When it comes to filming movies and TV shows on location, have you ever wondered where actors stay during the duration of the shoot? It turns out that their accommodations can range from luxurious hotels to cozy rental homes, depending on the production’s budget and the actor’s preferences. In this article, we will explore the different types of on-location accommodations actors may choose, providing insight into their temporary homes away from home. So, if you’re curious about the behind-the-scenes details of an actor’s life on set, this article is for you.
1. Hotels
When it comes to finding accommodations while filming on location, hotels are often a popular choice for actors. They provide the convenience and comfort that actors need during their busy schedules. There are different types of hotels available, catering to various preferences and budgets. Let’s take a closer look at three main categories of hotels that actors often consider – luxury hotels, boutique hotels, and chain hotels.
1.1 Luxury Hotels
Luxury hotels offer an extravagant and indulgent experience for actors who are looking for top-of-the-line amenities and impeccable service. These hotels are known for their opulent decor, spacious rooms, and high-end facilities such as spas, fitness centers, and gourmet dining options. Staying in a luxury hotel can provide actors with a sense of luxury and relaxation, allowing them to unwind after a long day of filming.
1.2 Boutique Hotels
For actors who prefer a more unique and intimate experience, boutique hotels are an excellent choice. These hotels are often independently owned and offer a personalized touch that sets them apart from larger chain hotels. Boutique hotels are known for their stylish design, attention to detail, and excellent customer service. Staying in a boutique hotel can provide actors with a more intimate and personalized experience, making them feel right at home.
1.3 Chain Hotels
Chain hotels, also known as branded hotels, are part of a larger hotel group and offer a consistent experience across multiple locations. These hotels often cater to a wide range of budgets and provide reliable amenities and services. Chain hotels are popular among actors because they offer familiarity and reliability, making it easier for them to adjust to new environments while filming on location. Actors can often find chain hotels near popular filming locations, ensuring convenience and accessibility.
2. Vacation Rentals
Vacation rentals have become increasingly popular among actors in recent years. These accommodations provide a home away from home experience, offering more space and privacy compared to traditional hotels. There are several platforms that actors can turn to for vacation rentals, including Airbnb, VRBO, and HomeAway.
2.1 Airbnb
Airbnb is a popular platform for booking vacation rentals worldwide. Actors can browse through a wide range of options, from apartments and condos to luxury villas and unique properties. Airbnb allows actors to connect directly with homeowners and property managers, providing a more personal and authentic experience. Staying in an Airbnb can give actors a taste of local life and provide them with the privacy and comfort they desire.
2.2 VRBO
VRBO, which stands for Vacation Rental by Owner, is another platform that actors can utilize when searching for vacation rentals. VRBO offers a vast selection of properties, ranging from cozy cabins to beachfront estates. This platform allows actors to browse through various locations and filter their search based on specific requirements such as the number of bedrooms, amenities, and price range. VRBO offers a seamless booking process, making it easy for actors to find and secure their ideal accommodation.
2.3 HomeAway
HomeAway is a vacation rental marketplace similar to Airbnb and VRBO. It connects actors with property owners who are looking to rent out their homes or properties. HomeAway offers a range of options, including apartments, houses, and even castles. Actors can enjoy the privacy and convenience of having a whole property to themselves, along with the flexibility to choose a location that suits their filming needs.
3. Apartments and Condos
Renting an apartment or condo is another popular option for actors during their time filming on location. These accommodations provide a more long-term solution and offer the comforts and conveniences of a home. There are different types of rentals available, including apartment rentals and condo rentals.
3.1 Apartment Rentals
Actors can opt for apartment rentals, which are typically located in residential buildings or complexes. Apartments offer a range of options, from studio apartments to multiple bedroom units. Renting an apartment allows actors to have a designated space for themselves, complete with a kitchen, living area, and private bedrooms. This can be especially beneficial for actors who prefer to cook their meals or have a larger group of people staying with them.
3.2 Condo Rentals
Condos, on the other hand, are individually owned units within a larger building or complex. Renting a condo can provide actors with a luxurious and spacious environment, often with access to additional amenities such as swimming pools, gyms, and communal spaces. Condo rentals offer a sense of exclusivity and provide actors with a comfortable and private living space while they are away from home.
4. On-Site Trailers
For actors who are constantly on the move during filming, on-site trailers can serve as a convenient and practical accommodation option. These trailers are equipped with the necessary amenities and facilities to cater to the needs of actors while they are on location. There are different types of on-site trailers available, including luxury trailers and basic trailers.
4.1 Luxury Trailers
Luxury trailers, also known as star trailers, are designed to provide actors with luxurious and comfortable living quarters during their time on set. These trailers are often equipped with high-end features such as spacious living areas, private bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchenettes, and even entertainment systems. Luxury trailers offer actors a private retreat where they can relax and prepare for their scenes in a comfortable and exclusive environment.
4.2 Basic Trailers
Basic trailers, also referred to as dressing room trailers, are a more practical and affordable option for actors. These trailers may be smaller and have fewer amenities compared to luxury trailers, but they still provide actors with a comfortable and private space where they can rest and prepare for their scenes. Basic trailers typically include a sitting area, a bathroom, and a small kitchenette, offering the essentials without the added luxury.
5. Cast and Crew Housing
In certain filming situations, especially for long-term productions, cast and crew housing may be provided by the production company. This type of accommodation is specifically designed to cater to the needs of the entire cast and crew, ensuring convenience and comfort during the filming process. There are two main categories of cast and crew housing – production rentals and shared accommodations.
5.1 Production Rentals
Production rentals are fully furnished properties that are rented out exclusively for the cast and crew of a film or television production. These rentals can vary in size and amenities, offering actors and crew members a place to live during the duration of the project. Production rentals are often located close to the filming location, allowing for easy access and minimizing commute times. This type of accommodation provides a sense of community and camaraderie among the cast and crew, fostering a supportive and collaborative environment.
