Why a relocation “look-and-see trip” is important

Why a relocation “look-and-see trip” is important

Relocation look-and-see trips are a very important component of a relocation package, but not all relocated employees take advantage of it for different reasons; it could be to save money if they received a lump-sum, they might feel they don’t need it, or companies might not offer it as part of the package.

The purpose of the look- and-see trip is to acquaint the employee, their spouse/partner, and family with the new city or country environment and local living conditions and to gather an insight into their future place of residence. The typical trip is generally up to a maximum of seven days and it is usually advised to schedule it one or two months in advance of the time for the permanent move.

This trip could be organized by a Relocation Management Company (RMC), Destination Service Provider (DSP) or the employee could do it on their own. If it is organizedby an RMC or DSP, the relocation look-and-see trip would generally consist of the following agenda, but please note that all companies are different and have their own way of providing these types of services.

First, the employee would receive a welcome package with useful information about the city and country that includes information about typical cost of living, cross cultural tips, information about car ownership, schools, desirable expat neighborhoods, and more. Depending on the length of the assignment or even if it’s a permanent move, the employee would generally tour some temporary housing options.  They may also tour some homes for purchase or rent that they will move into once the household goods arrive.  If the employee has children they would get the opportunity to visit schools that match the children’s needs.  Included as well would be a general familiarization tour that would include emergency facilities, shopping venues, banks, supermarkets, pharmacies, etc.

Relocation look-and-see trips are very important as they provide some advanced knowledge of a new environment and can significantly help to reduce the stress a move places on individuals and families.  The reduction in stress allows the employee to be more focused on their new job which immediately increases productivity and allows for a more seamless transition.

About Avenida Suites:  Avenida Suites is a provider of furnished apartments for temporary housing needs and has locations across the United States and Latin America.  Contact us today by calling 1-800-303-0190, or fill out our request form and our expert team will contact you.

Best Apps for Relocation

Best apps to have when relocating on assignment.

During your first few weeks of your relocation, exploring your new city is exciting, but sometimes you don’t know where to start. In the age of Smartphones, apps are like your compass that will help you to get the most of your relocation assignment in your new city. Here are some recommendations…

• TripIt: This app organizes travel plans into an itinerary that has all of your trip details in one place.
• The Weather Channel: Don’t try to guess what the weather is going to be. With this app you can get weather in multiple locations and other great information like temperature, humidity, visibility, wind speed, average temperatures, and more.
• Google Maps: This app should be on everyone’s phone. No matter where you are in the globe, Google Maps is the best free transit direction app.
• Scout: This app pinpoints the neighborhood hot spots (including museums, hotels, restaurants, and more) in your vicinity, but its true value comes in finding nearby events. You’ll discover concerts, plays, and more right around the corner.
• Foursquare: Most people might use this app as a “Check-In” service, but it’s more than that. It has lots of tips from locals who have lived in your new community for a long time.
• Free Wi-Fi Finder: All of Avenida Suites corporate housing apartments have Wi-Fi in the apartment, but if you are on the go, this app shows where you can find free wireless connections. You can search with a directory or simply enable the Wi-Fi scanner to locate the nearest hot spots.
• Google Translate: If your relocation assignment is to a different country where you are not fluent in the local language, this app will help you. This app can rapidly translate simple phrases to whole paragraphs. All you need to do is say a phrase and Google Translate will repeat your words in the foreign language of your choice.
• Pixter Scanner: If you’re traveling in a foreign country where the main language is not your first language, reading things such as traffic and transit signs can become difficult. This app can snap a photo of any text you’d like and then translate it for you to any given language.
• XE Currency Converter: Another app for international relocation assignments. This app lets you convert currencies quickly and accurately.

We hope you find these tools useful in your relocation assignment. What other apps have you found that you would like to share with others to use during their relocation or helpful as well for business travelers?

How to stay fit during your relocation assignment

A relocation assignment can be a huge opportunity for your career but it doesn’t mean you have to leave behind your routine of eating healthy, working out, and resting.

Eating healthy is not an easy task and it is more difficult when you are not in your own environment. This is especially true when you want to try all those new and delicious restaurants that your new city has to offer, or even get pizza or Chinese food delivered to you. One way to keep your healthy eating habits while on assignment is to cook your own meals in your furnished apartment. Avenida Suites furnished apartments have fully equipped kitchens with everything you need to cook a yummy and healthy meal.

Developing a new workout routine can be complicated, so don’t stop while on assignment, just adjust your routine. We recommend that you go for a run or walk around the new city. It is great way to see and explore the city while maintaining your health. Your Avenida Suites’ furnished apartment includes access to a gym and a pool within the apartment community. These are great resources  to get re-energized during the duration of your assignment. Another great way to stay in shape is to join a local sports team league in order to keep fit and this also helps you to meet new people.

