2017 has been a busy year thus far and I explained how I had to re-prioritize things in my life in a recent post called Why I Quit…a lesson in putting me first. Being a woman of my word I decided to take it easy the past several days and not overwork myself death and stress out. With this in mind and with the warmer weather upon us, I decided it was time to take a little getaway to relax.
My husband and I wanted to make it a nice relaxing getaway but also a budget friendly one. I love a good bargain. Did you see my older post called Cheap Getaways under $500? If you live in the East coast tri-state area, check it out.
Our chosen destination ended up being at the same space where my husband was going to attend a function at the Sheraton Tara Hotel in Parsippany, NJ. Why not make a weekend getaway out of it, right?! After doing a little internet search, strategic timing and a little luck we were able to find a great deal via Expedia and booked a room for 3 days and 2 nights at this hotel. We were able to get a Club King bed Room just shy of 500 square feet for $334, including buffet breakfast the duration of our stay. Cool!
After a long week and after dinner on Friday night we were off to the hotel. Upon entering the hotel, we took notice of the contemporary modern spacious decor. They have an open lobby and restaurant on the first level, along with meeting spaces and ballrooms for events. The front desk agents were friendly and courteous upon check in.
After checking in and entering our room, we hit a snafu…our closet space was filled with dirty towels and glasses. Housekeeping missed the mark there. After contacting the front desk and requesting a room change we were able to finally relax.
The hotel has your standard flat screen TV, desk, coffeemaker, iron, hair blow dryer, Wi-Fi etc. And since it is a full service hotel, room service is available. An added bonus, the hotel is PET FRIENDLY. They permit dogs under 40 pounds. Here are the other amenities available as noted on their website.
BUSINESS/GUEST SERVICES
- Business Center
- 100% Non-Smoking Facilities
- Medical Services Available
- Room Service
- 24-Hour Security
- 24-Hour Front Desk
- Concierge Desk
SHOPPING
- Gift Shop
Transportation
- 25 mi to Newark airport
- 45 mi to La Guardia airport
- 55 mi to JFK airport
- Free self-parking
RECREATION & ENTERTAINMENT
- Sauna
- Steam Bath/Room
- Racquetball Courts
- Whirlpool/Hot Tub
- Sheraton Fitness gym/classes
- Swimming Pools
- Sheraton Club Lounge
- Sun Deck
- Jogging Track
Fitness Center
After a long week the only thing I was hell-bent on doing was catching up on my sleep. I did exactly that.
The next morning we utilized our complimentary breakfast buffet vouchers. Buffet options included coffee, juice, eggs, bacon, cereal, potatoes, muffins, oatmeal, toast and fresh fruit selection. Honestly, although the spread of food looked delicious the hot food was not so hot…literally. By the time we returned to our booth to eat our food, it was cool. Aside from that part the fresh fruit was fresh. Hot coffee served by the waiter was piping hot and servers attending the tables were great.
After breakfast hubby had to attend a function in the hotel and I stayed behind to relax. This hotel does have a spa featuring massages and fitness classes as well. I must admit, I had the full intention to use the gym and even packed my gym clothes, but only made it as far as the spa lobby. Hey don’t judge!
After taking a cat nap, it was time for late lunch. Hubby finished attending his function and we decided to eat out at a local restaurant and maybe order in for dinner. There are a few chain restaurants within a 3 miles radius of the hotel. Some of the restaurants in the area are Outback Steakhouse, Applebee’s and Chipotle to name a few.
After returning, we watched movies on the flat screen and would you believe I fell asleep! After another much needed nap I woke up and it was past dinner time. So naturally, we ordered room service. Hubby ordered wings and I ordered a margarita pizza and for dessert cheesecake to share!
Our last the final day we took a brief walk outside where I saw a man walking his dog however as I went to take out my camera he scooped up his dog and scurried away. Wish I could have gotten a cute picture of his poodle, but he was moving way too fast. Oh well, maybe next time.
Overall I’d rate our stay a 3.5 out of 5. Only downfall was the first room being dirty and the hot food items at the buffet being not so hot. Other than that, our stay was just what we needed; some rest and relaxation. The highlights of the stay were the friendly service, fast Wi-Fi, and the property itself in terms of design and space was very aesthetically pleasing. Our room comfort was nice and the event space was grand. They also have a gift shop on site to buy souvenirs and necessities. Best of all our stay was not only budget friendly but also a great option for pet parents visiting the area.
I’m so glad I took time to just do nothing and take a nice relaxing weekend to recharge. I needed it. Now back to work and creating! Now that summer is almost here, do you have any weekend getaways planned? Have you been on any recent trips? Comment and share below!