Rome – Boscov's Travel: Blog | Insider Travel Info

Passport to 2026: Ten Expert-Curated Destinations for Every Travel Style

Posted on January 14, 2026 by boscovstravel

Whether it’s the excitement of a new destination or the comfort of a favorite retreat, we all have a place that’s calling our name. At Boscov’s Travel, we know the value of a well-planned itinerary, and in 2026, the world is offering more reasons than ever to set out and explore.

Our expert Boscov’s Travel Advisors have hand-selected their top ten destinations to inspire your next adventure. From the high-energy celebrations of America’s 250th anniversary to serene, off-the-beaten-path escapes, this list is designed to be your guide to a year of purposeful and unforgettable travel.

Our Top Ten Picks:

1. Popular: Mexico

The Experience: Effortless Luxury & All-Inclusive Comfort

Expert Insight: Mexico continues to set the standard for stress-free getaways. Our clients consistently report that the service from resort staff is “next to none,” offering a level of hospitality that makes every guest feel like a VIP.

The Mexico all-inclusive experience has evolved into a realm of total personalization. Many of our preferred resorts feature gourmet à la carte dining, unlimited beverages (including alcoholic), 24-hour room service, and top-shelf amenities included in your stay. Whether you are looking for a family-friendly oasis or an adults-only retreat, Mexico remains the premier choice for those who want high-value luxury and pristine Caribbean waters.

2. Exotic: Japan

The Experience: Ancient Traditions Meet Modern Marvels

Expert Insight: Japan is more accessible than ever in 2026. With airfares trending lower than in previous years, it’s the ideal time to explore the neon-lit streets of Tokyo and the serene temples of Kyoto. What makes Japan truly exotic is the profound sense of discovery found in its details—from the intricate, pagoda-style architecture to the quiet mystery of a hidden mountain shrine. Travelers can enjoy a seamless blend of the ultra-modern and the deeply traditional, from riding the lightning-fast Shinkansen bullet trains to participating in a quiet tea ceremony in a centuries-old garden. It offers a cultural immersion that is truly unlike anywhere else on Earth.

3. Adventurous: Costa Rica

The Experience: Biodiversity & Active Exploration

Expert Insight: Costa Rica is a playground for the senses. From the towering Arenal Volcano to “cloud treks” through the misty canopy of Monteverde, the variety of activity is unmatched. It is the perfect destination for travelers who want to see exotic wildlife in their natural habitat.

Expect to see different species of monkeys—from the vocal Howler monkeys to the curious White-Faced Capuchins—swinging through the trees. Along the coast and in the rainforests, you can spot slow-moving sloths tucked into the branches and vibrant Scarlet Macaws or Keel-Billed Toucans flying overhead. Whether you are zip-lining over forests or soaking in natural hot springs, adventure and wildlife encounters are built into every day of the itinerary.

4. Relax and Recharge: Fiji

The Experience: Ultimate Seclusion & Tropical Serenity

Expert Insight: While Fiji requires a long-haul flight, the reward is total peace and world-class relaxation. You are transported to some of the world’s most secluded beaches, far from the bustle of daily life and crowded tourist hubs. It is a destination where time seems to slow down, allowing you to fully unplug. For travelers looking to truly reset, the private island feel and crystal-clear turquoise waters of Fiji offer a level of serenity that is worth every mile of the journey.

5. Off-the-Beaten-Path: Patagonia

The Experience: Raw Wilderness & Untamed Beauty

Expert Insight: For those who have already checked the “major” landmarks off their list, Patagonia offers a rugged, awe-inspiring frontier that feels refreshingly undiscovered. Spanning the southern tips of Chile and Argentina, this region is for the traveler who finds peace in glaciers, jagged granite peaks, and the quiet of the great outdoors.

However, the experience goes beyond the scenery; you can immerse yourself in the legendary Gaucho (cowboy) culture at a traditional local estancia (ranch). Here, the “slow food” lifestyle comes to life through authentic open-fire barbecues—where local lamb is roasted for hours—perfectly paired with bold regional wines. It’s a place that balances spiky mountain landscapes with sophisticated frontier hospitality.

6. Entertaining: New Cruise Ships

The Experience: Cutting-Edge Innovation & World-Class Shows

Expert Insight: 2026 is a landmark year for cruising, where the ship itself becomes the center of the entertainment. With the recent launch of ships like Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas and Norwegian Cruise Line’s Aqua, travelers can enjoy a city-like atmosphere at sea. These vessels offer Broadway-caliber entertainment, record-breaking water activities, and an incredible array of specialty dining that ensures travelers of all ages are constantly captivated. It is the perfect choice for those looking for non-stop excitement and luxury on the water.

