Vietnam on the Rise

Special thanks to Journey’s Magazine for this great article on Vietnam.

Ho Chi Minh City

I am paralyzed with fear, standing on a sidewalk in Ho Chi Minh City, which the locals call Saigon. There is an endless stampede of motorbikes, but no traffic lights, stop signs or pedestrian crossways. Each time I step out to cross the street, another motorbike almost clips me.

A man pedaling a small three-wheeled tourist cyclo (a cycle rickshaw) pulls up in front of me. “Where you want to go? I take you. I am guide.”

“I have a guide coming to my hotel in ten minutes. I just want to cross the street,” I say.

“I take you on ten-minute tour,” the guide offers.

“I just want to cross the street,” I repeat.

“Okay,” he says. “Hold onto my bike.”

I grasp his bike and he kindly leads me safely across. He turns to me. “You either must cross very slow, or you put your hand here (he places his hand on his heart) and cross fast.”

Vietnam has five-star hotels, delicious food and some of the most exotic cultural attractions in the world, but Ho Chi Minh City has scary street-crossing problems. I look up at all the high rises of Ho Chi Minh City. In the last ten years, a new city has risen from old Saigon with nightclubs, bars, upscale air-conditioned shopping malls and luxury hotels, but there are still remnants of the old way of life.

A woman in a conical hat walks by, a pole balanced on her shoulders from which are tied two heavy baskets. A man stands behind a cart whose sign reads: “Bunhbao banh uo + hamberger.”

I head back to my hotel which is located in the French colonial heart of the city. I wait in the lobby for my guise, who will take me to the Reunification Palace, Ho Chi Minh Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral and to the 150-year-old Ben Thanh Market.

At the market, shoppers squeeze past each other in the narrow aisles. A woman arranges grapefruit pieces into lower flower petals. A vendor scoops handfuls of sticky rice into palm leaves. A man pulls fresh noodles and hangs them on a string.

That night, I stand on my balcony and gaze down at the shimmering Opera House.

Hoi An

Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site, dates back to the 15th century and is famous for its beautifully preserved houses, temples, and Japanese Covered Bridge. Hoi An is also known for its tailors who will create anything in 24 hours. The tailor takes my measurements and that evening arrives in my villa for a fitting.

My guide arrives by motorbike with an extra helmet. I jump on behind him and we zoom past cyclos, bicycles and tour vans. This is the way to see Vietnam! We ride along narrow dirt trails past water buffalo, rice paddies, to an organic garden and, finally, to Hoi An.

Later, I indulge in a four-handed treatment at the resort’s spa which seems to float above a lagoon filled with pink and white lotus flowers. I drift back to my room and the tailor arrives with my dress. It fits perfectly.

Ha Long Bay

No visit to Vietnam would be complete without an overnight boat trip to Ha Long Bay, possibly the most romantic place in the world, and a UNESCO World Heritage site where 2,000 limestone islets magically jut out of the emerald sea. I watch from the sun deck of the luxurious steamer, a 37-cabin replica paddle steamer which evokes colonial Indochina. At sunset, I am still there, sipping a cocktail and trying to memorize the beauty around me on my last perfect evening in Vietnam.

For more information or to book your memorable visit to Vietnam, contact your local Boscov’s Travel Specialist by calling 800-755-8020 or emailing travelrequest@boscovs.com.

Breakaway on the Breakaway

Last year I shared some impressive details about Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest and most incredible ship. She sets sail on May 12, 2013 from New York City and we couldn’t be more excited!

NCL has been slowly releasing more information on this massive, floating fun zone. In addition to The Waterfront, 678 Ocean Place, Breakaway Casino, The Manhattan Room; there is much more included for its lucky passengers.

My favorite thing about traveling has always been the food, so let’s start with all of the great on-board restaurant choices. Besides the six different complimentary dining options on the Breakaway, including O’Sheehan’s Neighborhood Bar & Grill, there are also eight different specialty restaurants from a range of cuisine choices.

