YOUR HOME AWAY 
Did you know that Americans take 463 million domestic business trips each year?
The majority of these trips are brief, lasting no more than a few days. But what if your business plans require you to spend weeks or even months in a different city?
Extended stay hotels are designed to offer the comfort and conveniences of home while you’re on the road. Still, there are some steps you can take to settle in (and really enjoy) your extended hotel stay.
Before you start packing for your business trip, read this article!
Whether you’re settling in for a few weeks or many months, you’ll be more productive if you can create a comfortable living space. Here are some expert tips from frequent travelers to extended stay hotels.
You can’t fit your life in a suitcase, but you can pack a few items that will make your room feel more like “home.” Here are some suggestions:
Every time you walk into the room and see these items, it’s sure to bring a smile to your face.
Chances are you’re not the only guest at your extended stay hotel. Even if you’ve got a busy schedule, could you find a few moments to be friendly and sociable?
Rather than hiding behind a newspaper in the breakfast room, strike up a conversation with the traveler sitting next to you. The pool, the gym, and the business center are also opportunities to meet new people.
At the very least, introduce yourself and get friendly with the reception and housekeeping staff. Find out if the hotel is hosting any social events in the lobby, like an upcoming wine night or Taco Tuesday.
You won’t be very productive if you’re slouched over on the couch. A desk and a comfortable workspace are sure to be among the services offered in your suite, so take advantage of them.
Place your computer, planner, and other everyday items on the desk. Listen to music that inspires you or slide on your noise-canceling headphones if that helps you concentrate. Some business travelers bring a desk calendar or framed image of their favorite motivational quotes.
Having trouble concentrating in your room? Check out the hotels’ business center or lobby area, or journey to a nearby library or co-working space.
This one might seem obvious, but it can do wonders for your psyche. Unpack your clothes, put them away in the closet and dresser, and then stash your suitcases out of sight too.
While you’re at it, take a moment to declutter the hotel’s pamphlets, brochures, and other loose papers. Slide them into a desk drawer so you can access them if you need them.
With all the obvious reminders of your accommodation out of sight, your room will feel more like home and less like a hotel. Plus, studies show that working in a clutter-free space means you’re more likely to finish tasks.
Do you like to start each morning with a brisk walk or hit the gym at 5 pm? Do you like to munch on pistachios while you watch the nightly news?
Whatever your normal routines are at home, do your best to stick with them at the extended stay hotel. Listen to your favorite music, watch your favorite shows, and cook your favorite foods. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same as you would at home.
Whether you’re scoping out a new city for a business venture or you’ll only be there for a few weeks, why not get to know the area better?
Check out the local parks, shopping centers, and public transportation options. Sign up for a short-term class, join a book club, or find like-minded people at a local Meetup event.
Not sure where to go? Ask the hotel staff for their recommendations. They’ll happily share their local knowledge of the best restaurants, coffee shops, bars, and attractions.
Have you looked into pet-friendly extended stay hotels? Many brands allow you to bring your dog or cat along for the trip, which is a sure way to make it feel more like home!
If possible look into bringing your spouse, kids, or significant other with you on your business trip. If they can’t accompany you the entire time, could they fly in for the weekend? Seeing familiar faces could help you combat any homesickness while you’re away.
Our final tip is to remember why you’re at the extended stay hotel.
Are you launching a new business venture? Do you have a series of important business meetings? Are you taking a course that will make you a better employer or employee for your company?
You might occasionally feel homesick or question your decisions, but always think back to the big picture. Your time at the extended stay hotel is only temporary, but what you accomplish there could last a lifetime!
It’s true that there’s no place quite like home. But if you follow the suggestions listed above, you’ll feel more comfortable and make the most of your extended hotel stay.
Are your business plans taking you to Virginia or North Carolina? Affordable Corporate Suites is ready to be your home away from home!
Watch our videos to get an idea of how spacious and homey our rooms are. We have three different sizes and styles to suit your needs.
Ready to learn more? Click here for a list of locations and phone numbers or to fill out our online request form.