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haunted

The 3 Best Haunted Attractions in Philadelphia

Halloween-lovers and thrill-seekers in Philadelphia should count themselves lucky, as this city is known for having some of the scariest haunted attractions in the country. With haunted historic sites, zombie laser tag, and a spooky ski ride, just to name a few, Philly has a haunt for everyone. But for the true fright enthusiasts, these three attractions are the scariest that Philadelphia has to offer. Terror Behind the Walls A historic site by day, Eastern State Penitentiary turns into a nightmare-inducing interactive haunted house during autumn nights. Visitors to Terror Behind the Walls can opt to just explore and watch the action, or truly experience the terror by becoming part of the story. Those who dare to choose the interactive option will take part in six attractions that send them into hidden passageways, have them team up with zombies, and, hopefully, escape. more Eastern State Penitentiary isn't all roses and sunshine during the daylight hours, either. Once home to such notorious criminals as Al Capone and Willie Sutton, this imposing former prison has been the focus of paranormal investigations since its closing in 1971. Terror Behind the Walls is open through November 5. Advance tickets range from $19 to $45, depending on the experience you choose. You can also buy tickets at the door, but they're more expensive and frequently sell out, so buying your tickets online is highly recommended. Pennhurst Asylum If a haunted house in an abandoned prison doesn't sound spooky enough, head to the Pennhurst Asylum in Spring City to experience a realistic, high-tech haunted house featuring human experiments gone wrong, lobotomized zombies, and a ghost hunt for real ghosts. Visitors brave enough to enter the Pennhurst Asylum will wander through original hospital rooms and cells, get chased down a 900-foot underground tunnel, and explore the eerie Mayflower Building dormitory, reportedly the most haunted section of the abandoned asylum. The Pennhurst Asylum's haunted house isn't all fiction: Originally named the Eastern Pennsylvania Institution for the Feeble-Minded and Epileptic, the asylum was shuttered in 1987 after allegations of inhumane conditions and cruel and unusual abuses. Ghost hunters have reported extensive paranormal activity at Pennhurst, including strange voices and reports of physical contact. Pennhurst Haunted Asylum is open through October 30, and tickets range from $15 to $75. Fright Factory Declared the scariest haunted attraction in Philadelphia, the 25,000-square-foot Fright Factory offers nonstop terror as you explore dark corridors, a demonic church, an evil circus, and more twisted attractions. This high-startle haunted house, set in an abandoned, decrepit warehouse, is designed to keep visitors on their toes and induce an ever-growing sense of panic. Whether it's actors jumping out from behind dark corners, sudden drops, or the desperate screams of victims echoing around you, Fright Factory is sure to have your hair standing on end. Fright Factory is open every Thursday to Sunday through October 30. Tickets range from $13 to $28 if purchased in advance, or $19 to $34 at the door. Discounts are available for college students, military, emergency responders, and groups of 15 or more people. Do you think you can handle the fear at these haunted attractions? There's only one way to find out ... Image by Mysticsartdesign, used under CCO 1.0