• Ocean Blue – NCL’s first-ever fine-dining seafood experience brought to you by Iron Chef Geoffrey Zakarian.
• Le Bistro French Restaurant – NCL’s signature French restaurant with new Atrium Al Fresco seating options.
• Cagney’s Steakhouse – NCL’s classic, signature steakhouse perched high atop The Manhattan Room.
• Teppanyaki – A guest favorite, Teppanyaki is an exciting hibachi-style dinner and show.
• Moderna Churrascaria – The first Brazilian-style steakhouse at sea, Moderna Churrascaria offers beautiful indoor and outdoor seating options to complement their mouth-watering menu options.
• Shanghai’s Noodle Bar – The largest noodle bar at sea is the answer to your cravings for a taste of the Orient.
• La Cucina Italian Restaurant – This colorful piazza-style trattoria offers family style Italian dining on The Waterfront.
• Wasabi Sushi Bar – Sushi, sashimi and more, artfully presented and prepared as you watch.

In addition to all of the great options already mentioned, the Breakaway went a step further and added some extra tasty treats to their menu. Setting sail for the first time in May is Carlo’s Bake Shop, the famous bakery from TV’s “The Cake Boss”. And if you are looking for a way to cool down while indulging your sweet tooth, check out Dolce Gelato; a true mouth-pleaser.

Believe it or not, Breakaway’s dining options aren’t the only headliners aboard; the entertainment options are out of this world!

7 Fun Things to do in Indianapolis

With the upcoming Super Bowl XLVI (Sunday, February 5^th) there will be an influx of tourists to Indianapolis, Indiana to see the big game. If you plan on heading to Indianapolis, here are some fun things to do outside of Lucas Oil Stadium. If I missed something on this list, please be sure to comment to help out other travelers!

1. Brickyard Crossing
   Play 18 holes on one of the most famous public golf courses in the United States. With four of Brickyard Crossing’s 18 holes located within the walls of Indianapolis Motor Speedway, this course is every speed junkie’s dream.
2. Canal and White River State Park
   The nation’s only urban state park, White River State Park offers a wide variety of fun.  It includes the White River Gardens, the Hilbert Conservatory, the Indianapolis Canal Walk and the Indianapolis Zoo.
3. Easley Winery
   The Easley winery is open seven days a week for tastings and tours. The winery is featured annually at the Vintage Indiana Wine and Food Festival and is easily one of the most impressive wineries with its claim to fame being that it is the oldest family owned brewery in the state.
4. Indianapolis Children’s Museum
   Founded in 1925, the Indianapolis Children’s Museum is a respected, family-oriented museum.  The museum is the largest children’s museum with displays, shows and events aimed to please every member of the family.
   
5. Track Attack Racing School
   Track Attack Racing School gives visitors the chance to learn to zoom around Indianapolis Motor Speedway at speeds of over 100mph behind the wheel of a low-slung sports car.
   
6. The Slippery Noodle Inn
   No frills about it, just hands down good food, music, and booze. A must see, The Slippery Noodle Inn is Indiana’s oldest bar and the site of some of the best jazz and blues in Indianapolis.
   
7. Indianapolis Motor Speedway
   Home to the Indy 500 and the Brickyard 400, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is the granddaddy of all Indiana race tracks. For dedicated gearheads, you can also find the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum on site.
   

The BIG January Cruise Sale 2012

Winter has been making its presence known and even snow bunnies are dreaming of warmer destinations at this point.

So, how do Boscov’s Travelers beat the winter blues? By taking advantage of our annual BIG January Cruise Sale and making their 2012 vacation dreams a reality!

That’s right, our BIG January Cruise Sale is back and making waves! Book a cruise January 9-14 to receive discounts, complimentary upgrades, onboard credit, free dinner and more from these participating travel providers:

• Royal Caribbean International
  
• Norwegian Cruise Line
  
• Celebrity Cruises
  
• Holland America Line
  
• Disney Cruise Line
  
• Carnival Cruise Line
  
• Avalon Waterways
  
• Travel Insured

We look forward to seeing you in 2012!

Click here to view our sale circular for details.

Contact your local Boscov’s Travel Specialist or call 800-755-8020.

