Adventures with Carol – Paris to Normandy’s Landing Beaches

Have you ever dreamed of exploring culturally rich city of Paris? Seeing the romantic French countryside? Visiting the historic sights along the beaches of Normandy? You can do all of this and more when you go with Carol on her next adventure.

Who is Carol and why you should go on her adventure?

Carol is a regional manager with Boscov’s Travel and is based in our Neshaminy office. She has been in the travel business for 35 years and has escorted groups of 20 travelers-389 travelers to Alaska, Hawaii, Germany, the Caribbean. Many travelers in these groups have returned to go on more adventures with Carol. Her goal is always to make everyone feel excited about their journey and is always accessible  through out the trip. If you are looking for fun and excitement, an adventure with Carol is the way to go!

 Where is Carol’s next adventure heading?

Carol is off to France! More specifically, she is going on a Paris and Normandy river cruise. She chose this adventure for very special reasons. This cruise will be celebrating the 70th anniversary of the D-Day Landing and also, the 100th anniversary of WWI. Not a history buff? That’s alright, this cruise is also a culinary cruise offering wine tastings and special cooking presentations. Carol likes adventures that offer something for everybody.

This trip includes an overnight stay and half day guided excursion to the magnificent Palace of Versailles  in Paris before boarding your ship: the Avalon Creativity for your 7-night cruise. The Creativity offers unmatched service; first-class amenities such as Wi-Fi access, fitness center, hair salon and a whirlpool on the Sky Deck; and staterooms that are 15% larger than the industry standard. Each stateroom has floor-to-ceiling windows to give you a panoramic view of the French countryside as you cruise along.

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. 

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. 

Divine Getaways

Whether it’s an elegant hotel in the city or decadent sundrenched resort, enjoying your next vacation has a lot to do with where you stay—after all, it is where each day begins and ends. While the standard for excellence remains high, there is a new group of luxury properties raising the bar even further with their cutting-edge designs, lavish accoutrements, and unparalleled amenities. These luxe properties have something for everyone and are out to exceed all expectations with their impeccable service and sophistication. Here are some suggestions for your next stay…

Montelucia Resort & Spa – Scottsdale, Arizona

Nestled at the foot of picturesque Camelback Mountain and just minutes from world-class shopping, golf, nightlife and art galleries, Montelucia brings the essence of Europe to the heart of Scottsdale. Enjoy Andalusian-inspired architecture featuring arching entryways, splashing fountains, cobblestone open-air plazas and floral walkways. Dine at award-winning Prado restaurant and enjoy authentic Italian dishes or sit poolside at ROQ, an outdoor Southwestern bistro featuring homemade sangria. The 31,000-square-foot Moroccan-inspired Joya Spa, and luxurious accommodations with private patios and breathtaking views make Montelucia the ideal destination for your next getaway.

Gran Meliá Resort & Luxury Villas – Daios Cove, Crete, Greece

Boasting its own private white-sand beach and seamlessly integrating architecture and design with the surrounding landscape, the brand-new Gran Meliá Resort & Luxury Villas Daios Cove Crete evokes the charms of traditional villages throughout the Greek Isles. Overlooking the northeastern coast of Crete, the resort delivers a bold new standard for hospitality and magnificent accommodations—the largest on the island. 300 rooms and suites all boast king-sized beds, views of Daios Cove, and most feature private, heated pools. Discerning guests can indulge in a one-, two-, or three-bedroom villa, or spa villa. The resort has mastered the art of fun, relaxation and fine dining with an array of activities, water sports, spa experiences and restaurants. Tennis facilities, a complete scuba center, infinity pool and adults-only pool round out the resort’s diverse offerings.

