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Editor’s View
This latest issue of our magazine unveils a diverse array of stories that capture the essence of Zimbabwe’s evolving tourism and hospitality landscape.
We begin with a look at a new era of luxury airport hospitality that recently arrived in Harare with the opening of the Khami Prestige Lounge at Gate 11 of the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (RGMIA). Designed to serve the discerning needs of first-class travellers, elite frequent flyers, and premium credit card holders, the new lounge promises an unmatched travel experience by blending comfort, technology, and personalized service in a serene environment. This development marks a significant step forward in Zimbabwe’s premium travel sector, with Khami Prestige aiming to set the new standard for airport lounges in the country.
A quiet revolution in wildlife conservation is taking root, driven by the unwavering dedication of the internationally renowned and Bulawayo-based Free to Be Wild Sanctuary. At the forefront of this movement is founder Baye Pigors, whose vision extends beyond rescue and rehabilitation to encompass a profound belief in the transformative power of education. In an exclusive interview, Pigors shed light on the sanctuary’s comprehensive educational programs, designed to instil a deep appreciation for wildlife and the environment in every visitor.
Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (RGMIA) has significantly bolstered its emergency medical response capabilities with the recent opening of the Trauma Centre B’Dale Airport Clinic. This strategic expansion by the renowned Trauma Centre Borrowdale promises to provide immediate, comprehensive medical care directly on-site, enhancing the safety and well-being of thousands of travellers and airport personnel daily.
Our magazine also takes readers on a journey to several distinct destinations, including Mazvikadei Resort and Conference Centre, a nature lover’s paradise just over an hour from Harare. More than a paradise, this is a place where panoramic vistas sweep your minds as you relax in the tranquil surroundings. The resort’s location, just over an hour’s drive from Harare and 17km from Banket, contributes to its appeal as a tranquil escape from urban life.
On Wednesday, 9 July, one of Zimbabwe’s leading hospitality providers, Cresta Hotels Group, opened its doors to a team of local writers for an exclusive tour of three of its Harare properties: Cresta Lodge in Msasa, Cresta Oasis along Kwame Nkrumah Avenue, and Cresta Jameson in the heart of the CBD. The tour provided an insightful look into the recent refurbishments and diverse offerings of each hotel, highlighting their commitment to guest comfort, modern amenities, and a unique blend of local and international hospitality.
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Martin Chemhere
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KHAMI PRESTIGE LOUNGE ELEVATES AIRPORT EXPERIENCE IN HARARE
A new era of luxury airport hospitality has arrived in Harare with the opening of the Khami Prestige Lounge at Gate 11 of the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport's International Terminal. Designed to serve the discerning needs of business class travellers, elite frequent flyers, and premium credit card holders, the new lounge promises an unmatched travel experience by blending comfort, technology, and personalized service in a serene environment. This development marks a significant step forward in Zimbabwe’s premium travel sector, with Khami Prestige aiming to set the new standard for airport lounges in the country.
Text by Martin Chemhere
Photos by Caast Media Group
The lounge boasts a uniquely crafted space that offers a comprehensive suite of high-quality services to enhance the pre-flight experience.
Travellers can indulge in fine dining and an array of premium beverages, relax in spacious ergonomic seating and private pods, or utilize dedicated business workstations equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi.
The commitment to traveller well-being is further demonstrated through the inclusion of in-house spa services, offering massages to relieve stress, and even a health corner with BP and blood sugar testing.
The lounge’s design incorporates a strong sense of privacy, with quiet zones and partitioned areas providing a tranquil escape from the bustling airport environment.
Experiencing the lounge goes beyond its luxurious physical amenities, allowing visitors to indulge in its exclusive services and ambience.
The lounge is built on a mission to deliver exceptional customer service. A core part of this is the personalized concierge assistance, which helps travellers with everything from flight updates to reservations and transportation needs.
The lounge also offers exclusive access and priority services, such as expedited security and boarding, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable journey from start to finish. In a special nod to local culture, the lounge is enriched with cultural touches, including local food, drinks, and artwork that reflect Zimbabwe’s rich heritage, making the space feel deeply connected to its surroundings.
An industry review by Khami Prestige has shown that the demand for elevated travel experiences is on the rise globally, presenting a unique opening for businesses that can provide premium lounge services.
