Blair

SEAT BELT USE IS AT AN ALL-TIME HIGH

SEE PAGE 3

3rd Day Free at Universal Orlando®

Your 3rd day is free at Universal Orlando when you purchase a 2-day ticket at AAA now through June 16, 2013. Universal Studios and Universal’s Islands of Adventure are filled with thrills and excitement for every member of the family. Tickets are valid through June 30, 2013. Discount tickets available for purchase only at AAA branch offices or online.

AAA offers snowmobile title and registration services

Some of the world’s best snowmobiling can be found right here in Pennsylvania. Each winter, more than 46,000 Pennsylvania registered snowmobiles travel over more than 2,500 miles of marked public trails.

If you plan on riding your sled on any land other than your own, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR.) requires you to purchase a regis-tration sticker, which is good for two years.

AAA East Central Branch Offices in Pennsylvania are authorized agents for the

DCNR and your local branch can complete all paperwork necessary to buy, sell, and register a snowmobile as well as replace a missing title, registration card or sticker.

With AAA taking care of all the paperwork, you’ll soon be enjoying another beauti-ful winter in the Keystone State. For specific information on title and registration service for a snowmobile, call the AAA Member Service Center at 1.800.441.5008, or visit your local AAA office.

Hot Destinations & Free Tablet OfferFind your place in the sun with exciting vacations to Hawaii and the Caribbean from AAA Travel and Pleasant Holidays. Cast like stepping-stones across an iridescent blue sea the Caribbean is famous its palm fringed beaches and perpetual sunshine. The Aloha State welcomes travelers with steaming volcanoes, lush tropical foliage and the seductive sway of the hula. AAA mem-bers who book an air inclusive, 7-night or longer Hawaiian or Caribbean vacation will receive a

free Google Nexus 7 Tablet. With a stunning 7-inch display and all-day battery life, Nexus 7 is the perfect travel companion. (New bookings only for travel by May 31, 2013. Total minimum package value of $3,000). SEE PAGE 7

continued on page 19

Vol. 33 No. 1 BLAIR REGION JANUARY 2013Travel | Insurance/Financial | Autom

otive | Mem

ber Savings | AAA.com

It’s time you thought differ- ently about January. Sure, it’s often frigid & dark, but it’s also the very best time

of the year for AAA member-only savings & values on Dis-ney vacations — a great time to lock in a 2013 getaway full of warmth & brightness to dash memories of January bleakness.

At AAA, January snow gives

way to Disney “dough” — the exclusive “goodies” only mem-bers enjoy by staying at a Walt Disney World® on-site resort. AAA will give 300 members who book & deposit a new 2013 AAA Vacations® package of 5 or more nights some great extras. Here’s how it works:• DELUXE: Be one of the first 100 to choose a Deluxe resort

(Disney’s Grand Floridian Re-sort & Spa, for example) and get $50 off regular rates as well as a 50-sheet Disney Pho-to Album and 2 passes each for Walt Disney World® mini-golf, Disney’s Blizzard BeachWater Park, Typhoon LagoonWater Park and Cirque du So-leil’s “La Nouba”TM — all in a practical canvas tote bag!• MODERATE: The first 100 opting for a Moderate resort (Disney’s Caribbean Beach Re-sort, for example) receive a $25 discount, a photo album and 2 mini-golf passes in a tote.• VALUE: The first 100 to select a Value property (Disney’s Arts of Animation Resort, for exam-ple) take home a photo album in a canvas Disney tote.

This blizzard of bonuses does not end there; enjoy a pile of exclusive member benefits (see box at left and visit AAA.com/Disney). Plus there’s a flurry of Disney’s own limited-time of-fers with Walt Disney World®

Resort, Disney Cruise Line® and Adventures by Disney® pack-ages (see page 19 for details/restrictions).

Right now’s the absolute best time to plan & book 2013 Disney vacations at AAA. Ho- tel, cruise and tour availability for the coming year will never be better. And our expertise

AAA Travel’s absolute best month for Disney member values is here!

More Disney magic feels great!

EXCLUSIVE AAA EAST CENTRAL OFFER!Up to $50 per room off select Walt Disney World® Resort hotel stays of 5+ nights

plus a select assortment of gifts (photo albums, event tickets, tote bags)Deluxe properties: $50 discount. Moderate: $25 discount. Book & deposit on a 2013 AAA Vacations®

package by 1/31/13 (travel by 12/31/13). New bookings only. Not combinable with other offers. Per room.

EXCLUSIVE 2013 AAA MEMBER BENEFITS!WALT DISNEY WORLD® RESORT — select AAA Vacations ® packagesAAA Vacations ® Diamond Savings Card • AAA Diamond Parking

Disney’s Story Time Experience • Preferred Fireworks Viewing LocationHertz® Complimentary Child Seat

DISNEY CRUISE LINE®

Special photo packages for inside & outside staterooms (1 per stateroom)

ADVENTURES BY DISNEY®

5% discount off land packages purchased at the nondiscounted regular rate

AND.. .ENJOY SEVERAL OTHER LIMITED-T IME VALUE-ADDED BENEFITS F ROM DISNEY!

SEE DETAILS & RESTRICTIONS ON PAGE 8.

DISNEY MONTH at AAA is all about the JOY!

EXCLUSIVE GIFTS & SAVINGS...ONLY FOR MEMBERS!

AS TO ARTWORK: © DISNEY

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Introducing AAA Club Rewards on AAA.com

AAA has just launched an exciting new online discount program. AAA Club Rewards delivers an innovative shopping experience on AAA.com, where members can save with discount offers from approximately 30,000 participating merchants nationwide — including well-known brands like Macy’s, Best Buy, The Home Depot, and more.

Over the years, AAA Discounts, including our Show Your Card & Save® program, have developed and grown. Now AAA Club Rewards will significant-ly enhance and expand the discounts and savings available to every member!

Members can access these new discounts simply by visiting the discounts section of our website at AAA.com. The AAA Club Rewards shopping portal provides mem-bers with deep discounts and everyday savings on entertainment, electronics, home improvement, apparel, restaurants, pet care and more. Check the Hot List for local

continued on page 20

PAGE 2 AAA MOTORIST JANUARY 2013

AAA DIRECTORYINTERNET WEB SITE: www.AAA.com

AAA MEMBER SERVICES • ADDRESS CHANGEtriptiks, tourbooks, maps, license

412-363-5100 or 1-800-441-5008

APPROVED AUTO REPAIR412-365-7411 or 1-800-233-9733

EMERGENCY ROAD SERVICE412-362-1900 or 1-800-222-4357

EXPRESS TRAVEL RESERVATIONSairline tickets, tours, cruises, rental cars

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

INSURANCE SERVICES: 1-800-207-7947

MEDIA RELATIONS: 412-365-7157

PUBLIC AFFAIRS: 412-365-7242

AAA MOTORIST: 412-365-7017

SAFETY: 412-365-7211

TDD for the hearing-impaired: 412-363-7144

AAA BRANCH OFFICE LOCATIONS1634 Valley View Blvd. ............................. 814-946-1277Brookville288 Main St. .................................................814-849-5381Butler138 Clearview Circle ....................................724-287-2713CranberryThe Village Shoppes, 20510 Rt. 19 ..........724-772-1122Erie6660 Peach St. Unit #2 ..............................814-866-0246Franklin102 Sugar Creek Town Center Rd. ...........814-432-3960GreensburgEastgate Shopping Center5142 Route 30, Suite 135 ......................... 724-834-8300Grove City24 Pine Grove Village Dr. ..........................724-458-8930Harborcreek4430 Buffalo Rd. ........................................814-897-9508Hermitage1749 E. State St.. ........................................724-981-9141Indiana1169 Wayne Ave. .......................................724-349-4193Jamestown (New York)111 W. Fifth St., Jamestown, N.Y.. ...........716-488-1981KittanningFranklin Village Mall. ............................... 724-543-1924Lewisburg530 1/2 North Derr Drive . ....................... 570-524-7455Lower Burrell/New Kensington AreaCrossroads Plaza2503 Leechburg Rd....................................724-339-4440McKean County (Bradford)587 South Ave. ..........................................814-368-3113Meadville18939 Park Avenue Plaza Unit #7 ............814-724-2247New Castle40 East St....................................................724-658-8551Niagara-Orleans7135 Rochester Rd, Lockport, NY. ............716-434-2865Pittsburgh–Century III Area (Pleasant Hills)9 Clairton Blvd. (RT 51). ........................... 412-655-6100Pittsburgh–Downtown538 Smithfield St. ......................................412-338-4300Pittsburgh–East Liberty/Shadyside5900 Baum Blvd. ........................................412-365-7196Pittsburgh–Monroeville2725 Mosside Blvd. ....................................412-858-4640Pittsburgh–North Hills Area (Ross Township)4790 McKnight Rd. ....................................412-367-7600Pittsburgh–Robinson TownshipRobinson Town Centre1760 Park Manor Blvd. .............................412-809-2800Pittsburgh–South Hills Area (Bethel Park)160 Ft. Couch Rd. ......................................412-833-5203Rochester300 Adams St. ............................................724-775-8000St. Marys1375 Bucktail Rd. ...................................... 814-834-7838Somerset110 N. Center Ave. ....................................814-443-6526Sunbury1001 Market Street. ..................................570-286-4507Uniontown111 W. Main St. .........................................724-438-8575Warren2285 Market St. .........................................814-723-6660Washington196 Murtland Ave. ....................................724-222-3800Waynesburg184 Greene Plaza, US 21 & I-79 ................724-627-3434White Oak/McKeesport AreaOak Park Mall, 2001 Lincoln Way ............412-675-3400

With so many handy resources for travelers — from websites and apps, to printed guide-

books — why do members request AAA TourBook guides by the million, year after year? The answer is simple: They’re free, easy and packed with great information!

If it has been a while since you last looked at a TourBook you’ll discover a redesigned layout, handy naviga-tion tools and vibrant new content that make travel planning simple. AAA TourBooks are more concise, easier to read — even easier to carry!

For more than eight decades, AAA’s annually updated TourBooks have evolved by expanding geographical regions, enriching content and sup-porting social and technological shifts, such as Internet service, pet acceptance and sustainability issues. Best of all, they’re free for the asking as part of your AAA membership.

Easier to use — Kick back and pore through the fascinating destination overviews, followed by pages of hotel, restaurant and attraction listings. Get a fix on the big picture with history and visitor information and references like the Annual Events, GEM Attraction Index and Points of Interest.

Or, when time is short, leave the legwork to AAA’s travel experts. Turn to trip planning shortcuts like the Must Do: AAA Editor’s Picks, 1-Day

Itineraries and Top Picks for Kids, avail-able for many destination cities. We’ll help you make the most of your trip with inspiring photos and informative content you can trust.

Easier to carry — Some TourBook guides that previously contained mul-tiple destinations have been split into smaller regions — a better fit with member travel patterns. That means fewer pages to carry, focused just on the places you’re visiting.

Easier to navigate — Save your-self the effort of checking multiple resources to get the lay of the land or find your way. Use the hotel, restaurant and attraction location maps through-out the guides for a bird’s-eye view of the places you plan to stay, dine and play in relation to landmarks and one another. Plus, to help you navigate the roadways, we’ve added overview and detail maps from the AAA Road Atlas series for easy route planning — all in one guide. Use the overview map to get the lay of the land, then use the indi-vidual maps to plan your route.

Easier to plan — We’ve loaded these new guides with firsthand expertise from our professional travel editors and inspectors. Our 1-Day Itineraries and Must Do: AAA Editor’s Picks enhance the destination city sections, while AAA Inspector Notes are highlighted in the restaurant listings.

Easier to travel — Now there’s no need to consult multiple travel resourc-es to find your way to and around your destination. The 2013 TourBook guides are like traveling with a friend who is from the area and knows it like the back of their hand!

