Type of Service Apartment
Serviced apartments range from hotel rooms with kitchenettes to luxury penthouse apartments. Are you looking for basic furnishings or a designer finish to the place you will temporarily call home? Serviced apartments are furnished so that guests need only bring toiletries and clothes with them. The accommodation you choose will depend on the length of your stay, your budget, the reason for your stay, and the composition of your group.
Group Composition
Are you looking for a serviced apartment just for you, or are you staying with your family, business colleagues or a group of friends? The composition of the group will be a primary factor in determining the location, size of apartment and the facilities you are looking for. If you know in advance that colleagues, friends, or family will drop by to visit, then think about renting a space that has a pull-out bed or an extra bedroom for guests.
Location
Many serviced apartments are located in city centres, sought after locations convenient for commuting, sightseeing and entertainment amenities. The reason for your stay will help determine a suitable location; do you want easy access to your business market, office or clients, or be near the main tourist attractions? Think about your requirements for public transport, motorways, or even the airport.
Facilities and Services
If your stay is business related and your apartment needs to serve as a home office, ensure that the telecommunication facilities are adequate for your needs. Check you have mobile phone coverage, internet broadband or WIFI services and a landline telephone in the accommodation. Other services range from place to place, and from country to country, so check that the facilities you require are available. Consider cleaning and laundry services, handyman services, sports and leisure amenities, parking, car rental, shopping, beauty, and catering facilities. Decide what entertainment services are important to you in your serviced apartment; you may want familiar television channels and need a satellite service, or desire access to a music entertainment centre.
Security
If you are a single person staying in a foreign country, then security may be a bigger priority for you than for a group on holiday. The security features of serviced apartments vary, and before you start looking for suitable accommodation, consider the level of security you want. Do background checks on the apartment's location and on the safety of the neighbourhood. Look at the parking facilities from a security point of view. Ask if there is a 24-hour manned reception, a concierge present, or a video entry system. Determine who has access to the apartment keys. Verify security features of the apartment; spy holes, window locks, type of locks on the door. If you are bringing expensive equipment or sensitive documentation, then enquire about a personal safe or deposit box.
Safety
Consider the safety aspects of living in serviced accommodation. Do you need disabled access or emergency medical services on site or nearby? Would you be more comfortable knowing there is 24-hour assistance should you need it? If there is an issue with any aspect of the apartment, ask how long you can expect to wait for a resolution.
Cost
As serviced apartments appeal to both the business and leisure traveller, rental prices can increase considerably in peak season in tourist locations. If you are on a tight budget, then you may need to reconsider your location or travel period if it is a hot spot for tourists. Check which services and utilities are included in your bill, and the billing frequency. Consider the invoicing and payment process when you are looking for a serviced apartment. Should the bill go directly to your employer, or do you receive an allowance to pay the costs directly?
Thinking about your requirements prior to signing an agreement on a serviced apartment will save you lots of legwork, so a little planning is time well invested. You can use ExpatFinder.com's free and easy search for serviced apartments in your area.
More Expat Resources
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