More and more modern travelers are moving away from luxurious five-star hotels in search of a home away from home. After long months of COVID isolation, the concept of aparthotels has begun to gain serious popularity. Let's take a look at what this "affordable comfort" that is conquering Europe looks like and who this type of vacation is suitable for.
What is an aparthotel?
It looks like an apartment complex with limited hotel-style services and reservations. Tourists can rent an apartment for a day, a week, a month, or even several years, depending on the company. Apartments of this type are designed by the same group of designers. They must not only be aesthetically pleasing, but also have a clear layout to meet the expectations of guests regardless of the country they are visiting. Functionality plays an equally important role: each studio must be fully equipped. This means that upon arrival, you can expect to find kitchen appliances, irons and ironing boards, a washing machine or communal laundry facilities, and other household items. Guests don't just stay here, they live here.
Differences from Airbnb
There is no reception desk at the aparthotel. Reservations are made online. If any problems arise, guests contact customer support. What's new here, you might ask. And indeed, it sounds like the well-known Airbnb platform. However, communication on Airbnb takes place with the apartment owner. At the same time, they may be in another country and not always have a phone at hand.
Apartment hotels offer 24/7 support. They are serviced by a small local team. The same team also inspects the apartments. The registration procedure is also different. Check-in is done exclusively online. Guests are provided with digital codes to open doors, which means they are not tied to a specific arrival time. On the Airbnb platform, these details are discussed separately with the apartment owner and may vary depending on the landlord.
Who is an apart-hotel suitable for?
This type of accommodation is suitable for people who are comfortable with technology and have a sufficient level of English to explain any issues to customer service. Alternatively, you need to be prepared to use Google Translate. This type of traveler strives for independence: they don't need daily cleaning or concierge advice. Aparthotels are suitable for solo travelers, couples, small groups of friends, business travelers, digital nomads, and families with children.
Representatives
Among the prominent representatives of the new wave in the hospitality industry, we would like to mention Bob W, Numa, STAYERY, Be Mate Apartments. Essentially, they all offer the same services in European cities. They differ mainly in terms of customer service hours and complimentary bonuses for guests.
My personal experience with Bob W was very positive: quick registration process, convenient "keys" that I could share with my guests, lots of small locally made gifts, access to a washing machine, a fully equipped kitchen, a list of recommended places to visit, and free access to the gym. If I wanted, I could purchase a voucher for breakfast at a nearby café. I didn't think this was necessary, given that there was a kitchen in the apartment and many picturesque cafés scattered throughout the area. I was particularly pleased with the small details, such as ceramic mugs and paintings by local artists.
You won't find white slippers and terrycloth bathrobes waiting for you at an aparthotel, but if the company knows what it's doing, you'll have everything you need for relaxation, work, and entertainment. Have a pleasant stay!
