Many jobs require their employees to leave town for an extended period of time. During this time, the best accommodations are usually corporate lodging options. These alternatives provide more comfortable living environments for the employee, making them feel at home in an environment that they are not used to. In addition, corporate lodging can also be more cost-effective for today’s employers. If you are in need of temporary housing, learn more about 7 things you should look for to choose the right accommodations for you.
1 – Good Location
First, a good location is key when you are selecting lodging. Obviously, you want to spend your temporary time in a nice place. However, if it is too far from your work, it will be a hassle. Other factors might influence your decision as well. For example, if you are working for a few months in Washington D.C., you will need to pick a location that has good access to the metro. If you are unfamiliar with the area, ask the people you are working with for suggestions of areas to move.
2 – Furnished
Since your stay will be temporary, you need a place that comes furnished. This allows you to arrive with a bed to sleep on. It also requires no moving in and no moving out. Instead, you simply have to maintain the place. Keep in mind that depending on the size of your lodging you could have a lot of furniture or a little. Some people rent small studio apartments, while others rent larger condos. Regardless of the size, you do not want some of the rooms to be empty during your stay.
3 – Kitchen
In addition to furniture, you might also enjoy having a kitchen to cook at. This will help you save on the cost of food. After all, your company may not pay for meals on this business trip since it is more permanent than a traditional business trip.
4 – Amenities
For life to be comfortable in your new surroundings, you will need a few amenities that you probably already have at your own home or in your neighborhood. This includes some of the following things:
These features allow employees to continue living their normal life away from home. They can workout in the morning, Skype with their family at night, and watch their favorite TV shows before bed.
5 – Flexible Terms
One thing to look for with corporate lodging options is that their terms are flexible. Unlike standard apartment rentals that require yearly contracts or expensive month-to-month agreements, corporate lodging options should provide flexible terms that allow people to come and go when they need to based off their work schedule. Typically, the employee can work out an agreement with the lodging company prior to their stay. When they arrive, their utilities will be turned on. They will also have fresh linens available for them to use.
6 – Privacy
Many people forgo the traditional hotels for an extended stay because they are not private enough. You can hear the conversations of the guests in the other room, and you constantly see people coming and going. If you want something more private, look for a corporate lodging option like a condo or apartment that provides you with a little bit more space. Most likely, you will not feel like you are as closely connected to the other people that are staying in the area. This way if you need to work during the day or late at night, you will not be distracted. You will also feel comfortable inviting guests over to your hotel or inviting your family for a visit.
7- Atmosphere
Finally, it is important that you like the atmosphere of the corporate lodging you plan on staying in. Many people make the mistake of assuming they will spend the majority of their time in the office during this extended trip. However, this is not always the case. Instead, they tend to spend more time than normal at their accommodations because they have no one to spend time with. A good atmosphere will keep them happy and entertained when they get bored.
Obviously there is no better place to stay than the comfort of your own home. However, when you cannot live at home, the next best option is to go to the place that most resembles your home. That place is a corporate lodging option. Look for one the next time you are leaving town on business for an extended period of time. You will be glad you did.