Residence Inn by Marriott East Rutherford Meadowlands

The junior suite was spacious for three of us, and the kitchenette came in handy for quick meals. Rooms were clean. The continental breakfast got repetitive: eggs, sausage, bagels, toast, blueberry muffins, cereal, cherry yogurt, milk, water, apple and orange juice, dark coffee, and decaf. There are two waffle makers, but the line is usually huge. Go in the last 30 minutes, around 8:30am, to avoid it. The location's great, a seven-minute drive to MetLife Stadium and American Dream Mall. Don't try to walk, there are actual signs telling people not to walk on the highways.

We had to cut our family trip short after our vehicle was broken into while parked right in front of the main entrance. Someone drilled the driver-side handle and smashed the rear passenger window. The East Rutherford Police Department responded. The front lot was poorly lit and had no visible security or posted warning signs. We were told there was only one camera, behind the building, with no view of the entrance or front parking area. Management said they weren't liable because parking is free and the lot isn't hotel-owned. We did receive a one-night refund. Future guests should know about the security conditions before deciding to park here.

Do not go. I asked the hotel to contact me when my room was ready and tried repeatedly to reach them. I arrived at 3:30, and they said the room would be ready at 4. By 8:30, nobody had contacted me, and I was only just getting into the room. The new woman at the desk hadn't been given my information or the request to call me. Even with all that extra time, the special instructions for my room weren't followed. Absolutely horrible, especially after we drove over seven hours to wait.

I've stayed here on two work trips and loved the rooms, the location, and how helpful the staff are. I especially appreciated Marisol, the cleaning lady who takes care of all the rooms on the sixth floor. I spoke with her because she cleaned our room so well and so often. If you're looking for a place to stay in East Rutherford, stop looking and start booking.