Extended Stay America Hotels: Your Home Away From Home
When life calls for an extended stay, whether it’s for business, relocation, or simply a longer vacation, finding the right accommodation becomes paramount. Extended Stay America hotels offer a compelling solution, providing comfortable and convenient lodging designed specifically for guests staying for a week, a month, or even longer. This article delves into the world of Extended Stay America, exploring their features, benefits, and what sets them apart as a leading provider of extended-stay accommodations.
What is Extended Stay America?
Extended Stay America (ESA) is a chain of hotels throughout the United States and Canada that specializes in offering accommodations tailored for extended stays. Unlike traditional hotels that primarily cater to short-term travelers, ESA hotels are designed with amenities and services that make longer stays more comfortable and affordable. Their focus is on providing a home-like environment for guests who need temporary housing for various reasons.
Founded in 1995, Extended Stay America has grown to become one of the largest extended-stay hotel chains in North America. The company prides itself on offering value-driven accommodations with a commitment to cleanliness and guest satisfaction. Their properties are strategically located near major cities, business centers, and popular tourist destinations, making them a convenient choice for travelers of all types.
Why Choose Extended Stay America for Your Long-Term Stay?
Choosing the right accommodation for an extended stay involves careful consideration of various factors, including comfort, convenience, cost, and amenities. Extended Stay America hotels offer several advantages that make them a compelling option for long-term travelers:
Affordability
One of the primary benefits of Extended Stay America is their competitive pricing structure. They offer discounted rates for weekly and monthly stays, making them a more affordable alternative to traditional hotels for extended periods. The longer you stay, the lower the daily rate becomes, allowing you to save money on accommodation costs.
Compared to renting an apartment or staying in a short-term rental, Extended Stay America hotels can be a more cost-effective option, especially when considering the included amenities and services. You don’t have to worry about utility bills, furniture rental, or other associated expenses.
Fully Equipped Kitchenettes
Each room at Extended Stay America is equipped with a fully functional kitchenette, allowing you to prepare your own meals and save money on dining out. The kitchenettes typically include a stovetop, microwave, refrigerator, and basic cookware and utensils. Having the ability to cook your own food provides flexibility and control over your diet, making it easier to maintain a healthy lifestyle during your extended stay.
The convenience of a kitchenette is particularly appealing for guests with dietary restrictions, food allergies, or specific culinary preferences. It also allows you to save time and effort by preparing meals in your room instead of having to go out to a restaurant every day.
Comfortable and Functional Rooms
Extended Stay America rooms are designed with comfort and functionality in mind. They typically feature comfortable beds, ample storage space, a work desk, and a seating area. The rooms are designed to provide a relaxing and productive environment for guests who need to work, study, or simply unwind after a long day.
Many ESA hotels offer a variety of room types to accommodate different needs and preferences. You can choose from studios, suites, or connecting rooms, depending on your requirements. The rooms are designed to provide a comfortable and home-like atmosphere, helping you feel more settled during your extended stay.
On-Site Laundry Facilities
Extended Stay America hotels offer on-site laundry facilities, allowing you to easily wash your clothes without having to leave the property. This is a significant convenience for long-term travelers who need to maintain their wardrobe during their stay. The laundry facilities are typically coin-operated or use a card system, making it easy to pay for your laundry.
Having access to on-site laundry facilities saves you time and money compared to using a laundromat or dry cleaning service. It also allows you to pack lighter, as you can wash your clothes more frequently.
Pet-Friendly Policy
Extended Stay America hotels are generally pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry companions along for your extended stay. This is a major advantage for pet owners who don’t want to leave their pets behind when traveling for an extended period. There is typically a pet fee associated with bringing your pet, but it is often more affordable than boarding your pet at a kennel or hiring a pet sitter.
The pet-friendly policy at ESA hotels allows you to maintain your bond with your pet during your extended stay, providing companionship and emotional support. It also eliminates the stress and anxiety of leaving your pet behind.
Free Wi-Fi Access
Extended Stay America hotels offer complimentary Wi-Fi access, allowing you to stay connected with friends, family, and colleagues during your extended stay. This is essential for business travelers who need to work remotely, as well as for leisure travelers who want to stay in touch with their loved ones and access online entertainment.
The free Wi-Fi access at ESA hotels eliminates the need to pay for expensive internet access, saving you money on communication costs.
Convenient Locations
Extended Stay America hotels are strategically located near major cities, business centers, and popular tourist destinations, making them a convenient choice for travelers of all types. Whether you’re traveling for business, relocation, or leisure, you can find an ESA hotel that is close to your destination and offers easy access to local amenities and attractions.