2017

4 Awesome Features of the 2017 Toyota Land Cruiser

The 2017 Toyota Land Cruiser comes with features designed to keep you safe and comfortable even when you decide to go off-road. If you're looking for a new SUV, take the 2017 Land Cruiser for a test drive and notice these four awesome features while you're behind the wheel. Plenty of Technology for Your Drive The 2017 Land Cruiser comes with an integrated navigation system to help you find the shortest, fastest route to your destination. The infotainment system has a 9-inch touchscreen display that makes it easy for you to control every aspect of your experience without taking your eyes off the road. The new Land Cruiser uses an Entune app suite that connects to your smartphone to stream music and find restaurants. It even lets you buy movie tickets. With this suite of apps, you stay connected no matter where you travel. more A Variety of Impressive Safety Features Toyota has loaded the new Land Cruiser with features to keep you and your passengers safe. The SUV comes standard with 10 airbags that are positioned to protect everyone in the vehicle during a collision. Toyota even includes roll-sensing side-curtain airbags. While it's unlikely that the Land Cruiser will roll over, if it does, you'll have protection from an airbag that few vehicles carry. Other important safety features to consider when buying a Land Cruiser include Toyota's blind spot monitoring system, rear cross-traffic alert, and the Star Safety System. The Star Safety System, which comes standard, offers a suite of advanced safety features like active traction control, electronic brake-force distribution, and brake assist. An Incredibly Comfortable Interior The Land Cruiser uses a 40/20/40 split rear seat configuration that can carry up to eight passengers comfortably. When you need extra room for cargo, just fold down some of the chairs. With an 81.7-cubic foot cargo capacity, you'll always have plenty of room for groceries, luggage, and camping gear. No matter where you sit, the Land Cruiser will make you feel at home. A four-zone automatic climate control lets passengers choose settings that match their preferences. Ventilated and heated seats add to the experience. Whether it's winter or summer, everyone feels comfortable. The Land Cruiser even comes with a rear-seat DVD entertainment system that comes in handy during long drives with the kids. The Perfect Amount of Power A 5.7-liter V8 engine gives the 2017 Land Cruiser 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. When properly equipped, the Land Cruiser can handle a maximum payload of 1,510 pounds or a maximum towing capacity of 8,100 pounds. In other words, you'll have more than enough power to tow a large boat. Of course, all that power also means you can tackle off-road conditions without getting stuck. Toyota designs each new version of the Land Cruiser to exceed expectations. This year, the Land Cruiser has more awesome features than ever. Once you experience them, you'll want to make the new Land Cruiser a part of your family. Image by Mizter_x94, used under CCO 1.0

cheesesteak

Where to Go for an Authentic Philly Cheesesteak

There are few things better than the greasy, delicious goodness of an authentic Philly cheesesteak. True connoisseurs of the drippy, cheesy bit of heaven understand that it starts with the right roll: crusty on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside, the better to absorb the sumptuous drippiness. Next, the perfect cheese. You can't use some high-brow artisan cheese. Only Cheez Whiz will do. Let's not forget that tender shredded steak diced with grilled onions. It's a party of flavors and textures and true Philadelphians know mayonnaise, tomato, and lettuce aren't invited. If you're tasting this deliciousness for the first time, know that you're stepping into a rivalry of epic proportions -- Geno's or Pats. If you're looking for an authentic Philly cheesesteak experience, you can't try just one of these hot spots. You must visit them all and then decide what team you're on. If this is your first time, you need to know two things: the ambiance of the restaurant doesn't matter, and Philadelphians are pretty impatient, so don't take a long time deciding on that order. more Tony Luke's It's not all about Geno's or Pat's. This south Philly institution is tucked next to an underpass for I-95. You won't find indoor dining, and the staff gives everyone a hard time, but the food is worth it. If you love it, you could own a Tony Luke's franchise. 39 E. Oregon Avenue. (215) 551-5725. Pat's King of Steaks Pat's started it all as a tiny market stall at the Italian Market, and now it's a Philly institution. Pat's steaks are more like an Italian beef sandwich with bigger slices and less dicing. Have some fun and tell them Geno sent you.  9th Street & Passyunk Avenue, (215) 468-1546. Dalessandro's Steaks While most of the cheesesteak joints are in south Philly, this one's in Roxborough. Still, it makes the list because of the gooey drip factor of their sandwiches. A cheesesteak is not about your finest cuts of meat or aged cheeses. It's the goo that makes it awesome, and Dalessandro's does that perfectly. 600 Wendover Street, (215) 482-5407. John's Roast Pork John's dices up their steaks and smothers them in cheese. But there are two things that set their sandwiches apart from the others -- their bread and the type of cheese. They use a sesame seed roll and provolone. The purists won't go for it, but it's a tasty sandwich nonetheless. 14 Snyder Avenue, (215) 463-1951. Geno's Steaks Putting the long-standing rivalry aside, the signage at Geno's alone is something to see, and it's right across the street from Pat's. Like Pat's, Geno's doesn't dice their beef as much as Dalessandro's. Geno's and Pat's are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for whenever you need your fix. 1219 S. 9th Street, (215) 389-0659. In order to appreciate a Philly cheesesteak, you must visit more than one restaurant. The rolls, the chop of the meat, and the cheese provide subtle differences. You'll need to taste them all to decide on your favorite and you'll love every second. Image by pizano13, used under CCO 1.0

