Relocation Guide: Moving to Houston 

You’ve dotted the Is, crossed the Ts, signed on the dotted line, and now you’re on your way to Houston. A lively metropolis known for its cultural diversity, delectable cuisine, expansive housing options and affordable cost of living, Houston has much to offer. It’s time to plan your next steps as you get ready to make this city your new home. 

Whether you’ve been preparing for this moment for months or even years, or you’re simply craving a spontaneous change of scenery while you work from home, your decision to relocate is just the first step of the journey. This guide has you covered. We’ll give you the basics to prepare you for your move to Houston. 

Preparing for Your Move 

You’re probably feeling a mix of emotions. It’s normal to experience the push and pull of excitement as you make this major life change. It’s normal to be nervous about all the things you need to do before your move. However, rest assured that you do not have to go through this process alone. 

There are many moving pieces involved in relocating to Houston. A temporary housing partner like Synergy who helps with relocations to the area can assist you throughout this process. As you prepare for your move, you can ease your transition by doing the necessary research and working with seasoned professionals who have knowledge of your destination. 

Are you traveling solo? Do you need to account for your partner, children, or family members? Are you relocating internationally or domestically? Do you have any animal travel companions? Are you shipping your belongings, hiring movers, or both? Have you set up a forwarding address? With much to take into consideration prior to your move, it’s vital to do your due diligence so that your experience is as stress-free as possible. 

Moving Within the USA 

Think about options for moving the household items you need to bring with you. You may have just a few things you want to take, for instance, if you’re maintaining your home elsewhere. In which case, think about small shipment providers, like PODs pr ShipSmart, who deliver packing materials right to your door so you can pack and then have your items delivered when you’re ready. If you have more, or don’t want to pack yourself, there are a host of providers who can do this for you . 

When moving within the USA, consider whether you’ll drive or fly to your new home in Houston. Driving allows you to transport more personal items and valuables yourself, providing peace of mind. Plan your route and accommodations ahead of time using tools like Roadtrippers, and ensure your vehicle is in good condition before the trip. Calculate the cost of gas, food and lodging, utilizing apps like GasBuddy to find the cheapest gas prices along your route. 

If you decide to fly, you’ll need to arrange for your belongings to be shipped. Reputable moving companies or shipment providers like U-Haul and U-Box can also assist with this. Book your flights in advance to get the best rates and arrange transportation from the airport to your new home. While flying might be faster, it can be more expensive when factoring in airfare, pet travel fees and the cost of shipping belongings. 

If your new home isn’t ready upon arrival, arrange temporary housing through providers like Synergy or Airbnb. Set up a forwarding address with USPS to ensure you don’t miss any important mail and arrange to have utilities turned on in your new home before you arrive  (electricity, water, gas, internet, and cable services). 

Moving from Abroad 

If you’re moving from overseas, make sure you work with a reputable provider to ship your things. Ensure you give them as much information as possible and ask for recommendations and time estimates for your shipment. Note that the Port of Houston has a number of restrictions on vessel sizes due to tides and weather is also an issue which can cause delays. 

Relocating to Houston from abroad involves several extra steps. You’ll want to work with a reputable international moving company and provide them with detailed information about your shipment to receive accurate recommendations and time estimates. 

When preparing for your move, you should research visa requirements and entry requirements not only for yourself, but also for your partner or anyone else in your travel party. Each departure/destination combination mandates different documentation and prerequisites that could have a potential impact on your plans. 

Familiarize yourself with the US healthcare system and consider obtaining medical insurance that covers your initial period in the country until you can get local coverage. And, try to set up a bank account in the US before you move if possible, or as soon as you arrive. Research banks that offer services for expats and make arrangements ahead of time. You’ll want to be prepared for cultural differences and potential language barriers. Look for local expat communities or resources to help you acclimate to your new surroundings. 

Taking the Family 

Moving a family requires careful planning to ensure a smooth transition. Research the diverse neighborhoods in Houston that offer a range of options. Use resources like GreatSchools and Neighborhood Scout to gather insights on local amenities, safety statistics, schools and healthcare facilities. Check enrollment deadlines and requirements early, and consider both public and private schools based on your family’s needs and preferences. You don’t want to wait until the last minute to enroll your children for the next academic season. Houston has a wonderful school system with over 274 schools in the district, but they also have waitlists. Identify local healthcare providers, pediatricians and hospitals. Ensure your current medical records are transferred and that you have health insurance coverage in place. Explore family-friendly activities and parks in Houston, such as the Houston Zoo, Children’s Museum of Houston and Hermann Park to help your family settle in and enjoy their new environment. 

