I can understand Ms. Conner's arrangement, because I've been staying in a Marriott TownePlace Suites property since last fall. With a long-term rate (just check in and stay checked in), it can be cheaper than a furnished corporate apartment. Also, I score Marriott points for the stay (as well as a heap of nights toward lifetime Marriott status), the room's got everything a furnished apartment would (including a stove with oven), plus I get cleaning service three times a week.

All that, and I don't have to sign a lease. I can just check out any time I want. It is cheaper, has better amenities and goodies, and also causes me to incur fewer commitments. Just a great deal all around.

Corporate apartments are great, and I have certainly used them in the past. But when one of these properties happens to be nearby, I'm going for it instead.