Bucket List Travel Ideas

Bucket lists seem to be all the rage these days. Everybody is asking, “What’s on your bucket list?”, or saying, “There is another item checked off my bucket list!”

If you don’t have a bucket list, maybe it’s time to create one! Here are some travel ideas to help get you started or add to your current wish list of travel fun.

United States

• Take a helicopter tour over the Big Island in Hawaii. (Get an overhead look into an active volcano!)
  
  
• Experience the magic and pixie dust of Walt Disney World. (It is the land of dreams, after all!)
  
  
•  Visit Denali National Park in Alaska. (Have your camera at the ready, the sights are spectacular!)
  
  
• Watch the sunrise over the Grand Canyon. (See a national landmark at its most beautiful.)
  
  
• See the Bellagio fountain light show in Las Vegas! (You’ll feel luckier just by watching!)
  

Europe

• Climb the Eiffel Tower in Paris. (See the City of Lights from above the lights.)
  
  
• Take a Gondola ride in Venice. (Enjoy the romance of the city the way it was meant to be seen.)
  
  
• Sail down the Danube River in Europe. (See the elegance of Europe from the inside.)
  
  
• Stroll the Champs Elysées in Paris. (You’ll feel fancy just being there.)
  
  
• Make a wish in the Trevi Fountain in Rome. (Close your eyes, toss your change, change your life!)
  
  
• Kiss the Blarney Stone in Ireland. (Bend over backwards and gain the gift of eloquence.)
  
  

At Sea and Beyond

• Zip line above Royal Caribbean International’s Oasis of the Seas. (What a thrill! And what a view!)
  
  
• Swim with the dolphins in the Caribbean Sea. (Can you really name a better swimming partner?)
  
  
• See the pyramids of Egypt. (Take a trip into the desert and see the wonders of the world.)
  
  
• Find the “big five” on a safari in Africa. (Elephants, rhinoceros, buffalos, lions, and leopards, Oh My!)
  
  Live the dream! For help checking items off of your bucket list and other great vacation ideas, contact your local Boscov’s Travel Specialist, email travelrequest@boscovs.com or call 800-755-8020. 

Boscov’s Campus of Courses: Travel Enrichment Seminars

I love early fall. The weather is cooling, leaves are starting to turn and fall, kids are getting settled at school and, best of all, Boscov’s Campus of Courses is back!

Boscov’s Campus of Courses is a series of educational seminars held in the department store’s famous Auditorium on a variety of fun subjects such as arts, crafts, fitness and health. I’m happy to announce that Boscov’s Travel is participating again with free Travel Enrichment Seminars in September and October!

This is an excellent opportunity to learn more about a specific destination or type of travel. From brides and grooms planning a honeymoon to large groups, there are interesting and useful travel tips for everyone.

Atlantic City, NJ

• Caribbean Night - Tuesday, September 25, 2012 – 6:30pm
  Join our Boscov’s Travel Specialists and Sandals Resorts for our Caribbean Night! These resorts are the best in the Caribbean and the ideal location for honeymoons, destination weddings, and romantic getaways. Also learn about Beaches, the perfect all-inclusive family destination.
  Click Here for more details.

Camp Hill, PA

• Alaska Travel Night - Friday, September 28, 2012 – 6:30pm-8:30pm
  Let us introduce you to everything you can discover on a trip to Alaska: the awesome beauty, the wildlife and the fascinating people. We will discuss how to choose a tour or cruise and many other details on how to make the most out of your trip.
  Click Here for more details.

Colonial Park, PA

• Discover Disney - Tuesday, September 25, 2012 – 6pm-8pm
  Whether you have been to Disney World before or if it is your first trip, there’s lots to discover! The shows, the rides, the resorts! Nobody does it like Disney. And, no one can provide a better Disney Vacation than Boscov’s Travel. Learn all about our Disney Charters and our Exclusive Roundtrip Jet Service from the Harrisburg International Airport or one of three other local airports to Orlando.
  Click Here for more details.
• Boscov’s Bridal Event - Saturday, September 29, 2012 – 11am-12pm
  Join Boscov’s Registry and Boscov’s Travel for information from the experts on registries, honeymoons and destination weddings.
  Click Here for more details.
• Hawaiian Paradise - Saturday, September 29, 2012 – 1pm-3pm
  Explore the beauty of the Hawaiian Islands-by land and by sea-escorted or independent! Join the travel professionals from Boscovs Travel and Globus Family of Brands for an interesting and informative seminar on this tropical paradise.
  Click Here for more details.

Easton, PA

• Boscov’s Bridal Event - Friday, September 28, 2012 – 6:30pm-7:30pm
  Join Boscov’s Registry and Boscov’s Travel for information from the experts on registries, honeymoons and destination weddings.
  Click Here for more details.