Traveling Solo 

If you’re moving solo, research neighborhoods that cater to single professionals. Areas like Midtown, Montrose and Downtown offer vibrant social scenes and convenient access to work and entertainment. Join local clubs, organizations or online groups to meet new people and build a social network. Apps like Meetup can help you find local events and activities, making it easier to integrate into the community. Prioritize safety when choosing your new home by looking into crime rates and security measures in potential neighborhoods. 

Traveling with Pets 

Moving with pets requires special attention. Ensure your new home is pet-friendly, as some landlords have restrictions on pet size and breed. Websites like Zillow and Apartments.com allow you to filter search results by pet-friendly properties. Houston has a humid subtropical climate that can affect your pet’s health, so ensure they are protected against fleas, ticks and other pests. Regular vet visits are essential, so research local veterinarians and pet clinics. The city requires pets  to be registered, so check the Houston Animal Control and Regulation website for specific requirements and processes. Look for pet services such as grooming, boarding and dog parks. Houston has several parks and trails where you can take your pets for exercise and socialization to keep you and them busy! 

Finding the Right Home 

Finding the right home in Houston involves considering various factors. Houston’s cost of living is surprisingly affordable and generally lower than cities like New York or San Francisco. Keep in mind that property and sales taxes can be high though. The Loop (Interstate Highway 610) encompasses urban neighborhoods such as Downtown Houston, Montrose and Midtown, which are bustling with workplaces, entertainment venues and apartment complexes. Suburban areas like The Woodlands, Katy and Sugar Land offer larger homes and family-friendly environments, tending to be quieter but still providing easy access to the city’s main attractions. 

As in other cities, the safety of Houston’s neighborhoods is varied. Kingwood ranks highly in security, boasting an A+ rating for crime and safety, similar to Bellaire, a suburban community southwest of Downtown and West University Place. Safety statistics vary over time, so do your research when you’re ready. Resources like Neighborhood Scout can be helpful as a starting point. If you're unsure about committing to a long-term lease or purchase, consider temporary housing. Providers like Synergy offer fully furnished apartments with amenities such as Wi-Fi, dishware, and linens. This allows you to explore the city and decide where you want to live long-term. 

The Perfect Temporary Accommodation 

You may have visited the city of Houston before, or this might be your first time exploring this exciting hub. Regardless of whether you are moving to Houston for the long-term or short-term, finding the right housing for your needs is likely one of the most difficult parts of relocation. And this step becomes even harder when you’re not there in person to tour apartments or houses before you sign a lease. 

Temporary housing offers the perfect solution for your stay and allows you to get a feel for the city and specific neighborhoods you may be considering before getting locked into a long-term lease or ownership. Most temporary apartments come fully stocked with dishware and fresh linens and offer Wi-Fi for the perfect work-from-home setup. Serviced apartment providers like Synergy work to match you with ideal accommodations based on your requirements. During your stay, you’ll have 24/7 support from guest service agents who can provide insight and in-depth knowledge about Houston so that you can get acclimated and settle in. 

Settling Into Your New Home 

One unavoidable step of relocation and extended stays is having to deal with the administrative tasks that come with your change of address. 

If you’re moving from another state, you’ll need to get a Texas driver’s license. Use the interactive REAL ID Document Check Application to determine what documents you need and visit a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office to complete the process. Register your vehicle in Texas within 30 days of moving; you'll need proof of insurance, a current vehicle inspection, and the title or registration from your previous state. Register to vote in Texas by checking eligibility requirements and deadlines on the Texas Secretary of State’s website.  

Ensure you have medical insurance that covers you in Texas, and research local providers or options through the Health Insurance Marketplace if you don’t have employer-provided insurance. Set up a local bank account if you haven't already, and contact utility companies to arrange for electricity, water, gas, internet and cable services. Texas does not have a state income tax, but you'll still need to pay federal taxes. Research property and sales taxes, which can be high, to budget accordingly. 

Your New Life in Houston Awaits 

Moving to a new city is a significant life change, filled with both excitement and challenges. As you prepare for your move to Houston, this guide aims to provide you with the essential information and resources to make your transition as smooth as possible. From planning your relocation logistics, whether domestically or internationally, to considering the needs of your family or pets, there are many aspects to take into account. 

Houston’s vibrant neighborhoods, diverse culture, and affordable living offer a welcoming environment for newcomers. By researching your options for housing, schools, healthcare, and social opportunities, you can ensure a comfortable and enriching experience in your new home. Temporary housing solutions like those offered by Synergy can provide a convenient starting point as you explore the city and find your perfect long-term residence. 

Finally, don’t forget the important administrative tasks that come with relocating. Ensuring that you have your documentation, insurance, and utilities in order will help you settle in smoothly. Houston is a city that celebrates diversity and offers countless opportunities for growth and enjoyment. Embrace this new chapter with confidence, knowing that you have the resources and knowledge to make the most of your move. 

Welcome to Houston – your new adventure awaits! 

