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KNOW YOUR DEALS

Feel at home: Serviced apartments come with all top-end facilities.

As the name suggests, they are simply flats that comes with housekeeping services. These facilities, structured along residential buildings, offer catering, laundry, housekeeping, secretarial and business services to the guests. They also offer the convenience of a home as they come with a kitchen and separate bedroom. In essence, they are homes away from home. Serviced apartments are good for those who prefer staying at home. They can cook their own food if they want to. This makes a long stay away from home more comfortable. It affords the privacy people need.

The most significant feature of serviced apartments, especially for single women, is the security they offer. They come with round-the-clock security and a receptionist who screens visitors. With limited access to the rooms, it is safe for women staying alone for long periods.

Also, invariably, in case of serviced apartments, the lobby manager and housekeeping personnel will be familiar with the guest. So the guest is fully aware of the identity of everyone who has access to the room and floor. It is possible to receive guests without compromising on security, as the apartments come with a lobby and cafe.

Serviced apartments can be booked through realtors and directly as in the case of hotels. They are easy to locate through the Internet. Also, many a time, people prefer to stay in the one they are used to. So, finding a good serviced apartment needs some scouting.

Generally, a serviced apartment has some standard facilities such as kitchen with cutlery, crockery, stove, fridge and microwave; furnished living space; separate bedroom with spare linen; TV and music system; split air conditioners in all rooms; bathroom with all amenities; telephone and Internet.

Choose one closest to your work place; check for security; ensure the apartment allows you to stay the length of time you need to stay.

Some have restrictions on the number of days you can stay in them at a time; check for essential services such as housekeeping and laundry; look through the kitchen if you plan to do your own cooking and ensure it meets your requirements in terms of hygiene and amenities; if you have the need for medical assistance often, ensure there is help close by.

These facilities are good ideally for business travellers. Sometimes, tourists too use them. It is best to evaluate the facilities they offer and your needs before choosing a serviced apartment or hotel. For example, do you need the Internet facility while on a holiday? Or are you particular about eating food prepared by you only? Serviced apartments are a solution to those who want the benefits of an independent house wherever they go.

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