Edison, NJ's BEST Extended Stay? Raritan Center Secret Revealed!
Edison's Best Kept Secret? My Wild Ride at the Raritan Center Extended Stay! (Spoiler Alert: It's Mostly Good, But…)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to spill the tea (complimentary tea, hopefully) on Edison, New Jersey’s "BEST Extended Stay" – the Raritan Center one. And lemme tell you, it's been a ride. This isn't your sterile, predictable hotel review. This is a deep dive, a messy, honest, and sometimes hilarious account of my experience. Think of it as therapy, but for hotels.
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First Impressions: Accessibility & Arrival (and the Parking Situation – Ugh!)
Right off the bat, Accessibility is a mixed bag. Yes, there's an elevator, which is a huge win, especially if you're on a high floor (mine was, and I loved the view… when I could see it – more on that later!). They supposedly have facilities for disabled guests, but I didn't personally experience them, so I can't fully vouch. Car park [on-site] IS a big plus, and car park [free of charge] is even BETTER! HOWEVER… good luck finding a spot during peak hours. Seriously, the parking situation gave me anxiety. It’s a free-for-all, and I swear I saw a hawk circling, waiting to swoop down on a vacant space. Valet parking? Wishful thinking.
I also noticed CCTV in common areas and CCTV outside property - a little Big Brother-y, but hey, I'll take it if it keeps things safe. Check-in/out [express] was… adequate. Not exactly lightning fast, but not agonizingly slow either. Front desk [24-hour] is a godsent, and the staff, even at 3 AM, was generally friendly. Though, once, the night clerk looked like he'd just fought a bear and lost… but he still managed a smile.
The Room: My Humble Abode (Mostly)
So, let's talk about the room. My place was a non-smoking haven, thank goodness! Air conditioning? Check! It was a must-have with the humidity. There was even a window that opens – a rare and precious thing in many hotels. Air conditioning in public area too, which was appreciated while waiting in the lobby.
They boast Available in all rooms: Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathrobes, Bathroom phone, Bathtub, Blackout curtains, Carpeting, Closet, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Desk, Extra long bed, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, High floor, In-room safe box, Interconnecting room(s) available, Internet access – LAN, Internet access – wireless, Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar, Mirror, Non-smoking, On-demand movies, Private bathroom, Reading light, Refrigerator, Safety/security feature, Satellite/cable channels, Scale, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Umbrella, Visual alarm, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens. They weren't kidding!
The Wi-Fi [free] was… okay. Spotty at times, which led to some serious existential dread while trying to stream my guilty pleasure reality shows. Internet access – wireless and Internet access – LAN were both options.
The Refrigerator was a lifesaver, especially since I had a kitchen! Speaking of which… let me tell you, having a Coffee/tea maker and being able to make my own coffee in the morning without having to scramble downstairs was life-changing. The complimentary tea was a nice touch, but could they upgrade the brands, please? I'm looking at you, Lipton.
The extra-long bed was a serious plus for my gangly frame. The blackout curtains were crucial for sleeping in on my days off. The in-room safe box gave me that feeling of "hey, maybe my passport won't be stolen."
But… here's where things get a little… messy. Daily housekeeping was, shall we say, inconsistent. One day, my room was sparkling. The next, it looked like a toddler had been let loose with glitter. I did appreciate the Daily housekeeping but let’s be honest, the consistency had its hiccups.
Bathroom situation? Pretty standard. The toiletries were… serviceable. But the water pressure in the shower? Let's just say I've had more powerful drizzles from a garden hose. The bathtub was fine, though.
Cleanliness & Safety: The Sanitization Saga
Okay, let's get serious for a moment. COVID-19 changed everything. And I was VERY interested to see how the Raritan Center handled things.
Anti-viral cleaning products? Check. Daily disinfection in common areas? Supposedly. Rooms sanitized between stays? Hopefully! They also offered the Room sanitization opt-out available which I thought was nice.
Staff trained in safety protocol? Felt like it. They were masked, they kept their distance (mostly), and the air of anxious cleanliness was palpable. They offered Hand sanitizer everywhere.
I liked the fact that there was Safe dining setup. They even had Individually-wrapped food options.
All this gave me some measure of comfort.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: A Culinary Adventure (or Misadventure?)
Alright, now let's talk sustenance. The Raritan Center has a… well, it has dining options. Not exactly a culinary mecca, but hey, it’s an extended stay.
