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Hotel occupancy at 94 percent in September
The Hotel Association of the Northern Mariana Islands reported a 94.27-percent occupancy rate among 11 member hotels for September 2015, a 21-percent increase compared to September 2014.
A total of 65,103 of 69,060 available room nights sold in September 2015, compared to 50,602 of 69,090 of available room nights sold over the same period last year. Room rates were $122.99 during the month, compared to $116.84 last September.
“September is normally a lower month in terms of occupancy,” said HANMI chair Gloria Cavanagh. “However, despite Typhoon Soudelor, visitor arrivals were up in September. This increase, together with locals without power and off-island emergency responders, drove occupancy levels in excess of 90 percent.”
“Typhoon Soudelor was a wake up call for us all,” Cavanagh added. “Tourism is a fragile industry. As HANMI celebrates its 30th anniversary, we are reminded of the dedication and loyalty of our member hotels who have served the CNMI. We support the chance for our member to negotiate with the government to ensure continued business. Doing so supports stability in the industry and government revenue generation.”
So far this calendar year, hotel occupancy is at an average of 86 percent, 3 percent higher than last year. Additionally, average room rates have increased by 5 percent compared to the same period last fiscal year
Anniversary gala postponed
Cavanagh also announced HANMI will postpone its 30th anniversary gala until next year.
“Our community is still recovering from the effects of Typhoon Soudelor,” she said. “The board feels it’s in the best interest of all to celebrate its ‘30+1’ anniversary in 2016 so we can continue to concentrate our efforts and resources on getting the community back on its feet.”
The Hotel Association of the Northern Mariana Islands was established in 1985 as a professional forum for the hospitality industry of the NMI. (HANMI)
