A weekend getaway is a great opportunity to take a break from your regular routine, explore somewhere new, spend quality time with loved ones, or simply relax.
Whether you're visiting Lagos for leisure, attending an event, celebrating a special occasion, or taking a break from work, choosing a shortlet apartment can make your experience more comfortable and flexible.
Unlike a typical hotel room, a shortlet apartment often gives you access to a living room, kitchen, bedroom, and other facilities that create a more homely environment.
However, booking a beautiful apartment is only the beginning. How you organise your time and make use of the available facilities can determine how enjoyable your weekend becomes.
Here are practical ways to make the most of your shortlet apartment during a weekend stay.
1. Plan Your Weekend Before Arriving
One of the easiest ways to enjoy a weekend stay is to have a simple plan before checking in.
You do not need to schedule every minute, but having an idea of what you want to do helps you make better use of your limited time.
Consider:
- Places you would like to visit.
- Restaurants or cafés you want to explore.
- Activities you want to enjoy.
- Events or social gatherings you plan to attend.
- Time you want to reserve for relaxation.
If you're visiting Lagos, for example, you may want to explore nearby restaurants, beaches, shopping destinations, or entertainment spots.
Planning ahead helps you avoid spending most of your weekend deciding what to do.
2. Choose an Apartment With the Right Amenities
The facilities available in your shortlet apartment can significantly influence your experience.
Before booking, consider the amenities that matter most to your weekend plans.
Depending on the property, useful facilities may include:
- A comfortable living room.
- A fully equipped kitchen.
- Air conditioning.
- Reliable internet access.
- Smart television or entertainment facilities.
- Swimming pool or gym access.
- Laundry facilities.
- Secure parking.
- Backup electricity.
For instance, if your weekend is mainly about relaxation, you may prefer an apartment with a comfortable lounge, entertainment facilities, and a peaceful environment.
If you're travelling with friends, a spacious apartment with a well-equipped kitchen and common living area may be more suitable.
The important thing is to select a property that supports the kind of weekend you want.
3. Unpack and Settle In Immediately
Once you arrive, take a few minutes to organise your belongings.
Instead of leaving everything inside your suitcase, unpack the essentials and arrange them in the available storage spaces.
You can:
- Hang your clothes.
- Arrange your toiletries.
- Charge your electronic devices.
- Identify where the kitchen essentials are kept.
- Familiarise yourself with the apartment's facilities.
- Locate important switches and appliances.
This small step makes the apartment feel more like your temporary home and helps you settle in faster.
It also saves you from searching through your luggage every time you need something.
4. Make Use of the Kitchen
One advantage of staying in a shortlet apartment is having access to a kitchen or kitchenette.
Even if you plan to eat out during your weekend, the kitchen can still be useful.
You can use it to:
- Prepare breakfast before heading out.
- Store drinks and snacks.
- Make tea or coffee.
- Prepare a quick meal after a busy day.
- Keep leftovers from restaurant visits.
You do not have to cook every meal. The idea is to enjoy the convenience of having your own kitchen whenever you need it.
Before purchasing groceries, check which kitchen appliances and utensils are already available.
5. Create a Relaxing Atmosphere
Your weekend stay should not feel like another busy workweek.
Take advantage of the apartment's living space to create a comfortable environment where you can unwind.
Simple ideas include:
- Playing your favourite music at a considerate volume.
- Watching a movie.
- Reading a book.
- Enjoying a quiet morning with coffee.
- Taking time to rest after exploring the city.
- Spending quality time with your travel companions.
You can also make use of balconies, lounge areas, or other relaxation spaces where available.
Sometimes, the best part of a weekend getaway is having nowhere urgent to be.
6. Explore the Neighbourhood
A shortlet apartment is not just a place to sleep. Its location can also introduce you to interesting places and experiences.
Before arriving, research what is available around the property.
Depending on the location, you may find:
- Restaurants and cafés.
- Shopping centres.
- Beaches and recreational facilities.
