Blog

If you're in the market for a midsize vehicle, Toyota loaded the Highlander with many attractive features. Check out these three reasons you should drive the 2017 Toyota Highlander. 1. Save on Fuel Engine and transmission enhancements help the Highlander get above-average fuel economy. In the city, the Highlander averages about 20 miles per gallon, which increases to as much as 27 miles per gallon on the highway, depending on the model. 2. Safety First The Highlander has a long list of standard safety features. From adaptive cruise control and pedestrian detection to lane departure alert with steering assist, each Toyota Safety Sense feature helps prevent accidents and keep your family safe. Dynamic cruise control automatically adjusts to keep a certain distance between your car and the one in front of you, while automatic high beams turn on and off when oncoming vehicles are 2,000 feet away. 3. Quiet and Comfortable Interior With a spacious interior that fits up to eight people and plenty of room for cargo, the Highlander is perfect for the family on the go. Reclining third-row seats and optional heated captain's chairs in the second row make for a comfortable ride. Thanks to special insulation on the floor and acoustic-type windshield glass, the Highlander is an especially quiet ride. In-seat entertainment, an optional panoramic moon roof, and five USB ports round out the interior features. With a focus on fuel economy, safety, and comfort, the Toyota Highlander is an ideal choice for a midsize family vehicle. https://www.flickr.com/photos/danielctw/2552715259/sizes/m/ Image via Flickr by danielctw

Toyota prides itself on putting people's safety first when it comes to making vehicles. In fact, no car manufacturer has more 2017 Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick Plus winners than Toyota for vehicles equipped with optional front crash prevention and specific headlights. Check out four of Toyota’s safest models: 1. Camry Toyota's popular midsize car made its debut in 1983 and is the best-selling passenger car in the United States. Following a redesign for 2018, the Camry has a funky new look and improved handling. Equipped with Toyota Safety Sense, the new Camry also includes more standard safety features. 2. Corolla First introduced to the world in 1966, the Toyota Corolla is the best-selling car in the world. Available in seven models, the Corolla is a stylish and conservative compact car with a fuel economy that averages about 27 miles per gallon in the city. 3. Prius V Debuting in 2012, the Prius V boasts 34 cubic feet of cargo capacity and the fuel economy of a hybrid. Combined with a spacious and quiet interior, the Prius V is the ideal utility vehicle. 4. RAV4 Toyota's first compact crossover SUV, the RAV4, came to the North America in 1995. Offering the comfort and convenience of a compact car with four-wheel-drive capabilities and ample storage space, the RAV4 is perfect for both urban adventurers and young families. Toyota makes many vehicles that earn safety recognition awards around the world, including these four safest Toyota models. https://www.flickr.com/photos/lakpura/15861162073/sizes/m/ Image via Flickr by lakpuratravels

Toyota decided to hit it out of the park on the style front with the new Toyota Corolla XSE. Far from the soft and rounded shapes of previous models, this one takes sharp features and a slightly intimidating silhouette to the next level. But the Corolla XSE is not just a pretty face, it also happens to pack some other features that will make car enthusiasts sit up and take notice. It Feels Like You’re Driving on a Cloud Forget the early days before power steering or choosing your drive train. The 2017 Toyota Corolla XSE takes all the work out of driving and turns it into a pleasurable ride akin to that of a luxury model. It takes on corners, hills, and the open road with ease. The Designers Paid Attention to the Interior Apart from all the modifications in the exterior design of the Corolla XSE, the interior reflects a calm and peaceful palette of neutral tones. Clear lines ensure this sense of calm continues as the center console and counters all benefit from a less-is-more approach. The result? An uncluttered haven of pure driving pleasure. Comfort for Passengers Too It’s not often that car manufacturers remember the rear-seat passengers, especially in sedans. The sheer size of the rear seating area and comfort just highlights why Toyota is still a formidable force in the car industry. This is the ideal run around and works well for those who face a long commute to work every day as it features 31 miles per gallon consumption. Classic features and a reliable brand make this a good option for those looking for a vehicle in the starting MSRP of $22,680 range. Image via Flickr by Zytonits

The 2018 Toyota Camry is a model that deserves a double take, amping up the power and the style quotient to claim its rightful spot as one of Toyota’s best. Discover some of the reasons why you simply need to get your hands on the latest Toyota has to offer. An Appearance of Belonging The first thing you notice when the light hits the podium and the car comes into focus is the impressive grille. The shape of the car is sleeker and more aerodynamic and is easy on the eye. The pinched look of the nose and trunk area have all but disappeared. A Sporty Approach The 2018 Toyota Camry offers a slightly more sporty approach to the road. It provides Toyota with the ammo it needs to make the Camry a formidable force on the market once again. Sporty also means speed and Toyota brings that to the table with its specialty models. These models feature a V6, four-cylinder engine that pushes out 301 horsepower, compared to the base model's 206 horsepower. As one of Toyota’s best sellers for a number of years, the 2018 Toyota Camry carries forth the torch of smooth and reliable traveling. Comfort and space ensure that this is the ideal match for those who wish to do their daily commute, as well as those who want to take to the open road. Toyota also claims better fuel efficiency which makes us wait in anticipation for the final numbers. Image via Flickr by Zytonits

