Westmoreland june 2016

SEE PAGE 3

WESTMORELAND WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA REGION

Vol. 63 23 No. 1 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!

N

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...

•

•

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

•

•

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.

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

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.

PAGE 2

AAA MOTORIST

Plan your next move with the TripTik® Travel Planner Make a fresh start on your next road trip

Y

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

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 INTERNET WEB SITE: www.AAA.com

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

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.

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-Wexford Plaza 10548 Perry Highway ................................ 724-933-3000 White Oak/McKeesport Area Oak Park Mall, 2001 Lincoln Way ............ 412-675-3400

JUNE 2016

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 3

History of falling increases crash risk for older drivers New study finds preventing falls may make roads safer Westmoreland Region Official publication of the Westmoreland Region of AAA East Central Published monthly (except bimonthly Aug./Sept., Nov./Dec.)

by AAA East Central Eastgate Shopping Center 5142 Rt 30, Suite 135 Greensburg PA 15601-3604 724-834-8300 USPS 0522-130 ISSN 0891-1126 Periodicals Postage Paid at Greensburg PA Postmaster: Send address changes to AAA Motorist Westmoreland Region 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 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

Regional Board of Directors Kenneth A. Bacha, Gary N. Beck Sr., Dominic Ciarimboli, Mark S. Mansour, Gilfert M. Mihalich, Debra Pezze, Dennis J. Slyman, James C. Stump, James C. Stump, Jr.

Greensburg 724-834-8300 Eastgate Plaza 5142 Route 30, Suite 135 Lower Burrell New Kensington Area 724-339-4440 Crossroads Plaza 2503 Leechburg Rd

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-

S

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.

PAGE 4

AAA MOTORIST

JUNE 2016

JUNE 2016

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 5

PAGE 6

AAA MOTORIST

JUNE 2016

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.

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 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 800.207.7947, or visit AAA.com/insurance for more information or to schedule a comprehensive Insurance review. AAA – your trusted insurance advisor.

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 7

© Peter Cox / Fotolia.com

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

continued on next page

For new “Tropical Costa Rica” bookings made by June 30, 2016: AAA East Central Offer for all 2016 departures

continued on next page

$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

PAGE 8

AAA MOTORIST

JUNE 2016

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

Enjoy Costa Rica YOUR way with AAA continued from previous page

continued from previous page

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).

© Peter Cox / Fotolia.com

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

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 9

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

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

California New Year' s Getaway features the Tournament of Roses!

ATURE

VA

CA

S

AAA Member Rate: $3,995

D

Dec 30–Jan 5 •

Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Pittsburgh–Los Angeles, San Diego–Pittsburgh), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, motorcoach transportation, accommodations, 11 meals, luggage handling (1 bag/person), taxes/gratuities for included features and services of a AAA Tour Manager in California (if participation goal is met). Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.

N

Save $100

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,

T IO

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: $3,575

ATURE D

VA

CA

S

Nov 30–Dec 8 •

Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes flights (Pittsburgh-Frankfurt, Munich-Pittsburgh), 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.

N

per room when you book & deposit

by June 30!

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.

© boris17 / Fotolia.com

FE

Save $100

© Antonio Gravante / Fotolia.com

© Peter Cox / Fotolia.com

JUNE 2016

T IO

PAGE 10

AAA MOTORIST

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

ATURE

S

N

CA

D

& DROMOLAND CASTLE

VA

HERITAGE

FE

IRISH

$ 50

T IO

“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.

© Peter Cox / Fotolia.com

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

JUNE 2016

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 11

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

S

CA

N

FE

ATURE

T IO

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 • $2,589

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

ATURE

S

N

CA

D

© Mariusz Blach / Fotolia.com

VA

Featured Vacations: Near or far, always a great value!

FE

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.

FEATURED VACATIONS D

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

VA

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 Hermitage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-981-9141 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

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers PITTSBURGH PA AREA

© Peter Cox / Fotolia.com

JUNE 2016

T IO

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 Pittsburgh, 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.

