A hotel, but a home. Absolutely, that is the new concept that is sold by hotels, today. It is called the service apartment. The room has a homely look and is propped with everything a home would need. From home appliance to kitchen needs, bathroom and toilet accessories. It's like your home, although you are miles away from it.

This is a new concept in India but the western countries have already welcomed it. Five Star Hotels brought this style to clients who would stay for a long period. They realised in the beginning clients loved the luxurious service but after a month they longed for their home. Thus a serviced apartment would offer most of the aspects of your home. Making you feel at ease, as though you were at home.

Many corporates who travel to other states or countries find it difficult to adjust to the new culture and setting. For sometime the hotel service is welcome but later you long to dwell your own style.

Reason why service apartments were brought into being. You cook and eat and live the style you want. You are even provided with a maid/manservant who will get you groceries or any other requirement. Making it just the way it would be at home.

Nowadays Indian immigrants coming to India to settle opt for this type of apartments. As they hunt for a new house they accommodate themselves in comfort in a service apartment. So they do not have to compromise on their lifestyle or go through the hassles of shifting in a rented home with zilch amenities then shifting out.

It is an acceptable alternative even for foreign nationals who travel to other countries. Once a Chinese citizen reported that he was tired of eating the food of another culture that didn't suit his body. Ultimately the service apartment came to his rescue. He was happy that he could cook and live the way he wanted.

The service apartment is made to look and feel exactly like a home. Every room is furnished with a television & music set, microwave and other electronic goods. Moreover some hotels also provide you with magazine and shoe racks. Cleaning is done everyday. However a senior hotel manager mostly accompanies the cleaning staff so that they are never alone in the room.

The cost of a service apartment too is as attractive as the concept. It can vary from Rs. 7000 a month to over Rs. 11 lakhs a month for a well equipped 3 bedroom apartment with all the amenities including a swimming pool, gymkhana, a garden or even more.

The tariff charge depends on how long is the stay. It is less expensive if the person has a prolonged stay. It can be bargained if the stay is for a month or even more for a year. A service apartment generally provides you with an AC furnished flat, equipped kitchen, TV, fridge, washing machine, landline, internet, power back-up, fire safety & security and some even provide you with a locker. However before booking the apartment always make sure what is inclusive and what is exclusive. For instance who will pay the electricity, maintenance. Hence make sure what are you paying for.