See for yourself — Before your next trip, stop by your local AAA office or visit us on AAA.com to request copies of the 2013 edition TourBook guides — available free, exclusively for members. Then prepare to enjoy your easiest, more enjoyable travel planning experi-ence yet.

Read, plan, go with the 2013 AAA TourBook® guidesThey’re free, easy and packed with great information

NEW LOOK BETTER BOOK — The 2013 AAA Tourbooks are available now at AAA offices.

AAA e-TOURBOOKS AAA’s trusted travel information is now available in portable electronic formats that can be synced with today’s most popular mobile e-reader devices for on-the-go use. AAA now offers over 100 free, eTourBook guides, with content that is refreshed daily to ensure you receive the most up-to-date travel information. They’re available exclusively for AAA members at AAA.com/ebooks.

to the highest level of protection available! Get more from your membership. Upgrade to AAA Premier. With expanded roadside assistance — and a host of other benefits — AAA Premier is a smart choice.

To upgrade your membership, call or visit your local AAA office or AAA.com, or call the Member Service Center at

1-800-441-5008

Give Yourself an Upgrade—

JANUARY 2013 AAA MOTORIST PAGE 3

Blair RegionOfficial publication of

AAA East CentralPublished monthly (except bimonthly

Aug./Sept., Nov./Dec.) by AAA East Central

1634 Valley View Blvd, Altoona PA 16602-6041

USPS 535-650 ISSN 0000-0000Periodicals Postage Paid at Altoona, PA

Postmaster: Send address changes toAAA Motorist Blair Region

c/o AAA, 1634 Valley View BlvdAltoona PA 16602-6041

Subscription Rate: $1 included in Primary Membership dues. All others: $2/year.

Publisher ............................James J. McGrathManaging Editor ....................... Doug O’Neil

Editorial Office5900 Baum Blvd, Pittsburgh PA 15206-3854

412-365-7017

e-mail: [email protected]

AAA EAST CENTRALChairman:.................................................Richard.S..HamiltonVice.Chairman:.........................................James.E..Broome,.Jr.Vice.Chairman:........................................ Douglas.W..CaldwellVice.Chairman:..........................................Mary.Lynn.Laughlin.Vice.Chairman:..................................... Martha.Hartle.Munsch

OFFICERS:President:..................................................... James.J..McGrathExecutive.Vice.President:............................. .James.E..LehmanTreasurer.&.CFO:............................................ Michael.R..PrattSecretary:..................................................Robert.H..Compton

GOVERNING BOARD OF DIRECTORSGlenn.B..Bachman,. James.E..Broome,. Jr.,.Steve.D..Bullock**,.Douglas.W..Caldwell,.Charles.O..Casto,.Edward.C..Coaxum,.Jr.,.Robert.S..Collins,.Robert.H..Compton,.Jon.E..Denney,.Debra.A..Dinnocenzo,.Floyd.R..Ganassi**,.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 DIRECTORSDebra.A..Dinnocenzo,.Chairman,.Neil.D..Bassi,.Vice.Chairman,.Robert.L..Anderson,.George.J..Anetakis,.Carol.Asam,.Christian.Asam,.Jack.A..Barkley,.William.E..Bierer**,.Ellsworth.T..Bowser,.Louise.R..Brown,.Peter.Burton,.Marianne.B..Campbell,.Charles.O.. Casto,. Hans. P.B.. Christensen,. Michael.A.. Cochran,. Daniel.J..Collins.Jr.**,.Robert.S..Collins,.Robert.H..Compton,.Terence.Conner,. James. J.. Dodaro,. James. O.. Doersam,. Jack. G.. Ellis,.J.. Terrence. Farrell,. Floyd. R.. Ganassi**,. Mona. N.. Generett,.Charles.W..Groce.,.Richard.S..Hamilton,.Mark.Henschen,.Luke.Howe,. David. W.. Hunter**,. 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,. Leonard. L.. Scheinholtz**,. John. L.. Sellstrom,.James.C..Stump,.Jr.,.James.F..Ward

*ex.officio**emeritus.directors

Blair Regional Board of DirectorsDavid E. Burchfied Sr., Ronald J. Glunt, Asbury Lee, W. Lee Oswalt III, Dennis Roland, James G. Williamson, Leon R. Zook

Blair Office:1634 Valley View BlvdAltoona PA 16602-6041

(814) 946-1277

Copyright ©2013 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.

membersonly

Saving lives one click at a timeSeat belt use climbs to an all-time highBy Richard HamiltonChairman, AAA East Central

Seat belt usage in America reached record levels in 2012, with nearly nine in ten motor-ists now choosing to buckle

up. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) annual National Occupant Protection Use Survey, seat belt use has increased steadi-ly — climbing from 15 percent in 1984 — to 86 percent in 2012.

Organizations like AAA have made tremendous strides in raising awareness and passing meaningful legislation, but it only serves to underscore the mag-nitude of the problem that remains. Fifty-two percent of the 21,253 passen-ger-vehicle occupants killed in motor vehicle crashes in 2011 — the last year that statistics are available — were unre-strained at the time of the crash.

The laws of physics can be unforgiv-ing. The rapid deceleration that occurs at the moment of impact increases an occupant’s “crash weight” exponential-ly. A 60-pound child unbelted in the back seat of a car traveling at 30 miles per hour, will impact the windshield with the same force as a young elephant — about 2,700 pounds — if involved in a sudden collision.

Restraints keep people and vehicles moving together, retaining the occupant within the safety structure of the cabin after the initial impact has occurred. Unrestrained occupants will continue to travel until they collide with, or are ejected from the vehicle — something that is almost always deadly.

Crashes often involve secondary impacts and rollovers, where the effect on passengers is very much like being in a washing machine during the spin cycle. Seat belts help keep occupants safely strapped inside the vehicle until all of the crash energy has dissipated.

Research shows that the risk of fatal injury to front-seat, passenger-car occu-pants is reduced by 45 percent, and the risk of moderate to serious injury is reduced by 50 percent when seat belts are worn correctly. According to NHTSA, seat belts save more than 13,000 lives every year.

Even in today’s era of active safety systems and crumple zones seat belts remain the single most effective traffic safety device for preventing death and

injury. Air bags are designed to work with seat belts, not replace them. If you don’t wear a seat belt, you could be thrown into a rapidly deploying frontal air bag, which could injure or even kill you. If your vehicle has a passenger side air bag, it is essential that children 12 and under ride properly restrained in the back seat.

It’s also important that seat belts be worn correctly. The lap belt and shoul-der belt should be secured across the pelvis and rib cage, which are better able to withstand crash forces than other parts of your body. Place the shoulder belt across the middle of your chest and away from your neck. Adjust the lap belt across your hips below your stomach. Never put the shoulder belt behind your back or under an arm.

The NHTSA survey found that seat belt use continues to be higher in states with primary belt laws. These permit law enforcement to issue citations solely on the basis of not using a seat belt, rather than requiring additional viola-tions. Nationwide, 32 states and the District of Columbia have primary laws on the books.

AAA believes that uniform state laws, consistent enforcement and educat-ing the public about the proper use of seat belts and restraints are essential to preventing vehicle injuries and deaths. We strongly support primary seat belt laws in all states because they increase usage, save lives and reduce the societal and economic consequences of a crash. Accidents will happen, they just don’t have to become tragedies.

Richard Hamilton

What’s your investment strategy? Growth? Income? Asset preserva-tion? Any investment

strategy should start with a goal — for instance, saving for retirement or funding a child’s education. Your choice of investments to reach this goal will depend upon your time hori-zon as well as your appetite for risk.

For most people, their appetite for risk decreases with their investment time frame. In other words, the nearer you are to your goal, the more you’ll want to reduce risk in your portfo-lio. And that’s where Certificates of Deposit (CDs) come in. Compared with more volatile investments; CDs offer a combination of access, liquid-ity, safety, and growth potential that make them an ideal choice for those looking to reduce risk in their port-folios.

• Access — You can purchase CDs in a variety of maturities with terms ranging from three months to ten years — making it easy to access funds

when you need them. Keep in mind, however, that there is a penalty for early withdrawal, so you’ll want to plan your timing to match your spe-cific needs.

• Liquidity — CDs offer a great-er variety of short-term investment horizons, making them an excellent choice for anyone seeking both secu-rity and liquidity.

• Safety — CDs can be an ideal foil to the volatility of higher-risk assets such as stocks. Prices of bonds and bond mutual funds also react to changes in market interest rates. With a CD, however, you can lock in a rate and not worry about losing your principal. And finding the safest place to save is just as important. Deposits through AAA are FDIC insured up to the maximum allowed by law.

• Growth potential — If you need a dependable return on your money, but don’t need your money for a period of time, CDs can be an excellent invest-ment choice. You can also make your savings work harder for you: open

multiple CDs with different maturity dates. It’s called “CD laddering” and it’s a great way to take advantage of the best CD rates for longer terms and ensure you have liquidity and flex-ibility when you need it, since one or more CDs will always be approaching maturity.

So, whether you’re investing for the short-term, or looking to lower risk in a longer-term portfolio as you approach your goal, consider including CDs as part of your investment strategy. The AAA Deposit Program through Discover Bank offers a full range of CDs and IRA CDs with terms from 3 months to 10 years as well as Money Market and Online Savings Accounts. AAA members enjoy preferred rates on 12, 24 and 60-month CDs and IRA CDs. Open an account online in min-utes at AAA.com/Deposits or contact us 24/7 at 1.888.728.3230.

Legal Disclaimer: The article and infor-mation provided herein are for informa-tional purposes only and are not intended as a substitute for professional advice.

Make CDs part of your investment strategy AAA Deposit Program offers a full range of CDs and IRA CDs



Insurance premiums are a function of three factors: The perception of future risks, recent catastrophic claims and the return available on

investment. Hurricanes (like Sandy) and even the devastating Japanese earth-quake and tsunami in 2010 affect insur-ance premiums in the United States. That’s because insurance companies routinely purchase reinsurance coverage from large reinsurance companies who have been increasing their rates.

Yes, insurance companies are just like you: They assess the risks they can cover, and then buy their own insurance to protect themselves against very large but unlikely events that would overwhelm their reserves.

We saw a similar tightening in 2001, following the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center. The direct costs them-selves were significant, but reinsurance companies also increased their rates to cover their own risks and ensure clients were protected in case of acts of war, chemical strikes, etc.

Fortunately, their worst fears weren’t realized, but prudent insurers are in business to cover the worst-case sce-nario, and so they had to plan and set premiums accordingly.

Fast forward to today, though, and we have a different phenomenon at work. Reinsurers had just started to climb out of the substantial capital shocks of 2008 and 2009 when they got hit with

the Japan tsunami. But as they work to replenish their reserves, insurers all over the world have been forced to reckon with a new reality: Low interest rates.

Insurance companies make money in two ways: Bringing in premiums, and investing the “float.” Normally, insurers break even or even run a slight loss on premiums. This keeps premiums afford-able, but is only possible because they can invest their accumulated reserves at a profit.

Ten years ago, an insurance com-pany could get 5 or 6 percent on a portfolio of Treasuries. Now that same

insurer struggles to get 2 or 3 percent on a AA-rated bond portfolio, and U.S. Treasuries — the traditional mainstay of conservatively run insurance compa-nies, may well be generating a negative real return after inflation.

Something has to give.That’s what we’re seeing now:

Actuaries have no choice but to increase premiums to cover anticipated payouts in light of the new lower interest rate environment. To do otherwise risks insolvency, which does no service to the insured at all, and even defeats the purpose of insurance.

The tightening of the reinsurance market, combined with adjustments to account for the lower returns on assets, is now making its presence felt on Main Street

Insurance markets tend to cycle along with other industries. As reinsurance pools of capital get replenished, or as interest rates rise, allowing carriers to generate more revenue from the “float” rate increases tend to moderate, and new carriers spring up to compete for business.

