Time To Travel -with Pam Herring

07/14/2023

Call AAA Travel today at 252-321-5240 Ext. 14911 to book your Princess Cruise!

In effect through Sept. 5, 2023, the sale offers the lowest rates of the year on 2024 itineraries.  

07/11/2023

As more Americans travel internationally this summer, the wait time to get a passport renewed is also increasing.

According to the latest update from the U.S. State Department, the processing times for a passport renewal are now 10 to 13 weeks for routine processing. That does not include the mailing time, which could add an extra four weeks (two to get to the passport agency and two to get arrive back to the applicant).

That means that, with mailing time included, it could take up to 17 weeks to renew a passport and get it back in the mail, which could heavily impact the busy summer travel season if travelers aren’t planning.

Processing times are typically quicker than what's listed on the State Department's website, but travelers should still prepare for the worst-case scenario. (Travel Market Report)

07/07/2023

Call AAA Travel at 252-321-5240 Ext. 14911 to start planning your 2024 Getaway!

06/29/2023

Not a member? Before you hit the road, discover the peace of mind and travel savings you can get with AAA.

Join now! Call 252-321-5240 Ext. 14911

06/06/2023

06/06/2023

Plan a Fall Road Trip: Knoxville to Asheville
If you love the leaves, hit the road to get a look at some of the Southeast’s colorful scenery.

Rising majestically from the mist, the mountains and forests along the Tennessee-North Carolina border entice travelers all year long. But fall is a special time to jump into the car and hit the roads to see natural beauty spilling down the Appalachian slopes—lush, verdant foliage morphing into earthy oranges, yellows and reds at every turn. Here’s a road trip that lets you see the entire colorful range. With some stops along the way, you can make it a multi-day getaway.

Distance: Approximately 140 miles
Time: Approximately 3.5 hours

BEFORE YOU GO
Get your brakes checked. Much of the drive will take you down steep mountains, and it’s better to downshift—using your engine’s lower gears to control your speed—than put extreme wear on your brakes and possibly burn them out. You’ll want to be sure you have fresh brakes for when you really need them. AAA Members can get a free vehicle maintenance inspection at more than 7,000 AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities around the country, and arrange to make any repairs necessary.

START: KNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE
It’s appropriate to launch a mountain driving tour here, as Knoxville’s residents led the charge to get the Smoky Mountains dedicated as a national park in 1940. Indeed, the city has a long-standing appreciation for visual beauty, and the McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture on the University of Tennessee campus is testament to that, with more than 200 Egyptian artifacts and high-quality decorative and fine arts as part of its collection. It’s a designated AAA GEM (“Great Experience for Members”).

Also: If basketball is your passion, head for the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame , another AAA GEM, to see how the game has progressed since its 1892 roots. Be sure to check out the accomplishments of Pat Summitt, who coached the women’s team at nearby UT. Summitt, who died in June 2016, is history’s winningest college basketball coach—men or women.

HEAD SOUTHEAST
From Knoxville, take Interstate 40 east to State Road 66. Take S.R. 66 south to U.S. Highway 441. Take U.S. 441 south to U.S. Highway 74. Take U.S. 74 east to I-40. Take I-40 east into Asheville. To break up the drive, check out the following along the way:

Check out AAA Drive Trips for more great get-in-the-car-and-go travel ideas.

Gatlinburg is packed with attractions, amusements, gift shops and restaurants—the last commercial stronghold before the mountains. Dozens of hotels, B&Bs and cabins make this alpine-themed village a good overnight getaway. For an overview of the surrounding vistas, the Ober Gatlinburg recreation complex offers chairlift rides that take you high above it all.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the country’s most visited. In addition to the splendid natural scenery you see while driving through, it’s worth exploring the areas within it. Cades Cove is a broad valley with the best opportunities for wildlife viewing. Clingman’s Dome is the park’s highest peak. Newfound Gap is the park’s largest pullout—and a great place to catch a sunrise.

FINISH: ASHEVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA
The Smoky Mountains give way to the Blue Ridge Mountains, creating more chances for natural splendor, as part of the drive borders Nantahala National Forest. In the city, Biltmore Estate shares natural beauty that lingers. Completed in 1895, the 250-room French Renaissance chateau (filled with paintings, tapestries and other treasures) was a home for members of the Vanderbilt family—surrounded by 8,000 acres of lush gardens, vineyards, farmland and more. It’s also a AAA GEM attraction.

Also: Stroll around the compact downtown to see the city’s artistic spirit. It’s easy to find street-corner musicians in front of the studios of painters and potters who work in the River Arts District. The district consists of 22 former industrial and historic buildings spread along a one-mile stretch of the French Broad River—where you can easily spend a day visiting artists and grabbing a bite of local cuisine.

Find more tips and detailed information about driving through Tennessee and North Carolina, and visit AAA Drive Trips for more road trip ideas. (AAA Living)

Let AAA help you plan your next trip. Call 252-321-5240 ext. 14911.

06/06/2023

WHY JOIN AAA?