PAGE 12

AAA MOTORIST

ATURE

S

T IO

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 (Pittsburgh-Edmonton, Calgary-Pittsburgh), 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

N

CA

mbrace dazzling natural beauty and distinct experiences during this under-appreciated but oh-so-cool season

D

FE

CANADA’S WINTER WONDERLAND! MYRTLE BEACH E VA

Photo: Banff Lake Louise Tourism /Fairmont Hotels & Resorts

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

© Peter Cox / Fotolia.com

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

JUNE 2016

© Peter Cox / Fotolia.com

JUNE 2016

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 13

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

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...

•

the best cruise-only rates in the travel industry

•

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

•

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

•

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

NTS

EMBARKATION/DEBARKATION

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

7

Europe: Christmas Time Cruise

Budapest to Nuremberg

$75

AmaDara

12/19

7

Vietnam, Cambodia

Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City

$75

River Countess

10/28

14

Maria Theresa

12/15

7

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.

PAGE 14

AAA MOTORIST

JUNE 2016

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

PIRATES HOME GAMES: Get a seat & more!

fabulous 3-in-1 florida FALL FANTASY

SOLD OUT Dodgers SOLD OUT

Cardinals Saturday June 11 @ 7:15pm Zambelli Fireworks

Friday June 24 @ 7:05pm Free Shirt Friday (first 20,000 fans)

© Michael Flippo / Fotolia.com

•

The • Perks! • •

Sept 14-17 •

S

AAA Member Rate: $785

© Konstiantyn / Fotolia.com

2 nights in Louisville: Churchill Downs, the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory and Evan Williams Distillery. Continue on to Cincinnati: city tour, unlimited buffet in the Smokehouse Party Barn as you watch the game at Great American Ball Park. Also visit Newport KY. 6 meals.

ATURE

CA

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 Canada & New England ......................... Sept 1-10......................from $1,141 Southeast & the Bahamas ..................... Nov 12-21 .......................from $999 Coastal USA & the Bahamas .................. Jan 14-23 .........................from $945 Coastal USA & the Bahamas .................. Feb 4-13 ..........................from $935 Coastal USA & the Bahamas .................. March 18-27.................from $1,165 The Bahamas .......................................... April 17-24 ......................from $815 AAA MEMBER RATES are per person (double occupancy), are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip motorcoach transportation (Pittsburgh-MD), cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals and taxes, fees and port expenses of up to $383.10 per person. Ship’s registry: Bahamas. Visit AAA.com/motorcruise for details & PA pick-up points. Passport required.

Cruise on Anthem of the Seas & get $50 shipboard credit!

THIS OFFER AVAILABLE WITH OCEANVIEW (AND ABOVE) STATEROOMS. ATURE

N

VA

S

D

FE

N

CINCINNATI REDS...AND LOUISVILLE KY

Add $45 per person per day.

CA

AAA Member Rate: $679

Tour monuments and memorials. Attend a rooftop reception at your hotel (views of the Capitol!). Enjoy time to explore on your own. After a picnic, take your reserved baseline seat and root for the Pirates. Visit National Harbor; shop, browse, dine and/or ride the towering Capital Wheel on your own. 4 meals.

Classic Beverage Packages for 2 Unlimited Internet for 2 Prepaid Tips for 2 $150 Onboard Spending Money per person

Rate is per person (balcony stateroom, double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes onboard accommodations, most onboard meals & entertainment and government taxes & port charges of up to $356.34. Ship’s registry: Malta & Ecuador. Ask about available add-on airfare.

ON THE ROAD WITH THE PIRATES! July 15-17 •

AAA BONUS!

Add $15 per person per day.

®

WASHINGTON NATIONALS

Roundtrip from Ft Lauderdale FL to...

• Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas USVI • Basseterre, St Kitts & Nevis Nov 18-28 • Bridgetown, Barbados • Philipsburg, St Maarten NL AAA Member Rate (overnight in port!) from $1,545 4 days at sea balcony stateroom Dinner for 2 at an onboard specialty restaurant

AAA: The preferred travel agency of the Pittsburgh Pirates

D

se i u r C n a e b b i r Ultimate Ca Equinox! on Celebrity

Full payment due at time of booking.

