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Winter comes whether we want it to or not, and even though it's always safer to stay home during a winter storm, sometimes you have to head out. If you do need to drive in a snowstorm, you can make your ride safer by preparing ahead of time and driving the correct way for the conditions. Here are some tips for safe winter driving. more Prepare Your Vehicle Before winter starts, it's important to get your vehicle ready for the snow and cold. Check your tire tread if you have all-season tires to make sure it's in good condition, or even better, put snow tires on your car. Snow tires have a specially designed tread to give you better traction in the snow, and they're much better to have if you drive in winter conditions. You should also check your windshield wiper fluid, make sure you have a blanket in the car along with a flashlight, and an extra battery for your phone. Slow Down The first rule of driving in winter weather is to drop your speed. You can't safely drive the same speeds on a snowy road that you can on a dry or even a wet road. Accelerate slowly to keep your tires from spinning, and leave plenty of space between you and the cars around you so there's plenty of time to stop. Remember, everything takes longer on snow-covered roads. Don't Lock Your Brakes When you need to slow down, make sure you don't press down hard on the brakes and lock them up. If your vehicle is an older model, you'll need to slowly pump the brakes to avoid locking them up. If you have a newer vehicle with anti-lock brakes, press the brake pedal down slowly and firmly. The brakes will pump on their own. Perform Only One Action When the roads are slippery, you'll stay safer if you only ask the car to do one thing at a time. This means that when you need to turn, don't apply the brakes, or when you need to speed up or slow down, do it when going straight. Apply the brakes before you turn, and then press back down on the accelerator after you've straightened the car back out again. Watch out for Other Drivers Even if you slow down, take necessary precautions, and drive responsibly in snowy conditions, you can't count on other drivers around you driving as safely as you. Drive extra defensively, and leave plenty of space around you so you can make any corrections if other drivers make mistakes. Don't let drivers behind you make you feel like you have to go faster. If they're too close, pull over and let them pass. When driving in winter conditions, it's always better to slow down and get to your destination late instead of not at all. Don't let four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive give you a false sense of security, and keep your distance from other drivers. Image “ Snowy Road” by h3h, used under CC BY 2.0

Dodge offers a full lineup of family-friendly vehicles, whether your family likes to go on weekend adventures, you need to tow a camper or boat, or you just need space for everyone. For families who need space for passengers, there is the Grand Caravan, and if you need extra power and towing capabilities, the Durango is the best choice. Here are some of the best family cars from Dodge. more The Dodge Durango The Durango is a full-size SUV with room for seven. It comes standard with a V-6 engine and has the option for a more powerful V-8 engine. Plus, Dodge offers it in both rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive. The V-6 models can tow up to 6,200 pounds, while the more powerful V-8, when equipped can tow up to 8,700 pounds. Inside, you'll find the technology the children want, including a 7-inch touch-screen display, two USB ports, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Depending on the trim, you can also get a Beats audio system and a rear-seat entertainment system. All the Durango models come with a rearview camera, and all the trims except for the SXT offer the option for advanced safety systems. This includes forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. You can also add a blind-spot warning system with rear cross-traffic alert through one of the available packages. The Dodge Grand Caravan The Dodge Grand Caravan is the people hauler. It seats up to seven passengers, has LATCH systems in both the second- and third-row seats, and, if you fold all the seats down, has 140.3 cubic feet of cargo space. The second-row seats feature the Stow-n-Go system, which allows the seats to fold down into the floor. When the seats are up, there's storage space under the floor. The Grand Caravan comes standard with a V-6 engine that gets 17 miles per gallon in the city and 25 on the highway and offers plenty of power for confident passing on the highway. This minivan comes standard with a rearview camera and traction and stability control. Add the Safety Sphere package to the GT trim, and you'll also get a rear parking assist system and blind-spot monitors with rear cross-traffic alert. The Dodge Journey The Dodge Journey is a great choice for families who want or need an SUV but have to stick to a budget. This family-friendly crossover SUV has room for seven people with