The newest adventures at your favorite Orlando Theme Parks

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Boscov’s Travel offers exclusive non-stop flights from select local airports in PA to Orlando, FL and are the fastest way to get to the magic and surrounding area. You are one flight away – our Southwest chartered flights are out of Reading, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton (AVOCA), and Harrisburg Airports – from the new attractions and fun adventures at your favorite Orlando theme parks!

What’s new at Walt Disney World Resort?

Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary

Walt Disney World Resort has been celebrating their 50th Anniversary since October 1, 2021 and the celebration is lasting an entire 18 months! Everyone will have a chance to see the new magic – new celebrations have been brought to all four theme parks and beyond! The Cinderella Castle added to its royal makeover from last year with a beautiful, golden 50th Anniversary crest. Guest’s favorite characters including Mickey, Minney and friends have new looks to go along with the celebration. There’s even a new MagicBand called MagicBand+ that allows guests to engage in interactive experiences around the theme parks. The MagicBand+ reacts to park interactions with lighting effects, gesture recognition and more. How magical! But wait it gets better…

This celebration becomes even more EARidescent (a new word coined by Disney) at night – all four parks will have even more magic! The castle at Magic Kingdom will sprinkle with pixie dust, the Tree of Life at Animal Kingdom will inhabit magical fireflies, the Hollywood Tower of Terror at Hollywood Studio’s will have new touches that bring it to life, and lastly EPCOT will feature new lights reflecting into the sky off Spaceship Earth. This is only a glimpse at this 18-month EARidescent celebration. You’ll just have to experience the all-new magic for yourself.

Disney Genie

This all-new digital service can be found in the My Disney Experience app and is designed to create the most magical day ever including attractions, food experiences, and character meet and greets. Check out everything there is to know about Disney Genie on our blog here.

Super Zoom Magic Shots

There’s nothing quite like taking advantage of Disney’s PhotoPass, right? Disney PhotoPass Photographers are now offering Super Zoom Magic Shots at all four theme parks! What does Super Zoom Magic Shots mean? It means that photos are taken at a very far distance using a powerful zoom lens and these shots are combined to create a short video. These videos start right in on guests and zoom out to show some of the park’s biggest attractions! All you need to do is have an active Disney PhotoPass Service and find a Disney PhotoPass photographer in their locations. Don’t forget to smile big for your Super Zoom Magic Shots!

Magic Kingdom – Disney Enchantment

A brand-new nighttime fireworks display ascends over the Cinderella Castle for Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary. The Castle features magic inspiring effects that (for the first time ever) span all the way down Main Street! This new display is magical and fun, and will fill you with imagination and hope. Throughout Disney Enchantment guests will be able to see their favorite Disney Characters as they explore the world of magic. Don’t forget to check your My Disney Experience App to find showtimes for the day of your visit. Since this is an outdoor show, it is subject to cancellation due to inclement weather.

EPCOT – New Entrance Fountain

The new Entrance Fountain contains crystal pylons and stands in the footprint of the original fountain that welcomed guests on the park’s opening day in 1982. Do any retro-Disney fans remember this? We sure do! Spaceship Earth complements the fountain as a backdrop. At night the fountain matches Spaceship Earth’s new lighting while displaying an array of colors that reflect off the night sky. We can’t wait to see this beautiful addition in person.

EPCOT – Space 220 Restaurant

To begin your journey, you will step into a “space elevator” that will transport you 220 miles above Earth to a space station. On the way to the station, guests will see an ariel view of EPCOT from viewports. As you dine, you will have a front row view of the Earth and cosmos through expansive windows both day and night.

Choose from a 2-course meal at lunch or a 3-course meal at dinner – both featuring modern American cuisine. For an appetizer choose from Blue Moon Cauliflower to Big Bang Burrata. Next try a Centauri Burger for the main course, and then enjoy a sweet send-off from the dessert menu. Your taste-buds will feel out of this world… no pun intended. Reservations for dining and park are required.

EPCOT – Harmonious

Harmonious is one of the largest nighttime spectaculars Disney Parks has ever created. This new show is located at World Showcase Lagoon in EPCOT. The show is crafted by new innovations including giant floating screens, choreographed moving fountains, lights, pyrotechnics, and lasers all in a 360-degree view. Harmonious features familiar Disney music and stories in brand new ways. Disney songs even change from language to language as the show brings people from all parts of the world together in harmony. How cool does this sound? We want to go right now! Don’t forget to check your My Disney Experience App to find showtimes for the day of your visit. Since this is an outdoor show, it is subject to cancellation due to inclement weather.

EPCOT – France Pavilion

When approaching France, you’ll cross over the Pont des Arts inspired footbridge where you’ll have a beautiful view of the Seine waterfront, flower carts and streetside artists. As you stroll the pavilion, you’ll walk along cobblestone streets and have the tune of romantic music all around. The “Eiffel Tower” is in view being sized one tenth of the actual tower in France. The center fountain is an incredible place to sit, relax and people watch if you’d like. You can visit the French gardens and may even see Belle from Beauty and the Beast. (Check the park schedule for appearances). In the France Pavilion you can shop for souvenirs, drink champagne or even eat a delicious crepe. You’ll definitely feel like you’ve been transported to France with this new Pavilion!

