Finding Long Term Accommodation Deals

Understanding the Need for Long Term Accommodation Deals

So, you're planning an extended stay? Awesome! Whether you're a digital nomad, a student on a semester abroad, or just taking a super-long vacation, finding long-term accommodation deals is crucial. Regular hotel rates can bleed your wallet dry faster than you can say \"room service.\" We're talking serious savings here. Think about it – the longer you stay, the more leverage you have to negotiate a better price. Landlords and extended-stay hotels are often willing to offer discounts for longer commitments. Let's dive into how you can snag those sweet deals.

Negotiating with Landlords for Long Term Stays

Okay, first things first: direct negotiation. This is where your charm and bargaining skills come into play. If you're looking at apartments or houses, especially through private landlords, don't be afraid to ask for a discount for a longer lease. Here’s how to approach it:

• Do your research: Know the average rental rates in the area. Websites like Zillow, Apartments.com, and Craigslist can give you a good idea of what’s reasonable.
• Be polite and professional: Start with a friendly introduction and express genuine interest in the property.
• Mention your long-term plans: Clearly state that you’re looking for a long-term stay (e.g., 6 months, a year, or longer).
• Ask for a discount: Politely inquire if they offer any discounts for longer leases. For example, \"I'm planning to stay for a year, do you offer any discounts for leases of that length?\"
• Highlight your strengths as a tenant: Emphasize that you're a responsible, reliable tenant who will take good care of the property.
• Be prepared to walk away: If they're unwilling to negotiate, don't be afraid to look elsewhere. There are plenty of other options out there.

Extended Stay Hotels the Go To Option

Extended stay hotels are designed specifically for longer stays, and they often come with amenities that make life easier, like kitchenettes and laundry facilities. Here's how to find the best deals:

• Search directly on hotel websites: Often, you'll find the best rates directly on the hotel's website, especially for longer stays.
• Look for weekly or monthly rates: Many extended stay hotels offer discounted rates for weekly or monthly stays.
• Use comparison websites: Sites like Booking.com, Expedia, and Hotels.com can help you compare prices and amenities across different hotels.
• Negotiate: Don't be afraid to call the hotel directly and ask if they can offer a better rate than what you see online.
• Consider loyalty programs: If you travel frequently, joining a hotel loyalty program can earn you points and discounts on future stays.

Airbnb and VRBO for Long Term Rentals

Airbnb and VRBO aren't just for short vacations. They can also be great options for long-term stays, especially if you're looking for a more home-like environment. Here's how to find long-term deals:

• Set your dates: Enter your desired dates (e.g., a month, three months, six months) to see available properties.
• Filter your search: Use filters to narrow down your options based on price, amenities, and location.
• Look for monthly discounts: Many hosts offer significant discounts for stays of 28 days or longer.
• Contact the host: Reach out to the host before booking to inquire about further discounts or negotiate the price.
• Read reviews: Pay close attention to reviews from previous guests, especially those who stayed for extended periods.

Furnished Apartments for Long Term Visitors

Furnished apartments are a great option if you want a fully equipped living space without the hassle of buying furniture. These apartments typically include everything you need, from beds and sofas to kitchenware and linens. Here’s how to find them:

• Search online: Use websites like Furnished Finder, Corporate Housing by Owner, and Craigslist to find furnished apartments in your desired location.
• Contact corporate housing companies: These companies specialize in providing furnished apartments for business travelers and other long-term visitors.
• Check local listings: Look for local classifieds and online forums where landlords might advertise furnished apartments.

Coliving Spaces the New Trend for Long Term Living

Coliving spaces are shared living environments that offer a sense of community and convenience. These spaces typically include private bedrooms and bathrooms, as well as shared living areas, kitchens, and workspaces. Here’s how to explore coliving spaces:

• Research coliving companies: Companies like Common, WeLive, and Outsite offer coliving spaces in various cities around the world.
• Visit coliving websites: Browse coliving websites to see available spaces, amenities, and pricing.
• Take a tour: If possible, take a tour of the coliving space to get a feel for the environment and meet potential roommates.