How to take great vacation photos (continued from Monday)

As promised, here are even more great travel photography tips from our friends at Cardinal Camera. Enjoy!

Take back-ups

Always take extra batteries and memory cards. It’s best to have many small memory cards than one large one in case one breaks. If you have an extra camera; bring it along and, if you can manage, bring your laptop to back-up/transfer photos to free up space on memory cards.

Try a tripod

Many collapsible, lightweight tripods are available for reasonable prices and the benefit of a shake-free photo makes them worth the extra effort to bring one with you on your travels. Tripods also let you take advantage of your camera’s timer feature, allowing you to step out from behind the lens and get in photos with your loved ones.

Check out postcards

When you arrive at your destination, check out postcards in a gift shop for an idea of what’s considered the most notable local destinations.

Avoid red-eye

Many modern digital cameras come with a red eye reduction setting to avoid this common photo problem.

Sand and humidity

The beach is a beautiful place for photos, but a terrible place for digital cameras themselves. Check if your camera’s warranty or protection plan covers sand and humidity damage before deciding if you’ll take the risk. Some people choose to bring a disposable, waterproof camera to the beach as a solution.

Foggy lens?

If you notice condensation on your lens due to humidity, place it on the hotel bed covered with a towel to help absorb moisture.

Ask permission before taking pictures of strangers

Many people and cultures do not like having their pictures taken, so always ask permission before taking a picture of anyone you don’t know.

Take great pictures at Walt Disney World

To take great photos of the fireworks show at Epcot in Walt Disney World, try this awesome tip: First mount your camera to a Joby GorillaPod Magnetic Tripod (stop by your local Cardinal Camera to check it out). Wrap this tripod’s flexible legs around the railing surrounding the water at Epcot. Use the “Fireworks” setting that comes with many digital cameras to capture incredible shots of the bright lights, with or without a tripod.

Post production

Okay, so you’re back from vacation and your pictures look a little dark or you forgot to use the red-eye reduction setting on your camera. Now what do you do? You don’t have to be a professional to color-correct, crop or otherwise save your photographs from a myriad of common problems. Some digital cameras come with photo-editing software but, if not, the internet offers many free or inexpensive programs to correct common photo problems with ease.

We hope you not only enjoyed these tips, but that you’ll be able to put these tips to good use the next time you and your family are traveling. See you next week!

If you missed it, check out Monday’s tips.

How to take great vacation photos

A picture is worth a thousand words, but if you feel your pictures have been using many of those words to say unflattering things about your photography skills, then this post is for you.

Vacation photos are a wonderful and important part of your trip because, unlike store-bought souvenirs, they are unique to your personal experience. The downside is you only get one chance to record these memories and not everyone is a professional photographer.

So, what do you do if you aren’t a professional photographer but want to take better photos? You beg a professional to share their trade secrets! We spoke with one of Cardinal Camera’s photography experts and received lots of great tips to improve your pic-taking skills.

Who knows? With these tips, maybe your kids won’t complain when you tag them in your Facebook photos! Maybe.

Research locations

A little research before leaving town and deciding on a few great places for photos will go a long way. A Google search for your destination, combined with terms like “great photo locations” or “vacation photos” is a good place to start.

Be aware of any photo restrictions

Research your destination ahead of time to see if there any photo restrictions. For instance, many national parks require professionals to have a permit to take pictures within the park. If your camera equipment looks large or high-tech, you may be flagged down and asked not to take pictures. Keep this in mind before lugging all your expensive equipment to the park. In Washington, D.C. it’s technically illegal to take pictures of a federal building and you’ll be approached by security for setting a tripod down in front of Capitol Hill or the White House.

Carry-on your camera

Not only is it recommended to keep all valuables on you when traveling, but having your camera with you at all times keeps you prepared for unexpected photo ops as well.

Use your camera’s built-in flash during the daytime

When taking portrait shots during the day outdoors, use the built-in flash on your camera. It will fill in shadows on the face, creating more flattering lighting.

Take photos during the “Golden Hour”

The first and last hour of daylight is widely accepted as the “Golden” or “Magic” hour for taking photos, due to the flattering lighting and shadows it creates. When taking your classic sunset photos, make sure to take a few photographs of objects or people bathed in the setting sun’s light for a stunning effect.

