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My Personal Experience Onboard Royal Caribbean International’s Brand-New Icon of the Seas: Q&A Edition

Posted on August 2, 2024 by boscovstravel

In January 2024, one of our Boscov’s Travel employees went on an inaugural cruise onboard Royal Caribbean International’s Brand-New Icon of the Seas! Read her incredible experience below:

Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas

Q: Was this your first time sailing on Royal Caribbean? – A: It was! Working in the Marketing Department, I’ve been promoting Royal Caribbean to our clients for 11+ years and was so excited to be able to experience the product for myself.

Q: Where did you sail to and from? – A: We sailed from the Port of Miami, FL to Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas.

Q: What stateroom did you stay in? – A: We stayed in an Infinite Veranda. This stateroom type can be found when you sail with both Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises. It takes the traditional balcony (with door and outdoor seating) and turns your stateroom into part of the balcony with a floor to ceiling window that opens halfway. I personally LOVE this type of stateroom as it really extends the length of the room and who doesn’t love sleeping with fresh wind blowing in from the sea?

Infinite Veranda stateroom

Q: How did you feel about the Icon of the Seas being the biggest cruise ship in the world? Could you tell? – A: The bigger the better, in my opinion. I know speaking with a lot of friends and family, they said “it would be too big for me”, but honestly, every inch of the ship is so thoughtfully designed that it never felt overwhelming. If you love the Oasis class ships, the Icon of the Seas is similar, but just slightly on steroids. And of course, who doesn’t love a ship that is shiny and new?

Q: What did you love most about the ship? – A: A WOW moment for me was walking out of the elevators on deck 16 into Chill Island and looking several stories down into Central Park. It gives you a unique vantage point of the center of the ship and all the beautiful live foliage they brought (and maintain!) onboard. I’m a thrill over chill type of person so I also really loved the waterslides onboard. Also, the entertainment and dining experiences onboard were expertly crafted too!

Chill Island looking into Central Park

Q: What surprised you most about the ship? – A: Even though it is the biggest cruise ship in the world, it truly did not feel overwhelming. There are so many nooks and crannies on where you could go and never felt “crowded”. The new elevator system was a pleasant surprise to say the least. Instead of everyone going into the elevator and choosing a deck, you choose the deck you want to go to from a kiosk. A letter is given on the kiosk which corresponds to an elevator to go to. In my opinion, this is brilliant engineering to move many people without the common backlog at the elevators, especially after shows.

Elevator Kiosk

Elevator matching Kiosk

Q: There are five new neighborhoods on this ship. Can we talk about each of them?

Q: The Aqua Dome – A: A sensory delight. Enjoy lounging, entertainment and dining with unique and dazzling ocean views.

Q: Chill Island – A: Pools, hot tubs, swim-up bar – need I say more?

Q: Thrill Island – A: Waterslides, mini-golf, rock climbing, Crown’s Edge – thrill seekers unite and adults feel like kids again.

Thrill Island

Q: The Hideaway – A: Adults-only area on the back of the ship with a suspended pool and wrap around bar.

Q: Surfside – A: My kids would have loved this neighborhood. Some adjectives that come to mind are delightful, colorful and fun.

Surfside

Q: What was your favorite restaurant onboard? – A:

Q: Complimentary? – A: I LOVED dinner in the main dining room, it was delicious to say the least. My favorite complimentary grab and go has to be El Loco Fresh because who couldn’t eat tacos every day of the week? The chips and salsa varieties were great and they had really good margaritas. We also love grabbing breakfast from the Park Café. They had a lot of great grab and go items (loved the parfaits) and also some made-to-order breakfast items (loved the ham, egg and cheese on an English muffin). The coffee was great too!

Main Dining Room Steak

Main Dining Room Creme Brulee

El Loco Fresh

Park Cafe

Q: Specialty? – A: Since we sailed on an inaugural sailing, a lot of the specialty restaurants were not available to us, but we did get to sample the food at Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade. Playmakers offers all your favorite comfort foods and has a fun sports bar vibe to it including retro video games, a pool and foosball table and a few arcade games. This was probably the most crowded spot onboard as it was during football season and the only place onboard to see the playoff games.