The Crane – St. Philip, Barbados

Situated on the powder-soft pink sand of Barbados’ southeast coast, The Crane was built in 1887 as the Caribbean’s first resort hotel. Today, the fully-restored luxury enclave combines old-world charm, seclusion and natural beauty. A collection of 18 historic apartments and 209 modern residences present regal touches with high ceilings, hardwood floors and antique furnishings. Accommodations feature en-suite kitchens and full-sized infinity pools at the ground floor, some with private gardens. For upgraded opulence, penthouse villas offer sophisticated bedrooms, refreshing plunge pools, and roof decks with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The Crane maintains its long-held reputation for exceptional dining with mouth-watering cuisine in its four restaurants. Within the 55,000-square-foot Crane Village, guests will find a spa, a fitness center and retail stores without ever leaving the serenity of the resort.

Hotel Du Louvre – Paris, France

Built under the rule of Napoleon III, the Hotel du Louvre is an emblem of timeless Parisian grandeur. Today the iconic establishment combines historic elements, upscale appointments and world-class amenities to deliver incomparable luxury to its 177 guest rooms and suites. Warm rich tones and decadent marbles add lavishness and the hotel’s top floor boasts rooms dressed in contemporary décor with romantic views of the Louvre Museum, Opéra Garnier and Comedie Francaise. Convenient en-suite amenities include complimentary Internet access, soundproofing, satellite television and gourmet mini-bars. At the hotel’s contemporary Brasserie du Louvre, celebrated chef Guy Martin has created a savvy menu of innovative French delights. Idyllically situated in the heart of Paris, facing the world-famous Louvre Museum, the Hotel du Louvre places guests close to many of the city’s other renowned highlights, including the Palais Royal and Opéra Garnier.

Gramercy Park Hotel – New York City, New York

A modern bohemia reinvented for the 21^st century, The Gramercy Park Hotel is a refreshed boutique enclave that fuses style with great pieces of furniture, striking artwork and the extraordinary use of color. Privileged guests can experience the hotel’s rare collection of museum-quality work that features epic masterpieces from Andy Warhol, Keith Haring and Julian Schnabel. 185 guest rooms and luxury suites incorporate the hotel’s individualistic spirit and are generously scaled and beautifully appointed with the latest modern conveniences and views of Gramercy Park. World-class amenities include a 24-hour fitness center and the exclusive Gramercy Terrace, perched 18 stories above Manhattan, featuring an impressive retractable roof. The hotel’s gourmand outposts are equally stunning. Gramercy Park Hotel’s new roman-style Maialino serves lovingly prepared traditional trattoria cuisine elegant environs.

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

12 Highlights Along the Rhone & Seine Rivers

1. Paris
   The City of Light shines bright in the reflection of the Seine. Views of Paris from the river include Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum and the Eiffel Tower. Travelers can enjoy a candlelit dinner at a Parisian café or take in a world-class cabaret show.
2. Conflans
   Float gently down the River Seine, passing through suburban Paris to discover the town of Conflans.
3. Auvers-Sur-Oise
   Nearby, quaint Auvers-Sur-Oise is the inspirational town that Vincent Van Gogh called home. Those with an affinity for French history may want to visit nearby Château de Malmaison, the elaborately decorated estate of Napoleon and Josephine Bonaparte.
4. Vernon
   Further downstream, the riverside town of Vernon features the magnificent Bizy Castle and the immaculate gardens at Claude Monet’s country house.
   
