Glamourous, Innovative and Progressive
 
The Hilton Durban Hotel is currently undergoing major renovations to ensure that the glory of the hotel is maintained along with adding some extra sparkle.
 
New generations of travelers are more discerning, expecting comfort, convenience, added value experiences as well as place an emphasis on the need to be connected.Markus Fritz, general manager of the Hilton Durban said, The aim of the three year R150 million refurbishment  programme is to ensure that these expectations are not only met but exceeded. The Hilton Durban is an international brand with a strong portfolio. Guests have brand assurance when they book into a Hilton Hotel, they know what they are going to get and we need to ensure that we keep the hotel appealing and interesting.”
 
He added, “It is important to show people that the Hilton Durban Hotel is keen to invest in the Durban city centre. This investment will not only benefit Durban but the conference industry as well.” The hotel is located alongside the Durban ICC, which makes it very convenient to conference delegates as well as provides an ideal base for delegates to explore the tourist offerings of the region.”
 
The renovation of thecontemporary lobby reception area has been completed. The Coral Lounge is a very stylish place to relax, drink a cup of coffee or have a business meeting. High tea has been introduced on weekends with a decadent range of sweet and savoury treats.
 
The restaurant will be renovated early next year and will introduce a new concept restaurant to Durban. The brand is still to be announced. Fritz said, “It will be the talk of the town. The aim is for a contemporary restaurant,with an emphasis on good food and wine as well as having a sports elementthat will be stylish and affordable attracting both hotel guests and Durban locals.”
 
After this phase, over the next three years, all the hotel’s rooms will be upgraded, including the executive suites and presidential suite.
 
Expect a smile and a greeting as you walk into the hotel lobby â€" you will not be disappointed.  Service excellence is an intrinsic part of the Hilton’s offering and staff are trained extensively to ensure that these high standards are met. Development of staff is paramount; the Hilton Group offers over 2, 000 learning assets through the Hilton University. While staff training is essential, key to providing a good service is the correct attitude to guests.  Fritz said, “You need to be a hotelier by heart as the job is very demanding, every day is different, but also very rewarding.”
 
Along with service excellence is a commitment to use technology to satisfy the needsof the new generation of techno savy guests. Fritz said, “Today’s busy travelers want to be in control of their hotel experience as well as have ease of access to their rooms.”The hotel is to be among the first in the world to offer mobile check in facilities.He added, “While sitting at home or en route to the hotel,Hilton Honours member’s  will have the ability to check-in and choose from  the available rooms  through an app on their mobile devices, tablets and computers.  Using digital floor plans, guests will be able to select their room type, location in the hotel and room number.” On arrival at the hotel, guests just need to collect their room key from the front desk. In the years to come the hotel group will also include the technology for doors to be unlocked using smartphones.
 
Fritz said that his vision for the Hilton Durban is that, “It will be the top hotel not only in Durban but in South Africa offering quality and convenience. New guest experiences are constantly being developed - watch this space!”