Shortlet Apartment vs Hotel: Which is Best for Your Vacation Rental Needs? 

Staying in a hotel or short-term apartment is a constant debate when traveling for vacation. Your choice can significantly impact your travel experience. But there are many factors to consider. In this article, you will learn about some factors to consider whether you are traveling alone, with family, or for a few days.  

Quick Decision Guide 

Choose a hotel if you: 

• Stay 1-2 nights 

• Value daily housekeeping 

• Want front desk service 

• Prefer included breakfast 

• Arrive after long flights 

Choose an apartment if you: 

• Stay 3+ nights 

• Travel with family/groups 

• Want to self-cater 

• Prefer more living space 

• Seek a local experience 

• Cost Considerations 
  The cost difference between hotels and apartments is often minimal for couples. However, apartments typically offer better value for larger groups or families. Although apartments may seem more economical initially, factor in additional costs like cleaning fees and security deposits. One significant cost advantage of apartments is the ability to prepare meals, which can lead to substantial savings on dining expenses. 
  
• Length of Stay 
  Also, consider the duration of your stay.  If you are staying for one or two nights, hotels are generally the more convenient choice. Apartments shine when you’re staying three nights or longer, as they offer better value and the opportunity to settle in properly. However, you can do both if you have been traveling for days and need to rest immediately.  
  
  Shortlets often have longer check-in times, so they won’t be ideal if you are tired from lengthy travel. In such situations, you should book a hotel for your first night after a long international flight to avoid waiting for apartment check-in while dealing with jet lag. 
  
• Space and Comfort 
  Apartments typically offer more living space than standard hotel rooms. You’ll usually get separate bedrooms, a living area, and a kitchen – perfect for spreading out and feeling at home. If you are traveling with your partner and have different schedules, you will appreciate the comfort shortlet apartment provides. This setup at vacation rentals allows one person to wake up early and make coffee without disturbing others who are still sleeping.  
  
  Also, hotels have a strict timeline for meals like breakfast, lunch, and dinner if they are included in your services. If you sleep in late, you might not be able to get your meal. But in an apartment, you can prepare meals at any time. Having a washing machine is another comfort factor many travelers appreciate, especially during longer stays. 

In some apartments, you can get extra premium services like a chauffeur and city tour, which comes in handy if you have to move around a lot while on vacation.

• Services and Support
  Hotels excel in the service department with daily housekeeping, front desk assistance, and often included breakfast. While apartments might not offer these amenities, many owners and managers make themselves available for questions and support. Additionally, some apartments provide extra support services like dry cleaning, daily change of sheets, and more at additional prices. So, if you want to experience these services, you can look for apartment rentals like the Dreamfield Apt bg2 Liberty Court 5 Ikate Lekki Lagos that offer such services.

• Traveler-Specific Factors
  Your travel group’s composition heavily influences which option works best. If you are traveling as a family with young children, shortlet apartments are ideal for the kitchen facilities and separate bedrooms. In contrast, couples might enjoy the pampering of a hotel. A group of friends will appreciate the communal spaces that the apartments offer. Special occasions like Christmas or honeymoons might warrant splurging on a hotel’s luxury services.
  
  If you are traveling to Lagos, Nigeria, you can check out the Dreamfield Apt 1b in Parkview Estate Ikoyi Lagos, which offers 4 bedrooms and other services. This apartment is ideal for families who want space, privacy, and a feeling of home while on vacation.

• Self-Catering vs. Hotel Dining
  Hotels often include breakfast, ranging from simple continental options to elaborate buffets. Apartments offer the flexibility to prepare meals but require grocery shopping and cleanup. Consider whether the savings on dining out justify the time spent cooking and shopping.

• Entertainment and Connectivity
  Most modern apartments and hotels offer WiFi, though connection quality can vary by location. If you are working while on vacation, you will appreciate the connectivity features available in apartments. Additionally, some apartments provide additional entertainment options like gaming consoles, DVD players, or smart TVs.
  
  At Dreamfield Apartments, we ensure all our rentals have connectivity and entertainment features, allowing you to have the complete home-away-from-home experience. You can watch your favorite shows, keep up with sports, and other information.

• Local Experience
  Apartments often offer the chance to stay in residential neighborhoods, providing a more authentic local experience. Hotels typically cluster in tourist areas with easier access to attractions. If you want an authentic local life while on vacation so you can try out meals, you should choose a vacation rental apartment.
  
  Since the short-let apartments are in residential areas, you can have neighbors, build bonds, and maintain routines like taking long morning walks or cycling. 

• Practical Considerations
  Before booking an apartment, carefully review the location, payment terms, and check-in procedures. Many require cash payments upon arrival and specific meeting arrangements with the owner. Internet connectivity, while once a concern, is now generally reliable in both hotels and apartments. Pay attention to cancellation policies, which tend to be stricter for apartments than hotels.
  
  If you are looking for short-term apartments in Lagos, Nigeria, Diani, and Nairobi, Kenya, you can book on Dreamfeild. We have various types of shortlet apartments offering premium services for your vacation needs. Check availability here