family

The 4 Best Toyotas for Families

Choosing a Toyota vehicle for the family can be easy or difficult, depending on whichever way you look at it. Why? Because almost all Toyotas make good family cars. So it's easy because you're sure to find something that suits your family and hard because it's going to take a little time to decide with such a wide choice! So we've picked the top four best Toyotas for families to help make your decision easier. Best SUV: Toyota Highlander This three-row crossover SUV makes its way on to Kelley Blue Book's Best Family Cars list for the third consecutive year in a row. It seats eight comfortably and can even accommodate a family pet. Its spacious cabin's first two rows seat adults comfortably, with the third row better suited for kids, although adults can fit in that row at a squeeze. A great family feature of the XLE and Limited Platinum models is the option of adding a rear-seat entertainment system, which includes a Blu-ray DVD player so kids can be kept occupied on those long-distance journeys. more Best Minivan: Toyota Sienna The Toyota Sienna scores top marks in the minivan category for several reasons. For one, it's the only minivan in the U.S. with all-wheel drive. It also scores really well on the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) crash test performance. It's a wonderfully roomy van that seats eight comfortably. Plus, seats slide forward or back a lot farther than other vehicles in its class. This allows passengers more legroom or creates more space for extra cargo. The rear-entertainment system offers a dual-view Blu-ray DVD system which will put an end to the kids' squabbling over what to watch. Best Sedan: Toyota Camry No surprise that the 2016 Toyota Camry makes it on the list in the large family sedan category. This is, after all, America's best-selling car. While this is a practical car that makes it perfect for families, the new 2016 Camry is also sporting racier looks with a more prominent black mesh grille. It offers plenty of room with a generous back seat and 15 cubic feet of trunk space. A cool feature of the 2016 Camry is the Qi wireless charging pad — there's no hassle with cords, as you just place your phone on the tray and push the charge button. Looking for something with great fuel efficiency? Then opt for the Hybrid version. Overall, the Toyota Camry is sure to dominate the family sedan market well into the future. Best Budget: Toyota Corolla The trusty Corolla has been part of the Toyota lineup for decades. It's slightly smaller than the Camry but still offers enough space for smaller families at an affordable price. Renowned for its reliability, you can count on your Corolla to not leave you stranded by the side of the road. It also comes with several safety features, including eight airbags, brake assist, and smart stop technology. Overall, it may not come with all the bells and whistles, but if you're looking for more bang for your buck, this is a dependable and fuel-efficient, midsize family car that comes in at a great price. Still unsure? Then head down to Central City Toyota or your nearest Toyota dealer to view the full range of models. You'll find the Toyota that best suits your family, with ample space for the kids and family dog! Image by Free-Photos, used under CCO 1.0