comfortable seating in all the rows. The lower trims come with a 4.3-inch touch-screen and a Uconnect infotainment system, and if you upgrade to one of the higher trims, you'll get a larger 8.4-inch touch-screen along with navigation. You'll also get the choice between two engines in the Journey. The base engine is a 4-cylinder that delivers 173 horsepower, and there is also a larger V-6 with 283 horsepower. Dodge has a vehicle for every need in its lineup. These are the most family-friendly and offer the power, features, and technology to make everyone happy no matter where you're heading. Image “ Dodge Grand Caravan Crew Plus 2” by Zytonits, used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Whether you need to shop for clothes, things for the house, or you just like to window shop, there are plenty of places to go in and around the Alhambra, California area. There are also several shopping areas with a variety of stores, so you can get errands done and get some shopping in at the same time. Here is where to shop in Alhambra, California. more Alhambra Place Alhambra Place is a shopping center with over 120,000 square feet of space. It has a wide variety of stores and a number of restaurants where you can stop for a bite. Some of the stores include Burlington Coat Factory, Sprouts, and Vidorra, and if you get hungry, you can stop at Blaze Pizza for a slice or JJ Bakery for something sweet. You will find Alhambra Place just 8 miles outside of Los Angeles, right on the corner of Main Street and Garfield. The Colonnade Mall The Colonnade Mall in Pasadena on South Lake Street has a little something for everyone. It recently underwent some renovations, so it looks new and clean, but the best thing about this shopping area is the specialty shops. You'll find Leslie Needham Knits here along with Le Cafe Creme and Tres Jolie Lingerie. There is also a nail salon, a jewelry store, and a Japanese Grill. This is one of the smaller shopping centers in the area, but it is well-kept and clean and offers a quaint atmosphere. Atlantic Times Square The Atlantic Times Square Shopping Center in Monterey Park is just a short drive from Alhambra. This shopping center has several stores along with a movie theater and a 24-hour fitness center. Stop in here to shop for clothes, cosmetics, coffee and tea, jewelry, and gifts. You can also take a break from shopping and eat at one of the several restaurants on-site. Choose from the Tasty Garden Bistro, Gatten Sushi, the OK Cafe, and the Nice Time Cafe, just to name a few. You'll find Atlantic Times Square on North Atlantic Boulevard right in Monterey Park. Old Town Pasadena Old Town Pasadena is a great place to visit and to go shopping. It is fun to walk around the area and do shop shopping or take in the sights while you sit and have a cup of coffee. Some of the stores include Anthropologie, the Apple Store, Athleta, Audio Element, and the Banana Republic. You'll also find The Bea's Knees for wine, cheese, and gifts and Bird Pick for tea and herbs. If you want to stop for a bite to eat, there is 1810 with an outdoor patio, 21 Choices for frozen yogurt, and 85C Bakery Cafe. Old Pasadena also has the 35er Bar and Akbar Cuisine of India. There are plenty of places to go shopping in and around the Alhambra area. If you want to take a drive, there are some larger shopping centers, or you can stay right in Alhambra and take advantage of the stores in town. Image “ Old Town Pasadena shops” by fredcamino, used under CC BY-SA 2.0

If you're on the prowl for a work truck that can meet your demands, look no further than the 2018 RAM 1500. Because it's slightly smaller than the 2500 and 3500, it's the perfect truck for someone who needs a versatile vehicle. After performing all day at your work site, it can then double as a family vehicle with no issues. Here's everything you need to know about the reliable RAM 1500. more New Trims The 2018 1500 sees some updates from the 2017 version. In particular, the Limited Tungsten Edition is a new trim package that adds a faux-suede headliner and various wood and leather accents throughout the cabin. You'll also enjoy the look of a branded RAM tailgate limited wheels with tungsten accent inserts, and a tungsten chrome grille. One other new trim is the Harvest Edition, which was crafted with farmers in mind. This truck has a taller ride height, paint colors that match your tractor, and a mesh grille to make it easier to use around the farm. Power for Days Obviously, the best selling-point of the 1500 is its power and durability. With the base 3.6-liter V6 engine, you'll gain 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque. However, you can also upgrade to the 5.7-liter V8 engine or the turbo-diesel 3.0-liter V6, which have 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque and 240 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque respectively. These three engine options vary slightly in their tow ratings, but the maximum capabilities are 7,610 pounds on the V6, 10,700 on the V8, and 7,500 on the diesel. Payload ratings are equally impressive, with the truck being able to carry