Increase the variety of your photos

Try to mix up family photos by taking candid shots in addition to the usual posed group pictures. Some of your best photos could be candid shots taken of family when they aren’t expecting it. Most people take horizontal shots of landscapes like the beach and mountains, but make sure to turn your camera on its side every once in a while to get a few great vertical landscape shots as well.

But wait, there’s more! Check back on Friday for even more great vacation photo tips.

Continued! Click here for more tips.

Exotic Destination Travel with Susan Blum

The painted elephants of Amber Fort, India.

Hello Boscov’s Travelers! Today we have a special treat, a blog post by our Exotic Destination Travel Specialist Susan Blum. Read on to learn about Africa, Vietnam, Cambodia, India and Peru, and why you should consider an adventurous romp to a foreign land for your next vacation! Thanks Susan!

For more than 30 years, I have traveled to exotic destinations in Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas, researching hotels, resorts, tented camps, and itineraries that provide an experience expected by the most discriminating traveler. Some clients prefer to travel with a small, escorted group on a Tauk Tour; others a romantic custom holiday for two with the renowned Abercrombie & Kent. Families can choose from numerous Disney Adventure vacations designed for grandparents, children, and grandchildren.  Whether you are traveling alone or with family and friends, there are endless opportunities to have the trip of a lifetime when going somewhere exotic.  From the Americas to Europe, Asia, Africa, or any destination you choose, a memorable journey awaits. My goal is to have you take the leap beyond London, Paris and Rome to discover a new world that you may have imagined, but never dared to experience. Some of my favorite exotic destinations are detailed below.

Africa

Plains zebras and their baby.

Africa moves at a slow and gentle pace. There are no appointments to keep, just stunning scenery, beautiful people and an astounding variety of wildlife. In 1999 I joined an Abercrombie & Kent tour to East Africa, and since that visit, I have returned to explore the wonders of Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Botswana.

One brave wildebeest with a low IQ leaps into water filled with crocodiles and thousands follow. Similar to lemmings!

To see the migration of the wildebeest and their struggle to cross the Mara River, plan a safari to Kenya or Tanzania, or both! For wine and whales, visit Cape Town in South Africa, head north to Kruger National Park to spot the Big Five (elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and cape buffalo)  and then fly on to Zambia to walk along Victoria Falls.

Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

Luxury lodges, amazing tented camps, excellent guides and the unique experience of being on safari are everything and more than you can possibly imagine. No matter which country you choose, a trip to Africa is a life altering experience with endless opportunities for adventure, discovery and relaxation. Throw away your watch, plan your safari, and begin dreaming of Africa!

Vietnam and Cambodia

Traditional farming in Vietnam.

From Hanoi to Saigon, stay in deluxe hotels, experience fine “French” dining, photograph shimmering paddy fields to French-fusion architecture and walk on unspoiled sugar white beaches.  Vietnam continues to change rapidly and dramatically. If you want to enjoy its traditional culture, I suggest that you travel to this destination soon. A natural extension is a tour of Cambodia.  The World Heritage ruins at Angkor are truly one of the most remarkable destinations on earth. In Cambodia you can explore areas newly opened to travelers, enjoy the fascinating capital of Phnom Penh, once known as the “Paris of the East” and meet a gracious and hospitable people.

A boy flashing a piece sign in Vietnam.

India

Ranakpur Jain Temple in India.

The history, architecture and diverse cultures of this continent fulfilled my dream of exploring the Far East. India has an array of cultures and religions that have thrived for ages, each expressing its beliefs and traditions in magnificent artistic and architectural achievements. Although a challenging destination, those who travel to India discover the treasures of one of the world’s great civilizations. If you enjoy delving into convoluted cosmologies and thrive on sensual overload, then India is a destination for you.

Peru

Looking for an adventure closer to home? Consider a trip to Peru where you can discover the secret of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. On lake Titicaca, visit a nearly extinct society, living like their ancestors on floating reed islands. A fabulous destination that does not disappoint.

