PAPUA New Guinea has welcomed a new era in hospitality with the official opening of the Sheraton Port Moresby Stanley Hotel & Suites marking the debut of the Sheraton brand in the country.
The opening ceremony, held in Port Moresby today (Monday, 3rd, August) celebrated the transformation of the iconic Stanley Hotel & Suites into one of Marriott International’s flagship properties in the Pacific and PNG.
The Sheraton Port Moresby Stanley Hotel & Suites is now part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 hotel brands. It is Marriott International’s second property in PNG and the 10th Sheraton hotel in the Pacific region.
The hotel features 394 keys, including guestrooms, suites and fully equipped apartments. Located in Port Moresby’s central business and cultural district, it is five minutes from Jacksons International Airport and directly connected to Vision City Mega Mall.
It’s facilities include more than 2,500 square metres of meeting and event space, including PNG’s largest ballroom, multiple dining venues, the new Sheraton Club Lounge, an infinity swimming pool, one of Port Moresby’s largest fitness centres, and a full-service day spa.
Speaking at the opening, Jason Nuell, Regional Vice President for Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific, Marriott International, described the launch as a milestone achievement for the hotel.
He said PNG’s proximity to Australia and its rising prominence in the region were key reasons for Marriott’s investment.
“The reason why we are opening so many hotels is because our guests want more choice. 75 percent of our guests come from our customer base. Our guests are just as excited as we are to have another place to come and stay,” Mr. Nuell said.
“We are a global company in 143 countries around the globe and today is PNG’s turn to raise the Sheraton flag.”
Mr. James Lau, the Managing Director of Rimbunan Hijau (RH) Group, said the historic opening was a symbol of local dedication and hard work.
“With growth and imagination, a world-class ambition requires world-class conditions. That is why we chose to partner with Marriott International to bring the iconic Sheraton brand to Port Moresby,” Lau said.
“Bringing global luxury to our city required more investment and commitment. Through a capital investment of K100 million, RH development has transformed this property.”
Lau added that the hotel is creating a regional hub for commerce, tourism and diplomacy.
“This is a step up in our infrastructure growth to meet the country’s growth, and most importantly this investment is a work of commitment in Papua New Guinea’s future.”
NCD Governor Hon. Powes Parkop welcomed the partnership and said Port Moresby remains the country’s international gateway and urged it’s residents to create a conducive environment for investment and development.
“It is our responsibility to create an environment that is conducive for business development to take place, for tourists to come, for our people to thrive and for all other aspects of development to happen in the country,” Parkop said.
“I am very pleased with this partnership between Marriott and RH Group of Companies. It is an internationally recognized brand that will be an ambassador for the country.”