The convenient locations of ESA hotels save you time and money on transportation costs, as you can easily access your destination and nearby amenities.
Weekly Housekeeping Services
Extended Stay America hotels offer weekly housekeeping services, ensuring that your room remains clean and comfortable throughout your extended stay. The housekeeping services typically include cleaning the bathroom, making the bed, emptying the trash, and replenishing towels and linens.
The weekly housekeeping services at ESA hotels relieve you of the burden of cleaning your room yourself, allowing you to focus on your work, studies, or leisure activities.
24/7 Front Desk Service
Extended Stay America hotels offer 24/7 front desk service, ensuring that you can always get assistance when you need it. The front desk staff can help you with check-in and check-out, answer your questions, provide recommendations for local restaurants and attractions, and assist with any other needs you may have.
The 24/7 front desk service at ESA hotels provides peace of mind, knowing that you can always get help when you need it.
Who Benefits from Staying at Extended Stay America Hotels?
Extended Stay America hotels cater to a wide range of guests who require accommodations for an extended period. Here are some of the key groups who benefit from staying at ESA hotels:
Business Travelers
Business travelers who are on temporary assignment, attending conferences, or working on long-term projects often find Extended Stay America hotels to be an ideal solution. The fully equipped kitchenettes, comfortable rooms, and free Wi-Fi access provide a productive and convenient environment for business travelers to work and relax.
ESA hotels also offer amenities such as business centers and meeting rooms, which can be helpful for business travelers who need to conduct meetings or presentations.
Relocating Individuals and Families
Individuals and families who are relocating to a new city often need temporary housing while they search for a permanent home. Extended Stay America hotels provide a comfortable and affordable option for those who are in transition. The fully equipped kitchenettes and on-site laundry facilities make it easier to manage daily life during the relocation process.
ESA hotels also offer a sense of community, as you can meet other guests who are also relocating to the area.
Travel Nurses and Healthcare Professionals
Travel nurses and other healthcare professionals who are working on temporary assignments in different cities often choose Extended Stay America hotels for their accommodations. The convenient locations near hospitals and medical centers, as well as the comfortable and functional rooms, make ESA hotels a suitable option for healthcare professionals who need a home away from home.
ESA hotels also offer flexible booking options, which is important for travel nurses who may have fluctuating schedules.
Construction Workers and Contractors
Construction workers and contractors who are working on long-term projects in different locations often require temporary housing. Extended Stay America hotels provide a practical and affordable solution for these workers. The convenient locations near construction sites, as well as the comfortable rooms and on-site laundry facilities, make ESA hotels a suitable option for construction workers and contractors.
ESA hotels also offer ample parking space for work vehicles, which is important for construction workers and contractors who need to transport equipment.
Individuals Undergoing Home Renovations
Individuals who are undergoing home renovations often need temporary housing while their homes are being remodeled. Extended Stay America hotels provide a convenient and affordable option for those who need a temporary place to stay. The fully equipped kitchenettes and on-site laundry facilities make it easier to manage daily life during the renovation process.
ESA hotels also offer a safe and secure environment, which is important for individuals who are concerned about the security of their belongings during the renovation process.
Tourists and Vacationers
Tourists and vacationers who are planning an extended vacation often choose Extended Stay America hotels for their accommodations. The affordable rates, convenient locations, and comfortable rooms make ESA hotels a suitable option for tourists and vacationers who want to explore a new city or region without breaking the bank.
ESA hotels also offer easy access to local attractions and amenities, making it convenient for tourists and vacationers to explore the area.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Stay at Extended Stay America
To maximize your experience and make your extended stay at Extended Stay America as comfortable and convenient as possible, consider these tips:
Pack Appropriately
When packing for an extended stay, be sure to bring all the essentials you need to live comfortably. This includes clothing, toiletries, personal care items, and any necessary medications. If you plan to cook in your kitchenette, bring your favorite spices and condiments.
Consider bringing a portable laundry basket to make it easier to transport your clothes to the laundry facilities.
Take Advantage of the Kitchenette
The kitchenette is one of the biggest advantages of staying at Extended Stay America. Take advantage of it by preparing your own meals and saving money on dining out. Stock up on groceries at a local supermarket and plan your meals in advance.
Experiment with new recipes and try local cuisine by cooking with fresh ingredients from the area.
Utilize the Laundry Facilities
The on-site laundry facilities are a great convenience. Use them regularly to keep your clothes clean and fresh. Bring your own laundry detergent and fabric softener to save money.
Consider washing your clothes during off-peak hours to avoid waiting in line.