The Benefits of Membership
Use your AAA Membership to earn discounts on nearly every aspect of your vacation, from accommodations to rental cars.

Lodging: AAA preferred hotel partners offer members discounts and valuable add-ons like free breakfast, parking and loyalty program perks. Preferred hotel partners include the many different brands owned by Best Western Hotels & Resorts, Hilton, Hyatt, Marriott and MGM Resorts International.

Vehicles: Save up to 20% when you rent a vehicle through AAA with Hertz, Dollar and Thrifty, and enjoy additional benefits, such as free car seats.

Airport Parking: Get discounts on airport parking and transportation through The Parking Spot. In addition to saving 10% on near-airport parking and free online reservations, AAA Members now receive two free days of airport parking when joining the Spot Club loyalty program.

Fun Extras: Get exclusive member savings and extra amenities such as spending credit, suite upgrades and meals when you book guided vacations and cruise-tours with AAA preferred partners.

Call today for the current promotion. 252-321-5240 ext. 14911

06/06/2023

Expand Your Horizons
The experiences you have while traveling can transform your worldview.

What could be more exciting for an animal lover than going on a safari in Africa and watching giraffes and lions roam?

Or for a budding chef than embarking on a food tour that includes a pasta-making class in Rome?

Or for an adventure seeker than yelling “Mush!” while dogsledding across the crisp Alaskan tundra?

“Travel has the potential to broaden and expand a person’s worldview,” says Julio Soto, AAA travel product manager. “You can come to have a new appreciation of art and architecture, cuisine, and even religion and history.”

When you transcend your usual surroundings through travel, you more easily see things from a different perspective. This transformation happens in the moment but can have a lasting impact, giving families the chance to bond, all while absorbing the culture of other destinations.

For example, each day when your cruise ship docks at a different port, new family-friendly experiences await. If you’ve opted for a river cruise, the daily excursions take you right into the heart of towns and cities, providing cultural immersion—as well as bonding with fellow travelers. If you’re on a guided vacation—say a small group tour through a national park like Zion or Grand Canyon—experts can provide a VIP travel experience and insight into the area’s history.

With travel, opportunities for learning, enrichment and fun escapades are numerous. (AAA Living)

Explore the possibilities by calling AAA at 252-321-5240 Ext. 14911.

06/06/2023

The Experience of a Rhine River Cruise
Sail through history and legend on an unforgettable river cruise.

The journey starts in storybook Basel, Switzerland, with a rumble of engines and a toot of the ship’s horn. Passengers stand on the deck, shading their eyes. The river beckons, heading north and west, past charming villages and hilltop castles, for more than 500 miles to Amsterdam.

This is the Rhine River. Since the Middle Ages, it has become a major trade route between central Europe and the North Sea. It’s also been the inspiration for some of Germany’s greatest writers: Goethe was entranced by its beauty, Heine wrote poems dedicated to the Rhine, and its shores are said to be the home of the legendary Nibelungen people of Wagnerian opera fame. One of the best ways to take it all in: a river cruise. Gliding along the Rhine offers a glimpse into the region’s storied history. (AAA Living)

Book your next river cruise
AAA offers exclusive travel perks and insider tips. Book your river cruise today.

Call 252-321-5240 ext. 14911 to get started!

06/06/2023

DISNEY DINING IS BACK!!! (well, almost)

Now you can add a dining plan to Disney Resort Hotel Packages with arrivals on or after January 9, 2024.

Dining plans can add the convenience and flexibility of prepaid meals and snacks to your vacation—and give you peace of mind.

Highlights include:

Savings: Save up to 20% on dining for kids ages 3 to 9 when you purchase a dining plan for your family as part of a Disney Resort Hotel Package!

Savings compared to the non-discounted price of menu items available to kids ages 3 to 9 at participating locations when purchased without a dining plan. Actual savings vary based on menu items ordered.

Convenience & Peace of Mind: With 2 dining plans to choose from, you can spend more time with your family enjoying the Disney magic (and less time on meal budgeting). And this gives you the opportunity to say that magic word to your kids... "Yes."

Flexibility: There are more than 200 locations to dine at throughout our Disney Resort hotels, theme parks and select locations at Disney Springs. So,there’s something to delight nearly every taste!

Call AAA Vacations today to start planning your Disney Vacation!

252-321-5240 ext. 14911

05/17/2023

Call to start planning your next cruise adventure!
252-321-5240 ext. 14911

05/17/2023

Time to make your plans to Discover New England in the Fall. Experience the magical fall colors from Boston to Maine on this scenic tour. Call 252-321-5240 Ext. 14911.

05/16/2023

New data projects 42.3 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more from home this Memorial Day weekend, a seven-percent increase from last year.

According to AAA Travel, 2.7 million more people will travel for the holiday travel period this year, with the five-day period running from Thursday, May 25, to Monday, May 29. Senior Vice President Paula Twidale said this year’s totals would make the holiday the “third busiest” since 2000.