5. Rouen
   Rouen, the jewel of medieval France, is next. On the right bank, half-timbered, glazed-tiled houses and ancient architecture line the streets, prompting many to refer to Rouen as ville-musee, or museum town. Make time to admire the city’s Astronomical Clock and the Rouen Cathedral. The Cathedral was once the tallest building in the world and inspired an impressive series of Claude Monet’s paintings.
6. Normandy Beaches
   A short jaunt from the river, the historic Normandy Beaches pay reverent homage to the soldiers who fought so valiantly on these shores during World War II. The surrounding countryside is ripe with fragrant fruit and flowers. Travelers can delight in the region’s delectable French cuisine and meal-capping apple brandy.
7. Les Andelys
   Continuing down the Seine, Les Andelys presents the dramatic visage of Château Gaillard. Built by England’s King Richard the Lionheart in 1196, the château is truly a masterpiece of medieval military architecture.
8. Lyon
   Flowing away from its Alpine origins, the Rhône rolls through Lyon, France. Located in the heart of the country, Lyon is central to the history of French cuisine, cinema and industry. With a history spanning more than 2,000 years, the city features magnificent Roman ruins, winding medieval alleyways, and exquisite examples of Renaissance architecture. Beaujolais is the wine of choice in the region, the grapes for which must be picked by hand.
9. Tournon and Tain L’Hermitage
   Sail by fields of lavender downstream from Lyon to visit the twin cities of Tournon and Tain L’Hermitage, nestled between the river and the vineyard-covered slopes of The Hermitage. Tournon, one of France’s oldest medieval cities, impresses visitors with its imposing 16th-century castle.
10. Vienne and Viviers
    Vienne and Viviers, quaint villages that line the shores of the Rhône, are surrounded by breathtaking beauty and bathed in history.
    
11. Avignon
    Further south, the white-stoned city of Avignon is located in the scenic Provençe. Known as the “City of Popes,” it was the center of the Catholic Church in the 14th century and its immense papal palace overlooks the river. Nearby, visit the vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape for a taste of more than six centuries of wine-making tradition.
12. Arles
    As the Rhône rolls toward the Mediterranean, Arles is a sparkling city full of inspiration. In fact, Vincent Van Gogh spent one very prolific year along these banks, painting more than a dozen masterpieces. The city also boasts a pristinely-preserved coliseum from Roman times, the church of St. Trophime, and an ancient Gallo-Roman burial road–earning it the nickname “Little Rome of Gaul.”

For more information on exploring these rivers in person with  Avalon Waterways click here.

For more information on a Rhone-Seine River Cruise or other great Avalon Waterways vacations, contact your local Boscov’s Travel Specialist, email travelrequest@boscovs.com or call 800-755-8020.

The Rivers Seine and Rhone: A Brief History

The Seine River

The ancient Celtic Parisii tribe inhabited modern-day Paris near the Seine as earl as 250 B.C. They excelled in navigation and trading all the way down to the Mediterranean Sea, building quays and tow paths along the banks. The Romans conquered the Paris basin in 52 B.C., leaving a permanent settlement on the left bank of the Seine called Lutetia, and later, Lutèce. Over the course of the following centuries, the city eventually known as Paris became prosperous, boasting a forum, palaces, baths, temples and an ampitheatre. After the collapse of the Roman Empire, Paris was largely abandoned by its inhabitants and was little more than a ghost town.

While the Sein itself is a peaceful river with a gentle, meandering flow, it has set the stage for a number of tumultuous events in the history of France. In 885 A.D., the Vikings used the Seine to invade France, rowing hundreds of longboats and an army 40,000-strong inland to the heart of the country. And in the height of the Middle Ages, Joan of Arc was martyred in the shoreline city of Rouen after leading the French army in several important victories in the Hundred Years’ Wat. The Seine was a critical crossing in World War II, and the tragic final resting place of many victims of the Paris Massacre in 1961.

In recent years, the Seine River has been the subject of major conservation efforts in France dubbed “Operation Clean Seine.” In 1991, the banks of the Seine in Paris–the Rive Gauche and the Rive Droite–were added to UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites in Europe.

The Rhône River

The Rhône River has been an important lifeline for Western Civilization dating back to Greek and Roman times. It was the main trade route from the Mediterranean to the heart of ancient Gaul. As such, it helped convey Greek cultural influence to the people living along its banks.

Until the 20th century, navigation on the Rhône was difficult due to fierce currents, floods in the spring, and droughts in the late summer. Before the advent of the steam boat in the late 18th century, passengers traveled along the river in coches d’eau (water coaches) pulled my men or horses on shore. Trade flourished via giant barges which were pulled upstream by as many as 80 horses at a time.

