INTERNATIONAL REPORT—Major brands like Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group and Four Points by Sheraton are bolstering their portfolios in Africa. Here’s a look at what’s new:
Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group Adds Three Hotels to Its African Pipeline
Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group has added three hotels to its African portfolio. The new 530 rooms bring the group’s African portfolio to a tally of 80 hotels and more than 17,200 rooms in operation and under development.
“Africa remains a focus market for our growth journey and we remain committed to the continent,” said Elie Younes, EVP & chief development officer of Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group. “The additional three hotels include two in Ethiopia, a Radisson Blu in Bishoftu and the first Park Inn by Radisson for the country in its capital city, Addis Ababa, and a luxury hotel in Abuja. We are thankful to our partners for their trust in our brands and people—and look forward to long-standing relationships with them.”
The 152-room Radisson Blu Bishoftu, Ethiopia will have a restaurant and terrace, a specialty restaurant and a pool bar on the terrace, offering lake views. The meeting and events spaces will include a ballroom and six contemporary meeting rooms. A spa and gym round out the offerings.
The 160-room Park Inn by Radisson Addis Ababa will offer a mixture of standard rooms and suites. It will also feature Park Inn by Radisson’s signature all-day dining restaurant and lobby bar.
The Aso Towers Hotel & Residence Abuja in Nigeria will have a 29-story luxury hotel tower, and 218 rooms made up of standard, deluxe, executive and presidential rooms. In addition, the 18-story residence tower will have 24 studios, 48 two-bedroom and 12 three-bedroom apartments.
Four Points by Sheraton Debuts in Tanzania
Marriott International Inc. has opened the Four Points by Sheraton Arusha, The Arusha Hotel, marking the debut of the brand in Tanzania. Founded in 1894, The Arusha Hotel has emerged as a city landmark playing host to many dignitaries and notables over more than 120 years. Rebranded after renovation, the 106-room hotel retains its charm.
The hotel has modern rooms including suites. There’s also an all-day dining restaurant, a coffee shop and the Hatari Bar, named after John Wayne’s safari epic. Other facilities include an outdoor pool and a fitness center. A poolside bar will soon be added. In addition, there’s 5,500 sq. ft. of flexible indoor meeting space and gardens.
“The entry of the Four Points brand into Tanzania is a significant addition to our rapidly growing footprint in Africa and reflects the strong traction the brand is gaining in the region,” said Alex Kyriakidis, president and managing director, Middle East and Africa, Marriott International. “