Serviced Apartment Hotels
When planning a trip or moving to a new city for a longer duration, selecting the right type of accommodation is one of the most vital decisions one has to make. It should not only fit into your budget but also provide all the essential amenities and comfort you require. One of the popular choices these days, especially for business travelers, expats, and long-term visitors, is staying in serviced apartment hotels. This type of accommodation is known for its homely comfort, spaciousness, and additional facilities compared to conventional hotels.
Understanding Serviced Apartment Hotels
Serviced apartment hotels, also known as aparthotels, are a blend of a hotel and an apartment. They provide the luxury, security, and services of a hotel while offering the space, comfort, and facilities of a home. These accommodations come fully furnished, with a separate bedroom, living area, and a fully equipped kitchen. Some serviced apartment hotels also provide other facilities such as laundry services, fitness centers, and even meeting rooms.
One of the key features of serviced apartment hotels is their flexibility. They cater to both short-term and long-term stays, making them a perfect choice for business travelers on extended assignments, families on vacation, or individuals relocating to a new city. The availability of a fully-equipped kitchen and laundry facilities make it easier for long-term residents, while the regular housekeeping and maintenance services provide the convenience of a hotel.
Key Features of Serviced Apartment Hotels
Space and Comfort
One of the main advantages of serviced apartment hotels over traditional hotels is the amount of space they provide. An average serviced apartment offers up to 30% more space than a hotel room of similar standard. This extra space comes with separate living and sleeping areas, providing a more homely and comfortable environment. For example, in a serviced apartment hotel, you can cook your meals, entertain guests, or simply relax in the living area without disturbing the tranquility of your bedroom.
Cost-Effectiveness
Another advantage of serviced apartment hotels is their cost-effectiveness. Although the nightly rate might be similar to that of a hotel room, the value obtained from the additional space, kitchen facilities, and utility areas make serviced apartments a more economical choice, especially for long-term stays. Moreover, the rate for serviced apartments often decreases with the length of stay, making them more affordable for long-term visitors.
Location
Serviced apartment hotels are usually located in convenient locations. They are strategically placed near business districts, tourist attractions, or public transport hubs to provide easy access to various city attractions and amenities. This makes them an ideal choice for both business travelers and tourists.
Privacy and Security
Privacy and security are also significant features of serviced apartment hotels. These accommodations often provide a private entrance, separate living and sleeping areas, and sometimes even a private balcony or terrace. Additionally, most serviced apartment hotels offer 24/7 security, similar to hotels, ensuring the safety and security of their guests.
Types of Serviced Apartment Hotels
Serviced apartment hotels come in various sizes and types to cater to different needs and preferences. Here are some of the common types:
Studio Apartments
Studio apartments are the smallest type of serviced apartment hotels. They typically comprise a single large room that serves as the living room, bedroom, and kitchen, with a separate bathroom. Studio apartments are a popular choice among solo travelers or couples who are looking for a functional and compact living space.
One-Bedroom Apartments
One-bedroom apartments offer a separate bedroom and living area, providing more privacy and space compared to studio apartments. They are a popular choice among couples or individuals who prefer a more spacious and distinct living and sleeping area.
Two or More Bedroom Apartments
These types of apartments offer two or more separate bedrooms, along with a living area and a kitchen. They are ideal for families or groups traveling together, providing enough space and privacy for everyone.
In conclusion, serviced apartment hotels provide a flexible, spacious, and cost-effective accommodation option, blending the best features of both hotels and apartments. Whether you are a business traveler, a tourist, or a family on vacation, serviced apartment hotels can cater to your needs and provide a comfortable and convenient stay.
However, this article only scratches the surface of the world of serviced apartment hotels. In the following sections, we will delve deeper into the advantages of staying in a serviced apartment hotel, how to choose the right one, and what to expect during your stay, among other topics. So, stay tuned for more detailed insights into serviced apartment hotels.
Benefits of Serviced Apartment Hotels
One of the primary advantages of staying in serviced apartment hotels is the aspect of space. These accommodations often provide more space than traditional hotel rooms. This can be particularly beneficial for longer stays or for larger groups, as it allows for more comfort and privacy. The additional space also often includes a separate living area and kitchen, providing guests with the amenities and conveniences of home.
Another significant benefit of serviced apartment hotels is their cost-effectiveness. While the upfront cost may sometimes appear higher than a regular hotel room, the value for money is considerably more significant considering the additional space and facilities. Not to mention, guests can save on meals by cooking in the fully equipped kitchen, and on laundry expenses with in-unit washers and dryers.
