AS Libya looks to build its tourism image, hotel companies making a comeback into the once war zone area, that offers some world-class cultural heritage sites, an historic quarter in Tripoli and over 1,300 miles of Mediterranean coastline. Following the Arab Spring uprising, hotel operators are making its entry back into Tripoli and taking lead is the Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group which reopened the Radisson Blu Al Mahary Hotel on January 1, 2012.
Since its opening, the hotel has seen strong performance especially taking into consideration the challenging and uncertain times, says Kosta Kourotsidis, general manager of the hotel.
“We have also seen a positive trend in regards to RevPar and within the coming months we’re confident that it will continue to increase.”
Kourotsidis adds that currently the biggest source market for the hotel is from embassies, media, construction companies and of course the petrol & gas companies.
“We know that at the moment the strict Visa procedure for many business people can prove a bit of an obstacle but we hope that the new government will revise these procedures to make it easier and more attractive for important investors to enter the country” he continues.
The hotel reopened in January 2012 after staying closed for almost a year. The majority of the Radisson Blu staff at the hotel left Tripoli in February 2011. The hotel continued to operate during the revolution, led by a skeleton staff provided by the owning company.
“Radisson Blu officially re-entered the market and the hotel only on January 1, 2012” he adds.
Looking ahead, Kourotsidis is at a lot of marketing opportunities locally which will include billboard advertising, working close with TV and radio channels to promote the hotel and raise brand awareness locally and globally.
“We understand that for the moment there is no leisure business in Tripoli which I believe has a huge potential in the near future due to the historical sites located in and around the City. Combine this with the modern shopping malls and facilities the country has great potential.”
“Tripoli has to become a destination, more attractive in terms of leisure facilities. Travel agents along with airlines should take the initiative to promote and offer Tripoli as sightseeing destination. That would be a great starting point,” says Kourotsidis.
The hotel is currently running full operations with all the facilities to cater to both the business and leisure traveller. The hotel offers variety of different F&B outlets including the popular Filini serving contemporary Italian. A fully equipped gym, spa Orchedia and an outstanding Business Class lounge alongside the Business Class rooms are also available for guests at the hotel.