The World’s Top 5 Places to Propose

Listen up gentlemen! If marriage is on your mind and you’re looking for someplace memorable to pop the big question, we’ve got you covered with some of the world’s most romantic destinations where you can relax knowing she’ll say “yes”—without hesitation. Based on our travel agents’ own experience and those of their clients, here are the World’s Top 5 Places to Propose…

5. Ring of Kerry, Ireland

When it comes to finding the perfect backdrop to propose, few settings are as beautiful and magical as those which line the Ring of Kerry on the southwest coast of Ireland. Covering just over 100 miles along the Iveragh Peninsula, the Ring of Kerry is a circular route which boasts magnificent mountain and ocean vistas, along with colorful villages, towns, museums and fun stopping points. The round-trip adventure can be completed in four hours by car, but you’ll want to be able to take at least a full day or longer to explore and soak in the rugged scenery and sites along the way. Even though the route is popular with tour buses, you really should rent a car and travel the route at your own pace. This will give you plenty of time to find just the right setting and allow you to settle your nerves before popping the question.

4. Phuket, Thailand

If you and your soon to be fiancé prefer warmer climates that include dazzling beaches and a fabulous mix of nightlife, then the colorful island of Phuket is for you. Exotic, lush and oh-so seductive, Phuket (pronounced poo-get), Thailand’s largest and most popular island has long been popular with jet-setters, honeymooners, and those “in the know.” Blessed with many of the world’s best beaches and sporting a balmy temperature between 77°F and 93°F year-round, lovebirds flock to this upbeat area of the world for its mile upon sandy mile of coastline which boasts tons of water sports, delectable restaurants and decadent resorts. Phuket is at its best during the dry season which begins in December and usually lasts until March. Our suggestion for the ultimate Phuket proposal: Charter a private yacht for a sunset cruise and dinner in Phang Nga Bay—she’ll be left speechless.

3. Montreal, Quebec

If it’s a romantic city backdrop you’re after in your proposal (one particularly close to home), look no further than the sophisticated, yet vibrant metropolis of Montreal—a city so infused with romance, it will sweep you both off of your feet. Head to Vieux-Montréal (Old Montreal), where you can take an evening stroll arm in arm among the historic buildings that basks in an enchanting incandescence—or you could surprise her with a caléche ride (horse drawn carriage) around the city’s hushed streets, both are lovely settings. If you’re a traditionalist and prefer to pop the question while sharing a tender tête-á-tête over the city’s legendary French cuisine, Montreal has your back with many superb restaurants that will set the stage beautifully.

2. Napa Valley, California

If you subscribe to the belief that food and wine go together like love and marriage, then you won’t be disappointed by whisking your love away to California’s Napa Valley. Home to a large collection of quaint towns and charming villages and you likely already know Napa Valley has a renowned wine and restaurant scene—but it’s the Valley’s splendid natural setting that makes it prime for proposing. If it’s your first time to the Valley, take it slow and head down state route 29 where some of the country’s most well-known vintners are located, including Robert Mondavi, Beringer and Cakebread. First-time visitors should also consider a romantic trip for dinner aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train or hot air balloon ride over the valley’s world-famous vineyards and estates—both make excellent backdrops for sealing the deal.

1. Paris, France

Ah, Paris, the City of Lights and love—no surprise it takes our top spot for most romantic proposal destination. While proposing beneath the Eiffel Tower inevitably comes to mind to many love-struck couples around the world, Paris is packed with oodles of other romantic locales for kneeling on one knee. If you’re aiming for an intimate setting, Canal Saint-Martin’s enchanting tree-lined waterway is almost overlooked by tourists in the off-peak months. And the Pont de Arts, a wooden pedestrian bridge leading to the Louvre Museum, offers a postcard-worthy view of the Eiffel Tower in the distance. If you can reserve a table near the windows of the exquisite Maison Blanche restaurant located on the top floor of an old theater near the Champs-Élysées, you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Paris and the Eiffel Tower. As well, Paris is filled with beautiful gardens, and all will make an unbelievably romantic setting. Luxembourg Gardens, in particular, is a great spot for couples, and is adjacent to the breathtaking Luxembourg Palace.

For more information on these romantic locations and other great vacation ideas, contact your local Boscov’s Travel Specialist, email travelrequest@boscovs.com or call 800-755-8020. 