gear

5 Signs Your Toyota Needs a Tuneup

Toyotas may not be the sexiest cars on the road, but they have built up a reputation as a solid, reliable car that rarely throws you down. Keeping it in tip-top condition by having it serviced at regular intervals will ensure you continue to enjoy many miles of drama-free driving. If you're a driver who notices the slightest change in your car noises or performance, you'll easily pick up when something is off with your vehicle. For those who aren't that "tuned in" to their car, here are some signs your Toyota needs a tuneup. Struggling to Start Toyotas are generally good when it comes to starting the minute you swing the ignition. If you've been experiencing trouble with starting your car, it's a sign that something's going on. There could be several reasons for this, like a battery that's fading, a defective starter, an ignition sensor malfunction, or a problem along the fuel line. A diagnostic check will reveal where the problem lies. Decreased Fuel Efficiency Most of us have a good idea of how much mileage we get out of a full tank. If you find yourself pulling into the gas station more often than usual, something is causing the decrease in fuel efficiency. It could be something as simple as incorrect tire pressure or dirty spark plugs. But rather than plowing your hard-earned money into the gas tank, spend it fixing the problem and save money on fuel in the long run. Misfiring of Engine An engine misfire often means a problem with the spark plugs, and that's a clear signal your car needs a tuneup. Over time, spark plugs become worn, fouled, or damaged. Other reasons for a misfire could be that the air/fuel mix is too lean (meaning there is too little gasoline in the mix to burn) or there's loss of compression due to a blown gasket or burned valve. Sluggish Acceleration Bad spark plugs can also be the culprit when you find your car battling to accelerate. But one of the first things a mechanic will investigate is the fuel system. It could mean the fuel filter, fuel pump, or fuel injection system is at fault. A dirty air filter could also be the problem. Loss of power when accelerating is irritating but can also be hazardous, as the driver behind you may not be expecting such a slow takeoff and end up slamming into you. Noisy or Poor Brakes Brakes are super important, as they are crucial in safe driving. The last thing you want is to have the car's brakes fail on you. Sometimes a squeak could be something as innocuous as dirty brakes. But if your brakes are squealing, you're experiencing that "spongy" feeling, or you need to pump the brakes more than once to get them to respond, it's probably time to replace the brake pads, rotors, or brake fluid. As a car owner, none of these points should be a surprise, as they are obvious symptoms your car is a little under the weather and needs a quick visit to the car doctor. In addition, make sure to keep an eye on warning lights. If they light up, don't ignore it — check it out sooner rather than later. Image by OpenClipart-Vectors, used under CCO 1.0

brunch

Top 5 Brunch Spots in Philadelphia

Brunch is not something reserved only for trendy New Yorkers, although that is where brunch culture seems to have first gained a following in America. As with many other trends in the U.S., brunch first became fashionable along the coastal areas (most notably New York and Los Angeles) before slowly working its way inland. Today, meeting friends for brunch is common, with the more popular eateries being fully booked every weekend. Philadelphia's brunch culture is thriving, and several restaurants have gained a reputation for serving up spectacular brunches. Lacroix at the Rittenhouse Located in Rittenhouse Square, Lacroix is part of the luxurious Rittenhouse Hotel. The quality of food to be enjoyed at Lacroix matches its upmarket surroundings. Here you will enjoy fine dining with an extensive brunch menu that includes oysters, foie gras, house-cured charcuterie meats, and even caviar. The build-your-own Bloody Mary bar and liquid nitrogen ice cream are two of their signature offerings. It's pricey but well worth the experience. more Sabrina's Cafe Sabrina's has five spots around the city, with all five being hugely popular, so you can expect a wait. The Stuffed French Toast is a winner. This is also a great venue for vegetarians, as there are several veggie meals on the menu. To snag a seat sooner, you can call ahead and get your name on the list to reduce your wait time. Green Eggs Cafe No green eggs and ham to be found at this top brunch spot in Philadelphia. What you will love is the Crème Brûlée French Toast, Red Velvet Pancakes, Chicken and Waffles Benedict, and an amazing selection of gourmet coffee that includes a crème brûlée latte, cookie dough latte, caramel cappuccino, and an apple pie latte (yes, you read that right!). For the ravenous, you can order "The Kitchen Sink" — a hearty breakfast with three scrambled eggs topped with sausage crumbles, Gruyère cheese, potatoes, peppers, onions, accompanied by a pork sausage and homemade jumbo biscuit. Parc Brasserie French-inspired Parc, also on Rittenhouse Square, offers a Parisian bistro-style atmosphere with plenty of outdoor seating and a great view of the square. The baguettes are baked in-house and their bread baskets are outstanding — great with either a cheese or charcuterie platter. Here you'll find typical French offerings, like Quiché Lorraine, Eggs en Cocotte (trout caviar), Eggs Benedict, a great Lobster Tartine, and, of course, good ole French toast. The Dandelion From France to Britain, The Dandelion is a British-inspired pub restaurant perfect for a boozy brunch. They have a wide selection of beers, drafts, and ciders plus some interesting cocktails, like the King Henry's Kick and Iron Lady (no doubt named after Margaret Thatcher). Some traditional British staples are found here, like Scones & Jam, Bangers & Mash, and Lamb Shepherd's Pie. Naturally, tea is another beverage on the menu — sip on Twinnings, Darjeeling Earl Grey, or English Breakfast. When it comes to brunch, Philadelphia certainly does not disappoint. These are just five of many restaurants to explore that serve up the most delicious mid-morning treats. Image by PublicDomainPictures, used under CCO 1.0