One of the earliest experimental steamboats was built in Lyon in 1783, but regular services did not begin until 1829. Steam vessels strolled down the river at a leisurely 12 miles per hour, and could make the downstream trip from Lyon to Arles in a day.

In 1933, the French government established Compagnie Nationale du Rhône to increase the navigability of the river. Some progress was made, but World War II brought work to a halt. In 1942, Italian military forces occupied southeastern France up to the eastern banks of the Rhône.

After the war and liberation of France, the government started construction once again on a series of locks and canal cuts, improving the flow of the river and generating electricity. Today, about eight percent of France’s electricity is now supplied by the harnessed power of the Rhône.

For more information on exploring these rivers in person with  Avalon Waterways click here.

For more information on a Rhine-Moselle-Main River Cruise or other great Avalon Waterways vacations, contact your local Boscov’s Travel Specialist, email travelrequest@boscovs.com or call 800-755-8020.

Ready to Eat – Savoring the Global Street Food Scene One Taste at a Time

Traveling foodies have a delicious secret:
The way to discover a destination’s history, culture and people is through its cuisine, especially when street food is on the menu. While street food typically focuses on regional influences and flavors, what makes it all special is that it’s quick, inexpensive and easy to eat while on the move.

Bakeries and cafés are wonderful places to explore—urban food stalls lining most city streets and squares where some of the tastiest frites, crepes, döner kebabs and much more can be found, and tourist-to-local ratio is at its best. To experience the true culinary essence of a city, just head down the street and dine like a local. From sweet to savory, here are four of the best cities for discovering the world’s most delectable street eats.

Paris, France

Europe has a thriving street food scene, even in cities where one might not expect it. Paris, known for its gastronomic restaurants, romantic sidewalk cafes and dare we say, highbrow food-a-‘tude, is one such place. Everywhere you look crêpes are being cooked and served from stalls and kiosks. The thin, flat, unleavened pancakes can serve as quick lunch, a hearty snack or a yummy dessert. Look for where they are being cooked to order and not stacked up waiting. There are lots of choices for savory fillings, like goat cheese, and ham and tomato. For a sweet treat don’t pass up fillings like the perennially popular Nutella (try it with banana).

A plethora of patisseries offer scrumptious grab-and-go options. The quintessential French cookies, pastel-colored macarons (not to be confused with coconut macaroons) are truly delightful. Light and airy, they are filled with either buttercream, jam or ganache. Flavors like neon green pistachio and rose are everyday favorites—as is the soft, bread-y Viennoise pastry. Pair with a café au lait and you’ll have the perfect morning or late afternoon pick-me-up.

Brussels, Belgium

Supreme Indulgences: 5 Luxurious Hotels

A trip to a world-class hotel, resort or restaurant is truly a journey to another world—one where anything and everything is possible. Whether it’s for business or pleasure, discerning travelers not only expect a heightened level of service that caters to every need and want, but they desire an experience that transcends all expectations of comfort and luxury. Here are some of our favorite places where you can relax, unwind and dine in pure bliss…

The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park
New York City, New York

Voted the “#1 Best Hotel in New York City” and #7 in all of the U.S. by U.S. News and World Report, The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park offers the elegance of a private home in the heart of New York City. With 259 lavish guestrooms, including 47 suites, the hotel is an easy walk to Fifth Avenue, Broadway, Rockefeller Center and Lincoln Center. Accommodations feature 400-thread-count French sateen linens, marble bathrooms and Etro bath accessories. Additional hotel features include an on-site fitness center, wireless Internet access, The Ritz-Carlton Club® Lounge, and La Prairie at the Ritz-Carlton Spa. Unique culinary experiences await guests at BLT Market where Chef Laurent Tourondel provides the perfect breakfast and dinner. For an unforgettable social venue, The Star Lounge highlights the cocktail creations of the Ritz-Carlton hotel’s legendary New York bartender, Norman Bukofzer.