The World’s Top 5 Spas

So many spas, so little time. At least that was our initial thought when it came to finding some of the best, most indulgent spas from around the world. Of course, a chance to master the art of relaxation is a task we just couldn’t pass up. From signature therapies, treatments and massages to complete beauty and wellness makeovers, a great spa will pamper, primp and spoil you like you never imagined. Based on our travel agents’ own experiences and those of their clients, here are their choices for the World’s Top 5 Spas…

• The Oasis Spa - Couples Resorts Sans Souci, Ocho Rios, Jamaica
  Nestled on the cliffs of Jamaica’s emerald coast, above a dazzling stretch of the Caribbean, the Oasis Spa at Couples Sans Souci beckons relaxation seekers to surrender body, mind and soul in a truly jaw-dropping environment. The resort’s “no worries” mantra comes to life here and allows every day to unfold in supreme relaxation. Imagine yourself in a private cabana as an expert therapist melts away your stress with a deep tissue massage. The Oasis Spa provides and extensive menu of relaxing massages, reviving body wraps and scrubs, reflexology and pampering beauty treatments for virtually every need. In addition, a bevy of other lavish body treatments, facials and beauty services–including aromatherapy and couples massages–take relaxation to a new level of bliss. Salon stylists are also available for further pampering with services including manicures, pedicures, hair styling, hair conditioning and repair, waxing and hot towel shaves for men.
• The Centre for Well-Being - The Phoenician, Scottsdale, AZ
  
  The Centre for Well-Being at the stunning Phoenician luxury resort  is one of the world’s premier spas providing more than 75 extraordinary spa services like holistic massages, body treatments, facials, and fitness and well-being packages that detoxify and invigorate body mind and spirit. Set amidst the serenity of the Sonoran Desert, the 22,000-square-foot spa also features 24 private treatment rooms, a private consultation room, fitness classes, weight training and cardiovascular studios, Waters Bar, a full-service salon and Meditation Atrium. If that’s not enough, The Spa has an innovative approach to the aging process and is one of the first spas in the US to offer aging and wellness medicine, as well as a full range of naturopathic services. Not to be missed is the spa’s Papaya Quench Wrap, Well-Being Stone Ritual (for soothing sore muscles and joints), and a collection of Intraceuticals Infusions.

Back to Nature – Making a Family Vacation in the Great Outdoors

Achieving family togetherness is never an easy task—and it can be especially difficult when taking the whole gang on vacation. While it can seem nearly impossible to find a destination that everyone will love, a getaway to one of the many national parks in the U.S. or Canada just may be the answer for achieving family harmony.

Along with their overwhelming beauty and endless list of diversions, national parks can challenge every member of the family, both physically and mentally, allowing everyone to return home with real accomplishments to think back on. Parents can relax knowing the parks and surrounding towns are easy-going places that are very accustomed to the needs of families. You don’t have to worry about fitting in and you’ll likely meet plenty of other families with children.

Most national parks throughout the U.S. and Canada offer a range of accommodations and dining and camping options for different budgets. Of course, depending on your family’s survival skills, you can “rough it” as much or as little as you want. Most parks also offer educational programs and camps that allow children and parents to spend time apart, learning on their own. With 58 national parks in the U.S. and 36 national park reserves in Canada, there’s an incredible assortment of parks located in nearly every kind of environment, from mountain and coastal areas to desert locales and snowy climes.

To help you narrow down the field of parks, we’ve chosen a few of our favorites from each country. Should you prefer to leave the exploring to the experts, consider taking a guided tour that will take you up close to many parks and interesting sites. Your local Boscov’s Travel Specialist can help you find which national parks and tours best fit your family’s interests and needs.

National Parks in the United States

The U.S. is loaded with mesmerizing national parks, and these oases of pristine beauty are overwhelming in every way imaginable—in number, size and their capacity to inspire wonder. The most difficult question to answer is: Which one will you see next? Here are a few of our faves…