Breakfast [buffet]? Yes! Sort of. It was… adequate. Think scrambled eggs, sad-looking bacon, and a revolving door of pastries. I'm sure it's better than nothing for most. But if you're a foodie (like me, in my dreams), prepare to be disappointed. Breakfast takeaway service was available, another win.
Coffee/tea in restaurant was a plus. But the Coffee shop? It was closed more often than it was open. Bottle of water was sometimes included, sometimes not.
Restaurants? There are a few on-site. Western cuisine in restaurant, and Asian cuisine in restaurant but the options were limited and didn't blow me away.
Room service [24-hour]? Yes! Which was a blessing on those nights when I just couldn't face going out. But the menu was… limited.
One night, I ordered a burger from room service. It arrived promptly, but it basically needed a defibrillator. The bun was stale, the patty was overcooked, and the fries were cold. A real culinary tragedy. Luckily, there was the Snack bar which was a good fall back.
I have a sneaking suspicion the chef might have been on vacation for my entire stay.
They did offer Cashless payment service, which is always a plus.
Ways to Relax (and the Quest for a Non-Existent Spa)
Now, let's talk about relaxation. This is where things get… interesting.
Swimming pool [outdoor]? Absolutely! Though I never actually used it. It looked inviting, but also… a little neglected.
Fitness center? Yes! I attempted to use it once. It had treadmills that looked prehistoric and a couple of weights that looked like they'd been there since the dawn of time. Let’s just say I didn’t achieve relaxation through fitness.
The website mentioned a Spa/sauna, but I swear I looked everywhere and could not find an actual, breathing, living spa. Perhaps a mirage? Perhaps I wasn't looking hard enough? Either way, my quest for a massage was unsuccessful.
Services and Conveniences: The Good, the Bad, and the "Did I Actually See That?"
Services and conveniences: This is where the Raritan Center really tries to shine.
Air conditioning in public area was a blessing during the Edison heat waves.
Business facilities were available including Invoice provided, Meeting/banquet facilities, Meetings, Meeting stationery, On-site event hosting, Projector/LED display, and Xerox/fax in business center.
They offered Contactless check-in/out, Convenience store, Currency exchange, Daily housekeeping, Doorman, Dry cleaning, Elevator, Food delivery, Gift/souvenir shop, Indoor venue for special events, Ironing service, Laundry service, Luggage storage, Safety deposit boxes, Seminars, Shrine, Smoking area, Terrace, Wi-Fi for special events.
Concierge? Non-existent.
Dry cleaning/Laundry service? Yes! Which was a lifesaver. Though the pricing was… well, let'
Houma's Hidden Gem: Comfort Inn & Suites Review (You Won't Believe This!)
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this ain't your grandma's perfectly-manicured travel itinerary. We're going RAW and REAL with a trip to the vibrant, exciting, and uh… slightly perplexing… Extended Stay America Suites in Edison, New Jersey. Yes, that Edison. The one with the light bulbs and… well, we’ll get to the rest.
Prologue: The Premise (and the Pre-Trip Panic)
Okay, first things first: Why Edison? Because, life. Work. The usual suspects. And before you judge the Extended Stay choice, remember this: you're not in a five-star beachfront resort. You're in a place that promises a kitchen and the faint scent of… well, let's call it "industrial cleanliness." My expectations are lower than a limbo dancer at a mortuary.
My pre-trip anxiety was peaking. Packing? Nightmare. Did I remember my charger? Did I pack socks? Did I accidentally pack my cat? (Spoiler alert: thankfully, no.) I'm pretty sure I ended up with a suitcase that contained everything except what I actually needed.
Day 1: Arrival, Disappointment (and a surprisingly good slice)
Afternoon (ish): Arrived at the Edison Extended Stay. Found it. It was… there. Exactly what you'd expect from an Extended Stay. Let's just say it wasn't the Taj Mahal. The lobby was a masterclass in beige, and the front desk clerk looked about as thrilled to see me as I was to see her. "Name?" she deadpanned. "Room?" "Sign here." Efficiency is… a virtue?
The Room Reveal: The room? Well, it had a kitchen. That was a win. A tiny, slightly sad-looking kitchen, but a kitchen nonetheless. The "view" was of the parking lot, a tableau of minivans and the American dream (or what's left of it). I surveyed my new domain, a jumble of anxieties and expectations.
