Talk of major businesses relocating their London head offices overseas, post Brexit, may have died down somewhat in recent weeks, but for many business travellers, relocation is still very much a reality.

Findings from the Office for National Statistics reveal that roughly 56,000 British citizens emigrated from the UK for work-related reasons in 2015, with most choosing to settle in places like Australia, France and the UAE instead.

After deciding on a new location, however, expats are faced with the difficult task of making housing, healthcare and schooling arrangements. Thankfully, workforce mobility providers are on hand to bridge the gap between moving abroad and sourcing a new home.

Serviced apartments offer arguably the most attractive accommodation option for business travellers relocating overseas. For short stays, the average serviced apartment costs roughly the same as a hotel per night; but for visits longer than 28 nights, there’s savings of up to 30% to be had. More space, greater privacy and increased flexibility for cooking and conducting meetings mean serviced apartments are also more commodious than hotels.

But even with the assistance of a relocation provider, there remain a few things which every business traveller needs to bear in mind when deciding where to stay.

To ease you on your way to a new “home away from home”, we give you the top 6 things to consider when choosing serviced apartments for relocation:

Familiarise yourself with the local supermarkets
Unlike hotels, business travellers have the means to cook up fancy food from the comfort of their apartment using state of the art kitchen facilities provided. Electric hobs, ovens and microwaves allow for both meals in minutes, or gourmet dinners if you have the time.

So take advantage – stock up your cupboards with local produce.

How essential is parking?
Taking your car on a business trip, or hiring one abroad? If so, so you’ll need an apartment with parking facilities. Free on-site parking is the ideal scenario, but in some instances you may have to pay an additional charge.

Individual apartments within a residential development outside big cities tend to favour off-site parking - which again comes either free of charge or at an extra fee.

Choose accommodation in walking distance of public transport
Save yourself the hassle of trekking about a new city like a headless chicken by opting for apartments close to local bus stops and train stations.

Some offer corporate serviced accommodation within a 5-10 minute walk of them, while others are located right in the heart of commuting zones.

Are pets allowed?
Choose the wrong apartment, and your beloved pooch may end up sleeping on the curb. Some properties will allow pets; however, every property has their own set policy.

You can accommodate them at no extra risk by establishing and agreeing a deposit scheme - which protects against damages to soft furnishings. However, should your apartment require a deep clean after for health and safety reasons, you’ll more than likely have to cover the cost.

Best serviced apartments for disabled travellers
Not all serviced apartments make provisions for disabled travellers, so do your research in advance. Wheelchair and lift access are crucial; some operators may also have adjustable worktops and cabinets.
Let your apartment provider know beforehand so that they can suggest suitable options.

But what if I’m bringing my family?
Serviced apartments tend to be very flexible when it comes to families. Self- catering presents the best possible solution for fussy eaters, while free Wi-Fi and flat screen TVs - afforded by most providers - ensure children are kept entertained for hours.

For those with toddlers, some operators can even add additional single beds and cots.
Relocation needn’t be a stressful process and selecting the right serviced apartments as you transition homes can be key.

Anton Constantinou, Content Writer
SilverDoor