BACKGROUND INFORMATION: Three of us in our late forties and early fifties sailed the Dawn to Bermuda during 4/25/10 week. I last sailed NCL in February, my sister last sailed NCL in 2003, and her fiance' last cruised when he was 10 years old.

HOTEL INFORMATION: We stayed two nights at the Holiday Inn on 57th Street. We loved this location within walking distance to Times Square, Central Park, and mid-scale shopping. The hotel is also probably one of the closest to the ship. This hotel has parking on the premises which is a perk from what I understand about parking in Manhattan. Tip 1: On the corner up the street is a local 24 hour restaurant where we ate breakfast for a very reasonable price every morning. Tip 2: If you check the rooms out online, ours was even better than the pictures. Our bedding was updated and we enjoyed the quiet of our room. The size of a double double was great as the room was wide.

TRAVEL TO PORT: We drove our car to Pier #88 located at Manhattan Cruise Terminal, 711 12th Avenue, New York, New York 10019. Signs are very visible and police assist in directing traffic. In the terminal, drive up the ramp to Parking which is very secure and reasonable for Manhattan at 30 dollars per day . Parking spots were plentiful and helpers assist you in the giant elevator that takes you down levels to drop off your luggage and to check in. Some decide to drop off passengers at the main entrance, drive around the street again, and then park the car. If you are all physically able, I think everyone going to the parking area together is better option. Tip: The attendant takes cash or credit card. Cash makes the line go faster. Keep your ticket receipt with you because they do not want you leaving it in the vehicle. Read more