You also need to get enough rest and sleep by following medical professional’s recommended 8 hours of sleep per night. This may be easier said than done with your new job and schedule. However, keep in mind, adequate rest is key for your mind and body to function at peak performance.   All of Avenida Suites’ furnished apartments are fully equipped and spacious with exceptionally comfortable beds and couches for you to rest and relax during your down time.

Just remember, staying healthy and fit during your transition is important, and with the amenities offered with each furnished apartment in our inventory, it is much easier.  Good luck!

Furnished Apartment living with your pets

Moving to your furnished apartment home can be stressful on your pets, but there are many things you can do to make the process as painless as possible.  At Avenida Suites, we welcome pets at most of our furnished apartment communities and know that they will feel right at home!  Here are a few tips for you to help ease the transition whether you are relocating on a permanent move, a temporary job assignment, or even a long vacation.

Keep at least one week’s worth of food and medication with you during your arrival to your furnished apartment in case of an emergency. Vets can’t write a prescription without a prior doctor or patient relationship, which can cause delays if you need medication right away. You may want to ask for an extra prescription refill before you move to your furnished apartment as well. The same preparation should be taken with special therapeutic foods. You should purchase an extra supply in case you can’t find their brand of food right away in your new area.

Pets can feel vulnerable in the transition to your furnished apartment. Using a travel crate can help make them feel secure. There are many light, collapsible travel crates on the market, however, make sure your pet is familiar with the new crate before leaving them in your furnished apartment by gradually introducing him or her to the crate before your move.

When traveling by air, check with the airline about any pet requirements or restrictions to be sure you’ve prepared your pet for a safe trip. Some airlines will allow pets in the cabin, depending on the animal’s size, but you’ll need to purchase a special airline crate that fits under the seat in front of you. If traveling is stressful for your pet, consult your veterinarian about ways that might lessen the stress of travel.

Pets may be frightened and confused in new surroundings at your furnished apartment. Upon your arrival at your furnished apartment, immediately set out all the familiar and necessary things your pet will need: food, water, medications, bed, litter box, toys, etc. Keep all external windows and doors closed when your pet is unsupervised, and be cautious of narrow gaps behind or between appliances where nervous pets may try to hide.

Once you find a new veterinarian, ask if there are any local health concerns such as heartworm or Lyme disease, or any vaccinations or medications your pet may require. Also, be aware of any unique laws. For example, there are restrictive breed laws in some cities. Some furnished apartments may also have restrictions; following the apartment community’s pet guidelines are important.

These are just a few of the things you could do to make your pet feel more at ease with traveling. You can always contact the Agriculture Department for more specific information or rules and procedures to traveling with pets. Happy Travels to your furnished apartment, and remember that Avenida Suites is a pet friendly provider of furnished apartments across the United States and most countries in Latin America.  Contact us today by calling 800-303-0190, or fill out our request form and someone will contact you.

Source: Pet Realty Network

How to feel at home during your relocation assignment

The 1,2, and 3's on how to feel “at home” during a relocation assignment

A relocation assignment can be stressful and overwhelming but the right corporate housing can help ease that stress and frustration.  Here is a quick guide that will help in your transition.

1. Take advantage of the apartment features with your corporate housing. Typical corporate housing provided by Avenida Suites provides fully furnished rooms for your comfort, laundry facilities inside your apartment so you won’t have to search for a laundry mat or use common area facilities and complete kitchens with all appliances and dinner ware for your home cooking needs.  There is plenty for in home entertainment as well.  Our corporate apartments provide  flat screen HDTVs, high speed internet, andWi-Fi throughout the suite.

2. Take advantage of the common areas. All our apartment communities are diverse and have their own features and perks. Some have more than others but if you are the active type you may enjoy taking advantage of the 24/7 fitness centers and indoor or outdoor swimming pools. If you are more in to relaxation, some features you may enjoy could include a dry or wet sauna, spa or roof top terrace.  Other features at some of our properties includevideo game rooms, billiards, grilling areas, and one that has been featured on some newer communities is a putting green.  For your  security, many communities have gated secure parking areas with assigned spaces.

3. Be sure to ask about customization. We understand that a home is what you make of it. Avenida Suites temporary housing is customizable to fit your needs. Whether you are travelling with a family, with pets, or alone, we will match your needs to a living arrangement that you will feel comfortable and at home in for as long as your relocation assignment lasts.  We will modify and tailor a suitable living arrangement according to your wants and needs. We have standard packages that fit most needs, but don’t be shy, just ask us if there is something special you would like in your temporary home.

4. Please remember that although you will be enjoying these great benefits of Avenida Suites corporate housing, part of the integration process includes exploring and enjoying  the new city, state, or country you have relocated to.  Seeing what it has to offer eases the stress and allows you time to decompress and get your new life started in the right direction.