So if you are seeing rates increase, it’s more a matter of prudence in the face of risk and low returns on capital, which impacts all carriers everywhere. As a result rates increase to make sure there are enough in reserves to cover future claims. No one is exempt, and it’s a bigger issue than any single insurance agency, carrier, or insurance line.


Why insurance premiums are increasingNatural disasters, low interest rates important factors

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

NEGATIVE RETURN — Low interest rates are having an adverse effect on insurance premiums.

E15 gasoline could create problems for your car Less than 5 percent of vehicles approved to use new blend

AAA East Central is urging regu-lators and the fuel industry to halt the sale of E15 gasoline until there are more protec-

tions for motorists. A recent AAA survey found a strong likelihood of consumer confusion, as well as the potential for voided warranties and vehicle damage. An overwhelming 95 percent of con-sumers surveyed have not heard of E15, and nearly half (44 percent) said they did not know if the fuel was approved for use in their primary vehicle. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved E15 for sale last June, a gaso-line blend that contains 15 percent ethanol.

“It is clear that millions of Americans are unfamiliar with E15, which means there is a strong possibility that many motorists may improperly fill up using this gasoline and damage their vehi-cle,” said John Nielsen, AAA’s Director of Automotive Engineering and Repair. “Bringing E15 to the market without adequate safeguards does not responsi-bly meet the needs of consumers.”

Consumers will find orange-and-black signs at the pump that state the new fuel blend is approved for use in all flex-fuel vehicles and 2001 model year and newer cars, light-duty trucks and medium-duty passenger vehicles and SUVs. But AAA polled auto manufactur-

ers and found only about 12 million or less than 5 percent of the more than 240 million light-duty vehicles on the road today are equipped to use E15. AAA automotive engineering experts believe that sustained use of E15 in both newer and older vehicles could result in significant problems, such as accelerated engine wear and failure, fuel-system damage and false “check engine” lights for any vehicle not intended by its manufacturer to use E15.

Unsuspecting consumers could end up with engine problems not covered by

their vehicles warranty. Five manufac-turers (BMW, Chrysler, Nissan, Toyota and Volkswagen) are on record saying their warranties will not cover fuel-related claims caused by the use of E15. Seven more (Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz and Volvo) have said that the use of E15 does not comply with the fuel requirements specified in their owner’s manuals and may void warranty coverage.

“The sale and use of E15 should be suspended until additional gas pump labeling and consumer education efforts

are implemented to mitigate problems for motorists and their vehicles,” said Brian Newbacher, director of public affairs for AAA East Central. “Consumers should carefully read pump labels and know their auto manufacturer’s recom-mendations to help prevent any prob-lems from E15.”

AAA thinks fuel producers and regu-lators can do a better job of educating consumers about the potential risks. This outreach should include a consum-er education campaign and more effec-tive pump labels, among other potential safeguards to protect consumers and their vehicles. AAA also recommends additional testing to conclusively deter-mine the impact of E15 use on vehicle engines and fuel system components.

HIGH FRUCTOSE FUEL — The higher blend of ethanol in E15 could cause engine problems.

A SHORT LISTThe only vehicles currently certified by automakers to use E15 are flex-fuel mod-els, 2001 model-year and newer Porsches, 2012 model-year and newer GM vehicles and 2013 model-year Fords. These approvals extend only to cars, light-duty trucks and medium-duty passenger vehi-cles (SUVs). The use of E15 is expressly prohibited in heavy-duty vehicles, boats, motorcycles, power equipment, lawn mowers and off-road vehicles.

1-800-354-8761 • AAA.com/travelMember Benefits • Exclusive Offers


Disney ....................................................... pages 1 & 19, 8Through 1/31/13: Save $50 at select Walt Disney World® deluxe-level resorts ($25 at moderate-level resorts); depending on the resort, they also receive photo albums, admission tickets (mini-golf, Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park, Typhoon Lagoon Water Park and Cirque du Soleil’s “La Nouba”TM) and a canvas Disney tote bag. AAA members enjoy exclusive benefits at Walt Disney World®, on Disney Cruise Line® sailings and on Adventures by Disney® escorted tours.

Pleasant Holidays® ............................................. pages 7-8Through 1/31/13: Get a FREE Google Nexus 7 tablet computer on air-inclusive, 7-night-or-longer Hawaiian or Caribbean vacations. New bookings only. Minimum value of land-only portion (excluding airfare): $3,000. Travel by 5/31/13. Not combinable with any other offer.

AAA Member Choice Vacations® ................pages 9, 10, 13Through 1/31/13: PAGES 9 & 13 — Save $50 per member. PAGE 10 — Premier members save $650, Plus members save $600 and Basic members save $550. Per room, based on 2 to a room.

AAA Featured Vacations to the American West .... page 12Through 1/31/13: Save $50 per room.

AAA Vacations® Cruises ..................................pages 13, 17Year-round: Best-Price Guarantee. 24/7 Member Care Help Desk. Benefits/experiences vary by cruise line and departure.

Trafalgar ............................................................... page 14Limited time: Save up to $1,100 per couple to Europe.

Princess Cruises .................................................... page 141/15/13–2/15/13: Book a cruise to receive $325 Princess Onboard Value Booklet and $100 per person reduced deposit.

Universal Studios .................................................. page 15Through 2/28/13: Purchase a 4-night-or-longer on-site vacation package and get a $100 gift card.

AAA MEMBER-ONLY VALUES — FIND THEM FAST!

PLEASE REFER TO THE APPROPRIATE ARTICLE OR ADVERTISEMENT (BY PAGE NUMBER ABOVE) FOR COMPLETE DETAILS & RESTRICTIONS FOR EACH BENEFIT/OFFER.

Capturing your dreams. Creating memories.

Add sun & fun — and a FREE Google Nexus 7 — to your winter...

Enjoy Hawaii or the Caribbean with Pleasant Holidays & AAA!Give yourself (and your family and/or

friends) something fun to look forward to this spring...and earn a fun reward in the process! AAA and Pleasant Holidays will give you a FREE Google Nexus 7 tablet computer when you book & make a de-posit on a qualifying vacation to Hawaii or the Caribbean!

To qualify, purchase your roundtrip air travel through AAA; travel anytime between now and May 31, 2013; stay 7 nights or longer; and meet the minimum vacation value level of $3,000 (excluding the cost of the flights).

With a stunning 7-inch display and all-day battery life, the thin & light Google Nexus 7 is the perfect portable travel com-panion. With up to 32GB of storage and the option to add mobile data, you can take even more of your favorite content with you — to Hawaii or the Caribbean, for example!

That tablet sure can come in handy

when you’re on vacation; maybe you’re looking for a restaurant to try, where the best souvenirs can be found, what the weather will be like the next day, how late the ferry runs, what’s happening back home. The possibilities are endless...and

once you have it, you’ll wonder how you ever got along without it!

You could probably say the same about your Hawaiian or Caribbean getaway: Once you luxuriate in the warmth of the sun...or relax in the balmy breezes...or succumb to the laid-back life-style, you may ask yourself how you could have ever hoped to get through spring without es-caping to the paradise you’re in!

When it comes to Hawaii and the Carib-bean, you can trust Pleasant Holidays (PH) to create a vacation custom-made just for you. From 5-star luxury to family-friendly value, PH enhances your vacation with value-added extras such as free nights, complimentary room upgrades, rental car discounts and more. Their size & scope give them unique purchasing power that allows them to pass exceptional savings on to you. PH also offers the ultimate as-surance with round-the-clock customer service and a choice of travel protection

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

To get a FREE Nexus 7, book & deposit on a Hawaii or Caribbean Pleasant Holidays vacation by 1/31/13.

Package must include roundtrip flights and a hotel stay of 7+ nights; the minimum value of the land-only portion

must be $3,000. Travel by 5/31/13. New bookings only. Not combinable with any other offer.

GET AFREETABLETCOMPUTER

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

Member BenefitsExclusive Offers


plans. Ask a AAA Travel Agent for details on seasonal added values, including resort & spa credits, complimentary room up-grades, kids-stay-free-&-eat offers, compli-mentary phone calls, Internet and more.

Many Caribbean resorts offer all-inclu-sive vacations; one price covers your meals, drinks, activities, nightly entertainment, nonmotorized water sports, tips and more.

Here’s just a sample (Feb 12-19, 2013) of the kinds of properties available to you:

BOLONGO BAY BEACH RESORTSlip on your flip-flops, relax and have fun at this casual resort tucked in a cove on St Thomas in the US VIrgin Islands (no passport required for US citizens!). This in-timate resort with 62 beachfont rooms is a place for good times with great people. Play all day on complimentary nonmotorized water sports. Set sail at sunset on the resort’s 53-foot catamaran.

AAA Member Rate: $3,183

WESTIN ST MARTINThis resort is nestled into a lush hillside on the French side of St Maarten and is embraced by miles of blue hues, acres of tropical colors and white-sand beaches. Its 308 luxuriously appointed guestrooms and 6 suites include a balcony and oversize bath. The resort boasts oceanfront restaurants and the largest fresh-water infinity-edge pool on the island (includ-ing a swim-up bar & hot tub). Roll the dice or try your luck at the table-games-&-slots casino.


OUTRIGGER REEF ON THE BEACHAfter a $110 million top-to-bottom transfor-mation, this re-invented hotel demonstrates a new vision of hospitality. A distinctive, re-fined resort on Waikiki, it has a renewed look combining timeless traditions with modern elegance while embracing the spirit of the sea. Guestrooms are warm & welcoming and include free Internet and long-distance calls.


WESTIN KA’ANAPALI OCEAN VILLASOn 26 oceanfront acres on North Ka’anapali Beach, this 4 Diamond property offers a unique blend of resort & villa-style living with all the comforts of home and the amenities of a world-class resort. Energize in lagoon-style pools, relax at Spa Helani and enjoy fine restaurants & markets.


All rates shown are per room based on double occupancy, are subject to availability at time of booking and include accommodations.

Add sun & fun — and a FREE Google Nexus 7 — to your winter...Enjoy Hawaii or the Caribbean with Pleasant Holidays & AAA!

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE




Anna Maria is a gem of an island untarnished by crowds that descend upon Florida’s other Gulf Coast jewels. Indulge in 5 nights at Tradewinds, a charmingly cozy Old Florida–feel resort. Its romantic old-fashioned pastel apartment cottages line a private street ending at a palm-fringed pool and a pier jutting into Sarasota Bay. Steps away, a private beach beckons you to the turquoise water you’re coming for. Each cottage has a full kitchen, bedroom and bathroom with tub/shower, a queen sleeper sofa and a private front porch or verandah.

Under 8 miles long and about 1 at its widest, Anna Maria is tethered to Bradenton by 3 bridges. What this eye-pleasing islet lacks in size is more than made up for by an unpreten-tious, relaxing atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to lose yourself — the secret of a truly satisfy-ing vacation. From a setting teeming with windsurfers, kayakers, jet skiers and boaters to a sleepy & quaint Old Florida tableau, Anna Maria appeals to Type A’s seeking to “grab the gusto” and to Type B’s who say “doing nothing is fun.”

A special feature of AAA’s package is the opportunity to select 2 activities from 4 options. You may opt for the Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota...OR a Segway tour of Coquina Beach & Longboat Key. On another day, the BeachHorsesTM experience (limited space; first come, first serve) starts with a sunset horseback beach ride; then the horses glide into the

water and swim...OR choose the Pi-rates Spring Training Center tour. Of course, there’s always fishing, biking, water sports, golfing and tennis.

For a slow-down-fast vacation, dispense with driving, unless you’re talking golf carts or bikes; a free trol-ley gets you where you need to go. So slip off your shoes for seashore stroll-ing and enjoy swaying palms & pines, shimmering blue-green waters, a rus-tic wooden pier and funky beach bars!