The lounge’s target market is strategically broad, catering not only to first and business class passengers and frequent flyers but also offering pay-per-use access to economy-class travellers who are willing to pay for a premium experience.
This flexible model, combined with partnerships with airlines, credit card companies like Lounge Key, Dragon Pass, and Priority Pass, and a strong digital presence, positions the lounge for sustained growth. The vision for the lounge is to become the preferred airport relaxation destination in Zimbabwe.
This is a goal underpinned by a set of core values that prioritize comfort, privacy, and technological advancement. The use of advanced technology, including fast Wi-Fi, numerous charging stations, and on-demand entertainment, caters to the modern traveller's needs for connectivity and convenience.
Furthermore, the commitment to exclusive access ensures that the atmosphere remains serene and private. The opening of the Khami Prestige Lounge is not merely the launch of a new business but the establishment of a new benchmark for luxury and service in Zimbabwe’s hospitality industry.
The lounge has elevated treatment for premium guests, promising world-class travel experiences for the growing demographic of discerning passengers.
MAZVIKADEI RESORT: ONLY TRUE NATURE LOVERS CAN UNDERSTAND
Yes, only true nature lovers can understand the tourism destination that is Mazvikadei Resort and Conference Centre. More than a paradise, this is a place where panoramic vistas sweep your minds as you relax in the surroundings. The resort's location, just over an hour's drive from Harare and 17km from Banket, contributes to its appeal as a tranquil escape from urban life.
The convenience of location and distance provides the perfect gateway to the truly tranquil escape offered by the clean and pure air, the quiet environment, and the untouched natural surroundings that define its unique ambiance, blending seamlessly with the African bush and indigenous trees. One must experience it to truly confirm what makes Mazvikadei Resort and Conference Centre so special.
Text by Martin Chemhere
Photos by Caast Media Group
Guests at the resort can expect a culinary experience focused on comfort and care. As a two-star establishment, the resort prides itself on clean and comfortable rooms, alongside freshly prepared meals made "with love and care."
The dishes are basic but generous, ensuring a satisfying dining experience. In addition to the main restaurant, a coffee shop and bar offer a basic menu based on A la Carte choices, primarily standard Western meals.
The atmosphere in these areas is relaxed, providing spaces for guests to unwind. Guest rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi and Open View TV, with DStv options available in the bar and restaurant for broader entertainment.
For land-based recreation, the resort offers a variety of complimentary activities for overnight guests, including swimming, tennis, volleyball, and mini golf (putt-putt). A dedicated children's playground is also available.
While fishing is permitted, guests are required to bring their own equipment and bait. Other activities incurring an additional fee include boat cruises at $10 per adult and horse rides at $5 per person.
The resort boasts a spacious conference room capable of comfortably accommodating up to 120 delegates. For smaller groups, the area can be divided into two smaller rooms, making it versatile for various events such as business conferences, team-building training sessions, meetings, church prayer meetings and conferences, or even as a dining or dance area, or for movie screenings. For those utilizing the conference facilities, the resort provides basic stationery, mineral water, cordials, and more. Essential equipment like a projector, PA System, flip charts, and whiteboards are also on hand.
The large and well-designed swimming pool, complete with a dedicated baby section, speaks for itself in terms of contributing to guest relaxation. Included sports activities within the resort grounds comprise netball, volleyball, and tennis, with balls, rackets, and clubs provided.
A soccer field is located just outside the hotel grounds. The putt-putt facility is enjoyed by all ages, and while the children’s play equipment is basic, it is sufficient for entertainment.
"Extra activities" not operated by the resort and incurring additional fees include boat cruises, visits to the Mazvikadei Dam Wall, fishing, and crocodile farm visits.
The natural harbour at the edge of the main dam serves as a convenient pick-up and drop-off point for boat cruises and doubles as a picnic and braai area. However, visitors are warned about the presence of crocodiles in the dam, urging constant care and precaution.
Visiting the dam wall is a notable experience. Although independently operated and not part of the resort's property, it is approximately 15 km by road or 4 km by boat. As the second highest dam wall entirely within Zimbabwe, its sheer scale is impressive.
