Technology has improved significantly in recent years, allowing businesses to hold virtual meetings that can include employees and clients all over the world. However, the face-to-face meeting still has its place. And as long as this is the case then corporate travel will still remain an important tool in the business arsenal. However, the business traveller has become more discerning. An increasing number of corporate travellers are looking for accommodation choices that provide a balance between the services of a hotel and the comforts of home. Aparthotels, sometimes referred to as apartment hotels, are a form of serviced accommodation that are fast emerging as a very popular choice.
They offer all the best accommodation aspects of a traditional hotel and a serviced apartment with some distinct advantages and some potential drawbacks. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of aparthotels for business travellers to help you make informed decisions on what is the best option.
The Pros of Aparthotels
Home-Like Atmosphere
One of the biggest advantages of aparthotels is the comfort they offer. They have spacious living areas, fully equipped kitchens, and often separate bedrooms unlike a traditional hotel. This makes them feel more homely, and business travellers therefore feel more relaxed.
Being able to prepare your own meals, when you want, is not only convenient but often a healthier option over fancy hotel food. A separate living area offers the space to relax and unwind after a long day of work without feeling confined to a tiny space.
Cost-Effective for Longer Stays
For corporate travellers who are on extended assignments, staying in a traditional hotel can quickly become expensive. An aparthotel often presents a more cost-effective solution. Initially, the nightly rates may be similar to that of a hotel, but the overall savings come from having access to kitchen and laundry facilities.
Cooking meals in the apartment reduces the need for frequent, expensive, dining out and can lead to significant savings on meals. Having laundry facilities in the apartment reduces the need for a costly hotel laundry service. Many aparthotels offer discounted rates for longer stays making them even better value for money.
Greater Flexibility
Aparthotels offer a level of flexibility that can often not be matched by a traditional hotel. Business travellers are able to choose stays ranging from one night to several months, without the need to be tied to a long-term lease or contract. This flexibility is essential for those who are on short-term projects, relocating, or who have uncertain travel schedules.
Aparthotels often allow guests to customise their services. This might mean daily housekeeping if they prefer hotel-like convenience or less frequent cleaning for greater privacy. This means that guests are able to tailor their stay to their personal preferences and any work demands.
Enhanced Privacy and Independence
Privacy is an important consideration for many business travellers and aparthotels offer an environment with more privacy. There are fewer shared spaces compared to a traditional hotel such as lobbies and dining areas, meaning guests can enjoy a more secluded, quieter stay.
The ability to cook meals and manage laundry adds to the sense of independence. Business travellers can even host meetings or have guests in the apartment without many of the limitations that are typically imposed by hotels. This is invaluable for those who not only value their privacy but also follow a less rigid daily routine.
Productivity-Friendly Environment
Aparthotels offer high-speed Wi-Fi as standard, allowing professionals to stay connected and productive. Many also have designated workspaces such as desks and ergonomic chairs, making remote working much easier. Many aparthotels also have meeting rooms which mean there is no need to find a local venue for meetings. This makes having meetings much more efficient and helps boost productivity.
Prime Locations
Location is an important factor when choosing corporate accommodation and aparthotels are often strategically positioned near business districts or close to major transport hubs. This means that getting to the office, conference centre or simply getting around is very easy.
For example, staying in an aparthotel in a central business district reduces commute times, allowing professionals to maximize their efficiency. Proximity to public transport also makes it convenient to navigate the city and attend off-site meetings or events.
Cons of Aparthotels
Limited On-Demand Services
Aparthotels do offer a high degree of independence; however,they can lack some of the more traditional on-demand services found in a hotel. This includes facilities like room service, 24-hour front desk assistance, and even concierge services, which may not be as readily available.
Those who like room service or require immediate assistance at any time may find the lack of these types of service in an aparthotel off-putting. This is something that many aparthotels are working on improving but they are not quite there yet.
Varied Quality and Standards
Due to factors like location and provider, the quality and standards of aparthotels can vary significantly. Some aparthotels offer luxurious, high-end accommodations, whilst others may be a little more basic and less well-maintained.
It is important for business travellers to do some research and check out reviews before booking an aparthotel. This will help to ensure that the chosen accommodation meets any expectations and offers the necessary comfort and amenities for a productive stay.
Fewer Social Interaction Opportunities
Traditional hotels have social spaces like bars, lounges, and even communal dining areas. This means that guests can socialise if they want. Aparthotels on the other hand, focus on privacy and independence which means there may be less opportunities for social interaction.
Those business travellers who enjoy networking or meeting new people during their trips may consider this to be a drawback. Many aparthotels are looking at ways to changethis and are adding communal areas.
Privacy can be an advantage of aparthotels, but it can also lead to feelings of isolation, particularly for those corporate travellers on extended stays. Staying alone in an aparthotel can lack the sense of community found in traditional hotels.
Inconsistent Service Levels
The level of service in aparthotels can often be inconsistent, particularly in any properties where potential cost savings are prioritised over cost savings. Things like delayed housekeeping, maintenance problems, or even unresponsive management can have an impact on the quality of the stay.
This is why it is important to choose reputable aparthotel providers who have established track records and plenty of positive reviews in order to minimise any risks. Any concerns should be voiced immediately to management, so they have the most opportunity to rectify those issues during the stay.