ONE of the Western Province’s most iconic hospitality landmarks, Gizo Hotel, is set to undergo a major facelift in the coming months.
The long-anticipated renovation will breathe new life into the aging facility, aiming to improve accommodation standards and enhance the overall guest experience for both domestic and international visitors.
The refurbishment will include upgrades to rooms, the restaurant and bar area, outdoor spaces, and essential infrastructure such as water, power, and internet connectivity.
The hotel’s management has confirmed to this paper in an interview that the renovation plan is being finalized and will be rolled out in phases to minimize disruptions to guests and staff.
“We are excited about the upcoming improvements,” a senior management staff in Charge of Gizo Hotel told Solomon Star in an interview.
“Gizo Hotel has served the province for decades, and this facelift is part of our commitment to maintaining high standards in tourism and hospitality.”
Additional facelift will include the floating bar, cafeteria and club which will be situated on the Gizo hotel sea front view where the jetty is currently located.
The renovation comes at a crucial time as the Solomon Islands government (SIG) and development partners continue to push for tourism recovery and economic diversification in the (SIG) post-COVID-19 era.
The family business owners, the Kennedy family from Australia have welcomed the news, noting that an upgraded Gizo Hotel will boost the town’s appeal as a tourist destination and help stimulate local economic activities, particularly for small businesses that rely on visitor spending.
“Gizo is the heart of tourism in the Western Province,” a local tour operator said.
“A modernized hotel will encourage longer stays and attract more visitors, which will benefit everyone from market vendors to transport providers,’’ the operator added.
Gizo Hotel has long been a preferred choice for business travelers, government officials, and tourists due to its central location and historic significance.
Once the facelift is complete, it is expected to set a new benchmark for accommodation in the region.
No official date has been confirmed for the start of construction, but the management assures the public that updates will be shared as soon as plans are finalized.
By Ulutah Gina
Solomon Star, Gizo