5.2 Shared Accommodations
Shared accommodations, such as apartments or houses, are another option for cast and crew housing. In this scenario, multiple actors or crew members share a larger property, each having their own designated living space. Shared accommodations can be a cost-effective option, as the expenses are divided among the occupants. This type of housing also allows for increased interaction and bonding among the cast and crew, creating a sense of camaraderie and teamwork.
6. Serviced Apartments
Serviced apartments offer a combination of hotel-like amenities and the comforts of a home. These apartments are fully furnished and equipped with everything an actor may need during their stay on location. There are two main types of serviced apartments that actors often consider – extended stay apartments and fully furnished apartments.
6.1 Extended Stay Apartments
Extended stay apartments are designed for longer-term stays, often catering to the needs of business travelers and individuals who require accommodations for several weeks or months. These apartments typically offer more space and privacy compared to traditional hotel rooms, providing actors with a comfortable and convenient living environment. Extended stay apartments may also include additional amenities such as a fully equipped kitchen, laundry facilities, and dedicated workspaces.
6.2 Fully Furnished Apartments
Fully furnished apartments are another popular option for actors. These apartments come with all the necessary furniture, appliances, and amenities, allowing actors to move in without the hassle of purchasing or transporting their own belongings. Fully furnished apartments often provide a home-like atmosphere, making actors feel more comfortable and settled. These apartments are available in various sizes and locations, catering to the different needs and preferences of actors.
7. Mobile Homes / RVs
For actors who enjoy a nomadic lifestyle or prefer to have their own mobile space while filming on location, mobile homes or recreational vehicles (RVs) are an excellent choice. These mobile accommodations provide actors with the flexibility and freedom to travel and stay wherever their filming assignments take them. Within the realm of mobile homes and RVs, there are customized motorhomes and fifth wheel trailers.
7.1 Customized Motorhomes
Customized motorhomes are fully outfitted with all the necessities of a home, including living areas, bedrooms, bathrooms, and kitchens. These motorhomes are designed to meet the specific needs of actors, providing a comfortable and personalized living space while on location. Customized motorhomes often offer the convenience of mobility and allow actors to have a sense of familiarity and stability, even when constantly moving from one filming location to another.
7.2 Fifth Wheel Trailers
Fifth wheel trailers, also known as towable RVs, are another option for actors who prefer a mobile lifestyle. These trailers are hitched to a towing vehicle and provide a spacious and self-contained living space. Fifth wheel trailers typically offer amenities such as sleeping quarters, bathrooms, kitchenettes, and dining areas. Actors can enjoy the freedom and flexibility of having their own portable home, allowing them to explore different locations while still having a comfortable and familiar base.
8. Actor-Friendly Hotels
When actors are filming on location, it’s essential to find accommodations that cater to their unique needs and preferences. Actor-friendly hotels are specifically designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience for actors, offering amenities and services tailored to their requirements. There are two main categories of actor-friendly hotels – hotels with special amenities for actors and hotels near filming locations.
8.1 Hotels with Special Amenities for Actors
Hotels with special amenities for actors go above and beyond to provide a seamless and enjoyable experience for their celebrity guests. These hotels may offer specific services such as private entrances or exits, enhanced security measures, dedicated concierge services, and even personalized in-room amenities. Staying in a hotel with special amenities for actors can provide them with the privacy and comfort they need, allowing them to focus on their work while feeling well taken care of.
8.2 Hotels Near Filming Locations
Hotels near filming locations are a practical choice for actors, providing a convenient and accessible place to stay during their time on set. These hotels are located in close proximity to filming locations, minimizing travel time and allowing actors to make the most of their working hours. Hotels near filming locations often understand the unique needs of actors and may offer flexible check-in and check-out times, early breakfast options, and transportation services to and from the set. Staying in a hotel near the filming location can help actors streamline their daily routines and maximize their productivity.
9. Residences of Local Residents
An alternative option for actors seeking accommodations while filming on location is renting or borrowing from local residents. This arrangement provides actors with the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local community and experience life as a local. Renting or borrowing from locals can also offer a more authentic and unique experience compared to traditional accommodations. It allows actors to connect with the local culture and gain insights into the area’s hidden gems, making their time on location even more memorable.
10. Studios and Production Companies Provide Accommodation
In certain cases, studios and production companies may take on the responsibility of providing accommodations for their actors. This is especially common for long-term productions or projects that require a large number of cast and crew members. There are two main types of accommodations that studios and production companies may offer – studio apartments and production company-owned accommodations.
10.1 Studio Apartments
Studio apartments are self-contained living spaces that typically include a combined living room, bedroom, and kitchen area. Studios are often compact and efficient, making them suitable for actors who require a smaller living space. When provided by studios or production companies, these studio apartments are specifically designated for individual actors, offering them a private and comfortable space to relax and recharge during the filming process.
10.2 Production Company-owned Accommodations
Production company-owned accommodations are properties that are owned or leased by the production company itself. These accommodations can range from houses and apartments to entire complexes or hotels. Production company-owned accommodations are designed to house the cast and crew members throughout the duration of the project. By providing their own accommodations, studios and production companies can ensure the convenience and comfort of their actors, fostering a sense of community and promoting a smooth and efficient filming process.
In conclusion, actors have a wide range of accommodation options available to them when filming on location. From luxury hotels to vacation rentals, apartments, on-site trailers, and even mobile homes, there is something to suit every actor’s preferences and needs. Whether they choose a hotel, rental property, or customized mobile accommodation, actors can find comfort and convenience in their home away from home while bringing their characters to life on the big screen.
