Labasa is set to welcome its first internationally-branded hotel, as the Damodar Group partners with Ramada Encore to manage a newly developed 40-room hotel at Damodar City. This establishment, named Ramada Encore by Wyndham at Damodar City Labasa, is expected to boost the local tourism industry and enhance Fiji’s overall tourism appeal.
Div Damodar, the chief executive officer of Damodar Group, announced the exciting development this week. In an interview, he shared insights about the positive impact the hotel will have on the local economy, businesses, and employment opportunities in the area.
He remarked, “We believe that this hotel will be a catalyst for attracting other brands to Vanua Levu. This initiative will create a trend that we anticipate will unfold rapidly.” He emphasized that the presence of a major brand like Wyndham will redefine the economic landscape of Vanua Levu.
He outlined the accomplishments so far, noting that the $60 million complex development in Damodar City Labasa has already attracted over 60 tenants and provided more than 1,500 jobs, both directly and indirectly. Damodar expressed confidence that the new hotel will further transform Vanua Levu as part of their larger vision for Damodar City.
Initially, the plan did not include partnering with an international hotel brand; the Damodar Group intended to manage the hotel independently after its completion. However, upon being approached by Wyndham last year, discussions ensued about the potential opportunities. Realizing the lack of branded hotels in the area, the group decided to move forward with the partnership to bring the first branded hotel to Vanua Levu.
The initiative aims to attract more investors to the northern region, which has historically been undervalued in terms of economic potential. “We recognized immense opportunities following the Look North policy initiated by the previous government. Despite past misconceptions, we believe in the wealth and potential that Vanua Levu holds,” he stated.
Reflecting on the positive reception the Damodar Group received when expanding to Labasa, he mentioned, “When we first announced our expansion, people questioned why Labasa. Now, we see the outcome of that decision, and it’s remarkable to witness Damodar City flourish.”
The additional benefits of the hotel include impressive facilities designed for both leisure and business travelers, featuring 40 rooms, three suites, a swimming pool, an 80-seater conference area, a restaurant, a gym, and a bar to accommodate between 80 to 100 guests. The hotel is slated to open by the end of this year or in early 2025.
Div Damodar encourages other investors to consider opportunities in Vanua Levu, expressing pride in the region and optimism for its future. He reiterated the Damodar Group’s commitment to expanding its tourism efforts across Fiji.