EXCLUSIVE BY JAMES WILKINSON IN HONG KONG
Wyndham’s WorldMark Resort on Denarau Island in Fiji is set for a late-2013 completion in a much-needed boost to the South Pacific nation’s room inventory.
Speaking exclusively to HM at the Hotel Investment Conference Asia Pacific (HICAP) in Hong Kong late last week (Oct 12), Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific CEO Barry Robinson said the project, which was unveiled by Fijian Prime Minister, Commodore Josaia Voreque ‘Frank’ Bainimarama, last November, was one of the company’s most exciting developments in some time.
“Phase three of our WorldMark Resort in Fiji will be completed by the last quarter of 2013,” he said.
“That will include a new reception and arrival area, pool bar, additional adults pool, Mexican restaurant and 65 new apartments including four-bedroom Presidential suites,” he said.
The addition of a Mexican restaurant will help boost Denarau Island’s food and beverage offering and should see the WorldMark pick-up a significant amount of business from guests at nearby resorts.
When the project was launched by Bainimarama on November 3, 2011, the Fijian Prime Minister said developments such as Wyndham’s were important for the growth of Fijian tourism, which now accounts for 34% of the country’s GDP.
“My government recognises the importance of the tourism industry for the sustained economic growth of Fiji and its ability to create a sustained livelihood,” he said.
Bainimarama said when the FJD$49 million development was completed, the property would offer “improved services, increased room inventory and give the entire property a facelift”.
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