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Best Destinations for SOLO Travelers of All Ages

Posted on April 8, 2021April 8, 2021 by boscovstravel

People say traveling alone can really make a person grow. That all is great and sounds fun, but right away a fear sets in for me because I’m going to be alone! Is it safe to travel alone? Who will I talk to? All these questions run through my head. But so do the thoughts of “I can do whatever I want, when I want!” It gets me thinking what places are great to travel to if you are a solo traveler. This blog maps out what we think are the best places and best types of travel for people when traveling alone.

So, let’s get into what places we think are great destinations for you to travel to if you’re wanting a solo trip.

Iceland – This is on the top of our list and a bucket list destination. Iceland has a very low rate of crime, and is also considered one of the safest places to visit in the world! They have a strong sense of community and really look out for one another, even visitors. With the best scenic views around and voted #1 on the Global Peace Index you will feel confident to travel solo here.

Portugal – Portugal is another great country to visit, and is becoming a popular travel destination because of its beautiful scenery. We like to call this the hidden gem of Europe because you get the scenic views, the beaches, the historical monuments, and so much more but for some reason, people never make this a first choice to visit which keeps the tourist population low. Portugal is actually ranked as the 3^rd safest country in the world. What is better than feeling safe while looking at picturesque views?

Canada – It’s fairly common to have solo travelers in Canada actually! Easy to navigate and friendly citizens you cannot go wrong in this scenic country. Canadians are known to be extremely nice and amazing people and are always willing to give tips to tourists. If you’re a fan of nature and a fan of solo travel, this is the country for you!

Cruising – Cruises are nice in the sense that you can do whatever you’re comfortable with. If you feel most comfortable sitting by the pool, so be it! If you want to hit the casino, go ahead! Also, when you get to ports you can decide to get off and explore or not. Even then, there so many group excursions through the cruise lines, you have the option to stay with people that are part of the cruise. Another great thing about cruises? That all-inclusive price!

Hawaii – When you think of Hawaii you just think of relaxation and that’s exactly what it is! Big things to do in Hawaii are hiking and snorkeling but we do not suggest doing this alone. Don’t worry though! If Hawaii is on your bucket list, think about joining a group tour, so you are not completely alone. Another reason this is a great place to travel to? You feel like you left the country but you do not need a passport to visit the beautiful islands of Hawaii! Speaking of islands, when traveling alone everything is up to you! So, here’s a tip — try island hopping to visit different Islands and experience different things. Again, with this safe destination you would be able to achieve this and feel comfortable.

At the end of the day, trust your gut but we think you would enjoy these places solo! Obviously when you travel you want to make sure you are safe because no matter how safe you feel, you should always be aware of your surroundings. You are in unfamiliar territory all by yourself. Just remember when traveling, you should spend the time and research the area before you go, and keep always in touch with family and friends. Best of all, ENJOY your vacation!

Is it time to plan your SOLO trip? Visit our destinations page to start planning!

Favorite Destinations – According to our Experts

Posted on March 26, 2021 by boscovstravel

As we begin to see light at the end of this pandemic tunnel we have all been in, we thought it would be fun to share some our Boscov’s Travel Advisors’ favorite destinations. We hope some of these spots and best things to see and do will give you ideas for your first “out of the pandemic” vacation plans.

Danube River Cruise

Of all the places in the world, actually 2 of our advisors – Amy Bressler of our Camp Hill office and Kelly Burton from the Neshaminy office – selected an AmaWaterways river cruise from Vilshofen, Germany to Budapest, Hungary. Amy loved how up close and personal you stayed when cruising the river, and Kelly enjoyed the varied shore excursion options at each port town. From biking along the river, hiking up to a medieval castle or sampling wines at local vineyards, it was a beautiful trip. While they did not travel together, they both have a common favorite part – touring Salzburg, Austria! As fans of “Sound of Music”, seeing many of the filming sights was a bucket-list experience.