EPCOT – Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure

Shrink down to Chef Remy’s Size in this 4-D culinary adventure located at the France Pavilion. Riders will join Chef Remy on a culinary adventure that will captivate their senses as they dash through the kitchen, dining room, and walls with Remy. Don’t forget to check your My Disney Experience App to learn whether a virtual or standby line will be available for this adventure on the day of your visit.

Star Wars: Galactic Cruiser

Star Wars: Galactic Cruiser is a 2-night immersive experience where guests will go on their very own, first-of-its-kind Star Wars Adventure. Once you arrive at the Walt Disney World Resort terminal, you will board a launch pod with the Halcyon starcruiser. You may choose to stay in a cabin or suite that will give you an incredible view of space. Throughout the ship you can interact with characters, eat exotic galactic cuisine and more!

Highlights include:

-New and familiar Star Wars Characters need your help – embark on secret missions and create alliances.

-Wield a lightsaber against a remote training device.

-Explore and operate the ship’s systems and controls.

-Engage in unique missions and experiences

At Star Wars: Galactic Cruiser you can make the choice to join the Resistance or walk on the dark side. What side do you choose?

What’s new at Universal Studios Orlando?

Universal’s Islands of Adventures: Jurassic World VelociCoaster

Are you a rollercoaster fan? Well, this new rollercoaster is Florida’s fastest and tallest launch roller coaster! Guests will race alongside a pack of velociraptors and feel the rush of the hunt with twisting and soaring above land and water. We’re excited to get on this thrill ride. Are you?

Universal Studios: The Bourne Stuntacular

Do you enjoy stunt shows? This one is stuntacular! Guests will follow Jason Bourne as he outruns evil characters. You will see Bourne dangle from a helicopter, be chased on rooftops and by a motorcycle! Be prepared for fistfights, shootouts and danger as Bourne is on the run.

Universal Studios: DreamWorks Destination

Do you have children or grandchildren? This one’s for them! Located in Woody Woodpecker’s KidZone, kids can dance, strike a pose, and have fun with many of their favorite DreamWorks’ characters. Characters are from fan favorite DreamWorks’ movies including Madagascar, Trolls, Puss in Boots, Kung Fu Panda, and more! The best part is that this is all in air-conditioned comfort. You can’t beat that, right? Appearances of characters are subject to change without notice.

These new attractions and fun adventures are just the beginning – there’s so much more to explore in Orlando, Florida. So, what are you waiting for? Orlando is calling your name and we’re saving a seat on our Exclusive Charter to Orlando just for you this Spring! View our Spring Charters here and start planning today.

Away for the Holidays

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The holidays are the busiest and most wonderful time of year. There’s joy in the air, people are thankful, and time is spent with loved ones. Many people travel to see their family or desire to travel for a holiday vacay away during this time of year, but it can sometimes be stressful and even daunting. The days before Thanksgiving and Christmas are the busiest travel days of the year. But don’t let that stop you- there’s no need to fret! We have a few tips up our sleeves to help you enjoy your holiday away and to keep you in the holiday spirit.

Prepare yourself for peace of mind back at home. – Most of us have seen Home Alone and do not want to live Kevin McCallister’s time at home in real life. Depending on where you live, you may be worried about leaving your home for your holiday travels. Holidays tend to spike in burglaries as a lot of people are away from home for them. Try placing some of your house lights on timers, which will make your house appear as if someone is home. Ask your family or friends to stop by regularly when you’re away to check the mail, water plants, and keep an eye on your home. These two steps will give you peace of mind while you’re on your holiday trip.

Be patient and kind. – Prepare yourself for bumps in the road like crowds and delays. These times can be stressful and it may be hard to keep calm, but there’s plenty of ways help you keep your cool. One way to keep calm is by practicing breathing techniques to help you stay relaxed in crowded situations and during delays. You can also download your favorite shows and movies, take earbuds, snacks, and a magazine or book to help you stay occupied during your wait. Be sure to treat your flight attendant, drivers and fellow passengers with kindness as everyone is under the stress of the holidays.  A smile can go a long way and it will also encourage others to be kind. It is the holidays so spread some cheer!

Ship your gifts. – You’ll want to do your best to avoid lugging more than your necessary suitcase through the airport. Ship your gifts ahead of time so they will be at your destination when you arrive. This relieves you of the unnecessary stress of lugging and worrying about where your gifts are. Take a moment before you leave to do the same with gifts received to make your return trip home easy.

Keep your luggage tagged properly. – You will want to keep your luggage tagged properly in case it gets lost in your travels. Your luggage tag should always have your name, surname, email, and phone number on it. This will ensure that your luggage will be able to make its way back to you just in case.

