Port Moresby hotel announces suspension of business activities

THE Holiday Inn Express in Port Moresby has suspended operations until further notice, it posted on Facebook.
“Due to significantly reduced business following the recent Covid-19 outbreak and the Government decision to restrict travel and public gatherings, the Holiday Inn Express has made the decision to temporarily close until further notice,” the company said. “We recognise that this is a very challenging time for so many people, and we thank all of our guests and the community for their understanding and support.
“Any guests with upcoming reservations will have the option to cancel or reschedule for future dates, without incurring any fees.
“If your booking is in the coming weeks, our reservations team will contact you directly over the next few days.
“If your booking was made through an agent, you will need to contact them.”
PNG Chamber of Commerce and Industry president John Leahy had previously told The National that the country’s economy would be hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic. Meanwhile, Madang-based businessman Sir Peter Barter also said that Covid-19 issue must not be treated lightly.
“The health hazard was very real,” he said.
“It would be very hard to control the virus if it (reaches) PNG.
“Maybe it is already here.
“The economic effects will be far-reaching.
“In our case, most tourist bookings have been cancelled.
“Most of our cruises up the Sepik (River) are cancelled or expected to be cancelled.
“All larger tourist ships visits have been cancelled for 60 days.”
Sir Peter said the occupancy of hotels in Madang was so low it would result in massive staff retrenchments.