Accommodation facilities in the Victoria Falls area are upgrading and taking advantage of new opportunities to uphold the destination’s reputation as a key tourist attraction.
Victoria Falls Safari Lodge will be commencing a ‘destination project in March’, following which they will begin work on a new bar and viewing deck below the Buffalo Bar.
CE of Africa Albida Tourism, Ross Kennedy, did not disclose details of the new destination project, noting only that it would “set a new standard and benchmark” in Victoria Falls.
He added that there were developing opportunities in community involvement and conservation-based activities, despite challenges in the environment and economy.
“We have to be creative, innovative and persistent in order to deliver quality service, maintain high standards and offer great hospitality to our guests.”
The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara, also undergoing an upgrade, is set to complete a soft refurbishment initiated last year.
The refurb included all the suites, the Old Drift restaurant, the Kubu deck, the main reception, Travellers Bar and the lounge were completed last year. Still to be completed are the remaining rooms.
Minor Hotels, the group which manages The Royal Livingstone as well as the Avani Victoria Falls Resort, told Tourism Update last year that they were partnering closely with professional conference organisers (PCOs) in the area to drive conferencing.
“It’s important to stay top of mind with our agents and engage in face-to-face meetings, product updates and trade shows,” said Mark Havercroft, Minor Hotels Regional Director, Africa .
Victoria Falls welcomes a new hotel
Travellers planning their next visit to the Victoria Falls can now book their stay at the luxury, boutique Mbano Manor Hotel in Zimbabwe.
The hotel is one of the few luxury hotels in the area located just kilometres from the Falls and guests booking their stay for two nights or more during 2020 qualify for various special launch offers, which include full or half board, and several destination activities. Mbano Manor Hotel forms part of the African Inspiration Hotels & Lodges portfolio.
“The support and interest received from the travel trade and general public in the countdown to the hotel opening have been tremendous,” says Dr Mati Nyazema, Executive Director of Mbano Manor Hotel.
The hotel feature 18 spacious and private suites, scattered across a four-acre site in sets of two. Guests can choose to walk to their suites or be transported in golf carts.
A veranda wraps around private suites, offering a space to relax outdoors. Traditional teak shutters unfold to reveal large windows and doors. Each suite features a lounge area with a spacious bedroom and a separate bathroom overlooking a private courtyard.
The new Presidential Forest Villa, set for launch this year, will feature private gardens, a plunge pool and individual access. A king-size bedroom is complemented by two open lounges, a boardroom/ dining room facility with separate access and a double-volume bathroom.
New marketing opportunities unveiled
The River Club Zambia has opened up its marketing options with a series of videos to be launched on its YouTube channel.
The first showcases the ‘old-world charm’ of The River Club, the catering options and the luxurious facilities as well as comment from co-owner, Peter Jones.