Check Covid-19 protocols to where you’re traveling and remember your masks. – If there’s one thing we know for sure about Covid-19 travel restrictions it’s they are subject to change. Covid-19 restrictions are staying in place for now and it is important that visitors research every country and state’s guidelines. Your Boscov’s Travel Advisor will know the most up to date and accurate guidelines. It is helpful to check in with the experts before your trip to ensure the best travel experience and least amount of stress. Also, don’t forget your masks and bring extra ones along too. Airports and public transportation methods like rail and motorcoach still require masks to be worn at all times. Depending on your destination you may need your mask, so it’s important to pack extra ones just in case you need it.

Fly on the actual holiday. – The busiest travel days in the year are the day before Thanksgiving and Christmas and usually the Sunday following the holiday. The best way to travel is by avoiding the most popular days which will reduce crowds and delays.

Travel late or early in the day. – Statistics have shown planes that travel earlier in the day have a better on-time performance. If your flight is cancelled you will have more options of taking a flight later in the day since your flight was originally earlier. If you’re driving, the best time to hit the road is when everyone else is asleep – either early in the morning or late at night. If you are solo driving, you can nap once you arrive at your destination and if you have a travel companion, you can take turns driving.

Arrive early to the airport. – Getting to the airport early is always a good idea and is especially important during the holidays as more people are traveling. This means that lines and wait times could be longer than usual, especially with Covid-19 travel regulations and short-staffed companies.

Always have a backup plan. – Things can change in a second. You should always have a Plan B (and even a Plan C). The preparation and knowledge from a Travel Advisor can help set expectations and curbs stress if something comes up and your travel plans need to be cancelled or rescheduled.

Are you ready for your holiday travels after these tips? We are! With these holiday travel tips you can make the most of your travels and arrive full of holiday cheer. Speak with your local Boscov’s Travel Advisor for more assistance with your holiday travel or book your holiday vacation today. Happy Holidays and safe travels!

Niles Virtual Office – Grand Opening!

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Boscov’s Travel Virtual Office Grand Opening

 

New and exciting things are coming to Boscov’s Travel! We’re thrilled for the grand opening of our Virtual Travel Office in Niles, Ohio on October 7, 2021. The virtual office is located near the courtesy desk within the all-new Niles, Ohio Boscov’s in the Eastwood Mall. The office has a touch-screen kiosk with a webcam and microphone that clients can use to live video chat with our Boscov’s Travel Advisors along with a printer to receive documents. In addition to live chats, clients can use the touch-screen capabilities to learn more About Us, Meet Our Advisors, and check out some details on different vacation options in the “Wanna Get Away?” section. Here you can also learn about our full services including leisure travel, wedding/honeymoon travel, group travel and business travel.

We are very excited to kick off our first ever Virtual Travel Office! To celebrate, we will be having a month-long company-wide Grand Opening Sale with exclusive travel bonus deals from many of our top preferred travel partners. Visit boscovstravel.com/niles for these awesome deals. We can’t wait to serve our new clients in Niles, Ohio.

Get to know the all-new Disney Genie

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It’s almost time for Walt Disney World Resort to release Genie from the lamp! We want to help you get prepared and understand this exciting new service! This fall the Disney Genie service will be coming to Walt Disney World Resort. This new digital service can be found in the My Disney Experience app and is designed to create the most magical day ever. Disney Genie includes a personalized itinerary feature that will map out your entire day for you. This includes attractions, food experiences, and character meet and greets. We can’t wait! Check out the array of choices that Disney Genie provides to fit anyone’s magical day.

Here’s what’s included:

Disney Genie – Complimentary
• Personalized itineraries and tip board
• Updates to your itinerary throughout your day
• Current and predicted wait times
• Join virtual queues at certain attractions
• Restaurant wait list and check in
• Dining and experience reservations
• Mobile food orders
• Virtual assistant

Disney Genie+ – Available for purchase of $15 per ticket per day at Walt Disney World Resort and $20 per ticket per day at Disneyland Resort
• Everything included in the Complimentary Disney Genie Service
• Lightning Lane* for more than 40 attractions at Walt Disney World Resort and over 15 attractions at Disneyland Resort
• Walt Disney World PhotoPass AR Lenses and Disneyland PhotoPass downloads from the day
• Audio experiences

Individual Attractions Selections – Available for purchase
• Schedule a time to arrive at up to two highly in-demand attractions each day with Lightning Lane* entrance (Attractions not included with Disney Genie+)

*Disney Genie’s Lightning Lane will replace FASTPASS, FastPass+ and MaxPass services.

The new Disney Genie service is truly unique and will provide new flexibility and choices for all needs. We’re extremely excited for Disney to rub the lamp and bring Disney Genie to life. Be sure to speak with a Boscov’s Travel Authorized Disney Vacation Planner about how Disney Genie can work for your next Disney vacation. Already purchased Disney tickets? No worries. We can help you add the Disney Genie to your package.

