Serviced Apartments vs Airbnb

Both serviced apartments and Airbnb have a lot to offer when deciding accommodation, but will one serve your stay best? 

 

Whatever your reason for visiting London, for work, a weekend break, or an extended vacation, knowing the most significant differences between them can make your choice easier. 

 

In this guide, we will cover both options, discussing what each can provide and will best serve your needs.

What Are Serviced Apartments

Serviced apartments are completely furnished apartments designed to be the perfect balance between home comfort and quiet luxury.

 

They provide much of the luxury of an upscale hotel but with homey touches like a kitchen and living area to make you feel entirely comfortable during your stay.

 

For a convenient and hassle-free stay, choose Stayprime serviced apartments, comfort and ease at your fingertips, no matter your duration of stay.

 

What Are Airbnbs

On the other hand, Airbnb is the popular online rental marketplace where you can check for tons of locations and accommodation options.

It’s a popular choice for those seeking short-term stays or more budget friendly private hosts list a variety of accommodations, from shared rooms to entire homes, making it an ideal option for short-term stays and travellers seeking budget-friendly options. 

Comparing the Key Aspects: Serviced Apartments vs. Airbnb

Now, let’s dive into the key differences between serviced apartments and Airbnb so that you can understand what your options really are.

Services

As the name suggests, serviced apartments include a wide variety of comforts and services to ensure your stay is truly unforgettable. This will include a concierge service on demand, A maid/room cleaning service and high quality furnishings and utilities.

 

On the other hand, Airbnbs can be quite a mixed bag. While it’s possible that some hosts offer better services, you will often find options that are little more than a bed. These properties are also not vetted individually by Airbnb so it;s impossible to know the quality outside of reviews. 

Location

Airbnbs can practically be found anywhere. While this is great for convenience, it can be tricky to know how nice (and safe) the area is, particularly if this is your first time visiting the city.

 

Serviced apartments like Stayprime’s will be located in more prestigious areas of a city. For example, Stayprime serviced apartments can be found in:

• Fitzrovia
• Marylebone
• Notting Hill
• Earls Court
• Kensington

Cost Comparison

Serviced apartments tend to be a bit more expensive because they are factoring a number of services with your experience. Airbnbs can be very cheap, however, they often employ extensive surge pricing during busy seasons which you need to keep an eye on.

 

The serviced nature of these apartments will often make them more expensive than your run of the mill Airbnb, but you’re likely to have a much better experience as well.

Length of Stay

Serviced Apartments are designed with flexibility in mind. Whether you are looking for a city break or a long term stay, service apartments are a fantastic option for you.

 

While Airbnb is an excellent option for shorter stays, it can sometimes be less convenient for long-term living due to varying pricing and limited availability of amenities like regular housekeeping or on-site services.

Privacy and Security

With a serviced apartment, you can feel secure in knowing that safety is the highest priority. With a 24 hour concierge service, you always have a direct line to contact if you ever have any issues. The high end areas you’ll stay in also means that you won’t run into shady individuals.

 

Airbnb on the other hand can be a mixed bag. Because there is no clear vetting process, you are often left to your own devices, which can be particularly troubling if the area isn’t great.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between a serviced apartment and Airbnb depends on your individual needs and the type of experience you’re seeking. 

While Airbnb offers a ton of options and often cheap pricing, it can be a great choice for travellers on a budget.

 

But if you’re looking for a top quality experience that combines high end amenities with the comforts of home, then serviced apartments are the clear choice.

 

If you’re planning a trip to London, a serviced apartment from Stayprime could be the perfect choice, so get in touch today!