Philadelphia, affectionately dubbed the ‘City of Brotherly Love’, will build on its reputation as one of the most diverse LGBT cities in the world this year thanks to the return of the largest celebration of LGBT in the region at Philly Pride as well as Philadelphia OutFest, which marks the largest National Coming Out Day celebration in the world. The Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau is encouraging all those looking to enjoy the vibrant scenes, rainbow flags and high spirited events to book a break to the east coast city to revel in the party atmosphere.

Philly Black Pride 2016 Kicks Off LGBT Events Calendar
The start of Philadelphia’s major LGBT events calendar will kick off with Philadelphia Black Pride (PBP), the 17th annual Philly Black Pride celebration from 28 April to 1 May 2016. This is the annual opportunity for black LBGTQ+ communities to celebrate, network and build visibility. With an average of up to 5,000 local and tri-state attendees, it’s the largest mobilisation of black LBGTQ+ individuals in the greater Philadelphia area. The four-day celebration is comprised of over 25 events, meetings, and socials. For more information, visit www.phillyblackpride.org

Party At Philly Pride And Festival
Philly Pride and Festival is the largest celebration of LGBT pride in the region and attracts over 25,000 people each year. The parade celebrations will take place on 12 June 2016 from 11:30 a.m. in the heart of Philadelphia’s Gayborhood. This year’s festival marks the 27th staging of the event in the city and is set to feature live music, DJs, food and drinks. Revellers can also start the celebrations early on Friday 10 June when the city hosts the kick-off party. Advance wrist bands for the parade can be bought for $10 (£7) and on the day are offered at $15 (£11). For more information, visit www.phillygaypride.org

Movie Nights At qFLIX
Between 5-10 July 2016, the region’s only LGBTQ film festival will welcome thousands of film buffs to Philadelphia’s cinemas to join the movie fun. The routes behind the festival link to preserving the tradition of exhibiting American and international LGBTQ independent film across the region. This year’s schedule is kept closely under wraps until nearer the launch but visitors can expect a wealth of independent film makers showcasing their work. For more information, visit www.qflixphilly.com.

LGBT Equality Forum
From 25-29 July 2016, Philadelphia will welcome the Equality Forum, which aims to champion advancing LGBT civil rights. Throughout the four-day event, visitors can join debates, book signings and celebrate as those with poignant roles to play in the LGBT civil rights movement are recognised. For more information, visit www.equalityforum.com.

LGBT History Month
LGBT celebrations will continue into autumn as October also marks LGBT History Month, a global movement that celebrates the achievements of 31 lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender icons each day throughout the month. Philadelphia’s LGBT History Month celebration aims to inspire through the work of fantastic community organisations that give meaning to the fight for full equality. For more information, visit lgbtphilly.wordpress.com.

OutFest 2016
Philadelphia will once again welcome the popular OutFest on 9 October 2016. The largest National Coming Out Day (NCOD) event in the world takes place in the heart of the city’s Gayborhood and this year will mark the 26th anniversary of the celebration. The block party features drag shows, games, bar crawls, music and shopping with the centre of the festival happening at the main stage at 13th and Locust streets. Visitors can look forward to everything from a high-heel race and a belly dance show to award ceremonies and a pet show. For more information, visit www.phillygaypride.org

The board of the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority approved a three-year $6 million agreement with Live Nation to bring more beach concerts to Atlantic City in the upcoming summers.

The deal requires Live Nation to bring at least six beach concerts or events that attract 30,000 attendees or more to Atlantic City during the next three summers. The agreement comes after Live Nation successfully bid last year to run this summer’s six beach concerts.

Live nation also submitted a bid to run the concerts in 2017 and 2018. The latest bid is subject to City Council approval.

The authority’s board also approved an additional $3 million over three years for Live Nation to run events at Boardwalk Hall.

Berlin, Germany, March 10, 2016 – The Pacific Area Travel Writers Association (PATWA) named Philadelphia the Best Destination – Heritage & Culture during its International Awards Ceremony at ITB, Berlin. PATWA chooses winners through a stringent process that includes a jury of members, officials and traveler judges, and previous winners include Vienna and Mumbai.

