NYC-JC Luxury Guest Suites
 
Frequently Asked Question
Why cant we get there on our own?
You can but it makes our job very difficult! We do not know when you arrive, we sit in the lobby in the 11 different buildings we are located in not knowing if you will use the shortest time (that our drivers take because they know where to drive) or if it will take an extra half hour to a couple of hours because other drivers dont know the area. Also our price is lower than the TAXI service offered at the Airport . We try to encourage you in any way possible to avoid taking public transportation and other companies car service because it makes our job much more complicated. With our drivers you will be greeted on the top floor , they drive you to the unit and they know the address already. On the way they inform us that you are in the car and on your way and how long until your ETA(estimated time of arrival) this way no time is wasted and we can be in the lobby to welcome you. Therefore our prices are lower to make sure everyone books our service.
Pick Up service at the Airport?
Yes we do offer pick up. Upon arrival we pick you up approx. 20-30 minutes after touchdown on domestic flights and approx. 1 hour after touch down on international flight. Customs and Immigration and baggage pick up takes approx. 1 hour. Please proceed to the DEPARTURE level and walk out the door in front of the Airline of your travels check in counter and we will pick you up there. Departure level does not have a lot of people and it is easier to find us. On arrival level the police does not allow us to wait for you and therefore it can be difficult. If you have any questions in regards to this please call us as soon as you land as well as e-mail us prior to leaving your home to get this clarified. Also remember to write down the address of the unit you are stayin in so you can write it on the immigration papers. We also bring a sign with your name on it and we will wait by the car. If you dont see us when you exit please wait by the doors of your airline , it is probably only a few minutes until we show up due to police security we sometimes have to circle in stead of standing in front of the terminal on the Departure level (Top Floor!)
When and how do we call you ?
When taxiing on the plane: CALL US! this is legal in the USA. When you pick up your suitcase and exit the customs hall CALL US! do not call in immigration and by the luggage claim that is not allowed. Also remember do not go up the escalator or elevator to the parking but go to the DEPARTURE level TOP floor to meet us as soon as you can. Remember to call +1 when you call not 001 not 01 but +1 in the USA. Again call on board when you touch down so we know you arrived and confirm that you know we are on the top floor DEPARTURE level by the LAST DOOR.
How far are you from the NYC airports (Newark, JFK, LaGuardia)?
Newark Airport (EWR) is really close and only 15 minutes away. La Guardia (LGA) about 45 minutes and JFK about 1 hr-2 hrs depending on traffic and time of day. We highly recomend that you fly into Newark if possible. Immigration is also much faster and so much more pleasant than the other Airports.
Does your driver wait if we are delayed?
Our drivers are told the arrival time, they are paid for the drive and the time of 45 minutes after your touch down at the airport, after that time they get paid additional wait time if you are delayed due to baggage or being lost at the airport or stuck in immigration. All wait time is charged at $75 per hour. Please make sure you exit as soon as you can to avoid this wait time fee and that you also inform us as soon as you land. YOU CAN CALL ON BOARD WHEN YOU TAXI IN THE USA!!!! this is legal!!!
Address for Immigration papers?
If you do not know the address of the apartment you will stay at (downtown collection or Empire Collection) than write our office address 88 Brunswick Street, Jersey City , NJ 07302. If you Stay at our flagship location ; 70 Greene Street, Jersey City NJ 07302
Where can I find information about NYC attractions?
Your guidebook probably covers the basics, but we like websites like:

GENERAL:
www.dailycandy.com: A selective guide to restaurants, sales, openings and more.
www.gridskipper.com: A blog detailing local food, shopping and more.
www.nymag.com: The online version of New York magazine. The ultimate guide to New York restaurants, bars, nightlife, shopping and events.

FITNESS:
www.cityrunningtours.com/nyc/index.html: Sightsee in a whole new way. 1.5 to 13 mile-runs wind through some of New York’s most well-known neighborhoods.
www.dynamicoutdoors.com: If you have some spare time over the weekend and are jonesing for a bit of adventure, check out this site for hiking/ kayaking/ rafting/ surfing (depending on the season) day trips.
www.mysportsclubs.com/regions/NYSC.htm: New York Sports Clubs has upwards of 40 locations in Manhattan and many gyms in New Jersey, Long Island and Westchester. Day passes can be purchased for a small fee.

For guests who may be in town for a few weeks/months, try these sites to keep tabs on what really matters to New Yorkers:
www.gothamist.com: A blog about all things New York
www.manhattanusersguide.com: A daily email with useful news about openings, services, etc.
Why are you so reasonable?
