AAA PIONEER VALLEY...2 AAA PIONEER VALLEY | JANUARY 2016 Turning the calendar on to the ﬁ rst page...

AAA PIONEER VALLEY

JANUARY 2016Vol. 34, Issue 1

this month

On the cover: The towers of Agua Canyon Overlook, Bryce Canyon

National Park, Utah.

Drivers in the Northeast don’t always have the luxury of waiting for the weather to break before hitting the road.

Between late fall and spring, odds are that you’ll fi nd yourself behind the wheel as you carefully navigate your vehicle through a messy mix of snow, ice, slush and freezing rain.

These types of elements present plenty of challenges that require heightened awareness and proper planning to keep drivers and passengers safe.

Here are a few winter driving safety tips.

Slow down. This might be the most obvious entry on the list but it’s also one of the most important. Slippery condi-tions can have a signifi cant impact on how long it takes to bring your car to a stop. Give yourself extra time to get where you’re going to account for your reduced speed. AAA typically recommends leaving at least three seconds of following distance between your vehicle and the one in front of it, but it’s a good idea to leave at least an extra second or two when it’s dark and slippery. It is always safer to have more following distance than less.

Check your tire pressure. Tires can lose up to one pound of air pressure for every 10-degree drop in temperature. So, when the mercury dips below freezing, don’t be surprised to see a tire pressure alert on your dashboard. Underinfl ated tires perform poorly in inclement weath-er – less pressure can cause the grooves

of a tire to squish together, trapping ice and other wintry buildup. A tire that is underinfl ated is more likely to lose trac-tion. A AAA study found that 60 percent of Americans don’t check their tire pressure regularly.

Use the right tires. Vehicles with summer tires typically experience a drop in performance once the temperature falls below 40, even in dry conditions. All-season tires will hold up better in frigid temperatures, but nothing will help your ride more in tough seasonal conditions than four good winter tires.

Four-wheel drive/all-wheel drive. Four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive do not make vehicles invincible. While these systems make it easier to get moving in deep snow, they do nothing to help a vehicle stop. Just because you’re driving a vehicle with four-wheel or all-wheel drive, don’t expect to hit the brakes and slow down like you would on a warm, dry day.

Preventive maintenance. Battery failure is among the most common reasons AAA Members request roadside assistance. Automotive batteries have a typical lifespan of about three to fi ve years, which is why you should have your battery tested annually starting at age 3. Be sure to check your antifreeze levels, too – as its name implies, antifreeze pre-vents your engine from freezing. When mixed correctly, most antifreeze is effec-tive to temperatures as low as 35 degrees below zero.

Headlight and taillights. With daylight saving time over, you’re going to spend more time driving in the dark. Check your headlights and taillights

Plow through hazards with safety tips

Heightened awareness is key to driv-ing in slippery, wintry conditions.

Winter driving

10 TripTiks

Cure your cabin fever with wide-open spaces

Walt Disney World

Star Tours – The Adventures Continue at Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., features brand-new experiences inspired by the fi lm “Star Wars: The Force Awakens.” There are also long-term plans to build a new “Star Wars” land, probably in 2017.

Other new attractions at Disney World include a ride based on the hit movie “Frozen,” the debut of Disney Springs and luxurious resort renovations (think over-the-water bungalows). Read the full story on page 9.

The star attractions for 2016

Disney

By Cynthia BenjaminMost everyone who lives in

the Northeast has experienced cabin fever at one time or another – that restless, cranky feeling born of too much time trapped indoors while the thermometer plummets and

the snow swirls outdoors. Doc-tors say the treatment for cabin fever is more exercising, social-izing and sunshine, as well as a diet rich in healthy foods. With that in mind, we offer 10 places that will help alleviate cabin

Continued on page 6

Continued on page 14

Tell us your savings story Have you saved money with your AAA Membership? Tell us your AAA savings story. Every issue, we’ll publish a randomly selected story in AAA Times. If yours runs, you’ll win a one-year membership renewal. For more infor-mation, visit AAA.com/Promo.

All things Disney January is Disney Month at AAA. If you’re thinking about a trip to Disney World, turn to AAA Pioneer Valley’s travel agents. They have all completed the College of Disney Knowledge pro-gram and are all Disney experts.

Travel presentations at West Springfi eldHead to the AAA West Springfi eld offi ce to learn more about travel op-tions and savings for members. AAA Member Choice Vacations will host a presentation on Iceland Jan. 13; on Jan. 20, learn about exploring Canada and the Pacifi c Northwest with Rocky Mountaineer; and discover Princess Cruises’ Alaskan destinations on Jan. 26. All events begin at 6:30 p.m. To register, call 1-800-622-9211 or visit AAA.com/TravelEvents.

AAA Driving SchoolSign up now for accelerated one-week driver’s education classes held during February school vacation in Hadley, Springfi eld and West Springfi eld. Visit AAA.com/DrivingSchool or call 1-800-622-9211 to register.

Join the AAA Solo Travelers ClubDo you love to travel but don’t have a travel partner? Join the AAA Solo Traveler’s Club. For more information, visit AAA.com/Solo.

Financial webinarsAAA offers a variety of free fi nancial webinars. To learn more about college funding options, call 1-877-888-8609 or visit AAA.com/Register.

AAA offi ces closed for holidaysAAA offi ces will be closed Jan. 1 in observance of New Year’s Day and Jan. 18 in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. As always, 24-hour road-side assistance will be available.

Dave Schmidt

Cross-county skiing in Lake Placid, N.Y., is one way to get up and get out this winter.

2 AAA PIONEER VALLEY | JANUARY 2016

Turning the calendar on to the fi rst page of the new year means a new year of advocating on behalf of the motoring and traveling public. And it’s certain to be a busy year in state legislatures across our territory as well. Here are some of the issues the Club will be following.

Transportation funding. Both locally and across the country, state legislatures and governor’s offi ces are grappling with how to pay for our roads and bridges. Recent efforts by Congress to pass a long-term transportation plan may help, but more and more states are looking within their borders for sustainable funding solutions.

Child passenger safety. In 2015, AAA Northeast was instru-mental in passing a fi rst-in-the-nation enhancement to the law governing child safety seats in New Jersey. Children there must now be in rear-facing car seats until 2 years of age. Other states have followed suit, and we plan to introduce similar measures in Connecticut, Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

Distracted and drugged driving. The AAA Foundation for Traffi c Safety and the University of Utah continue groundbreaking research on driver distraction with in-vehicle entertainment and navigation systems. This year we expect to learn more about the impact of marijuana on driving, as more and more states consider measures to legalize the drug.

Connected cars. Rapidly expanding technology that allows vehicles to talk to each other and to third parties makes even more

important the question AAA has been asking for the last two years: You own the car – shouldn’t you own the data?

We’re also keeping our eyes on several emerging issues. • In November, the head of the National Highway Traffi c Safety

Administration recommended seat belts for all school buses, some-thing now required in only six states.

• About half of the states in the U.S. allow students enrolled in a 30-hour driver education course to take the program online.

• We continue to be concerned about vehicle recalls and the fact that 25 percent of new car owners don’t bring their cars in when they receive a recall notice.

• We look for the best ways for older drivers and their family members to remain as safe as possible when driving.

I’m sure there will be other issues that arise throughout the year.

AAA’s advocacy efforts range from direct contact with legislators and traffi c safety stakeholders to educat-ing members and the public using all our available resources. We’re proud to represent our members, both locally and in Washington, D.C., working to make our roadways safer for everyone.

from the president’s deskChris E. Mensing

Safety, transportation funds top list of priorities for 2016

AAA PIONEERVALLEY OFFICERS

Chairman of the BoardHelen R. Caulton-Harris

Vice ChairMichael Godek

President & CEOChris E. Mensing

CFO & TreasurerRobert M. Dwyer

AAA OFFICESADMINISTRATION150 Capital Drive

W. Springfield, MA 010891-800-622-9211

AAA.com

CHICOPEE863 Montgomery StreetHOURS: Monday - Friday

9 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.413-536-2655

Insurance Services Only

GREENFIELDMohawk Mall91 Main Street

HOURS: Monday - Friday9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

HADLEYCampus Plaza

458 Russell StreetHOURS: Mon, Tue, Wed,

Fri - 9 am - 5:30 pm;Thursday - 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.Saturday - 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.Registry Services AvailableInsurance Services unavailable Saturday

SPRINGFIELDFive Town Plaza

270 Cooley StreetHOURS: Mon, Tue, Wed,Fri - 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Thursday - 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.Saturday - 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.Insurance Services unavailable Saturday

WEST SPRINGFIELD150 Capital Drive

HOURS: Mon, Tue, Wed,Fri - 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Thursday - 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.Saturday - 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.Registry Services AvailableInsurance Services unavailable Saturday

TimesOfficial Publication ofAAA Pioneer Valley EDITORIAL OFFICE150 Capital Drive

W. Springfield, MA 01089413-205-2231

[email protected]

PUBLISHER & EDITORMindy J. Ginley

TRAVEL EDITORSandra J. Marsian

AAA Times is published ten times a year by AAA Pioneer Valley, 150 Capital Drive, W. Springfield, MA

01089 (USPS 002-740). Subscrip-tion rate: 50 cents per annum with

Periodicals Postage Paid at W. Springfield, MA and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send

address correction changes toAAA Pioneer Valley, 150 Capital Dr.,

West Springfield, MA 01089.

JANUARY 2016 | AAA PIONEER VALLEY 3

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* Hoof it to Huntington for moose ecology talkHead to the Stevens Property in Huntington for an informative hike with wildlife expert John E. McDon-ald. Bring snowshoes, bundle up and be ready for a two-hour walk to learn about moose and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Be sure to RSVP: Jan. 16, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Visit www.thetrustees.org.