Fishing enthusiasts will find the dam offers excellent opportunities for catching Bass and Bream, though guests must bring their own fishing rods and bait. The resort's natural surroundings also provide very good opportunities for nature enthusiasts, particularly for bird watching and picnicking.
Mazvikadei Resort and Conference Centre aims to provide a balanced experience, combining opportunities for"out of town functions" and after-hours relaxation with a focus on "comfortable inexpensive accommodation in a spectacular setting.
" Come and experience it in person, and take home a piece of the Mazvikadei Resort with you!
FREE TO BE
SANCTUARY CULTIVATES CONSERVATION THROUGH EDUCATION
Text by Martin Chemhere
A quiet revolution in wildlife conservation is taking root, driven by the unwavering dedication of the internationally renowned and Bulawayo based Free to Be Wild Sanctuary. At the forefront of this movement is founder Baye Pigors, whose vision extends beyond rescue and rehabilitation to encompass a profound belief in the transformative power of education. In an exclusive interview, Pigors shed light on the sanctuary's comprehensive educational programs, designed to instil a deep appreciation for wildlife and the environment in every visitor.
"Education is not just a component of our work; it is the cornerstone of our mission," Pigors emphasized, her passion evident in every word. "We believe that understanding is the first step towards protection. If people understand the challenges wildlife faces and the interconnectedness of our ecosystems, they are far more likely to become advocates for conservation."
The sanctuary's educational tours are crafted to cover a diverse range of critical topics. Pigors detailed the core curriculum, starting with the fundamental principles of Wildlife Conservation. "We teach visitors the paramount importance of protecting and conserving wildlife, but we also delve into the practicalities," she explained.
This includes vital information on wildlife rescue – what actions to take, who to contact in a wildlife emergency, and crucially, how to discern if an animal truly requires human intervention. The work of her sanctuary goes beyond immediate rescue, with the tours covering Wildlife Rehabilitation, the intricate process of caring for animals in a specialized facility like Free to Be Wild and the rigorous steps involved before an animal can be successfully released back into its natural habitat.
A particularly poignant aspect of the sanctuary's philosophy is its emphasis on Coexistence with Wildlife. Pigors highlighted the urgency of this topic, especially in Zimbabwe. "We actively explore ways for humans to peacefully coexist with wild animals and offer practical solutions to human-wildlife conflict," she stated.
"We address the very real, front-line cases we face daily, particularly the conflicts between wildlife, livestock, and crops, and how education can mitigate these issues."
The plight of Endangered Species also forms a crucial part of the curriculum. Visitors receive in-depth information about Zimbabwe's endangered animals, the reasons certain species are classified as endangered, and tangible ways individuals can contribute to their survival. Closely linked is Habitat Preservation, underscoring the vital importance of maintaining natural habitats for wildlife.
"We connect this back to human-wildlife coexistence, illustrating how creating environments conducive to shared living spaces can benefit both humans and animals," Pigors added. Finally, the tours provide insights into Animal Behaviour, teaching species identification and the fascinating intricacies of how different animals interact with their environment. Recognizing the diverse audience they serve, Free to Be Wild Sanctuary tailors its educational tours to various age groups.
"For Primary School children, we focus on engaging, hands-on activities, crafts, and games to introduce them to wildlife and conservation in a fun, accessible way," Pigors explained. "As students progress to High School, the learning becomes more in-depth, covering wildlife conservation, ecology, and environmental science.
For University students, we offer advanced learning, research opportunities, internship programs, and specialized wildlife seminars and training courses. And for the General Public, our programs promote broad awareness about wildlife conservation, ensuring everyone can connect with our mission."
Interactive elements are central to the sanctuary's teaching methodology. Pigors enthused about the unique experiences offered: "We provide incredible Animal Encounters, allowing visitors to meet and learn about our resident animals. What truly sets us apart is the ability for partici-
pants to engage in the feeding of various species such as giraffe, zebra, kudu, and ostrich. This allows students to truly meet, understand, and even love these species that they might never get to see in a wild environment up close and personal."
Visitors can experience the sanctuary beyond direct interaction, getting to develop Tracking Skills, learning about animal behaviours, species identification, and the intricate details of habitats, flora, and fauna. Crafts and games create an enthusiastic outdoor classroom, while activities like Habitat Creation, where participants can build birdhouses or insect homes, provide practical conservation experience.
