Back in March 2020, we first introduced you to The George hotel in Montclair NJ. Just to remind us, as though we’d forget…the pandemic officially “started” later that month.
We managed to stay again in 2021 at the height of social distancing and mask wearing, but after vaccinations started to be widely available. During this time, The George did an outstanding job complying with the ever changing state and federal guidelines. Sadly, this meant that some of the amenities (like an amazing breakfast spread) were closed. We were tentatively and tenuously navigating what it meant to try to “normalize” during these strange times. We made a conscious decision at that time NOT to review the The George again because it felt awkward and foreign to us as we forayed back out into the world.
Now another year later, wide spread vaccination, and relaxation of government mandates, we are back!
Honestly, The George is one of my favorite hotel experiences. It feels warm and friendly, like visiting a favorite (RICH) relative. The entire experience transports us to more genteel times when perhaps one dressed for cocktail hour, but it equally welcomes us in our worn jeans and sneakers.
One of the fun things about the George (there are seriously so many!), is the fun branding they do in each of their 31 rooms identified not by number, but by name. Last time we stayed in the Nancy which was covered in pictures of famous “Nancys”. Their gym is, very tongue-in-cheek, called Jim. So, we were thrilled to check out another one of their name rooms, Olivia.
Amenities
Rather than re-hash the lovely amenities they have, check out the original blog post here. I am pleased to announce that they all remain as wonderful as the first time we visited. The Candy Closet is still well-stocked, they still have a wine happy hour every evening, and the plush living room with fire place is still the coziest spot to hang out.
Olivia – The Room
This post is really about Olivia, the Room. She is wonderful. Let’s start with the very first impression of the room when you enter.
The plaid headboard repeats from the Nancy in our earlier post. Honestly I’d never think of a plaid headboard but I’m half-tempted to repeat this at home. It’s both warm and kitschy! The Casper mattress provides a great night sleep…one of the best.
The bathroom is nicely appointed with a nice sized shower and luxury products from EO and Dyson. The bathrobes are great for casual lounging in the two overstuffed leather chairs while you enjoy your coffee from the in-room Nespresso.
When you are on the bed, you see a view out the window with a little writing desk. Perfect for doing some remote work.
Of course, the highlight of the room is the wall of Olivias, or derivatives of Olivia.
We haven’t been able to identify all of them but I’m delighted that John Oliver and Oliver Platt made the cut!
Of course, we can’t forget about the main Olivia…
Now that I think about it, I regret not being more “meta” about it and watching Xanadu lounging in bed!
The People
While we enjoy The George each time we stay – particularly hanging out in the living room by the fire and talking with random guests that pass by – I need to mention the staff they have. In these crazy times where people are having trouble holding on to high quality staff, somehow The George has managed to find and hold onto some gems.
Your only interaction may be checking in, or like us, you may ask them to help with local restaurant and activity recommendations. No matter what you need from the staff of The George, they deliver the service with a smile and a sense of humor.
If I didn’t stress it enough a couple of years ago, this is one boutique hotel totally worth checking out. Montclair is charming with echos to earlier times that created it. Spend a weekend with The George exploring the town and surrounding area. You’ll be just as charmed as we are!
Now, if only they would put in a few electric car destination chargers, we might never leave!
When I go to The George, I like to bring a George with me…but it’s not a requirement!