 

Consider an All-Inclusive Resort for Your Romantic Getaway

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An incredible honeymoon, anniversary, or just alone time is something most couple’s desire. There’s nothing like getting away from the “noise” and being on vacation, spending time with that special someone. Toes in the sand, drink in your hand, and your love by your side… what is better than that? Not much! Whether you like to relax or have an adventure, all-inclusive vacations are the way to go for a special romantic getaway.

You deserve the all-inclusive romantic getaway of your dreams. We’re going to take you on a journey to describe what an all-inclusive vacation means, explain why you should have a romantic getaway, and show you some great all-inclusive resorts. We’re partnering with Apple Vacations to give one lucky person a Romantic Getaway for two with a 5-night stay at the incredible RIU Palace Macao in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic! Watch out for more details on this in September.

What is an all-inclusive vacation?

An all-inclusive vacation means everything is included! Most of the time all food, drinks, activities, and entertainment are already included. You can drink and eat as much as you please. Count us in! Some resorts even include round trip airport transfers, which means no hassle finding transportation. Many resorts tend to differ with what is included. Also, resort styles and atmospheres differ – some are more romantic, laid-back, adventurous and even family-friendly, so be sure to choose one that fits your needs.

Couple relaxing pool side being served cocktails

Why choose all-inclusive?

All-inclusive is super easy! Almost everything is already paid for and included in your price before you leave for your trip. Your planning time is trimmed because you don’t need to worry about activities or restaurants because they are already included. There’s really no reason to leave your resort unless you choose to explore other places.

When staying at an all-inclusive resort you don’t need to walk around with your wallet or purse or worry about tipping- everything is already taken care of. This allows for a more relaxing vacation since you’re not paying for every indulgence. You and your sweetheart can just sit back, relax, and enjoy the limitless food, drinks, and more!

Why have a romantic getaway?

Romantic getaways are fun, exciting, relaxing, and most of all they bring people closer. When you’re on a romantic getaway you’re away from every day life with someone you love. Being away from life’s hassles allows for quality bonding time with your partner. A relaxing and fun environment can lead to more open communication and build relationships. In addition, intimacy can be restored after just a few days of alone time. Doesn’t that sound incredible?

A romantic getaway will help you continue your incredible relationship and keep the relationship strong. You’ll be reminded of why you fell in love with your partner in the first place. It’s a time for you to create amazing and unforgettable memories with your love.

5 All-Inclusive Resorts Perfect for Romantic Getaways

With so many options to choose from you may feel overwhelmed. Working with a professional travel advisor that knows the resorts can be helpful. Tell them what you want and they’ll match you with the perfect location. But let’s wet your appetite a bit – here are just a few of our favorites:
*additional charges and reservations may be required

#1 – RIU Palace Macao, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
– All-Inclusive, adults only
– Five restaurants, no reservations required
– Romantic Dinner on the beach*
– Six bars, unlimited beverages
– Two pools, one with swim-up bar, jacuzzi tubs
– Beach
– Entertainment
– Sports and activities
– Free admission to “Splash Water World” water park
– Spa*

Photo Credit: Princess Hotels

#2 – Platinum Yucatan Princess, Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
– All-Inclusive, adults only
– Six restaurants, only one requires a reservation
– Eight bars, unlimited beverages
– Thirteen pools, pool bars
– Beach
– Entertainment
– Sports and activities
– Spa*
– Use of nearby resort’s facilities Grand Sunset Princess and Grand Rivera Princess
– Honeymoon Offers*

#3 – Couples Tour Isle, Ocho Rios, Jamaica
– All-Inclusive, couples only
– Six restaurants, two require a reservation
– Romantic Seaside dining*
– Five bars, unlimited beverages
– Four pools, jacuzzi
– Beach
– Resort’s private island
– Entertainment
– Sports and activities
– Spa*
– Spa villas with personal plunge pools*

#4 – Dreams Playa Bonita Panama, Playa Bonita, Panama
– All-Inclusive
– Seven restaurants, no reservations required
– Private Dinner in Romantic Locations*
– Four bars, unlimited beverages
– Four pools, one adult-only
– Beach and Rain Forest
– Entertainment
– Sports and Activities
– Spa

#5 – Secrets Papagayo Costa Rica, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
– All-Inclusive, adults only
– Four restaurants
– Five bars, unlimited beverages
– Two pools, pool bar
– Beach and tropical gardens
– Entertainment
– Sports and Activities
– Spa*

Now that we’ve shown you all-inclusive resorts and the ins and outs to an all-inclusive romantic getaway, are you ready to plan your trip? We are here when you’re ready! From the unlimited food and drinks to the relaxing and adventurous romance- every couple deserves to have the romantic getaway of their dreams. Start planning your romantic getaway with us today!