Anna Maria APRIL 16-21 • AAA MEMBER RATE: $1,689

Just off northeast Florida’s coast lies Amelia Island, beckoning visitors to enjoy its warm hospitality and mild climate. With pristine beaches, abundant wildlife and calm waters, Ame-lia has been a beloved destination for generations. Many celebrities (modern-day entertainers as well as prominent political figures throughout history) have chosen this area as their exclu-sive getaway. See what makes this little (13 miles long by 4 miles wide)barrier island named for Princess Amelia, daughter of George II of Great Britain, so special.

Spend 5 relaxing nights at a beachside boutique-style hotel property with easy access to the beach and historic sites. One morning you’ll enjoy a relaxing and informative cruise. It’s a great way to get an overview of the area and to get to know those traveling with you! Afterward, continue the fun at the included lunch at a popular waterside restaurant. On another day, choose one of these included tours (transportation provided):• Enjoy a 5-mile horseback ride along the beach. Gentle horses & spectacular scenery make for a wonderful way to start the day!

• Step aboard a Segway and journey through the subtropical vegetation of Ft George Island, one of the East Coast’s most ecological and historic sites. Hear about the island’s lost tribes, natural resources and coastal critters from eco-guides who show you the “real” Florida.

After a day to enjoy the countless options outside your door (including 7 golf courses), choose one of these in-cluded tours (transportation provided):

• Marvel at the serene beauty of creeks and wetlands on a guided nature tour by kayak.

• Venture out with a seasoned captain to catch some of the sea’s finest fish. Includes instruction/equipment. Impress everyone with your “big fish” story or tale of the one that got away!

Amelia APRIL 15-20 • AAA MEMBER RATE: $1,449

ALL PHOTOS: BRADENTONAREA CVB/TOM SHELBY

AIR-INCLUSIVE FLORIDA ISLAND VACATIONS

Rate is per person double occupancy, is subject to availability at time of booking and includes flights (Pittsburgh-Tampa), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, cottage accommodations, 2 special attraction/activity excursions,1 meal, all taxes/gratuties for included features and a AAA Tour Manager in Florida. Additional airline fees

for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.

Rate is per person double occupancy, is subject to availability at time of booking and includes flights (Pittsburgh-Jacksonville), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, hotel accommodations, 2 special attraction/activity excursions,6 meals, all taxes/gratuties for included features and a AAA Tour Manager in Florida. Additional airline fees

for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.

ART! • FOOD! • WINE!includes 4 nights in a Tuscan villa!

Aug 31–Sept 11


Rate is per person double occupancy, is subject to availability at time of book-ing and includes roundtrip flights (Pittsburgh-Milan, Venice-Pittsburgh), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, hotel accommodations, guided motorcoach sightseeing, entrance fees, 17 meals, in-Italy tour director, air & hotel taxes (subject to change) and vendor travel protection. Visit AAA.com/GoItaly for itinerary and more information. Addi- tional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.

The romance of Italy comes to life on this tour. Explore the lakes region your way when you choose between a scenic boat ride on Lake Maggiore or a visit to a local farm for a cheese & wine tasting. Explore the rugged coast and remote fishing villages of the Cinque Terre. Spend

4 relaxing nights in a Tuscan villa. Discover the hilltop town of San Gimignano. Experience medieval life at the Palazzo Davanzati. Visit a winery in the countryside and learn the secrets

of Tuscan cuisine. Wander a Florentine food market. Spend 2 wonderful nights in Venice. Explore Lake Orta, one of Italy’s hidden treasures. Travel by boat to your welcome dinner on Isola dei Pescatori. Explore Lucca’s piazzas and medieval streets. These are Italy’s treasures!

Special inclusion: A serenaded gondola cruise — with Prosecco! — on Venice’s canals!

Experience the benefits of Whisper headsets, designed for better communication between you and your guides. Enjoy regional wines included with every dinner.

This 13-day vacation has everything you’ve always wanted in a trip to Italy. Enjoy multiple-night stays in Rome, Florence, Venice, the Amalfi Coast and Stresa in the Lakes District.

Discover the treasures of Classical and Christian Rome. Walk in the footsteps of the ancient Romans in Pompeii. See Renaissance gems in Florence’s Academy Gallery, including

Michelangelo’s “David.” Visit Locarno, Switzerland, and cruise to Isola dei Pescatori, one of the scenic Borromean Islands. A guided walking tour of Venice illustrates how this city

gained its wealth and power. Enjoy the magic of the Italian Lakes District in the captivating resort of Stresa. Stop at a winery & farm in the heart of Tuscany to sample local wines and specialities for an included lunch. Sail to enchanting Capri and explore this island paradise.

Special inclusions: “Rome by Night” tour...Vatican museums & St Peter’s...a pasta factory ...a family-style Tuscan feast...and a serenaded gondola cruise in Venice!

Experience the benefits of Whisper headsets, designed for better communication between you and your guides throughout your tour. Enjoy regional Italian wines with every dinner.

Oct 12-24


Rate is per person double occupancy, is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Pittsburgh-Rome, Milan-Pitts-burgh), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, hotel accommoda-tions, guided motorcoach sightseeing, entrance fees, 21 meals, in-Italy tour director, air & hotel taxes (subject to change) and vendor travel protection. Visit AAA.com/GoItaly for itinerary and more information. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.

AAAMEMBERBENEFITSAVE

$50.00PER PERSON


$50.00PER PERSON




Irish Heritage5 full days of the best of Ireland!

May 12-19 • AAA Member Rate: $1,679Rate is per person double occupancy, is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, hotel accommoda-tions, guided motorcoach sightseeing, entrance fees, 11 meals (including Bunratty Castle medieval banquet/entertainment & Merry Ploughboy pub dinner/entertainment), in-Ireland tour director, hotel luggage handling (1 piece per person), hotel taxes & service charges. Ask about available add-on airfare. Visit AAA.com/GoIreland for itinerary and more information.

Cliffs of MoherBunratty Castle

River Shannon FerryFlying Boat Museum

Ring of KerryBlarney Castle

Waterford CrystalGlendalough

Dublin

DUBLIN’SHAPENNY BRIDGE

CLIFFS OF MOHER

Convenient Motorcoach Cruises — from Pittsburgh to the Pier!

Avoid potential airport hassles and leave the driving to AAA! Ride our “Cruise Express” motorcoach

right to the pier to board your cruise ship.

Rates are per person (double occupancy), are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip motorcoach transportation, cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals and government fees.

Ships’ registry: Bahamas. Visit AAA.com/motorcruise for complete itinerary details & pick-up points. VISIT AAA.COM/MOTORCRUISE.

Motorcoach to/from the port of BALTIMORE MD and sail on Enchantment of the Seas!

SOUTHERN CARIBBEAN: 12 nightsAPRIL 1 • AAA Member Rate: from $1,279

Motorcoach to/from the port of BALTIMORE MD and sail on Grandeur of the Seas!

BERMUDA: 7 nights MAY 17 • AAA Member Rate: from $1,244

NOV 1 • AAA Member Rate: from $945

CANADA & NEW ENGLAND: 8 nightsSEPT 19 • AAA Member Rate: from $1,115

Save on European Escapes!

BRITISH LANDSCAPESEngland, Scotland, Wales

ALPINE LAKES & SCENIC TRAINSSwitzerland, Italy

Breathtaking vistas paint the canvas of your trip of a lifetime through Switzerland & Italy. Explore dramatic railways and scenic lakes; enjoy

cultural experiences in charming villages in the heart of Europe.Arrive in Zurich for a dinner cruise on Lake Zurich. At Gstaad, board the Golden Pass panoramic

train for breathtaking views on the way to Montreux. Continue to Zermatt village at Matter-horn’s base. Ascend Gornergrat Mountain via Europe's highest mountain railway. Ride the world-renowned narrow-gauge Glacier Express, the world’s most charming express train. Marvel at the beauty of this route through the heart of the Swiss Alps. Explore the splendors of St Moritz during an overnight. Journey through Bernina Pass, traveling one of the world’s most scenic railway lines en route to Tirano, Italy. A ferry ride across Lake Como reveals the stunning beauty of this home to famous Hollywood stars. Drive through scenic hills & villages toward exciting Milan; a local introduces you to this capital of the Lombardy region. Visit the Duomo and the Vittorio Emmanuele II Gallery. Feast your eyes upon frescoes by Leonardo and a sculpture by Michelangelo at Castello Sforzesco. Enter the stunning Scala Opera House. In Lucerne, amble through romantic Old Town and explore the “Swiss Paradise on the Lake.” Ascend Pilatus via the world’s steepest railway (48% gradient); at the top, soak in the magnificent view.

AUG 9-18 AAA MEMBER RATE: $5,329 Rate is per person based on double occupancy, is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights

(Pittsburgh-Zurich), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, 13 meals, sightseeing per itinerary, air & hotel taxes (subject to change) and trip cancellation waiver. Visit AAA.com/travel for complete itinerary. Additional airline fees for baggage

may apply; contact your travel agent for details.

Feel the vibrant energy of England, hear the unique sounds of Scotland and see the rolling countryside of Wales on a trip that

combines the exploration of dramatic history and natural wonders.In London, the cosmopolitan and historic capital of Britain, see Buckingham Palace, Tower of

London, Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey and the Changing of the Guard. Enjoy a live theater performance. Visit Oxford, home of the famous university. Overnight in Ruthin Castle in north Wales; enjoy a typical Welsh-style dinner with traditional entertainment. Travel through the picturesque English Lake District to charming Grasmere, home of poet William Wordsworth. Continue to Scotland’s Gretna Green, where generations of runaway couples came to marry. Dis-cover Edinburgh (“Athens of the North”), rich in scenic beauty and culture. Tour its castle, home of the Scottish crown jewels and glimpse what life is like for royals at Holyroodhouse, the Queen’s official residence in Edinburgh and once the home of Mary, Queen of Scots. Be entertained by Highland pipers & dancers at a banquet of local recipes; a highlight is the Ceremony of the Haggis. Cross Scotland’s rolling Border region back to England and see Hadrian’s Wall, once the northern border of the Roman Empire. Stroll through medieval York; visit its famous Minster. Journey to Stratford-upon-Avon, your home for 2 nights; visit Shakespeare’s birthplace and Anne Hathaway’s thatch-roofed cottage. Tour one of Britain’s most treasured castles with more than 1,000 years of history; conclude your castle visit with a private 3-course dinner. No visit to Britain is complete without seeing Stonehenge. Explore picturesque villages in the idyllic Cotswolds region.

SEPT 26–OCT 5 AAA MEMBER RATE: $4,319 Rate is per person based on double occupancy, is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights

(Pittsburgh-London), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, 15 meals, sightseeing per itinerary, Whisper headsets designed for better communication between you & your guide, air & hotel taxes (subject to change) and trip cancellation waiver. Visit AAA.com/travel for complete itinerary. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.

MEMBERS-ONLY BONUS!UP TO $650 OFF

per room, based on 2 to a room$650

PREMIER$600

PLUS$550BASIC

To get discount, book & deposit by 1/31/13.




Rates are per person double occupancy, are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip motorcoach transportation from Pittsburgh, accommodations, admissions, taxes/gratuities for included features, baggage handling, meals as indicated and the services of a AAA Tour Manager. Visit AAA.com/usa for complete itinerary details and pick-up points.

LEAVE THE DRIVING TO US!

“Noah” in Lancaster: March 21-22 AAA Member Rate: $299Travel to PA Dutch country for a live performance of the biblical story

of “Noah” at Sight & Sound Theater; visit Kitchen Kettle Village, Central Market, an Amish farm and more. 2 meals. ALSO AUG 27-28: $315.

Vera Bradley Sale: April 10-12 AAA Member Rate: $359Enjoy a fun getaway with your friends or family members; take advantage of incredible savings of 40% to 75% off Vera Bradley

signature handbags, travel items, stationery and accessories. 2 meals.