Dinner Salvation: Desperate for some edible intake (and possibly a reason to actually like Edison), I wandered out in search of food, a quest that felt fraught with peril. Found a pizza place. Amazing pizza place. I swear, the slice was the best thing that happened to me all day. This place, Joe’s Pizza on Route 1, was a shining beacon. The crust was perfect, the sauce tangy, the cheese… oh, the cheese. I demolished two slices, chased them with a soda, and decided Edison might not, after all, be a complete wasteland.
Evening: Laundry Lament and YouTube Binge: The in-room laundry? Broken. Of course. This is the universe's way of telling me I'm not worthy of fresh socks. Proceeded via my phone to the land of YouTube, watching hours of cat videos, cooking tutorials, and true crime documentaries. The true crime was a bit on the nose, considering my current circumstances.
Day 2: The Business of Business (and the Boredom of Business Parks)
Morning: Coffee, Caffeine, and Existential Dread: The in-room coffee maker was a relic. It spat out something that vaguely resembled coffee. Fuel, at least. I stared into the abyss of the parking lot again, contemplating the meaning of life, the universe, and why I couldn't find a decent bagel in this town.
Mid-day: The "Business" Part: Actually, I did a bit of work. Sigh. Meetings. Emails. The usual. I’m sure I’m not supposed to disclose details. The extended stay's "business center" was a sad-looking corner with a printer that sounded like a constipated walrus.
Lunch: The Grocery Store Adventure: The kitchen was… a kitchen. And I needed sustenance beyond pizza and questionable coffee. Armed with a shopping list and a prayer, I ventured forth to the local grocery store. The fluorescent lights, the pre-packaged salads, the depressing array of frozen dinners… it was a real experience. I emerged, laden with supplies, feeling slightly less lonely.
Afternoon: Delving Deep into Edison's… Charm? Okay, so, I tried. I wanted to experience Edison. I drove past the Thomas Edison Center… for a bit. It looked closed (surprise!) and not particularly appealing. The local park? Looked… like a park. Didn’t linger. Ended the afternoon on the couch, watching my favorite show – one of those that lets you know you aren't alone in your misery.
Evening: Takeout Redemption: Another pizza night, but this time, from a…different place. It was okay. Not Joe's. Nothing's Joe's. Watched more YouTube, the low, low hum of the air conditioner a constant companion.
Day 3: Exit Strategy (and a Last-Minute Slice)
Morning: Packing Panic Redux: I swear, my suitcase had grown. It was now a beast. Wrestling with it, I began to develop the weirdest feelings of both intense frustration and an odd sort of… fondness?
Mid-day: One Last Slice (for the Road): Before I left, I had to make one last trip. Joe's Pizza. My soul was revived and it was enough to power me till the next time I eat.
Departure: Good Riddance (But Mostly, Farewell): I checked out of the Extended Stay. The front desk clerk looked less thrilled to see me go than when I arrived (which is saying something). The drive home felt… long. But the aftertaste of the pizza lingers pleasantly. I don't love Edison. I didn't hate Edison. More accurately, it has been a very forgettable trip. This trip was nothing special, but neither am I, I guess.
(Postscript: The Extended Stay Experience) - A Messy Summing-Up
So, the Extended Stay in Edison. Would I recommend it? Well… as a place to exist in for a few days, it served a purpose. It had a kitchen, a bed, and a parking lot. It wasn't beautiful. It wasn't glamorous. But it was there. And sometimes, that's enough. The pizza, though… that was a highlight. Don’t forget the pizza. It was the only thing worth remembering.
Hilton Annapolis Grad: Your Dream Graduation Awaits!
Edison, NJ's BEST Extended Stay? Raritan Center Secret Revealed! (Maybe)
Is this place *really* the best? What's the deal with the Raritan Center secret? I'm kind of skeptical...
Okay, hold on, skeptical is good! I'm not going to lie and say this is paradise. It's an extended stay in *Edison*, NJ. Let's manage expectations. But...and this is a BIG BUT...it could be a lifesaver, depending on your situation. The "best" part is subjective, right? We all have different needs. What's the "Raritan Center secret"? Look, a LOT of people stay here because they're working at companies in the Raritan Center. That's the "secret." Duh. Convenience, baby. Also, it's probably cheaper than a hotel with a pool you'll never use, and often has a kitchen. Which, trust me, after a month of takeout, you'll *appreciate*.