walk

The 5 Coolest Walking Tours in Philadelphia, PA

With a city rich in history like Philadelphia, you don't have to go far to find some fascinating sights. If you truly want to experience everything the city has to offer, check out one of these great walking tours. City Food Tours Learn more about the foods made famous in Philadelphia while getting a chance to burn off the calories you'll get from sampling them with City Food Tours. Food experts will give you a behind-the-scenes look at making these foods and offer interesting stories about the creation of some of the most popular foods. You can choose from six tours, including the Flavors of Philly Tour, which has stops with famous Philadelphia treats like cheesesteaks and soft pretzels. All the tours have less than 30 minutes of walking but over two hours of good eating. more Grim Philly Twilight Tours If you want to send a shiver down your spine as you learn more about Philadelphia, book a spot on the Grim Philly Twilight Tours. On these adults-only tours, you'll learn about pirates, gangsters, serial killers, grave robbers, vampires, ghost hunters, and more. There's even a Bootlegger's Ball Prohibition Pub Crawl tour, where you can enjoy a few drinks and snacks as you tour three taverns with a seedy history in bootlegging and Colonial brewing. Researched and developed by university professor Joe Wojie, this tour offers a sensational look at the city's dark past. Tippler's Tour Between May and December, the over-21 crowd can learn more about Philadelphia's brewing past with three seasonally appropriate walking tours from Tippler's Tour Colonial Pub Crawl, including Ben's Kites and Flights in the summer, Ghosts and Toasts in the fall, and Yuletide Cheers and Beers in the winter. On these tours, you'll stop by four modern bars and one Colonial tavern to sample drinks and snacks, sing 18th-century drinking songs, and listen to stories about the drinking traditions in Colonial America. The tours cover about seven blocks and last around two hours. Mural Arts Tour With over 3,500 murals throughout the city, the Mural Arts Tour lets you discover what many call the world's largest outdoor art gallery. The tours occur year-round, and trained guides will take you along the streets to different murals so you can learn how the artists created them, the story behind the mural, and the history of the community where the mural is located. The tour goes for about one mile and lasts between an hour and a half and two hours. The Constitutional Walking Tour of Philadelphia If you want to explore the birthplace of America and learn the interesting facts behind some of Philadelphia's famous landmarks, head straight to The Constitutional Walking Tour of Philadelphia. This 1.25-mile, 75-minute outdoor walking tour takes you to 20 of the most historic sites in the city, including the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Betsy Ross House, and the First Bank of the United States. This tour occurs every day from April through November. Whether you want to check out the good food, sample some drinks, or learn more about the city's history, these Philadelphia walking tours will give you a unique experience. Image by Fotorech, used under CCO 1.0