The survey found that road trips for the unofficial start to summer will be up six percent, with 37.1 million travelers in the United States expected to drive to their destinations. The total is still around 500,000 shy of pre-pandemic totals.

As for air travel, nearly 3.4 million are expected to fly for Memorial Day, an increase of 11 percent over last year. Data shows that holiday air travel will exceed pre-pandemic levels, with 5.4 percent more people (170,000) flying than in 2019. (Travel Pulse)The survey found that road trips for the unofficial start to summer will be up six percent, with 37.1 million travelers in the United States expected to drive to their destinations. The total is still around 500,000 shy of pre-pandemic totals.

As for air travel, nearly 3.4 million are expected to fly for Memorial Day, an increase of 11 percent over last year. Data shows that holiday air travel will exceed pre-pandemic levels, with 5.4 percent more people (170,000) flying than in 2019.

05/15/2023

AAA Vacations
252-321-5240 Ext. 14911

05/12/2023

It's the Most Magical Place on Earth! Call AAA Vacations today to start planning.
252-321-5240 Ext. 14911

05/11/2023

A gentler side of Florida awaits—with cleaner sands, warmer waters, and fewer crowds. For over 125 years, The Palm Beaches have been the warm-weather getaway for discerning travelers who won’t settle for the ordinary. The Palm Beaches’ natural treasures, including 47 miles of beaches, vast outdoor areas, world-class golf courses, spas and stunning resort and hotel properties offer nothing but memorable experiences to all those seeking a warm and sunny escape.

With breeze-filled days and elegant nights, the golden age of travel is back.

Call AAA Vacations today to start planning your next vacation! 252-321-5240 Ext. 14911

05/10/2023

The Biden administration is working on new regulations that would require airlines to compensate passengers and cover their meals and hotel rooms if they're stranded for reasons within the airline's control.

Biden and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg announced the start of the rulemaking process Monday. The president said travelers deserve to be "fully compensated" when the airline could have prevented the delay or cancelation.

The rulemaking pledge continues a push by the Democratic administration to require airlines to improve customer service, and it comes just weeks before the start of the peak summer travel season. Mr. Biden noted that airlines particularly owe this to their customers after U.S. taxpayers helped keep the airline industry afloat at the beginning of the pandemic. (CBS News)

05/10/2023

INDULGE THE GREAT LAKES

Set sail on a Great Lakes adventure filled with intrigue, charm and marvels of nature, with most voyages covering all five Great Lakes. Magnificent itineraries, enjoy our dedicated Lakelorian who will share and enlighten you on the uniqueness of each port as a welcomed storyteller of the region.

Secure your place on our Great Lakes cruise today and prepare to be captivated by nature's splendor and unparalleled hospitality!

NEWLY ENHANCED ALL-INCLUSIVE FARES INCLUDE

1-Night Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay
Ground Transfers Between Hotel & Vessel
Unlimited Guided Tours
Unlimited Beverages
Open Bars & Lounges Acclaimed Cuisine in Multiple Venues
In-Room Dining Available
Pre-Paid Gratuities 🆕
Port Taxes & Fees 🆕
Unlimited WiFi Live, Daily Onboard Entertainment & Enrichment Bicycles* & Hiking Sticks

*Rivers Cruises Only

Call AAA today to plan your Great Lakes Adventure with American Queen Voyages! 252-321-5240 Ext. 14911

05/10/2023

Ready to plan your Disney Vacation? Call today to get started!
AAA Vacations 252-321-5240 Ext. 14911

05/10/2023

Call AAA Travel at 252-321-5240 Ext 14911 to start making your plans!

05/08/2023

Explore Europe’s storied castles

Visit Castelo Rodrigo, a medieval fortress town, and its namesake castle in Portugal. Discover France’s imposing Château Gaillard, built by Richard the Lionheart in the 12th century. Or admire panoramic views from the 1,000-year-old Reichsburg Castle in Germany. Join us on a river voyage through Europe and let our knowledgeable guides reveal the fascinating history behind these remarkable fortresses. Enjoy reduced fares and up to FREE airfare when you reserve your stateroom with a $25 deposit during our 25th Anniversary Sale.

Call for more information, or to book today!
252-321-5240 ext. 14911

04/28/2023

The new AAA Cash Back Visa Signature Card...available only to AAA Members. See some of the benefits you'll enjoy! To apply, visit AAA.com/BranchCC and enter referral code P34682.

04/13/2023

Avoid using public charge stations at airports and in hotels.

03/09/2023

Book your cruise now. Call AAA Vacations at 252-321-5240 ext 14911

03/09/2023

A DIFFERENT WAY TO SEE THE FALL COLORS...
Call 252-321-5240 to start planning your trip now.

03/09/2023

Ready for Alaska? Call today to start planning your trip. 252-321-5240 ext 14911

02/16/2023

Call 252-321-5240 ext 14911 to get started on your next Princess Cruise!

02/07/2023

Call 252-321-5240 ext 14911 to get started!

01/06/2023

Dry Tortugas National Park in the Florida Keys is temporarily closed after approximately 300 migrants arrived over the New Year's weekend.