InterContinental Hotels Group and Bukhamseen Group Holding Company have signed an agreement to introduce IHG's upscale extended-stay brand to Kuwait. The signing initiates the development of two Staybridge Suites properties in Kuwait city - one in the Salmiya district and one in the Farwaniya airport area. Established in 1997, Staybridge Suites is an innovative all-suite hotel brand whose flexible approach and blend of the domestic environment with traditional hotel services is expected to bridge the gap between conventional hotels and serviced apartments. As such, Staybridge Suites will appeal to a wide range of travel needs, from those in town on business or looking for a “home from home” experience while on holiday to those relocating to the area or even seeking temporary housing during household renovations. “The outstanding performance of Staybridge Suites in the US has demonstrated the viability and growth of the extended-stay segment worldwide,” said John Bamsey, IHG's chief operating officer, Middle East and Africa. “Building on this success, IHG is bringing its upscale extended stay brand to the Middle East where we aim to lead the market by setting new standards and clearly differentiating ourselves from the apartment-style concepts currently on offer. We have a longstanding relationship with Bukhamseen Group following our initial cooperation in launching the Holiday Inn and Crowne Plaza brands, and we are happy to be partnering with them again to introduce Staybridge Suites to the Kuwaiti market.” Staybridge Suites Salmiya, opening in November 2009, will comprise of 120 well-appointed suites. The property will be located in Kuwait city's prime commercial and residential area, Salmiya, which is in close proximity to tourist attractions including the Marine Museum and Shaab Leisure Park, as well as a variety of shopping malls and restaurants. Known for its spacious and homely layout, Staybridge Suites will offer guests the choice between stylish studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom suites; all with separate living and working areas, as well as fully equipped kitchens. Fitted with wood flooring and furnished with modern pieces, including casual armchairs and comfy sofas, the suites will offer state-of-the-art entertainment and communications, including free WiFi, thereby catering to business travelers looking to stay somewhere ‘more home than hotel.” At Staybridge's heart is the hub kitchen, where breakfast is served every morning. This is also the venue for the signature after-work receptions, held four nights a week. __
