If you are planning a holiday in the near future, one of your choices, after the destination, will be where you want to stay and you may have to decide whether you want to stay in an hotel or an apartment.

There are pros and cons of each option, of course. Beach apartments and ski apartments are in some ways more versatile as they offer a more flexible way of living. You can chill out after a hard day on the slopes or the beach, grab a beer when you want to without having to call room service and lie in without the chambermaid waking you up.

The downsides are that apartments are less sociable than hotels as you do not bump into people at breakfast or dinner; and you have to do your own cooking and shopping just as you would at home. You also have to tidy up after yourself as there is no daily clean of the room.

But many people argue that shopping abroad is part of the fun anyway and they love mooching around the local markets in search of local delicacies. They also have far more space in an apartment and it is ideal for families with young kids.

It really depends on what you are looking for on holiday and also what your budget is.