The rebound of business travel has driven a return to pre-pandemic performance for Minor Hotels’ The Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara and Avani Victoria Falls Resort in Zambia – with the ‘bleisure’ allure of Victoria Falls being the major catalyst for growth.

This was revealed in an exclusive interview during a media visit with Laurie Burr, Minor Hotels’ Complex GM at The Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara, Avani Victoria Falls Resort, and Anantara Kafue Tented Camp

The Royal Livingstone (173 rooms) and Avani Victoria Falls (212 rooms) are popular destinations for both international and regional travellers as they are strategically located near one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls.

“Apart from location, we offer luxurious accommodations, impeccable service, and adventure opportunities making it highly popular for international and regional travellers visiting Zambia,” said Burr.

He noted that The Royal Livingstone and Avani properties had maintained good occupancy rates, particularly during peak seasons and special conference events.

“Factors such as location, reputation for luxury, and comfort have all contributed to our consistent performance,” he said.

Tiered pricing

Burr further noted that Minor had introduced tiered pricing for South African, international, and domestic travellers respectively.

“We offer attractive rates for all market segments and our rates are designed to be competitive while still offering exceptional value and quality. When you book with us, you are not just getting a great rate, you are also getting an unforgettable experience.”

The hotel offers many adventures and activities, with the most popular being the microlight and helicopter scenic flights over Victoria Falls, sunset cruises, The Royal Livingstone Express Train, the Chobe Day Trip, and Victoria Falls tours.

“These activities are popular because they offer unique experiences that cater for different interests, whether it’s adventure, nature, culture, or relaxation,” Burr added.

Expansion plans

Minor Hotels’ expansion plans are well under way, with the group having already signed a strategic partnership with The Cavaleros Group to manage a hotel in Johannesburg, marking the debut of its NH Collection brand on the African continent.

The global hotel group is also on track to unveil its Anantara Kafue River Tented Camp, a luxury camp in Kafue National Park, in early 2025.

The camp will have 12 spacious tented villas – including a grand 600sqm Presidential Villa – offering private plunge pools and exclusive boat access.

“Tented camps are becoming increasingly popular for eco-conscious travellers seeking immersive nature experiences. We also have a portfolio of diverse brands catering for various segments of the market, including luxury, upscale and lifestyle accommodations,” Burr said.

Minor’s expansion plans often focus on identifying key destinations with high tourism potential and developing properties that align with its brand ethos and customer preferences.

Burr concluded that Minor currently had further expansion plans under way in Zambia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa.

Personal perspective by Christiaan Schultz

“During the media hosting, I experienced the very best Minor has to offer at its Royal Livingstone and Avani properties in Zambia.

“I undertook a culinary journey with a private five-course dinner at Kubu Deck (The Royal Livingstone) and a traditional African boma dinner experience at Avani. I also helped chefs cook traditional Zambian cuisine during a Spice Spoons cooking class.

“Other than daily leisure walks to Vic Falls (The Royal Livingstone and Avani guests have unlimited access to the Falls during their stay), I sailed on the African Princess for a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River, a spa treatment at Anantara Livingstone Spa, a quad bike ride in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, as well as a microlight flight over the Falls.

“It was an unbelievable experience I will never forget. Minor pays attention to the smallest details to elevate the guest experience like very few can. But what stood out the most for me was the friendliness of the staff.

“Minor has between 400 and 500 staff members working on the two properties and every single staff member I encountered greeted me as if I’m a part of their family. You can feel their passion for hospitality.”