anywhere between 1,050 and 1,930 pounds at a time. Three Cab Choices The RAM 1500 offers you three different styles of cab to meet your needs. These include the Crew Cab, which has a bed length of either 5'7" or 6'4", the Quad Cab with a length of 6'4", and the Regular Cab, with either 6'4" or 8' of length. In the Crew Cab, you'll have the most capacity for cargo and passengers, as it comes with 125.3 cubic feet of interior space. The Quad Cab is nearly as spacious, with 116.6 cubic feet of space. Both of these models fit up to six passengers, with 41 inches of legroom in the front. Finally, the Regular Cab is a bit smaller, with only 62.5 cubic feet of interior space. This reduces the passenger capacity to three, as it eliminates the back row of seats to make room for the longer bed. Interior Tech Just because the RAM is a work truck, doesn't mean you can't enjoy some modern features on the interior. All of your driving information is centered on a 7-inch color display, and you also have the choice to add on the Uconnect 8.4 system. This gives you access to SiriusXM, navigation, traffic updates, and more. Want to learn even more about the 2018 RAM 1500? Stop by Bravo Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM today to take a test drive. Image via Ramtrucks.com

Alhambra is only 40 miles from Orange County, which makes for the perfect opportunity for a fun-packed, sun-drenched, beach-combing weekend road trip. So pack the flip-flops, sun screen, beach towels, shades, and a California music mix, buckle up, and hit the road. more Pacific Coast Highway 1 Whoever said the journey was more important than the destination was probably talking about the iconic Pacific Coast Highway 1. Start your epic weekend getaway to the OC by driving south down the PCH from Seal Beach. From there, it's nothing but ocean views and sea breezes as you ease on down the road. Huntington Beach Pier Surf's up and the sun goes down in epic colors at the landmark Huntington Beach Pier. Whether you're surfing, ogling the surfers, or strolling the pier, there's plenty of sights to feed the eyes and the soul. To feed the body, partake of fresh seafood dishes washed down with umbrella drinks at any one of a number of rooftop lounges or beachfront eateries. Old World's Oktoberfest We interrupt your beach blanket bingo for a total non sequitur. Old World Huntington Beach throws down in the grand style of Germany's Oktoberfest from September through November. Take a break from the sound of seagulls and dive into the finest German beer and bratwurst this side of the Rhine River. After an evening of beer, sausages, oompah music and wiener dog racing, you can safely head back to the beach with barely a hiccup in the road trip. Crystal Cove Beach Cottages Why stay in a motel when you can slide into sleep with the sound of waves and a serene sea view? Check in to your own retro beach cottage from the 1930s at Crystal Cove. Most of these historic beach cottages have been lovingly restored for that authentic beach shack party vibe. Reserve early for your best chance to catch a cottage. If you prefer to rough it, pitch a tent in Crystal Cove State Park after a day of hiking pristine nature trails. Tidal Pools and Bizarre Art Festivals at Laguna Beach Get your toes wet in one of the many tidal pools along Laguna Beach. Rocks and ocean clash to form clusters of beautiful tidal pools adorned with sea anemones. At the Pageant of the Masters, watch 90 minutes of tableaux vivants, or living pictures. People dress up to re-enact the world's most famous paintings by the masters. Whale Watching at Dana Point If poking around in tidal pools for sea anemones isn't enough of a marine wildlife experience for you, book a boat tour at Dana Point for some quality whale watching. While you have your highest chance of spotting whales in September, you're always sure to get pics of playful dolphins squeaking and splashing about in the waves. From Dana Point, you could fast track back toward Alhambra by taking I-5 north, passing through Anaheim, and stopping for some signature boysenberry pie at Knott's Berry Farm. Or better yet, reverse your course and head back up the PCH. That way, the driver's side of the car gets the killer ocean view all the way back. Image “ Day’s End – Huntington Beach, CA, USA” by Slipshod Photog, used under CC BY-ND 2.0

We've all had that time when we've sat in a new car and wondered why didn't we ask a certain question before making the purchase! Buying a car is a tricky business, especially if we aren't experienced with the buying process.  Most times, the excitement of owning the car is too overpowering to have a questioning mind, but some questions are better asked before the transaction to ensure a swift ownership of the car. Haven't we all heard it is better to be safe than sorry? So here are 10 questions you must ask before buying a car. more 1. Is There a Mandatory Dealership Fee? Confirm all dealership fees associated with the sale before calling it a deal. Find out if the price is all-inclusive and confirm that there will be no extra fees at a later stage. 