Page 21 - Explore Your AAA – AAA Southern Pennsylvania – Winter 2022

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Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987)
Midwest, United States
While not a Christmas movie, “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” is a road-trip comedy that follows Neal Page (Steve Martin), a high-strung marketing executive, and
Del Griffith (John Candy), an optimistic shower-curtain
ring salesman, as they struggle to get home in time for Thanksgiving with the family. Flying from New York City
to Chicago, the unlikely duo finds their plane is diverted to Wichita, Kansas, because of a snowstorm. Their epic journey takes them by train from Wichita to Jefferson City, Missouri; by bus from Jefferson City to St. Louis, Missouri; by rental car from St. Louis to an unknown location in Illinois; and finally, by milk truck from somewhere in Illinois to Chicago.
Many people think of the Midwest as vast, flat and boring. However, the Midwest can be quite beautiful and awe- inspiring. Not only are the people known to be some of the nicest, down-to-earth folks you will meet, but you get the best of both worlds: a little bit of country and a little bit of city. The heartland is also home to famous landmarks and national parks: such as Mount Rushmore in South Dakota; St. Louis’ Gateway Arch; the Badlands National Park in South Dakota; and the Willis Tower in Chicago.
The Polar Express (2004)
Alaska
“Why, to the North Pole, of course! This is the Polar Express!” shouts Tom Hanks’ character in “The Polar Express.” While the children on this epic train ride travel to the North Pole, there’s one place the location reminds us of: Alaska. The Northern Lights, snowcapped mountaintops, caribou and amazing wildlife, remind us of the magic you’d find on a journey through the Great Land.
EXPLORE | DESTINATIONS WINTER/HOLIDAY EDITION 2022
Los Angeles might not be top-of-mind when thinking of a holiday destination, but L.A.’s amazing viewpoints, beaches, luxurious hotels and shopping malls, weather and, of course, the home of Hollywood, make it worthy of a visit.
If you’re looking for a similar adventure, we have just the ticket. The Alaska Railroad, which provides transportation throughout Southcentral and interior Alaska, annually offers a Holiday Train ride that the entire family will enjoy and is complete with a visit from the rosy-cheeked, jolliest elf, Santa. For details on the Alaska Railroad event trains, go to AlaskaRailroad.com.
What’s your favorite holiday movie? The next time you find yourself curled up on the couch watching holiday-themed films, take a look at the location. It just may be the inspiration you need to get out and explore the world.
Need help booking a trip? Contact your AAA Travel Agent at 1-800-222-1469, go to AAA.com/Travel or stop by your local AAA office.
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