* Springfi eld Motorcycle ShowMotorcycle builders and retailers gather at the Eastern States Exposition site in West Springfi eld for this event allowing riders to purchase bikes and gear while offering fun for the whole family: Jan. 16-17; Saturday 10 a.m.-7p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m.-5p.m. $15; $5 ages 6-12; under age 5 free. Visit www.osegmotorcycle.com.

* The Woodworking ShowMeet woodworking experts, admire their works and learn tricks of the trade at demonstrations, workshops and seminars held throughout the weekend at the Eastern States Exposition site in West Springfi eld: Jan. 22-24; Friday noon-6 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $12, cash only. Visit www.thewoodworkingshows.com.

things to do for $15 or lessget out!

By M. Magistri, a AAA Member since 2015I recently used your website, AAA.com, to place an emergency

road service call for a battery issue. The online roadside assistance tool is a fantastic feature.

Juan, a AAA driver, arrived within 15 minutes. His manner, appearance and approach were above and beyond professional. He gave me information about my vehicle that I wasn’t aware of, and ran a full diagnostic test on my car just to put my mind at ease. Other than the battery, the car was in very good shape.

Juan offered to install a new battery, which came with a six-year warranty. I bought the battery right then and there because I had complete trust in Juan’s knowledge.

Juan is the epitome of great customer service and should be held as an example of how to approach customers and leave them with a feeling of money well spent. Because of this one interaction, I have every intention of increasing my AAA coverage and purchasing memberships for my family.

AAA saves the day

Your AAA Membership coverage will never lapse and you won’t have to worry about losing one day of benefits when you use our convenient automatic renewal feature, which charges your membership dues to your credit or debit card each year.

Why use AAA auto renewal?• Eliminating membership renewal bills

keep our costs down and memberships af-fordable for AAA Members.

• Convenience. No more writing a check or

using a stamp. • No lapse in roadside assistance or other

important benefits.• You’ll receive triple points on your total

membership payment if you use your AAA Member Rewards Visa card to process your auto renewal payments.

You can also save $5 on renewal dues during your first year using auto renewal. To enroll, visit AAA.com/Renew or call 1-800-622-9211.

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Save time & money!

By George MorseWhether it’s losing weight,

saving money or kicking a bad habit, most people who make New Year’s resolutions have a simple goal: They want to feel better.

If you’re looking to improve yourself in 2016, checking out the wide vari-ety of savings opportunities in AAA Discounts & Rewards is a great fi rst step.

Here are a few ways you can feel better by celebrat-ing a new you, in the new year, for less. For redemp-tion details and restrictions on all offers, go to AAA.com/Discounts.

GET FITImproving your health

is a great fi rst step toward feeling good. AAA Members looking to launch an exercise routine can save at several retailers. Take 20 percent off purchases at Adidas and Ree-bok outlet stores or get 15 percent off a single full-price item at Modell’s Sporting Goods.

SEE STRAIGHTIt’s tough to feel good

when you’re not seeing straight. If your 20/20 vision is feeling more like 20/40, visit LensCrafters, Pearle Vi-sion, Sears Optical or Target Optical for a checkup. All four offer 30 percent off eye exams. Members also get 10

percent off nondisposable contact lenses at participat-ing locations. Stay up-to-date on the latest eyewear fash-ions by taking 15 percent off lenses and frames purchased separately or by saving 25 percent off orders of $200 or less at www.glasses.com.

LOOK GOODA great set of glasses can

complement a great outfi t, so if your closet needs a refresher in the new year, check out New York & Com-pany, where members save 20 percent on regular-price

clothing and accessories. SAVE MONEY

Prescriptions can put a serious dent in your wallet. The next time you’re picking up meds, ask about a discount through AAA Prescription Savings. Members can cut costs up to 50 percent at participating pharmacies, and the program also can be used to purchase pet meds.

SEE A SHOWSave up to 50 percent on

live entertainment tickets. Visit AAA.com/Ticketmaster to purchase tickets.

Discounts & Rewards

Save more and feel great in 2016 with AAA savings

Why not rock a new pair of glasses this year? With AAA discounts available at four retailers, you’re bound to fi nd a pair you like.

Affordable Auto Glass performs thousands of safe auto glass replacements every year. The company uses only factory-authorized glass from industry-approved sources along with premium Sika urethane adhesive, which is heated to 180 degrees and then allowed to cool and set for the safest and most reliable seal pos-sible.

Along with glass replace-ment and repair, Affordable Auto Glass also offers vehicle identification number etch-ing, state and insurance in-spections, and a free loaner car for customers receiving new glass installations.

AAA Members receive free VIN etching as well as free wiper blades with any wind-shield replacement or repair. Visit AAA.com/Discounts for more information.

Affordable Auto Glass a clear choice

Membership dues adjustmentBeginning with the January renewal notices, AAA Pioneer Valley

Members will notice a $2 increase in annual membership dues. AAA Pioneer Valley’s focus has been and will always be on our

members. Our goal is to provide the best service possible and to invest in people, equipment and technology to consistently meet or exceed our members’ needs. General increases in our operating expenses – particularly those associated with providing exceptional roadside assistance and expanding availability of our Registry of Mo-tor Vehicle services – have made it necessary for AAA Pioneer Valley to adjust membership dues.

Our pledge is to keep membership dues as low as possible while continuing to maintain the high-quality service our members have come to expect from AAA. Thank you for being a member.

See program terms and conditions at ddperks.com. Offer valid through 1/31/16. Purchases must be made on your enrolled Dunkin’ card. Participation may vary. DR.15461.15_H&NJ

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up until the end of the promotional period.

Offer applies to new enrollees only.


TravelAMTRAK®

Executive Valet ParkingGrand Canyon Railway Hertz®, Dollar®, Thrifty®

Luggage ForwardRoncari Express Valet ParkingThe Parking Spot

Shopping1-800-Flowersadidas OutletLee Premium OutletsModell’s Sporting GoodsNew York & Company®

Payless ShoeSource®

Reebok OutletsTanger® OutletsWrentham Village Premium OutletsYankee Mattress FactoryYawkey Way Store

WirelessAffinity CellulariDroppedSprint

Personal ServicesAAA Driving School AAA Prescription SavingsAmRideGlasses.comHealthtrax Fitness & WellnessLensCraftersPearle Vision Sears OpticalTarget Optical

DiningCheer’s Boston / Sam’s CafeHard Rock Cafe®

Landry’s® Seafood The Crab HouseAquarium Restaurants® Chart House® Muer Seafood Restaurants®

OceanairePapa John’s PizzaRainforest Cafe (select locations) Saltgrass Steak House®

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Partners and offers are subject to change without notice. Not responsible for typographical errors. Discounts and requirements vary, visit AAA.com/discounts for complete offers, restrictions and exclusions. *Discounts only available through AAA.com/discounts.

SAVINGS ON YOUR FAVORITE BRANDSEntertainment & AttractionsBasketball Hall of FameBerkshire East Ski AreaBlue Man Group BostonBlue Man Group UniversalBoston Bruins Pro ShopCityStage & Symphony HallCoCo Key Water Resort - Waterbury, CTConnecticut’s Beardsley ZooEric Carle Museum of Picture Book ArtHistoric DeerfieldInternational Tennis Hall of FameMystic Seaport - The Museum of America & The SeaNew Century TheatreNew England Mutiny SoccerRoger Williams Park ZooBusch Gardens®, Sesame Place®, Adventure Island®, Water Country USA®

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Places where you can stretch your legs

Little visitors will enjoy the carousel at Danbury Fair Mall.

Continued from page 1

10 TripTiks®

fever, all within a day’s drive.1. America’s Stonehenge,

Salem, N.H.: Thirty hilly acres dotted with stone walls, primi-tive buildings and cave-like tun-nels beckon visitors to explore. Walk the half-mile trail and delve into the apparently man-made maze of rock structures, and decide for yourself if you think this Stonehenge was the product of ancient astrologers, Irish monks or early American farmers. Regardless of what you decide, this self-guided

adventure is sure to engage your senses, your mind and your legs.

2. The Breakers, Newport, R.I. : Is your home feeling a little tight this winter? Then check out The Breakers, a 70-room Italian Renaissance-style palazzo built for Cornelius Vanderbilt II on 13 acres on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. Don’t miss the stunning dining room – at 2,400 square feet, it’s larger than most people’s homes. Also be sure to walk to the backyard, which is separated from an endless ocean vista only by the Cliff Walk.

3. Danbury Fair Mall, Dan-bury, Conn.: This bustling shopping center was built on the site of the former Danbury Fair and it holds true to some of those traditions – you could easily spend a whole day here. The mall, one of the largest in New England, has about 200 retailers, but the big draw for families are the double-decker carousel, children’s play area, two coin-operated tot-ride areas and indoor Eurobungy jumping.

4. Foxwoods Resort Ca-sino, Mashantucket, Conn.: You might not think of Fox-woods as a family-friendly des-tination, but there are plenty of things for the younger set inside the attraction’s 8.6 million square feet. The Tree House Arcade has pinball, vin-tage video games and the latest interactive games, while there’s bowling at the High Rollers Luxury Lanes and Lounge, and Tanger Outlets has over 80 stores. If the weather cooper-ates, you can even follow fox paw prints to your choice of three outdoor trails.

5. Kalahari, Pocono Manor, Pa.: This new African-themed indoor water park features 100,000 square feet of summer fun year-round, making it the largest indoor water park in the state. Surf on the FlowRider or try out the uphill water coaster, the 19 waterslides or the raft ride Wild Wildebeest. Or just swim in the pool and relax on the lazy river. There’s also a family hot tub, a swim-up bar, an arcade and a spa.

