When planning an extended stay in Singapore—whether for business, relocation, or a long vacation—finding the right accommodation is key. While hotels may seem like the obvious choice, serviced apartments have become increasingly popular for long-term visitors. Offering a unique combination of comfort, convenience, and cost-effectiveness, long-stay serviced apartments provide a home-like experience that hotels often can’t match.
In this article, we’ll explore five compelling reasons why serviced apartments for long stays are a better choice than hotels when staying in Singapore.
Cost-Effectiveness for Extended Stays
Staying in a hotel for several weeks or months can quickly become expensive, especially in a city like Singapore, where accommodation costs are high. This is where serviced apartments stand out.
Lower Rates for Extended Stays
Serviced apartments are specifically designed for longer visits, and they often offer discounted rates for extended stays. Instead of paying a daily hotel rate, you can enjoy a fixed monthly fee, which is usually far cheaper.
For example, while a mid-range hotel might cost SGD 200–300 per night, a long-stay serviced apartment in Singapore may only charge SGD 4,000–6,000 per month for a fully furnished unit with comparable amenities. This cost difference makes serviced apartments a more budget-friendly choice, especially for business travelers or expatriates staying in the city for extended periods.
Spacious and Comfortable Living Areas
One of the biggest drawbacks of hotels is their limited space. Standard hotel rooms can feel cramped, especially when you’re staying for an extended period. In contrast, serviced apartments offer significantly more room and are designed to provide a more comfortable, home-like atmosphere.
Separate Living, Sleeping, and Dining Areas
Unlike hotel rooms, serviced apartments usually feature separate areas for living, sleeping, and dining. Most units come with:
- A bedroom with a comfortable bed and ample storage space
- A living room with a sofa, TV, and workspace
- A fully equipped kitchen for preparing meals
This layout creates a more functional living space, allowing you to feel like a resident rather than a transient guest. It’s ideal for those who need to work, relax, and prepare their own meals without feeling confined.
Fully Equipped Kitchens for Home-Cooked Meals
Another major advantage of serviced apartments is the inclusion of a fully equipped kitchen. While hotels typically rely on room service or nearby restaurants, serviced apartments give you the freedom to cook your own meals.
Benefits of Having a Kitchen:
- Save Money: Dining out in Singapore can be expensive, especially when you’re eating at restaurants or ordering room service every day. With a kitchen, you can buy groceries and prepare your own meals, significantly cutting food costs.
- Healthier Options: Preparing your own meals lets you stick to a healthier diet, which can be harder to maintain when relying on takeout or restaurant food.
- Flexibility: A kitchen offers the flexibility to eat whenever you want—whether it’s a quick breakfast before work or a late-night snack.
For those staying with family or for an extended period, this feature alone can make serviced apartments a more practical choice than hotels.
Personalized Services and Amenities
While hotels are known for their amenities, serviced apartments provide many of the same services with a more personalized touch.
Hotel-Like Services
Most serviced apartments include services like:
- Housekeeping: Regular cleaning services to keep your space tidy.
- Concierge Assistance: Staff available to help with transportation, local recommendations, or other needs.
- Laundry Facilities: In-unit washers and dryers or shared laundry rooms, eliminating the need for expensive hotel laundry services.
Additional Amenities
In addition to hotel-style services, serviced apartments often feature:
- Swimming pools, gyms, and lounge areas: Perfect for staying active or relaxing during your stay.
- Business centers or meeting rooms: Ideal for business travelers who need professional spaces to work or hold meetings.
The combination of personalized services and practical amenities offers a well-rounded living experience that meets both personal and professional needs.
Flexibility and Privacy
Hotels can sometimes feel impersonal, with limited privacy and a rigid structure. In contrast, serviced apartments for long stays offer greater flexibility and a higher level of privacy, helping you feel more settled.
Greater Independence
With a serviced apartment, you have the freedom to live on your own schedule. There’s no need to worry about set meal times, noisy corridors, or daily housekeeping interruptions. You can structure your day as you wish without the hustle and bustle of hotel life.
Enhanced Privacy
Serviced apartments offer more privacy and security, making them ideal for families, couples, or individuals who prefer a quiet, peaceful environment. Many serviced apartments have private entrances and fewer shared spaces, which ensures that you feel safe and at ease.
For professionals working remotely, the privacy and quiet atmosphere of a serviced apartment provides a better environment for productivity compared to the busy, often noisy environment of a hotel.
Finding the Right Serviced Apartment in Singapore
If you’re considering long-stay serviced apartments in Singapore, it’s important to find a property that suits your specific needs. Here are some tips to help you choose the right serviced apartment:
- Location Matters: Whether you need to be close to the CBD for work or prefer a quieter residential area, location is crucial. Popular areas for serviced apartments include Orchard Road, Tanjong Pagar, and East Coast.
- Compare Amenities: Look for apartments that offer the amenities you value most, such as a gym, pool, or reliable Wi-Fi.
- Check Reviews: Read reviews from previous tenants to get an idea of the quality of the property and the services offered.
- Negotiate Rates: For long stays, many serviced apartments offer discounted rates. Don’t hesitate to negotiate for the best deal.
Conclusion
When it comes to extended stays in Singapore, serviced apartments offer numerous advantages over hotels. From cost savings to more spacious living areas, home-cooked meals, and personalized amenities, serviced apartments provide a well-rounded and comfortable living experience.
For anyone planning to stay in Singapore for weeks or months, choosing a long-stay serviced apartment ensures you’ll have a space that feels like home, with all the conveniences you need for a stress-free stay. Whether you’re relocating, working, or just exploring Singapore, serviced apartments are a practical and luxurious option worth considering.