Pigors passionately articulated how the sanctuary actively demonstrates Coexistence between Humans and Wildlife. "Free to Be Wild began as a sanctuary for orphaned wildlife," she recounted.
"However, our mission soon grew to a greater purpose: trying to find the source of the problem of orphaned animals. We quickly realized this was majorly from human-wildlife conflict. Through education, we hope to create peaceful coexistence and stop unnecessary animals from being orphaned, ensuring they remain wild and free where all wild animals should be."
The sanctuary empowers visitors with Practical Ways to Make a Difference.
"It's about more than just knowledge; it's about action," Pigors stated. "We encourage Supporting Conservation Efforts by visiting, donating, engaging with us on social media, or simply spreading the word about our work. We also advocate for Wildlife-Friendly Practices, such as creating habitats for animals and passing on the education they receive here."
A powerful aspect of their educational outreach involves the Case Studies or Examples of Rescued Animals. Pigors highlighted Terry, the one-winged vulture, an endangered ambassador animal at the sanctuary. "Through Terry's story, we illustrate why species become endangered – habitat loss, poisoning, human-wildlife conflict. We emphasize the critical importance of vulture conservation in maintaining ecosystem balance by disposing of carcasses and preventing disease spread.
Visitors learn how to help by supporting conservation efforts, reporting sick or injured animals, and understanding the vital role of wildlife care and rehabilitation." When the sanctuary shares these stories, they are fostering empathy, promotes conservation awareness, and encourages tangible action.
Extending beyond general tours, the sanctuary offers Specialized Educational Workshops and Programs covering topics like wildlife capture, rescue, rehabilitation, and release protocols; snake handling; wildlife data collection; and wildlife welfare and enrichment. "We host seminars, talks, and guest speakers, and our auditorium is available for hire for any groups wishing to run their own conservation programs or workshops," Pigors added.
The effectiveness of these programs is continually assessed. "We gather Feedback from Visitors, monitor participation and engagement, and evaluate the impact of our programs on promoting wildlife conservation," Pigors explained. Furthermore, the sanctuary provides Ongoing Engagement or Follow-up Resources through newsletters, social media, blogs, and volunteer opportunities, ensuring a lasting connection with their conservation efforts.
Finally, the Role of Resident Animals in Educational Programs is paramount. "Our resident animals are not just residents; they are ambassadors for their species," Pigors concluded. "They play a significant role in our educational programs, helping to promote awareness and understanding about wildlife conservation in a way that no textbook ever could." Through the dedicated work of Baye Pigors and the Free to Be Wild Sanctuary, Bulawayo is nurturing a generation committed to protecting Zimbabwe's precious wildlife for future generations.
TRAUMA CENTRE B’DALE
OPENS NEW CLINIC AT RGM
INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Text by Martin Chemhere
Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (RGMIA) has significantly bolstered its emergency medical response capabilities with the recent opening of the Trauma Centre B’Dale Airport Clinic. This strategic expansion by the renowned Trauma Centre Borrowdale promises to provide immediate, comprehensive medical care directly on-site, enhancing the safety and well-being of thousands of travellers and airport personnel daily.
Wendy Olivier, Marketing Manager for Trauma Centre Borrowdale, expressed immense pride in this new venture. "Our goal is to revolutionize airport healthcare in the region," Olivier stated. "The Trauma Centre B’Dale Airport Clinic brings hospital-grade emergency services directly to RGMIA, ensuring that any medical incident, no matter how sudden or severe, can be addressed with swift, expert care right here at the airport."
On offer at the clinic are a wide array of critical emergency medical services, including immediate care, advanced life support, trauma and cardiac management, and patient stabilisation. It is fully equipped to handle diverse situations, from sudden illnesses and accidents to in-aircraft medical emergencies while a plane is stationary. The clinic also provides essential routine care such as dressing changes, wound care, medication administration, and coordinated transfers for patients requiring hospital admission.
The strategic placement of the clinic within the airport premises is a game-changer for emergency response. "Having a fully equipped emergency facility on-site drastically improves response times during medical incidents," Olivier explained. "This reduces patient risk and ensures prompt, efficient care. Our 24/7 presence of professional medical personnel offers peace of mind to both travellers and airport staff, knowing that expert help is always close at hand, eliminating the need for patients to navigate traffic or travel to external hospitals/clinics."