Brandywine Homes & Gardens: April 25-27 AAA Member Rate: $555Celebrate spring in this southeast PA valley and in nearby Delaware.

Enjoy Chadds Ford Winery, world-renowned Longwood Gardens and Winterthur (former duPont family home and now a decorative-arts museum with a 60-acre garden), Hagley Museum of American

Enterprise and a dinner theater. 4 meals.

Kentucky Derby: May 2-5 AAA Member Rate: $3,895Fancy hats, mint juleps, “My Old Kentucky Home” — tradition plays a central role in the 139th Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville. Visit a horse farm and a distillery (with a tasting!). Enjoy lunch at historic

Glen-Willis House on the Kentucky River and a reception at your hotel. On Derby Day, enjoy in-&-out privileges at a Churchill Downs Private

Hospitality Event featuring a full buffet with bar/beverage service (including 2 complimentary drinks) and private betting windows. Then

watch the Derby in person from grandstand seating! 4 meals.

Cultural Washington DC: May 10-12 AAA Member Rate: $855Here’s a rare opportunity to step inside the international embassies and impressive house museums of our nation’s capital...and to enjoy

dinner & a show at the Kennedy Center, a brunch cruise on the Potomac River and more. 4 meals.

Preakness Stakes: May 17-19 AAA Member Rate: $605Trot off to Baltimore to experience the thrills of the “second jewel” of Triple Crown racing from reserved grandstand seating and see some of

the other landmarks of Charm City. 4 meals.

Put-in-Bay OH: June 4-6 AAA Member Rate: $599Relax on Lake Erie, America’s “North Coast”! Enjoy a lake cruise, a stay at a lakefront mainland resort and an overnight on South Bass Island at Put-in-Bay. Tour Sandusky’s Maritime Museum, see the Perry Peace

Memorial and browse Put-in-Bay’s quaint shops. 5 meals.

Mackinac Lilac Festival: June 9-13 AAA Member Rate: $1,049Step back in time on northern Michigan’s enchanting no-cars-allowed

Mackinac Island during its annual Lilac Festival. Enjoy the laid-back vibe, the Victorian-style lodging, a horse-drawn carriage ride, lunch

& a garden tour at the famous Grand Hotel and more. 8 meals.

Maine Seacoast: June 22-28 AAA Member Rate: $1,309See the rugged beauty of the Pine Tree State’s coastline, as well as the charming seaside towns that hug it from Portland to Boothbay Harbor

to Bar Harbor to Freeport. Along the way, visit lighthouses, enjoy a whale watch cruise, tour Acadia National Park and shop at LL Bean and

the Maine State Prison Store. 12 meals.

Finger Lakes Escape: July 8-11 AAA Member Rate: $805Explore the spectacular scenery, quaint towns, wineries and elegant

homes of this upstate New York region. Visit the Corning Glass Museum, Cornell University, Buttermilk Falls, Sonnenberg Mansion & Gardens, Mackenzie-Childs Estate and Seward House. Cruise on Lake

Seneca and enjoy a steamboat dinner cruise on Canandaigua Lake and lunch at Belhurst Castle. 7 meals.

The Wright Kind of Summer: July 16 AAA Member Rate: $119Enjoy a summer day exploring 4 Frank Lloyd Wright architectural gems

(including Fallingwater) in PA’s scenic Laurel Highlands. 1 meal.

Tall Ships Great Lakes: July 24-30 AAA Member Rate: $1,539Thrill to the spectacle of international Tall Ships on Lake Superior in Duluth MN. Enjoy ship tours and festivities. Visit the Lake Superior Maritime Center. Ride along Superior’s shores on the North Shore

Railroad. See Gooseberry Falls and Split Rock Lighthouse. Includes visits to Chicago and the Wisconsin Dells. 11meals.

Best of Montréal & Québec: Aug 4-10 AAA Member Rate: $1,885Savor the fascinating flavors of French Canada in its 2 largest and most

popular cities. The walled Old City section of Québec City enchants visitors with its history and charm. Venture into the countryside for a traditional “sugar shack” (where maple syrup is produced) dinner. Montréal hums with urban vitality & diversity; feel its energy as you see its sights. Also visit Ottawa, Toronto and Niagara Falls. 12 meals.

DC & Marine Corps Parade: Aug 9-10 AAA Member Rate: $345The US Marine Corps Evening Parade is a popular and moving summer

tradition in the nation’s capital. You’ll get goosebumps watching precision drills and listening to patriotic tunes. Take a tour or DC’s

landmarks and visit the Smithsonian museums. 3 meals.

Girls’ Spa Getaway: Aug 16-18 AAA Member Rate: $475Head to Wilkes-Barre’s Woodlands Inn & Resort with friends or family on this fun-filled girls’ weekend for convenient on-site spa treatments (manicure, pedicure, 45-minute massage included), dining venues, hip cocktail lounges, exciting entertainment venues and more! 3 meals.

Chautauqua Wine & Dine: Aug 29-30 AAA Member Rate: $335Discover the elegance & culture of NY’s Vintage Trail and Chautauqua Institution. Winery visits, mansion tour, lake cruise and more. 5 meals.

QUÉBEC CITY




THEAMERICAN WEST

Where the sun sets ...and the fun rises!

Best of Northern CaliforniaExplore San Francisco, the redwoods at Muir Woods, Mediterranean-style

Sausalito and the wine country of the Sonoma and Napa valleys (and

dine on the Napa Valley Wine Train). Ride Amtrak’s California Zephyr to

the scenic shores of Lake Tahoe and cruise its crystal-blue waters aboard a paddlewheeler. Venture to Yosemite National Park, then take the Pacific

Coast Highway to Monterery, Carmel-by-the-Sea, 17-Mile Drive, Big Sur, San Simeon (Hearst Castle), Salinas Valley and Silicon Valley. 14 meals.

July 25–Aug 2 • AAA Member Rate: $2,859

Pacific CoastEnjoy a stunningly scenic journey

exploring America’s majestic northern Pacific coastline and its vibrant cities,

including Seattle, Portland, San Francicsco and more! Along the way,

take a sunset dinner cruise on Seattle’s lakes, a dune buggy ride at Oregon

Dunes National Park and a jet boat ride on the Rogue River! Visit Mt St Helens, Portland’s Rose Gardens, Multnomah Falls, the Columbia River Gorge, Mt Hood & Timberline Lodge, Redwood

National Park, Sonoma’s wine country and much more. 17 meals.

June 16-25 • AAA Member Rate: $3,325

New Mexico Balloon FiestaExplore Albuquerque, the Land of Enchantment’s largest city. At the

International Balloon Fiesta, witness the mass ascension of hundreds of balloons.

Explore landmarks along Route 66, visit Old Town & its Plaza and tour the

Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. Ride Sandia Peak’s Aerial Tramway and visit

an artisanal winery. See the Balloon Fiesta’s evening “Glowdeo” & fireworks. Explore historic Chimayo village, artistic

Taos and charming Santa Fe. Take a guided desert wilderness hike with

llamas! 14 meals.

Oct 9-15 • AAA Member Rate: $2,309

Colorado Train AdventureCalling all train lovers! Join this multi-train Great American Rail Adventure in the Centennial State. Enjoy unforgettable rides on the Pike’s Peak Cog Railway, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad and the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Marvel at the awesome natural rock formations in the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, the spectacular

landscapes at the Colorado National Monument in Grand Junction and the dizzying height of the Royal Gorge Bridge &

Park in Cañon City. 15 meals.Sept 14-21 • AAA Member Rate: $2,095

Napa Valley & San FranciscoSo many delights in one tour — from San Francisco’s endless charms to the natural splendor of the Muir Woods redwoods. Cross Golden Gate Bridge to enjoy 5 vineyards (participate in a

“Blend Your Own Merlot” event) and 3 nights at Tuscan-style Vino Bella Resort

in Napa. Savor an exquisite 4-course dinner on the Napa Valley Wine Train.

With your hotel at Fisherman’s Wharf as your base, tour San Francisco’s famous

landmarks, cruise by ferry across the bay and enjoy free time for shopping and

exploring. 2 meals.


Yellowstone ExperienceAmerica’s first national park’s first explorers were called liars when they described its otherworldly features and wildlife.

From Salt Lake City, visit Antelope Island State Park. At Yellowstone, head straight for Old Faithful! Visit the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center. Taking a wildlife safari (with sunset

picnic) with opportunities for wildlife sightings. Enjoy the “Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone,” the Grand Tetons, the cowboy town of Jackson, a Snake River float trip and the

Mormon Tabernacle Choir (schedule permitting). 12 meals.

Aug 5-11 • AAA Member Rate: $1,835

Rates are per person based on double occupancy, are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip airport/hotel transfers,

accommodations, motorcoach sightseeing & admissions as indicated, services of a AAA Tour Manager and more. Ask about available add-on

airfare. Visit AAA.com/USA for complete itinerary details.

American MajestyFrom Salt Lake City to Denver, take in some of America’s

favorite landmarks in between. Visit Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone NP (Old Faithful & Mammoth Hot Springs),

Devil’s Tower National Monument, Mt Rushmore National Memorial (evening light ceremony), Ft Laramie National

Historic Site and the Buffalo Bill Historic Center. Float down the Snake River and ride a Jeep safari through the Black Hills. Hear the Mormon Tabernacle Choir (schedule permitting). See Crazy Horse Monument. 15 meals, including a chuck wagon dinner.

Aug 31–Sept 8 • AAA Member Rate: 2,735

Grand Canyon AdventureLuxuriate in Red Rock Country at the

Hilton Sedona Resort & Spa. Take a Pink Jeep backcountry tour. Ride first class on the Grand Canyon Railway from

Williams to your national park lodging just a quarter-mile from the South Rim. Visit Glen Canyon Recreational Area and

a night at Lake Powell Resort. A tour highlight is your guided half-day float

trip on the Colorado River! Motorcoach to the Luxor Hotel on the Strip in Las

Vegas. Flirt with Lady Luck, relax by the pool or take in a top-notch show on your free full day in Vegas. 9 meals.


Southwestern CanyonlandsEroded for eons by wind and water,

the colorful canyons of Arizona, Utah and Nevada captivate all who visit. See the stunning Red Rocks of Sedona, the

magnificence of the Grand Canyon, the backcountry of Monument Valley, the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon National Park and the sandstone cliffs of Zion National Park. Enjoy Grand Canyon National Park lodging, guided tour

and IMAX Theater. Take an “adventure cruise” through Antelope/Navajo

Canyon. Visit Lake Powell and spend 2 fun nights in Las Vegas.11 meals.

June 12-20 • AAA Member Rate: $2,725

SAVE $50!PER ROOM WHEN YOUBOOK & DEPOSIT BY 1/31/13




Catch the ALOHA SPIRIT

Rates are per person (double occupancy), are subject to change/availability at time of booking and include hotel/pier transfers, 2 nights at the Marriott

Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa, USS Arizona Memorial/Pearl Harbor tour, 7-night cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals and government

taxes/fees. Ship’s registry: USA. Ask about available add-on airfare.

AAA’s 9-night Hawaiian vacation features a 2-night pre-cruise stay in Honolulu, a tour

of the USS Arizona Memorial & a 7-night cruiseof 4 islands (Oahu, Maui, Hawaii & Kauai).

Member RatesApril 11-20

from $1,825Oct 10-19

from $1,721Nov 7-16

from $1,774 Pride of America

SEE MORE HAWAII BY CRUISING!

Rate is per person double occupancy, is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Pittsburgh-Nairobi), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, guided sightseeing, entrance fees, 34 meals, in-Africa tour director, hotel luggage handling (1 piece per person), hotel taxes & service charges, services of a AAA Tour Manager (if participation goal is met), air taxes & fees/surcharges and vendor cancellation waiver & insurance. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.


