Inviting stays

The uncertain economy does not appear to be putting a dent on overseas business trips. A recent survey by Deloitte found that corporate travel is expected to ‘take off’ in 2012 as more Millennials and Gen X employees are sent on foreign assignments.

Eighty-five per cent of business travellers surveyed expect to take more or the same number of trips next year, with 27% of 18-44 year olds expecting to take more trips in 2012. This upward trend certainly bodes well for the hospitality industry, and service providers are constantly upping the ante to differentiate themselves from the competition. However, with hotels and serviced apartments both being popular choices, how do you decide between the two?

Hotels stays

One of the main draws of business hotels is their proximity to central business districts, which means that guests can zip in and out of meetings quickly and efficiently. Many such hotels also come with their own convention facilities that are able to host large-scale meetings and conferences.

In general, hotels cater more to the short-term travellers and the room inventory and room size is smaller in comparison to a serviced apartment, says Leung Yi Wen, Marketing Communications Manager, Carlton Hotel Singapore. However, guests benefit from a daily room cleaning and other value-adds like daily breakfast and a free laundry service of up to two pieces per stay.

Many hotels are also offering luxury room fittings and amenities to attract guests. At Carlton Hotel, all new Premier and Premier Club Rooms come equipped with high-speed wireless internet, a moveable ergonomic glass table, a Herman Miller chair as well as a Sealy Posturepedic mattress.

Busy executives who are looking for fuss-free dining options would appreciate the unique all-inclusive service at Quincy Hotel. Guests are served three meals a day at the hotel’s restaurant. They can also enjoy complimentary cocktails, beers and other drinks between 6pm and 8pm.

Serviced apartments – a home away from home

Business travellers who prefer the luxury and comfort of a home-style environment might prefer to stay at a serviced apartment. Normally larger than a standard hotel room, these apartments often feature multiple bedrooms, and are suitable for families. In many countries, such as Singapore, most serviced apartments require a minimum stay of seven nights, making them suitable for longer stays. From a cost perspective, serviced apartments’ monthly rates are perceived to be marginally lower than hotel rates.

Serviced apartments come equipped with facilities like a separate dining area, kitchenette, fridge, washing machine and dryer, cable television, DVD player and internet access. “This allows our guests to simply move straight in without having to worry about finding a new home,” says Tan Boon Khai, Regional General Manager for Singapore and Malaysia, The Ascott Limited.

Unlike hotels, where guests are generally isolated from each other, operators of serviced apartments organise certain extras that create a more community-like environment. “We offer personalised services, such as helping our guests to understand the local culture, helping them out with their daily needs, showing them where the shops and local attractions are, as well as finding international schools for their children,” says Graeme Laird, Senior Vice President, Lanson Place Hospitality Management.

Over at Ascott, a host went the extra mile for a Korean guest by equipping the apartment with an electric rice cooker and a selection of Korean food staples, like rice and kimchi, shares Tan.