For as long as there have been hotels, there have been some people who have stayed in them long enough that their rooms were essentially their permanent residence. However, the hospitality industry only started marketing rooms for this purpose relatively recently. One place where it has been embraced is Bangkok, Thailand.
This style of living is popular among the city’s digital nomad community of remote workers who enjoy the freedom of being able to move anywhere they want to at any time. It also suits business people coming to the city for projects that may last several months or longer. While renting remains more popular for now, this article looks at why these extended stays in hotels have been growing in popularity.
Comfortable furnishings
One advantage of choosing a long stay hotel in Bangkok over renting a condo is that it comes fully furnished. That does not mean just a basic bed and sofa either. In fact, extended-stay accommodation often contains even more furniture and amenities than standard hotel rooms. You will certainly get a comfy bed and a TV, but many also come with a desk for working and a small kitchen area. Meanwhile, unfurnished remains the norm for rental apartments. This gives you more choice over the aesthetics of your accommodation, but it also takes more time and can be expensive.
Hotel services
Something that makes hotel accommodation an attractive alternative to renting or buying property in Thailand is the fact that you still get access to hotel services. That means fresh towels and sheets when you need them, and food delivered to your room when you want it.
Utilities and Wi-Fi are covered
Most landlords require you to take care of utility bills yourself, so they come as an extra expense on top of your rent. However, in a hotel, these are generally included as part of your bill and there are not usually any restrictions on your use of them. This is good news in a country where temperatures are regularly above 30c but running air conditioning can be expensive. Something that is also useful is Wi-Fi also being included in your bill, although this really depends on the hotel you choose because it may not be too fast.
Immediate maintenance fixes
Hotels usually have staff on hand to solve maintenance issues quickly. This can be a refreshing change from staying in rented accommodation, where you have to contact your landlord and have them arrange for the problem to be fixed, often resulting in you having to put up with the problem for some time.
Extra security
While lots of condo buildings in Bangkok do have security guards at the entrance, hotels usually have a few extra layers. From cameras to multiple locks and safes inside the rooms, you might find more peace of mind staying in a long-stay hotel over a house or condo.
ConclusionRenting or owning property in Bangkok are good decisions for many people, but it is also clear why long-stay hotel accommodation is on the rise. It offers a simplicity that is very appealing. There is no effort required to get set up in your room, chores such as cleaning are taken care of for you, and bills are included.