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So-called "micro hotels"—properties that offer compact guestrooms and shared bathrooms—may have an advantage in the current economy, particularly in high-priced markets like New York City. For instance, The Jane in Manhattan features 150 cabin-like guestrooms measuring only 56 square feet. Though the hotel sacrifices space, it has not done so at the expense of good design—guestrooms come equipped with 350-thread-count sheets, a flat-screen television with DVD player, and an iPod dock. Guests can upgrade to larger rooms with private bathrooms; two public bathrooms are available on each floor that houses the smaller rooms. In Midtown, The Pod offers small rooms with bunk beds—and has been experiencing occupancy rates near 90 percent.
The concept is taking off in Europe with chains such as easyHotel and Yotel. In the U.S., Choice Hotels has looked into the micro-hotel model but as of now has no plans to move forward in the market. Industry analysts say that the concept would have a difficult time surviving outside of large, expensive U.S. cities.
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Will 'Micro Hotels' Take Off in Current Economy?
March 23, 2009 - Source: Associated PressSo-called "micro hotels"—properties that offer compact guestrooms and shared bathrooms—may have an advantage in the current economy, particularly in high-priced markets like New York City. For instance, The Jane in Manhattan features 150 cabin-like guestrooms measuring only 56 square feet. Though the hotel sacrifices space, it has not done so at the expense of good design—guestrooms come equipped with 350-thread-count sheets, a flat-screen television with DVD player, and an iPod dock. Guests can upgrade to larger rooms with private bathrooms; two public bathrooms are available on each floor that houses the smaller rooms. In Midtown, The Pod offers small rooms with bunk beds—and has been experiencing occupancy rates near 90 percent.
The concept is taking off in Europe with chains such as easyHotel and Yotel. In the U.S., Choice Hotels has looked into the micro-hotel model but as of now has no plans to move forward in the market. Industry analysts say that the concept would have a difficult time surviving outside of large, expensive U.S. cities.
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