Speaking exclusively to TTG, area general manager – Morocco, L’Amphitrite Hotels & Resorts, Abel Damergi explains why his property is amongst the very best that Morocco has to offer
TTG: What is the latest news from L’Amphitrite Palace and what future developments do you have planned?
The revitalisation of
L’Amphitrite Palace continues as we gear up for the busiest period of the year. At this time we have delayed some of the more significant works so as not to impact guests in any way.
There will be some work on the Villa Royale during August, however the Villa is a stand-alone facility that does not impact on the rest of the resort. During this time, there will be some replacement of soft furnishings in the public areas, which will also not impact on guests. The more significant work that involves a wall removal in the lobby will wait until the winter season.
TTG: What are the reasons behind such developments and what results are you expecting once they are completed?
Our delay was simply to avoid impacting guests. Originally the work had been scheduled for early 2012, however business was stronger than anticipated. Once completed, the main lobby will extend into the elegant Dukes bar, creating a more accessible and congenial feature.
We also plan to upgrade the arrival experience, with a rearrangement of the reception area to provide a better flow for arrivals and departures
TTG: What separates L’Amphitrite Palace apart from other luxury properties available within Morocco?
Apart from the majestic architecture and beautiful setting, the location of
L’Amphitrite Palace makes it a perfect base from which to access the highlights of Morocco. With virtually every sight on a visitor’s must-see list within three hours or less from L’Amphitrite Palace, excursions to places such as Fes, Marrakech and Tangier can be enjoyed with a day or overnight trip.
Casablanca is 40 minutes away and the imperial city of Rabat is 20 minutes. The wine producing areas of Meknes and Benslimane are around 90-minutes and 30 minutes respectively. Our guests that come back to L’Amphitrite Palace for some real relaxation for a few days, and perhaps some pampering in the spa, before setting off on their next sightseeing trip.
TTG: Where are the majority of your guests arriving from and why do you believe this to be the case?
Our guests are a mix of domestic and international, with the international market on the increase. There was a period over the past few years where the international market was not adequately serviced. This is now being addressed and we see a significant increase of overseas arrivals. This increase is due to sales and marketing efforts, and positioning with good reportage and comments in print and electronic media.
TTG: What are the current trends you have been witnessing by your guests visiting L’Amphitrite Palace and how have you responded to them?
International markets are staying longer due to our central location, especially the long-haul guests who are using
L’Amphitrite Palace as their Morocco base, as previously mentioned.
We also enjoy small meetings and conferences within the property, following the creation of a room that can accommodate around 40 persons, in addition to the other smaller meeting and boardroom. We are also associated with the Corum Rabat Convention & Exhibition Centre Mohammed VI, though our affiliation with Constellation Hospitality Group. This state-of-the-art centre is adjacent to L’Amphitrite Palace.
Whilst we cannot accommodate all attendees at L’Amphitrite Palace for large events, we offer a great facility for executives attending events, while our location makes it virtually painless for other attendees to travel 30 minutes to our sister hotel – Avanti L’Amphitrite Mohammedia, and also to Rabat.