Reading, PA – East Branch

• Boscov’s Bridal Event - Saturday, September 29, 2012 – 11am-12pm
  Join the wedding experts from Boscov’s to learn about our range of services – all in one convenient place! Boscov’s Registry, Catering, Wishes Event Design and Boscov’s Travel Honeymoons & Destination Weddings will assist you with arrangements for your big day the Boscov’s way.
  Click Here for more details.

Scranton, PA

• Discover Disney - Saturday, September 22, 2012 – 2pm-4pm
  Whether you have been to Disney World before or if it is your first trip, there’s lots to discover! The shows, the rides, the resorts! Nobody does it like Disney. And, no one can provide a better Disney Vacation than Boscov’s Travel. Learn all about our Disney Charters and our Exclusive Roundtrip Jet Service from the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport to Orlando.
  Click Here for more details.

Wilkes-Barre, PA

• Royal Caribbean Cruise Night - Thursday, September 20, 2012 – 6:30pm-8:30pm
  Learn about the newest innovative ships, exciting destinations & the value of cruising! Join Boscov’s Travel and special guest, Denise Reichwein, from Royal Caribbean International for a fun and informative seminar.
  Click Here for more details.
• Boscov’s Bridal Event - Tuesday, September 25, 2012 – 7:00pm
  Join Boscov’s Registry and Boscov’s Travel for information from the experts on registries, honeymoons and destination weddings.
  Click Here for more details.
• Discover Disney - Thursday, September 27, 2012 – 6:30pm-8:30pm
  Whether you have been to Disney World before or if it is your first trip, there’s lots to discover! The shows, the rides, the resorts! Nobody does it like Disney. And, no one can provide a better Disney Vacation than Boscov’s Travel. Learn all about our Disney Charters and our Exclusive Roundtrip Jet Service from the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport to Orlando.
  Click Here for more details.

For more information on these great events and great vacation ideas, contact your local Boscov’s Travel Specialist, email travelrequest@boscovs.com or call 800-755-8020. For information on other Boscov’s Campus of Courses events, please contact your local Boscov’s Department Store.

The Top 5 Romantic Destinations in the World

When you’re in love, there’s a desire to share it with the world—and it’s a big world out there!

Whether you want to shout your love from the peak of a mountain or while snorkeling, our top Travel Specialists know just the place where you can proclaim your adoration.  Based on their own experiences and those of our clients, here are the Top 5 Romantic Destinations in the World…

Maui, Hawaii

Hawaii’s island of Maui has always been synonymous with romance.  Combining the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, Maui has it all for the great romantic escape.  From the artsy boutiques of Lahaina to the 10,000-foot heights of Haleakala—the island’s volcano—Maui combines the best of the big island.  Here you can gasp at waterfalls, trek rainforests, hike in the presence of volcanoes and indulge in every kind of water sport imaginable.  Maui also has perfect weather year-round, so you can save money on your romantic getaway by booking off-season, which is usually September through November.

St. Lucia

Legend has it that Saint Lucia resonates with romance and adventure—which may be the reason why it was chosen by ABC’s The Bachelor: On the Wings of Love for the final episodes.  With miles of gorgeous palm-fringed beaches, unspoiled rainforest and the majestic Piton Mountains, St. Lucia is the sort of island that travelers to the Caribbean dream about—a small, lush tropical gem that remains relatively unknown.  The steep coastlines and reefs here offer superb snorkeling and scuba diving, and the rainforest preserves are one of the Caribbean’s finest for hiking and bird watching.  Not to be missed is the island’s Soufriere volcano, the world’s only drive-in volcanic crater.

Bora Bora

The island of Bora Bora is possibly the single most famous and breathtaking island destination in the world.  Two towering peaks of sheer black rock dominate the center of the island and make an impressive backdrop to the world-famous lagoon.  Lush tropical slopes and valleys blossom with hibiscus, white palm-covered motu circle the illuminated lagoon like a delicate necklace.  White-sand beaches give way to emerald waters where colorful fish and coral gardens greet the giant manta rays.  This could be easily described as the center of the romantic universe, where luxury resorts and spas dot the island with overwater bungalows and thatched-roof villas.

Lake District, Italy

Italian is the language of love in our opinion, so the perfect European getaway for romance has to be the Italian Lake District.  Here you’ll find yourself inextricably drawn to the beauty of lake Garda, Lake Como, Lake Maggiore and even intimate Lake Orta where you can indulge in a lakeside villa, secluded castle or panoramic chapel.  If it’s grandiose you’re after, choose Lake Garda.  This large lake features picturesque resorts including the Riva del Garda, situated on the water’s edge.  Take a trip to the tiny port town of Gargnano with its Villa Feltrinelli, or perhaps drop in on George Clooney at his Villa Oleandra in Lake Como.