Recommended Products and Services for Long Term Accommodation

Let's talk specifics. Here are some recommended products and services that can make your long-term stay more comfortable and cost-effective:

Recommended Product 1: Instant Pot

Description: The Instant Pot is a multi-functional electric pressure cooker that can cook a variety of dishes quickly and easily. It's perfect for long-term stays because it allows you to cook healthy meals at home, saving you money on takeout.

Usage Scenario: Use the Instant Pot to cook everything from rice and beans to soups and stews. It's also great for making yogurt and steaming vegetables.

Comparison: Compared to a traditional stove, the Instant Pot is faster, more energy-efficient, and requires less supervision.

Price: The price ranges from $80 to $150 depending on the model and features.

Recommended Product 2: Roku Streaming Stick+

Description: The Roku Streaming Stick+ is a portable streaming device that allows you to watch your favorite movies and TV shows on any TV. It's perfect for long-term stays because it gives you access to a wide range of streaming services, like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video.

Usage Scenario: Plug the Roku Streaming Stick+ into your TV and connect to Wi-Fi to start streaming. You can also use it to listen to music and play games.

Comparison: Compared to a traditional cable subscription, the Roku Streaming Stick+ is much cheaper and offers more flexibility.

Price: The price is around $50.

Recommended Product 3: Aeropress Coffee Maker

Description: The Aeropress Coffee Maker is a manual coffee maker that produces rich, smooth coffee in just minutes. It's perfect for long-term stays because it's compact, easy to use, and doesn't require any electricity.

Usage Scenario: Simply add coffee grounds and hot water to the Aeropress, then press down to extract the coffee.

Comparison: Compared to a traditional drip coffee maker, the Aeropress is faster, more portable, and produces a cleaner cup of coffee.

Price: The price is around $30.

Recommended Service 1: Nomad List

Description: Nomad List is a website that provides data and information for digital nomads. It helps you find the best cities to live and work remotely, based on factors like cost of living, internet speed, and safety.

Usage Scenario: Use Nomad List to research different cities and find accommodation, coworking spaces, and other resources for digital nomads.

Comparison: Compared to traditional travel guides, Nomad List is more focused on the needs of digital nomads and provides up-to-date information.

Price: A subscription to Nomad List costs around $15 per month.

Recommended Service 2: TransferWise (now Wise)

Description: Wise is a money transfer service that allows you to send and receive money internationally at low cost. It's perfect for long-term stays because it makes it easy to pay rent, bills, and other expenses in different currencies.

Usage Scenario: Use Wise to transfer money from your bank account to a local bank account in your destination country.

Comparison: Compared to traditional bank transfers, Wise is much cheaper and faster.

Price: Wise charges a small fee for each transaction, typically around 0.5% to 1% of the amount being transferred.

Essential Tips for Saving Money on Long Term Stays

Alright, let's get down to brass tacks. Here are some essential tips for saving money on long-term stays:

• Travel during the off-season: Prices are typically lower during the off-season, when there are fewer tourists.
• Be flexible with your dates: If you're flexible with your travel dates, you can often find better deals.
• Consider alternative locations: Sometimes, staying just outside the city center can save you a significant amount of money.
• Cook your own meals: Eating out can be expensive, so try to cook your own meals as much as possible.
• Take advantage of free activities: Look for free activities and attractions in your destination, like parks, museums, and walking tours.

Long Term Accommodation Safety and Security

Safety and security are paramount, especially when staying in a place for an extended period. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Research the neighborhood: Before booking, research the neighborhood to make sure it's safe and secure.
• Read reviews: Pay attention to reviews from previous guests, especially those who mention safety concerns.
• Check the security features: Make sure the accommodation has adequate security features, like secure locks, security cameras, and a well-lit entrance.
• Get to know your neighbors: Getting to know your neighbors can help you feel more secure and build a sense of community.
• Be aware of your surroundings: Always be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself from crime.