Hôtel De Crillon
Paris, France

Regally housed in an 18^th century palace commissioned by Louis XV, the historic Hôtel de Crillon reigns along the world-famous Place de la Concorde in the heart of Paris. The renowned hotel has hosted the illustrious likes of King George V, Sir Winston Churchill, President Theodore Roosevelt and the Dalai Lama. A bastion of Parisian glamour, the hotel touts 103 sumptuous guest rooms and 44 suites recently restored in the Louis XV style. Luxe accommodations feature rich furnishings and the latest modern conveniences such as marble bathrooms, Wi-Fi access, and flat-screen televisions with satellite channels. For exceptional dining, the hotel’s Restaurant L’Obé is a choice gathering place for divine Parisian cuisine. Should gourmet snacks and global cocktails be preferred, the Crillon Bar hosts a chic and subtle atmosphere for soaking up the joie de vivre.

Les Ambassadeurs, Hôtel de Crillon
Paris, France

Located in one of the oldest and most enduring luxury hotels in the world, the one-Michelin-star Les Ambassadeurs lavishes a gastronomic experience unlike any other. The restaurant’s setting—formerly a ballroom—is grand and majestic, impressive in its scope as well as in the splendor of its Louis XV decoration. This inspiring ambience is adorned in marble marquetry, sparkling crystal chandeliers and ceiling frescoes. Les Ambassadeurs has received numerous awards and is acknowledged as one of the best dining venues in all of Paris. Menu high points include French imperial caviar with cucumber aspic and blinis; and roasted squab with tiny glazed squab’s leg in a filo pastry. Decadent desserts such as soft hazelnut biscuit with “Jivara” chocolate mousse and passion fruit sorbet; and citrus fruit baba with yuzu sorbet and light rhum mousse are certain to please every taste.

La Samanna
St. Martin, French West Indies

Cloaked in lush tropical foliage on 55 pristine acres of secluded beachfront, the world-class La Samanna luxury resort offers a superior level of accommodations with 83 rooms and suites, and 8 sumptuous new villas. Guests can partake of three championship tennis courts, a Pilates studio, two fresh-water swimming pools, an array of water sports, and restorative therapies at La Samanna Spa. Complementing La Samanna’s luxe amenities are exquisite dining options that incorporate fresh island flavors at Le Reserve, delectable casual fare at the Poolside Grill, and specialty cocktails and lobster barbeques at the Beach Bar. At La Cave, guests dine amongst 12,000 bottles of the world’s finest wines while enjoying some of the Caribbean’s most acclaimed food. Just outside of La Samanna, art museums and attractions are only 10 minutes away by car in the capital city of Marigot.

Paradisus Playa Del Carmen
Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

In November 2011, Paradisus Resorts unveils two new resorts in Playa del Carmen. The adults-only Paradisus La Perla will host 394 elegant suites, including 60 swim-up suites. Along with daily activities, guests will enjoy challenging golf nearby and life enriching activities such as tango dance classes and sushi making. The resorts will share 10 restaurants and eight bars, including the signature Gabi Club located in the Zócalo. At the family-friendly Paradisus La Esmeralda, families will have the opportunity to choose from 512 elegantly appointed suites, including 56 swim-up suites. Paradisus La Esmeralda is certain to keep everyone entertained with a spectacular 57,000-square-foot pool, Hydro Grill and Kid’s Zone. Both resorts will also share a YHI Spa and Health Club, while each presenting their own dramatic free-form pools and artful landscapes.

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

Opulence Defined: 5 Luxe Getaways

Today’s discerning travelers expect much more than just the run-of-the-mill hotel service and amenities—and rightly so.  Fortunately, many properties are vying to capture their attention with cultural are programs, family-friendly packages, multi-million dollar refurbishments, incredible tennis and golf facilities, and so much more.  Now, choosing where to stay may come down to simply selecting which features you find most appealing.  To start, check out these hand-selected luxury hotels and resorts…