Maldives

Perhaps the world’s most romantic long-haul destination, the Maldives are geographic marvel and for most people, the single greatest island experience.  Located 435 miles south-west of Sri Lanka, the Maldives are a series of ancient coral reefs that grew up around the sides of towering prehistoric volcanoes.  The volcanoes have long since sunk into the ocean, leaving behind 1,190 tiny islands of unrivaled beauty.  Of those islands open to visitors, most are only large enough to accommodate one resort.  No matter which resort island you choose, you’ll discover plenty of romance, excellent dive sites, and endless expanses of ocean and sky.

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

New! Disney’s Aulani Resort & Spa, Plus Package Pricing

If you’re a fan of Boscov’s Travel, you probably know how passionate we are about Disney. Our Authorized Disney Vacation Planners; along with our exclusive, nonstop flights to Orlando from local airports, has made us known as “The Disney People”.

Well, hold on to your Mickey-hats; because on August 29^th Disney opens a new resort and spa on the island of Oahu: Aulani.

Situated on 21 acres of gorgeous Hawaiian landscape, Aulani is far from the crowds, yet close enough to enjoy the attractions of Oahu. But, what everyone wants to know is what’s in store for travelers who visit this island paradise.

Fun for the Whole Family

After breakfast, go tubing down Waikolohe Stream or explore distinctly Hawaiian caverns and lava rock formations. Visit the Makai Preserve, where the whole family can feed stingrays, watch starfish and observe sea slugs. Then, enjoy snorkeling at Rainbow Reef, the island’s only private snorkeling pool.

Luxury for Adults

After lunch, perhaps you’ll be ready for some “grown-up” time. Why not drop the kids off at Aunty’s Beach House, where children age 3-10 will have a blast with the resort’s experienced youth counselors.

With the kids taken care of, adults can enjoy a visit to the relaxing Wailana Pool and its pool bar (open daily) or take a dip in one of the resort’s whirlpool spas, situated to catch the famous Hawaiian sunset. Laniwai, the resort’s full-service spa, features nearly 150 spa therapies and Kula Wai is the only outdoor hydrotherapy garden in Oahu.

But wait, there’s more.

This fabulous resort wouldn’t be complete without Waikolohe Pool, an 8,200 square foot pool with a sloping entry, tunnel body slides and poolside theme parties. Also, check out Menehune Bridge, complete with three slides, a climbing play structure and several water features.

Teens can hang out at the beach and catch some waves before heading over to Painted Sky, the teen spa, complete with a Yogurt Bar and Customized Perfume Bar.

With all these options, it’s important to remember to check out everything the exciting island of Oahu has in store!

Weddings

Looking for the ultimate Destination Wedding location? Look no further. The resort’s Wedding Lawn is the perfect setting for romantic nuptials!

Cuisine

In addition to the casual Makahiki Buffet Restaurant, you have many great dining options:

• The Olelo Room (for continental breakfast, traditional afternoon tea and cocktail service)
• ‘AMA ’AMA Beachside Restaurant
• Off the Hook Beachside Bar
• One Paddle, Two Paddle Quick Service Dining
• Private Dining 24/7 and more

Package Details

The Boscov’s Travel Aulani Package includes seven nights accommodations, roundtrip air transportation between Newark and Honolulu, round-trip transfers in Hawaii (including gratuities) and all taxes and service fees starting at $2,032 per person. This pricing is based on double occupancy in a standard room for travelers departing on January 22, 2012; but other rates, dates and accommodation styles are available. Rates are subject to availability at time of booking, so book early to ensure the best possible rate. As always, we will customize your package any way you like.

For more information or booking, contact your local Boscov’s Travel Specialist.

Also see:
Welcome to Hawaii (general tips)
Which Hawaiian island should I visit?
Susie’s Top 5 Hawaii Activities

Which Hawaiian island should I visit?

Earlier this week we shared a few tips for first-time visitors to Hawaii, so now we’d like to break down the differences between each island and highlight some of its best attractions.

One thing is certain, there is no place on earth quite like Hawaii. The state is comprised of islands rich in unique charm and personality. Choosing an island to visit can be a bit difficult, but with so many options, one of them is sure to stand out as the one for you.

If you plan to island-hop, book your flights between islands in advance. A good rule of thumb is to visit no more than two islands within 10 days, unless you really enjoy a steady change of scenery.