Salzburg, Austria: Sound of Music Von Trapp family home

Exotic Tanzania Tour

Sue Blum of our Reading-East office has logged 16 trips to the African continent, so her choice is no surprise. After befriending and entrusting one of her guides from earlier trips, he hosted her in a very remote, authentic safari camp in southern Tanzania. She experienced hippos, crocodiles, zebras, antelopes, right by the camp that was set up amongst huge palm trees on a ridge overlooking the savannah. While remote, accommodations had every luxury in mind – private tents with mesh screening, comfortable bedding, canvas washstand areas, bucket showers and beautiful lantern-lit paths to the common dining area for cold beverages and gourmet foods. Time out in the savannah got her up close to lions and ostrich families, and experiencing the Great Migration of the Wildebeest herds. Truly a sight to see.

Bermuda Cruise

If you like sand and sun, then Erica Putt of our Lancaster office recommends a Bermuda cruise. The cruise is so relaxing, and once in port, there are so many activities for every interest. She mostly enjoys getting a transportation pass and exploring the island. Immersing yourself in the culture through history and cuisine is wonderful, and the locals are so friendly and happy to have you visit their beautiful island.

Banff National Park – Canadian Rockies, Alberta, Canada

When you’re headed into the Canadian Rockies, be sure to visit Banff National Park and treat yourself to a stay at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. According to Michelle Tymon in our Easton office, the sunrise canoe excursion on Lake Louise is well worth the early hour. And she is NOT a morning person! The colors are spectacular, and the rhythmic sound of the paddle cutting through the water make you instantly relax and immerse yourself in the awesome and majestic views. Once you’ve worked up an appetite paddling, you can enjoy an amazing breakfast at the Fairview Bar & Restaurant. The service and hospitality at the Fairmont Lake Louise will not disappoint.

Banff, Alberta, Canada: Canoes on Lake Louise

Newport, Rhode Island

Not every getaway needs to be far away. Just ask Larissa Hayward of our Easton office. She fell in love with Newport, Rhode Island, with its lovely beaches, stunning architecture and great shopping and dining. If you love historical architecture, be sure to tour some of the “summer cottages” aka mansions like the Breakers and the Marble House. Her favorite was the Doris Duke Rough Point Mansion, which showcased the dedicated patron of the arts love for the finer things. Rough Point is filled with a truly unique collection of artwork and fine décor. You can get great views of these cottages from a leisurely stroll along the Cliff Walk too.

The French Riviera

Paula Heyman of our Moorestown, NJ office likes to say in one place, but still get to experience a number of different areas, and that’s just what she found in the French Riviera. There are so many places close by. She chose Monaco as home base for a single unpacking, but got to see some amazing nearby destinations like Nice, Menton, Eze, La Turbie and St. Tropez in France, as well as San Remo, Italy. It’s just a perfect spot for sight-seeing and as the playground for some of the rich-and-famous, has great people-watching.

Aruba

Don’t let this fun-in-the-sun destination fool you. Randy Laub of our Lebanon office says that while Aruba is known for great resorts, superb beaches, friendly people and excellent food and night life, you need to get off the beaten path. Try exploring the battered coast in a Jeep, following the trails made after years of Jeep exploration. But don’t go rogue off the trails…the cliffs can get you! This truly is “One Happy Island!”

Interlaken, Switzerland

Tracee Eroh of our Selinsgrove office suggests a visit to Switzerland to experience a whole other part of our world. The scenery is gorgeous. One of the best ways to see and do the area is to rent motorized bicycles and ride through the countryside visiting quaint little towns, seeing breathtaking waterfalls. Stop off in Gruyere, home of some of the best cheeses named after this town. More of a traditional swiss cheese fan? Then Emmental is the one for you. Enjoy some of the best cheese fondue you can imagine. Around here cheese is for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Be sure to do some shopping for some traditional swiss finds like cuckoo clocks, watches and knives.

Eastern Mediterranean Cruise

If you know Dori, you know she’s always up for an adventure! Her cruise to the Eastern Mediterranean had her trekking to semi-active volcanos, riding a pirate ship around the island, swimming in hot springs, riding mules to the top of Santorini and taking the tram back down, walking through the streets surrounded by white-washed buildings with beautiful blue doors and roofs. The smells of sambuca and olive oil overtake your senses – it’s breathtakingly beautiful. On the other side of the island, she visited Vlichada Beach which is a bit pebbly so bring along some water shoes. Amazing that 15,500 people live on this volcanic caldera. It’s a trip of a lifetime!