The open road is not the only place travelers may experience a bit of roadside drama. Disaster can strike locally too, which means you should pack an emergency kit that accounts for your personal situation, local weather conditions, and travel destination. Here are two different lists to use in your planning. Staying Local but Racking up Miles Travelers who don’t take to the open road may find themselves in a predicament when a convenience store, medical center, or pharmacy isn’t within a quick walking distance. Things that should always be in an emergency kit, apart from tire-changing equipment, include: First aid items such as bandages, antiseptic lotions, and gauze A fire extinguisher A flashlight and batteries Multipurpose tool and fresh drinking water Those who are on medication should also have some locked away in the glove compartment or a small lock box. Heading for the Open Road Apart from the items above, drivers should pack a few additional items for longer journeys. It’s not enough to prepare for the destination, but also all the areas in between. This means thermal blankets for extreme weather, ice scrapers, and some non-perishable, ready-to-eat food items. Other items that go a long way include: Foam tire sealant A tow strap or rope Duct tape, and more These items can make the difference between a safe journey and a very long, uncomfortable wait for assistance. Travelers are recommended to invest in thermal clothing and rain ponchos for adverse weather the ensure they remain dry as the heater can deplete battery life. Image via Flickr by dlg_images

Visiting Conecuh National Forest is a chance to experience unrivaled natural beauty. The thousands of guests that flock to and through it each year are a testament to this. The forest creates the perfect backdrop to a great family vacation or even a semi-permanent residence for RV enthusiasts. Discover some of the best things to see in Alabama’s best-kept secret. A Feast for Botanists What better place for a botanist to discover unique and possibly undiscovered species than in a forest? The Conecuh National Forest is home to magnolia, dogwood, holly, cypress, and Longleaf pine. The forest also has a cypress forest around a pond that tends to be a draw for photographers and hobbyists too. Ponder Deep Thoughts on Scenic Shores With no shortage of recreational waters in the forest, guests enjoy scenic lakes, ponds, and springs. The lakes and ponds offer boating, fishing and kayaking opportunities. For those who prefer to stand on the shore and simply take in the beauty, there is Blue Spring, a crystal-clear natural spring. The Home of Many Creatures The abundance of trees and natural cover provide the ideal habitat for many local critters and birds. Sightings often include some exciting bird species that are merely traveling through the forest, which is a treat for birdwatchers. The Conecuh National Forest is the ideal location for those who wish to visit it for the day or those who wish to stay a little longer. Ample facilities for campers and RVs ensure that the visit to the forest is one to remember. Image via Flickr by noahbloom

Endless soft white beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see is one of the first images that come to mind when a trip to Panama City Beach is in the cards. Although beaches are a big part of the reason guests flock to this destination year-on-year, there are plenty of other great reasons to pack a travel bag and head on down to the coast. Fun Attractions for the Whole Family Instead of spending all that time on the beach catching up on tanning, spend some time exploring some of the best attractions in the area. Shipwreck Island Waterpark is a delight for young and old with wave pools, slides, zip lines, and more. The Science and Discovery Center of Northwest Florida and the Museum of Man in the Sea are two more items to place on an itinerary. Explore the Great Big Blue What is a visit to these endless white beaches without exploring the waters, too? Take a luxurious trip around the coastline on a catamaran or charter a fishing boat to reel in some prize fish. Charters are also ideal for spotting some of the local wildlife such as sea turtles and dolphins. It’s Not All Beaches and Waves Panama City Beach offers some of the best local parks and it’s all due to the location. Guests enjoy guided trails and occasionally spot wildlife such as deer and alligators. Some of the parks include St. Andrews State Park and Camp Helen State Park. Panama City Beach is known for outdoor fun and providing great locations for the whole family. It also offers ample shopping and dining opportunities, which make it a destination of choice. Image via Flickr by MyDiscoveryTV

Many of the folks who haven't tried Adventureland in Dothan wonder what you can do there, and which attractions are the most fun. Here are three great reasons to check out this indoor and outdoor family park. Bumper Boats These are no ordinary bumper cars. Perfect for the summer, this is great to cool down as you chase around your friends and shoot them with the water blasters installed on the front of each boat. Plus, if you get knocked out of your vehicle, you just end up in the water. As long as your kids can swim, this is safer than landing on asphalt with ordinary bumper car arenas. Just be sure to pack a change of clothes! Mini Golf People of all ages can bond over a little mini golf, and Adventureland offers multiple 18-hole courses full of wacky and colorful obstacles. On the last hole, you could even win free tokens for the arcade! Speaking of which... Video Arcade Adventureland has the coolest video arcade in Dothan, and the best value for your money when it comes to tickets. You can get 111 tickets for only $20, giving an extra-large family more than enough for everybody to play what they want. Pull up electronic gadgets with the giga-crane or win big at the other games to earn snazzy prizes. There are all sorts of other fun things waiting at Adventureland as well, from the batting cages to go-cart racing. Skip the long, boring trip to a gigantic, expensive theme park and spend your day off at somewhere just as fun! Image via Flickr by Au Kirk

