Raffles Residences Makati caters to affluent travelers

A growing number of affluent visitors are seeking residential style luxury accommodations that are in limited supply in Makati. Attracted by the Philippines’ positive economic indicators, these international business travelers and expat Filipinos have maintained strong ties to the country, which is perceived to be poised for robust growth.

According to STR Global, a leader for hotel industry benchmarking and research, the average occupancy of serviced residences in Makati was 76 percent in 2010. It jumped to 86 percent in the first half of 2011, indicating a strong and growing demand for luxury serviced residences. Anchored and serviced by the Raffles Hotel, the Raffles Residences Makati will be positioned at the top end of serviced residences in Makati when it opens in late 2012.

“An obvious product differentiator of the Raffles Residences is that it is managed by one of the most iconic and respected hotel brands in Asia,” according to Randy Zupanski, managing director of the mixed-use development that houses the Residences and the Fairmont and Raffles hotels. The amenities associated with both hotels will be a unique selling proposition to guests and owners of the Residences who will have access to all the services and facilities of both hotels. “It’s the best of both worlds. Not only do travellers get the full comforts and amenities associated with a real home, they also have access to the services of two internationally renowned hotel brands,” Zupanski added.

For his part, Robert Davis, sales manager for Raffles Residences Makati, said that in addition to the hotel amenities and service levels, the development is located at the center of the financial hub of the Philippines. “It is just a short walk away from top dining destinations, cultural events, and some of the best shopping in Manila. It all adds up to an unrivalled lifestyle,” he pointed out.

As a mixed-use, hotel-branded residential development, Raffles Residences Makati is one of the first offerings of its kind in the Philippines. It is a residential condominium that includes hotel servicing and amenities. While many of its unit owners will call the Raffles Residences their home, they will also have the additional option to rent their unoccupied unit through the Raffles hotel. The international hospitality brand is expected to tap the increasing number of discerning travelers looking to Asia for both business and leisure options. Guests may choose to live in the Residences on a short- or long-term basis.

“This isn’t an ad-hoc apartment rental - this is Raffles. Although a residential unit has an individual owner behind it, that unit must still adhere to the Raffles standard and use only approved furnishings and equipment. In a very real sense, the residences can be considered an extension of the hotel. With full kitchens and separate living and bedrooms, it will be a home away from home for guests – with Raffles servicing,” Zupanski emphasized.