A Complete Relocation Guide: Moving to San Francisco Bay Area 

Whether you left your heart in San Francisco or are venturing to Northern California for the first time, there’s no denying the irresistible allure of the Bay Area. With its breathtaking views, awe-inspiring architecture, incredible food, and abundant history, it’s no wonder San Francisco is such a global hotspot. But when relocating or embarking on an extended stay to this beloved city, there are many factors to take into consideration.  

Why Move to San Francisco? 

An innovative, evolving hub for the arts, sciences, politics, real estate, and more, San Francisco is a breeding ground for development and creativity. While it’s no secret that the city’s cost of living is higher than most, the growth and evolution of Silicon Valley serve as a major driver in the success of the region’s booming economy—which has only continued to prosper with the recent AI boom. 

When you’re relocating to the San Francisco Bay Area, it’s prudent to do the math, and ensure that your salary covers the costs needed for you to live comfortably. However, with that in mind, the competitive nature of the local housing market makes temporary housing and furnished apartments that much more convenient and appealing. Limit the added costs and labor of moving to San Francisco and start your next chapter from the comfort of a move-in ready home or month-to-month apartments for rent. Without the constraints of a lease or contract, you can get to know the city before committing to your accommodations. 

Beyond its economic considerations, San Francisco offers so many other benefits. Enjoy temperate and sunny conditions that cater to year-round comfort, extreme walkability, and limitless options for newfound experiences and adventures. Explore countless parks, beaches, festivals, world-class restaurants, outdoor activities, universities, and vibrant communities—all tied together by highly accessible public transportation. Whether you’re hopping on the subway or commuting to the airport, there are an array of transportation options at your fingertips that make it easy to get from point A to point B. 

Finding the Right Neighborhood for You 

When it comes to a sprawling region like the San Francisco Bay Area, one of the most difficult parts of relocation is determining where to live. From Alameda County to Napa Valley, the Bay Area and San Francisco neighborhoods offer something for everyone.  

If you’re relocating for work, you likely already know where you need to stay to be near your office space. However, each community of the Bay Area invites a one-of-a-kind experience tailored to its unique infrastructure, history, and culture.  

You may want to stay in San Francisco proper, where you can soak up the sights and energy of the historic city. Perhaps instead you’re looking for more of a suburban environment, which can be found in the luxurious comfort of Marin County or Contra Costa County. Or if you’re a tech professional, student or professor, Silicon Valley is the spot to be. You’ve got the lively downtown vibes in San Jose, the innovation hub over in Mountain View, and the tech hotspot of Cupertino – all packed with pride and innovation. It’s the perfect mix for anyone in the tech scene looking for a lively place to settle down.

As you familiarize yourself with the region, Synergy Housing’s temporary apartments serve as the perfect solution to discover your ideal destination. Avoid committing to a long-term contract and the added stresses of long-distance moving by opting for furnished housing. Enhanced by luxury amenities and best-in-class services, serviced apartments like those provided by Synergy, allow you the flexibility to explore your new hometown. With everything from linens to kitchen appliances to 24-hour guest service support, your housing will be the least of your concerns.  

Relocating & Settling In to Your New Community 

Rich in history and culture, San Francisco beckons art-lovers, revolutionaries, culinary connoisseurs, academics, and everyone in between. Few places offer such diverse, immersive experiences as the Bay Area. Within one hour, you can go from walking among the redwoods of Muir Woods to watching the sunset at Ocean Beach, or from viewing Monet’s Water Lilies at the de Young museum in Golden Gate Park to touring the Googleplex in Silicon Valley. No matter your interests, your opportunities for adventure in San Francisco are as winding and thrilling as Lombard Street.  

Although it is a romantic idea to move to Northern California, there are still challenges that accompany living in a major city center. The region may promise unique experiences and beautiful landscapes, but San Francisco and the wider Bay Area continue to struggle with affordability and homelessness. Nevertheless, with abundant opportunities for jobs and education, along with diverse cultures and proximity to some of the most iconic destinations throughout the U.S. (if not the world!), the advantages speak for themselves.   

Every move comes with its own growing pains, but you don’t have to bear the weight of these obstacles on your own. Temporary furnished apartment providers like Synergy offer support throughout every stage of your moving process. With an award-winning customer service team and local on-the-ground support only a phone call away, your corporate housing providers ensure you have everything you need—all you have to do is pack up your suitcase and show up! 

Move-in ready accommodations, tailored just to your needs, help ease the stresses and anxieties of relocating. Equipped with everything from full-service kitchens to stocked linens and dishware, you can focus on getting to know your new community, rather than where you’re going to lay your head. Take advantage of the resources and contacts at your doorstep. Join groups and clubs of interest, get acquainted with your new neighbors, and establish connections that will help to immerse you in the local culture. Explore your neighborhood on foot (or bike!), study the local transit routes, and before you know it, you’ll be hanging off a cable car on your way to grab an Irish coffee from The Buena Vista. 

