AAA, Is there anything they CAN'T do for you?
Jun 17 '00
Until recently, the only thing I've tried to get from AAA and couldn't, was complete ONLINE service. On my last visit to my local AAA website, I found that they had finally updated the site to include complete triptick request and Tourbook ordering services. Including the online route, there are 3 basic ways you can access AAA to help you plan your next trip:
1. Online service. Just go to http://www.aaa.com, and they will route you to your local affiliate website. You select a username and password, and can access the local office website. I imagine that the services available online will vary by location. But, if you're lucky enough to live in a larger city, you'll probably find a decent range of options.
As an example, my local club (Rochester, NY) offers the following services (and more!) on site:
book a tripFrom this link you can book your next trip, using your AAA discount. Options include booking rooms, flights and car rentals. For example, to reserve a room, you indicate your destination, your minimum AAA/CAA Diamond Rating preference, and a specific property name or up to three chain names. This is a very easy to use and understand process.
tourbook search You can search the tourbooks for information including: city information, attraction information near your destination, restaurant information, and local event information near your destination.
maps and directions You can order tripticks, tourbooks,and AAA maps. In addition, you can view and print maps (which include text directions!) that you configure online with AAA's "routemaster." You also have access to detour information, construction updates and a nifty little utility called "how far is it?" This will calculate the mileage between 2 cities on your itinerary! Great if you need to know "Can we make it there before my kids will wake up?"
2. Pick up the telephone! You can call your local office, and have access to travel services. I've ordered maps, tripticks and tourbooks dozens of times. They'll tell me that I can pick them up at their physical location if I'm in a hurry, or have them mailed out. The mail usually will deliver them within a week of my request. I've booked a car rental recently for the first time via telephone, and we'll have to see how that one turns out! The agent had me on hold most of the time, while she checked prices and availability with the Budget representative she had on the other line! Telephone service is usually speedy and efficient.
3. Stop right in! Major cities should have offices conveniently located for you. I booked San Francisco lodgings recently with a stop into my local office. The agent who assisted me was very courteous and professional, and helped me in any way possible. She offered tourguides and other information that is available by special request only (can't be ordered via the web, for instance.) A trip to the local site is a unique adventure anyway - it's a travel agency/travel store all rolled into one! You can purchase everything from luggage to travel games, and even find some clearance items. It's a great place to pop in and pick up some discount coupons for your travel destination, or a number of other useful items.
Whether you're an online junkie, a phone freak or someone who likes to see who you're dealing with, AAA has the right stuff for your travel plans. You've just got to know where you want to go, and how much money you'd like to spend, and AAA can send you off in the right direction!
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Epinions.com ID:
readnbead
|
|
Reviews written: 70
Trusted by: 46 members
About Me:
Teacher, mother of 2, wife. Opinions on games, household, travel, restaurants, family, computers and more!
|
|
|
© 1999-2009 Shopping.com, Inc.