The Fairmont Beijing · Beijing, China

                One of China’s most sought after hotels, the Fairmont Beijing welcomes guests to the heart of the capital’s bustling business district.  Surrounded by Fortune 500 companies and premier office towers, the hotel is located across from renowned shopping at the local Pearl and Silk Market.  The hotel’s gate-form-architecture showcases natural light-filled interiors accented by contemporary Chinese artwork.  Guest rooms and suite interiors blend traditional and contemporary Chinese style with floor- to-ceiling-windows and state-of-the-art amenities.  Original dining concepts and dishes include the chic Lunar 8—serving renowned crispy Peking Duck—to delicious Wagyu beef at The CUT and outstanding bubbly at the seductive Champagne Bar.  Spanning three levels on the sky bridge, the Willow Stream Spa provides a tranquil urban getaway complemented by a state-of-the-art fitness facility and yoga studio.

Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel · Santa Monica, California

                With its sunny beachfront setting and stunning ocean views, Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel pairs laid-back luxury with contemporary Southern California comfort and gracious hospitality.  Located in the heart of Santa Monica, the hotel has 32 rooms, including 15 one-bedroom suites and four custom-designed luxury suites.  Hotel features include an ocean view pool, direct access to Santa Monica Beach and close proximity to the Santa Monica Pier and Third Street Promenade.  At Ocean & Vine, experience contemporary Californian cuisine which highlights locally-caught seafood, Farmers’ Market vegetables and expertly paired wines.  Visit Papillon Lounge to enjoy a stellar selection of Loews Signature Cocktails while soaking in a magnificent sunset over the Pacific.  For ultimate relaxation, the hotel’s Ocean Spa & Fitness has recently undergone a complete transformation to feature eco-friendly design elements to keep you feeling relaxed… naturally.

Hotel Negresco · Nice, France

Individually decorated to reflect the most significant periods of French art and history, Hotel Negresco’s 125 pet-friendly rooms and suites feature the latest technology, a wide collection of furniture from Louis XIII up to Art Déco, and warm colors.  Fresh from an extensive six-month renovation, the Negresco features a new business center and a new executive 5^th floor with private access and check-in, lounge area, new rooms and suites, and exclusive servies.  The Façade and Gustave Eiffel glass dome of the Salon Royal (listed as a historic monument) have also been completely refurbished.  For superb dining, the hotel’s Chantecler restaurant, decorated in a Regency style with 18^th-century woodwork, is one of the finest in Nice.  And Brasserie La Rotonde, an informal brasserie, has been redesigned with a new terrace overlooking the Promenade des Anglais.

The Setai · Miami Beach, Florida

Nestled in the heart of Miami’s effervescent South Beach, The Setai presents 85 rooms and 45 suites highlighted with Dux beds, Illy espresso machines, Bose surround-sound entertainment systems, flat-screen televisions, high-speed Internet access and more.  The Setai’s Grande Suite features over 3,500 square feet of grandiose living space; and the penthouse exhausts superlatives with over 10,000 square feet of space complete with a private butler.  The Spa and the Setai transports guests to the Pacific Rim with soothing treatment suites specifically outfitted to ensure guests receive a tailored therapeutic experience with tranquil views of the pool and ocean.  Whether dining at the trademark Restaurant, with its enticing Asian cuisine, or The Grill, with its rustic environs and fine offerings and wine, guests will experience miami’s most spectacular cuisine at any of the Setai’s superb dining venues.

Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park · Chicago, Illinois

A style icon, the Fairmont Chicago rests near legendary Grant Park and vibrant Millennium Park, the Art Institute and Michigan Avenue’s shopping playground.  Accommodations show off contemporary furnishings in earthy shades accented with colorful throw pillows.  Marble-tiled bathrooms offer separate tubs and showers with cascading rainfall showerheads.  Rooms include a 42-inch flat-screen TV, iPod docking station, dressing area with a large closet, high-speed wireless internet access and stunning lake-front views.  Fairmont Gold, a hotel within a hotel, offers exclusive service with a private lounge.  At mySpa, personalized therapies and treatment rooms include a wide array of music choices plus iPod docks.  The hotel’s restaurants feature local and organic ingredients.  Aria serves luscious New World Asian cuisine; While Eno offers nearly 500 wines and 35 different cheeses accompanied by dried fruit, honey and nuts, and handmade chocolate truffles.