Get Ready to Go to San Francisco 

California’s San Francisco Bay Area boasts its accolades from east to west. Home to vibrant neighborhoods like the Castro, Oakland, Napa, and the prestigious Stanford University and University of California, Berkeley, its reputation precedes itself. And, like anywhere else, it has its downfalls. But the benefits are clear.  

With abundant options for every way of living, the San Francisco Bay Area caters to residents and visitors from all corners of life. Each community offers a unique lifestyle, from urban charm to suburban tranquility. Discover the region’s abundant history, incredible nature, and immersive culture. Engage with the locals, savor dim sum in Chinatown or a burrito from Taquería El Farolito, and soon enough you’ll have fallen in love with the “golden” child of Northern California.  

As you prepare for your relocation, allow yourself the chance to accept support in the tenuous journey of cross-country moving. From prepping your accommodations to assisting in your move-in process, Synergy is there for you every step of the way. No matter your priorities, it’s great to have flexibility, and temporary housing is a vital tool in your search to find the right fit for you. Find your perfect San Francisco home base with the help of Synergy, and rest assured that each obstacle will be met with the utmost professionalism and experience. 

Essential Safety Tips for Traveling Internationally

In this modern work-from-anywhere era, exciting new experiences and opportunities for exploration are simply a few mouse clicks away. No matter the reason for your travels—if you’re a digital nomad, relocating for work, or getting the lay of the land for a new project—it’s important to prepare with caution. So, before you hop on your next flight abroad, ensure you’re protected with these important travel safety tips.

Acclimating to your new environment requires an alert and open mind. Thankfully, with fully furnished living spaces and serviced apartments like those offered by Synergy, your home base will be the least of your worries.

As you prepare for your next extended stay or short-term sojourn, we’ve compiled a list of safety guidelines that all travelers should know.

Before You Go

Your protection is of the utmost importance, especially when you’re traveling internationally. Our 24/7 guest services team is well-versed in anything and everything travel safety.

The key is proactivity. Do your research, establish a cultural knowledge of foreign countries, and prepare for all possible outcomes.

Familiarize Yourself with Your Destination

When you move to a new city, whether you’re relocating for work or taking advantage of remote flexibility, your cultural awareness of the region is vital for your success.

Your social comprehension and etiquette can directly influence your safety.  In various regions, such as the Middle East where modest attire is appreciated, and in Asia where business culture emphasizes personal interaction and trust, cultural nuances like proper attire and dining etiquette can greatly impact social and professional interactions. The more you try to learn, the easier it will be to reduce the risk of aggravation or embarrassment in your social encounters.

In your research, you’ll grow to understand and respect the cultural nuances and traditions of your new community. Synergy serves as the perfect go-to resource with customer support and local knowledge that will help ease any traveling or relocation discomfort. Additionally, platforms such as Tripadvisor or Reddit are also great digital forums for travelers’ first-hand insights. Take advantage of the subreddits for travel hacks or destination-specific threads, as well as traditional guidebooks, magazines, and Synergy’s detailed city guides. 

Make Copies of Important Documents

When you are either traveling or residing in a foreign country, there are three key steps you should take to ensure your safety and stay well-informed.

Firstly, you should always have multiple copies of your travel documents (such as a license or passport) in case they are either lost or stolen. As a backup, safely store digital copies of your important documents on your laptop or mobile phone.

Secondly, you can utilize the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), a cost-free service designed to help you register your travel plans with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By doing this, you establish a direct link with your government representatives while abroad.

Lastly, it's essential to have access to the contact information for the nearest embassy. This information can be invaluable in times of need, providing you with a lifeline in emergency situations. Additionally, it's wise to stay updated on any travel warnings or advisories relevant to your destination through the STEP program. This program not only offers essential safety information but also serves as an ultimate safety resource if you encounter unexpected crises during your international journey.

Protect Yourself and Your Belongings

When you’re traveling with precious cargo—from your credit cards to jewelry to yourself—it’s important to be equipped with secure luggage and travel-safe self-defense devices. 

Safely pack away your belongings and prevent being pick-pocketed with travel locks and anti-theft backpacks. Maintain peace of mind throughout your journey with a TSA-permitted personal safety alarm and RFID-blocking wallets to prevent your banking information from being stolen via the chips on your credit cards. And remember to look up and memorize the phone number for your destination’s emergency services.

But rest assured, you’re not alone. At Synergy, we strive to uphold the Duty of Care each company demands for their employees. Our guest services team is focused on reducing risk before your arrival. Your accommodations will be ready and easily accessible, and we’ll be on standby for any difficulties you may encounter.

