My personal experience onboard the Disney Dream

Posted on 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!

Consider an All-Inclusive Resort for Your Romantic Getaway

Posted on by boscovstravel

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!

A Review of SECRETS Playa Bonita in Panama

Posted on by boscovstravel

The following post is written by Adam from the Boscov’s Travel Marketing Department.  Adam recently vacationed at the new Secrets Playa Bonita in Panama, and shares insider access to the resort, excursions and his overall travel experience booked through Boscov’s Travel.

After Melissa, my wife, and I spent a week at the beautiful Secrets Silversands in the Riviera Maya, and being impressed with the Secrets brand, we decided to pick another for this year’s vacation. We decided we wanted to go somewhere other than Mexico and set about researching the opening of the Secrets resorts in Costa Rica and Panama at the end of 2015. With the assistance of a Boscov’s Travel specialist, we chose to vacation at Secrets Playa Bonita in Panama, as it beats being in Reading, PA when all it does is rain lately.

After the flight and breezing through customs we were picked up by Gamboa Tours for our private transfer to the resort. The resort is about 30 minutes from the Tocumen International Airport (PTY), and Panama City itself is a sight to behold. Our driver did a fantastic job of providing a brief history of Panama as well as information of the more famous buildings that populate the skyline. Panama seems to be in a state of transition, there was a lot of new construction going on everywhere, as well as the demolition of a lot of older buildings.

After making it through the city and crossing the Pacific approach of the Panama Canal on the Bridge of Americas, we finally arrived at Playa Bonita. As always, it’s nice to be greeted with a cold towel and glass of champagne. I don’t know how much refurbishing Secrets did to make it different from the old InterContinental property, but it felt like a Secrets. The property itself was lush and very well maintained and being surrounded by a jungle really gave the resort a sense of privacy.

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As someone that has spent every summer going to the “shore”, I am always judgmental of other beaches. The beach at Playa Bonita is ideal for swimming in the early morning during high tide, but recedes about 200 yards come low tide. Before our trip we read reviews of the resort and a reviewer recommended water shoes if you wanted to explore the beach during low tide. I would also recommend it, it was interesting to see live sand dollars, crabs, oysters, and exotic fish while exploring the beach and rocks exposed during low tide.

During our stay we decided to take the Gatun Lake Expedition excursion. The expedition begins on the edge of Gamboa, crossing the Chagres River, up to the Gatun Lake in the Panama Canal, while traveling next to ships passing through the canal. This adventure gave us the opportunity to visit several islands occupied by capuchins and howling monkeys, as well as observe numerous bird species. They said there might be sloths, but alas no sloths. It was exciting to see how the canal operates up close. Again our Gamboa Tours driver did a great job of providing information about the area of Gamboa during building of the canal, as well as taking us through the town that was once occupied by American engineers.

Our experience during this trip was great and we appreciated the recommendation from the Boscov’s Travel specialist. First off, the staff was friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to provide us anything when we asked for it. Second, the resort itself from our room to the grounds were beautiful and pristine. And third, the atmosphere by the pools and beach were relaxing and invigorating.

Panama02

Panama03

 

The only thing that didn’t sit well with us during our stay was the restaurant schedule. I believe because of occupancy they decided to rotate opening and closings of restaurants. I realize that the resort is in its infancy, so to speak, but I really felt that could have done a better job in handling the restaurants. Thankfully the resort had exceptional room service and was greatly appreciated on the nights we didn’t wish to have dinner at the buffet.

Overall, the resort is a beautiful with a few kinks that still need to be worked out. Once those kinks are worked out, I believe that Playa Bonita would be a desired destination for anyone wishing to cross off Panama on their dream bucket list.

Panama07

If you’re ready to book your next all-inclusive vacation, email [email protected], call 800-755-8020 or direct message us.

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.