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

10 Overseas Vacations Under $1,000

Occasionally I will see a deal come through that is just way too good not to pass along. The following deal officially falls into that classification. As a young woman with a long bucket list, most of it involving traveling, it is always exciting to see trips abroad that are within my range financially. Yes, we are experiencing recession, yes, the market is unstable, and yes, you are only young once, so some things you have to push ahead with pursuing regardless of the economic climate.

So, when I heard about a Cosmos offer for 10 vacations under $1,000, I knew I had to share the deals with you, our lovely readers! Below is an outline of the vacations, their prices, and some info about the trips. All trips allow for a considerable amount of free time, and offer optional excursions for an extra cost. Please note that prices are land only, valid as of the time they were published, and subject to change.

Prague, Vienna & Budapest – 9 days from $899

The main feature of this trip is to see the rediscovered jewels of Imperial Europe, but the tour also is a great way to check out all of the exciting things to do in Eastern Europe.  The package includes visits to Nuremberg, Vienna, Salzburg, Bohemia, Moravia, and the Danube River. Get ready for the buzz of the city as you take the Autobahn to Nuremberg,  tour both sides of Budapest (the Buda side is old world and the Pest side is new world), and enjoy culinary delights created from scratch with unique spices and herbs.  From Alpine scenery to city lights, this tour is a great balance of city and country.

Greek Odyssey – 8 days from $939

Greece has always been a country that preserves instead of destroys its history. Enjoy landscapes full of unique ruins, gorgeous flora and fauna, and buzzing metropolitan cities. This tour includes trips to Epidaurus, Meteora, Kalambaka, Peloponnese, Mount Parnassus, the Arcadian Mountains, the Corinth Canal, Athens, Delphi, Olympia, Mycenae, and the Rion-Antirion Bridge. From roaming around the stomping grounds of famous philosophers to eating lamb gyros with french fries piled high on them to having a race with your travel companions at the home of the Original Olympic Games, this trip will be full of adventure, intrigue, and breathtaking scenery.

Irish Explorer – 9 days from $999

Whether you are Irish or not this tour will make you want to grab a draft Guinness, swap tall tales with the locals, and then roll down one of the hundreds of green hills at your disposal! This is a superb trip for photographers, as it will take you to some of the most stunning destinations with saturated colors, vivid skies, and visual textures like no other place on Earth. Stops include Downpatrick, Giant’s Causeway, Derry, Donegal town, Knock, Galway, Cliffs of Moher, Adare, Killarney, Blarney, Tramore, handweaving mill at Avoca, Glendalough,  Boyne Valley, Mountains of Mourne, Northern Ireland’s Antrim coast, Donegal Bay, The Burren, Dingle Peninsula, Ring of Kerry and Lakes of Killarney, and Wicklow Mountains.  A truly one-stop-shop for Ireland tours, and for under $1,000, a real steal.

Jewels of Morocco – 10 days from $789

A great destination for travelers who have seen the standard destinations, Morocco affords visitors with exceptional culture, intriguing history and architecture, and a sense that you traveled back in time.  In a place where storytelling is truly a means of record keeping as well as entertainment, Morocco will give you an abundance of stories you will be telling your children and your childrens children for years to come.  Tour stops include visits to Fez, Ifrane, Erfoud, Rissani, Ouarzazate, Aït Benhaddou Kasbah, Rabat, Meknes, Marrakesh, Casablanca, the Atlas Mountains, Ziz Gorges and Oasis, Road of 1000 Kasbahs, Dades Valley, and Todra Gorge. Everywhere you travel in Moroco is scenic, and the landscape changes from volcanic mountains, to verdant cedar forests, to deserts, to craggy mountains.  This is truly an eye-candy tour, from the narrow streets of colorful cities to the natural beauties of the world.