Q: What was your favorite bar onboard? – A: Some of the bars are located in the Promenade and we had a lot of fun bar hopping. The Schooner Bar had a nice laid-back atmosphere and was beautiful. But our favorite bar had to have been 1400 which had a lot of fun cocktails and a signature martini with a blown bubble.

Q: What was your favorite entertainment onboard? – A: My favorite entertainment onboard had to be The Wizard of Oz. This Broadway hit musical was filled with so much talent, color, props, backgrounds, songs, dances and brought back everything you love about the movie. It truly was incredible to see!

The Wizard of Oz

Q: How many shows did you attend? – A: We saw three preview shows on our three-night cruise and included The Wizard of Oz, Elemental Beauty (ice skating) and Aqua Action! (aqua show)

Elemental Beauty (ice skating)

Aqua Action! (aqua show)

Q: What other activities did you do onboard and which was your favorite? – A: We truly had fun exploring every inch of the ship and some highlights included winning a bronze medal in a glow-in-the-dark mini golf competition, winning some money in the casino, working up a sweat in the gym and running the track onboard. We also spent a good amount of time visiting every type of stateroom onboard and loved seeing everything from an Interior stateroom all the way up to the Ultimate Family suite.

Mini Golf

Fitness Center

Q: There are seven pools onboard, which one did you enjoy the most and why? – A: Hands down the Hideaway Pool was my favorite. For adults 18+, the pool is located at the back of the ship and is the first suspended infinity pool at sea. Perfect to hang in the pool with a cocktail and watch the sunset. Next would be the first swim up bar at sea (can never go wrong here!).

Hideaway Pool

Q: What did you think of The Pearl? – A: Definitely another WOW moment. My husband, an engineer, was truly intrigued trying to figure out how it all worked being that it is the world’s largest kinetic art sculpture.

The Pearl

Q: What was the newest thing you saw on the ship that impressed you the most? – A: Not new to the Royal Caribbean brand, but Central Park at night was so magical. The vibrant colors against the night sky stop you in your tracks, is a plant lover’s dream, and provides a nice breeze from several decks above. In terms of most impressive, I have to go back to the elevator system. It may sound silly, but a “why didn’t I think of that”? idea.

Central Park at night

Q: You mentioned you sailed to Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas. What do you want to share about the port? – A: It’s a lot bigger than I thought it would be and truly has something for everyone. We really enjoyed partaking in the water park and all the water slides which is something we can’t do together when we have our kids with. If you are a thrill seeker, don’t miss out on Daredevil’s Peak as it is definitely worth the stair climb! If your idea of fun is toes in the sand and drink in hand, there are, I believe seven plus beaches on the island. We tested them all out and even stumbled across Rover, the Icon of the Seas’ Chief Dog Officer.

Daredevil’s Peak at Thrill Waterpark

Rover, the Icon of the Seas’ Chief Dog Officer

Q: Did you do anything special on the island? – A: We were signed up for a snorkel adventure, but unfortunately could not do this because of rough seas. But we did get to go to Hideaway Beach, the island’s adults-only area. We enjoyed elevated snacks, sipping on drinks in the island’s only heated pool which included a big swim up bar, lounging in lounge chairs, and swimming across the lagoon. There is an added cost for Hideaway Beach, but I would recommend it for anyone that likes a relaxed party vibe.

Hideaway Beach

Hideaway Beach Swim-Up Bar

Q: What was your favorite part of Perfect Day at CocoCay? – A: We did really have fun exploring the whole island and think this could be an overnight port with all there is to do. I’d say our favorite would be going back to having fun on the water slides and bringing back some childhood fun as adults.

Q: Is there anything else we did not discuss that you would like to mention? – A: Of course!

– You have to research Icon of the Seas and all that went into the sustainability when the ship was built. Most notably are the liquified natural gas engines—really awesome advancements onboard to be as eco-friendly as possible.

– There are lots and lots of storage spaces in the staterooms, a really nice touch.

– A lot of people I heard couldn’t find the safe in the stateroom, pro top: it’s behind the glass cabinet.

– Don’t discredit the snack stands on Perfect Day at CocoCay, they were definitely our preference over the buffet.