Services on offer at the clinic extend to a more general wellness offering. It also provides travel vaccinations, minor medical check-ups, and revitalising IV therapies. A unique feature, the "Jet Fuel Drip Bar," is conveniently located on-site, offering mineral and vitamin-infused IV drips designed to hydrate and rejuvenate. A mobile team is also available to deliver these treatments directly to airport lounges.
Common medical emergencies frequently encountered include fainting, dehydration, cardiac emergencies, respiratory distress, minor injuries, panic attacks, allergic reactions, and diabetic emergencies. The clinic also manages travel-related illnesses, such as Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) risks, jet lag complications, and altitude-related conditions.
High-end equipment and technology, crucial for rapid and accurate diagnoses, are also available at the clinic. Olivier highlighted that the facility is equipped with advanced diagnostic tools such as portable ECG machines, defibrillators (AEDs), oxygen concentrator machine, point-of-care testing devices, blood pressure, saturation and heart rate monitors, as well as ultrasound. This cutting-edge technology facilitates immediate diagnosis and life-saving interventions. The clinic also provides a Telemedicine live, real-time video calling facility to a doctor online.
One of the most significant advantages is the commitment to reduced wait times. "Reduced wait times are achieved through a streamlined triage process, dedicated emergency staff on standby, and the use of efficient electronic patient records," the marketing manager explained. "Because the clinic is not overloaded like many urban hospitals, patients receive rapid attention, often being seen within minutes of arrival."
Creating a comfortable and modern environment, even in an emergency setting, was a key consideration. The clinic has been designed with comfort in mind, and is aesthetically pleasing. It features air-conditioned consultation areas, modern, clean interiors, and private treatment areas. Staff are trained in both medical and customer care to provide compassionate service.
Ensuring access to experienced medical professionals is paramount. The airport clinic is staffed by certified emergency paramedics with years of ER experience. A minimum of one senior doctor is always online, supported by trained nurses and paramedics. The facility boasts Telemedicine practices where highly qualified physicians are on standby at all times to assist in extreme emergency cases. The low patient-to-physician ratio ensures personalized attention and faster interventions.
In addition to immediate emergency care, the clinic offers comprehensive travel medicine services, including pre-travel consultations, vaccinations (including yellow fever), malaria prophylaxis, and health certificates, including pre-flight pregnancy clearance. It also provides fitness-to-fly assessments and follow-up care for travellers with chronic conditions, alongside mineral and vitamin drips.
The clinic is also designed to be child-friendly, with staff trained in paediatric emergency care and appropriate-sized equipment and medications. Seamless coordination with other airport services is vital. This has seen the clinic working hand-in-hand with airport operations, security, and airline personnel. Emergency drills are regularly conducted to streamline responses, and there is direct radio and telephone communication between the clinic, control tower, and airport response teams for swift coordination.
In cases requiring more extensive care, two fully equipped ambulances are stationed on-site, available 24/7. Upon stabilization, patients are transferred swiftly to The Trauma Centre in Borrowdale or other nearby hospitals depending on the nature of the case or the patient’s request. What truly sets the Trauma Centre B’Dale Airport Clinic apart, according to Olivier, is its unique approach to emergency care. "Unlike many regional airports that lack on-site medical infrastructure, the Clinic offers hospital-grade emergency services within the airport itself," she highlighted. "Its unique model merges aviation medicine with high-level trauma/emergency care, setting a benchmark in travel health and airport emergency readiness in Southern Africa, managed by a highly qualified aviation doctor."
Looking ahead, the Trauma Centre’s ambitious plans include expanding the clinic’s capacity and offering wellness packages for frequent flyers. There is also an ongoing focus on enhancing Basic Life Support training for airport first responders and increasing public awareness of the clinic’s services. The plan also covers additional international airports in Zimbabwe.
Cresta Lodge-The tour commenced at Cresta Lodge, a property that immediately impresses with its commitment to natural beauty and tranquil surroundings. As guests arrived, they were greeted by the lodge’s vibrant, expansive gardens, a defining feature that sets it apart from typical city hotels. Lush, mature green trees and various tropical plants are interspaced throughout, creating an idyllic and serene atmosphere.