Jewels of Poland – 8 days from $999

A romantic, friendly, and fascinating town, Poland is a great place to go for culture, religion, and history buffs. From busy cities to quiet country landscapes, this tour is a great mix of town and country. The tour includes visits to Warsaw, Gdansk, Torun, Poznan, Jasna Góra, Krakow, and Auschwitz.  If you like free time, this is a great tour to take. With unique optional excursions, and a slew of things to discover on your own, Poland will undoubtedly charm you with its quaint yet bustling existence.

Jewels of Spain & Portugal – 9 days from $949

This is a great tour for the adventurous at heart, revelers, and anyone who appreciates a place that breathes its essence into every fiber of your being. From visiting a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites to traveling through landscapes of windmills and castles, you will be bustling with excitement on every day of your tour. This tour includes visits to Avila, Salamanca, Coimbra, Fatima, Obidos, Seville, Sierra da Estrela, Andalusia, Libson, Madrid, and La Mancha. Spain boasts colorful cities, quaint countrysides, and a range of scenery that will knock your socks off.

Jewels of Slovania & Croatia – 8 days from $999

From the Adriatic Sea along the Croatian coast line to the flourishing forests of Slovenia, this is a lovely trip for decompressing and remembering all of the beauty in the world. Whether touring Europe’s most extensive caves or meandering through Plitvice, one of Europe’s most famous National Parks, this trip acts as a communion with nature. And for all of you urban landscapers,  you will be visiting the cities of this area too. The tour includes visits to Postojna Caves, Plitvice National Park, Neretva Gorges, Dalmatian Coast, Zadar, Split, Dubrovnik, Mostar, Sarajevo, Zagreb, and Ljubljana. A steal of a deal for a life changing experience like this.

British Panorama – 9 days from $869

Enjoy the plush history and culture that England, Scotland, and Wales have to offer. Take advantage of plenty of free time to explore each place, and enjoy scheduled visits to major attractions along the way! Stop on this tour include visits to Hadrian’s Wall, Jedburgh, Melrose, Edinburgh Castle, tickets for Edinburgh Military Tattoo (Aug 6, Aug 13, Aug 20 departures), Gretna Green, Grasmere, Shakespeare’s Stratford-upon-Avon, Broadway, Bath, Salisbury; orientation drive in Cardiff; walking tours in Cambridge, York, & Chester. This is a great tour for literary folk and history buffs alike, or for the person who just wants to see a lot of classic attractions in Europe in a short amount of time.

Jewels of France – 9 days from $919

Travel to the “City of Light” where you will fall in love with the gourmet cuisine, wonderful wines, and incredible architecture. Tour includes visits to Giverny, Rouen, Honfleur, Deauville, Normandy Landing Beaches and American Cemetery, Bayeux and its tapestry, Mont St. Michel, St. Malo, Rennes, Tours, Orléans, Chartres, and Chateaux Country. From seeing classic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe to touring the famous water garden that inspired Monet, this tour will show you the romantic, unique, classic, and picturesque beauty of France.

Grand Tour of Turkey – 13 days from $999

Turkey is a beautiful place to go to witness a “unique crossroads between Europe and Asia.”  Full of friendly locals, incredible food, gorgeous views, and one-of-a-kind shopping at bazaars and markets, Turkey will give you a cultural experience like none other. This tour includes visits to Gallipoli, Canakkale, Troy, Izmir, Kusadasi, Pamukkale, Agzikarahan Caravanserai, Konya, Rock Chapels in Göreme, Ankara, King Midas’ Tomb in Gordion, Bursa, and Pamukkale’s Cotton Castle. From striking architecture to lush forests, Turkey is beautiful at all times of the day, and boasts some of the most dramatic twilight moments you will ever experience. If you are looking for something exotic and non-typical, book this trip now.

Our Travel Specialists would be happy to help book any of the above trips, or any other adventures you may have planned. Click here to get connected with a Specialist.