Seven reasons to join the short stay accommodation bandwagon

Worldwide: Instead of choosing a stock-image hotel for your next weekend away, try a unique self-contained and serviced apartment, cottage or townhouse from the growing short stay accommodation economy.

Often in the most buzzing and community led areas, staying in alternative short stay accommodation instead of the more traditional hospitality offerings is the hottest trend right now.

But it is not an industry that comes without its own criticism: many worry about the reliability, safety and amenities of the properties on offer. Here, the Short Stay Show, a leading event for the short stay hospitality and accommodation industry, dispels seven of the industry’s most common misconceptions and explains why you should be giving it a go.

Short stay is only for the budget conscious traveller…

False. It is true that this fast-growing trend was borne out of the sharing economy but as the market has developed so to have the offerings.  Short stay listings now include some of the most expensive and desirable properties in cities all over the world, accommodating for a wide variety of budgets.

Short stay accommodation is only available in the countryside or by the beach…

False. A cottage on the Cornish coast or a cosy manor house in the Lake District are the first things you think of when it comes to short stay accommodation, however, it is not limited to these picturesque hotspots. Short stay accommodation can be anywhere and everywhere and is defined by the amount of time a guest stays, not the type of property it is.

Short stay accommodation is not suitable for business travellers…

False. Leisure travellers have long embraced the flexibility, space and authentic residential experience that comes with staying in a short stay property. Business travellers, however, traditionally lean on hotels, perhaps unaware of the significant advantages to trying the alternative. From a more economical cost to the in-house eating options and inclusive Wi-Fi, both traveller and employer can reap the benefits.

Short stay accommodation won’t have everything I need…

False. You are more likely to have more than you need as most hosts invest in good quality bedding, toiletries, and some even stock the fridge before you arrive (milk and teabags, essential!). The industry is full of companies dedicated to kitting out properties, after all, the more you feel at the home the more likely you are to come back.

Short stay accommodation is only for those who forward plan…

False. You do not need weeks and months to plan as many properties can be booked at the touch of a button. Companies like Booking.com, which list apartments that come with hosts, have booking technology that will give you live availability while you are on the move, which means you can change your plans at the drop of a hat. Spontaneity at its best!

Short stay accommodation is only for big groups…

False. With the variety on offer within the short stay industry, from staying in a fully serviced apartment or house or just one room, anybody will feel at home. Whilst the benefit of extra space is great for families and big get togethers, it is also just as enjoyable for solo travellers or couples. In fact, solo travellers can often prefer staying in the comfort of someone’s home rather than a faceless hotel.

Short stay accommodation is only designed for traditional holiday experiences… 

False. Holiday homes do not have to mean two-week breaks, whatever the purpose, you can still book to stay. Whether it is a good night sleep before an interview, finishing a chapter of your first book or simply a weekend away to look after number one – the variety in properties and amenities to suit are endless.

The Short Stay Show returns on March 12 at the London ExCeL. For more information on how to get involved, visit the website here.