The original Ryalls Hotel in Blantyre (Malawi), which was built in 1922 by Louisa Ryall, is the longest established hotel in Malawi. Made famous by its reputation to be ‘an obligatory stop for travellers from Cape to Cairo’, this hotel is entering a new era of revival. The Protea Hotel Ryalls, which has been built adjacent to the existing Ryalls Hotel, is a US$ 4,5 million project, which began just over a year ago. This investment was spurred-on by the recognition of the huge potential for growth in Malawi, in both the corporate travel and tourism sectors. “We are pleased to share the limelight with this historical hotel which is part of Malawi’s proud history,” said Aart van der Heijden, Protea Hotels` Regional Director for Malawi.
The design of the new Protea Hotel, while complimenting the colonial ambience that is characteristic of the existing Ryalls, has a striking design believed to add architectural integrity to the City. The new hotel is linked not only by name to the original hotel but also by a walk-way, giving GUESTS access to the original hotel building and conference center, both of which will be renovated and upgraded.

The conference center, which has capacity for 200 delegates, is most suitable for training or business conferences, as well as a function venue. There are an additional five breakaway rooms, which seat between 24 and 36 delegates. Conference packages are tailored according to specific needs and include daily conference packages as well as fully inclusive options. Once the upgrade and renovations are complete this will be the most modern and up-to-date venue in Blantyre!

The 94-bedroomed hotel boasts a superb 70-seater Restaurant and a cocktail bar and lounge that was designed as an extension of the stylish pool terrace. Both business and leisure travellers are expected to be delighted with the features and design of the rooms, as all rooms conform to international deluxe standards. World-class features include electronic door-locks and safes, Internet and PC connections as well as satellite TV with international news, sport and entertainment channels, while bathrooms will flaunt impressive granite finishes. The business and GUEST Relations centre offers the business traveler secretarial and communications services as well as travel assistance.

“With the continued success of our local, inter-regional and international marketing efforts, we are pleased to be able to make this substantial investment in one of Blantyre`s more famous landmarks. We believe that the addition of this world-class hotel will go a long way in enabling us to satisfy the demand of the tourism industry in Malawi,” concluded van der Heijden.

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