09 Oct 2017

Former employees of Gaborone Sun Hotel, now AVANI Gaborone Resort and Casino, have not lost their jobs due to the transferring of the hotel into a new brand.

Celebrating the completion of a P79-million renovation of AVANI Gaborone Resort and Casino Hotel, an official of the hotel, Ms Thapelo Letsholo said the 450 staff members remain as part of the new brand.

“I can confirm to you that the rest of the staff and management still remain part of the new facility apart from the fact that we have a new general manager Mr Riaan van Rooyen,”, she added.

The new AVANI is a Minor International’s new brand launched globally with the opening of Avani Bentota.

Ms Letsholo said what changed was the name of the hotel from Gaborone Sun to AVANI Gaborone Resort and Casino. Avani, an Indian name which denoted something related to earth.

The new facility, according to Ms Letsholo, offers an experience that is one of a kind and customer feedback that has been received so far adding that the hotel now occupancies high levels than before because  the facility is now able to command room rates comparable to other luxury beach resorts.

She explained that the purpose of the event was to showcase the new Avani that started refurbishment last year October.

She expressed gratitude that the turn up of invited guests was perfect and lovely, adding that the future looked bright for the hotel, whose identity are corporate colours of grey, plum and sandy.

The renovation include the 156 guest rooms and public spaces, the main entrance and porte cochere, which have been renovated with the aim of introducing AVANI’s signature design hallmarks.

The new contemporary design and technological enhancements make for a modern, functional and relaxing experience.

The interior is spacious and natural light allowing for a communal space, where guests can relax, meet and eat.

The Pantry offers fresh, quick bites for life on the move, comfort food, fresh fruit juices, barista coffees and more.

The conservatory, located in the centre of the lobby, provides an informal, communal eatery.

Design elements include a leafy graphic design wall, ceiling punkah fans, wicker seating and parquet flooring.

The menu features sandwiches, hamburgers, salads and pasta dishes and delivers on AVANI’s promise of honest food, using freshly sourced local ingredients as well as naturally raised poultry and sustainable meat and seafood.

Minor Hotels is an international hotel owner, operator and investor currently with 154 hotels in operation.

Minor Hotels passionately explores new possibilities in hospitality with a diverse portfolio of properties designed intelligently to appeal to different kinds of travellers, serving new passions as well as personal needs, Ms Letsholo said. BOPA.