While You’re Exploring

For digital nomads and business travelers alike, we’ll provide you with everything you need to make yourself feel at home. With housewares, linens, high speed Wi-Fi, and on-site laundry, our fully furnished corporate housing apartment will become your home base in no time. Once you’re settled in, you’ll be ready to hit the town; however, there are still some tips to remember to stay safe as you engage with your new community.

Ask Locals (and Us!) for Advice

When you move to a new city, your ability to interact with the locals can help introduce you more quickly to your surroundings. For this reason, it’s extremely beneficial to try to learn some basic words and phrases in the native vernacular.

Your fellow residents will have abundant knowledge of the neighborhood. They’ll be able to tell you which bar has the cheapest happy hour, where to catch the closest train, and what areas to avoid for your own safety. Our guest services team is here and available to help support our travelers with whatever you need, wherever you are in the world.

Stay Alert

Although our devices are a great way to energize a mundane walk or subway ride, you should always do your best to stay aware of your surroundings. Remain hypervigilant, avoid using your phone while walking, and keep your headphone volume low enough to hear your environment.

With helpful alerts and reminders throughout your journey, apps like TripIt are fantastic ways to organize your travel details. Once you update the app with your destination, it helps to provide neighborhood safety scores, currency conversions, and more.

Always Have a Plan

Tap into your research and use your newfound knowledge of your destination to get the lay of the land. Do your best to gain confidence with the general layout of your new community.

If you’re checking out a new restaurant or meeting with a client for the first time, determine your path before you leave your serviced apartment, and walk with purpose. By removing the need for a map or GPS, you’ll look less like a tourist and more like a local—which means you’ll be less of a target for potential scammers or pickpockets.

If Plan A takes a turn for the worst, make sure you always have a back-up plan. Take note of local landmarks, as well as the nearest hospital or police station, so that if something happens, you’ll know where to go. And if you do get lost, make sure you always have a portable charger, as well as your address and important phone numbers written down or memorized.

Synergy’s Emergency Response in Times of Crisis

The world is a complex place where unforeseen emergencies can arise at any moment. Whether it's the conflicts in Ukraine and Israel or the devastating wildfires in California, Synergy is fully prepared and equipped to provide assistance for emergency moves and evacuations. We've established a dedicated Crisis Response Team across all regions, continuously monitoring global situations to support our clients and guests.

Synergy's Crisis Response program is meticulously designed to handle incidents at their source, prioritizing the rapid dissemination of critical information, supplying the necessary resources, and offering guidance to local crisis teams. Our primary goal is to provide prompt and effective support. To achieve this, our crisis structure places great emphasis on establishing clear communication pathways, ensuring that resources are deployed as swiftly as possible.

Ready for your next stay?

With these safety tips and tricks, you’re ready to embark on your travels. Whether you’re relocating independently, or organizing a large group move for your company, Synergy is here to help.

Remember to be proactive. Plan ahead and do your due diligence on your destination. Research the cultural and social norms of your new community, come prepared with copies of important documents and identification, and equip yourself with travel accessories and tools that will ensure your security on your journey.

Once you arrive at your serviced, fully furnished apartment, you’ll feel right at home. Get acclimated to your local environment by reaching out to our 24/7 guest services team and your fellow residents, who will have an expansive knowledge of the area. But don’t forget to remain alert in your explorations. Always keep a look out for suspicious activity and prepare yourself for the unexpected.

Your next adventure awaits! Let us help you plan your stay today in one of the cities we specialize in.

Enhancing The Guest Experience in Serviced Accommodations

In a world full of advancing tech, robots and AI, there’s something that will always remain at the heart of hospitality: it’s people.

While technology can be a great enabler for an efficient and streamlined serviced accommodation programme, we must not underestimate the role human connection plays in the delivery of an exceptional guest experience.

From choosing the right apartment to creating an environment in which travellers can thrive at work, to quelling the anxiety and distractions that can sometimes accompany global business travel, the power of human connection really is second to none when dealing with the complex nuances associated with building a showstopping corporate housing solution.

In this article, we’ll explore what serviced accommodations are and why the value of human connection is so crucial in building and sustaining a memorable and outstanding guest experience.

Serviced Accommodation and Guest Experience—What You Need to Know

The serviced accommodation product by its very nature provides the capability to substantially enhance the guest experience when compared to other forms of solutions within the hospitality industry, such as hotels. This popular accommodation type typically comes as a self-contained, fully furnished apartment within a residential or hotel-like establishment, and offers a wide range of amenities such as a fully-equipped kitchen, laundry facilities and larger living spaces.

Access to such amenities empowers travellers to live just as comfortably, independently and flexibly as they would at home, and provides guests with access to the little luxuries we don’t realise we take for granted until we’re stuck in a small hotel room. This could be anything from the ability to put a cycle of washing on after you spill your morning coffee, or the space and privacy to catch up with friends over a bottle of wine—it’s the little conveniences that make a home, a home.