VA

Make Thanksgiving 2016 the one everyone remembers:

AAA Member Rate $99 per person per game

S

oct 14-21 AAA member rate: $1,839

T IO

N

T IO

FanJam Post-game Concert

CA

FE

S

N

FE

D

VA

CA

Nationals Saturday Sept 24 @ 7:05pm

ATURE

D

ATURE

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Pittsburgh–Ft Lauderdale), roundtrip airport/hotel/pier/ game transfers, 3-night hotel accommodations (including taxes/gratuities), 3 meals in Miami (including post-game party), reserved Level 100 seat for SteelersDolphins game, 4-night cruise accommodations/ entertainment, most onboard meals and the services of a AAA Tour Manager in FL.

SOLD OUT

Travel Tumbler (first 20,000 fans)

VA

3 nights on Miami’s stylish South Beach!

A ticket to the Steelers-Dolphins game!

A 4-night Carnival Cruise to Key West & Cozumel!

SOLD OUT SOLD OUT

Cubs Saturday July 9 @ 7:15pm Reds Saturday Aug 6 @ 7:05pm Brewers Saturday Sept 3 @ 7:05pm

FE

BEACHes! FOOTBALL! CRUISE!

• 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

T IO

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 (Pittsburgh–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 & Pittsburgh area pick-up points. Passport required.

© Peter Cox / Fotolia.com

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

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 15

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

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

Car-free, carefree adventures

ATURE

N

VA

CA

S

D

FE

© Peter Cox / Fotolia.com

JUNE 2016

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.

LEAVE YOUR CAR AT HOME!

Hugh Morton / Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

AUTUMN ELK ENCOUNTER

BEST OF THE BLUE RIDGE

Bald Eagle & Hyner View state parks Sept 30–Oct 2 •

Virginia & North Carolina

AAA Member Rate: $599

Oct 23-28 •

Experience an immersive getaway celebrating more than 100 years of elk in Pennsylvania. Stay at the Nature Inn at Bald Eagle State Park, where you follow trails, learn about nature and view “Pennsylvania Elk: Reclaiming the Alleghenies.” Follow the Pennsylvania Scenic Byway with a naturalist, stop at a lookout in Hyner View State Park and visit the Elk County Visitor Center to view live elk on the grounds and ride an old-fashioned covered wagon. 6 meals.

CRUISING THE CHESAPEAKE

Annapolis, St Michaels, Baltimore MD Aug 15-17 •

AAA Member Rate: $665

Tour Annapolis — Maryland’s charming colonial-flavored capital and home of the US Naval Academy; enjoy 2 nights at a historical hotel across from the State House. Cruise into Chesapeake Bay from the City Dock. Board a well-appointed yacht for another cruise — from Annapolis to the quaint Eastern Shore town of St Michaels and its Chesapeake Maritime Museum. Motorcoach to Baltimore for free time at its Inner Harbor waterfront district; while there, you may want to browse shops, visit the National Aquarium or tour the USS Constellation. Enjoy a cruise tour of Baltimore Harbor. 3 meals.

THE WRIGHT KIND OF SUMMER Laurel Highlands PA

Aug 21 •

AAA Member Rate: $155

Explore 2 of architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s works in the Laurel Highlands (Duncan House at Polymath Park Resort and Fallingwater near Ohiopyle). Enjoy lunch at Tree Tops restaurant and dinner at the historic Summit Inn. 2 meals.

VIRGINIA BEACH OCEANA AIR SHOW Virginia Beach & Norfolk VA

Sept 7-12 •

AAA Member Rate: $999

Enjoy 5 nights and relaxing beach time at an

Stay 2 nights at a lakeside resort in Blowing Rock NC, a quaint mountain village. Visit Grandfather Mountain, highest peak in the Blue Ridge. Ride the Smoky Mountain Railway on the Nantahala Gorge Excursion; hear bluegrass and Appalachian stories. Tour Asheville and the Biltmore Estate (as well as its gardens and winery). Overnight at Viriginia’s Peaks of the Otter Lodge. Take beautiful Skyline Drive on your way home! 10 meals.

oceanfront hotel on Virginia Beach’s popular boardwalk. Visit Cape Henry Lighthouse, get a behind-the-scenes tour of Naval Station Norfolk and cruise Norfolk Harbor. Visit an interactive maritime center(Nauticus) and see the MacArthur Memorial. Highlight: Naval Air Station Oceana’s Air Show, including the world-famous Blue Angels! 10 meals.