6. Lyman Estate Green-houses, Waltham, Mass.: In January, when winter is at its bleakest, the century-old camel-lias here are in full bloom. The estate’s four greenhouses also include a grape house, an orchid house and a retail greenhouse. Fill your senses with the scents and sights of foliage and fl owers and then check out the gift shop, where you can buy sup-plies, gardening books and more to bring a touch of warmer weather home.

7. New York State Muse-um, Albany, N.Y.: The best of both worlds comes alive in

this museum that focuses on the Adirondack wilderness and the New York City metropolis. Among the interactive displays are a full-size replica of an Iroquois longhouse, a mastodon skeleton, a full-size New York City subway car, and detailed re-creations of city storefronts, including a Chinese herbalist and a Little Italy barbershop. Be sure to visit the full-size carou-sel for a free ride.

8. Olympic Center, Lake Placid, N.Y: There’s something for everyone here, including plenty of wide-open spaces. You could start your visit at the 1932 and 1980 Lake Placid Winter Olympic Museum, or with a tour of the multipur-pose Olympic Center, and then unleash your inner-athlete: Try out the Olympic Jumping Complex, which has multiple, world-class facilities for ski-ers, or the Olympics Sports Complex, where you can take in a national or international competition, cross-country ski

or try out a bobsled.9. Stress Factory Comedy

Club, New Brunswick, N.J.: Laughter is the best medicine – and this highly regarded comedy club has been provid-ing it for over 20 years. Some of the best in the business have performed here – from Richard Lewis and Drew Carey to Chris Rock – and you could even try out your own material at Wednesday’s open mic. Ages 16 and up.

10. Wintertime Farmers Market, Pawtucket, R.I.: Spring ahead to, well, spring, with a Saturday morning visit to the largest winter market in New England. Located in the Hope Artiste Village, the bus-tling market provides a visual feast with stand after stand of vegetables, apples, cider, fresh herbs, meats, cheese, eggs, honey, breads and more. There are plenty of restaurants, stands and food trucks to enjoy a meal or a coffee from the in-house coffee roaster.

John Corbett / The Preservation Society of Newport County

With more than 70 rooms, The Breakers mansion in Newport, R.I., begs for exploration.

You can with TurboTax®

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Saveup to $20


©DisneyCS-15-38359

1-800-622-9211

AAA.com/Travel

WHERE

WHEN

CALL

GO ONLINE

January 1–31, 2016

Your Local AAA Travel Agency

Come to Disney Month at AAA Travel and

discover more about magical vacations to

the Disneyland® Resort, Walt Disney World®

Resort, an Adventures by Disney® vacation,

aboard Disney Cruise Line or Aulani, A

Disney Resort and Spa. Find out the latest

news and special offers as we help plan the

vacation of your dreams.

Be sure to contact AAA Travel to book your

next magical Disney vacation!

Call 1-800-622-9211 or stop by our office.

Ships’ Registry: The Bahamas

It’s MONTH atAAA TRAVEL

PORT-16-46816


Island retreats

These breezy isle escapes are just a few hours awayBy Cynthia Benjamin

The wraps are coming off the next hot, hot, hot island destination – Cuba.

After years of being shrouded in mystery, the U.S. government recently cleared the way for travel to this Carib-bean island 90 miles south of Key West, Fla.

AAA travel agents have been steadily fi elding inquiries about this large tropi-cal island nation of white-sand beaches, Spanish colonial architecture, gorgeous scenery, hopping nightclubs, rum and cigars.

“There’s a certain mystique to Cuba,” said Amy Gates, a travel agent in AAA’s West Springfi eld offi ce. “People love to go to islands, and there’s a fascination to going to one that’s been so restricted and

is right in our backyard.”But traveling to Cuba in 2016 is not for

the faint of heart. “It’s an island that time forgot,” Gates

said, referring to the spotty cellphone service and even spottier Internet acces-sibility.

Many hotels, while beautiful to look at, need major upgrading, and many ve-hicles on the island – even cabs and buses – are ancient. But none of this is expected to deter travelers; Cuba is bracing for some 10 million American visitors a year, according to the International Monetary Fund.

If you’d rather vacation on a more established island destination, here are a few of the best, and you can reach them in just a few hours.

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Ask about Viking’s latest 2016 offers. For details, call or visit your nearest AAA Travel Agent today.

ARUBAWith near-perfect weather and some

of the best white-sand beaches in the Caribbean, Aruba is ideal for lazing in the sun, water sports from snorkeling to windsurfi ng, or exploring the desert-like interior and craggy north coast. Dutch is the offi cial language, but almost all of the natives speak English – and are happy to answer questions. As the license plates say, this is One Happy Island.

THE AZORES These nine unspoiled, salt-sprayed is-

lands 800 miles off the coast of Portugal are stunningly beautiful and a must-see for nature lovers. Picture a dramatic landscape of soaring, rugged volcanic mountains dotted with a riot of fl owers, emerald beaches, and deep-blue lakes – as well as quaint fi shing villages with architecture dating to the island’s fi rst settlers in the 15th century. Hiking, surfi ng, diving, whale and dolphin watching and leisurely exploring are popular here. Each island has unique features and most tours include mul-tiple islands.

CATALINA ISLAND, CALIF.About 1 million people a year visit

this island, which is just 22 miles from the mainland. Known as the Island of Romance, moonlit walks are popular, as is traveling by bicycle and golf cart. You can enjoy just about any tourist attraction, from zip li nes and Segways to walking on the ocean fl oor and ocean rafting, or you can just relax to the rhythm of the waves and the island’s laid-back vibe.

CAYE CAULKER, BELIZEThis tiny, car-free island is a tropical

paradise of warm breezes, azure waters, exotic birdlife, fresh seafood and water adventures. Tourism is relatively new to the island, so while there are plenty of small hotels and eateries, it’s less com-mercial than many. If you’re looking for an island getaway where the natives speak English and the beat is decidedly

reggae, get to Caye Caulker before it’s “discovered.”

ICELANDWith a safe and friendly environment

and stunning landscape dotted with volcanoes, glaciers, fjords and spectacu-lar waterfalls, it’s no wonder Iceland is becoming a hot destination. Visit be-tween September and April to catch the northern lights during the long, long nights, or during summer when there’s daylight almost around the clock and pods of whales swim offshore.

KEY WEST, FLA. The southernmost city in the U.S.

has a decidedly up-tempo Caribbean feel. Key West hops around the clock with galleries, museums, shopping, fi ne restaurants and plenty of local color. Charter a boat for a quiet day of fi shing, snorkeling and exploring, pause for a spectacular sunset, and then party all night on Duval Street.

Colorful architecture, Dutch charm and white-sand beaches make Aruba an ideal vacation spot.

ONE-DAY TOURS*April - West Point Dress ParadeU.S. Military Academy Cadet Review viewing; lunch at Hotel Thayer; tour

May - Bronx ZooAdmission to the Bronx Zoo including zoo shuttle, monorail, children’s zoo, world of reptiles and congo gorilla forest

May - Newport PlayhouseWoody Allen’s “Play it Again Sam”

June - Charles Riverboat Enjoy lunch at Cheesecake Factory with guided tour of Cambridge

July - Tanglewood Bring your own picnic lunch; shed seats for concert

August - Long Island Lighthouse Cruise September - Hudson Valley Garlic FestivalSeptember - NYC 9/11 MemorialOctober - Granite State OctoberfestOctober - SalemNovember - Radio City

MULTI-DAY ESCORTED TOURS*June - 3-Day Boston Red Sox in Baltimore Tour2 nights hotel; 2 full breakfasts; sightseeing tours in Washington and Bal-timore; tickets to 2 Boston Red Sox/Baltimore Orioles baseball games; Baltimore’s famous Inner Harbor

June - 7-Day Nova Scotia & Prince Edward Island1 night private stateroom onboard ship; 5 nights hotel; guided tours of Nova Scotia, Halifax and Prince Edward Island; Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo; all sightseeing & admission fees; 4 breakfasts; 5 dinners

August - 4-Day Montreal & Quebec2 nights in Quebec; 1 night in Montreal; 2 breakfasts, 3 dinners; visit St. Anne de Beaupre, Montmorency Falls, Plains of Abraham, Quebec Parliament, Notre Dame, St. Joseph’s Oratory; sightseeing, casino, duty free shopping.September - 3-Day Samson Sight & Sound Theatre2 nights hotel; 2 breakfasts, dinner and show at the hotel, dinner at Shady Maple Smorgasbord, wine and cheese reception; “Samson” reserved orches-tra tickets; Longwood Gardens; Kitchen Kettle Village; Sands Casino

October- 3-Day Washington & Annapolis Tour2 nights at the Rosslyn Holiday Inn; guided tours of Washington, D.C.; twi-light tour of the Monuments; Smithsonian Museums; 2 breakfasts; 2 dinners

2016 Motorcoach ToursBook Early - Space is Limited! For tour details, visit

AAA.com/Travel or call 1-800-622-9211

*Call for dates and pricing. One-day tour prices are per person; multi-day tour prices based on double occupancy; prices and dates subject to change


Fact: There is no such thing as too many ways to perk up the perfect vacation.

The PerksClassic Beverage Package • Unlimited Internet • Prepaid Gratuities • $150 Onboard Spending Money

*Contact your travel agent for full terms and conditions. Offer limited by availability. Certain restrictions may apply. ©2015 Celebrity Cruises Inc. Ships’ registry: Malta and Ecuador 15047463 • 10/2015

Mention this ad and get a complimentary bottle of wine added to your room!

Call or visit your nearest AAA Travel agent today.1-800-622-9211

AAA.com/travel or AAA.com/cruises

Walt Disney World

By Judy KoutskyWe are a Disney family. My boys (ages 4 and 6)

can’t wait to see the latest at Walt Disney World each year, and 2016 is proving to be big.

