THE new Residence Inn by Marriott in Juffair welcomed its first guests at the weekend, heralding a new dawn for the kingdom’s beleaguered hospitality sector which was one of the economy’s hardest hit following unrest earlier this year.
Marriott International has introduced its classic lodging brand for extended-stay travellers in Bahrain under a long-term management agreement with International Trading and Investment Co.
Located in the thriving suburban area on the edge of Manama, it is the first Residence Inn-branded property in the Middle East. The property features a total of 80 units, including 26 studios, 17 one-bedroom suites, 35 two-bedroom suites and two three-bedroom suites.
Ed Fuller, president & managing director of International Lodging for Marriott International, said: “We are thrilled by the continued expansion of our presence in Bahrain and are excited to introduce our third lodging brand in the country, giving travellers a growing choice in accommodations when they visit the country.”
His colleague, Diane Mayer, vice president and global brand manager for Residence Inn, added: “One third of today’s global business travellers are ‘extended stay’ guests. As the leader in this segment in North America, Residence Inn is proud to introduce to the Middle East our expertise and distinct service culture that tailors to the unique needs of this group of traveller.”
The Residence Inn by Marriott Juffair offers a mix of spacious, stylish and residential-feel studios, one, two and three-bedroom suites. Its designers say each has a purposeful layout with designated zones allowing guests to relax, work, eat and sleep in their suites, while maintaining their routines at their own pace while away from home.
Every suite features kitchens that come complete with full-sized refrigerators and stainless steel appliances that make living on the road easier for business travellers on long stays and families on leisure travel.
With expansive workspace and, easily accessible outlets and 42-inches flat screen TVs, guests are fully equipped with state-of-the-art technology too. All the suites and lobby have access to free high-speed internet access.
Rates vary depending on the length of stay. Like its suites, the hotel’s public space is comfortable and multi-functional. The Cafe-Lounge serves a daily complimentary hot breakfast buffet while a ‘Grab and Go’ kiosk/market offers snacks for purchase 24-hours-a-day.The new hotel also boasts a business centre that includes a 20sq/m meeting room for business or social gatherings.
The recreational amenities feature an outdoor swimming pool and a health and leisure club with lockers and a separate male and female sauna and whirlpool.
The Residence Inn by Marriott Juffair is located adjacent to the Marriott Executive Apartments. Sam Van Campenhout, general manager for both properties added: “I would like to thank our owner Shaikh Mohammed Abdulrahman Al Khalifa managing director of ITICO (International Trading & Investment Co.). He and his team have been instrumental in developing a great product for us to bring to our guests.”
Breakfast in the Residence – read EatingOut next week.