Our commitment to energy saving products and our customers help will keep us among the lowest priced short term rentals in the area. However we need your help in keeping cost down , and turning electricity off and water off , and be energy smart when it comes to heat and A/C is greatly appreciated so we can keep our commitment to keeping your stay low cost. Another reason ; we don't have a full-time office staff and therefore we don't need to answer countless emails and phone calls. Instead the website is easy to navigate and all bookings and questions/answers are done on the website to keep our prices low.
What else can be done to be Eco-Friendly?
Feel free to give us ideas! We are really trying to keep this a green living. Our cleaning products are green, our light bulbs are energy sufficient as well as all appliances. But your help is really needed to stay energy smart so please help us!
Do you have more pictures and an Area Map?
If you go to Apartments and scroll down to the bottom you will find a map if you click on mapquest( each unit has one too) that shows how close we are to Manhattan. We have added many pictures from the area where you will find our units. The link: FLICKR on the bottom of the home page has lots of pictures too.
Where can I see The Statue of Liberty?
You can almost walk to her! She is located in Liberty State Park only a few blocks away from your apartment. From the Park there is a short Ferry ride and no wait! Jersey City is the home of the Statue NOT New York City! We are of course very proud of that. Ellis Island is connected to Jersey City with a bridge but they still make you take the ferry to visit the museum.
How often are the apartments cleaned?
We only clean the unit upon check out. If you would like to have weekly service there is an additional fee of $100 per time.
What does the concierge service offer?
The sky is the limit! We can buy tickets for you, order rental cars or rent you one of our eco friendly Mercedes Benz Smart cars for only $80, baby sitting , food shopping and more. you name it we will do our best to accomodate you.
How far are you from Manhattan?
It all depends where you wanna go, but Jersey City is only 1.5 miles(2KM) from Soho and a short drive thru Holland Tunnel and from there you can get to all parts of the island of Manhattan. Most of us take the PATH train, it is cheap( $1.75 per ride) and it only takes a few minutes to the City. Empire State building is 17 minutes away but the West Village takes only 9 minutes. World Trade Center and Downtown is only 2-4 minutes away. You can't beat it!
How far are you from public transportation?
All units are located 1-5 blocks away from the path train. So a few minutes stroll to the station on Exchange station or Grove Street station. The train is cheap $1.75 for single rides or $1.30 for multiple rides and it runs 24 hours incl weekend. The trains run every 3 minutes during Rush hour and every 30 minutes after midnight.
What kind of shopping/dining/entertainment/fitness options does the neighborhood offer?
Jersey City is considered the most international city in the USA. There are more languages spoken here than any other city. Therefore you can find every cuisine in the world for about 1/3 of the price of Manhattan. We have comedy clubs, wine bars, Gay bars, Jazz clubs, Gospel Churches, and Mall in the neighborhood.Many Fitness clubs and we also offer short term memberships while you are visiting. Dont forget sales tax is ZERO % on clothing and 3.5% on most things you purchase compare to Manhattan 8.75%. 
Are towels and bed linens provided?
Yes, you get towels and linen included.
Is the kitchen stocked?
In every kitchen you will find, microwave, washer/dryer, dishwasher, plates and utensils, glasses, toaster, pots and pans. Complete to the smallest detail.
Do apartments have hairdryers? Irons and ironing boards?
We do provide haridryers in all our units except for the Downtown collections; there we supply it as needed for a refundable deposit.
How do your prices compare to local hotels?
Hotels in Jersey city start at $250 per night and goes up to $700 and that only sleeps 2 people. Manhattan prices can be even more. All our units can sleep a minimum of 4 and some even 6 or 8. Our prices range from $135-$575 per night + Tax. And we offer concierge service like the hotels while you are here. Staying with us feels like living at home with hotel service!
How do we get groceries when we arrive?
You dont have to wait for arrival. Before you come we will do the shopping for you. If you chose the food package; when you get in your fridge and freezer is stocked for a fee. How is that for service?
Liberty State Park; is it worth a visit?
Absolutely! Almost as big as Central Park but very quiet. You can bike, kite, visit the Yacht Harbor, eat oysters in the upscale restaurant or visit the Ellis Island Museum or take the ferry to Statue of Liberty.
Does Jersey City have a Golf Course?
Yes,however it is a private club by membership only. If you are looking to play on a public course the closest is in New York/ Brooklyn or further away in New Jersey. Ask you concierge for more information.
How do we get more info about Restaurants?
In each unit we have an information book and it incl. all the restaurants. However we are only a few blocks away at our concierge office or a phone call away if you prefer. We can help you buy Broadway tickets and give you maps and much more. If you rather spend more money on gourmet dining we will book you a table at the hottest places in the Big Apple.