Taking the Perfect Travel Photo

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Do you ever look back through your photos after traveling and wonder why your photo doesn’t do justice for where you traveled to? I do. As I scroll through my image library, I tend to be disappointed as my photos look bland. What happened to that beautiful landscape, that smiling local, and that delicious meal? These places brought more to the table than what my photographs show and I want to be able to share that experience through my photos – for viewers to feel the excitement, smell the atmosphere, and taste the food. The only way to share these experiences in this way is to learn how to take the perfect travel photo, which is exactly what I did. Now it’s your turn!

To take the perfect travel photo we should know more about the place we are going, right? Yes! This means you’ll need to research the location you are traveling to. Search landmarks, architecture, areas of natural beauty, events, and anything else you may want to see and take pictures of. Make a list and prioritize what you want to see. You might want to find out when the sun rises and sets at the place you’re going to for the best lighting and even look up how to say words like “hello,” “smile,” and “thank you” so you can take pictures of locals.

The first thing may seem obvious to start off with, but you want to make sure your camera and/or phone battery is charged – you can always bring a backup battery or portable charger. Another must do is to make sure there is plenty of storage on your device. You want to be able to take as many photos as you want and not run out of space. You’ll want to familiarize yourself with your camera and/or phone settings. This is so you can change your settings when you need to and you’ll be ready to go! Now it’s time to divulge into the good stuff – lets take a look at lighting and contrast, Rule of Thirds, focal point, frames, and angles.

Lighting and Contrast

When taking the perfect travel photo you definitely want to know how to work with lighting and contrast. Working with light takes some getting used to. When you take a photo you will always want the sun to be behind you so your subject is illuminated from the front. If the sun is not behind you, the photo will not be well lit. If you are stuck with direct sunlight, use your camera’s daylight mode. This will adjust the intensity and color temperature so your photo will look fantastic! If you want to manually adjust the color temperature, you can play around with the white balance and color temperature settings on your camera to find the optimal lighting for the photo you’re about to take. If you’re out and about at night, make sure you put your camera’s low light settings on and use flash. This will help warm up colors and help your night time photo look great. It’s very important to know your camera’s settings before heading on your trip so you can effectively change your lighting settings when you need it.

Contrast is a distinguishable difference between objects. You can play with colors to find contrast – think of the color wheel and use opposites when finding colors to contrast in your photo. Contrast can be used with patterns, clouds, and shapes too. When you look around the area where you want to capture your photo, think of contrast and it will help your image pop!

Amalfi coast

Rule of Thirds

When taking a photo you’ll want to break your photo into three equal parts horizontally and vertically. Some camera settings allow you to place a grid on the screen which will make this process easier for you. Next, you’ll want to find three elements that you want to focus on in your photo. For example, let’s say your three elements are a rock, a mountain, and a plant. You’ll want to place these three elements on three different sections of your gridlines – this will draw your viewers’ eyes to subjects in the photo. Now that you understand the Rule of Thirds you can change up your focal point!

Meadow with yellow flowers and mountains

Focal Point

The focal point is what you want image viewers to focus on. If you have a travel companion, put them in your photo as a subject and if you’re solo traveling, look for a subject. You’ll want to look for the small details to find your subject – the quirky, colorful and cultural details. For example, if you want to take a photo of a mountain or anything larger than life, you’ll want to show your viewers how big the main subject actually is. To do this, place a smaller subject in the distance which will show the perspective of how large the bigger subject (the mountain) is. Line the mountain or object in the back with the smaller parts in view. Your viewers will see your photograph and say “wow” just like you did when you were standing there in person. The focal point is just one way to show off your awesome trip.

Murano canal

Frames

Another way to take a perfect travel photo is by framing. Framing draws focus to a subject in the photo which can be done in multiple ways. The first way you can frame a subject is by putting one subject clear into focus and blur the background. Your camera will have a setting to be able to do this. On a phone, setting will be called “portrait mode.” A second way to frame is by using leading lines. Leading lines are roads, lines, or anything else that draws a line(s) to the main subject. Using leading lines sends the viewer of the image deeper into the photo. The last way to use frames is by using other objects to frame your main subject to keep the focal point obvious. You can do this by having your subject between doors, windows, trees, branches or anything else you can find that will frame your subject. This will allow your subject to be the focal point, but also adds texture to your photo. Give framing a try, I guarantee you’ll love the results.

Eiffel tower with smiling person

Angles

Have you ever seen a photographer climbing walls or lying on the ground? Try it! Angles are important to play around with when taking a photo because doing so gives you unique shots and changes up your viewpoint. Changing up a view point in a photo shows a perspective that people normally don’t see, like a view from the ground. Angles are an important part in capturing the perfect travel photo.

Golden Gate Bridge

Tell A Story

Lastly, tell your travel story! If you want to take a photo, think about what you want to bring to life in your shot. What thoughts, feelings, smell, and emotions do you want your viewers to feel? They say a picture is worth a thousand words – this is so true! Knowing what you want to bring to life will help you acknowledge what you really want to capture and help you tell your story. Try getting up early or staying up late to take the images that most people wouldn’t. Tourist spots won’t be as crowded and you’ll even get the golden hour glow – it’s worth trying!