– If your pre-paid excursion gets cancelled by Royal Caribbean because of bad weather, they will automatically credit you back to your original form of payment (takes several days, but it does get done).

– Always pay attention to information provided to you from your transportation company taking you to the pier. I had to help two-couples with transportation back to the Fort Lauderdale pier after they got on our bus to go to The Port of Miami. Thankfully, they made it in the nick of time, but I’d imagine it was so stressful to them (and also another reason to book with your favorite Boscov’s Travel Advisor).

Q: What do you recommend to anyone sailing on the Icon of the Seas? – A: Try a little bit of everything the ship has to offer and really soak in the beauty and memories made with your friends and family.

Q: Would you sail on the Icon of the Seas again? – A: Absolutely, when are we going? ; )

Does this incredible experience incline you to sail on Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas? Your local Boscov’s Travel Advisor is ready to assist you in planning whenever you’re ready! Contact your local Boscov’s Travel or call 800-755-8020 or visit https://www.boscovstravel.com/cruises/royal-caribbean/index.html to learn more.

My Personal Experience on Boscov’s Travel Exclusive Private Non-Stop Charter Flights to Orlando & sailing on an MSC Cruises’ cruise

Posted on November 3, 2023November 3, 2023 by boscovstravel

Recently one of our Boscov’s Travel Advisors took our Boscov’s Travel exclusive private non-stop charter flight to Orlando. Read her incredible experience below.

MSC Cruises’ Seaside

My husband and I went on the Boscov’s Travel exclusive private non-stop Orlando charter the week of October 22, 2023. We weren’t traveling with family this trip so we decided to forego the theme parks in the Orlando area and instead take a relaxing 4-night cruise to the Bahamas along with 2-days in St. Augustine after the cruise.

As a Boscov’s Travel employee, I have taken our charter several times before and it’s always been such a pleasurable experience compared to flying out of the other airports where there’s lots of traffic congestion and extra costs. The Reading Regional Airport is easy to get to, easy to park (we were right in front of the terminal, mere steps away), and the Boscov’s Travel check-in and TSA security were fast and efficient (all done within a few minutes). We did not have to pay to park, pay for our seats, or pay for luggage! When you add up all of these costs, these are big savings, plus driving time to the airport is a breeze!

The Southwest Airlines flight crew was friendly and welcoming and our plane ride was very fast and smooth (we arrived early). We were booked on the MSC Cruises’ Seaside sailing to Nassau and Ocean Cay – MSC Marine Reserve, Bahamas. We met an MSC Cruises representative shortly after our arrival at the Orlando International Airport and were effortlessly transferred to Port Canaveral (less than an hour ride) where we boarded the ship.

MSC Cruises’ Seaside

We had a cabin in the Yacht Club which is an exclusive ship-within-a-ship experience with excellent service from the ship’s staff (special praise to Jordan, our waiter and Glen, our butler). As part of the Yacht Club experience, a private butler meets you at the pier and escorts you onto the ship bypassing the long lines. We were checked in promptly at their Concierge Desk and were eating a delicious lunch within minutes at their private dining room. Our Yacht Club experience included the Premium Beverage package, unlimited Wi-Fi and complimentary access to the Thermal Spa area.

Nassau Port Terminal

Our first stop was Nassau, Bahamas which has a very nice and new Port Terminal & Shops. If you traveled to Nassau in the past, you may remember the old straw market and vendors. This was not a pleasant experience… very claustrophobic and chaotic with lots of pressure from the vendors to buy their wares. This new Port Terminal & Shops is very clean, bright and organized with lots of open space, beautiful landscaping and friendly vendors. Such a great improvement! After our shopping jaunt, we returned to the ship where I decided to take advantage of the Thermal Spa (my husband went off to explore the ship). I spent two hours experiencing all the features which included a steam room, two saunas (a dry and a European), a snow room, a salt room, a Vitality pool with oxygen-intensified water, an aromatherapy shower and a heated stone lounge chair. I absolutely loved these last four options!

