From the Q&A mailbox:
We want to see the fall colors in the Smoky Mountains. What do you suggest?

Do some planning quickly, as it's a popular time in western North Carolina, eastern Tennesee and of course, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is celebrating its 75th anniversary. The timing of peak fall color varies with weather and altitude, but this page can give you some idea - look at early October to early November. Take a look at these free online AAA planning resources:
Smoky Mountains AAA Drive Trip      Blue Ridge Parkway Travel Guide   Great Smoky Mountain National Park Travel Guide ... Read More

When I learned I’d be taking a AAA-sponsored research trip to Texas this year, I was excited for two main reasons: (1) I’d finally find out who shot J.R. and (2) I love red meat.

I’m kidding of course about the first item (it was Kristin!), but if you’ve read my Brooklyn Diner blog you know I’m sincere about the latter. And, unless you’ve been ... Read More

The inbox is full and here's some of our recent questions - and the answers provided by AAA experts across the country. Click here to submit yours.

What are travel conditions in Nashville, has all the flooding been cleaned up?
The music is playing in Nashville! From a travel perspective everything is up and running with ... Read More

On Sunday, it will be five years since Hurricane Katrina and in that time a determined group of New Orleans residents and admirers have worked tirelessly to see that the city would recover and thrive again.  New Orleans simply could not go quietly into the night!  Recent non-stop headlines of the BP oil spill have again given an impression of disaster in the area.  However, as the AAA inspector with the pleasure of covering the Big Easy, I can testify that the ... Read More

As a service to members who consider sustainability when selecting lodgings, we've identified AAA Approved lodgings that have been certified as eco-friendly through a recognized external certification organization. The list of recognized certifiers now totals 26 with the recent addition of state programs for Arizona, Connecticut and Oklahoma properties and two national organizations:... Read More

A visit to the beach is a summer ritual for many families, and one of the most popular stretches of sand in the eastern U.S. is Virginia Beach, Virgina. I found that in addition to sunny skies, crystal blue water and warm ocean breezes, one of the main reasons folks return here year after year is the city’s boardwalk. This is not your typical boardwalk, though. ... Read More

Whether I’m traveling for business or on pleasure, it’s the destination experience that counts, not necessarily where I’m going to be spending the night. I usually end up at a standard mid-priced chain (company’s choice) or an easy-on-the-wallet, hopefully charming/quirky property (if it’s my dime). However, in Chicago I found that an upscale, business-oriented hotel like Marriott’s Renaissance Chicago Hotel can have distinct advantages.... Read More

 Martinique is one Caribbean island, one of the very few, that seemingly is neglected by American cruise ships and, thus, American cruisers. That is a shame, as it is an island with much to offer -- and French cuisine. Holland America visits with most frequency. Other cruise lines do come here, but it often is left out of Southern Caribbean itineraries. As with some of the Netherlands Antilles islands, one gets the sense that money flows in relatively freely from France, its European mother country, and that the locals do not need tourists as much as perhaps other Caribbean destinations do. Well, at least it will not be crowded.... Read More

Labor Day marks the unofficial end of summer, but there's still time for one more family trip. We  polled our professional inspectors and asked their favorite places. The top 10 picks are below and, for even more great ideas, click to see the complete list of suggestions.

Crowne Plaza at Historic Union Station, Indianapolis, Indiana (Three Diamond rated)
Stay in a former railroad station in the heart of downtown Indianapolis. For extra fun, choose one of 26 guestrooms converted from authentic Pullman train cars. ... Read More

 Capture your pet’s most memorable travel moments on camera and enter your ‘best-in-travel’ photograph to the AAA PetBook photo contest before November 30, 2010.

Two winning pet photos will be chosen in January 2011 and will appear on the 2011 edition of the AAA PetBook. The first place winner will also receive $300, a $150 Best Western Travel Card®, pet treats and ... Read More