There’s the new “Frozen” ride at Epcot, the upcoming “Star Wars” expansion in Hollywood Studios , and there’s plenty of dining and resort news for mom and dad (I can’t say enough about the new over-the-water bungalows in the Polyne-sian Village Resort). Here’s what to expect this year at the most magical place on earth.

MOVIE MAGIC: ‘FROZEN’ & ‘STAR WARS’

You can never have too much “Frozen,” and the long-anticipated Frozen Ever After ride debuts in Epcot this year. Located in the Norway Pavil-ion, it replaces the 27-year-old Maelstrom water ride. Passengers on Frozen Ever After will board log canoes that will transport them to the mythi-cal city of Arendelle, a magical land where winter meets summer, thanks to Elsa’s powers. The ride goes through the Bay of Arendelle and past Elsa’s ice palace, where passengers will hear the strains of “Let It Go” as some of the movie’s characters make an appearance. There will also be a meet-and-greet location where kids can interact with Anna and Elsa.

Over at Hollywood Studios, there are long-term plans to build a new “Stars Wars” land (probably for 2017), but there’s plenty going this year with the release of “Star Wars: The Force Awakens.” The Jedi Training Academy, the highlight of my son Jack’s visit, is upping the fun factor by adding new characters to the battle. The Star Wars Launch Bay and Star Tours – The Adventures Continue feature new interactive experiences including meet and greets with a slew of intergalactic characters, behind-the-scenes clips and paraphernalia from the movie. Weekend nights will see fireworks set to the music of “Star Wars” (there’s nothing bet-ter, according to my boys).

DISNEY SPRINGS DEBUTSDowntown Disney has officially changed its

name to Disney Springs, drawing inspiration from the waterfront shops, restaurants and open-air promenades. The new Disney Springs consists of four interconnecting neighborhoods: The Land-ing, Marketplace, West Side and Town Center. The number of venues doubled from 75 in 2015 to 150 in 2016. That means you have plenty of choices, including two much-anticipated debuts: Morimoto Asia and Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar, both of which are housed in The Landing. Morimoto Asia in-cludes just about every Asian food imaginable from dishes inspired by street-food stalls, Peking duck and dim sum. Make sure to take advantage of the waterside seating.

Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar will appeal to “Indi-

ana Jones” fans: Vintage travel posters and photos of Jock (Indy’s pilot in the movies) with Indiana fill the walls. Other new restaurants in Disney Springs include Sprinkles, a cupcake bakery; STK, a steakhouse; The Edison, American cuisine with live entertainment and a great cocktail bar; and Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza, which is great for kids. New retail shops include UGG, Lilly Pulitzer, Zara and Tommy Bahama. With so many new attrac-tions, you’ll definitely have plenty to rediscover in Disney Springs.

POLYNESIAN-STYLE BUNGALOWS

The over-the-water bungalows at the revamped Polynesian Villas & Bungalows are garnering a lot of attention, and I was curious to see if the reality would hold up to the hype. Built in 1971, the re-sort underwent a massive renovation that included new rooms, additional restaurants and a facelift of the existing lobby. The Kiki Tikis Splash Play Area was a big part of the renovation and well-appre-ciated by my junior set; my boys especially loved the volcano slide, the cool water guns and tipping water buckets. While the kids loved the outside areas, my favorite part of the resort was the new bungalows, which will open in the spring.

The 20 stand-alone bungalows are luxurious. They all feature two beds and two baths, with an expansive living room, kitchen and outside deck. The deck has a plunge pool and was the perfect

spot to watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks every night; there’s even a button that allows you pipe in the Disney fireworks music. I loved the se-cret Murphy beds that were beautifully hidden throughout the bungalow, while the kids loved sleeping in their special, magical places. Book early – the over-the-water bungalows are the hot-test ticket in town. Just as Disney World continues to be, year in and year out.

New rides, resorts kick up the magic factor

Matt Stroshane

David Roark

Visitors will feel like they’re in the South Pacifi c in the over-the-water bungalows at the revamped Polynesian Villas & Bungalows. Chef Masaharu Morimoto, below, added a Morimoto Asia restaurant to Disney Springs.


Ask about your Travel Impressions AAA Member Benefits. Travel With Someone You Trust®.

Contact your local AAA Travel Agent or AAA.com

Tours operated by Travel Impressions, Ltd. Rate is land only, per person and based on double occupancy. Blackout, weekend, holiday and peak season surcharges apply. All advertised savings are reflected in rate. Rate is subject to change based on currency fluctuations. Not responsible for errors or omissions in the printing of this ad. Additional higher priced packages available. Valid for new bookings only. Travel Impressions materials (including, but not limited to, names, trademark, service marks, logos, marketing materials, etc.) shall not be used, reproduced, transmitted or distributed in any way, except with the express written consent of Travel Impressions. CST #2029006-20, IOWA #758, Washington UBI #602 425 801. LR172-15_DF_11.5.15

Think barefoot elegance, highly personalized service, gourmet cuisine and the action-packed Nickelodeon Experience, and you have all the makings of the AAA Four Diamond Award winning Azul Beach, a Gourmet Inclusive Hotel, by Karisma in Riviera Maya. With only 148 deluxe rooms and suites, this beachfront oasis caters to families and couples seeking a refined yet intimate vacation experience. Here, everything is a stroll or stroller ride away, from the half-mile white-sand beach with canopied beach beds and beach butlers, to the pools, five restaurants, swim-up bars, Vassa Spa and the Azulitos Playhouse by Nickelodeon featuring themed activities and special character appearances. Wi-Fi and unlimited international calls included.

3 Gourmet Inclusive® Nights from $704Rate is based on travel 5/1/16 - 5/4/16

Reduced Rates Promotion Booking Window: Now – 3/31/16Travel Window: 5/1/16 – 6/30/16

GOURMET INCLUSIVE® PACKAGE PRICE IS PER PERSON AND INCLUDES:

RECEIVE UP TO 30% OFF AT

Terms & Conditions: AAA Vacations® Amenities apply to select 2016 sailings. $250 per person ($500 per stateroom) discount applies to cruises 13-nights or less; $400 per person ($800 per stateroom) discount applies to cruises 14 nights or more; $75 per person ($150 per stateroom) onboard credit applies to 7-night cruises; $100 per person ($200 per stateroom) onboard credit applies to Myanmar cruises; $150 per person ($300 per stateroom) onboard credit applies to 14-night Europe cruises. Combinable with other promotions in the marketplace. Cruise must be booked through AAA Travel in order to receive AAA Vacations® Amenities. CST#2065452-40

Receive AAA Vacations® Amenities From $500-$800 savings per stateroom

plus $150-$300 onboard credit per stateroomCall or visit your nearest AAA Travel Agent

1-800-622-9211 | AAA.com/Cruises

On an AmaWaterways river cruise, you don’t just pass through a destination – you experience it. Our ships are custom-designed to carry fewer passengers so our guests can indulge in spacious staterooms and exquisite restaurants. Because it’s not just about where you go. It’s how you get there that matters.

It’s how you get there.

Travel Events

Reservations required.To RSVP call 1-800-622-9211or visit AAA.com/TravelEventsTravel Events begin at 6:30 at the AAA West Springfield office

IcelandWednesday, January 13Learn about exploring Iceland’s magical Northern Lights on an escorted tour with AAA Member Choice Vacations.

Learn why many consider Rocky Mountaineer journeys as the only way to see the Pacific Northwest and Western Canada.

Pacific Northwest and Canadian RockiesWednesday, January 20

Learn about the range of enriching cruise and cruise tour options to see the Great Land’s glaciers, wildlife and national parks.

Alaska Tuesday, January 26

The National Park Service celebrates its 100th anniversary on Aug. 25, and you can be a part of the festivities. See geological wonders and places that changed the course of history by making 2016 the year you fi nd your park.

It’s the perfect time to tour America the beauti-ful. AAA has crafted some simply amazing journeys that include perfectly located hotels, exquisite meals and jaw-dropping destinations. And when you travel to the parks with a dedicated tour manager by your side, you’ll truly get to know the parks’ treasures and hidden gems.

Travel on AAA Member Choice Vacations’ Can-yon Country tour and discover the grandeur of the American West. A journey through Canyon Country brings you into a colorful world of stunning South-western vistas and the unique topography of three national parks: Zion, Bryce Canyon and the Grand Canyon. You’ll spend a night on the South Rim of the magnifi cent Grand Canyon and luxuriate at the Lake Powell Resort for two nights.

Travel any one of the many tours in our collection that include national parks and together we’ll sup-port this important part of America.

One of the best parts of traveling with AAA Mem-ber Choice Vacations is our industry-leading travel protection plan and round-trip, home-to-airport

sedan service that means fewer hassles. You can simply relax and focus on your extraordinary travel experience. In addition, as a AAA Member you have many exclusive benefi ts available to you. Talk to your AAA travel agent to learn more.

Traveling to America’s national parks is always a celebration of natural beauty and history, but in 2016, it will be even more special.

Celebrate America’s natural beauty

Discover America’s national parks – including the Grand Canyon, above – on a AAA Member Choice Vacations’ Canyon Country tour.

New year brings new policies at Hertz car rentals

National parks

Rental car firm Hertz recently updated its debit card policy to align with industry standards. As a result, customers at many Hertz locations may need to use a credit card instead of a debit card to pick up a rental car.

With the exception of insurance replacement rentals, debit cards issued under a Visa or Master-Card logo will not be accepted for rental pickups in the New York metropolitan tri-state area, Hartford, Conn., Philadelphia, Boston and Detroit.