Vantage points from balconies offer picturesque views of the well-maintained lawns and the inviting, clear blue swimming pool, surrounded by a light-colored wooden deck and shaded lounge chairs—perfect for relaxation.Luxury rooms and ambience characterize the entire lodge. The Suite rooms feature a modern and stylish design. These rooms feature large beds with contemporary headboards, crisp white bedding, and tasteful accents like green and patterned throw pillows. Walls are adorned with abstract art in green and blue tones, complemented by striking leafy-patterned wallpaper.
Hotels
WRITERS EXPERIENCE CRESTA HOTELS
TRANSFORMED HARARE GEMS
On Wednesday 9 July, one of Zimbabwe’s leading hospitality providers, Cresta Hotels Group, opened its doors to a team of local writers for an exclusive tour of three of its Harare properties: Cresta Lodge in Msasa, Cresta Oasis along Kwame Nkrumah Avenue, and Cresta Jameson in the heart of the CBD. The tour provided an insightful look into the recent refurbishments and diverse offerings of each hotel, highlighting their commitment to guest comfort, modern amenities, and a unique blend of local and international hospitality.
Text by Martin Chemhere
Guests will find wall-mounted flat-screen televisions, large wooden wardrobes for ample storage, and modern bathrooms with glass partitions. The light-colored wood flooring throughout adds to the contemporary feel. Some suites also boast a comfortable setup with a light grey sofa, stylish chairs around a round coffee table, and large windows or glass doors that invite natural light.
A cozy yet modern experience awaits guests in the Deluxe rooms. These rooms feature large beds with dark headboards, white bedding, and a vibrant green artistic panel above the bed, resembling blurred foliage—a striking visual element. A functional workspace with a wooden desk and ergonomic chair is also provided. The bathrooms in the Deluxe rooms are modern and well-lit, featuring light, neutral-toned tiles, white bathtubs with rain shower heads, and glass partitions.
A large, translucent panel with an abstract green and yellow design adds an artistic touch and privacy. The vanity areas are clean and contemporary, with large frameless mirrors, sleek chrome faucets, and complimentary toiletries.Cresta Lodge is also a premier destination for conferences and events, boasting the Sango Conference Centre.
Named after the Shona word for "grove of trees," Sango offers a tranquil woodland setting just 10 minutes from the city centre. It provides eight conference rooms with various seating arrangements, all equipped with the latest electronic technology, broadband links, video conferencing capabilities, and phone charging stations. The centre caters to diverse functions, from cinema-style presentations and dinner/dances to weddings and product launches.
A dedicated Conference Team, including a Conference Manager, Co-ordinator, Sales/PR, and Chef, ensures seamless event execution. The lodge's restaurant, which opens at 6:30 AM for breakfast, prioritizes a diverse culinary experience with separate sections for various dishes and a strong emphasis on fresh, local produce. "Traditional Thursdays" showcase Zimbabwean cuisine, while Indian and Chinese options are available on request.
Recent refurbishments to all 171 rooms have seen changes to headboards, light fittings, cushioning, chairs, and art deco, all while maintaining the original structural outlook and room sizes. Bathrooms have been updated with new taps, sinks, toilet seats, and mirrors. All rooms are air-conditioned, non-smoking (with designated smoking areas available), and equipped with smart TVs, allowing guests to log in to their personal streaming accounts.
The Superior Deluxe rooms offer pool views, while other rooms provide serene garden vistas. The lodge also features five executive suites, ideal for business travellers, offering separate lounge areas for meetings. Cresta Lodge emphasizes its lush greenery, which allows it to host popular garden weddings and other outdoor events, particularly in the summer. Guests can also enjoy amenities such as a year-round outdoor pool, fitness centre, 24-hour front desk, free WiFi, and on-site parking.
Next on the tour was Cresta Oasis, a hotel known for its warm, inviting atmosphere and strong connection to African culture. The property comprises 112 rooms divided into two main sections: 24 apartments and the main hotel with rooms across the west wing, central, and east wing. The property features popular garden areas often used for meetings and two bars, including a lively pool bar.
Cresta Oasis is particularly celebrated for its Café Afrique restaurant, renowned for its African dishes. A new menu is soon to be launched, expanding the culinary offerings to include dishes from West, Central, and Southern Africa, aiming to cater to a wider array of African tastes. The hotel’s popularity is attributed to its convenient location and welcoming ambiance, making it a busy hub, especially during the week with corporate clients.
