, aka the spring onion. Look forward to plenty of leek cuisine, including a leek dip contest, food and craft vendors, amusement rides for kids, entertainment, a Lil Stinker contest and outhouse races. The time is from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. For information, call

(814) 368-7417 or visit stinkfest. org. Location: East Main Street, Bradford. PITTSBURGH MARATHON — (May 3) One of the premier marathons in the country, with more than 100,000 cheering fans lining the course to encourage the runners. Several neighborhood festivals will be under way in 13 communities along the course. The Music by the Mile program features live musical acts to entertain runners on their speedy foot tour of the city. Start time is 7:00 a.m. For information and registration, visit pittsburghmarathon.com. Location: Downtown Pittsburgh. ST. NICK’S GREEK FOOD FESTIVAL — (May 4-10) This popular annual tradition features Greek food and costumed dancers performing nightly to traditional Greek music. The diverse menu includes beef stefatho, chicken oregano, souvlakia, baklava and much more. Greek and domestic wines will also be available. Festival hours are Sunday, noon to 8:00 p.m.; Monday to Thursday, 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. For information, visit stnickspgh.org. Location: St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 419 South Dithridge Street, Pittsburgh University District, Pittsburgh.

APRIL 2015

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 19

Fast forward your membership experience with Hertz Named Best Car Rental Company by Business Travel Awards

ertz was named Best Car Rental Company at the Business Travel Awards 2015; one of the travel industry’s most esteemed events. Hertz won the acclaim of judges for “its on-going ability to constantly review the car rental market for what its customers really want, and adapt and innovate accordingly.” Some examples include Hertz’ 24/7 technology; their unique Hertz Collections like the Green and Prestige collections; and their award-winning Gold Plus Rewards customer loyalty program. The global enhancements to Hertz’s Gold Plus Rewards® loyalty program allow AAA members to fast forward their membership experience anywhere they rent a car, worldwide. One of the benefits of AAA membership is the special package of savings available when you rent from Hertz. Enjoy discounts on published daily, weekly, weekend and monthly rates when including your designated AAA Discount Code (CDP#215) in your reservation and presenting your membership card or Hertz Member Discount Card (CDP Card) at the time of rental. It is now easier for Gold members to move up and enjoy additional benefits in Hertz Gold Plus Rewards® Five Star® and Hertz Gold Plus Rewards® President’s Circle®. Here are a few upgrades made to the program:

PUTS YOU IN THE DRIVER’S SEAT — Hertz is the only car rental company endorsed by AAA. Quicker Enrollment: Customers can now enroll in Gold Plus Rewards right at the counter when they pick up their rental. Hertz Gold Choice®: Provides renters with the peace of mind knowing their car will be ready and waiting for them, and the freedom to choose something different on the spot. Mobile Gold Alerts: Gold members can receive messages sent to their phone with up-to-the-minute informa-

tion that let them know which car they’ll be driving and where their vehicle is parked. Faster Rentals: Allows Gold members to skip the counter at over 50 airports around the world. And at over 4,000 locations worldwide, renters can simply show their driver’s license and pick up their keys. More Ways to Earn Points: In addition to earning points on rental charges, Gold members earn with services

like Hertz NeverLost®, Fuel Purchase, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, insurance coverage options, and more. Once enrolled, members can earn one point per dollar spent on all qualifying rentals. The program features AnyDay Rewards with no black-out dates, allowing members to use points at any time. Members also have the flexibility to use their points when it is convenient for them as Gold Plus Rewards points do not automatically expire. Each time a member rents a car that earns points or redeems points, their points renew for an additional two years. AAA members can sign up at AAA. com/Hertz or Hertz.com. Premier Members must sign up at AAA.com/ Hertz in order to validate Premier level of membership. AAA Basic & Plus Members receive 675 Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Bonus points — enough for One Free Rental Day, after their first Gold rental. AAA Premier Members will receive 1,100 Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Bonus points — enough for Two Free Weekend Rental Days, after their first Gold rental! YOUR KEY TO HERTZ SAVINGS

Your Hertz CDP# is your key to exclusive Hertz savings and benefits. The CDP#215 the same as your club code, the threedigit number that appears on the front of your membership card.

The perfect companion for your perfect vacation TripAssist Family Care Plan protects your travel investment

ou’d like to believe that your trip will go as planned. But if something happens, you want to be prepared. TripAssist Family Care Plan, AAA’s newest travel insurance product, covers more of the unexpected for less. With features like comprehensive trip cancellation and primary emergency medical coverage, 24-hour travel assistance, the Family Care Plan from Allianz Global Assistance, is the perfect companion for your perfect vacation. Plus — no charge for covering kids 17 and under when traveling with parents or grandparents — and no surprise processing fees! This makes travel insurance premiums more affordable, for families with young children. Should your luggage fail to arrive when you do, the plan now offers increased baggage protection. Baggage loss and damage coverage is $1,000 — double that of comparable packages. Baggage delay coverage has been increased to $300, a 50 percent improvement over previous plans. TripAssist Family Care also provides expanded trip cancellation and interruption coverage. It protects your travel investment if your trip is delayed or cancelled for a covered reason, such as a major injury, jury duty or other unforeseen circumstances. Recent additions

STAY COVERED — If something happens, you want to be prepared. to this plan include reimbursement of Frequent Flyer miles and associated airline fees, and vehicle return coverage if your road trip is interrupted. Medical treatment on your domestic or overseas vacation may leave you with high, out-of-pocket expenses. TripAssist Family Care includes $25,000 in primary medical coverage for emergency medical costs during your travels. There’s no need to file claims with your

regular health insurer first. Emergency medical evacuation can be a lifesaver when traveling to a destination where health care is not up to U.S. standards. TripAssist Family Care will reimburse you for transportation costs to the medical facility and back home, up to $500,000. An array of optional benefits helps you tailor a plan to your own specific needs. TripAssist Family Care Trip+ offers

double the limits for select benefits, including missed connection coverage, travel delay, emergency medical coverage and transportation, and baggage loss/damage or delay. With Rental Car Damage Protector you won’t have to worry about using your personal car insurance company. For just a few dollars a day it provides primary coverage for covered collision, loss and damage, along with 24-hour emergency assistance. The Required to Work option provides trip cancellation and interruption coverage when your plans change for a variety of work related issues. The Cancel Anytime option offers greater flexibility than a traditional trip cancellation policy because it allows you to cancel your trip for almost any reason that the Family Care Plan does not already cover and receive 80% of a non-refundable trip costing up to $10,000 back in cash.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Several factors can affect the cost of any travel insurance policy. Before deciding on a plan, be sure you understand what you’re buying and what each policy does and does not cover. For more information, visit AAA.com/travelinsurance.

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AAA MOTORIST

APRIL 2015