• Acadia National Park
  The eastern U.S. provides splendid options for outdoor vacations and Acadia National Park is one of its most celebrated. The park has a rich human history that includes Native Americans, European settlers, artists, conservationists and more. Each group has made its mark on what is today Acadia National Park. The park is located on the coast of Maine and has unsurpassed northern Oceanside views and cliff climbing that you won’t find in other parks. Sheer cliff faces collide with the pounding surf, and small fishing and sail boats ply Frenchman Bay where the air is perfumed by fir trees and the Atlantic Ocean. Protecting over 47,000 acres, Acadia’s scenic trails are a hiker’s dream. There is also fishing, island exploring and beautiful gardens to gaze upon here.
• Yellowstone National Park
  A place where a picture truly says a thousand words, images of Yellowstone speak for themselves. The oldest national park in America, Yellowstone is spread out over three states (Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho), and within its 3,468 square miles offers some of the most compelling geothermal and geological wonders—the famous geyser Old Faithful, Yellowstone Caldera (the largest super volcano on the continent) and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, to name just a few. The park is also home to lots of fun, furry creatures. There is a variety of summer and winter activities suitable for everyone, from extreme back-country hiker to the young family who requires somewhat gentler trails. Note that permits and reservations are required for some of the things you might want to do, such as fishing, camping, renting snow machines, llama packing and horseback riding.
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park
  A top pick for those living in the American Midwest is Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This is hands down one of the best all-around parks for the family. It falls within the states of Tennessee and North Carolina. You can choose to rough it on the Appalachian Trail, camp out in a developed campground or wilderness, or stay anywhere from luxurious suites to nice inexpensive hotels in nearby Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, Tennessee. And, speaking of Pigeon Forge, you have Dollywood theme park and all the innumerable attractions the town offers nearby. On the North Carolina side you have more campgrounds, the city of Cherokee that has several Native America museums, whitewater rafting and fly fishing (the last two are actually offered in both states). The mountains are absolutely beautiful and make for great photo ops.

Much More Than a Boat Ride

When I think of cruises the first thing that would come to mind is a very large boat with lots of people. Sure there is tons to do onboard, but if you want to see the world, you are going to have to get off the ship. Exploring on your own can be fun, but in an unfamiliar place, self-exploration may seem a little scary. Well never fear, cruise lines have come to the rescue and have started adding optional shore excursions. Norwegian Cruise Line has truly embraced the idea of offering shore excursions and offers various options at 95 different ports of call.

Here are some awesome adventures you can go on while Cruising Like a Norwegain.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Anne Frank House & Scenic Tour: Visit the hidden place where Anne Frank wrote her famous diary and discover Amsterdam with a relaxing panoramic tour. More than 60 years ago, during the Second World War, a Dutch Jewish family remained hidden from the persecution of the Nazis; the youngest daughter, Anne Frank, wrote a diary telling the everyday life of her family forced to hide. This diary became one of the most important documents of the Jewish persecution and the hidden house a testimony of a dramatic part of world history. In 1960 the house became a museum and today, the Anne Frank House is one of the most visited museums in Amsterdam. Due to the small dimensions of the house, the tour will be self guided. During your visit of the Anne Frank house, you’ll have the chance to visit the “Achterhuis”, the back of the house, where Anne’s family hid. In addition, you’ll also to see the exhaustive collection of documents, pictures and drawings that resume the life and time of the young writer. After the visit to the house museum, enjoy a city tour to glimpse the highlights of Amsterdam passing by the main city monuments, among them the Royal Palace, the New Church, the Portuguese synagogue built in 1675, the modern City Hall, the Waterloo square, and Central Station. Of particular interest is the architecture of Amsterdam’s houses – due to lack of space. In the 17th Century, the houses were mostly built narrow, not more than 30 feet wide and characterized by big narrow windows, decorative gable tops, very narrow stairs inside and a pulley outside to transport larger objects to upper floors.

Florence, Italy

Pisa & Beach: Stand up straight next to the Leaning Tower of Pisa for a famous photo op, and then spend an hour exploring Pisa. Your next destination is Viareggio, a seaside spot for lunching and shopping. End with a resort swim. Admire Pisa’s famous Field of Miracles where you’ll have time to walk around on your own to see the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. In Pisa, you’ll have one hour at leisure to take in the sights or shop in the numerous small stores. You’ll then continue to the popular seaside resort area of Viareggio with free time for dining, shopping or going to the beach to simply laze on a sun bed under an umbrella. The seaside promenade is open to pedestrian traffic only and is lined with elegant shops offering the latest fashions, small boutiques and cafes. Enjoy lunch on your own at one of the resorts, cafes, or restaurants known for fresh seafood. You’ll then be taken to a famous beach, where your stay includes use of the changing rooms, the beach and the swimming pool, and the use of a complimentary sun bed and beach umbrella.

Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas

Private Island Snorkel: If you know how to swim then we recommend you dive into the snorkel program. You’ll have your equipment all day, so you can snorkel when you feel like it. Swim or wade around in the sandy shallows to check out the many schools of fish and our artificial reef. Or if conditions permit, swim outside the cove and discover deeper water and coral formations. One of our most popular programs, this snorkel experience is perfect for beginners and experts alike. Ask any of the instructors for a free lesson, and then explore the exciting underwater world of NCL’s very own private island.

