With the UK's property market marred by constantly-rising house prices, the already inordinate rates for central London hotel accommodation rise alongside them. With more people visiting London than ever before, hoteliers will continue to ride the wave of affluence that providing lodgings in such a densely-populated city brings with it.

Many people, especially businessmen and women on medium to long stopovers, prefer the comfort of a serviced apartment. These short term flats are maintained in the same way a hotel room is - apartments are cleaned on a daily or weekly basis and some apartment buildings will have a concierge service if there's anything else you might need during your stay. However, with your own fully-equipped kitchen and washer/dryer, you are the master of your surroundings. No longer need you rely on expensive room service or overpriced in-house restaurants - you can cook your own meals, or venture forth into the city's wide selection of bars and eateries. You basically have almost a 'trial run' in owning one of the more stylish - most serviced apartments are professionally designed and have been refurbished and furnished to the highest standards.

London is not alone in its visitors' growing patronizations of serviced apartments: the concept can be found in many cities throughout the UK. Newcastle apartments have a reputation for their very reasonable nightly rates, and centrally-located apartments are generally spacious and designed in an understated, contemporary style. Broadband internet, parking and fitted kitchens are also usually provided, often at no extra cost - which is rarely the case with hotels. Likewise, vary in location, with the many city centre properties being commonly preferred to the suburban flats in areas such as Cot ham; though these are perfect for business travelers and those in town for conventions.

The popularity of serviced apartments has skyrocketed in the last few years, mainly due to the comparatively reasonable prices for long stays and the high quality of the short-term accommodation on offer.