2. Is This the Best Deal Possible? Asking the salesperson if the deal is the best possible bargain will tip him off that you're willing to walk away and negotiate with other dealerships. Be ready to walk away if the deal doesn't fit your needs and you think that you can get a better price elsewhere. 3. How Much Money Will Be Spent After Fees and Licensing? Focus on the actual cost associated with the car, including any fees or licensing fees that you might have to pay. 4. Have Original Parts Been Replaced Due to Accidental Damage? Accidental damages, even if repaired, could have a permanent effect on how the car functions. Especially if you're buying a used car, ask about such damages and if any original parts had to be replaced. 5. Is the Car Under Warranty Coverage? Ask if the dealership provides a warranty. (or about any manufacturer's warranty available.) You can also negotiate for perks, like free maintenance for your car. 6. Has the Car Been Used as a Demo? If you're buying a new car, ask if it has been used as a demo car for test drives. If so, how much has it been driven and what is its fuel efficiency. 7. Can I Take a Test Drive? Reviews are trustworthy but not as much as first-hand experience. Ask for a test drive to see if the ride is comfortable and if the car suits your requirements. 8.  Why Are You Selling the Car? How Much Has It Been Used and for How Long? If you're buying a pre-owned car, there has to be a reason for the owner to sell it. Ask why the car is being sold, how many people have owned it, and how many miles are on it. 9. Can I Have the Car Inspected? Before you make the purchase, it is best to get the car inspected by a professional mechanic to avoid any expensive regrets later. 10. What Is the Term of My Loan and the Interest Rate? You do not want to get stuck in a high-interest loan with a monthly payment that will strain your monthly budget. Image via Chrysler.com

Haven't we all had that time that we wished it was less sunny, or less rainy, or just less chilly outside? With so many indoor activity options in Alhambra, no rainy, hot, or chilly day needs to be a dull day anymore. Here are four indoor family activities to enjoy in and around Alhambra, California. more Kidspace Children's Museum With an objective to nurture children's potential through playful kid-driven experience, the Kidspace Children's Museum, located in Pasadena, encourages them to become active, joyful learners. With both an indoor and outdoor play space, the museum offers a learning atmosphere that allows kids and adults to spend time together. Also, the museum offers exhibits and shows that encourage learning and curiosity and allows kids to experiment and explore their imaginative skills. Magical Playground A safe and clean indoor playground for kids of all ages, Magical Playground in West Covina is a favorite among locals. Kids and their parents or caretakers can embark on a fun yet enriching educational journey here. The objective is to help youngsters develop coordination, self-esteem, and social skills through play. The facility offers special facilities for younger children that include a toddler bouncer, a toddler slide, and other educational but fun play equipment. It is also a fun option for hosting private birthday parties, with special party packages available. PlayLab An indoor play space located in Pasadena, PlayLab welcomes kids ages 0-5, with their families for open play regularly from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week. The facility has a 2,200-square-foot-area of play space that offers playful and interesting activities tailored for different ages, all designed by experts to focus on various aspects of a child's development. While the area is safe for the children to explore on their own, parents are welcome to supervise their kids and also become a part of their learning experience. Not only does this encourage kids and parents to spend time together, but it helps parents understand the kids' interests and learning capacities. PlayLab stimulates open-ended imaginative play with natural and sustainable materials to help nurture developing brains. Amy's Playground With a tremendous indoor play area of around 3,000 square feet, Amy's Playground, located in South Pasadena, features a giant maze, a playhouse bouncer, and a specially designed fun space for babies and toddlers alike. It is a clean and safe indoor area that provides a playful atmosphere to accommodate both kids and grown-ups as they spend time together. Family activities with educational and enriching games are regularly scheduled, with specially tailored weekly activities like Dress-Up Tuesdays, Music Sing Along Wednesdays, Balloon Artist Thursdays, and Arts and Crafts Fridays. The facility also offers wireless internet access for parents and no time limit on the day access pass. The facility also offers special packages for private birthday parties. Looking forward to spending family time at an indoor play space with your kids in Alhambra, California? You do not need to search for options with these choices. Image “ Teterboro Aviation Hall of Fame” by DaniloEddy, used under CC BY 2.0 / Cropped from Original

