Temporary Accommodation

Temporary accommodation can be anything you make of it. From hotel rooms to hostels to private short term lets, temporary accommodation has no technical definition and so can be anything that is inhabited in between permanent housing situations. Almost anyone could require temporary accommodation at some time, so learning the basics now will help everyone later.

Hotel Rooms

Hotel rooms may seem like an option only open to those able to splash the cash, but a variety of budget hotels now exist so that even those with limited budgets can usually find a room for a night. Some hotels even offer weekly rates so they make a good option for those in need of a few nights lodging. Breakfast, Internet access, use of the health centre and/or business centre may also be included in the room price.

Bed and Breakfasts

Like hotels, bed and breakfasts are usually a by the night or by the week booking option. Bed and breakfasts are usually located in someone’s private home and, as the name infers, they usually offer little more than a private bedroom and a breakfast in the morning. En suite bathrooms may be provided, as well as access to a common area for socialising. Many B&Bs do not like their guests in the house during the day, and some may even bar guests from being on the premises at certain times. Be sure to check the house rules before selecting a B&B as your temporary accommodation.

Bedsits and Rented Rooms

Rather than run a full B&B, some private homeowners prefer to rent a single room out by the week or month to a more consistent lodger. Usually a bedsit consists of a single room with little or no facilities for cooking, and a shared bathroom. Shared common areas and use of the kitchen and/or washing machine may also be included in the rent. Many people prefer bedsits and rented rooms to B&Bs for temporary accommodation because they offer more freedom and privacy, and guests may be able to negotiate a cheaper rental rate.

Hostels

Yes, hostels are often frequented by younger tourists and students taking a gap year, but that’s not all. Youth hostels often allow guests to stay for several nights at a time and offer substantial savings over hotel rooms or B&Bs. Hostel rooms are often shared, with up to six or eight people sleeping in each and many are co-ed. Facilities for cooking and washing, and sometimes even leisure facilities such computer access are included in the price. Many hostels do maintain strict age limits though, and most operate a maximum nights per stay policy, so be sure to check before booking.

Private Short Term Lets

Probably the most expensive, though most luxurious, of temporary accommodation options is a private short term let. Fully furnished and equipped, private short term lets may be rented on a weekly or monthly basis. Often professionals will utilise short term lets when moving between cities for work, and some private short term lets are available to students during term times. Private short term lets often require deposits and higher rents, and formal rental or tenancy agreements may need to be signed.

Temporary accommodations are those that may be utilised for short periods of time in between more permanent housing. In some emergency situations local authorities may provide grants or lodging and shelters often exist for those in need, but more often the responsibility lies with each individual to secure their own temporary accommodation. Check on the rent required for each of your options, as well as what this fee includes in terms of facilities and services and don’t forget to factor in your personal feelings of safety and security. Even if you can’t find someplace luxe to live, don’t worry – you’ll be out of there soon!