NEW ENGLAND RAILS & TRAILS Oct 2-9 •

CT, RI, MA, NH, VT, NY

AAA Member Rate: $2,035

Delight in autumn’s colors. Visit a CT submarine museum; tour a Newport RI mansion; see Plymouth Rock and ferry out to Nantucket Island in MA; take rides on the Cape Cod Central, Conway Scenic and Café Lafayette trains; follow NH’s Kancamagus Highway; visit an 1890s dairy farm, Quechee Gorge and Bennington VT; and tour elegant Belhurst Castle in NY’s Finger Lakes region. 18 meals.

PA GRAND CANYON & MORE

Williamsport & Wellsboro PA

Oct 6-8 •

AAA Member Rate: from $1,645

AAA Member Rate: $605

Enjoy foliage from Kinzua Gorge’s 230-foot-high glass-bottomed skywalk; visit the PA Lumber Museum. Explore the PA Grand Canyon’ s upper gorge by covered wagon. Visit an overlook, then downtown Wellsboro. See the mansions of Williamsport’s Millionaires’ Row. Cruise on a paddle wheeler on the Susquehanna River. 6 meals.

VETERANS’ PRIDE Nov 9-11 •

Washington DC

AAA Member Rate: $499

Commemorate Veterans Day and the US Marine Corps’ birthday on a tour of patriotic and military landmarks in VA and DC — Manassas National Battlefield, Freedom Museum, USMC Museum, Quantico & Arlington cemeteries, DC memorials (WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Iwo Jima, Lincoln) and night tour of DC. 5 meals.

HOLIDAY TOURS!

CHRISTMAS SHOWS OF LANCASTER Lancaster PA

Dec 1-3 •

AAA Member Rate: $559

HOLIDAY HOUSES OF WORSHIP Pittsburgh PA

Dec 5 OR Dec 7 •

AAA Member Rate: $89

CHRISTMAS ON THE POTOMAC

Dec 8-10 •

Washington DC

AAA Member Rate: $675

GATHERING OF GIFTS IN OHIO

Dec 10 •

Millersburg OH

AAA Member Rate: $139

’TIS THE SEASON IN THE BIG APPLE New York City NY

Dec 12-14 •

AAA Member Rate: $665

PAGE 16

AAA MOTORIST

JUNE 2016

Find your green machine with the AAA Green Car Guide It’s easy being green at AAA.com/greencar

L

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

S

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

E

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

PAGE 17

Oceania Cruises’ new mermaid is making a splash Sirena marries casual elegance with high style

O

ver the past decade Oceania Cruises has carved out a remarkable niche in the cruise industry by combining affordable luxury, with award-winning itineraries and a casual, country club atmosphere. Sirena, their newest ship, epitomizes quiet grace, worldly destinations and elegant, sophisticated décor. Large enough to accommodate three decks of balcony cabins, commodious public rooms, and an attentive, European trained staff, it’s intimate enough to take travelers where massmarket ships cannot — into secluded ports and quiet, unspoiled islands.

Sirena, which is Spanish for siren or mermaid, was originally constructed in 1998 for the now-defunct Renaissance Cruises. She joins a trio of former Renaissance vessels in the Oceania fleet. Before entering service in April, the 684-passenger ship was elevated to Oceania’s standard of elegance with a 35-day, $40 million refurbishment.

Dining with Oceania Cruises means fine food instead of feasts. Master chef Jacques Pépin has adroitly mingled time-honored favorites with ingenious fusion dishes and nouvelle cuisine in the Grand Dining Room. Sirena sets sail with two new specialty restaurants including Tuscan Steak, a classic steakhouse with the zest and flair of Toscana.

Jacques Bistro, a new gourmet lunch experience in the Grand Dining Room,

AFFORDABLE LUXURY — Oceania Cruises officially launched its newest ship April 27. Photo: Mark Ashman, Oceania Cruises. features some of legendary chef Jacques Pépin’s signature dishes.

Sirena also includes some recent additions to the Oceania Cruises fleet such as Red Ginger, a guest favorite from Oceania’s Marina and Riviera. The menu offers familiar culinary delights like Miso Glazed Sea Bass and Lobster Pad Thai. The stylish, contemporary décor is a study in feng shui, and

perfectly complements the Pan-Asian cuisine. There’s never a surcharge for these exquisite specialty restaurants and guest always enjoy unlimited free soft drinks, bottled water, specialty coffees, teas and juices.