Are all your units Smoke Free?
Yes they are! Feel free to smoke outside the building as long as you keep it clean. We hope you respect our decision in making all units NON-SMOKING. There is also no smoking in the hallways. There is a $500 fine for smoking in the units. This fine is non negotiable and will be added upon check out if the unit has not been kept smoke free.
Can we bring our dog or cat?
Most units No. However we have the Columbus designated for your pets . So if you would like to bring him or her we will do our best to accomodate. However there is an extra cleaning fee involved and a deposit. Please e-mail us with any questions.
Do you arrange special tours?
We do! We have shopping tours almost every weekend to Factory Outlets like jersey Gardens Mall or Woodbury Commons We also arrange gambling tours to Atlantic City as well as Beach trips to the Atlantic shore in the summer. We also do special sightseeing while you are here. They are conducted in English or Scandinavian all depending on our visitors. We can also do them in Spanish if needed. How about a trip to Six Flags amusement Park? Of course we do, upon request.
How about other supplies?
We have your apartment ready for your arrival with soap, cleaning supplies and paper towels. If you need more or other supplies we have all for sale at our concierge office.
Do you speak Scandinavian? Snakker dere Norsk, Svensk og Dansk?
Ja selvfolgelig. Vi er 3 norske som har jobbet for turoperatorer innen; vi har jobbet for Tjaereborg, Ving , StarToursIceland Express og Saga Solreiser. Vi snakker dansk, svensk, islansk og norsk. Vi har concierge service for dere inkludert under hele oppholdet. Dere blir tatt vel i mot og godt tatt vare pa under ferien og besoket. Vi gleder oss til a onske dere Velkommen til Jersey City!
Can you help us food shopping for our arrival?
We do offer 2 options of grocery packages. Option one is the healthy basic option. All the food is Organic and health and Eco conscious. Option two is a standard option. Option two has more food. Unfortunately organic food is more expensive and therefore a little less. However what we have picked will get you started with breakfast cereals, milk or soy milk, fruit and some vegetables , water and snacks; the basics until you go to the local store your self. In the information book there is a list of supermarkets near your unit and what time they are open. Just let us know by e-mail a week before arrival and we will have your fridge and unit ready. The price is $100 per option incl. tax and delivery.
Where can we find a place to do our laundry?
Every unit has a washer and dryer. Dixon mills and Brunswick have a combination unit that does both, the other buildings have separate washers dryers . All are free of charge. If you rather do dry cleaning your Concierge will assist you to drop off and pick up for a nominal fee.There are also laundromat close to the unit if you rather drop off in the morning and pick up in the evening.
How do we get keys?
Most of our units require keys Except Brownstone Collection. Upon arrival you give us a code that we program into the door. When the next person checks in your code gets deleted. This way you will never lock your self out and no one else will have a copy of your keys and therefore making you feel even safer. The other buildings have a front desk somewhat like a hotel.
How do we check in?
When our office at 88 Brunswick is ready this winter 2011 we will meet you there. We will check you in and take a credit card inprint and drive or walk you to the unit depending on where it is. Until than we will meet and greet you at the unit. Please just call us about an hour prior to arrival or as soon as you know approximately when you will get to Jersey City if we are not picking you up at the airport.
How do I fill out payment information and is it safe?
Yes it is , we work with a company called authorize.net and Chase Bank. Please fill out every detail. If you dont know for example: zip code ; is your your postal code but without letters. ONLY NUMBERS.Just remove the letter if your are canadian or british and you will be fine! If you would like to be picked up but dont know the flight number yet write anything and you can e-mail us later with correct information . If not write NONE. Make sure you dont use back button! But still fill out everything. back button erases all but still takes your reservation. If you should have any questions we are here for you; phone or e-mail.
Are there any shopping deals for us?
YES! We have several depending on what you are looking for. Discounts from 10-20% in stores and student or tourist deals and more so dont forget to ask us.
Any local Coffee place?
You can find Starbucks and Cosi very close and both give nyc-jc customers ''deals'' so please ask. In addition you find a few other neighborhood cafes not far from your apartment.
If you are sold out do you have other options?
We do, we will always try to find you a place. In Mai 2011 our new units at the Brunswick will be ready. So please e-mail us if you dont see anything available. We are also adding other states shortly. In our downtown collection we normally have more apartments except for maybe during high season.
What if you are fully booked the date we want?
