A Guide to Finding the Right Accommodation for Extended Stays

Planning an extended trip? Stays that span more than two weeks, often extending to months, require more than just a bed to sleep in; they require a home away from home. Whether for work, leisure, or a blend of both, the right accommodation is key to enjoying your long-term adventure. 

Forget cramped yet expensive hotels — this guide will explore the best accommodation options for long-term stays. We’ll share tips on how to find budget-friendly yet comfortable lodgings and essential advice to make your extended travel experience seamless.

Types of Accommodation for Extended Stays

1. Extended-Stay Hotels

Extended-stay hotels are designed specifically for longer stays, offering larger rooms or suites equipped with kitchenettes. These hotels often provide additional perks like complimentary breakfast, social events, and sometimes discounted rates for weekly or monthly bookings.

• Pros: Hotel amenities (gym, pool, business center), social opportunities, daily housekeeping, perfect for business travellers. 
• Cons: Higher cost than other options, less personalized space compared to apartments.

2. Serviced Apartments

Serviced apartments offer a blend of hotel comfort and home-like amenities, making them ideal for long-term stays, particularly for those with a larger budget. Unlike standard hotels, they’re more spacious and come fully furnished, often including a living space, separate bedroom/s, kitchen, and dining area. If you’re a busy traveller, you’ll love the amenities like housekeeping, Wi-Fi, and laundry facilities. 

For instance, this serviced apartment in Amsterdam has 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments or lofts, fully furnished with large kitchens and a comfortable lounging area. Other perks include bike storage, grocery and restaurant delivery, and fitness centre. 

• Pros: Privacy, more space, cost-effective compared to hotels, access to home-like amenities. More likely to have pet-friendly policies. 
• Cons: Limited social interaction, possibly fewer on-site facilities than hotels.

3. Vacation Rentals (Airbnb, Vrbo)

Vacation rentals can be an excellent option for long stays, especially in more remote or less urban areas. Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo allow travelers to rent entire homes, apartments, or even unique stays like cottages or tiny homes.

• Pros: Wide variety of options, potential for significant savings, home-like environment.
• Cons: Variability in quality, potential hidden costs, less consistent service.

4. Coliving Spaces

Coliving spaces have gained popularity, especially among digital nomads and young professionals. Among the common coliving establishments are shared apartments, houses, and studios. These spaces offer private rooms within a shared living environment, usually with communal kitchens and living areas. They are designed to foster community among residents.

• Pros: Cost-effective, social environment, usually located in trendy neighborhoods.
• Cons: Less privacy, the potential for noise, or conflicts with roommates.

5. Hostels

While hostels are typically associated with short-term stays for travelers, they have become increasingly popular for longer-term stays. You can book shared, dormitory-style rooms or private rooms. Amenities can vary but you can typically expect basic facilities like shared kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. Unlike other co-living spaces, hostels are often located in central locations, making it easy to explore the city.

• Pros: Cost-effectiveness, social atmosphere, and location are three of the major perks of staying in a hostel. Some hostels may also offer organized activities.
• Cons: Hostels aren’t for those who value their privacy, as they come with shared bathrooms and kitchens. Noise and limited security are also concerns. 

Note: Not all hostels offer extended stays. Some may have specific minimum or maximum stay requirements, so it’s essential to inquire about their policies before booking. 

Factors to Consider when Choosing an Accommodation

• Budget: Determine your budget and compare costs across different options.
• Amenities: Consider the amenities that are important to you, such as a kitchen, laundry facilities, or on-site gym.
• Location: Think about the location and proximity to your desired activities or attractions.
• Lifestyle: Consider your lifestyle and preferences, such as whether you prefer a social or independent living environment.

Budget-Friendly Tips for Extended Stays

• Cook at Home: Having a kitchen can save you money on dining out. Shop at local markets or grocery stores for affordable ingredients.
• Utilize Public Transportation: Skip taxis. Instead, familiarise your city and take advantage of public transportation when getting around. 
• Find Free Activities: Explore free attractions, parks, and museums in your destination.
• Explore Local Neighborhoods: Connect with local communities or social groups to discover hidden gems and participate in free events.
• Create a Routine: Establish a daily routine to maintain a sense of normalcy and reduce stress.
• Learn the Local Language: Basic language skills can enhance your experience and make your stay more enjoyable.
• Connect with Locals: Engage with locals to gain insights into the culture and discover hidden gems.
• Take Care of Yourself: Prioritize self-care by exercising, eating healthy, and getting enough sleep.

Armed with these tips, you can explore the various accommodation options and find the perfect fit for your long-term stay.

Author Bio: Carmina Natividad is a free-spirited writer who hates being locked up at home. She loves traveling, eating, taking food and streetscape photographs, and simply enjoying new experiences and writing about them. To know more about hotels and travel blogs, you may visit PREMIER SUITES PLUS Amsterdam