Staterooms are generous, appointed with modern furnishings and the soothing colors of the sea. Plus, all suites and staterooms feature an all-new

custom-designed Ultra Tranquility Bed. Guests will enjoy a variety of enrichment opportunities including seminars, hands-on classes, concerts, wine tastings and more. Four brand new musical productions include Tuxedo, a fresh take on the music of the Rat Pack, and the Great American Songbook, and Cabaret Cinema with memorable songs from the silver screen.

During its inaugural season, Sirena will sail Mediterranean itineraries featuring a mix of classic destinations and new ports of call, including the famed beaches of Gaeta, Italy. A favored retreat since the time of the Romans, the old town stretches out on a mandolin shaped peninsula presided over by a 7th century castle.

In October the ship transitions to the South Pacific for a series of voyages to Australia, New Zealand and French Polynesia. Shimmering like a string of pearls in a topaz sea, these legendary islands have bewitched sailors since the time of Captain Cook. Ancient volcanoes loom over lush tropical lagoons in a landscape that seems taken from a painting by Gauguin.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Please see your AAA Departures Guide or visit your AAA Travel Agent or AAA.com for special values on vacations from AAA Travel.

PAGE 18

AAA MOTORIST

JUNE 2016

Don’t play with fire in your automobile Poor maintenance and electrical failure leading causes

M

otor vehicle fires are a sometimes-overlooked aspect of driving safety. Each year, these fires kill over 300 people and injure 1,250 more. Toxic gases and other hazardous substances, along with flying debris and explosions, combine to produce a serious risk to both people and property.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA): • Nearly one out of seven fires involves vehicles.

• One out of 10.5 fire deaths results from a vehicle fire.

• Four percent of fire-related firefighter injuries each year result from vehicle fires.

Vehicle fires are so dangerous that firefighters wear full protective fireresistant gear, as well as self-contained breathing apparatus to keep them safe.

Drivers don’t have these safety advantages, so they need use extreme caution.

Automobiles, trucks and other motor vehicles are made of many synthetic materials that emit harmful, and deadly gases when they burn. While no one will forget the acrid smell of burning wires, the main byproduct of fires is a lethal concentration of carbon monoxide, which is an odorless, colorless and tasteless gas.

A vehicle fire can generate tem-

HOT WHEELS — A vehicle fire can melt metal parts like the engine and alloy wheels. Photo: Adam DuBrowa/FEMA. peratures upward of 1,500 degrees Fahrenheit. Extreme heat can cause parts of the vehicle to burst or explode, sending debris great distances. Bumper and hatchback door struts, two-piece tire rims, magnesium wheels, drive shafts, grease seals, axle, and engine parts, can all become lethal shrapnel.

Although relatively rare, gas tanks can rupture and spill fuel. Hazardous materials, such as battery acid, can cause injury even without burning.

While EVs and hybrid vehicle are no more likely to catch fire than conventional vehicles they do have large battery packs that when damaged can lead to thermal runaway, a condition which causes the battery’s temperature to rise uncontrollably.

According to the NFPA 49 percent of vehicle fires are caused by mechanical failure or malfunction, while 23 percent are caused by electrical failure or malfunction. Make sure to have your

Abigail’s Coffeehouse, Amica, Betsy’s of Ligonier, the Ligonier Chamber office, and Town & Country Ford.

For information, visit ligonier.com.

Location: Idlewild, Route 30 East, Ligonier.

LOUIE ANDERSON — (June 11) Experience the hilarious comedy of this two-time Emmy Awardwinning comedian, and costar of the quirky FX comedy series “Baskets”.

Anderson has been named one of the top 100 comedians of all time

by Comedy Central. Time: 8:30 p.m.

Tickets: $30. For tickets and information, visit monroevilleconventioncenter.com. Location: Monroeville Convention Center, 209 Mall Boulevard, Monroeville.