Hawaii

Susie Roth is one of our remote advisors, and recommends a trip to Hawaii to explore all the natural wonders of this island chain. While it seems like an exotic foreign destination, it’s still part of the U.S., making travel easy and safe. There is so much to see and do from adventurous outdoor and nature activities to relaxing resorts with some of the world’s best beaches. Every island is unique and offers something for everyone. You can’t beat the scenery, weather, culture and friendly people. Larissa of Easton also loved Maui, and recommends a road trip to Hana to hike to a waterfall, a drive out to see Kahakuloa Head in western Maui, as well as a bike ride down from Haleakala Crater, with spectacular views of the islands and Pacific Ocean from this highest point in Maui.

These are just some of the great places you can explore when you are ready to travel again. Our travel advisors have many miles and trips under their belts, and are happy to “talk travel” and inspire your next getaway. Meet our Advisors to learn more about their travel experiences.

Multi-Generational Family Vacations

Posted on May 11, 2020May 13, 2020 by boscovstravel

We want to offer up some inspirational options for when the time comes that we can all ‘B’ Together again.

Multi-generational family vacations can produce happiness long after your vacation is over. You’ll create and cherish memories for a lifetime, which will become stories for generations to come. These popular vacations not only will bring a family closer together, but it is also one of the top vacation plans we are asked about. Whether you come from a huge family or a smaller but tight knit family, multi-generation vacations can be some of the best vacations of your life! Here, we suggest some destinations that will fulfill everyone’s interests.

Walt Disney World

Being huge Walt Disney World fans, this is one of our favorite multi-generational vacations. The cast and crew at Disney really do bring the magic when it comes to vacations, for both kids and adults alike. They help everyone and anyone when it comes to situations and experiences. From going with grandparents, to aunts, uncles, and cousins, you really have so much to do here! The food, the atmosphere, the memories! Once Disney opens again, this….is the place to be for some true magic for the young and the young-at-heart.

A Beach in the States (Florida or California)

This suggestion is nice if you want something relaxing but maybe you do not have a lot of vacation time from work — or a passport. The beaches in Florida and California are beautiful, so you can’t go wrong here! What’s nice about this vacation option is when seeking accommodations, you can get your own space as individual family units and everyone can meet up during the day. Mealtime can also be fun, with each family unit taking turns hosting dinners for everyone. This option is such a fun vacation, and for some, only a short drive or plane ride away.

Mexico and the Caribbean

Looking for something more tropical and exotic? Our recommendation would be to stay at an all-inclusive resort in Mexico or an island in the Caribbean once these areas open up again. The benefit of an all-inclusive resort is that they are budget friendly since you pay for everything ahead of time. There are any number of locations for any budget and you won’t have to argue about whose turn it is to pay for dinner, drinks or experiences! This option is also great for families who want full-on relaxation 24/7. Sit by the beach, eat, and drink whatever and whenever you want and everyone can make their own schedules. You cannot really go wrong here.

Europe

If members of your family are full of adventure and are seeking that once-in-a-lifetime vacation, Europe is top of the list. While this trip will require a lot of planning once Europe destinations are active again, our Travel Advisors can help you plan every detail. Maybe you want to head back to your family roots and learn more about your family heritage.

Ocean Cruises

Similar to an all-inclusive, cruising offers just a little more movement when it comes to relaxing. While operations are paused right now, cruises offer options to have exciting excursions added-on at each destination you visit making it more of an “adventure” vacation. This vacation option might be the easiest one for families of all different age groups when it comes to “things to do”. The kids will never go bored with all the planned activities on board while the adults enjoy wine tasting, adult-only areas of the ship, casinos, entertainment shows, and much more! Plus, it could be a great compromise if some in your family want an all-inclusive experience and others want to cruise, this option can give you both.

With so many vacation options available, we hope this helps you determine the best destination or type of vacation that works best for your multi-generational family when the time is right. If you need help planning or have any questions, our expert Travel Advisors are available to assist plan your perfect family getaway.

Honeymoon Ideas: Determine Your Couple Travel Style and Start Here

Posted on August 8, 2019 by boscovstravel

You said yes to the ring, the guy and your happily ever after. Now the best part…. planning your first official vacation as Mr. + Mrs.

