Why More Travelers Are Swapping Hotels for Serviced Apartments

Travelling today looks very different from how it did a few years ago. People are staying longer, working remotely while on the move, and looking for spaces that feel less like a stopover and more like a real home. In this new travel style, hotels are no longer the automatic first choice. Many are now choosing serviced apartments instead, finding they offer a fresh kind of freedom that hotels often cannot match.

One of the biggest reasons behind this shift is comfort. While hotels can offer luxury, their rooms are often small and designed mainly for short stays. Serviced apartments, on the other hand, provide more space to spread out. A living room to relax in, a kitchen to cook in, and a separate bedroom all add up to a much more relaxed way of living. For those spending a week or longer in a city, being able to eat a homemade meal or simply lounge around without feeling cramped makes a big difference.

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Cost is another key factor. At first glance, hotel rates might seem competitive, but extra charges quickly add up. Things like laundry services, room service, and eating out every night can push the final bill much higher. Meanwhile, a serviced flat often bundles these needs into the price. Washing machines, fully equipped kitchens, and cleaning services are usually part of the deal, saving travellers money without sacrificing comfort.

Flexibility also plays a big role. In hotels, guests often feel tied to check-in and check-out times. Staying in a serviced apartment allows for a more casual routine. Early mornings or late nights are easier when you have your own key, your own kitchen, and a space that feels entirely yours. It feels less like being a guest and more like having a temporary second home.

Business travellers especially have found great value in this change. Many companies now encourage longer stays for project-based work, training, or new office openings. A standard hotel room simply doesn’t meet the needs of someone staying for weeks or even months. A serviced apartment provides enough space to set up a laptop, take calls, and unwind after work without the feeling of being stuck inside one room.

Families, too, are seeing the advantages. Travelling with children often means needing room to move, options for quick meals, and spaces to rest during the day. Hotel stays with kids can quickly feel stressful and limited, but a full apartment gives everyone their own corner, making the whole experience more enjoyable.

Even the travel mindset has changed. Many now travel for a mix of business and leisure—what some call “bleisure.” Having a base that works for both work calls and weekend exploring is easier when staying in a serviced flat compared to a hotel room designed mainly for short, tourist-heavy visits.

Location choices have improved as well. In the past, hotels often had better spots near city centres. Now, however, serviced apartments are available in almost every popular area, from business hubs to quiet neighbourhoods. This allows travellers to live among locals and experience cities in a way that feels more authentic.

While hotels still have their place—especially for very short trips or luxury holidays—many travellers no longer see them as the only option. The rise of fully equipped, well-located serviced apartments has added a fresh choice to the accommodation scene. For those valuing space, savings, and a feeling of home, it’s an easy switch to make.

As the travel world continues to evolve, one thing seems clear: travellers are asking for more from where they stay. They want freedom, comfort, and value all in one place. And they are finding it not behind a hotel desk, but behind the door of their own temporary home.