ANTIQUES AND COLLECTIBLES MARKET — (June 12) This longstanding community tradition is enjoyed by those who appreciate antiques and unique treasures. Good buying and selling opportunities can be found as over 100 vendors come together in a quaint setting for a chance to find something vintage or discover something they didn’t expect. Time: 7:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Admission is $3 per car for shoppers. For information, visit westmorelandhistory.org.

Location: Historic Hanna’s Town, 809 Forbes Road, Greensburg.

BEER AND GEAR FESTIVAL — (June 18) The Ohiopyle Beer and Gear festival

will feature over a dozen breweries with top-notch ales, plus outdoor and whitewater vendors. Bring your designated driver if you plan to consume any alcohol. Admission: $25. For more information, visit wilderness-voyageurs.com. Location: Wilderness Voyageurs, 103 Garrett Street, Ohiopyle.

WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA RIB FEST — (June 24-26) Enjoy savory ribs, chicken, pulled pork, turkey legs and brisket. Grab a side dish of pierogies, haluski or fried veggies to go with it.

Family fun includes the kids’ zone, marketplace and live music. The times are Friday, 5 p.m. to 11p.m.; Saturday, noon to 11 p.m.; and Sunday, noon to 8 p.m. Admission is $5; kids under 12 free. For information, visit simoneventmanagement.com. Location: Westmoreland County Fairgrounds, 123 Blue Ribbon Lane, Greensburg.

WESTMORELAND ARTS AND HERITAGE FESTIVAL — (June 30-July 3) Now in its 42nd year, the festival includes over 50 live performances, 220 arts and crafts exhibitors, heritage and history demonstrations, and tasty ethnic food booths. Hours: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Free admission. For information, visit artsandheritage.com or call 724-834-7474. Location: Twin Lakes Park, 252 Twin Lakes Road, Greensburg.

vehicle checked by a qualified professional if it begins leaking any fluids or repeatedly blowing fuses. Never park a car on dry leaves or vegetation. Heat from the catalytic converter can set it and your car on fire.

What should you do in the event of a vehicle fire?

• Pull over immediately and stop the car. Continuing to move forward will push air into the engine compartment, fanning the flames.

• Get everyone out of and away from the vehicle.

• When you are a safe distance from the vehicle, call the fire department or 911. Tell them the location of the fire.

• Do not attempt to get back into a burning vehicle to retrieve personal property.

• Don’t open the hood or trunk if you see smoke. Air could rush in, creating a backdraft or flashover and leading to injury.

• Do not attempt to put the fire out yourself.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

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

aroundtown THREE RIVERS ARTS FESTIVAL — (June 3-12) Experience all the music, art, theater, film and dance that Pittsburgh has to offer at the Three Rivers Arts Festival. There will be a variety of live performances, food and art vendors, and children’s activities throughout this 10-day event.

For a full list of performers and more information, visit 3riversartsfest. org, or call 412-456-6666. Location: Point State Park, Pittsburgh.

SUMMERSOUNDS — (June 3-August 26) SummerSounds a free series of concerts under the stars on Fridays, has been called “the best outdoor music series in Western PA.” This year’s concerts range from jazz to rock to bluegrass, with a taste of folk, new age and country. Shows begin at 7 p.m. Preshow music 6:15-6:45 p.m. unless noted otherwise. For information and schedule, visit summersounds.com. Location: St. Clair Park, downtown Greensburg.

LIGONIER COMMUNITY/SCHOOL PICNIC & DUCK DASH — (June 10) Spend time with family and friends at the Ligonier Valley Community and School picnic at Idlewild.

Discounted tickets are available in the Chamber office. The Ligonier Duck Dash will be held right after the picnic in the Lazy River in SoakZone.

Individual Duck tickets, Quack Packs and Flocks are available at

NEW KENSINGTON FIREWORKS FESTIVAL AND PARADE — (July 2) The festival begins at 4 p.m. with live entertainment, games and activities. Fireworks show at dusk.

Location: Block party at Barnes Street parking lot near Peoples Library. Fireworks shot off from city parking garage at Seventh Street and Fourth Avenue. For information, visit facebook.com/ newkenfireworksfestival.

THE SKYLINERS — (July 3) Enjoy an evening listening to Jimmy Beaumont and The Skyliners. Their classic, number one hit “Since I Don’t Have You” is regarded as the quintessential Fifties ballad.