Golden hour with road

Another way to tell a story is to get lost on purpose. Take the road less traveled, but first make sure to ask locals that where you’re headed is safe. Wonder around for the day, see what you find. I guarantee you’ll find authentic places and more locals. Locals tend to stay away from tourist areas so if you’re off the beaten path, you’ll have an opportunity to photograph the culture of your travel spot! This is why I mentioned to learn how to say a few words so you can ask locals to take their picture to capture their emotions and day. Bring the entire trip to life in any way possible and tell your story.

Now that you have the techniques to take a perfect travel photo, it’s time to head to a destination! When you look back through your photos after traveling, you’ll be happier than you’ve ever been before looking through your photos. As you scroll through your image library you may find yourself proud because your photos give your experience justice. Your viewers will not only see the beautiful sites but they’ll be able to feel the emotions, smell the smells, and even taste the food through your photos. You’ll have the perfect travel photos and they will definitely be worth a thousand words.

The Boscov’s Travel BIG Cruise Sale 2021 is Here!

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Cruise ship in blue water with big cruise sale graphic overlay

Let’s face it – we all miss cruising.  In preparation for the waters to re-open and cruise lines to begin sailing again, we have worked with our cruise partners to get you some of the best offers available. There is no better time than now to plan and book your next cruise!

The Boscov’s Travel BIG Cruise Sale offers are valid March 8 – 26, 2021 for booking, with travel through 2022 in many cases. You can book your travel based on the criteria each of our cruise partners have outlined in their offers. These exclusive deals and perks are only available through Boscov’s Travel, and can be bundled and combined with the best national offers, with minimal restrictions.  So go ahead, start planning your future cruise NOW!

Participating Cruise Partner Offers:

AmaWaterways logo

 

 

AmaWaterways: Receive $100 in onboard credit per stateroom on select Europe sailings.

Avalon Waterways logo

 

 

Avalon Waterways: Save $100 per person on select 2021 and 2022 6-nights or more European river cruises.

Celebrity Cruises logo

 

 

Celebrity Cruises: Enjoy $300 onboard credit per cabin for balcony and above on any 2021 and 2022 sailing.

Holland America Line logo

 

 

Holland America Line: Earn up to $150 in onboard credit per cabin on cruises 7-nights or longer.

MSC Cruises logo

 

 

MSC Cruises: Receive up to $200 in shipboard credit per cabin when booking any ALL-IN Caribbean Cruise.

Norwegian Cruise Line logo

 

 

Norwegian Cruise Line: Receive up to $300 in onboard credit per cabin based on category on 5+ night cruises.

Oceania Cruises logo

 

 

Oceania Cruises: Earn a $250 in shipboard credit for new veranda and above stateroom bookings on all sailings, destinations and ships.

Royal Caribbean International logo

 

 

Royal Caribbean: Receive up to $100 in onboard credit to spend at sea on any sailings, ship or destination.

 

Travel Insured logo

Protect Your Investment

Travel is a luxury at any cost, so be sure you protect your investment with our extensive plan options. We offer Worldwide Trip Protector and Worldwide Trip Protector Plus plans and you can add this option into your cruise plans and enjoy a $20 Boscov’s gift card when you purchase a protection plan at the time of cruise deposit.

Make Your Plans Today!

For full details on all of these great cruise savings and credits, be sure to visit the 2021 BIG Cruise Sale page. Then, talk with your local cruise specialist and plan the vacation of your dreams. We are excited to help you get back to cruising this year!

Let Your Taste Buds do the Traveling: Dishes Not to Miss in Unique Destinations

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We may not be able to travel as we wish right now, but we can imagine…with FOOD! Have fun savoring some of these amazing eats around the world. We chose some fan favorite vacation spots and offered up some of the unique and adventurous dishes not to miss the next time you travel there. Some you may have heard of, but some may be new to you. Bon Appetit!

Italy – What is better than Italian food? Even better, Italian DESSERT! Italy is known to have great unique desserts that stay true to their cuisine. For example, Tiramisu. It’s sweet and has coffee, cocoa and mascarpone in it because, well, Italy…and they can never not have their coffee and sweet desserts.

tiramisu
Tiramisu

France – This may sound like a turn off to some but we promise you it’s a hit! L’Escargot, which are snails. Yes, you read that right. In this delicacy, snails are bathed in butter and cooked with some garlic and parsley. You’ve got to try it.

New Orleans – Of course we always have to pick a place right here in America. Get yourself a Poor Boy when in New Orleans. The Poor Boy or Po’boy is a traditional sandwich which consists usually of fried seafood (shrimp, crawfish, fish, soft shell crab, or oysters) or roast beef. It is served on French bread that has a crisp crust and fluffy center, then topped with lettuce, tomatoes, mayo, ketchup, and for real Cajun flavor, hot sauce! Who’s ready to take a trip to New Orleans soon?