- Cinemas.
- Supermarkets.
- Tourist attractions.
- Fitness and wellness centres.
If you're staying in Lagos, your choice of neighbourhood can influence how easily you access different activities.
For example, staying around Lekki may provide convenient access to various restaurants, lifestyle destinations, and entertainment options.
However, consider traffic conditions and travel distances when planning your outings.
7. Take Advantage of the Entertainment Facilities
You do not have to spend every moment outside to enjoy your weekend.
If your shortlet apartment provides entertainment facilities, make time to enjoy them.
Depending on the property, these may include:
- Smart televisions.
- Streaming services.
- Gaming consoles.
- Swimming pools.
- Fitness facilities.
- Outdoor relaxation areas.
You could plan a movie night, enjoy a swimming session, or simply spend an evening watching your favourite shows.
Always confirm which facilities are available and whether any require advance booking or additional payment.
8. Capture Memories Without Forgetting to Enjoy the Moment
Weekend getaways are often filled with memorable experiences, so taking photographs and videos is a great way to preserve them.
You can capture:
- The apartment's interior.
- Your breakfast setup.
- A relaxing evening in the living room.
- Views from the balcony.
- Your outfits and activities.
- Special moments with friends or family.
If you enjoy creating content, a well-designed shortlet apartment can also provide attractive backgrounds for lifestyle photography, reels, and weekend vlogs.
However, remember to enjoy the experience beyond your camera.
9. Respect the Apartment and Its House Rules
Making the most of your stay also means taking care of the property.
Before settling in, familiarise yourself with the apartment's house rules and any instructions provided by the host or management team.
Remember to:
- Avoid damaging furniture and appliances.
- Keep the apartment reasonably tidy.
- Observe noise restrictions.
- Follow visitor policies.
- Use appliances responsibly.
- Avoid exceeding the permitted occupancy.
- Report maintenance issues promptly.
Respecting the property helps maintain a positive experience for you, the management team, and future guests.
10. Make Your Checkout Stress-Free
A great weekend stay should end just as smoothly as it began.
Before checking out, give yourself enough time to organise your belongings and complete any required checkout procedures.
Consider the following:
- Check wardrobes, drawers, and bathroom spaces for personal belongings.
- Pack chargers and electronic accessories.
- Dispose of rubbish according to the apartment's instructions.
- Wash or arrange used dishes if required.
- Switch off appliances where instructed.
- Return keys or access cards as directed.
- Confirm checkout arrangements with management.
Always respect the stated checkout time to avoid unnecessary charges or inconvenience.
11. Make Every Hour Count Without Overplanning
A weekend stay is usually short, so it is tempting to fill every hour with activities.
However, trying to do too much can make your getaway feel exhausting rather than refreshing.
A better approach is to balance your time between:
- Exploring your surroundings.
- Enjoying the apartment's amenities.
- Spending time with loved ones.
- Eating out or preparing simple meals.
- Getting enough rest.
Give yourself room to be spontaneous. You may discover that an unplanned afternoon spent relaxing in the apartment becomes the highlight of your weekend.
Final Thoughts
A weekend getaway is about more than finding somewhere to sleep. It is an opportunity to relax, explore, reconnect, and enjoy a different environment.
Choosing the right shortlet apartment, planning your activities, using the available amenities, and giving yourself time to unwind can make even a two-night stay feel worthwhile.
Whether you're travelling alone, spending time with friends, enjoying a romantic weekend, or taking a quick break from work, the right apartment can make all the difference.
At LandMall Shortlets & Apartments, we believe that a great stay begins with the right space.
Planning a Weekend Getaway in Lagos?
Find a comfortable shortlet apartment that suits your plans, preferences, and budget with LandMall Shortlets & Apartments — Real Estate Marketplace.
For inquiries and inspection reservations:
☎️ Call/WhatsApp: 09019001191
📧 Email: landmallshortlets@gmail.com
Let us help you find a space where your weekend feels like a real break.