I just got back from my 2 week vacation (Egypt and Jordan). I had a 1-day layover in NY for my flights, so I stayed at the W Hoboken. For the price I paid vs staying over in Manhattan, it was an excellent deal. I'm just a Gold, but my status was acknowledged at checkin and I received a River view room on the top floor. I could have sat on that nice lounger at the window and looked out over the landscape all day. Very cool view!! The staff was very nice, from the guys at the doors to the FDAs to the restaurant staff to the concierge. The location of the W was perfect for me. It was a quick walk down to the ferry building to take the ferry across to the WFC and start my tour around Manhattan. Ended up at Times Square to go to my play (A Steady Rain - excellent!!!). Rather than taking PATH back to Hoboken, I took a taxi. The next morning, I walked around the area surrounding the W. Very small town feeling. I was able to send some things home via the FedEx store nearby, pick up some biscotti for the plane trip at Carlos Bakery, and just enjoy the walk along the riverfront.
The W Hoboken is a nice alternative to staying in the City.