Finding the right accommodation for an extended stay can be challenging. This article offers 5 solutions to your extended stay Lakeland FL needs, helping you choose wisely and save time.
When life calls for a longer stay in Lakeland, Florida, a typical hotel room just won’t cut it. You need a space that feels more like home, offering amenities and flexibility for weeks or even months. Thankfully, Lakeland has several excellent options for extended stay accommodations. This isn’t just a list of places; it’s a curated guide to finding the right place for you, factoring in budget, lifestyle, and specific needs.
Before diving into specific properties, let’s clarify what makes an extended stay different from a regular hotel visit. We will explore several needs such as the length of stay, budget or pets.
- Length of Stay is a key factor. Extended stays typically range from a week to several months. This influences your priorities, as amenities like a full kitchen and laundry facilities become more crucial.
- Budget is always a consideration. Extended stay hotels often offer weekly or monthly rates, providing significant savings compared to nightly rates. However, it’s essential to compare the total cost, including extra fees for amenities or services.
- Lifestyle is very important. Do you need a pet-friendly place? Do you require specific accessibility features? Do you prioritize proximity to work, family, or recreational activities?
Understanding these needs will help you narrow down your options and choose the best fit.
Here’s a breakdown of five excellent extended stay options in Lakeland, considering different needs and preferences:
1. Extended Stay America – Lakeland
This is a well-known chain providing basic, no-frills accommodations focused on affordability.
- Ideal for: Budget-conscious travelers who prioritize functionality over luxury.
- Key Features: In-room kitchens with a stovetop, microwave, and refrigerator. Laundry facilities are available on-site. Pet-friendly policies (fees apply).
- Things to Consider: Rooms are generally basic, and housekeeping services might be limited to weekly or bi-weekly.
- Why it’s a good option: You will get the best bang for your buck.
- Insight: As someone who’s stayed in Extended Stay Americas before, I’ve found their consistency to be a major plus. You know what you’re getting, and the price is usually unbeatable for the space.
2. Residence Inn Lakeland
If you value a comfortable, home-like atmosphere, Residence Inn is a step up from Extended Stay America. (Source: Marriott Official Website)
- Ideal for: Travelers seeking more comfort and amenities, families, and business travelers.
- Key Features: Suites with separate living and sleeping areas, fully equipped kitchens, complimentary breakfast, evening social hours (select days), a pool, and a fitness center.
- Things to Consider: Higher price point compared to Extended Stay America.
- Why it’s a good option: Offers a good balance of comfort, amenities, and value.
- Insight: I once booked a Residence Inn for a family relocation and was impressed by how well-equipped the kitchen was. Having a real oven and dishwasher made a huge difference.
3. Staybridge Suites Lakeland
Another excellent option known for its spacious suites and amenities catering to extended stays.
- Ideal for: Travelers needing a comfortable and well-equipped space for longer periods.
- Key Features: Spacious suites with fully equipped kitchens, complimentary breakfast buffet, evening social receptions (with complimentary food and drinks), a fitness center, and an outdoor pool.
- Things to Consider: Prices can be higher than more basic extended stay options.
- Why it’s a good option: You can enjoy the amenities and social atmosphere.
4. Airbnb or VRBO in Lakeland
These platforms offer a variety of apartments, condos, and houses suitable for extended stays.
- Ideal for: Travelers seeking unique accommodations, more space, or specific amenities (e.g., a private yard, a specific view).
- Key Features: Wide range of properties, varying in size, style, and amenities. Often includes full kitchens, laundry facilities, and outdoor spaces.
- Things to Consider: Quality and consistency can vary. It’s crucial to read reviews carefully and communicate with the host to clarify expectations.
- Why it’s a good option: Provides the most flexibility and variety.
- Insight: While often cheaper up-front, it’s crucial to consider additional fees such as cleaning and service charges that can significantly impact the overall cost, especially for longer stays. Always compare the total cost, including all fees, to hotel options.
5. Intown Suites Lakeland
Similar to Extended Stay America, Intown Suites provides affordable, basic accommodations for extended stays.
- Ideal for: Budget-minded travelers seeking a simple and functional place to stay.
- Key Features: In-room kitchens with a refrigerator, microwave, and stovetop. Weekly rates are typically available.
- Things to Consider: Amenities are limited, and housekeeping services may be infrequent.
Understanding what others are searching for can give you additional context and insights for your decision. Here are some LSI keywords related to “extended stay Lakeland FL”:
- Weekly hotels Lakeland FL: This highlights the importance of weekly rates for budget-conscious travelers.
- Extended stay hotels near me: Emphasizes the need for convenient location.
- Pet-friendly extended stay Lakeland FL: Underscores the importance of pet-friendly options for some travelers.
- Cheap extended stay Lakeland FL: Reinforces the focus on affordability.
To help you visualize the differences between these options, here’s a table summarizing their key features:
| Feature | Extended Stay America | Residence Inn | Staybridge Suites | Airbnb/VRBO | Intown Suites |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kitchen | Basic | Full | Full | Full | Basic |
| Breakfast | No | Complimentary | Complimentary | No | No |
| Social Hours | No | Select Days | Daily | No | No |
| Pool/Fitness Center | No | Yes | Yes | Varies | No |
| Pet-Friendly | Yes (Fee) | Yes (Fee) | Yes (Fee) | Varies | Yes (Fee) |
| Price | Budget | Mid-Range | Mid-Range to High | Varies | Budget |
Choosing an extended stay is about more than just the room itself. Consider these additional factors:
Location Matters
Lakeland is a relatively spread-out city. Proximity to your work, family, or desired attractions is crucial. Research the surrounding area to ensure it meets your needs.
Transportation
If you don’t have a car, consider the availability of public transportation or ride-sharing services near your chosen accommodation.
Local Amenities
Look for nearby grocery stores, restaurants, and other essential amenities to make your extended stay as convenient as possible.
“Bleisure” travel, a blend of business and leisure, is a growing trend. Many extended stays in Lakeland cater to this market. If you’re traveling for work but want to explore the area, look for accommodations near attractions like:
- Lakeland’s historic downtown (explore the antique shops).
- The Polk Museum of Art (free admission).
- The Circle B Bar Reserve (wildlife viewing).
One of the best things about an extended stay is the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture. Don’t just stay in your room! Explore Lakeland’s independent coffee shops, local breweries, and farmers’ markets. You might even discover hidden gems that you wouldn’t find on a typical vacation.
Choosing the right extended stay accommodation in Lakeland, FL, requires careful consideration of your needs, budget, and lifestyle. By evaluating the options and factors outlined in this article, you can find a comfortable and convenient home away from home for your extended stay. Good luck!
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