The accommodation industry has evolved a lot since Astra Apartments launched in 2001. Back in those days, the concept of “corporate apartments” or “long stay accommodation” was in its infancy in Australia. Hotels were the go-to for corporate travellers, regardless of whether it was for a short-term or long-term stay.
Fast forward two decades, blue-chip corporates and Government departments now regularly use corporate apartments for their long-stay needs. Companies that experienced this niche-style accommodation saw the value, and their employees loved the experience of having their own apartment when away for a week or more.
But for new travel bookers, or for those that typically only source short stay accommodation, even today, the corporate apartment concept is still foreign. So when a long-stay requirement comes through, sourcing options beyond hotels is not front of mind.
However, when it comes to extended stays, where you choose to lay your head can make all the difference.
If it’s for less than a week, standard and extended stay hotels are the clear winner. From concierge services, beautiful hotel rooms, daily housekeeping, food and beverage options and fantastic facilities, there’s a lot to love. However, for longer stays, corporate apartments provide a very different travel experience for all.
Here’s how corporate apartments differ from hotels for extended stays
Space To Unwind
Imagine coming back to a place that feels like home—where every room is yours to inhabit. Corporate Apartments provide generous living areas, separate bedrooms, and fully equipped kitchens, giving travellers the freedom to spread out and live comfortably. Whether you’re staying for weeks or months, having space to unwind after a long day is invaluable. Whilst some extended stay hotels offer larger floorplans, many will still be smaller than a residential-sized apartment.
Cost Effective Living
Long-term stays in hotels can quickly add up, with costs piling on for every meal and service used. Whilst some offer kitchenettes, most won’t have a full-sized kitchen. Apartments offer a cost-effective solution with lower nightly rates over an extended period, and the ability to prepare your meals – the way you would at home. Save on dining out and enjoy the convenience of grocery shopping like a local, all while maintaining control over your budget.
Privacy and Personalisation
Forget about daily housekeeping and the interruptions from other guests coming and going. Corporate Apartments are in private residential buildings, so they grant you privacy and the freedom to tailor your environment to your liking. Create a personalised living space where you can live according to your schedule, whether it’s working late or relaxing without disturbance.
Community and Local Living
Live like a local by staying in residential neighbourhoods rather than tourist-heavy hotel zones. Engage with the community, explore local markets, and discover hidden gems that only residents know about. Apartments immerse you in the authentic rhythm of daily life, offering a deeper connection to your surroundings.
Convenience and Amenities
Apartments often come equipped with amenities that rival those of hotels, such as gyms, pools, and spaces for collaboration. Enjoy the best of both worlds with the comfort of home and the conveniences of a hotel at your fingertips.
Flexibility and Cost Control
Whether you’re away for work, relocating or even having an extended stay for personal reasons, corporate apartments offer peace of mind with their stable nightly rates and flexible booking terms. Stay for as long as you need without the fear of rate spikes, constraints of leases or the hassle of frequent check-outs.
The Verdict
In the battle of long-term accommodations, apartments emerge as the clear winner for those seeking comfort, value, and a genuine living experience. Accessing this type of accommodation is becoming easier for bookers too. They can, of course, go direct to the location, but in addition, for Corporate Apartment providers like Astra Apartments, most properties can be booked on the GDS or the travel managers booking platform. In the case of Astra Apartments, it’s as simple as searching “Astra” along with the location, or by using the property codes. Discover the difference today and make extended stays feel less like a temporary arrangement and more like home sweet home.