Who can Benefit from Serviced Apartment Hotels?
Serviced apartment hotels cater to a wide range of travelers, making them an ideal choice for various types of stays.
Business travelers, for instance, can benefit immensely from the flexibility and convenience offered by serviced apartments. With ample workspace, high-speed internet, and a quiet, comfortable environment, these apartments can provide an excellent base for work trips. The option to host meetings or entertain clients in a more private setting than a hotel lobby or conference room is also a significant advantage.
Leisure travelers, especially families and groups, can enjoy the additional space and home-like amenities. Having separate bedrooms and a living area means everyone can have their privacy while still enjoying shared spaces. The fully equipped kitchen allows for home-cooked meals, which can be a comforting touch, especially for longer stays.
For those relocating or in between homes, serviced apartments offer a flexible and cost-effective solution. They provide all the comforts of home, without the commitment of a long-term lease. It’s a hassle-free, turn-key solution for those in transition.
Booking a Serviced Apartment Hotel
Booking a serviced apartment hotel is as easy as booking a regular hotel room. Many global hotel chains offer serviced apartments as part of their portfolio, and there are also independent providers available. It’s typically a straightforward process of checking availability for your desired dates, selecting the type of apartment you want, and making a reservation. Keep in mind that, similar to hotels, serviced apartment hotels may offer discounted rates for longer stays, so it’s worth inquiring about if your stay extends beyond a few days.
What to Look for When Choosing a Serviced Apartment Hotel
When choosing a serviced apartment hotel, it’s crucial to consider your specific needs and preferences. Here are a few key aspects to consider:
Location: Just like with any accommodation, location is key. Whether you want to be close to work, tourist attractions, or in a quiet neighborhood, make sure to select an apartment hotel in an area that suits your needs.
Facilities: Check what facilities are available, both inside the apartment and within the property. This could include a fully equipped kitchen, laundry facilities, a gym, a pool, etc.
Services: Inquire about the services offered, such as housekeeping, concierge, or room service. While not all serviced apartments offer these hotel-like services, many do, adding to the convenience of your stay.
Reviews: Just as you would with a hotel, it’s a good idea to read reviews from previous guests. This can give you a better understanding of what to expect and help you make an informed decision.
Conclusion
Serviced apartment hotels combine the best of both worlds – the comfort and convenience of a fully furnished apartment, with the services and amenities of a hotel. Whether you’re traveling for business, leisure, or in need of a temporary home, these accommodations can offer a flexible, cost-effective, and comfortable solution. By considering your specific needs and doing a bit of research, you can find the perfect serviced apartment hotel for your next stay.
Benefits of Staying in Serviced Apartment Hotels
When it comes to selecting accommodation for your next business trip or vacation, serviced apartment hotels offer numerous benefits over traditional hotels.
More Space
One of the key advantages of serviced apartments is the amount of space available. These apartments offer separate living and sleeping areas, so you don’t have to compromise your lifestyle while you’re away from home. You can work, rest, or entertain just like you do at home. This makes serviced apartments a great option for families, groups, and longer stays.
Cost Efficiency
Staying in a serviced apartment can often be more cost-effective than a hotel. The pricing structure is typically based on the apartment, not the number of guests, making it a good choice for groups or family travel. Additionally, discounts are often available for longer stays, offering significant savings over time. Plus, having a kitchen means you can prepare your own meals, saving you money on dining out.
Privacy
Serviced apartments offer a high level of privacy. With fewer interruptions from housekeeping and less interaction with staff and other guests, you can enjoy a peaceful, home-like environment. Many serviced apartments also offer private entrances and balconies, further enhancing your sense of privacy.
Choosing the Right Serviced Apartment Hotel
With so many options available, how do you choose the right serviced apartment hotel for your needs? Here are some factors to consider.
Location
The location of the serviced apartment hotel is critical. It should be conveniently located near your work, tourist attractions, or other places you plan to visit. Check out the local area to see what amenities are nearby, such as restaurants, shops, and public transportation.
Services and Amenities
While the amenities offered by serviced apartment hotels can vary, you’ll want to look for ones that suit your needs. This might include a fully equipped kitchen, in-room laundry facilities, a fitness center, or a business center. Consider what services are important to you, such as daily housekeeping, reception staff, or a concierge service.
Reviews
Reviews can provide valuable insight into what you can expect from a serviced apartment hotel. Look at both the positive and negative reviews to get a balanced view. Pay particular attention to comments about the cleanliness, service, and any potential issues.