“Philadelphia is honored to be selected for this prestigious award, recognizing it as a world-class city full of historic and cultural attractions that will impress visitors from across the globe,” said Julie Coker Graham, President and CEO of the Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB). “In 2015, Philadelphia was named a World Heritage City by the Organization of World Heritage Cities, making it the first and only city in the United States with this esteemed designation. Both these accolades, in addition to many others we have received, will certainly attract more visitors to Philadelphia and we look forward to welcoming them.”

Known as the birthplace of America, Philadelphia offers a vast array of historic activities. Visitors can walk in the footsteps of history in Independence National Historical Park, “America’s most historic square mile,” and stroll along Philadelphia’s charming cobblestone streets lined with historical landmarks. Independence Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is where the Declaration of Independence was signed. Visitors can also get up close to the Liberty Bell, symbol of the nation’s freedom, or tour the Betsy Ross House, a historic house that commemorates the life and accomplishments of Betsy Ross, a Philadelphia patriot believed to have made the first American flag.

In addition, Philadelphia’s world-class museums showcase some of the world’s finest art collections. Philadelphia’s vast collection of art museums is located along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, also dubbed “Museum Mile,” where visitors will find The Philadelphia Museum of Art, the third-largest art museum in the United States, the Rodin Museum, which houses the largest collection of Rodin sculptures outside of Paris and another not-to-miss museum, The Barnes Foundation, where visitors will find the world’s largest private collection of Impressionist and post-Impressionist masterpieces. This extraordinary collection is definitely worth a trip, featuring masterpieces by Renoir, Cézanne and Matisse, and provides a depth of work by these artists unavailable elsewhere. Those with an edgier bent will enjoy the work of the City of Philadelphia Mural Arts Program. Started as an anti-graffiti initiative, the program has morphed into an ambitious effort that’s beautified thousands of blank walls around the city. There are close to 4,000 murals around the city.

Travellers will also be thrilled with the city’s cultural scene, where they can take in world-renowned music performances by The Philadelphia Orchestra at the architecturally-stunning Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts; or opera, ballet or Broadway shows at the Academy of Music.

Perfectly situated on the East Coast of the United States, just two hours or less by train from New York City and Washington, DC, Philadelphia is a convenient hub for travels in the northeast region and a premier destination for leisure, conventions and business travellers.

For great deals and a variety of shopping experiences smart shoppers head to Atlantic City. Each casino property offers their own unique shops or you can browse the Boardwalk for salt-water taffy and homemade fudge, souvenir stores and specialty shops.

Shopping enthusiasts know that there are three shopping complexes to satisfy their retail fix. New shops at The Walk outlet mall, the latest styles and luxury lines at The Pier Shops at Caesars and Tropicana’s shopping and dining mecca The Quarter, allow shoppers to snap up fresh-from-the-runway fashions, update their family’s wardrobes and find the perfect gift. Here’s what those in need of retail therapy will find around town:

TANGER OUTLETS THE WALK
With more than 90 brand-name outlet shops and no tax on clothing, shopping at The Walk is guilt-free, tax-free and loaded with great finds. Newest addition Bass Pro Shops is a destination unto itself. Opened on April 15, the store is stocked with everything the outdoorsman/woman could possible need for hunting, camping, fishing and much more including a large boat showroom. Shoppers are greeted by a 13,000 gallon aquarium filled with indigenous sea life and murals depicting regional scenic locales.http://www.basspro.com/atlanticcity

Exercise Your Plastic
Men’s clothier Jos. A. Banks, trend-setter Abercrombie & Fitch, eyewear specialists Sunglass Hut, charm and bead specialist Pandora Jewellry, and music and pop culture inspired Hot Topic have joined Coach, J. Crew, DKNY, OshKosh, Brooks Brothers, Eddie Bauer, St. John and other retailers that have made The Walk a destination for savvy shoppers.

Refuel

After hours of retail therapy, shoppers can refuel at a number of local and nationally known restaurants located throughout The Walk. The newly-opened Wingcraft offers shoppers a welcome respite with a selection of local and national craft brews, more than nine varieties of wings, brick oven pizzas, salads, entrees and more. Or they can sip on a margarita while sifting through their purchases at Los Amigos where local chef Genero Castillo has developed a menu of creative and complex Mexican fare as well as Southwestern inspired items.