In Alabama, college football and basketball are religions. If you aren't yelling out "Roll Tide" at least once a week, chances are you're probably a bit of an outcast. The next time you want to watch the big game, Dothan has plenty of places to catch all the action. Here are just a few of the best places to celebrate with all your fellow Crimson Tide fans. Alabama Slammers Sports Bar Named after the delicious Alabama Slammer cocktail that pairs perfectly with a football game, Alabama Slammers Sports Bar in Dothan is the premier place to watch every Hail Mary or buzzer beater. It has a ton of televisions, so there's not a bad seat in the house, plus there's ice-cold beverages and delicious pub food such as burgers, wraps, and sandwiches. On nongame days, the bar also hosts karaoke and live music. Recovery Room Bar If you're searching for a place to watch the game with some upscale flair, head over to the Recovery Room Bar. This bar has dozens of televisions to watch the game and the largest craft beer selection in the city. During halftime, it's also a superb place to play a game or two of billiards, or if you're in the mood, head out to the back patio with a few friends and try your luck at the giant Jenga game. Whether you want a more passive or active role during the game, Recovery Room Bar has you covered. No matter where you decide to go to watch the game, these two spots deliver where it counts. All you'll have to do is dress in your crimson red and get ready for a great time.   Image via Flickr by tujabro_99

Although New York City is probably the mecca of delis in the United States, that doesn't mean you can't find some great sandwich shops throughout the country. One of those places is Dothan, Alabama. Although it's a town of only about 100,000 people, Dothan offers some great takes on classic sandwiches. If you have a hankering for delicious meats and vegetables between two slices of bread, don't miss out on these delectable Dothan delis. Chicken Salad Chick If you don't like chicken salad sandwiches, don't let this name scare you. This restaurant will forever change the way you look at chicken salad. With 16 chicken salad choices ranging from sweet to tangy and savory, Chicken Salad Chick has perfected the art of the chicken salad. For those that just aren't in the mood for change or want a classic sandwich, there are traditional offerings such as a turkey hoagie or pimento cheese. Richie B's Owned by a former resident of New York City, Richie B's is perhaps more known for its pizza, yet many patrons claim it has the best sandwiches in the South. Although it famously hails from Philadelphia, Richie B's serves up arguably one of the best cheesesteaks in the country, loaded with meaty, cheesy goodness. Perhaps Philly residents may scoff at the thought of an Alabama deli with the best cheesesteak, but when you try it, you'll know why it's legit. The next time you're in search of the world's greatest sandwich, you don't have to book a ticket somewhere. Instead, just check out these two amazing Dothan delis.   Image via Flickr by Lara604

One of the most common perceptions is that being a designated driver is lame. You don't get to party with your friends, and you're stuck babysitting adults. However, this doesn't have to happen to you. There are many ways to make your time as the designated driver enjoyable without compromising the safety of your party. Here are a few ideas to get you started. Try New Beverages Just because you aren't drinking alcohol doesn't mean you can't have a few awesome drinks. Most bars offer non-alcoholic versions of their signature or traditional cocktails. At other establishments, you might also have the opportunity to try shakes, malts, smoothies, or soda. No matter what you choose, your taste buds will do the cha-cha. Head to Karaoke If you can convince your friends, one of the most fun places to go whether you're drinking or not is karaoke. It gives you the chance to belt out your favorite tunes while adding some dance moves and hand motions. Plus, your friends will do far more interesting versions of popular songs, regardless of whether it's a song in their vocal range or not. Play Some Bar Games Most bars have games for patrons to play during their visit, including pool, darts, video games, and shuffleboard. Some even started to offer board games, which are even more fun to play with a big group of friends. No matter what your game of choice, it's a great way to curb boredom and inject a little life into the party. The next time it's your turn to drive sober, follow these tips and you're sure to have a fun, memorable evening.   Image via Flickr by fredcamino

No matter what season it is, you need windshield wipers that are up to the task. Rain, snow, and ice can cause problems, limiting your visibility and putting your safety in jeopardy. That's why it's important to change them at least once a year, and preferably every six months. If you've never changed your wiper blades before, here's a guide to replace them quickly and hassle-free. Buy the Right Replacement Before you tackle the job of removing your wiper blades, you should first purchase new ones. You can go about this several ways. The first option is to measure the wiper blade and take the measurements to an auto parts store. However, the easier way is to go to the same store, give the clerk your vehicle make and model, and they'll get you the correct size. Removing the Old Wiper To start the process, you need to remove the old wiper blades. Start by lifting the windshield wiper blade away from the glass. If you look at the underside of the wiper, you'll notice a small tab. When pressed, you can easily slide the wiper blade off the metal wiper arm. Putting on the New Blade To install the new blade, find the part of the wiper arm where you removed the old wiper blade. Then, take the new arm and gently wiggle it into place. Eventually the hook will snap it into place, and you can lower the blade back onto the windshield. Don't take your windshield wiper blades for granted. For only about $15 and a simple installation process, you can guarantee your safety and visibility throughout the year.   Image via Flickr by State Farm