Extended-Stay Review: An Exploration of Benefits and Potential Drawbacks
Recent years have seen a marked increase in extended-stay travel, especially within the United States. This trend has been fueled by a variety of factors, such as the growth of the sharing economy, an increasingly mobile workforce, and the desire for budget-friendly lodging options (Khan, 2018). While extended-stay travel can provide numerous benefits, such as cost savings, increased flexibility, and a feeling of home away from home, it is not without potential drawbacks. As such, this paper will explore both the benefits and potential drawbacks of extended-stay travel.
One of the primary benefits of extended-stay travel is the cost savings. Extended-stay hotels typically offer weekly and monthly rates that are significantly lower than those of traditional hotels (Khan, 2018). Additionally, some extended-stay hotels offer amenities such as free breakfast, free parking, and free Wi-Fi, further reducing the cost of the stay (Khan, 2018). In addition to cost savings, extended-stay travel can also offer increased flexibility. Extended-stay hotels often allow guests to book their stays for as little as one night, which is ideal for travelers who need to make last-minute changes to their plans (Khan, 2018).
Extended-stay travel can also provide a sense of home away from home. As opposed to traditional hotels, extended-stay hotels typically offer larger rooms and more home-like amenities, such as kitchenettes and living areas (Khan, 2018). This can make extended-stay travel more comfortable and enjoyable for guests who are looking for a home-like atmosphere.
Despite the many benefits of extended-stay travel, there are also potential drawbacks. One of the primary drawbacks is the lack of amenities. Although many extended-stay hotels offer basic amenities such as Wi-Fi and breakfast, they often lack more luxurious amenities such as spas, fitness centers, and swimming pools (Khan, 2018). Additionally, extended-stay hotels are typically located in more residential areas, which can mean that they are located farther away from attractions, restaurants, and other activities (Khan, 2018).
In conclusion, extended-stay travel can provide numerous benefits, such as cost savings, increased flexibility, and a home-like atmosphere. However, there are also potential drawbacks, such as the lack of amenities and the potential for extended-stay hotels to be located farther away from attractions. As such, travelers should carefully consider the pros and cons of extended-stay travel before booking their stays.
References
Khan, M. (2018). Advantages and disadvantages of extended-stay travel. Travel Pulse. Retrieved from https://www.travelpulse.com/news/hotels-and-resorts/advantages-and-disadvantages-of-extended-stay-travel.html