When we hear the term “business trip,” we tend to think of spending a few days in a hotel in a strange city.
But sometimes our jobs require us to spend weeks or even months away from home. And no matter what we do for work, these extended stays present a unique challenge: how do we make this temporary housing feel like home?
Here are seven ways to make your extended business trip feel less like work.
1 – Get Into the Right Frame of Mind
Try to keep to as many routines from home as you can. Did you go running every morning before work? Spend time each evening reading or cooking? Try to do the same thing in your (temporary) new city. The sooner you think of the place you’re staying as a residence, the easier the stay will be. Humans crave structure—even the most disorganized of us may take for granted how much a little structure can keep us grounded.
2 – Bring Something From Home
Whether it’s family photos, your kid’s artwork or a cute little knick-knack, brining something from your house will help your temporary housing feel more like home. This is especially the case when you’ve been relocated for work; being away from home can be difficult. Having some things that invoke cherished memories will not only keep your spirits up, but it may also energize you in your work.
3 – Keep in Touch
Try to stay in touch with people back home. It’s easier than ever to talk to people who are far away, thanks to programs like FaceTime, Facebook Messenger, and Skype.
You can even find people to interact within the place you’ll be staying. If your co-workers want to go to dinner after work, take them up on it. Websites like Meetup can help you find people who are your interests. You might even consider an evening cooking or crafts class.
One of the best parts of living in an extended stay apartment is that many of your own neighbors are in the same boat as you. Working away from home, away from family and friends for the sake of career progress or providing for their families.
Meeting your extended stay neighbors can be a fantastic way to make your off-hours more enjoyable as well as provide a fantastic opportunity to rub elbows and network. You simply never know who you’re going to run into! Many VIPs and C-Suite executives prefer our corporate housing.
4 – Bring Home to You
Instead of traveling back home to visit your friends and family, invite them to stay with you. Your extended stay apartment is likely large enough to house a few guests. We are conveniently located in cities such as El Paso, San Antonio, and of course, Austin! These are all fantastic cities with much to offer people of all ages and interests. Whether you enjoy nightlife, fine eats, or historical and cultural works, there is always something to do!
5 – Buy the Things You Need
All of Corporate Comforts extended stay apartments come with kitchens full of amenities and appliances. Still, it might not have some of the specific things you’re used to using at home, such as a rice cooker or an espresso maker. Again, picking these things up for yourself can make your new living space feel like home.
6 – Don’t Neglect Your Health
Try to stick to your exercise routine during your time away from home. If you’re feeling down about being away from home, the endorphins released during a workout can alleviate those feelings. Many of our locations feature a clubhouse and fitness area that you can exercise in conveniently!
7 – Tap Into Local Experts
Learning everything you can about your new temporary home can make you feel more centered. Find out the best places to shop, eat out and walk/run. The company providing your extended stay apartment will likely be happy to help you find that information.
Beyond that, check out Facebook groups and local message boards, and you’ll be one step closer to feeling at home.
Do you need a place to stay for an extended stay in Texas or New Mexico? Turn to Corporate Comforts, the region’s leading temporary housing provider.
Whether you’re an employee who’s relocating, an insurance adjuster or a government employee, we have the corporate apartment to suit your needs.
Our furnished, extended stay apartments feature all the comforts of home. Whether you’re seeking furnished apartments in Austin or corporate housing in Albuquerque, you’ll find every convenience you need without having to spend as much as you would in a hotel. With the help of Corporate Comforts, your extended stay will feel more like home. Give us a call at (800)-579-2559 or speak to a corporate housing specialist at [email protected]!