There’s a honeymoon destination perfect for each and every couple. We broke down the types of couples and vacation types to help you decide where you should honeymoon.

Honeymoon Destinations for the Romantic Couple
Oui! One of the most romantic places on earth is Paris. Enjoy time in the City of Lights by visiting cafes, museums, sitting along the banks of the Seine, or taking a day trip on a scooter to the French countryside to savor the wines of the region.
If you’d prefer to go somewhere tropical, consider an over water bungalow in Bora Bora, Tahiti and the Maldives. Until recently, these were the only options, but now there are bungalows in the Caribbean a little closer to home. Consider Sandals Royal Caribbean or South Coast resorts in Jamaica, El Dorado Maroma by Karisma in the Riviera Maya, Mexico, or Sandals Grande St. Lucian in St. Lucia.
Honeymoon Destinations on a Budget
We get it… weddings are expensive! Sometimes getting your dream wedding means there’s a little less for your honeymoon, but there are really stunning destinations just a non-stop flight away where you won’t feel like you’re sacrificing anything. Consider resorts near Cancun, Mexico or Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Just beyond Cancun, you can enjoy beautiful resorts without the loud, party-like atmosphere associated with the spring break hot spot. These destinations are traditionally lower than other Caribbean countries or European travel. Save further by reducing the number of nights to 4, 5 or 6 instead of the traditional 7. Best of all, many of the resorts in these destinations are all-inclusive meaning you pay one up-front price for flights, accommodations, all meals, open bar, onsite entertainment, select non-motorized water sports, and more.
Honeymoon Destinations in the USA
Leave the passport at home! This country has beautiful destinations and experiences you won’t find anywhere else. For the party-loving couple, Vegas is calling! Room rates for the past few years have been consistently affordable and you can get special perks when you spend your time in the casino. For the Disney-loving couple, the answer is clear. For the couple that wants a romantic vacation, experience the charm of the south with historic destinations like Savannah or Charleston.
Honeymoon Destinations for the Adventurous Couple
If you want to stay close to home, consider adding National Parks to your list. The Western United States offers adventure and a high concentration of our national treasures giving you lots of options to see the best of the US. Consider the Grand Circle where you can visit Zion and Bryce Canyon, Arches and Canyonlands, the Grand Canyon, Capital Reef, and more! Alaska offers another destination for the adventure loving (or photographic) couple. If you’re looking for an adventure a little more off the beaten path, consider hiking the Incan trail with the payoff Machu Picchu at the end.

We’re here to help you navigate the options for finding and planning your honeymoon. Plus with our honeymoon registry fund, we make it easy for others to give the gift towards your happily ever after. You can even choose to make payments on your honeymoon with our special financing on your next vacation. Or, bag the whole traditional wedding idea and say “I do” in paradise with a destination wedding! Whatever you choose, Boscov’s Travel is here for you.

Visit Boscov’s Travel located within select Boscov’s including Pennsylvania (Camp Hill, Colonial Park/Harrisburg, Easton, Lancaster, Lebanon, Neshaminy/Bensalem, Wyomissing, Reading, Pottstown, Pottsville, Scranton, Selinsgrove, Wilkes-Barre), New York (Binghamton), New Jersey (Atlantic City and Moorestown), Delaware (Wilmington), and Maryland (Salisbury). View our locations here. If you live a little further away, book over the phone by calling us at 800-755-8020. Learn more at boscovstravel.com

Jumping Ship: How the Rhine Reeled in an Avid Ocean Cruiser to River Cruising

Posted on December 18, 2017December 18, 2017 by boscovstravel

The following post is written by Jen from the Boscov’s Travel Marketing Department. Jen recently interviewed Lisa Rohrbach, Boscov’s Travel’s Director of Training and Professional Development, about her first experience taking a river cruise.

Whether you’re a seasoned or first-time cruiser, it’s impossible to ignore the popularity and rapid growth of river cruising as an alternative to ocean cruising. With smaller and more intimate ships; destinations that only smaller ships can access; and a more inclusive experience with included shore excursions, alcohol and smaller expenses that add up during your vacation, like Wi-Fi, specialty drinks, room service, etc., it’s no wonder that many seasoned ocean cruisers are jumping ship to river cruising.