4 Reasons The Power of Human Connection in Customer Service Is So Vital

We’ve dipped our toes into how the serviced accommodation product itself can enhance the guest experience, and we can’t stress enough the value such a product can add to a business travel or global mobility programme, but we know it’s really the service, personal touch and careful consideration behind the scenes that makes the magic happen.

Below we’ve compiled 4 reasons why the power of human connection is so important in customer service, alongside some tips and tricks you’ll need to consider if you want to take guest satisfaction to new heights.

The Power of Human Connection Goes Way Beyond Mere Transactions

The power of human connection goes way beyond mere transactions and enables service providers to truly see and address the unique challenges, circumstances and emotions of the individuals they serve.

Why should this approach to customer service be such an important element for travel managers to consider? Well, because a successful travel programme needs to go way beyond a one-size-fits-all approach.

While online filter tools can help promote a more personalised approach, these types of tools also typically lack the ability to detail sufficient information about how certain nuances of a city or country might impact on a guests’ overall experience. And with each guest coming with their own unique set of preferences, requirements and personal circumstances, it is paramount travellers have access to a hospitality industry expert who can ask the right questions to ensure guests stay in the optimal apartment for them that meets their requirements.

A great example of where this is important is in Paris where buildings are old and typically don’t have elevators. Many international travellers are unaware of this local nuance and may therefore not consider such a factor when utilising online booking tools. For example, while an apartment on a high floor in such a property may be suitable for a young, solo traveller, the same option may not be as appropriate for an older traveller or a family with young children.

First Impressions Count

First impressions count—especially when guests have just arrived from a long and tiring flight.

Picture this: you arrive at your destination after a long flight, tired and mentally preparing for the next day’s critical presentation. You notice there’s a water leak in your AirBnb when you arrive, it’s 11pm at night and you can’t get a hold of your host. What now?

Ok, now picture this: you arrive to your apartment and a guest experience team have already checked your accommodation is move-in ready, every detail has been meticulously arranged and you have a phone number on hand you know someone will answer in the event you need support. That’s the power of human connection—it’s the unconscious knowledge that someone is there to help in the event you require support.

Working with an accommodation management company who requires property partners and housekeeping teams to conduct vigilant apartment vetting prior to a guest’s arrival plays a very important role in catching service challenges before they happen and can help deliver a seamless transition from travel stress to comfort. Programme managers, like Synergy, will also be able to deliver access to round-the-clock guest services support in the event challenges arise, helping to set the tone for a relaxed and productive trip.

Human Connection Has the Power to Address the Sense of Anxiety and Unfamiliarity

Human connection has the power to address the sense of anxiety and unfamiliarity that can come with travelling away from home.

Travelling away from home can be a stressful experience for many travellers—and there’s something so incredibly comforting about knowing someone is on the other end of the line to help when support is required.

Having an empathetic, guest experience representative on hand to help, who can not only dive into each individual’s personal requirements, but answer questions specific to the guests’ concerns before, during or after their trip, will ensure guests feel heard, seen, safe and supported before they’ve even moved in.

A great example of when this is so important might be where the traveller in question has specific accessibility requirements. Travellers who utilise online booking tools typically have the benefit of being able to filter searches to show accessibility friendly apartment types—such as apartments with auditory guidance, visual aids or adapted bathroom amenities—but the same travellers often cite their anxiety surrounding limited information about the suitability of wider property amenities and surrounding areas in relation to their own personal requirements.

In such a scenario, an accommodation management company would be able to work with its property partners and on-the-ground teams to provide additional information about the property and surrounding areas, such as the safety of their route to the office in relation to their individual requirements. This personal touch can substantially enhance guest satisfaction by ensuring guests feel in control of their decisions, safety and overall guest experience.

When Business Travellers Feel Well Taken Care Of, They Can Be More Productive at Work.

Exceptional guest satisfaction doesn’t stop at a comfortable bed and clean apartment. When we create an environment in which business travellers feel truly supported, and potential stressors are eliminated, guests are free to fully immerse themselves into their work commitments—and this is the whole point of the trip, right?

The objective for guest services teams is to shift traveller focus from worrying about logistics—internet connection, maintenance, housekeeping etc.—and onto fostering an environment which promotes wellbeing. Accommodation management companies offer many types of solutions to promote guest productivity during business travel, which could be anything from building a fully ergonomic workspace to sourcing apartments which offer wellbeing amenities such as co-working spaces, gyms, outdoor areas and more.

Well cared for travellers are not only empowered to achieve their best and get the most out of their trip, but their experience will likely reflect very positively onto their satisfaction at work as a whole. Such satisfaction can reap exceptional overall organisational benefits including long-term associate satisfaction at work, increased productivity and retention.

How Synergy Can Help

At Synergy, we specialise in managing the end-to-end management of serviced accommodation programmes, wherever in the world our clients need us to be, and for however long.

