Serviced apartments have been around for a long time, but the general assumption has been that they are for business travellers only. However, as we resurface from Lockdown and the PM has advised the nation to stay in ‘self-contained’ accommodation, we explore the advantages of Serviced Apartments for everyone.
Traditionally used for corporate relocations and business travellers, the official title of ‘Serviced Apartment’ has been the term used for a type of furnished apartment available for short-term or long-term. It is also sometimes referred to as ‘serviced accommodation’, ‘short let’ and more recently, ‘self-contained accommodation’. They don’t have to be an apartment, quite often you’ll see this term associated with townhouses and cottages too!
So, what does a Serviced Apartment offer that you can’t get in a hotel?
1. Privacy
The main reason for the ‘self-contained’ advice is that there are NO shared spaces. You have exclusive use for your stay. Often a virtual check-in service is available, with minimal contact with anyone else.
2. Space
Have you stayed in a hotel before and tried to do yoga, a workout or anything that needed space? It can be difficult, right? Well, a serviced apartment gives you space to do the things you enjoy, it’s a whole apartment for your stay – a kitchen, living area, bedroom and bathroom – all in separate rooms.
It is designed to be a full ‘home from home’ stay.
3. Meals
A ‘home from home’ stay means that you have all the facilities that you’d have at home. Including a fully equipped kitchen where you can prepare and cook your own means, staying in control of your food and budget!
As serviced apartments are often used for long-term stays, there may also be washing facilities.
4. No hidden extras
A serviced apartment stay will include all of the utilities, water, heating AND WIFI. There is no need to upgrade or go to the lobby for coverage – the apartment will provide you with adequate WIFI to continue working and communicating with the outside world.
Modern serviced apartments will offer NetFlix free of charge too.
Generally, a weekly housekeeping service is provided with bookings of more than a week, and on request for an additional charge.
5. Dining area
Quite often there is a dining area in the apartment to enjoy your meals, or even use as a workstation.
6. Living area
A living area will provide somewhere to relax – separate from your bedroom and perhaps with a sofabed for guests. Free TV viewing with subscription channels is a bonus.
7. Flexibility
Serviced apartment stays are managed by an individual who may meet and greet you, and be your contact for your stay. Booking direct with them allows greater flexibility of extras that they can offer to enhance your stay – such as early check-in or late checkout, extending your stay for a discounted price.
8. Child and pet friendly
Some serviced apartments offer a garden area or patio, or close to parks for exercise and play. Look for pet friendly apartments where you can travel with your best friend.
9. More economical
If you’re staying as a family or group, serviced apartments are the solution to keep you under one roof, enjoy your space and be able to cook as you like to stay in control.
Serviced apartment rates are similar to a hotel, sometimes less, and offer a more comfortable and convenient stay.
If you’re staying long term, all utilities and housekeeping are included so one less thing to think about!
What you should expect from a serviced apartment:
A fully equipped kitchen, usually with both dishwasher and washer/dryer
One or more separate bedrooms (or in studio apartments, a designated sleeping area)
A living area
A bathroom
TV, Wi-Fi and the latest in-room technology
All utilities included i.e. water & electricity
A weekly housekeeping service (sometimes a more frequent service if required)
About EdKa Room
EdKa Room created by Edita Talat-Kelpsiene, is a luxury self-catering accommodation business located in central Southampton. Boasting 4 beautifully decorated properties, EdKa Room has been running since 2018 and has quickly gained a 5 star reputation on Airbnb. The properties were all renovated in 2018 and are continuously updated between guests to make for the best experience. They are all located in central Southampton with huge attractions within walking distance such as West Quay Shopping Centre, Watermark Restaurant Parade, The Guildhall and much more. You’ll have no trouble getting around as Southampton’s central line train station is close by as is the bus station. EdKa Room is also perfectly situated for cruise passengers. You can even see one of the terminals from the window of Queens Terrace!
Edita the life and soul behind EdKa Room come with a whole host of impressive work history in the hospitality industry Spanning 15 years working for luxury hotels in London, Qatar, Bahrain and even closer to home in The New Forest.
EdKa Room was a dream that she made reality bringing her expert knowledge to the humble serviced accommodation market and infusing it with her own luxury and personal touches. She is passionate about hospitality and ensuring every guest is well looked after.
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