$50.00PER PERSON

Includes Wildlife Safaris

Oct 5-18Visit

AAA.com/Africa for itinerary & information.

AAA Member Rate $8,399

Rate is per person double occupancy, is subject to availability and includes roundtrip motorcoach transportation (Pittsburgh pick-up points to wharf & Cincinnati to Pittsburgh), cruise accom-modations, most onboard meals/entertainment, port charges, ser-vices of a AAA Tour Manager, onboard cocktail party, in-stateroom welcome bottle of wine and $50 per stateroom shipboard credit.

Steamboating with KDKA Personality Jon BurnettGlide along the Ohio River from Pitsburgh to Cincinnati, with stops in Point Pleasant WV and Maysville KY. The largest steamboat ever built, the grand American Queen is a gracious and elegant triumph of American ingenuity. Although filled with today’s

modern amenities, her rooms and accommodations display all the opulence of America’s Victorian era. Glistening woodwork, fresh flowers and antiques adorn

her interior spaces. Outside, lacy filigree evokes memories of the many stately river steamers that preceded her and so inspired her designers. The paddlewheel has its own rhythm but so does the music of the river as you float through the myriad melodies of blues, gospel, folk, rockabilly, ragtime, Dixieland jazz and zydeco. Sway to the music

of Louis Armstrong and Jelly Roll Morton and try your hand

at that quintessential river instrument, the calliope. You’ll quickly discover that the river

has a rhythm all its own.

Aug 1-5AAA Member Rate: from $1,798

A special kind of cruise stands apart from all others — a AAA Vacations ® cruise available only from AAA Travel. It delivers unique features designed to ensure you have the best vacation experience. Compare a AAA Vacations ® cruise against the same cruise offered elsewhere; see how much more your vacation dollar gets you at AAA. Even if you find the same cruise (without AAA Vacations ® benefits, of course!) at a lower price some-where else within 24 hours of booking your

AAA Vacations ® cruise, AAA will match that

rate and give you a $50.00 future-travel voucher...

guaranteed!

Enjoy 2 valuable benefits EXCLUSIVELY for members

BEST-PRICE GUARANTEEIf you find a better rate for the exact same

cruise itinerary & experience within 24 hours of booking, AAA Vacations® will

match the lower rate...and you’ll receive a $50.00 future-travel credit certificate.

24 / 7 MEMBER CAREGet peace of mind whenever you need

emergency assistance while traveling — a toll-free domestic number and collect-call

instructions for international travelers.

New bookings only. Offers listed available only on AAA Vacations® departures. Combinablewith exclusive AAA Member Benefits; ask your AAA Travel Agent or visit AAA.com/travel fordetails & restrictions.

Celebrity Cruises and AAA Vacations ®offer some of the best values at sea & great benefits unavailable elsewhere!

VIP Priority Check-indoes not grant priority boarding

$100 Onboard Creditper stateroom

DATE NTS SHIP ITINERARY

5/27 11 Reflection Eastern Mediterranean: Roundtrip from Rome

5/29 12 Equinox Western Mediterranean: Roundtrip from Barcelona

6/1 12 Constellation Scandinavia & Russia: Roundtrip from Amsterdam

6/3 11 Infinity British Isles: Roundtrip from Harwich

6/3 12 Silhouette Eastern Mediterranean: Rome to Venice


6/8 14 Infinity Scandinavia & Russia: Roundtrip from Southampton



7/5 10 Infinity Norwegian Fjords: Roundtrip from Southampton

7/6 14 Eclipse Iceland & Fjords: Roundtrip from Southampton

7/7 12 Constellation Scandinavia & Russia: Roundtrip from Amsterdam


7/9 10 Silhouette Eastern Mediterranean: Rome to Venice








Cruise from Amsterdam to Basel, celebrating the fairytale beauty and romantic spirit of the Rhine River aboard the SS Antoinette.

Travel in ultimate style & comfort to UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Castles along the RhineA Uniworld Boutique River Cruise

Photo courtesy of Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection

Rate is per person double occupancy, is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip airport/ship trans-fers, 7-night cruise accommodations/entertainment/meals (7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 7 dinners, including Captain’s Welcome Gala & a Farewell Dinner), 9 excursions (including 2 “Choice Is Yours” options with English-speaking local experts), wine/beer/soft drinks at onboard lunches & dinners, bottled water in stateroom, 24-hour coffee/tea bar, Cruise Manager, Eng-lish-speaking staff, $50 per person onboard credit, headset system on shore excursions, use of bicycles throughout cruise, onboard local entertainment, “The European City: Middle Ages to the Present” lecture, exclusive Epicurean Adventurer Program,™ exclusive Go Active program, all transfers on arrival & departure days. Ask about available add-on airfare.

Amsterdam to BaselCologne • Koblenz • Boppard • Rüdesheim

Castle Vollrads Wine Tasting • Speyer Germersheim • Strasbourg • Breisach

Alsatian Wine Road • Colmar • Riquewhir

Oct 20-27 • AAA Member Rate: from $3,129



Altoona PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 814-946-1277Bridgeport WV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 304-842-7676Brookville PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 814-849-4000Butler PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 724-282-8810Columbiana OH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330-482-3836Cranberry Township PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . 724-772-1122East Liverpool OH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330-385-2020Erie PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 814-866-0246Greensburg PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 724-834-8300Harborcreek PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 814-897-9508Indiana PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 724-349-4193Kittanning PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 724-543-4244Lower Burrell/New Kensington Area PA . . 724-339-4440Martinsburg WV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 304-263-4619Meadville PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 814-724-3157Morgantown WV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 304-983-6480New Castle PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 724-658-8551

Pittsburgh PA areaCentury III (Pleasant Hills) . . . . . . . . . 412-655-6105Downtown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 412-338-4305East Liberty/Shadyside . . . . . . . . . . . . 412-365-7272Monroeville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 412-858-4640North Hills Area (Ross Twp) . . . . . . . . 412-367-7625Robinson Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 412-809-2803South Hills (Bethel Park) . . . . . . . . . . 412-833-5060White Oak/McKeesport . . . . . . . . . . . 412-675-3404

Rochester PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 724-728-6230St Marys PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 814-781-3003Uniontown PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 724-438-8575Warren PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 814-723-6660Washington PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 724-225-3600Waynesburg PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 724-627-3434Wheeling WV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 304-233-1810Weirton WV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 304-748-1616

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. AAA 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. 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.


AAA MEMBER BONUSES $200 SHIPBOARD CREDIT per stateroom

PREPAID GRATUITIES

CLASSIC BEVERAGE PACKAGE FOR 2 including alcohol (value: $88/day)

AAA MEMBERS GET MORE!Eastern Mediterranean

& Greek IslesExplore the fascinating history, unique culture and stunning natural beauty of Italy,

Malta, Greece and Turkey. Sail on Celebrity Silhouette roundtrip from Rome to Venice, Italy, with visits to Naples, Italy; Valletta, Malta; Mykonos, Greece; Ephesus

(Kusadasi), Turkey; and Rhodes, Santorini, Athens (Piraeus) & Chania (Souda), Greece. 2 full days at sea. Includes Martini Tasting Voucher (2 per stateroom) and

Specialty Dining Restaurant (1 evening, 2 per stateroom).

1/6–1/31/13: Members who book & deposit on a balcony (or higher) stateroom may choose 2 OF THE 3 BONUSES below!

OCT 19-31 AAA MEMBER RATE: balcony staterooms from $2,169

Rate is per person based on double occupancy, is subject to availability at time of booking and includes cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals and government fees/taxes. Ship’s registry: Malta. Visit AAA.com/travel for complete itinerary details. Ask about available add-on airfare. Additional

airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.

FREE MOTORCOACH!Want to cruise but don’t want to fly? This motorcoach cruise to Canada & New

England is for members like you. Avoid airport hassles and waiting for your luggage to be unloaded. Park free at your pickup point. Relax and leave the driving to

professionals. Ride in comfort from Pittsburgh to the pier at Cape Liberty NJ and be rested & ready to sail on Celebrity Summit to Portland & Bar Harbor ME, Halifax & Sydney NS, Charlottetown PE, Québec City & Gaspé QC. 5 full days at sea. Includes Martini Tasting (2 per stateroom) and Wine Appreciation (1 bottle per stateroom).

1/6–1/31/13: The roundtrip motorcoach transfer is FREE for members, and members who book & deposit on a balcony

stateroom (or higher) may choose 1 OF THE 3 BONUSES below!OCT 5-19

AAA MEMBER RATE: balcony staterooms from $2,638Rate is per person based on double occupancy, is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip motorcoach, cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals, government fees/taxes and a AAA Tour Manager to/from Cape Liberty. Ship’s registry: Malta. Visit AAA.com/travel for

itinerary details & pick-up points. Limited motorcoach space.

approx $11.50 per guest per cruise day for stateroom & dining room service (Concierge Class, Aquaclass: $12. Suites: $15)




An already perfect cruise is even better... when it’s from

AAA Vacations®

AHOY! — AAA’s travel partners offer AAA members enhanced benefits & values on hundreds of AAA Vacations ® cruises in 2013.

Acruiseistheperfectvacationinsomanyways—convenience(unpackjustonce!)andvalueforyourdollar,forexample.And,ifyourcruiseisaAAAVacations®departure,perfectiongetsevenbetter!

YoumayalreadybefamiliarwithourAAAVacations®–brandedDisneypackages—theoneswhereAAAmembersgetspecialbenefitsandbigsavingswhenyoubookaDisneyvacationwithAAA.

Wetookthatideaandappliedittocruises.Nowyoucansearchahugeinventoryofcruises—hundreds&hundredsofthem—forthetripthatfitsyourideaoftheperfectescape.They’rethesamecruiseofferingsavailabletoeveryone,butasaAAAmemberyougetmorethantheguyinthestateroomnexttoyou(who’snotamember!).

AAAVacations®cruisesareavailablewithCelebrityCruises,HollandAmericaLine,RegentSevenSeasCruises,RoyalCaribbeanInternational,PrincessCruisesandUniworldBoutiqueRiverCruiseCollection.

Ifyouenjoyedcruisingwithanyoftheselinesinthepast,you’reguaranteedamoreenjoyableexperienceinthefuture.Why?Simplybecauseyou’reaAAAmemberandbecauseweofferthebestbenefitsoutthere.

EveryAAAVacations®cruisecomeswith

3things—oneormoreexclusivemembervaluesorexperiences,aBest-PriceGuaranteeanda24/7MemberCareHelpDesk.

Theexclusivemembervalueorexperiencemaybeanyorallofthethese:prioritycheck-inonthedayofboarding,credittouseontheship,upscaledining,abottleofChampagne.

TheBest-PriceGuaranteeassuresyouaregettingjustthat—thelowestfare.IfyoubookaAAAVacations®cruisewithusandyoufindavalidbetterratefortheexactsameitinerarywithin24hoursofyourbooking,AAAVacations®willmatchthelowerrate.We’llalsosendyoua$50Future-TravelCreditCertificatetowardafutureAAAVacations®cruisevacation.

So,howdoyoufindaAAAVacations®cruise?It’sabreeze!Allofourtravelagentshavethelistandcansharethedifferentitinerarieswithyouifyouwantpersonalizedassistance.VisityourlocalAAAorcall1-800-354-8761tospeakwithsomeoneknowledgeable.Ifyouliketodoyourownresearchand/orhaveaccesstoacomputer,startyoursearchatAAA.com/cruisesandlookfortheAAATravellogoindicatingqualifiedsailings.Simplymouse-overthelogotorevealthespecialoffers!