In addition, customers under age 25 cannot use debit cards to rent cars at Hertz Off-Airport loca-tions, unless for insurance replacement rentals.

Under these circumstances, a valid credit card will be needed at the time of rental. A debit card can be used to pay for the rental upon the vehicle’s return, however. Prepaid debit cards are not valid at time of rental.

For additional information, visit AAA.com/Hertz. And remember, AAA Members save 20 percent or more on rentals and receive an array of exclusive benefits like a free child seat and no charge for ad-ditional qualified drivers.


Call or visit your nearest AAA Travel agent1-800-622-9211 AAA.com/Travel

*7.5 Early Payment Discount valid on 2016 Europe bookings paid in full by 2/25/2016. Ask about current airfare specials; expiration dates vary. Savings vary; not valid on all itineraries/departures; not valid with other offers. Other conditions apply. CST#2077132-20

Our travel specialists create

hand-crafted itineraries

for stress-free guided vacations, filled with richer experiences.

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JULIA from New Zealand, who enjoyed one of our 112 trips to Europe and Britain

“Everything arranged so all I had to do was enjoy.”

Get an extra7.5% offPLUS special

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The Westin Maui Resort & Spa from $2,119

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Rate is based on roundtrip air travel to/from Hartford, CT (BDL), and is per person, based on double occupancy. Advertised vacation rate(s) valid for departure 5/2/16. Rates for other travel dates may vary. Rates, terms, conditions and itinerary are subject to availability. Certain restrictions apply. Rate shown includes government-imposed fees and taxes. Rate is current as of 11/11/15; at the time you purchase your package, rates may be higher. For current prices, please see http://www.pleasantholidays.com. Airline fees for optional services, including, but not limited to, fees of up to $25 per bag for the first checked bag and up to $35 per bag for a second checked bag, may apply. Baggage fees are current as of 11/11/15. Airline tickets are non-refundable and subject to airline change/cancellation penalties and rules, including pre-flight notification deadlines. Fees and policies vary among airlines and are subject to change without notice. Please contact the airline directly for details and answers to specific questions you may have. Additional restrictions apply. Advertised rates do not include any applicable daily resort or facility fees payable directly to the hotel operator at check-out; such fee amounts will be advised at the time of booking. Exclusive Savings at The Westin Maui Resort & Spa: Requires inclusion of transpacific air and Mountain View or Ocean View accommodations. Valid on new booking for travel through 1/2/17. Blackout dates may apply. No minimum stay required. Certain restrictions apply. All offers subject to availability. AAA Member Benefit: Activity voucher does not apply to air/car only bookings. AAA members must make advance reservations through AAA Travel to obtain Member Benefits. Not responsible for errors or omissions. [Pleasant Holidays acts only as an agent for the various travel providers shown above.] CST# 1007939-10. UBI# 601 915 263. TAR# 5308. Copyright © 2016 Pleasant Holidays, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Call or visit your nearest AAA Travel Agent today1-800-622-9211 • AAA.com/travel

AAA Member Benefit: Members receive a $50 per booking activity voucher valid toward a variety of

select activities in Hawaii

VACATION INCLUDES: • Roundtrip airfare• 5 nights’ Mountain View Accommodation

o EXCLUSIVE Reduced Rateo Daily Continental Breakfast for Twoo $20 Resort Credit for:

Food & Beverage Resort Charge Pool & Beach Rental Items

o 15% Discount on Spa Treatments• And More!

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treasures

For more information, call or visit your nearest AAA Travel Agent today1.800.622.9211 | AAA.com/travel

*Rate is land only, per person, based on double occupancy, and subject to availability. Use offer code 5372T for savings. Call or visit AAA.com/MCV/offers for more

details. Offer valid on new bookings only and can expire earlier due to space or inventory availability. Savings amount will vary by tour and departure date, and is only

available on select departures. Space is on a first come, first served basis. Offers are not valid on group or existing bookings. Offer is combinable with AAA Member

Benefit but is not combinable with any other offer. Other restrictions may apply. Promotional pricing may remain in effect after the expiration date.

CST# 2006766-20 UBN# 601220855 Nevada Seller of Travel Registration No. 2003-0279

National Parks of America12 Days · 16 Meals · starting at $3,349*

Save $100 per person!Highlights: Scottsdale, Lake Powell, Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Zion, Salt Lake City, Grand Teton & Yellowstone National Parks, Old Faithful, Sheridan, Bighorn Mountains, Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial

t

Stay overnight in select National Parks!

GET READY TOEXPLORE NORWAY

BOOK EARLY & SAVE ON NORWAY COASTAL VOYAGES

CALL YOUR AAA TRAVEL AGENT TODAY1-800-622-9211 or AAA.com/travel

With so many different ways to book a vacation these days – and all of the options available – how do you know you’re getting the best value? With AAA’s travel resources, members get an inside edge in planning and booking their vaca-tions. Here’s how we can help you make the most of your trip.

SAVINGS As a large organization, AAA

leverages its expansive network of partnerships to provide members with deals on rental cars, hotels and more. Preferred rates, room upgrades and spending credits are among the benefi ts members can enjoy by booking their trip through AAA.com or AAA travel agents. And while on the road, members can use the AAA Mobile app and AAA.com to fi nd more places – such as shops and restaurants – that of-fer discounts.

EXPERIENCES AND INSIGHTS Through the custom-designed

itineraries of AAA Vacations, mem-bers enjoy engaging activities and perks that would typically be con-sidered extras such as guided tours, immersive dinners and behind-the-scenes visits. What’s more, when booking a hotel or restaurant, members can use the rigorous AAA Diamond Rating system – objective reviews by professional inspec-tors – found on AAA.com, in AAA TourBooks and through AAA travel agents.

SUPPORT Equally important is the safety

net AAA provides if anything goes wrong. Members can work with their AAA travel agent to choose travel insurance that can help put a vacation back on track if they lose luggage, miss connections or get sick or injured. Members on AAA

Members get an inside edge when booking their vacations with a AAA travel agent.

Savings, expertise are perks of using AAA travel services

AAA Member benefi ts

Vacations trips have around-the-clock access to assistance by calling 24/7 Member Care for travel emergencies.

With your AAA Membership, the benefi ts – savings, insights and sup-

port – are priceless. That’s the AAA advantage. For trip details and all your travel-planning needs, visit AAA.com/Vacations or your nearest AAA travel agent.


By AAA Member E. Houlberg, of Granby I recently had the pleasure of sailing with

the AAA Solo Travelers Club on a seven-day Canada/New England cruise from Boston. It was my fi rst cruise with the AAA Solo Travel-ers Club and the service I received from start to fi nish was fi rst-rate. Marianne, the Solo Travelers Club coordinator, and Alyson, a AAA travel agent, provided excellent service book-ing the cruise and the transportation to and from the cruise terminal in Boston. On the

ship, the AAA tour director was always avail-able for questions and did an excellent job coordinating activities and hosting a private cocktail party.

If you enjoy traveling and would like to meet others, I highly recommend joining the Solo Travelers Club and attending the meet-ings. You’ll learn about all of the affordable travel opportunities for singles that AAA ar-ranges. I’m already planning my next trip with AAA Travel and the AAA Solo Travelers Club.

Ed Houlberg, of Granby, right, enjoyed meeting other AAA Solo Travelers Club members who be-came instant friends and pleasant companions during a Canada/New England cruise from Boston.

Solo travelers make fi rst-rate friendships

With its glass-domed rail cars, expansive views, gourmet dining and luxurious surroundings, many travelers consider Rocky Moun-taineer journeys as the only way to see the Pacific Northwest and the Canadian Rockies. With four routes, the train trips offer romance and his-tory, reminding us that traveling is still about the journey as well as the destination.

One of the company’s most popu-lar packages is the Circle Journey, which includes all of its exciting destinations, such as Jasper, Lake Louise, Banff, Whistler and Vancou-ver – all in Canada – and Seattle, Wash. With at least four days on the rail, there is no limit to the wildlife sightings and breathtaking scenery to be found.

The company’s newest route, Coastal Passage, explores the mar-

vels of the Pacific Northwest coast-line and seamlessly connects Seattle to the majestic Canadian Rockies. The train travels alongside the glistening Pacific Ocean, dotted with fishing boats, paddleboarders and the occasional seal peeking out from the water.

Since Seattle is one of the busiest ports for Alaskan cruises, travelers can combine their Coastal Passage rail vacations with an Alaskan cruise. From the jaw-dropping icebergs, to the cosmopolitan cities of Vancouver and Seattle, to the majestic Canadian Rockies, Rocky Mountaineer’s Rail and Cruise vacations are two dream vacations in one.

There are two options for Rocky Mountaineer travelers: GoldLeaf and SilverLeaf Service.

Renowned for its luxurious bi-level glass-domed coaches, GoldLeaf

Service allows for optimal viewing of soaring eagles, spawning salmon and the occasional black bear or the elusive moose on the upper level.

In the lower levels, internation-ally acclaimed chefs create western Canadian dishes with the freshest regional ingredients. Guests enjoy a classic dining setting with de-lectable menu selections such as wild Pacific salmon, prime Alberta beef and locally sourced vegetables. Each bi-level coach has its own galley kitchen, where croissants are freshly baked every morning and a three-course lunch, complete with a decadent dessert, is prepared. Award-winning wines from British Colum-bia’s Okanagan Valley are available throughout the journey.

SilverLeaf Service provides guests with a spacious single-level glass-domed coach and unparalleled views to western Canada’s beauty. Dedicated hosts provide world-class service and engaging storytelling, and guests receive hot gourmet breakfasts and lunches. Gourmet snacks and locally brewed beer and wine pair nicely with views of rugged mountain peaks, providing guests with an incomparable atmosphere.