Our next stop was Ocean Cay – MSC Marine Reserve, their private island. This island was a former industrial site where sand was excavated that MSC reclaimed and restored to its natural beauty. What was nice about this stop was we were here overnight so we didn’t feel rushed and could enjoy a leisurely day and a half at the beach using the ship as our hotel. As part of the Yacht Club, we were escorted off the ship by our private butler (again bypassing the lines) and taken by a dedicated tram to the Ocean House Beach & Restaurant. The Restaurant was very nice and served several options for lunch including local fish, lobster and tropical drinks.

Bimini Beach

The beach here is pretty, but we decided to walk a short distance to the North Beach which was located on the lagoon and had beautiful calm clear water with a palm tree-lined beach. On our walk we passed Bimini Beach which has a spectacular lighthouse and views. In the evening, the beach is filled with night-life including a beach party and light show!

Casa Monica Resort

Dinner at Forgotten Tonic

We disembarked the ship on Thursday morning and picked up the car rental shuttle at the pier for the next part of our adventure. We got our car then drove to St. Augustine! Our drive took a little over two hours as we took the scenic route rather than major toll-ways. We checked into the Casa Monica Resort (part of the Marriott Autograph Collection), which is a beautiful hotel built in 1888 nestled in the heart of St. Augustine’s Historic District. We spent the afternoon exploring this area which was all within walking distance of our hotel. Later, we had dinner at a quaint little restaurant called Forgotten Tonic. The restaurant reminded us of dining in a cafe on a Mediterranean street.

St. Augustine Historic District

Flagler College Hall

Alcazar Hotel/City

Spanish Moss – Fountain of Youth

Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse in the U.S.A.

The next day we took a narrated sightseeing tour of St. Augustine’s historic landmarks on Ripley’s Red Train tour. A special perk is they offer military and senior discounts, but you must ask for it. Our driver/guide was very knowledgeable and entertaining as he told us about the history of America’s oldest city. After this tour, we went back to the Orlando area for our overnight stay at the Embassy Suites-Orlando International Airport. The next day check-in at the airport was easy with the help of the dedicated Southwest staff at the North East Flight Departures ticket counter. We did check in three hours ahead of our flight departure time because security lines at Orlando International Airport can be very long. Our flight back to Reading Regional Airport was again enjoyable with a colorful fall aerial view of Berks County as we arrived back in Reading.

We had a wonderful vacation and the charter was truly the best way to get to Orlando! I highly recommend trying Boscov’s Travel’s exclusive private non-stop charter flights to Orlando at least once (and when you fly once with us, you’ll agree it’s the best way to get to central Florida)! Your local Boscov’s Travel Advisor is ready to assist you in planning your Orlando vacation whenever you’re ready! Contact your local Boscov’s Travel or call 800-755-8020 or visit https://www.boscovstravel.com/exclusives/orlando-charter/default.aspx to learn more.

My personal experience onboard Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas

Posted on July 3, 2023 by boscovstravel

Recently one of our Boscov’s Travel Advisors took a cruise onboard Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas to the Bahamas and Perfect Day at CocoCay. Read her incredible experience below.

My family and I had recently sailed to the Bahamas and Perfect Day at CocoCay on Royal Caribbean International’s Oasis of the Seas! We had such a great time onboard and at the ports! The ship sailed out of Cape Liberty, New Jersey with stops in the ports: Orlando (Port Canaveral), Florida; Nassau, Bahamas; and Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas. So far, I have been on all four Oasis class ships, but this was my first Oasis of the Seas sailing after it’s “royal enhancement,” which means the ship has been newly renovated.

On our sailing, we had adjoined Central Park Balcony View Staterooms and the views were stunning as this neighborhood is set with more than 10,000 plants and flowers – a tropical nature sanctuary onboard. For those of you who don’t know, Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class ships have seven different neighborhoods which include the beautiful open-air Central Park, the Royal Promenade where parades and parties take place, the Boardwalk, the Pool and Sports Zone, the Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Center, Entertainment Place, and the Youth Zone. All of these neighborhoods are filled with exciting new discoveries and memories to be made.

The food and bars onboard were absolutely incredible. From the main dining room to the specialty dining, you truly can’t go wrong. We decided to visit the specialty restaurant Chops Grill which was absolutely delicious! My favorite part was the lemon meringue pie which was refreshing and tasty.

