The Hemingways Collection, a prominent luxury boutique hotel brand, recently unveiled its expansion plans in conjunction with its ten-year anniversary celebrations in Nairobi, Kenya. The CEO, Ross Evans, expressed his enthusiasm and commitment to maintaining the brand’s status as a leading luxury boutique hotel in Kenya, emphasizing the importance of luxury, service, and adventure in guest experiences.
Tracing its origins to 1988 with Hemingways Watamu, the brand’s journey began in earnest in 2013. Over the past decade, Hemingways Collection has reached several milestones, including the construction of Hemingways Nairobi in 2011 and its subsequent opening in 2013. This 45-suite luxury boutique hotel set a benchmark in African hospitality. In 2018, Hemingways Watamu underwent extensive refurbishment, and in 2022, Hemingways Eden joined the collection, marking the brand’s first management contract. The significant refurbishment of Hemingways Ol Seki further underscored the brand’s commitment to excellence.
Hemingways Collection’s dedication to exceptional service and guest satisfaction is evident in its consistent recognition as a Traveler’s Choice by TripAdvisor. General Manager Richard Kimenyi highlighted the crucial role of staff in maintaining the brand’s leadership in the luxury segment and its focus on talent management and career development for Kenyan hospitality professionals.
Emphasizing sustainability, the CEO reiterated the brand’s adherence to Environmental, Social, and Governance [ESG] principles, highlighting its role in eco-systems, wildlife habitats, and local community engagement. Notable contributions include over KES 55 million to various partners, such as the Watamu Marine Association and the Naboisho Conservancy, supporting social, health, and education programs.
Furthermore, the brand plans to invest in a 270Kwp solar PV system at Hemingways Nairobi by 2024, complementing existing installations at other properties. This initiative is expected to reduce the annual carbon footprint by 200 tonnes, aligning with the brand’s sustainability objectives. These expansion plans and initiatives reflect Hemingways Collection’s innovative approach to luxury hospitality, blending environmental consciousness with an unyielding commitment to guest satisfaction and luxury.
