Grand Coastal Inn opens Owners promise different experience By Abigail Kippins Guyana Chronicle October 22, 2000 It is a Grand Coastal Inn indeed, possessing the qualities of a safe, secure environment for business stay, holiday relaxation or a convenient stop over before an onward journey. Located some six miles from the capital city, the pale yellow-coloured 19-room `Grand Coastal Inn' sits on Le Ressouvenir Public Road, East Coast Demerara. The $100M international facility designed to meet the needs of the busy executive, holiday seekers and moreso, persons travelling to other areas in Guyana who wish to stop over before continuing their journey. "We wanted to create something different and unique, while maintaining a safe and secure environment at a convenient location," said owner and Chief Executive officer, Mr. Mokesh Daby during a press brief last Friday. "Guyana is not only Georgetown. Almost everything is in the city," he noted. Thus, when Daby and his wife Rosalind, who designed the suites, decided to create the Coastal Inn a year ago, they chose that ocean view location which is just 10 minutes from the city. "Some persons might think that the 19 rooms waiting to be booked are a small (number), but we will be better able to manage the facility and have a good relationship with the guests," Daby said. There are three types of rooms: Executive Suites, Executive rooms and Deluxe rooms, all self-contained. For US$70, one can stay in a Deluxe Room, which Mr. Daby explained "is perfect for the frequent traveller who is looking for a spacious and comfortable place to stay at a reasonable price." However, there is a special opening rate of US$60. For his/her comfort," the guest can enjoy an air-conditioned room equipped with a queen sized bed, bedside lamp, television, telephone, hot and cold water, clock and radio, writing desk, ceiling fan and a continental breakfast. Much larger and equipped with more amenities than the deluxe rooms, the executive room offers "an experience like no other", according to the hotel's management. Containing similar amenities like the deluxe rooms, the executive rooms are also equipped with an iron, hair dryer, and a refrigerator/mini-bar. For a 24-hour relaxation period, the regular rate is US$90. But the special opening rate is only US$80. "Our Executive Suites are our top-of-the-line rooms," Daby said, adding, "they are equipped with all the details to please the upscale customer travelling to Guyana." The regular rate is US$120 while the special opening rate is US$110. Apart from being welcomed with a fruit basket, the guest occupying this suite can also enjoy breakfast of his/her choice while reading the daily newspapers. The occupants of the executive suites and executive rooms have the benefit of a computer in their rooms with internet access. At the new inn, there are qualified chefs who can produce traditional West Indian and International dishes. There is also a small business centre geared towards serving the guests' professional needs. A small conference room is still under renovation. The room can be used for meetings and other functions. Tours to other parts of the country can be scheduled at the desire of guests, Daby said. "Experience Guyana the way it was meant to be seen," he said. "These tours are made possible through our linkages," Daby said. "We have linkages with several resorts, including Lake Mainstay Resort." Other linkages include the New Kiskadee Restaurant and Pub and DM sales and Investment. There are also tours to heritage sites and other places of interest. "But some people want privacy," General Manager, Ms Barbara Deodat said," we have a car rental service. However, "if you don't need a car for an extended period, we can secure a taxi for your trip." It is a magnificent achievement for the Dabys' but Mr. Daby noted that their success was not without a struggle. "It was not an easy task, but after a lot of hard work and frustration, we are proud of what we achieved." Follow the goings-on in Guyana in Guyana Today