With over 65 vacation packages highlighting the stunning destina-tions in western Canada and an endless list of add-on options to customize your vacation, there is an option to suit everyone’s needs. For more information, call or visit your nearest AAA travel agent.

Exquisite views, gourmet fare just part of Northwest getaway

Rocky Mountaineer

Rocky Mountaineer’s glass-domed coaches provide visitors with breathtaking vistas.

ROCKY MOUNTAINEER EXCLUSIVES

• Four routes travel through the Pacifi c Northwest and the Canadian Rockies• Glass-domed trains afford fantastic views• Gourmet meals, drinks and desserts • More than 65 vacation packages from which to choose

Gear Up forWinter Travel

Get everything you need for your travels in one convenient location, with special member pricing.

Emergency Trunk ShovelThe right tool for winter conditions. $995

Visit your nearest AAA Travel Storelocated in every AAA office.

Set of 3 Packing OrganizersAdd more space and pack like a pro! $2799

Helium Sky 2.0 by DelseyNew lighter version has an“Easy to GrabTM” bottom handle making overhead lifting easier.$9499 - $14499

AAA Deltran Battery TendersThe latest technology in battery charging and maintenance. $3495 - $5495

Door Stop AlarmFor home and travel, sleep soundly knowing your room is secure $1099

Walt Disney World2016 Birnbaum GuideExpert advicefrom the insidesource. $1399

Arctic GuardEliminates difficultwindshield scraping. $999


Canyon CountryMEMBER CHOICE VACATIONS9/29/16 - 10/7/16 - 9 DaysIncludes: roundtrip air from Hartford, 8-night hotel accommodations, 7 breakfasts, 4 dinners, sightseeing, expert travel director, and much more.Highlights: Scottsdale, Oak Creek Canyon, Kaibab National Forest, Grand Canyon, Lake Powell, Choice of Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park or Canyon Adventure Cruise, Bryce Canyon National Park, Zion National Park, Las Vegas.

$25 off per person$ Receive a $75 credit to use toward the optional tour

of your choice. If you purchase 2 or more optional tours you will receive a $100 credit.

from $3,069* double

from $3,829* single

Coastal Passage Canadian Rockies GetawayROCKY MOUNTAINEER 12 Days - 9 MealsIncludes: 5 days aboard the Rocky Mountaineer train, 11-night hotel accommodations Highlights: North Shore Tour with Capilano Suspen-sion Bridge and Grouse Mountain, Vancouver Lookout Icefields Parkway Tour, including Ice Explorer, Jasper to Lake Louise, Rail station transfers in Vancouver, Kamloops, Jasper, Banff and Seattle, Luggage handling and National Park Passhan

Up to $200 per adult merchandise credit to use onboard the train onb

A free half-day Seattle sightseeing tour

from $8,414* double, GoldLeaf Service Only

Ask your AAA Travel Agent about roundtrip airfare and single rate.

Coastal Passage Western ExplorerROCKY MOUNTAINEER 11 Days - 5 MealsIncludes: 3 days aboard the Rocky Mountaineer train, 10-night hotel accommodations Highlights: North Shore Tour with Capilano Suspen-sion Bridge and Grouse Mountain, Banff to Calgary Tour, including Banff Gondola, Summit Helicopter Flightseeing, Rail station transfers in Seattle, Vancouver, Kamloops and Jasper, Luggage handling and National Park Passand

Up to $200 per adult merchandise credit to use onboard the train onb

A free half-day Seattle sightseeing tour

from $6,385* double, GoldLeaf Service Only


CRUISES/CRUISETOURS

Rates valid on new bookings only. Rates are per person based on double occupancy, unless otherwise noted. Rate and member benefits shown are current at time of print, capacity controlled and subject to change and availability. Offers and itinerary are subject to change, availability, terms and conditions, and may be withdrawn or changed at any time without notice. AAA does not assume responsibility for any errors or omissions in the content of the offers displayed. Ask your AAA Travel Agent for best rate and full terms and conditions at time of booking. Not combinable with AAA ClubDeal offers. Other certain restrictions may apply.

EXPLORE THE WORLD

2016 AAA Member Appreciation CruiseWestern CaribbeanNew Jersey Roundtrip

ROYAL CARIBBEAN Anthem of the Seas • 3/7/16 - 3/19/16 - 12 NightsHighlights: Cape Liberty, NJ, Labadee, Haiti, Falmouth, Jamaica, George Town, Grand Cayman, Costa Maya, Mexico, Roatan, Honduras, Cozumel, Mexico

inside from $1,474* double

inside from $1,988* single

2016 AAA Member Appreciation CruiseDenali Explorer Alaska CruisetourFairbanks to Vancouver, B.C.

PRINCESS CRUISES Island Princess • 8/7/16 - 8/17/16 - 10 NightsHighlights: Tour first (3 days), then Cruise (7 days)Land Tour: Fairbanks, Denali, Mt. McKinley, WhittierCruise: Anchorage, Hubbard Glacier scenic cruising, Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan, Vancouver, B.C.

outside from $2,999* double

inside from $4,036* single

A Tribute to Great Legends CruiseBermuda Cruise New Jersey Roundtrip

ROYAL CARIBBEAN Anthem of the Seas • 10/15/16 - 10/20/16 - 5 NightsJoin Joe Pereira for a private cocktail reception; private Legend’s Show and a private meet and greet with the Legend’s Highlights: King’s Wharf, Bermuda

inside cabin from $1,074* double

balcony from $1,226* double

Includes deluxe motorcoach transportation to New Jersey

Caribbean Cruise New Jersey to San Juan, Puerto Rico

CELEBRITY CRUISESSummit • 10/16/16 - 10/22/16 - 6 Nights Highlights: Philipsburg, St. Maarten, Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, San Juan, Puerto Rico

inside cabin from $533* double

balcony from $833* double

Ask your AAA Travel Agent about deluxe motorcoach transportation to New Jersey and one-way return airfare from San Juan

SEE THE USA AND CANADA

ght hotel

2016 AAA President’s TourIceland’s Magical Northern LightsMEMBER CHOICE VACATIONS10/29/16 - 11/4/16 - 7 DaysIncludes: roundtrip air from Boston, 6-night hotel accommodations, 5 breakfasts, 5 dinners, sightseeing, expert travel director, and much more.Highlights: Reykjavik, Northern Lights Cruise, Gold-en Circle, Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, Gullfoss, Seljalandsfoss, Vik, Eyjafjallajokull Volcano Visitor Centre, Skogar Museum, Skogafoss, Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon, Skaftafell National Park, Vatnajokull Glacier, Blue Lagoon

$50 off per person

from $3,049* double

from $3,299* single

,

2 Nights

NO

NEEDEDDD

6 5 Ni ht

NO

NEEDEDDD

London & Paris MEMBER CHOICE VACATIONSMarch - December, 2016 - 8 DaysIncludes: 6-night hotel accommodations, 6 breakfasts, 3 dinners, sightseeing, expert travel director, and much more.Highlights: London, Eurostar High Speed Train to France, ParisFra



from $2,249* double


EARN

3XPOINTS

Tell your AAA Travel Agent

you want to apply for the AAA

Member Rewards Visa card

when you book your next trip.

Triple your fun on your next AAA Trip!

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The weather won’t wait . . . neither should you.

If your battery is showing signs of weakness, call or visit us online

to receive a free battery quote.

Have your battery tested today.

1-800-AAA-HELP | AAA.com/battery

regularly to make sure you can see and be seen.

Wiper blades. Winter wiper blades are a good investment. Unlike traditional equipment, these blades usu-ally feature a beam, or cover, that prevents ice buildup and ensures your wipers stay pressed against the wind-shield.

Be prepared. Never leave home without a roadside emergency equipment kit that includes items such as warm clothes and a fl ashlight. A cellphone charger and a snack are good ideas, too, as is any medication you take regu-larly. When it comes to winter driving, you always want to hope for the best but prepare for the worst.

Gasoline. Try to keep at least a half-tank of gasoline in your vehicle; this will help prevent buildup in your gas tank, keep your gas lines from

freezing, and reduce stress should you get tied up in a traffi c jam. You don’t want to become another reason for traffi c jams.

The forecast. If you’re planning to travel relatively far from home, check the forecast for where you’re headed and where you’ll pass through on the way. Just because it’s decent at home doesn’t mean it’ll be the same on the road.

Continued from page 1

Proper planning key to safe winter driving

Winter wiper blades are an excellent investment.

CAR REPAIR

You Can Trust

Whether your vehicle needs a routine oil change or a more extensive repair

AAA Approved Auto Repairand

AAA Approved Auto Bodyfacilities offer the expertise

and reliability you want.17 Convenient Locations to Serve You

Visit

AAA.com/Repairto find a location near you.

Winter has arrived, but it’s not too late to make sure your car’s battery is ready for the freezing temperatures.

Damage caused by intense summer heat can cause corrosion and fl uid evaporation, leaving you with a battery that’s in less-than-optimum condition.

When checking your battery, the fi rst signs of corrosion are often a powdery residue around the terminals and battery casing. You can take care of this yourself using a mixture of water and baking soda and a wire brush to clear away noticeable corrosion from the cable and termi-nals.

If the battery caps are removable, check the fl uid level monthly, ensuring the proper amount of fl uid is present. Inspect the battery for any cracks and fl uid leakage. A cracked or leaking battery requires an immediate replacement.

Be sure to wear protective goggles and rubber gloves and avoid direct contact with corrosive deposits and battery acid.

Many new cars require a steady fl ow of elec-tricity to control fuel delivery, ignition systems, transmission and other components to keep the car running smoothly.

Serpentine belts are another integral part of the car’s charging system. If the belt is not working properly, the battery will not charge

and other electrical components of the car won’t work.

