Finishing touches can make the difference between something that is ordinary and something that is a masterpiece. The newly refurbished A’Zambezi River Lodge had been closed for three months as finishing touches were being made. The four star lodge is indeed a master piece whose transformation was completed to perfection, making the sparkling water and lush green gardens ‘bait’ for lovers of natural beauty. A’ Zambezi initially built in 1972 boasts of being the only hotel in Victoria Falls with a river frontage and now the serene, sensual and exquisite doors were officially reopened to guests on Wednesday18th of May 2011.

Scores of tourism industry operators from South Africa, Zimbabwe, government officials, journalists and other stakeholders bore witness to this official launch. PTA

Bank President Dr. Michael Gondwe presided over the event as guest of honour, with the bank having lent a whooping US$ 3.8 million on the upgrade.

The delegates got a chance to see the ‘spruced up’ A’ Zambezi River Lodge. The first indication of change that one saw was the lovely, large, rocky water feature. The restaurant building has been extended to include a lounge on one side, furnished in warm and fresh maroon and white. The new rooms are dominated by king sized beds with individually controlled air conditioning. The rooms are also decorated with rejuvenating white, beige and grey fabrics, only to be complimented by red teak cupboards, desks and two outside chairs. The new conference room accommodates 110 delegates and has advanced audio-visual facilities. It was clear that all who were involved in this launch are committed to making A’ Zambezi, the jewel of Victoria Falls.

The guests were wowed and commented that the extensive renovations were impressive. As to be expected, they were also got a glimpse of warthogs actually blending in with the new scenery. Other activities that tourists can expect are game walks, helicopter rides, bungee jumping and white water rafting. Dudu Manhenga and her band soothed the delegates with her contemporary jazz tunes and in the evening they enjoyed dinner by the riverside in the renowned Amulonga restaurant.

The new water droplet logo was also unveiled by the General Manager of the hotel, Mr. Shane De Lange who said that the aqua blue and sky blue colors represent warmth, hospitality and relaxation. True to the Logo, after the guests had a finger lunch by the pool deck, they were treated to a relaxing sunset cruise as they watched the sun coming down gently, while the cool marine air sifted into their lungs reigniting the warm spirit of the Victoria Falls.

Mrs. Marah Hativagone, The ZTA chairman, who spoke on behalf of Tourism and Hospitality Minister, Walter Mzembi said that the re-launch of A’ Zambezi marks the beginning of a new era in the tourism industry. She also noted that this would go a long way in luring more tourists, both international and domestic. Also present was the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality, Dr. Sylvetser Maunganidze who commented that A’ Zambezi now deserved a five star rating given its new look.

RTG’s Chief Executive, Mrs. Chipo Mtasa thanked the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority for its tremendous support of the project. She said that: “We must be mindful that a good product alone will bring success”. She reiterated that RTG is therefore undertaking extensive staff training and attending to the IT systems in order to offer a high standard of service. Mrs. Mtasa commented that although the refurbishments were taxing, RTG has never looked back as this was the best thing for repositioning A’Zambezi as the best brand.

Air Zimbabwe almost put a damper on the jovial mood as their airplanes were grounded which could have led to a postponement of the launch. However RTG managed to charter private planes. Some invited guests did not manage to attend the launch and to this RTG acting chairman, Mr Godfrey Manhambara had no kind words for Air Zimbabwe. He said that Air Zimbabwe’s mishap was unacceptable

So to all those who want to indulge their senses and truly experience the joy of life, A’Zambezi is the place to be. A’ Zambezi will exceed expectations and give one a magical journey on the banks of the Mighty Zambezi River!