Staying in a serviced apartment

Trying to choose a place to live is stressful at the best of times. When you’re moving to a new country, there’s the added challenge of doing everything remotely and in a place you probably haven’t visited before.

That’s on top of starting a new job, navigating your way around a new city, and getting used to a new culture.

Choosing to stay in a serviced apartment can be one way to reduce the stress of relocating. It takes some of the pressure off research and house hunting while you’re still overseas. It can also give you more breathing space to get used to your new life when you arrive.

It’s an option that a lot of expats are choosing when they first move. Hong Kong serviced apartments are becoming increasingly popular and in places like the UK they can be more popular than hotels for expats, tourists, and business travellers alike.

Great things about staying at a serviced apartment

• They feel more like home than a hotel, and often work out cheaper – especially because they offer discounts for longer term stays. Serviced apartments often have cooking facilities, if not a full kitchen.
• They’re often located centrally and near services like supermarkets and public transport. This makes them the perfect base to begin exploring your new city.
• You get all the basic amenities of a home, including linen, towels, and kitchen utensils. These items are usually ones you leave behind when you move (in fact, we suggest it). Sometimes there’ll also be tea, coffee, and other basics to welcome you.
• It gives you time to find the right place to live permanently. You can explore the neighbourhoods, get recommendations, take the time to keep an eye on the market, and actually visit potential houses.
• There are often other shared facilities – like swimming pools and gyms – for residents. There’s usually a local concierge too, so if you need help or advice you can easily get it.
• It’s your own space – unlike many Airbnbs or similar shorter-term stay options.

Some of the down sides of serviced apartments

• It can be more expensive long-term than moving into a house or independant apartment, or some other short-term options.
• Your neighbours could be changing frequently. Many apartments are used by business travellers and tourists.
• It might not feel as much like home as you were hoping. The building, set up, and size of serviced apartments varies.
• Quality, service, and amenities can vary. Always check reviews first.

Not choosing a serviced apartment but looking for other helpful home services? Links may be able to help you with a maid service or handyman to get your home ready for your arrival.