Extended Stay America - Princeton - South Brunswick

The hotel's signature feature is its exceptionally friendly and accommodating staff, who consistently go above and beyond, making guests feel genuinely cared for and creating a welcoming atmosphere, particularly for extended stays. Many guests highlight the convenience of in-room kitchenettes, which offer a home-like amenity for preparing meals, and generally praise the overall cleanliness of the accommodations. Its convenient location near shopping and dining options also contributes significantly to a pleasant experience. This hotel is especially well-suited for extended stay guests, business travelers needing practical amenities, families seeking comfortable, self-sufficient lodging, and pet owners due to its welcoming policy. To enhance your stay, it is advisable to confirm the availability of kitchen utensils upon check-in and be aware of the limited nature of the complimentary breakfast.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers practical kitchenettes in each room, featuring a full-size fridge, microwave, and stove or hotplate, which are highly valued by guests for self-catering. However, many reviewers note a significant issue with the availability of kitchen utensils, often finding them missing or needing to be specifically requested, and sometimes receiving them in poor condition. Laundry services are available on-site and are appreciated for their accessibility. While free Wi-Fi is provided, some guests report issues with connectivity or tiered access. Ample parking is available, though some areas of the lot have been described as unkempt. Some guests experienced problems with elevators being smelly or having broken buttons, and the televisions in rooms are occasionally noted as being older or having poor reception.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is notably mixed. Many guests commend the hotel for its clean rooms, describing them as spotless and well-maintained, with comfortable beds and actual blankets ensuring a restful sleep. However, a significant number of reviews highlight serious concerns, including reports of roaches and bed bugs, persistent cigarette smoke smell in hallways and rooms, and general issues with dirty carpets and stains on various surfaces and bedding. Some rooms are noted as being outdated or in disrepair, with worn furniture and broken bathroom fixtures. While some rooms are quiet, others experience noise from adjacent rooms or nearby traffic. The availability and condition of in-room amenities like coffee makers, cups, and cutlery also receive mixed comments, with many guests reporting a lack of these basic items or finding them unclean.

Dining & Food Quality
The complimentary breakfast offerings consistently receive negative feedback from guests, often described as a "grab and go" option rather than a substantial meal. It typically consists of basic items such as coffee, instant oatmeal packets, small muffins or cupcakes, and granola bars. Many guests express significant disappointment with the limited variety, noting the complete absence of fresh fruit or any hot food items, and frequently refer to it as a "sad excuse" for breakfast. Reviewers commonly report that the available items run out quickly, especially for those arriving later in the morning, leading to further dissatisfaction. The general consensus is that the provided breakfast is minimal and does not meet expectations for a satisfying start to the day, prompting many guests to seek more comprehensive dining options elsewhere.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a convenient location, placing guests within easy reach of Princeton and various shopping centers like Target, Shoprite, and Aldi, as well as local fine dining options. Free parking is available on-site, which is a significant advantage for guests traveling by car. However, many reviewers highlight considerable challenges with accessibility due to poor road signage; the hotel's entrance is often hard to find, obscured by trees, leading to missed turns and the need for inconvenient U-turns on a busy highway. While the immediate area offers amenities, some guests note that it is not walkable for food or drinks, requiring a vehicle for most excursions. Feedback on the surrounding area is mixed, with some guests expressing concerns about its appearance or perceived safety at night, while others find it perfectly acceptable.

Staff & Service
The staff and service at the hotel receive overwhelmingly positive praise, standing out as a major highlight for many guests. Reviewers consistently commend the team for their genuine friendliness, warm hospitality, and professionalism, often describing them as accommodating and attentive. Many feel that staff members go above and beyond to assist with requests, creating a welcoming and supportive environment, particularly for extended stay guests and families. While most experiences with check-in are smooth, some guests report isolated incidents of rude or unhelpful front desk interactions, including issues with reservation cancellations or inappropriate questioning. Housekeeping is generally praised for maintaining clean rooms, though some guests note that full cleaning services are infrequent, requiring them to collect fresh towels daily. Responsiveness to maintenance issues is mixed, with some requests handled promptly while others, particularly concerning pests, are reportedly dismissed.

Additional Information
The hotel is highly regarded for its pet-friendly policy, welcoming dogs and emotional support animals, though some guests note challenges in finding suitable outdoor areas nearby. It is particularly well-suited for long-term stays, with many guests reporting extended residencies and appreciating the hotel's efforts to create a home-like atmosphere, often treating guests like family. However, a recurring issue mentioned by several guests is the occurrence of false fire alarms, sometimes multiple times during the night, causing significant disruption. Additionally, some guests frequently experience issues with their key cards demagnetizing, requiring multiple trips to the front desk for re-activation. While some guests feel secure, others express concerns about the overall security of the property, citing issues like poor lighting or a perceived lack of visible security measures.