Spain – If you really enjoy seafood and meats, this dish is for you. Paella, a traditional dish containing chicken, pork, shellfish, fish, eel, squid, peppers, beans, peas and so much more – this dish is a fan favorite. With lots of spice and lots of color this beautiful dish is well known and a must-try when in Spain.

paella
Paella

Africa – Bunny Chow – Don’t worry, it’s not what it sounds like! Bunny chow is a half loaf of bread hollowed out completely and stuffed with spicy curry. You can add whatever meat you like or even make it vegetarian if you choose by adding lentils and beans, and you’re good to go! Don’t let the name get to you, it’s worth a try.

Japan – Okonomiyaki, found through most of Japan, is a simple but unique combination you may not ever have considered. This great-tasting dish mixes batter and cabbage together, is flipped in a pan like a pancake, and topped with any number of savory toppings. Its name means “cook to one’s liking” so top it as you wish! In Japan, it’s typically meat, seafood, and cheese.

okonomiyaki
Okonomiyaki
Some of dishes above are quite adventurous, so if you like to keep things simple, we haven’t left you out. Here are some basic, simple dishes at each destination. There’s always something for everyone!

Italy – Gelato is such a simple and lovable dessert. It is pretty much like ice cream but denser and way smoother than ice cream. It is delicious. And really, who can say no?

gelato
Gelato

France – Baguettes. Need we say more. Its CARBS! We can thank France for the best loaf of bread to ever exist. A long, thin, loaf known for crispy crust and chewy inside. Usually right in France at a bakery you can get these fresh and warm. Whose mouth is already watering from the thought of this?

baguettes
Baguettes

New Orleans – A popular soup and the official state cuisine is Gumbo, a thick soup that consists of a lot of flavored stock, shellfish or meats, sausage, peppers, celery, and onions. They even have veggie versions if you so choose. Best part is you can make this as spicy as you like. Even the pickiest of eaters can enjoy this yummy goodness, so we say head right to the pelican state to try it!

Spain – Gazpacho, a pretty basic soup made of blended vegetables, oil, garlic and herbs, but what makes it unique? It’s traditionally served cold. This is an authentic Spanish dish that even the not-so-adventurous eaters will enjoy.

gazpacho
Gazpacho

African – Couscous is considered a healthy side dish found in northern African cuisines. It’s very similar to rice in consistency, made of small steamed balls of crushed semolina and served with stews. Definitely a fan favorite if you’re looking for a healthy simple side dish.

couscous
Couscous

Japan – Ever heard of Udon? They are thick, firm and chewy noodles usually served in a simple broth. Sounds like a great quick meal or starter.

Note: This is just a quick snapshot – our opinion only. There are so many exciting tastes to explore. Be sure to take some time on your next adventure and savor something local. Expand your palette as you explore the world. Be sure to ask your Boscov’s Travel Advisor what their favorites are when planning your next journey. Salute!

The Beauty of Travel in America

Posted on by boscovstravel

Vast in land, natural treasures and diverse cultures, the United States offers endless opportunities for new experiences right in our own backyard.

Hawaii

Say Aloha to average year-round temperatures between 78-85 degrees! A Hawaiian vacation allows you to surf the big Kahuna, hike on a volcano, and dance the night away at a luau.

What’s your travel style:

• Relaxing vacation for the entire family: Aulani. Disney’s Hawaiian resort offers 4-star luxury accommodations on Oahu

• Island hopping: Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America cruise. The only cruise line offering 7-nights sailing roundtrip in Hawaii, discover the best of the islands with optional excursions to curate your adventure

Beautiful Hawaiian landscape

 

Alaska

The final frontier awaits. Have you ever heard anyone say they’ve been to Alaska and didn’t want to go back? Alaska is one of the most sought-after bucket list destinations and it’s easy to see why. There is so much to see and do, it will most likely take more than one trip.

What’s your travel style:

• 7-days or less vacation time: cruising. Maximize your time so you can see and experience as much as you can. Spend time discovering Mendenhall Glacier in the capital Juneau, watching whales in Glacier Bay, and time in charming coastal towns on a cruise. Read about Lori’s recent Alaska cruise adventure here.

• 8+ days: cruise + land tour. Cruising the coast of Alaska only allows you to see 3% of her beauty. If you have the time, extend and enhance your trip with a land tour. Most itineraries include time in beautiful Denali. See the tallest mountain in North America (from base to peak, taller than Everest), spot the “top 5” most common animals including the caribou, bear, Dahl sheep, moose and wolves, and take what we think is one of the most scenic train rides in the world.

Alaska landscape with moose

 

Grand Canyon

The epitome of the national parks, the Grand Canyon offers some of the most stunning views in the entire U.S. Rich reds, vibrant oranges and beautiful browns sing in contrast to the bright blue sky.

What’s your travel style:

• Family vacation: Globus offers family-friendly itineraries with a guided tour of the Grand Canyon and surrounding Canyon Country. Enjoy some “off the grid” down time and disconnect for an amazing family trip with visits to three national parks, then test your luck in fabulous Las Vegas.

