On a recent bleisure trip to the capital city, Adele Mackenzie experienced true Botswana hospitality at the Avani Gaborone and caught up with the hotel’s Resident Manager, Candice Selato, to discuss the outlook for 2023.
Q: There is such a great vibe at the hotel, even over a weekend, what is the outlook for tourism in Gaborone this year?
A: “The world is finally recovering from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on travel and we anticipate improved business in the tourism sector. A lot of new hotels are opening up in the city. It’s been a while of no leisure in the tourism sector and, finally, people are willing to go all out, to rewind and restructure their old formula to living their best lives.”
Q: I can certainly see that reflected around the pool area, the restaurants, coffee shops and lounges. What are the opportunities for growth?
A: “As restrictions have been adjusted, borders are now open, and companies are back to 100% capacity, Avani Gaborone is seeing increased enquiries and bookings. The return of business provides us with a great opportunity to deliver signature lifestyle events, conferencing, accommodation and entertainment options to both local and international leisure and business visitors.”
Q: Since I’m here over a weekend, of course I see a massive leisure contingent but I have seen conference and business groups checking in as well. I’m curious, what is the hotel’s leisure vs business travel ratio?
A: “Our property can be rated on a ratio of 70% business, 30% leisure, offering more corporate services than leisure services. We receive more bookings mid-week and do good leisure business over weekends.”
Q: The hotel is beautiful, and the gardens just lovely, but do you have any development plans for the property?
A: “We will be renovating the poolside area and looking to re-introducing our popular Avani Kids programme as we welcome more families to the hotel. On the food and beverage end, we will be reopening the restaurants that have been closed for a while to offer our exceptional fine dining experiences.”
Q: I received such a warm welcome to the hotel, and of course was very pleased to be met at the airport by the complimentary shuttle service. From your point of view, what sets Avani Gaborone apart from other hotels in the capital?
A: “It’s different factors that make us unique and stand out – not least of which are our team members and incredible staff. We pride ourselves on our warm welcome and ensuring that all our guests’ needs are met and expectations exceeded. Guests are frequently so impressed with the treatment from our team members that they’ll name individuals for praise and that makes it all worthwhile for us.
“Then of course our location. Avani Gaborone is centred in the heart of the city and easily accessible from the airport. Our facilities also include the casino, spa, golf course, tennis court, gym, a pool, restaurants and conferencing facilities.”
