New York at Christmas, a Cunard Journey!
Christmas Trans-Atlantic crossing
Have you ever thought of sailing in pure luxury aboard the Queen Mary 2 by Cunard? Why not treat yourself to a little luxury and you don’t need to be a millionaire to experience this. Cunard have been exceptional at cruising for over 186 years. Add Christmas in the Big Apple to the mix and let's see where this Blog takes us.....
How about a Christmas Adventure with a difference?
We'll begin with a complete reset, setting sail from Southampton, UK (on the 21st December 2027 for a 7 night cruise and then 5 nights in New York City). When you step onboard, you'll be given a glass of bubbles to quench your thirst when you embark to set the tone of your crossing. You would board the luxury Queen Mary 2 for 7 nights, with no light polution the stars will shine brightly for your ocean crossing, this ship is a true ocean liner with 1 crew member per 2 passengers, so you will feel very well looked after. The decor is inspired by English heritage, so premium quality furnishings and utter elegance for complete comfort but not forgetting where home is.
You may chose an ocean view cabin on say the eleventh deck for a nice quiet sleep and a lovely 250 dollars of onboard credit to start your adventure with a little pot of gold. Your cabin has a sumptuous king size bed with a sparkling ensuite featuring Penhaligons toiletries and a complimentary robe and slippers for your comfort onboard. The cabin has a relaxing lounge area to enjoy tea/ coffee or the mini bar facilities. You can enjoy a nightly turn down service too with a chocolate on your pillow, it's the small touches that makes you feel valued on such a wonderful ship.
This Trans-Atlantic crossing is an ode to the Golden era of Sailing, sophisticated surroundings, attentive yet subtle service - you will feel pampered but not ever uncomfortable. Luxury surrounds you with a warmth of home. The dining options are tremdous and with 16 bars and restaurants onboard you will feel like you are travelling the world with the culinary delights available.
Enjoying several days at sea you can really relax and take time for yourselves. You could start your day with a swim in the pool or treat yourself to a tranqill spa experience. With time on your hands the thought of just having time is a bonus in itself. The vast onboard library, with over 13 thousand books to peruse allows your brain to be transported away or just to read about something new. However if fitness is your go to, then why not try a yoga class or use the gym facilities available to you. The Entertainment is never dull with so many options; think of an A la Carte meal for two followed by an evening at the Theatre or a super selection of food from the buffet and a fabulous show. Some may be tempted by a Quiz and a steady pint in the Golden Lion pub but the beauty of sailing wouldn't be true without a Gala dinner, so you can really bring out the glamour, this is optional so if it's not for you no problem. This crossing really is whatever you want it to be with so many options you might not want to leave!
This brings me onto New York - the Big Apple!
Once you arrive in New York, you would be greeted by a Private Premium car to take you straight into the heart of the city. I'd recommend the Intercontinental NewYork Times Square a 4 star hotel on for example a bed & breakfast basis, so you would be set up every morning of your stay ready to see the sights. I'd base your stay on 5 nights, in a City view room with a beautiful King size bed to make sure you rest well with all of the steps you would do. This hotel is incredibly well located close to 5th Avenue, Central Park, Times Square and Broadway!
Whilst you are in the city, there are some Christmas must-see's, The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree is a show stopper so why not stop by and watch the ice skaters or take part yourselves. You may want to book a Broadway show or shop until you drop if so, Tiffany & Co would always be on my bucket list or head to Macy's the largest department store in North America (it covers a whole block) or marvel at the LED show on the facade of Saks Fifth Avenue to name a few. The history of this wonderful city can be enjoyed by visiting The Statue of Liberty or take in the city views from the Empire State building the list could go on! If you need any recommendations just let me know.
Food is always important and at Christmas time why not indulge further. Close to the hotel is Tavern on the Green in Central Park an American restaurant to really immerse yourself in being in the USA, or head over to Hell's Kitchen again restaurants are everywhere so lots to choose from. Or maybe enjoy a New York City Cruise, you can enjoy a delicious meal onboard, this is a great way to see some of the main attractions without the crowds. As this is based on travelling at Christmas time I'd suggest booking very early for Christmas Dinner to make sure you aren't disappointed, restaurants book up very quickly!
Finally, the sad part is it's nearly time to travel home. I'd always recommend a Private premium car for you back to the airport from your hotel for ease and your comfort. I've based flights back to the UK on Boxing day evening so you get a full last day in the city. I'd recommend a direct flight back to London Heathrow, this flight would be over-night so you can rest well before waking up back in the UK.
This journey could be for Christmas 2027 or a special occasion or just because you deserve it.
I hope this has given you something or somewhere to think about and also what the possibilities could be for your next trip! Every trip can be tailored to your bespoke needs, get in touch today for your epic adventure! #letsplanyourholiday