Time: 6:30 p.m. Free and open to the public. For information, visit irwinborough.org. Location: Irwin Park Amphitheater, Irwin.

ART ON TAP — (July 8) Experience happy hour at The Westmoreland.

Enjoy music, a scavenger hunt, light bites and beer from All Saints Brewing Company. Bring your designated driver if you plan to consume any alcohol. Admission: $7 for members, $10 non-members. Time: 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. For tickets and information, visit thewestmoreland.org. Location: Westmoreland Museum of American Art, 221 N. Main Street, Greensburg.

JUNE 2016

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 19

Lower gas prices fueling more family road trips National parks, cruises and theme parks among top choices

F

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

•

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.

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 •

•

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.

PennDOT authorized messenger service at AAA offices Online License & Title service that’s fast and secure

A

AA is an authorized online messenger for the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and is approved to instantly process a variety of driver license and vehicle registration items. Driver license renewal or replacement, state issued non-driver photo identification card renewals and address changes are but a few of the driver license services available at your local AAA office. Examples of vehiclerelated services include registration renewals, title transfers, address changes, replacement of vehicle registration products, insurance restorations, disability parking placards and issuance of handicapped license plates for persons with disabilities. Most transactions allow you to walk out of the AAA office with the PennDOT product that you require without waiting for your documents to be mailed to you.

AAA provides title and license service to both members and non-members; however, AAA members pay significantly reduced service fees. AAA also provides notary seal services for personal documents — as an added bonus for AAA Premier Members these service fees are waived!

AAA is your convenient onestop shop for online processing of Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle and Driver

Most Requested Services

State Fee

AAA Member Service Fee

Non-Member Service Fee

Driver License Renewal Class C

$30.50

$5.00

$15.00

Driver License Renewal Class CM

$50.50

$5.00

$15.00

Photo Identification Card Renewal

$29.50

$5.00

$15.00

Registration Renewal

Varies

$5.00

$15.00

Registration Card/Sticker Replacement

$6.00

$5.00

$15.00

Title Transfer (title only)*

$51.00

$35.00

$50.00 Plus Notary/ Clerical Fee

Title Transfer and Issuance of Tag (passenger vehicle)*

$87.00

$35.00

$50.00 Plus Notary/ Clerical Fee

2-year Boat Registration Renewal

Varies

$5.00

$15.00

Boat Title Transfer*

$15.00

$35.00

$50.00 Plus Notary/ Clerical Fee

Notary Seal for Personal Documents (per seal)

N/A

$5.00

$5.00 Plus $3.00 Clerical Fee

*Other fees may apply. State fees may vary.

License transactions. Title and license services through AAA are available to the general public, but are offered to AAA members at a substantial discount. AAA will accept cash, check, credit cards or debit cards. For more information call our Member Service Center at 1-800-441-5008. Member Service Center hours are Monday

through Friday from 8:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. and Saturday from 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. You may also visit your local AAA branch office for further information.

PennDOT Driver License and Photo Identification Card Fees Increased Effective April 24, 2016 — If you are a Pennsylvania resident and recently received your Driver License or Photo

Identification renewal application, you may have noticed that the fee has increased. As of April 24, 2016, Driver License and Photo Identification card fees were increased by $1.00.

Eleven Counties Impose Local Use Fees for Vehicle Registration — Earlier this year we announced a $5.00 increase in drivers’ annual vehicle registration fees that affected drivers whose vehicles are registered in certain Pennsylvania counties. At that time only four counties had passed an ordinance to impose the $5.00 fee; however that list has grown to include 11 counties throughout the state. The 11 counties are: Allegheny, Blair, Bucks, Cambria (effective 7/1/16), Chester (effective 6/1/16), Cumberland, Dauphin, Fulton, Greene (effective 6/30/16), Philadelphia, and Westmoreland.

The $5.00 county fee is in addition to the cost of yearly vehicle registration fees, and will be collected by PennDOT at the time of initial issuance of registration and registration renewal. The funds are earmarked to be used for construction, maintenance and repair of public highways and bridges and their associated costs. A few exemptions from the $5.00 county fee include disabled veterans, severely disabled veterans and $10.00 retired status registration.

PAGE 20

AAA MOTORIST

JUNE 2016