Our favorite thing on the cruise ship was the water show Aqua80 – we were blown away! The awesome show is at the ship’s AquaTheater with world-class extreme sports athletes performing top-deck high dives, acrobatics and so much more, all to the tunes of the 1980’s! Aqua80 was truly spectacular! Don’t forget that on the Oasis of the Seas you need to reserve your showtimes a month prior to your departure via the Royal Caribbean International app.

For our favorite port we visited, we all can agree that we loved Perfect Day at CocoCay! We rented a private cabana on the private island down at the South Beach, which is just one of four beaches on Perfect Day at CocoCay. With our private cabana we received VIP service and our own attendant, which made the experience even more relaxing and fun!

We also took an excursion while we were at Perfect Day at CocoCay. We did a swim with the Bahamian pigs excursion, which was so much fun! The pigs themselves range in colors from black to pink and have cute flat button noses that act as a snorkel when they swim. The pigs were very friendly and so excited to spend time with us. We loved every minute of this excursion!

The best part of our experience onboard the Oasis of the Seas was the great pricing we got for the cruise! We actually booked the cruise with our Boscov’s Travel exclusive public group space, which saved us almost 40% off from the retail promotions that the cruise line runs. These are incredibly special deals! Even better? This Boscov’s Travel group space special pricing is available to you, our valued clients all because of our partnership with Royal Caribbean International!

Overall, we truly enjoyed our cruise to the Bahamas and Perfect Day at CocoCay. We love Royal Caribbean International and look forward to future sailings on some of their newly innovated ships that are to be debuted over the next year. I highly recommend cruising with Royal Caribbean as soon as you can, and with our wealth of knowledge, your local Boscov’s Travel Advisor can help you plan your next cruise too. Contact your local Boscov’s Travel or call 800-755-8020 or visit boscovstravel.com/cruises/royal-caribbean/index.html to learn more.

2023 Orlando Charters are Here

Posted on August 18, 2022 by boscovstravel

We are continuing to provide convenient exclusive non-stop flights from select local airports in PA to Orlando, Florida so you can visit your favorite parks, attractions and beaches in 2023!

Boscov’s Travel is both an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and Universal Preferred Travel Agency with a wealth of knowledge to customize your travel package any way you like. Come fly aboard a chartered Southwest Airlines 737 jet with us.

What’s included in the Boscov’s Travel charter?

Included in all Boscov’s Travel Orlando Charters:

Non-stop air aboard a Southwest Airlines® charter flight between your choice of three local airports — including Reading, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton and Harrisburg airports — and Orlando, FL

Additional Services you can add:

With all the recent changes in Disney travel and available packages, it can be confusing. Talk with your trusted Disney travel expert and they will guide you through all the new processes in place to make the most of your Orlando Charter. You choose your itinerary in Florida. Searching for sunshine and crystal-clear blue waters within the U.S. at one of the famed Gulf Coast beaches or a faster pace at Universal Orlando Resort? Planning for the most magical place on Earth? Enjoy travel arrangements for Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom, plus Disney’s Water Park options. Your Boscov’s Travel Advisor will customize your package any way you like. Learn more about Walt Disney World

Southwest 737 airplane

What are the benefits of flying from a local airport?

These airports offer less congestion than driving to regional airports, little or no fees for 7-day parking, shorter security lines, and overall, less hassle.

Southwest doesn’t offer reserved seating. Can I be guaranteed to sit with my family?

Because of our exclusive partnership with Southwest Airlines, we are able to offer you complimentary reserved seating.

What time are the flights?

Flights depart at approximately 8:00 AM Sunday morning and return the following Saturday evening.

What do you charge for Disney tickets? What about Universal Orlando tickets?

We offer competitive pricing for Disney vacations and Universal Orlando theme parks. Rates vary by season and available offers. Talk to an Advisor and request a quote today!

How much is parking at the airport?

Parking is free at the Reading airport. There is a nominal fee for parking at Wilkes-Barre/Scranton and Harrisburg airports.

How much do you charge for luggage?

Your checked luggage flies free. Each passenger is entitled to one checked bag not to exceed 50 lbs., plus one carry-on bag and one personal item.

