Choosing executive accommodation for staff

Booking accommodation for your staff is the perfect opportunity to show them your appreciation, so why not spend a few extra dollars on an upgrade? Not only will executive accommodation help your staff to function at their best, but the range of services available will also make them feel at home, even when away on business.

What are the options?

Motel chains and independent operators usually offer some type of executive option. There is also a range of apartments and guestrooms available in most major centres catering for executives.

Executive accommodation is usually larger than a standard hotel room and can offer:

• Fully furnished rooms or apartments, often incorporating kitchen and lounge areas
• Kitchen with modern appliances, such as coffee machine and dishwasher
• Entertainment facilities - DVD player, cable TV and stereo
• Wireless internet
• Premium-quality bed linen
• Fully equipped laundry or laundry service
• Swimming pool and gym facilities

Long-term stays offer value

Dean Minett from the Hotel, Motel and Accommodation Association's advisory board says a luxury room or suite is usually offered at a discount for extended stays.

"It's also worth considering that if you're staying longer, having the space and a desk to work in your room can become important features." 

Dean has noticed an increase in the number of bookings coming from travel agents, saying time-poor executives are often keen to put the hassle into someone else's hands.

"Using a travel agent is a one-stop shop of sorts and some executives prefer centralised billing." 

Those extra touches

Executive accommodation usually comes with special treatment, as hotel staff understand the time demands of business customers. 

There is also a range of added extras that can make forking out a bit more worth your while. Depending on where you're staying, you may be able to secure:

• A serviced apartment - with cleaning and laundry services
• Newspapers delivered to your room daily
• Chauffeur services
• Dry-cleaning services

Sick of hotel food?

One of the major benefits of executive accommodation is the provision of kitchen facilities. This makes the apartment more like a home and ensures a comfortable stay for your staff.

"Sometimes people get sick of hotel food and like to buy a few things from the supermarket and prepare a meal for themselves while they're away," says Dean. 

Whether it's that early-morning espresso or a home-cooked dinner at night, having access to a kitchen can also save your business money on restaurant expenses.

Go for the upgrade

An executive apartment is just the thing to make your staff feel at home when away on business and allow them to concentrate on the task at hand. When booking accommodation, consider showing your people how much you value them by upgrading them to executive accommodation.