Colder temperatures also put more strain on the battery. Older batteries, in particular, face trouble in winter months, as the lower tempera-tures limit the ability to hold a charge.

As a battery loses its effectiveness, you may notice the interior lights start to dim, or a click-ing noise when turning the key. The motor will also turn over more slowly when starting the vehicle.

If your vehicle displays any of these signs, or is more than 3 years old, it may be time to replace your battery.

A AAA mobile battery technician can test your battery, replace it if necessary and get you back on the road. A AAA battery is guaranteed to meet or exceed your vehicle’s specifi cations, and comes with a six-year limited warranty and three-year free replacement period. There’s no charge for the installation, and we’ll safely recycle your old battery for free.

AAA Battery Service is provided through roadside assistance, with convenient access through the AAA Mobile app. Receive an instant battery quote, check the status of your ser-vice call and view your membership card, all within the app. For more information, visit AAA.com/Battery.

It’s never too late to ensure your battery is ready for winter

A AAA mobile battery technician can test your battery and replace it if necessary.


Business Insurance

Superior service. Outstanding value.

1-800-622-9211 x430 • AAA.com/Insurance

AAA will work with you to insure your business vehicles and business property and liability exposures. We offer competitive rates on

Business Auto, Business Owners, Package and Fire Policies.

Ask Kasey Peters, AAA Insurance account manager for a quote today.

Pioneer Valley Auto Club Insurance Agency, Inc.

Help assure your family’s future.

Here’s where life insurance fits into the picture.

In about an hour, a licensed AAA life insurance professional can help you establish a solid framework

for your family’s financial future – helping to safeguard their financial security for a generation –

or more. One hour – just 60 minutes – may help ensure the outcome you’ve always pictured.

AAA’s interests are firmly focused on you.

For an appointment,call Christine O’Hare at 1-800-622-9211 x216or visit AAA.com/Insurance

Tech Talk

No substitute for spare tireMary automakers’ decision to eliminate the

spare tire may leave millions of drivers vulner-able at the roadside, according to new research from AAA.

Tire infl ator kits, a high-cost alternative for consumers, have replaced the spare tire in mil-lions of vehicles over the last 10 model years de-spite having limited functionality to make even a temporary fi x for many common tire-related problems.

AAA is calling on automakers to put motorists fi rst and halt the elimination of the spare tire.

“Flat tires are not a disappearing problem, but spare tires are. AAA responds to more than 4 million calls for fl at tire assistance annually and, despite advances in vehicle technology, we have not seen a decline in tire-related calls over the last fi ve years,” said Joe Ferraro, automotive services vice president for AAA Pioneer Valley.

Along with run-fl at tires, tire infl ator kits have replaced spare tires on 29 million vehicles in the last 10 model years, steadily increasing from 5 percent of 2006 model year vehicles to more than one-in-three (36 percent) in 2015 model year vehicles sold.

While each 4-pound kit eliminates approxi-mately 30 pounds of weight, resulting in mini-mal savings in fuel consumption, the replace-ment cost is high. With some kits costing up to $300 per use, a tire infl ator kit can cost consum-ers up to 10 times more than a simple tire repair and has a shelf life of only four to eight years.

“Automakers are facing increasingly stringent fuel economy standards and the spare tire has become a casualty in an effort to reduce weight and boost miles per gallon. Advances in automo-tive engineering allow for weight to be reduced in ways that don’t leave motorists stranded at the roadside,” Ferraro said.

AAA tested the most common tire infl ator kits in today’s vehicles and found that the units worked well in some scenarios, but they are not a substitute for a spare tire. For an infl ator kit to work effectively, a tire must be punctured in the tread surface and the object must remain in the tire. Used correctly, the kit coats the inner

wall of the tire with a sealant and a compressor re-infl ates the tire.

If the puncture-causing object is no longer in the tire, a sidewall is damaged or a blowout occurs, a tire infl ator kit cannot remedy the situation and the vehicle will require a tow.

Knowing how to change a tire is also a skill that is not prevalent among younger age groups. More than one-in-fi ve millennial drivers (ages 18-34) do not know how to change a tire, com-pared to the nearly 90 percent of drivers aged 35-54 who know this important skill. Gender differences also exist: While nearly all men (97 percent) claim to know how to change a tire, only 68 percent of women boast the same abil-ity.

“Consumers may mistakenly believe that infl ator kits are a one-size-fi ts-all alternative to installing a spare tire. The reality is these kits can accommodate specifi c types of tire damage, but having the option to install a spare tire can save stranded drivers time and money,” Ferraro said.

If faced with roadside trouble, including a fl at tire, AAA is available to help 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. AAA Members can request assistance by calling 800-AAA-HELP, visiting AAA.com/RoadsideAssistance or via the AAA Mobile app.

Tire infl ator kits save on weight, but don’t always work and can be costly for consumers.

By George MorseWhen you’re traveling

abroad, a medical emergency is the last thing you want to think about, let alone deal with.

Travel medical insurance is one way to give you and your family peace of mind the next time you cross in-ternational borders. The plan functions as a type of medi-cal insurance policy while you’re out of the country, offering coverage on every-thing from outpatient medi-cal services to prescriptions, hospital admission, emer-gency reunion and political and medical evacuation.

Travelers younger than 65 looking for thrills on vaca-tion can even add an op-tional adventure sports rider to cover injuries sustained during rappelling, Jet Skiing or heli-skiing, among other activities.

Medicare won’t protect you outside the U.S, and in many cases, said AAA Pio-neer Valley’s Insurance Man-ager Denice Turcotte, your standard medical insurance might not apply, either.

While U.S. consular agents can help track down medical services, according to the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs, payment for such services is the patient’s responsibility.

“Most people assume they’re fine, that they have coverage. That might not be the case,” Turcotte said.

Those interested in travel medical insurance can craft a plan tailored to their specific needs. Coverage can be purchased for a minimum of five days up to several months, and individual de-ductibles range from zero to $2,500.

Maximum limits start at $50,000 and run up to $2 million.

“A lot of people don’t think about this. Most people are

Plan ahead for your trip with travel medical plans

Travel medical insurance can give you peace of mind.

surprised to learn they can get coverage for something like this and how inexpen-sive it is,” Turcotte said.

In addition, the plan con-nects travelers and medical providers with multilingual customer service centers and claim administrators.

Travelers can also protect their vacation investment with trip cancellation cover-age, which offers protection in the event of emergency illness, jury duty or other circumstances preventing an upcoming getaway.


AAA MEMBERS:WHAT DO YOU GET WHEN

YOU PUT A CAR AND A HOUSE TOGETHER?

AMAZING DISCOUNTS OFF YOUR INSURANCEPREMIUM.

+Combine your car and home insurance policies with AAA and you could receive a substantial discount off your premiums. Plus, you can always trust us to give you the dependable, personal service you deserve. To see how much you can save, go

1-800-622-9211AAA.com/Quotenow

You can do it all online, even sign your policy from....well, anywhere! Ask an insurance agent how.

Pioneer Valley Automobile Club Insurance Agency, Inc.

making changewith AAA fi nancial services

How do I know if a loan is a good fi t for me? Whether you’re borrowing money

to pay for a new car, a home, your child’s education or

another purpose, there are some basic questions you can answer to help determine if a loan is right

for you. • Does this fi t my budget?

First and foremost, you should know if you can afford the debt you’re taking on. Be sure you’re comfortable with the projected monthly payment and think

carefully before taking on a pay-ment that may pinch your resources.

• Is this the best deal available? Not all loans are created equal. Much like you’d shop for the best price on any major purchase, you should always compare interest rates and fees from several lend-ers to ensure you’re getting the best terms.

• How long am I comfortable carrying this debt? Extending a loan over a long period of time might be an option if you’re looking to lower your month-ly payment. If it’s more important to you to settle the debt quickly, selecting a shorter term might be a better bet, as long as the monthly payments fi t in your budget.

• What type of interest am I getting? Some loans offer fi xed interest rates while others offer vari-able rates. You should always know which you’re choosing to avoid any surprises in payments down the road.

• Are there any benefi ts to this loan? Before sign-ing on the dotted line, ask if there are any ways of adding protection into the loan. Many borrowers enjoy the peace of mind afforded by “GAP” cover-age or debt protection plans.

College spending

Financial aid planning goes digitalSelecting a college or univer-

sity is a process laden with impor-tant decisions.

Tuition, campus life and pro-grams of study are just a few of the numerous factors parents and students need to weigh to select the best institution possible for education after high school.

Financial aid awards are an-other critical part of the equation and that’s why it’s crucial every family submits a Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

More commonly known as FAF-SA, the application determines the type and extent of fi nancial aid for which a student is eligible, ranging from scholarships to federal loans.

Families can start fi ling appli-cations for the 2016-17 academic year on Jan. 1 and it’s a good idea to get started as early as possible, as FAFSA deadlines vary by col-lege and university.

Whatever that date is, you want to make sure you have your FAFSA fi led to give yourself the best chance of getting the most fi nancial aid possible and fi ling the document has never been easier.

While families in the past might have spent nights around the kitchen table trying to navi-gate a thick paper booklet, today’s forms are digital and offer plenty of tips and advice along the way.

A FAFSA isn’t static, either. Not only does the application need to

be resubmitted every academic year, but it can be updated after its initial submission, a step many parents and students take – the document requires current year tax information, which a lot of people don’t have until after FAFSA deadlines at many colleges and universities.

Families are advised against waiting until after an institution’s application deadline. Instead, parents and students should fi le with their most up-to-date tax information and update the docu-ment once they have completed their taxes for the previous year. Applicants can even have their tax information updated in their FAFSA directly from the IRS.