Starting at just $28,090 MSRP, the Dodge Journey is the most affordable midsize SUV in its class. And it doesn't skimp on features. Choose from a wide variety of options and trim packages to fully customize your Dodge Journey to fit your lifestyle. Front Wheel Drive or All Wheel Drive? All five Dodge Journey models (SE, SXT, Crossroad, Crossroad Plus, and GT) offer the choice of front wheel drive (FWD) or all wheel drive (AWD). If you spend most of your time driving on flat valley roads, choose an FWD model for a lighter build and better fuel economy. If you regularly drive on snowy mountain roads or bounce around on dirt roads, the AWD model is the perfect choice for you. more Precious Cargo Space The Journey boasts 67 cubic feet of cargo space for all of your precious cargo. Choose an optional third seating row to accommodate seven people. Most models offer hidden storage compartments under the floor or the seats to keep your valuables out of sight. Store larger items such as cameras and laptops under the second or rear floor compartments. More Power to You All Journey FWD models come with a 2.4-Liter I4 DOHC 16-Valve Dual VVT Engine with four-speed automatic transmission standard. Need more bang for the buck? Choose any AWD model for the added power of a 3.6-Liter V6 24-Valve VVT Engine and a six-speed automatic transmission (standard equipment), or you can add the optional V6 to several of the FWD models. A Comfortable Ride The Journey offers suspension package options for every road you navigate. With the touring suspension or performance suspension, you're ready for any bump in the road. For the ultimate ride, add power four-way driver lumbar adjustment, power six-way driver seat, or leather bucket seats with sport mesh inserts. A Safe and Secure Journey Many people choose an SUV for the added safety a larger vehicle provides. Every Dodge Journey model also offers added safety features such as advanced multistage front airbags, electronic roll mitigation, electronic stability control, and traction control. You even get supplemental side-curtain airbags in all rows. The Journey also offers a choice of added security options such as the ParkSense® Rear Park Assist System, ParkView™ Rear Back-Up Camera, and Sentry Key® Theft Deterrent System. The parking systems use cameras, a graphic interface, and warning alerts when backing up. The theft deterrent system uses a chipped key coupled with an engine immobilizer. An Entertaining Trip The Uconnect infotainment system adds a 4.3- or 8.6-inch touch screen display, USB ports, and six speakers for optimum enjoyment. You can also add more boom to the Crossroad Plus model with an optional 360-watt amplifier and six premium Alpine speakers with subwoofer (standard equipment in the GT). You can also add a second-row overhead nine-inch video screen to keep your passengers entertained for miles. Combined with the unbeatable price, safety and security, and the wide variety of option packages available, the Dodge Journey has a model to suit every lifestyle, for every kind of road and journey you take. Image via Dodge.com

Sometimes, nothing sounds better for dinner than great Chinese takeout. Luckily, there are a variety of awesome takeout spots in and around Alhambra. Not only will you get food that is good quality and tastes delicious, but you'll also get great service at these takeout Chinese restaurants. more Szechuan Impression Head to 1900 W. Valley Blvd. in Alhambra for Szechuan Impression. Whether you eat in or take out, you'll be impressed, that's for sure. Start off with appetizers including fried rice cake with black sugar, the impressive cold noodle, or Hou Dao dumplings. While there are tons of entrée options, some of the favorites include hongxing diced rabbit, dry-fried farm chicken, and braised beef with bamboo shoots. There are several soups, if that's what you're in the mood for, including golden soup with fat beef slices, golden soup fish, and golden soup lamb. Try something sweet, such as the ice jelly er or the Cinderella's Pumpkin Rides. Bamboo Garden For another great Chinese takeout option, check out Bamboo Garden at 2632 W. Valley Blvd. Here you can eat in, take out, or even get delivery if you're within 3 miles of the restaurant. Start off with fried wontons, beef sticks, or egg rolls. There are nine soup options, including hot and sour, crab meat seafood soup, and egg flower soup. For your entrée, try one of the chef's suggestions, such as tangerine beef, sweet and pungent shrimp, or pork chop with spicy salt. Other entrees include sesame chicken, moo shu pork, and kung pao squid. Tasty Garden Check out a local favorite when you choose Tasty Garden, located at 288 W. Valley Blvd., Suite 110. Here you'll find authentic and Americanized Chinese options. Try something new with the marinated pig stomach or duck tongue with basil and black pepper for your appetizer. Entrees include options you know and love, as well as new favorites. Consider the shrimp and chicken with water chestnuts and asparagus, country style sweet and sour pork, or the sautéed frog with scallion. There are vegetarian options, such as deep-fried tofu in spicy salt or baby bok choy in garlic sauce. Jasmine House Chinese Cuisine Another great option if you're looking for takeout or delivery is Jasmine House Chinese Cuisine at 11 W. Main St. Try some appetizers such as the cream cheese wonton, cold spicy cucumber, or pan-fried dumplings. Soups here include wolfberry pork liver soup, tofu seaweed, or wonton soup. Try something to delight your taste buds with the chef's signature dishes, such as Peking duck, braised sea cucumber in brown sauce, or Zi Ran lamb. More commonly known options are available as well, including Szechuan garlic chicken, Mongolian beef, and honey-glazed walnut shrimp.   