Comparing Accommodation Options: Hotels vs Serviced Apartments
When looking to find the right accommodation, it’s a good idea to explore all of the options. Alongside hotels, serviced apartments are becoming more and more popular amongst those looking to find a nice place to stay without paying full hotel rates. However, they’re not necessarily going to suit everyone. That’s why we’re going to use today to explore the pros and cons of both apartments and traditional hotels.
Cost Comparison: Serviced Apartments and Hotels
Price. In the long-run, serviced apartments are typically cheaper than the majority of hotels, especially hotels of the same standard. Anyone looking for quality accommodation over a long period of time will save themselves a substantial amount of money by choosing serviced apartments. Of course, if you’re staying for a shorter period of time and would prefer to have everything taken care of for you, then a hotel room might be more suitable.
SERVICED APARTMENTS V HOTELS: THE PROS AND THE CONS
Space and Comfort Differences
Size. Typically, serviced apartments are generally larger than hotel rooms. Serviced apartments usually consist of a separate bedroom, bathroom, living space and kitchen and as such, they offer even more value for money, especially over the long-term. For some people, of course, all that space isn’t necessary as long as they’ve got a bed, a chair and a desk: if that sounds like you, then you might prefer a hotel.
Entertainment. As a general rule, serviced apartments will have more home comforts. If you haven’t got a massive budget but still want to have Sky TV so you can watch football in the evening, then you’re more likely to find it in an apartment than in a hotel room. Extra features such as DVD/Blu-ray players, iPod docks and the like will only be available in the more exclusive hotels, so those on a budget who want to keep themselves occupied should definitely look at serviced apartments.
The costs. If you’re planning to stay over a longer period, then rates for serviced apartments can usually be more easily negotiated than those in hotels. If you’re planning to book for 15 days plus, then you’re likely to be able to get a very good rate. Of course, it’s also possible to negotiate rates with hotels, but they’re likely to still charge full price for certain nights.
Serviced Apartments for Business Travelers
For business. The majority of serviced apartments come complete with a kitchen and a comfortable living area, making it very suitable for working. You could easily host clients and associates for an evening – not something you can do in a hotel room – and there’s nearly always a comfortable desk and chair from which to work.
Food costs. Anyone who’s spent any prolonged time in a hotel will have noticed that food expenses go up: after all, simply buying groceries and cooking for yourself isn’t an option if you don’t have a kitchen! Serviced apartments from the likes of Refresh Apartments usually boast a full kitchen area, which is another real money saver in the long-term. Hotels normally have a restaurant and bar, of course, but eating there every day will definitely start to add up.
On-Site Services and Amenities
On-site services. Whilst the apartments might be called ‘serviced’, it doesn’t mean having a 24-hour concierge on-sight. It will depend on where you’re staying: on some occasions there won’t be a receptionist or night porter on hand – on some occasions any problems may mean having to call a centralised number located somewhere else. Of course, this depends on the service provider, but it’s worth remembering. Hotels, meanwhile, will nearly always have staff on-site to help.
- On some occasions, you may be required to do the cleaning yourself. If you’re constantly working or away from the flat, of course, you might not feel like hoovering by the time you get back! Unfortunately, not all serviced apartments are cleaned every-day, most provide a weekly maid service, so it may be your responsibility to keep everything clean to your liking. Hotels, on the other hand, will usually ensure that rooms are cleaned daily, whilst you’re out. If having the room cleaned for you is a priority, then you should probably look at a hotel.
- One of the main benefits to a good hotel is that there are typically facilities on site such as gyms, dining rooms, spas and the like. Unfortunately, serviced apartments typically don’t have these little luxuries. Serviced apartments offer that ‘at-home’ feeling, in the sense that it really is like being at home: and you don’t have a restaurant at home! If you want to be pampered, then choose a hotel.
Of course, a number of other issues can impact whether you plump for a hotel room or a serviced apartment, such as location and availability. It’s a good idea to ensure that you take the time to work out which one will suit your circumstances the best.