Hawaii’s Big Island: Always growing
You may be surprised to find that Hawaii’s Big Island is still growing. Home to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the most active volcano in the world (Maunakea), it’s one of the most unique destinations on the planet. In addition to the Volcano area, you’ll find cattle ranches in the cool uplands and charming getaways on the Kohala Coast, the island’s premier resort area.

Maui: A little of everything
Maui, or “The Magic Isle”, is bustling with beach towns and tourist attractions, but some parts are so remote one can only travel over them by helicopter. Find resorts for every budget along the western coast or visit the one and only resort in laid-back Hana, located along the rugged eastern coastline. Maui’s beaches are also consistently voted some of the most beautiful in the world.

Molokai and Lanai: The escapist’s dream
The phrase “peaceful getaway” doesn’t even begin to describe these two luxurious islands, tucked away from the hustle of everyday life. A visit to one of these remote islands isn’t for everyone, but that’s exactly what makes them appealing to those who wish to truly get away from it all. In addition to the quiet escape, enjoy golf, fishing and other outdoor adventures.

Oahu: The metropolitan experience and more
Oahu hosts the majority of the Hawaiian population, along with iconic attractions such as Waikiki Beach, the state capital of Honolulu, Pearl Harbor and more. Surf on the legendary North Shore, dance the night away in Honolulu or enjoy great shopping, dining and entertainment in Waikiki.

Kauai: Botanical garden paradise
Kaui, the oldest and lushest of the Hawaiian chain, is known as “The Garden Isle”. It has become famous for its tropical rainforests and white sand beaches. Try a helicopter ride over the island for a stunning view or snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking, mountain tubing, kayaking and more. The island is also a popular film location, having played host to “Jurassic Park”, “South Pacific”, ‘Raiders of the Lost Ark”, “Fantasy Island” and more.

We hope this has given you an idea of where you’d like to start exploring Hawaii, but we’ve really only scratched the surface of this one-of-kind state and its diverse, charming islands. Be sure to check back next week for part three: our specialist’s favorite Hawaii activities.

For travel arrangements and expert advice, contact Susie Roth at 610-779-8640 or email sroth@boscovs.com, find your local Boscov’s Travel Specialist or call 800-755-8020.

Also see:
Welcome to Hawaii (general tips)

Welcome to Hawaii

The Hawaiian Islands have something for everyone and every budget. Friendly, free-spirited locals provide a glimpse of Hawaii’s deeply-rooted island culture; while the tropical paradise is a landscape of picturesque beaches, lush greenery, massive volcanoes and tourist-friendly beach towns bustling with boutiques and countless delectable cuisine options.

But with so many options, how do you figure out where to go and what to do? We spoke with Boscov’s Travel Specialist, Susie Roth. Susie and her family have made Hawaiian travel a tradition. With seven journeys under her belt and more planned for the future, it’s safe to say Hawaii is a passion for her. The following information comes from this dedicated fan of the Hawaiian Islands.

When to Visit

Although many people believe there’s no wrong time to visit Hawaii, spring and fall tend to lend themselves toward more favorable conditions. Summer can be crowded, while winter is likely to be more expensive. A moderate rainy season occurs December through April.

How to Get There

You may be surprised to find that although most airlines require a connection from the East coast to Hawaii, Continental Airlines features nonstop, 10-hour flights from Newark to Honolulu.

If a 10-hour flight isn’t up your alley, break up your travel time with a pit-stop somewhere fun, such as California. You’ll want to take off a minimum of nine days from your every-day life for travel and vacation time.

Where to Stay

Aston or Outrigger resorts are two good, affordable options, especially for families. Condos are available for groups interested in having their own kitchen during the stay. Couples may enjoy staying at a Marriott, Hyatt or Four Seasons resort. Also, we’ll be featuring Disney’s new Aulani Resort & Spa, Ko Olina, O’ahu; in an upcoming post, so keep your eyes peeled.

What to Do

Hawaii, for the most part, does not feature all-inclusive resorts like one would find in the Caribbean or Mexico. It’s easy to get around, so guests are encouraged to explore on their own. With the exception of Honolulu, which has public transit, you’ll want to rent a car to expand your search for meals, sightseeing options and nightlife. This provides a wonderful opportunity to save money while enjoying a more intimate cultural experience. Pick up a good Hawaii guidebook detailing the area you’re visiting for fun, often free or inexpensive, things to do.

Check back later for more on Hawaii activities, island features and, of course, Disney’s new Hawaiian resort and spa, Aulani.

Susie Roth has 20 years of travel experience and also specializes in Caribbean and Walt Disney World travel. For travel arrangements and expert advice, contact Susie at 610-779-8640 or email sroth@boscovs.com, find your local Boscov’s Travel Specialist or call 800-755-8020.

Also see:
Which Hawaiian island should I visit?