Mombasa based PrideInn Paradise beach resort has reopened to domestic tourists for business after a hiatus of four months.
The five star rated hotel suspended operations on 30th March 2020 following government’s directives to the public to avoid unnecessary travel and ban on meetings and gatherings as a way of taming the spread of the corona virus.
While announcing the reopening, Hasnain Noorani, Managing Director for PrideInn group of Hotels said over the closure period, the hotel has lost millions of shillings in terms of revenue and profit to Covid -19 pandemic.
“The situation has been difficult for the hospitality and tourism industry and even more severe given that this industry relies on human relationships and social interaction. We are very excited about our reopening and are welcoming guests back in the best and safest manner possible,”Noorani said
Noorani admitted that foreign bookings are very slim since the key feeder markets of Europe, Asia and America have been affected by Covid-19 hence the hotel is heavily depending on domestic travelers and local conferences.
The beach resort says it is ensuring that everything is distanced and disinfected and has minimized the number of people who touch things as possible. All staff have undergone Covid -19 test, wear masks and some with additional plastic visors.
“Pride Inn Hotel Group is ready,” said Victor Shitakha, General manager for Pride Inn Flamingo. “We are thrilled to reopen our doors and safely welcome guests back to experience the forward-thinking design, bespoke service and cultural programming for which our hotels are known. While much of the world has changed, our goal remains the same, to deliver a safe and memorable experiences for our guests and that is what we plan to do.”
Shitakha added that the resumption of international flights from August first is a blessing to the hospitality industry.
“We are hopeful that the reopening of Kenyan skies to local and international flights will be a boost to the industry which was first to be affected by Covid – 19 pandemic,” said Shitakah.