By combining technology with a personalised and human approach, our goal is to make it easy for you to achieve your business travel objectives through the delivery of a cost-effective corporate housing solution, without any compromise on guest experience. More specifically, Synergy can provide:

• Consultative, end-to-end programme management which targets your specific business travel and overall organisational objectives

• Access to over 165,000 fully vetted serviced apartments, spanning 85+ countries and 2,000 cities

• Access to award-winning, high touch service teams who will go above and beyond to deliver your business travel objectives

• A consistent guest experience wherever in the world your travellers are

• Innovative and flexible corporate housing solutions to meet the ever-evolving requirements of the modern day business traveller

Ready to learn more about how Synergy can enhance your travel programme? Tell us what you need and our local teams will be happy to support you.

Accommodating the Evolving Needs of the Business Traveler 

In the era of work-from-anywhere, the landscape of corporate travel has undergone a profound transformation. As today's travelers demand greater flexibility, and the line between business and leisure continues to blur, corporate travel managers are facing the challenge of adapting to dynamic expectations. To ensure the success of their organizations and the satisfaction of their globe-trotting employees, these managers need to revisit their travel policies. They may even face a CFO who wants to cut travel budgets, or simply wonder what remote and hybrid work mean for corporate travel. In this article, we’ll explore the evolving needs of today's business travelers – and how travel managers can accommodate them. 

Adapting Your Corporate Travel Policy 

Based on their own preferences, the ways in which employees view and approach business travel has shifted. Today’s travelers take “workcations” or “bleisure trips” – adding a few days before or after a business trip for leisure. And with remote and hybrid work becoming the new norm, they can bring their laptops and set up shop in their destination, for as long as they need or desire to. They may even be happy to spend a month or longer living and working in a new city. 

As a corporate travel manager, rather than resisting change, the smart move is to evolve your organization’s travel policy to fit these evolving expectations. Here are some actions you might consider: 

• Assessing your travelers’ recent booking behaviors to anticipate their needs. Where do they like to stay? Are they adding extra days to their trip? What types of accommodations do they prefer? 
• Allowing travelers to add time to their trip, either at the company’s expense if they’ll be working during the extra days, or at their own expense if it’s for personal leisure. 
• Providing a lump sum to give travelers more flexibility in booking their housing. 

It’s also a good idea to ensure the accommodations you’re booking employees in are suitable for longer-term stays. That way, should they need or want to stay awhile, your travelers will be comfortable and have everything they need to be productive. Synergy’s serviced apartments, for instance, are found in key cities and locations worldwide and offer all the comforts of home: furnished living spaces, a fully equipped kitchen, housewares and more. Our expert team of corporate housing professionals and program managers provide an end-to-end solution, delivered at the highest level in the industry. 

Proving the Continued Value of Business Travel 

As business travel continues to evolve, you may encounter CFOs and other important stakeholders wanting to cut the corporate travel budget, or even eliminate it completely. How should corporate travel managers respond? 

The key is to reframe the conversation from cutting costs to maximizing value. Talk about traveling better and smarter, not less. Follow these tips: 

• Identify the key goals of your corporate travel program, and which elements of the program are essential to achieving those goals. Establish these elements as non-negotiables when planning for future travel. 
• Emphasize the renewed importance of global business travel for a distributed workforce, allowing remote workers to meet each other in person – perhaps for the first time. 
• Speak your CFO’s language by presenting them with hard numbers. Showcase the continued value of corporate travel using data, and calculate ROI.  

What Do Hybrid and Remote Work Mean for Global Business Travel? 

Remote and hybrid work are here to stay – and so is global business travel. But what does this mean for the latter?

We might see the very nature and purpose of business travel change. At the very least, it will change what employees expect from the corporate travel experience. Consider the following: 

• Members of today’s distributed workforce have the ability to work from anywhere, but they’re also increasingly reliant on tools and applications that allow them to communicate, collaborate and conduct business remotely. They’ll expect the same when it comes to corporate travel. Invest in easy-to-use tools for managing flights, travel-related expenses, per diems, etc. And if you choose Synergy, you can be assured that the stay experience, from check-in to check-out, will be seamless. 
• Workers on the same team may be based all over the country, or even the world, and they may have never all been in the same place at the same time. Corporate travel managers may find themselves arranging trips with the sole purpose of having teammates meet each other in person, perhaps for the first time.
• With the ubiquity of remote work, employees will want to know the why behind any business travel they’re asked to do. Don’t just think about the value it adds for the company, but the value it provides to the traveling employees, too. Show them what’s in it for them – bonding with the team, meeting company leaders, visiting a new city, and squeezing in some leisure time while they’re at it. 

How Synergy Can Help 

At Synergy, we’re well aware of the changes and challenges facing companies and their business travel programs. How can we assist in these scenarios, if possible? 