Lisa Rohrbach, Boscov’s Travel’s Director of Training and Professional Development, is one of those cruise enthusiasts who jumped ship from ocean to river cruising. After experiencing more than 25 ocean cruises, she recently sailed on her first river cruise with AMA Waterways on a 7-night cruise along the Rhine that included stops in France, Germany, Switzerland and the Netherlands. She shares her experience here, along with her thoughts on the differences between taking a river cruise and an ocean cruise.

Hi Lisa! We learned you recently sailed on your first river cruise with AMA Waterways. Since you’re an avid ocean cruiser, can you tell us how the two experiences are different?

River cruise ships are much smaller than most ocean cruise ships with a quieter, relaxed atmosphere—our ship only had 82 staterooms, as opposed to the hundreds that are on an ocean liner. I would compare a river cruise to an intimate family dinner versus an ocean cruise is more like an extravagant wedding celebration—obviously, they both have their positive attributes, it just depends on what type of environment and travel style you’re looking for.

What did you find you preferred about river cruising?

All of the inclusions onboard! Our price included all of our daily excursions, unlimited wine and beer with our meals, no additional charge for specialty coffees, plus all the little extra complimentary touches. Also, the food and wine onboard were excellent–we had fresh local selections daily.

What do you prefer about ocean cruising?

The evening entertainment and onboard casino. River cruises are wonderful during the day and they did offer some evening entertainment but it’s not on the same scale as an ocean cruise–it’s definitely more low-key.

Was this your first trip to Europe?

No, I have traveled to Europe many times before and have previously visited three of the four countries on this itinerary, including Switzerland, France and Germany. This was my first trip to Amsterdam, however, and even though I have visited the above countries before, many of the stops on the cruise’s itinerary were new to me. There were several quaint little towns along the Rhine which were very picturesque.

Why would you recommend a river cruise over a bus tour or independent travel?

Since you use your river cruise ship as a floating hotel, you only have to unpack once! Also, since it’s a very warm and friendly atmosphere, you develop a relationship with the staff and they quickly learn your preferences compared to staying at different hotels on a bus or independent tour.

Which excursion was your favorite or the highlight of your trip? Why?

My favorite excursion was a lovely walking tour of the old, historic center of Strasbourg, France. This area of the city looks like something out of a fairy tale with beautiful half-timbered houses with colorful flower boxes. It was so quaint and since I love history, this tour transported me back to another time!

Who do you think would be a good fit for a river cruise?

Travelers who love a stress-free atmosphere with good food and wine and enjoy walking, biking and exploring history and culture. Those who are also prone to motion sickness would prefer it over ocean cruising since we didn’t feel the movement of the ship at all.

Do you think there’s any sort of traveler who might not like one?

If you like a lot of evening entertainment, it may be too quiet at night for you. I also don’t think it’s a great fit for families with young children.

What were some highlights of the ship?

We loved our cabin, which was a twin balcony stateroom on the Violin Deck and featured both a regular and a French balcony. The lounge is a great meeting spot to relax and watch the scenery go by. We also enjoyed the regular dining and The Chef’s Table, which is an intimate restaurant that serves a five-course tasting menu.

Did anything surprise you?

Initially when you reserve a river cruise, the cost may seem higher than an ocean cruise but I was surprised that we had very few extra expenses while onboard. We only paid extra for a couple of cocktails that weren’t included in our fare, as well as gratuities to the cruise staff.

Do you have any tips for a first-time river cruiser that you’d be willing to share?

Don’t shy away from a river cruise based on the initial cost. It’s unlike an ocean cruise where the initial cost may be lower but once onboard you end up spending more money for drinks, shore excursions and specialty items.

Any other tips to share?

Yes! A great perk to booking with a Boscov’s Travel Specialist besides knowledgeable and friendly service is that you can use your Boscov’s credit card to pay for the trip in advance, receive 12 months to pay for it with no interest, and earn reward points!

A great tip! Thanks for your time, Lisa!

To learn more about the exciting destinations you can experience while taking a river cruise, please contact a Boscov’s Travel Specialist at 800-755-8020 or email us at [email protected].