You’re just an international flight away from Philadelphia, Atlantic City and Valley Forge...

WHEN you think of the three cities on the east coast that best typify the US, you’d naturally assume New York, Washington and Boston. However another unlikely trio, Philadelphia and Valley Forge in Pennsylvania and Atlantic City in New Jersey, provides an intriguing blend of history, glamour, shopping and culture.

Just an international flight away, you can access the bright lights of Philadelphia either through London or Dublin and its increased twice daily summer schedule. The birthplace of a nation, Philadelphia is steeped in history which effortlessly combines the vibrancy and exciting treats only the second biggest city on the east coast can provide.

Visit some of the best in international arts and culture, highlighted by the exciting move of the Barnes Foundation to the Parkway in May 2012. Enjoy viewing some of the best works of Van Gogh and Rodin or celebrate today’s contemporary artists. The National Constitution Center’s From Ashbury Park to the Promised Land exhibition (until September 3) celebrates the life and music of singer/songwriter and Philadelphian-born Bruce Springsteen. After hours, experience Philadelphia’s star quality with its glittering nightlife, VIP bars and clubs and world-class restaurants.

The state of Pennsylvania offers tax free shopping on clothes and shoes and whilst the city offers an eclectic mix of fashion, Valley Forge just 30km away is home America’s largest retail space – The King of Prussia Mall.

Ten new stores are due to open within the King of Prussia Mall complex by the end of this year, with an additional 40 shops and restaurants planned for 2013. The new Valley Forge Casino Resort will provide exciting entertainment when it opens in Spring 2012, featuring 50 table games, 600 slot machines and two hotels.

Valley Forge is best known for its 3,600 acre National Historical Park of rolling hillsides and multi-purpose trails. Centuries ago, it was a completely different scene where General George Washington forged his Continental Army into the force that won the American Revolution. Today, Valley Forge proudly displays America’s largest concentration of public gardens and is a great place to visit and stay. In nearby Schwenksville, The Woodside Lodge country house hotel has recently opened, and the seven luxurious two-room suits are catered for by Will Smith’s former private chef.

A short drive away (60 miles) to New Jersey, is a beach and boardwalk destination Atlantic City that has stood the test of time and has been attracting visitors for over 150 years. Home to the 1920-1930s glamour which has been epitomised in the recent award-winning Empire Boardwalk series, the mini Las Vegas of gambling, shows and entertainment has seen some big celebrity names such as Madonna, Lady Gaga and Beyonce grace its boards.

Exciting developments are underway to make the destination even more appealing to guests, with the Grand Opening of the $2.4 billion waterfront Revel Resort takes place in May 2012, and the landmark Golden Nugget casino will undergo refurbishment. An ideal complement to the other two cities, enjoy a beach escape with a backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean at Atlantic City.