Whether you're in the mood for something you've had a hundred times or you are feeling adventurous, check out the best takeout Chinese food options in the Alhambra area. You'll get delicious food at great prices. With the quality and flavor, you'll want to try everything on the menu, no matter which Chinese restaurant you choose. Image “ chicken, cabbage egg roll” by stu_spivack, used under CC BY-SA 2.0 / Cropped from Original

The Dodge Challenger is a rear-wheel-drive coupe with the classic muscle car look and the power to go with it. It comes in a wide variety of trims and variants to change up the look and performance, and Dodge offers it with several different engine choices. Here are some of the coolest features of the 2017 Dodge Challenger. more The Exterior On the outside, the Challenger's throwback style includes a split grille and aggressive look that brings you back to the days of the muscle cars. For 2017, there are 14 different trims to choose from, and each has its own look, including the R/T with a modern-looking hood stripe or classic side stripes. Up front, depending on the trim, you'll have projector headlights with quad LED halo surrounds and the option to add fog lights. Add a shaker hood with cold-air induction to the R/T Shaker, or get the SRT with dual rear exhaust and 20-inch wheels. No matter which trim or configuration, the Challenger will look the part. The Engines The base engine is a 3.6-liter V6 with 305 horsepower and 268 pound-feet of torque. Bump up to the R/T for a 5.7-liter V8 that generates 372 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque, or the R/T Scat Pack for an even larger 6.4-liter V8. This produces 485 horsepower and 475 pound-feet of torque. If you want more speed than you know what to do with, then the SRT Hellcat is your car. This supercharged 6.2-liter V8 generates an incredible 707 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque. The Technology Even though the Challenger looks like a throwback to the 60s, it comes with the latest technology. Depending on the trim, you can get an 8.4-inch touch screen with the latest version of Chrysler's Uconnect infotainment system. This includes HD radio, satellite radio, and two USB ports along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Performance Features With powerful engines, you need performance equipment and brakes to go with them. The Challenger comes with a three-mode electronic stability control system that includes extreme cooling to make sure the engine stays cool. The Super Track Pack has a performance-tuned steering system along with 20-inch performance tires, steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, and Brembo six-piston brakes make sure you can slow down when you finally want to. The SRT 392 and the SRT Hellcat both come with one of the largest front brake systems in an FCA US car. Safety Features Safety is important when traveling at the speeds the Challenger is capable of, so Dodge made a rearview camera standard in all the models. Moreover, they made additional driver assist safety systems available. You can add forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams to almost all the trims. Other available safety features include blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert and rear parking sensors. These are just a few of the coolest features found on the 2017 Dodge Challenger. This iconic muscle car has a long list of additional options inside and out, and under the hood. Image “ Dodge Challenger SRT8” by Alexandre Prévot, used under CC BY-SA 2.0 / Cropped from Original

The thought of going on a vacation is exciting, but the thought of paying for a vacation is daunting. If you are ready to pack up and get away with friends or family, there are some things you can do to keep the costs down and make your vacation budget go further. more Drive Instead of Fly Instead of flying to your destination if you are staying in the states, consider driving there. You can use apps such as GasBuddy to find the cheapest gas near you, and then you can hit the road. You can even use GasBuddy or AAA TripTik Travel to decide where to go. Just put in how much gas you want to use, and the app will give you a list of destinations within your gas budget. Even if you're traveling a long distance, driving there adds to the experience. There is a lot to see across the states, and you can make it an adventure