By Maria Lenhart
Deadline Set for Real ID
While it was pushed back during the pandemic, the deadline to obtain Real ID is now set for May 7, 2025. After that date, a standard driver’s license or ID card will no longer enable U.S. passengers over age 18 to pass through airport security checkpoints and board domestic flights. Either a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card issued by your state Department of Motor Vehicles or a current U.S. passport will be required. To get your Real ID, you must apply to the DMV and furnish documents that establish identity and place of residence. Of special note: Real ID cards do not replace a U.S. passport and cannot be used for international travel, including crossing into Canada or Mexico.
Real ID enforcement is administered by the TSA and is subject to change. AAA recommends travelers be prepared prior to the deadline.
Spa experience on Regent Seven Seas
regent seven seas
New Flexible All-Inclusives from Regent
Cruise passengers who view customization and flexibility as essential to a luxury cruise experience will appreciate Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ two new all-inclusive fare options, both designed to fulfill personal preferences. With the All-Inclusive Cruise Fare, passengers experience a wide variety of incredible inclusions throughout their cruise, while the Ultimate All-Inclusive Fare extends the concept to include round-trip flights in the preferred air class and a new private chauffeur service for transfers. Onboard, passengers will find no added charges for their preferred experiences, whether it’s 24-hour in-suite dining, specialty restaurants, daily minibar replenishment, unlimited spa activities or choice of shore excursions.
Aerial view of Tampa, Florida, at sunset
oceania cruises
Oceania Adds Tampa as Home Port in 2026
Tampa will be a convenient new embarkation and debarkation port for five sailings on Oceania Cruises in the Caribbean and Panama, starting on Feb. 22, 2026. Kicking off the season will be a nine-day cruise from Barbados to Tampa, calling in Aruba, Jamaica, Costa Maya and Cozumel. The cruise lineup also will include a 15-day roundtrip out of Tampa on a Caribbean island itinerary curated by Condé Nast Traveler. Concluding the season will be a 20-day voyage from Tampa to Miami, departing on March 25. The sailing features a daylight transit through the Panama Canal and an overnight stay in Panama City. The elegant Insignia, with its four open-seating restaurants, Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center, eight lounges and bars, a casino, and 333 luxury suites—most with private verandah—promises comfort and relaxation between ports on each of these new cruises.
hertz
AAA and Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Offer Car Rental Savings and Perks
When you add the benefits of membership in Hertz Gold Plus Rewards® with those already provided by your AAA Membership, it’s a win-win combination that brings maximum value and convenience to your car rental experience. Why should you join Hertz Gold Plus Rewards? Among the benefits for AAA Members are accumulating points toward upgrades and free car rental days, plus greater ease of picking up and returning vehicles, including having Hertz deliver and return the car to you when it’s rented from a Hertz Local Edition location. These perks are on top of Hertz's benefits for AAA Members, including free use of a child safety seat, a free additional driver and up to 20% off the base rate of all rentals*. For more information, visit AAA.com/CarRental.
*Taxes, fees and options excluded. Restrictions apply.
New AAA Videos—Travel Tips, Hacks and Inspiration
AAA offers a wide variety of videos to inspire and inform. Enjoy “3 Things to Pack on Your Next Trip,” and, if you’d like to see more, visit our YouTube channel.