One signifi cant FAFSA change coming down the pike will start with the 2017-18 academic year. In September, President Barack Obama signed an executive order moving the FAFSA start date back from Jan. 1, 2017, to Oct. 1, 2016. Along with giving families an additional two months, the order will allow many parents and students to fi le their application without having to update their tax information at a later date.

AAA is available to help parents and students with fi nancial aid questions. For additional infor-mation, including free webinars on a variety of student lending and fi nancial aid topics, visit AAA.com/StudentLending.

Every college student should fi ll out the Free Application for Federal Stu-dent Aid form, which is now easier than ever to fi le.


When you drive an older car, you never know what can go wrong.

Until it does.That’s why AAA offers an exclusive Vehicle Extended Service Plan, providing members with extended automotive coverage after the manufacturer’s warranty has expired.

This exclusive AAA plan offers customized coverage levels. And depending on the level you choose, it may cover all major repairs for up to 7 years and 230,000 odometer miles. It’s a service plan for life’s unexpected expenses.

Affordable. Customized Plans. Easy.

AAA EXTENDED SERVICE PLANFor more information, call 1-800-622-9211 x215

or visit AAA.com/ExtendedWarranty

It’s a new year and for a lot of folks, that means it’s time for a New Year’s resolu-tion.

While eating right and exercise may be among the season’s most common vows, there are plenty of significant life events and plans that merit a promise to evaluate your insurance coverage.

Here are a few types of pol-icies worth looking at if you experienced any big changes last year or anticipate any in the months ahead.

Auto: Have you been put-ting off buying that new set of wheels? Is 2016 the year you finally get rid of that old jalopy? If so, it’s a perfect time to shop around to make sure you’re getting the lowest rates possible on automobile insurance.

Homeowners: Obviously, if you’re buying a new house you’ll be updating your homeowners insurance policy. But you shouldn’t overlook the holiday season. Adding a rider or endorse-ment to your coverage is an option for protecting expen-

sive gifts, such as jewelry. Life insurance: Life in-

surance is one way to protect family members and loved ones after you’re gone. That’s why a lot of people who look into such coverage do so after a major change,

such as the birth of child or the purchase of a home, said Christine O’Hare, a life insurance specialist with AAA Pioneer Valley. If you’ve experienced or are plan-ning to experience a major life change, now might be a

Insurance

Does a new year present new insurance needs?

good time to think about a policy.

Long-term care: Another year gone means another birthday and, hopefully, another year closer to retire-ment. While many know the value of putting money away for the golden years, some overlook the potential need for long-term care later in life.

About 70 percent of people turning age 65 can expect to use some form of long-term care in their lives, and the costs can be signifi cant. Looking into long-term care insurance is one way of plan-ning ahead.

Motorcycle/boat/RV: Spring will be here soon enough, and if you’re plan-ning to pick up a new toy or two this year, make sure you plan on getting the ap-propriate type of coverage. These recreational vehicles have different insurance considerations than your typical vehicle.

Does your family have an adorable new addition? If so, it’s a good time to adjust your insurance policies.

New & used 2009–2016 models from 48–60 monthsBorrowing at 1.94% APR for 60 months results in payments of

$17.50 per $1,000 borrowed*

Rates as low as APR

For the latest rates or other low rates and terms, call 1-800-222-9415 or visit AAA.com.

New & used 2008–2016 models up to 36 monthsBorrowing at 1.74% APR for 36 months results in payments of

$28.52 per $1,000 borrowed*

Rates as low as APR

Who Knew?

AAA offers loans at competitive rates, too! Plus a loan advisor to research the best financing for your situation. Need a loan? Consider AAA Financial Services, the people you already trust for great member service.

1.74%

1.94%

*All loans offered through AAA Pioneer Valley. Rates and terms subject to change without notice. Some fees and restrictions may apply. All loans subject to credit approval, appraisal and satisfactory title examination where applicable. Consult your tax advisor regarding the deductibility of interest. Rates are for AAA members only. Other rates and terms available. Actual rate determined by individual credit worthiness. Above rates reflect a .50% discount for borrowing less than 80% of the vehicle’s value. Rates may not be available in all areas. No down payment required for qualified applicants. FIN.15389.15_PV


Open a AAA Online Savings Account from Discover Bank and save more with a rate that’s over 5X the National Savings Average1. Enjoy high yields, maximum flexibility, peace of mind and savings.

1

2

3

4

Save more in 2016

0.95% APY2

Online Savings Account as of 11/10/15

Discover Online Savings Account2

0.08% APY3

0.95% APY2

National Savings Average3

· No monthly fees or minimum balance required

· Open in minutes with as little as $500

· Online and mobile account management

1-800-347-7056 or AAA.com/DepositsUse Invitation Code: AAAOSA116

Among the best savings and money market rates.

— MoneyRates.com2Q 20154

Discover Bank

AAA has a great student lending program!

Call or visit today!1-888-222-9413AAA.com/FinancialAid

All advertised rates are current as of the date this advertisement was printed and are subject to change without notice. All loans are subject to the lender’s receipt and approval of a completed loan application. The APR and loan fees applicable to your loan will depend on several factors, including the repayment option you select and your credit history. AAA Advantage Loans are made by SunTrust. Consolidation and education refi nance loans are made by Citizens Bank. See rates and fees at http://www.southernnewengland.aaa.com/fi nancial/fi nancial-aid-center/college-planning for Annual Percentage Rate (APR) examples and other important information about private student loans through the AAA Student Lending Program. AAA encourages prospective borrowers to exhaust scholarships, grants, and federal loan options before applying for a private student loan. Federal loans are often less expensive and offer the widest variety of repayment options. FIN.15388.15_PV

When it comes to fi nding answers to your student loan questions, the AAA Student Lending program is here for you. For reducing loan payments after you have graduated college, our refi nance and consolidation loans will help put money back in your pocket. Our private loan product provides competitive rates and is a good solution if you need help paying tuition and expenses.

The AAA Student Lending Program also provides: • Trusted advisors to guide you • Assistance fi lling out the FAFSA forms • Informational webinars • Help fi nding the right loan for you

We have the answer

driven2016 Nissan Maxima

latest model brings them as close as they have ever been.

The road test: The 300-horsepower V-6 provides a very strong performance, with 60 miles per hour arriving in less than six seconds. I have never been a fan of the CVT transmission, but this is one of the best I have ever tested.

The updated transmission allows for quicker performance and more responsiveness when accelerating. A drive-mode selector (Sport and Nor-mal modes) adjusts throttle response, transmission tuning and steering.

The ride is fi rm without feel-ing harsh. On most roads, the Maxima is a very comfortable car to drive, but on very poor

By John PaulAAA’s Car Doctor

The car: The Nissan Maxima is completely restyled for 2016 with all-new sheet metal as well as being 1.3 inches lower and 2.2 inches longer than the previous generation.

The Maxima is available in fi ve trim levels: S, SV, SL, SR and Platinum. These trim levels replace option packages.

My test car was the nicely equipped SL, with full power accessories, heated seats, a Bose sound system, a touch-screen navigation display, active noise cancellation, dual-zone climate control, a rear-view monitor and intelligent cruise control.

All trim levels get the same 3.5-liter, 300-horsepower V-6 engine, connected to a continu-ally variable transmission.

Nissan is trying to bring back the idea of the Maxima as a four-door sports car and this

roads, the ride can get a bit skittish. Under hard accelera-tion, there is what seems like more engine roar than actual performance.

The overall handling was predictable, with very little body roll on quick turns. The brakes are fi rm and powerful.

The interior of the Maxima is comfortable and roomy, with premium materials through-out. Maxima interiors never felt luxurious to me, but this latest model competes nicely with more expensive luxury cars.

The seating is quite comfort-able, with Nissan’s unique Zero Gravity with sport bolstering standard (eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and four-way power-adjustable front passenger’s seat) and increased softness from a new three-layer foam design. Seats are offered in premium cloth, leather-appointed or premium Ascot leather-appointed. Heated and

Seats: 5Fuel: PremiumCrash test: 5 starsMPG: 22 city, 30 highwayAnnual fuel costs: $1,650Base price: $34,410Shop against: Chrysler 300, Kia Cadenza, Buick LaCrosse

AAA auto facts

climate-controlled front seats and steering wheel are avail-able.

The front seats are low, add-ing to the sports car feel. The rear seat, like many competi-tor’s models, features a 60/40 split fold-down design. Rear seat room is generally good al-though the lower roof line takes away some headroom.

Safety is addressed with a full complement of airbags, antilock brakes, and traction control. The top-of-the-line model also has the Driver Attention Alert system, which gives visual and audible alerts when drowsy or inattentive driving is detected.

The bottom line: The latest Maxima is certainly the best Maxima to date. With a luxurious and highly functional cabin, a strong engine, and a nice combination of ride and handling, the Maxima is start-ing to give its premium-class European competitors a run for their money.

What do you think of the Buick Regal? I saw one at a dealership and

was quite impressed. Do you think this new car is enough to change the stodgy image of Buick and lure in younger

buyers? The new Buick has a

classy, contemporary look and handles great. The 182 horsepower four-cylinder engine performed pretty well. For those driv-ers looking for more power, however, an optional 2.0-liter, 259-horsepower turbocharged engine is an option. The interior fit and finish was very nice and the seats were comfort-able and supportive. The proportions and style of the Regal stand out in a crowd without being brash. Will the new Regal bring a younger buyer? Buick needs more than just a decent/good product. It’s not just the car; the buying experience and service need to be world-class to lure and keep customers in this very competitive segment.

AAA Car Care Q&A

John Paul, AAA’s

Car Doctor SM


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vehicle pickup through 3/31/16. Go to hertz.com for additional terms and information.

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