How to Make Your Temporary Stay Feel Like Home
Staying in a temporary accommodation can feel a bit like living in someone else’s shoes. Sure, they fit well enough, but they’re not quite broken in. Luckily, with a few creative touches, you can transform your serviced apartment into a snug retreat that feels just right for you. Here’s how to make your temporary stay feel like home without unpacking your entire life.
Embrace Personalisation
Scent and Sound: You know you’re home when you sense the familiar aroma of your favourite candle or hear the soothing sounds of your recently updated playlist. Whether it’s the summery smell of lavender or the tunes of your favourite artist, sensory elements like these can instantly life your spirits and make your space feel more like your own cosy corner of the universe.
Personal Items: Adding a few cherished items can work wonders when adding a personal touch to your temporary stay. When travelling, bringing along that quirky mug you love, displaying your family photos, or adding a splash of colour with that vibrant throw, can take your space from
Maintain Your Routine
Your daily habits are a huge factor in what home feels like to you. Sticking to your daily routine can help you feel more at ease in a new environment. Whether it’s a morning jog before the early bird rises, a yoga session to centre your chi, or simply enjoying a cup of tea while reading the latest unsurprising news, these familiar activities can ground you and provide a comforting sense of structure.
If you’re a “my mouth only” type of chef or an aspiring Onezwa Mbola, enjoy the culinary experiences you can have using the kitchen in your serviced apartment. Whip up your favourite dish, or experiment with local ingredients from a nearby supermarket to help you feel at home with your food.
Explore the Local Area
Everyone suddenly becomes that annoying tourist when travelling. Every neighbourhood has its hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Embrace your Dora the explorer and explore nearby cafés, parks, and shops. Take a scenic stroll and let your curiosity lead you (don'‘t worry, you’re not a cat, and even if you identify as one - you have 9 lives!). Who knows, you might find your new favourite café or a perfect spot for reflection.
Engaging with the community by participating in local events or classes will also give you a sense of belonging. It is a perfect way to meet new people and feel more connected to the area, somewhere that feels new suddenly becomes a place you call “home”. Think about all the amazing stories you’ll gather to share with friends and family back home.
Recommendation: Eventbrite is a great platform that gives you access to the best local events and experiences. It offers a wide rage of events, from concerts and festivals to workshops conferences, and community gathers.
Create a Comfortable Environment
Furniture Arrangement: Now this is a tip I shouldn’t be sharing (thankfully my identity is hidden-ish), but rearranging furniture to suit your taste can create a comfortable environment for you. Sometimes, just placing the chair at an angle that captures the best views, or repositioning a lamp to reduce the amount of light can make your room feel more inviting and functional. If you’re a bibliophile like our boss, then creating a cosy reading nook can take your space from just passing through, to home sweet home!
Utilise Amenities: Serviced Apartments like ours provides all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, so take advantage of them! Whether it’s a fitness centre or a cosy balcony with amazing views, these extras can enhance your stay and give you opportunities for relaxation and pure enjoyment.
Leverage Technology
Technology has become one of the greatest tools that makes life so much easier! When away from home, you can make the most of technology to stay connected and entertained. Listen to your favourite tunes or podcasts using smart speakers, and ensure a strong Wi-Fi connection for seamless communication with loved ones. I mean, after a long stressful day, nothing beats a good chit-chat with a familiar face.
Connect with the Community
The best way to become a true local and being part of the community is by connecting with it. This sense of belonging is key in making a strange new place feel warm and familiar. Join local social media groups or forums to get insider tips on the best local spots. If you’re in London, subscribe to our newsletter or follow us on instagram to get all the latest London travel information.
Connecting with other travellers or locals can also offer valuable insights and enrich your experience. You’ll soon feel like part of the community, swapping stories and sharing your own recommendations.
Just like it takes time to break into a new pair of shoes, making a temporary space feel like home is about finding the right fit. It’s about blending comfort with familiarity. By adding your personal touches, maintaining your routines, and embracing the local culture and community, you can create a sense of belonging and transform your serviced apartment into your very own cosy retreat.
Whether it’s lighting your favourite candle, rearranging the furniture (you didn’t hear that from me), or exploring the hidden gems of the neighbourhood, every effort you make adds a layer of warmth and just the right amount of your personality to your temporary stay. So, go ahead and embrace the opportunity to create a space that makes you feel at ease.
Remember, home is not a physical place but a feeling of belonging and peace. As the saying goes, home is where the heart is. So, with a little creativity and a sense of adventure, you can add a little heart to your serviced apartment. Enjoy your stay, and may it be filled with comfort, warmth, and new experiences.