Hippo Water Slide: The Hippo Water Slide is the world’s largest inflatable water slide in the shape of a hippopotamus. This 40-foot high and 175-foot long Hippo is available at your leisure all day. The Hippo Water Slide is the world’s largest inflatable water slide in the shape of a hippopotamus. Don’t be left out, plunge down this three story slide in an exciting adventure with the whole family. This is an opportunity for thrill seekers or a nice cushy ride for those less daring. This is a fun activity for kids as well as adults.

Phillipsburg, St. Maarten

Golden Eagle Sailaway: Let your cares float away as you cruise on the ‘Golden Eagle’. If you feel like counting the flying fish or watching for dolphins, both can be done from a reclining position on the ship’s nets. Swim in a quiet cove or snorkel or just bob around on a noodle. Party on the way home to island music and tasty treats. The ‘Golden Eagle’ will nuzzle her bow or anchor close to shore on one of the finest pink-sand beach you’ll encounter in The Caribbean. Homeward bound, the crew sets the sails as you listen to great music while enjoying champagne, rum punch, sodas and light snacks.

Victoria, BC, Canada

Victoria by Horse-Drawn Trolley: Let us take you back to another time and experience Victoria at the pace of yesteryear. Your horse-drawn trolley is drawn by two magnificent draught horses dressed in fine harnesses as this guided tour takes you around beautiful Victoria. Let us take you back to another time and experience Victoria at the pace of yesteryear. Your horse-drawn trolley waits, with blankets to keep you warm in the cool evening breeze. The trolleys are drawn by two magnificent draught horses dressed in fine harnesses, and the passenger areas are covered to provide protection in the unlikely event of a summer shower. This guided tour heads out from the pier along the Victoria waterfront and then travels through the historic James Bay residential neighborhood as we wind our way back along the harbor with stunning views of the thousands of lights trimming the Legislative buildings. Note: This is an open-air vehicle and we recommend you bring a jacket. Guests will need to navigate two steps to board the trolley and due to safety concerns, wheel chairs, walkers, strollers and scooters must be left at the departure location.

Could it possibly get any better than a cruise and pre-planned shore excursions? Of course! Book a 2012 cruise by May 13, 2012 and shore excursions for Little Norwegians, 12 years old and younger, are FREE and ages 13-17 years old are 50% off. Restrictions apply. Click here for details, contact or visit your local Boscov’s Travel or call 800-755-8020.

Saving Up For Your Dream Vacation?

Times are tough and saving for a dream vacation can be hard work. However, just because you are saving up for your dream vacation doesn’t mean you can’t get away. All work and no play can start to drive you crazy. Break away from it all without breaking the bank.

Check out these great overnight motorcoach trips.

• May 15-18 – Wildwood by the Sea
  Enjoy the beauty of the ocean before the hot summer sun and crowds arrive. Wildwood, NJ offers something for everybody.
•  June 1-3/ September 7-9 – Niagra Falls – Ontario, Canada
  Take in the view of the Falls on a guided tour and enjoy free time at the park or try your luck at the Fallsview Casino.
•  June 10-12 – Op Sail 2012 – Norfolk, Virginia
  Tour the sites of Norfolk including the Norfolk Botanical Garden, Norfolk Naval Base, and of course, the Tall Ships.
•  June 13-16 – Finger Lakes Wine Trail
  Finger Lakes Wine Country is full of breathtaking scenery with gorgeous views of rolling hills, crystal blue lakes, sprawling vineyards, farmland, waterfalls, charming towns and villages, and world-class wines! 
• August 7-10 – Montreal/Quebec City
  Visit the largest French speaking city in the world after Paris (Montreal) and the only walled city in North America (Quebec City), both with a distinctly French flavor worthy of a visit! We’ve married the pleasure of an informative guide for you to become familiar with all the “tourist spots” along with time to explore the nooks and crannies at your own pace! 
• September 17-23 – Mackinac Island and Henry Ford Complex
  Mackinac Island beckons you to a bygone era of old world hospitality and charm. We’ll return to a time of horse drawn carriages with nothing intruding on the serenity and natural beauty of the island. This place was named one of the top ten most beautiful islands in the world by National Geographic. We arrive by passenger ferry, no motorized vehicles are allowed on the Island.
•  October 19-21 – Salem Witch Weekend
  Halloween and witches go hand in hand in Salem, Massachusetts, a city forever linked to the infamous Witch Trials of 1692. Come explore the mystery of Salem and discover the facts and myths of the Witchcraft Hysteria. You’ll have a “witchy” good time, if you dare!

For more information and pricing, contact your local Boscov’s Travel Specialist, email travelrequest@boscovs.com or call 800-755-8020.

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.