CELEBRITY CRUISES VIP Priority Check-in (does not grant priority boarding) $25 Onboard Credit (per stateroom; 4- & 5-night cruises) $50 Onboard Credit (per stateroom; 6- to 9-night cruises) $100 Onboard Credit (per stateroom; 10-night & longer cruises)

HOLLAND AMERICA LINE Pinnacle Grill Dinner (1st & 2nd passengers only) Exclusive Savor & Swirl Culinary Event (private session with a chef) Holland America Line Cookbook (1 per stateroom) $25 or $50 Beverage Card (1st & 2nd passengers only; select sailings) Chocolate-covered Strawberries (placed in stateroom; select sailings)

PRINCESS CRUISES $50 Onboard Credit (per stateroom; cruises up to 11 nights) $75 Onboard Credit (per stateroom; 12-night & longer cruises) Exclusive Wine Tasting (1st & 2nd passengers only) Embarkation Day Preferred Check-in (does not grant priority boarding)

REGENT SEVEN SEAS CRUISES Complimentary Regent Choice Tour Excursion (1st & 2nd passengers only) AAA Vacations® Exclusive Reception

ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL VIP Priority Check-in (does not grant priority boarding) $25 Onboard Credit (per stateroom; 3- to 5-night cruises) $50 Onboard Credit (per stateroom; 6- to 9-night cruises) $100 Onboard Credit (per stateroom; 10-night & longer cruises) Champagne upon arrival (placed in stateroom) Complimentary Dining for 2 at a Specialty Restaurant (only on Allure of the Seas & Oasis of the Seas sailings booked after 4/15/12)

UNIWORLD BOUTIQUE RIVER CRUISE COLLECTION $50 Shipboard Credit (per person) $100 to $200 AAA Vacations® Discount (per person) $125 to $250 AAA Member Rewards Discount (per person)

AAA Vacations® amenities are combinable with exclusive AAA Member Benefits;ask a AAA Travel Agent for details. & restrictions.

Offers listed here available only on AAA Vacations® departures.New bookings only. Visit AAA.com/travel for details & restrictions.

Who doesn’t want a cruise with better benefits? AAA Vacations® sailings offer best value for the money

BEST-PRICE GUARANTEEFind a better rate for the exact same cruise

itinerary & experience within 24 hours of booking and AAA Vacations® will match the lower rate;

you’ll get a $50.00 future-travel credit certificate!

24/7 MEMBER CARE HELP DESKGet peace of mind when you need

emergency assistance while traveling: toll-free domestic number and collect-call

instructions for international travelers.


A s a AAA basic member, you enjoy countless valuable benefits — from roadside assistance to travel services, member discounts, and access to financial and insurance services.

And there’s more! When you sign up for AAA Plus membership, you’re eligible for all of the benefits of basic membership, plus enhanced and extended services, including:

n Up to 100 miles of free towing n Free emergency fuel

n Up to $100 emergency locksmith services n Extended extrication service n Extra Trip Interruption Protection coverage

Get more out of your membership Call or visit your local AAA office or AAA.com, or call

our Member Service Center at 1-800-441-5008

Out of Your Membership with

AAA Plus!!

Get More...

They’re playing your song in NashvilleMusic City USA will be music to your ears

Pickers and grinners will have plenty to smile about in Nashville. In New York and LA, all of the waiters are actors.

But in Music City USA everyone car-ries a guitar, or has hand written lyrics stuffed in their back pocket. This is where country met western, added a Tennessee twang and morphed into the Nashville Sound.

With its roots in the issues of the common man country music has always been close to America’s heart. Songwriter Harlan Howard described it as “three chords and the truth.” Hundreds of aspiring songwriters and performers still make their way to Nashville every year playing for tips in joints like Robert’s Western World and Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, a heliotrope col-ored Honky Tonk on Lower Broadway. Willie Nelson famously described Tootsie’s as “17 steps from the Ryman and 34 steps back.”

Country music cognoscenti will want to make a trek out to the Bluebird Café, housed in a nondescript store-front in a suburban strip mall. This is where Nashville’s best songwriters gath-er to perform their own songs, which are usually made famous by others. A typical night consists of three or four tunesmiths performing in the round with just their acoustic guitars.

There’s 1,354 guitar pickers in Nashville and it’s a good bet you’ll find

most of them hanging out at Gruhn Guitars. Located at Fourth Ave. and Broadway, proprietor George Gruhn is considered the nation’s foremost authority on vintage fretted instru-ments. And upstairs on the second floor is where they keep the really good stuff. Serious players and collectors will sali-vate over such rarities as Chet Atkins’ personal Gretsch Country Gentleman, and a 1923 Gibson F-5 mandolin priced at $180,000. Satisfied customers include Vince Gill and Eric Clapton.

Hatch Show Print just down the street, not only created the handbills and post-ers for the Grand Ole Opry, but for tent shows, carnivals and products like Peco Gas and Graves Whole Hog Sausage. Today, they are one of the nation’s few remaining letterpress print shops and still cranking out posters for everyone from AC/DC to ZZ Top. A small retail area offers re-strikes of many of their best known vintage prints.

The Ryman Auditorium at Museum and Fifth, is known as the “Mother Church of Country Music.” This is where Hank Williams sang Honky Tonk Blues six times in a row and where Jim Denny fired Elvis Presley after his first performance, telling him he “ought to go back to drivin’ a truck.” Now a National Historic Landmark, the one time church and former home of the Grand Ole Opry is open for tours and live performances of rock, gospel, and country. After the show, stop in at Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant, one of Nashville’s authentic meat-and-three restaurants (a meat dish served with three sides).

A short walk from the Ryman is The Country Music Hall of Fame. This mas-sive, grand piano-shaped facility spans an entire city block and honors music legends like Johnny Cash and Patsy

Cline. Among the thousands of artifacts on display are Hank Williams’ favor-ite Martin guitar, and Webb Pierce’s 1962 Pontiac Bonneville convertible, customized with a pair of Texas long-horns mounted over the grille, and six shooters for door handles. More than 150 silver dollars are sewn into the hand-tooled leather upholstery.

Music Row stretches from 16th Avenue to Belmont, and is lined with music publishers and recording stu-dios. Visitors can tour RCA Studio B, the iconic studio known as Nashville’s “Home of a 1,000 Hits.” The modest block building is where artists like Elvis, Roy Orbison, and the Everly Brothers recorded hits like “Only the Lonely,” and “Are You Lonesome Tonight?”

When the Grand Ole Opry moved from the Ryman Auditorium in 1974, it took part of the Ryman with it. A round circle of oak cut from the Ryman stage now sits center stage at the Grand Ole Opry House. The show that made coun-try music famous is performed about nine miles northeast of town in a state of the art 4,400 seat theater.

The Opry showcases a mix of legends like 91-year-old Little Jimmy Dickens with contemporary chart-toppers like Jason Aldean, performing country, bluegrass and gospel, all leavened with some corn pone comedy.

Visitors can take a backstage tour and walk in the footsteps of the stars while getting a rare look at what hap-pens on the other side of the curtain. From November through January, the Opry moves back to its former home, the Ryman Auditorium.

NASHVILLE CATS — Little Jimmy Dickens and Brad Paisley performing at the Grand Ole Opry.

TEMPLE OF ATHENANashville’s Parthenon is home to sculptor Alan LeQuire’s 1990 startling re-creation of the Athena Parthenos. The massive, 42-foot-tall statue took eight years to complete and is covered with more than eight pounds of gold leaf.

FOR MORE INFORMATIONPlease see this issue’s Departures Guide for or log on to AAA.com/TravelPlanner for special values on AAA motorcoach vacations.


Disney Month at AAA continuedfrompage1in booking Disney vacations is no hol-low claim: AAA East Central has been of-ficially recognized by Disney as Club of the Year for 2011 (the 2012 winner won’t be announced until later this year).That means you can be confident that the assistance and service you’ll get can be trusted to be among the best avail-able. AAA Travel Agents know Disney inside & out and can help you create the vacation you and your family have always dreamed of — and they can en-hance it with special member benefits and extras you may not have even ex-pected!

The peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re getting the best — and the most — value for your hard-earned vacation dollar makes all the difference in the world in how you experience and enjoy your Disney time. Whether at a Walt Disney World® Resort theme park, aboard a ship of the Disney Cruise Line® or on a family-friendly Adventures by Disney® guided domestic or interna-tional tour, your vacation is sure to be

one you’ll never, ever forget.Remember: January has only 31 days.

Contact AAA now; “there snow way” you want to miss Disney Month!

NOTE: For AAA Member Benefits — Advance reservations are required for the preferred fireworks, reservation voucher and valid Theme Park admission required. One viewing per person. Entire party must be present for admission. Space is limited and subject to availability. Fireworks schedules vary by season and certain block-out dates apply to this benefit during holiday periods. Inclement-weather conditions may affect outdoor entertainment. Disney Story Time — advance reservations required; reservation voucher and valid Theme Park admission are also required. Seating is limited and subject to availability. Operates on select days of the week and certain block-out dates apply. One voucher per room. One Diamond Savings Card per package, nontransferable and void if sold. Diamond parking is subject to availability and a voucher is required. Block-out dates apply; nontransferable and void if sold. Photo package: inside stateroom receives two 8"x10" photos and one 6"x8" photo. Outside staterooms receive four 8"x10" photos and three 6"x8" photos. Valid for sailings 1/1/13–12/31/13. Benefits are per stateroom. All benefits are subject to change without notice. Other restrictions and exclusions may apply. Magic Moments Savings based on the non-discounted price for the same room at a participating hotel paid by non-AAA members and is applicable to the room-only portion of the package. Limited number of packages available with these savings. Guests must be AAA members with a valid AAA membership card when booking. Valid AAA membership card must be presented at check-in. Gifts (totes, miniature-golf tickets, Cirque du Soleil tickets and water park tickets) are limited to 100 per room based on deposit dates, new bookings only beginning 1/1/2013.

ONLY IN JANUARY AT AAA!


Disney Cruise Line®

Master storytelling, world-class entertainment and legendary Disney hospitality all come together on the Disney Dream, creating experiences designed to delight everyone in the family. From an exhilarating ride on the first water coaster at sea, to dazzling stage shows, themed deck parties and fireworks at sea, this incredible ship will delight all who step aboard. Combine this with a visit to Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island paradise, and it’s a vacation dream come true.

Sail on Disney Dream and receive a $50 Onboard Credit* when you book a Verandah Stateroom on a 3- or 4-night Bahamian cruise between 1/1/13–1/31/13 for sailings departing 5/2/13–9/26/13.

*Applicable to AAA/CAA travel agencies. Must book between 1/1/13 & 1/31/13 and mention booking code ADM at time of booking. Valid for verandah stateroom categories 4A-7A. New bookings only. Offer cannot be combined with any other offers/discounts. One shipboard credit per stateroom. Excludes category with restrictions VGT and concierge/suite state-room categories. Changes to the vacation date or category may result in loss of offer. Offer for Guests who previously booked, cancelled and then rebooked are not eligible. Shipboard credit is nonrefundable and nontransferable. See Disney Cruise Line® website for cruise details and applicable terms & conditions. This offer can be combined with existing AAA ben-efits. **Benefits valid only for AAA/CAA members who pre-purchase their vacation package through a AAA/CAAA Travel Agency. Benefits valid for Disney Cruise Line® sailings through 12/31/13. Benefits are per each valid stateroom booked and are nontransferable. All benefits & services are subject to change without notice. Other restrictions & exclusions may apply.


Walt Disney World® Resort in FloridaCome where elephants fly, teacups spin and fairytales come true – the Walt Disney World® Resort, including New Fan-

tasyland at the Magic Kingdom® Park and experience Disney storytelling in a magical new way! Your family will create memories that will last happily ever after.

