When I was asked if I wanted to go on a bargain shopping-themed fam trip to Boston, Philly and New York, it was a no-brainer. Well, what girl would refuse? Before I knew it I was headed to the check-in desk at Heathrow with an empty suitcase and a bag the size of Southend pier.
The fam trip was being hosted by Virgin Holidays and Premium Outlets which has designer shopping villages a stone’s throw from each of these popular city-break destinations.
It’s being hailed as the ‘golden retail triangle’ because these outlets boast not just the likes of Nike, Levi Strauss, Gap, Banana Republic, DKNY and Timberland but also top-end boutiques including Karen Millen, Chanel, Gucci, Chloé, Prada and Jimmy Choo – yes, Jimmy Choo. No wonder Gwen Stefani is among the celebs spotted at Premium Outlets.
These outlets offer goods at 25%-65% off US retail prices, which are already cheaper than UK high street prices. Plus, the pound is doing well against the US dollar again. So in theory, the more you spend, the more you save, right? It’s basic shopaholic maths.
Armed with a totally clear conscience I was ready to max my credit card – in between soaking up the atmosphere and culture of these great cities, of course.
The train journeys were in themselves an attraction. The route from Boston to Philly hugs the New England coastline, passing fishing villages and picture-perfect towns including Mystic Seaport, while approaching New York from Philly gives you a glimpse of the countryside and suburbs bordering the Big Apple.
Each city has a totally different personality and each outlet centre has a different array of shops. Variety, after all, is the spice of life. Here’s the low-down on how your clients can get the most from a festive shopping trip.
Philadelphia
Translated from the Greek, Philadelphia means City of Brotherly Love. The original capital of the US, this is the place where the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution were both written and signed.
Where to stay: The 445-room Crowne Plaza is within walking distance of attractions, the rooms are spacious with contemporary furnishing and there is a rooftop open-air swimming pool.
What to eat: A soft pretzel with a whole-grain mustard dip and a Philly Cheesesteak. These giant subs are stuffed with a mountain of thinly-sliced, fried beefsteak, topped with fried onions and smothered in cheese whiz – liquid processed cheese or provolone. Not a healthy option, but satisfyingly addictive.
Where to grab a bargain: Philadelphia Premium Outlets, where stores include Tommy Hilfiger, Joe’s Jeans, Diesel, Michael Kors, Miss Sixty and French Connection.
Top 5 things to see:
- The Liberty Bell: It may have a crack in it, but this historic treasure rang out to celebrate America’s hard-won independence from the UK.
- Museum of Modern Art: Famous for its 19th and 20th- century collection of American art – and the 99 steps that lead up to its entrance. Known as the Rocky Steps, this is where the Sylvester Stallone film’s boxing hero ran as part of his training routine.
- Lancaster County: Take a tour out of town to Pennsylvania Dutch Country to meet the Amish community and learn about their way of life.
- The Love Statue opposite City Hall: Philly’s most popular photo backdrop and canoodling spot.
- Penn’s Landing: Head to the waterfront for a feast of maritime history. Attractions include a Second World War submarine and the Independence Seaport Museum.
New York
Bold and brash, the Big Apple hustles and bustles 24/7. They say if you get bored of this metropolis you are bored with life. Everywhere you look will remind you of a movie set.
Where to stay: The Skyline Hotel is an excellent economic option just 10 minutes’ walk from Times Square. It has 232 rooms and is set in a friendly neighbourhood full of cheap eats, quirky delis and boutiques. Rooms are no-frills and comfortable. The hotel has a gym and pool.
What to eat: You name it, New York has it. The city is renowned for its bagels, with cream cheese being one of the most popular fillings; salt-beef on rye or pastrami sandwiches are also a must-try.
Where to grab a bargain: Woodbury Commons Premium Outlets. Stores include Jimmy Choo, Chanel, Calvin Klein, Dolce & Gabbana, Maxmara, Juicy Couture, Hugo Boss, Diane von Furstenberg, Dior and Versace.
Top 5 things to see:
- Statue of Liberty: Take the Staten Island Ferry for a closer look at this great lady.
- Empire State Building: Head to the 86th floor for a sweeping view of the city skyline and Hudson river. And go twice – once during the day and once at night.
- Central Park: Take a horse and buggy ride around, or through, the city’s most famous park.
- Grand Central Station: This has been the setting for many a movie scene. Admire this beautiful building from both inside and out.
- Take an evening stroll: Wander around Times Square, Broadway and 42nd Street and marvel at the sea of neon lights and just people-watch.
Boston
This smart, friendly and pristine city is the gateway to New England, and as such is full of old-world charm.
Where to stay: The beautiful 383-room Fairmont Copley Plaza has a regal reception area, cosy bedrooms and is centrally located.
What to eat: Try a Boston Blue, a juicy burger topped with blue cheese. Or, if you prefer fish, a lobster roll with a side of clam chowder.
Where to grab a bargain: Head for Wrentham Village Premium Outlets, where stores include Burberry, Sony, Van Heusen, Quicksilver, Gap, Levi and Vera Bradley.
Top 5 things to see:
- Top of the Hub: Have a cocktail and take in the views from this 52nd-floor bar.
- The Freedom Trail: A red line that wends its way through the city leading to 16 historic American Revolution sites.
- The Cheers bar: Immortalised in the US hit sitcom, this watering hole is a fun place to hang out or watch a ball game.
- The Swan Boats: Take a ride on the lake at Boston Public Gardens in one of these fairytale-style pleasure craft.
- Quincy Market: Enjoy the shops, stalls and entertainers at this busy waterfront spot.
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Hayes & Jarvis offers a four-night package with two nights in Boston followed by two nights in New York for £799 per person based on two sharing. The package includes room-only accommodation and BA flights from Heathrow departing on November 1. hayesandjarvis.com0871 664 0246
Seven nights on the East Coast with Virgin Holidays, including Virgin Atlantic flights from Heathrow to Boston, returning from New York JFK, costs from £1,264 per person based on two adults sharing a standard room. The price, which includes car hire, three nights’ room-only at the four-star Westin Boston Waterfront and four nights’ B&B at the three-star Comfort Inn Manhattan, starts from £1,264 and is based on departures between November 1-20. virginholidays.co.uk0844 557 3859