• The epic adventurer: G Adventures will get you moving. For the more adventurous, pack your hiking boots and discover the American canyonlands

Grand Canyon landscape with rainbow

 

Canada & New England

Quaint and iconic, New England shines in the fall. Cruise the coast and see beautiful fall foliage, watch the whales and sail past the lighthouses.

What’s your travel style:

• Luxury: Oceania cruises. Luxurious accommodations, top tier customer service and smaller ships get you closer to the sites

• All-inclusive: Norwegian Cruise Line cruise. With high tech ships, endless activities and options for an all-inclusive cruise, Norwegian Cruise Line allows you to pay one price for your cruise

New England lanscape with lighthouse

Ready to go? Our Travel Specialists are ready to help you plan that next great American Adventure. Find a location near you and stop in.

How to ‘B’ Happy in Times of Need

Posted on by boscovstravel

'B' Happy smiling family at a tropical resort

Did you ever think you would be living through a pandemic like this in your whole life? It typically is something you only read about in textbooks. This time period has caused challenging times for many. People are feeling sad and hopeless, but we don’t have to sit in those feelings. The purpose of the blog is to instill happiness, help people smile, and hopefully share some tips people can find resourceful to get them through.

What will help instill happiness in these times?

Forward thinking – or thinking ahead – is one thing that helps me. It may take time and patience, but in the long run WOW, does it help!  For example, as I sit here and write this blog, I should be less than two weeks away from going to the happiest place on earth, Walt Disney World. A planned girl’s trip to Disney with my best friends, all while getting to see my two sisters and niece who live in Florida, has been put on hold indefinitely. A BUMMER to say in the least.

My favorite saying has always been “Do you look at the glass half full or half empty?” I try to always find the positive in it all, my glass is always half full. Do I always succeed in this mindset? No. But it is part of me to find happiness in everything I do. I’ve recently heard a spin to this timeless moto, you can see the glass as half full or half empty, but does it matter? You have the power to refill it. It’s up to you.

While I write this post, I think about people I know who have been affected by this pandemic in ways some wouldn’t even think about. For example, my older cousin was supposed to be getting married this week, but instead his wedding is pushed back 6 months. It might not sound like a lot or big to you, but to that bride and groom, that’s their whole world.

To all the seniors of college and high school regarding graduation, my heart breaks for you. This is something people dream of and everyone has talked to you about your whole life. Now, it has been taken from you in a blink of an eye. To you, it seems like your whole world is crashing.

So how do we make people smile? I keep remembering sadness is only temporary.

The wedding … is only delayed. The trip … can be rescheduled. Your graduation … will happen, maybe in a different way, but you still will graduate. Having hope in things to come is how you can ‘B’ Happy. I look at all of this and in the moment I’m sad, disappointed and hurt, all sorts of emotions. It is ok to feel these emotions, but try and say to yourself, this is only temporary. I am so lucky that I am able to still go to Disney with my friends, just at a later date. I am so happy I will be able to attend my cousin’s wedding that I have been looking forward to for months. I’m so happy these seniors will still get there diploma and still think back on all the fun memories from their past 4 years. We will get through this, together!

Happy family smiling and looking at a smart phone

Quick tips to help build happiness:

• Virtual happy hour – Social distancing doesn’t mean you can’t be social. In this day and age, you have a plethora of resources available to you to stay connected to family and friends. Some of my favorites include texting, talking on the phone, FaceTime, Skype and ZOOM meetings. Let your smile and your happiness be infectious!

• Take up a hobby – Start that book, exercise, and learn a new hobby you’ve always wanted to do. Feeling accomplished goes a long way into making you feel happy.

• Find a resource for daily happiness – I get daily emails called Moments of Happiness from Gretchen Rubin. Each email gives ways or quotes on how to be happy. Click here if you wish to sign up.

• Love to cook or bake? – Take to the kitchen, whip up some yummy goodness and ding-dong-dash your neighbors!

• Plan your week – Every week I pick one thing to do that day that helps me get through the week. For example, Tuesday – walk, Wednesday – take out the trash. Yes, it sounds crazy but it is something I look forward to everyday and it helps me get some much needed fresh air.

• Time to binge watch – If there was a show you always wanted to watch, now is the time! With your extended time at home, get cozy on the couch and binge away.

• Spring cleaning – Sounds crazy, but it is spring right now. If you’re like me, I have so much to do around the house. Now is the perfect time to organize your closets, attics and basements. You can donate what you don’t need, but you will probably have to wait for the pandemic to be over since there are no workers managing it. So, just make sure to stick it in a corner somewhere and when the time comes, donate!

If you need more helpful tips, we found this great link for “10 Ways to Make Yourself Happier in 30 Seconds or Less”.

Let’s embrace the new normal, find the positive in each day and ‘B’ Happy together. Remember, being happy and outpouring love could not only help you, but also someone else that might truly need it.