I’m ready to book my flight on Boscov’s Travel Exclusive Charter to Orlando!

Great! Visit our locations and hours page for find your closest Boscov’s Travel location to start planning today! Outside of the area? We are happy to assist you online and by phone at 800-755-8020.

My personal experience onboard the Disney Dream

Posted on April 8, 2022April 8, 2022 by boscovstravel

The following post was written by Ken, Branch Manager at our Camp Hill location and is a review of his recent experience onboard Disney Cruise Line’s Dream and the ports of call.

Almost 25 years had passed since I last sailed on Disney Cruise Line. It was both Disney Cruise Lines’ first year and their first ship, the Disney Magic. Walt Disney World was still celebrating their 25th anniversary. Fast forward to October 2021 – my wife and I took our second Disney Cruise on the Disney Dream. This was also our first post-pandemic cruise and I was quite ready to have a change of scenery and take a “real trip.”

I knew that travel during COVID times was going to be a little different. After spending a couple days at Walt Disney World (this time celebrating 50 years), we headed over to Port Canaveral to prepare to board the ship. The protocol was to be vaccinated and take a pre-cruise rapid-antigen test at the pier. Disney very efficiently administered the testing and within 40 minutes we were notified on their Disney Cruise Line Navigator app that we were cleared to board.

At that time we were required to wear masks in indoor public spaces on the ship, but this requirement has since been lifted. The word on the pier was that there were about 1,500 passengers onboard a ship holding up to 4,000. The lack of people onboard certainly made it easy to space people out. In the theatre we were seated at least one row and three seats away from any other passengers. We were even encouraged to only share the elevators with those you were traveling with.

Our 4-night sailing was both a special Halloween-themed voyage and a double visit to Castaway Cay, DCL’s private island in the Bahamas. The Dream was decked out in fall decorations and the lobby’s centerpiece was a spooky pumpkin tree (which became the backdrop of many photos). Guests and crew really went all out for Halloween. Costumes were encouraged on several evenings and guests really got into the spirit. The costumes were mostly homemade and either Disney-themed or pirates. It seemed like the entire ship dressed up for “Pirate Night,” including the dining room staff and all the Disney characters. Pirate Night culminated with everyone out on deck for DCL’s exclusive “fireworks at sea” show.

Throughout the cruise we gladly lined up to have our photos taken with Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Donald and so on. Sometimes this was in the lobby, other times it was up by the pool on Castaway Cay. We mostly used the adults-only pool deck area; but, since there were hardly any lines, we happily rode the AquaDuck Water Coaster numerous times. This was a Disney Cruise after all, where Disney music plays throughout the ship (except in the adults-only areas) and Disney movies are on the big (make that HUGE) screen out by the pool. We were happy to revert back to being kids for a few days when appropriate.

We kept track of all the happenings on the Disney app on our phone which included our “rotational dining” throughout the ship, plus all the various entertainment. I remembered “rotating” through the various dining rooms on our first Disney cruise and how the wait staff remains with you. The big “wow” show was their Broadway style version of “Beauty and the Beast.” It was extremely well done. Other smaller venues offered singers or music throughout the ship.

The highlight during the day was our TWO visits to the beautiful Castaway Cay. We took the shuttle to the adult beach, Serenity Bay at the far end of the island. The water here was crystal clear and very calm. You didn’t really have to leave the adults area as it had it’s own bar and a fantastic buffet/grill area.

I still dream about tropical Castaway Cay and the amazing Disney Dream. I just hope we don’t wait another 25 years to go again!

The newest adventures at your favorite Orlando Theme Parks

Posted on January 13, 2022 by boscovstravel

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 50^th Anniversary

Walt Disney World Resort has been celebrating their 50^th 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 50^th 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 50^th 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.

Get to know the all-new Disney Genie

Posted on August 31, 2021August 31, 2021 by boscovstravel

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.

2022 Orlando Charters are Here

Posted on July 15, 2021 by boscovstravel

Boscov's Travel Orlando Charter

We are continuing to provide convenient non-stop flights from select local airports in PA to Orlando, Florida so you can visit your favorite parks, attractions and beaches in 2022! With updated safety measures in place, we will be sure to make it as safe as possible for you.