Adapting your corporate travel policy

Synergy’s housing solutions are inherently flexible and easily tailored to your company’s corporate travel policy. As your policy adapts, so do we, allowing for seamless adjustments to suit your specific requirements. You can book with confidence in our flexible terms, easy extensions without fees, location sourcing and vetting, and cost-effectiveness for extended stays. 

Proving the continued value of business travel

Our goal is to deliver constant quality that is aligned with your business travel goals. We ensure every aspect of the booking process and stay experience is meticulously taken care of – from top-notch amenities to personalized services. If you have groups of colleagues traveling together, our corporate housing solutions can provide larger units or multiple apartments in the same building, allowing the team to stay together and collaborate more effectively. As your travelers stay comfortable and productive on the road, Synergy makes it easy for you to demonstrate the lasting value of business travel. 

Hybrid and remote work

Embracing the modern work landscape, Synergy offers customized solutions for both hybrid and remote work arrangements. Our apartments are equipped with state-of-the-art amenities and versatile work-from-home setups, allowing you and your team to thrive in any work environment. Corporate housing also provides a level of privacy and security – on both a personal and data level – that is not as prevalent in hotels.

By implementing these measures, Synergy aims to support and empower your business and its travel program in every possible way. Ready to learn more and get started? Tell us about your needs and our team of housing and hospitality experts will be happy to assist. 

Relocating to a Country Where You Don’t Know the Language

Moving abroad? We know you have a long list of things to do. But one thing can make everything else on your list a lot easier. If you aren’t a native speaker of the local language, start having conversation classes ASAP. As corporate language trainers, we see firsthand how important language skills are on international assignments. And also, we’ll tell you when it’s not that important. 

Speaking a Foreign Language at Work

Let’s start with the benefits of speaking the local language at work. We’ve seen some expats downplay this. For example, someone who’s relocating from Minneapolis to Mexico City might think that their Spanish classes in college were enough preparation to navigate the city. Or they may figure that they don’t need to learn Spanish because everyone in their new office speaks English.

There’s a big difference, however, between speaking a foreign language in a classroom vs. using it all day, every day with native speakers. Your foreign language courses in school didn’t give you the specialized vocabulary you need for your job. And you probably didn’t get enough conversational practice.

But what if everyone at your office speaks your language in addition to their native language? We still recommend having conversation classes in the local language, for at least 100 hours. This shows respect for your colleagues. It will also help you build relationships at work and feel less like an outsider. Learning the language also helps you understand the culture of your new colleagues. That improves communication and eases misunderstandings.

Speaking a New Language Outside of Work

Language skills matter outside of work, too. This is true even if there’s an expat community from your native country in your new one. When you relocate internationally, it’s only natural to feel lonely sometimes. For some expats, feelings of isolation can be so severe that they cut their international assignment short. Speaking the local language will help you make new friends and feel more at home.

Building your language skills also has great practical value. When you move to another country, there’s a lot to figure out. How does the transportation system work? How do you make a doctor’s appointment? Where’s the post office? Having some fluency in the local language makes everyday obstacles easier to overcome. This will be equally important if you’re moving with your spouse or children.

How to Learn a Foreign Language

So if you’re relocating to a country where you don’t speak the language, how can you prepare? Here are a few tips for efficiently learning a foreign language.

• Opt for classes with a native speaker. Don’t just rely on language-learning apps. (Apps are a great supplement to classes, though.)
• Find an instructor who will customize classes based on your language-learning goals. They should teach you the vocabulary you’ll need to work and manage your daily life — not random phrases from a textbook.
• Ask your instructor to focus on conversational practice. To learn faster, find additional opportunities for conversations in your target language.
• Learn your new country’s culture as you learn its language. (This is another reason it’s important to work with a native speaker.)
• Surround yourself with your target language. For example, change the audio on your favorite Netflix show to the language you are learning.
• Celebrate your progress. You won’t gain the fluency of a native speaker overnight. But everything you learn will help you have a more successful experience in your new country.

Relocate with Ease

Are you planning to relocate to a new country for work but are worried about the language barrier? At Fluency Corp, we understand that the transition can be overwhelming. That's why we have partnered with Synergy Global Housing to offer language training services that cater to your specific needs and goals, ensuring a smooth and seamless transition.

Our customized language programs are designed to help you learn the local language efficiently and effectively, enabling you to integrate into the local community with ease. You can focus on your work while enjoying a comfortable home away from home and a convenient way to improve your language skills.

Synergy Global Housing's exceptional accommodations and award-winning customer service provide you with the support and comfort you need throughout your relocation journey. With our combined expertise, you can rest assured that your overall experience will be positive and successful.

If you are relocating to a new country for work, don't hesitate to reach out to us. Let us help you make your move as smooth as possible.