About 70 percent of Hawthorn's clients are business travelers. Rooms have high-speed Internet access, with access to pools, evening receptions, and ample workspace. With 76 current properties in major markets such as Dallas, San Francisco, and Boston, Candlewood anticipates more growth. They project 100 properties open or under construction by the end of this year. Residence Inn suites come equipped with a full kitchen, separate living and sleeping areas, and a working fireplace in most rooms.
All new rooms have dual phone lines, high-speed Internet access, and ergonomic chairs.
Overall, Hilton officials say growth in extended stay lodging has increased from 33 percent to 37 percent of overall room night stays in recent years. Many clients are sub-contractors for IBM and other companies. Since we opened 10 years ago, we were constantly asked if we could offer weekly rates with kitchen facilities. We tried to rearrange rooms, added microwaves, refrigerators, etc. As we got more requests, and as I watched the occupancy rate of a nearby extended stay hotel grow, we decided to take the plunge.