Essence Express Elizabeth EWR Airport

The room was clean and comfortable, and the place felt safe to me. I didn't have any problems coming or going, and it was good value. I called after arriving early at Newark airport, and they let me check in early for $30 extra. The front desk guy, whose name I forgot, was unbelievably helpful and understanding. It made the experience amazing. One thing for families: be careful who gets the TV remote, since it turned out there was XXX programming. Apart from that, I recommend this place any time, and I'll definitely choose it again.

The owner was friendly, welcoming, and communicative throughout my stay, which left me with a good impression. At first the place looked more like a Motel 6 than a hotel, but I liked the eco-friendly touches in the room, including the mini soaps and soap dispensers.

At 1 a.m., with pouring rain outside and a trip of more than two hours on public transit to JFK ahead of me, I had to choose between staying here and sleeping in the airport terminal. I chose the airport, where I got a much better rest. I did get a full refund, though not through the hotel, and still feel I should warn other travelers to stay away. The room was filthy: sheets had dirt and hair on them, there was garbage and a dead insect under the headboard, sticky-looking mush by the bed frame, and wood chips and small translucent shell-like pieces on top of the headboard. I don't like leaving bad reviews, but the place is seriously neglected. From my interaction with staff, customer safety and satisfaction didn't seem to be a priority.

I stayed two nights with my motorcycle and had no problems. The room was comfortable and clean, and the staff were really nice and helpful.