What to Expect from a Serviced Apartment Hotel
So, what can you expect when you book a serviced apartment hotel? Here’s a general overview.
Check-in
Just like a hotel, you’ll check in at the reception desk when you arrive at a serviced apartment hotel. Here, you’ll receive your keys and any information about the property and its amenities. Some serviced apartments offer 24-hour reception, while others may have limited hours.
The Apartment
Your apartment will typically include a bedroom, bathroom, living area, and kitchen. It will be fully furnished and equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay, including linens, towels, and kitchenware. Some serviced apartments also offer luxury touches like high-quality toiletries, modern appliances, and stylish decor.
Services
Most serviced apartment hotels offer a variety of services to make your stay more convenient. This might include housekeeping, laundry services, grocery delivery, and more. Some serviced apartments also offer additional facilities like a gym, swimming pool, or business center.
To conclude, serviced apartment hotels provide a home-away-from-home experience, combining the comfort and convenience of an apartment with the services and amenities of a hotel. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, for a few days or a few months, a serviced apartment hotel can offer a more spacious, cost-effective, and private alternative to traditional hotel accommodation.
Choosing the Right Serviced Apartment Hotel
When it comes to choosing the right serviced apartment hotel, there are a number of factors that you should consider to ensure that you find the perfect fit for your needs. You should think about the location, the size of the apartment, the amenities, the cost and the type of service you want.
The location of the serviced apartment hotel is crucial. If you are travelling for business, you would want to choose an apartment that is close to your place of work or meeting venues. For leisure travellers, it would be ideal to have an apartment that is within walking distance to major tourist attractions, shopping districts, restaurants and entertainment venues. Also, check if the apartment is easily accessible by public transportation or if it offers shuttle services to key places around the city.
Size and Layout of the Apartment
Next, consider the size and layout of the apartment. Serviced apartment hotels typically offer a range of options, from studio apartments to one, two or three-bedroom units. If you are travelling alone or with a partner, a studio or one-bedroom apartment would be sufficient. For families or larger groups, a bigger apartment with multiple bedrooms would be more suitable.
The layout of the apartment is also important. Some people prefer an open-plan layout where the living, dining and kitchen areas are all in one space, while others might prefer a more traditional layout with separate rooms. Consider your personal preferences and needs when choosing the layout of your serviced apartment.
Amenities and Services
The amenities and services offered by the serviced apartment hotel should also be taken into account. Look for apartments that offer fully equipped kitchens, washing machines and dryers, and ample storage space. These features will make your stay more comfortable and convenient, especially for longer stays.
Some serviced apartment hotels also offer additional amenities such as swimming pools, gyms, saunas, business centres, and even in-house restaurants and bars. While these might not be essential for everyone, they certainly add to the overall comfort and convenience of your stay.
Cost and Value for Money
Finally, consider the cost of the serviced apartment hotel and whether it offers good value for money. The cost will largely depend on the location, size and type of the apartment, as well as the range of amenities and services offered. Compare the rates of different serviced apartment hotels in the same area to get an idea of what is a reasonable price to pay.
Remember, value for money does not necessarily mean the cheapest option. A slightly more expensive serviced apartment hotel might offer a wider range of amenities and services, a more convenient location, or a larger and more comfortable apartment. Consider all these factors when deciding which serviced apartment hotel offers the best value for money.
Types of Service
Lastly, the type of service provided by the serviced apartment hotel is also an important factor to consider. Some serviced apartment hotels offer a more hotel-like service, with daily housekeeping, 24-hour reception, and concierge services. Others might offer a more residential-style service, with less frequent housekeeping and no reception or concierge. Consider your needs and preferences when deciding on the type of service you want.
In conclusion, choosing the right serviced apartment hotel involves considering a number of factors, including the location, size and layout of the apartment, the amenities and services offered, the cost and value for money, and the type of service. By carefully considering all these factors, you can find the perfect serviced apartment hotel that meets all your needs and ensures a comfortable and convenient stay.
Final Words
Serviced apartment hotels offer a unique combination of the comforts of home and the services of a hotel, making them an ideal choice for both short-term and long-term stays. They offer more space, privacy and flexibility than traditional hotel rooms, and often at a lower cost. Whether you are travelling for business or pleasure, alone or with family or friends, there is a serviced apartment hotel out there that is perfect for you. All you need to do is do a little research and consider your personal needs and preferences, and you are sure to find the perfect fit.