Hotel check: Westpoint Executive Suites

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What’s it like?

Westpoint Executive Suites provides executive accommodation for both business and leisure travellers, although it’s probably more suited to the former, as the appeal is in opting for an executive apartment over a standard hotel. This becomes even more important when dealing with long stays, and this type of accommodation is ideal for corporates looking to put their executives up for a prolonged stay, whether it’s standard business or a relocation etc. The apartments themselves are modern and clean, with a contemporary design.

Where is it?

The location of Westpoint Executive Suites is arguably one of its biggest selling points, due to the fact that the building is situated in the heart of Sandton – the Johannesburg suburb that has cemented itself as the business centre of the city. In fact, you can walk to Sandton City and the closest Gautrain station, which links O.R. Tambo International Airport with Sandton, via a 15-minute trip. The walk to both Sandton City and the station is about 10 minutes. So, if you’re doing business in Sandton, it’s ideal. The airport is approximately 40 minutes’ drive away and there are loads of restaurants and bars at Sandton City and its surrounds.

Apartments

The building consists of 12 floors with 72 apartments and provides two parking bays for each apartment. Modern furnishings and décor are a feature of the apartments and careful attention appears to have been paid to providing for the needs of the executive traveller. All apartments offer two double bedrooms – each with an en-suite bathroom – a lounge, kitchen, dining room and a balcony. My apartment had freshly-picked flowers, a welcome note and complimentary drink and chocolate, on a table when I arrived. The kitchen was fully equipped, along with coffee machine, microwave, washing machine, dryer and a fridge which had been stocked with complimentary snacks and beverages. For guests looking at a long stay, Westpoint Executive Suites will assist with stocking of groceries and toiletries prior to arrival. And that’s for no extra cost, besides the cost of the groceries themselves. I found the living area incredibly comfortable, sitting on the five-seater couch, with a coffee table to put my feet on, and a 32-inch TV with full satellite bouquet, along with a CD/DVD player. Also comfortable was my bedroom and the double bed in it, along with plenty of hanging space, side lamps and large windows offering a great view from my seventh floor apartment. I was also able to connect to the Internet and download email via the broadband Wi-Fi hotspot that you’ll find in every apartment. The apartments are serviced every weekday and though there exists a washing machine and dryer, housekeeping staff are also available to wash and iron at no extra charge. Smoking isn’t allowed indoors.

Leisure Facilities

There’s a decent-sized swimming pool and a gym that is reserved for guests and is available 24 hours a day. The on-site office is able to organise airport transfers, tours, car rental and a limousine service, if required.

Verdict

Perfect for extended corporate stays, particularly if your business is in and around the Sandton area. My only criticism is that I felt there could have been more staff on hand to assist with errands and purchasing essentials, as I was without transport and didn’t want to rely on taxis. Otherwise, it was an incredibly comfortable stay and the apartments feature just about anything a business traveller needs.

Afam Anyika

Contact

Address: Cnr West Road South & Grayston Drive, Morningside, Sandton, +27 11 783 1150, executivesuites.co.za