liberty

The 5 Best Attractions in Philadelphia, PA

With over 40 million visitors every year, it's no surprise that Philadelphia has some incredible attractions to see. Whether you're interested in American history, world history, or great food, these are five of the best attractions worth seeing in Philadelphia. more Independence National Historical Park Independence National Historical Park is a 55-acre park that preserves many sites central to the American Revolution. The centerpiece of the park is Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were debated and signed by the Founding Fathers. Across the street from Independence Hall is Liberty Bell Center, home to the iconic Liberty Bell. The park also contains the First Bank of the United States, Carpenters' Hall, which was the site of the First Continental Congress, a recreated tavern, and more. Reading Terminal Market Open since 1892, Reading Terminal Market is the oldest indoor public market in the United States. If you're interested in trying out some of the city's famous foods, including pretzels, hoagies, and cheesesteaks, this is the place to go. Here you'll find over 100 merchants that offer everything from fresh meats, fish, produce, and artisan cheese, to clothing, books, crafts, and more. Every Wednesday and Saturday, you can also go on a 75-minute walking tour and learn about the history and food of this vibrant market. The Philadelphia Zoo The 42-acre Philadelphia Zoo is the first zoo in the United States and is home to over 1,300 animals, including many endangered species. Along with famous exhibits such as the Rare Animal Conservation Center, First Niagara Big Cat Falls, and McNeil Avian Center, one of the zoo's latest features is the Zoo360 Exploration Trails. This new experience lets you view animals like never before, including seeing lions, tigers, and other big cats right above your head in the 330-foot mesh-engineered overhead passageway. The Franklin Institute Named after statesman and scientist Benjamin Franklin, The Franklin Institute is a premier science museum and one of the oldest science centers in the country. The child-friendly exhibits include the Giant Heart, which is a walk-through replica of the human heart; Space Command, which features real space suits and lets guests view their houses in real time with a satellite; and the rooftop observatory, which, on a clear day, gives you the opportunity to view stars, planets, nebulae, and possibly even a few galaxies. Philadelphia Museum of Art If you're a fan of the Rocky film franchise, you might find it hard not to recreate the famous training regimen on the steps in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. However, it's worth a look inside the museum, as well. It has over 200 galleries that showcase more than 227,000 pieces of American, European, and Asian works of art. Along with paintings, drawings, photographs, and textiles, the museum also has a collection of armor that spans several centuries. If you're planning a trip to Philadelphia, make sure you take time to visit these top five attractions so you can learn more about this spirited city. Image by skeeze, used under CCO 1.0

spotify

The 5 Best Apps for Streaming Music

Nothing goes better with a drive than some good music. Whether you're simply driving around town or you're on a big road trip, check out these best apps for streaming music so you never have to miss out on your favorite tunes. more 1. Spotify If you like sharing what you're listening to with your friends, Spotify is an excellent app to have. Available free on both Apple and Android devices, this app lets you share what you're listening to on social media websites and lets you check out your friends' playlists so you can discover new music. With the free version of the app, you can play any playlist, artist, or album in shuffle mode. Or for $9.99 a month, you can play any song on any device at any time, enjoy ad-free music, and listen offline. 2. Apple Music Apple's own streaming music service, Apple Music, charges $9.99 for a monthly subscription or $14.99 for the family plan. With this subscription, you get access to a huge amount of music from the company's artist collection. You can create custom playlists based on your favorite artists and listening habits, and you can download music to listen to offline. You also get access to Beats 1, which is a worldwide radio station that has celebrity deejays sharing their favorite hits 24 hours a day. The app is compatible with Apple and Android devices. 3. Google Play Music If you choose to use the free version of Google Play Music, you can create ad-supported playlists based on an artist, song, album, genre, decade, activity, and more. You can also upload 50,000 of your own songs and listen to them across all your connected Apple or Android devices. If you want to pay the $9.99 a month subscription, you'll enjoy uninterrupted, ad-free listening; you can skip as many songs as you'd like when you're listening; and you get instant access to over 35 million songs. 4. Pandora Pandora is ideal for getting that perfectly personalized playlist. Simply type in an artist or song title, and the app will create a playlist based on that genre. Give each song a thumb up or a thumb down, and the app will learn what kind of music you like and tailor your playlist accordingly. You can download the app and listen for free but with ads; pay $0.99 to go ad-free for one day, or pay $4.99 a month and go completely ad-free. Pandora is available for both Apple and Android devices. 5. iHeartRadio Do you have a favorite radio station in a city you moved away from that you'd love to listen to again? Simply download iHeartRadio free on either your Apple or Android device and start listening to live radio feeds from cities around the world. While not every radio station is available, and you do have to listen to ads, you can also create a custom playlist based on an artist, song title, or activity. When you're on the road and looking for a great app to stream music, check out one of these five options. Image by StockSnap, used under CCO 1.0