Explore the Local Area
Don’t spend your entire stay cooped up in your room. Take time to explore the local area and discover what it has to offer. Visit local attractions, restaurants, and shops. Get to know the community and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Ask the front desk staff for recommendations on local restaurants, attractions, and activities.
Stay Connected
Take advantage of the free Wi-Fi access to stay connected with friends, family, and colleagues. Use social media, email, and video conferencing to stay in touch and share your experiences.
Bring a portable charger to ensure that your devices stay powered up throughout the day.
Be Respectful of Other Guests
Remember that you are sharing the hotel with other guests. Be respectful of their privacy and quiet hours. Keep noise levels to a minimum and avoid disturbing other guests with loud music or conversations.
Clean up after yourself in common areas and be considerate of others using the laundry facilities.
Communicate with the Staff
Don’t hesitate to communicate with the hotel staff if you have any questions, concerns, or requests. They are there to assist you and make your stay as comfortable as possible. Let them know if you need anything, such as extra towels, blankets, or cleaning supplies.
Provide feedback on your experience to help the hotel improve its services.
Extended Stay America: A Variety of Brands to Suit Your Needs
While the core Extended Stay America brand offers consistent quality and amenities, the company also manages several sub-brands designed to cater to specific needs and preferences. Understanding these variations can help you select the Extended Stay America property that best suits your individual requirements.
Extended Stay America Premier Suites
Extended Stay America Premier Suites represent the higher-end offering within the ESA portfolio. These properties typically feature more spacious suites with upgraded amenities and a focus on enhanced comfort. You can expect to find features such as larger televisions, more comfortable seating, and potentially even enhanced kitchen appliances compared to the standard ESA offerings.
Premier Suites are often located in more desirable locations within cities and target travelers who are looking for a more premium extended stay experience without the cost of a luxury hotel or apartment rental.
Extended Stay America Suites
This is the core Extended Stay America brand and represents the majority of their properties. These hotels offer the standard amenities and services that have made ESA a popular choice for extended stays, including fully equipped kitchenettes, on-site laundry facilities, and pet-friendly policies. You can expect a clean, comfortable, and functional environment at a competitive price point.
Extended Stay America Suites properties are strategically located near business centers, hospitals, and major transportation hubs, making them a convenient choice for a wide range of travelers.
Extended Stay America Value Studios
Value Studios represent the budget-friendly option within the Extended Stay America family. While still offering the core features of an extended-stay hotel, such as a kitchenette and on-site laundry, Value Studios may have fewer amenities or be located in less prime areas. The focus is on providing affordable accommodations for travelers who are primarily concerned with price.
These properties are often a good choice for budget-conscious travelers, students, or those who are seeking a simple and functional place to stay for an extended period.
Booking Your Stay at Extended Stay America
Booking your stay at Extended Stay America is a straightforward process that can be completed online, over the phone, or through a travel agent. Here are some tips for making the booking process as smooth as possible:
Book in Advance
To ensure that you get the room type and location you desire, it’s best to book your stay in advance, especially during peak travel seasons or when there are major events in the area.
Booking in advance can also help you secure the best possible rates.
Check for Discounts and Promotions
Before booking your stay, check the Extended Stay America website or contact the hotel directly to see if there are any discounts or promotions available. You may be able to save money by booking a package deal or taking advantage of a special offer.
Consider joining the Extended Stay America rewards program to earn points for your stays and redeem them for future discounts.
Read Reviews
Before booking your stay, read reviews from other guests to get an idea of what to expect. Pay attention to the ratings and comments about cleanliness, comfort, location, and service.
Keep in mind that reviews are subjective and may not always reflect the actual experience of staying at the hotel.
Confirm Your Reservation
After booking your stay, confirm your reservation by contacting the hotel directly. This will ensure that your reservation is properly recorded and that you have all the necessary information for your arrival.
Ask about the hotel’s cancellation policy and any other important details.
Conclusion: Extended Stay America – A Smart Choice for Long-Term Travelers
Extended Stay America hotels offer a compelling combination of affordability, convenience, and comfort for travelers who require accommodations for an extended period. With fully equipped kitchenettes, on-site laundry facilities, pet-friendly policies, and free Wi-Fi access, ESA hotels provide a home-like environment that makes longer stays more enjoyable and manageable.
Whether you’re a business traveler on assignment, a relocating individual, a travel nurse, or simply a tourist seeking an extended vacation, Extended Stay America hotels offer a smart and practical solution for your accommodation needs. By considering the tips and information outlined in this article, you can make the most of your stay and experience the benefits of choosing Extended Stay America as your home away from home.
