adminin Harare has stood the taste and test of time.
It has become the host for businesspeople, tourists, politicians and everyone.
In its belly lies the Harare International Conference Centre where every one of Zimbabwe’s major conferences and events — religious, political or social — have been launched or held.
Everyone has one or two memories with this hotel.
Tucked on the western edge of the Central Business District, the Rainbow Towers, Harare’s luxury hotel and conference centre (formerly the Sheraton Harare Hotel & Towers, and Harare International Conference Centre) has since 1985 been at the centre of Zimbabwe’s hospitality industry.
Construction of the building started in 1981 and was completed in 1984. It was officially opened on November 22 1985.
Since then, it has been the lion’s share of a plethora of events.
It is there also that the current inclusive Government running Zimbabwe was born.
The Rainbow Towers Hotel and Conference Centre is set among indigenous trees and the lush green lawns, within a walking distance from the CBD and 17km from the Harare International Airport.
Local tourist attractions such as Queen Victoria Museum, National Museum and Africa Unity Square are not far from the hotel.
Also easily within reach are Harare Gardens, Eastgate Shopping Centre and the National Arts Gallery of Zimbabwe.
Those who have patronised the hotel will agree that it meets the highest international standards and ranks with the best in the world.
The huge complex can host a multifarious array of events from conference packages to formal dinners, product launches, cocktail presentation, breakfasts, entertainment and exhibitions.
The hotel side offers comfortable en-suite accommodation, a choice of eurocentric and afro-centric restaurants and bars, and excellent conference, convention, meeting and function facilities.
The hotel reception area is fancy and equipped with state-of-the-art facilities.
Friendly highly trained staff is at your service 24/7 or 7/7. All function rooms, bedrooms, restaurants and bars are air-conditioned, and there is ample secure parking for 816 vehicles.
Yes, 816 cars!
History has it that it hosted in the 1986 the eighth conference of the Non-Aligned Movement.
In 1991 it hosted the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting and thereafter hosted several other regional and international events.
Famous mega stars, royals, Nobel laureates, heads of state, such as President Mugabe, Nelson Mandela, Jimmy Carter and Queen Elizabeth II, among others have enjoyed the comfort of the Rainbow Towers.
Room facilities include coffee/tea maker and safe. Other room amenities include mini bar. Bathroom amenities include complimentary toiletries and hair- dryer. Housekeeping services and complimentary newspapers are also available.
Other hotel amenities include gift shop/newsstand and tennis courts. Leisure amenities include an outdoor swimming pool.
Guests can also enjoy the following spa/wellness facilities: sauna, on site spa services.
After a long day of business meetings or sightseeing, hotel guests can book a relaxing massage.
Other services: coffee in lobby, concierge services, dry cleaning/laundry service and tours/ticket assistance. Rainbow Towers Hotel has been owned and managed by the Rainbow Group since 2006.
In 2008, the Rainbow Towers Hotel won the coveted “Best City Hotel”, making it the finest in Harare, Zimbabwe. Thereafter, it has won several accolades but the most recent is the 2012 Superbrand Hotel.
When all is said and one, the history of the tourism and hospitality industry in Zimbabwe and the region cannot be complete without the Rainbow Towers Hotel.
Feedback: isadore.guvamombe@zimpapers,.co.zw
Online Reporter