savings

5 Ways to Save on Car Expenses

Owning a car is a large financial responsibility. In fact, AAA estimates that a car costs around $8,558 a year in upkeep. However, there are easy and simple techniques to save on car expenses. If you're looking for ways you can save money when it comes to your car, keep reading for some helpful tips. 1. Use Apps to Save Money on Gas If you're looking to save money on gas, consider using an app or website that shows you the gas prices of stations around you. Just remember, you shouldn't drive to a cheaper gas station that's out of your way. Try to combine all your errands when you're driving so you don't have to make extra trips. more 2. Change Your Driving Habits Another way to save money on gas is to change the way you drive. Rapid acceleration, hard braking, and speeding will quickly waste gas and can lower your gas mileage by 33 percent on the highway. Your gas mileage also decreases every time you drive over 50 miles per hour. Finally, if you're parked and waiting, you'll save more fuel if you turn off your car. Restarting your car uses about 10 seconds worth of fuel while idling can use up to a half-gallon of fuel every hour. 3. Reconsider Your Insurance Needs There are multiple ways to save on car insurance if you know what questions to ask. If you work from home or drive less than 5,000 miles a year, see if your insurance company offers a discount. Also, ask your insurer about bundling policies. Insuring your house and car with one company could save you around 10 percent a year. Don't forget to mention safety features in your car and home, such as air bags and smoke detectors, which can get you additional discounts. 4. Learn Basic Car Maintenance While there are certain maintenance tasks that are better left to the professionals, there are also ones you can easily do on your own. When you complete these maintenance tasks on your own, you only have to pay for the cost of the parts and you save on labor. For example, it's very simple to change the air filter in your vehicle, and this will keep your engine clean and improve fuel economy. Check your local dealership for the parts you need. 5. Read the Manual for Maintenance Timeline When you do need to take your car to a professional for maintenance, make sure you read the owner's manual so you know what needs to be completed and when. While conventional wisdom states that a vehicle's oil needs to be changed every 3,000 miles, newer cars and synthetic oils can easily get between 5,000 and 10,000 miles before needing an oil change. By following the correct oil change schedule recommended for your car, you can save around $30 for each change. Whether you're looking for tips on how to save on gas or routine car maintenance, these techniques can help you save on car expenses. Image by stevepb, used under CCO 1.0

road

How the 2017 Toyota TRD Pro Will Change Off-Roading

Whether you live in Walnut Hill, University City, or South Philadelphia, sometimes you just need to escape the city for awhile. Fortunately, the new Toyota TRD Pro Series makes it easy to go off the beaten path. Get to know the TRD Pro Series, learn how this technology takes off-roading to the next level, and find the right Toyota TRD Pro vehicle for you. What's Under the Hood of the TRD Pro Series You'll recognize a Toyota TRD Pro Series vehicle right away. The Tundra has an oversized grille, black-bezel headlights, and 18-inch black alloy wheels. The 4Runner features similar headlights, 17-inch matte black TRD alloy wheels, and all-terrain tires. Both models boast seriously impressive power under the hood. The Tundra's 5.7-liter V8 engine pairs with its dual-exhaust system for 400 lb-ft of torque and a roar you won't be able to ignore. The 4Runner TRD Pro comes standard with a 4.0-liter V6 engine with 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. Choose from a part-time or full-time four-wheel drive system to give your truck or SUV the added traction it needs. more How TRD Pro Vehicles Take Off-Roading to the Next Level With the TRD Pro Series, off-roading can be as extreme as you want it to be. Extra ground clearance means rocks, sand, and water won't get in your way or slow you down Bilstein shocks with TRD-tuned front springs make every ride a smooth one, and the exclusive aluminum front skid plate protects everything under the hood from punctures and other road hazards. Technology like Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control let you choose from four different modes so you have total control over wheelspin, engine throttle, and braking pressure for optimal traction in any type of terrain. With electronically controlled Locking Rear Differential, you can even get added traction in a pinch, simply by pushing a button. From epic mountains to sand dunes to rocky streams, TRD Pro Series vehicles can handle it all. Best Ways to Deck Out Your Tundra or 4Runner TRD Pro Get just the off-road vehicle you want with the TRD Pro Series' standard and available features. The Toyota Tundra TRD Pro is available in either CrewMax or double cab and comes standard with a deck rail system, 38-gallon fuel tank, and tow package. You'll also get an Integrated Trailer Brake Controller, a fixed center console, and an automatically dimming rearview mirror. The 4Runner TRD Pro comes standard with automatic on and off headlights, SofTex-trimmed heated front seats, an eight-way power driver's seat, a 40/20/40 split foldable second-row seat, and a TRD shift knob. Toyota Entune premium audio with integrated navigation is also standard, and you can easily access this infotainment system from the standard 6.1-inch high-resolution touchscreen. Add the optional rigid running boards and under-floor cargo storage to build just the custom 4Runner you want. From heavy-duty trucks to rugged SUVs, you'll love the Toyota TRD Pro Series. Get behind the wheel of a TRD Pro 4Runner or Tundra today, and see how Toyota is changing off-roading. Image by kaboompics, used under CCO 1.0

