Serviced Apartments vs Hotels: Why Serviced Apartments Are Ideal for Long Business Stays in the UK
Serviced apartments are fully furnished properties that offer the convenience of a hotel but the comfort and flexibility of a home.
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If you're relocating to the UK for business, choosing the right accommodation can be overwhelming. With various options available, it’s essential to pick one that aligns with both your professional needs and comfort during your stay. For long-term business trips, serviced apartments are often the best choice over traditional hotels. In this guide, we explore the reasons why serviced apartments stand out for extended stays, especially for business professionals relocating to the UK.
What Are Serviced Apartments?
Serviced apartments are fully furnished properties that offer the convenience of a hotel but the comfort and flexibility of a home. They typically include a fully equipped kitchen for preparing meals, separate living, sleeping, and working areas, utilities like Wi-Fi, electricity, and water included in the rent, and housekeeping services at regular intervals. These apartments are designed for medium- to long-term stays and are ideal for business professionals looking for more than just a place to sleep.
Why Choose Serviced Apartments for Long Business Stays in the UK?
More Space and Comfort
Hotels are often practical for short stays, but they can feel cramped over time. Serviced apartments, on the other hand, offer significantly more space. With separate rooms for sleeping, dining, and working, they create a more comfortable and practical living environment, allowing you to balance work and relaxation seamlessly. For example, if you're in the UK for a multi-month project, you’ll appreciate having a kitchen to prepare your own meals, a living area to unwind in, and a desk to work from—all within the same space.
Cost-Effectiveness for Extended Stays
For extended stays, serviced apartments often work out to be more cost-effective than hotels. With a hotel, you pay a nightly rate, which adds up quickly for long stays. Serviced apartments typically offer discounted rates for longer bookings, plus having your own kitchen allows you to cook, which can greatly reduce your overall food expenses.
Flexibility to Suit Your Schedule
One of the main advantages of serviced apartments is their flexibility. Unlike hotels that often have rigid schedules for housekeeping or meal times, serviced apartments allow you to set your own routine. Whether you need to work late or prefer cooking dinner at 9 PM, your schedule is entirely in your hands.
A Home-Away-From-Home Experience
Relocating to a new country for work can be stressful, especially if you're away from family and friends for long periods. Serviced apartments offer a homely environment, helping ease the transition. They typically come with comfortable furnishings, entertainment options, and the ability to personalise your space. This makes serviced apartments perfect for business professionals who want to feel more settled and comfortable during their stay.
Privacy and Quiet
Hotels can be noisy and busy, especially with a high turnover of guests. Serviced apartments, however, are typically quieter and more private. This makes them an ideal choice for professionals who need to work from their accommodation or simply want a peaceful place to relax after a long day of meetings or travel.
Comprehensive Amenities
Serviced apartments come with many of the amenities you'd expect from a hotel, such as Wi-Fi, cleaning services, and access to gyms or other communal areas. They also offer extra features like a washing machine or a dishwasher, allowing you to take care of your own laundry and cooking without relying on external services. These additional conveniences can make your stay more comfortable and less stressful.
When Are Hotels a Better Option?
While hotels are excellent for short stays or when you need full-service amenities like concierge or room service, they are less suited to long business trips. Hotels typically offer smaller rooms, less privacy, and higher costs for extended stays, making them less practical for those looking to settle in for a while.
How to Book a Serviced Apartment in the UK
Booking a serviced apartment in the UK is straightforward, particularly when you choose a specialised provider. You can easily filter serviced apartments by city, duration of stay, and other preferences. For those relocating to the UK, Nest by Adleo offers high-quality serviced apartments with flexible options for long stays, providing comfort and convenience during your time in the country. Visit Nest by Adleo to explore available properties and find the ideal accommodation for your business needs.
FAQs About Serviced Apartments in the UK
Do serviced apartments include utilities?
Yes, most serviced apartments include Wi-Fi, electricity, water, and other utilities as part of the rental price.
Can I cook in a serviced apartment?
Absolutely! Serviced apartments come with a fully equipped kitchen, allowing you to cook your meals whenever you like.
Are serviced apartments family-friendly?
Yes, many serviced apartments offer family-friendly features, such as additional bedrooms, child safety measures, and even baby cots or high chairs on request.
How does housekeeping work in serviced apartments?
Housekeeping is typically provided weekly, but more frequent cleaning can be arranged upon request for an additional charge.
Final Thoughts on Serviced Apartments in the UK
For long business stays in the UK, serviced apartments offer a superior combination of comfort, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness compared to hotels. Whether you're working in London, Manchester, or another major city, serviced apartments provide the space and amenities you need to settle in and focus on your work. If you're relocating to the UK for a business project or assignment, serviced apartments can be the ideal choice for your accommodation, offering both the professional setting you require and the comforts of home.