My own deal? I was there for three months while navigating the most stressful job search *ever*. I basically lived on instant ramen and bad coffee, but at least I had a *kitchen* to make it in. And a fridge for the questionable orange juice that became a staple. The other residents? A lovely mix. Some traveling nurses, some salespeople, some contract workers. We all kind of sighed at each other in the elevator, united in the extended-stay struggle. And yes, the Raritan Center was a constant, looming presence. The "why" of our extended stays.
Okay, so what *are* the rooms like, honestly? Don't sugarcoat it.
Alright, brace yourself. Think... functional. Not fancy. Generally, you've got a kitchenette (microwave, fridge, maybe a hot plate – check beforehand!), a tiny living area with a couch and a TV, a bedroom with a bed that might or might not give you back problems (I'm looking at *you*, specific brand I won't name), and a basic bathroom. Cleanliness? Depends. Let's just say, inspections are key. Read reviews. My first room? Let's just say, I found a hairball... and it wasn't *mine*. Ugh. Moved rooms (thankfully the staff was helpful, *that's* a plus!), and the second one was better. Still, I always travel with cleaning wipes now. And a healthy dose of skepticism. Oh, and the WiFi... might be spotty. Prepare accordingly. That streaming binges for the month after waiting for the good WiFi to give up its secrets.
What amenities are offered? Like, do they have a gym? Please say they have a gym.
Gym? Maybe. Probably. Might be a glorified closet with a treadmill and some free weights. Don't expect a full-blown luxury facility. Amenities vary! Some have a pool (again, check!). Breakfast is *often* included, and it is *usually* the same every single morning. Think...pre-packaged muffins, instant oatmeal, and that weird, slightly watery scrambled egg concoction. I'm not kidding, I'm still having breakfast nightmares. Seriously. The best amenity? Probably the laundry facilities. Because trying to find a laundromat after a twelve-hour day is precisely what you *don't* want to do. Consider parking too, that can be a pain in the keister.
Is it actually *safe* to stay there? What's the neighborhood like?
Okay, safety. This is a big one. Edison, in general, is...fine. Not glamorous, not dangerous. It's Edison! The extended stay itself? Depends. Some have better security than others. Check the reviews. Look for gated access, good lighting, and a front desk staffed 24/7. I felt relatively safe, but I always locked my door and kept the chain on (learned that lesson *very* quickly). The neighborhood around the Raritan Center is mostly business parks and… more business parks. You'll need a car. Walking around at night? Probably not ideal. Seriously. Use common sense. Especially with the business park aesthetic.
I'm thinking of bringing my pet. Are pets allowed?
Aww, your furry friend! Again, this varies wildly. Some places are pet-friendly, some are not. Those that *are* pet-friendly usually have restrictions (size, weight, breed etc.) and charge a pet fee. Definitely call ahead and find out the specifics! Also, *please* clean up after your pet. Nothing creates bad vibes faster than stepping in... well, you know. Okay? Good. I've witnessed it, it's not pretty. Consider the type of carpet as well. A simple mistake can be costly!
Are there any good restaurants or things to do nearby, or am I doomed to a life of boring takeout?
Alright, this is where things get a *little* better. Yes, you're not doomed! You're in Edison! There are *tons* of restaurants, from chains to some surprisingly decent local spots. Explore! Do your research! Yelp is your friend. New Jersey pizza is a must-try. And Indian food? Edison has some AMAZING Indian restaurants, which is a major plus. Things to do? Well, it’s not exactly the city that never sleeps. But you're close enough to NYC (about an hour’s drive, depending on traffic, which is TERRIBLE) for day trips. There are also some parks and shopping centers nearby. Don't expect too much excitement. Embrace the quiet evenings, the (potentially) better WiFi, and the knowledge that you *can* survive this extended stay. A few hidden gems that a Google search can find!
Okay, so the staff... are they helpful, or are you stuck dealing with grumpy people all day?
Staff... this is another mixed bag. Some are fantastic, some... less so. I found that being polite, friendly, and patient went a long way. Remember that they likely deal with stressed-out people all day. Building a rapport can be helpful, especially if you need something fixed in your room (and you probably *will*). During my stay, the staff dealt with me when I locked myself out of my room, on a holiday weekend and somehow they helped me out of it when I was absolutely frantic. So, go in with a good attitude and you should be alright.
What's the best way to book a stay? Are there any tips to save money?
Online! Definitely check the hotel's website, online travel agencies and compare prices. Sometimes, calling the hotel directly can get you a better deal. Look for discounts. AAA, AARPEscape to Paradise: Fairfield Inn & Suites Mobile Daphne/Eastern Shore
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