I must start by admitting that I was in this hotel less than 8 hours. After a long trip, I checked in about 2am and was gone before 10am. I had $99 internet rate.

Directions off the website were very good and this hotel is just a few minutes off the highway, near the Raritan Center and among a number of other hotels and the associated chain restaurants who often populate the same areas. Arriving at 2am, I wasn't sure what to expect but the outside was well lit, the area seemed quiet and safe, and outdoor parking was quite plentiful.

Check-in was immediate at 2am but the overnight staff could not have been more welcoming and friendly. This is clearly a large and old hotel but I'm sure what success it enjoys comes from its location and friendly staff. I was quickly upstairs into a room that mirrored the age of the property. It was the Sheraton bed, thankfully, but otherwise and old feel and an old bathroom that needed updating. The circa 1980 three small, worn white towels were piled atop the metal rack over the toilet. The windows did not open and the room was a bit musty. I didn't sense that I had any kind of upgrade (I hope this wasn't an upgraded room!) but I did appreciate being tucked away at the far end of the hotel. No doubt the front desk folks thought I'd be sleeping in late.

There was a note in the room reminding guests that they needed to keep the noise (tv, music, hallway conversations) to a minimum after 11pm. I'd never seen this anywhere before. I'm guessing that Raritan Center guests could become quite the party animals. It's a lesser venue and so probably draws a younger crowd following around less-known acts. I would certainly see what's going on at the Raritan Center before I'd book a room here.

Check-out was equally easy and friendly as check-in. The staff was outgoing and helpful with directions to get me on my way. It was a bustling spot on a Sunday morning as I think the ballroom converts into an evangelical church of some kind, as I judged from the folks coming in and the hour of the morning.

From my limited perspective, this hotel was adequate for my quick needs, and for the $99 price. I wouldn't want to spend anytime here if I was going to be in the room for any length of time not sleeping. And I would check the Raritan Center schedule first.

But for a quick, overnight and a place to rest my head, I appreciate the friendly staff, central NJ location, and great rate.

Review by Drew.

Posted at December 25, 2006 3:59 PM