garden

The 5 Most Beautiful Parks and Gardens in Philadelphia

From Philly cheese steak to art to rich history, visiting and exploring Philadelphia is both exciting and entertaining. One unique and beautiful aspect of Philadelphia is the variety of parks and gardens scattered throughout the city. While some are more popular than others, each provides a breath of fresh air amid a sea of greenery. We've highlighted some of our favorite gardens and parks in Philadelphia. Morris Arboretum If you're looking for a Victorian garden landscape, then take a stroll around Morris Arboretum at the University of Pennsylvania. Here you can go back in time and view classical English landscape structures and sculptures. This 92-acre arboretum also features a formal rose garden, majestic old trees, a garden railway display, and unique plants from all over the world. Plus, you'll get a bird's-eye view of the forest on the 450-foot Tree Adventure canopy walk. more Bartram's Garden Also known as the birthplace of American gardening, Bartram's Garden was first purchased in 1728 as a 102-acre farm. Located along the west bank of the lower Schuylkill River, the garden offers incredible views of Pennsylvania's landscape. Here you can go on a morning bird walk, catch the light river breeze, and stroll through the kitchen and flower gardens. Plus, you can visit the riverside meadow that's filled with different wild grasses and wildflowers. Independence National Historical Park History buffs will definitely want to visit the birthplace of American democracy. The Independence National Historical Park is located in the same area that saw the nation through its founding. Home to the Liberty Bell Center, Independence Hall, Congress Hall, the New Hall Military Museum, Franklin Court, and more, this park will definitely leave you feeling inspired and proud to be an American. The Five Squares Philadelphia is home to five distinctly different squares designed by William Penn. Franklin Square is a favorite destination, with entertaining features such as a fountain, a miniature golf course, a carousel, and a picnic area. At Washington Square, you'll find big leafy trees and a quiet place to think. Rittenhouse Square, filled with trees, bushes, and sculptures, is a hide-and-go-seek player's dream come true. Logan Circle (Northwest Square) is best known for the massive Swann Memorial Fountain at its center. Finally, Centre Square is home to City Hall, Philadelphia's version of a grand medieval palace. Shofuso Japanese House and Garden This natural area in Fairmount Park is both serene and elegant. It features 1.2 acres of beautiful and peaceful gardens, a koi pond, and a magnificent 75-year-old weeping cherry tree. Here you can also tour the teahouse and admire its traditional Japanese-style architecture and landscaping. Those looking for an international adventure will find one right here in their backyard. Whether you explore one or more of these locations or have already found your perfect Philadelphia spot, we know that whatever garden or park you go to, you'll be met with a relaxing atmosphere, beauty, and history. Image by NeuPaddy, used under CCO 1.0

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