Thanks for all the responses.

Re: apartments. I understand the relative merits, and we've rented in the past in Paris (and I have some very vivid memories of getting our 18mo son, strapped in his stroller, up and down three very narrow and steep floors). We'll rent again in the future (especially as the kids get bigger), however I use my MR points for stays such as this, where there is a high MR:$ value.

- Marble Arch vs. Maida Vale: I'll get the travel books out and see if there is enough within walking distance of Marble Arch to justify the extra expense/potential hassle of moving on the last day. I expect we'll take our huge double stroller (it doubles as a luggage cart you can sneak on escalators ) for insurance against either of the kids legs giving out, but I also expect we'll use the Underground to get around a lot.

No plans for Legoland; there's one in SoCal we've visited and I'm assuming the flavor is mostly the same.

- I believe there is availability at the Arc de Triomphe Renaissance. Any opinion on the neighborhood vs. the Trocadero? I did a quick Google Street View, and it seemed a more pleasant walk down to the Trocadero and views of the Eiffel Tower than from the hotel to the actual Arc. Like London, we'll use the Metro/RER if there is any risk the kids will complain about the mileage.

- Sounds like the Renaissance Munich is a fine choice, especially if A/C isn't required.

Thanks again.