Having originally sailed to New York as a couple on the QE2 we learned the art of relaxation and having to talk to each other again. By the time we sailed on the QM2 to NY we had already decided it was too long to be away without the children so we took them with us. All 3 of them! 1 teenager and 2 primary school age. They had a ball!. They enjoyed the whole experience of dressing up for dinner, meeting their new friends all day, every day for activities, which they all agreed were not childish. The QM2 is fully geared up for families and highly recommended. Having the children so well catered for gave us the opportunity to take part in other activities - gym, shows, presentations, spa. Once in NY we spent 5 wonderful days in a glass fronted hotel in south manhatten (Embassy Suites)overlooking the Statue of Liberty. In the evening we had the most beautiful views. As we are a family of 5, we have problems finding accommadation which doesn't involve having two separate rooms, this hotel gave us an apartment which was great. Large breakfast included. Free internet in the lobby (if you haven't brought your PC with you), we even managed to buy baseball tickets via the lobby internet. Very helpful staff. Whilst we wouldn't call it 5* luxury, it was practical and suitable for the children. We have stayed in the Waldorf in the past, but if you are thinking about this make sure you ask for a room in the New Tower. The Sony Centre is a brilliant interactive day out for all the family. After that we spent 5 cultural days in Washington DC (took the bus! as its quicker than train/plane and almost door to door). Took a hotel outside centre near Alexandria. Lovely colonial town, well worth a visit. Again the chidren enjoyed themselves. They had a history lesson, but 5 days was enough for them. Some of the museums are so enjoyable and interactive that they wanted to go back to the Space Museum and American History museum. Union Station is a brilliant place to eat, shop, watch a film and catch a train!

Response to: mclaughlinal's post on Mon 07 Sep 2009

Having originally sailed to New York as a couple on the QE2 we learned the art of relaxation and having to talk to each other again. By the time we sailed on the QM2 to NY we had already decided it was too long to be away without the children so ...

Hi Alison -

Which cabin did you take on the QM2 ?

Bob

Response to: bobginn's post on Mon 07 Sep 2009

Hi Alison -   Which cabin did you take on the QM2 ? Bob  

Would take me a while to look this up, but interlocking rooms were available, however the day before we sailed we were offered an upgrade to take two separate rooms. I think we originally booked inner cabins, but were switched to outer cabins on the upper decks, level with the swim pool and kids playroom. This was ideal for the kids moving around the ship by themselves. Everyone says that there is much less movement felt (if stormy weather) if your room is in the middle of the ship, so we always ask for this. Interlocking rooms need to be booked well in advance for summer months. Hope this helps.