More Reasons to Shop
At The Walk, even the parking facilities can provide a fun shopping experience: The Wave Parking Garage, located at the foot of the Atlantic City Expressway, is a convenient spot to stow your vehicle as well as home to the Noyes Art Garage of Stockton University. This spacious, light-filled emporium is lined from end to end with local crafts for sale in boutiques, art galleries, exhibit spaces and working artist studios.
The Walk also offers shoppers convenient valet parking centrally located for access to all its shops with several options for free or discounted parking based on amount of daily purchases.
In addition, members of the US or Canadian armed services and AARP and AAA members can present their ID cards to any merchant and receive a free coupon book entitling them to even deeper discounts.

PIER SHOPS AT CAESARS
The Pier Shops is the first stop for fashionistas who know that there is more to retail therapy than simply shopping. And the recently announced reimagining of the property as The Playground will bring a new and unique experience to AC. The new concept is designed to allow visitors to shop, dine and relax to the music or sports of their choice. The first phase scheduled to open this summer, T Street, will be comprised of live music venues on the first floor. Six themed music clubs will showcase buzz-worthy young acts in virtually every music and entertainment genre including country, rock, jazz, folk, rhythm and blues and comedy.http://www.thepiershopsatcaesars.com/

Exercise Your Plastic
Situated on one of Atlantic City’s historic piers, The Pier Shops stretch out above the ocean offering sweeping sea and beach views that transform shopping into a special event. Even before hitting such lux boutiques as Louis Vuitton, Burberry, Michael Kors and Tiffany & Co., shoppers can settle back in the Adirondack chairs placed near the windows and enjoy incredible ocean views.
While keeping stocked with the latest styles is priority one, The Pier Shops’ retailers offer a wide range of services and specialty stores. Choose the perfect outfit for a night on the town at Gucci, Guess or White Lotus Boutique. Sports fans can find everything they need for game day at Sports City and Sports Collection. Techies can upgrade their cell accessories at The Apple Store, Cellairis or Cellularum.

Refuel

Need a quick pick-me-up? Stop at Starbucks for a latte and arguably the best views of any Starbucks in the U.S. For visitors who want the full AC experience, Stephen Starr’s nationally-renowned Buddakan and The Continental are among the full-service dining spots where the cuisine and cocktails are worthy companions to the romantic, seaside setting. Craving crabs? The legendary Phillips Seafood serves that and much more in this seaside locale where diners can watch the goings-on in the exhibition kitchen or enjoy the view of ocean waves crashing onto the shore. And at Souzai Sushi and Sake, weary shoppers can refresh on fresh, traditional Japanese dishes, creative cocktails, Asian beers and sake.

THE QUARTER
The Havana-themed shopping, dining, entertainment and nightlife complex within Tropicana Casino & Resort celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2014 and just keeps getting better.http://tropicana.net/quarter/

Exercise Your Plastic
Make an impression during a night on the town with a new outfit from Francesca’s Collections or White House Black Market then finish off the look with a classic necklace from Erwin Pearl or glitzy sparkles from Swarovski. Guys can make a fashion statement of their own with AKA’s selection of top designers including Hugo Boss, Roar, Affliction and more. Surprise the kids with a bit of the beach from Seashore Kids. Their selection of dress-up gear, hand puppets, adorable rain gear and charming toys are a delight. For the ultimate Atlantic City souvenir, check out Zephyr Gallery’s 3D Monopoly game under glass where properties are marked by rhinestones, old-time graphic prints and other works by local and national artisans.

Refuel

Sugar highs await at Godiva and Lick, a colorful fantasyland of sweets. But for more serious sustenance, famished shoppers can hoist a signature mojito or caipirinha and sate their appetites with Cuba Libre’s Nuevo Cubano cuisine. Voted best steakhouse four years running by Casino Magazine, The Palm continues to serve its renowned aged prime beef, succulent Nova Scotia lobsters and hearty salads. Fans of Italian cuisine can treat their taste buds to authentic recipes at Carmine’s serving home-style Southern Italian specialties in extra large portions.

More Reasons to Shop
A trip to bluemercury Spa can revive even the most exhausted shopper. The highly-skilled therapists perform the brand’s world-renowned oxygen facials, revive tired muscles with therapeutic massages for singles or couples and offer a special selection of signature luxury body treatments.
Coming this summer Tropicana will add a state-of-the-art fitness center, accessible from bluemercury, that will be Atlantic City’s first casino-based fitness complex available to hotel guests, employees and the general public.