for the whole family. Travel With Friends It helps if you can split the cost of your trip with friends. If you are close enough, sharing a hotel room will cut your lodging costs in half, and if you want to travel with a large group, some airlines will offer discounts. Once you arrive at your destination, ask the hotel concierge, or use the internet to research group deals for local attractions. Visit National Parks The U.S. has thousands of national parks with beautiful scenery and lots of things to do. Moreover, they are cheaper to visit than many of the big amusement parks and attractions if you have kids. If you enjoy the outdoors, you can pay a small fee for entrance, and then enjoy a whole day or even a week of fun outside in the fresh air at a National Park. If you are a senior, it is even better. The America the Beautiful Senior Pass costs just $10 and allows you entrance into 2,000 national parks for the rest of your life. Use Your Smartphone There are so many apps available to help you find good deals, no matter where or how you travel. You can set up some apps to give you alerts when cheap airline tickets become available, or you can use a parking app to find good parking and a lower price in the city. Travel in the Off-Season One of the easiest ways to save a lot of money is to travel in the off-season. If you don't have to travel when the kids are out of school, try to book your vacation right before the peak season starts or just after it ends. Prices for hotels drop drastically if you travel to the beach in the fall or to the mountains in the summer. The weather is still nice, and most of the shops and restaurants are still open. You will save money and get excellent service since the crowds are gone. With just a little bit of planning and thinking outside the box, you can make your travel budget go much further. Image “ Road” by Janitors, used under CC BY 2.0 / Cropped from Original

The Chrysler Pacifica is an eight-passenger minivan that's loaded with technology and features. The 2017 Pacifica is an all-new model that replaces the Town & Country and brings Chrysler back to the forefront of the minivan market. This minivan has a sleek new look, and it even has a built-in vacuum cleaner. Here are some of the features that make the Chrysler Pacifica so appealing. The Interior Space The Pacifica's cabin is sleek and upscale with a luxury feel. Not only are the front seats comfortable, but the second and third row will also comfortably seat adult passengers. The second row offers the option for a removable center seat, so you can choose either seven- or eight-passenger seating. Behind the third row, there is an abundance of cargo space. The dashboard features a modern design complete with a rotary gear knob, and the entire cabin has an open feel. more The Technology You'll get the latest technology in the new Pacifica. It comes with Chrysler's latest edition of the Uconnect infotainment system and an 8.4-inch touch screen. In the back, there is an option to add the Uconnect Theater entertainment system. This comes with a Blu-ray disc player and two 10-inch display screens mounted in the back of the two front seats. This entertainment system also allows the passengers to plug in their own devices individually, including smartphones and game consoles. It even comes with some games built right into the system. The Engine and Performance All the Pacifica models come with the same 3.6-liter V-6 engine, which produces 287 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. They all have front-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic transmission with an automatic stop-start function to help conserve gas when the car's stopped at a light. You can expect to get 22 miles per gallon combined with 18 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway in the Pacifica. Safety Features There are plenty of standard safety features in this new minivan. It comes with traction and stability control, side curtain air bags, and knee air bags for both the front seat passengers. Blind-spot monitoring and a rear cross-traffic alert system are standard on all the models except the LX and Touring models, where you can add them as an option. The rear parking sensors have an automatic braking feature. This applies the brakes when the system detects an object, and the driver doesn't stop on his or her own. Trim Levels The Pacifica comes in five main trim levels. The base level LX has 17-inch wheels and heated mirrors, while the Touring model adds power-sliding doors. The Touring-L model gets you a power liftgate, and the Touring-L Plus upgrades the headlights and heated second-row seats. The top-level Limited trim comes with larger 18-inch wheels, a hands-free liftgate and sliding door, and two sunroofs. The new Pacifica has many features that make it appealing. Whether you have kids and need to transport them around town, or you just want the space and functionality of a minivan, the Pacifica has it all. Image “ Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid (plug-in hybrid)” by mariordo59, used under CC BY-SA 2.0 / Cropped from Original