We have just added new units in 70 Greene. They are stunning units from spacious studios to large one bedrooms or two bedroom suite apartments with view. You can also book Amazing views from 12-44th floor with views of Manhattan and/or of the waterfront for an extra charge . We always keep a few extra that we dont show on our site so please call or e-mail us if your date is not available to book.
Can I book for same day arrival?
Only if approved by booking department. Our offices close at 5pm. Prior to making an online reservation with less than 24hr notice please contact our offices by phone and e-mail. Reservations made same day for same evening arrival will not be accepted without Management's approval.
Do you provide baby cribs with linen ,High Chairs and extra beds?
We can for a fee. The Baby crib fee is $100 for your stay and High Chair is $50. We can also bring a baby car seat if you order our car service for $25 fee.Extra bed in the room when possible is $65.
Do you provide Internet and wireless Service for free?
In most apartments we do have it but we do not advertise it as included in your apartment price but consider it an extra added bonus. Wireless service can be a little bit unreliable and therefore we do not charge for it nor do we promise you that it will be working. Some buildings has a business centre , in others you can connect through a cable or the wireless service. But again we do not promise this service in your rental agreement. We do rent out laptops for $10/day and you can bring it along in the city and visit wifi locatons.
How do we rent a Smart Car?
You can either rent on the booking form or let us know upon arrival. They hold 2 passenger and are great for beach trips or shopping. If you need a bigger car we have that too.Convertibles/Cabriolets or regular style available.
Can you get us a driver and car service?
You are travelling in luxury. We give you an account and with a phone number in hand you can call your private driver 24/7 and be picked up in the city or in Jersey City and go anywhere you want for a small fee. Upon arrival you receive your personal account and a phone number and when you leave we charge your account for your use only.
Can we be more people in the unit than indicated on your website?
Yes, if fire code regulations and local building law as well as NYC-JC allows. Each additional guest above the indicated amount in contract is charged $30 per night(varies depending on seasons) in addition to extra bed fee of $65 per stay(varies depending on season). This can be booked on our website. However check with us prior to making such reservation to make sure it is legal in your unit.
Is Jersey City, Hoboken and Newport the same?
Hoboken is the next town over and you can take the Light Rail to visit the birthplace of Frank Sinatra, home of Baseball and many cozy restaurants. Newport is the Yacht harbor in between Jersey City and Hoboken. The 2 towns are conected with a boardwalk if you like to run or walk. This is an ideal place and also for a romantic stroll and an unbelievable place to take pictures of Manhattan Skyline. So close you can almost touch the buildings. Jersey City has a few neighborhoods; our units are located in Van Vorst Historic area, Paulus Hook Historic Area or NewPort Water front. We can also arrange for you to stay in Hoboken at the Empire or luxury collection.
What is the neighborhood like? Is it a safe area?
All units are located in the downtown Historic area of Jersey City. Do you remember the Cosby show? It looks like that neighborhood. Lots of cozy restaurants and cafes and boutiques. It is very safe and lots of small parks. Did you ever watch the Sopranos? A lot of the filming took place in Jersey City but in a totally different part of town. If you would like to visit location we will be happy to assist you. The area you will stay in is considered the gold coast of New Jersey , very rich, posh , and with beautiful architecture but also the financial area of our town.
Can we check in late or early? How about luggage storing?
All check ins are done between 3PM-6PM. After 3PM for Brownstone Collection and 5PM-6PM for Downtown Collection. After hours (8PM) Keys will be left in the lobby of the Downtown collection and check in will be on your own but Credit card information and other check in procedures will be done following day at 9AM-10AM unless you have ordered our pick up service. Please try to arrange for flights that arrive accordingly. Our office hours are 9AM-5PM Weekdays. In most cases luggage can be stored but make sure to arrange this during business hours.
Do we give our credit cards information upon arrival like hotels do?
Yes, we can't keep your credit card on file when you book. Therefore we get your card upon arrival so we can charge you extras like tours, car service etc but also in case of damage and extensions etc. For your and our safety we always get an imprint of your card and we keep it until post check-out after walk thru inspection.
TIP; how does it work?
in restaurants tip is expected for any sit down service ;15-20%. Limo and car service drivers expect 15-20%; our drivers are paid tip for normal service of driving, however if they have to do extra service like wait longer, carry extra suitcases or go above and beyond an additional tip should and will be appreciated. Hair dressers, nail and other service jobs should also be paid 15%.
Why is Jersey City Hotel/Motel Tax added upon Check in?
This is a new tax that has been assessed all short term apartment rental companies as of 1/1/2010. In comparison to NY that can be as high as 22% Jersey City only charges 6% hotel/motel tax. This is unfortunately outside of our control.