The Rise of Extended Stay: How Choice Hotels’ Everhome Suites Signals a Major Shift in Travel
Choice Hotels International’s continued expansion of its Everhome Suites brand – recently adding locations in Texas, Kentucky, and New Jersey – isn’t just about opening new hotels. It’s a clear indicator of a fundamental shift in how and why people travel. The extended stay market is booming, and Everhome Suites is strategically positioning itself to capitalize on this growing demand. With 27 properties now open, the brand is quickly becoming a key player in the midscale extended stay segment.
Why Extended Stay is Surging in Popularity
Traditionally, hotels catered to shorter, leisure-focused trips. But several factors are driving the extended stay trend. The rise of remote work is a major catalyst. According to a recent study by Statista, the number of people working remotely at least part of the time has increased by over 60% since 2019. This translates to a need for comfortable, affordable accommodations for “workcations” and those relocating for new opportunities.
Beyond remote work, consider the “bleisure” traveler – blending business and leisure. These individuals may extend a business trip to explore a new city, or bring family along and combine work with vacation time. Furthermore, extended stays are increasingly common for individuals undergoing temporary job assignments, medical treatments, or home renovations.
Everhome Suites: A Strategic Approach to Location and Amenities
Choice Hotels isn’t simply building hotels; they’re strategically placing Everhome Suites in locations that cater to specific needs. The San Antonio location, for example, is near major employers like USAA and Wells Fargo, as well as medical centers and attractions like SeaWorld. This targets both corporate travelers and families. Similarly, the Bowling Green, KY, location serves Western Kentucky University, the GM Corvette plant, and healthcare facilities.
The Somerset, NJ, hotel’s proximity to Rutgers University, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, and Johnson & Johnson headquarters demonstrates a focus on serving the needs of academic, medical, and corporate communities. This hyper-local approach is crucial for success in the extended stay market. It’s not enough to just offer a room; you need to offer convenience and access to the resources travelers need for longer stays.
The Extended Stay Market: Beyond Hotels – A Look at Alternatives
While hotels like Everhome Suites are gaining traction, the extended stay market also includes alternatives like Airbnb, corporate housing, and serviced apartments. Airbnb, for instance, saw a significant increase in stays of 28 days or longer in 2023, according to AirDNA data. However, these alternatives often lack the consistency and amenities of a branded hotel experience.
Corporate housing, while offering fully furnished accommodations, can be expensive and inflexible. Serviced apartments bridge the gap, but availability can be limited. This creates an opportunity for brands like Everhome Suites to offer a compelling combination of affordability, convenience, and consistency.
Future Trends in Extended Stay
Several trends are poised to shape the future of the extended stay market:
- Technology Integration: Expect to see more hotels incorporating smart room technology, mobile check-in/check-out, and personalized guest experiences.
- Sustainability: Eco-conscious travelers are increasingly seeking sustainable accommodations. Hotels will need to prioritize energy efficiency, waste reduction, and responsible sourcing.
- Community Building: Extended stay hotels are evolving into mini-communities. Expect to see more communal spaces, social events, and opportunities for guests to connect with each other.
- Pet-Friendly Policies: With pet ownership on the rise, hotels that cater to travelers with pets will have a competitive advantage.
- Hybrid Models: We may see the emergence of hybrid models that combine the best aspects of hotels, apartments, and co-living spaces.
The Impact of Economic Factors
Economic conditions also play a role. During times of economic uncertainty, people may delay major life changes like moving, opting instead for extended stays in hotels while they assess their options. Conversely, a strong economy can fuel demand for extended stays as businesses expand and individuals take on temporary assignments.
FAQ: Extended Stay Hotels
Q: What is an extended stay hotel?
A: An extended stay hotel offers accommodations designed for longer stays, typically a week or more, and includes amenities like kitchens and laundry facilities.
Q: Who typically uses extended stay hotels?
A: Remote workers, business travelers, individuals relocating, those undergoing medical treatment, and families on extended vacations.
Q: Are extended stay hotels more expensive than traditional hotels?
A: Not necessarily. While the nightly rate may be similar, extended stay hotels can often save you money in the long run by allowing you to cook your own meals and do your own laundry.
Q: What amenities should I look for in an extended stay hotel?
A: A full kitchen, laundry facilities, free Wi-Fi, a comfortable workspace, and convenient access to local amenities.
The success of Everhome Suites, and the broader growth of the extended stay market, demonstrates a fundamental shift in travel patterns. As work, leisure, and life become increasingly fluid, the demand for flexible, comfortable, and affordable accommodations will only continue to grow.
Want to learn more about travel trends? Explore our articles on sustainable tourism and the future of business travel.
Share your thoughts! What are your experiences with extended stay hotels? Leave a comment below.
