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Creating a Space for Everyone

President Hotel

16 October 2025

Creating A Space for Everyone

Our New Neurodivergent Room Offering Travel should be a joy, not a source of stress.

Yet for many neurodivergent individuals and their families, finding accommodation that truly understands their needs can be a significant challenge. That's why we're proud to announce that The President Hotel has become South Africa's first hotel to offer a dedicated neurodivergent room experience.

Launched in recognition of World Mental Health Day, this initiative represents more than just adding a few extra amenities to a standard room. It's about fundamentally rethinking how we create space for guests with autism, ADHD and other neurodivergent conditions.

Built with Understanding

Working closely with Autism South Africa, we've drawn on authentic expertise and real-world insights to create something genuinely helpful. Every element has been carefully selected to reduce sensory overload and create a calming, comfortable environment where neurodivergent guests can truly relax.

What Makes These Rooms Different?

From the moment guests arrive, the experience is designed with their needs in mind:

A Seamless Check-In Process We've streamlined our check-in procedures to minimise stress and sensory overload, making arrival as smooth as possible.

Sensory Comfort Tools Rooms are equipped with weighted blankets and sensory quilts that provide the deep pressure comfort many neurodivergent individuals find calming. For families travelling with children, we've included a sensory tent - a dedicated space for retreat and regulation.

Control Over Your Environment Guests can customise their sensory experience with specialised lighting options, a white noise machine, and an aroma diffuser with essential oils and LED colour-changing lighting. A sleep kit with earplugs ensures restful nights.

Tactile Support Our fidget boxes are filled with sensory-based toys and fidgets, providing helpful outlets for those who benefit from tactile stimulation. We've also created both sensory seeker and sensory avoider packs.

Leading the Way

"We recognised a significant gap in the hospitality industry," explains Barbara Murphy, our Compliance Manager. "Neurodivergent travellers often face challenges finding accommodation that understands and caters to their specific needs. Working alongside Autism South Africa has been invaluable in ensuring we're creating something authentic and truly helpful."

As General Manager Nikki Vardan notes, "As the first hotel in South Africa to offer this service, we're proud to lead the way in creating a space where every guest feels recognised, valued, and truly at home. This collaboration with Autism South Africa has opened our eyes to how we can make travel more accessible and comfortable for neurodivergent guests."

More Than a Room

This initiative aligns with our broader commitment to sustainability and inclusion, reinforcing our Green Key accreditation and supporting UN Sustainable Development Goals. It's part of our vision of hospitality that recognises and celebrates the diverse needs of all our guests.

Experience the Difference

Whether you're planning a family holiday, a work trip, or simply need a calm space to recharge, our neurodivergent rooms offer a welcoming environment designed with you in mind. Ready to book?

Email us at reservations@presidenthotel.co.za or visit www.presidenthotel.co.za

We're excited to welcome you to a hotel experience that truly understands what it means to feel at home.