Serviced apartments are an increasingly popular choice for all kinds of guests seeking good accommodations. With their clear-cut advantages and greater amenities compared to hotels, it is no surprise why this alternative is becoming the preferred choice for many. That said, it is still important to observe basic etiquette when staying at these spaces even though they are marketed as places that feel like home.
Read on to learn what you should be mindful of when booking a serviced apartment in Singapore.
1. Treat the property with care and consideration
One of the big selling points of long-term serviced apartments in Singapore is that they’re the perfect home away from home, but that does not mean you should be as carefree as if you were under your own roof during your stay. While breaking or damaging a thing or two may not pose much of an issue at your own abode, it will be in a serviced apartment and could incur avoidable fees that may disrupt your budget.
Therefore, be sure to treat your space with the utmost care along with everything else in the other amenities you may have access to, such as the gym, pool, lounge, and so on. And in the event that you stumble upon a problem that may have been caused by another resident, be sure to inform management directly.
2. Keep the noise down
Serviced apartments offer more space between you and other guests, which provides some leeway on how loud you can be. Nevertheless, since these properties are often located in residential areas, it is still important to be mindful of your noise, especially during late hours. Take care to not set your music too loud, use indoor voices, and avoid any other disruptive activities. If you are staying with children, make sure they also follow these rules and understand their importance.
3. Observe house rules at all times
Booking a serviced apartment automatically means you agree with the unique house rules the provider has established to ensure a pleasant stay for all their guests. These rules often cover a wide variety of do’s and don’ts as well as procedures regarding things like designated smoking areas, noise levels, pets, and so on.
Other notable policies you should look into include the maximum number of guests allowed for your specific apartment type and whether small parties or gatherings are permitted. Be sure to have these rules down pat upon your arrival and follow them to a T throughout your stay.
4. Maintain cleanliness
Another perk of serviced apartments is weekly housekeeping. In between their visits, however, guests should also do their part to keep their space tidy. Something as simple as sweeping the floors regularly, disposing of trash bags, and not leaving personal items scattered around can make a world of difference in making your stay more comfortable.
5. Be considerate of other guests and shared spaces
Access to hotel-like amenities is part and parcel of the serviced apartment experience and will inherently require sharing them with others. Therefore, be sure to abide by any extra guidelines in such spaces, refrain from monopolising the space or equipment, and always clean up after yourself afterwards. Speaking of sharing, it is also best to respect the privacy of your neighbours in other apartments and keep your interactions with them friendly but not intrusive. Having due regard for people’s personal space greatly contributes to a pleasant stay for all.
6. Use utilities wisely
Utility fees are generally a fixed cost to the overall apartment rate. However, that is no excuse to go wild with your water and electricity usage. Just like at home, take care to turn off lights and appliances you’re not using and conserve water as much as possible to help the environment and keep the provider’s operational costs down. Ultimately, these habits benefit all guests and prevent a sudden increase in rental costs from potentially occurring.
7. Respect the staff
As a reminder, be appreciative of the staff responsible for making your stay comfortable. Something as simple as being courteous and polite during interactions is more than enough to show you respect them and their efforts, which enhances the overall experience for everyone.
8. Clean up before checking out
Prior to checking out of your serviced apartment, it is good practice to leave it in the same state as when you arrived. Ensure the place is relatively tidy, move any relocated furnishings back to their original positions, and throw out any remaining trash. Leaving things in good order reflects your consideration and helps the staff more quickly accommodate their next guest.
Conclusion
Adhering to proper etiquette during your stay in a serviced apartment ensures a pleasant experience for everyone involved. From respecting shared spaces and following the house rules to maintaining cleanliness and communicating effectively with the management, these small acts of consideration make a big difference. Observing these practices not only reflects well on you but also contributes to a welcoming and comfortable environment for all residents.
