If you have had the opportunity to stay in a corporate housing apartment in the United States, Europe, or Asia, you know the benefits this service can provide. These apartments can be ideal for relocating personnel, executives, and corporate teams. Temporary corporate housing often is a cost-effective solution for any business traveler. Here are some useful guidelines that you should consider before you sign an agreement with a temporary housing provider in Panama City.
Size Matters
Short-term housing typically offers significant space for business travelers. A hotel room might offer 30 to 40 square meters (323 to 430 square feet) of space. A corporate housing provider often offers 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom apartments and can have up to four times the space of a hotel.
Location, Location, Location
Location is important when choosing temporary corporate housing. You need to search for a safe temporary apartment that will be close to your place of business. Because traffic is a major factor, it is not advisable to stay in an apartment that is far away from your destinations in Panama City.
Getting Around
If your company does not provide transportation, be sure to ask your corporate housing provider for recommendations. It is advisable to use a trusted and known person for your transportation needs. Some providers also can arrange airport transportation. The closest airport to Panama City is Tocumen International Airport (PTY). It is a 30-minute drive from the airport into Panama City. Rush hour traffic greatly can increase your transit time.
Safety First
Security is an important issue. It is advisable to stay in an apartment tower that has verified 24/7 security personnel. Be aware that not all security companies are the same in Panama. Make sure to use a housing provider who has extensive experience in Panama City to ensure your safety.
Keeping in Touch
It is best to get a temporary furnished apartment that has Wi-Fi coverage. A professionally managed corporate housing apartment should include all costs related to electric, water, gas, cable TV, Internet, and landline phones. Some providers will include a prepaid cell phone for you to use. It is not advisable to rent a furnished apartment without these public services included, as it is a time-consuming, costly, and complicated process to have public services connected.
All the Extras
Amenities should be considered when you look for furnished apartments in Panama City. Make sure that your temporary corporate housing apartment has furnishings, air conditioning, linens, and housekeeping services to make your stay more comfortable. A fully-equipped kitchen and washer and dryer in the apartment are important. Kitchens should be stocked with all of the cooking implements you need. You will have to bring your own food, but everything else should be ready to go. Your corporate housing provider also will be able to reconfigure the apartment, adding twin beds, cribs, desks, and the like, to make your temporary corporate housing apartment work for you and your family.
Making a Choice
Choosing a provider is key to a good experience. There are property management companies and individuals that offer furnished apartments. These should not be mistaken for corporate housing providers. Foreign companies should strive to work with a corporate housing provider that is a member of the Corporate Housing Providers Association (CHPA) and Worldwide ERC®. Issues concerning safety, payment method, maintenance , and client service should be considered when choosing a temporary corporate housing provider in Panama City.
We live in a fast-paced business world; we all strive to balance work and home. Temporary corporate housing provides the environment to maintain and balance one’s work and home life while relocating or on temporary assignment.
David Lorber is president of Panama Corporate Living, Panama City, Republic of Panama. He can be reached at +1 866 440 5421 or e-mail dslorber@panamacorpliving.com.