One of the key highlights at the hotel are the apartments, offering enhanced privacy and space, akin to a "hotel within a hotel." These units feature small kitchens, allowing guests to prepare their own meals, and offer private check-in options, bypassing he main reception for added discretion. This focus on guest convenience extends to a newly introduced remote check-in service, enabling guests to complete registration and receive their keys from any location.
Experiencing the hotel’s warm hospitality firsthand with a welcoming glass of the newly introduced, thick, creamy, and tasty traditional Mauyu drink, was a welcome gesture. Cresta Oasis also offers popular and affordable pub lunches and special traditional lunches at just six dollars, serving about three meals.
The hotel underwent an extensive refurbishment between 2017 and 2018, and another cycle of renovations is set to begin soon, covering interiors, landscaping, and furnishings. Mock-up rooms for the apartments are expected to be ready within the next one to two months, followed by work on the central and western rooms in two phases over the current and next year. The conference facilities include a main room that can accommodate 105 people, with a combined capacity of around 200 depending on seating arrangements.
Cresta Oasis
Three car parks are available, with the front lot typically reserved for residents and the rear lots for conference attendees. The hotel’s café offers both à la carte and buffet options, along with a private dining room for up to 10 people. With an average occupancy of 80%, largely driven by corporate clients during the week, Cresta Oasis remains a bustling destination.
Standard rooms at Cresta Oasis feature safes and tea/ coffee-making facilities, with most beds being double or queen-sized. Executive rooms offer more space, including larger bathrooms. While the previous refurbishment updated all bathroom amenities, the upcoming renovation will see the removal of most bathtubs. Cresta Oasis is committed to accessibility, offering special rooms for guests with disabilities.
The hotel’s design incorporates a lot of green hues, contrasting with the yellow tones of Cresta Lodge and the red of Cresta Jameson. With 22 popular deluxe rooms, Cresta Oasis sees a significant number of online and long-stay bookings, particularly from guests from India and Asia, though locals remain the largest market. A new gym facility is also available for guests.
Cresta Jameson
Strategically located in the vibrant heart of Harare’s CBD, Cresta Jameson Hotel was the final stop on the tour. This hotel caters to guests who prefer central accommodation, banqueting, and conference options at competitive prices, making it a favourite among both local residents and regional travellers.
The hotel’s amenities include 123 air-conditioned bedrooms with en-suite bath and shower, 24-hour security, an Afro-jazz bar, business centre, conference facilities, a chapel, direct dial telephones, satellite television, tea/coffee making facilities, and wireless internet access.Undoubtedly Tiffany's
Restaurant, a newly-renovated space offering an intimate fine dining experience, is the highlight of Cresta Jameson. The media team enjoyed an appetizing three-course lunch, including desserts, at Tiffany’s, which is lauded for its friendly service and delectable selection of dishes—ideal for celebrations and special occasions.
For those seeking a more casual ambiance, the Usual Place bar offers a relaxing evening with jazz notes and a favourite beverage. The hotel also has a coffee shop downstairs.
From their rooms, guests at Cresta Jameson can enjoy impressive vistas of the city. The hotel features six room types, including family rooms and junior suites.
The executive suite rooms provide a special space with a lounge area separate from the main bedroom, perfect for business travellers. These suites also offer both hot showers and bathtubs. In line with modern trends, Jameson is in the process of replacing its televisions with smart TVs and will be introducing bulk amenities for a more eco-friendly approach.
Security is a priority for the hotel, with a key card system that restricts access to only the guest's designated floor. Demographically, Cresta Jameson is particularly popular with middle-aged to older guests, including business travellers, NGOs, corporates, FITs (Free Individual Travelers), and government clients. A gym facility exclusively for guests is located on the third floor.
The comprehensive tour clearly demonstrated Cresta Hotels Group’s ongoing commitment to enhancing guest experiences across its diverse Harare properties. From the luxurious, garden landscape-focused Cresta Lodge to the culturally rich Cresta Oasis and the centrally located, fine-dining hub that is Cresta Jameson, the hospitality group is continually investing in upgrades and personalized services to meet the evolving needs of its varied clientele.