Table of Contents
Extended Stay America Review: Your Home Away from Home
Introduction
Extended Stay America has emerged as a leading choice for those looking for long-term lodging solutions. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Extended Stay America, covering its features, pricing, customer experiences, and comparisons with competitors.
Overview of Extended Stay America
Company Background
Founded in 1995, Extended Stay America has established itself as a reliable choice for travelers needing temporary housing. With over 600 locations across the United States, it caters to various guests, from business professionals to families on vacation. The brand’s mission is to provide guests with a comfortable, home-like environment while ensuring they have access to essential amenities.
Target Audience
Extended Stay America primarily targets:
- Business Travelers: Professionals on work assignments who need a convenient and cost-effective place to stay.
- Families: Families relocating or traveling for extended periods who appreciate the convenience of a kitchen.
- Tourists: Vacationers looking for affordable accommodations while exploring new destinations.
Key Features
Extended Stay America sets itself apart from traditional hotels with several unique features:
- Fully Equipped Kitchenettes: Each room is equipped with a refrigerator, microwave, stovetop, and essential utensils, allowing guests to prepare meals just like at home.
- Pet-Friendly Options: Many locations offer pet-friendly rooms, accommodating travelers with furry companions. There are typically no breed restrictions, making it a great choice for pet owners.
- Laundry Facilities: On-site laundry facilities make it easy for guests to manage their laundry, adding to the convenience of extended stays.
- Workspaces: Rooms are designed with business travelers in mind, featuring desks, ergonomic chairs, and free high-speed Wi-Fi, facilitating remote work.
- Flexible Rates: Extended Stay America offers competitive pricing for longer stays, with discounts available for weekly and monthly bookings.
- Free Breakfast: Some locations provide a complimentary breakfast to kickstart your day, featuring items like oatmeal, muffins, and coffee.
- Fitness Centers: Select properties offer fitness centers to help guests maintain their workout routines while traveling.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Affordability: Compared to traditional hotels, Extended Stay America provides excellent value for money, especially for long-term stays. Their pricing structures favor those needing accommodations for a week or longer.
- Convenience: The availability of kitchenettes allows guests to save on dining expenses. Grocery stores are often nearby, making it easy to stock up on essentials.
- Comfort: The homely environment makes it a comfortable choice for families and business travelers alike. The spacious rooms provide a relaxing atmosphere for unwinding after a long day.
- Location Variety: With numerous locations throughout the country, guests can find Extended Stay America properties in major cities and near popular attractions.
Cons
- Limited Amenities: Some locations may lack the full range of amenities found in traditional hotels, such as on-site restaurants or extensive fitness centers.
- Variable Quality: As with any hotel chain, the quality of service and room condition can vary by location. It’s advisable to check recent reviews of the specific property you plan to stay at.
- Basic Decor: The decor can feel a bit outdated compared to boutique hotels, which may not appeal to all travelers.
Pricing and Packages
Extended Stay America offers competitive pricing structures based on the length of stay. Typically, the longer the stay, the lower the nightly rate. Special discounts are often available for stays of a week or longer.
Pricing Breakdown
- Short-term Stays (1-6 nights): Higher nightly rates, starting around $99. This is comparable to standard hotel rates but may not include kitchen facilities.
- Weekly Rates (7+ nights): Discounts available, with rates averaging around $89 per night. This package is ideal for guests who need a place to stay for work or relocation.
- Monthly Rates: Further discounts for extended stays, starting around $79 per night, depending on location. This makes it one of the most affordable options for those needing temporary housing.
Price Comparison
| Feature | Extended Stay America | Homewood Suites | Residence Inn |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Nightly Rate | $79-$99 | $120-$160 | $130-$180 |
| Weekly Rate | $89 | $800 | $900 |
| Monthly Rate | $2,400 | $3,600 | $3,900 |
| Complimentary Breakfast | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Pet Policy | Pet-friendly | Pet-friendly | Pet-friendly |
Customer Support
Extended Stay America provides a range of customer support options, including:
- 24/7 Front Desk: Staff is available to assist guests with check-in, room changes, and other inquiries, ensuring a smooth experience.
- Online Chat: Instant messaging options for quick assistance through their website, allowing guests to resolve issues promptly.
- Customer Service Phone Line: Dedicated support for reservations and inquiries, helping guests address any concerns before or during their stay.
Customer Reviews and Feedback
Many guests have praised Extended Stay America for its friendly staff, cleanliness, and convenient locations. However, some reviews mention occasional issues with maintenance or noise levels, which may vary by property. Here are some summarized customer experiences: TrustPilot Reviews
- Positive Reviews:
- Guests appreciate the kitchenette facilities, stating it allows them to cook meals and save money.
- Many reviews highlight the cleanliness of the rooms and the helpfulness of the staff.
- Negative Reviews:
- Some customers have reported issues with noisy neighbors or thin walls, affecting their sleep quality.
- A few guests mentioned that certain properties require updates and renovations.
Amenities Overview
Extended Stay America properties are designed with long-term comfort in mind, offering several key amenities:
- Room Features:
- Spacious suites with kitchenettes.
- Comfortable bedding and furniture.
- High-speed Wi-Fi (complimentary).
- On-Site Services:
- 24/7 front desk and security.
- On-site laundry facilities.
- Fitness centers at select locations.
- Guest Services:
- Weekly housekeeping services.
- Pet-friendly accommodations.
- Business services, including fax and copy services.
Safety and Cleanliness Protocols
In light of recent global events, Extended Stay America has implemented enhanced cleanliness protocols to ensure guest safety:
- Deep Cleaning: Increased frequency of cleaning and sanitizing in all guest rooms and common areas.
- Social Distancing: Markers in common areas to promote social distancing, ensuring a safe environment.
- Contactless Check-In: Options for contactless check-in to minimize physical contact.
Comparative Analysis
To provide a clearer picture of how Extended Stay America stacks up against competitors, here’s a comparison table:
| Feature | Extended Stay America | Homewood Suites by Hilton | Residence Inn by Marriott |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fully Equipped Kitchen | ★★★★★ (5/5) | ★★★★★ (5/5) | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Pricing | ★★★★☆ (4/5) | ★★★★ (4/5) | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Customer Support | ★★★★☆ (4/5) | ★★★★★ (5/5) | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Amenities | ★★★☆☆ (3/5) | ★★★★★ (5/5) | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Overall Satisfaction | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) | ★★★★★ (5/5) | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Analysis of Competitors
- Homewood Suites by Hilton: Offers similar long-stay accommodations but includes complimentary breakfast and evening socials, making it ideal for families and business travelers.
- Residence Inn by Marriott: Known for its spacious suites and extensive amenities, including full kitchens, free grocery delivery service, and an inviting social atmosphere.
Overall Rating by Category
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Ease of Booking | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Cleanliness | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) |
| Comfort | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) |
| Value for Money | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) |
| Customer Support | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Conclusion
Extended Stay America stands out as a top choice for those needing temporary accommodations, offering a unique blend of hotel and apartment-style living. With its competitive pricing, convenient amenities, and customer-focused service, it provides excellent value for long-term stays.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a home away from home, Extended Stay America is worth considering. Its spacious rooms, fully equipped kitchenettes, and affordability make it an ideal choice for business travelers, families, and anyone seeking a comfortable place to stay for an extended period.
Overall Rating
- Overall Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)