What small services such as shampoo do hotel guests want? AKA, a provider of condo-style services for travelers in New York and other cities, say they offer a variety of perks that often cost money in other chains:
o Complimentary Wi-Fi access ($10 or more daily fee at Thompson Hotels, Ritz-Carlton, W and Four Seasons)
o Club breakfast, including La Colombe coffee and tea service all day long (Barclay InterContinental in NYC charges guests $3.25 for the in-room coffee alone, according to AKA)
o On-property fitness centers, including a complimentary consultation with fitness trainer to the stars Amie Hoff (Most hotels charge $10-40 just for fitness center fees.)
o On-property business center and conference room
o Laundry service with free detergent and fabric softener
o One-year free membership to Zipcar, the world’s largest car share service ($50 value)
AKA properties are located in prime urban areas in cities such as Washington, DC. Rates are based on daily, weekly or monthly stays.
“We have become a valuable alternative for people who want the cachet and spaciousness of accommodations at a luxury hotel but not the over-the-top price tag of some of the more noticeable brands,” said M.J. Paschall, AKA President, adding:
“Rate-wise, we are more competitive than what those hotels charge, and provide a great lifestyle alternative for those staying longer than a week and in need of entertainment space — full kitchen and living room — as well as a bedroom.”
Weekly rates in Manhattan start at $275.
By David Wilkening