Want to plan an exotic vacation? You can call Susan Blum at 610-223-4797 or shoot her an email.

All photos © Susan Blum. All rights reserved.

6 Motorcoach Trips That Will Knock Your Socks Off

This just in! We have some fabulous new Boscov’s Escorted Motorcoach Trips that were just added to our line up. Read on for a little tidbit on each of our newest outings.  All trips include round trip Motorcoach transportation.

 Overnight Trips

 Niagara Falls & Toronto

Departures: Atlantic City and Moorestown, NJ
Sunday, June 12 – Wednesday, June 15, 2011 $496* per person

Departures: Tradition of America, Camp Hill, and Susquehanna Valley Mall, PA
Monday, September 12 -Thursday, September 15, 2011   $467* per person

If you consider yourself to be an urbanite and you’ve never been to Toronto, there is no time like the present! My boyfriend’s favorite city, and definitely in my Top 3 favorite cities, Toronto offers a melting pot of culture, food, shopping, and history. With friendly locals, unique festivals and celebrations, and an open door policy on comments regarding the city, Toronto is a unique place with a heart of gold.

Also on this trip you get the pleasure of visiting Niagara Falls. Both June and September will offer you stunning views of the falls, whirlpools, and surrounding areas. Feel the mist on your face after you don your yellow slicker for a classic Maid of the Mist boat ride, and enjoy a guided tour of the Falls area.  This trip is great for anyone — all ages, all interests.

Click here for more information about the trip in June.

Click here for more information about the trip in September.

Newport, RI & Boston, MA
Departure from Alvernia University, Reading PA
Thursday, June 23 – Sunday, June 26, 2011
$735* per person

Boston Harbor

Looking for a scenic getaway with history, romance, fun, and beautiful things to look at from every angle? Look no further! This trip is a knock-out! In Newport you will enjoy a scenic tour of 10 Mile Drive, a tour of The Breakers and Marble House (2 Newport mansions), and an afternoon sightseeing cruise of Newport Harbor.  Boston will delight you with a Sam Adams Brewery Tour, Boston Mob and Colonial Crime Tour, luncheon cruise aboard the Spirit of Boston, Morning Schooner cruise out of Cape Ann, and free time to browse Quincy Market, Faneuil Hall, or any other local spot that you would like to explore.

This trip is great for shoppers, socialites, history buffs, beer fanatics (Boston has lots of good brews), couples, and newcomers to the North East.

Click here for more information on the Newport, RI & Boston, MA trip.

 Berks County Ghosts with Charles J. Adams III
Departures: Shore Mall and Vineland, NJ
Friday, October 14 – Sunday, October 16 2011
$433* per person

Grab your flashlights and Proton Pack and head to Berks County for a chilling weekend with Charlie Adams! An expert on paranormal activity and author of over 30 books on ghosts and haunts, Charlie Adams has been seen on the Travel Channel, National Geographic Channel, History Channel and other national TV network to discuss all things paranormal.  Enjoy tours of Crystal Cave, Daniel Boone Homestead, Keim House, Charles Evans Cemetery and Gring’s Mills Park with Charlie. Berks County is a beautiful place, and October is a great time to come to visit and admire the fall foliage — while you get your knickers scared off! Also, be spooked by a tour of Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia, a former prison with a unique design that held criminals like Al Capone and Willie Sutton.

This is a great tour to get amped up for Halloween! Grab your sweetie and scare her when she least expects it, bring your kids and enjoy how much they “need” you again because they’re scared, or come with your buddies to see who can last the longest without getting a full body chill.

Click here to contact a Travel Specialist about booking this trip.

Day Trips

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
Departures: Exton and Neshaminy, PA & Wilmington, DE
Saturday, July 16, 2011
$106* per person

A classic trip for every American to take, touring the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island is a history lesson not to be missed! Investigate your family history at the American Family Immigration History Center, and learn about the 12 million immigrants who came to America through Ellis Island. Enjoy a self guided tour through the museum, and watch stories of past times unfold via photographs, interactive exhibits, artifacts, videos, and many other displays.

