Villa Rosa Kempinski has downplayed security concerns about its premises following the completion of the Nairobi Expressway, which passes close to and overlooks the hotel.
Due to its five-star status, the hotel has drawn international and regional delegates, including presidents and celebrities. However, since the expressway’s construction, there have been concerns that the road’s proximity to the hotel poses security risks that may drive away guests.
The hotel, on the other hand, claims that its rooms, including a presidential suite, are far enough away from the road and noise to ensure clients’ safety and privacy.
According to Judy Matengo, Kempinski’s director of sales, the speed limit on the 27km stretch would prevent any cars or people from slowing down enough to pose a threat.
Matengo also said that the hotel is erecting a bulletproof glass barrier to the swimming pool that faces the road.
“The rooms are far and not very close to the road. The only thing close is the swimming which is open and we have started taking security measures and we are going to have bulletproof (glass) there… We respect our guests’ privacy,” she said.
According to Matengo, the expressway, which begins in Mlolongo and connects to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport before terminating on James Gichuru Road in Westlands, will benefit the hotel.
“The expressway works to our advantage. It takes 12 minutes from the airport compared to 45 minutes or one hour due to traffic jam. It’s even safer without the buses and trailers and parking boys snatching phones from guests.’’
The presidential suite at the hotel costs $15000 (Sh1.72 million) per night, including breakfast.
