L.M. Barbaron up and running soon |07 May 2005

"We are looking to pull more people to Seychelles," said General Manager Dietmar Koegerl of the complete renovation of the 124 room resort.

Closed in October 2004 the top to bottom renovation of the Mahé west coast hotel has seen changes to everything from the restaurant concept to the guest amenities.

At the soft opening, scheduled for August 1, guests to the hotel will have a choice of two restaurants–Le Mangrovia buffet restaurant serving local and international cuisine or La Cocoteraie an a la carte restaurant offering Creole and Mediterranean dishes– a spa, possibly the largest bar in Seychelles, rooms with individually controlled air conditioning, satellite tv and WIFI internet connectivity throughout the hotels public areas.

While much of the old lay out of the hotel has been retained the changes which have taken place are intended to make it, according to the hotel's brochure, "one of Seychelles most welcoming hotels."

GM Koegerl said that the emphasis throughout the redevelopment has been on Seychelles nature and the sea, reflected through the green and blue shades of the suites, a bamboo garden in the lobby, extensive use of water features and views of the sea and landscaped gardens throughout the hotel.

But while nature has been the theme behind the cosmetic touches, cutting edge wireless internet connectivity has led to WIFI coverage in all of the hotel's public areas and direct internet access in all rooms.

In addition a conference centre capable of accommodating 140 people is also under construction.
A spa, featuring steam baths, beauty treatments and massage facilities, will allow adults to relax, but the hotel is also reaching out to families, with a free kids club provided.

"Our aim is to provide five star service at four star rates," said Mr Koegerl.
Despite bringing in a Thai spa manager Mr Koegerl said that less than ten percent of the hotel's 167 opening day staff will be expatriates.

"We already have a strong acceptance in the market," said Mr Koegerl, putting it down to the "strong brand name and the marketing."

He said that the hotel would be reaching out to new tourist markets, beyond Seychelles traditional European markets, adding that the key will be to offer value for money.