Landing at close to 9pm, we were slightly late in touching down furthermore we had a long taxi. I can’t believe that I was in a metal tube for close to 17 hours, as awesome as Cathay may sounds, I was tired, exhausted and I just want to have a hot bath and hit the sack. I had one night around NYC area before taking the bus down to Washington and meet up with my friend. Thankfully immigration were completely empty and I was the first one thru, there was a slight wait for the baggage and I left JFK at around 915pm. I had actually wanted to take a ride share but it actually cost more than 100USD. HELL. I was staying in Jersey City since that rates are much much cheaper and in fact I got a nice rate at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Suites Jersey City for just 155USD after tax and everything. I made the long journey using the Airtrain, Subway and then the Path, which took me about 1hr 45 mins in total to get to Jersey. Seems like it is a balance between cost and ease. The hotel has a really good location since it is like just a stone throw away from the Path.
I had arrive super late and given this timing, there is no wait for check in. The staff was polite and nice, however no upgrade is possible since they are fully booked. As per Doubletree traditions, the signature cookies were given upon check in and it was so delicious. In a stark contrast to Asia properties, the lobby was small and just had a bar and restaurant next to it.
This is an all-suites hotel, I was given a room on the 8 floor, but sadly there is no view of anything. I am pretty happy with the room size and it was spacious. After entering, there is the Mini Living Room with two couches a coffee table and a huge TV. The wardrobe is just located towards the side of the entrance. It seems really weird for it to be in that direction since the door can’t open fully.
I had a real issue with the lights since the switch near the door was spoiled. It is really troublesome to figure out in the dark and most of the lights are not connected. You have to find the actual switch on the lights itself.
There was a mini bar area in the living room but it is pretty much nothing. No complimentary water was provided which is such a disappointment, a microwave, coffee maker and fridge is provided.
The bed room on the far end of the room with another huge TV as well. There is also like a daybed for luggage, the washroom is also found here. Overall the décor of the room was simple and not that outdated.
The king size bed was really nice and comfortable as is the down pillow. But the bed a little too soft. But this is my personal preferences. I love to be surrounded by all the pillows.
I like it that the outlets are well placed and the Wifi is fast as well. It does seems like the hotel is pretty no frills, thankfully the TV quality was good.
Now the toilet, located on the bed room side, it is super basic, only shampoo were given, no toothbrush or any other toiletries are provided. Toiletries are also by Crabtree & Evelyn, which seems to be the norm nowadays in Hilton properties.
Thankfully there is a hairdryer. The water pressure and temperature control was up to par but I really hate that there is no hand held shower head.
To sum it up, it is a pretty decent place to stay, especially for this price point in NYC. Rates were super high in Manhattan on that night that I was staying at. In the event that I do actually head to Jersey City again I will probably choose another place to stay to try something new. The room size, location as well as the ability to earn credits and points under Hilton, which pretty sums it up. Next up, I will be sharing a little on my thoughts of Jersey City and Newark!
Seeing The World In Steps 