A golden moment to cherish

Sighting a potential guest making seemingly unending inquiry at the front desk, Amr Haroun keeps wondering the kind of luxury and accommodation option the would-be guest wants that is not on offer in the hotel.

“Hello gentleman, let’s go on a tour so that you can see for yourself,” Haroun offers. Halfway into the tour, the would-be guest settles for an executive room that represents everything luxury for him. What he sees offers a golden moment to cherish. It is until his check-out that it dawns on him that Haroun, his tour guide, is the general manager of the hotel.

Unlike the now satisfied guest, you only need your room key at the front desk because service, facility and commitment speak volumes about the standard and hospitality tradition Golden Tulip Group brings to bear at Golden Tulip Owu Crown Ibadan Hotel.

The 81-room hotel that recently opened its doors to Ibadan residents and visitors alike is the first ever branded hotel in the peaceful western Nigerian city.

The hotel boasts of state-of-the-art facilities – from the well-appointed rooms, the best conference facilities in Ibadan, world-class outdoor swimming pool and sporting facilities, fitness centre with instructors, five-star restaurants and bars and well-trained staff who are committed to special treats that will leave guests with lasting experiences.

The hotel also offered a former president a golden moment to cherish. While unveiling the plaque to mark the official opening of the hotel, former President Olusegun Obasanjo expressed optimism on the services the state-of the-art luxury hotel is going to offer to leisure and conference seekers. Of course, his optimism stemmed from the experience and wonderful treat he had for a number of days as a guest of the hotel. He praised the owners for a job well done in bringing a world brand to the people’s doorsteps. He was represented by Olagunsoye Oyinlola, former governor of Osun State, who also spoke in his personal capacity.

But the hotel is a dream-come-true for Fatai Akinbade, the chairman of the hotel. It was a 14-year dream and commitment to change the way hospitality business is done in Ibadan. Today, the hotel has not only changed the face of Ibadan but has also created jobs for over 150 people.

“The hotel you see today was because of the time, money and efforts we invested to make it a reality. We are proud of our 150 staff trained to meet the service needs of all customers. I assure you that the management the hotel is poised to take the hospitality industry in Ibadan to the next level through our sustainable customer-friendly culture, and also to chart a new course in the economic viability of the host state,” Akinbade said.

However, the reason for naming the hotel after the very revered Owu Crown is a story for another day. The chairman promises to tell you on your next visit. So, till your repeat visit!

OBINNA EMELIKE