The rise and rise of hotel-branded residences

A hotel residence in Movenpick Hotel in Nairobi

There is a growing wave in town. In a marked departure from the norm where hotels only sold traditional rooms for accommodation, major hotels in the country are adding the term 'residences' to their names to attract another set of guests who wish to live in the hotel compound in a homely structure but enjoying the same amenities as other hotel guests.

In many cases, these residences, or private suits, have been developed to cater for long-term guests who prefer the freedom of waking up and dining at their pleasure rather than going by the 'bell' governing the regular hotel guests.