The long-planned US$7,5-million refurbishment of Harare’s five-star Meikles Hotel will start in March.
The north wing will be closed for about nine months for a complete refurbishment of all the suites, bedrooms, gymnasium and public areas, as well as substantial renovation of working areas and equipment such as kitchens, laundry, elevators and generators. In due course the south wing will also be refurbished.
Karl Snater, Managing Director of the hotel, said this was the biggest upgrading programme in the hotel in almost 20 years.
During the past year the hotel has installed flat-screen televisions in all rooms and suites as well as new banqueting furniture and equipment. The exterior of the hotel was painted and the principal banqueting venue, the Stewart Rooms, were remodelled.
In addition, new management has been appointed in key positions, especially in the food and beverage operations, tasked with introducing new menus and wine lists and making improvements to systems and procedures.
Snater said the refurbishment programme was based on a belief that travel and tourism would expand and grow in the medium term. “Along with our many colleagues throughout the sector, we look forward to increased interest in Zimbabwe as a destination for travellers of all kinds, especially in the upper end of the market, which is where Meikles is positioned.”