During January’s Disney Month, ask your AAA Travel professional about a special Disney Gift Card* offer when you buy a select AAA Vacations® package 1/3/13 through 1/31/13.*The Disney Gift Card can be used at select participating locations at Walt Disney World® Resort, Disneyland® Resort, Disney Cruise Line®, Disney Store locations in the US, DisneyStore.com, DisneyPhotoPass.com, Disney Vacation Club®, Adventures by Disney® and Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa. It is not redeemable for cash, will not be replaced if lost or stolen without required proof of purchase, and it is subject to the terms & conditions of the Disney Gift Card Program. The Disney Gift Card cannot be used toward the purchase of a real estate interest in a Disney Vacation Club® Resort. The Disney Gift Card is issued by Disney Gift Card Services, Inc. Gift cards may not be used toward the purchase of Disney Dollars or Disney Gift Cards. Other restrictions apply. Use of gift card is acceptance of its terms & conditions. Visit DisneyGiftCard.com for complete terms & conditions and for more information about the Disney Gift Card program.


Adventures by Disney®

There are literally thousands of adventures out there just waiting to be experienced. Let Adventures by Disney® be your guides, your storytellers, your local experts and your masters of hassle-free guided group travel. They’ll take you where you want to go. Bring you closer to the places you visit. See every last detail. And make sure every moment, for everyone in your family, is a moment you’ll want to re-member again and again.

AAA members can get $100 off* the land package price of an Adventures by Disney® vacation when they book before 1/31/13.*AAA/CAA members who book any available Adventures by Disney® departure between 1/1/13 & 1/31/13 for travel before 3/30/14 will receive $100 off the total land package price per reservation. Land packages are subject to availability. Excludes specialty departures. Valid on new bookings only. Offer valid for AAA/CAA members only, subject to verifica-tion. Not transferable or redeemable for cash in whole or in part. Void where prohibited. Offer subject to change without notice. Terms, conditions and restrictions apply. This offer is combinable with the AAA member benefit.



AAA Club Rewards on AAA.com continuedfrompage1

offers, or use the AAA Club Rewards Shopping Engine to select your favorite brands.

In addition to the discounts, AAA members can also earn rewards or WOWPoints on most purchases. We’ve even added a “tell us what you think” FeedBack button on the left margin, so members can help us make their shopping experience even better.

Where to find itAll AAA East Central members can access the

AAA Club Rewards page from www.AAA.com/discounts. Members will be able to browse through offers, however, they must first register at the time of transaction. Registration is com-pletely free — a valid AAA membership and email address are all you need.

Personalized shoppingAAA members will be invited to customize

their shopping experience to receive personal-ized recommendations based on their interests. Offers are available online, by phone, and/or

in-store (via a printed coupon) and include limited-time offers, deep discount offers (50-90% off), and everyday offers (5-10% off).

Earn WOWPointsIn addition to discount offers, members will

also earn rewards points on most purchases that you can accumulate and use to purchase products from your favorite participating mer-chants. Starting with just 200 points, members can begin to redeem their WOWPoints for free merchandise on AAA Club Rewards.

• WOWPoints is a virtual currency, as valuable and flexible as cash;

• 100 WOWPoints earned = $1.00;• There is no limit to the amount of points

you can earn;• There are no blackout dates and no

restrictions.Why wait any longer? Register online at AAA.

com/discounts. Start shopping at your favorite merchants and enjoy the savings today.


Royal Caribbean introduces Royal Romance weddingsCruise weddings and honeymoons are both nautical and nice

Cruises have always been the ideal locale for honeymoon-ers but more and more cou-ples are choosing to “take

the plunge” at sea. The quintessential romantic vacation can be easily com-bined with a fully-personalized mar-riage ceremony, reception and honey-moon all rolled into one convenient package. And more and more wedding guests are choosing to sail right along with the happy couple.

Royal Caribbean’s new Royal Romance weddings and vow renewal program for example, is an ideal option for a ‘multi-destination’ wedding, able to cater to large parties, attended by family members and friends, to smaller — but still unforgettable — affairs.

The Commonwealth of the Bahamas has just cleared the cruise line to con-duct legal weddings aboard some of the world’s most innovative cruise ships and Royal Caribbean’s staff and crew will help make the day extra special for the couple and their guests.

The Royal Romance team of wed-ding specialists are poised to assist cou-ples create a beautifully personalized event with wedding planning services, including any legal requirements pre-departure. Once onboard, the Royal Romance Coordinator ensures every last detail is taken care of for the spe-cial moment.

Couples have several customizable

Royal Romance package options that celebrate their big day and include all the essentials for creating the per-fect wedding. For example, the Royal Romance at Sea package includes: the ceremony performed by the ship’s cap-tain, a groom’s boutonniere, a rose bouquet for the bride, freshly-made cake, recorded music and a live solo-ist during ceremony, wine at the cer-emony, dinner for the bride and groom at an onboard specialty restaurant, photography services, plus champagne

and strawberries in the couple’s state-room.

Perhaps your dream is to be mar-ried on top of a glacier in Alaska, or a waterfall in Hawaii. How about a view of ancient ruins in Greece, or on a pink-sand beach in Bermuda? Royal Romance makes it possible for you to wed at a range of unique settings across the globe. The hardest part will be deciding which incredible loca-tion is the perfect one for you. Royal Romance can even arrange a marriage

proposal with everything you need to “pop the question” in style.

Royal Caribbean also offers vow renewal packages, symbolic services and customized proposal packages. Complementing Royal Romance pack-ages is Royal Caribbean’s Honeymoon Registry which extends the romance with friends and family contributing to a couple’s ideal Royal Caribbean honeymoon cruise. Instead of the stan-dard pots and pans, the couple’s family and friends can contribute to a dinner at a specialty restaurant, a couple’s massage, or an excursion.

Couples can add all of the onboard activities they’d like in the registry, where their family and friends can even contribute to the cost of the cruise and help make the dream of vacationing to far-off places a reality.

TYING THE KNOT — A cruise wedding comes with a built in honeymoon.

TIMING IS EVERYTHINGMay has been considered an unlucky month to marry since Roman times, when it coincided with the Feast of the Dead. June is a lucky month because it is named after Juno, the Roman goddess of love and marriage.

FOR MORE INFORMATIONTo learn more about celebrating a wed-ding or anniversary aboard a cruise ship, renewing vows or arranging a honeymoon cruise, contact your AAA Travel Agency.

TYING THE KNOT — A cruise wedding comes with a built in honeymoon.

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They only come out at nightDiscovering Alberta’s Northern Lights

Imagine pulsating streaks of light dancing across the night sky, dis-solving and re-forming like some kind of a celestial lava lamp. If

you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing the earth’s greatest natural light show, then now is the time to head north to Alberta. Scientists predict this winter will the best in 50 years to experience the Northern Lights

Unravel the mystery of the aurora borealis and discover what makes the night sky blaze with color in Jasper, Canada’s largest mountain park, home of the tallest peaks in the Canadian Rockies. Hear the old legends and lore that surround this mesmerizing display, which can be experienced from now through April.

If stargazing is your passion, visit the Jasper Dark Sky Preserve, the largest dark sky preserve in the world. Marvel at a sky illuminated by so many stars, plan-ets and constellations it will leave you in awe of the mysteries of the universe.

Several observation sites inside the park offer excellent opportunities for stargazing. Pyramid Island is located about 15 minutes from the town of Jasper, and offers excellent dark skies with a scenic lake with Pyramid Mountain as its backdrop.

The darkest skies in the park are found at Athabasca Glacier, a tongue of the Columbia Icefield. The largest

icefield south of Alaska shimmers with over 200 square miles of glacial ice and snow cover. Join a guided glacier ice-walk or board an Ice Explorer, an all-terrain vehicle with tires five-feet in diameter for a memorable trek across a glacier.

The Icefields Parkway, which connects Jasper to Lake Louise, has been called “20 Switzerlands in one.” The 143-mile parkway offers a constantly changing

panorama of mountains, waterfalls, ice-fields and over 600 glaciers, more than any other road on the continent.

The Jasper Tramway whisks you up Whistler’s Mountain to an elevation of 7,472 feet, for stunning vistas over mountain ranges stretching up to 50 miles away. On a clear day the white pyramid of Mt. Robson can be seen in nearby British Columbia.

Winter weather in the Jasper area is

coldest between December and February, with most days hovering around freez-ing. Visitors can combine stargazing with a variety of winter sports including skiing, dogsledding, snowshoeing and ice canyon walks that capture a true Canadian wilderness experience.

The strength of solar activity runs in 11-year cycles, and 2013 happens to be a peak moment known as Solar Maximum, with experts predicting plen-tiful and spectacular displays.

Some scientists predict that the solar activity in 2013 will be the best since the historic Solar Max of 1958, when the sun became a raging tempest of plasma. According to legend if you whistle at them the Northern Lights will dance right down to earth. Maybe you should give it a try.

THE LIGHTS FANTASTICThe Northern Lights are created by high-energy particles from the sun coming into contact with the gases in earth’s upper atmosphere, The lights glow and ripple in various colors, depending on the type of gas that the particles excite.

FOR MORE INFORMATIONPlease see this issue’s Departures Guide or visit AAA.com/TravelPlanner for special values on Canada vacations.

A FIRE IN THE SKY — The Northern Lights dance above Alberta’s scenic Kananaskis Valley. A FIRE IN THE SKY — The Northern Lights dance above Alberta’s scenic

Winter driving tips from the prosHow to get a grip on winter driving

Winter driving can be haz-ardous, and is something that you need to prepare for. Many people believe

that quick reactions make a good driver. In fact, the world’s best drivers are trained to anticipate problems early and direct the vehicle appropriately before they become involved in a prob-lem. The Bridgestone Winter Driving School in Steamboat Springs, offers the following tips for safer winter driving.

Test road conditions frequently — Periodically check traction, or available grip, when driving in challenging con-ditions. Road conditions can change drastically in a short period of time/dis-tance in winter. Apply the brakes with moderate pressure to determine the available grip and modify your driving, if needed, to respond to ever-changing road conditions.

Use traction efficiently — Maximize available grip by separating driving maneuvers when negotiating a curve. Brake to an appropriate speed while traveling in a straight line prior to a curve. Take your foot off the brake before you steer into the curve. This allows you to use all available grip for negotiating the curve. Accelerate gradu-ally when you are able to straighten the steering wheel at the exit of the turn. This technique will allow you to be 100% effective at each maneuver

— braking, steering and acceleration. Avoid cruise control in wet, icy or snowy conditions.

Be alert at intersections and on hills — Intersections and hills are typically the slipperiest portions of the roadway. With numerous drivers braking or spin-ning their wheels in the same area, ice becomes ultra smooth and polished.

Learn to read the terrain — Bridges and overpasses ice over faster than normal roads. Shady areas cool more quickly than areas in full sun. At dusk or the onset of a winter storm, take notice of areas that never get direct

sun and expect ice there. The shadows from large trees, buildings, hills and even billboards can cause isolated icy spots. With just a bit of practice driv-ers can identify these problem spots in advance.

Beware the phantom shoulder — Many times what appears to be a very wide road or wide shoulder is in fact only snow plowed to the same level as the roadway, hiding steep drop-offs. If you must pull to the side of the road, do so slowly and be prepared to steer smoothly back toward the road if the vehicle begins to sink.

Turn on your head lights — Whenever daytime visibility is less than perfect, turning on your lights allows you to see, and just as important, to be seen by others. Remember this rule of thumb “wipers on — lights on” when traveling in snowy weather.

Use winter tires in winter conditions — Winter tires are designed to provide maximum performance during low winter temperatures and on ice, snow and slush. They perform better due to the combination of specialized winter tread patterns, deeper tread depth and unique tread compounds that remain softer in cold temperatures.

NO TWO ALIKEThe Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA) developed the mountain/snowflake symbol, which can be found on a tire’s sidewall, to designate winter tires that meet the newest severe snow standards. Tires bearing this symbol can be expected to provide 20 to 40 percent more traction in winter conditions than conventional all-season tires.

FOR MORE INFORMATIONVisit AAA.com for information on all things automotive including tips on buy-ing, operating and maintaining a vehicle.

SNOW GOING — Drivers can learn to identify problem areas in advance.



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