Traveling away from home is an experience that comes with its own set of ups and downs. Everywhere you are has something to offer and experience, no matter where you go. But, when you’re away from home, it can cause a sense of loneliness and loneliness can make it harder for you to appreciate and feel connected to a place. That’s why many travelers opt for hotel living to get the feeling of a home away from home.
What is Hotel Living?
Hotel living is a term used to describe the experience of staying in a hotel for an extended period of time (typically over a few days). It is a way to experience the environment away from the hustle and bustle of the typical traveler’s life on the go, while still having the comfort and convenience of modern amenities.
Benefits of Hotel Living
There are many benefits to hotel living, such as:
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Safety – Hotel living provides a measure of safety that you don’t have in many other accommodations. Hotel staff are trained in customer service and safety protocols to ensure that your stay is as safe and secure as possible.
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Comfort and Convenience – Hotel living doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort. Many hotels offer a range of amenity options, from all-inclusive packages, to pool and fitness centers. Many also offer room service, so you don’t have to leave the comfort of your room to get a delicious meal.
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Locality – One of the great things about hotel living is its proximity to a city’s tourism options. You’ll be able to easily explore local sights, sounds, and attractions as well as take advantage of the hotel’s services to facilitate a neighborhood experience.
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Cost Savings – The advantages of hotel living often extend beyond the comfort and convenience of the stay itself. Long-term hotel stays can be cost-effective and may offer cheaper nightly rates than other types of accommodations. It may also be more economical than having to purchase multiple bus or train tickets in the course of the stay.
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Accessibility – Hotel living also tends to be easier to access than other types of lodging, especially in major cities. Hotels are well known, so if you’re using a navigation system it’s likely that it will be able to identify the hotel and give you clear directions.
How to Find a Home Away from Home
Whether you’re planning on a short or lengthier stay, renting a hotel room is an affordable way to experience a city and create a sense of belonging, here’s how to find the best hotel for your particular needs:
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Consider Hotel Chains – A reliable and inexpensive option when choosing a hotel is to consider staying in a chain property, such as an international brand like Hilton, Holiday Inn or Marriott, or a smaller regional one. These hotels often offer loyalty and rewards programs that allow you to receive discounts on future stays. Additionally, if you need to cancel your stay for whatever reason, you may receive full or partial refunds depending on the policy of the hotel chain.
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Research Reputation – It pays to research the reputation of your chosen hotels before booking. Look for reviews from past guests, as well as comparison ratings from industry sites such as Booking.com or TripAdvisor. Additionally, use search engines to find out whether there have been any complaints about the hotel, and find out if the hotel has been cited for health code violations or other issues.
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Look for Deals – You can often find great deals for your hotel stay if you book ahead of time, especially if you’re staying for an extended period. Most hotel chains have advance purchase discounts, and you can also try searching for coupon codes online.
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Compare Rates – Don’t be too quick to book a room. Take the time to compare rates offered by the hotel and its competitors. You may be able to find similar amenities with a better rate, or have added bonuses such as free Wi-Fi or airport shuttle service.
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Make Amenities Count – Once you are ready to book, look at the amenities offered and consider choosing a hotel based on added incentives that best suit your particular needs. For instance, if you’re traveling with kids, make sure you opt for a hotel that offers a swimming pool and/or playground.
Making the Most of Hotel Living
When you’ve chosen the right hotel for your needs, it’s time to start making the most of your hotel living experience. Here are some tips to help you feel at home in your hotel:
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Embrace Your Routine – One of the great things about hotel living is that you can create your own routine. Wake up a bit earlier and go for a morning walk around the city, or use the gym and other amenities that are available. Schedule in some time each day to call your friends and family back home, or take time each evening to plan out your next day’s activities.
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Get to Know the Staff – Hotel staff are especially helpful to travelers and many have useful advice on the best places to visit in the city. Don’t be afraid to chat with the staff at reception or housekeeping – they are one of your best sources of information and will do their best to ensure you have a comfortable stay.
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Make Your Room Your Home – Give your room a personal touch, even if it may be temporary. Pack a few items from home like books or artwork to make yourself comfortable and familiarize your space. You can also purchase small items, such as plants, to make your room feel like a home away from home.
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Explore the Neighborhood – Much of traveling abroad is about discovering the local culture. Take some time each day to explore the areas around your hotel and get to know the locals. Listen to regional music, eat at local restaurants, and go to community events.
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Live in the Moment – Most importantly, don’t spend your whole stay inside your hotel room. Take advantage of the city and enjoy your stay – live in the moment, capture memories, and take in all that the city has to offer.
Hotel living can be a great way to experience a destination without having to uproot. With the right hotel, you can rest assured that you will have a comfortable, convenient, and safe stay while you explore a city away from home. With a bit of planning, the right accommodations, and a touch of personalization, hotel living can be just like being at home but with a new and exciting view.