PORTFOLIO

What’s On & Expat Newspaper Oct. 2 - Oct. 8, 2005
Feature

Home Away from Home
By Loraine Balita

Tucked within the bustling financial hub that is Makati are the Somerset Serviced Residences, which promise a culture of comfort and convenience. With rooms ranging from studios to three bedroom units, it offers amenities and facilities for locals and expatriates alike.

Managed by Ascott International, it has been welcoming guests from 40 cities across 17 countries including London, Paris, Brussels, Berlin and Barcelona in Europe; Singapore, Bangkok, Hanoi, Kuala Lumpur, Tokyo, Shanghai and Beijing in Asia; Sydney, Melbourne and Auckland in Australia and New Zealand; and Dubai in the Gulf region."Our security, so far, is excellent," assured Ascott Area General Manager, Arthur Gindap. The company is continuing to strengthen its three serviced residence brand names, The Ascott, Somerset, and Citadines. In Manila it has three properties, all located within Makati: the Somerset Millennium (Legaspi Village), Somerset Olympia (Makati Avenue) and Somerset Salcedo (Salcedo Village).

Services are tailored to the needs of long-staying guests. The Somerset host services offer consultation prior to moving in; personalized guest services; unpacking/packing services; security and safety briefings; monthly residents' activities, such as sports, events, learning programs and country explorations; quarterly Residents' Social Events; a personalized fitness program; grocery delivery; mailing of letters and postcards; transportation and arrangements; and assistance in local tours.The place offers a quiet and relaxing retreat as it tries to give the guests the feeling and ambiance of a private residence.
Suitable for long vacations, business trips and project assignments, it gives the familiarity and comforts of being in your own home.