7. Nature Lovers: Norway

The Experience: Majestic Fjords & Refreshing Climates

Expert Insight: We often recommend Norway as the “next step” for those who loved their Alaska cruise but are looking for a new perspective on natural beauty. The landscape here features deep, emerald-green fjords carved by ancient glaciers and dramatic mountains that rise straight from the sea. Nature lovers can experience the phenomenon of the Midnight Sun in the summer months, providing nearly 24 hours of daylight to explore pristine waterfalls and remote coastal villages. Visitors can wander the colorful, historic wharf of Bergen or sail through the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Geirangerfjord. It is the ultimate escape for those who prefer cooler, refreshing temperatures and a landscape that feels like a quiet, untouched world of pure natural wonder.

8. Metropolitan: London

The Experience: Seamless Urban Exploration

Expert Insight: London is an ideal city for those who love a metropolitan pace but appreciate easy navigation. The subway system (the “Tube”) is remarkably easy to use, making it simple to pack your day with West End plays, world-renowned museums, and historic landmarks like the Tower of London without the stress of logistics. For a classic experience, you can hop on an iconic red double-decker bus to see the city from a different perspective as you cruise past Big Ben and Buckingham Palace. From high-end shopping to historic charm, London offers a diverse big-city experience that is both accessible and exciting for every type of traveler.

9. Historical & Cultural: Rome

The Experience: A Living Museum

Expert Insight: In Rome, history isn’t tucked away behind glass; it’s on every street corner. The entire city functions as an open-air museum, offering a profound connection to the past for any culture seeker. You can enjoy a gelato while standing in the shadow of the Pantheon or walk the same stones as gladiators at the Colosseum.

Beyond the monuments, Rome offers a sensory journey into the Italian way of life. You can spend your afternoons exploring the vine-covered alleyways of the Trastevere neighborhood or dining at authentic trattorias that serve world-class pasta and local wines. It is an incredible choice for travelers who want to immerse themselves in history, art, architecture, and a vibrant food culture that has been perfected over centuries.

10. Event-Based: USA America250 Celebrations

The Experience: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Patriotic Milestone

Expert Insight: 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the United States, turning the country into a massive venue for historic events. The center of the action is at the National Mall in Washington, D.C., which will host the Great American State Fair—a month-long festival featuring local food and exhibits from all 50 states. Along the coast, the Sail250® tour will bring a fleet of over 60 international tall ships and military vessels into harbors including Philadelphia, Norfolk, Boston, New Orleans, and New York & New Jersey.

The celebrations extend deep into the heart of the country as well. In the Midwest, Mount Rushmore is planning a rare, signature fireworks display to mark the milestone. On the West Coast, cities like Seattle and Los Angeles are preparing cultural festivals that honor the diverse history of the Pacific.

For sports fans, this patriotic milestone perfectly aligns with the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with cities like Philadelphia and New York hosting major matches throughout the summer. Whether you are watching record-breaking fireworks or exploring newly renovated galleries at the Smithsonian, 2026 is the premier year to experience these once-in-a-lifetime American celebrations.

Plan Your 2026 Journey

2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting years for travel yet! Whether you want to witness the massive Sail250® fleet, explore the stunning landscapes of Patagonia, or simply kick back at a world-class all-inclusive in Mexico, this is the year to make it happen.

Forget the stress of planning and the endless online searches. Our experts are here to handle the details so you can focus on the fun stuff—like deciding which specialty restaurant to try first or which national park to check off your list. From exclusive cruise perks to the best hidden spots in Rome, we’ve got you covered.

Our Boscov’s Travel Advisors are 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/

Exploring the Best of Europe via Cruise Ship

Posted on June 21, 2016 by boscovstravel

The following post is written by Laurie from the Boscov’s Travel Operations Department at the company’s headquarters. Laurie recently sailed aboard the Norwegian Epic on a European tour and shares her travel adventures that she booked through Boscov’s Travel.

I am very excited to share my “European Family Adventure” with all of you. My parents are avid cruisers and were eager to share a trip to Europe with both my of children and myself while they were active enough to really enjoy it. To be honest I was a bit nervous that my kids were too young to really appreciate all this amazing experience had to offer. Alexa is 12 and Zachary had just turned 9. We left Philadelphia on a direct flight to Barcelona Thursday evening. Much to my surprise the flight went remarkably fast after a movie and a few hours of sleep we were ready to land. My nervousness subsided the moment we met our driver at the Barcelona airport to take us to the hotel. Zachary became instantly engrossed in the Spanish language and was trying to learn every Spanish word possible from him in the 20 minute drive. Despite the language barrier he did everything to make us feel welcome and was very excited to share his country with us.