From March 1st, 2016 , One Liberty Observation Deck is now a part of CityPASS! Please note, there’s only the option to visit 4 attractions: The Franklin Institute, Big Bus/Philadelphia Trolley Works, One Liberty Observation Deck, and choose between Adventure Aquarium OR Philadelphia Zoo. Visit: http://www.citypass.com/philadelphia.

Oldest continuously occupied street in the U.S.: Elfreth’s Alley, since 1713.
First art school and art museum: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, founded 1805.
Oldest theatre in continuous use in the English-speaking world: Walnut Street Theatre, since 1809.
First orchestra to appear in a motion picture (1937), on television (1948) and to tour China (1973): Philadelphia Orchestra.
First city to guarantee religious freedom, beginning in 1682. First African-American church: Mother Bethel A.M.E. Church, established 1794.
First zoo in America: Philadelphia Zoo, chartered in 1859 and opened in 1874.
First July 4th event: 1776. Still a big celebration every year with the 10-day Wawa Welcome America! festival. First Thanksgiving Day Parade: 1919.
First botanical garden: Bartram’s Garden, opened 1728.
First stock exchange: Philadelphia Stock Exchange, 1790.
First international-style skyscraper: Loews Philadelphia Hotel (12th & Market Streets), formerly the PSFS (bank) Building, 1932.
This was also the first totally air-conditioned building in America. First and oldest hospital in America: Pennsylvania Hospital, opened 1751.
First World’s Fair in America: the Centennial International Exhibition, 1876. Memorial Hall, built especially for the World’s Fair, houses the Please Touch Museum.
First American convention: the Constitutional Convention of 1787, where the Constitution of the United States was written and adopted by representatives of the 13 original colonies.
First American university: The University of Pennsylvania assumed university status in 1779.
First library: The Library Company of Philadelphia, founded by Benjamin Franklin in 1731; its current location, 1314 Locust Street, is open to the public.
First U. S. Mint: established in 1792 on Seventh Street, near Arch Street, it was the first property acquired by the federal government.

For more info please go to www.discoverPHL.com

Pennsylvania Tourism Partners which will include the state themselves along with Philadelphia, The Countryside of Philadelphia (Brandywine Valley & Valley Forge), Harrisburg and Hershey, Lancaster County and the Pocono Mountains will be visiting the UK & Ireland from 09 May until 13 May. A number of events are planned for the Travel Trade including a PA Rocks Party at the Hard Rock Café in London, A trade dinner at Halo in the cool Morrison Hotel in Dublin. There will be some great holiday prizes on offer including flights to Philadelphia with hotels throughout the Keystone State. For further information contact Greg Evans at [email protected]

The deadline for Board Director nominations passed on Monday 15 February.  There were six nominations for six places and the following members have been elected unopposed to the Board of Visit USA Association (UK) Ltd  for a term of two years from 16 March 2016:

Matt Bates
Nadia Clinton
Lisa Cooper
Greg Evans
Chris Rankin
Jonathan Sloan

There are two new members joining the Board – Nadia Clinton, Sales Manager UK & Ireland at Delta Air Lines and Lisa Cooper, Director of Sales & Representation at KBC

Lonely Planet, the world’s leading travel media company, has today (Tuesday 9 Feb 2016) named Philadelphia in Pennsylvania its number one destination to visit in the United States in 2016. Philadelphia, which was recently recognised at the US’s first and only World Heritage City took prime position in Lonely Planet’s annual Best in the US list, which names the top 10 most exciting, intriguing and up-and-coming US destinations worth visiting in the year ahead.

Philadelphia is on a roll right now. Hosting the Democratic National Convention in July and celebrating the 40th anniversary of Rocky this year, the city is experiencing a transformation to its urban core, yet retaining its deep American history and uniquely gritty flavour.

https://www.lonelyplanet.com/best-in-us

Philadelphia has been named the top destination for family vacations by ABC Travel Guides for Kids. The company created a Philadelphia sculpture scavenger hunt guide with 32 pages of original, colorful images of the city’s kid-friendly public art collections.   http://www.kidstravelguides.com/travel-guides/philadelphia.aspx