Dubai: German hotelier Kempinski is intent on making its mark in Cairo to bring an international brand to the scene, but not in the giant proportions typical in this city.
"We are Cairo's first boutique hotel offering a refuge from the charming chaos of the city," Kempinski Nile Hotel general manager Axel Ludwig said.
"We don't promise to be a home away from home, but give our guests a new experience they're seeking when travelling."
Others in the city may claim the boutique name, but the smaller ones don't fall into the five-star category or they are too large in size to qualify. Take the Villa Belle Époque.
At 13 rooms it is truly boutique in size, offering a personalised service in a charming 1920-style property with gardens.
It is in the upmarket suburb of Maadi, but it is one of those little jewels and very different from the Kempinski offering.
The Kempinski Nile Hotel, owned by TMG, has been given a boutique feel. The original 1950, 10-storey hotel building had 260 rooms.
Now it boasts 137 rooms and 54 suites — much smaller than its Garden City neighbours.
"It isn't just about the size but the experience which forms the definition of a boutique hotel," said Ludwig.
The Cairo Kempinski was designed by French architect Pierre Yves Rochon, who attempted to recreate the charm of old Europe mixed with Egyptian style. The façade is made of Zimbabwean marble.
"We're witty and daring to be different, not arrogant but open our hearts to the guests, which I believe makes an authentic hotelier not actors. The style is rather understated elegance than overbearing opulence."
A chocolate lounge satisfies the sweet tooth and a shisha museum offers a collection from around the world to savour. The roof pool features vistas over the Nile and at night converts into a happening place, sushi and DJs included.
Opening at the end of June, the Kempinski's average rate comes at $280 to $300, making it the third most expensive hotel in Cairo.