Our vacation began with a 2-night pre-cruise stay in a hotel located right on Las Ramblas which is the most famous main street, located in the heart of Barcelona with more restaurants, cafes, and shops than you can imagine. We loved walking around this area soaking up the architecture and local culture by trying tapas, paella, gelato and of course you can’t forget the sangria. During our stay we did a Double Decker Bus tour of the city as well as a trip to the local aquarium. We booked a Flamenco dinner show which was really fantastic as well. I highly encourage the pre-night stay to enjoy this beautiful city and I also think it helps to adjust to the time change.

Sunday morning arrived and it was time to board the Norwegian Cruise Line Ship, Epic. Check in was flawless and easy to do. I really enjoyed the layout of this ship as it was a bit different than others I have cruised on. It was raining so the water slides would have to wait until the sun came out. The kids managed to occupy their time at the bowling alley and the arcade located in the O’Sheehan’s Sports Bar which would come to be one of our favorite spots. We did make reservations to do the Cirque Dreams Show which was one of the ships highlights. Although the dinner portion wasn’t rave worthy the show was really fantastic!

Monday was a day at sea to relax before we arrived in Italy. My Dad and I had to check out the Epic’s Ice Bar, where they graciously gave you parkas and gloves so you are able to enjoy your cocktails in a balmy 11 degrees. You tend to drink faster than normal because it’s a little chilly, but to see a bar and chairs all made out of ice was really cool. We both were glad we took the time to try it out and it was worth the cover charge!

Tuesday morning we arrived in Naples, Italy where we had our first shore excursion to the spectacular Sorrento and Amalfi coast by land and sea. The boat ride was picturesque and walking around the villages was so neat. Of course we got to learn a bit of Italian from our tour guide too.

Lunch was located in a greenhouse filled with beautiful flowers and lemon trees that I couldn’t get enough of.

Wednesday we arrived in Rome, Italy, where we had a full day excursion with sightseeing at the Colosseum and throughout Vatican City. The expression “Rome wasn’t built in a day,” is an understatement. This tour was pretty intense, as it was hours of walking, sightseeing and learning. Alexa studied the Colisseum in 6^th grade Social Studies so this was a once in a lifetime field trip to say the least. I am not sure who was more excited, her or the tour guide, as she was asking a million questions. Once arriving at the Vatican, we learned we had missed the Pope speaking earlier that morning as he does a service every Wednesday morning for the public. Seeing the inside of the Sistine Chapel was breathtaking and my favorite part was looking around to see the different emotions of everyone there. There were people praying, singing, crying, and those that were just in pure awe of the beauty.

Thursday brought us to our final day in Italy where we toured Florence and Pisa. This was my favorite port of the trip. The bus ride through the scenic Tuscan countryside on the way to Florence was unlike anything I have ever experienced. The green hillside vineyards with tall Cypress trees were just beautiful. Once arriving in Florence I instantly fell in love with the cobblestone streets lined with cafes and tiny shops. The walk along the Arno River (photo below) was also the highlight as the scenery was just beautiful. We had a traditional Italian lunch followed by the most delicious espresso.

Next we were off again, for a bus ride and a tour of Pisa. Pisa – in my opinion – should be no more than a few hour stop but it was certainly something I am happy we had the opportunity to see. You arrive in what looks like a residential neighborhood and you see this immense leaning tower. Pretty surreal!

Thursday we arrived in Cannes, France, my second favorite port. My family has a love of boats and water so to see this beautiful French city on the water with yachts and sailboats, we were in paradise. We were lucky enough to be there during the Cannes Film Festival which was very exciting. We did a city tram tour which enabled us to see so much of this area. For lunch we enjoyed the best pizza we have ever eaten, which seemed ironic being in France versus Italy.

Our final day was in Marseilles, France, which again is a beautiful seaside port. We took another tram type tour which allowed us to get a taste and feel of this picturesque little town. Of course we couldn’t leave France without enjoying our last cone of gelato.

I truly believe that a cruise was the best way to experience all of these unbelievable destinations. As much as we loved our time spent on the ship we truly used it as a floating hotel. I don’t believe there is any better way that you can explore 3 different countries, cultures and languages all in 10 days. The shore excursions tend to add up but they are truly worth it for the experience. We thoroughly enjoyed each one. I also don’t recommend traveling to Europe on a diet, as the culinary experience alone is amazing. Now that we have had a taste of Spain, Italy, and France we can’t wait to go back.

If you’re ready to book your Mediterranean adventure, 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.