I recommend this trip especially for families with children. When I was in 6^th grade I had the pleasure of touring the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island with my family, and my impressions of the size and magnitude of the statue still stick with me to this very day. A great way to make learning fun for the little ones in your life! And of course every good day ends with a satiating delicious meal, and this one does too!  Enjoy a full course chicken dinner before you board your Motorcoach home.

Click here for more information on the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island trip.

Annapolis, Maryland
Departures: Colonial Park, Camp Hill, and Traditions of America PA
Saturday, August 13, 2011
$113* per person

As a previous Maryland resident, I can tell you from experience that Annapolis is a great place to take a day trip! From sampling delicious crab delicacies, to strolling the streets lined with beautiful 18^th century buildings, to peeking in the small ice cream shops and boutiques or just sitting by the water and enjoying the atmosphere, Annapolis is a modern day Maybury with a nautical theme. Enjoy a guided tour of the U.S. Naval Academy, lunch at the Drydock Restaurant, a narrated sightseeing cruise of Annapolis Harbor and Severn River aboard the Harbor Queen, and a trolley tour of historic Annapolis.

I recommend this trip for couples looking for a nice day-long get away, anyone who is interested in the Navy or military, history buffs, families, and “girlfriends” getaways… I  know… that’s pretty much everyone, but Annapolis really is that versatile of a place!

Click here for more information on the Annapolis, MD trip.

National Book Festival
Departures from Berkshire Mall, Douglassville, and Exton, PA & Wilmington, DE
Saturday, September, 24, 2011
$68* per person

As a girl with a degree in Creative Writing, I am of course going to tell you that if you are reading this post you should immediately click on the link below and sign up for this trip! The National Book Festival is having its 11^th annual festival where authors, poets, illustrators, and publishers come together to celebrate the written language. There will be several sections of the festival with themes including fiction, children’s literature, poetry, history, and biography.  Enjoy meeting and greeting with authors, hearing people read excerpts from their works, attending book signings, and other fun filled activities throughout the day.

Not a book worm? No worries! Your time is yours to spend in DC as you like! You can tour the Smithsonian Museums, other monuments, or create a food tour for yourself out of the local establishments. At only $68 per person, this tour is a winner for anyone trying to get to our nation’s capital for a day.

Click here for a list of offices near you to book this trip.

*Prices are subject to availability at time of booking. Overnight trip prices are based on double occupancy.

Crazy Cheap European Vacations

A little while back, I posted about “10 Overseas Vacations Under $1,000” and just wanted to give an update to this. I was really excited about the insanely cheap prices of these trips, but the deal just got even sweeter. Now for all 2011 Cosmos Vacations bookings made by May 3rd, Boscov’s Travel is giving an extra $50 off per person, or $100 off per couple. Ridiculous! Amazing! Stupendous! Call it what you want, but I call it a steal! Call your significant other, pack your bags and stop in to your local Boscov’s Travel to book now. Here’s the recap:

British Panorama – 9 days, starting at $929 ($879 after discount)

Greek Odyssey – 8 days, starting at $939 ($889 after discount)

Jewels of Spain & Portugal – 9 days, starting at $959 ($909 after discount)

Jewels of France – 8 days, starting at $929 ($879 after discount)

Prague, Vienna & Budapest – 9 days, starting at $899 ($849 after discount)

Irish Explorer – 9 days, starting at $999 ($949 after discount)

Jewels of Morocco – 10 days, starting at $789 ($739 after discount)

Grand Tour of Turkey – 13 days, starting at $999 ($949 after discount)

Jewels of Slovenia & Croatia – 8 days, starting at $999 ($949 after discount)

Jewels of Poland – 8 days, starting at $999 ($949 after discount)

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Air is not included. Book a 2011 Cosmos vacation through Boscov’s Travel to receive the $50 per person discount. Booking must be made, under deposit and discount applied by May 3, 2011 for travel commencing by December 31, 2011. Combinable with the Journeys Club $50 Cosmos coupon. Applies to new 2011 bookings only. Offer reliant on space availability. Full cancellation penalties will apply. Additional restrictions may apply.