Serviced apartments have become a preferred option for many people looking for a living experience that combines comfort and flexibility, different from the traditional hotel stay. They offer a unique experience that blends the benefits of both a home and a hotel, making them an ideal choice for various groups. Whether you’re planning to relocate to a new city or planning an extended holiday, serviced apartments provide a suitable and beneficial environment.
What Are Serviced Apartments?
Serviced apartments are fully equipped residential units that offer all the basic amenities provided by hotels, but with additional features such as larger spaces and more privacy. These apartments are a blend of home and hotel living, giving you the freedom to move around and cook your meals, while also benefiting from hotel-like services, including daily cleaning, room service, and 24-hour reception.
Serviced Apartments vs Traditional Hotels: Which is Better
Although serviced apartments share some hotel-like services, such as daily reception and secure storage, the main difference lies in the size of the space and the flexibility of the stay. While hotels provide fixed rooms with limited services related to comfort and luxury, serviced apartments offer larger spaces, including living rooms and bedrooms, along with a fully equipped kitchen, providing residents with greater freedom to manage their time and needs.
Types of Serviced Apartments
Serviced apartments offer an ideal choice for visitors seeking comfort and privacy during their stay while enjoying hotel services. These apartments are divided into various types to match the diverse needs and lifestyles of visitors:
Traditional Serviced Apartments
These independent apartments offer basic services, including daily cleaning, and provide some comfort, such as furnishings and essential amenities. They are often similar to independent residential units but managed by a hotel.
Advantages: They offer more space than traditional hotels and provide some hotel-like services, making them an ideal choice for long-term travelers.
Fully Serviced Apartments
These apartments offer comprehensive services, including cleaning, linen changes, and meal delivery on demand, as well as reception services and personal assistance.
Advantages: They are perfect for those who want to experience home life with hotel-like comfort. Services include Wi-Fi, fitness facilities, and gym rooms.
Luxury Serviced Apartments
These apartments provide an exceptional stay with high-quality services and facilities. They typically include advanced kitchen equipment, multiple rooms, luxury bathrooms, and several services like personal assistance and private pools.
Advantages: They offer a luxurious experience with customized services and are ideal for those seeking luxury entertainment or long-term stays with all the comforts possible.
Advantages of Serviced Apartments
Larger Space and Greater Privacy
One of the main advantages of serviced apartments is the larger space compared to traditional hotels. A serviced apartment usually includes bedrooms, a living room, and a kitchen, providing a higher level of privacy and comfort for guests.
Fully Equipped Kitchen for Guest Comfort
An essential advantage of serviced apartments is their fully equipped kitchen, allowing guests to prepare their meals. This gives you flexibility in food choices, saves on food expenses, and provides a more comfortable dining atmosphere.
Full Hotel Services
Despite offering a more relaxed and flexible environment, serviced apartments do not lack traditional hotel services. They often include services like daily cleaning, facility security, reception services, and entertainment options such as gyms and swimming pools.
Flexible Stay Duration
Serviced apartments offer flexibility in stay duration, allowing guests to stay for short or long periods based on their specific needs. This flexibility makes them perfect for people planning extended stays or those seeking to avoid the routine of traditional hotels.
Disadvantages of Serviced Apartments You Should Know
Higher Costs Compared to Hotels or Regular Apartments
One potential disadvantage of serviced apartments is the higher cost, which can exceed that of traditional hotels or regular flats. A serviced apartment might require a larger budget, especially if it includes luxury services or is located in a prime area.
Limited Services Compared to Large Hotels
While serviced apartments provide good services, they may lack some of the advanced facilities found in large hotels, such as diverse restaurants or health care centers. Some serviced apartments also lack many entertainment activities offered by larger hotels.
Quality Variation Between Providers
The quality and services of serviced apartments vary among different providers. You may encounter discrepancies in cleanliness or facility setups, such as Wi-Fi or kitchen equipment, which could affect the overall stay experience.
The Target Groups for Serviced Apartments
Families Seeking Comfort
Serviced apartments are an ideal choice for families looking for comfort and privacy during their stay. With large spaces, kitchens, and recreational facilities, they provide a suitable environment for families.
Business Travelers
Serviced apartments provide business travelers with a comfortable and suitable work environment. They benefit from the privacy the apartments offer, as well as the facilities that help them complete their work, such as fast internet and meeting rooms.
Long-Term Travelers
People staying long-term, such as expatriates or travelers requiring extended stays, find serviced apartments to be the perfect choice. The spacious facilities and equipped kitchens offer them a home-like environment.
How to Choose the Best Serviced Apartment for You
Accurately Determine Your Budget
Before searching for a serviced apartment, it’s essential to set a precise budget to ensure you get the most suitable option. Prices can vary greatly depending on the location and the amenities provided, so the serviced apartment should match your available budget.
Choose the Ideal Location Based on Your Needs
Selecting the correct location is a crucial factor. If you need quick access to commercial or tourist areas, choosing a serviced apartment in a central location will be the best option. On the other hand, if you are seeking peace and privacy, opt for an apartment in a quieter area.
Evaluate the Services Provided
It’s essential to check the level of services available in the serviced apartment, such as room service, daily cleaning, and Wi-Fi. Make sure the provided services meet your expectations and are available throughout your stay.
Read Reviews and Experiences from Previous Guests
Before booking, you should read reviews from previous guests. These reviews give you an idea of the quality of services, facilities, and overall stay in the serviced apartment.
Key Criteria to Pay Attention to Before Booking
Cleanliness and Quality of Finishes
Cleanliness is one of the most important factors to check when selecting a serviced apartment. Make sure the apartment is clean and well-maintained, with all finishes well done.
Availability of Essential Amenities
Ensure the apartment is equipped with all basic comforts like comfortable furniture, a fully-equipped kitchen, and a suitable bathroom.
Security and Guarding
Security is essential. Make sure the serviced apartment offers 24/7 security services and monitoring.
Internet and Communication Services
Today, fast internet service is a fundamental part of any serviced apartment. Make sure this service is available, especially if you need it for work or to stay connected with others.
Serviced Apartments as an Investment Opportunity
Return on Investment from Renting Serviced Apartments
Serviced apartments are one of the best investment options in real estate, thanks to the high returns that can be achieved by renting them out to travelers.
Increasing Demand for This Type of Property
There is a growing demand for serviced apartments, making them an attractive opportunity for investors looking for properties with stable income.
Tips for Successful Investment in Serviced Apartments
Before investing in serviced apartments, make sure to study the local market well and assess the demand for such properties in the location you’re considering.
Enjoy Comfort and Services with Serviced Apartments
With the evolution of travel patterns and the diversification of visitors’ needs, serviced apartments stand out as the ideal choice that combines home privacy with hotel luxury. They offer large spaces, a fully-equipped kitchen, and hotel-like services such as cleaning and reception, making them suitable for families, business travelers, or vacationers, especially for extended stays. They also provide high flexibility, exceptional comfort, and modern facilities, making them suitable for the contemporary traveler. Therefore, if you’re looking for an experience that gives you independence and comfort without sacrificing service quality, serviced apartments are the perfect choice for a temporary stay with a classy and balanced lifestyle.
